South Edgecombe Middle School

2016-2017
Teacher Handbook

Mrs. Amy Pearce Mrs. Mary Bridgers

Principal Assistant Principal

Mrs. Kimberly Hampton

School Counselor

Mrs. Angel Taylor Mrs. Yvette Spells

Bookkeeping/Payroll Data Manager

230 Pinetops-Crisp Road

Pinetops, NC 27864
Phone: (252) 827-5083
Fax: (252) 827-2811

Experience Excellence....Experience South Edgecombe

ACCIDENTS
When a student, under the teachers supervision, has an accident, the teacher must fill out an accident
report. This also includes athletes hurt during practices or games in all sports. All accident reports
should be turned in to the main office (the day of the accident). Ensure a first responder as checks the
student.

AFTERNOON BUS DISMISSAL/ DUTY

All teachers are to escort students to the bus parking lot or carpool line.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Sponsors of after school activities (clubs, athletics, etc.) are to establish and review guidelines and
procedures for students under your supervision. Guidelines should include conduct, designated areas
(out of place), pick up times for parents, etc Make students aware that after school activities are
governed by the Student Code of Conduct. Sponsors are required to remain on campus until the last
student has been picked up.
ASSEMBLIES
At all times a students behavior should be refined and courteous. An indication of the cultural level
of a school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each
student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole.
Unacceptable conduct includes whistling, uncalled for clapping, boisterousness, and talking during a
program. Disciplinary action should be taken to correct unacceptable behavior.
For each assembly, teachers are asked to have their students enter in an orderly manner. Teachers
are required to sit with their students and monitor their behavior. All teachers are expected to
attend assemblies unless excused by an administrator.
ATHLETICS
Interscholastic athletics have a vital place in the total educational program at South Edgecombe
Middle School when they are effectively planned, organized, administered, supervised, and evaluated.
Through school athletics, many of the interests and needs of young people can better be served than
through any other channel.
Game Duties
1. All teachers are expected to provide supervision at assigned ball games.
2. Game admission - $3.00 (students); $5.00 (adults)
3. Athletic Director will set up the concession stand.
4. Athletic Director will pick up the gate and concession moneyboxes as well as checks
for the officials.
5. The money will be tallied and all coins rolled by the teachers at the end of each
game. The moneybags will be given to the principal or his designee.
6. Should a conflict arise, teachers are responsible for finding a replacement and
notifying Athletic Director.
7. If a game is rescheduled, teachers will work the new date.

ATTENDANCE/ SCHOOL EMPLOYEES

Leave policies have been established for school employees and can be found in the Edgecombe County
Schools Administrative Handbook, a copy of which is kept in the library and the principals office. The
policy manual is available online.
ABSENCES
Requests for annual leave, professional leave, personal leave, or leave without pay must be approved
by the principal and should be submitted five working days in advance, using the proper forms. This
form is available to you in the front office. Remember, ten- month instructional staff members may
not take annual leave on days when students are in school.

Should the situation arise for you to need sick leave, please let the Angel Taylor know as soon as
possible. The guidelines below apply to sick leave requests:

1. If you know in advance that you will need sick leave for doctors appointments, hospital care,
etc., let Angel Taylor know ahead of time and key the leave request in AESOP.
2. Please make every attempt to schedule doctors appointments after school hours. This is not
always possible. If you have an appointment during the day, you should plan to use either a
half-day or a whole day of sick leave.
3. When the need arises for you to be absent due to illness, you will enter a sub
request AESOP and email Angel Taylor, Amy Pearce, and Mary Bridgers.

LEAVES
Leaves will be granted in accordance with any State and local Board of Education policies and/or
administrative procedures. Certified employees are eligible for the following types of leave in
accordance with State and local policies: Annual/Vacation Leave, Civil and Emergency Leave (Jury
Duty), Military Leave, Personal Leave, Professional Leave, Religious Leave, Sick Leave, Family Leave,
Maternity Leave, Voluntary Shared Leave and a Leave of Absence. These leaves are identified in the
Edgecombe County Policy Manual.

FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT

In accordance with the regulations established by the United States Department of Labor codified at
Title 29, Part 825 of the Code of Federal Regulations and pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave
Act of 1993 (The Act), the Edgecombe County Schools will provide to employees eligible under the
Act reasonable leave for the employees own serious health condition or for the birth of the employees
child, the placement of a child with the employee for adoption or foster care, or for the care of a child,
spouse, or parent who has a serious health condition. General provisions are listed in the Edgecombe
County Policy Manual.

TEACHER PREGNANCY
Whenever possible, in the case of temporary disability connected with maternity, employees will give
notice of plans to take sick leave as far in advance as possible. This will help to facilitate the
continuation of educational programs and/ or services during their absence .

VOLUNTARY SHARED LEAVE

The purpose of voluntary shared leave is to provide economic relief for employees who, by reason of
prolonged absence caused by serious medical conditions, are likely to suffer financial hardship. It is
recognized that fellow employees may wish to voluntarily donate some of their earned leave so as to
provide assistance to a fellow employee. This policy provides an opportunity for employees to assist
another affected by a medical condition that requires absence from duty for a prolonged period of
time resulting in possible loss of income due to the lack of accumulated leave.
The donation of leave by an employee is to be communicated to the Superintendent by a letter,
memorandum, or form signed and dated by the employee.
Participation in this policy is on a voluntary basis. The donating employee may not receive
compensation in any form for the donation leave. Any employee found guilty of giving or receiving
compensation may be subject to dismissal as outlined in G.S. 115C-325.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE
An employee may be granted a leave of absence (with or without pay) in addition to those set forth in
the North Carolina State Board of Education Regulations for such period as may be granted in the
discretion of the Superintendent and in accordance with such rules and regulations that may be
adopted by the Board.
In considering such leaves, the Superintendent and Board will give due and proper consideration to
the welfare of the education programs and/or services and the employee.

TARDINESS
The administration at South Edgecombe Middle School has set the working hours for each employee
and each of you are under contract to adhere to these hours. Staff hours are 8:00 a.m. until 4:00
p.m. for certified staff, and from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. for classified staff. It is
understood that situations arise where tardiness cannot be avoided. During the 2016-17 school year
undue and excessive tardiness will be dealt with first, with a conference with the principal, and
secondly, if the problem does not improve, through the personnel office of the school system.

ATTENDANCE POLICY (Students)

Attendance: A students attendance record shall be a major factor in reaching promotion decisions. In
the event that a students retention is appealed, the students attendance record shall be a major
factor in the appeals process, except in extenuating circumstances.
a. Schools are communities of learners that provide our children experiences that are
unique and essential to their intellectual, social, and emotional development. There is
no substitute for participation within this community. Attendance strongly impacts
academic performance, growth, and success.
b. Students are expected to attend school for the 185 days and 1000 hours offered by each
school annually.
c. Excessive tardiness may be accumulated and treated as absences. Tardiness is defined
as not being present when homeroom or academic classes begin or end. Three tardies
are equivalent to one absence. Tardies may not be used in counting unlawful absences
for prosecution of the parent.
d. Each school shall establish a site-based School Attendance Committee to meet at least
quarterly to review the attendance statistics of the school and make recommendations
for improved attendance where needed. This committee should also discuss specific
attendance problems and attempt to help the student and family overcome problems
impeding good attendance. South Edgecombes committee members are Yvette Spells,
Kimberly Hampton, Shannon Hamm, Mary Bridgers and Amy Pearce.
UNLAWFUL/ UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
Students between the ages of seven and sixteen, and all other students who are entitled to attend
public school and who have enrolled in a public school, shall have his/ her nonattendance excused/
excused on the same basis as children of compulsory attendance age. Unlawful absence is defined as:
1. A students willful absence from school with or with out the knowledge of the parent, or
2. A students absence from school for any reason other than those listed under Lawful/ Excused
Absences.
Parents who refuse to comply with the health regulations of a community, such as compulsory
vaccination, thereby causing a student to be excluded from the school, or parents who permit a
student to stay at home or to be employed in any way contrary to the Child Welfare Law (Chapter 110
of the General Statutes), shall be responsible for the nonattendance of the student.

The principal of a school, with prior approval of the Superintendent, shall have the authority to
suspend for periods of time in excess of ten days but not exceeding the time remaining in the school
year, any student who willfully violates the policies of conduct established by the local board of
education (GS 115C-391).

A local board of education may, upon recommendation of the principal and Superintendent, expel any
student fourteen years of age or older who has been convicted of a felony and where continued
presence in the school constitutes a clear threat to the safety and health of other students or
employees (GS 115-391).

In the event that a child with special needs exhibits behavior which, if the child were not a child with
special needs could result in the suspension or expulsion of the child from school for a period of more
than ten days or for consecutive periods that total more than ten days, the local education agency shall
require a multidisciplinary team to promptly review the evaluation already completed for the child
and conduct any additional evaluations necessary to determine if the behavior is caused by the childs
special needs. Such evaluations shall include determining (1) whether the child is presently receiving
appropriate education, and (2) whether medication is needed or present medication is appropriate. If
the evaluation establishes no such relationship between the behavior and the special needs, the local
education agency may initiate it normal disciplinary procedures. (GS 115C-112)

A student shall be recorded present in school when participating in any disciplinary techniques
grouped under the term in-school suspension.

A student suspended from school shall neither be recorded with a lawful or unlawful absence.

The principal may reinstate a student before the suspension period ends if it is evident that the
student may be helped by this action. A reinstatement should be allowed when the principal deems it
to be in the students best interest.

COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE REPORT

It is the responsibility of the homeroom teacher to notify the parent of student absences. The teacher
should determine the nature of the absence and its lawfulness as defined by State Board guidelines.
1. After the third and sixth, excused or unexcused, teachers are required to notify
the parent by phone or letter. The date and time of the contact with the parent is
to be noted, and/or when several attempts are made to reach a parent, each attempt
to contact the parent should be noted and recorded. Submit a copy to Mrs. Hamtpon and Mrs.
Spells
 2. On the third unexcused absence, the parent is to be notified by letter that there may have
been violations of GS 115C-378.

3. After the sixth unexcused absence, the teacher is to notify the principal who will send a
certified letter to the parent and contact the attendance counselor.

4. On the tenth unexcused absence, notify the principal. The principal will notify the
attendance counselor, Superintendent and the district attorney to request notification to the
parents of intent to prosecute should absences continue.

5. For continued absences, the principal is required to seek causes, notify parents, and issue
warrants for parents and undisciplined children as appropriate.

LOCAL ATTENDANCE REQUIRMENTS (Make-up work)

All Edgecombe County Schools staff members will strive to understand their students as individuals
and will endeavor to meet the needs of all students. In a team effort to maintain high standards in
attendance and academics, all teachers, administrators, and support personnel will attempt to define
and resolve personal, social, and academic problems that hinder attendance.

In addition to those rules defined by the State Board of Education, the Edgecombe County Board
established the following local regulations, which address attendance.

1. Field trips or similar trips sponsored by the school do not count as absent days.

2. Students will be allowed two days for each day they are absent to make up work (following
excused absences). The days will begin on the day following the first day they are back at
school. There is no requirement to provide make-up for unexcused absences. Make ups
must be allowed for major quarterly or semester tests when the absence was caused by a
short-term suspension from school.

3. Preparation of lessons in advance of planned excused absences (for trips, extended hospital
stays, etc.) may create problems for teachers. Teachers are not required to give advanced
lessons for more than three days, and should follow the guidelines for extended excused
absences.

Direct contact with a classroom teacher should be considered an essential component

of good classroom instruction and make-up work should never be able to fully
substitute for this contact. When preparing make-up assignments for absent students, parents
should plan for additional instruction beyond the school day to assure comprehension.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE
In order to receive a perfect attendance certificate a student must be present all day, everyday that
school is in session. (Exception would be a late bus.) If a student is tardy or leaves school early, the
student is not eligible for a perfect attendance certificate.

BENEFIT VENDORS
Employees should not make appointments with representatives, who handle their private policies, to
meet with them at their place of employment. This always leads to representatives talking with other
employees. There should be no person in your school offering any type of benefits to employees
unless they have a letter of approval from the superintendent.
BLOOD BORNE PATHOGENS
It will be the duty of each employee to familiarize him or herself with the provisions of the Blood
Borne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan found in the Edgecombe County Policy Manual.
Personal protective equipment (gloves) is available for all personnel. If you need additional
equipment, contact the principal. Board Policy 5680.1

BOOKKEEPING
All school money is to be turned in to the school secretary by 1:00 pm daily. When turning in
money, you must have your receipt book, coins rolled and money counted. Receipt books must be
signed in and out by the teacher.
DAILY DEPOSITS
Teachers should turn in money to the secretary on the same day that the students
receipt is dated. This is a state requirement!!! Do not hold any money. You will receipt
money turned in to the office by the close of the business day. All receipts should be written and
signed by teachers only.
The bookkeeper is required to notify the principal immediately when any teacher fails to submit
money on a daily basis. The principal will submit a written reprimand to the teacher. After the second
reprimand, the teacher will be cited for insubordination.
DO NOT SEND MONEY TO THE OFFICE BY STUDENTS. Teachers should turn in money directly to
the secretary (Angel Taylor). Teachers are responsible for money until the secretary gives a receipt to
them.
All monies will be receipted when they are brought to the office to insure a correct count. Make sure
you sign your receipt book(s) [in and out], and initial the Receipt Book Log.
Teachers should use one receipt book completely before starting on a second book. When a receipt
book has been closed out, it should be turned in to the office. Teachers should not share receipt books
with anyone. Tear out the white sheet and leave the yellow sheet in the book. If you void a receipt,
you must have the white copy. Be sure to staple the white copy to the yellow copy.
Do not remove the office receipts from your receipt book.
CHECKS
If you need to have a check written, please notify Angel Taylor, the secretary in
advance. No check will be written without prior approval from Mrs. Pearce. All
expenditures of school funds must be verified by an invoice and/or purchase order. Receipts for
purchases made by employees must include only those purchases for which the purchase order is
written. Other receipts will not be accepted. Purchases must be made where the school has a charge
account. Reimbursements cannot be made to individual employees.
Do not make any purchases for reimbursement without prior approval of the principal. (See:
SCHOOL PURCHASES)

CHILD NUTRITION
Free Lunch and Breakfast Program
ECPS now features a new national school lunch and breakfast program whereby all students will eat
free lunch and breakfast. The traditional school meal applications have been eliminated.
CHILD ABUSE
The North Carolina Child Abuse Reporting Law of 1971 requires any person who has reasonable
cause to suspect that any child is abused or neglected will report the case of such abuse to the director
of Social Services of the county, where the child resides or is found.
See Duty of All School Personnel to Report Child Abuse or Neglect (NCGen.Stat.115c-400)

CLEANLINESS OF THE BUILDING AND CAMPUS

Students and teachers are responsible for the general appearance and cleanliness of their area. The
custodians will vacuum the areas. Each building will bear responsibility for its appearance. Keep
your area neat. Your eye will tell you when you need to clean up, but the last few minutes of the day
should be used with all students helping to tidy up. At the conclusion of each instructional activity,
teachers and students should take the responsibility of leaving the particular area clean.
The care of the carpet depends largely upon the teachers. As much as possible, make sure that gum,
loose staples, paper clips and other metal objects are not left on carpet surfaces. Any person noticing
undue wear on the carpet is asked to notify the administration immediately. Please notify the
administration if you notice strings or spots where the carpet is raveling as soon as possible.
Encourage students to use doormats to clean their feet prior to entering the building.
Teach character education (citizenship) at all times. Help keep the grounds clean.
Your room represents you! We should all work together to keep the school clean. Below is a list of
items with which you and your students can assist.

1. Begin the very first day of school and encourage cleanliness at all times.
2. Have students pick up all books and paper at the end of each day.
3. Encourage students to keep our bathrooms clean. Teachers should check the bathrooms from
time to time. In grades 6 - 8, a teacher should escort the students to the bathroom.
4. Sinks should be cleaned throughout the day as necessary.
5. Teachers should help keep the lounge area clean and neat. Please dispose of cans, paper and
food items properly.
6. Teachers should leave the staff bathrooms clean for each use. Please notify the office if a need
arises for hand tissues or toilet paper in the lounge bathroom.
7. Teachers and students can help with our carpet by:
a. Cleaning up spills quickly.
b. Cutting loose strings of carpet.
c. Making sure chairs are not tearing the carpet.
d. Making sure shoes are clean before entering the building.
8. Teachers should clean their dry erase board(s) daily, unless work needs to remain for the
following day.
9. Staff Bathrooms
COMMUNICATIONS WITHIN THE SCHOOL
The majority of communications will be on a one-to-one basis or by use of email. Use of the Intercom
disrupts classes and will be used only when necessary.
All announcements should be submitted to the secretary in writing using the announcement form.
Announcements will be made daily at 8:35 am and in the afternoon when needed.
Faculty meetings will be held on 1st and 3rd Tuesday.
Committees will meet on the 4th Tuesday. One person will maintain a note file of meetings and load
them to the Google Drive.
SIT will meet on the 2nd Tuesday.
Grade level meetings (PLCs) will be held weekly on Mondays during planning.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Believing that other forms of discipline are more appropriate with children of all ages, the Edgecombe
County Board of Education prohibits the use of corporal punishment. No principal, assistant
principal, teacher, substitute teacher, or any other school employee, or volunteer may use corporal
punishment to discipline any student. Corporal punishment is considered all forms of physical
punishment including, but not limited to, spanking, paddling, or slapping.
School personnel may use reasonable force to control behavior or to remove a person from the scene
in these situations when necessary:
1. To quell a disturbance threatening injury to self or to others
2. To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects on the person, or within the
control of the student.
3. For self defense
4. For protection of persons or property

Legal References: GS. 115C-390 AND 115C 391 (a)

DEPENDENT CHILDREN DURING WORKING HOURS

No employee, certified or non-certified, will bring a dependent child to the premises of his/her
employment for the purpose of childcare during the work hours of his/ her employment.

DRESS CODE FOR SCHOOL EMPLOYEES

The way we look to parents and other members of the community does make a difference. Like it or
not, it is a part of public relations.

It is not the intention of the administration to interfere with your right for determining your style,
fashion, or your taste in clothes. However, you are expected to dress in a professional manner.
Educators have always had a concern about being treated as professionals. We should be willing to
dress professionally.

Appropriate dress is also expected on staff planning days. Our school is climate controlled, and that
makes a great difference. (Edgecombe County Policy 5950)
DUPLICATION OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIALS
The Edgecombe County Board of Education does not sanction any illegal duplication of materials.
Any person who duplicates materials unlawfully does so at his own person risk. All personnel
employed by the Edgecombe County Board of Education shall be expected to comply with the
copyright laws and its policy in the duplication of materials for education purposes. (Edgecombe
County Policy 4752)

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

The Edgecombe County Board of Education believes in and supports equal opportunities for all its
students. No student will, on the basis of age, color, creed, handicap, national origin, race, religion,
sex, economic or social condition, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
subjected to discrimination under any educational policy, program, or activity.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Edgecombe County Board of Education provides equal opportunities for employment of all
people regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, handicap, sex or age.

EQUIPMENT
Mrs. McElwee will oversee the Inventory Management System. Edgecombe County requires that an
Annual Report be completed at each school annually, so it is important equipment be processed
correctly. New media and new equipment should be added to our schools inventory in the Inventory
Catalog.

REPAIRS AND DISCARDS:

Equipment needing repair should be sent to the Media Center with a specific note indicating the
problem. Many times just having another person check the problem may be all thats needed.

Teacher will key technology work orders (ECPS website link). Other repairs should be reported in
writing to the principal and Angel Taylor. Work orders will then be sent.

All discards and transfer of media materials and equipment are to be processed through the Media
Center and Angel Taylor.

FACILITY RENTAL
(See FACILITY RENTAL POLICY)

FIELD TRIPS
Field trips can be a valuable educational tool. Teachers are asked to plan meaningful, curriculum
based field trips. Please adhere to the guidelines below when planning your trip. Approval is required
prior to a trip or activity. All out-of-state and overnight trips must have prior approval from the
Board of Education. Out-of-State field trips require an administrator to attend. Trips beyond the
school day should be approved by the Board of Education but may receive administrative approval
from the Superintendents office.

1. No field trip or deposit for a field trip should be finalized until an activity bus has
been secured.
2. Prior to any plans being made for the trip, the teachers must have the principals
 approval.
3. Once approval has been granted, teachers should inform all parents/ guardians of
the trip in writing, explaining the trip. Inform lunchroom manager at least 3 weeks
in advance.
4. Before students will be allowed to go on any field trip, they must get parent/
guardian permission and submit a signed permission slip to the teacher. You must
use the District provided permission slip. These slips should be turned over to the
office prior to the trip.
5. A list of students going on the trip along with phone numbers is to be presented to
the principal prior too leaving on the trip.
6. Teachers should collect any necessary monies for the trip from students, receipt it,
and turn it in to the school secretary. A school check will be issued to the proper
place(s) and given to the teacher prior to the trip. Include the activity bus mileage
charge (1.75/ mile. Check with the school bus garage for current charges.).
7. All field trips should be taken on an activity bus or District approved charter bus.
This requires a request in TravelTracker. This is to be completed by the teacher and
done at least 45 days prior to the trip in order to secure transportation.
8. Field trips will not be approved unless they correlate with the established
curriculum.
9. The driver of the activity bus must be approved by the principal prior to
the scheduled activity and entered into AESOP.
10. All chaperones must receive District volunteer approval (see District volunteer
packet). There must be 1 volunteer for every 15 students.

FUNDRAISING
The principal must approve all fundraisers as well as board approval is required. School time is not to
be used for selling or solicitation by students under any circumstances. Each club, committee, team is
allowed up to 2 fundraisers a year. No fundraisers that require door-to-door selling will be approved.
Fundraisers may last up to a 2 week period. Any project that involves selling should first be discussed
with the principal, by the advisor, before discussing it with students. All proceeds are for the benefit
of the school.

GRADE CHAIRPERSONS
In order to insure continuity in all areas of study and to assure the maximum use of instructional
materials, we will be utilizing grade chairpersons.

Grade 6 Cassandra Cherry

Grade 7 Tameka Johnson

Grade 8 Ed Scanlan

Exceptional Children Amanda Schutt

Enhancement Jannotta Faulkner

GRADING SYSTEM
1. Share and explain your grading system with your students and parents.
2. Utilize fair and reasonable grading practices that reflect sound judgment.
3. Keep parents informed of student progress. If a student is at risk, contact the parent before
the grading period ends. Progress reports should not be the only means of communication.
4. Request a conference, if necessary.
5. Document all phone contacts and notes related to student progress.
6. Keep grades updated in grade book. These may be checked periodically
7. Maintain a writing portfolio for each student.
8. Make pertinent comments on report cards.
9. Students should receive grades for assignments, not limited to tests. (Projects, reports, class
participation, independent work, etc.)
10. Discipline cannot be used in connection with grading practices. Grades should not be lowered
for discipline reasons.
11. NC is on a 10 point grading scale.

Grading System
Test/Projects 40%
Classwork 30%
Homework/Participation 10%
Quizzes 20%

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
Any student or employee may file a grievance for a claim that there has been a violation,
misrepresentation, or misapplication of the terms of an agreement, a violation of rights to fair
treatment or violation of any established policy or practice. This procedure is stated in the
Edgecombe County Board of Education Policy Manual, 5610.

HALL PERMITS
All students who are excused from class must have a hall pass completed by the teacher who has
released them. No student will be permitted in the office during the school day without a completed
form from the assigned teacher. The teacher will be asked to complete these passes in each and every
instance.
Excuse students only when it is absolutely necessary.
Students who are not allowed to remain in class are to be escorted by an adult to the office.
No student is to be sent to the office or left in the office for discipline without discussing the
problem with the administration or leaving a written statement for the administration
concerning the problem.

HEPATITIS B VACCINATION
See Board Policy 5680.1-6.0
HONOR ROLL
PRINCIPALS LIST ALL AS
A HONOR ROLL A AVERAGE WITH NO GRADE BELOW B
B HONOR ROLL - B AVERAGE WITH NO GRADE BELOW C
Students who achieve these academic honors through the fifth grading period will be recognized at an
awards assembly at the end of the year.
Semester honor rolls shall be determined based on semester averages in each course the student is
taking.

INCLEMENT WEATHER INFORMATION

At certain times during extremely inclement weather, it may become necessary to suspend the
operation of schools in Edgecombe County, or if they are already closed to postpone the opening.
This is usually done only at times when accumulations of snow or ice are on the roads, which are
traveled by school buses, or due to other emergency conditions.
Prior to making a decision to close schools, weather officials are consulted and school transportation
and highway officials check the roads to determine safety for school buses.
If a decision is then made to close the schools, local TV and radio stations are notified as soon as
possible. The countys Whats Happening Line will also be updated.

Whats Happening Line 823-5800

South Edgecombe 827-5083

When possible, staff members and all support personnel are expected to report to their schools at the
normal time. Bus drivers will adjust their departure time to coincide with the designated opening
hour for schools.
Whenever school is dismissed during the day, the faculty and support personnel will be excused at the
regular hours unless special notification is received from the Superintendents office. Every effort will
be made to ensure the safety of all personnel.
As per policyif the school is closed, all school activities are automatically canceled.
Please do not call the central office or schools since unnecessary phone calls serve only to tie up
telephone lines and slow down the process of getting news to proper authorities that can then notify
the public.
Your assistance in following these procedures will be greatly appreciated.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS)

1. In-School Suspension operates the full school day. Students will report to homeroom
prior to reporting to ISS.
2. If a student assigned to ISS is absent from school, he/ she will make up the time
missed, immediately upon returning to school.
3. Parents will be notified of the childs placement in ISS.
4. While assigned to ISS, students may not participate in any school related functions
during the school hours.
5. If the coordinator and administration determines that an infraction of the ISS rules
exists, the student may be removed from the program and suspended from school.
6. Students may be assigned to ISS for the same offenses as stated in the Edgecombe
County Discipline Policy in lieu of out-of-school suspension at the discretion of the
administration.
7. Length of Visit to be determined by Administration.
8. Assignments are to be put in the ISS coordinators mailbox before 8:35 am on the
day the student is to go to ISS.
9. ISS coordinator will keep a file on each student. When work that was done in ISS is
returned to the teacher, teachers are to keep the work on file for grading purposes
and do not need to return it to the ISS coordinator.
10. Students assigned to ISS will:
- receive full credit for assignments and tests
- return to ISS to finish their time if they get suspended from ISS
- be separated from the rest of the student body for class, lunch and restroom privileges
11. Students who have not been in ISS will have priority for assignment over those who have already
been placed in ISS.

JOB DESCRIPTION
All personnel are responsible for reviewing their job description. A copy of your job description is
enclosed in the handbook. Any questions you may have concerning the job description should be
directed to your supervisor immediately.

LESSON PLANS
Daily lesson plans make teaching more enjoyable and much more effective. Each teacher is
responsible for having the following items accessible and available daily: lesson plans in data
notebook, including parent contact log, sub lesson plan and etc.
Your lesson plans should be available for discussion at any time with the administration or
supervisor. Lesson should be uploaded to Google Drive by 8:00 AM on Mondays.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER LESSON PLANS

Each teacher is responsible for having lesson plans available for substitutes. These plans shall be the
substitute notebook. It is important that the substitute has your plans so learning can continue to be
as uninterrupted as possible.
Other items for the substitute such as class rolls, seating chart, daily schedule, duty assignments
and/or emergency lesson plans should be in your substitute folder. Substitute folders will be filed in
the office. Update folders as needed
Contents of the substitute notebook should contain the following:
1. All class and homeroom rolls and seating charts
2. An instruction sheet telling where your class meets, when you have lunch, explanation of lunch
duty, or other duties you may have, procedure for going to exploratory classes and to the
lunchroom, and other pertinent information.
3. List of students that leave for pullout support, such as EC, Speech, etc
4. Specific classroom procedures
5. Referral Forms
6. Emergency detailed lesson plans
7. Crisis Plans
8. Medical Actions Plans

LICENSURE RENEWAL CREDITS

Staff Development Activities Sponsored by Edgecombe County Public Schools
(including activities held at any of the 14 schools)
1. All workshops/activities sponsored by the school system should provide a Workshop/Attendance
Roster which you sign. Be sure when you sign a roster to include your social security number.
There is a roster for licensed staff and one for Support staff.

2. Once this roster has been reviewed for completeness and renewal credit verified by the sponsor, it
should be forwarded to the Personnel Department for recording the renewal credit.

3. If you attend an outside PD, make a copy of the Certificate of Completion and send it to Latari
Tucker at Barnhill Building.

Staff Development Activities Not Sponsored by Edgecombe Public County Schools

(Ex: activities sponsored by other school systems, workshops attended at the State
Department, etc.)
1. Prior approval forms should be completed by you and approved by your principal or supervisor
before attending any workshop. Prior approval forms should be available in the Principals office
or Staff Development Department.
2. Once the workshop is completed, you should receive verification of attendance and renewal credits
earned from the sponsor of the activity.
3. In order to receive renewal credit, the prior approval form and the verification form of
attendance/renewal credits should be forwarded to the Personnel Department. Be sure to
keep a copy of what is submitted for your records.

NOTE: Credit cannot be given if the documentation showing your attendance does not
have the renewal credit earned, dates of attendance, and the signature of the sponsor.

COLLEGE COURSES
1. Prior approval form is required for college courses. Coursework must be related to areas of
licensure and/or professional responsibilities.
2. Upon completion of the college course, the prior approval and original grade report should be
forwarded to the Personnel Department. Be sure to keep a copy of what is submitted for
your records.

SPECIAL NOTES
1. Renewal credits earned should be sent to the Personnel Department, Latari Tucker,
immediately upon receiving verification of attendance/renewal credit. Do not hold
credits earned with plans to submit all at once.
 2. Any forms mentioned in this memo can be requested from the Personnel Department or Staff
Development Office.

3. Tuition reimbursement - handled by the Staff Development Office. You are responsible for
making sure, if you want renewal credit and tuition reimbursement, that you submit the
correct documentation to each department.

4. Work Experience - One renewal credit is awarded automatically for each year of full-time
teaching experience during the five-year cycle. A full year is defined as 120 days and may be
earned by combining work experience from 2 public school systems the same school year.

MAKE-UP WORK POLICY

1. Allowances will be made for students needing to make up work due to absences.

2. Following excused absence(s), students will have 2 days for each day absent to turn in
make-up work. The days will begin on the day following the first day back to school.

3. A time to make up written class work, homework and announced tests will be agreed upon by the
teacher and student.

4. If a student has been informed of a test and is absent the day that the test is given,
the student will make up the test the first day he/ she returns to school.

5. Students making up work after suspension. South Edgecombe School will abide by the
State and Federal Laws pertaining to suspension. According to GS 115-147, A student
suspended 10 or fewer days shall be provided an opportunity to take any quarterly,
semester, or grading period examination missed during the suspension period.

6. The law requires that a child with special needs who is suspended, or expelled be
provided services outside school if his disruptive conduct was caused by the lack of
proper medication or appropriate educational or ambulatory services. In those
presumably few cases, the school is legally obligated to help the student master the.
work that went on during his absence. The principal should remember that federal
regulations require schools to treat pregnancy and childbirth like any other temporary
disability. Therefore, a pregnant student must be allowed to make up work missed just
as other disabled students.

7. Preparation of lessons in advance of planned excused absences (for trips, extended

hospital stays, etc.) may create problems for teachers. Teachers are not required to
give advanced lessons for more than 3 days.

MEDIA CENTER INFORMATION

Students are encouraged to come to the Library Media Center any time during the day in which they
need to exchange books or do research. The MC is open before and after school, and special groups
have reservation options. A flexible schedule creates greater opportunities for students to become
involved in their learning. The MC focuses on Learning for a Lifetime. To this end, media skills are
taught which promote self-directed learners, complex thinkers, quality producers, collaborative
workers and community contributors. When students are involved in their learning and making
connections from one learning environment to another, they are on their way to becoming lifelong
learners.
A notebook at the Circulation Desk allows staff to schedule large and small group activities in the
MC. The media staff is enthusiastic about providing resource lists to help in classroom instruction.
Materials may be reserved with one days notice.

Classroom teachers issue passes to individuals coming for book exchange or independent research.

The LMC program supports the BIG SIX SKILLS as student learning strategies. The media staff is at
the forefront in preparing students to use a variety of resources for research, homework helps, report
writing, and literature appreciation.

GUIDELINES
* Gum, food, and drinks are not allowed in the Media Center.
* Students must have a hall pass or MC permit to work quietly in the MC.

BORROWING PRIVILEGES
All students are given a special checkout number that belongs to him/ her throughout his/ her
years at South Edgecombe.
The cost of lost and abused materials will be charged to the user.
Book checkout is for two weeks. Books may be renewed once. Overdue notices will be sent
periodically to homeroom teachers.
Magazines and periodicals may be checked out at the end of the day for overnight only.
Overnight checkout is after 3:40 pm, and materials must be returned by 9:00 am the next
school day.
Reference materials may not be checked out. These materials should be used in the MC.

MEDICINES
Teachers, administrators, and staff members are not allowed to give students any medicines. If a
student is injured or too sick to be in school, we will call the parent to come for the student. In case of
an emergency, we will call the rescue squad.

MEDICATIONS:

Administering Medicines
If a child must be given medication during school hours, the principal will designate two or more
office support staff members to administer medication to students. The principal will assure that
designated staff members receive appropriate training on administering medication.
Medication will be administered in accordance with the following guidelines:
A. Prescription
1. An Administration of Medication Form with written instructions, signed by parent and
physician, will be required and will include:
a. Childs name
b. Name of medication
c. Purpose of medication
d. Time to be administered
e. Dosage
f. Possible side effects
g. Termination date for administering the medication
h. Special information about medication (i.e., storage under refrigeration).
 2. Authorization forms to give medications on campus, and medication records must be retained
on file and will be considered confidential student records.
3. Medications maintained for a student at school will be kept in a secure place in the schools
main office.

B. Non-Prescription
Administration of non-Prescription medicines require a doctor order and a form on file. No students
should carry any medications unless the nurse has approved it.
MESSAGES
Teachers will be given emergency messages immediately. All other messages will be sent to voice
mail.

NATIONAL BOARD FOR PROFESSIONAL TEACHING

STANDARDS CERTIFICATION
NBPTS Certification is currently available in several areas. For information on specific areas visit
NBPTS at its WEB Site:
http://www.nbpts.org (801) 351-4444
Certification areas are updated quarterly.

NON-INSTRUCTIONAL DUTIES
See Board Policy. Duties are located in the Teacher Playbook.

OSHA REGULATIONS
OSHA regulations require that all personnel be advised that they may not be required to perform any
task that they believe may be dangerous to them. The person may request to appear before a safety
committee to discuss such assignments.

PERSONNEL RECORDS
There shall be maintained in the office of the Superintendent an official file containing the following
kinds of information:
1. Commendations
2. Complaints
3. Evaluations and written suggestions for corrections and improvements made by the principal
and/or the administrative staff.

Written complaints and suggestions shall be placed in a teachers file only after being shown to such
teacher and shall be signed by the person making the complaint or suggestion. Any denial or
explanation relating to a complaint, evaluation, or suggestion for improvement that the teacher
desires to make shall be placed in the file after being shown to the person placing the original in the
file.
Each persons personnel file may be open for inspection by that person. The only other persons
having access to the personnel files will be those directly involved in the evaluation process of the
individual. The Board of Education will be involved in inspection of personnel files only when there is
direct involvement of the Board member in a decision concerning the employee. (Ex.
Dismissal/hiring). Only those persons involved in the evaluation process of the individual and the
individual involved will be allowed to place information officially in an individuals file. The
Superintendent will have final authority in determining whether complaints are to be entered into the
file.

Legal Reference: GS 115-142

POLICY MANUAL
All school personnel are responsible for the policies of the Edgecombe County Board of Education, the
Department of Public Instruction, and the laws and regulations of the State of North Carolina. These
policies and regulations may be found in the Edgecombe County Board of Education Policy Manual.
This manual is available for reference in the principals office. The principal or assistant
superintendent for personnel will be responsible for providing information you request about your
personnel matters.

PROHIBITED RELATIONSHIPS WITH STUDENTS

All instructional employees of the Edgecombe County Board of Education are prohibited from dating,
courting, or entering into a romantic or sexual relationship with any student enrolled in the
Edgecombe County Public School System, regardless of the students age. Employees engaging in
such inappropriate conduct will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
Any employee who has reason to believe that another employee is inappropriately involved with a
student, as described above, shall report this information to the Assistant/Associate Superintendent
of Personnel. An employee who fails to inform the Assistant/Associate Superintendent of Personnel
of a reported or suspected inappropriate relationship between an employee and a student may be
subject to disciplinary action.

PROMOTION /RETENTION POLICIES

See Board Policy regarding Accountability for Academic Achievement policy.

REFERRAL PROCEDURES EXCEPTIONAL CHILDRENS PROGRAM

Teachers who wish to refer a student to the Exceptional Childrens Program should pick up an Initial
Referral Form (RE-1) from the School Counselor or from an exceptional childrens teacher, and return
it after supplying the requested information. Teachers may be requested to attend a placement
meeting when the referral is discussed.

REPORT CARD AND PROGRESS REPORT SCHEDULES

Progress Reports Report Cards
September 20, 2016 November 10, 2016
October 12, 2016 February 2, 2016
December 6, 2016 April 13, 2017
January 11, 2016 June 8, 2017
February 21, 2017
March 14, 2017
May 11, 2017
Grade Reporting Procedures

1st Nine Weeks

Grading Period Ends- Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Mark Gathering Due- Wednesday, November 2, 2016 by 4 pm
Report Cards Printed- Thursday, November 3- Friday, November 4, 2016
Report Cards returned to Teachers- Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Report Cards Sent Home- Thursday, November 10, 2016

2nd Nine Weeks

Grading Period Ends- Tuesday, January 24, 2017
Mark Gathering Due- Wednesday, January 26, 2017 by 4 pm
Report Cards Printed- Friday, January 28, 2017
Report Cards returned to Teachers- Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Report Cards Sent Home- Thursday, February 2, 2017

3rd Nine Weeks

Grading Period Ends- Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Mark Gathering Due- Thursday, April 6, 2017 by 4 pm
Report Cards Printed- Friday, April 7, 2017
Report Cards returned to Teachers- Wednesday, April 13, 2017
Report Cards Sent Home- Thursday, April 14, 2017

4th Nine Weeks

Grading Period Ends- Thursday, June 1, 2017 by 4 pm
Mark Gathering Due- Thursday, June 1, 2017 by 4 pm
Report Cards Printed-
Report Cards Sent Home-Thursday, June 8, 2017
SCHOOL HOURS
Students 8:35 am 3:45 pm
Certified Teachers 8:00 am 4:00 pm

SCHOOL PURCHASES
Any purchases for the school must have a purchase order signed by the principal. THE SCHOOL
WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY PURCHASE MADE WITHOUT THE SIGNED PURCHASE
ORDER. Teachers will be required to pay for any purchase made without the approval of Mr.
Cutler. You must submit a copy of the receipt to the bookkeeper for any approved purchases using
school money.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual Harassment, Threatening, Insulting, Abusive, or Seriously
Discourteous Words or Signs, other Acts
Sexual Harassment is Prohibited- The Edgecombe County Board of Education believes that all
employees and students are entitled to work and study in school related environments that are free of
sexual harassment. To this end, the Board prohibits employees and students from engaging in sexual
harassment and advises employees and students that when evidence of sexual harassment is
established, disciplinary action may be taken, up to and including dismissal in the case of employees,
or up to and including long-term suspension or expulsion in certain instances for students (See
Disciplining Students, set forth below).
Sexual harassment is prohibited at all levels: between students, between employees and students,
between peers or co-workers, between supervisors and subordinates, or between non-employees and
employees and/or students.
Definition of Sexual Harassment- Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and
other verbal or physical conduct constitute sexual harassment when:
A. Submission to the conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of an
individuals continued employment, academic progress, or completion of a school-related
activity; or
B. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions
affecting such an individual, or in the case of a student, submission to or rejection of such
conduct is used in evaluating the individuals performance within a course of study or other
school-related activity; or
C. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an employees work
performance or a students educational performance, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or
offensive environment.

Examples of Physical Sexual Harassment: Examples of physical sexual harassment include,

but are not limited to, fondling, grabbing, pinching, kissing or any other deliberate, unwelcome
and/or offensive touching.
Examples of Non-physical or Verbal Sexual Harassment: Examples of non-physical or
verbal sexual harassment include, but are not limited to, any unwelcome and/or offensive comments
or gestures of a sexual nature, including:
1. Continued or repeated sexual or lewd jokes or comments;
 2. Sexually degrading words used toward a person or to describe an individual;

3. Continued or repeated verbal remarks about an individuals body;

4. Continued or repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or propositions;

5. Pressure for sexual activity;

6. Suggestions or demands for sexual involvement accompanied by implied or overt

promises of preferential treatment or threats;

7. The display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures.

Sexual harassment does not include personal compliments welcomed by the recipient, or social
interactions or relations freely entered into by employees or prospective employees.
Romantic Advances Toward Students are Prohibited- Romantic or sexual advances toward
students by employees or romantic or sexual relationships between school system employees and
students are never appropriate, whether or not they are consensus or otherwise outside the definition
of sexual harassment. Such relationships are prohibited. Employees engaging in inappropriate
relationships with students will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

Procedure for Reporting and Investigating Sexual Harassment- All complaints of sexual
harassment shall be promptly and thoroughly investigated according to the following procedures:
A. All complaints of sexual harassment shall be confidential. Information shall be given only to
those individuals who need access to it in order to investigate appropriately and address the
complaint.

B. A student who believes that he/she has suffered sexual harassment shall report the matter to
any school employee. That employee, in turn, will immediately report the matter to the school
principal. The principal shall promptly inform the Superintendent of the allegations. Failure
by the employee to do so may subject the employee to disciplinary action. If the students
school principal is the alleged offender, such report shall be made to the Superintendent.

C. An employee who believes that he/she has suffered sexual harassment should report the matter
to the personnel director or the Superintendent. However, any school employee who occupies
an organizationally superior position relative to an employee who receives from such employee
a report of alleged sexual harassment shall promptly report the same to the personnel director
or the Superintendent. Failure by the employee to do so may subject the employee to
disciplinary action.

D. In any case involving sexual harassment by the Superintendent, reports shall be made to any
member of the Board.

E. After a prompt and thorough investigation, a determination shall be made as to whether the
claim of sexual harassment is true, false or inconclusive.

Disciplinary Actions and Preventative Measures- Based on the results of the investigation,
appropriate action shall be taken to discipline offenders and to prevent recurrence. Violations shall
be deemed serious disciplinary infractions.
 A. Disciplining Employees - Employees who violate this policy shall be strictly disciplined and
may be dismissed for the first infraction.

B. Disciplining Students - Students who violate this policy for the first time may receive a
short-term suspension for verbal on non-physical sexual harassment and long-term suspension
or expulsion, if permitted by law, for physical sexual harassment. Any student who violates
this policy twice or more during a school year may receive a long-term suspension or an
expulsion, if permitted by law.

A record of violations of this policy by a student shall be maintained in the students

disciplinary file for the remainder of the school year.
Students suspended or recommended for suspension for violations of this policy shall be
afforded due process protections in accordance with Board policy and state law.
C. Preventing Recurrence of Sexual Harassment by Students - In addition to
disciplining students who violate this policy, the principal shall use other appropriate measures
to prevent recurrence, including mediation, counseling, increased monitoring and/or extra
adult supervision.

Title IX Compliance Officer-The Superintendent shall recommend and the Board shall approve
the appointment of a member of the central office staff to coordinate compliance with Title IX of the
Education Amendments of 1972 and this policy. Anyone who has brought a complaint under this
policy and is not satisfied with the results of the investigation may file a formal grievance with the
Title IX coordinator, and the results of this review may be appealed to the Board. It shall be the
responsibility of the Superintendent and his designees to inform school employees, students and
parents regarding the sexual harassment policy, as set forth herein.

Additional Guidelines-The Superintendent may establish such guidelines and additional

procedures as he deems necessary for the purpose of implementation of this policy.

Informing students, Employees and Parents- It shall be the responsibility of the

Superintendent to inform school employees, students and parents regarding sexual harassment, as set
forth herein. (Edgecombe County BOE Policy # 5690)

SICK STUDENTS
Students who are too sick to be in school need to be returned to their parents. Parents should be
called and asked to come to the school and pick up their child

When it becomes necessary to call home about a sick student, teachers are asked to make the call
themselves, or send up a form so the office can call. When parents are called, the parents should be
reminded that they must come to the office when they get to school to sign their child out. Please do
not send a child to the office to call his/her parents.

Teachers should update telephone numbers and addresses frequently. You should also have at least
two other numbers for each student, where some responsible adult can be reached in case of
emergencies.

If a student has an accident while under the supervision of school employees, it is important to give
immediate attention to the situation. All accidents should be reported to the office immediately. All
accidents should be documented and details should be provided to the principal in writing. We must
all make a special effort to protect ourselves by closely supervising students at all times,
especially during transitions, in the lunchroom or on the playground!

DO NOT ADMINISTER ANY MEDICATIONS. The Principal will designate two or more office
support staff members to administer medications to students.

SIGN IN/ TEACHERS

Teachers are not required to sign in except on workdays. Teachers are expected to be at school no
later than 8:00 am and 7:55 am on Fridays. Teachers and other personnel should check their boxes
for mail and messages in the mornings and before you leave.

SIGN IN/ SIGN OUT PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS

SIGN IN
Any student who arrives late will need to report to the office to sign in and then present an office
admission slip to the teacher before he/she can be admitted to class. Students should be informed of
this procedure on the first day of school. The only exception of this procedure will be late arrivals due
to a late bus.
SIGN OUT
Once a student is in school for the day, he/she will not be allowed to leave unless the legal parent or
guardian has obtained permission from the office. Parents/ guardians need to come by the office to
pick their child up. A phone call will be used to verify a student being signed out by someone other
than a parent/ guardian.

PowerTeacher
Each morning during homeroom, teachers need to take attendance electronically on PowerTeacher.
The address is ecpsk12.powerschool.com/Teachers. Enter your user name and password. Mark
students that are absent and tardy.
REMEMBER:
1. Daily attendance needs to be checked by 9:30 am daily.
2. Please turn in any absentee notes to Yvette Spells, Data Manager, daily.
NO STUDENT WHO IS LATE TO SCHOOL SHOULD BE ADMITTED TO CLASS WITHOUT A PASS
FROM THE OFFICE. EXCEPTION: LATE BUS
STAFF MEETINGS
Faculty meetings and staff development activities will be held on 1 st and 3rd Tuesdays. Please set aside
Tuesday on your schedule, in the event meetings or activities are scheduled. Absences should be
discussed in advance with the principal.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE IN RECORD KEEPING

Teachers should not allow students to grade any test papers or examinations. Students are not
allowed to make entries on any professional and/ or official records.
(i.e. Permanent records, roll/ grade books, etc)
STUDENT RECORDS
Teachers are expected to keep all student records up to date and add or delete pertinent information
as it becomes available. Please record information not subject to change in ink and all other
information in pencil.

Cumulative records are kept in the School Counselors office. These records are highly confidential
and are not to be kept in classrooms overnight or taken off campus. Exceptional childrens records
are to be kept in a locked file cabinet.

If you get a new student during the year and do not receive the proper information within ten days,
please see the School Counselor.

Staff workdays are great times for reviewing and updating student records. This may save you a great
deal of work at the close of school.

STUDENT TRANSFERS
Student transfers and group changes must be approved by the principal and a memo will be sent to all
teachers involved by the PowerSchool Data Manager after these changes have been approved.

SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION

See Student Absences

SUSPENSION FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN

See Student Absences

TEACHER EVALUATIONS
There will be classroom visits, observations and evaluations made of each teacher at South
Edgecombe Middle School. The uniform state-wide evaluation system will be used. It is the belief of
the administration that certain practices such as a review, a statement of objective/introduction, and
a summary be included in each lesson. Management of time, student involvement and monitoring of
student performance are also essential criteria for effective teacher performance.

TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES
Teachers are asked to check their mailboxes and email at a minimum of every morning and afternoon.
It is important that each staff member keeps his/ her mailbox clean and neat.

Regular teachers must follow the IEP of any exceptional student as well as any 504 and LEP plan.
All teachers are expected to attend PTSA meetings, faculty meetings, and assemblies.

Keep your rooms as clean and orderly as possible to help the custodians in their work. Make your
room as attractive as possible. This includes the use of appropriate bulletin boards and word walls in
relation to your subject.

Teachers are to teach the Common Core and Essential Standards and utilize focus instructional
calendars (if applicable). A list of objectives, skills, teaching strategies, timetables, assessment and
resources should be available for the administration.

Homeroom teachers need to become familiar with the cumulative records of your students. At the
beginning of the year, homeroom teachers are to pull health cards and become aware of any health
conditions. At the end of the year, homeroom teachers must place grade labels, student pictures and
test results in the cumulative folders.

Make sure windows are closed and locked upon leaving your room at the end of the day. Blinds
should be all the way down and closed, with the light going to the top of the building.

A teachers planning period should be used for that purpose. It is suggested that you work in your
room or the PLC Room during your planning period.

Complaints from parents should be recorded and filed. Positive parent relations are a necessity!
Keep your parents informed of their childs progress.

Each teacher should follow the school-wide discipline plan. However, the teacher should handle
minor discipline problems. Be fair, positive, and reasonable and use sound judgment. No student is
to be sent to the office or left for disciplining without discussing the problem with the administration
or leaving a written statement concerning the problem.

In the event of an emergency, which makes it necessary to leave early during the school day, please
notify in person - the principal or assistant principal.

It is the responsibility of the homeroom teacher to notify the parent of student absences. The teacher
should determine the nature of the absence and its lawfulness as defined by State Board guidelines.
(See COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE REPORT)

Whenever a student is given permission to leave his assigned room, issue a specific pass to the
student.

Students are not to be left in the classroom unattended. If a teacher must leave, a responsible adult
should be notified to watch the class.

When a student has been absent, on his or her return to school, the student should bring a note from
home to the homeroom teacher. This note should state date or dates of absence, reason for absence,
and be signed by at least one parent or guardian. Turn these notes into the office daily (Mrs.
Spells).

When it is necessary to use the gymnasium, cafeteria, multi-purpose room, fields, or other areas for
which you are not totally responsible, prior approval by the principal is required. Any time the
facilities are used, they must be supervised. Check bathrooms and make sure all toilets are
flushed. Turn off all lights. Make sure all doors are locked when you leave. Students are not
to be left on the grounds unsupervised. If students are kept after school, you must remain with them
until picked up by a parent/ guardian.
TELEPHONE
STUDENTS:
Students should be discouraged from using the telephone. Students should only use the telephone in
the case of an emergency and after receiving permission from their teacher in writing and asking
permission in the office. Teachers should screen reasons for telephone calls. Students should not be
sent to the front office to make calls. A form should be completed and sent to the office by another
student.

TEXTBOOK DISTRIBUTION AND COLLECTIONS

1. The teacher is responsible for numbering the texts, putting the students name in
text, and recording the condition of the book at the beginning of the year.

2. The teachers name should be put beside the students name in the front cover.

3. The teacher is responsible for checking books for damage, collecting damage fees and
lost book fees, and recording the condition of the text when it is returned at the end
of the year.

4. Damage fees should be collected in relation to the condition of the book at the
end of the year. A rate of five cents ($0.05) per page for excessive damage not
due to normal wear should be used. If a book is returned in poor condition (unusable),
the charge should be the same as for a lost book. Minimum charge .50 cents.

5. The charge for a lost book should be:

New 100% of original cost
1 year old 80% of original cost
2 years old 60% of original cost
3 years old 40% of original cost
4 years old 20% of original cost
5 years old 10% of original cost

6. Each teachers books are to be checked against the end of the year book report.

7. Each stack of books is to be labeled as usable or unusable.

8. Any teacher who needs more books or any new books should place a request in writing
to the office as soon as they are aware of the need. The written record will provide
the office with a record of who requested books.

9. Teachers are to number or label their students books so they may be identified from
any other students and teachers books.

TITLE IX
All vocational, academic, and extracurricular opportunities will be offered without regard to race,
color, national origin, sex, or handicap.
All statements concerning Title IX and section 605 (handicap) compliance activities should be
directed to:
 Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
ATTN: Coordinator for Title VI, EC and 504
Edgecombe County Schools
412 Pearl Street
Tarboro, NC 27886-3499
Telephone: 641-2600

VIDEOS
The principal must approve videos not requested through the Media Center or Central Office, and not
related to instruction.

VISITORS
All visitors must report to the office and receive a visitors pass. Visitors will not be allowed during
the school day except by permission from the office. Teachers, if you see any stranger on campus,
report it to the administration immediately. Do not admit anyone to your class without a
visitors pass.

WORKDAYS
OPTIONAL EMPLOYEE WORKDAYS

Our announcements to the local news media regarding school closings for inclement weather are
required by the station to be brief. We elect in nearly all cases to announce optional employee
workday instead of school closed for students and employees in order to allow employees to decide
whether or not they want to be charged with a workday. If we automatically close, we are required to
charge employees with a workday since we cannot pay an employee for a day for which they did not
work or take leave.
In some cases, new teachers to North Carolina have very few workdays and cannot get to work on
severe weather days. In these cases principals should make individual arrangements with employees
to allow them to make up the day.
On severe weather days when students are not in school, principals should use their discretion in
deciding the time to require employees to arrive and depart since each schools access routes are
different and the weather may vary widely across the county. We ask that principals use appropriate
judgment in charging employees in not less than day increments for annual leave taken. We also
encourage principals to assure that employees do not take unnecessary risks in order to get to work
and to work with employees to make up days when the charged leave days presents a serious problem.

WORKERS COMPENSATION
The purpose of Workers Compensation is to ensure that employees injured on the job are provided
compensation and also to ensure a limited and determinate liability for the employer. An
investigation may be conducted to find the underlying cause of the accident so it can be corrected, not
to place blame or find fault. While on workers compensation leave, an employee is eligible for
continuation of the following benefits: salary increases, vacation and sick leave, hospitalization
insurance (employee only), and longevity. If an employee, who has been on workers compensation
leave, has reached maximum medical improvement and has been released to return to work by the
treating physician, refuses suitable employment in keeping with his/her capacity, the employer has
the right to implement dismissal procedures.
(see PROCEDURES TO FOLLOW WHEN FILING A WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIM)

EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES
It is the responsibility of the employee to inform their supervisor of any injury received while on the
job the day of the accident. Form 19 should be completed by the person at the school responsible for
workers compensation. (see Angel Taylor)
Injured employees are responsible for informing the treating physician during the initial visit that it is
a work-related injury covered by workers compensation.

DRESS CODE FOR SOUTH EDGECOMBE MIDDLE SCHOOL

2016-2017

The school uniform dress code applies to all students. Students are expected to be in
uniform daily unless a special event is occurring and administration has approved a
variation of the uniform policy for the students.

All tops will be polo style (collared) shirts with no emblems.

Typically the shirts have two to three buttons. The color shall be orange,
white, or navy solids. A solid undershirt may be worn and it must be one
of the three colors. (orange, navy blue, or white)

All shirts will remain tucked in the pants.

All belts shall be sold black or brown.
All pants, short capris, and skirts shall be navy blue or khaki.
The length of the skirt or shorts will be within the dress code length for all students of
Edgecombe County Public Schools.
All jackets will be removed during the school day. Sweatshirts may be worn during the
school day.
Headwear will not be worn inside the building.