Student Planner

Washingtonville Central School District — Orange County

September 1 — Superintendent's Conference Day
September 2 — First Day of School for Students
September 7 — Labor Day
September 21 — Yom Kippur
October 9 — Early Dismissal Drill
October 12 — Columbus Day
November 3 — Superintendent's Conference Day
November 11 — Veterans' Day
November 25-27 — Thanksgiving Recess
November 30 — School Reopens
December 24 - January 1 — Winter Recess
January 4 — School Reopens
January 18 — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
February 15-19 — Winter Break
February 22 — School Reopens
March 26 - April 2 — Spring Recess
April 5 — School Reopens
April 22 — Passover
April 23 — Superintendent's Conference Day
May 28 — Superintendent's Conference Day
May 31 — Memorial Day Holiday
June 1 — School Reopens
June 25 — Last Day of School for Students

REGULAR TIME SCHEDULE

One Hour Delay

 
Two Hour Delay

Regular attendance is a major factor in school success. While schoolwork missed during an absence can and should be made up in a timely and satisfactory manner, the value of classroom instruction is gone forever.  It is important, therefore, that absence from school be kept at a minimum. Students are responsible for checking with their teachers as to the assignments and work that has been missed. Call Ext. 21521 or email ms_attendance@wcsdk12.org to report an absence.  

When you return to school following an absence, you must present a note to the attendance office. This note must contain your full name, your student identification number, the dates of absence, reason for absence, and must be signed by your parent/guardian.

TRUANCY
A student absent without the consent of his/her parents is truant. This is considered an unexcused absence.  Truancy may result in In-School suspension and could also result in legal action (possibly involving Family Court). 

You are truant if you:
1.    Leave school without permission from the main office or nurse.
2.    Are absent from school without prior permission from parents.

LATENESS
Students who report to school late must first stop at the attendance office for a pass to admit them to class.  Teachers will not admit a student to class without an official late pass. 

If you are late to school, you must bring a note of explanation from your parent/guardian regarding the lateness. The note must contain a phone number where the parent can be reached.  A phone call from your parent or a parent’s appearance at school to explain the lateness will take the place of the note.

New York State law states that legal reasons for absence/lateness include ONLY the following:

• sickness
• sickness/death in family
• required court appearance
• religious observance
• military obligation
• medical appointments
• approved college visit

A student is considered to be tardy to class when they are not inside the classroom by the second bell.

SMART PROGRAM    
Orange County District Attorney’s Office Strategic Methods Aimed at Reducing Truancy:  The Washingtonville Central School District is a participant in the Orange County District Attorney’s Smart program.  The Smart program is directed at securing the compliance of parents with state laws concerning mandatory school attendance.  Furthermore, the Smart program is intended to provide school districts with the ability to back up their efforts at reducing truancy by involving the District Attorney’s Office in the process with those parents who otherwise neglect or refuse to comply with the law.

SPECIAL EXCUSES
If you are to be excused from school for any reason, you must bring in a written request from your parent to the attendance office, where a special excuse can be obtained. A phone call may be made to verify the request.  Students who are sent home by the nurse or who are leaving school early must wait at the front desk until picked up by a parent.

Any request for release for religious services must be presented one day in advance in writing. No student will be allowed to leave school without being signed out at the main entrance desk by their parent or guardian.

HOMEWORK REQUESTS
Parents/guardians of students who are absent from school, or the students themselves, can access google classroom to check assignments. 

If you are unable to access assignments electronically, or if a student is absent for two days or more, you may call the attendance office (21521) to initiate a request for missed assignments. Please be advised this process may take twenty-four hours. If a student will be absent for an extended period of time, parents/guardians should contact their child’s guidance counselor (21511).  

Parents/guardians may retrieve textbooks, etc. from their child’s locker during regular school hours, but they need the lock combination or key.  Homework can be picked up at the front desk in the lobby.

HOMEWORK POLICY
The Commissioner of Education and Board of Regents have raised the standards for all students. The home element has become more critical as our course content and expectations challenge students to reach their maximum potential.  Research shows that learning is reinforced and enhanced when students go over the key ideas and concepts learned in class the evening following the instruction. Therefore, homework is an integral part of learning in which all students are required to participate.  It consists of reading, writing and studying/reviewing of work taught during the day.

At the Middle School each teacher will more specifically define their homework policy for students and parents.  Parents are strongly encouraged to provide an environment at home free from noise, interruptions or any other distractions that would detract from the child’s focus.  Please join us through your home efforts to improve learning and success for your child.
 

You will be assigned a locker by your homeroom teacher. Students must provide their own locks; one to be used for their personal locker and the second to be used during physical education classes.  Students must keep a secured lock on their locker at all times.  Do not share your combination or locker with anyone.

You are responsible for keeping your locker clean, orderly and secure.  Please be advised that title to and ownership of the lockers within the Middle School are the property of the School District. Students should have no expectation of privacy with respect to their lockers. The administration reserves the right to periodically inspect all lockers. 

LOCKER ACCESS
Students should go to their lockers during passing time only after Periods 4, 8/9 and 11. You should plan carefully each day which books and materials you will need for your classes. You should not ask your teachers for permission to go to your lockers during class periods.

If your locker does not work properly, please report the issue to the main office. Repairs will be made as quickly as possible.

The lunchroom is a place for you to relax, socialize, and eat lunch in a calm and orderly manner. All food must be eaten in the cafeteria.  Inappropriate behavior will result in appropriate disciplinary action. Repeat offenders may lose lunchroom privileges.  Please cooperate with the following during lunch:

1. You may purchase your lunch or bring it from home. Lunch may not be charged.
2. If possible, give the cashier the exact change as it will speed service and give you more time to eat.  
3. Stay in line at the serving counter until payment is recorded and conduct yourself in an orderly, polite manner while waiting to be served.
4. Discard your tray or lunch bag properly when it is your turn.
5. Leave the lunch table as clean as possible for the next person.
6. While you will not be permitted to go to your locker, you may go to the bathroom with the permission of the monitors and a hall pass.
    

FIRE DRILLS
Detailed instructions for fire drills are posted in each room of the building.  It is essential to the safety of all that you remain completely silent and follow these directions during a fire drill.

At the sound of the alarm, stop work, form the line for your room, and pass quietly, quickly, and in an orderly manner from the building by the route designated for your room.

Walk in single file to the exit without running. Take stairs one at a time.  Keep lines straight and do not crowd.  Leave space on the stairways in the center between the existing lines.

Leaders should take the ends of the lines sufficiently far from the building to permit the whole of each line to get well away from the building.

With the entire line well away from the building, the line should stand quietly, and wait. While outside, students should stay clear of the roadways around the building and should not lean or sit on any cars.

Upon notification by Administration, students should return to the building in the same orderly fashion that they used in leaving the building.

TORNADO DRILLS
Upon notification of a tornado “WATCH,” classroom teachers will be alerted by administration.  When a “WATCH” is in effect, classroom doors and shades should be closed, and windows should be opened.  Students should be moved away from window areas as much as possible. The library will be closed and all physical education classes will be moved to the auditorium.

All staff will be on alert to listen for a bell signal indicating the building is moving into a “WARNING” procedure mode.

Upon the upgrading of a tornado “WATCH” to a “WARNING,” all classes on the 1st and 2nd floors will leave their assigned classrooms, entering into the hall.  They will then move to their assigned locations as a class with the teacher (classroom door should be left closed).  Once in the assigned hall location, students will sit away from the wall, on the floor with their arms bracing their heads.  No doorways should be blocked, and teachers will remain with their classes.  The cafeteria will be designated as the emergency area. In the event students are in the cafeteria during an emergency situation, they will be moved to the side containing the clock.  

All teachers on hall duty and prep periods will report to the main office to assist in relaying information.  

VISITORS
All visitors will ring the buzzer where they will be asked to provide photo identification. Upon entry into the building they will sign in and wear a visitor’s pass in plain view for identification purposes. After parents/visitors sign in, they will then report to the main office, unless directed otherwise by the monitor or your child’s teacher.  Anyone signing a student out must provide a photo ID and be on the Contact list.  Visits by students from outside the district are not permitted. 

CAMERA SURVEILLANCE
For the security and safety of our students, staff and visitors, this facility employs camera surveillance equipment. This equipment may or may not be monitored at any time.

We at Washingtonville Middle School are proud of the facilities provided for us.  All students are expected to  observe rules of common courtesy and to exhibit proper behavior and good manners both in school and on the buses. By doing so, we can keep our school looking neat and clean, and maintain a friendly and cooperative atmosphere in which to work and enjoy ourselves more.

You are encouraged to be a good citizen of our school.  Students who consistently break school rules will be subject to the loss of all school privileges such as: participation in clubs, field trips, sports, dances, assemblies, etc.  This penalty may be invoked by the principal or assistant principals at any time and for any duration. This includes the 8th grade end of the year activities. Excessive referrals may result in exclusion from the 8th grade ceremony, dance and trip.  The frequency and severity of the referrals are determining factors for exclusion from these activities.  Poor academic standing may result in forfeiture of participation in the Moving up Ceremony, clubs, athletics and other activities.

Any student who stays for an after school activity and misbehaves while waiting for the late bus, will be suspended from the activity at the administrator’s discretion.
 

Students will be assigned central detention after school (2:11 p.m.-3:30 p.m.) for various offenses.  There will be no talking or socializing during central detention.  Students should do homework, work on school projects, read magazines, books, etc.  Once in central detention, there will be no locker passes given to students.  Students are dismissed from central detention at 3:30 p.m. and will be issued a pass for the late bus, if necessary.

Students must have prior written permission from their parents to ride another student’s bus.  To prevent overcrowding of buses, transportation will not allow groups of more than five to go on other buses.

Late buses are provided for students who stay after school for detention, extra help sessions, activities, or athletics.  All other students must leave on the first run of buses. The late buses leave from the middle school at approximately 4:00 p.m.  Late bus passes are distributed by teachers, coaches and the after school monitors. Once students are dismissed from their activities, they must report to the assigned area to be supervised by the monitors.  Under no circumstances are students to leave the school building, go into town, and then try to take the late bus home.
 

Infractions:

• Refusing to follow bus driver directives
• Attempting to ride the bus while suspended
• Failure to follow loading and unloading procedures
• Attempting to ride a bus other than your scheduled bus
• Use of vulgar/offensive language
• Possession or use of cigarettes, e-pens/vapes or other tobacco products
• Littering on the bus
• Fighting on the bus / Not keeping hands to themselves
• Eating/drinking on the bus
• Throwing articles at the bus driver
• Failure to remain seated
• Obscene or vulgar language directed at the bus driver
• Use of laser pointers on the bus
• Unauthorized exiting through or tampering with emergency exits
• Not adhering to universal crossing signal given by the bus driver
• Theft/Vandalism
• Destruction of school property/vandalism of the bus
• Possession or use of incendiary devices (lighters, matches, or open flame)
• Head, hands, feet, etc. hanging out of the bus window
• Distracting driver / Disruptive behavior
• Use of obscene language directed towards students
• Possession of weapons/explosives (real or pretend)
• Throwing of any object on the bus
• Throwing articles out of the bus window
• Possession or use of a forged bus pass
• Possession or use of illegal substances or alcohol on the bus

Use of cell phone or other media to take photos/videos is prohibited.

Consequences — Range of Bus Disciplinary Measures:

• Verbal Warning
• Assigned Seat
• Phone call/letter home
• Central Detention
• In School Suspension
• Bus Suspension
• Out of School Suspension
• Meeting with Parents
• Superintendent Hearing
• Police Referral
   

NEW YORK STATE IMMUNIZATION INFORMATION
1.  DTaP/DTP 3 doses.
2.  MMR-one after 1st Birthday and one prior to 
     Kindergarten 
3.  Polio-3 - 4 doses of
     Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) 
4.  Hepatitis B-3 doses of the vaccine K-12.
5.  Varicella-2 doses or MD documentation of disease. 
6.  Tdap-required at age 11. 
7.  Meningitis –students entering 7th grade.
     Second dose for grade 12. 

Immunizations are available from your family physician as well as free clinics sponsored by the Orange County Health Department.  Children who do not have the required immunization may be excluded from school. For further information, please visit www.health.ny.gov/publications/2370  
 

(Ext. 21531 or 21532)
The nurse’s office is located on the first floor across from the guidance office.  A pass from your teacher is to be obtained before going to the school nurse, except in cases of an emergency.  Students on crutches/medical boot must have a doctor’s note and must use the elevator.  They must enter and exit by Café B.

ACCIDENTS
Whenever you are involved in an accident in which you receive an injury of any kind, you must report it immediately to the teacher in charge of the activity and to the school nurse.

MEDICAL EXCUSES FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION
 In order to be excused from participation in the physical education program for an extended period of time, you must have a medical note from your doctor. You also need a note from your doctor to return to Physical Education classes. All students excused from Physical Education will be assigned to an iReady Lab. Students not participating in Physical Education may not participate in school sports. Students on crutches/medical boots must enter and exit by Cafeteria B.


MEDICINE
If your child is taking a prescription medication or an over the counter medication, an “Authorization for Administration of Medicine,” form must be completed by the parent/guardian and the physician prescribing the medication.  All forms must be completed in their entirety and returned to the health office.  No medication will be administered without written consent. If you need medication in school, it is to be left in the health office.  All medication brought into the health office must be in the original container and delivered to the health office by the parent/guardian. All prescription medications must be counted and signed by Health Office Personnel and parent/guardian.

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
All emergency contacts must be in writing from the parent or guardian.  Any changes made to the Emergency Authorization Form, i.e., address, phone, etc. must be in writing by the parent or guardian.  Students will not be released to anyone without proper identification and who are not listed on the student’s contact form.

PHYSICALS
All students must have a current physical on record in the health office in order to tryout or participate in sports.  If the current physical is due to expire during the season of the sport, please provide an updated copy as soon as possible. Sport physicals are valid for one calendar year only and must be submitted to the health office, not to the coach or athletic office.  The district no longer offers physicals over the summer. Physicals are given during the school year by the district’s Nurse Practitioner at no cost and by appointment.

All students not participating in a school sport, who are entering the seventh grade, must have a physical examination form completed within 12 months prior to the beginning of seventh grade and provided to the health office within thirty days after the student has started school.  Otherwise, our Nurse Practitioner will conduct the physical. 

All physicals done in the Health Office require a completed permission form, signed by a parent/guardian, which can be downloaded from the Health Office link on the school website or obtained in the Health Office.

All requests for student records must be in writing by the parent/guardian.  

Any student requesting a change in program must first meet with his/her guidance counselor and set up a parent conference to discuss the possibilities of such a change.  All requests for changes will be handled individually, based upon the review of guidance and the school administration. Including Alternative Lunch.

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
Your counselor is here to help you with any problems that you might have during the year.  Feel free to make an appointment to see him/her any time you feel it is necessary. Talking over problems is usually the first step in solving them. Make an appointment to see your counselor prior to first period, during study hall or after school.  

You are assigned a guidance counselor on an alphabetical basis:

Nicole Michaels, ext. 21514
6th Grade - A - D
7th Grade - A - C
8th Grade - A - C    

Linda Losquadro, ext. 21516
6th Grade - E - Ma
7th Grade - D - K
8th Grade - D - H

Jenna Korn, ext. 21513
6th Grade - Mc - Rem
7th Grade - L - P
8th Grade - I - Q    

Molly Iafrate, ext. 21517
6th Grade - Ren - Z
7th Grade - R - Z
8th Grade - R - Z
 

Guidance Secretaries: ext. 21511 or 21512

Parents are encouraged to contact their guidance counselors with concerns.

ACCELERATED PROGRAM
The Middle School offers Accelerated programs in math and science for 8th grade students that are eligible.  Should your child be eligible, they would take Living Environment: Biology and Algebra, both Regents level courses.  Upon successful completion of these courses your child earns one credit for each towards High School Graduation. 

HONOR ROLL ELIGIBILITY- GRADES 6, 7 & 8
An 85 average of all courses with no grade lower than 80.  A grade of incomplete will keep a student off the honor roll until the incomplete is made up and the average is recomputed.

HIGH HONOR ROLL ELIGIBILITY- GRADES 7 & 8
A 90 Average of all courses with no grade lower than 85.  A grade of incomplete will keep a student off the honor roll until the incomplete is made up and the average is recomputed.

GRADE CALCULATIONS
6th Grade -The final course average is the average of the 4 marking period grades. Each marking period grade counts as 25% of the final average. 

7th & 8th Grade - The final course average is the average of the 4 marking period grades. Each marking period grade counts as 25% of the final average.

7th Grade World Language - The final course average consists of the 4 marking period grades and the final exam score. Those five grades are averaged together to get the final exam grade. Each marking period and the final exam grade count as 20% of the final average.  

TRANSFERRING PROCEDURE
If you are transferring to another school, you should report to your guidance counselor prior to your last day of school.

On your last day of school, the counselor will issue you a check-out form which must be taken to the librarian, the nurse, and all of your teachers for their signatures.  These signatures indicate that the student chromebook and all books/materials belonging to the school have been returned.  You will be issued a transfer when this completed form is returned to the guidance office.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
The National Junior Honor Society is an honorary service club at the Middle School.  All members must uphold high standards of scholarship, character, citizenship, leadership and service. Initial scholarship eligibility for induction occurs after the 3rd quarter during 7th grade. A candidate must have achieved an average greater than or equal to 93.0% in English, math, social studies, science, and foreign language. Students who meet the initial scholarship requirement may apply for membership by filling out and submitting a student activity form and essay to the Faculty Council. The guidelines and application will be provided to them by the NJHS adviser. During the selection process students need to provide evidence of community service activities such as volunteering in scouting, food pantry, library programs and camps.  Examples of leadership roles could include team captains, elected officers in clubs or other organizations. Good citizenship can be demonstrated by awards and recognitions. After the Faculty Council reviews all applications and materials, selected students are formally inducted into the National Junior Honor Society in June.  Those 7th grade students inducted will serve during their 8th grade year.

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
Christie Berard - 21519 
Kerri LoPuzzo - 21552

School psychologists help children succeed academically, socially and emotionally.  They collaborate with educators, parents and other professionals to create safe, healthy and supportive learning environments for all students.
    
Some of the functions of the School Psychologist are:

• Evaluate eligibility for Special Services.
• Individual and group counseling
• Consultations with teachers, parents, other professionals and agencies. 
• Crisis and behavior management.

SOCIAL WORK SERVICES
The role of the school social worker is to work with and link students, families and/or the community together to achieve positive relationships and access desired services.  The Social Worker can provide crisis intervention, counseling services and support by linking students and families with school and community resources.  The Social Worker promotes the employment of productive conflict resolution approaches and can develop proactive plans for students with academic and behavior problems.  Services for families in Temporary Housing protected under McKinney-Vento legislation can also be arranged.  For information please contact:

Michelle Cestaro, LMSW:  District Social Worker
(845) 497-4000, Ext: 24524 
mcestaro@wcsdk12.org

If school is to be closed or have a delayed opening due to weather conditions, it will be announced on the district's website at www.wcsdk12.org. A ParentSquare message will be sent out. Parents are invited to create a ParentSquare account. In the event of school closing or delay, subscribers receive e-mail or mobile phone text messages immediately after the information is posted. To hear a telephone recorded message regarding school closings and delays, call 497-4000, Ext. 999. You should inform your child(ren) of what to do in the event you are not at home when school is dismissed early.

In an emergency, students who wish to use a phone may use the office telephone. A pass is needed to use the office phone during the day.  

Students will not be allowed to call home for forgotten items, and they will not be called from class for any items unless it affects their health or welfare.  

You will notice that most rooms in the building are provided with a telephone.  These phones are part of the intercom system and students are not to use them, except in emergencies.

Students are not allowed to use cell phones and other electronic devices in school unless administrative consent has been granted after a parent request and conference occurs. Any misuse of cell phones or electronic devices can result in disciplinary consequences
 

The athletic program is an important part of the overall educational process. Interscholastic competition provides students with the opportunity to improve personal fitness, self-discipline, and teamwork skills.  The program strives to be educational, instructional, and always keeps winning in the proper perspective.  Participation in the athletic program is a privilege granted to students who maintain scholarship and citizenship within the District’s rules and regulations.  There is a great deal of responsibility and commitment attached to participation in interscholastic athletics on the part of the athletes and their families.  Athletes are expected to put forth an honest effort to make the best personal contribution to their team at every game and practice.

All students in grades 7-12 are encouraged to try out for teams.  The usual grades for team levels are:  modified 7 & 8; frosh 9, JV 9 & 10; and varsity 11 & 12.  Of course, depending on the individual skill level of the athlete, there may be variations of the grade level of the student involved with a team.

There is great diversity among student athletes throughout New York State. The Athletic Placement Process was revised to assess a student’s physical, emotional maturation, physical fitness, and sport skill, so that a student may be placed at a level of competition that should result in increased opportunity, a fairer competitive environment, minimized risk and greater personal satisfaction. In districts that allow the program, safety must be of paramount importance.

The APP is to be used only when an individual athlete’s skills warrant moving to the commencement or intermediate sport competition level, and therefore, ideally, it should be initiated by the district’s physical education director and/or athletic director and physical education staff, who recognize the student’s skill. 

All other announcements for the testing date for each season will be made in school and on the Middle School and athletic web pages.   

All athletes must have a physical examination on file prior to the first try out day. Physical examinations are made available at no cost to the family each year.  Announcements of team meetings, tryouts and physical examination dates are normally made in the physical education classes, over the loud-speaker, and on the Athletic Department’s web page.  

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY POLICY
Students must be in attendance for all classes for the entire school day in order to participate in team practices, athletic games, or club meetings.  Students who are not present in school or those who come to school late without proper documentation will not be able to participate in team or club activities. Students arriving to school late must report directly to the Attendance office and present a legal note from a parent/guardian or doctor to be able to participate in any after school events. Eligibility to remain on a sports team or club depends on successful academic performance.  Students must be passing all subjects to continue to participate with the team or club. At the time of the 5 week progress report, a student failing one or more courses will be placed on academic probation.  Academic probation will last for a period of 5 weeks. Faculty and staff will continue to offer the student support in bringing up their grades.  Failure of one or more courses at the end of the marking period will result in the student being declared ineligible to participate.

2026-2027 Teams

Fall: Game Day Cheerleading (V, JV); Cross Country (V, M); Football (V, JV, M); Boys Soccer (V, JV, M); Girls Soccer (V, JV, M); Girls Swimming/Diving (V); Girls Tennis (V, JV); Volleyball (V, JV, M); Boys Golf (V)

Winter: Boys Basketball (V, JV, F, M); Girls Basketball (V, JV, M); Competitive Cheerleading (V, JV); Indoor Track (V); Boys Swimming/Diving (V); Wrestling (V, JV, M); Unified Basketball (V)

Spring: Baseball (V, JV, M); Girls Golf (V); Boys Lacrosse (V, JV, M); Girls Lacrosse (V, JV, M); Softball (V, JV, M); Outdoor Track (V, M); Boys Tennis (V, JV); Girls Flag Football (V)

Athletic Program Starting Dates 2026-2027
Online registration and a valid physical are required. Registration will open 30 days prior to the season start date listed below.

Registration when open can be found here: https://hello.students.arbitersports.com/

Fall Sports
Varsity & JV Football Only — Aug. 17 Varsity & JV — Aug. 17 Modified — Sep. 2

Winter Sports
Varsity, JV, Frosh — Nov. 16 Modified — Nov. 23

Spring Sports
Varsity — March 15 Modified — March 22

In addition, intramural activities/sports may be available throughout the year.

Dances are sponsored by the Middle School PTO, and will be announced in advance of the dance date. Please observe the following regarding these dances:

1. Times: 7:00-9:00 p.m. Please make arrangements before the dance for a ride home after the dance. 
2. These dances are restricted to students currently enrolled at the Washingtonville Middle School only. High school, private school, or elementary school students will not be admitted.
3. Dress Code: Unless the dance is a theme dance, rules for appropriate school dress on a regular school day also apply to the dance. Jackets must always be removed and placed in the cafeteria.
4. Appropriate Behavior: All rules governing school discipline also apply to school dances.  Students who do not behave appropriately may be restricted from the dance.
5. Students are not permitted to use their lockers before, during, or after the dance.
6. There are two basic areas of activity for dances: cafeteria or the gym.  Students are reminded to remain in these two areas only.
7. All drinks and snacks must remain in the cafeteria. 
8. In case of a cancellation due to the weather, parents will be notified through ParentSquare messaging.
9. Students are not permitted to leave the dance before it ends unless a parent/guardian escorts them.
10. Students absent from school on the day of the dance will not be permitted to attend.  In addition, students who have disciplinary referrals prior to the dance should check the dance restriction list in the assistant principal’s office on the day of the dance. Students whose names appear on the list are not eligible to attend.
11. Students may be restricted from a dance for any disciplinary issues occurring any time prior to the dance.
12. Students should be dropped off in front of the building and picked up on the west side of the building by the tennis courts.

Students are welcome to bring book bags and backpacks to school. However, during the change of period, they are not allowed to carry them in the hallway to classes unless they are clear/see through. Students are encouraged to store their book bags in their lockers. They will be provided time to visit their lockers to obtain materials during the school day.

Personal electronic devices (Tablets, Laptops) are not allowed in school.

Cell phones are also not allowed in school. If a student does bring a cell phone to school, it should be turned off and stored in a locked locker during school hours.

The school is under no obligation to search for items that are lost or stolen that do not relate to instruction or class activity.

Teachers may also request additional supplies specific to their classes. Those items will be included in the team letters sent home in August.

General Supplies

• Pens and pencils
• Yellow highlighter
• Loose-leaf paper
• Pocket folders
• Weekly planner (optional)
• Colored pencils
• Sturdy lanyard
• Clear ID protector

Additional Information

Washingtonville Middle School will be using a digital hall pass system that requires students to carry their student ID. Students should bring a sturdy lanyard and a clear ID protector to keep their ID accessible throughout the school day.

If students wish to attend the breakfast program, they should report to Cafe A immediately from their bus or being dropped off at school.

The Washingtonville Central School District recognizes the important contribution that volunteers make to the educational and social environment in the schools of the District and to the students’ educational experience.  Volunteers must, however, be aware of the important privacy right afforded to students by law and regulation, and agree to respect such rights to the extent required by such law and regulation.  Therefore, every individual who volunteers in the schools of the District must agree to the following:
    To respect the privacy rights of the students by not disclosing to any individual and not discussing with other individuals, including family members, information regarding a specific student or students, including but not limited to:

• a student’s progress in school (good grades, bad grades in a course or even on a test);
• a student’s involvement in any incident in school or at a school activity (e.g., disciplinary, accident)
• a student’s status as a student with a disability;
• a student’s health or other problems, including
• whether or not the student takes medication or requires treatment;
• a student’s testing modifications given to a student
• a student’s or student documentation, record, or relating to a student or students.
   

The Washingtonville Central School District, 52 West Main Street, Washingtonville, NY 10992, does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, weight, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, sexual orientation, gender or handicap in the educational programs or activities which it operates, and it is required by the Title VI, Title IX and Section 504 of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and 1973 not to discriminate in such a manner.

This policy of non-discrimination includes the following areas: recruitment and appointment of employees; employment pay and benefits; counseling services for students; access by students to educational programs, course offerings and student activities.

Mrs. Lynn Imperato, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, is responsible for the coordination of activities relating to Title VI and Title IX.

Dr. Stephanie Bryan, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, is responsible for the coordination of activities relating to Section 504.    

These officials will provide information, including complaint procedures to any student, parent, or employee who feels that his or her rights under Title VI, Title IX and/or Section 504 may have been violated by the District or its officials.

The Washingtonville School District believes in the right of each child between the ages of 5 and 21 years, or until the child receives a high school diploma, whichever comes first, to receive a free and appropriate education.  All students in this State between the ages of 6 and the close of the school year in which he or she turns 16, are required by law to regularly attend school, either in the public schools, non-public schools that are approved for equivalency of instruction by the appropriate school authorities, or in the home in accordance with the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education.
    
The right to a free public school education extends to all students, including those with disabilities.  However, this right is not unconditional.  As long as due process of law requirements are met, a student may be removed from the classroom, suspended temporarily, or suspended permanently from school.  Only students within the compulsory education ages (6 years through the school year in which they turn 16) are entitled to alternative, equivalent instruction following suspension.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS
Students attend school so that they may develop to their fullest potential.  With this in mind, each student is expected to:

• Accept responsibility for his/her actions.
• Respect the rights of others, including his/her right to secure an education in an environment that is orderly and disciplined.
• Attend school on a regular and punctual basis
• Complete class assignments and other school responsibilities by established deadlines.
• Show evidence of appropriate progress toward meeting course and/or diploma requirements.
• Respect school property such as locker, desks, books etc., and help to keep it free from damage.
• Obey school regulations and rules made by school authorities.
• Recognize that teachers assume the role of a surrogate parent in matters of behavior and discipline when at school, as well as during school sponsored activities.
• Contribute toward establishing and maintaining an atmosphere that generates mutual respect and dignity for all.
  • Become familiar with this code and seek interpretation of parts not understood.
  • Discourage inappropriate behavior of other students and report the incidents to the administration.
  • Give his or her full name or produce an identification card when requested by any staff member.

RIGHTS OF STUDENTS
Education in a free society demands that students be aware of their rights and learn to exercise them responsibly.  To this end, students have a right:

• To be provided with an education that is intellectually challenging and relevant to demands of the 21st century.
• To learn in an environment free from interruption, harassment, discrimination, intimidation and fear.
• To participate in District activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color, creed, national origin,religion, religious organizations, weight, gender, disability or sexual orientation.                                                   
• To be informed of all school rules.
• To be guided by a discipline policy, which is fairly and consistently implemented.  

In addition to the above, students in the Washingtonville Central School District are afforded the following rights:  student expression, student activities, student government, student clubs and other student organizations, privacy rights (search and seizure), schooling for pregnant students, and student grievances and complaints.  Further explanations of these rights can be found in the Washingtonville Central School District Code of Conduct. 
 

The student planner can be located on the school website. Go to the "students" tab on the blue bar. Select "student planner" on the drop down menu.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

2026-2027 Discipline Grid

All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting.

The purpose of the dress code for students is to provide guidelines for appropriate attire to be worn to school. The Washingtonville Central School District Student Dress Code prioritizes the comfort and safety of each student and will not reinforce stereotypes, increase marginalization, or create a hostile learning environment for any student. Students should be able to express themselves through dress with as much freedom as possible to express their individuality within our dress guidelines, while maintaining safety and respect for our community. Since fashion trends may emerge that are not specifically "covered" in the policy, the administration reserves the right to amend the policy when the need arises. The following is a set of guidelines that describes appropriate school attire. The guidelines are illustrative and do not enumerate every item that may be deemed inappropriate. We ask you to use it as a basis to form good judgments about the appropriateness of student attire.

A student's dress, grooming, and appearance shall:

• Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.
• Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be allowed.
• Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous, or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, religious practice, weight, creed, national origin, ethnic group, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
• Not promote and/or endorse the use of alcohol, marijuana, or other illegal drugs or related paraphernalia and/or encourage illegal or violent activities.
• Not wear garments that expose a student's chest, midriff, undergarments, or buttocks.

Students who do not adhere to this policy will be addressed privately and will be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item, and if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including in-school suspension for the day. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including out of school suspension. The school administration appreciates your support and understanding.
 

School should be a safe and supportive environment where all students can learn and focus, rather than be scared for their physical safety or have their education unreasonably or substantially interfered with and not want to come to school because of being discriminated against or treated unfairly. The Dignity Act prohibits the harassment and discrimination of students by students and by school personnel. This harassment and discrimination includes, but is not limited to, conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse based on a person's actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex.

If you experience or witness harassment and/or discrimination, you can complete a complaint form (found in the main office and on the MS home page) or report the incident to any staff member. All such reports will be forwarded to the Building Level Dignity Act Coordinator, Ashira Wilson, Ext. 21506. Complaints will be investigated so that remediation, interventions, and possible disciplinary actions can be taken.

Staff members will participate in in-service education programs to ensure effective implementation and to help promote a safe and supportive school climate while discouraging, among other things, discrimination or harassment against students by students and/or school employees, and including safe and supportive school climate concepts such as respect and tolerance for all in the curriculum and classroom.

The Middle School sponsors and supports the P.B.I.S. (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) program that reinforces the goals of D.A.S.A.
 

TEACHER DETENTION A teacher may detain students after school for lateness to class or cutting class. Teachers may also detain students for purposes of completing homework assignments, for making up tests/quizzes, or for other reasons having to do with deficiencies in classroom work or behavior. The teacher will decide on the length of the detention penalty. Teachers should give students and parents 24 hours notice when assigning teacher detention.

CENTRAL DETENTION (assigned by an Administrator) Central detention will be held three days per week for students who violate regulations of the school. Teacher detention has precedence over central detention; therefore, if a student has been assigned detention by a teacher and by the assistant principal, he/she will report to the teacher first. No student, because of his/her membership or participation in a club, sport, student activity, or employment after school, is exempt from either teacher or central detention. Failure to attend central detention will result in a more severe disciplinary action, which could result in ISS. Central detention is from 2:11-3:30 pm.

IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION When students are assigned to "In-School Suspension," they will report directly to the ISS room at the beginning of the day. Books and materials should be taken with him/her to this room. Classroom teachers of students assigned to ISS are to provide mandatory work. The teacher in charge of the ISS room will be responsible for placing finished work in the appropriate area. Rules and regulations of the ISS room must be abided by; and infraction thereof will be regarded in a most serious manner. In-school suspension is a disciplinary action, which can be given to a student only by an administrator. The following procedure will be followed in relation to ISS.

Assignment to ISS:

1. The Administrator will instruct the student to bring proper materials to ISS such as notebooks, textbooks, pen/pencil, and any other classroom related materials.
2. If a student's absence from school is authorized, then that student must make up the day in ISS the next school day that he/she is in attendance. If the student's absence is unauthorized, two days of ISS or out-of-school suspension may be assigned.
3. Students will serve ISS according to the regular school schedule. This suspension is for the days of instruction and in the case of emergency or snow days, the return date will be moved to accommodate these days.
4. No personal electronic devices allowed: cell phones, iPods, MP3 or games of any sort. No food or drinks are permitted.

Rules for the ISS Room:

1. Students will work on all assignments given to them by their team teachers or the ISS teacher. Students may not be idle or sleep while in ISS.
2. Students will not talk or be disruptive in ISS; disruptive behavior will result in further disciplinary action, including out of school suspension.
3. Students will not leave the ISS room without approval from an administrator.
4. If the student comes late to school, he/she will make up those periods the next day.

OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION Suspension from school is a very serious penalty which may be imposed only upon students who are insubordinate, disorderly, violent or disruptive, or whose conduct endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others. The Board of Education retains its authority to suspend students but places primary responsibility for the suspension of students with the superintendent and the building principal.

SCHOOL WIDE PASS RESTRICTION A student can receive school wide pass restriction for his/her poor conduct. The appropriate faculty/staff will be notified. The length of this restriction will be appropriate to the misconduct.
 

Overview
The Washingtonville Central School District (WCSD) provides technology resources to support teaching, learning, research, and communication. All student use of WCSD technology — including the District Computer System (DCS), networks, digital platforms, devices, and online tools — must comply with Board of Education Policies 7315 and 7315R, as well as all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Use of WCSD technology is a privilege, not a right. Students are expected to demonstrate responsible behavior, digital citizenship, and ethical conduct in all technology-related activities. These expectations apply whether students are using District-owned or personal devices, on or off school property.

Student Responsibilities Each student is individually accountable for their use of WCSD technology resources. By using any WCSD device, network, or platform, students agree to the following:

Account and Password Security

• I will protect my account credentials and never share my password.
• I will not attempt to access another individual's account or impersonate another user.
• I will log off or lock my account when not actively using a device.

Respectful Communication

• I will use respectful language in all online communications (emails, chats, comments, posts).
• I will not use profanity, offensive language, hate speech, or engage in harassment or cyberbullying.

Appropriate Content and Usage

• I will not access, share, or create content that is obscene, violent, discriminatory, or otherwise inappropriate.
• I will not search for or download illegal, pirated, or copyrighted materials without proper authorization.
• I will not access or attempt to access social media or entertainment platforms unless explicitly allowed for educational purposes.

Use of Devices

• I will care for any WCSD-issued device (e.g., Chromebook) and adhere to all expectations outlined in the Chromebook Information Handbook.
• I will not attempt to bypass internet filters, install unauthorized software, or modify system configurations.
• I will only use personal electronic devices on school grounds with the permission of staff and in accordance with Policy 7315.

Academic Integrity

• I will not use technology to cheat, plagiarize, or assist others in academic dishonesty.
• I will properly credit sources when completing digital assignments or projects.

Privacy and Safety

• I will not share personal information (e.g., home address, phone number) online.
• I will not post or share photos or videos of students or staff without consent.
• I will report any inappropriate behavior, threats, or suspected breaches of privacy or safety to a teacher or administrator immediately.

Security and System Integrity Students must notify a teacher or a WCSD staff member if they identify a security issue or system problem. Students must not:

• Demonstrate the issue to others.
• Attempt to bypass security protocols.
• Attempt to access administrative privileges.
• Use technology in a way that disrupts the learning environment or compromises network operations.

Sanctions for Violations Violations of this policy may result in:

• Suspension or revocation of access to WCSD technology resources.
• School disciplinary action in accordance with the District Code of Conduct.
• Referral to law enforcement where required.

No Expectation of Privacy All digital activity conducted through WCSD devices and systems is subject to monitoring and review. Students should have no expectation of privacy when using WCSD technology resources.

References to Board of Education Policies

• Policy 5672 & 5672R — Information Security Breach and Notification and Regulations
• Policy 7315 & 7315R — Student Acceptable Use Policy and Regulations
• Policy 8350 — Use of Copyrighted Materials
• Policy 8270 — Instructional Technology
• Policy 8271 — The Children's Internet Protection Act: Internet Content Filtering/Safety Policy
   

What is PBIS? Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports

PBIS is a framework or approach for assisting school personnel in adopting and organizing evidence-based behavioral interventions into an integrated continuum that enhances academic and social behavior outcomes for all students. PBIS is based on principles of applied behavior analysis and the prevention approach and values of positive behavior support.

PBIS is a prevention-oriented way for school personnel to (a) organize evidence-based practices, (b) improve their implementation of those practices, and (c) maximize academic and social behavior outcomes for students.

PBIS supports the success of ALL students. At WMS we will establish organizational supports and systems that give school personnel the capacity to use effective interventions accurately and successfully.

Here at WMS we use the acronym PRIDE to represent characteristics that we are looking for in our students. We then set behavioral expectations around these characteristics and acknowledge those students that meet those expectations. Students are acknowledged for their positive behavior by being given a Wizard Pride ticket, and that ticket puts them in a drawing to win prizes.

PRIDE stands for:

Perseverance — continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failures or opposition. Not giving up.

Respect — a positive feeling or action shown towards someone or something considered important, or held in high esteem or regard. It conveys a sense of admiration for good or valuable qualities. Exhibiting care or concern for someone's needs or feelings.

Integrity — the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. It is a personal choice to hold one's self to consistent standards.

Discipline — the ability you have to control and motivate yourself, stay on track and do what is right.

Excellence — striving to do and be your very best every day.