We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the 2020-2021 school year
at Ford Middle School. We are so excited and hopeful to have students back inside
our school. We are fortunate to be a part of such a strong and caring community. This
year is unlike any other in the history of Ford. Due to COVID-19, we understand school
as we knew it has changed and we all must adjust to a new type of learning
environment for our students. Together we will not only face our challenges we will
overcome them. During this year we want to make sure you will remain wellinformed
and that you understand our efforts to maintain a continuity of learning for
all students. Your child’s safety, health, and well being is our top priority.
COVID-19 is not the only hardship our society currently faces. We also wish to address
the amount of civil unrest within our community currently. We understand that we
cannot change the world, however, as a diverse community we can stand in unity.
Our school is committed to being responsive to students when faced with difficult
conversations around racism, equity, and discrimination and address these issues in
an honest way and with an open mind.
To help us make a tricky year a bit easier please take time to read your student
handbook carefully. It is a helpful resource that will provide you with a great deal of
information about Ford. This handbook also provides information to help you make
good choices both in and out of class.
Our staff and school focus is academic excellence, equity, and community.
Specialized experiences are designed to assist students who are struggling both
academically and emotionally. Ford’s goal is to offer a variety of programs during and
after school to meet the varied needs of our students including academic assistance
and tutoring, student leadership opportunities, peer mediating, fine arts activities,
service clubs and athletics, however, it is dependent upon state and district
regulations during this pandemic. We look forward to helping all our students
achieve success both in building and in distance learning.
At Ford we believe school is a partnership between many people and organizations.
We look forward to providing the best education possible for our students. We
encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns that you might have. We
wish you a great year!

School Information

School Hours

Office Hours                           8:00-3:00pm

School Day                             8:30-3:00pm

 

 

I am READY

& prepared, so I will be successful.

I am RESPECTFUL

of myself and others.

I am RESPONSIBLE

for my choices.

 

Everyone has the right

to learn and work

in a safe and civil environment

without interference.

Make Your Day provides a consistent campus-wide citizenship program in which adults have high expectations
for all students’ academic and behavioral performance. We encourage student self-management. Make Your
Day provides predictable consequences for students’ behavior choices. Students are expected to come to
school ready to learn. The foundation of Ford’s Make Your Day citizenship program is threefold:
1. All students are capable of success.
2. Parents must be directly involved in their child’s progress.
3. Making appropriate choices at school, coupled with open communication between home and school,
generates student success.
Ford Middle School’s Make Your Day citizenship program includes accountability, predictable consequences
and recognition. Points are used to assess students’ citizenship and allow them to take responsibility for their
behavior. Steps provide students time and a place to reflect on their behavior that interfered with the
learning, safety, or well-being of others. At Ford Middle School students are recognized for demonstrating the
qualities of readiness, respectfulness, and responsibility.
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Expectations
Students are taught expectations for all environments at school based on the school-wide expectations and
school board policy. Please see the matrix below for an outline of the school-wide expectations related to our
T-Bird Traits: ready, respectful, responsible.
All adults are expected to clearly outline student expectations for different learning activities during their
instruction so students are able to make informed decisions about behavior and participation.
Ready Respectful Responsible
School-Wide
 Arrive at school on time every day.
 Prepared: Bring supplies to school:
backpack, Time Tracker, pens & pencils,
mask etc.
 Bring notes/arrange phone call to excuse
absences.
 Complete office business at appropriate
time: before 8:00 am or at lunch time.
 Well Mannered: listening, considerate
(“Please”,” Thank You”) & positive.
 Self-Controlled: appropriate volume,
hands and feet to self, calm.
 Make new friends and respect
differences between people.
 Avoid rumors and drama. Be positive.
 Follow all school expectations including:
1. Dress & appearance (wear mask
when required)
2. Eat or drink only in the cafeteria.
3. Public Displays of Affection are
prohibited: hugging, hand holding
etc.
4. Cell phones / electronic device use
prohibited.
 If problems happen, involve adults.
 If you see bullying, tell adult in charge.
Classroom
 Be in seat when the bell rings.
 Preview learning target and entry task.
 Arrange desk for class work:
o Necessary supplies/papers only,
o Stow backpack out of aisle.
 SLANT
 Be considerate of others.
 Speak when given permission.
 Listen while others speak.
 Be positive & encouraging.
 Accept responsibility for your actions.
 Use class time to succeed in school.
 Follow directions.
 Work to the best of your ability.
 Help to keep the classroom clean.
 Care for and return borrowed items.
Distance
Learning
 Turn on device before class starts to
ensure there are no issues.
 Check email and Canvas modules for
important messages.
 Have all assignments prepared and/or
submitted.
 Follow distance learning guidelines.
 Do not interrupt and wait your turn to
contribute.
 Stay focused on task at hand.
 Do not make unnecessary noise or say
inappropriate words or sounds
 Do not use chat unless instructed
 Treat distance learning the same as you
would in class learning.
 Dress appropriately
 Be prepared to fully participate
 Keep video on during conferences unless
otherwise arranged with teacher.
Hallways
 Know where you are going – follow the
expected walking route.
 Wait in a single file line, with your
shoulder against the wall, wait for the
door to open.
 Walk on the right side of the hall or
walkway.
 Turn voices off when entering a building.
 Open/Hold doors for others.
 Keep walking to encourage traffic flow.
 Walk with purpose.
 ARRIVE ON TIME.
 Wear Mask
 Maintain social distancing
Restroom
 Wait to go until after the first 10 minutes
or before the last 10 minutes of class.
 Sign out/Sign In.
 Take a pass.
 Use quiet voices.
 Respect others’ privacy.
 Clean up after yourself.
 Take care of business and return to class
quickly and directly – no side trips.
 Wash your hands with soap and water.
 Put your trash in the trash can.
Lunch in
Classroom
 Notify teacher in the morning if you
would like a school lunch.
 Have all items needed to eat ready to go
if bringing lunch.
 Listen to adult directions
 Keep your area clean. Don’t play with
food and dispose of all trash and food in
designated garbage.
 Use inside voice and show good
manners.
 Do not touch others food
 If you need to use restroom, ask to do so
during this time.
 Stay in your seat and do not wander the
class.
Cafeteria
 Report to the cafeteria for the first 15
minutes of lunch.
 Know your lunch number.
 Pick a line and stay in it.
 Listen for adult directions.
 Find a seat quickly.
 Use single-file lines.
 Stay in your place in line; don’t cut.
 Touch only your food – no one else’s.
 Use good manners.
 Talk using an inside voice.
 Invite others to sit with you.
 Clean up your area - even items that may
be left behind by others.
 Use the restroom during this time.
 Stay in your seat until you are dismissed.
Courtyard/
Breezeway
 Wear appropriate attire for the weather.
 Follow all the rules of the games.
 Keep your personal items with you at all
times.
 Be aware of others & games in play.
 Use appropriate volume.
 Include others.
 Stay in the designated areas.
 Walk at all times.
 Stop play and get in line when the
whistle blows.
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Ready Respectful Responsible
Office
Building
 Only enter the building if you personally
have business in the office building.
 Know your purpose for entering the
building.
 Use quiet voices.
 If more than two students are in the
office, wait in a single file line outside.
 Wait for the adult to be ready to help
you.
 Say “Please” & “Thank You.”
 Keep moving; don’t stop to visit with
others.
 Allow others to complete their work.
After School
Activities
 Arrive in the gym by 2:40 for sporting
events.
 Plan work or something to do before the
game starts.
 Before coming to school, get parent
permission to stay after school and plan
how you will get home.
 Follow adult directions at all times.
 Show positive sportsmanship and be
encouraging.
 Cheer positively.
 Use the restroom one at a time.
 Follow all school expectations:
1. Follow the dress code.
2. Eat or drink only in the cafeteria.
3. Cell phones in designated areas only

What does it mean to Make Your Day?
Students Make Their Day by earning a set number of
points each day. Students earn points by meeting
the teachers’ expectations to the best of their
abilities. At the end of the day, students total their
points in all classes and report whether they made
their day.
Students who do not earn enough points to Make
Their Day it will be notated in their tracker and will
require a signature by their parent/guardian. This is
not meant to be a negative experience rather an
opportunity to promote problem solving
conversation between parent and child. We
strongly encourage families to complete daily
points with their students on distance learning days
as a form of reflection and accountability. Points is
designed as a communication tool. Points and the
event that a student did not make their day once
again is not a sign of failure nor a reason for
punishment. It is a positive sign that the student has
taken responsibility for choices made that day. In
order to help the student make better choices the
next day, Ford’s staff members ask parents to
please check students trackers daily and discuss
celebrations and possible better choices for the
next day.
How do students earn points?
Each period students earn points by "Doing what is
expected to the best of their ability." Students
begin each period with zero points. Points are
earned, never lost. At the end of the period,
students assess their effort toward meeting
learning objectives and behavioral expectations
and they report a point value for that effort to the
class.
Compliments and Concerns - Once students have
assessed and reported their own points, fellow
students and/or the teacher have an opportunity to
give feedback to each other under teacher
direction. Students are encouraged to compliment
other students who have helped them or
demonstrated positive citizenship. Students may
show concern for others in a respectful way,
managed by the teacher. Concerns and
compliments are spoken respectfully using a script:
students are not allowed to blame, retaliate, or be
hurtful to others.
Student giving compliment
“I have a compliment. (Name), you helped
me today by doing .”
Student receiving compliment
“Thank you.”
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Student showing concern
“I have a concern. (Name), you interfered with
my (learning or safety) when you ________.”
Student receiving concern
“I (do/do not) take responsibility for ______.”
Student showing concern
“I suggest a ___ point change of your points.”
Student receiving concern
“I (do/do not) accept “
Teacher
“That will be a ___ point change.”
TEACHERS MAKE THE FINAL DECISION ABOUT
THE CONCERNS AND POINTS EARNED.
At the end of Compliments and Concerns, students
record their points in their Time Trackers in the grid
printed at the bottom of every school day.
Students Make Their Day by earning an average of
43-44 points per class period.
Can all students show concern for others?
Yes. However, if a student uses concerns
inappropriately, (for example, using concerns to
blame, retaliate or be hurtful to others) he/she may
not be allowed to raise concerns or respond to
concerns shown by others toward him/herself.
What is the purpose of Steps?
Ford's Make Your Day program emphasizes student
decision-making and responsibility. Students are
allowed to choose steps by a staff member when
they interfere with the learning or safety of others.
Choosing steps is a consequence not a punishment.
Students have control of whether they choose
steps by their behavior. There is no punishment
associated with choosing steps. When students
choose steps they temporarily face away from the
learning environment. Students on steps, are
expected not to talk, interact with others, move
around, or make noises. They are also not allowed
to argue about the consequence.
Students' academic grades are not directly
impacted by choosing steps. However, if students
repeatedly choose steps, thereby removing
themselves from the learning activities, it may
negatively impact their grades.
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Step 1: The student will be asked to quietly take a
seat facing away from the learning activity. On
steps, a student is expected to reflect on his/her
behavior. After 1-3 minutes the teacher will conduct
a quiet conference with the student, asking what
behavior brought the student to Step 1 and whether
the student is ready to return to the learning
activity. With a successful conference, the teacher
will allow the student to return to learning
activities. If the student needs more time, time will
be given. In special circumstances, step 1 may last
longer than 1-3 minutes; teachers will inform
students in advance if Step 1 might be extended.
Step 2: If the student argues, interacts/interferes
with others or fails to comply with step 1
expectations, the student will choose Step 2. When
on step 2, students stand quietly and face away
from the learning environment for 1-3 minutes. As
with Step 1, the teacher will confer with the student
before he/she may return to Step 1 and eventually
to the learning environment.
Step 3: If the student argues, interacts/interferes
with others or fails to comply with step 2
expectations, the student will choose Step 3 where
he/she focuses on a sign featuring the Make Your
Day rule; or he/she may choose a Step 4. After
approximately 1-3 minutes, the teacher will briefly
confer with the student and the student will deescalate
through steps in order.
STEPS 1-3 ALLOW THE STUDENTS TO
REMAIN IN THE CLASSROOM AS THEY
ATTEMPT TO CORRECT THEIR BEHAVIOR.
The student will continue to earn Make
Your Day points by following the
procedures correctly.
Step 4 Restorative Conferences: After three
warnings, inappropriate behavior on Step 3 or an
extreme incident causes a Step 4 Restorative. On
Step 4 the student will be sent to the Make Your Day
room to make a supervised phone call to a parent to
request a Step 4 Restorative conference. The
student will notify the parent of the behavior that
caused them to leave the class and schedule a
parent conference at the school or a phone
conference (during COVID-19 restrictions this will be
the alternate to parent coming into building). The
purpose of the conference is threefold: to address
the student’s behavior, to take steps toward
improved behavior, and to determine if the student
is ready to return to class. This process prioritizes
face-to-face or direct communication between
parent and teacher. Through this process, Ford’s
staff members seek parents’ support in shaping
student behavior. We understand these
conferences cannot happen immediately. Once a
call is complete and the student is calm and ready
an administrator will hold a restorative conference
between the student and teacher. Once this is
complete the student will return to class. The
expectation is that the parent conference is still
held that day or within 5 days maximum of the
incident.
As a reminder, by the time a student chooses step
4 Restorative, he/she has had three warnings; a
Step 4 Restorative Conference is driven by the
student behavior. It is important for the student,
parent, and teacher to realize that PROGRESSION
THROUGH STEPS or BEHAVIOR is ENTIRELY THE
STUDENT'S CHOICE.
What happens at a Step 4 Restorative Conference?
Upon coming to campus, the parent will check in at
the office and receive a visitor badge. The parent
will be sent to meet with the teacher, followed a
few minutes later by the student.
At a Step 4 Restorative Conference, the student
will:
 State the problem or behavior choices.
 Express and accept responsibility for his/her
choices.
 Offer an alternative method for managing
his/her problem.
 Express a desire to return to class.
The parent will decide if the outcome of the
conference is acceptable and will decide whether
the student is ready to return to class.
A Step 4 Restorative Conference is designed to
address the specific behavior choices of the
student. If requested, another conference can be
scheduled before or after school to discuss
academic progress.
NOTICE - Steps may be adjusted for students who
chronically interfere with the learning or working of
others. When an administrator evaluates which
consequences are appropriate, the student's past
behavior and disciplinary record is taken into
consideration.
Suspension and/or Emergency Expulsion (EE):
Suspension or EE is used when a student is not
functioning appropriately in the school setting
7
and/or is out of control. At this point, the principal
or designee will contact the parent and indicate
that the child needs to be picked up at school. If
that is not possible, the principal or designee will
transport the student to the parent at home or at
work. A waiting room may be used for the
remainder of the day if a parent is unable to be
contacted. The student will remain at home the
following day or until he/she has satisfied the
sanction requirements appropriate for his/her
infraction as outlined in the Franklin Pierce School
District's discipline policy and a successful
conference has occurred. The difference between
a suspension and an EE is that a suspension is a
direct removal due to behavior and an EE means
that the behavior has not been fully investigated
and the student must be removed for safety
purposes until discipline has been decided and/or
all information has been gathered. When a student
earns a step 5 the expectation is that learning still
continues. The student will be able to access
distance learning resources to continue education
services during this time. Upon return from a Step
5 a re-entry conference will be scheduled with an
administrator. Please note that Step 5 sanctions
involve short and long-term suspensions,
emergency expulsion, and/or expulsion from Ford
Middle School.
What are the exceptions?
In most instances, students will progress up and
down steps in order. There are four exceptions to
this: Shadowing, Automatic Step 4 Restorative, and
Automatic Step 5.
Shadowing: If a student interacts in any manner
with a student on steps, that student has chosen
the same step by “shadowing” – even if the student
is on step four. No other student should interact
with a student choosing steps.
Automatic Step 4 Restorative: There are some
behaviors that will automatically place a student on
Step 4 Restorative. Extremely disruptive, defiant,
and/or unsafe behaviors result in a student
automatically choosing a Step 4 Restorative
Conference. One example would be physical harm
to another, destruction of property, or extreme
disruption/misconduct.
A student who makes a choice to be involved in any
of the following may leap to Step 4 Restorative and
may be eligible for Step 5, at the discretion of the
administration:
 Skipping class/School
 Rough play/Play fighting
 Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying/Threats
 Fighting/Instigating fights/Spectating
fights
Major Offenses: If a student engages in serious
misconduct, the school will address those
behaviors through Franklin Pierce School District
Board policy. Major behavioral offenses include,
but are not limited to, gang related activity,
extremely unsafe or disruptive behavior, defiance
and any behavior outlined in the Franklin Pierce
School District Student Rights and Responsibilities
brochure handed out during the first few days of
school and upon student enrollment
Automatic Suspension: If a student does not
follow Step 4 Restorative procedures, he/she will
be suspended or receive an Emergency Expulsion
from school. Such behaviors would include failing
to report to the Make Your Day office, disruption in
a buddy room and refusal to follow the directions
of the Make Your Day coordinator.
Requesting Steps
Because Make Your Day promotes student choice
and responsibility, Ford Middle School faculty and
staff recognize a student’s right to make their own
choices. There are two specific ways students are
empowered to make their own choices within the
Make Your Day framework.
1. Opting Out - Occasionally a student, for
any number of reasons, may decide it is a
better choice for him/her to sit on Step 1
than be in the general learning
environment. When making this choice
the student may indicate to the
supervising adult, “I would like to opt
out.” When the supervising adult
acknowledges the choice, the student
may sit on step one for the remainder of
the period.
2. Requesting a Conference - Occasionally, a
student may decide it is better choice for
him/her to request a parent conference. A
Step 4 Restorative Conference will then
be held, prior to the student returning to
class.

All students are expected to have a Time Tracker. Students are
expected to keep these trackers intact. Students must not color,
fold, doodle, or destroy any of the pages or cover. It is the
responsibility of each student to read and know the information
contained in the tracker.
Ford Middle School is committed to providing a
meaningful, quality education, which will prepare
students for the challenges of our world. To
accomplish this, Ford Middle School provides a
number of supports and different modes of
communication between school and home regarding
academic programs.
Study Skills & Required Materials - Each student is
expected to have each of the following at all times:
 Ford Time Tracker and Binder
 Three sharpened pencils, an ink pen, and
notebook paper.
The binder will be used for the organization of
materials, holding assignment sheets, completed
assignments, notes, and/or handouts from each
class in their notebooks. The binder will be checked
periodically throughout the school year.
Grades – Ford Middle School uses a standards-based
approach to grading. Classroom teachers expect
students to demonstrate proficiency on academic
standards, and students will be given multiple
opportunities to demonstrate mastery of the
standards. Grades reflect what students know and
are able to do. Work habits such as following
directions and work completion will be
communicated in other ways. Parents can monitor
student grades weekly using On-Line Grades via
TeacherEase, accessed at www.fpschools.org.
Progress reports are sent home intermittently and
report cards are sent out twice a year (once per
semester) in order to notify parents of their child’s
progress. Semester report cards are mailed home
for parents within a week following the end of the
grading period.
Parent/Teacher Conferences - Teachers are available
for contact during their planning periods. Parents
wishing to confer with a teacher should contact
either that particular teacher or a counselor to
arrange an appointment.
Formal Student-Led Conferences are offered in both
the fall and the spring. Students’ Advisors will
contact you with additional information. Fall
conferences showcase student goals for the year;
Spring conferences are used to reflect on annual
goals and future planning implications.
Conferences are a great way to celebrate each
student’s success and are required as a part of the
Ford promotion policy.
Academic Interventions – Ford is committed to
providing programs to help students to be
academically successful. Ongoing interventions are
provided for students needing additional support,
including teacher assistance, additional
instructional time, conferences with parents,
student academic progress reports, frequent
progress reports and semester report cards, “TAC,”
after school academic and enrichment
opportunities, and various student academic
support classes.
Assignments During Suspensions – Due to the
availability of online learning during periods of
exclusion students are expected to attend daily
distance learning activities and should not fall
behind.
Assignments Due to Absences - Assignments due to
excused absences may be requested through the
office. Please allow 24 hours for this material to be
compiled. Also, students are able to refer to online
learning to access content and materials missed.
Academic Dishonesty - Students found cheating in
any way (for example, plagiarizing, copying,
providing answers to other students, claiming other
people’s work as their own) will face disciplinary
action, which may include reduction of their grade,
loss of credit and/or school discipline.
Section 504 - The Franklin Pierce School District
complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
that prohibits discrimination against students due
to their handicapping condition. Questions or
concerns relating to Section 504 may be addressed
to the District’s Learning Support Services
Executive Director, John Sander, 315 South 129th
Street Tacoma, Washington 98444, (253) 298-3005.
Academic Expectations
Attendance
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Regular school attendance is necessary for mastery of
the educational program provided to students of the
district.
Absences
Franklin Pierce Schools Policy will be followed. The
policy states: The following are valid excuses for
absences and tardiness:
a. Participation in school-approved activity.
A. Absence due to illness, health condition,
family emergency, or religious purpose.
B. Absence for parental-approved activities.
C. Absence resulting from disciplinary actions
or short-term suspension.
D. Extended illness or health condition.
E. Excused absence for chronic health
condition.
Assignments and/or activities not completed
because of an excused absence or tardiness may be
made up in the manner provided by the teacher.
If your child is going to be absent from school,
please notify the school as soon as possible. An
Automated Calling System makes calls home when
students miss one or more periods of school.
Planned Absence: Parents need to request a planned
absence form from the office in order to notify
teachers and the office of absences planned in
advance. It is the responsibility of the
parent/guardian to provide notification of the dates
and reasons for the missed days. Please avoid
scheduling medical, dental, or legal appointments
during school hours whenever possible.
Returning from an Absence: Upon returning to school
following an absence, students need to report
directly to the attendance office with a written
excuse signed by a parent or guardian. The parent
may also phone the school the day of the absence,
stating the reason for the absence. Unless an
excuse is presented to the attendance office, within
3 days of the student's return to school or a phone
call is received, the absence will be considered
unexcused.
Unexcused Absences: Students whose absences are
unexcused are only allowed to make up missed
assignments at the discretion of the teacher. If a
student has an unexcused absence or is truant from
school, the consequence will require a parent
conference and may include Step 4 Restorative.
Each unexcused absence will be followed by an
unexcused absence notification to the parent from the
student. After three unexcused absences within any
month, a conference shall be held between the parent,
student, and assistant principal. No later than the third
unexcused absence within any month during the
current school year, or upon the tenth unexcused
absence during the current school year, the district
shall file a petition with the juvenile court alleging a
violation of RCW 28A.225.010 by the parent, student,
or parent and student. Twenty consecutive days of
unwarranted absences will result in the student being
withdrawn from school. Permission to be absent from
school for reasons other than illness may be granted
by an administrator, upon a request by the
parent/guardian.
Early Dismissals: Parents are asked to make requests
for early dismissals only in the case of urgent
necessity. Students will be released from class
when a parent or guardian signs their student out in
the office. Students will be expected to make up all
class work missed. Whenever a student is picked up
during school hours a photo ID will be required.
Students are only released to individuals on the
approved contact list unless previous arrangements
have been made with the school.
Tardies: Students who are late to class without staff
permission will be considered tardy. Students will
receive a lunch detention when they have
accumulated 10 tardies in a semester. Additional
tardiness to class may result in lunch detentions,
Step 4 Restorative Conference, or after school
learning.
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As stated in Franklin Pierce School District Policy No.
3200, all students who attend the district's schools
shall comply with the written policies, rules, and
regulations of the schools, shall pursue the required
course of studies, and shall submit to the authority of
staff of the schools, subject to such corrective action
or punishment as the school officials shall determine.
Students are expected to behave RESPECTFULLY to
contribute to the safety and civility of the school.
Students are encouraged to contact Ford
administrators or security to report any unsafe
situations, threats or any vital information
concerning Ford Middle School students and /or
staff.
Ford Middle School Office
253-298-3600
Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying – Harassment,
intimidation, or bullying can take many forms,
including, but not limited to slurs, rumors, jokes,
innuendos, demeaning comments, drawings,
cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks,
threats, or other written, electronic, oral, physical,
or electronically transmitted messages or images.
Harassment, intimidation and/or bullying are not
tolerated at Ford Middle School and will be
addressed according to the Franklin Pierce School
District Student Rights and Responsibilities brochure
handed out during the first few days of school and
upon student enrollment. (FPS Policy No. 3207)
Sexual Harassment - Sexual harassment is defined as
any unwanted sexual attention that makes a
student feel uncomfortable, or interferes with his or
her educational opportunities and/or ability to do
work. Sexual harassment is not tolerated at Ford
Middle School and will be addressed according to
the Franklin Pierce School District Student Rights and
Responsibilities brochure.
Internet - Ford students must sign and abide by Franklin
Pierce Schools Internet Policies and Regulations
when using the Internet. Student digital messages
must not threaten, intimidate, or harass other students or
disrupt school. Such communications, wherever written,
will be subject to school discipline.
Distance Learning
When engaging in distance learning all school rules still apply.
Students must follow distance learning guidelines as well
as normal in school expectations. Consequences still
apply during virtual learning.
Gum –To maintain a clean campus that demonstrates
student and staff pride in our school, students at
Ford Middle School are expected to refrain from
chewing gum while at school.
Play Fighting - Play fighting is not allowed at Ford
because it can lead to physical injury and it disrupts
the safe learning environment. Some students use
"play fighting" as a form of intimidation of other
students. Play fighting includes hitting, punching,
tripping, chasing, pushing, pinching, etc., or
pretending to do these acts. All such acts are
subject to school discipline.
Public Displays of Affection – School is a place of work
and business; therefore, public displays of affection
(PDA) are not appropriate. A few examples of PDAs
include holding hands, kissing, hugging and/or
sitting on another student’s lap.
Social Distancing and Masks
All students and staff will maintain social distance and
wear masks in accordance to state and district
health regulations.
Weapons - Students must not knowingly possess,
handle, or transmit any object that can reasonably
be considered a weapon or instrument that may
create a danger to self or others, or cause a
disruption of the learning environment. The
possession of firearms on school property will result
in a one-year mandatory expulsion, subject to
appeal with notification to parents and law
enforcement. Franklin Pierce School District
policies will be followed when handling discipline
issues to address weapons on campus, on district
property, or at any school function. ** Water
shooting devices of any kind (including water
balloons) are not permitted on campus at Ford.
End of School Year: Reverse Suspensions - In spring,
students who receive a suspension from school may
serve a "reverse suspension" starting with the last
day of school. Exceptions to this policy would
include immediate suspensions related to serious
infractions: i.e. fighting, threats, and or other
health/safety issues.
Bus Rules - Student safety is the primary concern of the
transportation department. Students whose
conduct is not acceptable will be subject to
Behavior Expectations
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disciplinary action by the bus driver or the
transportation department. The bus driver is in full
authority at all times and may assign seats or
remove disruptive students from the bus. For
questions regarding transportation, including
discipline issues on the bus, refer to the student bus
conduct report or please call 253-298-3865.
Office Conduct - Students are expected to be quiet and
courteous while in the office. Students may only
enter the office if they personally have business in
the office. Office phones may be used by students
only in emergencies and with the permission of a
secretary or an administrator.
Closed Campus Policy - Ford Middle School operates as
a closed campus. Only students enrolled at Ford are
allowed on campus during the school day (7:00 –
5:30). No student visitors are allowed at school
during any part of the school day.
All other persons must check in at the main office.
Unauthorized people will be directed to leave
campus. Refusal to leave school grounds becomes
trespassing, a criminal act, and the police may be
contacted.
Students are NOT allowed to leave the school
grounds after arriving at school in the morning, or
any time during the school day, unless they are
properly checked out through the office. DO NOT
LEAVE SCHOOL DURING THE DAY WITHOUT FIRST
CHECKING OUT THROUGH THE OFFICE. Students
who fail to check out will be considered truant and
will be subject to school discipline.
After School - Students who leave campus are not
permitted to return to campus unless they are
accompanied by their parent or guardian. Students
must leave campus within 10 minutes of the end of
the day or of any school-sponsored event or athletic
contest. Failure to leave campus may result in
school discipline or the student being excluded
from future after-school activities or athletics.
Off-Limits Areas - For safety and convenience, there
are some off-limit areas on our campus. Before
school and during lunch, students should remain in
approved areas: cafeteria, courtyard, and
supervised play areas. Students are not allowed in
the front of the school, behind the gym, or off
campus. The railroad tracks are off campus.
Dress & Appearance – Ford Middle School is a place of
work and learning. We expect our students to be
dressed for an academic atmosphere of purposeful
learning and responsible citizenship. Students are
expected to dress modestly. Final decisions
regarding dress code violations will be at the
discretion of administration.
 Shorts and skirts are acceptable if their length is to
the fingertips or longer when hands are at the
student’s sides and the shorts or skirt sits at the
student’s natural waist. Sweaters, cardigans, or
long shirts are considered tops, not covers for the
lower body. Rips, tears, or holes should not expose
skin or underwear above fingertip.
 Shirts are expected to cover up the entire shoulder
area (neck to end of shoulder) and not show over
exposure of armholes or chest area. Shirts need to
cover a student’s midriff and back when arms are
raised above the student’s head or when the
student is seated.
 Undergarments should not to be exposed or seen.
Should students wear see-through, sheer, mesh or
lace garments, clothing beneath it must comply
with the dress code.
 Pants are to be worn on the hips and not below.
Sagging of pants is not permitted.
 Pajama bottoms and slippers are not appropriate
attire for school and are therefore not permitted.
 Students are not permitted to wear anything that is
profane, lewd, or could cause disruption or
interference with school operation.
 Clothing may not contain words or images
that degrade on the basis of race, religion,
ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation or
pose a threat of imminent violence or
disruption of school.
 Students may not wear attire that has gang
affiliation such as: bandanas or bandana print
clothes, handmade rosaries, colored shoelaces,
cloth belts that hang down, or color blocking (one
color head to toe). Gang affiliated attire is
constantly changing and expectations around this
will be evaluated by administration as needed.
 Writing on clothing and bodies will not be
permitted.
 Students are not permitted to wear articles of
clothing or jewelry that advertise alcohol, tobacco
products, illegal drugs or promote violence.
(Franklin Pierce Schools Policy No. 3224 and
Procedure 3224P).
 Spikes, chains, grilles (for teeth) and studs are also
not permitted on campus.
 Students are not allowed to wear hats with bills on
campus. Hoods or knit hats are allowed outside on
school grounds only in cold, wet weather.
 Students may not have hoods up inside of a building
 Religious head coverings are permitted
 In accordance to CDC guidelines and state
suggestions. There could be a requirement to wear
a mask. The mask should be appropriate and not
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have any inappropriate images or wording on it. If
student arrives with inappropriate mask a
temporary will be provided.
 Due to allergies, students are not permitted to
use spray fragrances such as cologne,
perfume, and/or body spray.
Ford’s dress code is one expression of our
commitment to a safe, academically-oriented
learning environment. Parents, we thank you for
your assistance in helping your children learn to
make wise choices about their school attire. Our
goal is to educate students and support families. If
a student needs assistance with acquiring items of
clothing based on need. Resources are available.
Please contact administration or a counselor for
support.
Students are RESPONSIBLE for remaining in the
classroom during the educational period.
10/10 Expectation – Students are expected to remain
in the classroom during the first ten minutes and the
last ten minutes of every class period unless there is
a need for a health room visit or other emergency.
The first ten minutes of the period and the last
should be reserved for introductory instruction and
conclusion /reflection.
Hall Passes - During class periods, students who are
out of class must carry their Time Trackers with the
Hall Pass filled out including date, time, destination
and teacher initials. As students leave a class, they
must sign out on the classroom sign-out sheet.
Passing Expectations - Students are expected to
move quickly to their next location. They should not
gather in the hallways during passing times since
this blocks traffic and interferes with social
distancing expectations.
The cafeteria and the courtyard are public areas of
Ford’s campus. The cafeteria provides students a
place to eat and socialize before school and during
lunch. The following guidelines are dependent upon
the current COVID restrictions in place.
Cafeteria or In Class Lunch/Breakfast
Breakfast is available from 7:30 until 8:15 a.m. We
stop serving breakfast at 10:00 a.m. If cafeteria is
closed breakfast will be served in hallway of your 1st
period and consumed in class.
Cafeteria Lunch
Each lunch period is 30 minutes, during which time
approximately 300 students are served lunch.
While in the cafeteria for breakfast or lunch,
Students are expected to:
1. Keep all food and drink in the cafeteria.
2. Remain seated until dismissed by an adult.
3. Clean up table, seat and floor before leaving
their seats.
Classroom Lunch
Lunch will be delivered to the classroom and all
food is consumed at your table or desk.
1. Keep your area clean as you eat and throw
away all trash in designated garbage can.
2. Remain in your seat unless asking adult
permission.
Cafeteria/Before School/Lunch Time Expectations
 Enter the cafeteria through the front doors only.
 Walk (not run) to, from, and in the cafeteria.
 Form orderly lunch lines.
 Purchase lunches in advance; no charging of
lunches is allowed. Borrowing and loaning money
is not allowed between students.
 Remain seated while eating or drinking.
 Dispose of garbage properly and stack trays
neatly.
 Only re-enter the cafeteria with adult permission.
 Ask an adult for a pass before entering any
building during lunch, including the office.
 Remain within the courtyard boundaries.
 Check out activity equipment with a student I.D.
 Address lunchtime problems or concerns with an
adult supervisor.
Before School Expectations During COVID-19
 Students may not spend time in the
courtyard or halls.
 Once you arrive at school students must
report directly to their 1st period classroom.
 All classrooms will open at 7:30. Please do
not arrive before 7:30.
Free/Reduced Lunch - Franklin Pierce School District
currently receives a grant that provides all students
Cafeteria & Courtyard Expectations
Progressive Discipline for Dress Code Violations
1st. Student changes clothes and calls home.
2nd. Student changes clothes, calls home,
and takes home policy for parent
signature.
3rd. Step Four Restorative, student changes
clothes.
4th. After School Learning.
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with a free breakfast and/or lunch daily regardless
of need. All students are eligible to receive free
breakfast and lunch daily at Ford Middle School.
Lunch on Early Release Days - Only students who get
a lunch ticket in the morning, before school, will be
served lunch in the cafeteria.
Students bring their own property and valuables to
Ford Middle School at their own risk. The school
does not require or encourage students to bring
items with a value of more than $5 to school.
Ford Middle School is not responsible for lost or
stolen personal property. Please bring these
valuable items to school at your own risk.
Personal Property/Valuables/Money - The District and
Ford Middle School assume no responsibility for
loss of personal property such as: cell phones, air
pods, other electronic items, and other valuable
items brought to school. These items present
potential disruption to the educational
environment and may be confiscated if brought to
school.
Ford Middle School is not responsible for
monitoring or investigating to recover lost
electronic and/or personal property. Because of the
danger of theft, students are advised to keep
valuable articles and amounts of money over $5.00
at home. Students are allowed to have clear water
bottles with water only. Bottles cannot be glass. If
students have drinks other than water it must
remained sealed until lunch and any leftover drink
will need to be thrown away.
Bicycles at school must be parked and locked in the
racks provided near the entrance of the cafeteria.
They must be walked, not ridden, on campus. The
storage area is not locked; students are responsible
for locking their own bikes. The school assumes NO
responsibility for damage to or theft of bicycles.
Helmets must be worn, as required by law.
Skateboards, scooters, and skates of any kind, are
not allowed at Ford Middle School.
Book Bags & Backpacks - Backpacks and/or book bags
are the responsibility of the student. The school is
not responsible for lost or stolen articles from
backpacks and/or book bags. The size of the bag
must be no larger than 14" X 16" X 8". No bags
and/or purses of any kind are not permitted at Ford
on the last two days of school.
Electronic Devices - (Including but not restricted to:
cell phones, air pods, headphones, speaker,
cameras, etc.) Ford Middle School recommends
these items be left at home. They should remain
out of sight, turned off, and in your backpack.
These devices will be confiscated if they are visible,
heard or used while on campus. We will not
investigate disappearances or theft.
Lockers – Any locker malfunction needs to be
reported to a PE teacher or the office immediately.
All lockers remain the property of the school and
can be searched by school officials when there is
reasonable cause. PE teachers will issue locks.
Students will be charged $6.00 for lost locks. The
school is not responsible for items that are lost or
stolen from lockers.
Laser Pointers - According to Franklin Pierce School
District Policy, laser pointers are not allowed at Ford
Middle School, on the school buses, or on any
Franklin Pierce School District Property.
Lost & Found or Confiscated Items - Textbooks,
wallets, watches, and other items of value found
should be turned into the office so they may be
returned to the rightful owner. Confiscated items
will be turned into the office by school staff. The
items will be logged and placed in a secured area.
Parents must sign the property log sheet upon
receiving any personal property from the office.
Permanent Markers - Students at Ford Middle School
are not permitted to possess, use or carry
permanent markers, including but not limited to
Sharpie Markers®.
Expectations for Property
Progressive Discipline for Cell Phone Violations
1st. Phone confiscated, stored in office,
returned to student at the end of the day.
2nd. Phone confiscated, stored in office,
returned to parent from office.
3rd. Phone confiscated, stored in office,
returned to parent at Step 4 conference.
Student recommended to check cell
phone at office daily.
4th. After School Learning.
5th. Required check in of device daily
14
Participation in school activities is encouraged at Ford
Middle School. Students who participate in extracurricular
activities show higher levels of academic
success. It is for this reason we expect all students to
become actively engaged in school.
Student Activities - Students participating in school
activities must be currently enrolled in school.
Students may not participate in any schoolsponsored
activities or athletic contests on days
when they are suspended from school or have
received a step four. Students returning to campus
without permission during a suspension may
receive additional suspension days.
When staying to cheer for a team game, report
directly to the designated, supervised area. School
rules apply for students on campus, including dress
code and cell phone rules. Students who leave
campus may only return to campus under the
supervision of their parent.
ASB (Associated Student Body) - Students must
purchase an ASB card to participate in athletics,
performance band or choir, student government,
and some clubs. Students who purchase an ASB
card will receive discounted fees for some school
activities. The cost of an ASB card for the 2020-21
school year is $15.00. Students who do not purchase an
ASB card will receive a school identification card which
should be carried at all times. **Students may not
participate in any on-campus sales that are not
authorized by the Ford ASB. Any money exchanged
by students on campus will go to the ASB account.
ASB Leadership - ASB student leadership consists of
students elected by their peers. The ASB board meets
weekly to discuss and vote on school affairs and
disbursement of ASB funds. The meetings are
conducted under the supervision of the staff ASB
advisor. ASB officers and representatives must
maintain high academic standards, good attendance
and have a record free of disciplinary action.
Activity Bus - An activity bus is available only for Ford
students who are participating in extracurricular
activities (such as athletics, clubs, and TAC) and for
students who stay after school because of teacher
requests. Activity bus routes are usually available at
5:00 p.m. M, T, Th & Friday. The activity buses take
approximately one hour to complete the bus circuit
and may not stop at regular stops. Therefore, students
may have to walk a few extra blocks home. Please call
transportation (298-3865) to verify specific routes and
times.
Athletics - Interscholastic athletics are open to 6th, 7th, &
8th graders who maintain passing grades, have
purchased an ASB card, and have a current physical on
file. Proof of current insurance is required at the start
of each season. *6th graders may not participate in
football.
Spring grades determine fall sports eligibility. See the
“Guide for Student Athletes” displayed on the Ford
Middle School - Sports Zone located on the district
website (www.fpschools.org). Ford is a member of
the Seamount League. **Students must be in
attendance for at least one-half of the school day to
participate in any athletic contest, practice that day,
or must receive prior permission from the athletic
director. Students may select from the following
sports:
SEASON GIRLS BOYS
Sept-Nov Fast Pitch/#XC Football*/Soccer
Nov-Jan Basketball Wrestling*#
Jan-Mar Soccer Basketball
Apr-Jun Track/ Volleyball Baseball/Track
Teacher Assistants (students) - Students who are
Teacher Assistants (TAs) must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or
better and make consistent efforts to meet all school
expectations. A positive and respectful attitude is
required for all TAs. TAs will receive a pass/fail grade,
not a letter grade, but.
Yearbooks - Students are encouraged to purchase a
yearbook at the beginning of the year. The price for
yearbooks usually goes up after Spring Break. Orders
will be taken in the office for June delivery.
Ford Middle School seeks to serve students and parents.
We hope the information included below is helpful.
Please let us know if there is any other information you
need.
Office & School Hours (253) 298-3600 Main
Office 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Cafeteria Breakfast 7:30-8:15 a.m.
Classroom Buildings 7:55 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Without prior teacher approval and supervision
students should not be in the building prior to 7:30
FUN: ASB & Student Activities
General Information
15
a.m. or be on school grounds after 2:35 p.m. unless
they are attending an athletic contest or another
school-sponsored activity. Parents, please check with
the sponsoring adult to verify if there is supervision
for the after-school event prior to allowing your
student to remain at school.
Administrators
Ms. Renner, Principal of Ford Middle School, may be
contacted with concerns related to teachers, other
staff, curriculum, & programs.
Ms. Goodman, Assistant Principal, may be contacted
with concerns related to student discipline, athletics,
special education, & ASB.
Mr. Inman, Assistant Principal, may be contacted
with concerns related to student discipline, online
learning, attendance, and special education.
Ms. Hackney, Dean of Students, may be contacted
with concerns related to student discipline, testing,
and grades.
Enrollment & Orientation – Enrollment packets can be
accessed online. Once a completed enrollment
packet is complete and all documentation is
submitted, an appropriate student schedule will be
generated. Students will be notified and will receive
information regarding their first day of school and
new student orientation.
Change of Address or Phone Numbers – Parents,
please notify the office as soon as possible. Accurate
records are critical in emergencies.
Fines - Students who have outstanding fines due to
missing library books, locks, athletic equipment,
damaged textbooks or other school materials must
have all fines paid prior to participating in extracurricular
activities (including field day and dances).
Fire Drills & Emergency Procedures - A plan has been
developed which will ensure the maximum efficiency
and safety for evacuating the building during
emergency drills, or real emergencies. Instructions
are posted for the students in each classroom to
follow during a fire, earthquake, or lock down
situation. Students are expected to maintain
classroom conduct throughout the entire
drill/situation and to become informed of the exit
route for each of their classrooms.
Handbook Changes - Changes in the student handbook
may be made during the school year by school
administration. Notification of changes will be made
on the Ford Middle School website.
Visitors & School Security - We welcome and encourage
parents to visit Ford Middle School. For classroom
observations, please request principal approval to
visit 24 hours in advance. For student and staff safety,
security measures are taken. Notably, all visitors
must provide picture identification. ALL
VISITORS/PARENTS MUST HAVE A VISITOR'S PASS
FROM THE OFFICE. Student visitors are not allowed.
Ford Middle School is a closed campus. Due to COVID-
19 this may not be available.
Any person wishing to speak with a student must be
listed as a contact on the student’s file. Picture
identification is required.
Withdrawal or Transfer - Students who are transferring
to or withdrawing from Ford Middle School must
have their parent/guardian contact the school office
for preparation of any necessary forms. All textbooks
and library books must be returned and fines paid
before student information is released to the new
school.
Ford Middle School is dedicated to providing for the
physical, social and emotional well-being of our
students and staff. For that reason, we offer a number
of services to assist students and families.
COVID -19
During this time when our world is in a pandemic our
students’ safety is a top priority. We need your help
and support to help us create a safe environment for
our kids to learn and our staff to work. please follow
the below guidelines to help everyone stay safe and
healthy:
Please keep your child home if:
 Your child has been directly exposed to
someone who has had COVID-19 for at least
15 minutes.
 Your child has persistent chest
pain/pressure
 Trouble breathing
 Bluish lips or face
 Temperature of 99 or higher (if able please
take your child’s temperature at home
before coming to school)
 Once on our campus if your child exhibits
any symptoms, expresses concern, or
reports they have had contact with
someone with COVID-19 we will ask you to
come pick them up immediately.
 Your child’s temperature may be taken
while at school if we are concerned they are
ill.
Health & Wellness Information
16
Counseling Services – Ford Middle School has four
counselors available to assist students. Counselors
are assigned to serve students of a particular grade or
need. Counselors provide support for students and
parents in any of the following four domains:
1. attendance
2. academic performance
3. behavior
4. social/emotional well-being
Students desiring to see the counselor may sign their
names on the board in the counselors’ office area.
STUDENTS MUST NOT WAIT FOR THE COUNSELOR
UNLESS THEY HAVE AN APPOINTMENT. During class
time, students must get a pass from their teacher
before coming to the counselors’ office. If a parent
or guardian wishes to meet with a counselor, they
should call ahead of time to make an appointment.
Health Services - The Health Room is open every day for
students who are ill or in need of first aid. The school
nurse is on call for emergencies. Students who
become ill while at school must get a pass from an
adult before reporting to the Health Room.
Nurse’s Hours: 8:00-2:00 Phone: 298-3624
If the health aide or nurse is not available, students
must report to the office. Under no circumstances
should an ill student go home without first checking in
with the health room. No medication can be given at
school without signatures of the physician and a
parent or guardian. This includes over-the-counter
medications. (See Medication section.)
Immunizations - In order to protect children against a
number of childhood diseases, Washington State Law
requires that all children admitted to public and nonpublic
schools be immunized against diphtheria,
tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella,
chicken pox (varicella), and hepatitis B, as
appropriate. Further information regarding required
immunizations is available in our school office or
online at the FPS website www.fpschools.org
(Departments - Health Services - Vaccine
Requirements – 2014-15 Requirements). Students will
be excluded from school if they do not meet the
requirements of this law.
Insurance - School accident and dental insurance
policies are offered for middle school students.
Brochures detailing these programs and their costs
are given to each student at the start of the year. For
further information please contact the office.
Medication - Students shall not have any medications
(this includes both over-the-counter and prescriptions)
in their possession during the school day. All
medication must be brought to the health room so it
may be locked up. A written request must be made
using a form available in the health room or on the
Franklin Pierce Schools website (www.fpschools.org).
Any medication must be brought to the school nurse
in its original container accompanied by a note from
the physician and parent with specific directions.
Water Bottles – Students can have water bottles in their
backpack as long as it is:
 Clear and see through (no tints)
 Has a cap on the top
Thank You for taking the time to review this important
information. If you have additional questions, please
feel free to contact the office at 298-3600

2017-2018 Annual Performance Report

School reports are done for the prior school year. Please click the link above to review our most recent report.