Andersen MS: Policies and Procedures

For safety reasons, all visitors and volunteers must report to the school’s front office immediately upon entering the school.

Due to COVID-19, schools are currently minimizing volunteers/visitors in the classroom.

A visitor/volunteer is someone who is not a school employee or enrolled student and enters the school during operating hours. The school administration has the final determination on visitors/volunteers authorized to be at the school. When visiting, visitors/volunteers may go only to the approved area indicated as their destination when signing in at the front office. All visitors will receive an appropriate visitor’s badge, which is to be displayed conspicuously at all times while on school grounds. Any change to the designated location must be approved by the school’s front office before the visitor/volunteer can access a different location within the school. Upon finishing their visit, visitors/volunteers must check out at the front office, return the visitor’s badge, and exit the school. Parents are welcome to visit the school and classrooms to observe the school’s programs for brief periods of time that do not interfere with instruction. Approval by school personnel is required for this type of visitation.

Learn more about volunteering at your school's Get Involved page.

DoDEA school administrators, in partnership with sponsors/family members, students, and military leaders, promote communication through the establishment of advisory committees to address issues (school initiatives, procedures and policies) locally. This is a system-wide way for parents to get involved in their child’s local school. Consult your child’s school to learn more about school advisory committees.

Learn more about SAC's at your school's Get Involved page.

Proof of Eligibility: The sponsor does not need to be present at registration, as long as the parent or other adult registering the child has all the necessary paperwork, in accordance with DoDEA Regulation 1342.13, “Eligibility Requirements for Education of Elementary and Secondary School-Age Dependents in Overseas Areas,” September 20, 2006, as amended, and DoD Instruction 1342.26, “Eligibility Requirements for Minor Dependents to Attend Department of Defense Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS),” March 4, 1997. 

The following documents are necessary to complete the registration process:

1. Proof of age;
2. Medical records, including information on medical conditions, medications, and all dates and types of immunizations;
3. Official documents to support eligibility (e.g., letter of employment, contract, permanent change of station [PCS] orders, etc.); and
4. Proof of on-base residence (applies to students enrolling in DoD domestic schools).

Contact the registrar at your child’s school to update your child’s information or visit your school's registration page for more information on enrollment. 

In accordance with the policy stated in DoDEA Regulation 2095.01, “School Attendance,” August 26, 2011, as amended, school attendance is mandatory. All students are required to attend school to ensure continuity of instruction and that they successfully meet academic standards and demonstrate continuous educational progress. School attendance is a joint responsibility between the parent or sponsor, student, classroom teacher, school personnel, and, in some cases, the Command. Students with excessive school absences (or tardiness) shall be monitored by the Student Support Team to assist in the completion of all required work and successful mastery of course objectives.

Daily student attendance is identified based upon a quarter of the school day formula. Students will be identified as present or absent, based on the following criteria:

1. Absent up to 25% of the school day = absent one-quarter of the school day
2. Absent between 26%–50% of the school day = absent one-half of the school day
3. Absent 51%–75% of the school day = absent three-quarters of the school day
4. Absent 76%–100% of the school day = full-day absence

DoDEA considers the following conditions to constitute reasonable cause for absence from school for reasons other than school-related activities:

1. Personal illness;
2. Medical, dental, or mental health appointment;
3. Serious illness in the student’s immediate family;
4. A death in the student’s immediate family or of a relative;
5. Religious holiday;
6. Emergency conditions such as fire, flood, or storm;
7. Unique family circumstances warranting absence and coordinated with school administration;
8. College visits that cannot be scheduled on non-school days; and
9. A pandemic event.

Unexcused absences may result in school disciplinary actions. An absence from school or a class without written verification from a parent or sponsor will be unexcused. Student attendance is calculated based upon the date of enrollment in a DoDEA school, which may occur anytime during the school year. Student attendance monitoring is designed to provide a continuum of intervention and services to support families and children in keeping children in school and combating truancy and educational neglect. Parents should notify the school of their child’s absence 30 minutes after the start of the school day.  Too many unexcused absences may trigger the Student Support Team to convene.

More about DoDEA Attendance Policy (dodea.edu/StudentServices/Attendance)

The Principal may authorize an accelerated withdrawal of a student who must withdraw from school 20 or less instructional days prior to the end of a semester, in accordance with Section 3.1.d, of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1367.01, “High School Graduation Requirements and Policy,” [TBD]. Accelerated withdrawal will only be considered if the parent/sponsor presents PCS orders. The parent or sponsor must present verification of the date required for the student to depart from the school (e.g., PCS orders). All of the conditions of an accelerated study program outlined by the student’s teachers must be met prior to withdrawal in order for grades to be assigned and credit to be granted. Students who withdraw prior to the 20-day limitation of the accelerated withdrawal policy will receive “withdrawal” grades rather than final grades. In this case, the sponsor/parent should notify the school two weeks prior to the date of withdrawal.

DoDEA accepts the official courses, grades and earned credits of middle school (grades 7–8) and high school (grades 9–12) students who transfer to a DoDEA school from other DoDEA schools or who earn course credits in an accredited non-DoD system (public or private), correspondence, online, and/or home-school program. The accreditation for the sending school or school system must be from one of the six U.S. regional accrediting associations, one of the U.S. state education agencies, or by a public- or state-supported system of accreditation for public or private education programs in a foreign nation, in accordance with Section 4.7, of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1367.01. Please contact your child’s school for questions regarding course credit transfer process and approval.

At the beginning of each course or grade level, every DoDEA teacher shall make available information regarding grading policy and course requirements to parents and students. This information will be provided to parents and students by the end of the first month of the school year or by the end of the first month of the semester in the case of a semester course.

If any student demonstrates unsatisfactory progress or achievement, teachers must notify parents with enough time to correct the deficiency. Notification must occur as soon as unsatisfactory achievement is evident, and not later than the midpoint of the nine-week grading period.

Timely and accurate reporting of student progress shall be accomplished for students in grades 4–12, using the approved DoDEA Electronic Gradebook (EGB) System. All assignments (e.g., quizzes, tests, examinations, homework, speeches, etc.) that are used to assess and report student progress shall be promptly evaluated and/or graded, posted in the EGB, and returned to the student. The normal period of evaluation and posting should be no longer than ten calendar days from the day the assignment is collected, with reasonable exceptions for large projects. At a minimum, one assignment or grade should be recorded per week in the EGB System. To create an account and access the EGB System, please visit Gradespeed (dodea.gradespeed.net) for instructions.

A traditional letter grading system will be used for grades 4–12 report marks.

For purposes of calculating a student’s high school GPA, the following scales shall be used:

Homework is one means of developing the necessary skills of independent study and learning for present and future use. Homework promotes organizational skills and a sense of responsibility. It is also an opportunity for parents to become actively involved in their child's learning and for each child to reach his/her full potential. Through homework, students are given the opportunity to complete additional practice and application to strengthen skills; to expand and/or enrich regular class work; to complete work started in class; to make up work due to absence.

Teachers may assign homework as determined necessary to enhance student learning that is taking place in the classroom. Each child works at his/her own pace, so the amount of time needed to complete specific assignments may vary. The types of homework may vary to enable the student to have experience/practice in reading, writing, computational skills, and other subject areas during a given week. Frequency and length of assignments will be grade appropriate. At a very minimum, a child should read or be read to 15-20 minutes nightly

Students are responsible for ensuring that they:

• Understand the homework assignment.
• Take home all books and materials needed to do the assignment.
• Complete the homework in the assigned format and turn it in when it is due.
• Participate actively and cooperatively in the evaluation of their homework when appropriate.

Parents are encouraged to provide an environment which fosters the development of life-long learning skills.

This includes:

• A quiet place to work.
• Necessary materials.
• A regular study time.
• Review the student planner.
• Encouragement and praise.

The DoDEA School Meals Program (SMP) supports academic achievement by providing nutritious meals to your students through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.  

• The School Meals Program is a budget friendly and convenient program for parents that can save time, energy, money and reduce stress.  
• Households must reapply every school year for free and reduced-price meals, beginning no earlier than July 1st.
• All meals must be paid for in advance or at the point of sale.
• A best practice is to fund your child’s account every pay day through the next pay day.

Visit your school's School Meals Program page for more information and the latest school menus.

Students are expected to actively participate in the educational process, including school-sponsored activities in and outside of the classroom, as deemed appropriate. Students should bring to the attention of a school employee behavior or activities that may endanger the safety and well-being of themselves or others.

Students shall:

1. Comply with policies, procedures and standards for student behavior;
2. Refrain from conduct or behavior that is disruptive;
3. Respect the rights and human dignity of other students and all school employees;
4. Attend school and classes regularly, and punctually and make a conscious effort in all classes;
5. Participate in and take advantage of educational opportunities provided by DoDEA schools;
6. Assist school employees in operating a safe school by abiding by the laws of the United States, the local military installation, the host nation, and DoDEA policies, regulations, and procedures;
7. Properly maintain school property and use school property and equipment for educationally authorized purposes;
8. Promptly bring to the attention of a DoDEA school employee behavior or activities that may endanger the safety and well-being of themselves or others and to cooperate with school threat assessment procedures; and
9. Promptly report to the DoDEA School Principal, or another DoDEA school employee, incidents or complaints, including, but not limited to, discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, or non-sexual harassment, based on race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation or status as a sponsor, parent or legal guardian; intimidation, hazing, bullying (including cyberbullying), or retaliation against persons who report or participate in the investigation of such incidents herein.

Students are expected to dress in a manner that complies with the school’s dress code policy as directed in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1353.01, “Students Rights and Responsibilities,” April 6, 2021. Please refer to your school’s Web site or school handbook for specific dress code policy.

Management of student behavior is a responsibility shared by students, sponsors/parents/guardians, teachers, and the military command and school communities in general, in accordance with DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1353.01, “Student Rights and Responsibilities,” April 6, 2021. Student behavioral management consists of teaching and reinforcing positive student attitudes and behaviors. Students shall treat teachers, administrators, and other school staff with courtesy, fairness, and respect; and teachers, administrators, and other school staff shall treat students with courtesy, fairness, and respect. All students will be disciplined in a fair and appropriate manner. School administrators shall operate and maintain a safe school environment that is conducive to learning. School administration will ensure prompt investigation and response to incidents or complaints involving students made by students, parents, teachers, or DoDEA staff members.

In accordance with the policy stated in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1347.01, “Student Disciplinary Rules and Procedures,” April 7, 2021, discipline shall be progressively and fairly administered. Disciplinary actions include, but are not limited to, verbal reprimands, conferences, detention, time-out, alternative in-school placements, school service programs, community service and counseling programs. Other behavior management techniques will be considered prior to resorting to more formal disciplinary actions that remove a student from school for a suspension (short or long term). Long-term suspension or expulsion following a first offense may be considered when a student poses an immediate threat to his or her safety or the safety of others (e.g., offenses involving firearms or other weapons, fighting or violence, or the possession, use, or sale of drugs). Additional rules and procedures can be reviewed in DoDEA Administrative Instruction 1347.01.

In the wake of school violence throughout the world, it is important to analyze the causes of violence and implement preventive measures to assure that every student and adult will feel secure in the school environment. DoDEA implemented a system-wide Bully Prevention program as a part of the Safe Schools and Character Education program.

Bullying is defined as a means to have power over another and it takes many forms: physical, verbal, and indirect such as gossip and isolation. Bullying leaves long-lasting scars for its victims. Bullies have a higher incidence of antisocial behavior, domestic violence and crime as adults. Society pays a heavy toll for tolerating bullying behavior and bullies.

In DoDEA schools and community, bullying will not go unchallenged and will not be tolerated. All students, staff members, parents and the community play vital roles to ensure our children are not bullied, do not act as bullies, and will not allow others to bully. Our schools have a moral obligation to provide our students and the school community with the proper information, prevention strategies, and defenses to create a safe, accepting and caring environment for all.

Each student, together with the student’s parent or guardian (if applicable), shall acknowledge and sign Form 700, “Use of DoDEA Internet and Use of Information Technology Resources,” before he or she is assigned a user account. In accordance with Enclosure 4 of DoDEA Administrative Instruction 6600.01, “Computer Access and Internet Policy,” February 16, 2010, the following are required of all students:

1. Students shall use DoDEA information technology (IT) resources, including computers, electronic mail, and internet access, only in support of education and for research consistent with the educational objectives of DoDEA; 
2. Students shall respect and adhere to all of the rules governing access to, and use of, DoDEA’s IT resources; 
3. Students shall be polite in all electronic communication;
4. Students shall use courteous and respectful language and/or images in their messages to others;
5. Students shall not swear, use vulgarities, or use harsh, abusive, sexual, or disrespectful language and/or images;
6. Students who misuse DoDEA IT resources are subject to disciplinary measures; and
7. Students’ accounts will be deactivated upon transition out of a DoDEA school.

The signed agreement (Form 700) is to be retained in the administrative office at the student’s school for the duration of the student’s enrollment. A copy will be provided to the student and, if applicable, the student’s parent or guardian.

Use of personal social media between parents/teachers/students is discouraged.  The only acceptable form of social media communication between parents/teachers/students is through official school social media.

Student transportation is defined as the transportation of students from their assigned bus stop to school at the beginning of their school day, during the mid-day and for return to their assigned bus stop at the end of the normal scheduled school day.  DoDEA principals are responsible for monitoring student loading/unloading zones when students are coming and going from school sites, including administering discipline.  A school bus or any device operating to provide student transportation will function as an extension of the school.  The walking distance for students in grade 6 and below should not exceed one mile from the student’s primary residence to the school or designated bus stop.  Students in grades 7–12 may walk up to 1.5 miles from their primary residence to the school or designated bus stop.  These distances may be slightly expanded or contracted to conform to natural boundaries such as housing areas or neighborhoods.  In locations having middle schools, which include grade 6 (i.e., grades 6–8), the walking distance criteria shall be the same as the criteria for grades 7–12.  

Transportation is not authorized to take students to their homes or to eating facilities for their mid-day meal.  No other transportation between the assigned bus stop and the school will be charged to commuting transportation unless stated in a special education student’s IEP and/or required by Section 504 guidelines.  “Curb-to-curb” only applies to students with disabilities who require such service as documented in the student’s IEP.  DoDEA District Superintendents, in coordination with the District Logistics Chief and the supporting military installation commanders, will establish a commuting area to determine eligibility for transportation of dependent students.

Eligibility Rules for Interscholastic Athletic Competitions

School administrators, athletic directors, and coaches shall ensure that the eligibility rules are observed in all DoDDS interscholastic athletic competitions in accordance with in DoDEA Manual 2740.1 and the Far East Programs Procedural Guide (FEPPG) - 15 Oct 2021

Student Travel Eligibility

DoDEA Manual 2740.1 and the Pacific Area Interscholastic Athletics Program Manual provide a uniform interscholastic athletic program and guidance on student travel eligibility. This policy extends to both academic and athletic events.

Athletic Contests: Students must participate in ten days of practice prior to competing in any athletic contest. Athletes participating in consecutive athletic seasons are exempt from the 10-practice rule as long as 10 days have not passed between active participation in the preceding sports season. Students transferring from another school may begin participating in contests immediately if the 10-day practice requirement has been met.

Far East Tournaments: Students may participate in the Far East Tournament if they have been a member of the team/activity for at least one-half of the season. Before departure for any Far East event another parent/player meeting will occur to review the Code-of- Conduct and to discuss expectations while attending the event. Players whose parents do not attend this meeting will not travel to the Far East event and/or participate in any games at the event.

Attendance Prior to Events: Students who do not attend school will not be permitted to participate in or attend any school- sponsored event that same school day, which includes a practice or game. Principals are authorized to make exceptions to this policy. (DoDEA Administrators’ Manual – 1005.1).

Parental Involvement

Research demonstrates that parent involvement is essential for student success. Although you may not become involved in all committees and support organizations in the school, we encourage you to support the following activities:

• Share in the Continuous School Improvement decision-making process (CSI Leadership Team, Tuesday Faculty Meetings, and CSI Second Cup of Coffee forum)
• Join PTO and participate in meetings and activities.
• Have lunch at school with your child regularly.
• Volunteer in your child's classroom.
• Establish a daily study time at home (even when there's no homework).
• Join the faculty on the first Wednesday of the month for our School Improvement Leadership Team meetings.
• Stay informed of school events and activities by reading the School newsletter and your child's classroom newsletter.
• Communicate frequently with your child's teacher.
• Prepare for and participate in parent-teacher conferences.
• Ensure your child has a well-balanced breakfast and comes to school with completed homework, lunch money and school supplies.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are held at the end of the first grading period, and during this time, report cards are distributed to parents. Conferences to discuss concerns, questions, and student progress may be scheduled at any time during the school year. Parents are encouraged to contact their child's teacher as soon as questions arise. Requests for conferences may also be left at the school office for delivery to the teacher.

Parental Complaints and Concerns

The channel for the resolution of parental complaints/concerns is as follows:

1. Parents are encouraged to meet first with teachers to resolve issues.
2. If an issue cannot be resolved, the parent should then call an administrator for further advice and consultation.
3. Our counselors are an excellent resource with whom to discuss student issues. We request, though, that you direct any teacher concerns directly to an administrator.

School Newsletter

Andersen Elementary School Newsletter is published every other Friday throughout the school year. The school office will email the newsletter to all parents whose correct email address is on file in the school office. The school newsletter is emailed in a PDF format. Your computer will need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in order to view the newsletter. You can obtain this program (if you do not already have it installed on your system) on the Internet for free. If you are unable to or have difficulty opening the newsletter, the office will print a copy for you. The purpose of our school newsletter is to inform our parents, teachers and general military support of upcoming events and activities taking place in our educational system. Please keep an accurate email address on file in the school office.

Standard Uniform:

All students of DoDEA Guam Schools wear a standard uniform consisting of a navy blue, black, gray, or white top and khaki, tan, black, or navy blue bottoms, shorts or skorts. No denim or jeans. Uniform Sweatshirt/Sweater/Jacket Color options: navy blue, white, gray, or black. Shirts and jacket may have SMALL logos. The uniform may be purchased at the Navy or Army and Air Force Exchanges or through several local vendors. 

Guidelines For Physical Education Attire:

Middle and High School Students are required to dress in accordance with the following Physical Education (PE) uniform requirements:

• Tops: “Guam Physical Education” T-shirt or *plain navy blue, gray, or white t-shirt
• Bottoms: Navy blue “Guam Physical Education” or plain navy blue athletic shorts ending no higher than 3 inches above the top of the knee
• Shoes: Athletic shoes

Guam Physical Education uniforms are available at both the NEX and AAFES Exchanges. These may be sold during welcome back to school events.
*NOTE: Plain (No visible logos, designs, brands, emblems, or tags) Navy blue, white, and gray t-shirts and Navy blue athletic shorts may be substituted for “Guam Physical Education” attire.

Prohibited Items:

• Tank tops, sleeveless shirts, crop tops, shirts without collars
• Leggings or tights without skirt/shorts/dresses over them
• Sandals with no backstrap or flip flops
• Jewelry that may cause injury (Dangling earrings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.)
• Smartwatches

Student attire and personal grooming are the responsibility of the students and their parents and must be appropriate for school and classroom instruction. Students’ attire and appearance must not be a distraction to the educational process. Students’ grooming and personal hygiene should be clean and free from strong odors. In an effort to promote and maintain a healthy social and academic climate appropriate for the school and all school-related activities, additional dress guidelines were adopted. These guidelines shall apply to all students at school and to all school activities, whether on campus or off-campus.

• Clothing must be free of excessive dirt. Students shall not wear torn, frayed or ripped clothing.
• Hair styles must not detract from the educational process. Chopsticks and other hair ornaments that can be used as weapons or deemed harmful to others are not allowed.
• Students wearing skirts or shorts should ensure that the length of the skirt is not shorter than three inches above the top of the knee.
• Bare feet are prohibited. Shoes must be worn at all times and should be appropriate for outdoor activities. Flip-flops, “zories,” slides, or house slippers are not allowed. Shoes must always have a back strap. If gym shoes are worn into the school building, the soles must be cleaned of dirt to protect the carpets. All types of shoes that have rollers attached to the soles are not allowed on school grounds.
• Students shall not wear bandannas, caps, hats, or sunglasses inside the school building or buses. However, these items may be worn outdoors with permission from the teacher and demonstrated as a need or requirement for class.
• Parental support and cooperation in enforcing this dress code are highly encouraged. Students violating the dress code may be given immediate consequences. Parents of students who are not in compliance with this dress code will be contacted and asked to correct the dress and/or grooming of their children. Alternatively, students will be sent to the nurse’s office to get clean uniform to wear for the day. If their sizes are not available at the nurse’s office, they will be provided the appropriate uniform by the AMS PTSO (if available). Clothes provided to the students by the school or by the PTSO must be returned cleaned and ironed, or purchased for $1.00 per item.

ANDERSEN MIDDLE SCHOOL DRESS CODE GUIDELINES:

1. Pants cannot be low hanging or tightly fitted. Leggings worn as an outer garment by themselves are not allowed. They should be worn with shirt/top long enough to cover the student’s bottom (front and back)
2. Short pants (both boys and girls) should be long enough to reach below the tip of the longest finger of hand when hand is extended down the leg. Girl’s dress and garments should meet the same criteria.
3. Pants cannot appear to be made of denim or jean like materials.
4. Shear clothing is not allowed.
5. Shirts must be buttoned no lower than the second button.
6. Wearing hats (not part of JROTC uniform) are not allowed. They must be kept in the locker and may NOT be carried around the school during the day. Hoodies CANNOT be covering the head.
7. Any electronic headgear and electronic devices are not to be worn / used in hallways.
8. Sweatshirts and Hoodies representing AMS Sports, Organizations, or Far East may be worn.
9. School uniforms must be worn from bus stop to building, or on school grounds (bus is considered school grounds).
10. Athletes may wear the official Andersen Middle School sports jerseys on game days or if the game is held on a Saturday, the preceding Friday.
11. FRIDAYS ONLY - Bottoms of uniforms remain the same.
    a. Optional sweatshirts promoting the armed forces may be worn. Sweatpants are not permitted.
    b. Spirit T-shirts, Class T-shirts, and Far East T-shirts may be worn in lieu of the uniform shirt.

ACTIONS FOR DRESS CODE VIOLATION (PER QUARTER)
 

*After continued violations with no compliance, the student will be referred to the Disciplinary Committee for decisions of consequences.

Andersen Middle School recognizes that parents expect their children to remain in communication with them after school hours. Additionally, while we recognize that cell phones/electronic devises can be valuable tools for families, students may not access their cell phones/electronic devices during the school day. If students need to make a phone call during school hours, they may report to the main office. With that being said, all electronic devices (including, but not limited to: cellular telephones, smartwatches, music players such as iPods, recording devices, video games, video recorders) must be stored in student lockers from the beginning of the school day (7:45 a.m.) until the end of the school day (2:15 p.m.) UNLESS there has been specific guidance from the teacher expressing the need for them during class time and it has been approved in advance by administration. They may not be out of the locker or used at anytime during the school day, including lunch and recess. Electronic devices may be confiscated and turned into the main office if the policy is violated. A log will be maintained with date and time of electronic device/cell phone misuse and students may face consequences for repeated offense, to include, confiscated device needing to be picked up by parent/sponsor, detention, and/or suspension. Furthermore, if electronic devices are approved in advance, please see “Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Admirable Use Guidelines” under Information Center (Library) for more information.
If parents need to leave a message for a student, parents are encouraged to call the Main Office before 1300 if possible, with emergencies being the exception. The office staff will ensure that the message is delivered. Students should not receive phone calls/texts on their cell phones from parents or family members during school hours, with the expectation that the calls/texts will be answered by students. If you have an emergency, please call the front office or the Guidance Department for assistance.

The DoDEA Guam School Board was established under Title 10, United States code §2164(d) and DoD Directive 1342.21. Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 1342.25 provides detailed guidance for the operations of DoDEA school boards. The school board shall act as an advisory group to the superintendent on matters related to the operation of the schools. The School Board consists of the parents of students attending schools in the DoDEA Guam District.

The school board for the DoDEA/DDESS Guam District Schools is a five-member panel elected by parents and staff of the DoDEA schools on Guam. The School Board represents Andersen Elementary, Andersen Middle, Guam High and McCool Elementary/Middle School. To be on the ballot, you must be nominated by at least one member of the electorate or a parent of a DoDEA student. The School Board members must have children attending at least one of the represented schools and may not be employees of the DoDEA Pacific Guam school system. School board members are elected to serve a two-year term. Because many military families serve on Guam for two years, it is acceptable to serve a one-year term as long as it is for one entire school year (August – June). The time commitment is approximately 6 hours per month. Meetings include monthly agenda setting meetings, monthly school board meetings, monthly meetings with the high school student council, quarterly town hall meetings, and other meetings as requested by the District Superintendent. Additional time commitments may include school functions, liaison meetings, phone conversations with parents, and additional ad hoc committees.

Overview of specific duties of a school board member:

• Participates in the development and oversight of fiscal, personnel, and educational policies, procedures, and programs for the DoDEA/DDESS Guam School District consistent with Instruction Number 1342.25. This board serves strictly in an advisory capacity.
• Prepares agenda and approve minutes for school board meetings
• Prepares an annual written on-site review of the Superintendent’s performance for consideration by the Director, DoDEA/DDESS.
• Participates in the development of school policies, rules, and regulations, in conjunction with the Superintendent and recommends which policies will be reflected in the school policies.
• Attends school board training as provided by the district.
• Elects a member to serve as President and a member to serve as Vice-President for one-year terms.
•  

Backpacks should be used to transport books and supplies to and from school. Backpacks and other large book bags, purses and carry totes must be stored in the student’s locker during the school day and are not allowed in the classrooms. Students have ample time to retrieve needed items for each class during transitions between classes. Only small pencil bags may be used to transport school supplies during the school day.

BICYCLES

Many students arrive and depart school through the use of bicycles. Students need to use safety precautions when riding their bikes to and from school. Students are to walk their bicycle on the sidewalk and must wear safety headgear/helmet in accordance with base safety policy.

BICYCLE RACKS

The location of the bicycle rack is in front of the school, to the right of the main office doors as you face the school. Students need to place their bicycle into a slot on the rack. Students are to leave their bicycle on the ground or park them in front of the exit doors. Students should not take up more than on e space for their bicycle. Students are strongly encouraged to lock up their bicycles. The school is not liable for missing or stolen bicycles or helmets.

Students may only enter the cafeteria during their designated lunch period and at other times when under the supervision of a school staff member.

The school cafeteria services are managed by Naval Exchange Services (NEX). They are committed to serving a nutritious and delicious hot lunch in our school cafeteria. Students may pay with cash at the register. Students may also establish an account with NEX Guam. Adult lunches are $7.00, which includes milk. If a child has a milk allergy, they will be provided a substitute at no additional cost. Parents interested in applying for free or reduced lunches may pick up an application in the school office. Families are required to reapply each year. Until students are approved for free or reduced lunches, they must either pay full price for lunches or bring a lunch from home. The Guam School District uses a Point of Sale System (POS).

Global Food Service (GFS) is available to accept payments from parents between 0730 and 1000 daily in the school cafeteria. You may also send cash payments with your students in a sealed envelope for him or her to pay during their appointed lunch time. You can contact NEX Guam directly at: 399-4639 for questions regarding your child’s lunch account or to check the balance.

IAW USDA policy there shall be no foods of minimal nutritional value in competition with USDA meals during the established lunch period(s).

Students allergic to milk must have a doctor’s note presented to the manager of the cafeteria in order to be provided a substitute. This note will be kept on file in the cafeteria. Students have 30 minutes for lunch. They are allowed 10 minutes outside after the first 20 minutes of the lunch break.

Textbooks and equipment represent a major investment, and students are expected to safeguard them against loss or damage. When the pupil completes a course or transfers from the school, all books and equipment must be returned. Charges for damaged or lost textbooks or equipment will be assessed. Teachers will inform the student/parent of the cost of the missing book and provide a copy of the missing book letter to the parent and registrar. Payment is made at the front office by check or money order, made payable to Treasurer of the United States, NOT to the school. The school support assistant will provide a receipt to the student/parent and maintain a copy in the supply office.

Any student who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise damages any property, real or personal, may receive appropriate consequences. Sponsors will be liable for all school damages.

Individual students are not allowed to sell any items on campus. School sponsored activities must obtain permission from an administrator for any moneymaking projects. Any commercial activities by non-school-sponsored individuals or organizations require permission of school administration. An activity involving the buying or selling of any item without school administration permission may result in disciplinary action.

Corporal punishment by teachers, principals, or other persons employed by DoDEA is prohibited.

Parents and/or guardians must supply the school with a copy of any type of court order that may affect the student (e.g., who is allowed to visit the child, who has legal custody, etc.). These orders will be maintained in the student’s cumulative file. If any changes take place during the school year with the court order, the school must be notified immediately. Teachers will be notified of any restrictions that affect students in their classes.

The Case Study Committee (CSC) is a multi-disciplinary team that meets to consider referral, plan assessments, determine eligibility, and plan educational programs for students who may need special education. Various school personnel, including the counselors, school psychologist, special education teachers, classroom teachers, and an administrator, attend CSC meetings as needed. When a student may need a special program, the parents are invited and expected to attend a CSC meeting to determine eligibility for Special Education services and to plan the student’s Individualized Education Program.

IF YOU PLAN TO BE OFF ISLAND, TDY, OR ON ANY OTHER TYPE OF LEAVE while your child(ren) is/are attending school, please be sure to obtain a special power of attorney to be used in case of emergency and inform the teacher and school office of the name, address and telephone number of the person taking care of your child during your absence. In addition, please notify the School Nurse, so they will know the points of contact in case of emergency.

Students will not be released from school on the basis of a telephone call. Parents must sign-out and sign-in their children when taking them to appointments and bringing them back to school.

Students will be released during the school day only to a parent or to the person named as the emergency contact on the Registration form. The only exceptions will be: (1) a signed note is received from the sponsor designating another adult to pick up the student or (2) a military unit has designated someone to pick up the student when parents and emergency contacts could not be reached.

School information updates are communicated daily, or as needed to students via the morning newscast, the intercom, or written notification supplied to the teachers. Informational updates are posted on the external webpage available to all sponsors and students. After school, activity schedules are disseminated at the beginning of the year. Approaching meetings are announced in advance to avoid surprises. Please see school website page: https://dodea.gradespeed.net/gs/Login.aspx https://www.facebook.com/andersen.MS/

Andersen Middle School and the PTSO schedule school pictures for all students within the first two months of school. Schedules, picture packages, and additional information are sent home with your child well in advance of school picture day. If you have a problem with your child’s photographs, please contact the school office and a contact name and number will be provided to you. Andersen Middle School is not responsible for the quality, misplacement, or services of school pictures.

High value items, including large amounts of cash, iPods, iPads, iPhones and electronic games, should not be brought to school, unless they are part of the instructional process. Students and parents are reminded that the school cannot held responsible for items lost or stolen on the campus. Each student is responsible for safeguarding any items brought to the campus. Students have lockers and should use them to safeguard their valuables.

At Andersen Middle School, we believe that homework is an important part of the educational process. Homework is a necessary adjunct to school life and teachers must plan to assign academically challenging homework which is an extension of the classroom instruction. Teachers are expected to assign homework on a regular basis in accordance with the needs and abilities of individual students and in support of the instructional objectives of the particular curricular area. Please contact the teacher if problems occur or your student is experiencing more than usual challenges or an unusual amount of time on homework assignment or activities.

Lockers are available for students, and they must be kept neat at all times. The lockers are property of the school and are subject to search with reasonable suspicion and are also subject to random searches. Students may only go to their lockers at designated times or with permission. Note: Lockers do not guarantee security.

General locker rules and guidelines are as follows:

• There should be no graffiti inside or outside the lockers. There should be no writing on the lockers and no stickers on the inside or outside of the lockers. Approved flyers advertising school events are acceptable.
• Pictures may be taped to the inside of the lockers only. No obscene pictures or drawings are permitted. Please use good judgment in deciding what to display in the locker.
• Avoid slamming locker doors.
• Keep the locker area clean.
• Students are not allowed to share lockers.
• Vandalism of lockers will result in immediate referral to the office and result in consequences.

Andersen Middle School is a closed campus. Students are not permitted to leave the campus for any reason during the school day unless properly checked out by a parent/guardian from the main office.

ADMINISTRATIVE/BUSINESS OFFICES/TEACHERS LOUNGE

Off-limits to students unless directed to enter by office personnel.

• ELEVATOR

Our building is equipped with an elevator. It is only to be used by students and adults with special needs and/or in need of assistance (e.g., broken leg, wheelchair assistance). Please see an administrator for permission.

• STAGE AREA

No student shall be on the stage at any time unless under the direct supervision of a school staff member. This includes sitting on the stage during lunch periods.

• UNSUPERVISED LOCATIONS

All classrooms, storage rooms, mechanical rooms, band room and all other utility rooms throughout the school are Off Limits when not part of a supervised class or instructional activity.

Students may ride their scooters and skateboards to school. The use of scooters, skateboards AND skate-shoes anywhere on campus are prohibited at all times. If a scooter or skateboard is ridden on campus it will be turned into the main office for the day and MUST be carried off campus at the end of the day. Parents may be notified if the student is caught riding them on campus. Signs are posted throughout the campus to remind the students of this policy.

Skate-shoes are strictly prohibited anywhere on campus. While these shoes, with retractable wheels may be a lot of fun, they present a serious safety concern at school.

Students should not wear these types of shoes to school at any time, for any reason. Failure to follow this policy will result in a phone call to the parents to bring the student another pair of shoes, and/or the wheels being removed and kept in the main office for pickup.

The Andersen Middle School PTSO is a non-profit, non-partisan, and nonsectarian organization.

It cooperates with the school to support the improvement of education in ways that will not interfere with the education of students or the mission of the school and does not seek to control school policies.

Specific objectives include:

• • Providing a medium for exchange of information among parents, teachers, and other interested groups.
  • Encouraging and developing programs and activities which serve to enhance the quality of student education.
  • Identifying and promoting opportunities for students to secure the highest advantage in their academic, physical, and social growth.
  • Encouraging and maintaining a working dialogue between members, the local educational school system, the local government, and the community at-large on matters affecting the general welfare and education of students. Membership is open to all parents and legal guardians of students attending Andersen Middle School as well as school staff. Membership costs $10.00 per family, per year.
  • You may contact this PTSO Officers at: amsptsoguam@gmail.com

As a standard part of the DoDEA and Andersen Middle School curriculum, study trips relating to educational goals as enrichment activities will be offered. Students are encouraged to take full advantage of these opportunities. The school usually provides transportation, but families may be asked to pay nominal admission fees and other costs. Before each trip, families will receive study trip information indicating dates, departure and expected return times, costs, and special student needs, if applicable. Each student must have a permission slip signed by a parent before going on a study trip leaving the school. If a student is unable to attend the study trip, a replacement assignment will be given. 

Study Trip Guidelines for Chaperones

1. All chaperones pay their own way (entrance fees, transportation, if not a DoDEA funded bus, etc.).
2. Other younger/preschool age children in the family will not be allowed to accompany parents on a trip.
3. Children from other classrooms will not be allowed to accompany their brothers/sisters on a study trip.
4. Under no circumstances are chaperones to smoke or drink alcoholic beverages at any time during a study trip.
5. Chaperones are required to accompany the class to and from the trip. Following the bus in their private vehicle is not close supervision.
6. Chaperones may not transport their student or any other student to and from the study trip. Students are required to ride the bus to and from the study trip.
7. Under no circumstances may a child be checked out from the study trip (with the exception of a bona fide emergency). The child must return to the school and then he/she may be checked out at that time.

Chaperones must have an approved volunteer application on file prior to attending a field trip as a chaperone. Please allow 5 business days for processing of all volunteer request forms.

Andersen Middle School uses video surveillance in public locations on school property to monitor school grounds. Video surveillance is also used on school-provided transportation. Students may be disciplined based on evidence gathered through surveillance equipment.

Students and Staff will have a daily opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and to salute the American flag. The Pledge will be recited during morning announcements. Students may decline to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and salute the American flag as long as they do not disrupt or distract others. All students are expected to stand while the pledge is said.

Students are prohibited from possessing or using tobacco products, to include paraphernalia (i.e. nicotine delivery systems, e-cigs, vaping equipment) that is used to smoke tobacco, during the school day, in route to and from school, on or off school property, on school-owned and operated buses or on chartered buses, or when participating in school sponsored or school-supervised activities on or off campus. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action to be determined by the principal which may include referral to counseling or appropriate authority for any student found to be smoking or in possession of tobacco products during the school day whether on or off campus. There will be no designated smoking areas defined or condoned by DoDEA schools.

Posters and announcements must advertise school-sponsored events and be approved by the sponsor of that event or organization. Exceptions to this policy may be requested through an administrator. All posters must be taped to walls or glass surfaces using non-masking tape rolled and fastened on the back so the tape may not be seen. Another poster of identical size and shape must back posters or flyers on glass surfaces so that the back of the poster is not visible from the other side. Posters not following these guidelines will be removed.

To limit classroom interruptions, please discuss lunch and after school plans with your dependent student before he/she leaves home in the morning. Personal messages of a routine nature should not be made during the school day. School telephones are for official business and may not be used for the transaction of personal affairs. Students are always welcome to use the phones in situations of a genuine emergency. Students are not allowed to use cellular phones while in the building(s). Cellular phones must be turned off during school hours while in the building(s).

Andersen Middle School recognizes student academic performance three (3) times a year during the following grading periods:

1. 1st Quarter Honor Roll
2. 1st Semester Honor Rolls/2nd Quarter Honor Rolls
3. 3rd Quarter Honor Rolls/3rd Quarter Honor Rolls Principal’s Honor Roll-Students having a GPA of 4.0 or greater. High Honor Roll-Students having a GPA between 3.50 and 3.99 Honor Roll-Students having a GPA between 3.0 and 3.49.

4^th Quarter/End of the Year Awards celebration will be conducted by each grade level and include additional achievement recognitions.

A considerable amount of thought goes into each student’s schedule. This reflects the cooperative efforts of teachers, parents, guidance counselor and students. Once a schedule is complete, we expect the student to follow it. However, students have 10 school days at the beginning of each semester to request a schedule change. This can occur only with the approval and support of all the teachers involved in the change, the parents, guidance counselor, and administrator. NOTE: All schedule changes (drop or add) are not able to be honored. We are a small school with a very small staff and changes sometimes create challenges for class sizes and course availability. We have to consider the balance of all class sizes and class sections when requests are made.

If a course is dropped or added during this timeframe, the student must attend the class until all the paperwork is completed and the student receives a new schedule.

Schedule changes during the school year will be considered only if the change is necessary for the educational benefit and well-being of the student.

Parents are encouraged to meet with the classroom teacher if there are any concerns. The counselor and/or administration may be involved if subsequent meetings are needed. Schedule changes are to be kept to a minimum. All changes must be approved by the administration

Upon receiving final notification of your departure from the Andersen community, please inform the school office personnel (registrar) at least two weeks prior to your actual departure. This notification is needed to prepare your child’s report card and other school records. With ten days prior notification, parents are welcome to pick up student records from the office on the last day of student attendance, after 2:30 p.m. The sponsor/spouse must sign for records, provide a copy of orders, and present an I.D. to receive the child’s school records. It is DoDEA policy that copies of student records are sealed and given to parents to be hand-carried to their next school. Parents who would like a copy of their child’s records for their personal files must personally request an extra set of records to be made when filling out the withdrawal form. We cannot make personal copies without advance notice. It is a requirement to clear all debts (payment for lost or damaged books, library fines, cafeteria charges, etc.) BEFORE the last day of attendance.

Communication refers to both the sending and receiving of information, such as email and notes, and verbal communications such as telephone conversations and face-to-face meetings. In order to ensure a successful exchange of information, it is important that all parties follow a few key principles.

Maintain Respectful and Open Communication

• Always use a respectful and polite tone.

• Request, don’t demand.
• Be ready to not only provide information, but to listen to teacher/staff observations and perspectives.

• Enter the exchange with an open mind and assume a shared best interest for your child.
• Be prepared to work collaboratively to solve problems.
• Threats and/or inappropriate language will not be tolerated toward staff members.

• Ask for clarification if you do not understand something.

Confidentiality

• Recognize that confidentiality may limit information that can be shared from school to parents, including consequences for other students’ behaviors.

Response Time for Communications

• Teachers will make every effort to respond as soon as possible to parent communications, with the understanding that the teaching day sometimes precludes immediate responses.
• Teachers and staff may need some time to collect needed information before responding.

Advisory Teacher Responsibilities:

The purpose of Advisory at Andersen Middle School is to:

1. ensure that each student is known well at school by at least one adult who is that student’s advocate (advisor)
2. help every student find ways of being successful within the academic and social options the school provides to include enhancing academic skills and promoting personal growth;
3. promote communication and coordination between home and school
4. Review the student handbook with all students at the beginning of the year and with new students as they enroll.
5. Teachers will insure students have their student account login and access to standard school systems (i.e. GradeSpeed, GAfe and Schoology)
6. Teachers maintain the locker list and assign all Advisory students lockers.

Classroom Teacher Responsibilities:

The teacher has a responsibility to:

8. 1. Respect others and their rights.
   2. Do not insult others or put them down, even when joking.
   3. Explain his/her grading system, teaching methods and expectations.
   4. Try to motivate.
   5. Advise and counsel students when appropriate.
9. Teach courses objectively so that students may form their own opinion.
10. Be on time, prepared, and give quality instruction.
11. Promote and support extra-curricular activities.
12. Be fair, honest and unbiased in grading

The teacher has the right to:

1. Receive respect and consideration from students.
2. Receive full cooperation and courtesy from all students at all times.
3. Receive respect and consideration from colleagues and administration at all times.
4. Establish and enforce class rules and consequences without superseding DoDEA or school policies.
5. Dismiss a disruptive student from a classroom if the disruption interferes with the rights of others.

7. Choose the method of teaching best suited for the course and students.
8. Inquire, by discussions with the student and/or parents, as to why a student performs poorly or lacks motivation.
9. Report or refer disruptive students to the administration or other appropriate staff for action.

A note must be brought to the Main Office upon return to school. Students absent three or more days are requested to provide a doctor’s excuse. If a student returns to school, without a note, the absence will be considered, unexcused. Absences illegal or legal will be recorded on the ASPEN school-wide system.

Parent(s)/Sponsor(s) should come to the school or provide documentation to arrange for extended advanced absences of their student(s). The Main Office will provide a Request for Excused Absence form to the student, which the parent must sign. The student must then have the form signed by each of his/her teachers. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain information about the make-up work missed during the absence or family vacation. Every effort should be made to complete as much classwork as possible by using student email accounts and teacher arranged work and activities so as to avoid pile-up work upon return.

Work Retrieval when Absent:

Students must submit a formal excuse note from parents or guardians to the front office. The registrar will code attendance accordingly.

Students are responsible for obtaining the work they missed. Upon the day of return, students are expected to retrieve missed assignments during advisory or email their teachers to request the work

1. Missing work submissions due to excused absences: Students will have one class period for each class period missed to return the late/missing work.
2. Missing work submissions due to unexcused absences: Missing work is due within two (2) school days (not class days). The count of two (2) school days begins the day the assignment was due.

3. Missing work submissions: Missing work is due within two (2) school day (not class days). The count of two (2) school days begins the day the assignment was due.

Students who return to school after an excused absence will have one day for make-up work for each day of absence.

• • It is the responsibility of the student to contact each teacher in order to arrange for make-up assignments, tests, etc.
  • As part of the classroom management procedures, teachers should inform students of their responsibilities regarding make-up work and the school/classroom policy.

  • Students who are absent as a result of school-sponsored activities will be encouraged to be prepared to function fully in all class activities on the day of return.

Any student who is absent three or more days will be requested to provide a doctor’s note for the absence to be considered excused and return to school) if this occurs during a pandemic like COVID19). Excessive absences are more than 10% of the possible days of attendance. Exempt are students on school activities, emergency leave, or students under suspension. School personnel will seek cooperation from parents/sponsor and assist them in correcting and preventing excessive absences.

Any student who is absent from school or class for any length of time or for any portion of the school day without the prior knowledge and permission of her/his sponsor, parent, or legal guardian or school authorities is truant. Truant students will be assigned After School Detention to equal the time missed during the truancy. Repeated truancy can lead to progressive disciplinary consequences wherein the deterrent measures are increased to improve effective behavioral intervention. Truancy may also be reported to the Andersen Air Force Base Schools Liaison Officer for command intervention.

UNEXCUSED TARDY

Students who are tardy miss the teacher’s introduction of the lesson, the initial instructions and/or expectations for that day. Further, tardy students also disrupt instruction for the other students in the class. After 5 tardies, excused or unexcused, the principal will have a meeting with the student and parent.

An Unexcused Tardy occurs when a student is not in class and ready to learn when it is time for the class to start. Students must be in class on time, seated, and ready to work. Students who are tardy for school may give their excuse note to the front office during the school day. The School Administration determines if the tardy is excused or unexcused. Students are not excused due to heavy traffic, over sleeping, baby sitting, missing the school bus, and power outages. A student arriving late to class without a hall pass is unexcused. Tardies are cumulative in all classes throughout the semester. Both excused and unexcused tardies are recorded. However, discipline consequences only apply for unexcused tardies. The administration or their designee will notify the parents on the third unexcused tardy.

Unexcused tardy will result in one after-school detention. Excessive unexcused tardies may trigger the Student Support Team to convene for interventions.

ACTIONS FOR UNEXCUSED TARDINESS PER QUARTER

*After 10 days of suspension, the student will be referred to the Disciplinary Committee for expulsion proceedings.

Crisis Information Web Page

DoDEA has established a Crisis Information Web page to help families, educators, and community members understand how to best meet the needs of DoDEA’ s students, staff, and community members in the event of a crisis.

The website provides current information for families and educators about school crisis management policies and procedures, and makes available useful resources to help children and adults cope with the stress and anxiety associated with traumatic incidents.

This webpage can be found at: http://www.dodea.edu/crisis/index.cfm

Children will receive instructions on preparedness measures to be taken if they are in school during an earthquake. In the case of such an event, school may be dismissed following the earthquake. The Civil Engineer Squadron will determine if the school buildings are safe for re-entry. Students will be monitored in a safe area either on or off school grounds. Parents or guardians will be notified when/where to pick up children, if necessary.

In accordance with our antiterrorism/force protection plan, the school will be evacuated unless otherwise determined by the command and our district office. In cases where the school has to evacuate the premises due to any safety concerns, the students and staff will evacuate to designated locations away from the threat. If we have to leave the school area and/or send students home, we will make every effort to contact each sponsor. During the time of any evacuation, all students will remain with their teachers. If information is received from our district office or from the base command to send students home, the school will then release the student(s) to the parent/guardian provided proper identification has been presented. Security Forces and our Administrative Officer will assist in helping parents obtain pick up locations if parent pick up occurs before the end of the school day. We appreciate your cooperation during times such as these. It is imperative that the school has updated contact information in case of emergencies.

The base installation commander, in coordination with the community superintendent, has the authority to close school, as necessary, in emergency conditions, or when facility deficiencies or inclement weather endangers the health and safety of students and school personnel. School staff members are responsible for students who are on school grounds or in alternate facilities until the emergency is over or students are sent home. Incidents that may require delayed opening or early closure of a school are generally classified as “urgent safety or security” problems such as severe weather, loss of AC, or civil disturbances, or classified as “emergencies” such as fire, bomb threats, or military actions.

In the event of cancellation or early closure, all available means of communications will be used to notify parents as far in advance as possible. Families are encouraged to listen to the radio and TV for updated information. AMS uses the AtHoc system to alert parents via electronic or telephonic means on issues related to their dependent's school when possible.

There are situations in which school may be canceled during school hours. Once again, this decision is made by the individuals stated above. Once the decision has been made to release students, staff members will alert all classrooms. Teachers and staff are responsible for attempting to contact every child’s parent/guardian to notify them of the school closure. Students who ride the bus will be released to board the bus at a set time. For those students who walk, ride a bike, or are picked up, they may be released once their parent/guardian has been contacted and agree with that process. If we are unable to reach a student’s parent/guardian by the time teachers are released, the teacher will bring them to the office and the office staff will assist in contacting the parent. For these emergencies STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO LEAVE SCHOOL GROUNDS WITHOUT THEIR PARENT/GUARDIAN BEING NOTIFIED. As stated before, please ensure all contact numbers are updated at all times with both your child’s teacher and the school office.

Fire drills are conducted once each week during the first four weeks of school, and once each month thereafter. A fire evacuation plan is posted in each classroom. All students receive specific instruction and participate in the scheduled fire evacuation drills

If a student intentionally pulls a fire alarm switch, he/she is subject to a suspension from school. The student will be reported to the AAFB Fire Department and parents will be notified immediately. Pulling of the fire alarm switches will not be tolerated.

The typhoon season (May to November) spawns many tropical storms that may affect the Andersen Air Force Base community. It is essential that parents are aware of the local Typhoon Condition of Readiness (TCOR) at all times, especially during the passage of a tropical storm or typhoon. School will be dismissed (if in session) when the Base Commander determines TCOR 2. Updated information is regularly broadcast on ATV/Naval Communication Channel and/or local radio stations.

Make-Up Days:

If school is canceled due to a typhoon, the District Superintendent’s Office will determine if students and staff need to make up any missed school days. Information and school calendar changes will be distributed through email and other forms of communication.

In conjunction with the implementation of the College and Career Ready Standards (CCRS), DoDEA is implemented the Comprehensive Assessment System (CAS) that includes all of the assessments that are administered system-wide within DoDEA. These include the PSAT, Advanced Placement, NAEP, and College and Career Ready Standards (CCRS) assessments. All assessments included in the DoDEA Comprehensive Assessment System support student learning, provide information for decision makers concerning instructional programs and services, and inform parents.

DoDEA is committed to student achievement and assessments that raise the bar for the students to ensure they are on the path to success. We anticipate having interim CCRS assessments during the 2019-2020 school year.

System-wide Assessment Program

Policy Reference: DoDEA Regulation 1301.01, “Comprehensive Assessment System,” October 4, 2018

All DoDEA students in grades or programs identified for system-wide assessments shall be included in the DoDEA Comprehensive Assessment System in accordance with DoDEA Regulation 1301.01, “Comprehensive Assessment System,” October 4, 2018. Students who have been identified as having disabilities or are ELLs shall participate using either the standard DoDEA assessments, with or without reasonable and appropriate accommodations, or through the use of the appropriate DoDEA alternate assessment, as per their Individual Education Plan (IEP), 504 Accommodation Plan, or English Learner Plan.

All assessments selected for use within DoDEA shall:

1. Align to clearly defined standards and objectives within the content domain being tested,
2. Valid and reliable and controlled for bias, and
3. Be one of several criteria used for making major decisions about student performance/achievement.

The results of each assessment shall be used as one component of the DoDEA Assessment System for major decisions concerning the student’s future learning activities within the classroom setting.

NAEP

For more information concerning the NAEP or the Nation's Report Card, visit NCES

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) has been providing valuable information about the academic performance of elementary and secondary students in America since 1969. NAEP results are not only comparable across the nation and the states, but they also measure progress over time to capture the most accurate and representative picture of student performance. Without these NAEP reports (commonly called "The Nation's Report Card"), produced through the voluntary participation of those selected for the assessment, we would lack the common yardstick needed to measure student performance objectively. Schools and students are chosen through a sampling process that is designed to reflect accurately our nation's twelve million fourth-, eighth-, and twelfth-grade students.

Purpose: The purpose of the Information Center is to support the entire school curriculum and to reflect the philosophy, goals and objectives of Andersen Middle School. The Information Center provides students support in intellectual and
physical access to information as well as providing students opportunities to expand their world by using various media and technology resources.

Mission: The mission of the DoDEA Information Center program is to ensure that students are effective users of ideas and information and develop life-long learning skills. This mission is accomplished by providing intellectual and physical access to materials in a variety of formats and by providing instruction to foster competence and stimulate interest in reading, viewing, and using information and ideas.

Hours: The IC hours are: M-W-Th-F 7:35-2:40, T 7:35-1:15. During the school day, the IC has an open door policy. This means students may visit whenever they have free time, once they have received permission from their classroom teacher; be sure to bring a hall pass, signed agenda, or signed note from the teacher. However, the IC will not be open during 5th and 7th periods because Mr. Rhodes, the school Information Specialist, will be teaching a class during that time.

Borrowing Policy: Students may borrow up to four books at a time and must return these books within three weeks from the date borrowed.

Policy on Overdue Books: If a student has an overdue book, Mr. Rhodes will contact the student’s sponsor via email.

Internet and Computer usage:
a) Students may use the Internet for research or appropriate free-time exploration (surfing) if their supervising teacher gives them permission.
b) Students MAY NOT chat, instant message, or play games on the IC’s computers.
c) Intentionally visiting “inappropriate” websites, chatting, messaging, or playing games, may result in Internet privileges being suspended or revoked per the computer and internet agreement.
 

We at Andersen Middle School understand that the possession of personal electronic devices such as cameras, cell phones ,Smart Watches, iPods, E-readers, and other MP3 players, have become more prevalent at our school. With that in mind, we have developed guidelines for the appropriate use of these devices while on school property.

• All devices should be turned off and properly stored before entering the building. Devices are not to be seen. For example, phones can’t be seen inside back or front pockets and headphones should not be hanging on shoulders. Students must secure their electronic devices and equipment in their locker. Individual teachers may allow the use of personal electronic devices during class time. In such instances, the student must properly store  their electronic device before their next class begins. E-readers are allowed during times specifically authorized by teachers for reading activities. Smartwatches are not allowed at this time.
• Students are solely responsible for the care and safety of the electronic devices they bring to school.
• Students are not allowed to use electronic devices during the school day (7:37am-2:15pm). All devices should be turned off and properly stored before entering the building. Devices are not to be seen. For example, phones can’t be seen inside back or front pockets and headphones should not be hanging on shoulders.
• Students will secure their electronic devices and equipment in their locker.
• Individual teachers may allow the use of personal electronic devices during class time. In such instances, the student must properly store their electronic device before their next class begins.
• E-readers are allowed during times specifically authorized by teachers for reading activities. Specific examples of e-Readers are: Kindle’s, and Nook’s.
• Students may use their electronic devices on the bus ride to and from school, and on the bus during study trips. Students are solely responsible for the care and safety of the electronic devices they bring to school.
• Students must have permission from individuals before taking either photos or videos of them. Students must adhere to the AMS and DoDEA policies on appropriate content for personal electronic devices. This includes, but is not limited to music, photos and videos, email, and text messages.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Admirable Use Guidelines:

• Post with respect
  • Photos and videos are a great way to share your experiences, but be sure to ask for permission of the people in your photos or videos before posting them on the Internet.
• Comment with kindness
  • Remember the Golden Rule and treat others as you would like to be treated. When you comment online, ensure that your comments are kind rather than cruel.
  •  

• Consequences
  • Should any student choose not to adhere to the guidelines for the appropriate use of these devices while on school property, he/she can expect the following consequences:
• • 1st offense: The faculty/staff member will confiscate the device. It will be sent to the front office and maintained in a sealed envelope. The student may pick it up from the front office at the end of the school day, after they have received administrator counseling.
  • 2nd offense: The faculty/staff member will confiscate the device. It will be sent to the front office and maintained in a sealed envelope. The student may pick it up from the front office at the end of the school day, after they have received administrator counseling and parents have been contacted.
  • 3rd offense: The faculty/staff member will confiscate the device. It will be sent to the front office and maintained in a sealed envelope. Only the student’s parent may pick up the device after meeting with an administrator.

Parents will purchase agendas for $5 to utilize throughout the year. The agenda ensures that communication is established and maintained between the home and the school throughout the school year. The agenda is a daily record of assignments, student work, and announcements.

1. All students are fully responsible to accurately record daily assignments, homework assignments and announcements for each class in the agenda.
2. Teachers have the responsibility to have the homework posted in a highly visible area. Teachers direct students to copy the information into the agenda.
3. All students are fully responsible for presenting their agenda to their parents for their parents’ review and signature.
4. Sixth and seventh grade sponsors/parents are responsible for reviewing for assignments, notes and comments. Sponsors/parents must sign the agenda daily. Each agenda has space for sponsor/parent comments and/or questions. Parents of 7th graders can request a Waiver of Agenda Signature form if their student is on the Honor Roll starting 2nd quarter. No waivers will be offered for 6th graders.
5. The advisory teacher makes sure the process is followed by checking agendas for sponsor/parent and/or teacher comments, missing assignments, and sponsor/parental signatures.
6. Students who remove pages from the agenda, forget to bring it to class, do not get it signed, or fail to complete any of the requirements above are subject to a consequence.

AMS’s Discipline Matrix

*These are guidelines. The school administration reserves the right to determine consequences.

**Schools have a variety of detention and suspension options.

***Student reflection sheets may also be filled out by the student

DoDEA has developed guidance for updating and standardizing the policy and procedures for disciplinary action for all students enrolled in DoDEA (April 4, 2008), Regulation 2051.1. The following excerpt lists the grounds for discipline including suspension and expulsion. The document in its entirety is 45 pages and is available on the DoDEA website for anyone wishing to review it. Steps to access the document: scroll down to DoDEA Headquarters; scroll down to DoDEA Regulations; on the right hand side of the page, select 2000s-Education; select 2051.1.

E3.1. General. This enclosure describes student conduct warranting disciplinary action or consequence and provides guidance as to the seriousness of offenses. However, this Regulation does not list every offense nor does it dictate the seriousness of any particular offense. Instead, it describes categories of conduct with sufficient specificity to inform the student of the type of conduct that may result in disciplinary consequence and is intended to alert principals to their flexibility in assessing the seriousness of offenses for purposes of determining the appropriate consequence. Disciplinary sanctions may be imposed for student conduct:

E3.1.1. While on school property.

E3. I .2. While en route between school and home or any school activity.

E3.1.3. While on vehicles owned by the Government or contracted by DoDEA schools for the transport of students. E3. 1.4. During the lunch period on a school day, whether on or off campus.

E3.l.5. During or while going to or from all school-sponsored or school-supervised events/activities that affect the missions or operations of the school or district including field trips, sporting events, stadium assemblies, an evening school-related activity.

E3. I .6. When the good order, safety, or welfare of the school, students, or staff is affected as a result of out-of-school actions. For out-of-school actions that involve First Amendment rights, there must be substantial disruption to the school.

E3.2. School Bus Discipline. Rules of student behavior and disciplinary procedures prescribed in enclosure 8 that are applicable to students en route by DoD-sponsored school buses between home and school and/or school-sponsored events and activities. The school has the discretion to process disciplinary actions for school bus infractions solely within the context of procedures prescribed in enclosure 8, or as a part of school discipline generally. Disciplinary action that might affect the placement of a student with disabilities must be processed under the disciplinary procedures for students with disabilities. (See enclosures 6 and 9)

E3.3. Additional Guidance at the School/District Level. In addition to this guidance, individual schools; school districts; or directorates may promulgate student policies/manuals that implement the procedures of this Regulation subject to prior coordination in accordance with subparagraph 5.2.8 of this Regulation.

E3.4. Discipline for Minor or First Offenses. A student may be disciplined for relatively minor offenses or first offenses not presenting an immediate threat of danger to self or others through the use of written or oral reprimands or notice to the sponsor/parent/guardian, time out, teacher/student/ conferences, suspension of school or extracurricular privileges, and by any other teacher intervention deemed by the teacher or principal to be appropriate. Minor offenses include any conduct that is not conducive to the good order and discipline of the school. Examples of conduct for which minor discipline may be appropriate include, but are not limited to: tardiness, unexcused absence, chewing gum or eating food in class, running or horseplay in the halls or classrooms, use of offensive language; disrupting the class by talking, laughing, or wandering about when the teacher determines that such conduct is inappropriate to the classroom activity. Nothing in this paragraph precludes the imposition of more serious disciplinary actions when a student engages in repeated or multiple acts of misconduct and the teacher or principal determined that the nature of the offense, in the context of all circumstances, warrants a more severe consequence than contemplated by this paragraph. Grade (score) reduction as a disciplinary action is not an appropriate means of discipline.

E3.5. Grounds for Removal. A student may be disciplined, to include removal from school (i.e., suspension, expulsion, or out of school placement) in appropriate circumstances; when a preponderance of the evidence demonstrates that the student has engaged in any of the following acts of misconduct:

E3.5.1. Causing, attempting to cause, or threatening to cause, physical injury to another person; or has threatened to use or has used physical force against any person, including physical force that causes serious bodily injury to a person, as defined by section I 365(h)(3) of 18 U.S.C.(reference (k)).

E3.5.2. Possessing, using, or transferring to another person any dangerous weapon (section 930(g)(2) (reference (i)), (e.g., any firearm, knife, explosive, incendiary device, or dangerous object) at the school or at a school-sponsored activity. A minimum I-year expulsion is required for the possession of firearms.

E3.5.3. Possessing, using, distributing, or the attempted possession; use; or distribution of alcoholic beverages.

E3.5.4. Possessing or using tobacco, or any product containing tobacco or nicotine products; including, but not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel nut.

E3.5.5. Possessing, using, distributing, or the attempted possession; use or distribution of any illegal/controlled substance; as defined in enclosure 2. A mandatory expulsion recommendation is required for a second offense.

E3.5.6. Offering, arranging, using, or negotiating to sell drug paraphernalia, or the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

E3.5.7. Robbing or extorting, or attempting robbery or extortion.

E3.5.8. Damaging or vandalizing school, U.S. Government, contractor, or private property.

E3.5.9. Stealing, wrongfully appropriating, or attempting to steal or wrongfully appropriate; or knowingly receiving stolen school, Government, contractor, or private property.

E3.5.10. Committing any lewd, indecent, or obscene act; or engaging in habitual profanity or vulgarity. E3.5.11. Disrupting school activities or otherwise willfully defying the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties. This provision includes not only horseplay and other forms of disorderly conduct, but also includes: lying to and/or making false statements to school personnel, and/or the violation of other rules and guidance established for an orderly educational atmosphere.

E3.5.12. Failing to leave the school, the school grounds, the school bus, or otherwise failing to follow the instructions/directions of the principal or staff member in charge after being told to do so; or is otherwise not authorized to be present in such areas (e.g., expelled or removed).

E3.5.13. Gambling in any form.

E3.5.14. Fighting or otherwise engaging in conduct that endangers the well-being of a student or others.

E3.5.15. Bullying (including cyber bullying) another, or a group (e.g., engaging physical intimidation, taunting, hazing, name calling, insulting, cursing, gesturing, or verbally abusing any person; including, but not limited to: comments, abuse, or harassment based on that person's race, religion, gender, creed, national origin, personal or physical attributes, disability, intellectual ability; and matters pertaining to sexuality, or characteristics of another person or the associates of another person).

E3.5.16. Using portable communications devices contrary to school policy (e.g., beepers, cell phones, personal computers, BlackBerrys; other similar devices capable of receiving or transmitting audio, video, picture, or text message; portable electronic devices, including: cameras, electronic games, portable radios, compact disc players, iPods, portable DVD players, or similar devices). Such equipment and devices are subject to confiscation by school authorities.

E3.5.17. Engaging in, or attempting to engage in, acts of arson, making a threat to bomb, burn, or destroy in any manner a school building or school property, or intentionally making a false report of a bomb threat or fire (e.g., making a terrorist or bomb threat, pulling a fire alarm, etc.).

E3.5.18. Forging, cheating, or plagiarizing the work of others.

E3.5.19. Possessing or using fireworks or other explosive devices.

E3.5.20. Violating attendance regulations or policies (i.e., truancy).

E3.5.21. Violating the terms and conditions of the DoDEA Student Computer and Internet Access Agreement, or by illegal or unauthorized means gain access to the computers, software telecommunications, and relate technologies of others; engage in any willful act that causes physical or financial damage or otherwise disrupts information technology, or use a computer or communications device to communicate threatening, harassing, indecent messages; or download obscene or pornographic materials.

E3.5.22. Violating any law, rule, regulation, or policy of the military installation or the school.

E3.5.23. Failing to report or otherwise be complicit in the above-described acts.

E3.6. Notice to Law Enforcement Authorities. The principal of the school shall notify the Installation Commander, or his or her designee for law enforcement or legal affairs, of any acts that may violate local laws or any situations that may pose a threat to the safety or security of the installation.

E3.7. Confiscation of Property. Authorized school officials may immediately confiscate any property belonging to, or in the possession of, any student if the possession or use of that property is inconsistent with the conduct required by this regulation, or good order and discipline. Unless possession of the item is illegal or dangerous, the confiscating official will return the property to the rightful owner or the student's sponsor as soon as is practicable and safe, or issue a receipt for its retention until such time as it may be returned. Confiscation is not considered a disciplinary action, but is accomplished to preserve health and safety, or to provide evidence incidental to the exercise of disciplinary action.

The following guidelines apply to all school dances.

• When dances are appropriate for 6^th, 7th and 8th grades, AMS students may attend.
• Only AMS students are permitted to attend the dances.
• Parents are encouraged to attend dances to help chaperone.
• Students must be in the dance within 20 minutes of its start and may not leave until the dance is over unless accompanied by an adult
• Students must attend school the entire day of the dance or the school day prior to the dance if the dance is on a Saturday. If they are absent or absent part of the day, they will not be allowed to attend the dance. (Medical appointments must be documented by medical staff.)
• As usual, the school dress code applies to all dances as well as all other after school activities. Parents will be called to pick up students who are dressed in violation of school dress code policy.
• School dances are considered to be an AMS privilege. Student misbehavior during the school day or during other school activities may result in disciplinary consequences, not limited to but including being prohibited from attending school activities such as dances.