I. Introduction
Mission
Vision
Collective Commitments
Goals
Professional Learning Community (PLC)
II. Faculty and Staff
Staff Contacts
III. General Information
Enrollment
Bell Schedule
Attendance
Arrival Time/Tardiness
Departure Time
Student Drop-off/Pick-Up
Bus Transportation
Bus Conduct
IV. Policies and Procedures
Check In
Check Out
Make Up Work
Student IDs
Student Dress Code
Student Discipline Responsibilities
Definitions of Major and Minor Infractions
Lunch Detention
GASP
Halls
Assemblies
V. Academics
Student Progress and Report Cards
Visitation and Conferences
Deliveries at School
School Telephones
Textbooks
Student Valuables
Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices
School Sponsored Trips, Special Activities, Events
Academic Student Recognition
Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS)
Athletics and Support Groups
School Organizations
Lunchroom Expectations
VI. Religious Expression and Activities on Campus and at School Events
Definitions
Speech, Literature Distribution, and Clothing
Student Speakers at School Events
Off-Site School Events
Promotion of Personal Religious Beliefs
Teaching About Religion
Student Clubs
Complaint Resolution
VII. Media Release Form
I. Introduction
School Colors
Purple and Gold
School Mascot
Tiger
Motto
Whatever it takes!
Vision
We will become the highest performing elementary/middle school in the state of Louisiana.
Mission
Our fundamental purpose is to ensure high levels of learning for ALL.
Professional Learning Community
Benton Intermediate School is committed to working collaboratively as a Professional Learning Community to achieve
better results for the students we serve. Teams work together to…
● Identify standards/skills that ALL students must learn.
● Create formative assessments to frequently monitor student understanding.
● Use results to provide targeted remediation to students who need additional support during FLEX period.
● Develop engaging extension activities to further challenge students who aren’t being remediated during FLEX.
II. Faculty and Staff
Staff Contacts
Jennifer Burris, Principal (318) 549-5315
Any school-wide suggestions, ideas, or concerns
Kirstian Bryant, Assistant Principal (318) 549-5314
Questions and concerns related to scheduling, student discipline, transportation
Michael Valentine, Assistant Principal (318) 549-5316
Questions and concerns related to scheduling, student discipline, transportation
Megan Chaddick, Instructional Coach (318) 549-5318
Questions and concerns related to textbooks, tutoring, Academic Boot Camp
Debbie Mitchell, 5th Grade Counselor (318) 549-5313
Enrollment and/or registration questions; Counseling for a child; Questions about standardized testing, AIM/Talented Information;
School Building Level Committee (SBLC) referral information
Heidi Cooper, 6th Grade Counselor (318) 549-5322
Enrollment and/or registration questions; counseling for a child; Academic Assemblies; PBIS
School Resource Officer (318) 549-5324
Concerns about your child’s safety; Drug Education Program
Suzanne Hill, Bookkeeper (318) 549-5369
Money-related questions, fees
Sandy McCathern (318) 549-5311
Requesting a copy of school records--moving; out of district transfers
Amy Robinson, Attendance Clerk (318) 549-5312
Questions concerning absences, attendance, tardies
Changes in transportation plans
Andrea Foster, Librarian (318) 549-5328
Questions concerning library fees/books
Your Child’s Teacher (see school webpage)
Questions about academic progress, report card questions and/or corrections
Call to volunteer
Cafeteria Manager 549-5326
Questions about free/reduced meals or individual lunch accounts; requests for special dietary requirements
III. General Information
Enroll a Student
All Bossier Parish students are required to complete the registration process for the current year.
Student registration for grades K-12 for the 2024/25 school year will be completed online at your convenience.
The secure registration portal will open on July 8, 2024. For returning students, the primary guardian will
update student information and provide updated proof of residence. For new students, the primary guardian will
complete the new student registration form and upload all required registration documents. Use the
appropriate link below to learn more and begin the registration.
New Student Registration (Students who were not enrolled in a Bossier Parish School at the end of last school
year.)
Annual Student Registration (Any student who was enrolled in a Bossier Parish School at the end of last
school year.)
All parents/guardians will need a valid email to complete student registration for the 2024/25 school year. If
you do not have an email address, you can create one using this Google link. You can access the email with the
Google Gmail App on your phone.
Bell Schedule
Attendance
Regular attendance is fundamental to student growth. If a student is absent, the parent or guardian must submit a doctor’s excuse or
a written excuse, signed and dated, stating the reason for the student’s absence from school. Students should turn in excuses to the
student window within 5 days of their return.
The Bossier Parish School calendar should be considered when planning family vacations. If a vacation is taken while school is in
session, the absence(s) is considered unexcused.
Parents are notified in writing of excessive unexcused absences. Extenuating circumstances must be verified and approved by the
Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance or the Director of Student Services, in consultation with the principal. Unexcused
absences accumulate the entire school year. According to school board policy, the Bossier Parish Truancy Center will be notified
when excessive unexcused absences and/or tardies occur.
Additional attendance guidelines can be found in the District Handbook.
Arrival Time/Tardiness
Tardies to School
Students should not arrive before supervision is available at 7:10 am. Students who arrive prior to 7:20 will report to the Commons
until they are released to the cafeteria or their homeroom class. All students should be in the classroom no later than 7:40 am. If a
student does not arrive at school in time to be in the class by 7:40 am, the student is considered tardy to school and parents or
guardians must come to the office and sign the student in. The student will be given a tardy admit for class.
All tardies are unexcused except for tardies due to medical visits with proper documentation. Extenuating circumstances or situations
may be approved by the administration. If the student is tardy because of bus problems, the student will be issued an excused tardy
slip.
Additional information regarding tardies to school can be found in the District Handbook.
Tardies to Class
A student who is not in class and ready for learning when the tardy bell rings is considered tardy. Tardies are cumulative for each
semester. Habitual tardiness will result in disciplinary action.
Departure Time
All students are to leave the building at 2:40 pm unless participating as a team member in a supervised school related extracurricular
activity. Students who ride a bus are to report immediately to their assigned bus. No student will be allowed to ride a bus home
with another student unless a Family Hardship Form has been approved in advance. All students being picked up by personal
vehicles should be picked up no later than 2:55 pm unless they are involved in an extracurricular activity that day. Students attending
extracurricular events need to be picked up no later than 15 minutes after the ending time of the event to avoid consequences. No
student is allowed to walk to school or to his/her home unless the student resides within the “walk zone”.
Student Drop-Off/Pick-Up
● Students should always follow the directions of the duty teachers and enter/exit their cars in the designated
pick-up/drop-off zone to ensure their safety.
Car Line
● A digital car line map will be provided to parents that outlines the pick-up and drop-off zones.
● Students shall remain behind the brick bollards while waiting for their cars.
● Students shall wait in the pick up area and wait for vehicles to come to a complete stop.
● A student being dropped off shall remain in the appropriate passenger restraints until the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
● Reminder: School zones across Louisiana are hands-free zones. It is illegal to hold your cell phone and talk on the phone
while driving in a school zone.
Bus Transportation
Students are assigned a bus number according to where the student lives and the assigned bus route. Bus number information is
available by calling the front office or by accessing “Find My Bus” on the Bossier Parish Schools website.
Guest riders are not allowed on any buses. Students are to only ride assigned buses that pick them up and drop them off at the
address registered on file in the Benton Intermediate School main office. Contact administration if you need to apply for an
alternate stop due to a family hardship or other extenuating circumstances.
Bus Conduct
School bus guidelines have been adopted by the Bossier Parish School Board in order to provide safe transportation to and from
school. It is a privilege, not a right, to ride Bossier Parish school buses. All Board policies are strictly enforced on school buses. The
bus operator, together with the principal, assumes full responsibility for the discipline of students who ride the bus. Should an
infraction occur, the bus operator will notify the principal in writing. The Principal has the sole authority to determine punishment, if
warranted.
The responsibility for supervision of students begins at the bus stop in the morning and ends when students exit buses at the end of
the day. On-time delivery and student safety are the primary goals of each bus operator.
When riding the school bus, every student will:
1. Follow the Bus Transportation rules as directed by the bus operator and the student’s principal.
2. Report to the assigned bus stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled arrival time. Please note that time
does not permit buses to return to pick up students who have missed the bus.
3. Not bring on the bus objects that are too large to be held in the student’s lap or to fit under the seat
(including large band instruments, projects, and other large objects).
4. Assist the bus operator in maintaining a clean and sanitary bus; students who damage/destroy buses
are appropriately disciplined/assessed for damages.
5. Not exit the bus at a different stop from their assigned stop without written authorization from the
principal. The note must be presented to the operator at the start of the afternoon run.
6. Remain seated with backs against the seat, backpacks in lap, facing forward in the student’s
permanently assigned seat, while the bus is in motion and during stops for other students. The bus
operator is responsible for seat assignments.
7. Only talk quietly to your neighbor. Vulgar language and bullying of other students will not be
tolerated.
8. Adhere to the dress code for each school.
9. Not eat on the bus. (Students may carry water on the bus in plastic bottles)
10. Not extend arms out of windows or doors; not throw objects out of windows.
NOTE: A violation of a bus rule may result in loss of bus privilege and or disciplinary action. All buses are equipped with video
cameras that constantly monitor student passengers. Bus operators are permitted to make reasonable rules for the safe
transportation of students.
See Transportation website for additional bus safety tips.
IV. Policies and Procedures
Check-In Procedures
Any student arriving at school after 7:40 am or checking in at any time during the day, must report to the office and be signed in by
an adult.
Check-Out Procedures
No student will be allowed to leave the school premises without proper authorization from the office. To avoid unnecessary
classroom disruption, students are not encouraged to use the telephone in a classroom for this purpose.
Parents or guardians needing to check students out during the school day must report to the office and sign the student out. Only
parents, guardians, and/or persons authorized on the student’s registration form will be allowed to check students out of school.
Parents need to fill out those forms carefully and identify people who are allowed to check out a student in case the parent is
unavailable. PICTURE IDENTIFICATION IS REQUIRED TO CHECK A CHILD OUT OF SCHOOL. There will be no student checkouts
permitted after 2:10pm.
Students who leave class/school without permission will be subject to disciplinary action.
A student moving to another area of the parish, state, or country must have a parent contact the school office 48 hours before the
withdrawal of the student from Benton Intermediate School so that all records can be completed.
Make-up Work
Students are responsible for learning assignments missed during any absence. Arrangements for making up assignments are left to
the discretion of the teacher. If a student is absent, the parent should contact the classroom teacher to request missed assignments.
Student IDs
Students will be issued an ID at the beginning of the school year free of charge. The student ID will be used to check books out of the
library and access the lunch/breakfast account in the cafeteria. Students may purchase a replacement ID in the front office before
school for $5 or thirty (30) PBIS points. Student IDs must not be defaced in any manner and if the ID cannot be restored to original
condition, then a new ID must be purchased.
Student Dress Code
Shirts
Polo Shirts: White, purple, gold, gray, black, or navy
Spirit Shirts: School spirit shirts sold or issued by Benton Intermediate School
*Shirts must be tucked in if they exceed the length of the shorts or skirts/skorts.
Bottoms
Pants, shorts, skirts, skorts, capris: Khaki, gray, black, or navy
*Bottoms must be an appropriate length (fingertip length when holding hands down by side).
*No spandex or sweatpants. Leggings may only be worn under approved skirts/skorts.
Outerwear
Jackets, cardigan sweaters, hoodies, and all outerwear must be:
● Solid in color
● White, purple, gray, black, or navy
● No longer than mid-hip
● Free of graphics or logos that exceed 3” in diameter unless sold or issued by BIS
Belts:
A simple, solid color belt must be worn with any bottoms that are too loose to fit appropriately at the waist. The belt must fit into all
of the belt loops and must be left buckled at all times.
Shoes/Socks
Style and color of shoes may be chosen by the student as long as it follows all dress code rules and doesn’t distract from the learning
of others. No wheels, heels, open-toed shoes, or shoes with foam-based soles (e.g. Crocs) for safety reasons. Athletic shoes are
recommended for comfort and physical education. It is preferred that shoes not have black soles since black-soled shoes cannot be
worn in P.E. class. At all times, shoes should be tied or fastened in the manner for which they are designed.
Socks should not have any distractive or inappropriate messages or symbols.
Jewelry
Other than earrings, no other form of body piercing is allowed for any student. Students/parents should be aware of this rule before
making the decision to acquire any form of body piercing. No large chains (dog chains, billfold chains, spiked chains) or spiked
jewelry are allowed.
Hats and Hair:
No hats, beanies, or bandanas are allowed unless approved by administration for an extenuating circumstance. Hairstyles and hair
colors should not distract from or disrupt the classroom or school learning environment.
Note:
The administration reserves the right to amend the dress code policy as needed or as new fashion fads occur.
Lost and Found:
Anyone who finds a lost or misplaced article of clothing should immediately place it in one of the designated “Lost and Found” bins.
Under no circumstances should any item that has been found be taken from school property. Keeping items that do not belong to
you will result in serious consequences. Students looking for lost possessions should check the “Lost and Found” bins. Students are
highly encouraged to write their names on all personal belongings and clothing.
Dress Code Violations:
An accumulation of uniform violations will result in disciplinary action. Major uniform violations (drug/alcohol/gang related clothing,
inappropriate clothing/shoes, etc.) will not be tolerated.
Student Discipline/Responsibilities
Students will be held accountable for any misconduct on school property, at a school-sponsored event, on a school bus, or on a street
or road going to or from the bus stop or school. Student expectations and prohibited activities are outlined in the BPSB Student
Handbook attachment (pg. 23).
Class Rules
A. Be Safe
1. Use materials and equipment properly.
2. Handle conflict maturely .
B. Be Respectful
1. Listen to authority.
2. Follow instructions.
3. Respect the rights and property of others.
4. Display courtesy.
C. Be Ready
1. Be on time.
2. Have materials needed and completed assignments.
D. Be Responsible
1. Remain on task and allow others to remain on task.
2. Use Materials and equipment appropriately.
Discipline is based on a philosophy designed to assist students to change inappropriate behavior and to enable them to develop
self-discipline. The school notifies parents of major student problems. The following list of disciplinary alternatives may be utilized
(not necessarily in the listed order/depending on the type of infraction and frequency of infractions).
1. Student conference
2. Parent conference
3. Referral to counselor or supervised time-out
4. Assignment of behavior contract packet
5. Deprivation of certain privileges
6. Reprimand
7. Uniform Violation
8. Lunch Detention
9. After School Detention
10. Parent Participation
11. In-school suspension (GASP)
12. Short term suspension out-of-school
13. Long term suspension out-of-school
14. Alternate Placement
The principal, assistant principal and/or teachers may establish additional regulations which are appropriate and consistent with
school board policies.
Definitions of Minor and Major Problem Behavior
Minor Problem Behavior
Definition
Defiance/Disrespect/ Non-compliance
Student engages in brief or low-intensity failure to respond to adult requests.
Disruption
Student engages in low-intensity, but inappropriate disruption.
Dress Code Violation
Student wears clothing that is not within the dress code guidelines defined by the
school.
Electronic Devices
Student uses a cell phone or electronic device during normal school hours of operation
without authorization. (Please find district electronic device policy on pages 14-15).
Inappropriate Language/Comments
Student engages in low-intensity instance of inappropriate language/comments.
Physical Contact/ Physical Aggression
Student engages in non-serious, but inappropriate physical contact.
Property Misuse
Student engages in low-intensity misuse of property.
Out of Area
Student is out of designated area(s) without intentional defiance.
Tardy
Student arrives at class after the tardy bell.
Other
Student engages in any other minor problem behaviors that do not fall within the above
categories.
Major Problem Behavior
Definition
Abusive Language/
Inappropriate Language/
Profanity
Student delivers verbal messages that include swearing, name calling or use of words in an
inappropriate way.
Arson
Student plans and/or participates in malicious burning of property.
Bomb Threat/
False Alarm
Student delivers a message of possible explosive materials being on-campus or near campus,
makes a false 911 call, or activates a false fire alarm.
Defiance/Disrespect/
Insubordination/
Non-Compliance
Student engages in refusal to follow directions, talks back and/or delivers socially rude
interactions.
Disruption
Student engages in behavior causing a major interruption in a class or activity. Disruption
includes sustained loud talk, yelling, or screaming; intentional excessive noise with materials;
horseplay or roughhousing; and/or sustained out-of-seat behavior.
Fighting
Student is involved in mutual participation in an incident involving physical violence.
Forgery/ Theft
Student is in possession of, having passed on, or being responsible for removing someone else's
property or has signed a person’s name without that person’s permission.
Gang Affiliation Display
Student uses gestures, dress, and/or speech to display affiliation with a gang.
Harassment/Bullying
Student delivers disrespectful messages* (verbal or gestural) to another person that includes
threats and intimidation, obscene gestures, pictures, or written notes.
*Disrespectful messages include negative comments based on race, religion, gender, age,
and/or national origin; sustained or intense verbal attacks based on ethnic origin, disabilities or
other personal matters.
Inappropriate Display of
Affection
Student engages in inappropriate, consensual, verbal and/or physical gestures/contact, of a
sexual nature to another student/adult.
Inappropriate Location
Student is in an undesignated area that is inappropriate (as defined by school).
Lying/Cheating
Student delivers message that is untrue and/or deliberately violates rules.
Physical Aggression
Student engages in actions involving serious physical contact where injury may occur (e.g.,
hitting, punching, hitting with an object, kicking, hair pulling, scratching, etc.).
Property Damage/Vandalism
Student participates in an activity that results in destruction or disfigurement of property.
Skip class
Student leaves or misses class without permission.
Tardy
(Excessive Tardies)
Student is late to class or the start of the school day eight times or more.
Technology Violation
Student engages in inappropriate (as defined by school) use of cell phone, music/video players,
camera, and/or computer.
Use/Possession of Alcohol
Student is in possession of or is using alcohol.
Use/Possession of
Combustibles
Student is in possession of substances/objects readily capable of causing bodily harm and/or
property damage (matches, lighters, firecrackers, gasoline, lighter fluid).
Use/Possession of Drugs
Student is in possession of or is using illegal drugs/substances or imitations.
Use/Possession of Tobacco
Student is in possession of or is using tobacco.
Use/Possession of Weapons
Student is in possession of knives or guns (real or look alike), or other objects readily capable of
causing bodily harm.
Other Behavior
Student engages in other serious problem behavior not listed.
*Major problem behavior results in an automatic office referral.
Lunch Detention
Lunch detention will be held during the students' designated lunch break. Students will bring their lunch to the assigned room
location.
After School Detention
After School detention will be held immediately after school dismissal for approximately an hour. Students will report to the office
unless specifically instructed to report to a specific classroom.
Students who fail to attend assigned detention may receive additional consequences.
GASP- Guided Alternative to Suspension Program
GASP is a program designed to keep students in school after a suspendable offense rather than sending them home. The student may
continue his school work in a quiet, isolated environment monitored by a school paraprofessional. The student is counted as present
during his/her stay in GASP and is not penalized academically. The student will:
1. Be placed in GASP from 1-5 days depending upon offense and/or the number of offenses.
2. Report directly to the front office upon entering school grounds.
3. Complete academic work in silence.
4. Eat alone separate from normal lunch time.
5. Clean own area upon leaving GASP room.
6. Earn extra time if he/she disturbs the environment or breaks any rules in the GASP room.
Severe disruption of the GASP room will result in out of school suspension.
Halls
Students should be in the halls only at the beginning and close of school and while changing classes unless they have been granted
permission. Any student found out of his/her assigned area without permission will be subject to disciplinary action.
Assemblies
Students are expected to be courteous and respectful at all school activities. Each student is personally responsible for the
impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable behavior in assemblies includes whistling, uncalled for clapping,
boisterousness and talking during a program. Students are to sit with their teacher during all assemblies. Students who do not
display appropriate behavior during an assembly will not be allowed to attend assemblies for the semester and will receive
appropriate disciplinary action as determined by the administration.
V. Academics
Student Progress/Report Cards
Report cards are issued through OnCourse at the end of each quarter. Letter grades are given to indicate student progress.
Comments are used by teachers to inform parents of student progress and behavior. Throughout the grading period, recorded grades
may be given for chapter or unit tests, class participation, projects, homework, oral presentations, performance tasks, etc.
Students should check their grades regularly on OnCourse so they will know their average throughout the school year. The final grade
for the year is figured by using quality points earned for the four quarters.Parents may check their child’s grades by going to
OnCourse.
Please see the district’s grading policy for additional information.
Visitations and Conferences
We encourage parents to visit our school, attend programs and events, and become an active part of our school community. All visits
to the classroom must have approval of the principal or assistant principal and should be prescheduled. These visits must be
purposeful and planned. All teacher conferences will be scheduled through the counselor’s office or through the individual teachers.
Conferences with teachers should be arranged before school, after school, or during the teacher’s planning time.
Deliveries
at School
If items need to be dropped off at school for students, they will be placed in the student drop-off area with the student’s name on it.
The teacher will be sent a message regarding the dropped off item(s). It will then be the student’s responsibility to retrieve those
items during lunch or the end of the day. The office will not interrupt the classroom to notify students of the arrival of the items. The
school will not be responsible for any lost, stolen, or misplaced items.
Because of safety precautions, no special deliveries (flowers, balloons, etc.) for students will be allowed at school.
School Telephones
Our school telephone number is 549-5310. If your call goes to voicemail, please leave a message. The phone messages are checked
throughout the day. If you need to speak to your child’s teacher, leave a message on his/her voice mail or contact the teacher
through email. The teacher will check messages before and after school and during their planning time. Teachers will return calls as
soon as possible. The office telephone is used for school business, and it may be used by students only in cases of emergency and
with permission. Students cannot be called to the telephone during class time. Messages will be sent to students during their lunch
break-time or picked up by students in the front office during class change after being notified to do so.
Student Materials
Students are responsible for the care of any issued student materials. If any student materials are lost or damaged, the student pays
the replacement cost or cost to repair.
Student Valuables
Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money to school. Students must be responsible for any items brought to school
including electronic devices. Students are responsible for their personal property. Lost or stolen items are very difficult to recover.
Listed and bolded in the following paragraphs is the BPSB policy concerning cell phones and other electronic devices.
Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices
Cell Phones/Smart Watches/AirPods/Bluetooth Headphones
These devices, if brought to school, must be turned off and placed in the student’s backpack from arrival to dismissal. Per District
guidelines, failure to do so will result in the following consequences at a minimum:
1st Violation: The electronic device will be confiscated by administration, parent/guardian contact, and returned to the student at
the end of the school day.
2nd Violation: The electronic device will be confiscated by administration, parent/guardian contact, and must be returned to persons
listed on the Guardian and Contact list in OnCourse.
3rd Violation: The electronic device will be confiscated by administration, parent/guardian conference, and returned to persons
listed on the Guardian and Contact list in OnCourse.
4th Violation: The electronic device will be confiscated by administration, disciplinary referral issued, parent/guardian conference,
and returned to persons listed on the Guardian and Contact list in OnCourse.
Chromebooks
Students choosing to bring their personal chromebook or similar device to school must:
● ensure that the device is in working order, fully charged, and has wireless capability.
● connect the devices to the district’s wireless (not wired), filtered network.
● take full responsibility for their device.
As stated in BPSB policy, “the School Board shall not be held accountable for the devices due to damage, loss, or theft.”
Student Violation Consequences
Students are expected to adhere to the school district's acceptable-use policy as well as the student code of conduct. Violations of
BPSB’s policies concerning acceptable use of computers and networks, code of conduct, and classroom procedures established for
the use of devices will result in the same disciplinary actions that would result from similar violations in other areas. If a student is
causing a distraction, is off task, or is using a personal device inappropriately in the classroom and/or outside of the classroom, the
administration/staff will follow the CELLULAR TELEPHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES policy outlined in the BPSB Student
Handbook (see BPSB Student Handbook).
School Sponsored Trips, Special Activities, Events
Each grade level and/or organization may have specific guidelines for certain trips that will be sent home with the students in the
permission slip before a trip. If overnight or out-of-town trips are taken, the administration will establish and enforce specific
guidelines for the trip. A school-sponsored dance is an example of a school event in which this criteria would also apply. PBIS events
have different eligibility requirements.
Academic Student Recognition
Recognizing student excellence and achievement is important. Honor Roll and LEAP Achievement awards are given at academic
assemblies to recognize student academic achievement. Academic assemblies are held at the end of each grading period. Other
non-academic awards may also be given at these assemblies.
Positive Behavior Interventions and Support
Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) is a statewide program that strives to accentuate the positive behavior of students
thus decreasing the occurrence of negative behavior. Behavior expectations will be taught to our students during the first week of
school and as much as needed throughout the school year. Behavior expectations will be reinforced throughout the school year. For
minor behavior problems, teachers will make an attempt to correct the negative behavior by talking to the student and engaging help
from the parents before formal discipline becomes necessary. We will utilize our counselors effectively to intervene and help teach
positive behavior before formal discipline becomes necessary. Students with academic or discipline concerns will be recommended
to our Tier II committee. Students and teachers are surveyed throughout the year concerning the effectiveness of our PBIS plan and
changes are made based on those surveys. Tier II and Tier III interventions and rewards are also put in place for identified students.
Request for Assistance:
If you or your student needs to request assistance at any time, please go to the Benton Intermediate School website to access the
Counselor’s Corner. The Counselor’s Corner can be accessed by clicking “Counselors” under Faculty and Staff. Click on the icon “How
Can We Help You?” to fill out the “request for assistance form”, and a counselor will address your concern. You may use this form to
request a parent/teacher conference, counseling session, behavior intervention, or any concern you may have that requires
assistance.
Tier II
Students are identified through the Tier II Decision-Making Rubric. Once the student qualifies for Tier II interventions, the Tier II
committee will implement one of the following interventions. The student will be reevaluated every six to eight weeks. At that time,
the committee will decide a different intervention or graduation.
Types of behaviors:
Disruptive
Disrespectful
Anger
Disobedient
TIER II INTERVENTIONS (including, but not limited to the following):
CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT (CICO)
CICO is a Tier II, group-oriented intervention, designed especially for students whose problem behaviors (a) are unresponsive to Tier I
practices and systems, (b) do not require more immediate individualized interventions, and (c) are observed across multiple settings
or contexts. CICO procedures and goals will be defined by the student’s team.
FOCUS GROUPS
The student will be assigned to a focus group. The group may consist of one or more than one student and a faculty member.
INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING
Student will meet weekly with his or her counselor.
Counselor will use techniques that alter behavioral patterns through positive reinforcement.
Our PBIS History and Goals
School Year
Number of Major Referrals
2021-2022
252
2022-2023
242
2023-2024
247
Our goal for the 2024-2025 school year is to reduce the number of school-wide referrals. We will look at our progress toward this
goal during our PBIS team meetings each month and during our regularly scheduled faculty meetings. We will encourage our
students and teachers to work together to meet this goal.
Rewards for Good Behavior
● PBIS Points: Points will be distributed through the PBIS Rewards App to students caught being safe, responsible, respectful
and ready to learn by employees.
o Teachers will issue points to students for being ready, responsible, respectful and safe. Students will be able to
redeem points in the classroom stores as well as the school store.
o Students will be given multiple opportunities to redeem points throughout the year.
● Top Tiger: A student from each homeroom will be chosen by their teacher as the Top Tiger of the Month. These students
will be those who have best exhibited that they are safe, responsible, respectful and ready to learn.
● Quarterly Awards: Each 9 weeks, the school will reward students who have no referrals and have not accumulated more
than the maximum number of minor infractions according to the current PBIS guidelines. Students who have met their PBIS
behavior goals during each nine week period will be rewarded with a special treat or event; however, students may be
assessed a fee to cover the charges incurred by the school.
● Various other incentives are given throughout the year by the school and many others are given by the individual
teachers. These are just a few of the ways that we will encourage the students to be safe, responsible, respectful and
ready to learn. We will be emphasizing the good deeds that they do rather than the incentive that they will earn.
Athletics and Support Groups
Various clubs, organizations, and sports are offered for 5
th
and 6
th
grade girls and boys. In order to participate in athletics and support
groups certain grade point averages are required. 6
th
grade sports are governed by Bossier Parish Middle School League Guidelines.
A student who has been placed in GASP or suspended cannot attend practice or games during the day(s) they are in GASP or
suspended.
School Organizations
Students may join a school organization such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes, DI, Art Club, 4H, Robotics, Archery, Cross Country,
Cheer, Pep Squad, Student Council, etc. Students who fail to exhibit good behavior during meetings or activities may be removed
from membership in the organization.
Lunchroom Expectations
A. Be prompt and prepared
1. Be on time.
2. Wash hands.
3. Wait in line appropriately.
4. Have money for lunch or sack lunch.
5. Be seated with class.
B. Respect authority
1. Follow directions of those in charge.
2. Treat the cafeteria staff with respect.
C. Respect the rights of others in the lunchroom.
1. Keep voices at a proper level for inside.
2. Allow others to eat without disturbance.
D. Respect property.
1. Dispose of food properly.
2. Treat the lunchroom equipment appropriately.
E. Display appropriate social skills.
1. Interact with others appropriately.
2. Display an appreciation for the efforts of the cafeteria staff.
All students should purchase a lunch or bring a nutritious lunch from home. Meals from restaurants in containers bearing the
restaurant’s name are not allowed at school. Also, canned or bottled soda is not permitted in the cafeteria. Any food brought in from
a restaurant must be in unlabeled containers. All behavior, conversation and table manners are to reflect careful consideration of
others. Visiting from table to table is not allowed. Each student should pick up around their eating area and dispose of lunch supplies
in the proper place. Misbehavior in the cafeteria will result in disciplinary action. Students are not allowed to take food or drink from
the cafeteria.
Call 549-5326 for school lunch/breakfast prices or any issue concerning your child’s lunch account. Additional information can also be
found by clicking on the “lunch” badge on the school’s website.
VI. RELIGIOUS EXPRESSION AND ACTIVITIES ON CAMPUS AND AT
SCHOOL EVENTS
Bossier Parish schools educate students from a variety of religious and non-religious backgrounds, and it is the intent of this policy
to respect the Constitutional rights of all students. In order to do so, the following guidelines are established:
DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply to this policy. In construing these definitions, the singular shall include the plural and the plural
shall include the singular:
1. Club means a non curricular student group that is recognized by the School Board and that qualifies for protection under
the safe-haven provisions of the Equal Access Act (20 U.S.C. §4071(c)).
2. Monitoring Committee means the Bossier Parish Religious Freedom Monitoring Committee established by the Consent
Decree and Order in the case captioned Doe v. Bossier Parish School Board, No. 5:18-cv-152 entered in the United States
District Court for the Western District of Louisiana.
3. Prayer means any religious message or communication (written or audible) with a deity, including, but not limited to, a
benediction, invocation, prayer, blessing, inspirational message, sermon, devotional pledge, Bible reading, devotion or
any other religious message or expression with a deity or any communication calling upon a deity to offer guidance,
assistance, or a blessing. Accordingly, prayer does not include customary, polite expressions and greetings, including “God
Bless You” or “Thank Heavens,” or a student’s religious expression responsive to a legitimate academic class assignment.
4. Religious service means a convocation for a religious purpose, including, but not limited to, baccalaureate, religious youth
group meeting or event, church service, and Bible study.
5. Religious venue means a property, facility, building, or place that is maintained and controlled by or for a religious body
that is organized, in whole or in part, to sustain public worship.
6. Sanctuary means a room used regularly for public worship in a religious venue and containing religious iconography such
as a Latin cross or a stained glass window depicting a religious theme.
7. School District or District means the Bossier Parish School District.
8. School event means any activity or happening (i) at a School Board facility or (ii) sponsored, conducted, or supervised by a
school official acting in his or her official capacity. It includes, but is not limited to, a graduation, grade-promotion
ceremony, award program, induction ceremony, pep rally, competition, practice, performance, class instructional time,
and a club meeting or event. However, the following activities are not a School Event:
A. A student religious club meeting or event, if school employees and agents are only present at the meeting or
event in a non participatory capacity, as specified in the Equal Access Act;
B. An activity at a School Board facility, if (i) it is outside the presence of School District students and (ii) no School
Official acts in his or her official capacity; and
C. An activity at a School Board facility that is used by a third-party pursuant to a standard facility use agreement.
9. School official or official means any member of the School Board, its officers, agents, and employees but only to the
extent such a person acts in his or her official capacity. Outside organizations that receive no support from the School
Board, do not receive remuneration of any kind from the School Board, are not controlled by the School Board, and are
not given preferential treatment or access by the School Board are not school officials, (e.g. booster clubs when they
satisfy these requirements).
10. Official capacity means only that conduct of employees in the performance of their official duties with the school district.
A person acts in his or her official capacity when (1) performing official duties or furthering the work of the School Board
or (2) acting under or with a power or authority granted by virtue of employment by or association with the School
Board. However, where the only power or authority the school official exercises is the authority to be present at a School
Board facility and the school official is not interacting with or in the presence of a student, then the school official is not
in his or her official capacity by virtue of subsection (i)(2).
11. Business day means a day the Bossier Parish School Board Central Office is open.
SPEECH, LITERATURE DISTRIBUTION AND CLOTHING
Students in Bossier Parish schools shall have the right to express their ideas verbally and through the distribution of literature so
long as their speech does not disrupt the ordinary operation of the school. The following policies shall govern student expression:
1. Students may verbally express their ideas during class so long as their verbal
expressions are consistent with the subject matter being taught.
2. Students may verbally express their ideas to other students during non- instructional time so long as their speech is not
disruptive to the ordinary operation of the school and does not infringe on the rights of other students.
3. Students may distribute literature during non-instructional time so long as the distribution is not disruptive to the
ordinary operation of the school and does not infringe on the rights of other students.
4. Students may wear symbols or articles of clothing which contain written or symbolic expressions so long as such symbols
or clothing are not obscene and do not infringe on the rights of other students.
5. Students may pray, discuss their faith, read the Bible or other religious texts, and invite others to participate in such
student-led activities during non-instructional time.
6. As used in this section, the term “non-instructional time” means before or after school hours, between classes, during
lunch or recess times, or during such times as may be set aside for student club meetings. Activities during a teacher-led
student club shall not be deemed “non-instructional time” for purposes of this Policy.
7. As used in this section, the phrase “does not disrupt the ordinary operation of the school” means that the speaker is the
initiator and cause of disruption. This does not mean that other students must agree with the speaker. Disruption by
other students in response to the student’s expressions should not be construed to mean that the speaker is causing
disruption. “Disruptive to the ordinary operation of the school” includes littering, forcing other students to listen by
shouting or preventing passage, or engaging in speech activities during instructional time which are not consistent with
the subject matter being taught.
8. As used in this section, the phrase “infringe on the rights of other students” means defamatory expressions against
another student.
While students are free to share and promote their personal religious beliefs pursuant to federal and state law, the School District
and its officials may not endorse or sponsor religious activities in schools. For example, school officials are not permitted to
encourage, solicit, invite, or arrange for any person, either implicitly or explicitly, to deliver or offer a prayer during or in
conjunction with any school event; to set aside a time for prayer during or in conjunction with any school event; or to participate
in or cause prayers to be offered during school or in conjunction with school events.
STUDENT SPEAKERS AT SCHOOL EVENTS
If school officials select persons to make an address during or in conjunction with a school event, they shall do so by a selection
process that is neutral with respect to religion. School officials shall contemporaneously document the neutral basis for any such
selection in writing and maintain such records. The content of such student’s address shall be left to the student, provided that it
contains no lewd, indecent, obscene or vile content. To the extent that school officials permit a person during or in conjunction
with school events to give an address that a school official does in any degree shape, review, or edit for content, substance,
message, style, or theme, then school officials will ensure that the address excludes prayer, religious proselytization, and
promotion of religion.
OFF-SITE SCHOOL EVENTS
School events within the District may be held at off site venues only when a school venue is not available and reasonably suitable.
All provisions of this policy shall apply to school events conducted off site.
When it appears necessary for a school event to be held at a religious venue, the secular justification for the use of the religious
venue shall be documented by the school principal as follows:
1. the religious venue's physical address;
2. the religious venue's affiliation with a house of worship or congregation, if any;
3. the nature of the school event and the expected number of attendees;
4. why no school site is available or adequate for the event;
5. the amount that will be paid to use this religious venue;
6. the amount typically paid to use this religious venue, if known;
7. the distance between the applicable school and the religious venue;
8. a description of the other venues considered, and why they were not suitable for the School Event;
9. a statement as to whether all religious iconography or messages that would be otherwise visible to students at the
Religious Venue during the School Event will be covered or removed for the duration of the event;.
10. the identity of the school officials involved in selecting the religious venue; and
11. a certification that no other, available venue that is not a religious venue would be reasonably suitable for this school
event.
Such information shall be documented on the applicable district facility form, verified by the signature of at least one school
official. A copy of such form shall be transmitted to the Monitoring Committee and to the superintendent's office or his designee
for maintenance and review by the public.
School events within the District may not be held in at a religious venue without prior written approval of the Monitoring
Committee and may not be held in the sanctuary of a
religious venue. The cost of using a nonreligious venue may not serve as the sole justification for holding a School Event at a
Religious Venue.
Should a student or employee choose not to participate in an activity at a religious venue, an alternative assignment shall be
offered.
PROMOTION OF PERSONAL RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
Pursuant to federal and state law, school employees are not permitted to promote their personal religious beliefs to students in
class or during or in conjunction with a school event. In this regard, the following guidelines shall be in effect:
1. School employees shall not participate in any way in a prayer with students during or in conjunction with instructional
periods or any school event. School officials shall not offer a prayer, recite a prayer alongside or with students, kneel, join
hands or otherwise posture in a manner that is likely to be perceived as an endorsement of the prayer. If, during a prayer
a school official chooses to remain still and silent with hands folded, as a sign of respect, such action shall not alone
constitute an endorsement.
2. School officials during or in conjunction with a school event shall not solicit, encourage, or discourage students to engage
in religious activity or attend a religious service.
3. School officials shall not express personal religious beliefs to students during or in conjunction with instructional time or
any school event, either through oral, written or symbolic means. Nothing herein shall prohibit a teacher from using or
referencing religious literature, quotations, articles, or symbols in class, if appropriate to the course or subject and if
presented objectively, as part of a secular program of education.
4. Pursuant to prevailing court precedent, a school official is permitted to wear items of jewelry that may include symbols
associated with religion.
5. School officials shall not solicit or invite any person to deliver or offer a prayer during or in conjunction with any school
event.
TEACHING ABOUT RELIGION
The inclusion of religion in the study of history, culture, literature, music, drama, and art may be essential to a full and fair
presentation of the curriculum. The inclusion of religious elements is appropriate as long as the material included is intrinsic to the
field of study in which it is presented and is presented objectively.
The School Board’s approach to teaching about religion shall be academic and not
devotional. Emphasis on religious themes in the arts, music, literature, and history shall be only as extensive as necessary for a
balanced and thorough study of these areas. Such studies shall not foster any particular religious tenet nor demean any religious
beliefs but shall attempt to develop mutual respect among students and advance their knowledge and appreciation of the role
that religion has played in the social, cultural, and historic development of civilization.
Music, art, drama, and literature having religious themes or bases are permitted as part of the curriculum for school-sponsored
activities and programs, if presented objectively. For instance, a music curriculum may expose students to a full array of music
culture, and an instructor may select such pieces as would be useful to teach a variety of music skills.
Pursuant to prevailing court precedent, the School Board allows for student courses and instruction in the study of comparative
religion and/or the history of religion and its relationship to the advancement of various aspects of civilization. For instance, the
presentation and study of the Bible for its literary and historic qualities, when presented objectively as part of a secular program
of education, is permitted by law and this policy.
A parent or person standing in parental relation may remove the parent’s child from a class or other school activity that conflicts
with the parent’s religious or moral beliefs, if the parent presents or delivers to the teacher a written statement authorizing the
removal of the child from the class or other school activity. At the same time, a parent or person standing in parental relation is
not entitled to remove the parent’s child from a class or other school activity to avoid a test or to prevent the child from taking a
required subject for an entire semester. This policy does not exempt a child from satisfying grade level or graduation
requirements.
STUDENT CLUBS
Student clubs are a traditional and vital part of a student’s educational process. These nondiscriminatory guidelines shall govern
the continued operation of student-initiated clubs.
1. No school shall deny equal access or a fair opportunity to, or discriminate against, any students who wish to conduct a
meeting on the basis of the religious, political, philosophical, or the content of the speech at such meetings.
2. A school is a limited open forum whenever such school grants an opportunity for one or more non curriculum-related
student groups to meet on school premises during non-instructional time.
3. Schools shall be deemed to offer a fair opportunity to students who wish to conduct a meeting within its limited open
forum, if such school uniformly provides that —
A. the meeting is voluntary and student-initiated;
B. there is no sponsorship of the meeting by the school, the School Board, or its agents or employees;
C. employees or agents of the school or Board are present at religious meetings only in a non participatory
capacity;
D. the meeting does not materially and substantially interfere with the orderly conduct of educational activities
within the school; and
E. nonschool persons may not direct, conduct, or control the activities of student groups.
4. School officials shall be present at student religious clubs only in a non participatory capacity. Nothing in this section shall
be construed to limit the authority of the school or school employees to maintain order and discipline on school
premises, to protect the well-being of students and faculty, and to assure that attendance of students at meetings is
voluntary.
5. The assignment of a teacher, administrator, or other school employee to a meeting for custodial purposes does not
constitute sponsorship of the meeting or the participation in the same.
6. This policy shall in no way lessen or alter the rights afforded student clubs by the
Equal Access Act. School officials shall comply with said law at all times.
7. The term “non-instructional time” means time set aside by the school for club meetings or time before actual classroom
instruction begins or after actual classroom instruction ends.
COMPLAINT RESOLUTION
Any student, parent of student, or any employee who believes this policy has been violated is encouraged to report the alleged
acts of violation. Complaints may be submitted anonymously to the school principal or to the Superintendent.
1. Reports shall be investigated by the principal or the Superintendent, within ten (10) business days.
2. If, following an investigation, it is determined that a violation has occurred, the principal or the Superintendent shall
undertake necessary corrective action to preclude recurrence and shall provide the complaining party, if identified, with
written notification of his/her findings.
3. If the principal or the Superintendent has not resolved the complaint to the satisfaction of the complaining party within
ten (10) business days, the complaining party may then bring the complaint to the attention of the Monitoring
Committee (or a member thereof), formally or informally, which will attempt to resolve the complaint in accordance with
its procedures.
4. The School Board prohibits retaliation against any individuals who file complaints or who participate in the investigation
of complaints.
MEDIA RELEASE FORM
I hereby agree I am the parent or legal guardian of ________________________________ and understand
various events and activities in which my child is participating may be photographed and videotaped by Bossier
Schools and/or the news media for the purpose of publication, illustration or advertising in any manner and
form. Parental consent will be implied unless the child’s legal guardian signs and returns this form to the school
office.
Please exclude my child from being included in all forms of media
Parent or legal guardian’s name _________________________________________________
Parent or legal guardian’s signature ______________________________________________
Child’s school _______________________________________________________________
