BCMS Cheerleader Handbook 2020-2021 - Ms. Amanda Hoffman, Principal Mrs. Lindy Welborn, Assistant Principal Mr. Brad Smith, Assistant Principal

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BCMS Cheerleader Handbook 2020-2021 - Ms. Amanda Hoffman, Principal Mrs. Lindy Welborn, Assistant Principal Mr. Brad Smith, Assistant Principal
BCMS Cheerleader
          Handbook
          2020-2021

       Ms. Amanda Hoffman, Principal
Mrs. Lindy Welborn, Assistant Principal
    Mr. Brad Smith, Assistant Principal

                                          1
Constitution of the
                         Bridge City Middle School
                      Cheerleaders, Mascot, and Staff

Article 1 – Name

The name of this organization shall be the Bridge City Middle School
Cheerleaders.

Article 2 – Purpose

The purpose of this organization shall be to promote spirit throughout the
school year and to establish the middle personal goals and good character
expected of a middle school cheerleader in the Bridge City Independent
School District. Cheerleaders are expected to work graciously with others,
exhibiting proper conduct at all times, and maintaining discipline in
accordance with the cheer constitution AND the Student Code of Conduct.

Article 3 – Membership

Section 1 – Eligibility

All students are eligible for membership upon completion of established
requirements for entrance. To be eligible to tryout for the office position
of Cheerleader, a student must:

A.     Attend tryout camp the week of the tryouts. Missing a day of tryout
camp or two tardies to the tryout camp automatically disqualifies a student
from trying out for the current tryouts. Exceptions will be made on an
individual basis for emergencies.

B.    The Assistant Principal will formulate the Student Evaluation Form
for each candidate.

C. Each Cheerleader Candidate must have all paperwork turned in by the
assigned due date. For example: applications, waivers, etc. If a student

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fails to turn in all paperwork by the assigned due date, that student is not
eligible to try-out.

Section 2 – Qualifications

A. Physical Fitness

1.    Each cheerleader/mascot must be physically able to participate in long
periods of vigorous activity without undue fatigue.

2.    Any cheerleader/mascot who becomes sick or injured during a
practice or game must notify the Sponsor at once.

3.   Any cheerleader with physical restrictions must provide medical
documentation. A physical may be required.

B. Attitude and Leadership

1.    Each cheerleader/mascot must maintain a superior attitude and spirit
of cooperation in all classes with all teachers.

2.    Each cheerleader/mascot must realize the commitment made to the
school and the student body to be a school representative and leader when
selected.

3.     Each cheerleader/mascot should try to control, to the best of one’s
ability, unsportsmanlike conduct of supporters and fans.

4.   Each cheerleader/mascot must fully cooperate with the Sponsor and
Head Cheerleader at all times.

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5.    Cheerleaders and mascot are expected to exhibit good sportsmanship,
remembering that all actions reflect upon the entire organization.
6.    Each individual member of the Cheerleading Squad must be
concerned about the overall reputation of the school and is
not to damage the squad by publicly criticizing the organization or its
leadership. I, an applicant, understand that the appropriate action will
be taken towards those who violate this rule.

Section 3 – Selection process

A.     Each candidate will present one individual cheer and one group cheer
to a team of judges. This is subject to change by the sponsor. A dance and
back hand spring may be required.
B.     Only the judges, sponsors, and needed school personnel will be allowed
inside the gym during tryouts.
C.     All results will remain confidential.

D.    7th/8th Grade - The number of 7th/8th Grade Cheerleaders is not
guaranteed to be more than 10. At least three members must be from
the 7th Grade Class, and three members from the 8th Grade Class; the
remainder of the squad is at-large.

E.    Selection of Cheerleaders will be determined by the composition of
the following categories:

30% - Total of all categories of Student Evaluation Form
70% - Total of all judges’ critiques

F.    All ballots will be tallied by an administrator.

G.    The results will be announced on the school website & Facebook page
after try-outs have been completed.

H.    The Head Cheerleader or Co-Head Cheerleaders will be selected by
the popular vote of the currently selected cheerleaders.

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I.     Mascot tryouts will be in the same format as cheerleader tryouts and
held at the same time. There will be one mascot selected. Mascot categories
are as follows:

30% - Total of all categories of Student Evaluation Form
70% - Total of all judges’ critiques

J.    Any injuries acquired before or during tryout week will not be given
a modified tryout. The cheerleader will still be able to tryout to the
best of her ability and judged on the same criteria. No videos will be
accepted.

K. There will be no parents allowed on campus during and after tryouts.

L.    Any skill performed by a cheerleader during tryouts will be maintained
throughout the season.

Section 4 – Responsibilities

A. Cheerleaders and Mascot

1.    To cheer at home football games.

2.     To participate in spirit activities for all sports. These activities
include spring sports and any other spring activities as scheduled by the
sponsor

3.    To make sure your schedule is open all year. Cheerleading is an all
year commitment – it does not end with football season.

4.    To help promote school spirit and pride in Bridge City Middle School.

5.    To participate in and contribute his/her share in fundraising activities
planned by the sponsor.

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6.     To fulfill financial obligations by the date set by the sponsor. Financial
obligations include payment for uniforms, practice clothing, camp, and other
necessary items for participation.

7.    To attend after-school practice, summer camp, and summer practices
scheduled by the sponsor.

8.     To cooperate and assist the sponsor and head cheerleader in any
activity deemed necessary.

9.     All members of the squad are expected to participate in scheduled
events and activities throughout the entire school year. Any member who
quits or is removed from the squad for excessive demerits will be subject to
measures of accountability as a condition of participation in any school
related activities, team, or organization for the remainder of that school
year. These specific measures of accountability shall be determined by the
committee consisting of one or more of the following:

Middle School Principal (or designee)
Cheerleader Sponsor
Athletic Director
Sponsor/Coach/Director of affected event, activity, team or
organization
Other school personnel as deemed appropriate by Middle
School Principal

In the event a consensus cannot be reached by the committee, the Middle
School Principal shall administer the measures of accountability as he/she
deems appropriate.

C.    Head Cheerleaders:

1.    To communicate with the sponsor at all times.

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2.    To notify all cheerleaders of scheduled events and times.

4.    To contact all cheerleaders when directed by the sponsor.

5.    To plan and organize the pep rallies along with the sponsor.

6.    To be flexible at making decisions, but to be able to step in with a
firm decision when necessary.

7.     To accept the premises of not being able to please everyone and be
able to withstand the pressure of decision making situations when there are
squad members unhappy with the decision.

8.    To understand the importance of compromise in a group and to set
the example. Putting your team before yourself at times.

9.    To be able to speak for the squad in public meetings and in front of
the student body.

10.   To take any problem among the squad to the sponsor to ensure the
sponsor may help solve the problem.

11.   To be able to delegate chores among the squad and follow-up on
assignments.

12.   Take charge of ensuring that posters are made and put up and taken
down for all games. (not doing it by yourself)

13.   Remember that you are an example that the rest of the squad will
follow. This includes off campus behavior as well as during school hours
and events. If you fail to meet these standards of behavior and
expectations, you may be required to relinquish your role as head
cheerleader.

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D. Responsibilities of the sponsor:

  1.     Coach and instruct the squad to their best showmanship.

  2.     Supervise the organization of all practices and camp.

  3.     Plan, arrange, and supervise tryouts.

  4.   Maintain attendance records, consent forms, and other official
  documentation.

  5.     Maintain a calendar of events for members.

  6.     Will choose all camp wear and uniforms.

  7.    Will dispense over-the-counter meds as needed while under their care
  and supervision.

  Section 5 – Probation and dismissal

  A.    Probation means that although a student is still a member of the
  Cheerleader squad, that a person is not eligible to practice or cheer during
  the period of probation. Three weeks probation will result if a member does
  not maintain a 70 average in each subject.

    a.     A member who is placed in ISS is eligible to participate in strength
    and conditioning workouts/practices, but be ineligible to participate in any
    games or pep rallies held.
  i.2 sets of 5 consecutive jumps each (toe touch, pike, right & left herky, right
    & left hurdler)
 ii.2 sets of 1 minute planks (or 5 sets of 30 second planks)
iii.50 push ups
iv.1 miles run

  B.    Dismissal means that a member loses his/her membership on the
  Cheerleading squad.

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1.    This will result from the failure on the part of a member to be eligible
(due to grades) for two six weeks periods in a school year.

2.     Any member found guilty of violating any school policy which results in
being assigned to the Suspension Center is subject to dismissal. All cases
will be considered and decided by the coach/and or principal. Please see the
BCISD Extra-Curricular Code of Conduct.

3.     A member may also be dismissed if he/she fails to maintain the
conduct and character required of members as set forth in the constitution
and the school code of conduct. Violation of Title V in the Code of Conduct
could result in dismissal. This is done at the discretion of the sponsor and
the Principal. Any type of hazing, bullying, or initiation may result in
immediate dismissal.

4.     Cheerleaders may be dismissed from the squad for failure to fulfill
their responsibilities, including financial responsibilities by the date set by
the sponsor.

5.     A member who has been dismissed may qualify for tryouts the
following year by requesting a hearing before the cheer coach and BCMS
administrator or designee. Disciplinary consequences may carry over from
one school year to the next.

6.    Because of the strenuous physical activities required of all
cheerleaders, any member whose physical conditions inhibit their
performance must have a written medical release from a doctor allowing
him/her to participate in cheerleader activities. If they are unable to
perform their duties, they may be removed from the squad.

If a squad member quits or is removed prior to the start of school, the
sponsors MAY promote the next candidate based on tryout results.

C.    Re-admittance Procedures

If, during a suspended semester, a member brings his/her grades up
to eligibility standards, he/she will be readmitted.

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Section 6 – Rules, Regulations, and Conduct Standards

A. Attendance

1.    Cheerleaders must attend practices and stay until practice is
dismissed. Practices are closed.

2.    Cheerleaders are scheduled to cheer at all sporting events. All
sports take time and commitment just like cheerleading.

3.    All cheerleaders must realize that being elected as
cheerleaders is a full time responsibility and must come before
any commitment or work.

4.    Attendance at summer camps is a requirement. Summer jobs
and vacation will not be accepted as reasons for missing.

5.    Cheerleaders must attend a summer camp in preparation for
the upcoming school year. All cheerleaders must attend the
same camp at the same time. This camp may be held on or off campus.

6.      Cheerleaders must attend all school pep rallies, community pep
rallies, parades, etc. as scheduled by the sponsor.

B.Transportation

1.    All cheerleaders are required to ride to and from out-of-town
events in school vehicles. Any exception to this rule must be
discussed with the sponsor prior to the event. See Student
Handbook for specific procedures. You will only be released
to your parent.

2.    See Student Handbook for procedures for returning after
school sponsored trips.

3.    Cheerleaders not riding with the team to out-of-town events

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will not be permitted to participate unless permission was
obtained in advance.

C. Code of Conduct

1.   All members must abide by the Bridge City Middle School Code of
Conduct located in the Student Handbook.

2.    Support the team. Above all, remember that this is a school
game, not a family reunion, a party, or a dance recital that you
are attending. Give the team the same support that you would
want the fans to give you.

D. Appearance

1.    Each cheerleader must maintain an appropriate standard of
dress as outlined in the student handbook. For example, shirts
must be long enough to be tucked in.

2.    Body piercing cannot be visible at any time.

3.    Tattoos are not permitted.

4.     Fingernails will not extend more than 1/8 of an inch past the ends of
your fingers, must not be colored, and have no points.

5.    Hair will be pulled up and away from your face.

6.    No jewelry.

7.    All cheerleaders will be dressed alike. Refer to the demerit system
for consequences.

Article 4 – Uniforms

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Section 1 – Uniform Selections and Wear

A. Game Uniforms

1.    One new uniform will be purchased by each member of the
cheerleading team.

2.    The sponsor will choose uniforms and camp-wear that will be
purchased and approve sizes.

3.    Cheerleaders are required to provide upkeep and alterations on all
uniforms as needed. If you ruin or lose your uniform in any way, you are
required to replace it.

4.    All cheerleaders will be dressed alike. It is imperative that all
members look uniform. If any member of the squad is without a portion of
the uniform, all will do without that object.

Example: One member forgets to wear a hair ribbon, all remove hair ribbon.

B. Practice Uniforms

1.    Cheerleaders are required to wear proper attire for practice
(cheer shoes, shorts, T-shirt, and hair securely pulled up).

2.    Shoes and socks must be worn to practice.

C. General Uniform Rules

1.    Do not chew gum in practice, games, or while in uniform.

2.    Wear complete uniforms at all times unless instructed to do
otherwise. Always wear uniforms correctly.

3.     Remember that you represent Bridge City Middle School at all times
while in uniform.

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4.    Bridge City Middle School jackets or Cheerleader jackets are the only
acceptable coats worn while in uniform. No jackets should be worn while
cheering indoors.

5.     Never allow other students to wear any part of your uniform. This
includes jackets and sweatshirts.

6.     Cheerleaders are responsible for paying for camp, camp clothes,
uniforms, shoes, megaphones, pompoms, etc. Failure to do so may result in
ineligibility.

7.    Cheerleaders will pay for replacement or repair of uniforms and
equipment lost or damaged while in their care.

Article 5 – Demerits

The purpose of this article is to encourage Bridge City Middle School
Cheerleaders to fulfill the office of Cheerleader to the best of their ability.

Section 1 – Demerit System

A. Accumulation of demerits without working or canceling them out before a
game will result in the following (remember they never go away, you just
work or cancel them out in order to still cheer at events):

7 – Don’t cheer at 1 game
10 – Don’t cheer at 2 games
15 – Don’t cheer at 3 games
20 – Dismissal from the squad

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Section 2 – Demerits
*Permanent Demerits – these will not be removed

A. *Drinking, smoking, or using illegal drugs, ANYTIME   18

B. *Any type of hazing, bullying, or initiating18

C. *Reassignment from school or off campus/ISS18

D. *After School Detention (ASD)15

E. *Use of inappropriate pictures and/or language
(cell phones, Facebook, etc.)18

F. *Cheating                      10

G. *Use of Profane Language       10

H. *Truancy                       10

I. *Failure to attend an assigned game without an excuse from the coach.

Football       10
Volleyball     10
Basketball     10
Pep Rallies    10
Parades        10

These following demerits must be removed within a week or they become
permanent. See Section 5.

J. Insufficient knowledge of cheers, school song,
or program at a game                                            5

K. Improper conduct at games, practices, or any school activities    5

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L. Disrespect toward other squad members, sponsor,
head cheerleader, or school personne                               l5

M. Showing unladylike behavior (PDA)                                    5

N. Receiving a “U” in conduct                  5

O.Unexcused absence practice                   5

P. Not showing spirit at games, rallies, yelling the words, etc.        5

Q. Failure to follow Code of Conduct           5

R. Making decisions concerning cheerleading without consulting
with the sponsor or the rest of the squad. (Example:
Changing uniform without everyone being notified)              2

S. Disorder after warning (talking)            2

T. Unexcused tardy (less than 10 minutes; game or practice)             3

U. Failure to follow dress code                                         2

V. Failure to clean up after practice or poster making                  2

Coach will assign demerit amounts for any
violation of the constitution or any inappropriate
behavior that is not listed.

*Please refer to the BCISD Extra- Curricular Code of Conduct and BCMS
Student Handbook

Section 5 – Removal of Demerits/Conditioning

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Demerits must be removed within one week of receiving them. One demerit
will be removed according to the following guidelines:

1 – 10 toe touches
1 – 20 burpees
1 – 50 push ups
1 – 50 sit ups/crunches
1 – 50 tucks

Appendix 1.1

                          Student Evaluation Criteria
Perspective cheerleaders will be evaluated in five areas with the Student
Evaluation Survey prior to cheerleader tryouts. All information will be gathered
from the semester previous to tryouts.
Each category will receive a point equivalent value to correspond with the
category.

Category Scale Value
*Semester Grades
90 – 100 50 pointsCombined grade average ____
80 – 89 40 points
70 – 79 30 points
 0– 69 0 points

Tardies 0–2 50 points
3–4          40 points
5–6          30 points
   7         20 points
   8         10 points
                      9 or more          0 points

Absences (unexcused)           0         50 points
by period                      1         40 points
    2       30 points
    3       20 points

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4          10 points
                        5 or more             0 points

Office Referrals                  0           50 points
 1-2          40 points
 3-4          30 points
 4-5          20 points
  6 or more         0 points

Total Score ______

Appendix 1.2

                       Cheerleading Tryouts: Judge’s Score Sheet

Judge # ________
Candidate # ________

 Category                                     Possible    Points   Comments
                                               Points     Scored
 JUMPS
 ●       Toe Touch                               10
 ●       Alternate Jumps                         10
 CHEER
 ●       Communication Skills:
 -loud, clear voice (3)    -no sing-song
 words (2)                                       10
 -facials (2)              -eye contact (3)
 ●       Motion Technique
         -proper motion placement (3)
         -arms straight (3)                      15
         -bold, sharp controlled moves (3)
         -no broken wrists (2)
         -claps sharp, loud, hands cupped
 (2)
         -fist closed correctly & facing
 correct direction (2)

                                                                              17
●      Optional standing tumbling in   3
cheer
●      Energy, Enthusiasm, Overall     10
Presence, and Spirit
CHANT
●      Motion technique (5)

●      Voice and expression (5)        10

TUMBLING
●     Cartwheel = 1
●     Round off = 2                    7
●     Front/backwalkover-3
●     Back Handspring = 4
●     Back Handspring series = 5
●     Back Tuck = 6
●     Layout/Full 7
Total                                  75
                     Bridge City Middle School
               Handbook for Clubs and Organizations
               Parent/Student Acknowledgement Form

It is the intent of this handbook to inform parents and students
with an understanding of the requirements for participation in
clubs and organizations. There is a portion of the handbook that
deals with participation in all clubs and organizations, and a
portion that deals with specific organizations. In some cases,
some organizations may have a separate handbook. In a situation
where an organization has a separate handbook, parents and
students need to be aware that requirements for participation
are included in both handbooks (specific organization handbook
and the Handbook for Clubs and Organizations).

We at Bridge City Middle School feel that students should be
required to meet an acceptable level of conduct on and off
campus to participate in clubs and organizations and meet
requirements before participating. By signing this form it is

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acknowledgement that you are aware of the requirements to
participate.

If you have any questions, please call the activities office.
Ok

Student’s Name (Print) ____________________________

Student’s Signature _____________________ Date ______

Parent’s Signature ______________________ Date _______

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