family han dbook - NYC Lab Middle School

family handbook

NYC Lab Middle School for Collaborative Studies

2010 – 2011

FOR COLLABORATIVE STUDIES


Table of Contents

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

4

HISTORY, MISSION & PHILOSOPHY History Mission Philosophy

2 2 2 2

ORGANIZATION OF THE SCHOOL Administration Parents’ Association (PA) School Leadership Team (SLT) Annual Fund and Parent Donations

3 3 3 4 4

ATTENDANCE School Hours Arrival / Dismissal Attendance Absences Policy for a Sick Child Explained Absences Unexcused Absences Late Arrival

4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5

BUS & TRANSPORTATION Late Bus Student Metrocards Transportation with Sport Teams

5 5 6 6

ACADEMIC PROGRAM Admission Curriculum 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade Collaborative Team Teaching (CTT) Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS) Class Assignments Marking Periods Grading System Students at Risk of Failing or Declining Performance State Standardized Tests Academic Study Group Academic Intervention Services

6 6 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 9 9

HIGH SCHOOL PLACEMENT Acceptance Letters

9 10

DISCIPLINE

10

SCHOOL MEALS & RECESS Free Meals Breakfast Lunch Lunch Policies by Grade Outdoor Recess

10 10 10 10 10 11

HEALTH & SAFETY Health Policies, Requirements & School Nurse Prescription & Over the Counter Medications Security/ Safety Early Pick Up Emergency Closing/Late Opening/Early Dismissal

11 11 11 12 12 12

CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS Lab Afterschool Hudson-Guild Afterschool Athletics Lunch Clubs Student Government Organization

12 12 13 13 14 14

GENERAL INFORMATION Birthday Celebrations Change of Information Chewing Gum / Candy Communication with Families ARIS Parent Link Backpacked Materials Classroom Parent Representatives Curriculum Night Mailings Principal Meg’s Blog School Web Site (SchoolHub) Dress Code Electronics / Cell Phones Gym Uniforms Field Trips Food and Drink in the Classroom ID Cards Lost and Found Office Hours Open School Week Parent Teacher Conferences School Spirit School Store School Supplies Student Visitors and Guests

15 15 15 15 27 27 27 28 28 28 28 28 16 29 29 29 30 30 30 16 17 17 17 17 17 17

ADMINISTRATION & STAFF

18

2010 – 2011 SCHOOL CALENDAR

19



Family Handbook page 1

Message From The Principal Dear Lab School Families,

Compassion

Collaboration Academic Rigor

Diversity/Pluralism

Welcome all!!! Please know how thrilled I am to lead in such an extraordinary school. Lab’s unique identity – its strength of character as an institution – makes our school a remarkably beautiful place in which to learn and grow for students and staff alike. Thinking about the dedication and brilliance of our staff, the wonder of our students, and all that we will accomplish and enjoy together, we are truly, as our mission states, inspired by the power of collaboration. Indeed, our mission guides us as we embrace another year together: And, as always, the pillars of our philosophy support our good hard work. We are a mission-driven school, distinct in the way our guiding ideological principles – Collaboration, Compassion, Academic Rigor, and Diversity/Pluralism – are consistently operationalized and deeply understood by all stakeholders. Our classrooms, hallways, and interactions reflect these ideals. The joyful passion of our student body is signature to Lab. We credit our evolution and growth as an institution in large part to students’ embrace of the agency we afford them. Student initiative and co-construction of Lab’s dynamic trajectory is at the heart of our identity and our success. I am incredibly thankful for an engaged and supportive parent community. The Parents’ Association and School Leadership Team play a dynamic role in the strategic planning process. Our school relies heavily on your involvement – at home and giving back to our school. We are building a remarkable school together. I am so pleased you will all be an active part of what is to come. Yours, Megan Adams, Principal




History, Mission & Philosophy

History In 1988, educators Rob Menken and Sheila Breslaw were looking to create a child-centered school where the classroom would be the ultimate experience in a collaborative setting. Chosen by Superintendent Anthony Alvarado to open the first of the option middle schools in District 2, Lab opened with 75 7th graders and 7 staff members. After several years, grade 6 was added and, in 1993, Lab added a 9th grade. In 2005, Lab MS and Lab HS also split to become two separate schools. 2006-2007 marked another transition in our history: Rob and Sheila, leaving Lab, and Brooke Jackson and Gary Eisinger to Lab’s principalship. Megan Adams initially was hired as the Assistant Principal for both the Middle School and the High School. In the summer of 2008 Megan was hired to be the principal of Lab Middle School after Gary Eisinger accepted a principalship elsewhere. Though Lab MS and Lab HS operate as two separate schools, they are closely linked. As sister schools, they share the same mission and educational philosophy. Over the past couple of years, Lab MS has worked hard to reshape its middle school identity – adding an energetic sports program, extensive afterschool enrichment opportunities and a vibrant club scene. With all of these additions Lab MS remains closely aligned to its four core values – Diversity and Pluralism, Academic Rigor, Compassion and Collaboration.

Mission We were created with two distinct goals that might be contradictory were it not for our school’s unique philosophy of valuing Academic Rigor and Compassion, Diversity and Collaboration. Our mission, and not incidentally, our mandate – is to provide challenging course offerings for a specific, highly academic population and to pilot a successful inclusion program. Traditionally, special progress (SP) or gifted classes exist at the opposite end of the academic spectrum from CTT inclusion classes. Not so at Lab. Very few of our classes are homogeneously grouped. All are highly rigorous. We support an inclusion population that is underserved in the City; our CTT students are learning disabled, but socially, emotionally and intellectually high functioning. To support our inclusion students, we insist that each CTT student works with two inclusion teachers – one for humanities and one for math/science – in addition to his/her general education teachers, in order to fully support his/her learning styles and needs. To support all our students’ academic capacity and achievement, we return to the school philosophy to guide us. Curricular design, instruction, assessment, dialogue with students, parents and each other are all driven by these principles. Teachers meet individually at the beginning of the school year with the principal to review curricular and instructional goals for incorporating the school’s philosophy into pedagogy. We’re always looking for ways to put our philosophy into practice. For example: Our inclusion program is propelled by our commitment to diversity. Likewise, the administration is committed to further diversifying our staff and student bodies to reflect a variety of backgrounds and a wide range of experiences. Pluralism is also reflected in those aspects of our curriculum that might admit a multiplicity of perspectives. Collaboration exists by the very nature of the school. We practice it in grade team meetings, departmental and interdisciplinary meetings, student work groups, teachers and students co-creating assessment rubrics, on-going dialogue with parents, new teacher workshops, union meetings, PPT and SLT meetings, and school-wide event planning. We define and assess rigor beyond simply valuing test scores for all our students. Serious academic rigor demands a rich and challenging curriculum that prepares our students to critically consider our world, and to have the intellectual resources to create meaning beyond the information we provide them. A rigorous curriculum offers more than the textbook, using supplementary materials, and taking into consideration the on-going feedback that reading and assessing assignments generates. Compassion is vital. Students need to feel safe and capable in our halls and in our rooms. Students and staff alike need to feel their voices are valued, and that their social and emotional well-being and their intellectual development is cared for.

Philosophy Inspired by the power of collaboration, the Lab School challenges students to soar intellectually and to act bravely in our complex world community. In living our mission, we: • embrace students from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate a passion for learning • provide a full inclusion program that celebrates the gifts of all students • nourish each student socially, emotionally, physically and academically • support students with a humanistic curriculum along a multi-year arc of reflective inquiry • guide students to empathy through understanding




• develop students’ ability to articulate their wisdom in the interconnected languages of the arts and sciences • sustain the enjoyment of learning for all members of the school community by adhering holistically to the tenets of our philosophy • The NYC Lab Middle School for Collaborative Studies is a unique learning environment with a distinct philosophy that is predicated on four defining principles: Collaboration: Intrinsic to learning at Lab is the collaborative process, in which students and teachers share ideas and learn from each other through active classroom discussion, the use of group projects and an interdisciplinary approach to subject matter. Academic Rigor: High standards for curricular and extra-curricular goals that reach beyond those of the standardized New York City curriculum are frequently reassessed to reflect the intellectual strengths of our students and staff, and to change along with the needs of our student body. Diversity and Pluralism: To achieve the kind of learning environment that extends beyond the classroom, we seek to create an atmosphere in which individual differences and perspectives are valued and activities are structured to encourage a multitude of approaches and responses. Compassion: The spirit of compassion is fundamental to learning at Lab, enabling students to accept the risks and challenges inherent in developing as learners and as human beings -- to explore, to argue, to excel and sometimes fail within a supportive network of caring and careful administrators, teachers and fellow students.

Organization of the School

Lab Middle School (MS 312) is a screened school with an enrollment of just under 600 children. Screened or selective schools use tests or other screening methods to choose their student body. There are approximately 30 children per class. Lab Middle School shares its building with two schools: Lab High School and The Museum High School. Lab Middle School is an Empowerment School, a school in which the Principal has greater autonomy in exchange for agreeing to take on greater responsibility for producing results in terms of student academic achievement. Empowerment Schools share the fundamental belief that decisions about how to educate students should be made as closely as possible to those who work with them – principals in collaboration with their school communities. As required by the NYC Department of Education, Lab has selected a School Support Organization, the Hurwitz Children First Network, as advisor and support provider over the execution of its Empowerment policies. Over 500 city schools are designated as Empowerment Schools, city-wide.

Administration Megan Adams is the Principal. The Principal is responsible for the daily operation of the school and the development and implementation of the mission and policies. Contact: [email protected] x4220. Christina White is the Assistant Principal. The Assistant Principal is in charge of student support services and academic intervention, and supports Lab’s data needs, including overseeing the periodic student assessments. The Assistant Principal also works with the guidance staff and support personnel to run Lab’s academic intervention programs, including extended day. Contact: [email protected] x1093. Marilyn Coston is the Parent Coordinator. The Parent Coordinator is Lab’s liaison between parents, students, teachrs and staff. All main office school communication is handled through the Parent Coordinator. Any questions, concerns or issues can be brought to her attention by dropping in or making an appointment. The Parent Coordinator offers guidance and support and steers families through the proper channels to resolve any situation. Contact: [email protected] x1091.

Parents’ Association (PA) The mission of the Parents’ Association is to create and maintain a welcoming and supportive community for all Lab families and to enable students to experience diverse enrichment programs throughout the school year. With the help of the Lab community, the PA funds afterschool programs and clubs. The PA depends on the involvement and support of all Lab families to enable the community and enrichment programs to thrive. By contributing time, resources, cash donations and ideas, families ensure that Lab students experience a wide variety of programs. Some of the events sponsored by the PA include: Direct Appeal, Gift Wrap, Photo Day, Pie Sale, Book Fair, and the Spring Auction.




The Parents’ Association Executive Board is comprised of a group of 9 parent volunteers, who according to approved by-laws, are elected annually. The Board coordinates fundraising events and initiatives to support the mission of the school, while also striving to promote communication between school and home. The PA Executive Board meets monthly. Elections to the PA Executive Board take place at the June PA meeting. PA meetings are held monthly. Dates and times are posted on the Lab Middle School’s SchoolHub web site.

School Leadership Team (SLT) The School Leadership Team is a school-based organization composed of equal numbers of parents and staff (teachers and administrators). State law mandates that all NYC public schools establish an SLT. Lab Middle School’s SLT meets once a month, and determines the structure for school-based planning and shared decision-making. Some SLT projects include the Comprehensive Education plan, which sets annual goals for the school in all areas and focuses on developing education strategies for improvement, parent informational resource materials and more. SLT members work collaboratively with each other, chairing and/or serving on team sub-committees, with the goal of effectively resolving concerns and addressing the needs of all students. The SLT is not a PA activity and it is not a fundraising entity. Elections for the parent SLT positions take place at the end of the school year, typically at the June PA meeting. Parents serve for a two-year term.

Annual Fund and Parent Donations All Lab family members can make a difference. In order to support the afterschool programs, the PA sponsors fundraising events throughout the year. There are many opportunities to help. Time, cash donations, resources and ideas are all welcome. Any and all help is appreciated and needed. There are two main ways to help: Direct Appeal donations and volunteering your time. Donate The Direct Appeal is the most efficient way to raise funds for Lab Middle. Every year the PA determines a suggested donation amount – but every dollar makes a difference and every dollar is appreciated. Donations can be made with cash, check or credit card all at once, or on an installment basis. Many employers also match contributions. Lab is a 501c(3) organization so donations are tax deductible. Donations may be made online at SchoolHub at www.nyclabschool.net or sent to the school to the attention of: Direct Appeal. Checks should be made out to: Lab Middle School PA. Volunteer The PA always needs organized, committed volunteers. Many hands are needed to fulfill the fundraising efforts. Ideas, efforts, time and more are always appreciated and welcome! Please contact any member of the PA if you are interested in volunteering.

School Hours

Attendance

Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 2:10pm Academic Study Group: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 2:15pm - 3:00pm

Arrival / Dismissal School begins at 8:00am every morning. Students are allowed into their classrooms by 7:55am and they are expected to be sitting in their class by 8:00am. Children are permitted to enter the cafeteria at 7:30am, as that is the time that breakfast is served. They may not enter before 7:30am All students are required to swipe their ID card as they enter the school in the morning. The swiping machine is a crosscheck that enables Lab to keep track of which students are in the building and does not tracking the official attendance. Students arriving after 8:00am are to go directly to their first period class.

Attendance Attendance is taken daily by each homeroom teacher. Official attendance is marked only in the classroom attendance register which is recorded by the homeroom teacher. Parents should be aware that having a good attendance record is extremely important, especially in 7th grade as these attendance records are used as a screen for the high school admission process. Lab recommends that students aim to have less than 10 combined absences and lateness’s per year. If a student has accumulated more than 10 combined absences and lateness’s, it is very important that the student provides medical or other documentation so that the school can




record and code these absences/late arrivals appropriately. Explained and unexcused absences are perceived differently by the high school admissions departments.

Absences If a student is absent for any reason, please do not call the school. Instead, send a note with your child when s/he returns to school. The note should explain why the child was absent. You may also send an e-mail to Melissa Melendez, School Aide, at [email protected]. The child should bring the note to the principal’s office, room 422 where they will either hand the note to the secretary or place it in a drop box. If a child will be absent for an extended period of time, families are encouraged to contact their child’s teachers directly to inform them of the absence and to make arrangements for homework and other missed assignments. Often a note from a parent or a doctor is sufficient for an absence to be coded as ‘explained’. If a child went to a doctor, they should bring a doctor’s note to school. The guidance counselor should also be informed. Regardless of the reason for an absence, students are responsible for the materials missed. Teachers will work with students to help them make up work missed due to an excused absence. Policy for a Sick Child Sick children should remain at home. If a child arrives to school and is ill, a parent will be called to take the child home.

Explained Absences Absences due to illness, religious observance, family emergency or high school admission visit by 8th grade students are considered ‘explained’.

Unexcused Absences When students miss school due to extended family vacations or other reasons that do not fit the categories outline above, these absences are recorded as ‘unexcused’.

Late Arrival School starts at 8:00am and each child should be in his/her homeroom seat at 8:00am. If a child comes to school late, the child should bring a note explaining the reason for the late arrival, particularly so the event can be coded as ‘explained’. Please realize that a note does not reverse the fact that a child’s arrival to school was late. The note should be brought to room 422.

Half Days Half days are scheduled several times during the school year for Parent/Teacher Conferences, Professional Development and a variety of other reasons. On half days, students are dismissed at 11:00am. School buses will run their normal routes. On half days there is no Academic Study Group or Afterschool.

Bus & Transportation

All New York City children who live within qualified distances from school, as defined by DOE, are entitled to a free pass to use on the MTA system (although this benefit is dependent on MTA policy) while 6th graders may also qualify for yellow bus service. Additionally, there are several private bus companies that transport our students to and from school. For assistance on transportation-related concerns and questions, contact Jamie Duzant, [email protected] x4221 or x4220.

Late Bus If a child takes a DOE bus and arrives late due to a late bus, the child is marked as late, but receives a code of ‘late bus’. Private buses are not coded as ‘late bus,’ just ‘late.’ If a child arrives late to school on a private bus, the parent should send a note or an e-mail with the child indicating that the child’s arrival was a result of a late bus – and it will be coded as such on the child’s record.




Student Metrocards Students residing within a given distance from the school may be provided with an MTA bus and/or subway pass. This pass enables eligible children to ride to and from school for free and is valid on school days only. The type of pass a child receives is pre-determined by the DOE, based on each child’s official home address. Lab Middle School does not determine if a child is to receive a Metrocard and the type (bus or train) a child receives. Eligible students will receive two passes during the school year, one in September and one at the beginning of the third term. If a student loses a Metrocard, s/he should go to the Principal’s office between 2:15pm and 3pm to receive a replacement card. Replacement of lost Metrocards is a complicated administrative task and children are encouraged to take care of their Metrocards and not to lose them. Questions about Metrocards should be directed to Jamie Duzant. At x4220.

Transportation with Sport Teams Children who participate on a sports team will travel on mass transit with their coach. Transit rides are free of charge. Children will not receive a Metrocard for sports travel.

Academic Program Admission Lab Middle School is a screened District 2 school. Screened or selective schools use tests or other screening methods to choose their student body. Children who reside in District 2 or who are grandfathered in a District 2 school are considered for admission. This includes children who are currently enrolled in private school but who reside in District 2. Because Lab is a screened school, Lab has flexibility in setting its own admissions criteria and exams to align to the school’s values. Admission to Lab generally requires a test which changes year to year. The test has three main components: 1) a literacy exam (writing and comprehension); 2) a math exam; and 3) a collaborative exercise. The literacy and math exams are based on 5th grade standards. Lab also considers attendance and lateness, as well as teacher comments when screening applicants. Lab Middle does not consider the 4th grade standardized math and ELA test scores in admissions decisions. Siblings are not given special consideration. School tours are held in the fall/winter and the test is administered in the early spring. Special Education applicants receive a more granular test that goes deeper into assessing the comprehension skills and reading levels of the applicants. Children applying for special education admission take these tests separately from the other applicants. Lab Middle does accept children in 7th and 8th grade, space permitting. For more information on mid-school transfers or admission, contact Christina White, Assistant Principal, [email protected], x1093.

Curriculum 6th Grade In the 6th grade, Lab students will study: Ancient Civilizations Instrumental Music (for half of the academic year) Math Physical Education Physical Science Spanish - Grammar Visual Arts (for half of the academic year) Sixth grade students spend half of the academic year studying Music, as they participate in a band program, and the other half of the year studying Visual Arts. All students have an opportunity to play and learn a musical instrument. Lab Middle provides the instruments for each child; no instrument purchase is necessary. If a student has an instrument, that student may use that instrument instead of borrowing one from the school. Physical Education classes meet once a week.




7th Grade In the 7th grade, Lab students study: Early American History (Exploration to the Constitution) Instrumental Music (for half of the academic year) Life Science Math Physical Education Spanish – Oral Proficiency Visual Arts (for half of the academic year) Similar to 6th grade, students participate in Music and Visual Arts for one-half of the academic year. Physical Education classes take place once a week. 8th Grade In the 8th grade, Lab students study: American Studies Art Earth Science Health Integrated Algebra Physical Education Spanish – Spanish Proficiency Visual Arts

Collaborative Team Teaching (CTT) According to the New York City Department of Education, “Collaborative Team Teaching” (also known at Integrated CoTeaching Services) is an integrated service through which students with disabilities are educated with age appropriate peers in the general education classroom. Collaborative Team Teaching (CTT) ensures that students master specific skills and concepts in the general education curriculum, as well as ensuring that their special education needs are being met. The Collaborative Team Teaching classroom consists of one special education teacher and one general education teacher. When they team teach, the general education and special education teacher meet to co-plan and prepare lessons, activities and projects that incorporate all learning modalities. Together, the general education and special education teacher carry out instruction employing a range of methodologies.” At Lab Middle School, two teachers, one content area specialist and one special educator, work together in a CTT classroom to meet the needs of all students. The CTT teachers plan regularly with the other general education teachers, both at the department and the grade team level, to develop curriculum that is aligned with the New York State learning standards.

Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS) The Department of Education states, “Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS) provide specially designed and/ or supplemental instruction to support the participation of the student with a disability in the general education classroom and provide consultation to the student’s general education teacher. These services are designed to be flexible, helping students to remain in the general education classroom and utilize the combined expertise of both the general and special education teacher. They may be provided within the general education classroom or in a separate location.” At Lab Middle School, the SETSS teacher meets with the math and humanities content area teachers at least once a week to plan and make appropriate accommodations or modifications for students. The SETSS teacher also pushes into content areas classes as well as pulls students out for targeted smaller group instruction.

Class Assignments At the end of the school year, grade team teachers meet to discuss class composition for the following year. They review students, their grades and overall group dynamics, as they recommend and build heterogeneous classes for the following school year. The grade team teachers develop a draft outline of proposed class lists which is reviewed by Guidance, the Principal and the Assistant Principal for final approval. Students will receive their September classroom assignments by mail over the summer.




Lab Middle School does not accept requests for homeroom assignments. Once placement decisions are made, changes to a homeroom assignment will not be considered. Changes to a homeroom assignment may be made, however, if a guidance-related issue is uncovered or if a child requires an IEP (Individual Education Plan). Lab tries to adhere to a policy whereby all general education students will experience a CTT class for at least one of their three years. While most do experience CTT, not all will. In some instances, the sheer volume of students in a grade may make it impossible for all to receive such placement. Additionally, children with 504’s (those requiring testing accommodations) will not be placed in a CTT class, following DOE guidelines.

Marking Periods Lab Middle School has four marking periods or terms; students receive four report cards during the school year. The dates for each marking period change yearly. Marking period start and end dates are posted on SchoolHub. Report cards are mailed home to all students. After the end of each term, students will be asked to bring in a self addressed stamped envelope that will be used to mail report cards home.

Grading System The grading system for 6th graders differs from that of 7th and 8th graders (see below). Grades are given for each term and at the end of the year, a final year-end grade is posted for each class. At the start of each school year, teachers disseminate a curriculum letter to all students outlining their curriculum, expectations and grading policy. 6th Grade 6th graders receive letter grades. The grading system is: E = Excellent S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement U = Unsatisfactory / Failing 7th and 8th Grade Students in these grades receive number grades ranging from 55% to 100%. No child will receive a grade lower than 55%, which is considered a failing grade. Teachers, particularly those in 7th grade, consider a child’s progress over the school year when determining a final year-end grade. In 7th grade, the final grade is typically not a straight average of the four terms. By the time a child is in 8th grade, however, the final grade is more likely to be based on a calculation of the average of all four marking periods.

Students at Risk of Failing or Declining Performance Lab will send a warning letter home if a student’s grade(s) drops significantly or if a child is at risk of failing one or more classes. Letters are typically sent approximately two-thirds of the way through a term. Letters should not come as a surprise to the student or to his/her families. Students are regularly informed of their performance through tests and quizzes. Parents are encouraged to check folders and homework regularly.

State Standardized Tests All children participate in the New York State testing program. The 6th and 7th graders take two exams, the English Language Arts (ELA) and Math, while the 8th graders take, in addition to the ELA and Math exams, Science and Social Studies. All tests are administered separately. Grading is on a scale of 1 to 4, with 4 being “Exceeds the learning standards’, 3 being “Meets the learning standards”, 2 being “Partially meets the learning standards or meets part of the learning standards” and 1 being “Shows serious academic problems.” In 2009/2010, test dates were the end of April (ELA) and early May (Math). The 7th grade ELA and Math test scores are submitted as part of a student’s application to high school (for schools that require). A score of ‘1’ requires a child to attend summer school and/or be held back. In 8th grade, students are invited to take two high school level state exams - the Spanish Proficiency and the Integrated Algebra Regents. A student may receive high school credit if they do well on the exams. In the spring of the 8th grade year, the Spanish and Math teachers will advise parents on whether they feel a student should participate in these exams. Not all students will be recommended, as the scores remain permanently on students’ transcripts. Recommendations are made based on midterm exams and grades.




Academic Study Group Academic Study Group or extended day is offered for all subjects and grades weekly, after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Extra help is offered to all students recommended by the teaching staff. While the DOE requires that any student with a ‘1’ on either of the state tests be automatically placed into this program, Lab Middle School extends this mandate to any student with a 2 or below. The program is also open to students with 3’s and 4’s. At the end of each school year, grade teachers meet and determine which students should participate in Academic Study Group for the following year. Families will receive a letter in the mail if their child has been selected to participate. Incoming 6th graders do not begin the program until October. The composition of the Academic Study Group classes change constantly. Sometimes teachers open the classes to a wider group, enabling additional students to attend so they can receive extra help for subject matter that is not understood or for extra help before a test. Students participating in this program will meet, over time, with all the teachers of a given subject, as the staff will rotate their teaching days. Parents are always welcome to request that their child participate in Academic Study Group and should contact that child’s teacher (for a given subject(s) to make the necessary arrangements.

Academic Intervention Services Lab Middle School takes great pride in supporting the special needs of its students and encourages families who may require such services to apply to the school, as all related services are offered as required by a child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). Lab has a dedicated team of professionals to assist with the special educational needs of its students. There is a full time Speech Professional, an Occupational Therapist, and a both an Adaptive Physical Education Professional, a Physical Therapist, and a Vision teacher, for visually impaired children. Some of these professionals are from external agencies while others are full-time Lab staff. All related service professionals partner directly with teachers and the Lab Special Education Coordinator to ensure appropriate academic accommodations. Lab Middle shares an on-site school Psychologist with Lab High School and the Museum School. If a parent or a teacher have a concern about a student and would like that student evaluated, the Principal or the Assistant Principal should be contacted. In such instances, a Personnel Team Meeting (PPT) may be organized to discuss potential intervention steps. Lab Middle will work with parents and special education staff to determine required steps and recommendations over time. All questions about the provision of special needs services should be directed to Lisa Webber, Special Education Coordinator, [email protected], x3342.

High School Placement

In June, the Lab Guidance Staff will meet with all 7th grade families to provide an overview of the high school admissions process, distribute the DOE High School Directory, and answer questions about the process for the upcoming school year. In October of the 8th grade year, when dates and timelines have been finalized by the DOE, the Principal and Guidance Staff will meet with 8th grade families to share information and answer questions. Guidance and the Principal will also meet individually with students and parents to discuss options and choices. Lab Middle School staff has dedicated a great deal of time building relationships and visiting with high school administrators. The Guidance and administrative team have a deep knowledge of the city high schools and are well informed to advise students and families on schools that will align with students’ interests and academic skills. Most high schools use 7th grade standardized test scores, grades (seeking an 85% average or higher), and attendance records in their admissions decision-making, although specifics do vary by school. Specialized high schools consider only the Specialized High School Exam (which children take in the fall of 8th grade) and LaGuardia High School for Performing Arts will consider an audition or portfolio. The DOE High School Directory outlines the relevant admission criteria for each school. ATTENDANCE/BEING ON TIME IS CRUCIAL! High Schools take excessive absences/tardiness seriously! Absences/tardiness related to illness, family-situation and special circumstances are excusable. Extended vacations are not looked upon favorably and are not viewed as an excused absence. This is a DOE policy.




Acceptance Letters The DOE sets the schedule for the distribution of acceptance letters. Scheduling varies each year. In recent years, letters are first mailed to students who took the specialized high school exam, in February, followed by all others in March. There is a formal appeals process if a student does not get into his/her school of choice. Historically, 99% of Lab children receive placement in the first round of the placement process. Contact Guidance if you require an appeal.

Discipline

Lab Middle School follows the DOE Discipline Code, disseminated to all students in September each year. It is expected that families review the Code with their children. Maggie Fuertado, Dean of Students, handles all disciplinary action at Lab. Lab also follows an Honor Code. The following are several ways discipline issues are handled at Lab. Phone Call / Letter Home. Most disciplinary actions involve notifying a parent (via a phone call or a letter home) to inform the parent about an incident or behavior-related issue. Captive Lunch. The student is not allowed to go out to lunch, nor may that child eat in the cafeteria and have choice time. Instead, the child has lunch in the Dean’s office where s/he is not allowed to speak for 40 minutes to anyone except the Dean. Principal’s Suspension. The child is given class work during the day and monitored by the Dean. Superintendant Suspension. For major discipline issues a judicial process is followed that includes a formal hearing. For questions related to discipline, contact Dean of Students, Maggie Fuertado, [email protected].

School Meals & Recess

Lab Middle offers breakfast and lunch and both are served in the cafeteria.

Free Meals Breakfast is free to all students. Lunch is free only to those students whose families qualify. At the start of each school year, all families will receive a Free/Reduced Lunch Form which must be completed by all families, even those whose children do not qualify.

Breakfast Breakfast is served between 7:30am – 8:00am. Breakfast is free to all who wish to have it. Students who arrive at school before 7:55am are required to go to the cafeteria, even if they do not have breakfast.

Lunch Lunch time varies for each grade. For those not receiving a free lunch, a school lunch is available to all who desire for under $2.00 per meal. Any child wishing to have a school lunch will swipe his/her student ID card and pay the required amount. If a child does not have the cash to purchase school lunch, Lab will accumulate a bill which will be sent home. Anyone who needs it will receive a lunch. Cafeteria seating is not pre-assigned. Children may sit where they like, however once they find a seat, they are asked to remain seated until the lunch monitors announce the start of choice time (see below). Children may bring their own lunch to school. Lab encourages children to bring healthy foods and snacks. iPODs and other electronic devices are not permitted in the cafeteria or school grounds at any time, including lunch. Cell phones are permitted for safety purposes but should be kept in backpacks.

Lunch Policies by Grade 6th Grade: All 6th graders stay in for lunch and do not leave the school grounds. The lunch period is approximately 45 minutes. During the first half of lunch, the students eat in the cafeteria. Afterward, students choose from a variety of choice time activities; they may go to the library (studying, reading), the auditorium (socializing, board games), the outside/side yard (active play such as basketball, jump rope), or they may remain in the cafeteria (board games, talking). School clubs meet during lunch. Each location, including clubs, is monitored by staff. During the last two weeks of school, 6th graders will be given the opportunity to be teamed with 7th grade buddies and eat lunch off-site. Parent permission forms will be sent to families and only those students with signed permission forms will be allowed to go out for lunch.




7th and 8th Grades: Students with parent permission (forms signed in June of prior school year) are allowed to leave the school grounds. Lunch boundaries have been set up and are communicated to the students and are monitored by staff and safety agents during the entire lunch period. These boundaries are: • Between 15th and 18th Streets • Between 8th and 9th Avenues (including the sushi restaurant just past 8th avenue on 17th Street) • Kelly Park (park across the street from Lab, monitored by a staff member during lunch) There are many options for children who go off-site for lunch. There are over 30 restaurants frequented by Lab students, and some of these restaurants allow children, with a student ID, to receive discounts. Some popular options are: • Chelsea Market • Subway • Variety of Chinese restaurants • Several sushi restaurants • Chipotle • Bodegas with lunch foods/sandwiches • Street carts • Pizza Those 7th and 8th graders who do not want to go out for lunch are offered the same activity options as the 6th graders. Outdoor Recess Lab Middle follows DOE policy when allowing 6th graders to go outside for recess. If the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, or if it is raining or snowing, students are not permitted to go outside. If the yards are icy or the ground is slippery, Lab administrators will use their discretion to determine if students will be allowed outside. Parents should make sure their children are dressed appropriately based on the weather conditions. If a student is not properly dressed for the day’s weather (i.e. coat, hat) that student will not be allowed outside for recess. Outdoor recess is monitored by teachers and staff. Three teachers monitor the school yard; two are LAB physical education teachers and one is a school aide. Children may play with gym equipment such as basketballs, jump ropes, and hula hoops during outdoor recess. 7th and 8th graders are allowed to stay indoors or go outside at all times, regardless of the weather conditions..

Health & Safety Health Policies, Requirements & School Nurse Each school day a Nurse and a Nurse’s Assistant is on duty and available to students as needed. Minor injuries are cared for at school. For more severe illnesses or injuries, the Nurse will notify parents to have the child taken to a doctor. In emergency cases, such as a head injury, the school will be required to call for an ambulance. Parents will always be notified of a serious problem. It is, therefore, critical that parents notify the school of any change in address, home/work/cell phone numbers and emergency contacts. The school follows New York City DOE and Department of Health policies and protocols for all health-related issues. Elissa Levine is the School Nurse. The Nurse’s Office is located on the 1st floor in Room 111. Contact: Elissa Levine, [email protected], 212-691-6119.

Prescription & Over the Counter Medications If your child requires prescription medication during the school day, a written letter from the doctor should be provided to the Nurse’s Office along with the medication in its original container with your child’s name and the name of the medication on the bottle. If your child requires over the counter medicine, that medicine can be administered by the nurse, however, a note from the parent and/or doctor is also required. Over the counter medication will not be dispensed by the nurse unless a note from a parent or doctor is received. A child who feels ill in the middle of the school day will be given a pass to go to the Nurse’s Office. If it is determined that the child needs to leave school for the day, a parent will be contacted to take the child home.




Security/ Safety Lab Middle shares three School Safety Officers with Lab High School and the Museum High School. Two officers are stationed on the first floor and one is at the front desk at all times. Anyone who enters the school building must check in at the front desk with the School Safety Officer before being allowed access to the building. All visitors will be required to show a government-issued photo ID. The School Safety Officers are here to provide protection to students and staff and to deter or prevent crimes.

Early Pick Up If a student has to leave school early for any reason, prepare your child in advance.. Parents should go to the Main Office when arriving to pick up a child. All parents will be required to first sign in at the security desk (you will need to show a government-issued photo ID), then sign your child out of school at the Parent Coordinator’s office. All children must be signed out before they may leave the building. Only those individuals whose names are on a student’s blue card (a card completed by parents in September) can take that student out of school. Children cannot leave the school by themselves – an authorized adult must be present.

Emergency Closing / Late Opening / Early Dismissal Lab Middle School may experience a closure, an early dismissal or a late opening due to a situation such as inclement weather. In such instances, Lab follows DOE procedures and only closes or shortens the school day if the DOE announces such a policy for all city schools. The Lab Administration will send an e-mail blast to all families to inform them of the closure or time change. Parents are also encouraged to check the DOE website and other local news sources (such as Channel 1 News, 1010 WINS) whenever weather is questionable. Lab Middle School’s main telephone number (212-691-6119) will also have a recorded message with updates and information.

Co-Curricular Programs

Lab offers a mix of sports-related, academic and special interest activities for its students. Afterschool programs are largely funded by the fundraising efforts sponsored by the Lab Parents’ Association (PA).

Lab Afterschool Lab afterschool programs offer students opportunities, free of charge, to develop skills or interests in writing, science, math and more. Six afterschool clubs are offered (see below). The programs begin after Academic Study Group and start at either 3:00pm or 3:30pm, depending on the program. Children who do not participate in Academic Study Group may leave school to get a snack or they may do homework in the library until their afterschool programs begin. All programs are run by Lab Middle School faculty. Program duration may be from one hour to 90 minutes and varies by activity. The program schedule is set in September. The following are the Afterschool programs currently offered: Middle School Math Team Math Team exposes middle school students to more advanced topics and challenging problems than is presented in math class. The team helps students prepare for competitions at the school, city, state and national levels. Lab Freewrite Budding writers can join this afterschool program to help write for the school newspaper, dabble in photography, write advice columns, and more. Lab Middle School Drama Club This club develops characters, scenarios, monologues and scenes. All the work will culminate in a performance to share with the Lab community. This club is for writers, actors and behind-the-scenes stars. Animation Afterschool Using digital cameras, computers and video editing software, this club’s goal is to create short animation movies. The club animates a variety of materials including toys, modeling clay, construction paper collage and drawings.




Science Olympiad The Science Olympiad is for adventurous, inquisitive and creative thinkers. This club explores all areas of science, including genetics, earth science, chemistry, anatomy, physics, geology and astronomy. The club helps a squad prepare for competitions at the school, city, state and national levels. Yearbook Lab Middle School has its own yearbook thanks to this club that will organize and produce a journal of middle school memories.

Hudson-Guild Afterschool Hudson-Guild is a New York City community-based organization that offers a variety of programs for adults and children. Lab Middle School students are eligible to attend Hudson-Guild’s free Afterschool program, located at either the Eliot or Beacon Centers. Every weekday afternoon during the school year students participate in activities around common themes (the environment, the world, plants, music) or specific literary styles (non-fiction, poetry, and biographies). • Homework help is also incorporated into the schedule three times per week. In addition, students have regular instruction in a fully equipped and networked computer learning lab. • For more information about Hudson-Guild, visit: www.hudsonguild.org • For more information about the Afterschool program and how to sign your child up, contact our Parent Coordinator: Marilyn Coston, 212-691-6119, x1115.

Athletics At Lab, every child has the opportunity to find their inner athlete. Thanks to funds raised by the parent body, all athletic programs are free and all students are eligible, although for basketball, flag football, soccer, softball and baseball, tryouts are necessary. All teams are co-ed, except basketball, soccer, baseball and softball where girls and boys each have their own teams. Lab Athletics is led by Athletic Director Charles Jessup and is supported by faculty who are certified coaches in their respective sport(s). The sports program culminates in the spring where every child is encouraged to come out for the track and field team. Participation is over one hundred strong and growing. Lab Middle School’s goal is for all children who want to participate on a sports team. Thus, any child may participate in a non-tryout sport as long as they meet practice requirements, have the required and completed paperwork on hand (medical and permission forms) and attend the relevant informational meetings. If these criteria are not met, a child will not be eligible to participate in a team sport. Team members are expected to participate in all practices and games/meets and to hold up their grades. For some sports, children are expected to dedicate some of their time on weekends. If a child is failing one or more subjects in school, that child will be put on probation and will not be allowed to play or participate in a team sport. If a child is suspended for disciplinary reasons, that child will not be allowed to practice or play a game with the team for the duration of the suspension. Fall Girls Soccer/Boys Soccer In addition to playing against other middle schools in Lower Manhattan, the Lab Soccer team emphasizes the buildingblocks approach in skills progression with an equal focus on fun and fitness. Tryouts are required to make the teams. Lab Runs: Cross Country The cross country team gives young runners a chance to train and compete in area events, including a 5K race held in December. Lab partners with by New York Road Runners Club’s Youth Runners program to make the events possible. Weekend events are likely. JV/Varsity Flag Football Flag Football teaches children the basic skills of football, without the tackling. Ultimately student athletes get the opportunity to participate in games against other teams. This co-ed sport promotes fitness and fun. Go Gators! Winter Girls Basketball/Boys Basketball Basketball has been a long tradition at Lab Middle School. Tryouts are required to make the teams, but everyone is welcome to cheer on the Gators as they play other teams from around the city. Weekend events are possible.




Lab Runs: Winter Conditioning/Training This program, run in conjunction with the by New York Road Runners Club’s Youth Runners program, allows students the opportunity to train together once a week, stay in shape over the winter and even participate in a few road races. Golf Lab’s Golf Team is run in collaboration with a program called First Tee, which provides the learning facilities and programs at Chelsea Piers. Table Tennis Run in cooperation with C.H.A.M.P.S. the NYC DOE’s Middle School Sport and Fitness League. The team plays against other middle schools in Lower Manhattan. Spring Lab Runs: Track and Field This is the sport for runners, jumpers and throwers of all distances. It may be the first time student athletes get to throw a shot put or run a 200m race. Coaches get the team fit and ready and the meets, in association with the by New York Road Runners Club’s Youth Runners, are fun for everyone. Manhattan and City championships are typically held at Icahn Stadium (Randall’s Island) and Verizon Stadium (Chinatown). Weekend events are likely. Baseball & Softball Tryouts are required for each team. Run in cooperation with C.H.A.M.P.S participation in either program offers the opportunity for students to engage in a positive program that will keep them active during the spring season. Students will learn the necessary rules, skills, and strategies. All programs will strive to create and reinforce Cooperative Healthy Active Motivated Positive Students (C.H.A.M.P.S).

Lunch Clubs A variety of clubs are offered to the student population at Lab Middle. All clubs meet during lunch and are overseen by a faculty member. Clubs are student driven and, as a result, offerings change from year to year. Any student that is interested in forming a club can submit a Student Government application to the principal’s office (room 422) for approval. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. There are approximately 12 active clubs, some of which are: Stock Market Club, Newspaper Club, and a club to assist Invisible Children, a non-profit organization to rebuild war-torn Uganda. Clubs meet for the entire lunch period. Children participating in a club will bring their lunches to the designated classroom or location where the club meets. If a child needs a hot lunch, s/he is given a pass to go to the cafeteria and bring his/ her meal to the club meeting room.

Student Government Organization Lab has an active Student Government Organization. The role of the SGO is to represent the voice of the students to the Lab administration, plan events and fundraisers, promote Gator pride, and approve student clubs. In September, every homeroom class elects a class representative to serve in student government. These representatives meet weekly, during lunch, to discuss and work on different projects including events, fundraising, communication, and social action activities. Any club that needs financial support must go to the SGO for funding. Members of the student government meet with administrators at least once a month to discuss issues and ideas. All grades meet together. The SGO then holds internal elections for its board. Children who are active in student government, typically those who participate each year, often hold leadership roles, such as President, Assistant President, Treasurer, by the 8th grade.




General Information Birthday Celebrations Lab does not have an official policy on birthday celebrations. Parents who would like to organize a birthday celebration for their child should contact their child’s homeroom teacher, as any party should occur during homeroom time and not during a class period. The decision to hold a party is at the discretion of each teacher. When planning a celebration, please be aware of food allergies.

Change of Information At the beginning of the year, we ask all new families to fill out a ‘blue card’ and all returning families to review/correct information. If your address, e-mail, telephone numbers, or any other contact information changes during the year, please contact Jamie Duzant at [email protected] or x4222. In cases of emergencies, it is essential that we be able to get in touch with all parents.

Chewing Gum / Candy Chewing gum and candy are not permitted in the school and will be confiscated if found.

Communication with Families Information about Lab Middle School is disseminated to families and students primarily through the following publications: ARIS Parent Link ARIS Parent Link is a tool, established by the DOE that allows parents to view their child’s academic performance, with instant access to their child’s grades, standardized test and assessment scores, and attendance records. Each family is provided with their child’s student ID number and they use this ID to log onto ARIS Parent Link. The web address for ARIS Parent Link is: www.arisparentlink.org. Please contact Marilyn Coston, Parent Coordinator, if you need help with your child’s student ID number. [email protected], x1115. Backpacked Materials Students are often given hand out materials at school that they are asked to bring home. Be sure to regularly ask your children if they have received materials and/or check your child’s backpack from regularly. Classroom Parent Representatives Lab relies heavily on Class Parents who serve the critical role of connecting students and their families with the PA and with teachers. Each homeroom class has 1-2 parents who volunteer. The PA seeks volunteers to serve as Class Parent Representatives in the early fall. Curriculum Night Parents can meet their child’s classroom teachers and understand each teacher’s goals and expectations. Curriculum Night takes place on a weekday evening in October. Parents follow an abbreviated ‘mini-day’ schedule where they travel from class to class and learn about the course work and curriculum for the year. Lab encourages all parents to participate in Curriculum Night. It is a great way to get to know your child’s teachers, meet other parents and learn about the curriculum. Mailings Lab Middle will send materials in the mail to parents. Report cards are mailed home, as are warning letters for children who are at risk of poor performance. From time to time, you will receive other communications by mail. Principal Meg’s Blog In September 2009, Lab Principal Meg Adams began a blog to share her experiences and observations during the course of a given day or week at Lab. As Meg writes; “Everyday I see and experience moments that I want parents to know about - things that are not important enough to formalize in a note home but lend a glimpse into what it means to be a Labbie (in semi real-time). More than anything I hope the blog gives answers when your children are less than forthcoming. The question, “What did you do in school today?” can finally be answered in words other than “nothing”. This blog is an attempt to share those random moments of learning and joy.” Meg’s blog is updated 1-2 times a week and is accessed on SchoolHub. School Web Site (SchoolHub) Our school site, www.nyclabschool.net serves as both an important representation of our school to the public and a secure site for families. A password is issued to students and to parents to find timely information such as schedules and notices, homeroom class lists, Meg’s blog, teacher contact information and e-mails, and ways to stay connected with our community.




Dress Code Lab does not have a dress code but students are expected to be appropriately dressed for the weather and to wear ageappropriate clothing.

Electronics / Cell Phones Children should not bring electronic devices to school. iPODs and video game players should all remain at home. Cell phones are permitted for safety purposes, but should be kept in backpacks during the school day. If these devices are seen by staff during the school day, they will be confiscated. Items that are taken by school personnel will only be returned when a parent/guardian picks up the item in person. Parents/guardians must make an appointment with the dean to do so. When not on school grounds, it is recommended that students keep valuable electronics, including cell phones, in their backpacks to avoid being a target for theft.

Gym Uniforms Students are required to wear Lab Middle School gym uniforms when in gym class. The uniform is a Lab T-shirt, dark shorts or leggings, and sneakers. Children change in the locker rooms. Any child who is not in his or her uniform will be marked as ‘unprepared’ for that gym class. T-shirts and shorts are available for purchase through the PA’s school store.

Field Trips Teachers and administrators plan two kinds of field trips during the school year. Bonding trips are designed to encourage children to interact with one another, live our school’s values, and enjoy each other’s company. Curriculum-related trips are designed as educational and relate to the curriculum. To participate in a field trip, a parent or guardian must sign a permission slip and that slip must be received prior to the day of the trip. If a permission slip is not turned in, your child will not be able to go on the trip. Faxed, photocopied, e-mailed or voice approval will not be accepted. An original copy of the permission slip with your signature is required! Most field trips take place during the school day and many have a fee attached. If a family is not able to afford a field trip due to the fee, please let the Parent Coordinator know and the school will take care of your child’s fee. No child will be denied the ability to go on a field trip because they cannot afford the fee. Parents are sometimes invited to serve as chaperones for field trips. When parents are asked to chaperone a trip, it is important for parents to remember that their role is to assist the teacher(s) and assume supervisory responsibilities over the children.

Food and Drink in the Classroom Food is allowed only under limited circumstances in classrooms – during lunch clubs and for teacher-hosted parties / publishing coffee-houses (which are at the discretion of each teacher). If a child is caught with food in the classroom outside of the above situations, the child will be reprimanded. Gun and candy are not allowed during the school day. Water bottles are permitted as children are encouraged to carry water with them during the day – preferably in a reusable bottle to cut down on waste. Re-usable water bottles are available for purchase from the PA.

ID Cards All entering students receive a student/photo ID card. It is important that students do not lose their ID cards as they will need to use them for the three years they are at Lab Middle School. If a child loses a card, he/she may receive a new one for a $2 fee which should be brought to the Principal’s Office (room 422).

Lost and Found The Lost and Found is located in room 111. Please contact the Parent Coordinator if you have questions.

Office Hours The Lab administrative offices are open from 8:00am – 3:00am, Monday through Fridays on school days. Questions may be directed to office staff during these hours at 212-691-6119 x4222 (from 7:30am - 3:00pm) and to the Parent Coordinator at x1115 (from 8:00am - 3:00pm).




Open School Week Open School Week gives parents an opportunity to experience their children’s classes. All parents are encouraged to come and watch. Parents are given a schedule of their child’s classes and may view any classes they wish during the week. Parents must arrive at each class at the beginning of the period and they must sit in the back of the class, where chairs will have been set up. Please remember that during Open School Week you are a viewer, not a class participant. If you would like to discuss a class that you have viewed, contact the teacher directly. Open School Week typically occurs in November (although this may vary). Dates are published on the SchoolHub site and on flyers given to children.

Parent Teacher Conferences Parent Teacher Conferences take place twice a year, in the Fall (before the first term ends) and in the Winter (before the 3rd term ends). Conferences are offered over a two-day period, one afternoon and one evening, for 2 ½ hours each day. Students receive a memo to take home, explaining the dates, time and the process parents should follow. SchoolHub will also be used to communicate Conference dates and times to families. When arriving for Conferences, parents will be asked to sign-in on the ground floor where they will receive information on their child’s teacher and classroom locations. Conferences are limited to three minutes with each teacher. If you feel you need more time than the allotted three minutes, contact your child’s teacher to arrange a meeting outside of Parent Teacher Conferences. All teachers will have chairs lined up outside their classes. You are asked to wait on line outside each classroom you would like to visit. Families will be seen on a first come, first serve basis. Student volunteers will be posted outside of classrooms to facilitate this process. In order to maximize your time with teachers, come prepared with specific questions, review and bring your child’s most recent report card and familiarize yourself with the names of your child’s teachers and classroom numbers.

School Spirit

The school’s colors are: Gray and green, with white accents. The school mascot is: the Alligator. Our school cheer is: Everybody Stand Up! Gators Get Together When I say 1 – 2 – 3… You say L – A – B! 1 – 2 – 3! 1 – 2 – 3!

L – A – B! L – A – B!

School Store The Parents’ Association runs a school store. The store, called LABWear, is located on the SchoolHub website and you may order clothing, including gym uniforms, water bottles and other Lab items online at any time. From time to time, items will be available for purchase during school hours.

School Supplies Each grade team develops a supply list before the start of each school year. The supply list will contain desired supplies for both the student as well as the classroom, and is mailed to all students over the summer. Students are expected to have the supplies when school begins. No family should worry if they cannot afford to purchase the required supplies. If this is the case, please contact the Parent Coordinator and Lab will make sure your child receives the needed materials. Lab Middle School welcomes supply donations year round. Please contact your homeroom teacher or the Parent Coordinator if you are interested in donating throughout the year. Items such as paper, hand sanitizers, tissue paper are always in need, year-round.

Student Visitors and Guests Lab Middle School does not permit guests to accompany a child to school. Children may not bring a cousin or a friend to school for the day.




Administration & Staff Principal: Megan Adams [email protected] x4220, Room 422

Occupational Therapist: Alisha Picarsic [email protected] X1114, Room 111

Assistant Principal: Christina White [email protected] X1093, Room 109

CAP: Phyllis Nichols [email protected] Room 111

Parent Coordinator: Marilyn Coston [email protected] X1115, Room 111

Speech Therapist: Elina Eydlin [email protected] Room 111

Coordinator of Special Education: Lisa Weber [email protected] x3342, Room 334

School Psychologist: Michael Fenichel [email protected] Room 112

Middle School Dean: Maggie Fuertado [email protected] x3291, Room 329

Secretaries:

Athletic Director: Charles Jessup X1190, Room 119 Transportation & Data Manager: Jamie Duzant [email protected] x4220, Room 422 Guidance Counselors: Jeanine Mastrangelo [email protected] x4311, Room 431A Matt Patricoski [email protected] x1116, Room 111D Librarian: Colette Lageoles [email protected] Room 217

Marlene Ellis [email protected] x4221, Room 422 Carol Knauert [email protected] X1031, Room 103 Elizabeth Barbosa [email protected] X3344, Room 334 Nurse: Elissa Levine [email protected] x 917-939-0132 917-939-0132 Room 111 School Aides: Senita Bethea X1116, Room 111 Melissa Melendez [email protected] X1117, Room 1112010 – 2011




School Calendar Month

Date

Event

September

6

Labor Day – No School

September

8

1st Day of School

September

9, 10

Rosh Hashanah, No School

October

11

Columbus Day – No School

November

2

Election Day – No School

November

11

Veterans Day – No School

November

25, 26

Thanksgiving Recess – No School

December

24 through 31

Winter Recess – No School

January

3

School Resumes from Winter Recess

January

17

Dr. Martin Luther King Day – No School

February

21 through 25

Midwinter Recess – No School

April

18 through 26

Spring Recess – No School

April

27

School Resumes from Spring Recess

May

30

Memorial Day – No School

June

9

Chancellor’s Conference Day – No School

June

28

Last Day of School


333 W. 17th St. New York, NY 10011 www. nyclabschool.net FOR COLLABORATIVE STUDIES

phone: 212-691-6119 • fax: 212-691-6219