G.R.

Edwards Middle School

Student - Parent Handbook

2020-2021
Administration
Michael Girouard – Principal
Melvin Ballard– Assistant Principal
252-937-9025

Student Services
Trish Weeks, Counselor – Grades 6, 7, and 8

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The Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools’ vision is to ensure bright and prosperous futures for
all students by deliberately and intentionally providing rigorous, relevant instruction in every
classroom, every day.

Our Mission:

The EMS community strives to prepare students to have a positive influence on society by
providing a nurturing environment through quality education while fostering success through
diverse, real-world experiences.

Our Beliefs:

∙ Students come first!

∙ Diversity is valued when all people are treated with dignity.
∙ Education is a shared responsibility among schools, families, and communities.
∙ Students need high expectations for success.
∙ Students learn best in a safe, nurturing environment.
∙ Learning is a life-long journey for all.
∙ Social-emotional well-being is at the forefront of our decision-making process.

Welcome to Edwards Middle School

The staff of Edwards Middle School recognizes the significance of forming meaningful
relationships. Our vision for students, parents, community members, and ourselves is that we will
be a community of learners, dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person to
successfully achieve. We will not accept less than exemplary results.

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Communication, collaboration, and accountability are essential to this important bond with you.
The Edwards Middle School staff, students, parents, and community share this responsibility for
creating a working environment that leads to high standards of achievement. We ARE the school
of the future - we have no limits! Continuous dialogue allows us to actively listen to one another,
and to collectively plan and implement the best programs for our school family. As partners we
stand together in taking responsibility for the results of our efforts.

This student-parent handbook is your ready reference to information about the daily operation
of our school. Please read all of the contents carefully in order to avoid misunderstandings. You
will also receive access to a District Student-Parent Handbook, which contains policies adopted
by our Board of Education. Keep both documents and review each item together. Furthermore,
please direct any questions to your homeroom teacher or an administrator.

Student Services

Our School Counselor is located in the Student Services office located beside the main office.
The goal and purpose of the Student Services is to provide support, assistance, and information
to students, parents, and teachers. Student services include student counseling; information on
tutoring programs, and other opportunities for students in the community; planning for college or
a career; and mediation.

Access to Information

Please consult our school website and social media pages for information about school events, our
handbook, and any updates and celebrations. The PowerSchool Parent Portal offers immediate
access to your student’s academic progress, attendance, and assignments. To register for this
technology, please see Ms. Everette in Student Services Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. If
you have previously signed up, continue to use the same ID and password.

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Academic Recognition/Incentives

Edwards Middle School recognizes academic excellence. Students will receive a special academic
recognition/incentive during school hours for each nine weeks in which they make the “A” or “A/B”
Honor Roll. Students who maintain all A’s and A/B’s throughout the year will be recognized during
the End of the Year Awards Program.

Assemblies

During the school year, assembly programs are held for the benefit of the student body. Each
class is assigned a specific seating area in the gymnasium. When attending an assembly for any
purpose, students must refrain from talking and/or inappropriate behavior. Exiting an assembly
will take place by sections.

Arrival Procedure

Students should not arrive at school prior to 7:05 am for supervision and safety reasons.
Bus riders and walkers will enter the building through the main entrance on Edwards Street.
Car riders will enter through the gym lobby entrance off of Hammond Street. Students
may report to the cafeteria for a “Grab & Go” breakfast OR report directly to their
homeroom. Any student reporting after 7:20 may enter through the main entrance. Students
are tardy after 7:30 AM.

Dismissal Procedure

Bus riders are dismissed at 2:30 pm; walkers and car riders dismiss at 2:35 pm. Car riders
in the 6th and 7th grades should be picked up in the back car line off of Hammond Street.
Car riders in the 8th grade should be picked up in the front car line on Edwards Street.
Bus Dismissal Exits
● 6th grade: Courtyard and around building closest to Baseball field.
● 7th grade: Use door by room 700 towards Hammond Street - not the main hallway.
● 8th grade: Use the front door leading to Edwards Street.

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Checking In and/or Out

Any student who must leave school for any reason during the school day must be checked
out through the main office. Only individuals listed on a student’s Emergency Contact Card
will have permission to check out a student. Legal state or federal identification is required
and must be presented by the authorized person who is checking the student out of school.
Under no circumstances should anyone go to a classroom, bus, or anywhere on the school
grounds to get a child unless authorized to do so by the office. Students will not be allowed
to check out of school after 2:15 pm.

When late/tardy, the student should be accompanied by a parent or bring a note written by
the parent to the office in order to check in. The student will be given an admission slip
and allowed to go to class. The following reasons shall result in excused (lawful) tardiness:
● illness or injury
● quarantine
● death in the immediate family
● medical or dental appointments
● religious observances
● educational opportunity
● court or administrative proceedings where the student’s attendance is required
● Military dependent activities

For a tardy to be considered excused, parents must provide the appropriate documentation
to school officials. In addition, tardiness, for any reason not listed above and without
appropriate documentation provided to the school, will be considered unlawful (unexcused).

To be considered present for the school day, students must check in prior to 11:15 am or
check out after 11:15 pm.

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Absences and Missed Assignments/Homework

Students must present a note to their homeroom teacher from the parent or doctor upon
returning to school to have an absence excused. Three or more unexcused absences will result in
a parent contact from a school official.

For short-term absences of 3 or fewer days, students should consult with teachers upon returning
to class regarding work to be completed. Students are responsible for completing missed
assignments in the allotted time frame.

For long-term absences of 4 or more days, parents may contact Student Services to request
assignments from teachers. If requests are made prior to 8:30 a.m., assignments may be available
between 2:45 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. on the same day. Due to the variations in teacher’s schedules
and planning periods, assignments cannot be guaranteed by the end of the day if requests are
received after 8:30 a.m. Parents may also contact teachers to request assignments.

Late Assignments - All student work should be submitted as directed by the teacher.
Students will have a maximum of 3 days to complete assignments that are late due to illness
or other excused absences. As always, appropriate documentation and communication with
teachers will be expected in these circumstances.

Grading: All assignments categories will be assigned a weight/percentage designated by the

teacher/grade level. This will be communicated with students and parents. Students that
receive a failing grade on a quiz or test will be allowed to retake the assessment with the
understanding that an 80% will be the maximum grade earned.

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Cell Phones

Cell phones and personal electronic devices should be turned off and put away at 7:05 AM daily.
School employees may immediately confiscate any wireless communication device that is in
violation of this policy. Confiscated wireless communication devices will be returned only to the
student’s parent or guardian from the main office.
● 1st Offense: Cell phone may be picked up at the end of the school day by a parent, relative
or older sibling listed in Powerschool.
● 2nd Offense: Cell phone may be picked up at the end of the THIRD DAY following the
confiscation by a parent, relative, or older sibling listed in Powerschool.
● 3rd Offense: Follow the same procedure as the 2nd Offense. (3 days in the Main Office.)
Any aggravating factors may subject a student to more stringent disciplinary consequences.

Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their wireless
communication and electronic devices. The school system is not responsible for the theft,
loss, or damage of a cellular phone or any other personal wireless communication device.

Please refer to NCPS Board Policy 4318 for the district for additional information.

Dress Code:

Edwards Middle School will enforce the dress code in accordance with the requirements
outlined in NCPS Board Policy 4316-5. Additionally, middle school students in the Nash-Rocky
Mount School district are assigned a uniform dress code. Students not complying with this
uniform policy will be subject to disciplinary procedures.

Edwards Middle School requires the following in order to be in compliance with the dress code:

● Shirts
o Collared polo-style shirts with long or short sleeves in school colors - navy, white,
gold/yellow.
o School or school-sponsored club T-shirts may be worn in lieu of polo-style.
o Turtleneck or round-necked shirts of school colors may be worn under collared
shirts.
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 ● Pants
o All pants, skirts, shorts, or dresses must be tan/khaki, navy, or black.
o Must be fitted at the waist or worn with a belt.
o Knee-length shorts or skirts and capris are acceptable.
o JEANS/DENIM, CARGO, LEGGINGS, OR SWEATPANTS are NOT allowed.
● Sweatshirts (hooded or crew) and/or light jackets are permitted. These items MUST BE
WORN OVER a required Edwards Middle School shirt.
o Items with inappropriate wording or symbols are not permitted.
● Other
o ***Students must wear a face mask throughout the school day. It’s required by
the state and NCPS district.
o Hoods, hats, bandanas, “doo rags,” and sunglasses are not allowed to be worn in the
building.
o Shoes should be appropriate; no bedroom shoes/slippers.
o Undergarments are not to be visible – through shirts or sagging pants.
o Any items that signal inappropriate activity/meaning or that cause a disruption in
the classroom are not permitted.

Exemptions: A parent or court appointed guardian may request that his or her child be exempted
from the standardized dress requirements by submitting a written statement to the principal
within the first 10 days of attendance. The statement shall contain the parent or guardian’s
sincerely held religious objections to the standardized dress requirements.

Financial Considerations: No student shall be denied attendance at school, penalized, or

otherwise subjected to compliance measures for failing to wear a standardized uniform by reason
of financial hardship. Each school has implemented a procedure and criteria to identify families
in need of financial assistance and shall work with staff, the local community, and business
partners to identify resources for assisting families in the purchase of standardized dress. Please
contact the school counselor or social worker for further information.

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Student Behavior

The staff at Edwards seeks to provide a safe, nurturing, and positive environment where all
students may achieve success. Students are expected to comply with the following Positive
Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) expectations at all times.

PBIS Expectations
1. I am safe. 4. I am responsible.
2. I am prepared. 5. I am a learner.
3. I am respectful.
PBIS Rewards/Incentives

Rewards and incentives are provided to students throughout the year to recognize student
success and facilitate building a positive school climate. To participate in our PBIS Reward
Celebrations at the end of a nine-weeks grading period, a student must not have received a
disciplinary referral, assigned to ISS, and attended FOCUS 3 times during the nine-week period.
PBIS rewards and incentives are scheduled for one day at the end of each nine-week grading
period and will be announced to students prior to a reward’s day. Celebrations may include, but
are not limited to, dressing out of uniform, school dance, social time, or PBIS store.

Consequences for Student Misconduct

Edwards Middle School Discipline Matrix
2020-2021

Behaviors that impedes learning Consequences

Disrespect to Faculty and Staff 3 days of ISS or OSS (Administration

Discretion)

Insubordination 3 days of ISS

Profanity/Inappropriate Language Towards a 3 days of ISS or up to 5 days OSS

Student

Profanity/Inappropriate Language Towards a 3-5 days of OSS/Administrative Discretion

Staff/Faculty Member

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 Fighting 10 days of OSS (possible Long Term
suspension if behavior continues)

Disruptive Behavior 1-3 days of ISS (depending on severity)

Aggressive Behavior 3 days of ISS with mediation or possible OSS

depending on severity
(OSS if behavior continues)

Inappropriate Behavior 1-3 days of ISS depending on severity

Use of Cell Phone (Refusal to give device) 3 days of ISS

(3 days of OSS if this is the 2nd offense)

Inappropriate Use of Technology OSS (number of days depends on severity)

(inappropriate websites or videos)

Theft 10 day OSS (possible Long Term Suspension)

Smoking/Vaping and/or Illegal substances
Weapons

Bus Misbehavior 3, 5 and 10 day bus suspension (depending on

severity)
Fighting - 10 days of OSS

Bullying/Harassment Administration Discretion

Communicating Threats 3 days of ISS
(if the behavior continues, 5-10 days of OSS)

Leaving class without permission 3 days of ISS (Class)

Leaving school without permission 3 days of OSS (school)
(if the behavior continues, 5-10 days of OSS)

● Students will receive consequences at the discretion of School Administration for all
other behaviors not listed above on the Edwards MS Discipline Matrix.

FOCUS Room- When students report to FOCUS, teachers inform Mr. Smith of the student’s
behavior when they ask the student to report to the FOCUS Room, located in room 509 on the
back hallway, for non-administrative infractions. All major administrative infractions will require
students to report to FOCUS to wait for an administrator. Students refusing to attend FOCUS
will be disciplined at the discretion of administration.

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 ● Mr. Smith will contact parents if students are not behaving in ISS or FOCUS. If
Mr. Smith calls an administrator to ISS for the removal of a student, the parent
will need to come and get the student for the remainder of the day, next day or
during the number of days assigned to ISS. (Administrative Discretion)

In-School Suspension (ISS) - A student is placed in ISS due to failure to meet school
expectations, disruption of the learning environment, or other infraction. Assignment of ISS may
be from 1 to 5 days. Students are counted present in school and are expected to complete class
assignments while assigned to ISS. Failure to attend ISS or follow ISS rules will result in further
disciplinary action at the discretion of Administration. Students may not participate in
extracurricular activities while assigned to ISS.

Out of School Suspension (OSS) - Suspension from school, school activities, and school grounds
and property over which the Board has authority for up to 10 days.

HOPE Program – The HOPE program is an alternative to Out-of-School Suspension. It is offered

on a case-by-case basis.

Long-Term Suspension - Long-term suspension is the denial of the right to attend school, to
attend school activities, or to be on school property for more than 10 days, up to the remainder
of the school year, or up to 365 calendar days. The number of days a student is suspended will be
determined on a case-by-case basis.

Expulsion - Expulsion is the permanent exclusion from the Nash-Rocky Mount School
Administrative Unit for the remainder of the student’s secondary education.

**Make-Up Work – Any student suspended for more than three days may request make-up
work through Student Services, by emailing the teacher(s), or by checking via Parent Portal.

*Mediation for student misconduct will be at the discretion of School Administration.

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PBIS Expectations of Excellent Behavior Matrix

Laptop Policies

Laptops are assigned for the sole purpose of providing students with additional resources to
enhance their 21st Century learning. The devices are not provided for the use of
entertainment, social media, playing games, etc. As 21st Century learners, students must
be aware of the appropriate use of technology and digital citizenship. Edwards Middle School
has a policy for device management. Below you will find the consequences for inappropriate use.
Misuse of any school technology may result in disciplinary action.

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 Consequences

ISSUE FIRST SECOND THIRD

OFFENSE OFFENSE OFFENSE

Improper Use: Warning Loss of device Possible loss

for 3 of device for
● Using device
instructional the year.
w/o
permission Phone call to days
● Using chats parents
during Parent
instruction or Parent contact by
testing contact or Administrati
Documented
● Profanity,
occurrence Conference on
threats,
inappropriate with parent
language
Alteration of Loss of Loss of device Possible loss
Device: device for 10 for 20 of device for
instructional instructional the year.
● Unauthorized
days days.
downloads
(including $25 fee for
games and Parent
re-imaging
pictures) Parent contact by
● Creating a Parent contact or Administrati
second user contact or conference on
● Attempts to
conference with parent
bypass the
filter with parent
● Hacking into
someone
else’s device
or account

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Athletic Participation

Students in all grades may participate in middle school interscholastic athletic competition. Sixth
grade students are not allowed to participate in football. In order to qualify for participation, a
student must meet all of the following requirements:
● The student must pass at least three of four required “core” courses each semester
and meet promotion standards established by Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools. If
an athlete is “academically eligible” or “academically ineligible” at the beginning of
any semester, then this status is retained throughout the full semester.
● A current physical must be on file.
● The principal must have evidence of the legal birth date of the student. The student
shall not participate on a team if he/she becomes 15 years of age on or before
August 31 of that school year.
● An athlete must be in attendance at least 85 percent of the previous semester
beginning with the first semester of their seventh grade year.
● The following “code of conduct” will be enforced for all Edwards Middle School
athletes:

G. R. Edwards Middle Athletic Code of Conduct

The athletes at G. R. Edwards Middle School are expected to exemplify good behavior,
character, sportsmanship, be positive role models, and take pride in striving to make good
decisions that will bring positive light to their parents, school, coaches, team, and themselves.

Consequences for Suspensions

ISS
1st Offense: No participation in their sport on the day that the student athlete has ISS;
Student athlete must attend practice or home game; Student athlete will not start the next game
(due to the nature of certain sports the athletic director will make the ultimate decision).
2nd Offense: Student athlete will not play in the next game.
3rd Offense: Student athlete will be suspended from that sport for the remainder of the season.

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OSS
1st Offense: (1 – 4 day(s) out of school suspension): Student athlete will not play in the next
game.
2nd Offense: (1 – 4 day(s) out of school suspension): Student athlete will be suspended from
the team for the remainder of the season.
5 or more days out of school suspension: Student athlete will be automatically suspended from
the team for the remainder of the season.
*If a student accumulates three disciplinary incidents that result in ISS or OSS during an
athletic season, that student will be suspended from the team for the remainder of the
season.
Violation of school rules may result in the forfeiture of a student’s athletic eligibility,
depending on the severity of the infraction.

Care of School Property

We take great pride in the maintenance and cleanliness of our facilities. Students who destroy
or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages. If a student willfully
destroys school property, suspension and subsequent court action may be necessary. If a student
damages something by accident, he/she must report it to a teacher or the office immediately.

Dining Area Guidelines

Students are to enter the cafeteria in an orderly manner and take their places in line without
running, pushing, or breaking line. Students need to know their assigned lunch numbers and have
money readily available. All items must be purchased in a single trip. Students are to sit in
their assigned area and remain seated until dismissed by their teacher or other designated adult.
Take all trash to the proper place when finished. No playing or excessively loud noise is allowed,
and students are not allowed to enter areas where classes are being held at any time during their
lunch period.

All food and beverages are to be consumed in the cafeteria during breakfast and lunch or kept in
lunch boxes or bags. The cafeteria is the only acceptable place to eat and drink. At the teacher’s
discretion, students may be allowed to bring clear plastic bottled water for use in the classroom.
Students are not allowed to transition throughout the school day with a plastic water bottle or
any other beverage in their hands.
**Due to Federal funding, breakfasts and lunches from restaurants are NOT allowed to be
delivered to students.
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Parent/Guardian Visitation During the Instructional Day
Parents/Guardians wishing to visit their student’s classroom must be scheduled through the
principal for a time and date convenient to both the parent and the teacher. The parental
observation date shall be within a reasonable time frame following the initial request. A request
for a specific date must be made no fewer than 48 hours in advance. No visits will be allowed
while students are participating in assessments, quizzes, or tests.

To minimize potential interruptions and distractions during instructional time, the principal
reserves the right to limit the duration of classroom observations. Parents visiting classrooms
should arrange their schedules to enter and exit the classroom in a manner that would not
interrupt the instructional activities in progress. While visiting the class, the teacher will
designate an area for parents to sit, generally in the back of the classroom. (Parents are asked
NOT to sit with their student as this could create an unnecessary disruption for other students.)
Once in the classroom and seated, parents are asked to remain seated and refrain from
interacting with students or the teacher unless the classroom teacher initiates the interaction.
Unnecessary noise and/or movement must be kept to a minimum. Parents wishing to discuss their
students’ behavior after observing him/her during class should schedule a parent conference with
the teacher. Parents who fail to observe the stated guidelines during their visit may be asked to
leave the room if their presence or conduct unduly interferes with the orderly operation of the
classroom. Any concerns or complaints may be addressed directly to the classroom teacher after
regular school hours or to the principal.

No Audio or Video Taping of Classroom: Video and/or audio recording of classroom visits by the
parent or guardian is prohibited. Electronic devices which could be used to record should not be
visible during the visit. Violation of this guideline can result in dismissal from the classroom visit
and/or school site.

School Administration: In certain cases, the Principal or his/her designee may also be in the room
during the parent observation to protect the learning environment for all students.

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Parent-Teacher Communication
Parents and guardians are encouraged to communicate often with their child's teachers.
Conferences may be scheduled during the teacher's planning period or after school at 2:45. You
may write the teacher a note, send the teacher an email, or call the school student services at
937-9025 to schedule a conference. Teachers will send a letter at the beginning of the school
year explaining their classroom procedures, homework, grades, tests, projects, curriculum, and
planning times.

TIN Center (TBird Intellectual Networking Center)

Mission Statement: The mission of the TBird Intellectual Networking Center is to engage
students in an authentic learning experience that encourages independent reading, critical
thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, creativity and innovation. By employing
educational technologies, resources and pedagogies, students will improve academic achievement
and develop strong informational and digital literacies for life in the 21st century.

About the TBird Intellectual Networking Center: The TIN Center is staffed by the school
media coordinator and media assistant. We provide a flexible and responsive approach to helping
students and educators collaboratively focus on and expand the learning experience. It is a
vibrant, whole-school approach, presenting exciting opportunities for collaboration among
teachers, media coordinator, support staff, and students.

Student and Staff Availability: The TIN Center welcomes our students and staff at any time
throughout the school day. Both whole class and individual access is encouraged. Patrons will follow
established procedures for checking in and out materials and use of the TIN Center space.
Students visiting the TIN Center, other than formally with a whole class, must present a pass to
the media coordinator/media assistant upon entering the TIN Center. Students without passes
and/or not intending to use the TIN Center for academic-related purposes will be asked to return
to class.

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Books/Materials for Checkout: A patron may have two library books checked out at any one
time. The normal check out period is two weeks and books may be renewed unless a “hold” has
been established on the title.
● Overdue notices will be sent to HR teachers periodically. An overdue book will prohibit a
patron from getting more books.
● If a book is lost, the student must pay a fee that is equal to the cost of replacing the book.
The replacement fee will be refunded if the lost book is returned before the end of the
school year.
● A patron may also have two e-books checked out at any one time. The checkout period for
e-books is two weeks, and return is automatic.
● Faculty members may check out classroom novel sets, reference books, videos, library
books and electronic equipment.

Bell Schedules

2020 – 2021 EMS Regular Schedule

6th grade

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7th grade

8th grade

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 2020 – 2021 EMS Early Release Schedule

Class Period Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Homeroom 7:15 – 7:35 7:15 – 7:35 7:15 – 7:37
Period 1 Core 1 Core 1 Elective 1
7:37 – 8:27 7:37 – 8:27 7:40 – 8:10
Period 2 Core 2 Core 2 Elective 2
8:30 – 9:17 8:30 – 9:17 8:13 – 8:43
Period 3 Core 3 Elective 1 Core 1
9:20 – 10:07 9:20 – 9: 50 8:46 – 9:33
Period 4 Core 4 Elective 2 Core 2
10:10 – 11:24 9:53 – 10:23 9:36 – 10:23
Lunch
(Starts at
10:11)
Period 5 Elective 1 Core 3 Core 3
11:27 – 11:57 10:26 – 11:40 10:26 – 11:40
Lunch
(Starts at
10:27)
Period 6 Elective 2 Core 4 Core 4
12:00 – 12:30 11:43 -12:30 11:43 – 12:30
Lunch
(Starts at 11:17)

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 2020 – 2021 EMS Two Hour Delay Schedule

Class Period Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Homeroom 9:30 – 9:35 9:30 – 9:35 9:30 – 9:37
Period 1 Core 1 Core 1 Elective 1
9:37 – 10:27 9:37 – 10:27 9:40 – 10:10
Period 2 Core 2 Core 2 Elective 2
10:30 – 11:44 10:30 – 11:17 10:13 – 10:43
Lunch
(Starts at
10:31)
Period 3 Core 3 Elective 1 Core 1
11:47 – 12:34 11:20 – 11:50 10:46 – 12:00
Lunch
(Starts at 10:47)
Period 4 Core 4 Elective 2 Core 2
12:37 – 1:24 11:53 – 12:23 12:03 – 12:50

Period 5 Elective 1 Core 3 Core 3

1:27 – 1:57 12:26 – 1:40 12:53 – 1:40
Lunch Lunch
(Starts at (Starts at 11:15)
12:27)
Period 6 Elective 2 Core 4 Core 4
2:00 – 2:33 1:43 – 2:33 1:43 – 2:33

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Other General Policies and Regulations
1. If students must stay after school, arrangements for pick-up need to be made in advance.
Office phones are to be used only for emergencies and with permission of the office staff.
2. The sale of snack food or any other items by students to students is strictly forbidden
unless authorized by the school. Items will be confiscated and disciplinary actions may be
taken.
3. Students are asked to turn in all valuable and personal property to physical education
instructors during P.E. Valuables at school are the responsibility of the owner.
4. EMS students who enter the campus of other public schools without permission from the
school officials will be subject to disciplinary action. Students who loiter at any school
after the close of the school day without specific need or supervision will be considered
trespassers and may be prosecuted if they do not leave when instructed to do so. Any
student who has been suspended from school may be considered trespassing if he/she
appears on school property during the suspension period without express permission of
the principal.
5. All visitors to campus must report to the main office to check in and receive a visitor’s
pass before proceeding to any other part of the building.
6. Students will not be allowed to accept flowers, balloons, and gifts at school for special
occasions (Valentine’s Day, birthdays, etc.).

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Board Polices:

The following policies are referenced in this handbook. To view all NRMPS Board Policies, please
use the following link - http://www.nrms.k12.nc.us/domain/64.

Policy Code: 4316 Student Dress Code

A. GENERAL DRESS CODE

The board believes that the dress and personal appearance of students greatly affect their
academic performance and their interaction with other students. The board requests that
parents outfit their children in clothing that is conducive to learning. The board prohibits any
appearance or clothing that does the following:
1. violates a reasonable dress code adopted and publicized by the school;
2. is substantially disruptive;
3. is provocative or obscene; or
4. endangers the health or safety of the student or others.
Examples of prohibited dress or appearance include, but are not limited to, exposed
undergarments; sagging pants; excessively short or tight garments; bare midriff shirts;
strapless or spaghetti strap shirts; attire with messages or illustrations that are lewd, indecent
or vulgar or that advertise products or services that are not permitted by law to minors; head
coverings of any kind; see-through clothing; attire that exposes cleavage; any adornment, such
as chains or spikes, that reasonably could be perceived as or used as a weapon; and any symbols,
styles or attire frequently associated with intimidation, violence, or violent groups.
This general dress code applies to all schools. Individual schools may adopt a reasonable dress
code in accordance with these guidelines or may adopt a school uniform program as outlined
below. Principals shall exercise appropriate discretion in implementing dress code policies,
including making reasonable accommodations on the basis of a student’s religious beliefs or
medical conditions.
The principal or designee may require a student who is not in compliance with this policy or a
school dress code to change clothes so that he or she is in compliance. A second or repeated
violation of dress code rules may result in disciplinary action. Disciplinary consequences shall be
consistent with Section D of policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The superintendent or
designee shall list in the Code of Student Conduct the specific range of consequences that may
be imposed on a student for a repeated violation of the dress code.

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B. SCHOOL UNIFORMS

1. Voluntary Uniform Program

The board recognizes that school uniforms can have positive effects on schools, such as
increased student focus on instructional objectives, enhanced positive attitudes among
students, greater harmony among students, and enhanced school image. Therefore, the board
authorizes schools to implement a uniform program.
If a school wishes to implement or discontinue a school uniform program, the principal and staff
must work with the school’s Parent Teacher Organization, or appropriate parent group, to
develop a school plan. The plan must address the following topics:
a. the ways in which the uniforms contribute to the educational environment;
b. the uniforms the students will wear (School officials must ensure that the language used in
the plan is clear and easy to understand, including the specifications of all articles of clothing
and footwear involved. At a minimum, the specifications should include style, cost and color.);
c. that there are adequate provisions for all students (No student will be denied uniforms
based on inability to pay. Financial arrangements must be made for families who cannot afford
to purchase uniforms for their children.); and
d. that exceptions must be made on a case by case basis to allow students to wear attire that is
part of their religious practice.
A school that wishes to implement a school uniform program must survey the parents of the
students in the school to determine if the parents are in favor of a school uniform program.
Parents will receive one survey per child attending that school and must return the completed
survey to the school for it to be counted. To proceed with the school uniform program, 65% of
the surveys received must reflect that parents are in favor of the uniform program. Should
this majority be achieved, the principal must submit the plan to the superintendent for his or
her approval. The superintendent will then submit the plan to the board for its approval. The
results will be reported back to the school.
Schools that have a voluntary uniform program and wish to discontinue it may issue surveys in
the same manner as above. All schools with uniform programs will be surveyed every five years
to determine whether parents support the program. In both cases, if 65% of the surveys
received favor discontinuing use of uniforms at the school, the principal shall submit the plan to
discontinue the uniform program to the superintendent for his or her approval. The
superintendent will submit the plan to the board for its approval. The results will be reported
back to the school.

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2. Mandatory Uniform Program

The board recognizes that a safe and disciplined learning environment is the first requirement
of a good school. The board acknowledges that establishing school uniforms can be a positive
way to reduce discipline problems, increase school safety, minimize disruption, promote respect
among students, focus on academics and learning and foster unity among students. Therefore,
the board affirms its authority to mandate a uniform program at any school or grade level.
The board authorizes the superintendent to mandate a uniform program in certain schools in
which he or she deems that it is needed in order to promote academic standards and minimize
disruptive behavior. The superintendent or designee shall do so by developing administrative
procedures in accordance with this policy, which are subject to board approval.

Legal References: G.S. 115C-47, -390.2

Cross References: Student Behavior Policies (policy 4300), School Plan for Management of
Student Behavior (policy 4302), Disruptive Behavior (policy 4315)
Adopted: May 4, 2009
Revised: August 1, 2011

NASH-ROCKY MOUNT BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL

Policy Code: 4318 Use of Wireless Communication Devices

The board recognizes that cellular phones and other wireless communication devices have
become an important tool through which parents communicate with their children. Therefore,
students are permitted to possess such devices on school property so long as the devices are
not activated, used, displayed or visible during the instructional day or as otherwise directed by
school rules or school personnel. Wireless communication devices include, but are not limited to,
cellular phones, electronic devices with internet capability, paging devices, two-way radios and
similar devices.

A. AUTHORIZED USE

Administrators may authorize individual students to use wireless communication devices for
personal purposes when there is a reasonable need for such communication. Teachers and
administrators may authorize individual students to use the devices for instructional purposes,
provided that they supervise the students during such use.

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Although use generally is permitted before and after school, use of cellular phones and other
wireless communication devices may be prohibited on school buses when noise from such devices
interferes with the safe operation of the buses. In addition, elementary and middle school
students who participate in after-school programs are prohibited from using wireless
communication devices during such programs.

B. CONSEQUENCES FOR UNAUTHORIZED USE

School employees may immediately confiscate any wireless communication devices that are on,
used, displayed or visible in violation of this policy. Absent compelling and unusual
circumstances, confiscated wireless communication devices will be returned only to the
student’s parent.
The disciplinary consequences for violations of this policy shall be consistent with Section D of
policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of
Student Conduct the specific range of consequences that may be imposed on a student for
violations of this policy.
The following factors should be considered when determining appropriate consequences:
whether the wireless communication device was used (1) to reproduce images of tests, obtain
unauthorized access to school information or assist students in any aspect of their instructional
program in a manner that violates any school board policy, administrative regulation or school
rule; (2) to bully or harass other students; (3) to send illicit text messages; (4) to take and/or
send illicit photographs; or (5) in any other manner that would make more severe disciplinary
consequences appropriate.

C. SEARCH OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICES

In accordance with policy 4342, Student Searches, a student’s wireless communication device
and its contents, including, but not limited to, text messages and digital photos, may be
searched whenever a school official has reason to believe the search will provide evidence that
the student has violated or is violating a law, board policy, the Code of Student Conduct or a
school rule. The scope of such searches must be reasonably related to the objectives of the
search and not excessively intrusive in light of the nature of the suspected infraction.

D. LIABILITY

Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their wireless communication
devices. The school system is not responsible for the theft, loss or damage of a cellular phone
or other personal wireless communication devices.

Legal References: G.S. 115C-36, -390.2

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Cross References: Student Behavior Policies (policy 4300), Disruptive Behavior (policy 4315),
Student Searches (policy 4342)
Adopted: May 4, 2009
Revised: August 1, 2011

Policy Code: 5020 Visitors to the Schools

The board encourages the community and parents to be involved in and support the schools and
the educational program of the schools.
A. OPPORTUNITIES TO VISIT THE SCHOOLS
To encourage involvement, the following opportunities are provided to visit the schools:

1. visitors are welcome to observe and learn about the educational program at each
school subject to reasonable rules developed by school administrators;
2. visitors are encouraged to use school facilities made available to the public, such as
media centers or meeting spaces, as provided in policy 5030, Community Use of
Facilities; and
3. visitors are invited to attend school events that are open to the public, such as
athletic events, musical programs, and dramatic productions.

B. REQUIREMENTS OF VISITORS TO THE SCHOOLS

While the school board welcomes visitors to the schools, the paramount concern of the
board is to provide a safe and orderly learning environment in which disruptions to
instructional time are kept to a minimum. The superintendent and each principal shall
establish and enforce reasonable rules to address this concern.

1. All school visitors during the school day must report immediately to the
administrative office at the school to request and receive permission to be in the
school. Each principal shall ensure that signs are posted in the school to notify
visitors of this requirement.
2. School visitors are expected to comply with all school rules and school board
policies, including policy 5025, Prohibition of Drugs and Alcohol; policy 5026/7250,
Smoking and Tobacco Products; and policy 5027/7275, Weapons and Explosives
Prohibited.
3. Persons who are subject to policy 5022, Registered Sex Offenders, must comply
with the provisions of that policy.

C. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF PROBATION OFFICERS

To minimize disruption to student learning and school operations, the board establishes
the following additional requirements for visits by probation officers during the school
day:
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 1. Probation officers may not visit students on school property during school hours
unless the visit is conducted through the Division of Community Corrections’ School
Partnership Program.
2. Visits by probation officers must be authorized in advance by the school principal or
designee or be the result of a request for assistance by a guidance counselor or
school resource officer. The principal or designee at each school shall coordinate
with probation officers to plan and schedule visits to occur at times least disruptive
to the student’s academic schedule and to school operations.
3. To protect the privacy of students, the principal or designee shall designate a
private area for probation officers to meet with students away from contact with
the general student population. Initial contact with the student will be made by a
designated school employee, who shall direct the student to the private area to
meet with the probation officer.
4. Probation officers may not initiate direct contact with any student while the
student is in class or between classes.
5. All visits must be conducted in accordance with this policy and any additional
guidelines developed by the superintendent or designee.

D. UNAUTHORIZED, DISRUPTIVE, OR DANGEROUS VISITORS

If a school employee becomes aware that an individual is on a school property without
having received permission or that an individual is exhibiting unusual, threatening or
dangerous behavior, the employee must either direct the individual to the administrative
office or notify the principal, designee or school resource officer, depending on the
circumstances.
If a school employee suspects that an individual is on school property in violation of policy
5022, Registered Sex Offenders, the employee must immediately notify the principal,
designee or school resource officer.
Students will be instructed to notify a school employee of any unusual or suspicious
behavior by visitors. School employees shall inform the principal or designee immediately
of a student’s report of suspicious behavior on the part of a school visitor.
When an individual disrupts the educational environment, acts in a disorderly manner,
damages school property, or violates board policy or the law, the principal or designee has
authority to:

1. order the individual to leave school property;

2. notify law enforcement; or
3. take any other action deemed appropriate under the circumstances.

Failure to comply with a request to leave school grounds may result in the filing of
trespass charges or other charges as appropriate against the offending individual.

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 The superintendent, upon recommendation from the principal, may deny an individual
permission to come onto school grounds or enter a school facility for up to one school year
if the individual is guilty of disruptive or dangerous behavior on school grounds.
Legal References: G.S. 14-132, -132.2, -159.11, -159.12, 159.13, -208.18; 115C-46.2, -523, -524, -
526
Cross References: Registered Sex Offenders (policy 5022), Prohibition of Drugs and Alcohol
(policy 5025), Smoking and Tobacco Products (policy 5026/7250), Weapons and Explosives
Prohibited (policy 5027/7275), Community Use of Facilities (policy 5030)
Adopted: August 3, 2009
Revised: April 1, 2019

NASH-ROCKY MOUNT BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL

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 EDWARDS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Handbook Signature Page

In order to guarantee your child and all of the students at Edwards Middle School receive
the excellent educational climate they deserve, we have developed this plan of routines,
procedures, expectations, and consequences which will be in effect at all times in accordance with
the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Code of Conduct. We encourage parents to be involved in
their child’s education and to take an active role in the functions of the school and classrooms.
With strong support from the administration, faculty, staff, and parents, our Thunderbirds will
be successful. Therefore, included in our discipline plan are ways to positively reinforce students
who behave appropriately and seek to do outstanding jobs in and out of the classroom on a daily
basis.
Please read and discuss the handbook carefully (located on the EMS website), and
along with your child, sign the statement below. In order for this plan to have a positive
influence on our school, we need the support of every parent and child. Once again, we look
forward to a successful year, and we welcome you to Edwards Middle School.

As a parent, I have seen, read, and have become familiar with the rules of the
student handbook. I understand that my child is responsible for following the rules and
procedures of Edwards Middle School.

Printed Name of Parent/Guardian_____________________________________________

Parent/Legal Guardian Signature: __________________________ Date: ____________

As a student, I have seen, read, and have become familiar with the rules of the
student handbook. I understand that I am responsible for following the rules and procedures
of Edwards Middle School.

Printed Name of Student________________________________________

Student Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ______________

The Nash-Rocky Mount Public School system does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national
origin, citizenship status, age, or handicap in any of its educational or employment programs or activities.

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