April, 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians:

Student success on the SOL tests in middle school paves the way for their course of study at the high school level, which could mean the difference between an Advanced Studies Diploma and a Standard Diploma. With the SOL testing window rapidly approaching, it is important for students to take advantage of studies both at school and home.

During the May 14 th – 16 th , and May 23 rd testing window, middle school students completing certain end-of-course (EOC) classes will take tests to measure achievement of the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL). Students enrolled in Algebra I, Geometry, or Earth Science will be scheduled to take the corresponding SOL test(s) during this timeframe. All EOC tests will be given online. All middle schools will also conduct SOL testing during the May 19 th – June 6 th testing window for students in grades 6-8. Students in grade 8 will be tested in the areas of English, mathematics, history/social science, and science. Students in grades 6 and 7 will be tested in the areas of English, mathematics, and history/social science. If your child has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan, the accommodations stated in the plan will be followed.

Students and parents play a key role in ensuring a safe and secure learning environment. Please take the time to review the Virginia Beach City Public Schools Code of Student Conduct, particularly as it relates to safe schools. Students must be aware of zero tolerance policies, which may result in expulsion and/or criminal prosecution. Under a zero tolerance policy, actions which may be perceived by some students as pranks or harmless activity will have severe consequences. It is also important to note that in accordance with school board policy, cellular phones are prohibited in VBCPS middle schools. Cellular phones will be confiscated if found on school property.

I know that you share my same concern for your child’s safety and well being. If your child is in the transportation zone, meaning he or she is assigned to ride a school bus, it is imperative that he/she ride the bus. Certain neighborhoods are located on the opposite side of busy roads. Some of these roads are more than two lanes with high rates of speed and traffic. Crossing guards are not located at these intersections because it has been determined that it is safer for the students to be transported by bus to school. Help us keep your children safe by making them ride the bus.

Please discuss the student dress code with your children. Our most common violations occur when our young ladies wear shirts which expose the midriff and/or have spaghetti straps, shorts and/or skirts which are extremely short, as well as pajama bottoms and slippers/flip flops worn by both girls and boys. For our boys, pants must be secured at the waist and tank tops and bandannas are prohibited. Students who are inappropriately dressed will be denied access to class until a change of clothing is brought to school. Hats, headwear and sunglasses are prohibited and will be confiscated if worn in the building. Confiscated items will be released to parents or returned to students at year’s end.

Students and parents can further contribute to a safe school environment by informing teachers and administrators when they are aware of, or suspect potential problems. Keeping the lines of communication open between the student, the home, and the school will result in a safer, more secure learning environment. While we have enjoyed a safe and secure school year, please do not hesitate to discuss with me or any member of the Kempsville Middle School staff, any concerns or issues that you may have. We welcome your input and your involvement in our school.

In closing, with your continued support, together we will meet the challenges ahead. As always, our priorities are your children.

If my staff or I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at 648-4700.

Respectfully,
Dr. James Smith, Principal