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Student Handbook

Updated August 2026

Welcome!

We are excited to work with you and your children in order to make this a safe and enjoyable school year. We would like to take this opportunity to make you and your children aware of the rules and policies of the school. We ask that you review the rules with your children. Thank you in advance for your support and cooperation. We strive to provide a comfortable and respectful learning environment for all of our Middle School students.

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District Goals

“The Greater Johnstown School District will provide the essential educational resources that support a fully engaged culture of continuous improvement and diverse, high-quality academic opportunities that equip students with the knowledge, skills and abilities they need to be contributing citizens in a stronger society.”

  1. STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT.

Improve measurable student achievement K-12 within a connected, supportive, and pervasive data-informed culture, using highly effective instructional systems designed and evaluated to create optimal learning in a safe and caring environment.

  1. SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING.

Make effective social and emotional learning a priority and actively support the rigorous pursuit of personal wellness within a culture of mutual respect and active appreciation of diversity in a caring and compassionate learning environment for all students and staff.  

  1. HIGHLY PRIZED PERSONNEL.

Hire, develop, supervise, and evaluate a community of highly effective and mutually collaborative faculty, administration and staff, prioritizing an overall culture of positive morale that encourages happiness and performance excellence in service to students.  

  1. RESOURCE PROVISION.

Develop, procure, maintain and ever-improve resources (facilities, equipment, technology, materials and supplies), coupled with decision-making that is intentional to the importance of relevance and sustainability. 

  1. FISCAL HEALTH of the DISTRICT.

Prepare a fiscally sound and responsible budget, inextricably tied to long-range planning, that strives to balance the equitable, ongoing, and changing needs of students with what the District can/must ask its citizens to sustain. The District will make every effort to seek out or create alternative funding sources.

  1. COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS.

Prioritize full, equitable, and equal community relationships to address adaptive challenges faced by the District, and build external and internal transparency and communication with diverse stakeholders with full consideration for the knowledge, experience, and expectations and values they hold.  

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The Knox Standard

Respect our Space • Set the Pace • Elevate our Place

  • Maintain a Hands-Off Environment 
    • What it means: Students respect the physical safety and personal space of everyone around them by keeping hands, feet, and objects to themselves.
      • Looks like on a good day:
        • Walk safely through hallways and classrooms.
        • Ask before borrowing a peer’s pencil or device.
        • Keeps personal items in their own space.
      • Looks like on a hard day:
        • Accidentally bumps into someone or a desk, but immediately apologizes.
        • Moves close to a friend to socialize but steps back when reminded of space.
        • Fidgets with their own items rather than messing with a neighbor’s stuff.
  • Ready & Locked In 
    • What it means: Arriving at class with your mind and tools ready to go, then keeping your attention—and your screen—locked into the lesson. This means your devices are used strictly for learning when and how the teacher directs, without personal games, streaming, or outside distractions getting in the way.
      • Looks like on a good day:
        • Walking in before the bell with a charged Chromebook and a pencil, then heading straight to your seat.
        • Closing or lowering your Chromebook lid to “half-mast” the first time you are asked.
        • Having only the required tabs open for the current assignment.
        • Handling personal routines (like using the restroom) before the bell rings or waiting for independent work time.
      • Looks like on a hard day:
        • Arriving right as the bell rings or realizing your device is dead, but quietly borrowing a charger or pencil without making a scene.
        • Closing a game tab you forgot to exit after lunch the second you are reminded.
        • Closing your screen with a sigh when asked to pause, but still complying without an argument.
        • Needing an emergency restroom break, but going straight there and returning within 4 minutes.
  • Commit to the Try 
    • What it means: When faced with a challenging task, students attempt to problem-solve using available resources before opting out or asking for the answer.
      • Looks like on a good day:
        • Read the multi-step directions fully before starting.
        • Re-reads a paragraph or checks a posted example when stuck.
        • Ask a specific question (“Can you help with step 2?”) rather than saying “I don’t get any of this.”
        • When stuck, tries to define exactly what is confusing and asks a thoughtful question to clear it up. 
      • Looks like on a hard day:
        • Stalls or stares at a hard question for a minute, but doesn’t close the laptop.
        • Takes a brief 30-second brain break, then tries the problem again.
        • Needs the teacher to point to the directions, then successfully reads and completes the step.
  • Keep It Civil
    • What it means: Using your words, tone, and reactions to keep the classroom a respectful and safe place for everyone. This means speaking to build others up, leaving out unnecessary drama, and handling teacher reminders or corrections calmly without creating a scene.
      • Looks like on a good day:
        • Waiting your turn: Pausing for a peer or teacher to finish speaking before you start talking.
        • Matching the room: Keeping your volume at an appropriate level for group work or independent time, and keeping inside jokes or internet slang out of class discussions.
        • Quick pivots: Nodding, adjusting your behavior immediately, and staying on task when given a reminder.
        • Perfect timing: Saving any questions about why you were redirected for a private chat with the teacher after class..
        • Actively encourages teammates or pulls your fair share of the weight during group projects.
      • Looks like on a hard day:
        • Self-correcting: Blurting something out in excitement or using a sarcastic tone when frustrated, but catching yourself and apologizing or rephrasing when prompted.
        • Respectful debate: Disagreeing with a classmate’s idea, but keeping the focus entirely on the work, never on the person.
        • Managing the reaction: Feeling a flash of frustration or embarrassment from a correction, but taking a deep breath or saying a quick “Okay” instead of snapping back.
        • Advocating calmly: Disagreeing with a redirection but expressing it privately, asking: “Can I tell you my side of what happened at the end of class?”
  • Leave It Better Than You Found It 
    • What it means: Taking shared responsibility for our physical classroom and the tech we use. This means treating school property, devices, and chargers with care rather than treating them like toys, keeping your personal workspace clean, and making sure the room is ready for the next group of students.
      • Looks like on a good day:
        • Tidying up: Clearing your desk of all wrappers, papers, and bottles before the bell rings, and pushing your chair in completely when you leave.
        • Safe transit: Carrying your Chromebook with two hands and keeping the lid closed while you are walking.
      • Looks like on a hard day:
        • Fixing mistakes: Forgetting a water bottle or dropping a piece of paper, but cheerfully turning around to grab it the second you are reminded.
        • Going the extra mile: Noticing some trash near your desk that isn’t even yours, but throwing it away anyway just to help out.
        • Catching yourself: Setting a drink too close to your laptop or closing the lid a bit too hard in a rush, but quickly moving it or stopping to check that the screen is safe.
        • Being honest: Reporting a missing keyboard key or a technical glitch to the teacher right away instead of ignoring it or trying to hide it.

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Knox Standard Alignment to Johnstown Portrait of a Graduate Competencies 

  • Knox Behavior Expectation:
  • Ready And Locked In
    • Aligned Portrait Competency:
    • Future Focused
    • Responsible Citizen
      • Key Knox Middle School Indicators Met:
      • “I can use digital tools responsibly to support my learning and communication.”
      • “I can take accountability for my actions and understand how my choices affect others…”
  • Knox Behavior Expectation:
  • Commit To The Try
    • Aligned Portrait Competency:
    • Critical Thinker
    • Creative Innovator
    • Future Focused
      • Key Knox Middle School Indicators Met:
      • “I can ask thoughtful questions to explore ideas and understand the ‘why.’”
      • “I can stick with a challenge and keep refining my work until it gets better.”
      • “I can adapt when things change and keep working after setbacks.”
      • “I can use a growth mindset to improve my skills through effort and feedback.”
  • Knox Behavior Expectation:
  • Keep It Civil
    • Aligned Portrait Competency:
    • Effective Communicator
    • Responsible Citizen
      • Key Knox Middle School Indicators Met:
      • “I can actively listen, ask thoughtful questions, and respond respectfully.”
      • “I can advocate for myself by expressing my needs and boundaries appropriately.
      • “I can collaborate by valuing others’ perspectives and contributing to group work.”
      • “I can contribute positively by helping others, working as part of a team, and doing my part to reach shared goals.”
  • Knox Behavior Expectation:
  • Leave It Better Than You Found It
    • Aligned Portrait Competency:
    • Responsible Citizen
    • Future Focused
      • Key Knox Middle School Indicators Met:
      • “I can make thoughtful decisions that help take care of my school, community, and the world around me.”
      • “I can use digital tools responsibly…” (extending accountability to physical tech protection)
  • Knox Behavior Expectation:
  • Maintain A Hands-Off Environment
    • Aligned Portrait Competency:
    • Responsible Citizen
      • Key Knox Middle School Indicators Met:
      • “I can treat people fairly.”
      • “I can take accountability for my actions and understand how my choices affect others…”

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Staff Expectations

Our educators strive to provide students with a positive and safe learning community where they can thrive. Each student is treated as a unique individual, deserving of respect, fairness, and understanding. The staff’s role is to create opportunities for every child to meet their full potential, recognizing and nurturing their individual strengths and abilities. By fostering a love for learning and emphasizing its lifelong importance, our educators will inspire students to become curious, engaged, and continuous learners well beyond their formal schooling years.

Family Expectations

We at Knox Middle School, believe that the faculty and staff must work together with students and our students’ families to ensure a safe school community. The best learning environment is provided when all individuals involved in a child’s learning work together cooperatively.  Please reach out anytime you need to speak with our staff.

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Student Expectations

Middle School students are expected to attend school daily, be on time, and complete high quality work. Students are expected to be aware of all rules and behavioral expectations and to conduct themselves in accordance with those guidelines. Students are expected to treat teachers, staff, and other students with respect and consideration, follow directions, have respect for school and personal property, be responsible, and to follow all school rules. Students have a right to attend school and be treated fairly, be respected as an individual, and to be protected from intimidation, harassment, or discrimination based on their real or perceived race, weight, color, national origin, ethnic group, religion, or religious practice, sex, gender/gender identity, or disability, by students or employees on school property, or at a school-sponsored event or function. 

On the Bus

  • Follow directions given by the driver & bus aide
  • Act as role models
  • Stay in your seat
  • Keep hands and objects to yourself and away from windows
  • Talk quietly and do not distract the driver

In the Hallways

  • Walk silently and orderly on the right-hand-side
  • Be the first to pick up any trash you may notice
  • No running or yelling – let’s keep it peaceful and safe for everyone
  • Listen to directions

Outside

  • Use the equipment properly and safely
  • Walk bicycles while on school property
  • Please use the sidewalks
  • Please walk – do not run!
  • Listen to directions

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Staff Directory

Knox Middle School
Phone: (518) 762-3711
Fax: (518) 762-3127

To view a listing of Knox Middle School faculty and staff, visit the Contact Us page of this website and type the word Knox in the box next to the words “Search For:”

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Absences

View our Attendance Implementation Plan.

Greater Johnstown School District supports daily attendance for all students. Regular school participation is important to your child’s academic success. Good attendance in early grades lays a strong foundation for engagement and learning in later grades. Regular and consistent attendance is one of the most important habits of success that parents/caregivers can help their child to develop for success throughout life. The goal for Johnstown Elementary students is to have 5 or fewer absences for the year. You will receive an attendance letter from the office, if attendance is a concern.

If your child is absent, please complete the attendance information on Parent Square. If your child will be late or will be leaving early, please send in a note to your child’s homeroom teacher.

As per Board Policy #7410 Extracurricular Activities, in order for students to attend a school-sponsored function, it is necessary that students attend classes for at least half of the school day on the day of the activity, unless otherwise excused by the building administrator. One-half of the school day is defined as follows: from 9:00 a.m. until noon or from noon until the end of the school day. Students who are suspended from school on a day of an athletic game or practice session, party, school dance, or other school affair scheduled after regular school hours are not eligible for participation or attendance at such events.

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Arrival

Knox Middle School will open our doors at 7:15 a.m. There is NO supervision for students prior to 7:15 a.m. so please do not drop off students prior to 7:15 a.m. All students not riding a bus should arrive between 7:15 and 7:40 a.m. Announcements will begin at 7:45 a.m. Arrivals after 7:45 a.m. must be signed in at the main office and receive a late pass. Arriving at school on time will help your child be prepared for the day of learning ahead. Students need time in the morning to hang up their belongings, get their materials ready, and get settled into their day.

Students arriving by car, bike, or walking will enter through the Perry Street entrance. Bus students will enter through the 1st Ave. doors. Students will go to breakfast in the cafeteria and/or the gym until 7:40 am. Breakfast will be available 7:15 am – 7:45 am. If students are eating breakfast, they must eat prior to going to the gym.

Dismissal

Please help us keep all students safe by making dismissal changes by 12:00 p.m. each day by phone or with a note. Late dismissal changes sometimes lead to a more chaotic dismissal. Do NOT ask us to make dismissal changes after 12:00 p.m. unless it is an emergency. Our goal is to dismiss all students safely each day. We appreciate your help! Please be sure the office, the transportation office, and your child are all aware of your dismissal preferences. Students should not congregate on campus before or after school hours. There is NO supervision for students prior to 7:15 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m..  

Bus Students:

Will be released to the gym or cafeteria at approximately 2:30 p.m. to wait for their bus.  The bus will pick up students on 1st Ave. (same as arrival).  School support staff will supervise students waiting for their bus to arrive. It is the students responsibility to ensure they are listening for their bus to be called and promptly getting to 1st Ave exit when their bus is called.

Walkers/Riders:

Students will be released through the Perry St. doors at 2:30.  Students should not cross Perry St. unless being escorted by school staff or the crossing guard.  Students can be picked up on Perry St. on the same side of the street as the school.  

Please think carefully before deciding to let your child(ren) walk home without adult supervision. Once children leave school grounds, the district/school staff is unable to provide oversight. Therefore, it is difficult for us to help when you have a concern about your child not making it home on time or if you have concerns about the behavior of other children during the walk home. Students should not congregate on campus before or after school hours. There is no outside supervision after 3:00 p.m. for students on school property, all students must be supervised by a parent or guardian after that time.

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Bell Schedule

Knox Middle School Bell Schedule

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Attendance and Vacation Procedures

Regular, daily attendance is vital to student learning and community connection. Under New York State Education Department guidelines, missing school for family vacations while school is in session is categorized as an unexcused absence. 

While we recognize family commitments, teachers are not required to provide advance coursework or individualized lesson plans for unexcused vacation periods. Families planning travel are asked to notify the main office in advance so attendance records remain accurate. .

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Awards

At the end of each school year in June, we will hold our Awards Assembly. If your child is receiving an award, you will be notified by your child’s teacher or the main office prior to the assembly.

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Birthdays & Class Parties

If you wish to send in a special snack to celebrate your child’s birthday you may. All food MUST be store bought for birthdays and class parties. Please do not send in home baked goods. If your child is having a birthday party- please do NOT hand out invitations in school unless your child is inviting the whole class. If you can only invite a small number of children, we ask you to hand out the invitations outside of school or through the US mail to eliminate hurt feelings.

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Calendar

The school calendar can be found on the Calendar page. Please note: dates are subject to change. Please refer to the school website or principal’s weekly newsletter via ParentSquare for current information/dates.

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Use of Internet Enabled Devices During the School Day

The District consulted with local stakeholders including employee organizations representing each bargaining unit, parents, and students to develop Policy 7316 to prohibit the use of Internet-enabled devices by students during the school day on school grounds. This policy aims to ensure that students remain focused on their academic responsibilities throughout the school day, which includes all instructional and non-instructional periods such as homeroom, lunch, recess, study halls, and passing time.

For purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

a)  “Internet-enabled devices” means and includes any smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or other device capable of connecting to the Internet and enabling the user to access content on the Internet, including social media applications;

“Internet-enabled devices” does not include:

  1. Non-Internet-enabled devices such as cellular phones or other communication devices not capable of connecting to the Internet or enabling the user to access content on the Internet; or
  2. Internet-enabled devices supplied by the District, charter school, or Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) that are used for an educational purpose.

b) “School day” means the entirety of every instructional day as required by subdivision 7 of the Education Law Section 3604 during all instructional time and non-instructional time, including but not limited to homeroom periods, lunch, recess, study halls, and passing time.

c) “School grounds” means in or on or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, or land contained within the real property boundary line of a district elementary, intermediate, junior high, vocational, or high school, a charter school, or a BOCES facility.

Students are generally prohibited from using Internet-enabled devices during the school day anywhere on school grounds.

However, students may be authorized to use an Internet-enabled device during the school day on school grounds:

a)  If authorized by a teacher, principal, or the District for a specific educational purpose;

b)  Where necessary for the management of a student’s documented medical condition; 

c)  In the event of an emergency; 

d)  For translation services;

e)  On a case-by-case basis, upon review and documented determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member; or

f)  Where required by law.

Students must be permitted to use an Internet-enabled device where the use is included in the student’s:

a)  Individualized Education Program (IEP); or

b)  Section 504 Plan.

On-Site Storage of Internet-Enabled Devices Including Cell Phones

Students must store their Internet-enabled devices in designated on-site storage areas during the school day. On-site storage areas may include, but are not limited to, student lockers, and secure storage areas in the school’s main office. The designated on-site storage areas must be easily accessible to students and provide adequate security to ensure the safekeeping of the student’s devices. The District will communicate the procedures for storing and retrieving devices, ensuring that students understand their responsibilities in using the on-site storage facilities provided.

Methods for Parents to Contact Students During the School Day

To accommodate necessary communication, parents or persons in parental relation may use the following methods to contact their student during school hours while adhering to this policy:

a)  School Office Phone: Parents or persons in parental relation may call the school’s main office, and the office staff can relay messages to the student or call the student to the office to speak with their parent or person in parental relation. 

b) Classroom Intercom System: In case of an emergency, the school’s main office can use the classroom intercom system to notify students directly or ask them to come to the office.

c) School Messaging Application: Schools may use a secure messaging application or platform where parents or persons in parental relation can send messages to their student in grades 5 – 12. The messages can be monitored and delivered by school staff.

d) Written Notes: Parents or persons in parental relation can drop off written notes at the school’s main office, which can then be delivered to the student by school staff.

Parents and persons in parental relation will be notified in writing of the methods that are available for contacting their student during school hours upon enrollment and at the beginning of each school year.

Student Discipline for Accessing Internet-Enabled Devices During the School Day

The District is prohibited from suspending a student solely for accessing internet-enabled devices in violation of this policy.

Posting and Translation of Policy

The District will post this policy in a clearly visible and accessible location on its website. Translations of the policy into the 12 most common non-English languages spoken by limited-English proficient individuals in the state will be provided upon request by a student or other persons in parental relation to a student.

Reporting and Mitigation Action Plan

Beginning September 1, 2026 and annually thereafter, the District will publish an annual report on its website detailing enforcement of this policy within the District in the prior school year. This report will include non-identifiable demographic data of students who have faced disciplinary action for non-compliance and analysis of any demographic disparities in enforcement of this policy. If a statistically significant disparate enforcement impact is identified, the report will include a mitigation action plan.

Education Law Section 2803
Adopted: 07/16/25

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Code of Conduct and Restorative Supports

The Board of Education of the Greater Johnstown School District is committed to providing a safe and orderly school environment, where students may receive, and District personnel may deliver, quality educational services without disruption or interference. Responsible behavior by students, teachers, administrators, other District personnel, parents, and other visitors is essential to achieving this goal. The District has a long-standing set of expectations for conduct on school property and at school functions. These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, character, tolerance, honesty, and integrity. These expectations are clearly defined in the District’s Code of Conduct. The Code applies to all students, school personnel, parents, and other visitors when on school property or attending a school function. A summary is included at the back of this handbook but, if you would like to read a full copy you may obtain one from the main office of each school building or from the District Central Office. 

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Dignity for All Students Act & Character Education

The Board of Education recognizes that teaching students respect, civility, and understanding toward others, as well as the practice and reinforcement of appropriate behavior and values is an important function of the school system. The district wishes to foster an environment where students exhibit behavior that promotes positive educational practices, allows students to grow academically and socially, and encourages healthy dialogue in respectful ways. By presenting teachers and staff as positive role models, the district stresses positive communication and discourages disrespectful treatment. Through our Character Education Program provided by our school counselor, we will be instructing students on the topics of honesty, tolerance, responsibility, respect, awareness and sensitivity to discrimination and harassment, civility, observance of laws and rules, and courtesy. As part of the DASA policy, the district will investigate all complaints of harassment and discrimination and take prompt corrective measures as necessary. (P-4316)

Acts of discrimination and harassment including bullying, taunting, or intimidation are detrimental to student learning and achievement. Harassment can include, among other things, the use, both on and off school property of information technology, including but not limited to email, instant messaging, blogs, chat rooms, pagers, cell phones, gaming systems, and social media websites to deliberately harass or threaten others. This type of harassment is referred to as cyberbullying. Such behavior affects not only the students who are the target, but also the individuals who participate in and witness such acts. The Dignity Act defines harassment as the creation of a hostile environment by conduct or verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that interfere with a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional, or physical well-being, and conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that reasonably cause or would be expected to cause a student to fear for his or her safety. Bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves real or perceived power imbalance.

The Dignity Act Expects Parents “to help by teaching their children respect and dignity for themselves and other students. Please send your child(ren) to school, ready to learn! Help your child(ren) understand that rules are required to maintain a safe school, be supportive towards education and the District, work with our school to maintain open and respectful communication, help your child(ren) deal effectively with peer pressure, provide a safe place for study where homework assignments can be completed, and lastly, please inform the school if there is a change in your home that may affect your child’s conduct or performance”.  

We Ask Our Teachers to maintain a climate of mutual respect in their classrooms, be familiar with our school policies and rules and enforce them in a fair and consistent manner, communicate to parents and students, confront issues of discrimination and harassment and report incidents to the building administrator or one of the Dignity Act Coordinators. Our Knox Middle School faculty is committed to creating a welcoming, equitable, and respectful climate in every classroom. Teachers actively uphold the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) by setting clear behavioral expectations, intervening promptly in instances of peer conflict or harassment, and reporting concerns to building administrators or DASA coordinators. We will continue to raise awareness among school staff through training and will provide adequate supervision in less structured areas. Students will participate in a character education program offered by Catholic Charities once per week for 12-15 weeks. We will use every available opportunity to lead by example, teach positive behavior choices, and create a positive school climate. 

The Dignity Act Coordinators at Knox Middle School: Mrs. Nicole Panton, Principal, Mrs. Tracy Ringer, Dean of Students, and Mrs. Karyn Watson, School Social Worker. They can be reached at 518-762-3711.

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Devices

Students will be provided a 1:1 device that is to be used for school work. These devices must be brought to school every day the child is on campus. Students are to ensure that their devices are fully charged for their in-person instruction. Students and families must abide by the Technology Agreement guidelines set forth in Board Policy #7314 Student Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).

To help everyone get the most out of their school technology, here are a few things to steer clear of:

  • Using the device for non-school activities – Let’s keep it focused on learning during school hours.
  • Visiting inappropriate websites – Stick to sites that are safe and school-appropriate.
  • Being careless with the device – Accidents can happen, so handle it with care.
  • Adding stickers or decorations – Keep the device clean and school-ready (no stickers, please).
  • Forgetting to charge the device or losing the charger – Bring it to school fully charged and keep track of your charger.
  • Damaging or altering the device on purpose – Treat your device with respect—no rough handling or physical changes.
  • Cyberbullying or inappropriate online behavior – Be kind and respectful online, just like in person.
  • Eating or drinking near the device – Keep food and drinks away to avoid spills and damage.
  • Watching or sharing inappropriate content – Follow the Greater Johnstown School District Code of Conduct at all times.

Chromebook Care & Replacement:

Each student is issued a Chromebook as part of our 1:1 technology program. Students are expected to handle their devices responsibly and keep them in good condition throughout the school year.

Please note: Families will be financially responsible for any Chromebook or accessory that is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond normal wear and tear. The following replacement charges will apply: If a device is damaged or missing, the school will contact the family directly with billing information.

  • Entire Chromebook: $340
  • Chromebook Screen Replacement: $200
  • Chromebook Keyboard Replacement: $200
  • Chromebook Charger: $20

To avoid charges, we encourage students to:

  • Keep Chromebooks in a protective case when not in use
  • Avoid eating or drinking near the device
  • Do NOT put stickers or draw on device
  • Transport Chromebooks carefully, especially in backpacks
  • Report any issues or damage immediately to school staff

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Discipline

Our goal is for discipline to be firm, fair, and consistent. With each incident/referral, the following items are taken into consideration before consequences are assigned – the age of the student, the severity of the incident, disabilities or health concerns of the student, the number of prior referrals, and victims (if any). Students who bring a weapon to school will be automatically suspended for a minimum of three days. Parents will receive either a phone call or notice from the office the day of the referral/incident. Consequences usually build upon one another. Legally, we can only discuss the actions or consequences of a student with their legal parent or guardian.

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Dress Code

Each year many teachers and parents ask us to share our guidelines for appropriate attire for students. We call them guidelines because in most cases, it is a judgment call. By having guidelines in place, it tends to clarify our expectations and it will hopefully help parents to support our position. 

At Knox Middle School, we want all students to feel comfortable, confident, and prepared to engage in learning every day. To ensure a safe, distraction-free environment, clothing guidelines apply equally to all students, regardless of gender identity, body shape, or physical development:

  • Appropriate Coverage & Fit: Clothing must cover private areas and undergarments completely during normal daily activities (sitting, standing, bending, walking).
  • Respectful Imagery & Text: Apparel displaying profane language, violent graphics, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sexual content, or hate speech/discriminatory imagery is strictly prohibited.
  • Footwear & Activity Safety: Safe, closed-toe footwear (such as sneakers) is required for Physical Education and playground activities. Flip-flops and slides are not permitted during active recess periods.

We would ask that you discuss this situation with your child, review what they are wearing to school and make a decision accordingly. We hope that you understand our position and don’t find our guidelines to be intrusive. 

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Emergency Conditions/Closing

In the event of a snow delay or weather emergency, you will be notified via Parent Square. If you are not yet signed up to receive these messages via phone, please call (518) 762-4611. In the event the school practices a fire drill or other emergency drill, the campus will be closed and visitors will not be allowed to enter the school building until each child is accounted for and students and staff have returned to the building. You will be notified of lockout/lockdown drills.

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Food Service & Snack

Breakfast and lunch will be provided to all students at no cost for the 2026-2027 school year.
*If a student would like seconds/doubles their lunch account must have funds available.*

Students are provided with a 40 minute lunch and recess period daily. It is up to the classroom teacher if students are provided with a snack time. Please check with your child’s teacher in regard to what types of snacks/drinks are permitted. Students are permitted to have clear water bottles.

Students who go through the lunch line will be encouraged to take all of the items offered for lunch. They must take 3 of 5 items offered when going through the lunch line; they must take ½ cup of fruit or ½ cup of vegetables or a combination of those two items. This includes condiments and dressings.

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Health and Safety

The following are helpful suggestions to keep your child safe and healthy at school:

Please keep your contact numbers up to date. If your child is ill or has been injured, we need a way to contact you immediately.  You may send in a note to either the Main Office or the Health Office at any time or you may request to stop in personally. Also please keep your child’s medical information current, such as a change in allergies, a new diagnosis, or medication they may be taking. Medication given at school on a long-term basis must have paperwork completed by both you and your child’s physician before given at school.  The medication must be brought in by a parent or parent designee to the Health Office – Please do not send it in with your child. In the event that your child has head lice, please let the nurse know that as well. Our nurse is a good resource to help with both treatments of your child as well as for your home. 

When to Keep Your Child Home

To keep our Knox community healthy, please keep your child home if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  • Fever: A temperature of 100.0°F or higher. Students must be fever-free for a full 24 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning.
  • Vomiting or Diarrhea: Students must be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning.
  • Contagious Infections: If an antibiotic is prescribed (e.g., for Strep Throat or Conjunctivitis), please ensure your child has completed at least 24 hours (typically 3 doses) before returning to school.

Medical Accommodations: If a healthcare provider restricts your child’s physical activity or participation in PE/recess, please deliver a medical note directly to the Health Office. Without official documentation, full participation is expected.

Few conditions seem to cause as much concern in schools and homes as an infestation of head lice in children. Recent medical recommendations from both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) do not treat head lice as an illness that necessitates an absence from school and have shown that the contagion does not spread as easily as once thought. In order to control infestations of head lice (Pediculosis), the Board of Education has adopted the following protocols:

  1. Whenever there is a possibility that a student is infested, staff will contact the student’s parents. An infested student will not return to school unless corrective treatment has been given and the student is free of active lice. Current treatment protocols make this possible in less than twenty-four (24) hours. Parents may be asked to have a physician prescribe medication for treatment.
  2. A student who has been infested will be readmitted to school after successfully completing an examination by the nurse.
  3. School staff will work with parents to minimize student absence caused by exposure to head lice. An infested student is not sick and is not a danger to other students. Excessive and unnecessary absences affect a student’s educational progress.
  4. School staff will protect student privacy and maintain confidentiality of medical information when infestations are detected.
  5. School staff will also work to minimize the social stigma that is unfairly attached to victims of head lice infestations. Head lice are not caused by poverty or unsanitary conditions.
  6. Students will not be separated from their peers or singled out as infected. All staff will learn proper precautions to prevent further spread of the infestation. Regulations will be developed to provide guidelines on the detection and treatment of head lice, as well as classroom procedures for dealing with affected students. (BOE policy 7515)

Telemedicine

The District is partnering with Albany Med Health System EmUrgentCare to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare directly to our students and staff without leaving the school premises.  

Common conditions that can be evaluated via telehealth

  • sore throat, ear pain, pink eye/general eye complaints
  • concussion, headache, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, menstrual cramps
  • fever, cold symptoms, asthma flare-ups
  • seasonal allergies, sinus infections, upper respiratory infections
  • dental pain
  • cuts and wounds evaluations
  • skin rash, impetigo, scabies
  • prescription refills
  • triage consultation

Registration must be complete for staff or students to be eligible to receive care through the program during the school day. Here’s the link to register online. 

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Lead in School Drinking Water

Please pay careful attention to the signage posted for all water outlets in the district to determine which ones are safe for drinking and cooking purposes.

hands being washed under a faucet with a check mark and a water bottle under a faucet with a do not use mark over it

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Prohibited Items: Liquid-Filled Fidget Toys & Squishies

To maintain a safe and clean learning environment, liquid-filled, gel-filled, or soft squishy fidget toys (such as Nee-Dohs, water-bead dumplings, or foam/gel squishies) are not permitted at school.

Why these items are not allowed:

  • Mess & Health Hazards: These items break easily under standard play, spilling gel or liquid that can irritate skin, stain clothes, or cause chemical sensitivity.
  • Safety Concerns: Unregulated or knockoff materials may contain unsafe chemical compounds if exposed.
  • Choking & Ingestion Risks: Small or tearing pieces pose a choking hazard for younger students.

Please ensure your child leaves these items at home. Solid, dry sensory tools (like pop-its, smooth fidget rings, or stress balls without gel/liquid centers) are great alternatives if approved.

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Homework Policy

Homework is assigned to practice and reinforce skills learned in class, encourage responsibility, and build strong study habits. Depending on your child’s grade level and subject area, the time required, format, and frequency of homework will vary.

To help your child stay organized and succeed, we ask families to review assignments together each evening using the following tools:

  • Personal Student Agendas: Students are expected to write down daily homework assignments, upcoming test dates, and project deadlines in their agenda during each class period.
  • Google Classroom: Teachers use Google Classroom to post assignment details, digital resources, due dates, and announcements. Families can review posted classwork and completed tasks alongside their student.
  • Purple Communication Folder: Please check your child’s folder daily for physical assignments, returned work, and notes sent home from school.

Incomplete Assignments:

Completing homework on time is essential for student success and staying on track with class learning. If a student fails to complete assigned homework, they may be assigned a teacher detention, which can be served during their lunch period or after school at the teacher’s discretion.

We encourage families to contact their child’s teachers directly if they have questions regarding specific classroom homework expectations or routines.

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iReady Assessments

The iReady Math Assessment is given to all students at least three times per year. The assessment is a computer-adapted test designed to give us accurate, reliable, and valid data so teachers can make good decisions about instruction and interventions. Parent reports will be provided to you at fall conferences in order to inform you of your child’s progress. If your child receives extra help in Academic Intervention Services (AIS), their progress will be monitored periodically using the iReady Assessment. Although the iReady Assessment gives us valid data, we, as educators, realize that not one single data point should drive instructional decisions. In addition to the iReady assessments, we are taking into consideration your child’s classroom progress, the outcomes of classroom assessments, and the use of other informal/formal assessments in order to provide the highest quality instruction to your child.

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PTSA

We welcome parent involvement in our classrooms and at school events. The PTA brings many wonderful programs and opportunities for our students. PTSA meeting dates and officers are listed on the PTSA page. If you would like to become involved in the PTA, please call the main office at (518) 762-3711.

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Open House

Thursday, October 22, 2026 @ 5:30-6:30pm

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Parent-Teacher Conferences

At Knox Middle School, we believe that open, ongoing communication between families and teachers is essential to student success.

Please note that there will not be a designated, school-wide Parent-Teacher Conference Day this school year. Instead, we encourage flexible, continuous collaboration throughout the entire school year:

  • Family-Requested Meetings: Families are always welcome to request a meeting with teachers or grade-level teams at any point during the year to discuss your child’s academic, behavioral, or social-emotional progress.
  • Teacher-Requested Meetings: In some cases, teachers may reach out directly to schedule a meeting with families to discuss a student’s progress, celebrate growth, or partner together on extra support.

How to Request a Meeting:

You can arrange a conference at any time by contacting your child’s teacher directly via ParentSquare, email, or by calling the Knox main office at 518-762-3711.

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Playground & Recess Rules

  • The playground is closed to the general public during school hours. All other 
  • times, play at your own risk, as supervision will not be provided.
  • For the safety of all of our students, there are no dogs/pets allowed on the playground or on school property- this includes during arrival and dismissal. 
  • Each student will have a 30 minute Lunch/recess period 
  • Supervision will be provided by classroom teachers, teaching assistants and/or aides during the lunch and recess period. 
  • In case of injuries on the playground, the child will be sent to the nurse’s office. 
  • In the winter, students need to be prepared to go outside with a coat, hat, mittens, and boots. 
  • Students are not permitted on the playground equipment with flip flops. Please send sneakers!
  • There is no skateboarding or biking allowed on the playground at any time.
  • Listening to and following the playground supervisor’s directions are very important. When exiting the building students should walk and act appropriately. They should use language that is appropriate for school.
  • In accordance with the Greater Johnstown School District’s Internet-Enabled Device Policy, all personal electronics (including smartphones, smartwatches, gaming devices, tablets, and personal audio players) must remain powered off and stored in student lockers during the entire school day, including lunch and recess. 
  • Personal toys, gaming equipment, or collectables from home should not be brought to school or onto the playground. Knox Middle School is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings. 
  • Students will not be allowed to chew gum, or have food and drink (other than water) on the playground for safety reasons. 
  • Students are not permitted to leave the playground without the supervisor’s permission.
  • Prohibited Recess Activities Include; hardballs, bats, pushing/shoving, running when exiting the building, kicking, tripping, spitting, name calling, climbing up the slide, throwing rocks/sand/snow/ice, swearing, etc. 

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State Tests (Grades 3-8)

The NYS tests are designed to measure how well students have mastered the NYS Common Core Curriculum and necessary grade level skills, and also to monitor the effectiveness of instructional programs. Please make every effort to have your child attend school on testing dates.

The results of these tests are extremely important for our teachers and for our school. Parents will receive a parent report from NYS in early fall, indicating what level (1-4) your child scored.

*We will be taking computer-based exams again this year.

Grade 5-7ELA TestApril 28-29, 2027
Grade 5-7Math TestMay 5-6, 2027
Grade 58Science TestApril 23, 2027

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Transportation

It is our job at 2:30 p.m. daily to be sure that students dismiss safely from this building. If you need to make a change to your child’s normal dismissal schedule- please make every effort to call us by 12 p.m. You must call the office. We will notify the teacher and those responsible for dismissal of students. Teachers will not release a child to anyone without authorization from the office. Children being picked up must be dismissed by office personnel from the office- NOT from the classroom. Students are not allowed to be signed out from classrooms. Our procedures are designed to protect all of our students and although nothing is foolproof, it does provide an orderly procedure that may prevent an unfortunate incident from happening. For the safety of all children, we ask for your cooperation in this matter.  If you need to make a transportation change, please fill out a transportation form you can obtain from the main office or you can print one from our website. Transportation changes may take up to 2 weeks to process and to be in effect.

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Volunteering & Visitors

All visitors must have prior approval from the principal and be approved through the Raptor System.

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Grading

Students in Grades 5–7 will receive numerical grades on their report cards. This year, families will have the opportunity to monitor student progress and grades throughout the school year.

Families with access to SchoolTool’s ParentPortal can log in at any time to view up-to-date grades and assignments. Report cards are distributed at the end of each quarter.

Please refer to the schedule below for Progress Report and Report Card dates.

Progress Reports & Report Cards (Start/End Dates)

Quarter 1- September 2, 2026 – November 14, 2026

  • Progress Report Released:  October 9, 2026
  • Report Card Released:  November 15, 2026

Quarter 2- November 15, 2026 – January 30, 2027

  • Progress Report Released: December 18, 2026
  • Report Card Released:  February 5, 2027

Quarter 3- January 31, 2027 – April 10, 2027

  • Progress Report Released: March 12, 2027
  • Report Card Released:  April 16, 2027

Quarter 4- April 11, 2027 – June 26, 2027

  • Progress Report Released:  May 14, 2027
  • Report Card Released:  June 26, 2027

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Questions

The unvoiced problem cannot be solved. If you have a concern or question, please call us! Please contact your child’s teacher first if you have a classroom concern; otherwise contact the main office or the health office.

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Resources

Mental Health Association in Fulton & Montgomery Counties
Phone: (518) 762-5332

Family Counseling Center
Phone: (518) 725-4310

Mountain Valley Hospice
Phone: (518) 725-4545

St. Mary’s Mental Health Children’s Clinic
Phone: (518) 843-7520

Four Winds Saratoga
Phone: (518) 584-3600, 1-800-888-5448
Admissions 1-800-959-1287 (518) 843-7520

Catholic Charities – (Fulton/Montgomery) Johnstown
Phone: (518) 762-8313

Fulton County Department of Social Services
Phone: (518) 736-5600

Lexington Family Service
Phone: (518) 773-2014

Public Health
Phone: (518) 736-5720

Youth Bureau
Phone: (518) 736-5505

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Knox Middle School Links

Knox Middle School

400 South Perry St.
Johnstown, NY 12095
Phone: (518) 762-3711
Fax: (518) 762-2775
Principal: Nicole Panton