Dear Longhorn Family,

I hope this message finds you well. As we move forward in the school year, I want to emphasize the importance of our scholars being prepared daily, ready to learn, and maintaining a resilient attitude. Success starts with having the right mindset, coming to school equipped with the materials they need, and being open to learning and growth every day.

Equally important is upholding the behavior expectations we’ve set for the campus. A positive learning environment begins with respect for one another, and we must all do our part to ensure Bessie Coleman remains a place where everyone feels safe and supported. I want to remind our scholars and families about our campus initiative focused on resolving conflicts in a respectful and constructive manner. Teaching our scholars to address disagreements with maturity and understanding is critical for their development, both in and out of the classroom.

Every scholar has value and contributes to the overall success and spirit of our school. We must recognize that inclusivity and empathy are essential as we interact with others. Our differences make us stronger, and it is important that we work together to understand and appreciate one another’s perspectives.

By preparing, showing resilience, and working to build a more inclusive and understanding campus culture, we are creating a place where every scholar can thrive. I encourage you to have conversations at home about the importance of these values and to reinforce the critical role your scholar plays in shaping our school community.

Key Reminders:

• AVID Binders: Scholars should bring their AVID binders daily to stay organized and on top of their assignments.
• Punctuality and Attendance: Ensure your scholar is at school on time and ready to learn.
• Goal Setting: Scholars will be setting academic and personal goals over the next two weeks.
• Parent-Teacher Conferences: Conferences will take place during CHISD Homecoming week. Reach out to teachers early if they are also coaches.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in this journey. Let’s keep our foot on the gas and work together to ensure that our scholars are equipped for success both academically and socially.

Best regards,

Dwight A. Perry Jr.
Principal
Bessie Coleman Middle School

Parents, please pay careful attention to the information below. We need your support to ensure that we have a secure and safe environment. Please review all of the information provided.

Arrival

Please find the details regarding arrival and dismissal. LINK

Start and end times: The building will open up at 8:15 am.

Please review the LINK for detailed directions for our scholars regarding morning expectations.

Videos for arrival and dismissal

Part 1

Part 2

General Arrival Reminder

The front of the building has been assigned bus and daycare transportation only. At 8:00 a.m., the front entrance will be shut down and we will only allow buses and daycare to drop off. All walkers should report to door 14 and all car riders will report to door 14. We also ask that we do not drop off prior to 8:15 a.m.

We do not provide supervision before 8:15 a.m. and it is imperative that all scholars are properly supervised at all times. If any incident transpires on campus grounds during those times, we will adhere strictly to the student code of conduct. Please ensure that we have proper supervision at all times.

Dismissal

Dismissal is a top priority for our school this year. To ensure a safe and efficient dismissal for all students, we’ve implemented a staggered dismissal process. Please watch the videos at the bottom of this section for detailed instructions. Your cooperation in following these procedures will help us maintain a smooth and secure exit from campus each day.

Change to our Dismissal Process (updated 9/18/24)

As a response to teacher and parent feedback, we have made a slight adjustment to our dismissal procedure. We have implemented the new adjustment this week and have found it to be very successful. We will continue to make minor adjustments until we maximize our efficiency.

All scholars will be dismissed from their classrooms and released at the sound of the bell.

Early Pick up Cut of time

Our campus times for scholar early pick-up are 3:45 p.m. All scholars will need to be picked up before 3:45 p.m. for early dismissal. If you arrive at the school for early dismissal after 3:45 p.m., we will ask that you wait until dismissal to pick up your scholar. Your cooperation is appreciated.

If we are running a pep rally schedule, that time for early dismissal will be 2:45 pm.

Dress Code

To ensure a successful school year, we expect all middle school students to adhere to our dress code. Appropriate attire includes black, red, or white tops, khaki or black bottoms, and closed-toe shoes. Jeans are permitted only on Fridays and must be free of holes, rips, or tears. Sandals, crocs, and similar footwear are not allowed during school hours. We understand that accidental dress code violations may occur, and we will address these issues with a positive and supportive approach. However, repeated noncompliance may result in disciplinary action.

We encourage parents to partner with us in upholding our dress code expectations. Please review the district's dress code policy for a comprehensive list of guidelines (available at www.chisd.net under the "Student" tab). By working together, we can create a positive and focused learning environment for all students. A consistent dress code fosters a sense of community and allows students to focus on their studies rather than worrying about clothing choices.

Bookbags

As a reminder, our district has implemented a bookbag policy to enhance campus safety. Effective August 19th, any bookbag that does not comply with district guidelines will be confiscated and returned to a parent or guardian only.

For specific details regarding our safety and security procedures, please refer to the student code of conduct.

ID Badges

We will distribute all IDs by the end of the first week. If a scholar did not receive an ID, our librarian has already printed them but they did not receive it during the distribution time. Those scholars who did not receive their badge should report to the ID station in the morning for their badge. ALL scholars are required to have a district-issued ID properly displayed at all times.

Fees for IDs are listed below.

Temp ID - $1 each

Lanyard - $1 each

ID Case - $1 each

Badge Replacement/Lost - $5

Bell Schedule

The 2024-2025 bell schedule can be viewed here. Scholars will be responsible for arriving at all classes on time. We have a 4-minute passing period and have the expectation that all scholars arrive to class on time daily. Please ensure that you have spoken with your scholars on the importance of walking efficiently through the hallways.

Electronic devices

Any scholar using their electronic devices will be addressed and the device confiscated. The cost associated with retrieving that device is $15 and the parent or guardian must come to the school to sign for the device. The time window for picking up all electronic devices is 4:15 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. A different time can be arranged by the administration team for those who have circumstances that might prevent them from picking up during those times. That decision is determined by a committee and is case by case with final approval from the principal. Parents, please speak with your child about the importance of focused time in school and being fully present.

Communications

Bessie Coleman MS uses School Messenger in Skyward to send information (email messages) to Bessie Coleman students, parents, and staff- including a link to our weekly newsletter. Additionally, we use Blackboard (text messages and the CHISD APP) as an additional layer of communication. We conduct callouts, text messages, and CHISD APP updates through Blackboard as well. As the school year begins, CHISD opts all parents and guardians back into the system so that you will receive the most current information from both Bessie Coleman and CHISD. Anyone can opt out of the service at any time. Opting out will prevent you from receiving messages from the campus and CHISD.

Skyward Family Portal

Skyward Student Portal

We are also very aware that our transition back to a structured environment is going to be a process. We will fully implement all disciplinary consequences for non-compliance on August 19, 2024.

Behaviors

We’ve initiated discussions about creating a positive school culture, and student behavior emerged as a key focus. We’ve outlined expectations for hallways, classrooms, the lunchroom, and overall campus conduct.

To simplify our approach, we’ve identified two core rules aligned with our Longhorn Essentials:

LE #1 Respond appropriately to adults.

LE #6 Follow campus protocols, even with substitute teachers.

Our students have demonstrated a strong understanding of these expectations through class discussions. Together, we will create and sign social contracts that will be prominently displayed throughout the school.

We believe that by setting clear expectations and holding ourselves accountable, we can transform our school into an exceptional learning environment.

Parent Visitation During school operating hours

We are committed to strengthening the partnership between home and school. To that end, we aim to increase parental involvement beyond traditional events like athletic contests, performances, and instructional nights.

We are excited to announce that we will be opening our school doors to parents during the school day. To ensure a smooth transition, we will finalize internal procedures by the end of the first marking period. Once established, we will invite parents to join us for culture walks, classroom observations, and lunchroom visits.

To facilitate your involvement, we encourage you to sign up for our VOLY system. Please remember to adhere to district visitor guidelines. We look forward to collaborating with you to create a thriving school community.

District guidelines LINK. Campus guidelines LINK

Regular Reminders for all scholars

1. Dress Code: Please adhere to the school's dress code guidelines. A neat and appropriate appearance contributes to a positive learning environment.

2. Electronic Communications: Be mindful of electronic communication etiquette. Use digital platforms responsibly and in accordance with school policies.

3. Daily Preparedness: Ensure that your scholar is prepared for each day. This includes having a fully charged Chromebook ready for use. Preparedness sets the stage for effective learning.

4. Behavior Expectations: Follow our district's expectations for behavior. Respect, kindness, and a positive attitude create a conducive learning atmosphere for everyone.

5. Academic Progress: Let's push toward the finish line for academic success. Encourage your scholar to stay focused, complete assignments on time, and seek help when needed.

6. Clear or mesh book bags: Let's ensure that we support the school by supplying our children with the needed supplies. They must have a clear or mesh book bag. Please reference prior emails sent regarding this expectation.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to the success of our scholars. Together, we can make this semester a rewarding and productive experience.

Recently, there have been concerning social media posts circulating from other schools. Please rest assured that at Bessie Coleman Middle School, the safety and security of our scholars remain our top priority. We are committed to maintaining a secure environment where every child feels safe both physically and mentally. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that all students return home safe and sound each day. We appreciate your trust and partnership as we continue to monitor and address any concerns with a laser focus on the well-being of our school community.

• 9/15/24 - 10/15/24 - Hispanic Heritage Month
• 9/30/24 - Lifetouch Picture Day (Fall Pictures must have appropriate school uniform on)
• 9/30/24 - 10/4/24 - Hispanic Heritage Dress Up Week
• 10/2/24 - On The Boarder Fundraiser - Come out and enjoy a night of Mexican Cuisine.
• 10/7/24 - 10/11/24 - CHISD Homecoming Week
• 10/7/24 - Combined Choir Concert
• 10/9/24 - Homecoming Parade - 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm - 1 Longhorn BLVD, Cedar Hill Tx. 75105

Message from our Technology Department

We're excited to offer an exclusive Chromebook Insurance Plan for all our students this school year. This opportunity provides comprehensive coverage for your child's Chromebook, ensuring they can continue learning with minimal disruption, even if their device is damaged. Here’s why you should consider this valuable protection:

Coverage Details:

• No Charge on the first instance of damage.
• Extensive protection against mechanical malfunctions, Wi-Fi failure, and even theft or natural disasters.
• Low-cost replacements and repairs for repeated incidents.

For only $23, the insurance covers various damages including cracked screens, liquid spills, power surges, and more. Without insurance, the costs can quickly add up — up to $275 for significant damages or loss.

Savings Example:

• First break or total loss: $0 with insurance (vs. $60 without)
• Second incident: $0 with insurance (vs. $50 without)
• Third incident and more: Starting at $25 with insurance

Important Note:

• Chromebook chargers are not covered under this plan.

How to Purchase:

1. Visit MyPaymentsPlus.com
2. Log into your child’s account.
3. Select "Chromebook Insurance."
4. Pay the $23 fee.

Once completed, your child is insured for the entire school year. Don't miss out on this essential coverage — ensure your child's Chromebook is protected!

For more information and further assistance, please visit our website at www.chisd.net.

Act now and secure peace of mind knowing your child’s Chromebook is protected against unforeseen damages!

Link for insurance - https://www.chisd.net/services/technology/resources

Click on "Student Chromebook Insurance Plan"

PTSA:

We are excited about our PTSA starting back up. Please take a moment to sign up!

Information on how to sign up with be forthcoming.

All Pro Dads:

Our All Pro Dads organization is going strong and ready to move forward this year. Our President is Mr. Mays and our chapter leader is Mr. Tony Buchanan. Please take a moment to reach out to her via email at chisdapd@gmail.com.

Below you will find a few nuggets regarding our operational expectations. More will be added as the school year progresses. We thank you for your partnership and look forward to an amazing year.

Dress code

Our CHISD dress code is as follows:

Red, white, or black collared shirts, and black or khaki pants. Jeans cannot be worn Monday - Thursday.

On Fridays, we are allowed to wear jeans with either a spirit shirt, school uniform shirt, or College Shirt. Please visit the CHISD website for detailed information regarding the dress code. https://www.chisd.net/domain/1557

We understand certain individualized circumstances, however, Bessie Coleman's top priority is to educate the whole child. We will keep that focus this year as we make intentional changes toward full compliance.

IDs and Temporary IDs

ID distribution will be fully completed by September 2nd. It is our campus expectation that IDs are around the scholar's necks. This implies that we must have our IDs on at all times during the instructional day. Identification truly helps us properly identify our scholars during the day. The ID policy will be strictly enforced on September 5th. We have a process to ensure that every scholar has an ID (or temporary ID) at all times. After 2nd period, all scholars will be expected to have their IDs on and visible. Temporary IDs will be available for purchase through 2nd period. Temporary IDs will cost $1. If a scholar is caught without an ID after 2nd period, they can face disciplinary consequences for being out of compliance. Please speak with your child about keeping their IDs out and around their necks. Many of our scholars want to keep their IDs in their pockets, in their book bags, or under their hoodies. All staff have been directed to request that all IDs be properly displayed.

Absences

We will adhere to the district and Texas' policy for absences. Truancy prevention measures will be in full effect this year. Good attendance has a direct correlation to positive academic outcomes. Although there are many contributing factors to successful academic outcomes, being at school is the true foundation for that. It is difficult to pour into scholars academically and socially/emotionally when they are present. We will do our very best to ensure that we have a safe, orderly, and welcoming environment filled with fun activities to balance the academic rigor this school year. And we look forward to your collaboration in the process.

Tardy Policy

We will begin issuing tardies the week of September 2nd. It is imperative that we arrive at every class on time. This building is rather large but we have demonstrated that we can move from the furthest locations within a three-minute time period. Please reinforce with our children to "walk and talk" with their friends. We know that school is made to be social but we are a learning establishment. Arriving at class on time is vital to increasing academic outcomes.

One of our campus-wide routines is related to hallway expectations. It is a requirement that all of our teachers should stand at the entry door to their classrooms to greet scholars during passing periods.

Once the passing period has expired:

• Teachers will close and lock entry doors.

• Scholars will report to their designated tardy station location.

• An administrator or designee will issue the scholar a tardy pass.

• Scholars will report individually to the designated period listed on the tardy pass.

Consequences

Tardy Pass (by period and our tardy station will be tracking this daily)

Parent Email and Phone Calls

Conference with Admin

After School detention - 30-60 minutes

Detention entered into Skyward

Saturday Detention

In School Suspension

Behavior Contract

*Scholars tardy count will be reset at the end of every six weeks

Dwight Perry, Principal

dwight.perry@chisd.net

Counselor Brittani Griffin

8th Grade & 6th Grade A - L

Brittani.Griffin@chisd.net

Dr. Rudy Mendoza, Assistant Principal

8th Grade & 6th Grade A-L

Rudy.Mendoza@chisd.net

Counselor Ryann Campbell

7th Grade & 6th Grade M - Z

ryann.campbell@chisd.net

Tashara Tuck, Assistant Principal

7th Grade & 6th Grade M-Z

Tashara.Tuck@chisd.net

STAAR Information for all parents.

Need to know your scholar's STAAR Scores? Use the following steps to see them.

• Sign into Skyward

• View to banner on the left side of the screen

• Click on Portfolio

• Click on the TSDS ID link

• 10 digit code will be provided

• Go to Texas Assessment.gov

• https://www.texasassessment.gov

• Scroll down to Information and Support

• Click on “How do I look up my access code”?

• Type in the 10-digit TSDS ID number as well as the other required information about the scholar and push search

• An access code will be generated, click log in

• Type in the required information and proceed with reviewing your scholar’s scores

Parties wishing to contact an administrator regarding a specific teacher or student are encouraged to resolve the matter by following the steps below:

Step One: Contact the teacher and have a meeting/phone conference

Step Two: Contact the appropriate administrator:

8th Grade: Dr. Mendoza for discipline concerns

7th Grade: Ms. Tuck for discipline concerns

6th Grade: Dr. Mendoza for last name Alpha A - L for discipline concerns

Ms. Tuck for last name Alpha M - Z for discipline concerns

Grade Level Counselor (schedule/grades/mental health/academic advisement)

Step Three: Contact the Building Principal (if a school-wide concern, this becomes step one)

Website: www.chisd.net/bessiecoleman
Location: 1208 East Pleasant Run Road, Cedar Hill, TX, USA
Phone: 9722934505
Twitter: @bessiecolemanMS