general marshall middle school

​

STUDENT & PARENT HANDBOOK

2025-2026

4401 Tilley Street

Austin, TX 78723

Phone:512-414-4163

Hello fRAM!

I’m Principal

Benson!

I’m so happy you’re here!

Jordan Benson (she/her)

Principal

​

Google Form Q&A

https://bit.ly/RoundUpQA

School Front Entrance/White Gates Facing Tilley St.

Early pickup today

If you need to pick up your student early today, please pull up to the same location you entered today, give your student’s name to our staff member at the door, and we will collect your student to be dismissed.

​

Students in AISD are not allowed to use cell phones and we want to model that today. Students are getting the same information and will know to meet you at this exit for early dismissal.

​

Rams Roundup ends for students at 12:00 pm. At that time, students will be able to exit with you at the white gates in the courtyard or through the same way they entered.

The Marshall way

The systems and expectations outlined in this handbook help us ensure a safe, engaging, learning environment that will highlight the strengths and passions of every student.

Welcome to

GENERAL Marshall

Middle School!

We build opportunity for every student through intentional and engaging learning every day.

GMMS Mission:

School Leadership Team

Jordan Benson (she/her)

Principal

​

Melissa Kender (she/her)

Academic Dean

​

Matthew Moore (he/him)

M-Z Assistant Principal

Kendall Omick (she/her)

A-L Assistant Principal

The admin team is here to support you here at General Marshall!

Based on your last name, that is the Assistant Principal you will communicate with.

Our Story

MASCOT: Rams

​

COLORS: Blue and Green

​

NAMESAKE: Dr. General Garwood Marshall, beloved Huston-Tillotson math professor and native Northeast Austinite.

​

MOTTO: Every student, every day.

​

CALL & RESPONSE:

“We are…Rams ready!”

Our Story

We opened our doors to our inaugural class in the Fall of 2023. We are located in Northeast Austin in the Mueller community. Our school is open for enrollment to families who are zoned to the following elementary schools: Andrews, Blanton, Harris, Jordan, Overton, Pecan Springs, Norman-Sims, and Winn Montessori.

​

This year, Marshall Middle School will serve a cohort of 6th through 8th grade students. Our goal is to create a joyful environment where teaching and learning is fun! We are equity-minded and believe social emotional learning should be ongoing in ALL classrooms for ALL students.

​

Our school is named after Dr. Marshall, who was a beloved Mathematics professor at the premier Austin Historically Black College or University (HBCU), Huston-Tillotson University. HT's mascot is the Rams. We believe our learners will reflect the Rams' characteristics of strength, intelligence, and bravery in our classes, performances, competitions, and daily interactions with each other.

Pride Values

At General Marshall Middle School our PRIDE values act as behavior guidelines and expectations that we agree to as part of the community. We hold our students, staff, parents, and community responsible for maintaining each of the PRIDE values of peace, respect, inclusion, dedication, and excellence.

​

These posters are located in all areas of the campus and are used to guide all of the work that happens in and around General Marshall Middle School.

Marshall 5

The Marshall 5 are non-negotiables and common expectations for behavior in our school community. The Marshall 5 allow us to maintain a productive learning environment for all students in our school.

​

The expectations cover safety, respectful language, being ready to learn, how to use chromebooks, and cell phone usage.

​

It is important to notice that cell phones are not permitted to be anywhere but in the backpack during the school day.

What does

“RAMS READY” Mean?

This will be our schoolwide call and response.

​

Whenever you hear an adult say “We are” students will reply “Rams Ready!”

​

This is a way to come together as a community and show respect for the speaker and show that we are ready to listen.

Hand Signal

When you hear “Rams Up!” do this sign to show Marshall Pride! It is also a signal to be quiet and pay attention to the speaker 🤫

Chromebooks

Students are expected to care for the school computers and peripherals. If students cause any damage to school property, willfully or through negligence, they may be assigned community service, receive additional consequences such as ISS, HSS, pay a fine or be charged with a criminal offense. As a result of damage, consequences and/or restitution may be recommended. Access to school computers is a privilege and therefore, students will lose the opportunity to use them.

What I Need or (WIN) is a daily structure used to promote growth and achievement through intentional tiered small groups. Monday-Thursday, all students will participate in intervention or extension groups

​

Marshall is a place where students are cultivating their identities, friendships, and life goals. What I Need has an instructional focus, but all classes at GMMS integrate Social Emotional Learning.

What I NEED

HOUSE SYSTEM - 4 houses/1 framily

We are excited to announce that our school will be implementing a program called the House System. This system was created by the Ron Clark Academy (RCA), and it has a proven track record of creating a positive school climate and culture that is embraced by students, staff, and families. We want our students to look forward to coming to school each day, and schools around the world that have implemented the program have reported many positive outcomes, such as a decrease in discipline referrals, more positive relationships among peers and staff, better school attendance, and improvements in academic performance. This is because the system encourages students to take ownership of their learning and behavior while working together as a community to achieve common goals.

House Sorting CEREMONY

Student Celebrations

We want to recognize and celebrate our Rams who are demonstrating The Marshall Way. Each month we will be having school wide assemblies to celebrate the accomplishments of our students. Students will be recognized for their academic achievements, demonstrating exemplar character traits, and more!

SCHOOL Dances

Dances may be scheduled during the school day or immediately after school ending by 5:30pm. Only eligible General Marshall students may attend.

Students may be ineligible to attend a school dance if they have received an office referral.

Dances are normally held on Friday evenings. We expect students to be picked up no later than 15 minutes after the dance (this is the same policy for all after school activities in AISD.).

Any student who remains on campus 30 minutes after the scheduled pick-up time may lose the privilege to attend dances for the remainder of the year. We will have 2 dances:

​

FALL

​

SPRING

Arrival

• Doors will open at 7:50 am. Staff supervision will not be available before this time.
• Locations for drop-up:
• Bus riders (Tilley St. entry, enter through courtyard)
• Car riders (Zach Scott entry by field, enter school by the gym)
• Walkers (Tilley St. entry by white gates)
• Remember: It is a crime to pass a school bus when the bus lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended.
• Once students arrive in the morning, they are not permitted to leave campus.
• Students will go to Dining Commons if they’re eating breakfast or gym if they are not eating.
• Students will not be permitted in another area of the school without a pass.
• Administrators will release students to their first class at 8:16 am
• Students will have 4 minutes to go directly to their first period (there will be a 1 minute warning bell)
• Connect/ WIN period will start at 8:20 am.
• If students arrive after 8:20, they will need to go to the front office for a late pass.

Walkers will enter gated Front Entry of building located off of Tilley St.

School Front Entrance/White Gates Facing Tilley St.

To avoid long car drop off/pick up lines, you may want to identify nearby locations to drop off/pick up your student. Please do not park in front of people’s homes.

​

Be mindful that we are surrounded by homes as we do not want to disrupt their ability to safely enter and exit.

Car DropOFF/pickup

Dismissal

• Students will be dismissed by their teacher at 3:50 pm.
• Locations for pick-up:
• Bus riders (North side of building)
• Car riders (South side of the building off of Zach Scott)
• Walkers (exit white courtyard gates)
• Students must exit the campus by 3:55 p.m. unless they are attending after school activities.
• Once a student leaves the school, they are not allowed back to campus.
• All students remaining on campus for afterschool activities must meet in the dining commons to be picked up by their teacher.
• Please have a plan for students to get home safely.

🚗

🚌

Bike riders will find bike racks lining the zach scott side of building B

Be mindful of buses, walkers, and cars. Carefully utilize the bike lanes and park, lock up your bikes using these racks.

bus loop and staff parking only- no car drop off

Bus riders will walk to the north entry of the building (black gate) to enter the campus.

Staff parking only

Buses

• Riding the bus to school is a privilege that may be revoked if safety rules are not observed
• Students must go directly to the buses as soon as they are dismissed from school.
• If your child misbehaves on the bus, they may be suspended from riding the bus for a period of time.
• A student may only ride their assigned bus, and get off at their assigned bus stop, there will be no exceptions.
• Late buses may be provided for students who stay for after-school clubs and tutoring.
• Students may receive a pass or stamp to indicate that they have legitimately stayed for an after-school activity.
• At 5:15 p.m. students will be released from their activity to wait for the bus. Late buses are available at 5:15 p.m. and are scheduled to depart at 5:30 p.m.
• All students are expected to remain on campus until their departure home.
• Students who leave the campus, during this time, may not ride the late bus home.

Marshall Bus Information Contact kendall.omick@austinisd.org

​

Please call transportation services (Northeast office: 512-414-6520) to learn if your child is eligible and which late bus to ride, and the closest stop to your home. Bus schedules and stops are posted on the AISD website at www.austinisd.org/transportation

​

Austin ISD Transportation Policy https://www.austinisd.org/transportation/policy

BUS REFERRALS

Conduct that disrupts the safe operation of a school bus, this causing the bus to return to campus may result in a citation being issued by the campus SRO or other assigned consequence.

​

• 1st offense: Student assigned detention and parent conference. Warning statement of future consequences given. Assigned seating and student bus safety contract. Suspension from the bus may occur.

​

• 2nd offense: Suspension from the bus may occur for 1-3 days. Parent notified and a warning statement of a long-term suspension for future violation will be given.

​

• 3rd offense: Student will be suspended from the bus for the remainder of the semester

Where’s the bus

Austin ISD Transportation offers the WheresTheBus app to provide families with timely information about the location of each child’s bus, including when it will arrive at their stop.

​

The app is free to AISD families whose children ride the bus. The app is available on any device with Internet access (smartphone, tablet, personal computer, iPod)—and takes less than five minutes to install.

​

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

We are good neighbors.

Respecting the privacy and boundaries of houses in the neighborhood helps create a supportive environment for everyone, fostering positive relationships with our neighbors and promoting a safe and secure community.

Respectful Behavior Towards Houses and Properties:

• Avoid peering into windows, loitering in front of private residences, or engaging in any activities that may invade the privacy of others.
• Do not litter or leave any trash near houses or private properties.
• Be considerate of noise levels when passing by houses or properties.
• Do not cross over fences, walls, or any marked boundaries of private properties .
• Use respectful language and behavior when near houses or properties. Avoid engaging in any disruptive or offensive actions that may disturb residents.
• Students must never engage in any form of vandalism, property damage, or theft on private properties.

Definition of Trespassing: Trespassing is defined as entering, staying, or using someone else's private property without the owner's permission. This includes yards, gardens, driveways, and any other areas not designated as public access.

If any Marshall student disrespects the rights of Marshall neighbors before or after school, APD will be contacted.

Front office procedures

• FRONT OFFICE PHONE: (512) 414-4163

Jo Olivares

jo.olivares@austinisd.org

Registrar

Nancy Piñeda

nancy.pineda@austinisd.org

Bookkeeper

Chelsy Ortiz

chelsy.ortiz@austinisd.org

Attendance Specialist

• All of the exterior school doors are locked at all times during the school day and all visitors are required to enter through the front office (next to the white gates).
• Visitors will sign in, and present their photo ID.
• Students arriving late after 8:20 am must go directly to the office and sign in.
• All students leaving early must be signed out by a parent/guardian that is listed in their emergency contact.
• Front office staff will call the teacher to send for student.
• Please be patient with our front office staff, they are the heart of our school and work tirelessly to make sure students, staff, and parents have what they need!
• If you would like to meet with an administrator, please make an appointment by emailing or calling your student’s Assistant Principal.
• In order to ensure your child’s safety and wellbeing at school, we need to know where the parent(s)/guardian(s) live and how to reach them. Parents are requested to submit to the office any change of address or telephone numbers. All parents should provide a telephone number where they may be reached during the school day. If your telephone number changes during the school year, please contact the main office.

The main office will be open from 7:50 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each school day.

Laura Pena

laura.penaskadberg@austinisd.org

Administrative Assistant

Safety & Security

The safety and security of our staff & students are top priority. Drills are an essential part of making sure campuses are prepared for the many different hazards they may face. We will conduct four critical incident drills: an evacuation drill, a reverse evacuation drill, a shelter-in-place drill and an announced lockdown drill. Campus evacuation drills must be conducted at least once per month when students are in class.

​

Best Practices When you are on campus, you have a responsibility to help us and be the extra eyes and ears of the district.

​

IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.

Door safety

To ensure the safety and security of all students, staff, and visitors, Marshall Middle School strictly prohibits the opening of doors to strangers and propping doors.

​

This policy aims to minimize potential risks and safeguard the school community from unauthorized individuals. All members of the school community are expected to comply with this policy and play an active role in its implementation.

​

If a student is caught opening an exterior door or propping open a door for any person, there will be consequences.

Students cannot open any door to guests- ONLY teachers!

SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING

• We believe that all students have a right to a safe, secure, and healthy school environment. Our school is committed to promoting an atmosphere of mutual respect and acceptance.
• We all play a role in keeping our school safe. As you’re going about your day, if you see something that doesn’t seem quite right, say something to an adult or submit an incident report.
• Submitting a tip is a great first step in making our school safer!

To make a report go to this link or scan the QR code

bit.ly/ramsreport

HALLWAY BEHAVIOR

Hallways & Courtyard

​

• Walk at all times.
• Walk & talk (move toward your assigned class)
• Walk on the right side
• No Food or Drink
• Technology is in backpack
• Earbuds or headphones are put away
• Polite, respectful, and courteous language (No cursing)
• Follow directions from all school staff

Passing Period

There is a 5-minute interval between class periods. During this interval, large numbers of students are moving between rooms.

​

WALK AND TALK 😊

Melissa Kender (she/her)

Academic Dean

Say hello to

Ms. Kender,

academic

Dean

Restroom policy

Step 1 (Classroom):

• All students must have a physical pass to be out of the classroom
• Only one student out of a classroom at a time for the restroom
• The teacher will approve a digital hall pass when a student needs to use bathroom
• Five minutes or less for the restroom break
• No cell phones

​

Step 2: (Restroom)

• One student per stall
• Wash hands
• Throw away trash (keep restrooms clean to show respect to our peers and custodians)
• Clean-up after yourself
• No Food or Drink
• Polite, respectful, and courteous language (No cursing)
• Follow directions from all school staff
• Report any issues to your teacher

​

*Student violating restroom expectations will be assigned an escort to leave the classroom.*

My Homework

We will be using digital hall passes called MyHomework. It is a digital track record that makes it easy to see where students go when they leave the classroom. This will ensure students get the most out of the school day, safely.

1. If a student needs to use the bathroom/nurse/etc. the student will create a digital pass using their Chromebook once they get permission from the teacher.
2. Students will have 5 minutes to return to class (teachers have the ability to alter time)
3. The pass will identify the student’s specific destination and the time permitted.
4. If students are found to be in the hallways not following campus rules, they will lose the privilege to use the halls during class time without an adult escort.

TARDY POLICY

• Punctuality is an important skill to be college and career ready! We are a community and your tardiness to class affects the learning for yourself and others. Students are expected to arrive at each class on time to avoid classroom disruptions.
• If a student is late to class, they will be marked tardy by the teacher.
• Per class
• 1st tardy: restorative conversation with student and teacher
• 2nd tardy: teacher communication with parent
• 3rd tardy: assigned detention
• 4th tardy: success plan with assistant principal
• Tardy sweeps will be randomly conducted throughout the year. A tardy sweep indicates that anyone in the hallway without a pass after the late bell has rung, will have a consequence.
• MyHomework automatically tracks tardies and communicates information with staff.

Lunch procedures

• Teachers will walk students to their designated lunch area.
• Students will find a seat, listen to AP announcements, then will be dismissed by tables to buy lunch.
• Students should remain seated at all times to ensure the safety of themselves and others.
• If you need to use the bathroom, you must request a pass by one of the staff members in the Dining Commons.
• All trash/food must be thrown out by the last 5 minutes of lunch.
• Wait for administrator instructions for dismissal.
• Remember when you hear “WE ARE…” this is your signal to respond with “Rams Ready!” and listen for important announcements.

Dining Commons

The dining commons provides breakfast and lunch for all students and staff. Breakfast is served from 8:00 a.m. to 8:15 a.m., and students attend a 30-minute lunch period according to their schedule.

​

In the dining commons, students are expected to behave appropriately. Students should:

• Walk with teacher directly to dining commons.
• Take a seat in the designated area or head to a lunch line.
• Sit as they eat, one student per seat.
• Clean up when they have finished eating.
• Dining commons clean up the last 5 minutes of lunch.
• Do not throw food, sit on tables, cut in line, or run in the dining commons.
• Leave only with adult approval and a signed pass.
• Take a seat and wait for dismissal by an assistant principal at the end of lunch.

*AISD does not allow students to bring food (i.e., cupcakes, pizza, cake) to share with other students..

​

*Marshall does not allow food delivery services to deliver food to students. Examples of this include Favor, Doordash, UberEats, and other businesses that provide these services.

​

*Parent/guardian may drop off food for their student, but must be dropped off in the front office during their assigned lunch time.

​

A new meal application is required each school year. Online meal applications can be submitted by creating an account at schoolcafe.com. A paper application is also available in our office.

​

For more information visit:

bit.ly/AISDmeals

Food Service CEP Communications Toolkit ENG SP SY25

Food Service CEP Communications Toolkit ENG SP SY25

dress CODE

Students shall be dressed and groomed in a manner that is clean and neat and that will not be a health or safety hazard to themselves or others. To ensure effective and equitable enforcement of our dress code, school staff shall enforce the dress code consistently and in a manner that does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group.

​

For more information on AISD Dress Code Policy visit: bit.ly/AISDdress

Clothing Not Permitted

• Violent language or images.
• Images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity).
• Hate speech, profanity, pornography.
• Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class or consistently marginalized groups.
• Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments (waistbands and straps excluded).
• Swimsuits
• Accessories that could be considered dangerous or could be used as a weapon.
• Any item that obscures the face or ears (except as a religious observance).

Shoes MUST be worn at all times!

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

​

• Have a GROW mindset!
• Follow all school and classroom expectations and social contract
• Cell Phone is off and put away in backpack.
• Earbuds or headphones are put away
• First 15 last 15 - Remain in classroom
• Use hallway pass
• Engage in the learning
• Polite, respectful, and courteous language (No cursing)

​

Device POLICY🔗

• In alignment with State Law and District Policy FNCE, students are not permitted to use personal electronic devices while on school property or at school sanctioned events. This includes before and after school activities, and on school buses.
• If a student needs to bring any personal communication device to campus, it must be off and stored in a backpack. Students may also choose to turn devices into the front office when they arrive to school and pick them up at the end of the day. Phones turned in to the office will be stored in a secure location.
• Students will review appropriate technology use and digital citizenship at the beginning of each school year or upon enrollment.
• Wireless headphones and speakers are never allowed on campus. Students may use wireled headphones for classroom activities during class time with teacher permission.
• All school personnel have the authority to confiscate personal electronic devices that break this policy. Any device that is with a student but not stored in a backpack is subject to confiscation. This includes a device being stored in a student’s pocket or other clothing.
• If the device is confiscated on a Friday, the 48-hour hold will be over the weekend, and the phone can be picked up by a parent or guardian on the following Monday at the end of the school day.

TECHNOLOGY OFFENSES

• 1st offense - Documentation by front office, notify the parent/guardian, review of policy and consequences, student may retrieve the device at the end of the day at 3:50 pm in the front office and take it home.

​

• 2nd offense - Documentation by Admin., phone call home, review of policy and consequences, 48-hour hold, parent/guardian will need to pick up the device. Devices picked up on a Friday will be released to the parent/guardian the following Monday at 3:50 pm.

​

• 3rd offense - Documentation by Admin., 48-hour hold, parent conference. Devices picked up on a Friday will be released to the parent/guardian the following Monday at 3:50 pm. The student will be put on a phone contract.

Items not allowed at GMMS

Prohibited items

• Students should only bring items to school that are necessary for educational purposes.
• Students are not permitted to bring balls, toys, or other related items to school unless necessary for a specific educational activity.
• Students are not permitted to bring stuffed animals or dolls to school unless necessary for a specific educational activity.
• Video game controllers and other personal electronics are subject to device policy FNCE and are prohibited.

Attendance: 90% Rule

• The single biggest factor for school success is regular attendance. Therefore, in Texas, students under the age of 18 are required by state law to attend school 90% of the time the class is offered.
• Students are considered absent for each class if they miss more than half of the class period.
• Parents will receive an automated phone call from the district when their student is absent from class.
• Students who miss more than 10% of any course may be retained in the same grade level the next school year.
• Students earn course credits by meeting the course requirements AND attending classes 90% of the time, whether the absences are excused or unexcused.

For more information on district policy on attendance go to:

www.austinisd.org/attendance

The method of credit approval or recovery is unique to each student. Examples of actions under the Principal’s Plan for recovery may include, but are not limited to:

• Additional work is assigned
• Tutoring/study hall time is assigned
• Practice on PSAT/ACT skills (must occur outside of school day, but at the school site)
• NJHS/AVID tutoring (must occur outside of the school day)
• Any combination of the above, or other academic activities as assigned.

Attendance: Absences

What to do when your child is absent

​

1. Please do not call the office to inform us.
2. Email a note to marshall@austinisd.org explaining the absence. The note becomes a permanent part of school records and must include:
• student’s first and last name
• grade
• date(s) of absence
• the reason for missing school
• daytime phone number
2. Handwritten notes and emails are accepted within two days of the student returning to school (not excused.)Please have the student drop off the note to front office staff.
3. A medical professional note may excuse the absence, this is always preferred over a parent/guardian note.

Please allow up to 72 hours (3 business days) for attendance to be inputted and/or corrected by Attendance Specialist.

Attendance: Late or leaving early

What to do when your child is late to school

​

1. Check-in through the front office.

​

• If a student comes in late because of a late AISD school bus, they will receive a late bus pass and an excused tardy is recorded.

​

• If a student comes in late with a note from a parent or accompanied by a parent, then the student receives an unexcused tardy slip from the Attendance Clerk.

​

• Student must report to class immediately after getting tardy slip from front office.

What to do when your child needs to leave early

​

1. A parent/guardian picking up a student that needs to leave during the day may call the main office at (512) 414-4163 when they are on their way. A note can also be sent to the student, and they can turn that into the office.

​

• The parent/guardian must show their ID and be on the student’s pick-up list.

​

• When returning to campus, the student should come to the office to sign in and bring a note from the parent/guardian or a medical professional.

​

• Students being checked out early in the afternoon must be picked up by 3:15 or wait until 3:50. Office staff cannot process pickups after 3:15 pm.

​

Note: leaving early or arriving late will result in an unexcused absence for the classes missed.

HEALTH SERVICES & MEDICATIONS

The nurse or the Seton Health Assistant is available the majority of the school day for students with medical emergencies and problems arising during school hours. If a student needs to take medication while at school, a parent/guardian must come into the school, fill out and sign a Student Medication Request Form and bring the medication in a current prescription bottle directly to the nurse. This procedure includes prescription and over-the-counter medication (Tylenol, aspirin, etc.). The school does not provide any medication. Only medications provided by parents/guardians with a written request by the parent or guardian and in some cases by the physician will be given by the nurse. The written request should include the student’s name, name of the medication, the purpose, and dosage, expiration date, when it should be taken, and how. All medicines should be sent in the original container, with appropriate labels, and must be kept in the school‘s health office.

​

Any student in possession of prescribed medication on their person will have administrative consequences. With the exception of inhalers and diabetic supplies, students may not store any medicine in their backpacks. Students with inhalers should still notify the school nurse when they use them. The sale of prescription medication is a mandatory removal to the Alternative Learning Center. This includes ADHD medication. Possession of prescription medication that is not prescribed to the possessor is a mandatory hearing. Always notify the nurse if your child has any major medical condition, such as asthma, epilepsy, severe food allergies, sickle cell anemia, etc.

IMMUNIZATIONS

​

Texas State law mandates that immunizations be up to date prior to your student entering middle school. If you have any questions regarding your child’s record, please call the school nurse. The nurse will send out a notification if your student has a delinquent record. Failure to update immunization records may prevent your student from attending classes.

AVID

College and Career Readiness

General Marshall Middle School is an AVID campus. The goal of AVID is to provide all students with academic instruction that is geared toward college readiness. Marshall offers several courses that use AVID instruction/curriculum. The goal is to close the opportunity gap and prepare our students for college success. If you have any questions about our AVID program contact:

melissa.kender@austinisd.org

​

LIBRARY

The library is open to students each school day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

​

• Before school, students may use the library from 8:00 – 8:15 a.m. with a pass they get from the office staff or morning duty monitor. Morning passes are limited and are given on a first come, first served basis.
• During the school day, students must be accompanied by a teacher or on a Smartpass.
• Students may check out up to 3 books for a 2 week period, and they are responsible for returning books promptly and in the condition in which they were borrowed.
• Bills for lost or damaged books must be paid before additional books may be borrowed.
• Students who have overdue, lost, or damaged books are placed on the obligation list, which could alter participation in certain activities.
• If a student withdraws at any time during the school year, they must return all library books before the necessary paperwork can be completed.

Debra Squires

Librarian

debra.squires@austinisd.org

Parent involvement

The Campus Advisory Council, or CAC, is a group of teachers, parents, staff, community leaders, and the principal, who meet monthly to discuss the school’s Campus Improvement Plan and to make recommendations to the principal that improve the educational opportunities at Livel. The CAC, not to be confused with the PTSA, is mandated by state law, and it acts as an advisory board to the principal on issues such as the Campus Improvement Plan (CIP), the budget, curriculum, staff development, staffing patterns, and school organization.

​

All meetings are open to the public, and brief comments may be presented by guests at the beginning of each meeting.

​

Meeting information will be posted on our website and Principal Benson’s newsletter “Marshall Message”.

Parent Teacher-Student Association

(PTSA)

The General Marshall Middle School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) is an organization consisting of parents, teachers, students, and other school personnel. The following purposes are set out in the bylaws:

​

1. To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
2. To raise the standards of home life.
3. To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.
4. To bring into closer relation the home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in the education of children and youth.
5. To develop between educators and the general public such united efforts will secure the highest advantages in physical, mental, social, and spiritual education for all students.

​

We encourage all Marshall parents, students, and educators to join this organization and attend our meetings

Campus Advisory Council

(CAC)

Family Involvement/ VOLUNTEERS

There are numerous volunteer opportunities at Marshall including the school store, library, main office, tutoring, and substitute teaching. The PTSA has organized a number of standing committees that work to support the students and school: Honor Roll Assemblies, Tutoring, Enrichment, Grant Writing, Building and Grounds, Lunch/Hallway Monitoring, Teacher and Staff Appreciation, Publicity, New Parent Orientation, Fine Arts Showcase, etc. We need parents to help with all of these committees.

​

If you are interested in getting involved, we would love to hear from you! Please complete this google form:

​

bit.ly/fRAMilyinvolvement

​

​

​

​

​

​

Caregiver Concerns

Classroom/Teacher Concerns: Academic and Disciplinary

• The caregiver should first discuss any concern with the classroom teacher. If a parent brings a concern to the Principal or Assistant Principal without first consulting with the teacher, the Principal or AP will ask the parent to first confer with the classroom teacher.
• If the teacher and the parent/guardian are unable to resolve the concern, the Principal or Assistant Principal should then be contacted.
• If after discussing the concern with the Principal and the concern is not resolved, contact the Associate Superintendent for Middle Schools. A Concerns Form is posted to the school website and can be submitted electronically to the Assistant Principal or Counselor or parents may come in and fill the form out in person.

Parent/Guardian concerns

Discipline Concerns: Assistant Principals

• Parents/guardians should first discuss their concern with the appropriate Assistant Principal.
• If the Assistant Principal and the parent are unable to resolve the concern, the Principal should then be contacted.
• ​

​

Meetings with Administration

• Parent/guardian meetings with administration will only be available after 9:05 (AM).

clubs, organizations & activities

Students are encouraged to participate in school activities and should check with their teachers, counselors, or administrators for information about joining a club or organization. Some of these activities include the following: National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, Art Club, Model UN, cheerleading, athletics, and various book clubs.

​

For more information contact

Assistant Principal Moore

matthew.b.moore@austinisd.org

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY (NJHS)

The National Junior Honor Society is a student organization dedicated to service through scholarship, leadership, character, and citizenship. At Marshall, students apply for NJHS in the spring semester of sixth grade. NJHS members must maintain a 90 or higher non-weighted grade point average during their 7th and 8th-grade years. Our NJHS Chapter also votes for student officers and is student-led with faculty members serving as advisors. We have our induction ceremony in the late fall. As campus leaders, members are expected to attend meetings, serve on committees, and volunteer their time to improve both their community and school.

Students who wish to participate in school sponsored extracurricular activities must follow the rules listed below which govern participation.

​

1. A student must meet academic eligibility each nine weeks as set forth by the University Interscholastic League (UIL).

​

2. Some clubs and organizations have eligibility requirements such as: passing all classes, attendance above 90%, demonstrating effective citizenship skill, etc.

​

3. Students who violate the Student Code of Conduct may be excluded from extracurricular events.

Counselors

School counselors are available to every student in the school. At Marshall, our counselors follow students through their three years of middle school and form relationships with students and parents to help navigate and support them through the middle school years.

​

Counseling services include:

• assistance with school planning
• academic counseling and support
• course selection process
• career and college readiness
• group and individual counseling and guidance
• support with study and organizational skills
• assistance with home, school and/or social issues
• parent support and assistance and much more.

Silvia Covarrubias

A-L

Theresa Aguirre

M-Z

G

Counselors are available for any student concern and maintain students’ privacy unless there is a possibility of potential harm. If there is an emergency, students or parents should contact the counselor immediately. Otherwise, the student may fill out a Request to See the Counselor form in the office between passing periods or before/after school. A student may ask a teacher for permission and they will contact the counselor.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

Students are expected to request schedule changes in the spring or summer before the fall semester begins. “Change of mind” schedule changes will not be honored. Only scheduling errors will be addressed. If necessary, students’ schedules will be changed to achieve balanced numbers in classes. If possible, all schedule changes will be completed by the end of the third week of the school year. Students enrolled in high school credit courses will be closely monitored. A teacher and counselor conference and parent contact will precede any high school credit class change.

​

To see the list of AISD Middle School Course offerings please visit:

www.austinisd.org/ssig

communities in schools (CIS)

Communities in Schools (CIS) is the nation’s largest and most effective dropout prevention organization. CIS provides Marshall families with individual student support, mentoring, clothing, social services, and family resources. Please contact Melissa Dominguez , CIS Program Manager for more information:

mdominguez@ciscentraltexas.org

​

COMMUNICATION

We want to make sure our families and students know all the great events taking place at General Marshall Middle School! Staff is expected to return communication within 48 business hours. Be sure to visit the following websites frequently to be up to date with important information and dates.

​

Phone calls: Staff will call/text your phone number on file

Email: sent to your email address on file

Twitter: @GMMS_AISD

Principal Benson’s Newsletter: Marshall Message

Campus website: www.austinisd.org/schools/marshall

​

Access each teacher’s BLEND Page through the AISD Portal

​

In the event of inclement weather, school-closing information will be provided to all Austin area television stations. Information will also be available via Marshall Community BLEND page, schoolmessenger, on the AISD website at www.austinisd.org and at the AISD main telephone line: 414-1700.

GRADING SYSTEM

Grades are assigned based on the level of mastery a student has shown during four, nine-week grading periods. Students are given a reasonable opportunity to redo assignments to achieve mastery. Students must submit the assignment by the end of the nine-week grading period to receive credit for redoing the assignment. Each teacher will submit a minimum of 9 grades per grading period or one grade per week. The following grades are assigned to students during each four nine-week grading period:

​

Tutoring Required (<60)

In Progress (60-69)

Emerging Proficiency (70-79)

Proficient (80-89)

Master or Sophisticated (90-100)

​

Report cards are available approximately 2-3 days after the close of the grading period on the AISD student and parent portal.

​

Students who are failing, or close to it, may also receive a progress report each grading period. Students need to respond immediately to the areas needing improvement while there is still time for them to improve their grades. Teachers provide tutorials a minimum of one time per week. If your child is having difficulty understanding and completing assignments, please encourage him/her to ask the teacher for help and attend tutorials (see Tutoring).

Grading Policy

​

Grades must reflect student’s relative mastery of the content.

70% evidence of learning - exit tickets, projects, assessments, compositions, etc.

30% - College and Career Readiness - organization, process skills, engagement, participation, application.

​

Minimum of nine grades per grading period regardless of grading period length. One grade per week must be entered in gradebook.

Grade

Success Criteria-

Skills Description/TEKS/I can statements

Level of Demonstrated Understanding

“I” Incomplete (final grade)

MSG records a zero for missing assignments.

​

PND is used for assignments that are pending grading.

​

An “I” Incomplete is given at the end of the grading period if the student is missing work due to extenuating circumstances.

​

Students must be given reasonable opportunity to redo failing assignments to achieve mastery.

​

All grades below a 60 require documentation, parent communication, and intervention plan in eCST.

​

NG is recorded as No Grade and should not be used. Requires administrative meeting and dialogue with the principal.

TEKS Aligned language.

Describes the skills or standards

the student must demonstrate

for each level of understanding.

TUTORING

Teachers help students outside normal class time by offering tutorials at least one time per week. Class tutorial times will be posted in each teacher’s studio as well as on their Blend page. Sometimes teachers will choose to offer extra tutorials before school. To attend these tutorials, the student will receive a pass from the teacher beforehand, which they will take to the front office.

​

For after-school tutorials, students must remain on campus and be in their tutorial classroom by 3:55 p.m. Students must remain in tutorials until 5:15 p.m. Once a student leaves the building, they are not allowed back in the building. Late buses are available at 5:15 p.m. and are scheduled to depart at 5:30 p.m.

​

Marshall Tutoring Schedule

Monday - Tutorials Offered

Tuesday - Tutorials Offered

Wednesday - Tutorials Offered

Thursday - Tutorials Offered

Friday - No Tutoring

*This schedule will be posted on the GMMS Website soon

DISCIPLINE

A safe, orderly, and supportive environment are essential for learning to occur. School safety is the top priority at Marshall. General expectations for behavior are outlined in this handbook. If student behavior disrupts the education of others, or if they behave in a dangerous manner toward themselves or others, then a discipline referral may be written to an assistant principal. The discipline referral will be placed in the student’s discipline folder, and a record of the action taken will be recorded. Consequences may include student conference, After School and/or Lunch Detention, In-School Suspension (ISS), Home School Suspension (HSS), Expulsion, and/or removal to the Alternative Learning Center (ALC). In addition to disciplinary referrals and consequences, Marshall staff will work with students and their families to teach students behaviors necessary for success. All parents/guardians are given the AISD Student Success Guide at the start of the school year and are strongly encouraged to read it. Parents should encourage their children to make positive choices about conduct at school.

​

Please review the AISD Student Success Guide with your student :

bit.ly/successguideeng

* Even if you do not read the document, your student still must follow the rules in it*.

​

DISCIPLINE TECHNIQUES

Discipline at Marshall is designed to teach students the appropriate way to respond and manage emotions and actions. We encourage all students to be responsible citizens of the school community. Marshall uses Positive Behaviors Intervention & Supports (PBIS) and Restorative Discipline to teach students appropriate and expected behaviors. Teaching appropriate behavior draws on the professional judgment of teachers and administrators and on a range of discipline techniques. Factors considered include the seriousness of the offense, the frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude and abilities, the effect of the misconduct on the school environment, and requirements of law. As a result of these factors, discipline for a particular offense (unless otherwise specified by law) may vary.

• Reteach school-wide behavior expectations
• Restitution
• Apology letters
• Community service
• Verbal redirection
• Opportunity to use self-directed control strategies
• Parent-teacher conferences
• Mediation
• Backpack/student searches
• Confiscation of items that disrupt the educational process
• Sending the student to the office or other assigned area
• Counseling/mediation/mentoring by teachers, counselors, SRO and/or administrative personnel
• Positive reinforcement

• Consistent consequences for problem behaviors
• Frequent breaks
• Reminders
• Frequent check-ins or required 1:1 check-in/out
• Targeted social skills instruction
• Withdrawal of privileges, such as participation in extracurricular activities
• Detention(s)
• In-School Suspensions & Home Suspensions
• Seating changes in the classroom
• Behavior contracts
• Assignment to another classroom; change of schedule
• Withdrawing or restricting bus privileges
• Stay Away Agreement
• Criminal Trespass Warning (CTW)

Behavior Intervention PLAN

Our campus’ discipline policies are designed to maintain a positive learning environment for all students. The discipline matrix is designed as a guide for establishing clear and consistent consequences for specified offenses. Schoolwide expectations for behavior are clearly stated, widely promoted, and frequently referenced. The administration reserves the right, from time to time, to deviate from the stated consequences depending on the uniqueness of the situation.

​

DETENTION

Teachers and administrators may assign detention to students as a consequence of failing to follow campus expectations. Other methods, such as private conversations with students, parent contact, and parent conferences will be used prior to assigning student detentions. Detentions will be monitored by Marshall staff and can be scheduled for the following days:

​

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays

​

If your student does not attend their assigned detention date, further disciplinary action will be taken.

CARE OF THE BUILDING

• Everyone should take pride in the school building and school grounds to ensure a clean and attractive learning environment.
• Students are expected to pick up all paper and litter from the classroom at the end of each class period. Place waste in correct bin-recycle or landfill
• Please encourage your student to be a thoughtful citizen and to contribute to the physical well-being of the campus.
• Students marking on or damaging school equipment/property in any way will be required to clean the article.
• Students and parents are responsible for damage to school property or materials loaned to the students.
• Marshall believes in restorative practices and students may be assigned community service to repair the damage to school property.
• In some cases, payment may be required to replace damaged items.
• Any damage that causes disruption to the school environment, or safety or impedes the learning of students may require further disciplinary consequences such as ISS or HSS.

Prohibited Items to Distribute, Possess, Sell or Use

• Any material that encourages illegal behavior
• Matches or lighters
• Alcoholic beverages
• Medicine available without a prescription that isn’t being used the way it is supposed to be used
• Prescription or over-the-counter drugs taken in violation of District policy
• A student’s own prescription drugs when given to another student or having or being under the influence of another person’s prescription drug
• Tobacco products, Vape products, Alcohol, marijuana/THC, a controlled substance, or a dangerous drug, drug paraphernalia, look-alike drugs or contraband
• Any item that could be dangerous, decided by the principal or school staff

• Razors, box cutters, chains or other objects used in a way that could threaten or hurt someone
• Knives, bladed instruments, switchblade knives, air guns, toy guns, chemical dispensing devices, mace/pepper spray, fireworks, replica firearms, electronic stunning devices, ammunition and other dangerous items
• A firearm ; a machine gun; a short-barrel firearm; a firearm silencer; armor-piercing ammunition; a zip gun; a location-restricted knife, defined as a knife with a blade over five-and-a-half inches; a butterfly knife; a club; a prohibited weapon, such as an explosive weapon, knuckles
• Any item capable of propelling a projectile and hurting someone by any means BB guns, Airsoft guns, pellet guns
• A homemade weapon, defined as a device or item that was manufactured, modified or adapted by an individual for the use or intended use of inflicting harm on another person
• Pornographic materials
• No cell phones 7:50 am - 3:50 pm

BULLYING

We take bullying and harassment seriously here at Marshall Middle School. Any aggressive behavior or intentional harm-doing; can be physical, verbal, emotional, or cyber and is carried out repeatedly over time or creates an imbalance of power. There will be no tolerance for behavior described below:

​

Examples of bullying include

• name calling
• racial slurs
• unauthorized, unwanted or inappropriate touching
• making fun of a person’s appearance
• telling mean jokes or rumors about someone
• threatening to hurt a person
• shoving or elbowing someone
• making threatening gestures or postures
• derogatory comments texted or on social media.

​

Students and /or parents can report bullying by completing an incident report.

​

Consequences: parent contact, class change, mediation, mandatory bullying course, in-school suspension (ISS), home suspension (HSS), discipline hearing removal to ALC.

To make a report go to this link or scan the QR code

bit.ly/ramsreport

Offensive language

At Marshall, we do not use offensive language, as it is not in alignment with our PRIDE values.

​

Offensive language may be any language related to bullying, harassment, or discrimination. Examples may be:

• Threats to hurt students or members of their household
• Hate speech or offensive language, this includes but is not limited to comments regarding:
• race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or any other basis prohibited by law based incidents that result in psychological and/or physical harm.
• Offensive jokes, name calling, or slurs

Students and /or parents can report bullying by completing an incident report.

​

Consequences: parent contact, class change, mediation, mandatory bullying course, in-school suspension (ISS), home suspension (HSS), discipline hearing removal to ALC.

To make a report go to this link or scan the QR code

bit.ly/ramsreport

VAPING/Smoking

Student will be required to be placed in the DAEP (alternative learning center) if the student:

• possesses
• uses
• is under the influence
• sells
• gives
• delivers

Marijuana or THC, to another person within 300 feet of school property or at a school-related event.

The same list applies to nicotine products, but these will not carry an automatic removal.

Please have discussions with your student about the harmful effects of vaping.

If you or your student is struggling with drug addiction here are resources:

​

Marshall Counselors

silvia.covarrubias@austinisd.org

theresa.aguirre@austinisd.org

​

Phoenix House�400 West Live Oak Street�Austin, TX 78704�512-364-0767�www.phoenixehouse.org�Phone: 214-296-0394 or 1-844-PHTEXAS

PHYSICAL ALTERCATIONS

Our school maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding physical altercations and the recording of fights within our premises or during any school-related events. We are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all individuals involved, and any behavior that compromises this commitment will be met with appropriate consequences. A physical altercation is defined as any physical contact that may result in injury. This includes but is not limited to hitting, fighting, horse playing, slap boxing.

​

If you suspect that another student is going to cause harm to you or someone else immediately make an incident report so administration can intervene. We can’t help if we don’t know!

​

Possible consequences for physical altercations:

• ISS (in school suspension)
• HSS (home school suspension)
• Stay Away Agreement
• Peer Mediation
• Removal to ALC

Consequences for recording a physical altercation:

• ISS/HSS
• Cellphone ban

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER

The School Resource Officer, (SRO) help provide a safe and secure environment for Marshall students, employees and visitors by deterring and disrupting criminal activities, enforcing Local and State laws, mentoring students, and providing educational presentations. Our SRO is a certified mental health officer who provide emergency mental health assessments, and are trained in crisis intervention techniques. The SRO is a vital part of our campus crisis management team and are responsible for the safety and security of critical incidents occurring on or near their campuses.

Student searches

• Administration and SROs may search students and belongings if they feel there is a need to keep campus safe.
• Desks, lockers, technology or other things given to the student by the District may be searched at any time.

Let’s make it a great year RAMS!

Google Form Q&A

bit.ly/RoundUpQA