Student/Parent Handbook (NEW)

GCMS offers a variety of athletic and other after school activity opportunities for all students, including football, cheerleading, volleyball, cross country, theatre, boys basketball, girls basketball, wrestling, track, and soccer. All participants are required to have a current physical examination completed by a physician prior to joining a team. Students and their parents/guardians must also review and sign the GCMS Activities Contract, which outlines expectations in the areas of citizenship, clothing, equipment, lockers, attendance, and grades. Rules and expectations for participation and representation of GCMS will be communicated by the coaches of each individual activity.

A sports fee is required for each season of participation and is non-refundable. Families in need of financial assistance should contact the Athletic Director to discuss available support. Gypsum Creek Middle School strongly encourages commitment for the entirety of the activity or athletic season.

GCMS is a member of the Peaks League, which includes Berry Creek, Eagle Valley, Gypsum Creek, Homestake Peak, Summit Middle, Lake County, ECCA, St. Clare, Vail Christian, and Vail Mountain middle schools. In addition to league play, GCMS frequently schedules non-league contests with Glenwood, New Castle, Carbondale, Rifle, Aspen, Parachute, Basalt, Lake County, Buena Vista, Salida, and East Grand.

Student involvement in after school activities is strongly encouraged as it contributes to the development of the overall individual.  Students should realize that their behavior and academic performance during the regular school day would affect their participation in after school activities. To remain ineligible to participate, a student must have multiple 2 scores in classes (a result of missing assignments) or get a Behavior Referral during the week. In order to promote the ideal of good citizenship and academic achievement the following rules have been established.

Citizenship:  Each student represents the school and should exhibit high standards of citizenship.  Behaviors that violate this principle are not acceptable.  To remain eligible to participate, a student may not receive a Behavior Referral. An ineligible student will not participate in pepfests, dances, STUCO, sports, or any other extra-curricular activity. 

Grades: Academic performance is monitored every Monday and the calculation of grades is cumulative for the marking period.  An ineligible student remains ineligible until Monday of the following week.  Students who are ineligible 2 weeks in a row because of grades will not participate in pepfests, dances, STUCO, sports, or any other extra-curricular activity.

GCMS offers a wide variety of after-school activities.  In addition to sports, students may join Youth Power 365 PWR HRS, Literacy Project, Dance Club, Yearbook Club, Chess Club, Disc Golf Club, or any other new club that may be offered this year.  To join, students simply show up to the meeting place that will be announced well in advance.

We know that attendance is a key factor in student achievement.  Thus, any absence from school represents an educational loss to the student.  We recognize, however, that some absences are unavoidable.  Therefore, this policy is designed to minimize student absenteeism while providing students the opportunity to make up schoolwork missed due to absences that can reasonably be considered unavoidable.

Parents/Guardians should also frequently monitor PowerSchool to track student attendance: https://ps.eagleschools.net/public/

Please read Eagle County School District Policy JH - Student Absences and Excuses

Parents/guardians may request that their child be excused from school attendance for parent/guardian-directed activities as defined by those absences caused by illness, injury, death in the family, or acts of nature.  The following procedures must be implemented to be considered an excused absence. To allow for proper planning, the parent/guardian must make the request a minimum of five school days in advance of the absence.  This is a district-wide policy.  At the discretion of the administration, emergencies may be excluded from this five-day advance request clause.  Parents/guardians will then be notified of the student’s current status in school and the potential impact of an absence.  The parents/guardians will make the final decision as to whether or not to remove the child from school.  Students are expected to complete all make-up work in an appropriate manner.

Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly common for parents to take students out of school for extended periods of time.  Although we realize the value of family activities, we ask that this be avoided whenever possible.  The experience of classroom activities cannot be duplicated for students who have missed them and students often fall behind in their work.  Therefore, we ask your cooperation in scheduling family trips during times when school is not in session.  Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Please read Eagle County School District Policy JH - Student Absences and Excuses

It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to notify the school office either by telephone or in writing by 8:30 AM when their child will be absent from school.  Students may be required to present a written excuse from a parent/guardian on their return to school and will be required to present a written excuse if a telephone or personal contact with the parents/guardians has not been made.  Students who are absent from school due to participation in a school-sponsored activity will not be counted as absent.  Excused absences are defined as those absences caused by illness, injury, death in the family, or acts of nature.  Medical appointments are classified as excused absences and must be verified with a note from the parents/guardians.  Parents may request a Homework Sheet before 9:00 AM on the day of the absence, or they can check Power School for the assignments

Unexcused absences are defined as those absences that are not approved by the parents/guardians in advance and/or those absences that do not meet the definition of an excused absence.  Students who have unexcused absences will be expected to make up their work. Expulsions will be counted as unexcused absences.

Students late to school in the morning must bring a note with an acceptable excuse clearly explained and signed by the parent/guardian to be excused and admitted to class.  Excused absences are defined as those absences caused by illness, injury, or death in the family, acts of nature, or medical appointments.  It is necessary to report to the main office immediately upon arrival.  A student will be considered tardy if he/she is not in class when the tardy bell sounds.  A warning bell is provided to assist students in meeting this expectation.  Students late to a class during the day will be subject to classroom consequences as determined by grade-level teachers/teams.  Consequences for five unexcused tardies in a quarter will include lunch detention and/or after-school detention for subsequent tardies until timeliness is consistent for 30 school days.

Students will not be allowed to leave the school campus between the time of arrival and the close of school.  A parent/guardian may make a written request for waiver of this policy to administration for unusual circumstances that would necessitate the student leaving the campus.

The school shall establish a system of monitoring individual unexcused absences. When a student fails to report on a regularly scheduled school day and school personnel have received no indication that the parent/guardian is aware of the absence, school personnel or volunteers under the direction of school personnel shall make a reasonable effort to notify the parent/guardian by telephone.

A plan shall be developed for a student who is at risk of being declared habitually truant with the goal of assisting the child to remain in school. The plan shall also include strategies to address the reasons for the truancy. When practicable, the student´s parent, guardian or legal custodian shall participate with district personnel during the development of the plan. Appropriate school personnel shall make reasonable efforts to meet with the parent, guardian or legal custodian to review and evaluate the reasons for the student´s truancy.

In accordance with law, the district may impose appropriate penalties that relate directly to classes missed while truant. Penalties may include a warning, school detention or in-school suspension. Academic penalties, out-of-school suspensions or expulsion shall not be imposed for any truancy.

The administration shall develop regulations to implement appropriate penalties for truancy. The school administration shall consider the correlation between course failure, truancy and a student dropping out of school in developing these regulations and shall implement research-based strategies to re-engage students with a high number of truancies.

The staff of GCMS believe that all students have a right to learn in an environment that supports and encourages appropriate behaviors. The vast majority of our students display maturity, responsibility, and respect. It is our responsibility to recognize and encourage kindness, courtesy, and good choices. At GCMS, we do this by rewarding these positive behaviors with “Way to Howl Tickets” which can be redeemed for small rewards.  It is also our responsibility to ensure the inappropriate choices of a few do not infringe upon the learning of others.

Our four expectations are based around our HOWL acronym:

Hardworking
We encourage students to practice perseverance, passion, and grit every day.  Students at GCMS are praised for doing the right thing even when it is hard.

Ownership
Students are expected to take responsibility for their actions and treat others with care.  It is important for the adolescent child to own their education process and behavior.  

Wisdom
At GCMS students learn how to take care of themselves and others while working with integrity.  Over the three years, they attend school at GCMS students build on their respect for others and their ability to critically think and problem-solve.  

Leadership
When students lead by example the school community becomes a more successful place.  Students are taught that doing the right thing even when no one is looking is a sign of a good leader.  

Definition of Bullying

Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the form of physical contact, words, or more subtle actions.  https://www.apa.org/topics/bullying

Prevention at GCMS

GCMS approaches bullying prevention from several standpoints.  We utilize programs such as SecondStep and 7 Mindsets to reinforce positive interpersonal relationships.  We also do several school wide presentations  from Administrators, Counselors, and teachers.

Reporting

At Gypsum Creek Middle School we actively encourage students and parents to report bullying either directly to us or through the use of Safe2Tell

Disciplinary Action

Bullying instances will be documented and handled through our referral system.  Consequences for continued bullying may include After School Detention, In-School Suspension, or Out of School Suspension.

Gypsum Creek Bullying Prevention High Expectations

• We will not bully others.  
• We will try to help students who are bullied.
• We will try to include students who are left out.
• If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home.

Gypsum Creek Middle School follows and enforces the Eagle County School District Code of Conduct (JICD).  When inappropriate behavior occurs, the following process will result:

Intervention within the Classroom.

Discipline is typically most successful when handled within the classroom by the teacher.  Teacher interventions may include a conference with the student, a warning or reprimand, a reminder of the expectation, lunch detention or work duty, or strategies to modify the behavior.

Restorative conference and opportunity

If the behavior is such that more significant intervention is warranted, the staff member may choose to separate the student from the class and conference with that student about the behavior choices.  This conference will include a student answering restorative questions which are designed to elicit student reflection on the impacts of their behavior choices.  If the teacher or staff member assigns detention, parent notice must be through a phone call or email.

Behavior Referral Report

If the misbehavior persists or if the behavior is such that even more significant intervention is warranted, the staff member should write a Behavior Referral report and submit it to the principal or assistant principal. Consequences assigned by the principal or assistant principal will include writing an essay, work duty, a meeting with those involved, in-school or out-of-school suspension, a parent meeting, a behavior plan, or a recommendation for expulsion.  When necessary the principal or assistant principal will require a meeting with the parents to discuss a discipline contract or expulsion prevention plan before the student is permitted to return to school.  Parents will be notified by phone, email, or a copy of the Behavior Referral.

Gypsum Creek Middle School has no tolerance for violence and follows District policy JICDD* - Violent and Aggressive Behavior. Any student who threatens another with physical harm or engages in physical violence will be suspended from school and law enforcement will be notified.  The severity and context are always considered as well as repeated offsenses.  An Expulsion Prevention plan will be developed which may include changes to student schedules and loss of privileges(i.e. lunch recess, common passing periods, etc.) upon return to school.

Habitually disruptive Students will be recommended for expulsion.  A student is placed on a “Step” for each disruptive incident that results in a Behavior Referral.  In Step 3, the student must have a Behavior Plan/Discipline Contract developed with input from the School psychologist, District Behavior specialist, teachers, parents, and the principal or assistant principal.  In Step 5, the student is suspended from school pending a pre-expulsion hearing held with the student, parent, principal, and the Superintendent of Schools (or designee), and the student and parent must sign a form stating they are aware that the next step will result in an expulsion hearing.  At Step 6, the student will be suspended out-of-school pending an expulsion hearing with the Superintendent.  Students who have a Step 3 Behavior Plan will begin the next school year at Step 1.

Searches may be conducted when Administration has Reasonable Suspicion that a student or students are in possession of, but not limited to, weapons, drugs, alcohol, nicotine products, or stolen items. When reasonable grounds for a search exist, the principal or assistant principal may search a student or his/her property, including lockers, backpacks, binders, clothing, coats, etc..

Chewing gum is not permitted in school.  In addition to the rudeness and distraction of gum chewing, it poses a trash problem.  Even with the rule in place, we have a problem with gum stuck where it shouldn’t be (under tables and chairs, on walls, in carpet) and wrappers not thrown in the trash.  Please abide by our “no gum” rule.  Sometimes teachers allow candy or snacks in the classroom, but candy and snacks should not leave the classroom.  

Students should only bring water in a sealed/lidded container to classes.  Students are not permitted to have caffeinated beverages at school

Gypsum Creek Middle School follows and enforces the Eagle County School District Student Dress Code (JICA). The following expectations are given for the health, well-being, and respect of all students:

• Footwear must be worn at all times.
• Clothes must be clean and neat and must meet reasonable standards of health and hygiene.
• Extremes are not permitted (swimwear, bare chests/stomachs, halter tops, spaghetti straps, vulgar or offensive printing, extra low pants/shirts, extra short shorts/dresses/skirts, extra loose armholes).
• Undergarments may not be purposefully visible.
• Nothing that could damage school property may be worn.
• No hoods or head coverings are to be worn at school that hinder identification.
• No clothing advocating controlled substances (e.g., marijuana or alcohol) or promiscuity (e.g. “sexy” or “foxy”) or gang affiliation (e.g. “SUR 13”, “South Side,” bandanas) or weapons are allowed.
• Bulky jackets are not to be worn in classes or in lunch line.

Students who wear something inappropriate will be asked to change or given a shirt or pants to wear for the day.  Students who disregard this dress code three times will be issued a Behavior Referral and consequences may include wearing a uniform.  This dress code applies to all school activities including evening and weekend events.  This dress code also applies on dress-up days; i.e., athletic events, Continuation, performances, and other special occasions.  Any student who wears, draws, cuts hair, gestures, or otherwise indicates gang symbols or gang affiliation will be suspended from school and law enforcement will be notified. 

The Eagle County School District recognizes the importance of early intervention.  It is the goal of the school staff to identify student drug and alcohol-related problems at the earliest possible time so that a proactive problem-solving approach can be taken.  All decisions will focus on what is best for the long-term development of the student, on adherence to Colorado law, and on the need of Eagle County School District to maintain an orderly program for all students.

The three most common offenses on the part of a student are intoxication with drugs or alcohol, possession of drugs or alcohol on school property, or dealing (selling) drugs or alcohol to others on school property.

Intoxication 

If, in the opinion of school officials, there is cause to believe that a student is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at school during school hours or at a school-sponsored event, the student will be confronted by a school official, removed from the setting, and told that the parents/guardians will be informed.  A school official will attempt to contact the parents/guardians who will be asked to take the student home.  The parents/guardians may be advised that it would be helpful if the student were to receive a complete physical examination to determine if a problem exists and if so, the extent of the problem.

Both the student and the parents/guardians will be informed that the administration of a medical examination by a doctor or mechanical analysis of the student’s breath by a doctor, the administration or designee is a possibility in situations where the safety of the student is in question.  Options available to the administrator include out-of-school suspension, in-school suspension, and/or counseling.  The administrator may contact law enforcement officials.

Possession 

If a student is found to be in possession of drugs or alcohol on school property or at a school-sponsored event, the parents/guardians will be notified as soon as possible and efforts made to schedule a parent/guardian/school conference.  Law enforcement officials may be notified of the offense as soon as possible and potential evidence turned over to them.  The building administrator has the discretion to react to this offense in an appropriate manner, including out-of-school suspensions, in-school suspension, and/or counseling.

Dealing

In all cases where a student is found to be distributing drugs or alcohol to others, law enforcement officials will be notified.  Parents/guardians of the student will be notified as soon as possible, and the student will be suspended from school pursuant to the provisions of Colorado Law and Board Policy, which may lead to expulsion of the student from school.  School officials will attempt to establish and maintain a positive relationship with local law enforcement officials.  When school district officials interact with law enforcement agencies involving the suspected offense of a student, the well being of the student is considered as a high priority.

Tobacco/Nicotine 

Student possession and/or use of any tobacco/nicotine product on school grounds are absolutely forbidden and will result in immediate communication with parents/guardians and out-of-school suspension.

GCMS recognizes the importance of communication and collaboration, and provides devices for students to be productive in the classroom. To keep the focus on academics and to reduce unnecessary distractions, the school enforces the following cell phone and personal electronic devices policy:

• Cell phones and electronic devices shall be TURNED OFF when the morning bell rings at 8:35am and not turned back on until 3:50. 
• Cell phones and electronic devices shall be kept in a student’s locker – not in clothing pockets, This includes headphones, AirPods, and earbuds. 
• Cell phones and electronic devices are not allowed to be used on school grounds (inside nor outside) between the hours of 8:35 am-3:50 pm
• Cell phones and electronic devices can be turned back on at the end of school after the bell rings and used to communicate directly with parents/friends who are assisting in transportation and/or after school activities.       
• Cell phones and electronic devices are not allowed to be used during transition times, at lunch or between classes
• If a student needs to make an emergency call during the day, they are to come to the office or use a classroom phone with teacher permission.

Consequences for violation of the above policy

1st Offense:  Teacher confiscates device, gives it to the office as soon as possible and the student can retrieve it at the end of the day. 

2nd Offense:  Teacher confiscates device, gives it to the office as soon as possible and a parent must retrieve the phone. Students will be required to reflect on their phone usage either in a conversation with administration or in writing. 

3rd Offense: Student will be required to turn in their device to the office at the beginning of each day and may pick it up at the end of each day. Parent meeting may also be required. Repeat offenses or failure to turn phone into the office may be eligible for further school consequences up to and including suspension. 

GCMS is not responsible for any lost or stolen electronic devices. Students are encouraged to leave these items at home, but if a student chooses to bring these items to school they are responsible for locking them securely in their lockers and not sharing their locker combination with anyone. 

Parents may call (PREFERRED) the school office at (970) 328-8980 during school hours if they need to get a message to their child. If a parent needs to speak with their child, we will arrange for the student to call the parent back using an office phone. Parents may also email  the following staff to get a message to their child:

Maria De Anda, Office Manager (maria.deanda@eagleschools.net)

Sonja Beasley, Registrar, (sonja.beasley@eagleschools.net)

Guiding Principles for AI Use in ECSD

The following principles guide the appropriate and safe use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)  in Eagle County School District. We commit to adopting processes, procedures, and agreements to uphold each principle.

We use AI as a tool to help all students reach their educational goals.  

AI has the potential to help us reach our district’s goals, including improving student learning, teacher effectiveness, and school operations.  We aim to make AI tools universally accessible. 

We value AI Literacy.  

Students and staff will build their AI Literacy skills in order to utilize AI tools responsibly and ethically.  Critical evaluation of AI responses, paying special attention to inaccuracies, persuasive tone, and bias is essential when using AI tools. 

We reaffirm adherence to existing policies and regulations. 

AI use will align with policies and procedures around protecting student safety, data privacy, and accessibility.

We maintain human oversight when using AI.  

When partnering with AI, we maintain human oversight throughout the entire process (Human In → Human Out).  AI tools can serve as a thought partner but do not replace the critical thinking responsibilities of students, teachers, or administrators.  

We use AI with integrity and honesty.  

Students will be truthful in giving credit to AI sources and tools when submitting work that reflects their learning.    

We strive to monitor, review, and evaluate our district’s use of AI.   

Understanding that AI and technologies are evolving rapidly, we strive to monitor, review, and evaluate our district’s use of AI to adjust our procedures, practices, and agreements accordingly. 

ECSD Student AI Agreements

The agreement statements below align with Guiding Principles of AI Use in ECSD and provide guidelines of acceptable use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) by students in ECSD.

1. Students will use AI tools responsibly, ethically, and in alignment with school rules and district policies.  Creating or sharing harmful, misleading, or inappropriate content violates district policies. 
2. Students will not enter personal, sensitive, or confidential data into any AI tool, including any student identifiable data related to education records.
3. Students will critically evaluate AI-generated content for potential inaccuracies, persuasive tone, and bias. It is vital to understand the limitations of AI and the importance of cross-referencing with factual sources.
4. Students will follow staff instructions on when and how to use AI on an assignment and will check with the instructor when unsure.
5. Students will follow staff instructions for appropriately disclosing and/or citing AI-generated content.  AI is not a substitute for original thought, and students will not claim AI-generated content as their own work.  

Written requests signed by parents/guardians for a student to ride on a bus other than his/her regular one must be in the office by 12:00 noon in order to be signed by the administration.  The Transportation Office can be reached at 328-1939 or 328-2742.

Student Conduct on School Buses

The privilege of riding a school bus is contingent upon a student’s good behavior and observance of established regulations for conduct both at bus stops and on board buses.  The driver of a school bus shall be responsible for the safety of the students on his/her bus, both during the ride and while students are entering or leaving the vehicle.  Therefore, it is the bus driver’s duty to notify the Director of Transportation and the administration of the school involved if any student persists in violating the established rules of conduct.

After due warning has been given to the student and to his/her parents/guardians, the driver, the Director of Transportation, or a school administrator may withhold from the student the privilege of riding the school bus.  The student also may be denied admission to school or be suspended or expelled, in accordance with established policies, for flagrant violation of school bus rider conduct regulations or conduct detrimental to the safe operation of the bus.

The following 13 rules govern the conduct of students as bus passengers and shall serve as the basis for student conduct while riding the bus.  Riding the bus to and from school is a privilege extended to students by the Board of Education.  This privilege may be rescinded on the recommendation of the bus driver and the administration.

1. The driver is in full charge of the bus and the passengers.  At the discretion of the driver, the passengers may be assigned a seat and held responsible for that seat.
2. Passengers must be absolutely quiet while the bus is stopped at a railroad crossing.
3. Passengers will board and leave the bus in an orderly manner and remain seated while the bus is in motion.
4. Passengers will not extend arms, legs, or head out of the bus windows at any time.
5. Passengers will avoid unnecessary conversation with the driver and will keep conversations with other passengers at a low level.
6. Passengers must be on time, as the driver cannot wait for those who are tardy.
7. Passengers will not possess or use tobacco or have glass containers on the bus.  Passengers will not eat or drink on the bus without permission from the Director of Transportation.
8. Passengers will adjust the windows only when instructed to do so by the driver.
9. Passengers responsible for damage or littering on the bus will be responsible for the repair and/or clean up.
10. Passengers will not sit in the stairwell, on the engine cover, or in the aisle of the bus. 
11. Passengers will not exit from the windows or emergency doors unless an emergency exists. 
12. Passengers will not board or leave the bus at a stop other than their own without a written request from the parent(s)/guardians(s), approved by the administration, and presented to the driver.
13. Passengers will cross 10 feet or more in front of the bus when unloading and crossing the roadway.

Field Trips 

Students who are on Step 5 of the Discipline Process are not permitted to attend field trips.

Credit for Work Completed While Suspended 

Suspended students shall be provided an opportunity to make up schoolwork during the period of suspension, so the student can reintegrate into the educational program of the school following the period of suspension.  Full credit may be obtained for completion of tests and other assignments.  Students will be allowed one day to make up tests/assignments for each day that they missed.

Hall Passes

The use of hall passes is practiced throughout GCMS in order to monitor students who are out of the classroom.  Students are responsible for always carrying a hall pass or bathroom pass when in the hallways and not under direct supervision of a teacher.  We use the SmartPass application which is accessible on student Chromebooks.

Discrimination And Sexual Harassment

Any GCMS student who feels that they have been discriminated against because of their sex, ethnic origin, sexual identity, or for any reason that makes them feel uncomfortable, different, or “singled out” should report the matter to an administrator, counselor, or other adult at GCMS with whom they feel safe so the issue can be resolved.

Crime Stoppers

If you know of a crime anywhere, you can earn a reward if your information leads to the identification of the culprit. Crimes are any activities that involve illegal drugs, underage drinking, weapons, property damage, sexual or physical harassment, theft, burglary, cheating, or violence.  Help keep our school and communities safe.  If you know of a crime at school, contact the principal or a teacher.  If you know of a crime away from school, call Eagle County Crime Stoppers at 328-7007. Your identity will be kept secret.

Gang Symbols 

Any student who wears, draws, or gestures gang symbols will be suspended out of school and law enforcement will be notified.

At Gypsum Creek Middle School we believe in equitable grading practices that only represent student learning and progress toward grade level standards.  Grades should be mathematically accurate, reflect knowledge rather than environment or behavior, support a growth mindset, and are transparent.  The Grading Scale in all classes at GCMS is 0-4.  This is a link to the grading scale with descriptors: Family Standards-Based Grading Information  

Final grades are issued at the end of each Semester, viewable online. Parents/Guardians should check student grades on PowerSchool at least once a week.  If you have questions about a specific course grade please contact the teacher of that course.  If you need further assistance please contact the main office (970) 328-8980.

All assignments, assessments, quizzes, tests, classwork, home learning, projects, etc. are divided into two categories: Formative and Summative.  The Formative assignments are designed to build student learning throughout the course and will be entered into the gradebook so that students, teachers, and parents can track learning progress. Formative assignments do not calculate toward student’s cumulative grade for the class and Grade Point Average but are of the utmost importance to reach grade level standards.  Summative assignments and assessments are designed to represent what a student has learned once the learning process is complete.  They are entered into the gradebook and count toward a student’s cumulative grade for the class and Grade Point Average.

Students who are below grade level in any content area  may be assigned Saturday School from 9:00 to 12:00 AM in order to complete assignments and receive help from a teacher.  Parents and students will be notified by phone  if Saturday School is assigned.

State standards can be viewed in detail at the Colorado Department of Education website at www.cde.state.co.us.  Eagle County School District curriculum guides are available on the district website at eagleschools.net. 

The completion of midyear exams and final exams or projects are required for most courses.  It is the students’ responsibility to take these exams before they receive credit for the specific course(s) in which they are enrolled.  A student who has not taken a required exam will receive a grade of “Incomplete” until this obligation is fulfilled.

All middle school students take the Colorado Measures of Academic Success for Mathematics, English Language Arts, Science (8th) and Social Studies (7th).

Students will be allowed to make-up all missing Formative assignments, projects, home learning, classwork, etc. without penalty on the grade.  It is expected that students complete all Formative assignments as part of the learning process.

We know that students learn at different rates and levels.  Summative assessments of all kinds (quizzes, tests, projects, presentations, etc.) can be re-taken up until the final week of a quarter/semester.  This allows students to learn and show their progress on a more flexible timeline.   

The purpose of home learning is for practice and exploration without penalty on student final grades or to finish assignments from class time.  Students should complete all Home Learning activities and teachers are expected to provide feedback on that learning so that students know their next steps before a Summative assessment. 

Every student is expected to write or type their name, the date, and the assignment on every assignment.   This is very important so that students receive the most accurate feedback for their own learning.

The School Accountability/Advisory Committee (SAAC) serves as a sounding board and advisory group to the school’s administration in matters related to our yearly goals.  The SAAC works cooperatively with the school’s administration and the building management council to develop, approve, and promote the implementation of the annual School Improvement Plan (SIP).   SAAC meetings are held in conjunction with PTO on the first school Tuesday of every month at 4:30 PM and are open to the public, please contact Mr. Russell for more information about joining.

Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 4:30 p.m.  Notice of meetings is included in the monthly newsletters and posted on our web site.  Parents can call 328-8980 for the next meeting time.  All parents/guardians and teachers are invited to attend without cost or obligation in order to become better informed about programs and activities at GCMS as well as to share ideas and concerns.

Parents and students can check grades, assignments, and class information on-line any time from anywhere using a system called Power School.  The school district office will mail letters to all GCMS parents with a user name and password and directions to access Power School.  The Parent/Student Login website is https://eagleschools.powerschool.com/public/home.html  

If you do not get a letter, if you misplace your information, or if you need help with the process, give us a call and we can assist you.  Our parents who check Power School give many enthusiastic positive comments about this communication and information system.

In order to save costs on printing and for us to keep parents and students as informed as possible, our line of communications is now through Email, Texts, and Facebook.  We ask that all parents make sure your email address and mobile phone number is updated in PowerSchool.  All communications for important school events and information go out through these methods.
If you use Facebook, please go to our school page (http://www.facebook.com/GypsumCreekMiddleSchool) and click the “Like” button so you get regular information posted to your News Feed.

Student/Parent/Teacher conference times are set each year in October and near the beginning of March so that students can share their goals and progress for maximum growth.  We use a Student Led conference format in which Students present their goals and progress to their parents and their Den Teacher.  Emails with sign-up dates and times will be sent out one to two weeks prior to the conferences.

Many questions parents might have about student performance can be answered by checking Power School or Schoology.  Teachers have planning time set aside each day and parents/guardians are encouraged to contact teachers by phone or email as deemed appropriate.

Parents/guardians of new students should call the office at 328-8980 to schedule a time to enroll at GCMS.  The following information is needed: previous school records, birth certificate and social security card, immunization records, proof of residency, and documentation of special needs. At the time of registration, a release of information form must be signed by parents/guardians so the student’s previous school can send us records.

At a minimum, students must be registered one day prior to their first day of attendance.  Peer helpers will welcome students on their first day and provide a tour of the building and introduce the new student to their teachers and classmates.

Parental notification is necessary when a student transfers to another school during the school year.  Students obtain a check out sheet from the main office.  This sheet is signed by each of the student’s teachers and the librarian as books and materials are returned.  Student’s cumulative records are forwarded to their new school when a parent release is received.

Emergency Operations Plan

An Emergency Operations Plan has been developed through the collaborative efforts of several agencies in the County.  The Plan provides information intended to ensure a safe environment during a variety of specific emergencies including fires, bomb threats, natural disasters, intruders, and civil disturbances among others.  Drills will be held periodically for staff and students for evacuation and lock-down procedures.  Procedures for communication with parents in the event of a large-scale emergency include an automated phone message to each parent’s phone contact listed in PowerSchool.  Please ensure your contact information is thoroughly updated in PowerSchool during the online registration process.

Emergency School Closing

Local radio and Social Media will carry announcements of school closings as soon as they are available.  Likewise, email and text announcements will be sent to parents and guardians.

School Security

All exterior doors to the school are locked during school hours. Visitors must use the intercom system located near the front doors.   All visitors must enter through the main office where they are required to sign in and out of the school building.  Students and staff practice lock-down drills 3 times and fire drills monthly during the year.  The Emergency Operations Plan that specifies our response for a variety of crises is on hand in the office and in each classroom.  Students are supervised during all times when school is in session. 

School Resource Officer

The Eagle County Sheriff's Office (ECSO) provides a School Resource Officer to assist the district schools with truancy, violence, suspected abuse, educational presentations for students, mediations between families and students, background reports, the School Crisis Plan, and training for staff.  The SRO for Gypsum Creek Middle School is Deputy Griffin Wright.

Visitors To The School

Parents are encouraged to visit classrooms.  There is no better way to learn what we are doing in school.  In order to assure that no unauthorized persons enter buildings, all visitors and volunteers should report to the school office and obtain a Visitor or Volunteer badge before visiting elsewhere in the building. 

A student who wishes to bring a visitor to the school and to attend classes with him/her for part of the day must make satisfactory arrangements with the principal at least one day in advance of the visit.  Visiting students will not be permitted to attend core classes unless the student is considering enrolling at GCMS.

The District requires students to pay for expendable materials above the basic requirement, athletic/activity fees, and miscellaneous fees for field trips. Please send payment to the office.  The fees are as follows for participants:  Athletic fee = $50 per sport ($75 for football).  Specials fee = $100. Tech Fee = $35  Student Activity and Field Trip fee = $35. M-Term = $50. Lunch = $3.25 per meal.  Please note that students will be billed for damaged or missing chromebooks, chargers, books, locks, uniforms, and equipment.

Parent/guardian permission forms for all students must be signed and on file in the school office one week prior to leaving on the field trip.  No student will be denied a field trip experience because he/she is not able to pay any associated fee(s).

First Aid

If a student is injured and first aid of any sort is required, parents/guardians may be telephoned or will be contacted in an appropriate manner. Parents/guardians typically will not be contacted for simple scratches/cuts that require a simple bandage but will be contacted if the severity of the injury warrants. If the injury is severe or if there appears to be severe pain, the administrator or his designee will call for an ambulance or a doctor. An accident report form will be completed for all accidents that occur on the school premises that necessitate an adult’s attention.

Medication

If the child is to receive over-the-counter medication the medication must be sent to school in a manufacturer’s labeled bottle and must be accompanied by a school district document signed by the parent/guardian and doctor authorizing school personnel to dispense the medicine.  The letter must include the amount and time it is to be given.

If the medication is prescribed, a completed medication form signed by the parents/guardians and the doctor must accompany the medication.  The medication must be in a pharmacy bottle labeled with:

• Current date
• Student’s name
• Name of medication
• Directions
• Licensed Colorado prescriber’s name

Written parent/guardian permission stating dosage and directions should be on file in the school nurse’s office.  Medications must be securely kept in a locked place in the office.  No medication should be in a student’s possession at school.  With parent/guardian permission and physician’s authorization, a student with asthma may carry their inhaler.

Immunizations

It is the policy of the Eagle County School District that all students have the proper immunization records.  The immunization record is to be filed with the school nurse upon entry.  Per the Colorado Immunization Law, all 7th graders must have had two measles doses, two mumps doses, and two rubella doses before entering school for the year.  Also, all students in 7th grade must provide proof of hepatitis series B (3) immunization.

Communicable Disease Procedures 

While risk of one student infecting another is very low, the procedures for reducing the potential for transmission of blood borne infectious agents should include the following:

• The bleeding must be stopped, the open wound covered, and if there is an excessive amount of blood on the clothes, they must be changed before the student returns to class.
• Gloves or other precautions are to be routinely used to prevent skin and mucous membrane exposure when contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated.
• Immediately wash hands and other skin surfaces if in contact with blood and other body fluids.
• Clean all contaminated surfaces and equipment with an appropriate disinfectant before use continues.
• Anyone with bleeding or oozing skin conditions should refrain from contact with others’ blood and body fluids.
• Insurance: 
• Information on student insurance is available in the front office.  Parents/guardians wishing to purchase the insurance are to communicate directly with the company designated.  The school does not carry insurance on students or student possessions.

The purpose of the iQuad is to help the students become independent, life-long learners and users of modern media, information, and research materials.  Students will be exposed to a variety of media and skills in utilizing the iQuad.  Books may be checked out for a two-week loan period and may be renewed for one week.  Students will be personally notified of overdue items periodically throughout the school year.  Students will be fined for damaged or lost books or electronic devices checked out in their name.

Lockers

Lockers are assigned to students at the beginning of the year.  To safeguard possessions, students should keep their combinations private.  It is each student’s responsibility to keep the locker in good condition, and if any problems come up, to report them to the office.  The school administrators have the right to search lockers, if necessary, to maintain the integrity of the school environment and to protect all students.  Students must use the locker assigned to them.

Lost And Found

Students are to assume direct responsibility for all personal items and for items issued to them by the school.  Please mark items, such as coats, with a nametag.  Be aware that textbooks, locks, athletic uniforms, etc. must be paid for if lost or damaged.  A Lost and Found area is located in the hall.  Articles not claimed at the end of each Semester will be given to charity.

Valuable Student Possessions At School

Students should not bring more than a small sum of money or other valuable items to school since protection against loss or theft is impossible to assure.  If it becomes necessary for a student to bring money, electronic devices, or other valuables to school, it is strongly recommended that they keep such items locked up in their locker while at school. The school will not assume responsibility for the loss of money or other valuable articles, including cell phones and iPods.  Electronic games, music players, radios, beepers, cell phones, laser pointers, etc. are not to be seen or used at school unless specifically allowed by a teacher for a classroom activity.  All wheeled transportation (bikes, scooters, in-line skates, skateboards) are to be kept outside the building and locked or checked into the office.

For first offenses the device will be confiscated for the remainder of the day.  For second offenses the device is held until a parent can come pick it up.  For third offenses the device will not be permitted to be at school any longer and other school consequences may apply.

Lunch will be served every school day.  Each grade level will eat separately.  Student families should maintain their lunch account on SchoolCafe, the cafeteria does not accept payment in person.  Lunch is a time for “nutrient recharge”, socializing, and play.  The following rules are designed to maintain an orderly and efficient lunchroom as well as a safe recreation area outside:

Inside Rules

1. Students become set in their chosen table groups/days, please keep them in those as much as possible.  Get to know where they are sitting in general.
2. If students have soccer, football balls, or volleyballs, have them put those on the front table until it’s time to go outside. This prevents problems.
3. Once the bell rings and most students are in the Cafeteria, we release the table of THAT day to get in line in the kitchen to get their lunch.  For instance, the Monday table lines up first on Mondays, Tuesday goes first on Tuesdays and so forth.
4. Students get their lunch when their table is called first, before being allowed to go outside. 
5. Do not allow any students to classrooms or halls without a pass from the teacher.
6. Have one person stand at the line to monitor manners and prevent cutting.
7. Please have students sit down at their tables to eat rather than walk around from place to place. Kids tend to want to float around which creates too much noise and chaos.
8. As students finish eating, they should clean up their trash and recycling, wipe their space with the towels, pick up the floor, and raise their hands to be released to recess.  This also applies to the outside tables.
9. One person should go outside when the first students are ready while the other remains inside to monitor.  The second person should urge students to finish and get cleaned up to go outside the closer you get to the appropriate time.  Join the other person outside with the remaining students.

Outside Rules

1. Once students are outside, please roll the ball cage outside and open it for them.  P.E. equipment is off limits, only allow the use of the recess equipment in the ball cage.
2. Keep glass, food, and all trash inside.
3. No rough play.  If students are caught cussing, they have a “time out” on one of the large rocks alone.
4. No snowballs in winter, it’s all fun and games until someone gets an iceball in the face.
5. Only one at a time for bathroom use, to prevent groups being in bathrooms either during lunch or recess.
6. Students will stay within the Recess Boundary (see picture) and out of the Loading Dock.  No climbing trees or on the Soccer Goals and Football Goals. 
7. Listen for whistle blow or yell for time to line up when there are about 4-5 minutes left until the bell.
8. Get ALL balls and recess equipment back in the ball cage.
9. Line up by Last name A-L on Basketball court and M-Z next to Loading Dock.  Get the lines nice and in single file.  Once they are calm and quiet, let one line at a time go inside.

School Hours

Classes begin at 8:40 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:40am on Wednesdays, and end at 3:50 every regular school day.  Students are not to enter the building before 7:30 AM or be in the building after 4:00 PM unless they have an appointment to meet with a teacher, are participating in an organized school activity, or arrangements have been made to do so.  The daily schedule includes four core classes (math, language arts/reading, science, & social studies), two specials classes (such as PE, AVID, STEAM,, music, art, band), & lunch. See the Student Schedule for more information.

Changing Classes

Student classes are assigned by school administration and will only be changed in extenuating circumstances and at the direction of administration. 

Student Teacher Assistants

GCMS offers a Student Teacher Assistant (TA) program for 8th graders who wish to assist teachers, the office, the custodian, or the kitchen.  STAs do so during one of their daily Specials class periods.  To be eligible to be a Student TA, grades must be 3s or higher and he/she must interview with the counselor.

Textbook Return Policy 

State law allows our Board of Education to require the replacement of damaged textbooks and the return of loaned textbooks.  We will withhold transcripts and grades of any student who fails to return or replace any textbook at the completion of the school year.  We will make a reasonable effort to obtain payment for lost or damaged books.  If we determine that a student is unable to pay, we may obtain payment through other methods such as payment plans for service.  We may also refuse to allow any student who completes continuation requirements to participate in the Continuation Ceremony if the student has failed to return or replace any textbook prior to the date of the ceremony.  Most textbooks cost $50 or more.  We would much rather have the books than the fines, so please try to find the lost books!  Please take care of the books we loan to you so others may use them after you.

ChromeBooks

All students at Gypsum Creek Middle School are issued an Eagle County School District owned Chromebook to use for school purposes.  Students and their Parents are responsible for damage and loss of equipment including theft. Eagle County School District’s Technology Policies can be found here.

Other Equipment

At times, the school will “check out” equipment such as band instruments to students.  This equipment is always managed through out electronic system and will be linked to student accounts.  Students and their Parents are responsible for damage or loss of equipment including theft.

Section 504  

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibit discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal financial assistance.  Section 504 defines a person with a disability as anyone whom:

• Has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities such as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working; has a record of such impairment; or is regarded as having such impairment.

The school district has the responsibility to provide adjustments and services to eligible individuals with disabilities.  The Eagle County School District acknowledges its responsibility under Section 504/ADA to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students.  No discrimination against any person with a disability shall knowingly be permitted in any program or practice in the school district.

Equal Opportunity

Eagle County School District Re50J is an equal opportunity educational institution and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its educational programs or activities.  Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title IX, section 504, and ADA may be referred to the Assistant Superintendent, Eagle County School District, P.O. Box 740, Eagle, CO  81631, (970) 328-6321 X15.