• General Information

     Fort Payne Middle School

     Parent/Student Handbook


    2023-24 

    Mr. Shane Byrd, Principal

    Mrs. Jordan Giles, Assistant Principal

    Mrs. Jackie Jennings, Assistant Principal

    Ms. Shannon Patterson, Guidance Counselor

    Mrs. Dena Wilbanks, Guidance Counselor

    Mrs. Carla Beal, Secretary

    Mrs. Holly Burt, Secretary-Bookkeeper

    Fort Payne Middle School Mission Statement:

     

    The mission of Fort Payne Middle School is to prepare all students to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens ready to meet the challenges of the future.

  • Bell Schedule

    BELL SCHEDULE

    The bells signify the beginning and end of a period.  Students are expected to be in class at the beginning of the period.  The door to each teacher’s room will be closed when the bell rings to begin class. Students who are not in class at this time will need a tardy pass from the office to gain admittance.

     

    6th Grade Schedule

    7:10                 Students may be dropped off at school. 

    7:40                 Bell to dismiss students from gym to report to class

          1st Period         8:00 – 9:30       Reading or Math

          2ndPeriod         9:35 -11:05       Reading or Math 

          Lunch with Homeroom (25 minutes)

          3rd Period         11:45 – 12:25   PE or Elective

          4th Period         12:28 – 1:08     PE or Elective          

          5th Period         1:13 – 2:04       Science or Social Studies

          6th Period         2:09 – 3:00       Science or Social Studies

    3:00                 Bus Riders dismissed

    3:05                 Car Riders dismissed

    7th and 8th Grade Schedule

    7:10                 Students may be dropped off at school. 

    7:40                 Bell to dismiss students from gym to report to first period

          1st Period         7:45 – 8:42

          2nd Period        8:46 – 9:38

          3rd Period         9:42 – 10:44

          1st Break          9:38 – 9:46 (7h Graders)

          2nd Break         10:36 – 10:44 (8th Graders)

          4th Period         10:48 – 11:40  

          5th Period         11:44 - 1:08 (25 minutes for lunch)             

          6th Period         1:12 – 2:04

          7th (ETA)          2:08 – 3:00

    3:00                 Bus Riders dismissed

    3:05                 Car Riders dismissed

     

    EMERGENCY DELAY SCHEDULE

    One-hour delay – Drop off students starting at 8:10. The tardy bell rings at 8:45.

    Two-hour delay – Drop off students starting at 9:10. The tardy bell rings at 9:45.

    Three-hour delay – Drop off students starting at 10:00.  The tardy bell rings at 10:45. 

  • Grading Procedures

    GRADING PROCEDURES

    There are four grading sessions per school year, two each term.  A mid-session grade is given to each student in the middle of each grading period. 

    Grades for each grading period shall be based on five or more evaluations, one of which will be a grading period test.

    All grades will be recorded numerically and will correspond to the following scale:

     

    90 - 100. . .A                 60 - 69. . .. D

    80 - 89 . . .B                  Below 60 . . .F

    70 - 79 . . .C                  I – Incomplete

      

  • Promotion and Retention Standards

    PROMOTION AND RETENTION STANDARDS

    Grade One through Grade Six

    Students having (2) or more semester F’s at the end of the year in the academic subjects of reading and/or math may not be promoted.

     

    Grade Seven through Grade Eight

    Students having (3) or more semester F’s at the end of the year in the academic subjects of English, math, science, or social studies may not be promoted.

  • Cheating

    CHEATING/ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

    Students are to be honest in doing their work. A student who cheats will not receive credit for the work in question. If any other student has cooperated in the cheating, that student is also considered to have cheated and will not receive credit. Cheating students will also be subject to the consequences of a Class II offense as listed in the FPCS Code of Conduct. Cheating is defined to include, but is not limited to: 

    (a) copying someone else's work in or out of class and identifying and submitting it as your own  

    (b) failing to quote and/or list appropriate citations for material derived from published sources (including the Internet) and identifying and submitting it as your own  

    (c) the use of unauthorized notes, other materials, or assistance during the accomplishment of graded work in or out of class  

    (d) any other situation in which the student attempts to or accepts credit for work not his or her own.

    (e) taking a test for another student or sharing answers on computer-derived tests (ex. i-Ready, computer-based classroom tests, etc.).

     

  • Standards for Quality Student Work

    STANDARDS FOR QUALITY STUDENT WORK

    Each student is to maintain this level of Quality Student Work each day.

    Come prepared for class with the following items:

    • Chromebook fully charged
    • Wired EarBuds
    • Required textbook and/or workbook
    • Completed Assignments
    • Notebook with paper
    • Pen and Pencil with eraser

    Label student work with your first and last name.

    All assignments are due on the assigned date. 

    Neatness is a very important quality on each and every paper. 

    The following are unacceptable:

    • Spiral notebook paper
    • Folded, crumpled, torn, or smudged assignments
    • Illegible handwriting (i.e. small or light)
    • Graffiti or inappropriate pictures

    Quality work is very important and should reflect a thoughtful, earnest effort on all assignments.  Points may be deducted and/or revisions may be required for the following:

    • Failure to follow directions
    • Incorrect or partial answers
    • Incomplete sentences
    • Misspelled words
    • Omission of punctuation and capitalization
    • Abbreviated words and symbols
    • Incomplete work

  • Digital Device Reminders

    DIGITAL DEVICE REMINDERS

    1. Bring your device to school.
    2. Charge the device daily. Keep your charger at home. 
    3. Clean the device daily.
    4. Take care of the device. Report any problems or damage to your teacher immediately. 
    5. Never leave your device unattended.
    6. The cover/case should be covering the device when you are on the move.
    7. Students should use the last four digits of their lunch number as their lock screen ID.  
    8. Devices should not be shared.  Do not allow someone to use your device.
    9. Do not share your username, password or log into a Chromebook with someone else’s credentials.
    10. Students should not wear earbuds or headphones while on the move.
    11. Students should not change any setting unless directed to do so. 
    12. Students should not delete anything, especially their Internet
    13. Students should not perform private searches using the Internet.
    14. Students should never remove/add a Profile from/to General Profiles unless directed to do so.
    15. Students should not allow Internet games to install Profiles.
    16. Students should not download anything to the home screen unless directed by the teacher to do so.
    17. Students should not download updates without permission. 
    18. Students should not be doing random Internet searches during class.  Searches should be specific and directed by the teacher.
    19. Students should not use messaging services at school, including email, unless directed to do so.
    20. The LMS should only be used for school-subject related educational purposes. 
    21. Students should make good decisions while using the device. The device is to be used for school-subject based educational purposes. 
    22. You will find the complete list of device responsibilities in the Digital Device Acceptable Use Policy found in this handbook.

  • Physical Education Requirements

    PHYSICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

    1. Dressing out (7th & 8th grades only): Students will bring a change of clothes to dress out for their physical education class. The dress code applies to dress out clothes. Tennis shoes are required. Clothes will need to be weather appropriate - shorts and t-shirt in the hot months, and sweatpants and sweatshirt during the colder months. Only roll-on or stick deodorants are allowed and should only be applied in the locker room. Perfume, cologne, or body sprays may not be used due to allergens that could affect other class members.
    2. Students are allowed three parent notes to excuse them from dressing out or participating in the physical activity per semester. After the third note, the student is required to have a doctor’s note. No exceptions will be made. If there is not a doctor’s note, the student will be referred to the office.
    3. Students will start each week with a grade of 100. Students will incur a 10-point deduction for each day they do not dress out. Only a doctor’s note or parent note will excuse a student from participating. Students not participating in physical activity may be asked to complete a written assignment for daily credit.
    4. A student who chooses to not dress out for more than three times during a grading period will be referred to the office.
    5. Students will be required to participate in the Presidential Physical Fitness Test in the fall and spring. Only a doctor’s note will excuse a student from participating in this test.

    GYMNASIUM

    Students are not to use the gym unless a teacher is present to supervise the activity. All students are encouraged to keep all areas of the gym neat and clean. All teams that practice in the gymnasium immediately following school are to wait for their coach in the front lobby of the school until their coach arrives and escorts them to the gymnasium.

  • Guidance Office

    GUIDANCE OFFICE

    The guidance office is open to all students.  The counselors emphasize decision-making skills and early exploration of career and educational goals.  The counselors also place strong emphasis on helping students develop self-awareness, self-esteem, and good interpersonal relationships.

  • Withdrawal/Transfer from School

    WITHDRAWAL/TRANSFER FROM SCHOOL

    A student who is withdrawing from school or who is transferring to another school must notify the Guidance office before the departure date.  The student will pick up a transfer form from the Guidance Office so teachers can record current grades, attendance, and textbook information.  The student should also do the following before leaving: remove all personal items from the locker, return all school property, return textbooks to teachers, return library books, and pay any debt(s) owed to the school.

  • Instructional Media Center - Library

    INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA CENTER - LIBRARY

    Fort Payne Middle School has an excellent collection of books, book sets, DVDs and, videos.  Please follow these rules when using the library:

    • Any library material must be signed out in order to be taken from the library.
    • Books may be checked out for two weeks and may be renewed if needed.
    • A fine of 5 cents per school day per book will be charged for overdue books.
    • Students must pay for lost or damaged books and materials for which they are responsible.
    • Students are expected to follow the classroom courtesies while in the library.

  • Tardiness and Check-Out Procedures

    TARDINESS

    Class instruction begins promptly at 7:45 A.M.  Students who are tardy will miss valuable instructional time.  A tardy will be excused when a student presents a doctor’s excuse, legal excuse, or has permission from the principal.  Each time a student receives three unexcused tardies for school in one nine weeks, he/she will receive one unexcused absence.  Tardy students must sign in at the office prior to going to class.  Seventh and eighth graders who are tardy will be assigned to break detention. 

    CHECK OUT PROCEDURES

    Students will not be permitted to leave school before the dismissal of school without permission of the principal or assistant principal. Students who are checking out should do so before 2:30 p.m. to avoid end of day traffic and to allow the office ample time to notify the attending teacher and to have the student sent to the office. Parents or guardians must come into the office to sign the student out. Students who check out to go to the doctor or dentist should present a note from their office upon their return the next day. If they checked out due to illness and did not go to the doctor, they should bring a note from their parent or guardian. Attendance is maintained on a class by class basis, and it is very important that excuses or notes are provided for checkouts in order to excuse the class absences.

    The principal or assistant principal shall determine whether the absence from that part of the school day shall be excused or unexcused.  It is important to remember that make-up work will only be permitted for excused checkouts, and the student will still be considered absent from the classes missed.  Each time a student receives three unexcused checkouts from school in one nine weeks, he/she will receive one unexcused absence.  Students scheduled for participation in school activities or events (athletics, band, cheerleading, club trips, or any other school event) MUST BE PRESENT AT LEAST HALF OF THE DAY IN ORDER TO STILL PARTICIPATE.

     

    PEP RALLY POLICY

    Any student who has a sibling participating in Fort Payne High School Football, Band, or Cheerleading will be granted one principal permission checkout for the season to attend a pep rally during school hours. A request signed by the parent must be submitted to the middle school office one day prior to the pep rally he or she chooses to attend.

    EMERGENCY CHECK OUT

    We realize that it is sometimes necessary for students to check out of school because of illness. SICK STUDENTS WILL BE SENT TO THE SCHOOL NURSE. STUDENTS ARE NOT TO STAY IN THE RESTROOM WHEN ILL (This will be considered skipping).  The nurse will contact the parent or guardian if the child needs to be picked up. It will be the responsibility of the student to make up missed assignments when he/she returns to school.

    EARLY DISMISSAL PLAN

    Each student will have an early dismissal plan to follow in the event that school is dismissed early due to inclement weather. This plan will be kept on file by his or her homeroom teacher. Each student and parent should be knowledgeable of this plan and follow it if the need arises.

  • Afternoon Transportation

    AFTERNOON TRANSPORTATION

    Each student should know their afternoon transportation arrangements (bus or car) before they leave home each day.  If a student’s afternoon transportation arrangements need to be changed, notify the office by 1:30 p.m. (please keep this to a minimum).  Students are not allowed to ride the bus to Wills Valley Recreation Center or from one school to another school. 

  • Traffic Flow Directions

    TRAFFIC FLOW DIRECTIONS FOR MORNING DROP OFF

    Please pay close attention to the directions assigned to you for your child according to their grade.

    8th Grade – Proceed north or south on Martin Avenue until you reach the southern gate.  Turn into the loop and drop off your child.  Continue around the loop and exit back onto Martin Avenue traveling south or north. 

    7th Grade – Proceed toward the school on either Stadium Drive or North Martin Avenue. Turn right from Martin Avenue into the 7th grade loop in front of the school. Drop off your child, continue around the loop, and then turn onto Martin Avenue.

    6th Grade – Proceed toward the school on Stadium Drive from either direction. Enter the 6th grade loop on Stadium Drive and drop off your child.  Exit back onto Stadium Drive in either direction.

    TRAFFIC FLOW DIRECTIONS FOR AFTERNOON PICK UP

    Please pay close attention to the directions assigned to you for your child according to their grade. Also, note that a portion of Martin Avenue will be closed from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, during the school year. This will hopefully help with the traffic flow. Directions are as follows:

    8th Grade – Proceed north on Martin Avenue until you reach the southern gate.  Turn left into the loop and pick up your child.  Continue around the loop and exit back onto Martin Avenue traveling south. 

    7th Grade – Proceed toward the school on either Stadium Drive or North Martin Avenue. Turn right from Martin Avenue into the 7th grade loop in front of the school. Pick up your child, continue around the loop, and then turn left onto Martin Avenue going north. Continue on Martin Avenue North or turn left on to Stadium Drive.

    6th Grade – Proceed toward the school on Stadium Drive from either direction. Enter the 6th grade loop on Stadium Drive and pick up your child.  Exit back onto Stadium Drive in either direction.

  • Cafeteria

    CAFETERIA

    The cafeteria staff works hard to provide you with good lunches.  The cafeteria is full self-serve.  The following rules make lunch more enjoyable for everyone.

    1. All students are required to report to the cafeteria during their assigned lunch period and to remain in the cafeteria until the end of the lunch period.
    2. Do not cut line.
    3. Do not take more than one serving of each item (extra servings = extra charges).
    4. Sit with your assigned class - one person per seat.
    5. Do not eat or drink from another student’s tray.
    6. Return trays to designated area.
    7. Do not take any food or drinks outside the cafeteria.
    8. Do not throw food.
    9. Keep the cafeteria as clean as possible.
    10. Students may not use a microwave oven at school to warm food items.

    The price of lunch is determined by the Board of Education.  Students may purchase extra items anytime during lunch at the posted prices.  Our cafeteria supports the concept of Offer vs. Serve.  A "Type A" lunch includes a bread item, milk, a meat, and two different vegetables and/or fruits.  Students are to choose a minimum of three items from the offering.  Fort Payne City Schools participates in the National Child Nutrition Program.  Students interested in applying for free or reduced lunches will receive an application the first day of school.

  • Classroom Behavior and Rules

    CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR-CLASSROOM COURTESIES

    Students are to practice good behavior in the classroom, keep noise down, not sit on top of furniture or heating/cooling units, and refrain from defacing or abusing classroom furniture. Continual violations of classroom courtesies will result in strong disciplinary action (ISS, A-School, and suspension).  

    FPMS CLASSROOM RULES

    1. Respect others – teachers, students & property
    2. No gum
    3. Food and Drink is permitted in classrooms only during designated snack time.
    4. Water is permitted in classrooms only if it is in a clear bottle with a lid.
    5. Be prepared for class. (See Standards for Quality Student Work for required class supplies.)

    Consequences for Class Infractions

    1. 1st offense – Warning
    2. 2nd offense – Contact parent.
    3. 3rd offense – Office referral

    In-School Suspension (ISS)

    Students with an office referral may be assigned ISS.  In-School suspension is when a student is temporarily removed from the regular classroom for a specified amount of time, but remains under the direct supervision of school personnel.  

    ISS expectations:

    • Students placed in ISS will be expected to complete all assigned work.  (Additional ISS time may be assigned if a student is tardy, absent or does not complete all work.)
    • Students placed in ISS will be excluded from all extra-curricular activities until the suspension period is over.
    • Students in ISS are expected to follow the FPMS classroom rules.

    ELECTIONS

    The student council will conduct student elections for class officers and student council. Each club will hold club elections.

    ASSEMBLIES

    The following rules apply for assemblies at FPMS:

    1. Students are to be respectful in assembly programs, failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.
    2. Students are required to attend all assembly programs for which there is no charge.

    HALL AND SIDEWALK BEHAVIOR

    Behavior in the halls and on the sidewalks should always be in good taste.  Students are not to block passage in the halls or on the sidewalks.  Students are not to be in the halls during class periods unless they have a proper pass.  Students are not to run in the halls or on the sidewalks.

  • Lockers

    LOCKERS

    Each 7th and 8th grade student is required to rent an individual locker.  Lockers are available to students for a charge of $5.00 per year and are to be rented when students pick up their schedules or enroll.  All books and personal articles should be placed in the lockers when not in use.  Do not share your locker combination with anyone else. 

    Mechanical problems with any locker are to be reported to the assistant principal immediately.  Students are to visit lockers before school, during break, between class, and after school.  VISITING A LOCKER IS NOT AN EXCUSE FOR BEING TARDY TO CLASS. 

    School officials may inspect or search desks and/or lockers when there is reasonable cause to believe that articles kept there may endanger other individuals in the school or such articles are in violation of the law or regulations of the Board of Education or school. 

    It is not necessary to visit lockers between every class change.  Plan ahead and get books for multiple classes.  Students who "jam" their locks are subject to disciplinary action.  All combinations are changed each summer, repairs made and all lockers are inspected by the principal or assistant principal before school begins in the fall.

  • Restrooms

    RESTROOMS

    Students may use restrooms between classes if they can do so without being late to class.  Otherwise, they should be used at break and before and after school.  During class, students may go to the restroom only if they have the proper emergency pass.  STUDENTS ARE NOT TO STAY IN THE RESTROOM WHEN SICK. THEY ARE TO REPORT TO THEIR TEACHER FOR PERMISSION TO SEE THE SCHOOL NURSE.

  • School-Related Trips

    SCHOOL- RELATED TRIPS

    The principal must clear all school-related trips at least one week in advance.  Students are subject to all school rules and regulations and the code of conduct while on school related trips and will not be allowed to check out until the proper time approved by the principal.  Permission forms must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the teacher prior to the trip.

  • Selling Items on Campus/Buses

    SELLING ITEMS ON CAMPUS/BUSES

    Students are not permitted to sell unapproved items on campus or school buses.  Any items are subject to confiscation and the student subject to disciplinary action.

  • Telephone and Deliveries

    TELEPHONE

    Students are to use the phone ONLY FOR EMERGENCIES.  Students are not to go to the office to use the phone during class or lunch without their teachers’ permission. They must bring a note from their teacher in order to use the phone and then are to obtain permission from office personnel before using the phone.  Students are required to sign a phone log and list the person being called, the reason for the call, and time. Those students who violate this privilege will be subject to disciplinary action. Emergencies do NOT include making calls home to arrange to go to friends’ homes or to ask parents to bring notebooks, homework, tennis shoes, etc., that students forgot to bring to school.

    DELIVERIES

    We will not accept deliveries for students in the office.  This includes flowers, candy, balloons, etc.

  • Visitors and Communication

    VISITORS

    Parents and guardians are always welcome at Fort Payne Middle School.  However, we ask that all parents or guardians check in through the office before visiting any part of the campus. There must be a good reason for parents or guardians to remain on campus for any length of time. 

    All visitors are required to check-in through the school office.  A visitor’s pass will be issued to identify you as a visitor.  Teachers are asked to visually check for this pass when they see a visitor on campus. 

    Students from other schools will not be allowed on campus when their school is in session.  Students should not bring visitors to school nor have visitors in the parking lots or around the campus. NO CLASSROOM VISITORS WITH STUDENTS WILL BE ALLOWED. 

    Unauthorized visitors will be asked to leave; if they do not leave, the police department will be contacted.

    COMMUNICATION

     Collaboration, cooperation, and open communication between home and school are important to the academic success of our students. We communicate through a variety of mediums to keep you informed.

    • School Website (https://www.fpcsk12.com/FPMS)  – Visit the website to stay informed about current events, teacher emails, and important links.
    • Parent PowerSchool App – Create a parent account through the PowerSchool parent portal and download the app to have real-time updates on grades, attendance, and class schedules. Visit the website or contact the school office for assistance on how to do this.
    • Email/Phone calls – You can call or email teachers and administrators to set up meetings or ask questions.
    • Parent/Teacher Conferences - The use of parent/teacher conferences and communication is encouraged. Parent/teacher conferences should be coordinated by calling or emailing the appropriate teacher. If requested, a member of the administrative staff will sit in on a conference.
    • Communication Apps (Remind, Duo Lingo, etc.) – Check with your child’s teachers to see if they are using any of these communication tools to receive messages to your phone.
    • Mass Notification System – This is an automated calling system used by the school to send important information in the event of an emergency situation, school closing, or special event. To receive these, make sure we have your updated contact information in our system.
    • Open House and Parent Involvement Nights - See the website for these dates.

  • Awards

    AWARDS

    National Junior Honor Society

    The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is a service organization which recognizes students who excel, not only in scholarship, but also in character, leadership and service. Selection of candidates will be made after the 3rd nine week grading period of their 7th grade year. The following are requirements to be eligible:

    • Cumulative 90% average in core subjects (English, history, math, and science) for the first, second, and third nine weeks.
    • No serious disciplinary infractions. Offenses will be reviewed by the selection committee.
    • Actively participates in one school extracurricular activity (sport or club)
    • Six hours of community service

    Character is extremely important in the selection process! Your character and leadership potential will be evaluated by your teachers as part of the selection process.

    Students enrolled in an advanced class (Advanced Math and/or Advanced English) will have an additional 10 points added to that subject’s average per nine weeks.

    ** Community service includes but is not limited to the following:

    Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts

    Church Service (Sunday school teacher/helper, choir, bible school teacher/helper)

    Participation in a charitable event

    Babysitting or a paid service does not count

    How to Apply:

    A notice will be sent to all eligible 7th grade students after the third nine weeks grading period. Students must write an essay and complete a student activity sheet and service hour verification sheet.

    New NJHS members will receive a written notice of acceptance or non-acceptance by mail.

    Top 10 Student Award

    Awarded to 7th and 8th grade students who meet the following requirements:

    The students with the top ten cumulative core subject (English, history, math, and science) averages at the end of the 3rd nine weeks grading period will be selected.

    A student must be enrolled at FPMS by September 1 through the end of the 3rd nine weeks grading period to receive top ten honors.

    Students enrolled in an advanced class (7th grade Advanced Math and/or Advanced English, 8th grade Algebra and/or Advanced English) will have an additional 10 points added to that subject’s average per nine weeks.

    7th and 8th Grade Awards

    Award of Excellence – is awarded to the student with the top average in a teacher’s class. 

    Achievement Award – is awarded to the student with the second highest average in a teacher’s class.

    Recognition Award – is awarded to the student with the third highest average in a teacher’s class or a student who has shown great improvement or exceptional effort. 

    All A’s – is awarded to students who have earned all A’s in all subjects (including PE, Band, and Electives) for the first three nine weeks of the school year.  Students enrolled in an advanced class (Advanced Math and/or Advanced English) will not have an additional 10 points added to that subject’s average per nine weeks.

    We also recognize Spelling Bee and iTech Team members.

    8th Grade Quentin Benn Award

    The Quentin Benn Award is named in honor of Mr. Benn, a past principal at FPMS.  Mr. Benn had a genuine concern for all people.  This award is chosen by the 7th & 8th grade faculty & awarded to an 8th grader who displays outstanding leadership, citizenship, and has had zero discipline referrals to the office. 

    8th Grade Jim Ellis PE Award

    The Physical education award is named for Coach Jim Ellis.  It is given to one boy & one girl in 8th grade physical education class who have exhibited outstanding attitude in physical education for the year.

    7th Grade Wall of Fame

    This honor is bestowed upon 7th grade students who maintain an A average for every class including electives, physical education, band, etc., each nine weeks of their seventh-grade year entirely completed at Fort Payne Middle School.  Each student who meets the criteria will place his/her handprint on the Wall of Fame at some time during the following school year.  Students enrolled in an advanced class such as advanced math or advanced English will not have an additional 10 points added to that subject’s average per nine weeks.

    7th Grade Citizenship Award

    Seventh grade teachers vote on this award. The award is not based on academic excellence exclusively, but also includes honesty, truthfulness, compassion and integrity. 

    6th Grade Awards

    • Achievement Award – is awarded to all 6th grade students who earn all A’s in all classes for all three nine weeks grading periods.
    • Top 2 Excellence Awards – are awarded to the students with the top two grade point averages in reading (reading, English, and spelling) and math for each teacher.
    • Top 10 Science Awards-awarded to the top 10 averages in Science
    • Top 10 Social Studies Awards-awarded to the top 10 averages in Social Studies
    • Top Cat Award-voted on by the 6th grade teachers.  This award is not based on academic excellence exclusively, but also includes honesty, truthfulness, compassion and integrity.

    Perfect Attendance Award

    This award is given to 6TH, 7TH, and 8th students who have attended Fort Payne Middle School for the entire year without missing a full day of school. (NO checking in late or checking out early)

    Governor's Physical Fitness Award Requirements

    Boys

    Age

    One Mile Run

    V-Sit

    Push-Ups

    Curl-Ups (Sit ups)

    10

    >9:00

    >19

    >20

    >34

    11

    >8:30

    >19

    >20

    >36

    12

    >8:00

    >19

    >20

    >39

    13

    >7:30

    >19

    >25

    >41

    14

    >7:00

    >19

    >30

    >44

    15

    >7:00

    >19

    >35

    >44

    Girls

    Age

    One Mile Run

    V-Sit

    Push-Ups

    Curl-Ups (Sit ups)

    10

    >9:30

    >20

    >15

    >29

    11

    >9:00

    >20

    >15

    >31

    12

    >9:00

    >20

    >15

    >34

    13

    >9:00

    >21

    >15

    >36

    14

    >8:30

    >21

    >15

    >36

    15

    >8:00

    >21

    >15

    >35



  • Acknowledgment Forms

    Acknowledgment Forms Section – Requiring Signatures

    Annual Notification Regarding

    School Provided or Sponsored Mental Health Services

     

    Mental Health Services

    The school system provides or sponsors the following mental health services.

    1. Large group guidance - includes school counselor or professional visiting the classroom to discuss topics such as bullying, class scheduling, stress management, test anxiety or guest speakers to discuss good choices, substance abuse prevention, etc.
    2. Small group guidance - includes small group of students with school counselor or professional to discuss topics such as test anxiety, grief, healthy coping skills, etc.
    3. Mentoring - Peer Helpers work with students in school on topics such as friendships, healthy relationships, anger management, and anxiety.
    4. Assessments or Surveys - includes questionnaires provided to students related to social behaviors, feelings, etc.
    5. Crisis intervention - short-term, immediate assistance by school counselor or professional for a specific situation.
    6. School-Based Mental Health - On-going counseling services by school professionals or private practitioners in the school setting. Note: Parent or legal guardian’s permission will be obtained during an intake meeting before services are provided.

    Review of Materials

    You may request to review any materials used in the guidance and counseling programs available to students by contacting the student’s principal.

    Information Regarding How to Allow, Limit, or Prevent Your Child’s Participation in Mental Health Services

    Under Alabama law, no student under the age of fourteen may participate in ongoing school counseling services including, but not limited to, mental health services, unless (1) the student’s parent or legal guardian has submitted a written opt-in granting permission for the student to participate or (2) there is an imminent threat to the health of the student or others.

    Therefore, if your child is under fourteen, they will only be allowed to participate in mental health services if you opt-in. If you would like the school system to be able to offer and/or provide mental health services to your child, you must opt-in for each service listed for them to participate in that service.

    Even if you do not opt-in to mental health services, your child may be provided mental health services if there is an imminent threat to their health or others. School employees may determine in their discretion whether such an imminent threat exists and provide any mental health services they deem necessary under the circumstances.

    Parent of students with disabilities:  Please note that the opt-in process is not applicable to any school counseling services or “mental health services” contained in a student’s IEP or §504 plan. Consent for those services will be obtained and information regarding your child’s mental health services will be provided through the usual special education process.

    Mental Health Opt In

    FPMS & FPHS Digital Device Release Form

     

    *Only Fort Payne Middle School and Fort Payne High School students and parents need to complete, sign and return this form.

     

    Please check off to confirm that you received each of the following on your digital device.

     

    _____ 1 Digital Device ………………………………………….. Barcode #: _____________________

    _____ 1 AC Power Adapter

    _____ 1 Protection Cover

     

    All items must be returned on the date of separation from Fort Payne City Schools due to withdrawal, expulsion, or graduation. I understand that I will be charged for any missing equipment or cables.

     

    Student

     

    • I have read the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement.
    • I agree to comply with the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement and the Yearly Usage Fee described within.                                                                                                                   
    • I understand that I may lose my digital device privileges as a result of my inappropriate behavior, and may be financially responsible for intentional damage or avoidable loss of the Fort Payne City Schools’ digital device.

     

    Student - Print your name here:   _____________________________________

     

    Student -     Sign and date here:   _____________________________________, date: _________

     

    Parent

     

    • I have read the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement.
    • I understand the procedures and requirements to which my student must comply as shown in the Fort Payne City Schools Acceptable Agreement.
    • I agree to comply with the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement and the Yearly Usage Fee described within.                                                                                                               
    • I accept responsibility for any damage or neglect that may result from my student using a Fort Payne City Schools’ digital device, which may result in monetary charges.
    • I understand that my student may lose his/her digital device privileges and/or incur financial fees as a result of inappropriate behavior, damage, neglect or loss of the Fort Payne City Schools’ digital device.

     

    Parent/Guardian – Print your name here: ________________________________                     

     

    Parent/Guardian- Sign and date here:      ________________________________, date: __________

     

    Current Address: __________________________________________________________________   

     

    Phone Number: ____________________________


     Fort Payne City School Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form

     

    Homeroom Teacher_____________________________________________

     

    I, _________________________________________, enrolled in Fort Payne City Schools

    (name of student)                             and my parent(s)/guardian(s) hereby acknowledge by our signatures that we have received and read or had read to us, the foregoing Code of Conduct and Student Handbook.

     

    Signed________________________________________________________

    Student

     

    Signed________________________________________________________

    Parent/Guardian

     

    Signed________________________________________________________

    Parent/Guardian

     

    Date__________________________________________________________

     

    Note: The student is to sign the above statement. If the student lives with both parents, both parents are to sign the statement. If the student lives with only one parent or guardian, only one is required to sign with the student.

     


     

    I give permission for my child to be photographed, videotaped, or named in newspaper articles, journals, video presentations, etc., which involve school related events and/or activities.

     

    ______ Yes                              ______  No

     

    Signed ___________________________________________________________

    Parent/Guardian

     


     

    I agree to adhere to the rules regarding the cell phone and electronic device policy.

     

    _______ Yes                            ______ No

     

    Signed ___________________________________________________________

    Student

     

    Date _____________________________________________________________

     


    Student Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/Network Services

    I have read the Student Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/Network Services and agree to abide by the provisions contained within the document. I understand that I can be disciplined if I violate the Student Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/Network Services. Such discipline may consist of the revocation of Internet/network access up to and including suspension, expulsion and/or legal action based on the seriousness of the violation.

    Name (Print) __________________________________     Signature_____________________________________           

    School ______________________ Signature of Parent/Guardian ________________________

    Date _____________        

    Internet/Email Usage       ________ Yes      __________ No

     

     *By choosing No your child will be excluded from Internet/Email resources even if these activities are an integral part of the educational activities being pursued at the school.

     

    **Please have the student return it to the homeroom teacher

     


     

    COPPA and Online Resources Agreement

    The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) requires websites to gain parent permission for users under the age of 13 and/or 18 before creating individual online accounts. Many educational sites used by Fort Payne City Schools require student accounts and, thus, parental permission.  To view the “FPCS Approved Online Tools and Resources” list, go to the Parent Information Section on the District website.

     

    I give permission for the school system to upload the basic directory information of my child in order to create an account on these educational websites.

     

    _____Yes                      _____No

     

    Student’s Name (print)__________________ Parent/Guardian Signature ______________________

     

    Date ___________

     


    Video Conferencing Call Permissions

    I give permission for my child to participate in group (class/school) video conference calls while in class/school during the 2022-2023 school year. I understand that this is for instructional purposes only, and that my child’s teacher or school administrator will be leading the session. Students will be visible to other participants in the video call. Students will be able to ask/answer questions during the video call.

     

    _____Yes                      _____No

     

    Student’s Name (print)__________________ Parent/Guardian Signature _______________________

     

    Date ___________

     


  • School-Parent Compact

    School-Parent Compact

    FPMS Compact

    Signatures