Students new to SCCPSS should bring: (1) Proof of residence (rent receipt, water, or electrical bill), (2) Certificate of Immunization, (3) EED Certificate (Eye, Ear, and Dental Certificate), (4) Certified Birth certificate or passport, and (5)Guardianship papers if the student lives with anyone other than the parent or parents.

Most of your day in school is spent in the classroom. Your teacher, the other students, and you are like a cross between a job and a family. One way to get others to respect you is to show respect for them. There are eight important manners for the classroom that help make it a respectful place for everyone (excerpts from Emily Post’s Guide to Manners for Kids):

1. Make an effort to greet everyone with, at least, a : Good morning” and a smile. Adding a comment such as “How was your game last night?” or “Mrs. Bass, that chapter we read last night was hard!” makes others feel included and lets them know you are a friendly person.

2. Call teachers and any other adults in the classroom by the name and title they prefer. Some teachers prefer to be called by their first names, but unless they specifically ask you to do that, call them by their correct name and title (e.g., Mr. Smith, Dr. Stewart, etc.)

3. Call your friends by the names they prefer. Nicknames may seem fun, but sometimes they can be very hurtful.

4. Follow classroom guidelines for getting up, walking around, leaving to go to the restroom. Each classroom may be different. The important thing is to respect the rules set up for the room you are in.

5. Sit up at your desk or table just the way you do at mealtime. Lying all over your desk or table as if you’re bored or tired is both rude and disrespectful. If you are that tired in class, plan to get more sleep at night. If you are that bored, ask your teacher how you can be more involved.

6. Keep the area around your desk neat.

7. Chip in to help keep shared spaces neat and picked up – the sink, the reading area, the computer stations, the bulletin boards. Every part of the classroom is yours to share and keep clean.

8. Greet others who come into your room. Show respect by using the greeting that is normal in your school.

The STEM Academy will be using Love Your People's declaration as our school-wide expectations. More information is included later in this handbook.

Refer to our district website @ www.sccpss.com. No adult supervision is provided before or after school unless your child is attending scheduled tutorials. (The 2024-2025 instructional school hours are 7:40-2:35/2:45).

No student should arrive before 7:10 unless tutorial has been prearranged with a specific teacher. Morning drop off is 7:10 am-7:40 am. There is no adult supervision available prior to 7:10 am. School begins at 7:40 am.

Dismissal begins at 2:35 pm. Students will need to be picked up by 3:10 pm.

We ask that you please be patient and follow the directions of staff members and campus police to ensure car rider drop off and pick up are safe for everyone.

To assist with traffic flow, we have developed a color code system to designate car riders by grade level. Parents will be able to pick up their assigned color card at open house in the cafeteria. We ask that parents write their child's first and last name on the color card to display in your windshield during morning drop off and afternoon pick up.

The student arrival window is from 7:10 - 7:40 am. Students may not arrive before 7:10 am. Adult supervision of students becomes available at 7:10 am. Students eating breakfast should report directly to the cafeteria.  All other arriving students should report directly to 1st period.  

Any students arriving after 7:40 am must have a parent sign them in at the front office and will be marked tardy.

Morning Car Rider Drop Off & Exiting Directions 6th Grade (Green Pass) & 7th Grade (C-wing) Parents (Yellow Pass) 

• 2 Lane drop-off in the front of the school from 7:10–7:40 am

• Cars must pull all the way forward as directed by school personnel 

• All cars must make a right turn onto Montgomery Cross Road as directed by the Resource Officer

Morning Car Rider Drop Off & Exiting Directions Carpools (White Pass), 7th Grade D-Wing (Red Pass) & 8th Grade Parents (Blue Pass)  

• 2 Lane drop off in the back of the school between 7:10-7:40 am  

• Cars must pull all the way forward as directed by school personnel  

• Both lanes will circle around and exit onto Edgewater (no exit onto Montgomery Cross Road in the am) 

• The back gate will be locked at 7:40

Please make sure your child is aware of whom he or she may, or may not, ride.  Middle school students are responsible for entering the correct vehicle after school.  Student dismissal is at 2:35 and 2:45 pm. Students need to be picked up by 3:10. Students are not to leave their class until dismissal has been called.  

Walkers/Bike Riders

Walkers and bike riders are dismissed and are required to leave the campus immediately. They will exit through the cafeteria doors and must use the sidewalk and Montgomery Crossroad crosswalk. 

Bicycles, Scooters (non-motorized), and Skateboards

Students riding bicycles to and from school must observe the same traffic regulations as persons driving cars. Helmets are required at all times. Students should secure their bicycles to the rack located in the front of the school with a lock. The school is not responsible for damage to or theft of bicycles. Mopeds and motorized scooters are not permitted on school campus for safety reasons. Students may not ride skateboards while on campus. Skateboards must be secured at the bicycle rack.

Students who remain on campus must be picked up by 3:10 pm. There is no adult supervision after 3:10 unless it is for a pre-scheduled tutorial, club, or practice. Students who are picked up past 3:10 pm may be referred to administration and/ or the school social worker. Parents exiting campus should do so as directed by school personnel.

Early Dismissal

If it is necessary for a child to leave school before the end of the school day, his/her parent or guardian with whom he/she resides must send a written request or arrive in person for the child and make the request in the main office. The person picking up the student MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE and be prepared to show identification. No students will be released early unless the office staff calls for them. In cases of doubt, the principal may require evidence that the person picking the child up is entitled to custody. Please be prepared to show identification. 

Students will not be released after 2:00 pm without expressed permission from Administration.

There and back again..." Sometimes, just getting to school can be a challenge. Some students have a long walk. Others ride a bus. Some students pack into a car with other students, toddlers, and babies. Some students ride their bike, balancing lunch, books, or school projects as they go. No matter how students get to school, there are some key manners that will make getting there and home again fun and safe for everyone.

BICYCLES AND SKATEBOARDS

Students riding bicycles to and from school must observe the same traffic regulations as persons driving cars. Helmets are required at all times. Students should secure their bicycles to the rack located at the front of the school with a lock. The school is not responsible for damage to or theft of bicycles. Mopeds and scooters are not permitted on school campus for safety reasons. Students may not ride skateboards while on The STEM Academy campus. Skateboards must be secured at the bicycle rack.

Riding the Bus

Students must exhibit satisfactory behavior on the bus and at the bus stop. Students who fail to behave on the bus may have their privilege of riding the bus suspended for a period of time. If a student is suspended from the bus, it becomes the responsibility of the parent to provide transportation during the suspension.

Students should not bring any dangerous, illegal, or unnecessary item to school. If a student discovers that they have such an item on his or her person, the student should immediately, upon arriving at school, place it in the amnesty box which is located in the library.  Such items should not be shown to other students. Items placed in the box will not be returned.

Truant: Any child subject to compulsory attendance who during the school calendar year has more than ten (10) days of unexcused absences is considered truant.

All students enrolled should be in attendance each day. Absences are excused for personal illness, serious illness or death of a student's immediate family member, observance of religious holidays, active duty military family leave, orders of governmental agencies, conditions rendering attendance impossible or hazardous to student health or safety, or participation in approved school activities. Per board policy, "Students in grades K-8 who accumulate more than fifteen (15) absences (excused or unexcused) in a year, and are passing the affected subjects/classes may request an attendance waiver. The request that waivers be granted for academic credit or promotion must include appropriate required documentation to the site based attendance committee. This committee may grant or deny the waiver, after review of the apication and documentation.

Problems relating to pupil absenteeism that cannot be handled on the individual school level are to be referred to the school social worker. Students who arrive late must obtain a tardy slip from the main office before going to class. Students are encouraged to arrive on time each day in order to avoid missing valuable instructional time. Please be aware that frequent early check-outs (before 2:00 pm) could be considered absence from instruction and referred to the school social worker.

Documentation for excused absences: Any student absence that is to be classified as excused minimally requires a signed note of explanation from a parent or guardian for documentation. Only five days of absence per school year will be excused with a handwritten/typed signed note from a parent/guardian. School officials may require additional documentation/proof at any time for the purpose of validating that an absence is an excused absence. Any absence beyond five days for the year requires the submission of a physician's or hospital statement, court subpoena, order of a governmental agency, or a funeral notice/obituary to be deemed an excused absence.

Breakfast Program

Breakfast is free. Students eating breakfast must do so BEFORE going to class in the morning. After breakfast, all students must go DIRECTLY TO THEIR 1ST PERIOD CLASS.

Lunch Program

A well-balanced lunch is served in the lunchroom each school day. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to eat a well-balanced meal. Students are urged to bring money on Monday to buy lunch for the week; however, cash will be accepted on a daily basis (Sorry, no personal checks). Milk will be sold on a daily basis. You can also pre-pay for your child's lunch at www.myschoolbucks.com.

Free or reduced meals are available for those who qualify. Lunch assistance forms should be completed and returned promptly within the first week of school or enrollment. Parents will be notified of lunch program status as soon as possible upon receipt of application.

Lunch (subject to change)

$3.00 Full Price (K - 12 Students)

$.40 Reduced Price

$4.00 (Adults & non-enrolled children)

*Utensils (Fork and Spoons): $.10

*Compartment take out tray and checkered food tray: $.25

Breakfast

Free (K - 12 Students)

ALWAYS:

•               Say "Please," ''Thank You," and "Excuse Me" to the staff serving food in the lunch line, the adults supervising you, and the students sitting at your table.

•              Pick up after yourself Clean up any spills, pick up paper wrappers, napkins, etc. Empty your tray in trash cans.

•              Make way for the next group coming in. Be courteous and orderly; save your socializing for the appropriate time.

NEVER:

•              Chew with your mouth open. That's just as gross in the cafeteria as it is anywhere else.

•              Talk with your mouth full. No one can understand you and you could choke.

•              Throw your food, play with it, or blow bubbles and slurp your drink.

•              Burp out loud or make other rude noises.

•              There are some special manners that help keep school lunchtimes as civil as possible. If everyone follows these guidelines, lunch can still be an opportunity to socialize with friends as you eat a quick lunch. If students ignore these guidelines, the lunchroom becomes a disaster zone, the school then imposes rigid rules, and lunch becomes a simple refueling stop with no opportunity to talk to friends.

SIX STEPS TO LUNCHROOM ETIQUETTE:

1. Do follow the directions of the adults in charge at all times,even if they are not seated at your table.

2. Don't push, shove, or engage in rough play of any kind in the lunch lines.

3. Do hold your food tray with two hands, and don't touch other people's trays or food.

4. Don't ask for someone else's food. And don't offer your food to others.

5. Don't make comments about other people's meals or eating styles. Just because a classmate follows a

special diet or brings lunch from home while others buy theirs is no excuse for teasing or rude remarks.

6. Don't exclude others if you have an empty seat next to you.

School board policy states that medication will be administered only after parents have brought the prescribed medicine to the school nurse's office in the original container and completed the required medical forms. The parent's signature on these forms authorizes school officials to administer the medication according to the specifications written on the form. No medication will be given without this information and authorization, and no medication should be brought to school by the student. No students should self administer medication. It is the responsibility of the student to go to the nurse for their prescribed medication at the appropriate time.

Be sure that the school has the name and phone number of someone who can be reached in the event of an emergency. Even though every effort is made to avoid accidents, they do happen. We must have someone to contact when immediate action is needed. It is the parent's responsibility to keep the school informed regarding whom to contact. If this contact information should change, please notify the school office immediately. If you have an unlisted number, it will be used only for emergencies and will never be given to anyone else. If you do not have a phone, provide us with an alternate contact who can give you the message immediately. We need at least two phone numbers on file in case no one answers the first call. If there are several numbers where we may call please send them. Again, be certain to notify us if any phone numbers change (please contact our Information Specialist to update information).

Reusable materials and equipment are issued to students free of charge; however, it is the responsibility of each student to use these materials carefully. Abuse, damage, or loss of school materials and other school property assigned to students may result in fines to repair or replace items according to board policy #0991. Parents and students can find a complete school supply list at The STEM Academy website

The mission of The STEM Academy @ Bartlett is to provide students with a rigorous, relevant curriculum of academic study that will advance their knowledge in the areas of science, technology, and other branches of scholarship, while empowering them to become college and career-ready and prepared to work in the 21st Century as they develop the skills to think critically, collaborate, create, and communicate with peers and teachers.

Our approach to education is not for students to sit, take notes, then take a test as accustomed in the past. STEM Academy students are encouraged to be problem solvers, risk takers, critical thinkers and innovators by taking positions on real world problems, designing solutions and presenting their findings to peers and community members. Students are immersed in the use of technology to enhance their learning experience and collaborate with peers and teachers. By working through a combination of learning strategies they discover the nature of a problem, understand the variables involved and gain a perspective viewpoint of those affected.

The STEM Academy uses problem-based inquiry as an instructional framework. Students engage the curriculum by utilizing concepts learned in their classes to solve real-world problems. This integrated approach provides a platform for relevant learning experiences for our students.

Please discuss with your son or daughter about their daily use of class time. Students are expected to finish their work during class time. If their work is not completed in class, it is expected to be finished as homework. Teachers establish their own individual requirements for homework as supported by BOE policy. Homework is intended to practice skills already taught and to give students the opportunity to work on projects or to locate information. The amount of work assigned may vary among teachers or grade levels.

Parents should share the responsibility with the teacher for seeing that students complete homework assignments. When parents do not understand assignments or when they have questions about the value, length or absence of homework, they should contact the teacher for clarification or to set-up a conference with their child's teachers.

The school year is divided into four nine-week periods. Progress reports and report cards are available via PowerSchool Parent Access. Parents are highly encouraged to have access to PowerSchool Parent Access Portal. As the parent, you will be able to view your student's grades posted by his or her teacher online. Parents can request an access account via the SCCPSS website. Click the button to request a Parent Access Account. Data submitted through the request must match what is in file in order to receive an account. Web report cards are not accessible through the PowerSchool app. Parents must access report cards through the actual PowerSchool website only.

Conferences with your child's teachers may be arranged by sending a written request (email is preferred). We have a team approach at STEM and conduct parent conferences with the team. Teachers cannot conference with parents during instructional time. An administrator will participate in the conference if the teacher and/or parent request; however, parents are urged to discuss any concerns with the teachers before involving the school administrators. A student's overall grade for each nine-week marking period will be determined by several factors including teacher- made tests and activities, objective tests, projects, class participation, and homework.

The faculty and administration at The STEM Academy need parent cooperation and participation in order to provide a successful education. We will be happy to work with parents and respond to your concerns in order to accomplish your child's academic goals.

The following late and missing assignment policy has been compiled and recorded in an attempt to streamline and unify The STEM Academy @ Bartlett under one cohesive system, in accordance with Board Policy IHA-R(1). The rationalization behind the specifics of this policy keeps our academically talented students in mind while reinforcing the importance of completing work and submitting on time as guided practice and formative assessment.

Work that is not submitted will result in a 0%.

Late is defined as any work turned in after 11:59 pm on the designated due date. Students will have 3 days after the zero is entered into the gradebook to make up the assignment however; no more than 2 assignments per class can be made up during the quarter for a maximum possible grade of 80%.

NOTE: Failure to complete and submit the missing assignment will result in a zero being issued.

If a student is absent (sick, field trip, etc.) it is his/her responsibility to ask the teacher for work that was missed when he/she returns to school after the absence. The student will have five days to make up the assignment(s) without penalty. After these five days have passed the work is considered late. 

Re-Do Opportunities for assessments (tests, quizzes, and projects) are allowed and encouraged. It is the student's responsibility to request and advocate for an opportunity to re-do an assessment.

Students will need to attend a re-teach session (lunch & learn, tutorial, etc.) prior to the assessment re-do opportunity.

A maximum re-do score is 80%.

*Please refer to your teachers' class syllabi for more information regarding the re-do policy for assessments.

According to board policy, "Group and individual testing programs will be used to serve the needs of the instructional program." Testing identifies student achievement and informs on instruction practices.

Our goal is to create an environment that enhances learning and minimizes distractions. To support this, we will ensure that personal technology devices are not present in the learning space.

The STEM Academy@ Bartlett is a 1-to-1 iPad school. Each student is expected to bring a fully charged school issued iPad to school daily. Students will use their iPad daily in multiple classes. Only wired headphones are allowed at school.

We strongly encourage parents NOT to send students to school with cell phones, personal devices of any kind or Smart Watches. Bluetooth earbuds are not permitted.

Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the maintenance, support, and security of their personal electronic device. The district shall not assume responsibility or liability for the theft, loss, or damage to personal devices, nor does it assume responsibility for the unauthorized use of any device.

Students must keep all cell phones, smart watches and other smart devices powered off and stored with their 7th block teacher during the school day. Cell phones and smart devices may not be kept on a student's person or in a purse, bookbag, etc. Students may not use their device to communicate with parents or anyone else while on campus or on school transportation. Such communication must occur from a school phone. Students that are found to be in possession of their smart device or other electronic communication devices during the school day are subject to receiving a ticket, having their device confiscated and placed in the front office where it must be retrieved by a parent. Students with multiple cell phone/device issues will be subject to additional disciplinary action.

Students, parents and guardians retain full responsibility for all devices on campus, even when stored by a staff member. The school will not be liable for the theft or damage to any such device. The school's recommendation is that all such devices be left at home.

Personal phones and smart devices must be stored at the start of the day in their 7th block teachers lock box. At the beginning of the day, these lockboxes will be located in the following areas by grade level:

6th Grade - G-wing

7th Grade - 1st Block teachers classroom

8th Grade - Main hallway with assigned teacher

Students being released early - Front Office

Late students - Front office

Phones not placed in the lockbox at the beginning of the day will be held at the front desk for parent pick-up.

Students are permitted to use the school phone only for emergencies, and parents should only expect to leave telephone messages for students in emergency situations. Such messages must be left with the school secretary and will likely be delivered through an administrator or counselor. Plans for the day, or changes in plans, should be made at home before your child leaves each day. Phone calls will not be put through to the classroom during instructional time.

Even though technology use is a large part of our culture, there are still many times when it's just not a good idea to use devices. Technology can only be used during class time at the discretion of the teacher. Additionally, technology is not allowed to be used during class transition, lunch, and brain break..

Violations of technology use are considered Inappropriate Use of Technology and subject to our Ticket System. Please see Technology-iPad Acceptable Use & Procedures Agreement Form Sample for more detailed policies. This sample form is located at the end of the handbook.

Each student is provided with a unique login and password at the beginning of each school year. It is the student's responsibility to maintain the security of this information and not share it with other students.

Any student that is found to be accessing or attempting to access inappropriate and/or obscene material from the Internet will be subject to disciplinary action. Students are responsible and accountable for all activity that occurs under their login and password. All students and parents sign the "acceptable use policy" upon initial registration into the Savannah Chatham County Public School System. A parent should visit the school office with his or her identification badge to change the status of the child's access. Any off campus Internet usage that has an impact on the safe and orderly operation of The STEM Academy @ Bartlett is subject to disciplinary action (See Discipline Policy JD, Rules 2 and 6).

All parents should use Parent Access through Power School to monitor student performance and attendance. Detailed lessons and all resources can be accessed through our LMS (Learning Management System).

It is our goal to include parents in every part of the educational program. Several forms of communication are used to keep parents informed about school events and the progress of their child. Email, social media, call-outs and text messages are our primary methods for sending information to parents. Parents should carefully read the student handbook, check the school website and review the weekly Parent Newsletter.

The STEM Academy @ Bartlett utilizes a phone, email and text message delivery system which allows us to call all homes with a pre-recorded message about upcoming events and activities. It is very important for parents to provide the school with current phone numbers and email addresses.

Students are expected to store any personal sports equipment in a designated teacher's room. Students should not carry sports equipment around the school during the day. Students may not borrow the Physical Education department's sports equipment for personal use.

Since all Field Trips are educational, all students are invited to attend field trips. However, if a student has repeatedly displayed inappropriate behavior that has led to multiple Discipline Referrals, parents will be asked to attend the field trip in order to ensure student safety.

Field trips to enhance the instructional program are available to students. No student will participate in a field trip without written permission from the parent or guardian. Original, signed permission slips should be returned by the student on or before the due date which will be a minimum of two days before the trip. Parents will not be called to bring or fax field trip forms to school. Additional time to submit the permission slip cannot be granted to students who are absent on the final day permission slips are accepted. If a student is absent on the last day forms are accepted, the permission slip must be brought to the front office by 8:00 a.m. on the date it is due in order for the student to attend the upcoming trip. All Field Trips are educational, all students are invited to attend field trips. However, if a student has repeatedly displayed inappropriate behavior that has led to multiple Discipline Referrals within the school year, parents will be asked to attend the field trip in order to ensure student safety.

Students will participate in both clubs and advisement during the school day. Clubs and advisement will rotate on a bi- weekly basis. Students will have an advisor assigned to them and this person will be consistent for the three years at The STEM Academy. Advisement sessions will include: lessons of love, community building, grade goal setting, progress reports, parent communication via email related to not turning in work, and other needs as the students and advisors see them.

PTSA

All parents are invited to join and participate in PTSA. Executive Board meetings and monthly meetings are scheduled to inform parents and determine goals. We look forward to your participation and contribution to our PTSA. We are all in this together! (There is a minimum Annual Membership fee per parent/ grandparent/guardian.)

Parent Volunteers

Parents are encouraged to become involved in the school programs. The time and talent contributed by volunteers can provide a more effective learning experience for students and a closer school-community relationship. If you would like to become involved in the school volunteer program, contact the school office.

Our expectations are your expectations - the best behavior a child can exhibit should be seen by all, in any place, at any time. School work happens in the classroom. School social life happens outside the classroom - in the halls, before and after school and during the weekend. While this may feel like unstructured time, there are guidelines that help keep this school's social life civil. School rules about bullying, fighting, noise, and fair play give structure to this time. Good manners help make this time positive. The STEM Academy is proud to hold students to exceptionally high expectations for good manners and good behavior throughout all school activities (bus rides, field trips, lunch, and classroom participation) that they are held to at home, at athletic events, and any other community setting.

Effective instruction requires engaged and thoughtful behavior; the presence of a friendly, helpful and caring, yet business-like atmosphere. Discipline is an important part of every student's education. It is a shared responsibility between students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Discipline and respect are necessary in order to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment in which every child is provided the opportunity to reach for excellence.

There are many adults in schools besides the teachers and principal. Because they are not responsible for giving grades, some students are not familiar with them. It takes secretaries, custodians, paraprofessionals, nurses, media specialists, clerks, and cafeteria workers to make a school work. It is just as important to be polite to them as to the teacher and principal. You can't turn manners on and off. So the next time you pass a custodian or lunchroom worker, show the same respect you would give your teacher. Being polite is for everyone!

The following behaviors (from Love Your People) are listed as guidelines for students and are reminders from earlier sections about using good manners in all aspects of your daily school life:

1. Contribute

2. Be Kind

3. Be Patient

4. Be Honest

5. Encourage People

6. Apologize & Forgive

7. Thank People

The STEM Academy looks to celebrate students for their hard work in the classroom and outstanding behavior as they interact with peers and staff. Part of this recognition includes participation in reward activities that occur each nine weeks. By receiving no more than a one parent notification (Step 2) for behavior and having passing grades in all classes for the quarter in which the reward is held; students earn the opportunity to partake in the following reward activities (activities subject to change):

Behavior System at STEM is called Love Your People (LYP)

Quarter 1: Game Day 
Quarter 2: It's a Wonderful LYP Event 
Quarter 3: STEM OLYmPics
Quarter 4: GrillYP

In order to encourage good citizenship, school-based policies have been set up for rewarding good behavior and discouraging unacceptable behavior. These guidelines include a notification system with negative consequences for students who do not follow the school rules, and rewards for those who follow the rules and exhibit excellent behavior. The notification system is a communication tool designed to help students recognize and change negative behaviors prior to receiving discipline referrals. The ticket system throughout our school is as follows:

Step One: Verbal Warning

Step Two: Parent notification via email

Step Three: Parent notification via email with individualized Brain break assigned for 1 day. Step Four:.Parent notification via email with individualized Brain break assigned for 3 days. Step Five: Discipline Referral

We ask for your full support and cooperation in making this a successful program. We are excited by our partnership with you, as we work together to maintain your high expectations for behavior while your children are with us.

Any student who uses, or threatens to use a deadly weapon, including, but not limited to, a firearm or knife, which may cause bodily harm or death, shall be subject to permanent expulsion. A student threatening to "shoot up the school", whether he or she says it is a joke or not, is making a terroristic threat. Students participating in or making a bomb or terroristic threat shall be subject to permanent expulsion. Terroristic threats made via social media or electronically will result in similar consequence as a threat made verbally. Student conduct off school grounds that has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order or discipline in schools, or maintaining the safety and welfare of the students and staff, or off-campus conduct which could result in the student being criminally charged with a felony and when the student's continued presence at school becomes a potential danger to persons or property at the school, shall be subject to Board of Education discipline policies.

Social media can be a positive tool however, there are times when social media is misused particularly, when mean and unkind things are posted. We cannot stress enough how important it is for parents to regularly review their child's text messages, social media, pictures, videos and other communications.

We encourage everyone, especially our students, to THINK before posting:

•       T - Is it True?

•       H - Is it Helpful?

•       I - Is it Inspiring?

•       N - Is it Necessary?

•       K - Is it Kind?

The purpose of our dress code is to ensure an atmosphere conducive to learning and safety. Students must be dressed appropriately at all times. The school administration reserves the right to determine whether any student is dressed inappropriately and to take action to correct the infraction.

Students who arrive at school inappropriately dressed will be offered one of the following options:

•       To change clothes and remain at school

•       To be isolated for the day

•       To return home

Student Uniforms

Bottoms: Solid navy or khaki (as specified by each school uniform committee) shorts, skirts, skorts, jumpers, capri pants, or pants/slacks (no knit pants, leggings, jogging, joggers, or cargo pants; no zippers or pockets on pant legs). Skirts, skorts, and jumpers with the black watch tartan plaid pattern are also allowed. Uniforms must be worn and belted at the natural waist and made of standard uniform material (cotton and/or twill). No denim jeans or denim skirts, etc. Shorts, skirts and dresses must be no shorter than 3 inches above the knee.

Tops: Solid white, dark hunter green or navy blue tops. Tops may be polo-style shirts, collared blouses or turtlenecks. They may have the school insignia, if one is available, but no other ornamentation is permitted. All shirts must be tucked. Any undershirts worn under the uniform shirt must be solid white.

Shoes: All shoes must be enclosed and fastened/tied properly. Slides, flip flops, slippers, and foam clog shoes such as Croes are not allowed at any time.

Sweaters, vests or sweatshirts may be worn over uniform shirts. Hoodies are not to be worn on the head at any time. No hats, caps, or sunglasses may be worn in the building. Coats and jackets must be worn open in the building.

Extreme hair color/style that causes a disruption, or interferes with the learning environment will not be allowed.

Non-Uniform and Spirit Wear Days

Spirit Wear - For a one dollar donation, students and staff may wear full-length blue jean pants or designated spirit wear pants with their uniform shirt, or STEM spirit wear T-shirt, polo, or sweatshirt (no tank tops) on designated Fridays. Shirts may not be tied. Students may also wear non-uniform socks. Clothing may not appear to be torn or written upon. Proceeds will go to a specified organization or charity.

Families are strongly encouraged to pay for dress down days for the year or semester using School Cash Net.

Occasionally there will be non-uniform or dress down days for students earning rewards. Students may then come out of uniform adhering to dress down requirements outlined in the district's Code of Conduct.

All shoes must be enclosed and fastened/tied properly. Slides, flip flops, and foam clog shoes such as Crocs are not allowed at any time.

Student Safety

All precautions should be taken to ensure your child's safety during school hours and when your child is coming to or going home from school. Students should be aware of and have programmed into their devices an ICE contact (In Case of Emergency). Students should be reminded frequently that they must never accept rides from strangers.

For added safety and security, students must go directly to school each morning and directly home in the afternoon. Additionally, students should not arrive on campus unless it is 30 minutes before the instructional day begins. Staff are not available for supervision before that time. Students should also be picked up promptly upon dismissal.

Documents To Be Signed

When students bring documents home to be signed, sign your name and return them immediately. Your signature is not an indication that you approve of the papers, but means that you have seen them. If you require additional information, please contact your child's teacher or the school.

STEM Library Learning Commons

The mission of the STEM Library Learning Commons is to provide students with the resources, desire and skills to become enthusiastic, lifelong, proficient learners. The media center is open and accessible by staff, students, and parents from 7:00am to 2:30pm. The media center may be temporarily closed during testing for a very limited time and the media center staff will communicate those dates and times. The services that are provided through the media center are as follows: teacher laminating, student printing, student computers, makerspace, student lunchtime services, resource lessons, morning news show, technology assistance and checkout of resources. Each school year every student and new teacher will be required to attend an orientation lesson for the media center. Books are available for checkout at a rate of two at a time and can be kept for two weeks.There are no late fees charged, but students will be charged for lost or damaged library materials.

Board of Education policies are under constant review and updating due to changes in State and Federal laws and Local Board directives. Please refer to the Student Code of Conduct for the most current Policies and Procedures or visit www.sccpss.com.

Eligibility And Admittance

All students receiving special education, IEP, and gifted services must go through a screening process before entering the various programs. The request for screening may be made by the parent or the teacher. This process is a lengthy one; therefore, early identification is desirable.

SLD

Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) is a program which provides special help for those students who have been diagnosed as having difficulty in learning to write, read, discriminate sounds or work with numbers. These students often have average and above average intelligence but due to a learning problem are not doing well in one or more of the academic areas. Special materials are available within the school and additional resources are provided by the school system.

EBO

The Emotional Behavior Disorders Program provides help for students who have problems functioning full-time in a classroom. The amount of time spent in BD class is determined by the extent of the behavior disorder.

Speech

Students who have problems in speech may receive the assistance of a speech therapist for short periods of time each week. The particular type of speech problem is identified and the therapist plans activities to help correct the difficulty.

Gifted

The Gifted Program is a program designed to meet the educational needs of identified gifted students. This program is designed to nurture the unique abilities of these students. In the middle school setting, students are served through their core classes by gifted endorsed teachers.

The Savannah-Chatham County Board of Public Education does not discriminate in educational programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. For further information or to file a complaint, contact:

Title IX Coordinator 208 Bull Street Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 395-5552

Section 504 Coordinator/ ADA Coordinator 208 Bull Street Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 395-5877

School Nutrition Options

•       School-Provided Meals: A nutritious breakfast and lunch are available daily in the school cafeteria. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these programs to ensure they receive balanced and healthy meals.

•       Home-Packed Meals: Students may bring a nutritious lunch from home to be consumed in the cafeteria.

Restrictions on Fast-Food Meals

•       Discouragement of Fast-Food: Parents are strongly discouraged from bringing fast-food meals for their children.

Food Delivery Prohibition

•       No Food Deliveries: Absolutely no food deliveries will be accepted for or by students at The STEM Academy@ Bartlett. This policy is in place because we do not have the staff capacity to manage an influx of food orders.

•       Examples of Prohibited Deliveries: This includes, but is not limited to, deliveries from services such as Grub Hub, Door Dash, or any other food retailer or third-party delivery company.

Birthday Guidelines

If you wish to celebrate your child's birthday during school:

•       Arrange with the teachers prior to the celebration day.

•       Share the store bought cupcakes or cookies with all students from the class during the last 10 minutes of the lunch period.

•         No goody bags, balloons, gifts, or flowers.

These guidelines ensure a consistent and manageable environment for meal consumption and help us maintain our focus on educational activities. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

In the event of a uniform violation, the following procedures will be followed to ensure compliance with our school's uniform policy.

1.              First Offense
•       Notification:

o       The student will email their parent, HR teacher, and an administrator, including a screenshot from the handbook that outlines the uniform policy.

•       Resolution Options:

o       One-time Pass: If the student's attire meets the following criteria, a one-time pass may be issued:

■      No skin showing

■      No tight-fitting clothes

■      No unacceptable words, phrases, or pictures

o       Alternative Resolutions: If a one-time pass cannot be issued:

■      The parent may deliver clothing.

■      The student may change into clothing from the uniform closet (if available).

■      The student may spend the day in the office.

2.        Second Offense

•       Notification and Resolution:

o       The following are resolution options for the student:

■      The parent may deliver clothing.

■      The student may change into clothing from the uniform closet (if available).

■      The student may spend the day in the office.

o       The student will email their parent, HR teacher, and an administrator, including information from the handbook that outlines the uniform policy.

3.        Third Offense

•       Notification and Resolution:

o       The following are resolution options for the student:

■      The parent may deliver clothing.

■      The student may change into clothing from the uniform closet (if available).

■      The student may spend the day in the office.

o       The student will email their parent, HR teacher, and an administrator, including information from the handbook that outlines the uniform policy.

o       The student will participate in a 2-3 days of individualized Brain Break.

These guidelines are designed to ensure that our students adhere to the uniform policy while providing appropriate interventions and support. Compliance with the uniform policy helps maintain a focused and respectful learning environment.

I understand that all STEM Academy students and their parents must sign this agreement before the student can be issued an iPad for take-home privileges, use computers or equipment in school. All students will be provided a school device to use during the school day and may NOT bring their own device. All STEM students are required to have a school-issued device. By signing this, I agree to follow all provisions of the SCCPSS Technology Policy and the SCCPSS Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy and the Student Discipline Policy, all available on the SCCPSS website. Please READ carefully and in entirety.

Three things are necessary before your student will be able to check out an iPad:

1. This agreement signed and submitted online- no paper copies of forms will be accepted.

2. Active iPad insurance policy for the school year.

3. Tempered-glass screen protector and an iPad charger.

By signing this form and checking out a STEM iPad the parent and student agree that:

•       I will only use the iPad or other school device for work that my teacher assigns and may not use a personal device at school.

•       I will only search the internet or use streaming audio/video when and where assigned.

•       I understand that this technology is a learning tool and that any adult may take my device if I am not using it for school purposes.

•       I will provide a tempered-glass screen protector. The iPad will remain in the school provided case at all times.

•       I will bring my iPad to school every day with a full charge. Failure to bring my iPad to school for three consecutive days will result in disciplinary action. The iPad is school property and is not to be kept at home for an extended period of time and MAY NOT be repaired by the student or their family.

•       I will handle the iPad or other school equipment with care and carry it carefully.

•       I will maintain a positive attitude and appreciate my opportunity to use my device for learning.

•       I agree to follow all copyright laws and to avoid plagiarism.

•       I understand that I am not to give my school iPad to another student. If any damage occurs by allowing another student to take possession of it I realize my parents and I are still responsible for the damages.

•       I understand that there are disciplinary consequences that will result from misuse or abuse of my device. Examples would include deleting school installed software and settings, cyber bullying, damaging computers, systems or networks, or accessing inappropriate materials.

•       I understand that if there is loss or damage to a school issued technology device that we are responsible for contacting the school as soon as possible.

•       All insurance claims and repairs must be done through the school with a claim filed by the student.

•       I understand that it is a requirement to purchase insurance and students will not receive their school device without insurance.

1. Introduction

1.1 This policy covers any normal and generative Artificial Intelligence tool. Generative is the specific type of Al that is capable of creating new data/content similar to that which humans can produce, whether stand-alone products e.g. ChatGPT, or integrated into productivity suites, e.g., Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. This policy relates to all data/content retrieval and creation, including text, artwork, graphics, video and audio.

1.2 This policy will be reviewed at least once each academic year and updated to reflect advancements in technology and best practice.

2. Al Values

2.1 We will harness the power of Al to enhance education, support students/faculty/staff, and create inclusive learning environments in accordance with the following underlying principles:

•       Legal compliance: Al use at all levels will be in accordance with our legal

obligations, including (but not limited to) adherence to data protection law, intellectual property and confidentiality obligations.

•       Transparency: We will be transparent and accountable in our Al decision-making processes.

•       Ethical Use of Al: We believe that these technologies can greatly enhance teaching and learning, but they must be used in a manner that respects individual rights, promotes fairness, and prevents discrimination. When using Al, we will be mindful that Al can be

inaccurate and biased, and may amplify existing biases and discriminatory viewpoints which are already prevalent online. We will be vigilant about identifying biases that derive from the data/content Al has been trained on or the ethical overlay that humans may have added.

•       Academic rigor and integrity: While recognising and utilizing the power of Al for

educational benefits, we will also acknowledge its limitations and seek to combine the best of what Al can do with the creativity, intuition and understanding that only human beings are capable of.

•       Equality and inclusivity: We will consider using Al to broaden our communities, bridge the digital divide, and create a supportive and inclusive Al culture.

•       Mental Health: We will be mindful of the potential of Al to impact both positively and negatively on mental health and will teach students to use it responsibly.

•       Student Empowerment: Al should encourage active engagement, independent and collaborative learning,and the development of skills and dispositions for life. The capacity of Al to stifle independent thinking and creativity and to 'steal the struggle' from students is acknowledged and should be avoided.

•       Creative Collaboration: We should embrace Al's opportunities to work together to be Independent and collaborative creators, not just content reproducers.

•       Responsible Innovation: We will use Al responsibly and thoughtfully, considering the potential benefits and trade-offs associated with Al, such as its impact on our brain development and learning.

•       Shared Learning: We will share the burden of ongoing research, development, and creating ethical guidelines around new tools with our staff and students. We will create safe spaces to ideate and discuss the risks and opportunities around Al.

3. Students' Use of Al

3.1 Students can use Al tools to generate data/content

(text, video, audio, images) as outlined by assignment by their individual teachers. This use is subject to the principles set out below in 3.4.

3.2.There are situations in which the use of Al is not allowed, and the assignment/activity/task will be framed in a way that prohibits using Al tools. Any use of Al tools will result in a zero and 3 days for the student to resubmit the assignment for late credit.

3.3. There are situations and contexts within the school where they will be asked to use Al tools to enhance their learning and to explore and understand how these tools can be used.

3.4 In general, students must understand the following principles:

•       Al tools used in academic work must not be used for cheating, plagiarism, or any other unethical behavior.

•       Al tools must not be used to impersonate individuals or organizations, in a misleading or malicious manner, or to generate content that is unlawful, harmful, or offensive.

•       Use of Al tools and data/content created using such tools must comply with the following policies: All SCCPSS and STEM Academy policies related to behavior and acceptable use. (See SCCPSS Code of Conduct & STEM Academy Student Handbook)

•       Al-generated content should not be considered a substitute for pupil effort or original work. Students are required to put in their own effort to understand the material and produce unique content.

•       Students must not submit or otherwise publicize school materials using Al tools. Such materials include (but are not limited to): past papers, textbooks, worksheets, curriculum materials, and other school materials.

•       It is the responsibility of students to verify the accuracy of information received from any Al sources (including search engines) used.

•       Students must always clearly credit/acknowledge the use of known Al technology in their work when they have actively engaged with it, the use of the particular Al model, as well as the prompts used. Citation guidelines will be provided by your teacher and must be followed.

•       Students should be aware that some Al tools run in the background of certain software and programmes and pupils may not even know they are there. Students must also be mindful of the rights of any third parties and avoid infringing those rights, for example by using trademarks or other content. It is also preferable that students trace the sources that the Al tool itself used to generate the response where possible (and students should be encouraged to do so accordingly).

•       Aside from internal schoolwork and assessments, students must also be made aware that non-attribution of Al help/content in their work submitted that may count towards an external qualification (e.g. coursework) is malpractice and may have to be reported to the exam board,

leading potentially to disqualification from that unit, that qualification or all qualifications with that exam board (see JCQ regulations in Section 5).

•       Students must maintain confidentiality in their interactions with Al tools and must not disclose any confidential or personal information about themselves or any other people to the Al model since then the information may be in the public domain and accessible to others.

•       Additionally, students should not use Al tools for advice on emotionally/socially complex problems or other sensitive issues (for example, medical diagnoses or wellbeing concerns).

•       Students who breach these policies may face disciplinary action by the school.