Student Handbook

As a community, we collectively commit to honoring and nurturing the unique skills, talents and passions of every student. We provide a welcoming and respectful environment where students flourish and forge a life-long love of learning through relevant, engaging learning experiences. We empower our students to find purpose and contribute to a more just and equitable world.

We believe...

in every child;
everyone has the potential and the right to lead a meaningful and productive life;
all students can learn at high levels when provided with engaging learning opportunities that both support and challenge them;
social and emotional health is as important as academic performance;
diversity is essential to a vibrant community;
strong, supportive relationships are the foundation of all that we do;
empathy and critical thinking skills are essential for citizenship in a diverse and connected world;
in becoming an anti-racist, inclusive organization that eliminates educational disparities and challenges traditional practices and norms;
our families and community are our partners in the success of each child.

WMS VISION

We build connections in a creative and challenging learning environment.

The students, staff and families of Woodward Middle School are dedicated to:

Developing relationships with our students and our fellow staff members while honoring them as individuals.
Cultivating an environment that is supportive, flexible, and safe.
Providing a meaningful, intellectually stimulating, and integrated curriculum that fosters a love of learning.
Allowing time for reflection and offering opportunities for success, self-discovery, and personal growth.
Creating a fun learning environment through innovative instruction and engaging activities.
Celebrating educational, developmental, and cultural diversity.
Working in partnership with our families and the community.
Modeling a commitment to lifelong learning.
Empowering individuals to care for their natural environment, their community, and their world.

Connecting - Creating - Challenging

ASB Card

The ASB card supports student activities here at Woodward. The cost of the ASB card is $20..00. Replacement cards cost $5.00 and are available through the Attendance Office. ASB cards are required for all members of athletic programs and clubs.

BICYCLES/ SKATEBOARDS & ROLLER BLADES

Upon arrival at school, bicycles are to be parked in designated areas and are not to be used until students leave the school grounds at the end of the day.

Skateboards, scooters, roller blades, Heelies, and the like may not be used on school grounds. Skateboards and scooters must immediately be brought to the office upon arrival at school.

BUS INFORMATION

Students riding school buses will typically arrive at school between 8:35 AM and 8:45AM.

Students who, on a regular basis, need to ride another bus or get off at a different stop, may have a bus pass that is valid for the calendar month. The parent note should include the route, day(s) of the week, and/or the bus stop.

STUDENT BUS CONDUCT

The first responsibility of the school bus driver is the safety of the school children. To promote safety on the school bus all students are expected to maintain proper school bus behavior, obey bus safety rules and follow the driver’s instructions. The procedure for handling school bus discipline is as follows:

First notice is a warning.
Second notice is a five-day suspension of bus riding privilege.
Third notice is a ten-day suspension of bus riding privilege.
Fourth notice is a suspension of bus riding privilege for the remainder of the semester/school year.

NOTE: If the offense is very serious, the student may be denied bus privileges effective immediately.

CLOSED CAMPUS

For the purpose of student security and safety, we operate a closed campus. Once a student arrives on the school grounds, she/he is expected to remain until school is dismissed for the day or has permission from the office to leave.

Students riding school buses are automatically on the school grounds when they step from the bus.

COUNSELING SERVICES

The Counseling Center is available to EVERY student at Woodward. Counselors respond to appointment requests that students leave with our counseling secretary. Students are encouraged to sign up for appointments during lunch, before school, and after school.

We are also available to meet with parents about educational, social and emotional concerns that they have for their children. We offer test interpretation, study help, parenting help and general support for families. Parents, too, are welcome to make an appointment through the counseling secretary.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

7th Grade

8th Grade

1. Language Arts

2. World History

3. Math

4. Science/Health

5. Elective/PE/Health

6. Elective

1. Language Arts

2. U.S. History/WA State History

3. Math

4. Science/Health

5. Elective/PE/Health

6. Elective

Electives

A variety of electives are available for students. Please check out our offerings on our website.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Inclement Weather Schedule and Procedures

(DURING ICE AND SNOW)

Almost every winter there are a few days when for the sake of safety, it is necessary to stay off certain roads with school buses. In case of bad weather, the radio stations will be notified by 6:30 AM or the night before, if information is available. The district will also continue to use the School Messenger voice notification system to notify parents of delays or cancellations.

NOTE: When road conditions are in question, please do not call the radio station or school administrator for information. This information will be broadcast as soon as it is known. The internet address for emergency bulletins is: http://www.bisd303.org.

PARENTS SHOULD NOT BRING STUDENTS TO SCHOOL
AND DROP THEM OFF UNLESS SCHOOL IS IN SESSION.

Fire Drills

Fire drills at regular intervals are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the loud buzzer signal is heard, everyone promptly clear the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. The teacher in each classroom will instruct his or her class in this procedure.

Earthquake Drills

During and immediately after an earthquake, students should not attempt to leave the building. Students should immediately seek cover under tables or desks, or next to supporting walls. Keep away from window areas.

Family Emergency Plans

We suggest that each family have a plan covering what to do in an emergency situation. Situations, which should be covered with your student, include:

What is the best route home if your student cannot be delivered to the normal bus stop?
Where could your student go if help was needed?
Who would care for the student until the (parent/guardian) arrive?
Is there someone your child could call to allay fear?

FOOD AT SCHOOL

The lunch period is 35 minutes. Students may choose to bring their own lunch or purchase a lunch. Milk and juice may be purchased in the Cafeteria.

Please be aware that we have students with severe food allergies. Students are to bring food for themselves and not for others. Birthday Celebrations of students are done outside of school. Cakes, cupcakes, cookies for a group are to be done outside of school and not at lunch.

Food and beverages may only be consumed in the cafeteria. Open drinks are not allowed in any other places.

Please see our district’s Food & Nutrition Services webpage for current information about pricing, nutrition, and payments - https://www.bisd303.org/Page/79 .

HEALTH SERVICES

A registered nurse serves our school from the Bainbridge Island School District. The nurse is present at WMS every day of the week. In the event of a medical emergency, please be sure we have correct emergency contact phone numbers.

Accidents

When an accident occurs, it must be reported at once to the staff member in charge, who will report it to the nurse's office or to the counseling secretary. Proper medical referrals will be made when necessary.

Immunizations

The WMS nurse follows the State of Washington student immunization law, which requires all students to be adequately immunized according to their age and grade level. Proof of immunization status must be presented to the school on or before the first day of attendance. This information must be recorded on a Washington State form signed by the parent/guardian. Exemptions are available for medical, personal or religious reasons. Please keep in mind that if an outbreak of vaccine preventable disease for which the student is exempted should occur, the student will be excluded from school for the duration of the outbreak.

Medication

The Bainbridge Island School District medication administration procedures are stated below.

Medications, other than inhalers, must be brought into the building office by a parent, guardian, or designated adult substitute (NOT THE STUDENT).
For students with known anaphylactic reactions, the EPI-PEN is the only acceptable form of epinephrine injection for use in the school setting. The ANA-KIT is no longer accepted in our schools. It is our opinion that the EPI-PEN is a safer and simpler solution.

As always, a permission form obtained from the school office must be signed by both the physician/dentist and parent and kept on file in the nurse’s office. Students may not share medications with other students. (This includes all over-the-counter medications e.g. aspirin, antihistamines, oral anesthetics).

HOURS OF SCHOOL

Woodward opens its doors to students at 8:30AM. Prior to 8:30AM, all students arriving at school to meet with a teacher or attend study club must enter the building using the main office doors. Students are required to sign in with their name and location. Hallway doors open at 8:55 AM. First bell rings at 9:00 AM and school begins at 9:00AM.

ITEMS TO SELL

Selling items at school is not allowed. Whether these things are candy, cookies, tickets, or personal belongings, such sales cannot occur. Sales of any kind must be authorized by a school organization such as PTO or ASB.

LUNCH OFF LIMIT AREAS

The following areas are off-limits during lunch: parking lots, Diversified Arts area (including carpeted bus entrance and rest rooms), flagpole/front entrance area, hallways, all wooded areas, the outside area beyond the rocks/covered play-shed, downstairs restrooms, and back stairways.

PART-TIME STUDENTS

Some families choose to combine various forms of school for their children. Woodward is willing to offer some flexibility to support part-time, home school, or private tutor alternatives. Contact counselors for specific arrangements.

Part-time students are to be picked up from school immediately following the class(es) they are enrolled in. Woodward does not have study halls, available space or supervision for students during the part of the day that they are not enrolled. Students who arrive early or are waiting to be picked up should wait in the front office area or at the flagpole area near the front entrance.

Part-time students may be accommodated for attendance at lunch when their Woodward classes are directly before or after lunch and when specific arrangements with the principal, associate principal, or counselor have been made.

SAFETY HOTLINE (☎ 844-869-6311)

Feel threatened? Harassed? Aware of a dangerous situation? The SafeSchools Alert is designed to allow you to report harmful or potentially harmful situations without leaving your name. Keep WMS safe! Do the right thing! (You can remain anonymous.)

Four Easy Ways:

Website: http://1444.alert1.us
Email: 1444@alert1.us
Telephone: 844.869.6311
Text: 844.869.6311

Report Tips On:

Bullying
Intimidation
Harassment
Weapons
Drugs
Other

SCHOOL ZONE TRAFFIC SPEED LIMITS

To provide a safe and healthy environment for students, staff and users of school properties it is important for vehicles traveling through school zones or accessing District school properties to observe posted speed limits. The posted speed limit in school zones is 20 Miles Per Hour from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

STUDENT INSURANCE

Student insurance is available at a nominal cost and is optional. When a student under this plan is injured, she/he will be given a Claim Form from the office. This form must be completed by the school and the parents and presented to the doctor or hospital. The school merely acts as a medium in supplying the insurance and assumes no liability, either for the injury or the subsequent negotiations with the company.

STUDENT RECORDS

In compliance with federal law, "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of l974", student records are available for examination by a parent/legal guardian, or an 18-year-old student. Arrangements for review of a student's records may be made with the principal, associate principal or school counselor.

With certain exceptions, the school does not release information regarding a student to persons or organizations outside the Bainbridge Island School District without the written consent of the parent/legal guardian or the 18-year-old student. Records for a student will be transferred to another school or school district in which the student enrolls or intends to enroll upon receipt of a request from the other school or school district. Disciplinary records are maintained by each building in the district and are included with the cumulative record to be sent to another school, either inside or outside the school district.

The "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act" permits a school district to identify certain information as "directory information" which may be released publicly without the permission of the parent/legal guardian or the student. The Bainbridge Island School District identifies directory information about the students as the following: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, date of attendance, diplomas and awards received, schools attended and other similar information.

Directory information may be used for purposes such as publication of a student directory, parent organization mailing lists, school yearbooks and newspapers, commencement programs, publication of honor rolls, and other school information about students in the public media. Such information will not be released for commercial purposes.

Parents/legal guardians and 18-year-old students have the right to notify school authorities that directory information is not to be released without their prior written consent. This request must be submitted in writing to the school. For more detailed information, an administrator can provide you with Board Policy 3231: Student Records.

SUSTAINED SILENT READING

Reading with fluency and understanding is an essential key to success. Woodward Middle School is committed to promoting and teaching good reading skills. As part of this commitment, we have a school-wide sustained silent reading program. During our regular schedule, Tues-Thurs, each student (and teacher) is expected to have a reading book with them. Teachers will have some books and resources in their classrooms in case students finish their books during reading time. Electronic reading devices are allowed.

Students and staff are expected to read the entire 15 minutes. Students will not be allowed to leave class to go get a book or use the restroom unless it is an emergency. The purpose is to read together every day without interruption to promote the importance of reading through a school-wide focus.

YEARBOOKS

Yearbooks are on sale for a limited time in the Fall.. They are delivered and distributed the last week of school. A limited number of yearbooks may be available for purchase in the spring. Students who are on the “do not photo” list will not be in the yearbook.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Valuables at school

During the instructional hours of the day, electronic devices are only to be used for academic purposes. No photos, videos, etc. may be taken and uploaded, unless for educational purposes and expressly permitted by the teacher. Any other use of these devices will cause the student’s device to be confiscated.

Cell phones should remain in lockers throughout the school day.

Electronic reading devices, such as Kindles, may be used during silent reading time and should be approved for reading-only activities. Due to the evolving nature of emerging technologies, additional standards may be added throughout the school year and posted on our website. The school assumes no responsibility for any electronic device that is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Students are asked to leave at home those items of great value to themselves or others. The school assumes no responsibility for items which are lost or stolen. Please keep valuables at home.

VISITORS

Guests are not permitted to attend classes with students. The school is not able to supervise their attendance and cannot be responsible for them. Students may make arrangements with the principal to have a parent bring a visitor for lunch. All guests are to check in at the main office upon arrival.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS

Academic Honesty

Students are expected to conduct themselves honestly and with integrity in their work. All forms of cheating and plagiarism are prohibited. Behavior that is unacceptable includes, but is not limited to:

Copying another student’s homework;
Working with others on projects that are meant to be done individually:
Looking at or copying another student’s test or quiz answers;
Allowing another student to look at or copy answers from your test or quiz;
Using any other method to get/give test or quiz answers;
Taking a test or quiz in part or in whole to use or to give others;
Copying information from a source and using it as if it were your own;
Allowing another person to write your paper, or complete your assignment for you;
Taking papers from other students, publications, or the Internet.

Violators of this policy will be disciplined on a case-by-case basis depending on the seriousness of the violation, prior violations, and other factors. Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, redoing assignment/retaking test, receiving a failing grade on the project/test, receiving a lower grade overall in the class, and/or detention.

ATTENDANCE (☎ 206-780-4579)

Leaving Early

A note from a parent is required any time your student needs to leave school early. Please make sure the note has the correct date and time that your student needs to leave school. Your student should bring the note to the Attendance Office before school in order to get a pass. By sending a note, instead of calling the school or simply dropping in, we avoid disrupting the classroom.

Arriving to School Late

Students arriving late to school must sign in at the Attendance Office as soon as they arrive. A parent may excuse late arrivals by calling the Attendance line, sending a note with the student, or signing in your child. Only late arrivals to school may be excused by a parent and it must be for a bona fide reason such as a doctor’s appointment.

If a parent does not contact us within 48 hours of the tardy, it may remain unexcused. Once a student has two unexcused tardies to school, they will receive a warning notice of their tardies. On the third unexcused tardy to school and for every unexcused tardy to school thereafter, the student will receive a 30-minute NTO.

Tardies

Woodward believes in providing a clear and consistent learning environment for all students. In order to be successful in this environment, it is essential that students get to classes on time. Being to class on time means: coming prepared with materials, AND being within the classroom when the bell rings. Many teachers also require that students be in seats ready to go when bell rings or it will be counted as tardy. Teachers will identify this expectation to students. Students will be marked tardy if they are not following expectations. Students who need to collect missing materials will receive a “tardy” from their teacher. Three tardies will equal 1 NTO (30 minute detention). For each and every tardy after that the student will receive another NTO.

Absences

In order to excuse an absence we request a parent or guardian contact the school by telephone each day a student is absent. Please call our Attendance Office at 780-4579, preferably by 10:00 A.M. on the morning your student must be absent from school. You may also excuse your student online via Skyward. Failure to contact the Attendance Office to excuse an absence within 2 days will cause the absence to remain listed as unexcused. We will attempt to notify parents whenever a student has an absence. Parents are also invited to use the family access website to review their student’s attendance or call the Attendance Office for additional information.

If you have plans for your child to miss two or more consecutive school days, they need to fill out a Pre-Arranged Absence form that can be picked up in the Attendance Office. It is best to allow three school days for your child to complete this process.

Automated telephone notification occurs daily when any student has an unexcused absence.

HOMEWORK /LATE WORK

It is the student's responsibility to obtain all make-up work by checking a teacher’s web site, assignment board, or check with a homework buddy. Students who are absent for any reason will be required to make-up work missed in each class. Failure to obtain make-up work is not an excuse for not doing the work missed. In addition, the teachers' individual phone numbers are available on our website.

If, after checking on Google Classroom, the student needs a handout distributed during the absence, the handout can be requested. Students will ordinarily be allowed as many days as they were absent to complete make-up work, unless a further extension is granted by the teacher. All make-up work must be in by the end of the grading period.

Acceptance of late work is up to the individual teacher. All late work must be completed and turned in before the progress report date of each month. Late work turned in after that date will not be accepted for credit.

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS

Woodward Behavior Code

At Woodward every person is treated with dignity and respect. Staff and students work together so that each individual achieves his/her fullest potential. Behavior and actions, which foster growth and maturity, are encouraged. Any behavior or action, which interferes with another's growth or inhibits the student's own growth, is not tolerated.

When problems occur, we ask you to look at your own behavior to see if it reflects the following expectations:

Respect the right, property and feelings of others.
Act responsibly.
Always do your best.
Be prepared to learn.
Be on time.
Keep your area clean.
Keep your hands to yourselves.

In the halls, cafeteria, commons, outside and on buses students must behave in a way that respects the physical safety and feelings of themselves and others.

In addition to the above expectations, students will:

Commons: Always walk, sit while eating and drinking, and clean up after yourself and friends – refrain from begging or taking others’ food
Assemblies: Always sit with class, follow directions of person on microphone, be on your best behavior, and wait to be dismissed
Hallway: Always walk on the right and stand away from lockers and main corridors. Remember to keep your hands to yourself
Field Trips: Always follow adult directives including chaperones and drivers, follow expectations of the site of field trip, and make us proud
Out and About: Regardless of age, caring for others and showing affection are important parts of life. However, overt public displays of affection between two people that may cause discomfort or embarrassment to others are better expressed in private. Public displays of affection are not appropriate in a middle school setting.

The following are rules that are enforced during parties:

A party is a school-sponsored event; therefore, all regular school rules and expectations, including dress standards, are in effect.
Students must have written permission to leave before the party is over. Notes must be turned in to the attendance office the day of the party in order to leave early.
Please do not bring any bags or purses to parties. Any bags, purses, etc. will be stored in a secure area and be inaccessible during the party.
Only Woodward students may attend all parties.
While in attendance, students must stay in supervised areas.
No "moshing or freaking" or otherwise unsafe/inappropriate dancing.
Students must attend school the day of the party in order to be eligible for party attendance.

Consequences for not upholding the Code

If an adult requests that a student correct a behavior, the student is expected to respectfully comply. If the student feels unfairly treated s/he should ask for a meeting with the adult. After meeting with the adult, if the student is still unhappy with the situation, a meeting with a counselor or the associate principal is the next step.

A Notice of Time Owed (NTO) form will be used by staff at the time of a behavior problem to communicate in writing that a particular problem is not acceptable and a detention has been issued. Behaviors in the top half of the NTO result in a 30-minute lunchtime detention and behaviors in the bottom half result in two 30 minute lunch detentions.

Students will receive a copy of the NTO. A parent or guardian must sign this form and send it back to school with their student, or acknowledge they received it when it is sent electronically.

If a student demonstrates a pattern of chronic behavior problems, at the teams' discretion, a conference will be held including the student's teachers, the student, the student's parent/guardian, a counselor, and an administrator. The result of that conference may be a contract that will specifically name behavior standards that must be met and the next disciplinary steps. In addition, a contract may be initiated at any time it is needed to support self-management skills. Copies of the contract will be on file with the associate principal, the student's counselor, and all of the student's teachers. Copies of the contract will be given to the student and parent.

A staff member may send a student directly to the office for misconduct at any time. The principal or associate principal will discuss the behavior with the student and determine consequences. The parent/guardian will be notified. Extreme misbehavior may result in immediate suspension or expulsion.

If a student receives an office referral resulting in in-school suspension or out-of-school suspension, s/he will be ineligible for athletics, dances, field trips, large school activities the day of the misconduct and for five school days following his/her return to school.

Federal Drugs and Alcohol Prevention Program
Certification Requirements

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 require that parents and students be informed of procedures for students regarding drug and alcohol issues.

Unlawful possession and use of alcohol or illicit drugs is wrong and harmful.
District Policy 3241 (Corrective Actions) clearly prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school premises or as part of any school activity.
Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate the standards of conduct. These may include but are not limited to conferencing, counseling, school service, in-school suspension, short-term suspension, long-term suspension, expulsion and referral for prosecution.

HARASSMENT/BULLYING & SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The Bainbridge Island School District will not tolerate harassment of any of its employees, students, or volunteers.

Definitions

Harassment/Bullying is defined as intimidating or harassing another person because of that person’s race, color, sex, creed, religion, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, physical, sensory or mental disabilities, or for any reason prohibited by law. Specific examples of harassment are cited in School Board policy 3706.

Sexual Harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Specific examples of sexual harassment are cited in School Board policy 3700.

Complaint Process

Informal Process

Any individual who believes he or she has been harassed is encouraged to directly inform any alleged harasser that the behavior is offensive, unwelcome, and must stop. If directly informing the alleged harasser does not result in elimination of the offensive, unwelcome behavior or if an individual selects not to directly inform the alleged harasser, the individual is strongly encouraged to report the allegations orally or in writing to any adult in their environment. All such complaints will be promptly and fairly investigated and, where appropriate, immediate corrective action will be taken.

Formal Process

Formal complaints shall be handled in the manner specified in School Board Procedure 3700/3706. All formal complaints should be made to the principal or superintendent. The principal can provide copies of School Board Policy/Procedure 3700/3706 upon request. Any student of the District who harasses another student through verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature shall be subject to disciplinary action.

It is a violation of District policy to knowingly report false allegations. Persons found to knowingly report false allegations will also be subject to disciplinary action.

Complaints Concerning School Personnel/Programs

Citizens who wish to lodge a complaint because of the actions of an employee of the District, or who wish to express dissatisfaction regarding District program(s) should contact the principal of the school involved or the Superintendent.

If the complainant is unable to resolve the complaint through the principal or Superintendent and wishes to petition the Board, the complainant should inform the Board President of the concern in writing. More information on this topic can be found in School Board Policy 4220. The principal can provide copies of School Board Policy 4220 upon request.

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

Attending the schools of Bainbridge Island is recognized as a right and responsibility for those who meet the requirements prescribed by law.

No student shall be deprived of the right to an equal educational opportunity in whole or in part without due process of law.

Inquiries regarding compliance procedures may be directed to the school district's Section 504 Officer, Diane Leonetti, at (206) 780-1069 or Title IX Officer, Erin Murphy, at (206) 780-1072.

WMS DRESS POLICY

Allowable Dress

Clothing must be suitable for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science/STEM/FCS Labs, and other activities where unique hazards exist.
Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.
Face must be visible at all times, no sunglasses worn, or hoodies up inside school.

Your clothing and personal items should be free from...

drug/alcohol/tobacco references
items with inappropriate comments, racist content, or sexual innuendo

You will be asked to change your clothes if what you are wearing exposes private parts of your body.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Extracurricular activities are "activities that are in addition to classroom instruction and have no bearing on a course grade or course credit. Participation in them is a privilege, not a right." (School Board Policy 2150) Examples of extracurricular activities include, but are not limited to, class officer, ASB officer, all ASB sponsored clubs, and after-school enrichment activities.

The School Board has established citizenship standards for all participants of extra-curricular activities.

All participants should be an example of good citizenship in the school building, classroom, and extracurricular activity program. Conduct, which materially and substantially interferes with the educational process, is prohibited.
Any participant referred to the administration for disruptive behavior will be made aware of the possible consequences of his/her actions and may receive a penalty. Upon the second referral that requires administrative action the participant will be declared ineligible for participation during the following week. If there is a third referral requiring administrative action the participant will be suspended from the extracurricular activity for the remainder of the season.” (School Board Policy 2150)

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES & ENRICHMENT

There are many after school and enrichment activities offered to Woodward students. Please check out our website for what will be offered during this school year.

Student Government

You are a member of the Woodward Middle School Associated Student Body (ASB). Our school government, called the Student Council, represents you. The Student Council is composed of:

Four 8th grade ASB Executive Board Officers, and four 8th grade ASB Council Officers
Four 7th Grade Class Council Officers
Representatives from each 4th period

Elections are held in the spring for 8th grade offices.

Purpose of Student Government

To teach and develop citizenship through democratic practices.
To provide an opportunity for the active participation in the organization and management of school activities.
To further interest in all school activities.
To cooperate in promoting the general welfare of the school.
To solve problems at school.

7th and 8th Grade Class Council

Each Class Council consists of four students. They work with class advisors to organize class activities and fundraisers.

Room Representatives

Represent their class at student council meetings.
Report back to their class topics covered during student council meetings for discussion.
Room reps are elected each semester.

ATHLETICS

The following interscholastic sports activities are available for Woodward students:

Activity	Gender	Season
Volleyball	Girls	Fall
Basketball	Boys and Girls	Winter 1 and Winter 2
Cross Country	Boys and Girls	Fall
Track	Boys and Girls	Spring

Please see our athletics page for specific details about each sport we offer.

The registration process has three key steps:

Use FamilyID to register your athlete.
Ensure your athlete has an up to date medical physical (within past 2 years). This physical must be on file at our school before an athlete can participate. This can be brought in to our attendance office, or sent electronically to our attendance secretary, Beth Guy: bguy@bisd303.org
Each athlete must pay the following fees:

ASB card: Online payment opens for the ASB card fee on August 19, and is $20 - good for the school year,
$150/sport participation fee.
Payment for these can be made using our district online InTouch system, or by Check or Cash at our Attendance office.

If your family needs assistance with these fees please contact your counselor or Athletic Director.

Once each of these steps of registration are completed you will be cleared to participate.

Eligibility

All students are welcome to "try-out" for a sport regardless of grade status. To qualify to continue to fully participate, all athletes must be in compliance with the Woodward Middle School Athletic Eligibility Policy.

This policy requires all students to meet academic expectations by having a C- (70%) or higher in ALL their classes. To ensure athletes are meeting these expectations, a grade check will be done every two weeks once the season begins.

Please read the specific details below to learn what will occur if a student does not meet academic expectations.

The first time a student’s grade drops below a C-, they are put on a plan of Academic Improvement and have 2 weeks to bring their grade up to a C- or higher. If a student begins the season with any grades lower than a C-, they start on an Academic Improvement plan, and will be placed on “Probation” if their grade(s) do not improve to a C- or better after the first two weeks of the season.
The second time the student’s grade drops below a C-, the student is put on "Probation" and cannot play in games (but can still practice).
The third time the student becomes academically ineligible, they may be removed from the team.

Thank you for your support in helping maintain Woodward Middle School as an academically focused school, where athletes must be students first.

Physicals

Documentation of the physical examination by the student's private physician must be on file at Woodward before the student may participate in any interscholastic sports activity. Physical examination forms are available in the school office. Physicals are good for two years and must be current through the end of the sports season.

Participation Fees

Each member of all athletic teams must pay a $150 participation fee before the first game/meet of the season in order to continue participation. A waiver of fees, based on need, is available to students. Please contact your counselor if interested.

Sports Insurance

A student participating in the school sponsored athletic programs MUST carry the basic school insurance or parents stating that the student is insured by an equivalent policy must sign a waiver. Application forms and brochures containing detailed information and/or waiver forms are available in the main office.

STUDENT RECOGNITION PROGRAMS AT WMS

At Woodward we recognize the positive contributions of our students through these two programs.

Student of the Month

This program recognizes students for meritorious conduct, academic accomplishments and other positive qualities. Kiwanis Service Club of B.I. jointly sponsors the program with The Bainbridge Review, and the administration and staff of Woodward MS. Each month four students are selected to represent Woodward. These students receive a Certificate of Recognition from the Kiwanis Club, attend an awards breakfast, receive a Front-of-the-Line Pass, and are recognized in the Bainbridge Review.

Wildly Wonderful Wildcat Slips

This recognition program is sponsored by the Woodward PTO. Staff hand out Wildly Wonderful Wildcat slips to students for good deeds/random acts of kindness that they witness. Twice each month two student names are drawn for treats/prizes that the PTO provides.

Woodward Middle School Handbook

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