North Muskegon

Middle & High School

Student & Family Handbook

2023-2024

The Tradition of Excellence Continues

North Muskegon MS/HS

1507 Mills Avenue

North Muskegon, MI 49445

231.719.4110

www.nmps.net

North Muskegon Public Schools, in its policies, programs, and practice, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, gender, age, disability, height, weight, sexual orientation, or marital status in all activities and employment.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome to NM!

Section 1- Academic Information

Section 2- Attendance

Section 3- Student Behavior Expectations

Section 4- General Information

Section 5- Transportation and Parking

Section 6- Student Health and Wellness

Section 7- Technology

Section 8- Student Discipline and Behavior Definitions

Section 9- Athletics and Extracurricular Activities

Section 10- Student Records, Privacy, & Parental Right Notifications

Appendix

WELCOME TO NM!

North Muskegon Middle/High School

Mission Statement

The mission of North Muskegon Public Schools is to assist all students in becoming lifelong learners, with the social skills necessary to become productive, responsible citizens of strong character.

Vision

North Muskegon Public Schools, with its long history of State and National excellence, will strive to maintain a high quality educational experience for all of its students.

Welcome

The staff and administration would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to North Muskegon Middle/High School. We look forward to working together in creating a safe, successful, and engaging learning environment for our students.  

This handbook is a summary of our school’s guidelines and expectations.  It is  intended to be a place for students, families, and staff to find helpful information, guidelines, and answer frequently asked questions.  In the event of occurrences not covered in this handbook, the building administrator reserves the right to act in a discretionary manner to investigate the alleged action and assess the appropriate consequence. Please review this handbook for expectations, frequently asked questions, and important guidelines.  If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the MS/HS office.  

In addition to this handbook, the NM Board’s comprehensive policy manual is available for public inspection through our District’s website HERE or at the Board office located at 1600 Mills Ave.  Also, the Michigan Revised School Code is available HERE for guidance.

FIGHT SONG

(Tune "Notre Dame Victory March")

Cheer for the Gold and Blue

Come on you fellows--Yes, we mean you.

Give our team a mighty shout

Sure we will win--there is no doubt.

It makes no difference what we go through

Still North Muskegon, we cheer for you

While our team is marching, marching,

Onward to victory!

Alma Mater

"NORSEMEN, HAIL"

In between the calm lake waters,

Scenes we call our own

Spreads our North Muskegon campus

Fairest ever known,

Swell the chorus, let it echo

Over hill and vale

Cheer for blue and gold, our colors,

Norsemen, hail, all hail.

Equal Opportunity/Nondiscrimination Statement

North Muskegon Public Schools, in its policies, programs, and practice, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, gender, age, disability, height, weight, or marital status in all activities and employment.

Dr. Curt Babcock, Superintendent
North Muskegon School District
1600 Mills Avenue
North Muskegon, MI 49445
(231) 719-4100

For further information, you may also contact:

Office for Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Education
600 Superior Avenue East, Suite 750
Cleveland, OH 44114-2611
Telephone: 216-522-4970
FAX: 216-522-2573; TDD: 877-521-2172
E-mail: OCR.Cleveland@ed.gov

North Muskegon Public Schools Staff

Each spring NM creates a new Fall and Winter term master schedule to accommodate student requests for courses. Parents should contact counselors with course or planning questions prior to the signed Educational Development Plan deadline. During a designated time period before school starts, students may substitute a course that has seats available in it for a course in their schedule. After the substitution period (first five days of school), no schedule changes will be made. Students may drop or add courses for the following reasons: to correct deficiencies, to adjust for work study hours, to correct an error in placement, to correct obvious errors in scheduling, to assure credits for graduation, and teacher recommendation. Please consult our school principal, school improvement specialist, and/or our counselors to discuss a change. Administration must approve all changes after the first five school days in each term. Requests for a change of teacher will not be honored.

North Muskegon High School does not weigh accelerated or advanced courses.  Senior graduation cords are awarded based on the cumulative GPA calculated through the next-to-last term of a student’s senior year.

Middle School grades are based on a number system aligned with mastery to content standards.  

• Teachers may give a final exam to students during the scheduled exam period. The final exam may be a test, written, assignment, project, or some other overarching representative of course content taught during the trimester and/or year.

• The final exam may be weighted from 10-20% of the student’s final trimester grade.

• All students will attend all final exams. Any unexcused absence from the exam period will yield a failing grade on the exam.

• All teachers will enter final exam grades in the exam column found in the PowerSchool program. The grade earned on the exam shall become a part of the student’s permanent record. No waivers of exams will be allowed because of academic standing, attendance, or criteria that may be considered discriminatory.

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School report cards are issued to students at the conclusion of our Fall, Winter, and Spring terms.  For questions regarding grades, please contact the classroom teacher. The decision to promote a student to the next grade level is based on successful completion of the curriculum, attendance, performance on standardized tests and other testing.  To help keep parents informed of their student’s academic progress, accessibility through our online resource (PowerSchool) is provided.  Due to the 24/7 access to grades, report cards will not be mailed but available via PowerSchool.

North Muskegon High School uses the grades A, B, C, D, F, CR, I and N.  Credit-only courses are not figured into GPA, only total credits earned. High School students must complete all North Muskegon Public Schools required courses for a letter grade.

Non-required courses may be taken on a credit-no credit basis with the consent of the instructor and administration in the eleventh and twelfth grades.  If the course is not passed by the student, a grade of N is given.  To earn CREDIT on a CR/NC basis, the combined percentage of marking period grade and exam grade must be 78%, or NO CREDIT is earned.  Credit—No Credit forms are available in the guidance office.  Students should apply by the 20th day of the current term

Board of Education policies #8055 and #8055-R outlines the procedures for the appeal of an issued grade for any course. A student seeking an appeal of a grade shall submit to the building principal within 30 days after the receipt of the grade a written request for a grade change stating the reason(s) for the proposed grade change. Grades become “official” five days after the end of the term, and the 30 days start at that time, including summer break.

Homework is used as a way for students to practice what they have learned in the classroom. The time requirements and the frequency of homework will vary depending on a student’s teacher, ability and grade level.

Only those courses offered by agencies and institutions recognized by the administration will be accepted. The express approval of the Principal shall be obtained before the course is taken, and the school must receive an official record of the final grade before a diploma may be issued to the student. Under ordinary circumstances, students or their parents/guardians shall pay for approved correspondence courses the student opts to take.

Students who will have successfully completed graduation requirements after seven 15-WEEK semesters (Fall/Winter) may petition to graduate. Applications must be submitted to the principal prior to March 1st of the student's seventh semester. Early graduates must take full responsibility to make arrangements with the high school office for anything pertaining to the graduation ceremony (i.e., announcements, cap and gown rental, graduation practices).

Any student enrolled in an off-campus course to fulfill graduation requirements must show documentation of such course(s) by the last day of the seventh semester. Failure to produce this documentation will result in denial of the early graduation petition. The student and a parent will schedule a conference with the principal and the senior.  At the conference the student should be prepared to justify his/her request to graduate early.

It is the intent of the school district to ensure that students who  qualify within the definition of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ("IDEA") or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ("Section 504") are identified, evaluated, and provided with appropriate educational services. The school district provides a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment and necessary related services to all students with disabilities enrolled in the school.

Regular attendance is essential for promotion and success in schoolwork.  In addition to this, it promotes habits in establishing life-long positive traits that are critical in developing career  ready skills, success in post high school experiences, and in life.  Participation in classroom activities, classroom discussions, and certain other interactions are all necessary ingredients of the learning process.  NMPS, Muskegon County, and the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District work together to ensure positive attendance for our students. It's not surprising that regular school attendance correlates directly with success in academic work, improves social interaction with adults and peers and provides opportunities for important communication between teachers and students. . Please click this link for the Parent Guide: School Attendance and the Law.

*Days Absent can be reduced by participating in Saturday School, before/after school/lunch detentions*  The allowed absences INCLUDE excused and unexcused absences.  

Students with 8-11 absences in the Fall or Winter term (and 5-6 absences in Spring term) shall be required to earn a grade of at least 78% (C+) to obtain the calculated grade for the course. If the student does not earn a grade of 78%, a grade of “N” (no credit) will be issued for the course. Students with 12 or more absences in Fall or Winter term (and 7 or more in Spring term) will receive an “N” (no credit) unless written verification of extenuating circumstances is submitted to the building principal and approved by the Attendance Committee.  

State law requires the opportunity to make-up time missed before credit is denied. Students with excessive absence can make up seat time by participating in our Saturday School, before/after school/lunch detention program.  Each hour attending reduces a student’s absence total on an hour-by-hour basis for each individual course. Attending sufficient Saturday School/before/after/lunch detention can reduce excessive absences enough to rescind the “78%” stipulation and/or the recording of an “N”.            

Excused Absences - Teachers will provide make-up work and will assist students seeking help because of an excused absence. Absence for all classes or at least one period of the day disqualifies students from participation in after-school activities that same day. Students shall provide doctor-issued excuses in order to participate in after-school activities. The school does not encourage vacations that take students out of school.

If a student’s absence is excused, he/she will be permitted to make up any missed work, including homework and tests.  The student will be permitted the same number of days as he/she was absent to turn in the make-up work.  The student is responsible for obtaining assignments from his/her teachers.  Students who are unexcused from school will not be allowed to make up missed work.

College Visits – Two pre-approved college visitations (not exceeding two days) will be excused for juniors and seniors will not be counted as an absence. Additional college visits will have to be pre-approved and WILL count as an absence, regardless of the circumstances.

Unexcused Absences - Students will receive a zero for the day in all classes missed, and parents will be notified. The principal has the right to make determinations about absences as they occur. Skipping class is an unexcused absence and must be made up on an equivalent hourly basis using Saturday School or lunch detention. Missed class work must be completed to the satisfaction of the classroom teacher before credit will be granted for the class.

Leaving School before the End of the School Day (Unauthorized Checkout) - At no time during the school day may a student leave school/campus without "signing out" in the main office.  Parent/guardian permission will be required for students to leave the school for any reason. In case of an emergency in which a parent is not available, the building administrator will determine whether or not the student should be allowed to sign out. Students who must leave school early for an appointment will obtain a hall pass from the teacher and report directly to the main office or obtain an “out of building” pass to leave school from the main office prior to the start of school day.

Tardiness – Arriving on-time to class is important, as instruction and other educational activities begin when class starts. Students who are tardy disrupt the classroom setting and distract other students. Students will be excused if the student enters with a pass from another teacher or staff member. All students are expected to be in their assigned classrooms when the tone sounds at the start of each class. Tardiness per trimester per class will be handled in the following manner:                                                        

1st Tardy - Warning

2nd Tardy - Warning                                

3rd Tardy - Warning                        

4th Tardy - Office Visit                

5th Tardy - Lunch Detention                                

6th Tardy -  2 Detention & parent contact                        

7th Tardy - 3 Detentions, parent contact, off campus privileges removed                        

8th Tardy - Behavior Contract 

Tardiness to any class exceeding 20 minutes will be counted as an absence. Students recorded as “ABSENT” in any class are not eligible to participate in co-curricular activities until the next day.

It is the goal of the faculty and administration of North Muskegon to provide a safe, caring, orderly and effective environment for learning and personal growth.  The staff and students work together to engage in positive interactions throughout the learning process.  Our goal is to help all students feel safe and welcome in the school environment.  In addition Board policy(ies) support the expectations of student respect to self, others, and school.  Student positive behavior expectations extend beyond the walls of North Muskegon Middle & High School into the community, athletic fields, and other extracurricular activities.   It is a privilege to represent North Muskegon in all we do.

One of the ways we work to create this environment is through positive behavior intervention and supports (PBIS).  North Muskegon Middle & High School uses a system of PBIS which references Norse PRIDE to teach, support, encourage, and acknowledge positive student behavior expectations.

Student dress code and administrative enforcement should not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, household income, gender identity, or cultural observance.

Dress Code Values:

• All students should be able to dress comfortably for school without fear of unnecessary discipline or body shaming.
• All students and staff should understand that they are responsible for managing their own personal “distractions” without regulating individual students’ clothing/self-expression.
• Teachers can focus on teaching without the additional and often uncomfortable burden of dress code enforcement.
• Students should not face unnecessary barriers to school attendance.
• Reasons for conflict and inconsistent discipline should be minimized whenever possible.
• Goal of a student dress code

A student dress code should accomplish several goals:

• Maintain a safe learning environment in class where protective or supportive clothing is needed.
• Allow students to wear clothing of their choice that is comfortable.
• Allow students to wear clothing that expresses their self-identified gender.
• Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing with offensive images or language, including profanity, hate speech and pornography.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing with images or language depicting or advocating violence or use of alcohol or drugs.
• Ensure that all students are treated equitably regardless of gender/gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, body type/size, religion and personal style.

The primary responsibility for a student’s attire lies with the student and parents or guardians. The school district and individual schools are responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student and that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.

Students should be given the most choice possible in how they dress for school. Any restrictions must be necessary to support the overall educational goals of the school and must be explained within the dress code.

Basic Principles

1. Look presentable and respectable at all times.

2. Students must wear:

• Shirt
• Bottoms: pants/sweatpants/shorts/dress/leggings.
• Shoes, sandals, etc

3. Students can not wear:

• Violent language or images.
• Images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity) or the use of the same.
• Hate speech, profanity, pornography.
• Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class.
• Clothing that does not cover private parts of the body or allows undergarments to be visible.

4. Hats, Hoodies, Other head coverings are allowed and subject to individual teacher classroom discretion

Dress Code Enforcement

• Violations of the dress code should be treated as minor on the continuum of school rule violations.
• Students should lose minimal class time, solely as a result of a dress code violation.
• Students will be given the opportunity to correct any dress code violations.
• Staff should discreetly contact the front office for enforcement of a dress code violation.
• Administration will follow up with enforcement as appropriate and necessary.

All school volunteers must complete the “Volunteer Information Form” (available in the school office) and be approved by the school principal before assisting at the school. Some teachers utilize parent volunteers in the classroom. The individual teachers make this decision. Teachers who desire parent volunteers will notify parents.  For school-wide volunteer opportunities, please contact the building principal.  Volunteers are required to check in and out at the main office and receive a visitor badge before going to their destination.

North Muskegon Public Schools encourages parents and other citizens to visit our Middle School/High School. If you plan to visit your child’s classroom or confer with the teacher, it is necessary to call ahead in order to assure that school personnel will be available for an appointment. For the safety of students and staff, all visitors, including parents and siblings, are required to enter through the Fleming Street main entrance  of the building and proceed immediately to the main office. Visitors should identify themselves and inform office personnel of their reason for being at school.

Visitors must sign in, identifying their name, the date and time of arrival, and the classroom or location they are visiting. Approved visitors must take a tag identifying themselves as a guest and place the tag to their outer clothing in a clearly visible location. Visitors are required to proceed immediately to their location in a quiet manner. All visitors must return to the main office and sign out before leaving the school.  Visitors are expected to abide by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or disruptive behavior.  Student visits from other schools are not encouraged, and must be approved by both classroom teacher and building principal.

In case of bad weather and other local emergencies, please listen to any local radio or television station to be advised of school closings or early dismissals.  NMPS also utilizes our Norse Network App and North Muskegon Public School’s Facebook page. Please be sure that our MS/HS office has contact phone numbers. It is the goal to have school closings for any reason be announced by 6:30 a.m.  If bad weather or other emergency occurs during the day, please listen to local media stations for possible early dismissal information.

For your child’s safety, make certain your child knows ahead of time where to go in case of an early dismissal.

A video monitoring system may be used on school buses and a video monitoring system is used in public areas of our school campus.  These systems have been put in place to protect students, staff, visitors, and school property.  If a discipline problem is captured on video, that recording may be used as the basis for imposing student discipline.  If criminal conduct is recorded, a copy of the video may be provided to law enforcement personnel.

Backpacks should be kept/stored in lockers.  For the safety of all our students, backpacks are not allowed in classrooms.  

Field trips are a privilege for students.  Students must abide by all school policies during transportation and during field-trip activities, and shall treat all field trip locations as though they are school grounds.  Failure to abide by school rules and/or location rules during a field trip may subject the student to discipline.

All students who wish to attend a field trip must receive written permission from a parent or guardian with authority to give permission. Students may be prohibited from attending field trips for any of the following reasons:

• Failure to receive appropriate permission from parent/guardian or teacher;
• Failure to complete appropriate coursework;
• Behavioral or safety concerns;
• Denial of permission from administration;
• Other reasons as determined by the school.

Fundraising activities by school organizations must be approved in advance by the principal. Organization sponsors assume the responsibility for supervising the project, accounting for funds, making reports, and any other details involved in the project.

• Breakfast and lunch is offered to all students.  NMPS follows the guidelines set forth in the Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act from the USDA.
• Breakfast service along with snacks is offered at 7:30am in the cafeteria and again after the 1st hour.  
• Lunch is served at 11:05 for MS and 12:05 for HS.
• Breakfast is $2.00, Reduced is $.30.  Lunch is $3.20, Reduced is $.40
• Parents can also go online to https://northmuskegon.familyportal.cloud/  to pay online.  A student number is required to set up an account.  This gives you the ability to monitor a student’s lunch account.  Families are also able to submit a free/reduced lunch application at this p

Middle School students may not leave campus during lunch, except with permission granted by administration or authorized staff.  During lunch, students must proceed directly to the cafeteria or designated lunch area, and, after getting their lunch, shall immediately sit at a table.  Students shall remain seated until the lunch tone rings, at which point they shall clean the area in which they are seated, dispose of any trash in the appropriate receptacle, and exit the cafeteria to their assigned location.  Students shall follow all cafeteria rules during lunch.

• Off campus lunch is a privilege, not a right.
• NM Administration can revoke off campus lunch privilege for students that do not maintain good standing in academics, attendance, & discipline.
• The student will not take students off campus who are not authorized to leave.
• If students are utilizing a vehicle to go to their chosen destination, students must obey all traffic laws and school rules while off campus.  Drivers shall pay particular attention around the school where there is a high concentration of students leaving the building for lunch, and shall yield to pedestrians, and obey school zone speed limits.  Violations of school rules that occur during lunch may result in appropriate NM Handbook discipline, including loss of the off-campus lunch privilege.
• The NM campus can be closed by administration during dangerous weather or for safety/security.
• Students will return to school for the remainder of the school day.  If a student becomes ill while off campus, a parent must call our Attendance Clerk (719-4111). The student must present a parent’s note to the Attendance Clerk upon return to school.
• Students will return to class on time. Failure to return to class on time will result in the off-campus lunch privilege being rescinded for an appropriate period of time to be determined by NM administration.
• Students and their parents are responsible for where the student goes for lunch and for transportation.
• Food and drink brought back to our school building must be consumed in our café.
• The school assumes no extra liability for any accident/injury incurred in the exercise of this off campus privilege.
• The student’s parent(s) have the right to rescind their child’s off campus lunch privilege, in coordination with NM administration.  Please call our HS office to make these arrangements.

Students exercising off-campus lunch privileges are subject to rules of student conduct applicable during the regular school day. The abuse of any of these provisions may result in a suspended or terminated off-campus lunch permit and/or other disciplinary consequences.

The school may establish fees and charges to cover the costs for certain extracurricular and noncredit activities.  Materials for clubs, independent study, or special projects, as well as transportation costs and admission/participation fees for District-sponsored trips and activities may be included. Fees will not be charged for any mandatory school activity or required curriculum activity. Extra-curricular activities for which fees are charged may not be used in determining credit or grades in any course.  A fee shall not exceed the combined cost of the service(s) provided and/or materials used.

When school property, equipment, or supplies are damaged, lost, or taken by a student, whether in a regular course or extra-curricular offering, a fine may be assessed. The fine will be reasonable, seeking only to compensate the school for the expense or loss incurred.

The late return of borrowed books or materials from the school libraries will be subject to appropriate fines. Failure to pay the fines may result in loss of privileges.

A student whose parent/guardian is unable to afford these fees may request a fee waiver.  A fee waiver does not exempt a student from charges for lost and damaged books, locks, materials, supplies, and/or equipment.  Applications for fee waivers may be submitted by a parent/guardian of a student who has been assessed a fee. The building principal will notify the parent/guardian promptly as to whether the fee waiver request has been granted or denied. Questions regarding the fee waiver application process should be addressed to the building principal.

A student whose parent/guardian is unable to afford these fees may request a fee waiver.  A fee waiver does not exempt a student from charges for lost and damaged books, locks, materials, supplies, and/or equipment.  Applications for fee waivers may be submitted by a parent/guardian of a student who has been assessed a fee. The building principal will notify the parent/guardian promptly as to whether the fee waiver request has been granted or denied. Questions regarding the fee waiver application process should be addressed to the building principal.

Textbooks and instructional materials are provided free of charge to students. Teachers issue textbooks after students sign receipts. If a book is worn beyond “fair wear and tear”, the student will be charged the amount necessary to pay for the repair or replacement of the text.

Each student is assigned the use of a locker and lock. These are the property of the school and are assigned to students for the purpose of storing and securing supplies, outerwear and other items essential to the educational process. Students may not mark in lockers or display materials that are suggestive or advertise or promote the use of alcohol, drugs or tobacco. Students may be charged a cleaning/repair fee if the locker requires unusual repair or cleaning.  The school is not responsible for valuables stored in lockers and students are encouraged to leave valuables at home or bring them to the office when necessary. Locker inspections and searches will be performed at the discretion of the building principal. School locks are provided and shall be used at all times.

A student or group of students seeking to distribute material on one or more days to students at school or a school-related activity must comply with the following guidelines:

1. The student(s) must notify the building principal of the intent to distribute, in writing, at least 24 hours before distributing the material. No prior approval of the material is required.
2. The material may be distributed at times and locations selected by the building principal, such as, before the beginning or ending of classes at a central location inside the building.
3. The building principal may impose additional requirements whenever necessary to prevent disruption, congestion, or the perception that the material is school-endorsed.
4. Distribution must be done in an orderly and peaceful manner, and may not be coercive.
5. The distribution must be conducted in a manner that does not cause additional work for school personnel. Students who distribute material are responsible for cleaning up any materials left on school grounds.
6. Students must not distribute material that:

1. Will cause substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities;
2. Violates the rights of others, including but not limited to material that is libelous, invades the privacy of others, or infringes on a copyright;
3. Is inappropriate due to the students’ maturity level, including but not limited to, material that is obscene, pornographic, or pervasively lewd and vulgar, contains indecent and vulgar language or images, or is otherwise harmful to minors; or
4. Is reasonably viewed as promoting the use of illegal substances.

A list of bus stops will be published at the beginning of the school year before student registration.  Parents/guardians must, at the beginning of the school year, select one bus stop  at which a student is to be picked up, and one stop at which a student is to be dropped off.  Students are not permitted to ride a bus other than the bus to which they are assigned.  Exceptions must be approved in advance by the Transportation Director/Lead. building principal.

While students are on the bus, they are under the supervision of the bus driver.    In most cases, bus discipline problems can be handled by the bus driver.  In the case of a written disciplinary referral, student bus problems will be investigated and handled by the building principal.

Parents will be informed of inappropriate student behavior on a bus that is either on-going or cannot be handled by a verbal reminder by the driver.  Parents are encouraged to discuss bus safety and appropriate behavior with their children before the beginning of the school year and regularly during the year.

In the interest of the student’s safety, students are expected to observe the following rules:

1.                Choose a seat and sit in it immediately upon entering the bus.  Do not stand in the entrance or in the aisle.

2.                Do not move from one seat to another while on the bus.

3.                Keep all parts of the body and all objects inside the bus.

4.                Loud conversation, boisterous conduct, unnecessary noise, or profanity is not allowed.

5.                Exit the bus only when the bus is fully stopped.

6.                All school rules apply while on the bus, at a bus stop, or waiting at the bus stop.

7.                Use the emergency door only in an emergency or at the direction of the driver

8.                In the event of an emergency, stay on the bus and await instructions from the bus driver.

9.         Safe bus riding behavior that will not distract the bus driver from operating the bus safely is required.  Crowding, pushing, and other needless commotion are grounds for disciplinary action.

10.        If you open your window, please close it before getting off the bus.

11.        Keep the bus neat and clean.

12.        Athletic footwear equipped with cleats or spikes are not allowed on the bus.

13.        Inappropriate behavior will be reported to school authorities and failure to observe safety rules may result in suspension from bus services.

14.        It is expected that all riders be at the bus stop at least five minutes before pick-up time.   It is also expected that parents are at the afternoon bus stop at least five minutes before the normal bus arrival time.  This allows for variations in traffic, weather, etc. that may fluctuate bus times.

15.         Never tamper with, damage, or deface anything in/on the bus

16.         Keep bookbags, books, packages, coats, and other objects out of the aisles.  Keep all                   body parts clear of the aisles when seated.

17.         Eating is not permitted on the bus without bus driver approval.

18.         Parents will be liable for any defacing or damage students do to the bus.

Students may be suspended from riding the school bus for engaging in misconduct. Video cameras may be active on buses to record student conduct and may be used for the purposes of investigation into misconduct or accidents on the bus.

For questions regarding school transportation issues, contact: Penny Evert  (719.4210).

Students are not encouraged to drive to school or during the lunch period. The City Police Department enforces posted parking regulations. Special attention should be given to young children walking near the building. Students should be aware that ANY citizen may report careless or reckless driving to the North Muskegon Police Department and citations may be issued after the fact.

The lots designated for school staff MAY NOT be used by students at any time.  Student vehicles parked in these lots may be ticketed or towed at the discretion of administration.

The school is not responsible for student vehicles, any possessions left in them, or anything attached to the vehicles.  STUDENTS PARK THEIR VEHICLES ON OR NEAR SCHOOL PROPERTY AT THEIR OWN RISK.  Students should be aware their vehicles are not protected in any way while in the parking lot, and items of value should not be left in or near the vehicle while unattended.

Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in vehicles parked on school grounds.  School lots are regularly searched by contraband dogs, administration, and police officers.  Students should be aware that items and spaces on school grounds are subject to view by others.  Based on the reasonable suspicion standard, vehicles parked on school grounds may be subject to search.  Prohibited items discovered during the course of a search may result in discipline, including, but not limited to, expulsion from school, as well as referral to law enforcement.

Vehicles MAY NOT be parked or located in the bus lanes or fire lanes at ANY TIME.  Bus lanes and fire lanes are clearly marked.  Vehicles located in these locations may be ticketed and/or towed by the police.  

Video cameras may be active in parking lots and may be used for the purposes of investigation into student misconduct. Discipline for misconduct includes all disciplinary measures in the student discipline code and/or withdrawal of parking privileges.

All students must be properly immunized at the time of registration or not later than the first day of school pursuant to Michigan Health Department regulations. A required vaccine may be waived or delayed in the following circumstances:

Taking medication during school hours or during school-related activities is prohibited unless it is necessary for a student’s health and well-being.  When a student’s licensed health care provider and parent/guardian believe that it is necessary for the student to take medication during school hours or school-related activities, the parent/guardian must request that the school dispense the medication to the child by completing a “Student Medical Authorization Form.”

No school or district employee is allowed to administer to any student, or supervise a student’s self-administration of, any prescription or non-prescription medication until a completed and signed School Medication Authorization Form is submitted by the student’s parent/guardian.  No student is allowed to possess or consume any prescription or non-prescription medication on school grounds or at a school-related function other than as provided for in this procedure.

A student may possess an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) and/or an asthma inhaler prescribed for immediate use at the student’s discretion, provided the student’s parent/guardian has completed and signed an Authorization for Student Self-Medication Form.  

If your student has a life-threatening allergy or life-threatening chronic illness, please notify the building principal at (231) 719-4110.  Federal law protects students from discrimination due to a disability that substantially limits a major life activity. If your student has a qualifying disability, an individualized Section 504 Plan will be developed and implemented to provide the needed supports and accommodations so that they can access educational programs and services. The School District’s Section 504 Policy is available at 1600 Mills Ave.  Not all students with severe allergies or chronic illnesses may be eligible for a Section 504 Plan. Our School District also may be able to appropriately meet a student's needs through other means.

The school provides a guidance and counseling program for students.  The school’s counselors are available to those students who require additional assistance. The guidance program is available to assist students in identifying career options consistent with their abilities, interests, and personal values.  Students are encouraged to seek the help of counselors to develop class schedules that meet the student’s career objectives.  High school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to receive college and career-oriented information.  Representatives from colleges and universities, occupational training institutions and career-oriented recruiters, including the military, may be given access to the school campus in order to provide students and parents/guardians with information.

Safety drills will occur at times established by the school board.  Students are required to be silent and shall comply with the directives of school officials during emergency drills.  Each school shall conduct at least six (6) fire drills, two (2) tornado drills, and two (2) lock-down drills each school year. At least four (4) of the fire drills shall occur in the fall. There may be other drills at the direction of the administration.  Drills will not necessarily be preceded by a warning to the students.

Fire/Safety Drills - When an alarm sounds, exit the building with your class. Students are to report to the teacher, whose class they left at the alarm, at a predetermined spot outside. Each classroom will have a fire drill map posted, and teachers should orient students at the beginning of the course as to where they should congregate during a drill or fire. If an alarm is sounded between classes, students should exit and report to the last teacher whose class they attended. Students in a restroom or on an errand should exit by the closest door and then report to the teacher in whose class they are enrolled at the time. Teachers will take attendance outside; students may not re-enter the building until an all clear is issued.

The school will observe recommendations of the Michigan Department of Community/Public Health regarding communicable diseases.

1.        The student's parent/guardian is required to notify the school office if they suspect their child has a communicable disease.

2.        In certain cases, students with a communicable disease may be excluded from school or sent home from school following notification of the parent/guardian.

3.        The school will provide written instructions to the parent/guardian regarding appropriate treatment for the communicable disease.

4.        A student excluded because of a communicable disease will be permitted to return to school only when the parent/guardian provides the school a letter from the student’s doctor stating that the student is no longer contagious or at risk of spreading the communicable disease.

The student's parent/guardian should complete the school district's emergency medical treatment authorization form to indicate their preference of hospital, doctor, and dentist for emergency treatment.  Of course, in an emergency situation the child should be transported to the nearest medical facility able to render appropriate care, regardless of parental preference. Typically, this decision is made by an EMT (emergency medical technician) or other first responder.

School teachers, counselors, social workers, and administrators, are required by law to immediately report any and all suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the Michigan Child Protective Services.

North Muskegon MS/HS Cell Phone/Wireless Communication Device (WCD) Use Policy

Cell phones and other wireless communication devices (watches, earbuds, etc.) may not be used while on campus (8:10-3:10) with the exception of lunchtime and passing times. Students may use their devices freely during those times.  Students must stop using their device if directed by an NM staff member to do so.  This includes before classes, during passing time, lunch, after school.  NM staff will deliver this directive if the device is creating a disruption to the educational setting or creating a situation that is not safe, caring, or orderly.

If you would like your child to have a cell phone on our NM campus, please understand that it must remain in their locker and be silenced.  Choosing to not adhere to our NM expectations initiates the following handbook consequences:

Under specific teacher directed instruction/activity, students may be allowed to use their phones

We encourage all communication between parents and students to go through the main office.

Students may carry electronic devices for medical reasons (per doctor’s note).

The right to use a ChromeBook and to access the Internet while in school is a privilege. If students do not adhere to North Muskegon Public Schools Acceptable Use Policy and the rules and guidelines stated here, these privileges may be restricted or eliminated.

• Students will attain higher levels of academic achievement.
• Students will demonstrate a higher level of technology literacy.
• Students will improve the quality of their learning as they develop a new set of knowledge and skills for the future world of work.
• Students will be more engaged in their daily educational experience.
• Students will improve communication and widen their sense of community by expanding the way teachers, students, and parents are able to interact with each other.
• Students will be more prepared for the requirements of college and the workforce.

A. In the Bag

• Chromebook
• Power Supply
• ID Tag

B. On the Chromebook

• Chrome OS – The Operating System Software
• Google Drive

C. Backup and File Storage

• Students can save documents to the hard drive of their computer.
• Files on student computers are not automatically backed up.
• At school students may copy files from their lab computers to the school network.
• Students may use a USB flash drive to store information as well.

D. Software Support and Troubleshooting

• First avenue of support – application and chromebook help system.
• Second avenue of support -- contact a classmate.
• Third avenue of support – contact a classroom teacher
• Most problems will be solved by restarting the device. If the computer will not shut down, press and hold the power button until it shuts down. This is a last resort!
• If the problem persists, bring your chromebook to the library at your building when you return to school. The chromebook may require re-imaging or further hardware/software troubleshooting. A spare chromebook will be available in the meantime if necessary.

When students take their chromebooks home, families assume financial responsibility. Parents/Guardians may be responsible for the replacement or repair cost of the device in the event of theft, loss, or damage due to misuse or careless use. Please see section F for more information on loss, theft, and damage.

A. Parent Involvement

• I will support my child in the use of the computer by monitoring the following items listed below when the computer is in use in my home or in my presence.
• It is important to have the student use the computer in a place where I can monitor what my child is doing and where s/he is going on the Internet.
• I need to ask questions and show interest in how my child is using the computer, especially in how it is enhancing his/her studies.

B. Student Handling and Care of the Chromebooks

• My chromebook is a valuable educational tool, therefore, I will keep it with me at all times while at school and I will take it to all classes.
• I understand that North Muskegon staff and my parents have the right to view the contents of my chromebook.

I understand that use of the Internet, the Chromebook, and its software will be will be monitored at all times by North Muskegon Public Schools

C. Acceptable Use Policy

• I will be responsible for the care and upkeep of my chromebook, and will treat it with respect.
• I will be responsible for reporting damages to equipment, system, or software.
• I understand that any misuse of the equipment will fall under the guidelines of the student handbook. Consequences may range from a warning to suspension.
• I will not leave my chromebook unattended at any time.
• I will bring my chromebook fully charged to school every day.
• I will close the screen when the chromebook is not in use to extend the battery life.
• I will not leave my chromebook at school over extended vacation periods (longer than a weekend).
• I want to protect my chromebook and will keep it in the approved computer case.
• This chromebook was issued to me and is my responsibility. I will not let others use my chromebook unless directed by a staff member.
• I will be able to appropriately personalize the desktop on my chromebook.
• I will not place stickers on my chromebook. I will not deface the chromebook.
• I will not change the configuration of the chromebook.
• I will not eat or drink near the chromebook.
• I must use the chromebook on a flat, stable surface to keep it from falling.
• I will not set books or other heavy items on top of the chromebook, understanding that doing so will risk breaking the screen.
• I understand that it is important to carry the chromebook correctly so I will avoid carrying it with the lid open and will not pick it up by the screen.
• I will be careful not to leave pencils, pens, paper, earrings, or earbuds on the keyboard when closing the lid.
• I will lock my chromebook in my locker when it is not needed for class (like PE) and while I am in the cafeteria for lunch. (Locker rooms are designated as chromebook free zones).
• I will allow the chromebook to warm to room temperature before using it if it has been left in a cold car.
• If I must leave my chromebook in a vehicle, I will lock the vehicle and keep my chromebook out of sight.
• I will not leave the chromebook exposed to direct sunlight or near any heat or moisture sources for extended periods of time.
• I will leave my chromebook in its case at all times.
• I will return the chromebook to North Muskegon Public Schools at the end of the school year.

D. Ethical and Appropriate Use

Students are expected to follow copyright law.

Students are expected to treat others with respect when posting information on the Internet. Students should take reasonable steps to protect their own and other’s identity.

The right to use a chromebook is a privilege. Consequences will be enforced if students do not adhere to the NMPS Acceptable Use Policy and the rules and guidelines in this handbook. Consequences can range from warnings to suspensions.

Students will abide by new classroom norms concerning chromebook use during class.

All uses of E-mail and online communications must be appropriate.

Examples of appropriate email use are:

• Communication with teachers
• Communication with parents Communication with a user or other users to support approved projects by teachers
• Communication with outside parties as approved by staff

Examples of inappropriate email uses are:

• Communication with anyone who includes harassment (to persistently annoy), profanity (and other offensive language), vulgar statements, pornography, threats of physical harm, threats of harm to property, or discriminatory remarks.
• Disclosing personal information, location, and identity with anyone you do not know.
• Accessing personal Email when it is not allowed by a staff member.
• Accessing non-educational websites and material during class time.

E. Monitoring and Supervision

• Chromebooks should be used in a location where use can be monitored and supervised by a parent; unsupervised use is strongly discouraged, e.g. use in a child’s bedroom.
• The student is responsible for all use of his/her assigned chromebook .
• Use of chromebook by other family members is not allowed.
• Students may not allow other students to borrow their chromebook.
• The school is able and may monitor computer use, time spent, and websites visited.

F. Internet Access at Home

• Any Internet access at home is solely the decision and responsibility of the student’s parent/guardian. The school will not provide Internet access away from school.
• The chromebooks are configured to allow access to the Internet at home. Cable Internet, DSL (like Frontier provides) are good options.
• The chromebook is configured to connect to the school network for Internet access. The student will need to enter his/her username and password in order to access the Internet at home and elsewhere.

G. If Chromebook is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged

• If a chromebook is lost, stolen or damaged, please notify the school Principal immediately (next school day).
• If the chromebook is stolen, a police report is required.
• If the chromebook is lost or maliciously damaged, the parent/guardian is responsible for the full replacement cost or the full cost of the repair.
• Protection from theft or accidental damage may be purchased for $50 per year prior to the distribution of the chromebook. Under this policy accidental loss and/or damage is covered.

H. Printing at Home

• Students are allowed to print to a home printer if a printer is ‘Cloud Enabled’.

I.  Athletics and Field trips

• Chromebooks are not allowed in the locker rooms.
• Students are not discouraged from taking the chromebook on field trips, but this practice does increase the risk of theft or damage. Students should make certain the chromebook is left with a responsible party or in a locked, secure area during events and field trips. The bus is NOT a secure, locked area. Students should not leave the chromebook on a school bus.  

While we always start with a proactive approach to student behaviors, there are times when student discipline is needed and appropriate.  Even during these times, our goal is to work with students to teach the expected behavior.  We believe that students have the best chance for success when they are in school and class.  Although there will be times in which student behavior prohibits this, NM will work to process student discipline in a restorative and educational manner.  In addition to utilizing PBIS strategies, staff will implement TCIS training/support to assist students in changing the problem behavior. Some examples of discipline that may be used are:

Conference with Student - Time for teacher or administrator to confidentially discuss behavior, interventions, and solutions with the student. This can include direct instruction of expected or desirable behaviors.  

Conference with Parent/ Guardian - A teacher or administration communicates with a student's parent/guardian by phone, email, written notes, or in person regarding the problem behavior in an effort to collaboratively restore student status within the classroom.  Students may also be part of this process of notifying parents as part of the learning.

In-Class Break - Short duration (ten minutes or less), usually separated from the group but remains in proximity to the classroom.  This is a time for the student to reflect on his/her action. The student rejoins the group after break is over and is ready to engage positively.

Privilege Loss - Unable to participate in specified activities.  Examples, but not limited to: Extracurricular participation, leaving campus for lunch, loss of Ride w/Pride programming, PRIDE ticket drawings, etc.

Student Processing/Reflection Time - Students are assigned to another supervised environment for a period of time (typically lunch or before/after school). Students must comply with the rules of a quiet room. May include completion of a reflection  and/or assignment completion.

Restitution/Repair the Relationship - Student makes amends for his/her negative actions. They take responsibility to correct the problem created by the behavior. Verbal or written declaration of remorse. Inclusive of positive affirmation to peer or person impacted by student actions.

Corrective Assignment Restitution/School Community Service - Completion of a task that compensates for the negative action and creates a desire not to revisit the negative behavior. Tasks may include, but are not limited to: washing windows, lockers, and/or walls; cleaning dry marker boards; mopping floors; picking up trash; emptying waste baskets; etc.

Home/School Plan -Parent/guardian and teacher agree on a consistent approach with the student. The plan should be consistent with PBIS practices, emphasizing teaching and rewarding appropriate behaviors, and consistent consequences for problem behaviors. The home/school plan should be explained to the student by the parent/guardian and teacher, as appropriate.

Written Contract - Student, teacher, and possibly parent/guardian formulate a document expressing the student's intention to remediate or stop further occurrences of the problem behavior. A written contract should be positive in tone; it should include incentives, but may also include consequences for misbehavior.

Detention - Student spends time before/after school or during lunch taking ownership and reflecting on solutions to the problem behavior

Saturday School - a program that may be offered to students to make up for absenteeism, and in some cases as an alternative to out of school suspension and as part of progressive discipline.  At the discretion of the administration, a student who has been suspended may be permitted to attend a Saturday School. Saturday School is held at North Muskegon Middle School/High School. Failure of students to arrive on time and abide by all the rules approved for this program will result in the student receiving OSS (out of school suspension).

In School Suspension (ISS) -  (all day detention) may be offered in lieu of (or in combination with)outside school suspension. It advocates placing a student who has committed a suspendable offense in an on-campus and controlled environment in which he/she is required to complete assignments under the supervision of an adult. Under this program, a student serves his/her penalty for a violation of school rules where he/she continues his/her education and retains his/her opportunity to earn academic credit.

Out-Of- School Suspension (OSS) - Students who are suspended out of school (OSS) must leave school property and may not return without the permission of school authorities or until after the suspension time is over. Students on OSS are not to be on school property and are expected to remain home under parental supervision. Students placed on out of school suspension will receive credit for the work done during the time of suspension. Students will gather homework assignments and return them to their teachers upon request so that they will not fall behind in their classes.

Expulsion - Students who are expelled from school and all school sponsored activities/events for a definite period of time  are prohibited from being on school grounds or at school sponsored events/activities.  The Michigan School Code mandates the permanent expulsion, subject to possible reinstatement, of a student who, while on school property, school transportation, or at a school activity or event, possesses a dangerous weapon, commits an act of criminal sexual conduct or arson, or physically assaults a school employee, contractor or volunteer. “Physical assault” means intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence.

Law Enforcement Notification - Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves illegal drugs (controlled substances), “look-alikes,” alcohol, weapons, or other illegal conduct.

Probation/Behavior Contracts - Conditional enrollment may be granted by a school administrator (or designee) for a trial period. The period of probation may be for varying lengths of time, but not to exceed one semester.

The following consequences are administered at the discretion and judgment of the administrators of NMPS.  They are likely in conjunction with restorative practices, PBIS strategies, and TCIS training.

Building discipline issues are categorized as minor and major.

• Minor Discipline Defined- Student action that is acted on by the classroom teacher, such actions may result in (but not limited to) parent contact, student conversation with teacher, entry into Powerschool Discipline system, after-school detention, restorative justice.
• Major Discipline Define- Student action that is referred to administration, such actions may result in (but not limited to) parent contact, student conversation,entry in Powerschool Discipline system, after-school detention, ISS, OSS, restorative justice.

North Muskegon Middle and High School Behavior Flowchart

North Muskegon Middle and High School Behavior Definitions and Response

A progressive discipline approach will be used with all students

1.         All Criminal Acts (previously defined) unless Specifically Addressed 

1st offense                 Up to 10 days suspension, OSS, and Probation

2.         Fighting – initiator and/or combatant

Disrupting the educational process

Disrespectful behavior toward faculty/staff

Throwing Objects and/or Endangering the Safety of Others

1st offense                 Up to 5 days ISS/OSS

2nd offense                 Up to 6 - 9 days OSS

3rd offense                 Up to 10 days OSS

3.         Possession or Use of Drug paraphernalia

Tobacco/Nicotine products

Alteration of School Records

Insubordination (not submitting to a staff directive, including verbal abuse or    

            threatening school(officials)

Interfering with School Officials in Pursuit of their Duty

Leaving School Property without Permission during the School Day

Unauthorized distribution of materials

1st offense                 ISS/OSS or Saturday School

2nd offense                 Up to 2 days ISS/OSS and/or Saturday School

3rd offense                 Up to 5 days ISS/OSS and/or Saturday School

4th offense                 Up to 10 days OSS and/or Saturday School

4.         Theft or Vandalism

Public Defamation of Staff Members

Indecent Exposure

Fireworks

1st offense                 Up to 5 day suspension (OSS/ISS)

2nd offense                 Up to 10 day suspension (OSS/ISS)

5.         Profanity (Written, Verbal, Non-Verbal, Gestured)

Forgery

Cheating

Plagiarism

Truancy – Skipping classes or school

Unauthorized use of the facility

Unauthorized check out from school

Persistent Misbehavior – Any student who is referred to the office by a staff member    

            after exhausting the interventions in the general discipline policy will face the following    

           consequences.

1st offense                ISS or Saturday School or Detention

2nd offense                 Up 2 days ISS or 2 days Saturday School*

3rd offense                 Up to 3 days OSS

4th offense                 Up to 5 days OSS

5th offense                 Expulsion/Alternative Placement

* Each referral to the office for Persistent Misbehavior regardless of the teacher is cumulative; however the principal may use discretion with this area. An example is the length of time between violations. Building administration has the right to use discretion to deviate from the designated sequence of consequences and impose any of the set forth disciplinary measures or any other available disciplinary measure (such as parent/guardian attending is lieu of OSS) without imposing a less or more severe type of discipline and, in addition, may refer a particular incident of misconduct to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

6.         Bullying, Intimidation, Coercion, etc.-. All students have the right to a safe educational environment, which is conducive to learning for all. Those who impede the educational progress of their fellow peers will be subjected to the following:

1st offense                 ISS or Saturday School

2nd offense                Up to 3 days OSS/ISS

3rd offense                 Up to 10 days OSS/Possible expulsion

7.         Cafeteria/Bus/Hallway/Classroom Misbehavior – Students who run, push and shove, or act inappropriately in the cafeteria or hall between classes, before or after school will be given a reprimand and/or serve a school detention (dependent of the infraction or circumstances). If misbehavior continues students will be subjected to “Persistent Misbehavior” guidelines.

8.         Hate Speech/Written (Racial, Ethnic, Satanic, Nazi and Gender Slurs, Homophobic,Transphobic) – Students will be referred to the office for making verbal, non-verbal gestures and/or written messages about another.

1st offense         Up to 3 days suspension + parent conference required before student may return to school

2nd offense                Up to 5 days OSS + parent conference

3rd offense                 Up to 10 days OSS/Possible expulsion

Students on suspension will be given the opportunity to make up all schoolwork deemed appropriate by the school administrator and the teachers involved. The teacher may set a reasonable deadline for turning in this work. Students who receive an out of school suspension will receive a 10% grade reduction for the work assigned in all classes during the suspension period. Final exams are not considered “assigned work” and grades on exams will not be subject to reduction. Students must vacate the school premises after receiving a suspension. Students who are seen on school grounds after receiving a suspension may be suspended an additional three (3) days.

1.         The building administrator will confer with the person (or persons)

                                    involved.

2.         The student shall be informed of the specific charge(s), which could be the basis for disciplinary action.

3.         The student will have the right to be heard and to present any relevant information to the school administrator.

4.         Once the building administrator (or designee) determines that suspension is appropriate, he will:

A.         Notify the parent(s) or guardian(s) as soon as possible of the suspension, the reason for it, and the duration. Notification may be made by any of the following forms: use of the formal Disciplinary Notice to Parent(s) or Guardian(s) form, telephone, home visit, or a suspension letter. Suspensions extending beyond ten (10) days will be confirmed by a written statement sent through the mail.

B.         Confer, at the earliest possible time, with the parent(s) or guardian(s) and the student to discuss the conditions for the return of the student to the school setting.

C.         Advise the parent(s) or guardian(s) and student of their right to appeal the decision.

D.         Refer to law enforcement agencies when appropriate, as in cases of arson, rape, vandalism, violence, theft, assault, weapons possession, illegal possession of drugs, etc.

E.         Complete and file, in the building, Discipline Notice to        

            Parent/Guardian        

Students will have two separate careers at North Muskegon: middle and high school.

Students will be given an opportunity for a fresh start when they enter into a new career.

The purpose of our athletic program is to enhance the overall school experience. Our students will be offered the opportunity to develop physically, socially and emotionally from their experiences as an athlete. Athletes are expected to dedicate themselves to honesty, good sportsmanship and the pursuit of excellence. Participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege, not a right.   Student-athletes are expected to conduct themselves both in and out of school in a manner appropriate to their responsibilities as representatives of the school and district. If a student fails to comply with the terms of this code, the privilege to participate in athletics may be lost in accordance with the terms of this Athletic Addendum.

Student-athletes are expected to demonstrate Norse PRIDE (PBIS Behavior Expectations) at all times.  Participating in extracurricular activities is a privilege in which student-athletes are representing themselves and our school.  Behavioral misconduct by student-athletes will not be tolerated. Behavioral misconduct shall include but shall not be limited to:

• Violation of school rules or regulations of law
• Behavior which disrupts the appropriate conduct of school program/activity
• Hazing, bullying, or harassment of any kind
• Use of profanity
• Exhibition of poor sportsmanship
• Any behavior/action which is negatively or intentionally injurious to person, property, or risk of injury or damage

Coaches and school officials will impose disciplinary measures appropriate to the offenses committed. The discipline imposed for any particular offense shall be at the sole and exclusive discretion of the coaching staff and school officials.

All extra-curricular activities that a student participates in during each of his/her careers, such as clubs, sports, plays, etc. are to be governed by this policy and are subject to the disciplinary provisions set forth in this code.  Violations of this policy may be reported by authorized individuals who include law enforcement personnel and any school official:  administrator, teacher, coach, school employee, or school board member.

Violations of this code of conduct include illegal substance use, illegal activity, or serious misconduct as determined by school administration.  Students will have two separate careers; middle school and high school.

Violations of this policy will result in:  (Suspensions will begin upon the first tryout or practice from the point of the violation)

1st Offense - Suspension for 15 Calendar Days (days do not accumulate during school break) and talk with Counseling Committee;

2nd Offense - Suspension for 60 Calendar Days (days do not accumulate during school break) and some form of treatment program;

3rd Offense - Suspension for 180 Calendar Days (days do not accumulate during school break) and some form of treatment program;

4th Offense - Suspension for career.

The rules set forth in this Athletic Code are in effect throughout the calendar year and twenty-four hours a day, whether or not school is in session and including vacation periods, and holidays.  The rules apply on and off campus and whether or not the misconduct occurs at school or a school-sponsored activity or in some other locale. The rules apply from the beginning of the athlete's first tryout or practice in the first sport which the athlete attempts until the completion of the athlete's athletic eligibility in all sports.

The Athletic Addendum applies to all students who want to participate in athletics. Athletics includes competitive sports, extracurricular activities, and other NM sports (including clubs) that represent our school This code applies in addition to other rules and regulations concerning student conduct and imposes additional requirements on student-athletes.

Additional athletic information can be found on our NMPS Athletic website or by reaching out to our Athletic Director, Jeff Cooke.

Eligibility for most athletics is also governed by the rules of the Michigan High School Athletic Association and, if applicable, these rules will apply in addition to this Athletic Code.  In the case of a conflict between MHSAA and North Muskegon’s Athletic Addendum, the most stringent rule will be enforced.  Additional information from MHSAA can be found HERE.

The student-athlete must be in attendance for the entire school day in order to participate in a contest or practice. A pre-excused absence (i.e. medical or dental appointment, school field trips, death impacting athlete's family) approved by the administration will permit participation. Illness will not qualify for a pre-excused absence. A student present for less than the entire day will need special permission from the administration to participate.

An athlete who has one or more truancies or who has been suspended from school is also suspended from participation in athletic activities by administration.

An athlete who is absent from school on a Friday before a Saturday event may be withheld from Saturday activities at the sole discretion of the coach.

An athlete must have the following fully executed documents on file at the school office before the athlete's first participation in any activity.  Athletic equipment should not be issued and students must not be allowed to try out or practice until an acceptable signed statement of physical examination and consent has been provided.

• A current physical examination report (given on or after April 15- MHSAA date-  of the previous school year) completed by the M.D., D.O., Physician's Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner who administers the physical examination and which finds that the athlete has passed a physical examination and is physically able to participate in athletic tryouts, practices and contests; and
• Pay to Participate fee
• Proof the athlete is covered by medical insurance; and
• A receipt showing the athlete and his/her parents received a copy of the Athletic Addendum, understand the terms of the Athletic Addendum and agree to abide by its terms and conditions.
• A signed, MHSAA-approved concussion awareness form.
• This information will be updated in FinalForms

A student athlete who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion, or balance problems), shall be immediately removed from the practice or contest and shall not return to play until cleared by an appropriate health care professional. In such circumstances, a student athlete shall not practice or participate in a competition until the student athlete provides the school with a written release from a physician (M.D. or D.O.) who has examined the student athlete.  Concussion return to play information and forms HERE.

Athletes will ride school provided/authorized transportation to all athletic events and follow policies in place for transportation from the event. Exceptions must be arranged in advance with the administration. The school encourages all athletes to travel as a team. Requests for exception should be based on emergency or extraordinary reasons only.

Any student athlete found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the school district's athletic discipline policies, rules and regulations as provided herein.

Students will have two separate careers at North Muskegon: middle and high school. Students will be given an opportunity for a fresh start when they enter into a new career.

Previous academic term:  Requirement is 100% passing rate for all courses from the student-athlete’s previous academic term. If a student/athlete does not pass all courses in a given term, that student/athlete may not participate in any sport/extra-curricular activity for the duration of the next academic term.

• Must pass all Spring term classes to participate in Fall sports

• Must pass all Fall term classes to participate in Winter sports

• Must pass all Winter term classes to participate in Spring sports

• Credit earned over the summer for a failed Spring course will nullify Fall season ineligibility.

Current Academic Term: Requirement is 80% passing rate (Must be passing 5 of 6 courses).

• Eligibility checks will begin the 3rd week of Fall term and continue until the end of Winter term.
• Weekly eligibility checks on Wednesday by the Athletic Department.  If a student-athlete is failing two or more courses at the time of the grade check, that student is ineligible for all interscholastic contests that happen during the following Monday – Saturday week.
• Results are shared with all participating coaches for the current season

• Eligibility (fresh start)d begins again after each marking period.  
• Students may not drop a class in which they are failing in order to maintain eligibility.
• Student athletes are also discouraged from leaving classes early to attend other sporting events, particularly on days they have games.

Academic Term- Athletic Season Overlap (Athletic Academic Probation Period) – If there is an academic term (trimester) and athletic season overlap and a student has failed the previous academic term, said student will be have an athletic academic probation period, ensuring that all classes are passed until the end of the term.  Said student must pass 100% of classes to remain eligible for play.  This is ABOVE the regular MHSAA eligibility requirement.

For example, if a student fails a class in the fall semester, the student is INELIGIBLE to play for the winter sport.  Since NM’s Winter term goes through mid-April and the Spring sports season begins in early March (overlap), said student is eligible to play for the spring sports season but MUST pass all classes (noted by weekly grade checks) until the end of Winter academic term.  If said student passes all winter term classes, regular weekly checks with 80% passing classes goes back into effect for the remainder of the spring sports season.

In addition to the above rules, individual coaches may have additional rules and penalties. The coaches’ rules and penalties must be approved by the athletic director and must be presented to the athletes at the beginning of the season. Coaches will not suspend an athlete from a team for the remainder of the season without the approval of the athletic director. The coach has the right to suspend an athlete from competition for the remainder of the day and will report such incidents to the athletic director by the next day or sooner. Parental contact will take place for any suspensions of more than one day.

North Muskegon Middle and High School offers a variety of activities for our students  to become involved. Those interested in forming a new club may obtain the necessary information from the Assistant Principal’s Office.  NMPS Board Policy- Equal Access for Non- School Sponsored Clubs

Attendance at school-sponsored dances is a privilege.  Only students who attend the school may attend school-sponsored dances, unless the principal or designee approves a student’s guest in advance of the event.  A guest must be “age appropriate”.

All school rules, including the school’s discipline code and dress code are in effect during school-sponsored dances.  In particular, students shall not:

1. Use, possess, distribute, purchase, or sell tobacco materials, alcoholic beverages, or any illegal substance or paraphernalia;
2. Use, possess, buy, sell, barter, or distribute any object that is or could be considered a weapon or any item that is a “look-alike” weapon;
3. Vandalize or steal;
4. Haze other students;
5. Behave in a manner that is detrimental to the good of the school; or
6. Be insubordinate or disrespectful toward teachers and chaperones.

Students who violate the school’s discipline code will be required to leave the dance immediately and the student’s parent/guardian will be contacted. The school may also impose other discipline as outlined in the school’s discipline code.

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment affords parents certain rights regarding the District’s conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical examinations. These include the right to:

1. Consent before the student is required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education:

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom the students have close family relationships;
6. Legally-recognized privileged relationships, such as those with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian; or
8. Income, other than that required by law to determine program eligibility.

2. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –Parents wishing to opt out their child should contact the building principal.

1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under Michigan law; and
3. Activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

3.  Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

1. Protected information surveys of students;
2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum

Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605

A student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) may review the curriculum, textbooks, and teaching materials of the school in which the student is enrolled at a reasonable time and place and in a reasonable manner.   If you would like to arrange such a time/place, please contact the building principal.

School student records are confidential and information from them will not be released other than as provided by law.  For additional information, please review NMPS Board Policy re: Student Records.

A federal law known as the "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act" ("FERPA") gives parents and eligible students (age 18 and older) the following rights with respect to their student records.  

1.  RIGHT TO INSPECT:  You have the right to inspect and review substantially all of your education records maintained by or at the school district.  This right extends to the parent of a student under 18 years of age and to any student age 18 or older.

2.  RIGHT TO REQUEST AMENDMENT:  You have the right to seek to have corrected any parts of an education record which you believe to be inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of your rights.  This right includes the right to a hearing to present evidence that the record should be changed if a designated school official decides not to alter the education records according to your request.  If no change is made to the education record after the hearing, you have a right to place a written rebuttal in the record.

3.  RIGHT TO PREVENT DISCLOSURES:  You have the right to prevent disclosure of education records to third parties with certain limited exceptions.  It is the intent of the Board of Education to limit the disclosure of information contained in your education records to those instances when prior written consent has been given to the disclosure, as an item of directory information of which you have not refused to permit disclosure, or under the provisions of FERPA which allow disclosure without prior written consent.

4. RIGHT TO COMPLAIN: You have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning the alleged failure of the school district to comply with FERPA.  Your complaint should be directed to:

Family Policy and Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

600 Independence Ave, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605

5.  RIGHT TO OBTAIN POLICY:  You have the right to obtain a copy of the policy adopted by the Board of Education in compliance with FERPA.  A copy may be obtained in person or by mail from:

Kristie Hall

North Muskegon Public Schools

1600 Mills Avenue

North Muskegon, MI 49445

6. RIGHT TO OBJECT TO RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION: Generally, school officials must have written permission from the parent of a student or an eligible student before releasing any information from a student's record.  However, FERPA allows school districts to disclose, without consent, "directory" type information.  Unless you advise the school district that you do not want any or all of this information released, school officials may release personally identifiable information which it has designated as directory information.  Upon such objection, this information will not be released without prior consent of the parent or eligible student.

7. You have 6 weeks from the receipt of this notice to advise the school district in writing of any or all of those types of information about the student which you refuse to permit the school district to designate as directory information.  You objections should be addressed to:

Kristie Hall

North Muskegon Public Schools

1600 Mills Avenue

North Muskegon, MI 49445

Although 18-year-old students are recognized as adults under the Age of Majority Act, school officials are nonetheless committed to the equal treatment in application of school policies and procedures to all students. With the exceptions noted below, school district policies and procedures set forth apply to all students, regardless of their attainment of the age of majority. Students 18 years and older may:

(1) Have the same privilege as their parents/guardians as it relates to access or control of their student records.

(2) Represent themselves during disciplinary conferences and be the addressee for their grade reports

(3) Sign themselves in and out of school and may verify their own absences. NOTE: All attendance standards continue to apply;

(4) Provide reason(s) for their absences and tardies, but are held to the same attendance requirements as other students, including the acceptable reason(s) for an excused absence.

Eligible students who wish to assert these rights should register their intent on the appropriate form in the high school office. Until such time as the eligible student registers this intent, school officials will not apply the above exceptions to school policies and procedures.

Upon request, military recruiters and institutions of higher learning will be given access to students’ names, addresses and published telephone numbers.  Parents/guardians who do not want their child’s name to be released (or students over the age of 18 who do not want their name released) should contact the principal.

When a child loses permanent housing and becomes a homeless person as defined by law, or when a homeless child changes his/her temporary living arrangements, the parent/guardian of the homeless child has the option of either:

        (1) continuing the child's education in the school of origin for as long as the child remains homeless or, if the child becomes permanently housed, until the end of the academic year during which the housing is acquired; or

        (2) enrolling the child in any school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child or youth is actually living are eligible to attend.        

The school district's designated "homeless liaison" is:

Theresa Seaberg

(231)719-4121

tseaberg@nmps.net

Appendix

• Handbook Acknowledgment Form
• Authorization to Provide Diabetes Care
• Social Media Policy for Students-Athletes-Spectators

We, ______________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian

And _______________________________________________________________________

Student

We have received and read the 2022-23 North Muskegon High School Student Handbook. We understand the rights and responsibilities pertaining to students and agree to support and abide by the rules, guidelines, procedures, and policies of the North Muskegon School District. We also understand that this handbook supersedes all prior handbooks and other written material on the same subjects. We also understand that this handbook may be amended during the year without notice.

• 18 year old students are legally recognized as adults.

• Except as noted below, policies and procedures set forth in the student handbook will apply to all students, regardless of their attainment of a certain age of majority.

1. Students 18 years old and older may have the same privilege as their parents/guardians as it

relates to access to their student records.

2. Students 18 years old and older may represent themselves during disciplinary conferences and

be the addressee for their grade reports.

3. Students 18 years old and older may sign themselves in and out of school and may verify their

absences. NOTE: All school attendance standards continue to apply to students regardless of their age.

• Eighteen year-old students who wish to assert these rights should register their intent on the appropriate form in the high school office. Until such time as the eligible student registers that intent, school officials will not apply the above exceptions to school policies and procedures.

________________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature

_________________________________________________________________________

Student Signature

_____________________________

Date

I authorize North Muskegon Public Schools and its employees, as well as any and all Delegated Care Aides named in the Diabetes Care Plan or later designated by the District, to provide diabetes care to my child, _____________________, consistent with the Diabetes Care Plan. I authorize the performance of all duties necessary to assist my child with management of his/her diabetes during school.

I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to ensure that the School is provided with the most up- to-date and complete information regarding my child’s diabetes and treatment. Therefore, I consent to the release of information about my child’s diabetes and treatment by my child’s health care provider(s), [                                       ], to representatives of NMPS. I further authorize District representatives to communicate directly with the health care provider(s).

I also understand that the information in the Diabetes Care Plan will be released to appropriate school employees and officials who have responsibility for or contact with my child,___________________________ , and who may need to know this information to maintain my child’s health and safety.

Parent’s Signature:     ____________________________________________________                                                                                                          

Date:                           _________________________

North Muskegon Public Schools recognizes and supports its students’ rights to freedom of speech, expression and association, including the use of online social media.  Each student must remember that participating and competing for NMPS is a privilege, not a right.  The student-athlete represents NMPS and is expected to portray themselves, their teams, and their school in a positive manner at all times.

Students should be aware that third parties, including the media, faculty, future employers, and college officials could easily access profiles and view all personal information.  This includes pictures, videos, comments and posts.  Inappropriate material could negatively affect the perception of both the student-athlete and our school and could have negative repercussions in the future. Examples of inappropriate and offensive behaviors concerning participation in online communities may include variations of the following behaviors, though this is a list of potential examples and is not meant to be all-inclusive:

Derogatory language or remarks about NMPS students, teachers, coaches, or representatives or other students, teachers, coaches, administrators or representatives from other schools.

1. Demeaning statements about or threats to any third party.
2. Incriminating photos or statements depicting violence; bullying; hazing; sexual harassment; vandalism, stalking; underage drinking; selling, possessing, or using controlled substances; or any other inappropriate behaviors.
3. Creating a serious danger to the safety of another person or making a credible threat of serious physical or emotional injury to another person.
4. Indicating knowledge of an unreported felony theft or felony criminal damage to property.
5. Indicating knowledge of an unreported school or team violation—regardless if the violation was unintentional or intentional.

By signing below you affirm that you understand the NMPS Social Media Policy for students and the requirements that you must adhere to as a Norse student. Also, you affirm that failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in consequences that will follow those of our student code of conduct policy.

______________________________________________________        ____________
                             Student   Signature                                                                  Date    

_____________________________________________________                ____________
                              Parent Signature                                                                      Date    

North Muskegon Public Schools

Weight Room Guidelines & Expectations

We believe that all students at NM can grow in their overall wellness by participating in our strength and conditioning program(s) through education, experience, and support.  To fully support the safety and well-being of all our students, the following guidelines and expectations will be followed.

1. Students must be supervised by an approved and NM adult at all times.
2. Students will follow the exercises set forth in TEAMBUILDR, structured from our strength & conditioning coach, when completing workouts. Double workout times are not allowed.
3. Students will wear appropriate exercise attire at all times. (athletic shoes, shorts/pants, and shirt)
4. Students will leave the fitness center better than they found it.  Return all weights and equipment to their proper place when done.
5. Students will stay focused on the task at hand.  All appropriate class behavior is expected.
6. Norse PRIDE will be demonstrated by students at all times (Positive, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, Engaged)

I have read and understand these guidelines and expectations.

Student Name____________________________________Date _______  

Student Signature ____________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature _____________________________________