Policies and Procedures

Principal’s Welcome

Dear Students and Parents –

            The Thurgood Marshall Middle School community of learners are happy to begin another school year with a strong academic curriculum. The combination of talent, skill and genuine concern for all children is the winning combination for success during the 2009 – 2010 school year.
            As always, our objective is to provide a safe, orderly and challenging academic environment. This is best accomplished through the united efforts of parents, students and teachers. Each of us will plan wisely, practice effective organizational skills and faithfully support each other. Therefore, you are encouraged to thoroughly read and utilize the material in this book to more effectively coordinate study schedules and routines.
            Students are encouraged to call upon teachers and staff to clarify or interpret any section of the Agenda Book. When used regularly, it will provide a valuable structure and promote favorable academic results.

Sincerely,

Mrs. K. Fossett
Principal

School Mission Statement
The mission of Thurgood Marshall Middle School is to assure that all students acquire knowledge and develop the skills and work habits to enable them to become productive members of society. This mission is best accomplished when school personnel maintain high expectations for all students, create a positive school climate, ensure a safe and orderly school environment, monitor students’ progress on a frequent basis, and promote effective home-school communication.

Thurgood Marshall Middle School uses the Comer School Development Program as our model for school improvement. We make all decisions in the best interest of children by practicing shared decision making and basing our decisions on the principles of adolescent growth and development. Three teams of adult stakeholders: the School Planning and Management Team (SPMT), the Student Staff Services Team (SSST) and the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) work together collaboratively to address school wide issues and oversee the development, implementation and evaluation of the school improvement plan.

PBIS
What is PBIS? Positive Behavior in Schools. Put simply, it is a proactive approach to school-wide discipline. This initiative is meant to reinforce the positive behaviors of students doing what is expected of them as well as supporting students who need extra assistance to reach the school wide expectations. We R.O.A.R. for PBIS!

County Mission Statement
The mission of the Prince George’s County Public Schools is to assure that all students acquire knowledge and develop the skills and understandings that will enable them to become productive citizens and life-long learners. This mission is accomplished by identifying and nurturing strong instructional leadership; establishing high expectations for all students, parents, teachers, staff and administrators; implementing a rigorous, technology-infused curriculum; emphasizing effective learning strategies for students at all performance levels; maintaining a safe and orderly school environment; monitoring students’ progress, resulting in appropriate adjustments to instructional programs; developing high levels of accountability; and cultivating meaningful family and community involvement.

Parents Mission Statement
As an active participant in your child’s education it is important that you encourage your child’s academic efforts and demonstrate that you value their work. Make certain that your child arrives at school – on time, prepared to learn physically, mentally and emotionally. Provide the necessary school supplies and encourage your child to be responsible for the care and wise use of them. Then, at home, establish a time and quiet place for your child to complete homework. Insist that homework is completed on time and that family members respect the special study time. Monitor your child’s progress by reviewing the regular reports that are sent home, such as progress reports and quarterly report cards. Participate in your child’s education by attending Back To School Nights, PTSA, volunteering, and initiating individual contact with teachers through conferences and telephone calls. Support your child emotionally by taking the time to listen to your child. Ask him/her each day to describe the school day and listen to the concerns and problems. Inform the Guidance Counselor or grade level Administrator if there are concerns that may affect your child’s ability to learn. It is also important that you support your child by discussing and reinforcing the Code of Student Conduct and the rules and regulations of the school.

Students Mission Statement
As a student I agree to arrive to school/class on time on a daily basis with the necessary materials, homework and a willingness to learn. I will support and follow the Code of Student Conduct, Dress Code Policy and General School and Classroom Guidelines. I understand that I must communicate with my parents or guardians concerning school issues and give them any written communications that are sent home. I will assume responsibility for my academic progress, social behavior and strive for my personal best in all areas.

County Testing Program
The current testing program includes a Diagnostic/Prescriptive Maryland School Assessment (Grades 3-8) in early September. At the end of each quarter a Reading and Math Benchmark will be given for Grades 6-8. The Maryland School Assessment (MSA) is administered in March and scores are released in June. Thurgood Marshall Middle also administers the Algebra High School Assessment Test to those students enrolled in Algebra. Students taking Geometry take the Geometry High School Assessment at Thurgood Marshall Middle School and both tests are given the end of May.

The dates for all county assessments may be found in the agenda book calendar. We especially encourage parents to have their students in school and on time for all testing dates and to make any necessary appointments on testing dates in the afternoon so students will not miss the opportunity to take these important county assessments.

Language Arts Department
Students are expected to bring all necessary supplies to class each day. The Language Arts courses for sixth, seventh and eighth grades focus on developing skills in listening, reading, speaking and writing. Students will be given the opportunity to study the area of composition with emphasis on the writing process and language usage (grammar, mechanics, usage and spelling.) The study of literature, which includes works from a variety of cultures, will be divided among three purposes to be informed, to perform a task and to read for literary experience. Vocabulary will be studied in the context of literature.

Foreign Language Department
In Spanish Level I, students will be able to communicate on selected topics as they relate to self and to others. They will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the second language by using verbal and non-verbal visual cues and read to understand and convey messages.

Mathematics Department
In math classes, each child will need a protractor, compass, inexpensive calculator and pencils for class everyday. Please check periodically that your child has the necessary supplies.

Middle Grades Mathematics standards are written to provide students with hands-on experiences to support the application of concepts related to ratio, proportion, percent, probability, integrated problem solving and reasoning, geometry and spatial visualization, measurement, statistics and data sampling techniques, algebraic methods including patterns, functions, expressions, numeric and graphic representations.

Algebra I standards are written to provide students with hands-on experiences to support the application of concepts related to problem solving and patterns, graphical solutions to linear equations, rate of change, solutions to equations and inequalities, quadratics and other non-linear functions, polynomials, and rational expressions. A graphing calculator is a required tool for this course.

Social Studies Department
The Grade 6 social studies course focuses on the continents, countries, and regions of the Western Hemisphere. The major emphases of this course are the geography, people history and contemporary issues of North America and South America including Canada, Latin America and Mexico. Literature studies, use of primary source documents and critical thinking skills are integral parts of this course.

The Grade 7 social studies course focuses on the continents, countries and regions of the Eastern Hemisphere. The major emphases of this course are the geography, history, people and the contemporary issues of Africa, Europe, The Middle East, Asia and Australia. Literature studies, use of primary source documents and critical thinking skills are integral parts of this course.

The Grade 8 social studies course focuses on the history of the United States from 1776 through 1877. Study of the geography of the United States provides a foundation for US History. An appreciation of our heritage as citizens of the United States is developed through the study of important events in our nation’s history. Emphasis is on the American Revolution, the writing of the U.S. Constitution and the diverse history of the 1800’s. Reading, writing, literature studies, use of primary documents and critical thinking skills are integral parts of the course.

Science Department
Science is designed as an integrated course in which science concepts are blended and taught from the life, physical and earth/space sciences. Middle School Science standards are written to provide hands-on experiences to support the application of concepts including skills and processes, critical thinking, the history of science, earth/space science, life science, chemistry, physics and environmental science. The teaching of science is activity-based, in which students gain first-hand experiences with concepts before they are introduced to extensive science vocabulary associated with the concepts.

Creative Arts/Physical Ed.
The following materials are required for all creative arts and physical education classes: 3 ring binder,3 prong – 2 pocket folder, colored pencils,pencils,pens and lined paper. Students need to have these materials in class. Creative Arts and Physical Education are integrated throughout the school curriculum.

Band
Band is a regularly scheduled class that is part of the school curriculum. Emphasis in this class is on performance. Attendance at after-school rehearsals is mandatory and is a factor in determining the students’ quarterly grade. Rehearsal schedules will be provided to students once the activity bus schedule is known. Numerous performances will be scheduled throughout the year, with a minimum of two being in the evening. The evening performances will include the winter and spring concerts. Students may perform at the Prince George’s Music Festival in the spring and at various school assemblies, school events and community events. In accordance with county policy any unexcused absence from a scheduled performance will result in lowering the quarter’s letter grade in Band by one letter grade. Students will be given advance notice of all performances. Information pertaining to performance uniforms will be provided by the Band instructor. All uniform items will be needed by November. The following materials are needed for class on a daily basis:

Art
This course explores a variety of art media which includes the integration of math, science, social studies and language arts. All art experiences are based on the elements of art and how these concepts are incorporated in works of art.

Physical Education
Each student is required to wear a county-approved uniform in order to participate in physical education. The uniform is available at the school. There is also a county mandated physical education fee which helps defray the cost of soaps, towels and locks for worn out lockers. The cost of the uniform and fee is $15.00. The Physical Education Department will only accept cash or money orders. No checks will be accepted. Other materials possibly needed by students include sneakers, socks, sweat pants and sweat shirts. The middle school physical education program includes a systematic curriculum of instruction in a wide variety of activities to provide a transition from the elementary program. These activities include skills and concepts in the areas of conditioning and fitness, individual, dual and team sports, gymnastics, dance, alternative activities and recreational games. The middle school curriculum challenges and motivates students by providing them with a clear sense of purpose and an understanding of the importance of skills, fitness, cognitive and social development of the young adolescent child.

Physical Fitness                                Volleyball
Indoor/Outdoor Soccer                     Basketball
Hockey                                              Softball
Aerobic Education                            Track

Technology Applications
Student experiences will include: using computers to practice problem-solving procedures, use the computer as a tool for word processing (Microsoft Word), for spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel) and for multimedia presentations (Microsoft Power Point).

Those students identified by the county TAG office as Talented and Gifted are enrolled in special honors classes for Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. Students are given opportunities to participate in TAG related field trips and enrichment activities during the school year.

Health Office
Students are responsible for notifying the teacher immediately if an injury occurs. A student who falls ill or wishes to discuss a health problem with the nurse should ask for a pass from the classroom teacher. Parents please keep your home and work telephone numbers updated for emergencies. A full time health aide is on duty to handle illnesses, accidents and emergencies. In case of serious injury/illness, parents are contacted for referral to their family physician. Parents are requested to notify the school nurse at (301) 702-7542 about health concerns or problems, especially those that impact attendance, school performance or medications.

The school nurse stores and oversees the administration of all medicines. Physicians’ authorization forms are available for prescription and non-prescription medication – IN THE HEALTH ROOM. All medications taken in school must be at the direction of a doctor. Parents should notify and work with the nurse if their child requires medication during the school day. All controlled substances such as Ritalin must be brought to the school by a parent.

Peer Mediation
The mediation teacher and a representative group of students participate in a daylong mediation training session. The following components are part of the training process:

Mediators are trained to help resolve conflicts between students. Mediators do not make decisions for other students. They help the two parties in conflict find their way to a peaceful resolution.

Guidance
Counselors are here to work with students and help them with any problems. Student may make an appointment by leaving their name with the guidance secretary before school, during lunch or at the discretion of the classroom teachers. The counselor will then contact them as soon as possible. Discussions with the counselors are confidential.

Counselors will help students develop good study habits, improve grades, get along with others and cope with personal worries. Information about high school opportunities and career options is available in the guidance office. In preparation for post-secondary education and career decisions, students are encouraged to take the PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Achievement Test) in October. Please contact your child’s counselor for more information. Please notify the Guidance Office if there is a change of address. Parents may request a parent-teacher conference by calling the guidance office at (301) 702-7546 to schedule an appointment.

PTSA
The primary focus of the PTSA will be on improved school-to-home communications. We will be co-sponsoring the school newsletter and need parents to serve on this important committee. We need parents to serve on the School Planning and Management Team which is where all planning, policy decisions and the like are made. The PTSA wants every parent to somehow find a way to be totally involved in his/her child’s education. Please visit the school, observe your child’s classes or schedule conferences with your child’s teachers. The PTSA meets every 2^nd Tuesday of the month in the media center. Contact any member of the PTSA to volunteer. Committees need more parents. WE NEED YOUR HELP AND SUPPORT!!!!!!!!!!!

Media Center
The Media Center provides a variety of print and non-print materials. Instruction is given in the use of these materials as directed by the school curriculum. It also provides opportunities to use the computers housed in the media center. It is open for use before school without a pass but students must obtain a pass in the morning to use the media center and/or computers at lunch. A fine of $.05 per day is charged for overdue books. Students are responsible for all lost materials at replacement value before the final report card is released at the end of the school year.

The Media Center and many classrooms have computer stations that are hooked to the internet. Students may lose their privilege to use the computer lab if they do not respect the rules of the use of computer at all times. Should the student damage the computers in any way, the student will be held responsible for the value of repair or replacement. Students should purchase jump drives for special projects and assignments during the year.

Use of Technology
The increasing availability of technology creates both opportunities and risks for students. Since the potential for harm from the misuse of technology is significant PGCPS has established guidelines by which students can use technology in a legal, safe, productive and ethical manner. The following conduct is prohibited while using the school system network: use for any illegal activity, accessing “chat lines” that are not a part of a class activity under direct supervision of a teacher, accessing websites that contain material deemed inappropriate, vulgar or otherwise offensive, use or display of copyrighted materials without authorization from the appropriate party, trespass in or vandalize another’s files, folders, data or work, post anonymous messages or in any way misrepresent one’s own identity, use an account password of another user, use abusive/objectionable language, use e-mail to promote harassment or attach of others, take, facilitate the theft of, or damage data and equipment. Consequences for misuse may include suspension of equipment access, confiscation, disciplinary action commensurate with the level of misconduct and/or legal action is appropriate.

Academic Achievement
Each quarter students are recognized for their achievements. See the school calendar in this Agenda Book for dates of the awards assemblies. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend.

Honor Roll
Students who earn a GPA of 3.0 or better on their report card are recognized at the quarterly awards assembly.

Student of the Quarter
All teachers select students each quarter for the Student of the Quarter and these students are recognized at the quarterly awards assembly.

Perfect Attendance
Students with perfect attendance during a quarter are recognized at an afternoon perfect attendance assembly that is held every quarter.

4.0 Luncheon
Each quarter students who earned a 4.0 on their report card are invited to a special luncheon held by the principal in their honor.

Attendance
Maryland State law indicates that a student must attend school regularly until he or she is 16 years of age. The law was written because regular attendance is the single most important factor in obtaining a worthwhile education. To receive the maximum benefit from classroom and instructional participation, it is important that a child report to school each day. It is expected that each student will strive for perfect attendance.

Absence
Report to your home room teacher with a note signed by your parent or guardian after each absence. Be sure the note is dated and contains the reason for absence as well as the day(s) and date(s) absence. Your homeroom teacher will issue an absence slip that you must present to each of your teachers before you will be admitted to class. It is the student’s responsibility to make up all assignments and tests missed during the absence. Missed assignments must be made up within three (3) days. If a child is going to be absent 3 or more days the parent may request work by contacting the guidance office at (301) 702-7546. The work will be available 48 hours after the request is made. Please call the guidance office to verify that the work is available. If a student misses a class due to a school sponsored program or activity, all missed assignments must be made up within one (1) day.

Tardy and Truant Students
If a student is tardy to school, the parent and student must sign in at the main office. Students who are not in school or who are tardy without parental or school consent will be considered truant. Truancy violates state and local attendance laws and is a serious offense. Continued truancy may result in legal action against the student and/or parent. If a student is late to class because a teacher has detained the student, that teacher will give the student a pass to the next class.

Early Departure
Whenever possible, a student should inform teachers of a doctor/dental appointment before the absence. Students who will be leaving school early because of doctor’s appointments, family emergencies and other reasons besides illness should bring a written note into the office when they arrive at school in the morning.

An early departure slip will be issued to the student with the departure time and reason noted. The student is to show the slip to the teacher whose class he/she will be leaving and should report to the office at that time. This prevents the class from being interrupted and the student will be ready to leave when the parent arrives.

All students must be “SIGNED OUT” by the person picking them up. There is a SIGN OUT book in the main office. The office reserves the right to request proper identification of persons picking up the students for departure. Only custodial parents are allowed to take a student from school, unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

Office Procedures
Students are expected to maintain quiet and business-like behavior when in the office. Students sent to the office for disciplinary action are expected to report to the office directly from the classroom with no detours to any other area of the school and must have a pass from the teacher.

Money Procedures
For payment of gym uniforms, yearbooks, field trips, dances, text books fines, library fines or any other type of school related activity – Thurgood Marshall accepts payment in cash or by money order from the students and parents. Checks will not be accepted.

Books/Backpacks/Large Bags
Students are responsible for the textbooks that are issued to them. Textbooks are a major expense for the school and must be protected and used with care. Each textbook must be covered. Students will be held liable for damage to school property. A teacher may hold an uncovered textbook until the student provides a cover.

School rules do not permit the carrying of backpacks or large bags in school. The nylon draw-string backpacks are not allowed to be carried during the school day. Students needing to transport clothes for gym class should use plastic bags (the type issued at food stores).

Conduct and Courtesy
Courtesy and good manners should be the key to a student’s conduct at school. A good attitude toward teachers and fellow students will make school enjoyable for all. Students are expected to have respect for school property. Every student is charged with the responsibility of keeping our school clean and neat. Much time, effort and expense are required to keep our building and grounds in good condition.

Showing of Affection
The showing of affection between students in public areas is PROHIBITED! It is expected the students will exercise good judgment in this regard and thereby show respect for themselves and others.

Assemblies
At all times the student’s behavior should be refined and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of the school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, uncalled clapping, boisterousness, booing and talking during a program.

Faculty Room
Students are NOT to enter the Faculty Room and Faculty Restrooms at any time either during school hours or after school hours. If a student is looking for a teacher the student should knock on the door and wait for someone to answer.

Sale of Unauthorized Items
Individual and groups of students may not sell items including food in school without administration approval.

Gum/Candy
Gum is not permitted in school. Candy is permitted only with teacher approval. Careless disposal of gum and candy in drinking fountains, furniture and floors presents sanitation and cleaning problems and costly repairs.

Bus Transportation
Bus transportation is a privilege and students must follow all school and bus rules while traveling on the bus. The school reserves the right to deny bus transportation to students who do not comply with the rules. Activity buses for after school activities will be provided on a very limited basis, due to budget constraints. Notices will be sent home announcing when an activity bus will be available. Riding the school bus is an integral part of the school day for many students and the directives in the Code of Student Conduct apply fully to students whenever they are riding a school bus. Student misbehavior may be serious enough to exclude them from participation in county bus transportation. For questions regarding the Code of Student Conduct please refer to the county’s website or to the guidance office for a copy of the code.

School buses are provided for an identified group of students residing in various communities. Therefore, students will NOT be given permission to ride another bus for convenience or visitation. If temporary custodial arrangements are required, the parent/guardian must send a written notice to the principal two days in advance stating the reason. Permission will be granted only if seats are available.

Cafeteria
All students are expected to report promptly to the cafeteria during their assigned lunch period and remain there until excused. Adequate facilities are provided for lunch at school. If lunch is not purchased at school it is the students’ responsibility to bring one from home. All food and drink is to be consumed only in the cafeteria. Students may also purchase breakfast items in the cafeteria each morning. Students are responsible for the condition of their table. Good manners and proper conduct will be expected at all times. Each student may have a debit account for purchasing items in the cafeteria. Payments to the debit account can be made in cash or money order made payable to Food and Nutrition.

Visitors
We encourage parents to visit the school. All visitors must sign in at the main office and receive a visitor’s badge. We invite all parents to join the PTSA.

Fire Drills
Fire drills at regular intervals are required by law and constitute one of the schools most important safety cautions. It is essential that when the signal is given, everyone obeys orders promptly and clears the building by the posted prescribed route as quickly as possible. Teachers will explain the regulations and under no circumstances will misbehavior in any form be tolerated during a fire drill.

Lockers
Each student will be issued a locker. Students will be able to go to their lockers only at times scheduled by the administrators during the school day. All personal items and books must be kept in lockers when not in use. Lockers will be inspected regularly and locker clean-out will occur each quarter.

Personal Property
Students assume the responsibility for loss or damage to their clothing, equipment, books or instruments. The school attempts to protect all personal property but is not responsible for them. LARGE SUMS OF MONEY AND ARTICLES OF REAL OR SENTIMENTAL VALUE SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL. CAMPUS EXCLUSIONS: RADIOS, TAPES,MP3 PLAYERS AND CD PLAYERS, VIDEO GAMES, TOYS, CAMERAS AND SKATEBOARDS ARE NOT ALLOWED. They will be confiscated and must be picked up by a parent at the end of each quarter. If any of the items are confiscated for a 2^nd time they will not be returned until the last day of school for the students.

Lost and Found
A lost and found is maintained in the Health Room. All articles found should be turned into the Main Office.

Announcements
The principal must approve all morning and afternoon announcements. Morning and afternoon announcements will be over the P.A. System. Forms to write your announcements may be obtained from the Main Office.

Cellular Phones
The State of Maryland has approved the possession of communication devices such as cellular phones and pagers in secondary schools. However, it is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct to use a cell phone or pager in a manner that disrupts the school environment. All portable communication devices must be turned off while the student is riding the school bus and through out the entire school day, whether the student is in class or not. Thurgood Marshall Middle School’s policy states that any cellular phone that is visible and/or turned on during the school day will be confiscated by school officials and can be picked up by the student’s parent at the end of each quarter. If the items are confiscated for a 2^nd time they will not be returned until the last day of school for the students. The staff will allow students to use office phones in case of any emergency.

Homework
Homework is an integral part of the school program; students should have homework each night in most of their classes. Homework can be in many forms and is designed to supplement class work and to give the student the opportunity to practice the skills learned in class. Reviewing and studying class materials each night is strongly encouraged. Students should record homework for all subjects daily in their school agenda book. Parents should check the agenda book daily and monitor the student’s progress daily in completing all homework assignments and projects.

We encourage students to select a “Study Buddy” for each class and exchange phone numbers. When students are absent, they are responsible for contacting the “Study Buddy” and getting the homework for the day.

Report Cards and Progress Reports
Report Cards and Progress Reports will be issued to all students each quarter to inform parents of their child’s achievement. This allows parents the time to assist their child with improving academic achievement and/or the opportunity to schedule a conference with teachers.

Please call the Guidance Department to schedule a conference with teachers. Specific dates for the end of the quarter and county wide conference days are indicated on the school calendar located in this Agenda Book.

Telephone
The office phone is to be used only for school business or in case of an emergency. The school telephone numbers are:

Student Code of Conduct
Learning can only occur in a safe and orderly environment. We strictly adhere to the Student Code of Conduct. This is one of the reasons that Thurgood Marshall Middle School maintains a positive environment. However, students and parents must know that we will not allow a student’s behavior to interfere with student learning. The Prince George’s County Board of Education recognizes four (4) levels of offenses:

Level I – Violation of General Classroom and Bus Rules. Examples of Level I misconduct include:

Serious or repeated Level I misbehavior may result in a consequence for behavior usually reserved for Level II, III or IV disciplinary option/response.

Level II – Conduct Requiring Administrative Intervention. Examples of Level II misconduct include:

Serious or repeated Level II misbehavior may result in a consequence for behavior usually reserved for Level III or IV disciplinary response.

Level III – Suspension and/or Removal to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. Examples of Level III misconduct include:

◙ unauthorized use, possession, or distribution of over-the-counter medication

Serious or repeated Level III misbehavior may result in a more serious consequence, such as a request for a Long Term Suspension or treatment as a Level IV offense.

Level IV – Expulsion and/or Removal to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. Level IV offenses require that the student be placed on suspension while the Principal submits a Request for Expulsion and/or the student is removed to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. Level IV consists of serious offenses, which include willful or malicious acts that have the effect of materially and substantially disrupting the educational environment in the school, on the school bus, or at school activities. Examples of Level IV misconduct include:

◙ possession, use or distribution of alcohol, prescription drugs, controlled dangerous substances or drug paraphernalia

Serious or repeated Level III misbehavior may result in a more serious consequence, such as a request for a Long Term Suspension or Treatment as a Level IV offense.

In School Detention
Thurgood Marshall Middle School believes that it is in the best interest of students for them to be in attendance. As a result we have created an in-school detention center as an alternative to some suspensions. Students spend a day removed from their classes in a controlled environment supervised by a teacher. Students have the opportunity to work on their class assignments. Additionally, they are required to complete special assignments designed to increase their self-control and/or social skills.

Saturday School
Thurgood Marshall Middle School believes that it is in the best interest of students for them to be in attendance. As a result we have created an after school detention and Saturday School center as an alternative to some suspensions. Students are required to complete special assignments designed to increase their self-control and/or social skills. Parents are responsible for transportation.

Staying after School
Students are expected to leave the building and grounds promptly at the end of the school day. Under certain conditions students may be authorized to remain after school for specific activities approved and supervised by a teacher. Under no circumstances is any group authorized to meet after school or at any time without teacher supervision.

School Clubs/Activities
We encourage all students to be involved in a variety of after school. However, parents are responsible for arranging transportation for their child if there are no activity busses available. Please pick up your child on time. The following activities will be offered as long as there is a staff member available to serve as the sponsor:

Morning News Team
The Morning News Team is open to all students. Students will research, write and read the morning announcements and daily news over the P.A. System.

(NJHS)
The National Junior Honor Society is an activity that supports the educational goals of the school. It is a national recognition program found in every state in the United States. Students must meet the attendance and scholastic requirements of the school. Students must attend this school for (3) grading periods and maintained a 3.5 grade point average and have no discipline referral in their file. Then, the faculty evaluates the students on the basis of leadership, service, citizenship and character. Once selected, members must maintain these standards of honor and responsibility.

Student Government
The SGA is an organization through which elected representatives can assist in the functions and student concerns of the school. SGA is a program to facilitate collegiality among students and staff through school and after school functions. SGA representatives will attend County and State level meetings. The SGA promotes leadership and initiative.

Newspaper Club
This club gives students hands-on experience as they learn the elements of publishing a school newspaper. Students decide what features to include in the newspaper. They complete interviews and research as needed while writing the articles. After editing the articles, the newspaper is designed and typed using the software Publisher. When the newspaper is printed students then sell the finished product.

MESA
The Maryland MESA Program is a pre-college program, designed to motivate and assist middle school students from all backgrounds to prepare them to enter university level programs in engineering, mathematics, science and related fields. After students are selected for the MESA program, students are exposed to a variety of activities. Conducted during or after school, Maryland MESA Activities are aimed at improving student’s academic skills, especially in areas of mathematics and science.

Yearbook Club
The yearbook club is designed for those students who have an interest in preparing the yearbook. All students interested in joining must contact Mr. Navas.

Cheerleaders
If you can or want to be a toe-touching, cartwheel-turning, sideline cheering, crowd motivator, then the TMMS cheerleading squad is the place for you! The Thurgood Marshall cheerleaders are dedicated, athletic, dependable and #1 in the classroom. The cheerleading squad is made up of 15-20 students. If you are interested in joining the cheerleading squad, we’ll see you at try-outs in September! Good luck!

Athletic Teams
Prince George’s County Middle Schools participate in a limited program of interscholastic competition throughout the school year. Only students in grades 7^th and 8^th with an overall grade point average of at least 2.0 without an “E” may participate. Students are required to attend a study hall as a part of the daily practice. Students must also have a medical evaluation form (PGIN#7540-3100) for the current school year. Student athletes are expected to set the standard of excellence in behavior throughout the day and at games. Students that are assigned to detention and/or Saturday school may lose participation privileges for the practice/game. A student suspended from school and/or assigned to an in-school suspension center is ineligible to participate in athletics for the duration of the suspension. Thurgood Marshall Middle also offers an intramural program as part of the after school activities. We encourage all students to participate on the intramural squads.

Signatures
In order to implement a strong academic program, the school will foster a positive learning environment stressing disciplined behavior and punctuality. Therefore, it is strongly felt that parents and students need a clear understanding of the rules and regulations governing discipline and attendance. The agenda book is intended to be used as a tool to enhance the cooperation that needs to exist between parent, teacher and student. Therefore, parents and teachers should use the agenda gook to communicate between one another. At the bottom of each column there is a highlighted area for parent signature and comments.