Student/Family Handbook 2020-2021 - Middle College High School @DTCC Twitter: @MCHSDurhamTech Instagram: middlecollegehs - Durham Public Schools
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Student/Family Handbook
2020-2021
Middle College High School @DTCC
1616 Cooper St.
Durham, North Carolina 27703
Main Office: 919-536-7203
Fax: 919-536-7294
Website: http://mchs.dpsnc.net
Twitter: @MCHSDurhamTech
Instagram: middlecollegehs
1
Table of Contents
Topic Page Topic Page
MCHS Calendar 3 Student Services 17
DTCC Academic Calendar 4 Clubs 18
DTCC Campus Map 6 Athletics 19
Bell Schedules 7 Academic Information 19
Contact Information 10 Grading and Reporting 19
School Hours, Safety & General 11 Progress Reports/Report 21
Information Cards
Bullying/Harassment 13 Credit Substitutions 22
Dress Code 14 College Course Information 23
Fire/Evacuation Drills 14 Academic Interventions 25
Textbooks 15 Testing and Final Exams 26
Student Discipline 16 Transportation 27
Forms:
● Absence for Religious Holiday
● Athletic Participation
● Credit Substitution Form
● Permission to Self-Carry Medication
● High School Event Absence Form
2
3
4
5
6
Due to Covid-19 campus closure during Fall 2020, all high school courses will be virtual until further
notice. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday will be synchronous and will follow the “Regular Schedule”.
Attendance will be taken. Students are expected to continue to work on online work on Wednesdays
and Fridays.
Regular Schedule
Period 1
9:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Planning
10:45 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
Period 2
12:20 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.
Period 3
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
*Lunch is provided to students from 11:30 p.m. – 12:15 p.m. daily.
(Due to Covid 19: FOR FALL 2020 – LUNCH WILL NOT BE PROVIDED)
Town Hall/House Schedule
*Due to Covid-19 during Fall 2020 – Town Hall and House Events will be virtual. Town Hall will be the first
Friday of every month. House will be the third Friday of every month.
Period 1
9:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
TOWN HALL/HOUSE
Town Hall (1st Friday of every month)
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Junior/Senior House (3rd Friday of
every month)
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Period 2
12:20 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.
Period 3
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
7Early Release Schedule
Period 1
9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Period 2 (note this change )
10:20 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.
Planning
11:20 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
Period 3
12:20 p.m. – 1:20 p.m.
Buses leave campus
1:30
*Please notify your teacher if your college course conflicts with this schedule or you will be marked as
having an unexcused absence or tardy.
1-Hour Delay Schedule
Period 1
10:15 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.
Planning
11:35 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Period 2
12:45 p.m. – 2:05 p.m.
Period 3
2:10 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
*Please notify your teacher if your college course conflicts with this schedule or you will be marked as
having an unexcused absence or tardy.
82-Hour Delay Schedule
Planning
11:15 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
Period 1 (note this change)
12:20 p.m. – 1:20 p.m.
Period 2
1:20 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.
Period 3
2:25 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
*Please notify your teacher if your college course conflicts with this schedule or you will be marked as
having an unexcused absence or tardy.
3-Hour Delay Schedule
P eriod 1
12:15 p.m . – 1:00 p.m .
P lanning
1:00 p.m . – 1:45 p.m .
P eriod 2
1:45 p.m . – 2:30 p.m .
P eriod 3
2:40 p.m . – 3:30 p.m .
*Please notify your teacher if your college course conflicts with this schedule or you will be marked as
having an unexcused absence or tardy.
9Contact Information
Please refer to the Middle College High School Website for the full staff directory
https://www.dpsnc.net/Page/2091
Title Na Phone
me Extension
School Principal Crystal Taylor-Simon 1211
Administration (main office)
Student Services School Counselor Sarah Machak 1207
College Liaison/Magnet William Evans 1202
Coordinator
Support Staff Administrative Rosalinda Silva 1211
Assistant/ Records
Specialist
Data Manager/Treasurer Kimberly Faison 1203
Exceptional Children EC Inclusion Erma Lewis-Wills 1206
Career Development Career Dev. Coordinator JoAnn Hester 1212
DTCC Campus Police Police/Security 5555
or
919-536-7255
(off campus)
10School Hours, Safety, General Information
Main Office
The main office of Middle College High School is located in Newton Building 4 - Room 123. The main
office and counselor’s office are to be respected as a professional office space. Accordingly, students will
not loiter in these areas and will not request the main office to receive and /or deliver packages at school
from home or community vendors. (Due to Covid-19 during Fall 2020, the main office is closed to the
public until further notice. The main office secretary can be reached at 919-536-7203)
Arrival/Building Access/Early Release/Late Departure
Middle College High School hours of operation are from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Middle College has an open
campus policy. A MCHS student is required to be at school only while his/her classes are in session,
during Town Hall or House presentations, scheduled tutorial sessions and school-sponsored academic
supports. (See the section on academic probation) A MCHS student whose schedule consists of Durham
Tech courses may be on campus while the MCHS staff is not on campus. Durham Public Schools is not
liable for student activity when students are not under the direct supervision of Durham Public Schools
staff. (Due to Covid-19 during Fall 2020, all high school classes are virtual until further notice and most
DTCC classes are virtual. For safety, students should not report to campus unless they have a face-to-
face class.)
Instructional Time
MCHS prioritizes instructional time. In order to protect the learning environment, we do not interrupt the
classroom to deliver messages or items to students. The main office staff will accept items that support
instruction such as books, assignments, notebooks, etc. and students will only be permitted to retrieve
these items during their lunch, between classes or after school. All phone calls need to be directed to the
main office (919-536-7203). Students should not be taking calls on their cell phone during class.
Attendance & Tardiness
Students attending Middle College High School must adhere to both the DPS attendance policy (for their
high school classes) and the DTCC attendance policy (for their college classes).
Middle College High School has an Open Campus Policy which means that students are required to be at
school only while his/her classes (including Town Hall & House) are in session and if they are scheduled
for mandatory academic support. (Please see the Terms of Agreement) for additional details. Students
will sign in with their high school or college teacher when on campus. When students are assigned
mandatory supports, they will sign in with a proctor. Students have permission from the school to leave
campus at all other times.
DPS Board Policy 4100
“Attendance at school is essential if a student expects to do well. Regular attendance is necessary for
successful completion of required class work and promotion to the next grade. Moreover, attendance and
participation in class are integral parts of the teaching-learning process, and regular attendance develops
patterns of behavior essential to successful personal, social and professional life.
A student is absent from a class if the student misses more than half the class period, whether the
absence is excused or unexcused. Absences resulting from participation in school-sponsored activities
will not count against the minimum attendance requirement. This policy does not limit a teacher or
11principal from imposing disciplinary sanctions for students who miss portions of the school day or a class
without excuse.
A student who is absent from school shall within three days of returning to school furnish a written excuse
from the student’s parent/guardian, custodian or doctor stating the reason for the absence.” (This note
must be turned into the main office in the Newton Building 4-124.)
DTCC Attendance Policy
POLICY STATEMENT The focus of Durham Technical Community College’s Student Learning and
Instructional Services is effective student learning for career and personal growth. To this end, faculty and
staff are available to work closely with students from the point of application for admission through the
progression of courses to completion of studies at the College. Regular attendance is required for
students to complete all course requirements and receive the optimum benefit of instruction.
PROCEDURE For students who have officially entered the course, absences are calculated from the first
class meeting, not from the student’s first attendance date. Hence, students entering late may have
already accumulated part of the absence limit which varies according to the contact hours of the class.
Tardiness and Early Departure Students should be on time for each class session and should be
prepared to remain for the full duration of the class. Tardiness or early departure from class that results in
the student missing at least twenty (20) percent of the instructional session may be considered an
absence. Chronic tardiness and/or leaving class early may adversely affect the student’s course grade
and may cause the student to receive a grade of “F”.
Additional Information about the DTCC attendance policy can be found at
https://www.durhamtech.edu/sites/default/files/media-files/policies/Class-Absences.pdf
Attendance and Makeup Work (DPS Policy 4104)
Students are entitled to make up work from an excused absence (as defined in policy 4101) without
receiving penalties to their marks or grades. School-level staff are authorized to set reasonable deadlines
for submission of make-up work. High school and middle school students are responsible for securing
and arranging make-up work from their teachers. In the case of elementary students, the teacher will
assign make-up work where appropriate at the teacher's discretion. Make up work shall be assigned at
the convenience of the teacher, and may be specific material missed by the student, or may be
reinforcement or enrichment assignments.
HIGH SCHOOL EVENTS
If a student wishes to attend an IMPORTANT EVENT (as determined and agreed upon by Principal,
teacher and student/parent), the student MUST complete a “High School Event Absence Form” (located
in the main office) prior to the event and submit this to Mrs. Rosalinda Silva, who then submits to the
Principal. Such events cannot exceed FIVE days during the course of any semester. Failure to follow
this procedure will result in the student being denied the possibility of an excused absence for the event.
Tardiness
MCHS Tardy Policy
Being tardy to class is unexcused unless accompanied by an official medical note, the school bus is
running late or a college class overlaps their high school class. If a student has a college class that ends
125 minutes or less prior to the start of the high school class, then that student will be permitted to arrive 5
minutes late to class. This information must be verified by presenting their college schedule to the teacher
at the beginning of the semester. Tardiness to class will result in disciplinary consequences.
NOTE: Personal transportation problems (car breakdown, traffic, etc) will be marked "unexcused". A
tardy will be entered on the attendance report for students who are not in class at the appropriate time.
Consequences for tardiness:
Tardy #1 Parent Communication
Tardy #2 Parent Communication, Teacher Assigned Consequences and Counselor Referral
Tardy #3 Parent Communication, Teacher Assigned Consequences and Attendance Committee
Referral
Tardy #4 Referral to Administration
DTCC Tardy Policy
Students should be on time for each class session and should be prepared to remain for the full duration
of the class. Tardiness or early departure from class that results in the student missing at least twenty
(20) percent of the instructional session may be considered an absence. Chronic tardiness and/or leaving
class early may adversely affect the student’s course grade and may cause the student to receive a grade
of “F."
Attendance and Deselection:
Students with 3 unexcused absences will be referred to the principal and are subject to disciplinary
consequences.
Students who have 6 or more unexcused absences will be placed in our M.A.P (Maverick Academic
Preparedness) program. Failure to attend M.A.P. sessions will result in disciplinary consequences.
Students who have 10 unexcused absences will be recommended for deselection. In order to avoid
deselection, students must meet with the waiver committee to provide documentation for those absences.
They must also review their academic status with the committee to provide evidence of satisfactory
academic progress.
Students who fail to show for their waiver committee appointments waive their right to provide evidence
for attendance and these unexcused absences will result in administrative disciplinary consequences and
will weigh heavily in the decision for deselection.
Bullying/Harassment
The goal of Middle College High School is to provide every student and employee in the school system
with a safe and orderly learning environment. For this reason, MCHS strictly prohibits harassing or
bullying of any kind. Students who observe or are the victim of bullying and harassment should report this
to a staff member.
13Dress Code
Although students are on the campus of DTCC, they must remember that they represent Durham Public
Schools. The primary goal of Durham Public Schools is to provide a safe learning environment where all
students are able to achieve at their highest potential. The personal appearance of every student is an
important component of establishing a safe environment for optimal learning and respect for one another.
Students are expected to adhere to standards of dress and appearance that are compatible with an
effective learning environment. Details of the DPS Dress Code Policy can be found in the DPS
Student/Parent Handbook. Failure to comply with this policy can result in disciplinary consequences.
(DPS Policy 4104)
Fire/Evacuation/Lockdown Drills
All fire/evacuation/lockdown drills are conducted by Durham Technical Community College. Evacuation
instructions are posted in each classroom and each student is expected to follow the drill expectations
communicated by DPS and DTCC faculty/staff members. Teachers will go over the DTCC Emergency
Response protocols at the beginning of the year and the Emergency Response Checklist will be posted in
each room.
Identification Cards
To ensure a safe campus environment for all, students are expected to carry their identifications when
they are on campus. Students must be prepared to show their identification cards when requested by
Durham Tech or MCHS faculty or staff. The identification card may be a Durham Tech ID card or other
official form of identification, such as a license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Any student wishing to
utilize campus services or facilities, such as the library or computer labs, must have a valid Durham Tech
ID card or Campus Access card.
Student Parking
Students who drive to school will need to obtain a parking permit through Durham Technical Community
College (Building 8).This parking permit is free to Middle College High School students. DTCC
transportation and parking regulations can be found at
https://www.durhamtech.edu/campus-police-and-public-safety/traffic-and-parking-requirements
Student Medication
For authorization to use medication during school hours, please ensure the proper Medication
Administration form or Self-Medication form is on file with the main office.
Visitors: (For Fall 2020, visitors are not permitted due to Covid-19 guidelines)
Volunteers and visitors on school property also are expected to comply with DTCC regulations and DPS
Board Policy and established school rules and procedures. All Middle College High School visitors need to
report to Building 4 (Newton Building) for assistance. Visitors are not allowed to visit teacher classrooms
during the regular school day unless there is a pre-scheduled conference that has been approved by the
teacher.
Students cannot bring friends or relatives to attend classes with them. Former MCHS students cannot
visit teachers during the teacher’s instructional time. Any person refusing to follow this policy will be
directed to leave the area and can result in Campus Police involvement.
14Campus Police (DTCC)
Durham Tech provides campus police who are located in Building 8. Officers are on campus daily to help
maintain a safe and secure campus.
Technology/Electronic Policy (DPS Policy 4301)
Unless specifically authorized by a teacher or school administrator, students shall not use, display or have
in the “on” position any personal electronic communication or entertainment device, including cell phones,
pagers, music players, electronic games or similar items during instructional time, testing or mandatory
school assemblies and activities (Town Hall/House).
Any device possessed or used in violation of this policy may be confiscated and held for return to the
student’s parent or guardian.
Laser pointers and other electronic devices that could damage eyesight or otherwise cause physical harm
are specifically covered under this policy. Depending on the circumstances, such items may also
constitute “weapons” under Rule III-3, and the student may be disciplined accordingly.
Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of their electronic devices or personal
technology devices. The Durham Public Schools is not responsible for any electronic devices or personal
technology devices that are lost, stolen or damaged while on school property or at school events.
Textbooks (DTCC)
Textbooks required for most DTCC courses are free to MCHS students during the academic year only.
Do NOT go directly to the DTCC campus bookstore! Students must report to the MCHS main office
during the textbook distribution dates in order to obtain their book or access code voucher for their
college courses. Failure to pick up textbooks during the textbook distribution dates will result in
the student becoming financially responsible for purchasing their book or access code.
Vouchers
Vouchers are provided to students if MCHS does not have a copy of the required book already in the
bookroom or if students need an online access code. Students must take this voucher to the DTCC
bookstore to obtain a copy of their book/code.
Students are required to use all textbook vouchers by the 15th day of school. Please note that the DTCC
bookstore may choose not to honor vouchers presented after this date. If the student fails to use the
voucher, then they will become responsible for the cost of any remaining textbooks that they will need.
Middle College High School cannot purchase textbooks for college classes during the summer. For more
information on this topic, please see the “College Course Information” section of this handbook.
All textbooks need to be returned in good condition. Students are responsible for the cost of any lost,
damaged, or stolen books. Failure to pay will result in school records being frozen.
Lost and Found
Any lost-and-found items should be turned in to the Campus Police and Public Safety Office. Persons
looking for lost items should check in the Campus Police and Public Safety Office (Building 8).
Debts to the school
15Students are responsible for all books, Chromebooks, materials, software, hardware, calculators, sports
equipment, and other materials issued to them by the school. Failure to keep these materials and return
them to the school in the condition similar to which they were issued will cause the student to be
financially responsible for these items.
Lunch/Food Program
*Due to Covid-19 and campus closure, lunch will NOT be provided for Fall 2020 until further notice. Please visit
www.dpsnc.net for more information about community feeding programs.
DPS Nutrition services:
Middle College High School will be providing free school lunches to those students who are interested in
receiving a daily lunch. Students who are interested must submit a lunch form to Mrs. Silva no later than
August 14, 2020. Lunch is provided by Durham Public School’s R.N. Harris Elementary. The lunch
schedule is from 11:30 a.m. -12:15 p.m. Students must report to the DTCC Café which is located in
Building 10. On every 1st Friday of the month when Middle College has Town Hall/House meetings, pizza
will be provided to all students.
DTCC Café:
Provides breakfast and lunch at a la carte prices. Their menu can be found on their website or by
following this link.
Mondays-Thursdays: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. (Breakfast); 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Lunch)
DTCC Food Pantry:
For students in need, there is a food pantry located Building 3-110C. Information about their services can
be found by visiting the DTCC website or by following this link.
Student Discipline
The academic and social expectations for students at Middle College High School are high. Respect for
oneself and others, as well as respect for instructional time and a healthy learning environment, are
essential to a successful school. Students are expected to display appropriate behavior at all times and in
all locations of DTCC and DPS. These locations include the grounds, classrooms, hallways, restrooms,
cafeterias, parking lots, buses, etc. Judicially, MCHS and DTCC staff members have authority over
students regardless of place. Students are expected to respect this authority.
Disciplinary measures vary based upon the infraction; however, teachers and school administrators will
adhere to the measures prescribed by the policies of Durham Public Schools (DPS Student Handbook)
and DTCC policies. If disciplinary measures are necessary, students may be assigned lunch detention,
after-school detention (ASD), Saturday detention (SD) or out-of-school suspension (OSS). Serious or
repeated offenses will result in deselection or recommendation for long-term suspension. Disciplinary
measures are progressive in application. Teachers are expected to try different interventions (except in
cases that involve threats to safety and security) prior to referring a student to the administration. When a
student is referred to an administrator, several different approaches, subject to mitigating or aggravating
factors, may be used in an attempt to affect a behavior change.
Lunch Detention (LD)/After-School Detention (ASD)/Saturday Detention (SD)
Teachers and administrators may utilize detention as a consequence for student misconduct.
16● Students assigned to lunch detention and/or ASD by a teacher will serve their consequence with
the teacher who assigned the consequence.
● Students assigned to lunch detention by an administrator will report directly to the designated
location and will remain there for the duration of their lunch. Students will be permitted to bring
their own lunch or obtain a school lunch as directed by the adult supervising lunch detention. The
teacher will document this consequence in Educator’s Handbook.
● Students assigned ASD by an administrator will report to the Building 5 library. The administrator
will check them into the library quiet room or a cubicle near the principal’s office. The student will
remain from 3:45 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. as directed by the administrator. Tardiness to ASD is not
allowed; thus, failure to report on time is treated as a “no show,” and the student may be
assigned additional days or Saturday Morning Detention (repeat offenses). A student who
fails to report to or cooperate in ASD as directed will be disciplined in like manner. ASD is held on
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The student is responsible for securing
transportation home from school.
● Students assigned Saturday Detention by an administrator will report to Building 5 - library, and
remain there from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. as directed by an administrator. Failure to report to
Saturday Detention will lead to escalated consequences.
Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)
Students who commit serious infractions or who are repeat offenders may face out-of-school suspension
(OSS), which is a denial of school attendance and a denial of participation in or attendance at
school-sponsored activities. Such suspensions are made by the administration in accordance with the
policies of the Durham Public Schools. While serving out-of-school suspension, students have a right to
receive make-up work; however, they are NOT permitted to attend any school function and are NOT
permitted on any DPS or DTCC campuses. Violators may face additional suspension and/or trespassing
charges.
*Students who are assigned multiple days of OSS may be deselected and reassigned to their base
school.
Student Services Information
Student Services Team
School Counselor
The Middle College High School counselor, Mrs. Sarah Machak, is located in Building 4-121. The student
services main number is 919-536-7203 ext. 1207. She is licensed to assist students with the following
concerns:
● Academic guidance, increasing achievement and study skills
● Personal/social/emotional relationships at home or in school
● Educational and College/Career planning
● Scholarship and Financial Aid resources
● Test preparation
● Access to interpretation services
To arrange a conference with the counselor, students and parents/families should make appointments in
advance.
17College Liaison/Magnet Coordinator
The primary responsibility of the college liaison, Mr. William Evans, is to recruit eligible juniors and seniors
and assist them through the MCHS and Durham Tech enrollment process. He also helps monitor and
provide support to students who are enrolled in college classes. Mr. Evans is located in Building 4 - 106.
Please schedule an appointment if you would like to meet with him.
Career Development Coordinator
The Career Development Coordinator (CDC) Office is located in Building 4-107. Students may obtain
assistance with career and college guidance, as well as information about job shadowing,
apprenticeships, internships, Armed Forces, and employment opportunities. Available on Mondays from
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Student Services Website
A wealth of information can be found on the Student Services tab on our website. Here you can find
scholarships, important reminders and helpful links.
High School Appointments and Referrals
Student Appointments:
Whenever possible, an appointment should be made with the counselor. Students can book appointments
online using You Can Book Me. The link can be found at middlecollegecounselor.youcanbook.me or on
the Middle College website in the Student Services section.
Family Appointments:
For family appointments, please contact Mrs. Sarah Machak, school counselor, via phone or email
(sarah_machak@dpsnc.net). Family appointments may go over the student booking time slot; therefore,
email or phone are the best way to schedule these appointments.
Say Something Anonymous Reporting System:
If you are concerned for a friend and wish to submit an anonymous referral, you can do so using the high
school counselor appointment link or by accessing the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System.
(https://www.saysomething.net/)
Senior Planning Meetings
Every senior is required to meet with the counselor during the first semester. Appointments for senior
planning meetings can be scheduled via the link found on the website under the Student Services tab.
Transcript Requests
All requests for official transcripts should be made online via the Common App, CFNC or the Durham
Public Schools transcript request system (https://durhamnc.scriborder.com/). Transcript requests should
not be made via email, voicemail or verbal request. Instructions and links for transcript requests can be
found on the website under the Student Services tab. Please be advised that MCHS faculty cannot send
Durham Tech transcripts. These must be requested directly by the student from DTCC.
Clubs
MCHS and DTCC have a variety of different clubs and organizations in which students can participate.
These activities provide students an opportunity to explore their interests and build community. For more
18information about clubs, please see the MCHS and DTCC website for club listings.
Athletic Information
MCHS students are allowed to participate in athletics at their “base” school. Any student participating in a
sport at their base school MUST fill out an Athletic Participation Form at the beginning of each semester.
All attendance policies outlined by the base schools apply. Attendance and academic information will be
communicated to the base school’s athletic coach because they have an educational need to ensure
students are maintaining their eligibility to play a sport.
Academic Information
Academic Integrity/Cheating
MCHS expects that all students demonstrate high academic integrity. Academic integrity ensures that
students respect and value their own work and the work of others. Students who demonstrate academic
integrity ensure that they have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills which
helps teachers to appropriately plan instruction and interventions tailored to individual student needs.
Students who fail to uphold the standards of academic integrity will be found in violation of academic
misconduct and are subject to disciplinary consequences. Examples of academic misconduct include but
are not limited to:
Plagiarism - Intentionally or unintentionally using the ideas, words or works of art of another person
without proper and clear acknowledgement or trying to pass off someone else’s work as your own.
Collusion - Supporting academic misconduct of another student, copying someone else’s work or allowing
your work to be copied and submitted for assessment.
Testing Misconduct - Using unauthorized material and/or devices on an examination or communicating
with another student during an examination.
Misc. - Any other means of academic dishonesty communicated by the staff of MCHS or DPS Board
Policy.
Grading and Reporting
Powerschool
Students and parents can access grades and attendance information by logging into Powerschool
(my.ncedcloud.org.) Powerschool is also the location where students can access Canvas and Edmentum
by clicking on the apps.
If you have any questions or concerns about Powerschool, please contact Mrs. Kimberly Faison, the data
manager in the main office.
Powerschool Parent Portal (https://dps.powerschool.com/public/home.html)
PowerSchool Parent Portal is a web-based program parents can use to access the academic information
pertaining to their student(s) through a single login within PowerSchool. The following information can be
accessed through Parent Portal:
● Check Grades and Attendance
● Homework Assignments
19● Student Schedules
● Progress Reports/Report Cards
How Do I get a Parent Portal Account/Access?
Parent Portal is accessed through a single login using PowerSchool. You will need to set up a Parent Portal
account. Prior to setting up an account you will need to contact Mrs. Kimberly Faison, the school’s data
manager to obtain a letter with an access code and password unique to your child. The letter will include
information needed to set up the account. Parent Portal can also be accessed by downloading the
PowerSchool Mobile App - a free app for your phone, tablet or other mobile devices.
Grading Scale (Board Policy 3200.2)
The State Board uses a standard 10-point grading scale for all high school students. This scale does not
include “pluses or minuses”. Under the 10-point scale, grades and grade point average calculations will
be applied as follows:
A 90 - 100 4.0
B 80 - 89 3.0
C 70 - 79 2.0
D 60 - 69 1.0
FProgress Reports
1 Quarter
st
2 Quarter
nd
3 Quarter
rd
4 Quarter
th
8/7 - 10/9 10/13 - 12/23 1/6 - 3/5 3/15 - 5/26
Progress September 9 November 15 February 5 April 1
Reports (Wednesday) (Friday) (Friday) (Wednesday)
End of October 9 December 23 March 5 May 26
Grading (Friday) (Wednesday) (Friday) (Tuesday)
Period Final Exams for Final Exams for Semester 2
Semester 1
Report Cards October 15 January 12 March 23 June 11
Distributed (Thursday) (Tuesday) (Tuesday) Final secondary report cards
will be mailed. High school report card
delivery is dependent on NCDPI score
reporting.
Graduation information
English 4 credits
Math 4 credits to include Math I, Math II, Math III and a
4th Math
Science 3 credits to include Earth & Environmental
Science, Biology and Physical Science
Social Studies 4 credits to include World History, American
History I & II and Civics and Economics
Health & PE 1 credit
World Languages 2 credits in the same language required for
admission to a 4-year college (Counts towards
elective credits)
Electives (North Carolina Requirement) 6 credits
Electives (Durham Public Schools) 4 credits
Total for graduation 26 credits (expected)
*Total credits required for graduation may vary depending on
individual student circumstances (ie. students entering from
different LEA or homeschool)
*All students must have had CPR training
21Credit Substitution
College courses can be substituted for high school courses to help complete graduation requirements.
High school course… can be substituted with college course(s)...
American History 1 ❏ HIS 131
American History 2 ❏ HIS 132
ENGLISH 3 ❑ ENG 111 followed by…
Students must take three courses from the listed ❑ ENG 112 or 113 followed by…
sequence in order to gain English 3 credit. ❑ ENG 231 or ENG 232
ENGLISH 4 ❏ ENG 111 followed by…
Students must take three courses from the listed ❑ ENG 112 followed by…
sequence in order to gain English 4 credit. ❑ ENG 241 or 242
FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEVEL 1 ❏ ARA, ASL, FRE, GER, SPA 111 or
211
FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEVEL 2 ❏ ARA, ASL, FRE, GER, SPA 111, 112,
or 212
FOURTH MATH REQUIREMENT ❑ MAT 143
Choose one. You may take additional courses if ❑ MAT 152
you wish but they are not required for ❑ MAT 171
substitution purposes. ❑ MAT 172
❑ MAT 263
❑ MAT 271
PHYSICAL SCIENCE ❑ CHM 151 followed by…
Students may choose a sequence (CHM or ❑ CHM 152
PHY) and take both courses listed in order to ❑ PHY 151 or 251 followed by…
do a physical science substitution. ❑ PHY 152 or 252
22National Honor Society
Middle College High School recognizes juniors and seniors who have achieved excellence in the area of
scholarship, character, leadership, and service. The school’s selection committee will evaluate candidates
based on the four pillars of the National Honor Society:
• Scholarship: Students must have a minimum of 3.5 cumulative UNWEIGHTED GPA.
• Service: Voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without
compensation.
• Leadership: Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea
contributors. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working
with or for others.
• Character: The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and
reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary
record.
Understanding the Obligations of Membership:
Students who accept membership and are inducted into the chapter should be aware of the time and
commitment involved with this honor. For example, there will be chapter meetings, and members must
participate in chapter and individual service projects to benefit the school and community.
College Course Information
Middle College High School is a unique learning environment which fully integrates students into a
collegiate experience. In order to remain enrolled in Middle College students and parents must
understand and agree to the conditions outlined in the Terms of Agreement which was signed prior to
enrollment. For questions or concerns regarding the Terms of Agreement, please see Mr. William Evans,
the college liaison.
Advising
All students must have an individual advising session with the College Liaison (or a designated Durham
Tech Advisor) prior to the college course registration period. Students who do not attend an advising
session will not be permitted to register. Students who attend advising but register for a course that was
not approved by the liaison or advisor may be required to drop that course.
College Course Registration
All MCHS students are required to take college courses each semester in order to remain enrolled at the
school. Students who do not register for courses by the indicated deadline each semester may be required
to transfer out of MCHS. When scheduling college courses, it is the student’s responsibility to check the
following items…
● Make sure the college class does not conflict with any required high school classes.
● Make sure the course is being offered on the DTCC campus of your choice.
● Make sure you do not have other commitments or barriers that interfere with your courses,
including class time and study time. Examples include transportation, jobs, sports, and other
extracurricular or community activities.
23College Class Attendance
Students must follow the attendance policy set forth by their college instructors. Failure to attend college
classes can result in a student automatically failing or being withdrawn from that class. Students should
be sure to read their college syllabi carefully to check individual policies. Note: There are no excused or
unexcused absences for college courses; all absences are counted the same. If there is ever a conflict
between a college class and a high school event, the student should notify the appropriate high school
staff member but attend the college class.
College Course Withdrawal
Since failing and withdrawing from courses impact future financial aid prospects,
students may NOT drop a college course without permission from the MCHS college liaison or the MCHS
principal. Permission will only be given to students who have a documented medical rationale. Students
experiencing academic difficulty should meet with their teacher and notify the MCHS college liaison and
MCHS counselor immediately to get information about academic supports. If a student is automatically
withdrawn from a college course due to attendance, this will be considered an unauthorized withdrawal
which can lead to the student being reassigned to his/her base school.
College Grades
The high school only receives the final grade for each college class. College Instructors may post grades
in Sakai or Cengage. Parents are asked to partner with MCHS by checking their student’s grades and
communicating them to the college liaison throughout the semester so MCHS can provide academic
support when needed.
Sakai
Sakai is the DTCC online management platform. DTCC instructors may use this platform to provide
course information, handouts, assignments, tests, grades or online discussions. To learn more about
Sakai, visit https://sakai.durhamtech.edu/portal
Contacting College Instructors
Durham Tech Instructors are not required to communicate with parents; therefore, students are expected
to take the lead in consulting with their instructors about any concerns. We recommend the following
means for parents to stay informed and involved in their child’s college education…
● Review student’s grades via Sakai or Cengage.
● Have the student email the instructor and copy the parent on the email.
● Have the student set up a conference with the instructor and invite the parent to attend with the
student. The student must be present and lead the conference.
Overloads
Students may add a fifth course each semester if they have parental permission (via signature on the
Overload Permission Form) and if they did not fail a course the previous semester. Students who are
found to have failed a course after they have registered for a fifth course for the next semester will be
required to drop the fifth course prior to the first day of classes.
24Summer Textbooks
Juniors who elect to take college courses during the summer may use books provided by MCHS only if
we have them in stock. We do NOT provide access codes for summer textbooks. If we do not have a
book or materials currently in stock or the instructor uses a different edition, students must purchase the
items themselves or choose a different course. Graduating seniors may not receive summer textbooks
from MCHS.
Academic Interventions
STUDENTS AT RISK OF ACADEMIC FAILURE (Board Policy 3405)
Durham Public Schools identify students at risk of academic failure based on grades, observations, state
assessments, and other factors that impact student performance that teachers and administrators
consider appropriate. Students who are at risk of academic failure shall be identified and provided with
academic interventions.
Identification of and Assistance to Students at Risk
Available resources will be organized to implement a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) that uses
data-driven problem-solving and research-based instructional practices for all students. Processes and
standards for addressing concerns about student performance and for documenting student responses to
research-based and evidence-based instruction and interventions within the MTSS will be established.
School administrators and teachers shall address the needs of students identified as at risk of academic
failure through the supports available in the MTSS and/or other processes established by the
superintendent. The parents or guardians of such students should be included, through oral or written
communication or other means, in the implementation and review of academic and/or behavioral
interventions for their children.
Student Academic Interventions at MCHS
Academic Probation
If a student fails one or more classes or their unweighted GPA falls below a 2.5, the student may be
placed on academic probation and academic interventions will become mandatory. Students on academic
probation are assigned a probation advisor. If a student fails to attend or complete academic
interventions and/or fails another class the following semester, he/she may be subject to disciplinary
consequences and/or re-assigned to their base school.
Academic Interventions
All students have access to the MCHS academic interventions. Struggling students should contact their
counselor immediately.
MCHS
● Face-to-Face Tutoring
● E-Learning and Flex Assignments
● D.A.S.H. (Daytime Academic Study Hall)
DTCC
● Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) supports and tutoring
● Instructor office hours
25● UpSwing (online tutoring)
Middle College PTSA 2020-2021
All parents of enrolled MCHS students are encouraged to join and participate in the PTSA. Please contact
Ms. Camellia Fleming at camellia_fleming@dpsnc.net.
School Improvement Team
To achieve its vision for Durham Public Schools, the Board of Education is committed to continuous
improvement in student performance with principals as visionary leaders focused on high student
achievement. In support of this vision, each school shall establish a school improvement team to develop
an improvement plan in accordance with state law, State Board of Education policy, and Department of
Public Instruction guidelines.
The School Improvement Team is comprised of the Principal and representatives including Assistant
Principals, instructional personnel, instructional support personnel, teacher assistants assigned to the
school, and parents of children enrolled in the school.
Testing and Final Examinations
DPS
The Board of Education requires that a final examination be given at the end of each course earning a
credit toward high school graduation. In EOC/NCFE/CTE tested courses, the state test counts as the final
exam. Final exams in non-EOC/NCFE/CTE courses should be a valid reflection of the student’s mastery
of course content. Exams should be cumulative in nature and test material and skills taught during the
period covered by the exam. The exam schedule should be such that a student takes no more than two
exams per day. Provisions shall be made for students to make up exams missed due to excused
absences or short-term suspensions. This policy may be waived for approved dual-enrollment college
courses.
Final Exam Exemptions (DPS Policy 4106)
High school students may be exempt from their non-state required final exams if they meet
one of the following conditions:
● Have an “A” average and no more than 3 absences in that course.
● Have a “B” average and no more than 2 absences in that course.
● ANY absences (excused or unexcused; lawful or unlawful) count toward the limit for exam
exemption except school sponsored field trips, school approved activities, religious holidays, and
district approved medical hardship waivers.
● Students who are exempt from an exam may elect to take the exam. The grade will
only count if it improves the student’s overall grade.
● This policy does not apply to courses offered through community colleges, universities
or online services.
*For information about DTCC testing, please visit the DTCC website or contact your DTCC instructors.
ACT
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction requires that all juniors take the ACT in February
2020. This is a nationally recognized college entrance exam that will be used to measure students’
26college and career readiness. Students will automatically be registered for this exam and it is paid for by
the state. This test will be given during the school day and MCHS will provide support to help students
prepare for this test. This score may be submitted to colleges during the application process. Please
monitor the MCHS website for updates and ACT prep dates. Students may also access additional
information about the ACT by visiting https://www.act.org/content/act/en/students-and-parents.html
SAT
Students interested in taking the SAT should visit https://www.collegeboard.org/
Fee Waivers
All inquiries about fee waivers should be directed to the high school counselor.
Transportation
*Due to Covid-19 campus closure for Fall 2020, DPS transportation will not be provided until
further notice.
The following modes of transportation are available to Middle College High School students:
● Parents/Guardians may drop students off and pick them up
● Students can receive a free parking permit and may drive to school. (See the student driver
section of this handbook)
● Students from Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools may receive a free public transit bus pass that
has been provided by CHCCS.
● Students from Durham Public Schools may ride the Early College or Hillside New Tech school
bus if a route already comes to their neighborhood. Each morning, the bus will pick you up at a
neighborhood stop and drop you off at Middle College by approximately 8:45 a.m. The bus will
pick you up from Middle College at approximately 3:45 p.m. each afternoon and take you back to
your neighborhood stop.
● Students from Orange County Schools may purchase a public transit bus pass and be
reimbursed by the OCS district office.
● Any student enrolled in at least three semester hours of college courses may receive a free public
transit bus pass from the Durham Tech Security Office in Building 8.
Student Drivers
Speeding, careless or reckless driving may result in revocation of driving privileges and/or other
punishment. Driving or riding in vehicles on campus for recreation is prohibited. Vehicles should not be
driven on sidewalks or off of the pavement.
Student Parking (DTCC Regulations)
A parking permit/decal may be obtained by visiting the Campus Police and Public Safety office (Building
8; 919-536-7255) during the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students and
employees must complete a parking permit request form (found on the DTCC website) and present their
driver's license and proof of enrollment or employment at the time of their request.
● Students may use any campus parking space except ones marked for special use, including
those designated as no parking, loading, and fire zones.
● Students are prohibited from using spaces the College has reserved for service vehicles,
employees, and visitors.
27● Students may not park along curbs marked as fire lanes, on the lawn or sidewalks, driveways, on
neighboring property, or in any manner that blocks or obstructs the passage of pedestrians or
vehicles.
● Students may not occupy more than one (1) parking space at a time.
● Students parking at off-campus locations for College-related purposes must comply with the
agency’s parking regulations.
● Students must display a valid parking permit/decal at all times while parked on College
premises. Student parking permits/decals must be renewed each academic year. Permits/decals
must be displayed facing outward and without obstruction.
The following regulations apply to visitors parking on College premises:
● Visitors, including prospective students and prospective employees, may park in designated
visitor parking spaces.
If visitor spaces are not available, please contact our main office number 919-536-7203 for more
instructions.
Fees and Fines
Fees – Parking permits/decals are free for MCHS students. There is a $10 replacement fee for lost
permits/decals.
Fines – Vehicles parked on College premises without a valid and properly displayed permit/decal will be
ticketed and may be towed. Cited students are responsible for fines and are subject to the penalties
outlined below. Cited students may also be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the DTCC Student
Code of Conduct.
Durham Tech will issue a citation and levy a $5 fine against the permit holder or vehicle owner for any of
the following violations:
● Failure to display a parking permit/decal;
● Improper display of a parking permit/decal;
● Display of an outdated decal;
● Parking in a no parking, loading, or fire zone;
● Parking in a tow-away zone, reserved area, fire lane, or on the lawn or sidewalk; and/or
● Using more than one (1) parking space.
Parking citations may be appealed according to the Parking Citation Appeals procedure.
Payment
Students may pay parking citation fines at the Cashier’s Window (White Building/Building 1) or online via
Self-Service once their individual AR account has been updated. The College accepts payment via credit
card (VISA, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express), cash, check, or money order.
Students who fail to pay their parking citation fines will not be eligible to register for classes and will not be
permitted to apply for graduation or obtain copies of their College transcript. They may also be subject to
the following additional penalties:
● Having their vehicle towed if they have unpaid fines totaling more than $25;
● Having their vehicle equipped with a vehicle immobilization device or “boot”, which can only
be removed by Campus Police; and
28● Disciplinary action as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
Vehicles parked on College premises for more than forty-eight (48) hours will be towed at the individual’s
expense unless the permit holder or vehicle owner has received prior authorization from Campus Police
and Public Safety. Additional information about the DTCC parking and permit regulations can be found by
visiting their website.
2930
You can also read
