WCMS Student Handbook

To participate in courses at the Bakken Area Skills Center (BASC) during high school, students must meet BASC Readiness requirements. This readiness ensures that students are academically prepared to take advantage of the career and technical education opportunities offered through BASC. 

BASC Readiness Requirements 

• Math
• English Language Arts (ELA)
• Science
• Social Studies

Students who do not meet BASC Readiness during 8th grade will need to earn that eligibility during their 9th grade year before being allowed to enroll in BASC courses.

Maintaining strong academic performance in these core areas is essential for students wishing to access the valuable hands-on learning and career-focused opportunities available through the BASC program.

All district staff are expected to utilize the Canvas Learning Management System as a primary tool for supporting strong communication with families and promoting transparency in student learning. Teachers must ensure that assignments, grades, feedback, and course materials are consistently updated in Canvas, so parents and guardians can access timely and accurate information about their child’s progress. Staff should actively use Canvas features such as announcements, messaging, and course updates to keep families informed of expectations, deadlines, and important classroom information. Administrators and instructional leaders should also monitor Canvas courses to ensure consistency and support staff in maintaining clear, parent-friendly communication.

MCPSD#1 highly encourages communication between parents/guardians and teachers. Should you wish to talk with one of your child’s teachers, call the school office; if the teacher is in class or not available, you will be able to leave a message and your number. The teacher will return your call at his/her earliest convenience. You may also email the teacher by viewing the staff directory on the district website or contact them through Canvas.

A weekly notification will be sent to parents/guardians when their student is failing one or more classes.

To the extent financially feasible, the district sanctions field trips and trips for school-sponsored activities that are of educational value and are associated with curricular programming offered by the district.  

All requests for travel shall be submitted to the building principal through Frontline, at least three weeks prior to the travel dates.  

Students may be required to pay admissions fees associated with a field and/or school-sponsored trip. These fees may be waived in cases of hardship or, when the trip is part of the curriculum, students may be given an alternative assignment. Requests to waive fees shall be made in accordance with the student fees policy. The superintendent may develop additional regulations related to costs and payment for field and school-sponsored trips. 

Written parental approval shall be obtained prior to each field and school-sponsored trip. 

Students shall be subject to all applicable district policies and regulations while on field and/or school-sponsored trips. The superintendent shall develop criteria for participation in field/school-sponsored trips and develop school trip safety and disciplinary procedures. These procedures shall specifically address trips taken outside the district. Parents and students shall be made aware of these procedures prior to each trip. 

Out of Town Field Trips

Requests for overnight trips or any trip outside of the state of North Dakota (excluding trips for extracurricular activities scheduled as part of the sanctioned season), shall be submitted to the school principal and superintendent for action at least three weeks prior to the travel dates.

McKenzie County Public School District #1 believes that grades should reflect a student’s knowledge and proficiency of content standards.

All assignments, assessments, and grades will fall into one of two categories: Formative or Summative. Categories for each grade level are 50% Formative and 50% Summative.

Formative: formative assessments are meant to be used to guide instruction and should take place as the students are learning the material. Examples may include, but are not limited to, homework, classwork, labs, projects, quizzes, bell ringers, or exit tickets.

*Note: not all formative assessments need to be entered into the gradebook. The goal is to assess where the students are at in the learning process.

Summative: summative assessments are the final assessment of the topic or unit of study and are used to measure how well the student has learned the required content throughout the unit. Examples of summative assessments may include, but are not limited to, projects, labs, papers, tests, or quizzes.

Purpose

Homework and classwork contribute toward building responsibility, self-discipline, organizational skills, and lifelong learning habits. It is the intention of the Watford City Middle School staff to assign relevant, challenging, and meaningful homework assignments that extend and reinforce classroom-learning objectives. Homework and classwork should provide students with the opportunity to apply information they have learned, complete unfinished class assignments, prepare for tests, and develop independence.  

Absenteeism

Students who miss homework or classwork because of absences will have the opportunity to make up missed work. Students are given 3 school days total upon return to make up their work. It is the student’s responsibility to get work missed due to illness or absence and to turn in the completed work. It is the responsibility of the students to inform teachers of and to get assignments ahead of time for any class that will be missed. 

Extracurricular Absences

It is the responsibility of the students to inform teachers of and to get assignments ahead of time for any class that will be missed due to extracurricular activities. Homework and assessments due the date of the event must be turned in prior to leaving for the event.

Responsibilities of Students

Ask questions when necessary to clarify the assignment. Make sure assignments are completed on time. Ensure homework and classwork is done to the best of their ability.

Students with late or missing work may be assigned homework detention by their classroom teacher. Homework detention is used to support students. Homework detention will be served with the assigning teacher with the intent to assist the student academically.

All classes count toward computing GPA and toward determining honor roll status. Honor rolls are calculated at the end of each nine-week grading period. Students must receive a minimum of a “B” in all classes to earn honor roll status.

All district staff are expected to utilize Infinite Campus as the primary system for maintaining and sharing accurate student information in a manner that supports strong family engagement. Staff must ensure that enrollment, attendance, and grade data are entered and updated, so parents and guardians have access to timely, reliable information about their child’s progress. Educators and administrators should use Infinite Campus to monitor student performance and proactively communicate with families regarding attendance concerns, academic progress, and areas needing support. The Parent Portal is a key tool for fostering transparency, and staff are expected to encourage its use and respond to parent inquiries in a timely and professional manner.  

Students are to turn work in on time. If the teacher deems necessary, the student may be required to stay after school in order to complete late or missing work. This will include students participating in extracurricular activities. Late work will not be accepted after the next assessment is taken. Exceptions to this policy may be worked out between the principal, teacher, parent, and student.

Students are required to attend lunch and recess. It is up to the teacher’s discretion if students will be required to go outside for recess if it meets weather requirements. If students are allowed to stay inside for recess, they must stay in the cafeteria. Any student not in the assigned lunch and/or recess areas will be considered skipping class.

Being gone from school will result in missed work, whether it is for school-sponsored activities, for illness, or for a personal reason. In all cases, the work missed must be made up for the absence.  

Extracurricular Absences

When a student misses class for a school-related activity (athletics, music, etc.), it is the responsibility of the students to inform teachers of and to get assignments ahead of time for any class that will be missed due to extracurricular activities. Homework and assessments due the date of the event must be turned in prior to leaving for the event. Any new assignments missed due to extracurricular activities will be due upon return. 

Failure to get assignments before leaving for an activity, or not handing the assignment in on time, may result in the student not being allowed to miss class for future activities.

Other Absences

When a student is absent, all missing assignments must be turned in within three school days of returning to school to receive full credit. These days begin immediately upon return and will not restart if another absence occurs. Teacher’s individual policies for grading missing and late work beyond three days late, is listed in their Canvas course and shared with all students. This policy does not prohibit teachers from entering a zero in the gradebook for the assignment. Students are responsible for communicating with the teacher regarding any work that is missing.

Make-up work must take precedence over activity involvement, athletic practice, meetings, work, etc. Failure to complete make-up work may result in the student getting a failing grade for work not completed.

If a student is suspended from school, all work missed or assigned during the suspension must be completed. The student will have the three days to make up missed work in order to receive full credit.

Students may take online courses through NDCDE and the school may pay for the tuition. Guardians must fill out the NDCDE Course Enrollment form for students wishing to take an NDCDE Course. Students enrolling in these courses must adhere to the attendance policies of WCMS. Students will report to the library classroom during the period they have their online courses scheduled. Students wishing to take online courses and not wanting to attend regular school should apply to the Watford City Virtual Academy. All grades will be recorded from NDCDE courses. Once students have enrolled in a NDCDE Course, they must complete that course and will not be allowed to change schedules to face-to-face instruction until the semester break.  

Students enrolling in NDCDE courses will have their end date follow the semester end of the school calendar unless determined otherwise by administration.

Students will be required to participate in all physical education classes. A doctor’s note is required if a student cannot participate in physical education classes due to injury or illness. 

If a student has plagiarized, used artificial intelligence (AI), or cheated to complete any assessment or assignment, students will have the opportunity to redo or retake the assessment or assignment with the following penalties: 

First Infraction 

• Redo must be completed and turned in within 3 days of the teacher notifying the student of plagiarism.
• Students can only earn up to a 59% on the assignment (grade will be prorated).
• The assessment or assignment may have additional or different requirements at the teacher’s discretion.

Additional Infractions 

• The student will receive a zero for the assignment without an option to redo the assignment due to the prior infraction.

All students must be enrolled in class all periods of the school day.

Report cards will be issued for all students following the completion of each term.

• All teachers must provide retake opportunities for all summative assessments, provided the requirements for retakes, as determined by the teacher, have been met by the student.
• All retakes from a unit must be complete prior to the completion of the subsequent unit.
• Requirements for retakes are up to teacher discretion, which may include, but is not limited to, relearning opportunities, test corrections, one-on-one sessions with the teacher, and additional assignments or learning opportunities.
• Teachers must communicate their retake requirements in the class syllabus and/or posted in the learning management system (i.e. Canvas).
• Retake opportunities may be in a different format than the original assessment but be reasonably similar in terms of length of assessment, content covered, and difficulty.
• The highest grade attained on any summative assessment, whether it is the original or a retake, will be entered into the gradebook with no additional penalties.
• Teachers may not restrict retake opportunities based on the score of the original assessment.

Students that fail a class or receive an incomplete grade may be required to attend summer school or repeat the class in which they fail. Decisions on retention or repeated classes will be a result of discussion amongst the teachers, administration, parents, and students.

Course recovery classes may be taken online through Edgenuity or NDCDE at the discretion of administration. Course recovery classes will take place in the library classroom and will replace the student’s elective class. Once the course recovery class is completed and passed, students will be allowed to return to their elective class.

Schedules will be set at the beginning of the school year. Requests for elective class changes can only be made during the first 3 days of the term. Any other schedule changes will only occur after discussion with administration, teachers, parents, and students.

Any organization that wishes to schedule an event must first clear the date with the advisor who will in turn get approval from the Activities Director or Principal.

All 8th grade students at Watford City Middle School are required to take semester finals as a part of their academic experience and preparation for high school expectations. However, students who meet the following criteria are eligible to be exempt from individual class finals.

• 75% or higher in the class
• No more than 9 counted absences for the semester
• No suspensions during the semester

Final exam exemptions are determined on a class-by-class basis, meaning a student may be exempt from one final but still required to take another, depending on their eligibility in each course. 
 
Students who are exempt from a final will be marked with a “special circumstance” attendance code for that class period. 

Students and parents/guardians have the right to appeal district decisions related to virtual or online learning. This process is designed to be straightforward and fair. Appeals are reviewed promptly, and students' academic progress is protected while a decision is under review.  

Who May File an Appeal

An appeal may be filed by a student's parent or legal guardian, or by the student if they are 18 or older or an emancipated minor.

Decisions You Can Appeal

• Denial of enrollment in a virtual or online course
• Denial of district payment for a virtual course
• Denial of a drop, add, or transfer request for a virtual course
• Removal from a virtual course (for participation, pacing, or academic integrity reasons)
• Placement on virtual course probation
• Denial of a course retake at district expense
• Denial of a course extension or good-cause exception
• Any other adverse decision specific to virtual learning  

Note: Decisions involving IEPs, Section 504 plans, student discipline, or open enrollment follow separate appeal processes and are not covered here.  

Deadline to File

You must submit a written appeal within 10 school days of receiving the written decision you are appealing. If you missed the deadline due to a documented medical emergency, failure to receive written notice, or another circumstance beyond your control, you may request a late filing by explaining the reason in writing to the District office. 

How to File

• Student's name, grade, and school
• Parent/guardian name and contact information
• The specific decision you are appealing and its date
• The virtual course provider and course title (e.g., NDCDE, district virtual)
• A brief explanation of why you believe the decision should be changed
• Copies of any supporting documents (application, decision letter, transcripts, graduation plan, medical documentation, etc.)
• The outcome you are requesting
• Your signature and the date  

Review Process

• The Superintendent, or a designee not involved in the original decision, will review your appeal within 10 school days of receipt.  
• The reviewer may request additional information or schedule a meeting with you and relevant staff.  
• Within 10 school days of completing the review (or meeting, if held), you will receive a written decision. The decision will explain the outcome, the findings of fact, and the reasons for the determination.  
• The Superintendent's written decision is the district's final decision. 

Your Status During the Appeal

While your appeal is under review, your enrollment status at the time you filed will generally remain in place. If your appeal involves a denial of enrollment in a new virtual course, the District is not required to enroll you in that course during the process, but will ensure you remain enrolled in appropriate coursework to protect your academic progress and graduation timeline. 

No Retaliation

No student or family will face retaliation, negative academic consequences, or reduced services for filing an appeal. Any staff member found to have acted in retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action. 

Records

All appeal documents are maintained as part of your student education record under FERPA and North Dakota public records law. Records are retained for at least 5 years after a student graduates or leaves the district. 

Questions

Contact the district office or your virtual learning coordinator for help with the appeals process or to obtain a Notice of Appeal form. 

All students involved in co-curricular activities are expected to be in school when not traveling to a game, contest, activity or practice. A student who must miss school on any activity day must clear the absence with the principal or activities director before missing school to be certain of their eligibility for that particular contest. Activities also include but are not limited to school dances, drama production, band and concerts, and vocational activities. The only acceptable reasons for missing any or all of the school day, and still being allowed to participate, are for scheduled appointments and family emergencies. All students are expected to be in attendance the entire day following an activity. Failure to comply with this policy may result in suspension from the next contest or event.

The rules, principles and spirit of such rules and principles of the North Dakota High School Activities Association and other organizations to which the high school may belong will be considered minimum, and vigorously subscribed to and enforced.

McKenzie County Public School District #1 retains the right to search any property coming on campus. This includes but is not limited to vehicles and backpacks. Administration or its designees are searching for weapons, drugs, alcohol, and any tobacco products.  All bags/luggage/travel items may be subject to search before and during the trip. Bags may be checked by authorized personnel prior to an overnight trip. Bags/backpacks may be checked at any time while in school at the discretion of the administration.

1. Depending on the nature of the complaint, try to resolve it directly with the coach involved by setting up an appointment with them the day after the event.
2. If the complaint is not resolved satisfactorily, the following chain of command is to be followed: assistant coach, head coach, activities director, superintendent, and school board.
3. Complaints given in writing will be shared with the coach.
4. “Playing time” is a non-negotiable matter and will be left to the discretion of the coach.
5. Do not text/email coaches with a complaint. Set up a time with the coach and/or administration.

If an athlete reports or exhibits any signs, symptoms, or behaviors of a concussion, that athlete must be removed from all physical activity, including sports and recreation. If signs or symptoms of a concussion occur, the athlete must (1) be removed from play; (2) ensure the athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health-care professional: MD (Doctor of Medicine), DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine), LAT (License Athletic Trainer); with specialized studies in concussions; (3) inform the athletes parents about the possible concussion and give them information; (4) keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until an appropriate health-care professional says the athlete is symptom-free.

Signs and symptoms of concussions include, but are not limited to: headache, neck pain, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, balance problems, sensitivity to light and noise, and confusion.

Once the athlete is determined to be symptom free, they must complete the return to play protocol. This return to play protocol should be supervised by a licensed medical professional.

Graduated Return to Play Protocol

1. Complete rest from physical activity until asymptomatic and impact testing results return to baseline
2. Light Aerobic activity for 20 minutes at 30-40% of maximum exertion
3. Sport-specific exercise for 30 minutes should be done at 40-60% of maximum exertion
4. Non-contact training drills for 30-60 minutes should be done at 60-80% of maximum exertion
5. Full contact practice for the full duration of typical practice time

Each stage is to take at least 24 hours, but may take longer. Each stage should be completed while asymptomatic. Full return to play should be at the discretion of the supervising, licensed medical professional.

S.W.A.Y. (Concussion Testing)

1. All 7th grade football players
2. All Freshmen
3. All Juniors
4. Any student athlete new to MCPSD1
5. Any student who missed testing in their freshman or junior years

Concussion Training

In accordance with North Dakota state legislation, any official, coach, or person designated to be responsible for athletes during practices or games is required to receive biennial training concerning concussions. Completion of this training will be kept on file.

Be It Enacted by the Legislative Assembly of North Dakota

1. Each school district and nonpublic school that sponsors or sanctions any athletic activity in this state and requires a participating student to regularly practice or train, and compete, is subject to the terms of a concussion management program.
2. The concussion management program must set forth in clear and readily comprehensible language the signs and symptoms of a concussion.
3. (A) The concussion management program must require that a student be removed from practice, training, or competition if: (1) The student reports any sign or symptom of a concussion, as set forth in accordance with this section; (2) The student exhibits any sign or symptom of a concussion, as set forth in accordance with this section; or (3) A licensed, registered, or certified health care provider whose scope of practice includes the recognition of concussion signs and symptoms determines, after observing the student, that the student may have a concussion. (B) The duty to remove a student under the conditions set forth in this subsection extends to: (1) Each official; (2) The coach of a student; and (3) Any other individual designated by the school district or nonpublic school as having direct responsibility for the student during practice, training, or competition.
4. The concussion management program must require that any student who is removed in accordance with subsection 3 must be evaluated as soon as practicable by a licensed health care provider who is acting within the provider's scope of practice and trained in the evaluation and management of concussion, as determined by the provider's licensing board.
5. (A) A student who is evaluated in accordance with subsection 4 and believed to have suffered a concussion may not be allowed to return to practice, training, or competition until a licensed health care provider who meets the criteria set forth in subsection 4 authorizes the student’s return. (B) The authorization required by this subsection must be: (1) In writing; (2) Presented or forwarded to the individual designated by the student's school district or nonpublic school for receipt of such authorizations; and (3) Retained by the student's school district or school for a period of seven years after conclusion of the student's enrollment. c. Any health care provider who signs an authorization in accordance with this section is acknowledging that the provider is acting within the provider's scope of practice and is trained in the evaluation and management of concussion, as determined by the provider's licensing board.
6. The concussion management program must require that each official, coach, and individual designated by the school district or nonpublic school as having direct responsibility for the student during practice, training, or competition receive biennial training regarding the nature and risk of concussion.
7. The student's school district or nonpublic school shall ensure that before a student is allowed to participate in the athletic activity described in subsection 1, the student and the student's parent shall document that they have viewed information regarding concussions incurred by students participating in athletic activities. The required information must be provided by the student's school district or nonpublic school and must be made available in printed form or in a verifiable electronic format.
8. This section does not create any liability for, or create a cause of action against:
   1. A school district, its officers, or its employees;
   2. A nonpublic school, its officers, or its employees; or
   3. An official.
9. A school district or a nonpublic school may contract for and accept gifts, grants, and donations from any public or nonpublic source, in order to meet the requirements of this section.
10. For the purposes of this section, "official" means an umpire, a referee, a judge, or any other individual formally officiating at an athletic event.

Dances must receive prior approval from the principal. All middle school dances will end no later than 9:00 PM. Once students leave the dance, they may not return. The doors will be locked 15 minutes after the start of the dance. Any students behaving or dancing inappropriately, by discretion of staff members and chaperones, will be asked to leave the dance and lose the privilege of coming to dances the remainder of the school year.

The following rules and regulations concerning the extracurricular activities in the McKenzie County Public School District #1 are set up to govern all school-sponsored activities and performances. Exempt from these rules would be classroom-sponsored activities.

Offenses/Suspensions

• 1.1 The mere presence of tobacco, alcohol, or any controlled substance as defined by North Dakota Law. (See 1.3 for definition of mere presence.)
• 1.2 Steroid Policy: the use, possession or sale of non-prescriptive anabolic steroids by any student at any time during the year is prohibited. Any student found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to the penalties provided in this policy. The use or possession of anabolic steroids prescribed or directed by a physician shall not be a violation of this section.
• 1.3 Mere presence: the administration will take into consideration whether the student was in a vehicle, hotel room, house or at a location where the student had knowledge that alcohol, tobacco, or controlled substances were present, and whether or not the student had a reasonable opportunity to remove himself or herself from said location.
  • 1.3-A An intention to leave is not a defense. Nor is being the “designated driver.”
  • 1.3-B Stay and risk the loss of eligibility for extracurricular activities.
• 1.4 Involvement in an act, which, if done by an adult, would be designated a felony under the laws of North Dakota, another state, or the United States. A violation of the laws governing the operation of a motor vehicle does not fall under this paragraph.

Violation

Students violating this policy will be suspended from representing WCHS in any extracurricular activities for 6 weeks for the first offense and an 18-week suspension for any subsequent offense. The period of suspension shall begin from the date and time the school administrator gives notification to the student. The student may still practice, but cannot represent the school at functions. Extracurricular activities include all sports, music, and drama activities, all clubs and organizations, and any other activities that are not part of the normal classroom (for example: dances, prom, banquets, regional science fair, state fair, school plays, concerts, SkillsUSA, pep band, homecoming candidates, etc.).

In addition to meeting the eligibility rules of the NDHSAA, students must also meet the eligibility rules of WCHS.

Spring Suspensions

A. If a student is involved in a spring sport his/her suspension will continue until the state meet is concluded for the sport or the last day of the school year, whichever is later. Any days left in the suspension shall be served the following fall term.

B. If a student is not involved in a spring sport, his/her suspension will continue until the last day of the school term. Any days left in the suspension shall be served the following fall term.

C. Students involved in fall sports shall begin their suspension, which was carried over from the spring, at the beginning of their fall sports season first practice date.

D. Students not involved in fall sports begin their suspension, which was carried over from the spring, at the beginning of the fall term.

E. If any student is in the process of serving an eighteen-week suspension when school ends in the spring he/she will be required to serve a minimum suspension of six weeks. If the six-week minimum was not met in the spring of the year, the days necessary to serve a minimum six-week suspension shall be carried over to the fall term. The administration of this suspension shall follow the guidelines of A-D above.

F. Suspensions carried over from the spring shall not factor into a student's violations when determining multiple infractions during a school year.

Summer Infractions

Any student determined by law enforcement personnel or self / parent reported to be in possession of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco during the summer, including multiple infractions shall be declared ineligible for the first 2 occurring varsity dates of events, if not on varsity the student will be ineligible for 2 events at his/her level of play for each season the student-athlete participates in throughout the school year. However, summer infractions shall not factor into a student’s violation when determining multiple infractions during a school year. Students active in Co-Curricular Activities such as FFA, SkillsUSA, Music, Speech, Drama and School sponsored events will become eligible the 2nd Monday in September.

Procedures

• 3.1 The school administrator (principal or athletic director) shall immediately investigate any alleged violation of the alcohol, tobacco, and controlled substance rule of the NDHSAA.
• 3.2 If the administrator has reasonable grounds to believe that these rules have been violated, they shall give the student immediate notice of suspension in writing.
• 3.3 The period of suspension shall begin from the date and time the notification is received by an administrator.

Student-athletes are allowed to participate on more than one extracurricular team during the same season but must indicate a primary activity to eliminate any confusion on any conflicting dates. Coaches will work together with the athlete to determine daily schedules, but the student needs to realize that not being fully committed to an activity could impact their playing time. Dual-sport athletes are required to attend practice and/or contests for at least one of their respective sports per day, and are encouraged to do both, if possible. Dual-activity students will only be allowed to be dismissed early from school for contests three times per week unless approved by administration. Junior high student-athletes will only be able to miss school two times per week, unless participating on the high school team. If, at any time during the season, a dual-activity student is on the ineligible list, they will only be able to participate in one activity the rest of the season. The student will pick which activity they will continue to participate in.

Junior High/Senior High: In order to stress the importance of academics to the future of our youth, an eligibility policy is also in effect for participation of all students in activities. Parents/guardians and students are reminded that the best approach to improving achievement in school is to work with the teacher as a TEAM. Activities need to be kept in perspective as they are a benefit to the student if they are treated as part of total student growth.

In order to be eligible to participate in school-sponsored extracurricular activities, students at WCHS or WCMS may only be failing one course at the time the report is run. Grades will be checked for all students at midterm, end of the quarter, midterm and semester for high school students. For middle school students, the grades will be checked on a 3-week basis in terms of each quarter. The 3rd, 6th and 9th week of each middle school quarter will be a full check. The dates of the grade checks will be determined in advance, usually the Wednesday following the end of the quarter/semester.

Students that are failing more than one course will be ineligible for one week. The grades of the students identified on the initial grade check will be checked again the following Wednesday at noon. Should a student still be failing more than one course, they will be ineligible for another week. Grades of ineligible students will continue to be checked weekly until the next grade check for all students occurs. At the end of the semester for high school students, grades will be checked after final grades have been stored. Any student failing more than one course at this time will be ineligible for two weeks. Any student failing more than one course at the end of the second semester will be ineligible for two weeks at the start of the fall season or start of the semester, whichever comes first. In middle school, should a student be failing more than one course at the end of a quarter, they will be ineligible for one week.

Grades 

In order to be eligible to participate in school-sponsored extracurricular activities, students at WCMS may only be failing one course at the time the report is run. Students that are failing more than one course will be ineligible for one week. The grades of the students identified on the initial grade check will be checked again the following Wednesday at 12:00 PM (noon). Should a student still be failing more than one course, they will be ineligible for another week. Grades of ineligible students will continue to be checked weekly until the next school-wide grade check occurs. A student failing more than one course at the end of a quarter will be ineligible for one week.

Work should be turned in to teachers by 4:00 PM the day prior to grade checks to give teachers time to grade assignments and enter grades into the gradebook. Any assignments turned in after this time may not be graded before grade checks take place.

• Based on Q1 Grades
  • September 9
  • September 30
  • October 21
• Based on Q2 Grades
  • November 11
  • December 2
  • December 30
• Based on Q3 Grades
  • January 27
  • February 17
  • March 17
• Based on Q4 Grades
  • April 7
  • April 28
  • May 21

Parents can access their child's grades via Infinite Campus, which can be found on the school website. If you need assistance, please contact the school office.

Students are required to attend school the morning following a festival, tournament, game, drama production, out-of-town game, etc. which has been held the evening before at the school or elsewhere. If this requirement is not followed, the student will not be eligible to attend or participate in the next regularly scheduled event in that activity.  

A student must be in attendance at least a half-day, the day of a performance or a contest to be eligible to participate. This is not required if the student has a pre-excused absence for such things as doctor or dental appointments. 

After School Events 

Students attending after-school events (practice, games, activities, dances, etc.) can re-enter the school building 30 minutes prior to the start of the event. Students may not loiter after school.

Home schooled students with residence within McKenzie County School District #1 will be able to compete at the high school level when they have reached grades 7-12. Each home schooled student will be required to take 6 classes. The home school parent/guardian will send grades to the Athletic Director at midterm, quarter, midterm, and end of the semester. These dates will be provided by the school. The grades should be based on the semester grade for the student-athlete. Home school students will follow all NDHSAA and WCHS rules and guidelines.

Students that are homeschooled and not enrolled in any WCMS courses will not be allowed to participate in non-North Dakota High School Association activities (co-curricular, dances, etc.). Only students that attend WCMS full time will be allowed to participate in these activities (ex: student clubs, FFA, etc.).

Students are not allowed to practice or participate in activities during the day(s) that they are in in-school or out-of-school suspension.

Every instructor has authority over all students at all times in all areas of the school premises, whether during school hours, after school, Saturdays, or other times. Students are under jurisdiction not only of their classroom instructors but all instructors. If any instructor makes a reasonable request for a student to do something, the student should respect that request.

1. Varsity
2. JV
3. Sophomore
4. Freshmen
5. 7th-8th Grade
6. 6th Grade – No 6th graders may play at any other level than 6th Grade.

1. If a student-athlete is moving up a level, a meeting needs to take place between the coach and the parents/guardians, and if necessary, the athletic director.
2. The questions that will be asked will be...
   1. Is the athlete physically mature enough for that level? (Safety)
   2. Is the athlete mentally mature enough for that level?
   3. What will be the effect of the teams involved?
   4. What are the parents’ thoughts and concerns?

If parents/guardians, coaches and the athletic director are satisfied with this move, then it can take place. This must be presented to the athletic director for documentation purposes.

• A one-level jump is usually not an issue, but a two or more-level jump is very much a concern.
• A coach must be aware that this can be reversed at any time by the parents.
• If we do not have a team at a level, it does not mean we skip that consideration.
• We will not fill in just because it is a numbers issue.

This section is part of the athletic registration process; this is for referral only.

McKenzie County Public School District #1 students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities to round out their educational program. However, it must be clearly understood that participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege, not a right, and with privileges come certain responsibilities.

1. Students in grades 7-12 may earn letters in extracurricular activities.
2. Participants must follow and abide by all North Dakota High School Activities rules. (Copies of NDHSAA laws are available in the office for review.)
3. A participant’s academic eligibility will be determined by compliance with the weekly Academic Performance Report. In order to be eligible to participate in school sponsored extracurricular activities, students at WCHS or WCMS may only be failing one course at the time the report is run. Grades will be checked for all students on midterm, end of the quarter, midterm and semester. Students that are failing more than one course will be ineligible for one week. The grades of the students identified on the initial grade check will be checked again the following Wednesday at noon. Should a student still be failing more than one course, they will be ineligible for another week.
4. Coaches/advisors will notify all participants of curfew hours and rules before the season begins.
5. All students involved in extracurricular activities are expected to be in school attendance for the last four periods of the day of a game, contest, or activity. A student who must miss school on any activity day must clear the absence with the principal or activities director before missing school to be certain of their eligibility for that particular contest.
6. A participant receiving school suspension will not be allowed to attend any school activity during the days of suspension.
7. A participant is to travel to and from an event with the team/group unless a parent requests and a coach/advisor permits the student to travel with the parent.
8. The proper procedure to address a positive or negative situation with a specific extracurricular activity is to visit with the following personnel in the stated order: 1) Advisors/Directors/Coaching Staff 2) AD 3) Principal 4) Superintendent 5) School Board.
9. I have read the Concussion policy/ND Law on Concussions.

Student’s and parent’s signatures of receipts and adherence to the McKenzie County Public School District #1 extracurricular guidelines must be on file with the Activities Director before a student will be allowed to participate in an activity or sport.

The purpose of the NDHSAA Behavior Expectations is to elevate standards of good sportsmanship and to encourage the growth of responsible citizenship among the students, member schools and their personnel.

Since WCMS is a member of the North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA), all students must meet the NDHSAA eligibility rules to participate in NDHSAA sponsored activities. Coaches and advisors will provide students with a pamphlet listing the NDHSAA eligibility rules.

In addition to meeting the eligibility rules of the NDHSAA, students must also meet the eligibility rules of WCMS.

See also: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use/Abuse

Students who are members of athletic teams, musical organizations, speech teams, or other school-sponsored activities are transported by bus or by school vehicles. Students who represent WCMS are required to dress in good taste and to conduct themselves properly at all times. At the discretion of the supervisor(s), parents will be contacted to come and pick up their child when it has been determined that the child has acted inappropriately.

Coaches and teachers who are in charge have complete authority over the groups under their supervision. They are required to exercise good judgment regarding weather and road conditions and are instructed to use care and not take any chances if weather and road conditions are dangerous.

Students are required to travel to and from the event with the group unless the student’s parents make other arrangements with the supervisor for the return trip.

A $60.00 per sport/activity participation fee is required of all senior high students participating in any sport ($50.00 per sport/activity for junior high students). A $250.00 family participation max for senior and junior high students. All fees are to be paid before the student participates in the first event of a particular sport/activity. Scholarships are available for students needing assistance in paying the participation fees.

Every athletic participant (grades 6-12) will need a yearly physical exam. The physical form should be turned into the high school office to be kept as a record. Any athletes not having a physical exam prior to or on the first day of practice will not be able to participate in activities until an exam form has been handed in to the coach or the high school office. The physical exam must not have been taken before April 15 of the previous school year.

The building principal and activities director may permit groups to schedule school activities after 6:00 PM on Wednesday evenings. The intent is to not have any activities after 6:00 PM. In the event of scheduling an event on a Wednesday night, this must be approved by the administration.

The McKenzie County Public School District #1 believes that sports programs serve educational purposes in the lives of the district’s students. One of the purposes is the development of good sportsmanship. The primary focus of the challenge of achieving good sportsmanship is on the student, but others are involved.

The School Board believes that administrators must insist that good sportsmanship is the goal; activities directors must realize the value of sportsmanship and set the tone for the implementation of its good practice.

The coaches/advisors must accept the responsibility of making each activities contest a showcase for education. They are expected to be models of self-control and dignity for participants and spectators.

The participants must be taught to handle themselves in a sportsman-like way; they are also expected to project good sportsmanship in the activities in which they participate.

Spectators must realize that they also must exhibit good sportsmanship at all activities. Spectators serve as a model for their own children and for other young people in the community. Spectators also need to demonstrate self-control and dignity while participating in activities.

Good sportsmanship practices will be demonstrated by administrators and coaches, students will be taught good sportsmanship and be held accountable for their actions, and spectators will be reminded and encouraged to be appropriate role models for young people. Review the NDHSAA Behavior Expectations.

The McKenzie County Public School District #1 will provide transportation for all school-sponsored sanctioned events away from home. Any student traveling for an event between November 1 and March 31 will be required to have a stocking cap and gloves along with them. Bus drivers and coaches have the right to leave a student-athlete at home that does not comply. Students and athletes are to make sure they use their electronic devices in a non-distracting way for the safety of all on the bus. If asked to turn them off by a coach and/or bus driver, they are to be put away for the safety of everyone. Coaches have total discretion on the use of these devices. All students going on overnight sponsored activities will be subject to bag searches before they board the school bus/school vehicle.

Students who are ineligible either academically or through suspension will not be allowed out of school for an early dismissal to attend activities, or be allowed to travel with a team or group. Ineligible students will not be allowed to represent the school during a contest-public performance. Students will be allowed, and are encouraged, to attend all practices during the time of ineligibility. Students who are ineligible because of an NDHSAA Drug, Alcohol, or Tobacco violation cannot participate, but can practice with the team or group at the coach’s discretion. Students in the activity can still attend home games to either sit on the bench (street clothes) or be assigned a duty to help run the event. This will be at the discretion of the coach/advisor.

This section is part of the athletic registration process; this is for referral only.

Watford City High School Athletic Trainers (“WCHS Athletic Trainers”) provide “Athletic Training” services to WCHS athletes, whose services include the prevention, emergency care, first aid, treatment, and rehabilitation of Athletic Injuries using certain physical modalities (i.e. methods of treatment). “Athletic Injuries” means the types of musculoskeletal injury or common illness and conditions, incurred by athletes, which prevent or limit participation in sports or recreation and which WCHS Athletic Trainers are educated to treat or refer to.

I, the undersigned, certify that I am the parent or legal guardian of the child or children listed below and that I am authorized to provide informed consent for any Athletic Training provided to the applicable child below by WCHS Athletic Trainers. I hereby consent to the following (please initial where giving consent):

The child or children below may receive Athletic Training from WCHS Athletic Trainers for Athletic Injuries, as needed. WCHS Athletic Trainers may contact or otherwise communicate with other health care providers (including, without limitation, other WCHS Athletic Trainers or other healthcare professionals working with the student at WCHS) as needed for purposes of providing Athletic Training.

The above consents are intended to cover any Athletic Injury sustained in connection with any WCHS athletic competition or practice, whether on or off WCHS property, and while traveling to or from any such competition or practice under the supervision of WCHS. I understand the nature of the athletic training services which I have consented to above, and I acknowledge that no guarantees have been made to me or my child as to the results thereof.

I hereby specifically release and agree to indemnify and hold harmless Watford City High School, its board members, employees, contractors and agents (including, without limitation, WCHS Athletic Trainers) from any and all claims associated with taking or refraining from taking any action in accordance with the above instructions, including, without limitation: giving, obtaining, or refraining from giving or obtaining, Athletic Training services.

I acknowledge that I am financially responsible for the payment of any medication, medical or surgical care, treatment or procedures provided to my child. I further acknowledge that the instructions set forth above will remain in effect until the minor child reaches the age of majority or I provide written notice to WCHS that I am revoking the instructions provided for in this document.

I also grant permission to the attending physician and/or emergency medical personnel to carry out any and all necessary medical and/or first aid procedures in the case of an emergency for all students listed below. I understand that every effort will be made to contact us before any procedures are carried out, if possible. However, we understand that there may be a situation in which emergency care must be undertaken immediately. We hereby give our consent to the above listed medical personnel to carry out such procedures if immediately necessary.

I further understand that Watford City High School does not carry or provide insurance to participants in school activities who may be injured or become ill while participating in a Watford City High School Sponsored Activity. All such costs are the responsibility of I, the parent or guardian.

If a student is declared ineligible for extracurricular participation either because of a NDHSAA and/or WCMS rules violation, the period of suspension shall begin from the date and time the school administrator gives notification to the student. While suspended, a student may still practice, but cannot represent the school at functions. Extracurricular activities include all sports, music, and drama activities, all clubs and organizations, and any other activities that are not part of the normal classroom (example: dances, banquets, regional science fair, school plays, FFA, etc.).

Clubs: Art, Writing, FFA, FCLA, Soccer, Book Club, Math Club, Science Olympiad   

Athletics: Basketball, Cross Country, Volleyball, Football, Wrestling, Golf, Baseball, Track & Field, Fastpitch Softball, Cheerleading  

Student Council

Arts

Concert Band, Pep Band, and Concert Choir, Drama, Speech

Guardian (G): Parent requested absences: Family vacations, trips, etc. 

Medical Appointments (M): In addition to receiving prior approval, a student must bring a note from the doctor, eye doctor, orthodontist, dentist, or other medical professional upon return to school and present it to the office.   

Ill (I): The student is too sick to come to school. 3 or more consecutive days will require a doctor’s note.   

Funeral (F): Students will have a maximum of 5 days to attend funerals. Exceptions to the limit may be made at the discretion of the Principal.    

Unexcused (U): No parent contact has been made or the student skips class. Students may be given a U if they are more than 10 minutes late, leave class without permission, or are absent from class for more than 10 minutes.     

Special Circumstances (S): Special situations approved by the Principal.    

Weather (W): Weather-related absences (determined by Superintendent). 

In and Out of School Suspension (ISS & OSS): These absences are mandated by the administration as disciplinary action.      

Extracurricular (X): These absences are generally put in by the coach/advisor.   

Other (O): Students are in the building with a staff member, but are not present in class (ex: speaking with principal, make-up testing). 

Tardy (T): Student arrived late to their assigned class.  

Please see the graph below to understand possible upcoming responses to your child’s absences and tardies.

When your child is absent from school because of illness or in an emergency, we require that you call the school office to inform us of the reason for the absence. Please call between the hours of 7:45–9:00 AM. If this does not occur, the student will be marked unexcused. The student/parent will have 2 weeks to change an unexcused absence (U) to the appropriate attendance code. After that time, the U will stay on the student’s attendance record.

It is the student’s responsibility to be in school and in his or her assigned classroom before the bell signals the beginning of class. If a student is tardy, they will have lunch detention. Teachers will handle individual cases of tardiness. Excessive tardiness will be handled through the assistant principal’s office as discipline violations.

See the behavior matrix for consequences of excessive tardies.

Whenever students withdraw from school, they must report to the office and pick up a withdrawal form. This form must be taken around to each teacher who will sign it when all school property has been returned.

The chart below shows the disciplinary actions taken for each infraction. A range of consequences is listed, as actions may vary from first occurrences to repeated occurrences (defined as a subsequent infraction). All consequences are at the discretion of the administrator depending on the nature of the incident and the circumstances involved. Items not directly addressed in this chart will be handled as quickly as possible per discretion of administration. Administrators may use a combination of in-school suspension (ISS) and out-of-school suspension (OSS) at their discretion. Class schedules may be moved around due to the situation to ensure a safe environment for all students.

Since these offenses may also violate state law, the administration may notify and/or involve the appropriate authorities. Final consequences will rest with the administration and are not open to negotiation. Any combination of offenses that result in 10 cumulative days of suspension (ISS and OSS) will result in a referral for expulsion.

A risk assessment may be initiated by the building principal if there is any concern of student and school safety. Students may be suspended indefinitely while the risk assessment is being completed.

Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, Chromebooks, and furniture supplied by the school. Students who disfigure property, books, windows, or do other damage to school property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage done or replace the item. This includes removing keys or modifying the Chromebook in any way.

Students may be put in detention for an infraction of the school rules. The student will report to the respective teacher’s room or principal’s office from 7:45 AM until 8:15 AM or 3:33 PM until 4:03 PM. Electronic devices will not be used while serving detention.

The student, teacher, or principal will contact parents to schedule detention. Detention must be served within 48 hours. Failure to serve detention will result in a half day of in-school suspension.

Displays of affection between students are inappropriate for the school setting and will not be allowed. Consequences for public displays of affection will be determined according to the behavior chart.

If a teacher finds it necessary to send a student out of class because of disruptive behavior or a violation of the dress code, a staff member will remove the student from class to be taken to the in-school suspension (ISS) room. The student must have a conference with the principal before the student will be allowed to return to the class. Continued repetition of this sort will result in the student's parents being involved in a conference. If, after the student's parents have been involved, the situation has not been corrected, it is possible that the student may be removed from the classroom and receive instruction in an alternate setting.

Out-of-School Suspension

Continuous and willful refusal to accomplish school tasks even though able to do so, insubordination, disorderly, vicious, illegal or immoral conduct, and persistent violation of school regulations are causes for suspension out of school. This includes use of tobacco, narcotics or alcoholic beverages, hazardous or unauthorized use of motor vehicles, and bringing and/or using fireworks on school property. This list is not a complete listing of all causes for suspension. The length of suspension will be determined by school authorities and will reflect the offenses committed.

Parents/guardians will be notified of the action taken. A suspended student may not loiter or appear on school property at any school activity. A student will be readmitted to school after the student, the parents and the administration agree upon a satisfactory solution to their conduct. Out-of-school suspension will not count for a student's total absences included in the 10-day attendance policy. The opportunity to complete missing work when suspended out of school will be allowed. The exception would be in an expulsion from school.

In-School Suspension 

When a student is suspended in-school, the student is required to report to the office immediately upon arrival at school. The student will take all of their books and materials with them to the student workroom, where they will remain until the end of the day. The student should either bring their lunch or eat lunch at school in the workroom. The student cannot go home at lunch. Students are given credit for their work while in in-school suspension. Students who are assigned to in-school suspension will not be allowed to practice, participate in, or attend any school functions that particular day.

Services

McKenzie County Public School District #1 provides free, short-term school counseling services to all students. The focus of school counseling may be academic, social/emotional, behavioral, or career guidance. The goal of the counseling program is preventative in nature. To aid this process, the counselors may work with students on an individual, small group, or large group level. Students may be seen by the counselor based on the referral of the student from teachers, parents, school staff, or by self-referral of the student(s). 

Confidentiality

The school counselors of the McKenzie County School District abide by the American School Counseling Association guidelines along with the American Counseling Association code of ethics. We also abide by North Dakota’s Century Code 31-01-06.1, which states that “Counselors shall be immune from disclosing information given by pupils. For the purpose of counseling in a school system, any elementary or secondary school counselor possessing a valid North Dakota guidance credential from the department of public instruction, and who has been duly appointed a counselor for a school system by its proper authority, shall be legally immune from disclosing any privileged or confidential communication made to such counselor in a counseling interview. Such communication shall be disclosed when requested by the counselee.”

What That Means for the Student

The school counselor will keep information confidential, with some possible exceptions (as noted below). The school counselor may share information with parents/guardians and school personnel who work with the child on a need-to-know basis, so that we may better assist the child as a team. The school counselor is required by law to share information with parents or others in the event the child is in danger of harm to self or others. The counselor will make the child aware of these limits to confidentiality and will inform the child when sharing information with others.

Scope of Practice 

These services are aimed at providing the most effective education and socialization of the child within the school community; they are not intended to substitute a diagnosis or treatment for any mental disorder. 

Under North Dakota Immunization Law, no child will be admitted to a public or nonpublic kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, junior high school or senior high school unless she/he has a Certificate of Immunization on file. The law requires that the certificate be signed by a physician or local health department representative and be presented to the school officials by the parents or guardian of the child. The Certificate of Immunization states that the child has been vaccinated against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis B, meningitis, and chickenpox. Students that are not up-to-date by October 1 will be held out of school until the student(s) meet enrollment requirements as determined in NDCC.   

The McKenzie County School District #1 does not carry medical or hospital insurance to cover accidents to students while at school or on school activities; however, the NDHSAA provides Catastrophic Insurance coverage for those students participating in NDHSAA sponsored activities.

All medications must be administered by school personnel under appropriate procedures designated by school administration.

Students are required by school policy to keep all medication in the office.   

Parents or legal guardians will request in writing that school personnel may administer medicine to the student. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medication. Forms are available in the school office. 

Medicines authorized by parents will be kept in the office at the school. The label on the container must include the name of the drug, the prescribing physician, the pharmacy and phone number, student's name, dosage, and when the medication is to be taken. All medication must be in the prescription bottle or original package. School personnel will not be responsible for modifying any medications, such as splitting pills. 

Students will be responsible for going to the office to get their medication.

Backpacks and bags, including purses, cross body bags, cinch sacks, etc., will not be allowed in classrooms and should be stored in lockers during the school day. Backpacks are subject to be searched.

Regular Bell Schedule

3rd Period: 10:09-10:57 AM (48 minutes)

• 4th Period: 11:01-11:37 AM (36 minutes)
• 5th Period: 11:41 AM-12:17 PM (36 minutes)
• Lunch: 12:21-12:57 PM (36 minutes)

• 4th Period: 11:01-11:37 AM (36 minutes)
• Lunch: 11:41 AM-12:17 PM (36 minutes)
• 6th Period: 12:21-12:57 PM (36 minutes)

• Lunch: 11:01-11:37 AM (36 minutes)
• 5th Period: 11:41 AM-12:17 PM (36 minutes)
• 6th Period: 12:21-12:57 PM (36 minutes)

Late Start Bell Schedule

Doors open at 9:20 AM. School starts at 10:00 AM.

1st Period: 10:00-10:35 AM (35 minutes)
2nd Period: 10:39-11:14 AM (35 minutes)

• 4th Period: 11:18-11:48 AM (30 minutes)
• 5th Period: 11:52 AM-12:22 PM (30 minutes)
• Lunch: 12:26-12:56 PM (30 minutes)

• 4th Period: 11:18-11:48 AM (30 minutes)
• Lunch: 11:52 AM-12:22 PM (30 minutes)
• 6th Period: 12:26-12:56 PM (30 minutes)

• Lunch: 11:18-11:48 AM (30 minutes)
• 5th Period: 11:52 AM-12:22 PM (30 minutes)
• 6th Period: 12:26-12:56 PM (30 minutes)

7th Period: 1:39-2:14 PM (35 minutes)
8th Period: 2:18-2:53 PM (35 minutes)
9th Period: 2:57-3:33 PM (36 minutes)

Each family will have one account that covers all students attending the McKenzie County School District #1. Parents will be asked to make a deposit into the family account to start the school year. Contact the district office for current prices for lunch, breakfast, and milk.  Family accounts that run into a negative balance will not be able to charge meals. Students will be informed, and they can put money on their account, pay day-by-day, or can bring their own meal.  

No negative balances will be carried by the school district. In the lunch line, the student will input a private ID number into a keypad and an automatic deduction will be made from the balance of the family account for the purchase of a school lunch, extra lunch, extra milk, etc. The lunch line will be monitored, and each number verified to a name in order to eliminate students "borrowing" lunch money. No "borrowing" or "charging" is allowed. Families participating under the free and reduced program will also be handled in the same manner as the regular-priced meals. 

Seconds will only be offered on the salad bar.

Clothing that advertises inappropriate behavior (alcohol, drugs, tobacco), sexual innuendos, and inappropriate language are not to be worn. Undergarments may not be visible. Clothing that reveals undergarments is not permitted. Clothing must not be see-through. 

Final decisions on proper attire will be made by the building principal or counselor. Parents will be called if their student is dressed inappropriately. Students chronically not following the dress code will be sent out of school for a period of time set by administration.

Head

Hats, hoods, and other head coverings will not be allowed. Head coverings for religious purposes will be allowed.

Shirts, Tops, Pants, Shorts, Skirts & Dresses 

Shirts, tops, pants, shorts, skirts, and dresses must cover most areas. This includes but is not limited to chests, stomachs, and buttock. Shirts that advertise inappropriate behavior (alcohol, drugs, tobacco, sexual innuendos, and inappropriate language) are not to be worn.

Coats

Bulky coats and jackets must be removed and stored in lockers immediately after entering the building. Blankets, pillows, and other sleeping materials are not allowed to be used during the school day.

Shoes

Shoes must be worn within the school at all times. All footwear must be secured on the foot, have a sole, and in some areas must be closed toe (labs, shop, PE).

Other

Written or pictorial messages on clothing or accessories (i.e. masks, jewelry, notebooks, backpacks, cell phone cases, etc.) are not permitted if they are vulgar or belittle any race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, or gender. They also may not be gang related or promote tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs. Sunglasses or tinted glasses that obscure your eyes are prohibited unless prescribed by a physician.

We encourage students to bring healthy snacks and beverages. Food and beverages will not be allowed in classrooms without the teacher’s approval. Food purchased from the school cafeteria must be unopened if it is to be taken out of the cafeteria. Open food will not be allowed to be taken out of the cafeteria. Beverages other than water must be consumed in the cafeteria. Energy drinks will not be allowed to be consumed while on campus during the school day. Any energy drink brought into the school will be confiscated and discarded.

Students will be prohibited from selling any food or drinks on school campus, unless it is a school-sponsored fundraiser.

To allow for ease of movement throughout the building, students should not congregate so as to block the hallways, but leave sufficient room for traffic. Students must have a pass to be in the hallways during class times.

Watford City Middle School (WCMS) operates under a closed campus.

During the school day, parents/guardians must sign their student out in the WCMS office before leaving the building.

Once students are dropped off, whether by personal vehicle or by bus, they are considered to be on campus. See the behavior chart for consequences of leaving campus.

Students are not allowed in the locker rooms for any reason at any part of the day except to drop off athletic equipment before the start of the school day, during physical education (PE), and only during the period that you are registered for PE, or to pick up athletic equipment at the end of the school day. Students are only permitted in the locker room when dressing for class and/or returning from class. The bathroom facilities in the locker room are for the exclusive use of students enrolled in PE.

• No food or drink in the locker room.
• No glass containers are permitted in the locker room.
• Students should not store money or valuables in the PE locker rooms.
• It is recommended that students take their PE belongings home at the end of each week.
• Cell phones and camera use are not allowed in the locker room for any reason.

The school does not accept responsibility for lost/stolen items, including texts, instruments, personal property, etc. Found articles should be turned in at the school office or to the Lost and Found area of the school. Items that have been turned in may be claimed by identifying them. Clothing items left in the lost and found will be kept for one month. At the end of each month, any items not claimed will be given to local charities. Students are advised not to bring anything of personal value or large amounts of money to school to avoid having them lost or stolen. If it is necessary to do so, please check your valuables with the school office for safekeeping and pick them up after school.

No perfume, cologne, or heavily scented lotions will be allowed in the school building due to allergies.

Commendable Behavior

• Demonstrates leadership and initiative
• Goes beyond expectations
• Takes ownership in academics

• Is helpful to other students and staff
• Shares knowledge
• Shows leadership skills
• Builds others up

• Picks up after self and others
• Leader in and out of the classroom
• Exceptional team and school pride

Expected Behavior

• Shows responsibility for learning
• Ready to learn
• Meets expectations
• Prompt (not tardy)
• Actively participates in academics

• Respects all opinions and beliefs
• Respects privacy and personal space of others
• Collaborates well with others
• Uses positive, caring, and kind language

• Speaks proudly of teams and WCMS
• Shows school and team pride at events
• Picks up after self
• Participates in school activities

Needs Improvement

• Negative attitude
• Demonstrates limited effort
• Is often unprepared
• Occasionally off task
• Uses inappropriate language
• Tardy

• Disruptive
• Distracting
• Unkind to others
• Refuses group work
• Disrespectful of opinions and beliefs
• Disrespectful of belongings of others

• Leaves messes behind
• Disrupts school events
• Misuses school property

Unacceptable Behavior

(Bottom line) 1

• Intentionally unproductive
• Shows complete lack of effort
• Vulgar language
• Cheating
• Excessively tardy

• Provokes others
• Verbally aggressive, threatening, or hate speech
• Prevents learning of others
• Bullies, harasses, or physically aggressive
• Theft or destroying property

• Vandalizes school property
• Violates Attendance Policy/truant
• Violates Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug Policy
• Violates Technology Policy

The first class starts at 8:25 AM. The school doors are open at 7:45 AM. Students that arrive before 8:25 AM are expected to enter the building and report to the cafeteria for breakfast or walk the loop. Students are not allowed to gather outside these designated areas. Students will be dismissed from the cafeteria at 8:20 AM. At that time, they will go to their lockers, get materials necessary for class, and report to their first class. At the end of the school day, students must promptly leave the building and school premises, unless in a school activity or classroom directly supervised by a staff member.

The principal must approve all signs before being posted.

Textbooks that are provided by the school must be properly cared for by students. If a student’s designated textbook is damaged or lost, the student shall be financially liable for the repair or replacement of the book.

Toy-like apparatuses not needed for class will not be allowed in school. Fidgets will only be allowed in the classroom for students who have a written plan stating a purpose for using them as a tool in the classroom. Fidgets that are used inappropriately or that take away from the learning of other students will be taken to the office to be picked up at the end of the day. Excessive infractions will result in fidgets being taken for the remainder of the year.

All visitors to Watford City Middle School (WCMS) must use Door 1 located on the west side of the building and must check in at the office with identification (i.e. driver’s license) prior to visiting the school. Visitors are welcome to visit WCMS, but are not allowed to attend classes. Students from other schools may only visit the buildings during conferences, conventions, and other extracurricular activities involving their school and WCMS.   

Elementary students or pre-school children may not wait in the middle school building for parents or siblings before or after school and must make arrangements to be picked up from the elementary school or some other location.

The first Tuesday of every month will be reserved to conduct safety response protocol drills in all school buildings.

• Standard Response Protocol Parent/Guardian Handout in English
• Standard Response Protocol Parent/Guardian Handout in Spanish
• Standard Response Protocol Parent/Guardian Handout in Filipino-Tagalog

Cell phones and other Bluetooth devices are required to be in a Yondr pouch or in the front office during the school day.

Wired headphones are only allowed in the classroom per teacher approval.

All students will be issued a Yondr pouch, and cell phones must be placed and locked inside each day upon entering the building. Any phone not in the Yondr pouch or turned into the office will be immediately confiscated. The behavior chart will be followed for consequences of breaking the cell phone policy.

Any student that loses their pouch may leave their phone at home or in the office. Additionally, they may purchase a replacement for $25.

If parents need to contact their child, they must call the school secretary, who will then relay the message to the child. Do not try to contact them by cell phone during class time as doing so will only help to get them in trouble. Parents are encouraged to send their students emails on their school-issued Chromebook.

Under no circumstances will the use of cameras and camera phones be used in areas, such as locker rooms, washrooms, dressing areas, and offices at any time. Such use may also be in violation of the criminal code. At no time may a student capture the image by any means of any person in the school (including all staff and students) without the advance written consent of the person, or in the case of a minor, the parent. Exceptions to this policy granted by the building principal and/or teacher.

Laser devices of any kind are strictly forbidden from school property.

The device (Chromebook) being issued to students is for educational purposes. Students must fill out and sign the Technology Policy for School Issued Device contract prior to receiving their Chromebook. Students will be charged for any damage to their Chromebook based on the cost of repairs or replacement. Charges will be determined after an assessment of the device by the school’s technology department.  

Student Expectations

1. Students will be responsible for the security and care of the device from the time of issuance until returned to the school.
2. Students will be expected to bring their device to class on a daily basis unless otherwise directed by the teacher.
3. Students will be responsible for ensuring the device is charged and ready for learning at all times during the school day.
4. Students will be responsible for managing the available storage in the device and for ensuring that file storage is managed in such a way that it does not impede access to required applications. It is recommended that students save documents to school-provided cloud-based storage for retrieval as needed.
5. Students will utilize the device as directed by their teachers and in a manner that is educationally appropriate.
6. Students will abide by all school rules as outlined in the Student Handbook and Acceptable Use Policies.
7. Students acknowledge that MCPSD#1 may access school-issued devices at any time to verify contents.
8. Students will not use the device to take or view inappropriate, illicit or sexually explicit photographs or videos, nor will it be used to embarrass, harass or bully anyone in any way.
9. Use of the Chromebook camera and microphone are strictly prohibited in the classroom and hallways unless directed by a teacher and for a specific educational purpose. Use of the camera or microphone in private areas such as restrooms and locker rooms is strictly prohibited.
10. Students leaving/withdrawing from MCPSD#1 will return the device to the school immediately. Those in violation of this expectation will be lawfully prosecuted.
11. Devices that are stolen must be reported immediately to the Office and the Police Department.
12. Misuse or willful destruction of the device may result in school discipline. Inappropriate use includes but is not limited to the following:
    1. Intentionally damaging the device
    2. Visiting inappropriate websites
    3. Sending, forwarding, or sharing inappropriate content
    4. Possessing, taking, or sending inappropriate pictures and/or media files
    5. Cheating
    6. Installing unapproved apps
    7. Attempting to hack/break intended security
    8. Defacing the device with stickers, carvings, drawings, etc.  

Take Home Rules  

1. Only the student to whom it is issued will use the device.
2. Students are allowed to connect to other wireless networks.
3. Parents/guardians assume responsibility for monitoring student use of the Internet while using the Chromebook on their home network.
4. Students and parents may decline take-home privileges by contacting the office.
5. Students/parents/guardians who decline take-home privileges will be required to check out their Chromebook at the beginning of the day and check in at the conclusion of the day. Declining take-home privileges does not excuse the student from due dates for any task that may require the use of the device.
6. Failure of the student to meet expectations for care or responsible use of their device may result in take-home privileges being temporarily or permanently suspended.
7. WCMS Specific Rule: Students who wish to take a Chromebook home to complete schoolwork must check a Chromebook out from the middle school library. The Chromebook must be returned the following morning before 8:25 AM unless other arrangements have been made.

Technical Difficulties, Damage & Repair  

1. If technical difficulties occur, the device will be restored from backup. The school does not accept responsibility for the loss of any software or documents deleted.
2. The software originally installed must remain on the device in usable condition and be accessible at all times. The school may add applications for use in a particular course.
3. A loaner device may be issued to students when students leave their device for repair in the technology department.
4. Chromebook repair/replacement costs:
   1. Entire Chromebook: $300
   2. Charger: $40
   3. Screen: $60
   4. Keyboard: $75
   5. Bevel: $35
   6. Port (USB or audio): $50
   7. Hinge and Hinge Covers: $50
   8. Camera: $50
   9. Battery: $65
   10. Protective Case: $40 

Returning Your Device

1. Devices will be returned during the final week of school. If a student transfers out of MCPSD#1 during the school year, the device will be returned upon withdrawal.
2. Individual school devices and accessories must be returned to the school. Students who graduate early, withdraw, are expelled, or terminate enrollment at MCPSD#1 for any other reason must return their school device on the date of termination.
3. If a student fails to return the device at the end of the school year or upon termination of enrollment at MCPSD#1, the student will be subject to pay the replacement cost of the device. Failure to return the device or pay for the device will result in a theft report being filed with the Watford City Police Department.
4. The student will be responsible for any damage to the device and must return the computer and accessories to the MCPSD#1 technology department in satisfactory condition. The student will be charged a fee for any needed repairs, not to exceed the replacement cost of the device. 

A phone is available in the school office for student use before school, during lunch break, or after school. The other office phones are not to be used by students. Students will not be called to the office to take incoming calls except in the event of an emergency. However, the secretary will take messages from parents or guardians and relay the message to the student between classes.

The school phone is answered from 7:45 AM to 4:00 PM during school days.