AMS 2024-2025 Student Family Handbook

You belong here: We recognize and respect the inherent dignity of the whole child in each of our students.
We believe our students can do hard things.
We have and set high expectations of our students.
We respond with care, consideration, and support to our students’ diverse challenges and backgrounds, while nurturing each individual’s unique abilities in their pursuit of academic, social, and emotional growth as thriving, confident, and contributing members to our school and greater communities.
We expect our students to respect the rights of others in pursuing their educational development.
Our faculty and staff believe every student can achieve at high levels.
Core Curriculum should be challenging and relevant.
Exploratory Electives are an opportunity for students to explore their interests.
Advisory (first class meeting of the morning) and the team structure (4 person teams) are our community building model which supports the academic, social, and emotional needs of each student
We are a Community School. AMS is a hub for the greater community to come together.
We set high expectations for our students in a supportive, nurturing, affirmative environment that challenges each member of our school community to reach beyond what they thought possible and achieve the impossible: we will become who we are meant to be by striving to become our authentic, best selves.
We believe strongly in restorative practices to help keep our relationships and our community strong, kind, and healthy.
Parents and guardians are integral members of our Cougar Family. We welcome and encourage active participation in our amazing school community in any capacity possible. We may call on families to participate and support our ongoing efforts to build, maintain, and restore relationships.

Our History is in the Making (brief summary of AMS’s History)

Our history as a school is steeped in the era of integration and desegregation. The first school to exist at 111 South French Broad Avenue was South French Broad High School, which replaced the former award winning black high school, Stephens Lee. Stephens Lee High School was called the “Castle on the Hill” and is commemorating what would be its 100th anniversary. After the passing of the Civil Rights Act in 1964, and the court decision of Brown vs. the Board of Education, Asheville City Schools began to look at how to integrate the school systems with the help of ASCORE (Asheville Student Committee on Racial Equity). The result was integrating the high school on McDowell street, Lee Edwards High School, and renaming it Asheville High School in 1969. That same year, South French Broad High School became an integrated middle school that is now known as Asheville MIddle School. Tensions resulting from desegregation (for which there were no workshops or counseling given) led to a planned walkout at Asheville High School and ongoing racial conflict.The Asheville Middle School Campus has served the community as both a middle school and a junior high school over the years. In 2017 Montford North Star Academy was established as a magnet school for STEM. As our numbers of students have ebbed and flowed over the years the decision was made in 2024, to merge the two schools together again. Asheville Middle School will continue to serve the community and offer the best of both school's programs.

Annual Public Notice 2024-2025

Academics

Bell Schedule

Updated schedule coming soon…

Grading Procedures

Grading is the practice that enables students to understand their current level of mastery for a specific concept or standard. We believe proficiency scales are the best method to help students understand the levels of mastery within a specific standard. In the words of Rick Wormeli, "grades are not compensation, they are communication."

Students will receive marks based on their performance as determined by teacher evaluation of student tests and daily work, and completion of projects and assignments. Our marking system is as follows:

90-100 = A 80-89 = B 70-79 = C 60-69 = D 59 and below = F

Students will receive a minimum score of 50 as a final grade each quarter. This is to ensure a student is able to overcome a subpar quarter and still has the chance to achieve a passing grade for the year. If a student’s actual grade is below a 50 each quarter a comment will be added to inform the student and parent on the report card.

How Parent/Guardians Can Keep Up with Students Grades

Report Cards are issued after each nine-week grading period. Attendance is included along with the numerical grade for each subject. Report Cards will go home with students and are available on Powerschool.

Teachers will issue progress reports to all students every 4 ½ weeks during the school year. This report will communicate the student’s progress and allow parents and students to assess gains or needs. Here are the assigned weeks for progress reports to be sent home:

September 23-27

December 2-6

February 20-25

May 8-13

Parents/Guardians are essential partners in the education of their students. There are several ways for parents/guardians to actively monitor their student’s grades.

Parent/Guardian & Student Check-Ins- Parents are encouraged to have a conversation with their students about their current academic progress, including viewing their grades together in Canvas and PowerSchool.
Parents/Guardians can also access grades via the Parent Portal in PowerSchool. It can be accessed from this link or from the AMS website. For troubleshooting and questions, please contact our data manager, Adrienne David at adrienne.david@acsgmail.net or call 350-6211.
Parents/Guardians may also reach out to teachers via phone or email to get a more comprehensive understanding of student progress. They can request a phone, virtual, or in person conference if a more extensive conversation is needed.

Promotion Requirements

Promotion requirements are detailed in the ACS Board of Education Policy 3420. Questions about policies may be directed to school counselors or administrators.

Homework

Work assigned outside of the school day is intended for practice or reinforcement of a skill, further completion of an assignment or task, gaining new knowledge, collaborating with peers, or to prepare for a future lesson or project.

Late Work

Each team will have a designated late work policy. Students who miss school/work are responsible for any makeup work that is missed. Students will have a minimum of 5 days to complete missing work. Further details will be shared by the team.

Advisory

Every student begins the day with Cougar Advisory Time (CAT). This class focuses on the fundamental skills that ensure success for all students. Following our schoolwide restorative practices initiative, advisory students meet in a circle. Students cover topics ranging from social-emotional learning skills like self-regulation and anger management to important national and community celebrations like Black History Month. During this time students make strong connections with peers and their advisory teacher. This unique time ensures that every student has the opportunity to slow down, connect, and be a part of the Asheville Middle School community.

Academically/Intellectually Gifted Services(AIG)

Asheville City Schools recognizes, challenges, and supports gifted learners as they strive to achieve their fullest potential.

The mission of our Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program is as follows:

We will recognize gifted learners by using comprehensive and clearly articulated screening and identification processes.
We will challenge gifted learners by providing resources and support for staff to deliver an enriched and differentiated curriculum.
We will support gifted learners in their academic, social, and emotional development by initiating and nurturing collaborative partnerships that involve the total school community.
We will continuously improve our services by thoughtfully monitoring and assessing our program with input from all stakeholders.

Parents who would like more information should contact one of our school's AIG Specialists, Andy Weatherly at andy.weatherly@acsgmail.net or 350-6244, or Jacob Beach at jacob.beach@acsgmail.net or 350-6315.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)

Our nation’s schools are full of students who possess a desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard, but many of them do not truly have the opportunity to be college-ready. These are often the students who will be the first in their families to attend college and are from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education. AVID Secondary equips teachers and schools with what they need to help these students succeed on a path to college and career success.

At Asheville Middle School AVID encourages student achievement and helps students develop a personal vision for college. For more information, contact the AVID Coordinator, Amy Sheeler at amy.sheeler@acsgmail.net or 350-6316 or your student’s grade level school counselors.

6th grade counselor- Jesse Pitt jesse.pitt@acsgmail.net 350-6236

7th grade counselor- Michelle Ayubi michelle.ayubi@acsgmail.net 350-6237

8th grade counselor- Karen Evans karen.evans@acsgmail.net 350-6238

Electives

Electives give students at the middle school level opportunities to discover aptitudes and interests outside the core academic areas. AMS encourages all students to take advantage of each of the varied offerings in technology, careers, and cultural arts. Physical education is required by the state each school year.

Attendance

We believe learning experiences that occur in the classroom are essential components of the learning process. Time lost from class tends to be irretrievable in terms of opportunity for instructional interaction. Furthermore, the School Board affirms that the primary responsibility for regular attendance resides with the parents/guardians and the student. The Board shall adhere to NC state laws regarding student attendance.

In order to be considered in attendance, the student must be present in the school or at a place other than the school with the approval of the appropriate school official to attend an authorized school activity. Such activities may include field trips, athletic contests (as a participant), or any similar activity. A student must be present for 3 ½ hours of the school day from the time they arrive at school, to be recorded present.

Any student in a middle school who misses more than eighteen (18) school days shall be referred to the principal (or designee) for possible retention unless the Appeals Process set out in Board Policy 3420 is followed. The Appeals Process will include mandatory parent conferences after ten (10) and fifteen (15) absences. This is in accordance with ACS Board Policy 4400 P.

Arrival and Departure to and from School

All students must be in Advisory class by 8:30 a.m or they will be considered tardy. Students may be dropped off at 7:45. Doors will open at 8:00. Students may not be dropped off before 7:45 unless arrangements have been made with a teacher or staff member. All late arrivals check in with the Main Office.

Drop-off and Pick-up is only allowed in the front loop between the two crosswalks. It is not allowed along South French Broad Ave., at the church across the street, or in our parking lot. Parents and Guardians shall not enter the parking lot at drop-off or pick-up unless they are entering the building.

At pick-up, students should walk to their car if the line is completely stopped, and their car is one of the first 4 cars( in each lane). If a student does not immediately report to their car, the driver will be asked to pull into the parking lot

Arrival to Class

It is very important for our students to be on time and ready to learn. Our first class begins promptly at 8:30am.

Tardies To School

Excused Tardies: Students who are not in class by 8:30am must report to the office to receive a tardy slip. Please see Board Policy above to determine if a tardy is excused or unexcused.
Unexcused: Repeated tardiness will result in a parent conference with an action plan for the student.

Classroom Tardy Responses

Safety is a priority at AMS . Students are expected to be in their designated locations at all times and must always have permission to leave class.

1st tardy-warning

2nd tardy-Team consequence (lunch detention, parent contact, loss of privileges, etc)

3rd tardy- Minor referral- Team Consequence

4th tardy- Minor referral, Parent and student must attend a restorative circle meeting with administrator and counselor, action plan put in place.

*Repeated offenses will result in further disciplinary actions

**Tardies longer than 3 minutes with no pass may be considered cutting class which would result in further consequences

Absences

Excused: Excusable absences permitted by the NC State Board of Education Attendance Rules are illness or injury, quarantine, death in the immediate family, medical or dental appointments, court proceedings, religious observation, and immediate demands of the farm or home (prior approval from the principal). All other absences are considered unexcused.
Unexcused: All other absences not listed above are considered Unexcused Absences.
Admittance after Absence(s): When a student returns to school after an absence, they must bring a written note signed by the parent/guardian or a doctor’s excuse to the main office. Parent/Guardians can also submit an note via ParentSquare app or website or by directly emailing the AMS Data Manager - adrienne.david@acsgmail.net All excuse notes must be turned in within ten days of return.

It is the responsibility of the student to request and the responsibility of the school to give, on the first day the student returns to school following an absence, assignment of work to be made up.
All work assigned must be completed in the time frame assigned by the teacher, which must allow for at least a period of five school days following the absence.

Sign Out/Early Dismissal:

Any student who leaves the campus must have special permission from the proper school authority and must sign out in the main office with the parent/guardian or another authorized adult before leaving.
Parents/guardians should be prepared to show photo identification in order to pick up a student.
Check-Out Time: When an emergency arises and you must make an appointment for your student, please avoid having to pick them up between 3-3:30. That is a very busy time of day in our building and our parking lot.
Students will not be released to persons not listed in PowerSchool. Parents can create a list of persons allowed to pick up a student on a Student Information Change form, located in the Main Office. The person picking up the student must be prepared to show photo identification.

Cell Phone/Mobile Device/Smartwatch Policy

Our mission is to provide all students with a quality education through strong relationships, free from disruption. It is integral to our mission that we provide students with the opportunity to engage in learning free from the interruptions and stresses of texting, social media, and digital communication beyond that required through school-issued technology. To uphold our mission, cell phones and all other personal digital technology such as, but not limited to, smartwatches, should be locked in their locker from 8:00-3:30. Parents should not attempt to communicate with their students via cell phone during the school day. Parents/ Guardians are asked to contact the main office at the school (350-6200) if they have a message for their student that they need to receive during the school day. If students think they are going to receive messages from their parents/guardians throughout the day, this could encourage them to violate the cell phone policy. Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones and all other personal items.The school is not responsible for the theft, loss, or damage of cell phones or other devices under any circumstances related to the misuse and/or confiscation of cell phone devices. The student will use their device in compliance with Board Policy 3225, Responsible Use of Technology and Internet Safety, the ACS Student Code of Success, and all other applicable district or school guidelines. Please note: a student’s cell phone or other wireless devices with texting/camera capability may be searched whenever an administrator has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will provide evidence that the student has violated a law, board policy, the ACS Student Code of Success or a school rule. Please refer to ACS Board Policy 4318: Use of Wireless Communication Devices for further details.

Misuse of cellphone or other prohibited electronics:

1st Offense – Item taken until the end of the day; Phone/electronic returned at end of day to student. Teacher notifies the parent/guardian.

2nd Offense – Minor referral; Item taken until parent picks it up, parent notified by administrator.

3rd Offense –Item taken; Parent and student must attend a Restorative Circle meeting with administrator and counselor, action plan put in place.

*Any offense there after will result in the cell phone/item not being allowed at school for the remainder of the school year.

Student Conduct

AMS Behavior Belief Statement

The AMS behavior response plan supports the development and growth of our students while maintaining a safe and engaging learning environment for all members of our school community. Our goal is not to punish but to teach tools and strategies our students can use to understand the impact they have on our school community and restore any harm that has occurred.

It is the responsibility of all staff to model and teach tools and strategies in a consistent manner. Staff will continually reflect on what each student needs in a challenging moment, and provide the appropriate support with patience and compassion. We will strive to see behavior objectively and remain mindful that behavior is communication. While our goal is in repairing harm, we also recognize that at times punitive measures may be the most appropriate response in order to ensure the safety of students and staff. AMS administrators will not make these decisions lightly, and will take into account all information and possible responses before making a decision.

Students are expected to follow the policies and procedures outlined in the ACS Student Code of Success. The Asheville City Schools district recognizes the importance of a whole child approach to all facets of education. We believe in the fundamental value of each person and aim to affirm and validate every student who attends our schools. The purpose of this Code of Student Success is to present, in a single document, district policies and expectations for the safety, respect, and support of everyone in the district.

This Code of Student Success describes safe and respectful student behaviors and outlines staff responses and interventions that may be used to hold students accountable while also providing high support. These policies and practices support character development, self-control, and positive skill development through collaboration between school, home, and community organizations. In addition to being linked above, located on the ACS website at www.ashevillecityschools.net, a copy can also be obtained from the front office at Asheville Middle School.

Hallway and Campus Conduct

Students will maintain safe behaviors at all times on the Asheville Middle School campus and as a part of school-sponsored events off campus, such as athletic events, field trips, and competitions. The administration at AMS regards safety as the absolute top priority and will take any unsafe actions very seriously. Asheville Middle School will use Restorative Practices with students and families, whenever possible, to repair harm to the school, campus, or individuals.

Backpacks must be kept in lockers during the school day.

Cafeteria Conduct

Students will maintain safe and orderly behavior while in the cafeteria. Students will be responsible for keeping a clean space and keeping noise to an acceptable level. Students will move through the cafeteria following the procedures taught by staff and will ensure safety by refraining from horseplay. Students will stay at their designated spaces and enjoy time with their friends.

Video Surveillance

AMS maintains a video surveillance system that records activity outside of our building and within its hallways and other common areas. The Asheville City Schools also maintains a video surveillance system on our buses. Video surveillance is used to promote the safety and security of students, staff, and property.

Search and Seizure

AMS reserves the right to search the locker, possessions, and/or person of any student, provided that reasonable suspicion exists and guidelines under Board Policy are followed. Any illegal materials or materials not permitted according to AMS regulations or Board Policy will be seized and appropriate disciplinary action taken. Where noted by Board or school policy, proper authorities will be notified.

Issuing Threats

Students are not to issue any threat to another person while on campus or at a school activity. Threats to a person or his/her safety will be taken seriously by the AMS administration and appropriate responses will be determined. (Refer: BOARD POLICY 4331.)

Instigating altercations or fights

The safety of all members of the AMS Community is the top priority of the AMS administration and staff. Physical altercations can have a powerful impact on community members' feelings of safety on or around our campus. Therefore, administration and staff will be vigilant and proactive to conflicts and all students will be taught problem-solving strategies to use instead of physically fighting. If an altercation occurs, the school administration will use restorative practices to repair harm and restitution when appropriate. Severe and/or repeated altercations could result in more punitive actions such as suspension and/or long-term suspension. See the ACS Student Code of Success for details.

Reporting of Serious Infractions

Students and staff must report serious infractions to a school administrator immediately. Serious infractions include, but are not limited to, any act which is potentially dangerous to any student, group of students, or staff. In these cases, the administration will contact families and take steps to ensure safety of all community members.

Community Standards

Hallway/Transition Time

Students will travel in the hall for class transitions, with their class at times such as lunch, and in emergency situations, during regularly scheduled class time. In order to be in the hallway without an adult outside of a transition time, a student must have a physical hall pass with their name, the date, the time, the location to which they are going, and a staff member’s signature. When a staff member sees a student in the hall during class time, they will ask the student to show their pass; it is expected that students will show their pass. If a student is unable to show a pass, they will be directed to return to class for one. If a student is in the hall without permission, teachers will work with the student and family to support the student to be in class and follow school procedures. If this happens repetitively, school administration will confer with families to support the student.

Transportation on School Buses

Middle school students will be riding buses that also have high school students as passengers. Guidelines regarding appropriate bus and school transportation behavior are clearly outlined below. School bus transportation is a privilege. Students must help to maintain safety for everyone on the bus, including the driver. Failure to follow bus rules will result in disciplinary action and possible loss of riding privileges. (ACS Board Policy 6305)

Bus Passes: Students are NOT able to obtain a bus pass to ride home with a friend.
Changing Buses: Students may only ride the bus to which they are assigned. Non-bus riders may not ride a bus on a temporary basis.

Bus and Bus Stop Expectations:

At the Designated Bus Stop:

Arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes before bus pick up time
Stand on the sidewalk and not in the traveled part of the road
Remove earbuds and headphones from ears until you are safely seated on the bus.
Follow bus loading and unloading procedures

On the bus:

Remain seated at all times
Cooperate with the driver and practice orderly conduct
No throwing items from the bus or on the bus
No yelling out the windows of the bus at community members
No body parts outside the bus
No profanity or obscene behavior
Personal electronic devices are permitted on the bus if used with headphones or earbuds, and does not cause a disruption. Bus drivers reserve the right to deny this privilege. On field trips, teachers may prohibit the use of personal electronic devices. Asheville City Schools takes no responsibility for any electronic devices brought to school.

Leaving the bus:

Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop
Leave in an orderly manner, remove earbuds and headphones from ears
Get off at your assigned bus stop only
Cross in front of the bus

The above are highlighted items from the ACS Bus Rules & Regulations Contract. Both students and parents are required to sign the contract.

Bus expectation violations:

1st Violation--Warning and parent contact

2nd Violation--Parent contact; May include a 3-5 day suspension from riding a bus

3rd Violation---Parent and student must attend a Restorative Circle meeting with administrator and counselor, and an action plan put in place; May include a 10 day suspension from riding a bus.

In case of suspension, the student must still attend school with transportation being provided by parents.

*You are required to sign and return the Bus Rules & Regulations Contract.

Dress Code

All students have a right to express themselves fully in school by choosing clothing, hair styles, jewelry, and accessories that appropriately represent and affirm their varied identities, without the threat of punishment, removal, criminalization or harassment. Dress regulations are determined by community standard and their impact on school safety. Schools should be safe and affirming spaces for all students.

The following general guidelines apply but are not exclusively limiting. The administration may make discretionary judgments concerning appropriate student attire. Students not conforming to acceptable dress standards will be addressed without shame or judgment; they will be allowed to change into other clothes they have with them, offered clothing that complies with the dress code to change into, or they will be allowed to call home for replacement clothing. Continual violation of policy will result in parent contact and a scheduled parent student conference/circle.

Clothing depicting offensive, violent, graphic images, or references to illegal activities are prohibited.
Outfits must not show stomach.
Tops must have fabric on the sides (under the arms) and front side (midriff) unless a student is wearing a tank top underneath.
Pajamas, slippers, blankets, onesies, and nighttime attire are prohibited unless for a special event (i.e. pajama day).
Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.
Shorts and skirts must entirely cover the student’s bottom
Clothing must be opaque (not see-through) AND must cover undergarments and the torso. Waistbands and bra straps may be visible.
Students’ heads and faces, including eyes must be visible; no hats, no hoods, no head coverings, no full face coverings or sunglasses are allowed. Students with a medical or religious need to wear a face covering or sunglasses must turn in documentation to the principal’s office in order to be excluded from this policy. Students may wear medical masks for illness prevention without a doctor’s order.

Inclement Weather Policy

In the event of inclement weather, please check the ACS website and/or WLOS for up to date delay and school closure information.

Lost & Found

It is helpful that all personal items such as clothing, books, sports equipment, etc. are clearly labeled in permanent ink. The school cannot be responsible for any of these items. There are lost and found bins on each grade level and in the main office. At the end of each nine weeks, unclaimed items will either be donated or thrown away.

Student Life

Opportunities

Ambassadors--Students are selected to participate as an ambassador for our school. Being an ambassador will support students in overcoming obstacles and will lead to leadership opportunities within the school.

The Cougar News Network--We are looking for responsible and committed young journalists and reporters to be a part of our morning broadcast news team.

Junior National Honor Society --Students are nominated by their teachers to be inducted into the NJHS. These students display excellence in following areas:

Scholarship
The Asheville Middle School Chapter guidelines is a cumulative average of 92.5.
Service
This involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation.
Leadership
Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea contributors. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.
Character
The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary record.
Citizenship
The student who demonstrates citizenship understands the importance of civic engagement; has a high regard for freedom and justice; respects democracy; respects the law for all citizens at the local, state, and federal levels; and demonstrates mature participation and responsibility in activities such as scouting, community organizations, or school clubs.

Student Government–Asheville Middle School is revitalizing its student government. Stay tuned for updates as to how students can become involved in this activity. Academic and behavioral standards will apply to students desiring candidacy.

AMS Battle of the Books Team–Students in grades 6-8 who would like to join the AMS BOB team are welcome. Please contact Julie Noblitt, one of our media specialists, at Julie.Noblitt or 350-6340 for more information.

Field Trips

Our students are expected to represent our school with dignity and respect at all times when traveling to off-campus sites. All field trip fees can be paid online via our website. Administration reserves the right to deny any student the ability to participate on any field trip due to behavioral concerns.

Athletics Program

AMS will adhere to ACS Board Policy 3620, Extracurricular Activities and Student Organizations and ACS Board Policy 3621, School-Sponsored Extra Class Activities which states in part:

Only seventh (7th) and eighth (8th) graders may participate in interscholastic athletic programs and must remain academically eligible. Please see ACS Board Policy 3620, Board Policy 3621, Procedure 3621-P, and Procedure 3620-P for additional information.

6th-grade students may apply to be managers for Cougar sports teams.

Fall Sports go from approximately August to end of October:
Boys’ soccer, cheerleading, cross country, football, tennis, and volleyball
Winter Sports go from approximately November to the first of February:
Boys’ and girls’ basketball, cheerleading, and wrestling
Spring Sports go from February to the first of May:
Baseball, girls’ soccer, golf, softball, and track

*A current physical is required for students trying out for or participating in sports.

Student Athletes will be asked to have their teachers complete an academic/behavioral sheet at least once a week. The goal of the sheet is to encourage communication between the students, teachers, and coaches so that students can continue to grow as learners. This is critical to ensure that students will continue to be eligible for athletics.

Master Middle School Sports Schedule.

Ultimate Frisbee Club

The AMS ultirmate frisbee club team is open to 6th-8th grade students. Please reach out to Sarah Howell by email for more information. amsultimate@gmail.com

Swim Club

Good swimmers are eligible to compete in the Asheville City Middle Schools Swim Club via the YWCA.

Extracurricular Participation

We have a plethora of extracurricular activities and we encourage our students to get involved. Students participating in extracurricular activities are expected to remain in good academic and behavioral standing and will be progress monitored. Any student receiving a D on a progress report or report card will be counseled and put on probation until the grade is raised to at least a C. Any student receiving a referral will also be counseled and put on probation until the next progress report.

Current Extracurriculars include but are not limited to--Art Club, Robotics Club, Science Olympiad, Battle of the Books, Yearbook, Go Girls Running Club, Ultimate Frisbee, Student Government Association, and the Daily Innovator News Team.

Event Guidelines

Afterschool Supervision

For events that start at 4:30 or before, students may wait in the lobby for the start game if they have a note from their parent or guardian granting them permission to do so. As they wait, they must stay in the lobby remaining calm and orderly the entire time. If a student is unable to do so, they will not be admitted into the game.

If students are staying after school for a sporting event that starts at 5:00 or later, they must be accompanied by an adult who is responsible for them while they wait. The school will not be responsible for supervision. Any student who does not have adult supervision will be asked to contact a parent or guardian for pick-up.

Event Safety and Security Protocols

This is a shortened list. Additional ACS security mesagues can be found here

Backpacks and other bags larger than 6” x 4”x 3” will not be allowed into events. All bags may be subject to inspection. Size exceptions will be made for individuals with medical conditions and those accompanied by young children.General Guidelines:

Bag Policy:

No large book bags or backpacks of any kind will be allowed inside the event venue for all attendees. Bags approximately the size of a hand, no larger than 6 by 4 by 3 inches, are permitted.
All bags brought into the venue will be subject to inspection and search by designated security personnel.
The size limitation is waived for individuals with medical conditions and adults with young children.
Students will not be allowed to bring bookbags into sports events. Students will be required to leave their bookbags outside of the entrance in an unsecured location. The school is not responsible for the bookbag or items located within it.

Compliance and Removal:

Any individual who poses a threat to the safety or enjoyment of the event will be asked to leave by law enforcement or school personnel without a refund.
Failure to comply with security checks or event regulations will result in denied entry or removal from the event venue.
No re-entry.

Prohibited Items:

No weapons, knives, firearms, fireworks, or objects deemed dangerous by security personnel are allowed inside the event venue.
No outside food or drink is allowed unless explicitly permitted by event organizers.
Only authorized unmanned aerial vehicle or drones are allowed
Pets are not permitted at events

After-School Programming

Delta House LEAAP for Success (Learning through Expanded Academic and Arts Program) After-School Program–Delta House LEAAP is an extended-day learning program that will serve students both on campus and at the Delta House. The goal of the program is to increase school success through academic and enrichment activities.. For more information, please contact Shirley Whitesides at swhitesides9192@gmail.com.

IRL (In-Real Life) After School Program

IRL provides high quality, hands-on, equitable, and accessible after-school programming for all Asheville City Schools middle school students. IRL offers scholarships available to students/families. IRL partners with Asheville City Schools transportation to provide bussing around the city and in the evenings to increase access for students and families. By partnering with 50+ community organizations and professionals, IRL has developed unique youth-informed programs to meet the demands of Asheville City Schools middle school students. For more information, please contact the IRL director, Gregory Hall at 828-350-2608/ IRL cell 828-747-2247

Student Guest Policy

Unfortunately, no student guests are permitted on campus due to district liability insurance.

Lockers

Each student will be assigned a locker in the first week of school. Students will have ample time to learn how to operate the locker. Students will have designated times to use their locker determined and taught by their team of teachers. Backpacks and phones must remain in lockers throughout the school day. Students that need access to feminine hygiene products will be allowed to carry small bags.

Technology

1:1 Chromebook Take Home

Students at AMS will be assigned a Chromebook for their use both at school and at home. It is important that students build good habits surrounding the use of their Chromebooks (e.g., bring them to school fully charged, not carrying them when open, not leaving them on the floor, etc.). If a student is negligent with their computer (throwing it, hitting it, etc.) there may be a replacement or repair cost. 6th grade students will not be allowed to take their Chromebooks home.

Repair Fees

Asheville Middle School will use restorative practices and monetary fees to address damages to student laptops. To learn more about the AMS Laptop Care Plan, please click here.

Possible fees for damages:

Replace power cord - $20
Replace cracked case - $25
Replace screen - $40
Replace keyboard and or track-pad- $40
Full replacement for accidental damage- $75
Intentional damage - actual cost of repair up to $125

If a laptop is lost or stolen and not returned, the student/family will be charged $125. It is important that students keep laptops in their locker when not being used. Leaving laptops in the pod areas or in other classes can result in loss or damage that the student will be responsible for. Students are responsible for charging their laptops and bringing them to class each day. If a pattern of not bringing a charged laptop is established, a student may be required to leave their laptop at school.

Learning Management System(LMS)

At Asheville Middle School we use the Canvas Learning Platform. As a parent/guardian, you can monitor your student’s grades, look at missing assignments, and follow along with their daily assignments. For more information on how to log in as a parent/guardian observer, please visit the following presentation.

Internet Safety

We encourage parents to establish "expectations for using technology" in their homes.

Student internet activity is filtered while using school laptops both at school and at home. However, no filter is more effective than adult monitoring. Please have regular conversations with your student(s) about their internet-based activities.

Many parents find that Common Sense Media provides thoughtful and well-reasoned advice about helping young people learn to use the internet safely. Check them out at https://www.commonsensemedia.org/blog

Bullying/Harassment

Asheville City Schools Board of Education Policy 1710: Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Bullying states in part:

a. Harassment or bullying behavior is any pattern of gestures or written, electronic or verbal communications, or any physical act or any threatening communication that:

(1) Places a student or school employee in actual and reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property; or

(2) Creates or is certain to create a hostile environment by substantially interfering with or impairing a student’s educational performance, opportunities, or benefits.

Asheville Middle School’s Anti-Bullying Rules

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

The ACS Board acknowledges the dignity and worth of all students and employees and strives to create a safe, orderly, caring, and inviting school environment to facilitate learning and achievement. The Board will not tolerate any form of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or bullying in any of its educational or employment activities.

Harassment (Prohibited Behavior)

In addition to other expectations for appropriate behavior, students are advised that verbal and/or physical harassment will not be tolerated. A student may not make derogatory or unkind remarks regarding another student's race, speech, religion, appearance, dress, gender, nationality, sexuality, or disability. A student may not put their hands on another student in a suggestive or threatening way. Such verbal or physical acts will be handled swiftly by school administration with the safety of the victim as the foremost concern. Ref: ACS Board Policy 1710)

Students are prohibited from engaging in or encouraging any form of harassment, including bullying, against students, employees, or any other individuals on school grounds or at school-related functions. Harassment is unwanted, unwelcome, and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens, or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim. The hostile environment can be created through pervasive or persistent misbehavior or a single incident if sufficiently severe.

Any violation of this policy is serious, and school officials shall promptly take appropriate action.
Students will be disciplined according to Policy 4302, the ACS Student Code of Success, and guidelines outlined in this handbook.
Based on the nature and severity of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the incident, the student will be subject to appropriate consequences and remedial actions ranging from positive behavioral interventions up to, and including, long-term suspension.
Employees who violate the policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including, dismissal.
Volunteers and visitors who violate the policy will be directed to leave school property and reported to law enforcement, as appropriate, under policy 5020, Visitors to the Schools.

Restorative Practices

In response to community, staff, and stakeholder concerns regarding punitive discipline practices at Asheville Middle School, namely out-of-school suspensions, Asheville Middle began the process of changing from punitive discipline practices to restorative practices in 2019. AMS has been committed to the process, training all staff and working hard to hold the fundamental values of Restorative Practices (RP) at the forefront of what we do every day including: Relationships are always at the core, high expectations WITH high support, discipline means instruction and accountability, equity in opportunities and outcomes. Here is an example of how RP works at AMS: Imagine a student gets in an argument with another student and both students lose their cool and yell at each other causing a disruption to the classroom. Previous to RP teachers would write a referral for each student. The students would go to the office where the assistant principal would talk to them and dole out some type of punitive discipline. Usually this would be in-school-suspension or out-of-school suspension. With RP this may look totally different. The teacher may speak with each student individually to find out what they need to calm down. Then they may arrange a circle with the two students to talk about what happened, who was affected by what happened, and what can be done to repair any harm. Typically the end result of the circle is a plan to repair that may include multiple actions each student will take and a follow up date to ensure the actions were completed and any harm was repaired. There will be opportunities to learn more about Restorative Practices (RP) at AMS throughout the year.

Culturally Responsive Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports (PBIS)

Excellence is a primary goal emphasized by the administration and faculty at Asheville Middle School. We share North Carolina’s vision to use Culturally Responsive Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports (CRPBIS) as a means of creating a learning environment where high student performance is encouraged and behavioral challenges are supported. Whole School Culturally Responsive Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports is a systematic approach that establishes and reinforces clear behavioral expectations with an understanding that expectations exist as a framework to teach desired behavior rather than a system to catch and punish misbehavior. AMS has adopted a restorative approach to discipline that is proactive, instructional, and outcome-based. Our goal is to help support, validate, and affirm all students.

Our common expectations and common vocabulary throughout the school year will stress Respect, Organizational skills, Achievement, and Responsibility (R.O.A.R.) and the connection to our learning community. ROAR Matrix

We believe that by teaching appropriate social behavior we are creating more opportunities for academic excellence.

School Nutrition

Cafeteria Services

The mission of Asheville City School Child Nutrition Department is to contribute to the academic success of every student and encourage a lifetime of healthy eating by providing nutritious, affordable meals that are served by caring professionals. AMS serves breakfast from 8:00 AM until 8:30 AM. Students may purchase lunch in the cafeteria or bring lunch from home.

Please let your student know if you want them to regularly utilize breakfast and lunch at school.

Students should not bring outside beverages into the school in the morning other than water. Students with coffees, fast food soft drinks, etc. will be asked to throw them away before entering the building.

Students may not receive outside food deliveries such as Door Dash or Uber Eats. If they do so, they will not be permitted to eat the food. It will be held in the office until the end of the school day. Also, family members should not personally deliver restaurant food to school for your student or others. This is disruptive to the school day and the food will not be allowed in the cafeteria or classroom.

Students may bring water bottles with water to school, but no other beverages are allowed.

The following guidelines will be observed during breakfast:

Breakfast will be picked up at the breakfast cart. Food and drink items must remain in the bag until the student arrives in their Cougar Advisory Time class or otherwise assigned location for eating breakfast.
Students may not eat in the pod room or in the hall.
Students will clean chairs and tables and the area surrounding their assigned seating when eating breakfast..
Students will dispose of trash properly. Any leftover drinks should be poured down a sink and not placed in the garbage can. All food/drink items should be placed in the large hall trash can, not in the classroom garbage cans. Teachers will be responsible for redirecting students to clean up after themselves if they are not doing so on their own.

The following guidelines will be observed in the cafeteria:

All lunch foods and drinks will remain in the cafeteria.

Students will dispose of trash properly. Teachers will be responsible for redirecting students to clean up after themselves if they are not doing so on their own.
Students will clean chairs and tables and the area surrounding the assigned seating.
Students will wait quietly in line for their turn to receive their meal.
Running, loud behavior, pushing, and horseplay are prohibited.

Free and Reduced Lunch

It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to submit an application for free or reduced-price meals, send a lunch from home, or provide money for student meals. An online application can be found here. If students intend to purchase meals they should understand that it is important to have money each day. If students are going to purchase meals, parents are encouraged to prepay money to their student's cafeteria account at www.K12PaymentCenter.com .

If you don't have access to the internet please complete a paper copy of the Free and Reduced Meal Application. These are available for pick-up at our school.

Lunch Costs

The price of meals in Asheville City Schools will be as follows;

Breakfast Prices

● Student Paid Breakfast $1.50

● Adult Breakfast A La Carte Pricing

● A La Carte Milk (1⁄2 pint) 75¢

Lunch Prices

● Student Reduced Lunch 40¢

Student Paid Lunch $3.50

● Student Paid Cougar Meal $4.00

● Adult Lunch A La Carte Pricing

● Adult Holiday/Special Meals $8.00

● A La Carte Milk (1⁄2 pint) 75¢

Students must keep their lunch balances paid in full.

Online Cafeteria Payments

Asheville City School Nutrition and K12PaymentCenter allow you to:

Make meal payments on the internet using your credit card
Check your student’s meal account balance
Get low balance alerts by email
See what your child is buying

Parent Involvement

ParentSquare- ParentSquare is a unified communication platform that offers a whole host of tools that allows district, school administrators and teachers to more effectively communicate and engage with families and students. Some features include:

Mass notifications and Urgent Alerts with two-way communication
Mobile application for administrators and parents (iOS and Android)
Attendance notifications
Teacher and classroom communication
Direct Messaging with two-way translation
Social (Facebook and Twitter) and website share
Forms and Permission Slips
Appointment Sign Ups (parent-teacher conferences, technology pick-ups)
Calendar and RSVP
Volunteering and classroom supply sign-ups

Parents and guardians will be able to engage in 2 way communications, and fill out forms, etc. only after they register their account. Many families registered last year, and they stay registered over the summer (ie, they don't need to do anything). New families and some returning folks have not yet registered. Please invite them to register and encourage everybody to use the App as the app is just much better for parents most of the time.

Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)

AMS is fortunate to have an active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), which operates as a continuing support to our school. Every parent and teacher is a member of this organization. The AMS PTO’s vision is to promote the welfare of children and youth at home, at the school, and in the community. They hope to bring the home and the school in a closer relationship and to facilitate communication between parents and teachers to improve the education of children and youth. We also strive to develop united efforts between educators and the general public to secure the highest advantages for all children and youth in physical, mental, and social education. Here are ways that parents can support the goals of the PTO:

Be a source of communication and information regarding school activities and events
Promote parental involvement
Eliminate barriers to involvement by coordinated event scheduling
Promote commitment to student readiness
Foster relationships between parents, guardians, teachers, specialists, etc.
Garner support for community involvement
Promote school spirit and pride
Promote family events

More information can be found on our AMS PTO Homepage. You can also find out more about AMS PTO by visiting their Facebook page here.

Volunteers

AMS encourages parents and interested community members to volunteer services to the school. Contact the United Way Community School Coordinator Steve Martinez at steve.martinez@acsgmail.net for further information.

Asheville City Schools categorizes volunteers into two groups, Level I and Level II volunteers. More information about the distinction and how to get started at Asheville Middle School are included below.

Level I Volunteers:

Do not have unsupervised contact with students.
Level I Volunteers may help with PTO fundraising activities, athletic concession sales, and school beautification projects.

Level II Volunteers:

May have unsupervised contact with students.
Volunteer regularly.
Attend field trips as chaperones.
Must complete background check and attend one-time Volunteer Training. Here is a calendar of the training dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Parents who may want to support the school as a field trip chaperone, tutor, or test proctor, should go ahead and register for one of these training sessions now.

More information can be found at the ACS webpage, VOLUNTEERING IN ASHEVILLE CITY SCHOOLS

Lost & Found

Student Services and Assistance Programs

School Counseling

The purpose of the comprehensive school counseling program is to help each student achieve his/her highest potential—mentally, emotionally, academically, and socially.

Students are encouraged to talk with a counselor by making an appointment. Counseling services may include academic and vocational counseling, assistance with studies and other school programs, and personal counseling in small groups or on an individual basis. For more information on the comprehensive school counseling program at AMS please click here.

School Social Worker

The school social worker serves as a connective link between the school, the home, and the community. The social worker consults with teachers, administrators, and other school personnel and is an advocate for the rights of students and parents. Special attention is focused on working with those barriers in a child's environment that affect the child's attendance in or adjustment to school. The social worker also addresses attendance issues by following the NC Compulsory Attendance Law. Please click here for contact information for the Asheville Middle School school social worker.

Student Support Specialist

Our student support specialists help Identify, triage and co-manage students with social emotional/ mental health and behavior concerns within the school setting. They provide skill training through hands-on application and practice and offer support throughout the MTSS process. Further, student support specialists develop specific protocols and strategies for identified populations and facilitate the reset room, a safe space where students can regulate, calm down, take a break and build skills to return to the classroom.

School-Based Therapy

Currently Asheville Middle School works with three different providers to support students' mental health. Supporting the whole child is a foundational belief at AMS and having access to needed resources is critical. Further information can be found here or by contacting any of the school counselors.

Community Schools & Community Schools Coordinator

We believe community schools help provide students and families with the resources, opportunities, and support systems they need to succeed, working toward our vision that every person in our community lives free from poverty and injustice. Together, we transform our local schools into district-wide hubs of service to ensure all children and youth learn, grow, and thrive in a healthy, vibrant, and connected community.

Steve Martinez is the Asheville Middle School Community School Coordinator and can be reached at steve.martinez@acsgmail.net.

School Resource Officer

The School Resource Officer (SRO) is a law enforcement officer assigned to AMS. The main goal of the SRO is to promote positive relationships between youth and law enforcement. The responsibilities of the SRO are law enforcement, safety, and student education.

Sales or Solicitations at School

Students may not sell any item or solicit donations during the school day. School groups must have the permission of the principal to raise any funds on campus.

Students may not sell items unless supervised by an adult approved by the principal.

Items sold by school groups must also be approved by the principal.

School Nurse

In addition to providing first aid, the school nurse works with students in areas including, but not limited to, acute or chronic illnesses, nutrition, smoking/vaping cessation, and anger management.

Cougar Health Center

The Blue Ridge Health School-Based Health Center at AMS is available to all AMS students, their siblings, and the school faculty/staff. The center offers the expertise of registered nurses, advanced practitioners, and behavioral health counselors who can provide you with medical, behavioral health, vision, dental, and nutrition services during school hours. To register your child, please pick up a registration form at the health center, or you may go to brchs.com/services-programs/school-based-health to print one. The registration forms must be complete in order for services to be provided. A sliding fee scale is offered for those who may need financial assistance, and that form is also included in the registration packet. Through the school-based health centers, Blue Ridge Health is able to promote healthy living and health equity among children and adolescents. We place critically needed services directly in schools so that all young people, no matter their zip code or circumstances, have an equal opportunity to learn and grow. We hope you will come see us!

Medications

All medicines, including over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, eye drops, etc., MUST be kept in the office and must be processed by the school nurse before a student can be given the medication. No medication may be kept by school personnel or distributed to a student until the parent/guardian and physician have signed a completed medication form authorizing the use of specific medication for that student. These forms are available in the office and linked below. Possession of any medicine by a student may result in suspension from school. For student safety, all medicines must be provided in the original prescription bottle and must be housed in the office for distribution by the secretary or a person trained by the school nurse to dispense medications. Medications left at the end of the year will be discarded after parents are contacted by the school nurse and given ample time, approximately two weeks, to reclaim medications.

Electronic Versions of Medication Logs

Medication Log, 2024-2025. Signed by Doctor & Parent (required for school personnel to dispense medication)

Medication Self-Carry Permission. Signed by both Doctor and Parent (required for self-carry)

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