Benson Middle School  

 
 

 
 
 
Student Handbook 
2019-2020  
 
   
 LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL​:  
 
 
 
 
To our​ P
​ habulous Phantoms​: 
 
Welcome to​ B​ enson Middle School​! We look forward to an exciting and productive year for each 
of our students. Although you will see some new faces throughout the building, please be 
assured that our faculty and staff will continue to create a positive culture of learning, where 
all students can experience academic, social & emotional success.  
 
I want to welcome Mr. Jeffrey Henry, Assistant Principal Intern to our Phantom Phamily. 
 
The first bell rings at 7:50AM. Students have the opportunity to eat breakfast or report to 
homeroom at this time. All students must be finished with breakfast and in homeroom before 
the tardy bell rings at 8:20AM. ​Please understand that students should n
​ ot​ be dropped off before 
the opening of school. F
​ irst block begins at 8:25AM and dismissal will begin each day at 3:30PM. 
 
Please take the time to read through your student handbook, especially noting expectations 
regarding student behavior, discipline, and dress code. I would like to challenge each of you to 
to make the 2019/2020 school year your best year yet. We believe in each of you! Our 
administration, faculty and staff are here to serve your educational needs and to ensure that 
you have a Phenomenal year! Again, welcome back, and we look forward to a great year! 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Dana Jernigan 
Principal 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NON-DISCRIMINATORY STATEMENT  

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Educational activities in the Johnston County Public Schools are governed by the philosophy of simple fairness to all.
Any student of Johnston County Public Schools, who feel that they have been discriminated against because of their
sex, race, age, or handicapping condition should contact:

Dr. Ross Renfrow

Post Office Box 1336,
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 934-6031

JCPS VISION STATEMENT 

Compassionate and competent school innovators will engage each student in relevant and personalized learning
experiences in preparation for careers, college, and life.

JCPS MISSION STATEMENT

To empower our students to students to enrich their world by facilitating learning through relationships, and
relevant, innovative experiences.

BMS MISSION STATEMENT

At Benson Middle School, we will educate, empower, and equip all students to become caring, contributing
citizens who can succeed in an ever-changing world.

As a student of Benson Middle School I will:

B​elieve in myself
E​xcel academically, socially, and morally
N​urture healthy relationships
S​trengthen Awareness of Self, Others, and Community
O​wn my learning
N​ever give up

VISITOR INFORMATION

Visitors are always welcomed at Benson Middle School; however, visitors must register in the school office. Please
follow these guidelines:

Schedule all meetings as far in advance as possible and during teacher planning periods.
The administration will assist you with immediate concerns. County policy requires all visitors to complete a
volunteer form before visiting classrooms.
 
TELEPHONES

The office telephone is a business phone and should not be used by students except for emergencies. Classroom
interruptions will not be made for incoming personal phone calls. Arrangements concerning afternoon activities
should be finalized before arriving at school.

Incoming emergency messages will be relayed to students as soon as possible.

2
 

LOCKERS

Each student in grades 5-8 is assigned a locker for the storage of school supplies, equipment, and clothing. It is the
student’s responsibility to see that his/her locker is kept in order at all times.

Since lockers are a permanent part of the building, students are expected to keep them in good, usable condition.
Lockers should be visited at designated times or with teachers’ permission.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

The school principal and other administrators may conduct a search of a student if they believe the student has
drugs, weapons, alcohol, or other materials in violation of school rules or state law. The search may include
inspection of clothing, purses, wallets, knapsacks, and other personal property.

Benson Middle School Discipline Policy: 2019-2020

Students at Benson Middle School are expected to follow these rules at school and at all school events.
● School Rule​: Respect yourself, others and school property.

JOHNSTON COUNTY SCHOOLS BOARD POLICIES

Benson Middle School is governed by​ Johnston County Public Schools Board Policies​. Policies specific to Students
are listed under ​Board Policy 4000​. Parents and students are reminded that they need to read carefully the
Johnston County Board of Education Student Code of Conduct that each student is given on the first day of school.
This is to be signed by a parent/guardian and student. One copy must be returned to the homeroom teacher.
 
Student Code of Conduct

The student code of conduct at Benson Middle School follows the guidelines set forth in the Johnston County
Public Schools Code of Student Conduct ​policy 4200​.

In-school suspension assignments may be for partial days or whole days. Parents will be contacted when a student
has been assigned to in-school suspension.

The principal will contact the parents of students involved in major infractions when necessary. Disciplinary action
will be taken when appropriate after an investigation of such incidents.

JCPS Dress Code

Please ​NOTE​ that Dress Code will be closely monitored. Please adhere to the linked board policies concerning
student dress code. Girls who wear leggings must wear a shirt that is at least mid-thigh in the front and back of the
leg. Policies are linked here: ​Student Dress Code.

BMS DISCIPLINE

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Our parents should always be notified when disciplinary measures are implemented. Teachers will initially
implement classroom interventions. When behaviors continue despite classroom interventions, the teacher will
formally document a warning. If behavior(s) continue, a behavior specialist will intervene to address the
student behavior(s). Upon continuing behavior(s) that do not adhere to the student code of conduct, an
administrative referral will be submitted. At this point, the student will not get period detention. They will
receive a half or whole day+ of ISS. Depending upon the infraction, students could receive up to 10 days OSS. In
the event that a child receives OSS, that child is prohibited from being on any Johnston County Public Schools
property for the duration of that suspension, including any after school activities.

*The administration and the School Improvement Team reserve the right to evaluate the stated disciplinary
procedures throughout the school year and make changes or adjustments as we deem necessary. Parents will be
notified in writing of any changes that may occur.

SCHOOL HEALTH

Our school is served by a Public Health nurse from Johnston County Public Schools. The nurse is present at BMS on
a rotating basis. Emergencies arising when the nurse is not present will be managed by office personnel. The BMS
nurse follows the State of North Carolina Student Immunization Law, which requires all students to be adequately
immunized according to their age and grade level. If an immunization record is not on file at school, the nurse will
be contacting the parent/guardian for this information.

Medication at School

Medication Policy ​- All medications administered in Johnston County Schools, whether over-the-counter or by
health care provider prescription, must be authorized in writing by a health care provider. All medications
administered by school personnel must have a written request/permission signed by the parent or legal guardian.
(GS 115C-307).

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All medications, prescription and over-the-counter, must be brought to school by the parent and must be in the
original container with label directions intact.

Parents do have the option of coming to school and administering medication at the appropriate times.

In order to protect your child’s safety, there will be no exceptions to this policy. Medication forms are available in
the school office.

Asthma ​–Any student with an asthma diagnosis who needs an inhaler at school must have a written asthma action
plan from the student’s health care practitioner. (GS 115C-375.2)

Diabetes ​– Senate Bill 911 addresses the need for a Diabetes Care Plan written by the student’s health care
practitioner for all students with diabetes. The parent or guardian is responsible for having this care plan and any
diabetic supplies necessary in place prior to the student beginning the school year.

Immunizations ​-North Carolina General Statute (GS) 130A-152 requires “every child present in this state” to be
immunized against certain diseases, according to a timeline that is established by the state Commission for Health
Services and published in the North Carolina Administration Code (NCAC). Parents/Guardians are advised to
contact their local health care provider or the Johnston County Health Department for more information
concerning any immunizations.

Tdap Vaccine​ – A booster dose of tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis vaccine is required for all children before entering
7th grade that are enrolled in public school if five years or more have passed since the last dose of
tetanus-containing vaccine.

Meningococcal Vaccine​ - This vaccine can prevent the Meningococcal Disease which is caused by bacteria and can
be fatal. One dose of the vaccine must be administered to any student entering 7th grade or by the age of 12.

Human Papillomavirus ​– Vaccines are available for young girls to prevent the spread of this virus that is a known
precursor to cervical cancer.

Influenza​ – The flu vaccine prevents the flu, a common and highly contagious disease that can cause serious illness,
and even death. The peak season for flu is November through April. The ideal time for students to get a flu shot is
October.

Meningitis​ – A rare but sometimes deadly disease which strikes adolescents and young adults. Vaccination can
prevent most cases of the disease and is recommended for children and adolescents 11 through 18 years of age.

Head Lice ​– Johnston County School Policy affirms a “no nit” ​policy​. Students who have been excluded from school
due to the presence of head lice or nits shall not be allowed to return to school until they are lice and nit free.
Head lice cases that have not been resolved within three days per occurrence will be counted as unexcused
absences after the three-day period.

BUSES 

Students should be on time at the designated school bus stops and should wait until the bus comes to a complete
stop before attempting to enter.

While on the bus, students should follow the posted bus rules and directions of the driver at all times. Any
misconduct on the bus can cause the driver to be distracted and jeopardize the safety of the students on the bus
as well as other vehicles on the road.

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Bus Rules 

Students are to ride the assigned bus at all times and enter and exit only at their assigned stop. Students may not
ride another student’s bus without bringing a note from the parent and securing permission from the principal.
Parents will be called for confirmation. Students are expected to:

● Follow directions of the driver at all times.

● Look for hand signals prior to crossing the road.
● Remain in your assigned bus seat when the bus is in motion.
● Speak in a normal tone of voice - no shouting or use of profanity or abusive language.
● Keep hands, feet, and other objects to yourself. Items should not be thrown on bus.
● Treat the driver and other students with respect.
● No cell phones, Ipods, or other electronic devices on the bus.
● No eating or drinking on the bus.

Consequences of Bus Misconduct

1​st​ offense...Written warning issued and parent notified by administrator

2​nd​ offense...Counsel with student; parent notification and maximum 3 days off the bus
3​rd​ offense...Maximum of 5 days off bus
4​th​ offense...Maximum of 10 days off the bus
5​th​ offense...Minimum of 10 days off the bus and student may be suspended from the bus for the remainder of the
school year

Major offense may result in immediate and permanent suspension from the bus.

BELL SCHEDULES

Bell schedules for the 2019-2020 school year are linked ​here​.

ATTENDANCE 

Only 1 tardy allowed for perfect attendance excused or not. Students can not be signed out more than 4 times per
nine weeks in order to receive perfect attendance. Teachers should take paper/pencil attendance for every block.
Students who miss more than 4 class meetings per nine weeks may receive a 59 per administration. Principals can
waive this requirement. Teachers will receive notification of whom to give a 59. ​(see Board Policy 4110)

The North Carolina Compulsory School Attendance Law (​G.S. 115C-378​) contains the following requirements:

● The parent, guardian, or custodian of a child shall notify the school of the reason for each known absence
of the child in accordance with local school board policy. Johnston County Board Policy requires that a
parent furnish a note signed by the parent stating the reason for all absences and tardiness.

● Every parent, guardian, or other person in this state having charge or control of a child between the ages
of 7 and 16 years shall cause such child to attend school continuously.

NOTE: Legal action may be started against you if your child accumulates ten unexcused absences. If you are found
guilty in court of failure to comply with the North Carolina Compulsory School Attendance Law, you may be fined,
ordered to serve an active jail sentence, or both.

MORNING PROCEDURES

When students arrive, they should report to the cafeteria if eating breakfast should or go directly to homeroom.
Students coming out of the cafeteria or heading straight to homerooms should travel in this manner:

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 - 5th, 6th, and 8th graders will travel down the Enhancement Hall (Chorus/Art/Band)
- 7th graders will travel down the Cafeteria Hall toward 5th Grade Hall

EARLY DEPARTURE AND DISMISSAL

It shall be the policy of the Johnston County Public Schools to release children to parents or legal guardian upon
the request of either parent. If the parent/guardian is not known by the principal, the principal may require
satisfactory identification before release of the child.

In the event one parent requests his or her children not be released to the other parent, the first parent shall be
informed that the children shall be released to either parent upon request, unless a valid North Carolina court
order awarding custody is presented. In such case the custody provision will be honored.

In no case shall a person other than an authorized parent or guardian be permitted to take a student from school
until or unless the principal is satisfied that such person has the approval of the authorized parent or guardian.

If a student is to leave school during the school day, a parent can come to the front office to sign him or her out.
The student will then be called to the office. No teacher may release a student without permission from the office.
Once a student arrives on campus in the morning, he will remain at school until dismissed.

It is expected that students are to be picked up by 3:50 pm unless they are on campus at the request of a teacher.
Students must be under the supervision of a teacher or staff to remain on premises.

CAFETERIA

The cafeteria is opened daily to serve well-balanced breakfasts and lunches. Students from families whose income
meets certain requirements are eligible for either free meals or reduced price meals. The application for “Free or
Reduced Meals” will be sent home at the beginning of the school year or the form may be obtained from the main
office. You can also apply online at ​www.LunchApplication.com​.​ ​Students who pay for their meals are subject to
the following price schedule:

Meal Price

Reduced Breakfast for Grades K-12 Free

Breakfast for Grades K-12 $1.40

Reduced Lunch for Grades K-12 $.40

Lunch Grades K-8 $2.30

Students are expected to have courteous behavior in the cafeteria. This means leaving the area in which you eat
clean and ready for the next student to arrive. Students are to remain in the cafeteria until their teacher directs
them to leave. At no time are students allowed to take food outside the cafeteria.

SCHOOL COUNSELING

All students in grades 5-8 are served by our guidance counselor. Classroom guidance, testing services, individual
and small group counseling, and consultation services are available for students, teachers, and parents. This
counseling program focuses on three areas of development: academic, career, and personal/social. Appointments
should be made in advance for conferences. Emergency situations will be handled as they arrive.

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MEDIA CENTER

The Benson Middle School media center focuses on the ability to find and use information. In addition to books
our technology-rich learning environment has many information resources and focuses on the process of learning
rather than dissemination of information. The Benson Middle School library media program combines effective
learning and teaching strategies and activities with information access skills. We believe that strong media and
technology programs are essential for the education of our students. Please refer to the JCPS website
(johnston.k12.nc.us) and click on Students for great student online resources.

PARENT CONFERENCES

Parents are encouraged to visit with the teachers and administrators when the need arises. Conferences can be
arranged with all academic teachers during teacher planning period, or before and after school. Please call the
school at 919-894-3889 or contact the teacher by email to arrange for a conference that will meet your specific
needs.

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL LEAVE

Students are allowed to receive five consecutive days for educational field trips. These trips must be pre-approved
by the principal. Students must make up all missing assignments for each class. In some cases, teachers may need
to assign an alternative assignment.

TRANSFER OR WITHDRAWAL

Parents must notify the school prior to withdrawal of students. Students transferring must get a withdrawal form,
from the office, which the teacher will fill out. This is so the student can be admitted into a new school with
proper up-to-date information.

GRADING POLICY 
Grades should reflect what students have learned and that students have taken responsibility for completing work
in a timely manner.
Grades should reflect student knowledge, not behavior, therefore there should be no grade penalty for turning in
work late. Grades should not be a classroom management strategy. We will be working in SIT this year to update
this policy.

● All grades issued will follow the approved JCPS Grading Scale Listed below.
● All grades and grading practices must reflect student understanding and not learning behaviors.
● No grade can be attached to any task, including extra credit work, unless it s​upplies evidence of
achievement of a learning target.​ (i.e. Bringing in an extra copy of a novel for extra points; donations;
community service; bringing back interims or report cards signed -all of these are items that cannot have a
grade attached to them in any fashion.) Teachers should provide meaningful feedback.
● All teachers of each PLC will have a consistent grading scale (i.e independent practice are 10%). The
grading scale should be stated in each teacher’s syllabus.
● Homework​: Students should have the opportunity to complete the minimum number of homework
assignments designated by department during each grading period. Homework grades should consist of
multiple opportunities for a student to demonstrate success and reinforce learning.
● Timeliness: ​Within two weeks of the due date, teachers should have assignments graded and entered
online.
● Grades should not be left blank in the gradebook if they have been assessed.
● Updating Grades in PowerSchool: ​Parents have the ability to view grades on PowerSchool through the
Parent Portal. Teachers should update grades on PowerSchool every two weeks.
● A student will receive a 0 if an assignment is not turned in. (see minimum grade)

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 ● Grade 5 ​follows Standards Based Grading (​Assignment will not be weighted​).​ The policy is as follows:

● Students will pretest on each standard prior to instruction. Students will participate in
remediation and/or enrichment based on the outcome of their pretest.

● Daily assignments/homework are designed to increase knowledge and move towards mastery.

● Grades are based on learning goals and performance standards. One grade/entry will be given
per learning goal.

● Grades only measures achievements. There will be no penalties or extra credit.

● Selected assessments (tests, quizzes, projects, etc.) are used for grading purposes. No retest as
students are assessed often to move toward mastery. Grades are not averaged to indicate
mastery.

● Final grades for report card will emphasize the most recent evidence of learning when grading.

● Teachers will use proficiency scales provided by the county to determine student achievements
of N, B, P, or M.

● If a student is failing at any point after three weeks into the quarter, the teacher should make contact
with the parent or guardian by ​PHONE CALL or CONFERENCE.
● Cheating and academic misconduct will not be tolerated. Students who engage in this will need to
complete an alternate assignment. S/he can still receive full credit but should be referred to the
administration for appropriate consequence aligned in the Student Code of Conduct.
● No final grade will be lower than 50% for the first three quarters.

PowerSchool:​ ​Grades should be updated at least every two weeks by the end of the school day on Friday. If a
student is missing an assignment, place a zero in PowerSchool with a notation that the student is missing the
assignment, has turned the assignment in late, etc. A student’s grades must not be penalized for turning in a late
assignment. However, a Classroom Management System may be used. Students who miss days because of
educational leave are responsible for making up assignments.

Grading Scale & Grade Reports (progress reports and report cards): ​Grade 5 teachers will use
proficiency scales provided by the county to indicate student achievement as N, B, P, or M.​ ​All courses in grades 6 -
8 will use the grading scale approved in JCPS and state Board of Education policy. That grading scale is:

A = 90-100 D = 60-69
B = 80-89 F = 0-59
C = 70-79 INC = Incomplete

Progress Reports: ​Progress Reports and Report Cards will be distributed as follows:

Progress Report End of Quarter Report Card

Quarter 1 9/20/19 10/17/19 10/29/19

Quarter 2 11/19/19 12/20/19 1/10/20

Quarter 3 2/7/20 3/13/20 3/24/20

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 Quarter 4 4/24/20 5/29/20 5/29/20

HOMEWORK
Homework is the purposeful continuation or extension of the instructional program and shall be a part of the
instructional experiences of each student. Homework shall be carefully planned and evaluated. Teachers consider
the importance of student participation in planned family and community activities when assigning homework
over weekends and holidays.

TESTING
Benson Middle School administers NC End-of-Grade tests, MAP benchmark tests, End-of-Course tests and NC Final
Exams. All promotions and retentions will be handled per student according to Johnston County Board of
Education ​Policy 3435​ on Student Promotion and Accountability.

AWARDS, RECOGNITION, & CEREMONIES

Benson Middle School recognizes outstanding academic achievement every nine weeks and during the
year-end awards ceremonies. Awards will be printed and provided to the homeroom teacher. The
homeroom teacher will collect awards, verify spelling, and place them into a folder. On the outside of
the folder, the homeroom teacher will write the student’s name and the awards earned. Each team of
teachers will individually announce each student and state the awards earned at the ceremony. Award
titles/names and eligibility should be consistent among each hallway.

Academic Awards Ceremony 5th

● Phabulous Phantom in Reading is given to students who score 85 percent or higher on Reading Check-Ins
● Phabulous Phantom in Math is given to students who score 85 percent or higher on Math Check-Ins
● Phantastic Phantom in Reading is given to students who score between a 70 percent through 84 percent
on Reading Check-Ins
● Phantastic Phantom in Math is given to students who score between a 70 percent through 84 percent on
Math Check-ins
● Perfect Attendance is given to students who have no absences, less than two tardies and no more than
three early pickups.
● Phantom Phocus award is given to students who have no behavioral referrals during a nine week
reporting term.
● Character Awards: Self-Discipline, Respect, Perseverance, Responsibility, Compassion, Dependability,
fairness, Integrity, Courage, Honesty, Loyalty, Patriotism

​ cademic Awards Ceremony 6th - 8th

A
● Principal’s List award is given to students who have all A’s and no more than one behavioral referral
during a nine week reporting term.
● Honor Roll award is given to students who have all A’s and B’s and no more than one behavioral referral
during a nine week reporting term.
● Perfect Attendance is given to students who have no absences, less than two tardies and no more than
three early pickups during a nine week reporting term.
● Most Improved is given to students by block subject teachers during the second and fourth quarter award
programs.
● The DAR award will be given to a student during the fourth quarter award ceremony.
● Character Awards:Self-Discipline, Respect, Perseverance, Responsibility, Compassion, Dependability,
fairness, Integrity, Courage, Honesty, Loyalty, Patriotism

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 E​ nhancements
● Enhancement awards will be given during the second and fourth quarter award programs.

​ ecognitions
R
● Students will be recognized for participation in Spelling Bee, Battle of the Books, ShowCase of Stars, All
County, All State, Art Work displayed, etc. at the coordinating nine week awards.

​ thletic Banquets
A
● The school will host 2 athletic banquets per year. The winter banquet is held in January and recognizes
achievement of Football, Volleyball, Boys Soccer, Boys and Girls Basketball and Cheerleading. The spring
banquet is held in May and recognizes the achievement of Baseball, Softball, Girls Soccer, Boys and Girls
Track and overall end-of-year awards.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Many students remain after school on a regular basis to participate in the school’s extracurricular programs.
Students are expected to follow all school rules and regulations when participating in any event, on or off the BMS
campus, when representing BMS. At all times, school rules and jurisdiction still apply. Parents must provide
transportation for prompt pick-up for all after school activities.

GIFTS SENT TO SCHOOL

It is understood that students like to be recognized on special occasions and birthdays. However, helium balloons,
flowers, and other similarly cumbersome items may not be transported home on school buses. Because of the
number of students involved and limited space, flowers and balloons may not be delivered to school on Valentine’s
Day.

PHOTOGRAPHIC PERMISSION
Representatives from the news media or school system employees doing filming or photography in classrooms
may do so only with prior permission from the principal.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Any check written to Benson Middle School or Johnston County Board of Education that is returned for​ Insufficient
Funds​ or ​for not having an account ​at the bank on which the check is drawn, is liable to Benson Middle School or
Johnston County Board of Education in an amount of $30.00 processing fee and the amount of the check.

INCLEMENT WEATHER
In case of snow and other dangerous weather or emergency situations, a decision may be made to close or delay
school. These decisions are made after the National Weather Services and local weather bureaus have been
consulted. As soon as a decision is made, Dolores Gill, Chief of Staff for Johnston County Schools, will send out a
ConnectEd message and post school closings and delays on the county website and promptly contact media.
Please do not make calls to school offices, radio or television stations. Telephone lines must be kept open so that
news media can receive special information from schools and business regarding schedule changes.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Benson Middle School is involved in many activities. If you are interested in becoming a part of one of these clubs,
listen to the announcements at the beginning of school for meeting times and more information on joining.
Various clubs will be offered throughout the school year, based on student interest.

ATHLETICS
Athletics is a valuable part of our total program at BMS. Our athletes develop good sportsmanship as well as
healthy bodies. We are proud of our teams and coaches and support them with “PHANTOM PRIDE.”

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A physical examination is required before a student tries out for a sport. Physical forms can be picked up in the
main office. Other requirements include: the student must be in the 6th (except football), 7​th​ or 8​th ​grade, have a
cumulative average of 70, and cannot be 15 years of age before October 15​th​ of that school year.

Sports offered at BMS

Fall – Football, Volleyball, Boys’ Soccer, Cheerleading
Winter – Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball, Cheerleading
Spring – Boys’ and Girls’ Track, Girls’ Soccer, Softball, Baseball

AFTER SCHOOL TUTORING

Please refer to teacher websites for information regarding weekly after school tutoring in all academic subject
areas.

MAINTENANCE AND REVIEW OF STUDENT RECORDS

We will maintain cumulative records according to Johnston County Board of Education Policy.​ ​All student records
shall be kept up-to-date and tended with appropriate measures of security and confidentiality. An inspection log is
placed in every student record for the purpose of recording the names of all individuals reviewing the folder as
well as the reason for the review.​ ​A parent or guardian shall be allowed to review records of the student upon
proper request. A student who has attained his eighteenth birthday shall have access to his records upon proper
request.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Students are expected to provide their own materials for school. Students are issued textbooks and may check out
books from the media center. A list of necessary materials is available in the school office and on the school
webpage.

HALLS
Students should be in the halls only when monitored by a staff member ​or if they have a pass. ​ Students are
expected to walk quietly in the hallways and on the right hand side.

CARE OF THE BUILDING AND GROUNDS

Benson Middle School takes personal pride in the appearance of its buildings and grounds. To keep our school
attractive so we can continue to be proud of it, we need total cooperation from everyone. Students and teachers
are encouraged to take a few minutes at the end of each day or period to straighten up the classrooms. No
materials should be left on the floor, and desks should be left in good order. Students should refrain from defacing
the walls or furniture or from throwing trash on the grounds. Your cooperation will be the key to keeping our
school neat and attractive.

CELL PHONES ​and other​ ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Cell phone use is prohibited during school hours.​ Cell phones cannot be on the student’s person (i.e. pockets on
clothing, including jackets, or any undisclosed location). Students should secure cell phones in a place designated
by the teacher(s) or elsewhere (i.e. lockers). Cell phones must not be visible during the school day. No cell phones
or earbuds, headphones, air pods, nor any listening devices should be visible during transitions or anywhere in the
building. Earbuds and headphones may only be used during instruction per teacher direction. Cell phones may
not be taken to lunch, into the restroom or utilized in the hallways during any part of the school day unless the
teacher(s) has designated use for instructional purposes (i.e. incentive or reward for students--NOT daily).

Exceptions are as follow(s):

Students who have cell phone (or other device) use accommodations written in their IEP or Behavior Plan.
(​https://boardpolicyonline.com/bl/?b=on#&&hs=157631

BENSON MIDDLE SCHOOL’S 2019-2020 CALENDAR

To view a copy of the ​student calendar,​ please visit Benson Middle School’s webpage.

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JCPS CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
Please refer to the 2019-2020 Parent Gazette for all information related to the Code of Student Conduct (Policy
Code 4200). For information on Student Dress and Appearance, see Policy Code 4220. For information pertaining
to Bullying and Harassment, refer to Policy Code 4225. English and Spanish versions of the Parent Gazette are
linked below:

● English Version:​ https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5BrwsGBnY1JeTNOeVlFWkJWRU0/view

● Spanish Version:​ https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5BrwsGBnY1Jd25jaFJGdDYteWs/view

BMS 2019-2020 Handbook Verification

My signature indicates that I have read the contents of this handbook with my
child and have discussed with him/her the importance of complying with the
expectations therein. In addition, I have received the Student Code of Conduct
(​English​/​Spanish​).

Parent/Guardian Signature & Date:

__________________________________________________________________

My signature indicates that my parents/guardians and I have read the contents of

this agenda and I will comply with the expectations therein.

Student Signature & Date:

__________________________________________________________________

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