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DETROIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL COMMUNITY HANDBOOK The Community Handbook contains information for Grades PK3 through 12 in one document and presents a continuum of information, opportunities, and expectations for your family’s Detroit Country Day School experience. Throughout the handbook, you will find helpful links to further detailed information on specific subjects, e.g. ordering textbooks and uniforms, website portal system, athletic and club offerings, and online forms. Richard Dempsey Head of School PK3 - Grade 12 RDempsey@dcds.edu

Teneka Singleton Assistant Head of School Director of the Upper School Grades 9 -12 TSingleton@dcds.edu Peter Gordon Director of the Middle School Grades 4 - 8 PGordon@dcds. edu Jennifer Pitcher Director of the Lower School PK3 - Grade 3 JPitcher@dcds.edu

DETROIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOLwww.dcds.edu Lower School – Grades Pk3-Grade 3 3003 West Maple Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301-3468 Phone: (248) 430-2740 (248) 430-2887 Middle School – Grades 4-8 22400 Hillview Lane Beverly Hills, MI 48025-4824 Phone: (248) 430-1677 (248) 646-7985 Fax: (248) 646-3459 Upper School – Grades 9-12 22305 West Thirteen Mile Road Beverly Hills, MI 48025-4435 Phone: (248) 646-7717 Fax: (248) 646-2458 HEAD OF SCHOOL AND OPERATIONAL OFFICES (Business Office, Advancement Office, Safety, Security, and Facilities Offices) 22305 West Thirteen Mile Road Beverly Hills, MI 48025-4435 Phone: (248) 646-7717 Fax: (248) 646-2458

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ABOUT DCDS MISSION

10 10

VALUES

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

MOTTO MASCOT COLORS ALMA MATER FIGHT SONG LOWER SCHOOL SONG PHILOSOPHY HISTORY PORTRAIT OF A DETROIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL STUDENT CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT Honor System A Commitment to Character LOWER SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL UPPER SCHOOL LOWER SCHOOL ACADEMIC HOURS School Hours PK Hours Office Hours ACTIVITIES

11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 13 13 13 14 14 15 15 17 17 17 17 17 17

ASSEMBLIES

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL Dismissal Procedures ASSESSMENTS and TESTING ATHLETICS ATTENDANCE Tardy Sign-Out Requests SCHOOL NURSE BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS Early Risers - Lower School Beyond The Bell Program – Lower School PM Enrichment Classes – (Grades 1 through 3) Junior Jackets Sports Program – (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6) Violin Classes Detroit Metropolitan Dance BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS OVERVIEW CONSEQUENCES ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY BUS RULES

17 17 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 21 21 22

CELL PHONES/INTERNET WEARABLES CLASS PERIODS FIELD TRIPS HEALTH Health Appraisal and Emergency Medical and Transportation Release Immunization Requirements Medication Infirmary FOOD ALLERGIES HOMEROOM HOMEWORK AND ASSIGNMENTS, REQUIRED SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS LUNCH KEEPING INFORMED MOVING UP PARENT CONFERENCES PERSONAL PROPERTY SAFETY AND SECURITY Student use of certain areas of the buildings and campuses are restricted as follows: Student Safety TECHNOLOGY BUILDING SECURITY TEXTBOOKS TRANSPORTATION (BUS) SERVICE UNIFORMS and DRESS CODE Purchasing School Uniforms Lower School Uniforms Mandatory Color Day Attire Lower and School Outerwear Casual Days Additional Information GRADING / REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS Goal Grading Periods MIDDLE SCHOOL OUR HOUSE COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS CODE OF PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CONDUCT Community Tenets and Expectations ATTENDANCE Absences Pre-arranged Absences Extended or Repeated Absences After-School Participation Early Dismissal Bus Attendance DISCIPLINE PROCESS Tardy Policies- A tardy is when you are late to school and/or late for class Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Hazing ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY

22 22 22 23 23 23 23 23 23 24 24 24 25 25 25 25 26 26 26 26 26 27 27 27 27 27 27 27 28 28 28 28 28 29 29 30 31 32 32 32 32 33 33 33 33 35 36 36

Academic Integrity Policy Procedures Warning/Reflection Detentions In-School Suspension Suspensions Probation Lying and False Charges Backpack Policy Bus Rules Destruction of Property Fighting and Aggressive Behavior Gambling Gum Chewing Intoxicants, Vape, and Drugs Leaving Campus Lockers (Hall and Gym) Medications Food Personal Property Student Restricted Areas Theft Threats Unauthorized Possessions and Other Considerations ACADEMIC HOURS/DAILY OPERATIONS Academic Hours F.L.E.X. (Featured Learning Experiences) Period Advisory - Grades 4 & 5 Advisory - Grades 6-8 Lunch Tutorials Office Hours Dismissal Procedures Afternoon dismissal times are as follows ACADEMICS Curriculum Summer Reading/Homework The Flint Library (MS Library) Homework Homework and Assignments Policy Testing Testing Policy Academic Accommodations Holidays and Extended Vacations: Special Homework and Testing Policies Final Exams Grading Incomplete Goal Grades Communicating Academic Progress AWARDS AND HONORS

37 37 37 38 38 38 39 39 39 40 40 40 40 40 40 41 41 41 41 42 42 42 42 42 42 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 44 44 44 44 44 44 45 45 45 46 46 46 46 47 47 47

Recognition Assemblies National Junior Honor Society, Shaw Chapter Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony Speakers Grade 8 Heart and “Ksoll” Community Service Award Grade 8 Lisa Knaup Friendship Award “Corpore Sano” Elite Achiever Award Cynthia Goldberg Cup Award Other Awards Honor Rolls - 7th and 8th grade Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL MEDIA Cell Phone Use Chromebook Use Wearable Technology Technology Responsible Use Policy

Consequences for students not adhering to the Technology Responsible Use Policy

47 47 47 47 47 48 48 48 48 49 49 49 49 50 50

SOCIAL MEDIA - RESPONSIBLE USE POLICIES AND GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS 52 DCDS Guidelines for Posting at School Functions 53 MIDDLE SCHOOL UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE 54 Physical Education Class Uniform (6th - 8th Grades)--Please note that 4th and 5th grade will not change for PE. 56 Consequences of Physical Education Dress Code Violations Casual Days Grooming Additional Information ACTIVITIES Beyond The Bell Program PM Enrichment Classes – (Grades 4 & 5) Junior Jackets Sports Program – (Grades 4-6) Band, Choir, & Orchestra Classes (Grade 4 & 5) Clubs (Grades 6-8) Class Board Committee (Grades 6-8) School Social Activities and Class Advisors Field Trips Fundraising ATHLETIC PROGRAM MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETIC ATTENDANCE POLICY MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Student ID Cards Lockdown, Fire and Tornado Drills Emergency Situations Infirmary Physical Examinations Immunization Requirements

Emergency and Medication Forms UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMIC HOURS

57 57 57 57 57 57 58 58 58 58 58 58 58 59 59 59 60 60 60 60 60 61 61

61 62 62

Upper School Attendance Policy Tardiness Attendance Policy AFTER-SCHOOL PARTICIPATION CODE OF PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CONDUCT Community Values and Expectations EXCELLENCE COMMUNITY RESPECT INTEGRITY GROWTH Discipline Process

62 63 63 64 65 65 65 65 66 66 66 67

Repeat Offenses

Disciplinary Probation Intoxicants and Drugs

68 68

Dances

Sexual Harassment Weapons Prohibited Items Detentions Suspension Retaliation Policy Disciplinary Review Board (DRB) ADVISOR-ADVISEE PROGRAM Advisory Group Functions MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Leaving Campus Lunch Spectator Conduct Field Trips Daily Schedule Clubs Assemblies U/S ACADEMICS MINIMUM ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION CREDIT HOUR REQUIREMENTS ADDING/DROPPING A COURSE *WITHDRAWAL POLICY FOR A COURSE DAILY PRACTICE/HOMEWORK ASSESSMENTS ASSIGNMENT PLANNING SUMMER READING/ASSIGNMENTS ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATION POLICY ABSENCES: HOMEWORK AND ASSESSMENT POLICIES GRADING

68 69 69 69 69 69 69 70 70 70 70 71 71 72 72 72 73 73 73 73 74 74 75 75 75 76 76 76 77

GRADE REPORTS AND TRANSCRIPTS Transcripts and Grade Calculation:

77 78

INCOMPLETE ACADEMIC WORK

Individual departments will provide specific late-work guidelines at the start of each course. Please review the Absence policy related to homework and assessment.

WEIGHTED GPA POLICY ACADEMIC POLICY FOR RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCES EXAMINATIONS/FINAL PROJECTS Discipline During Examination Weeks

79 80 80 81

Final Exam/Project Policy during MHSAA State playoffs

SENIOR FINAL EXAMINATIONS AND TERM 2 PROCEDURES

STUDY HALLS

TUTORIAL HELP HONOR ROLLS ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY Detroit Country Day Honor Code ACADEMIC DISHONESTY Article I: Pledges Article II: Violations Article III: The Honor Council Article IV: Processing of Honor Violations Article V: Graduated Penalty System Article VI: Amendments ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

82 83 83 83 83 83 83 84 84 84 85 85

OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL AWARDS

THE CUM LAUDE SOCIETY COMMENCEMENT AWARDS LIBRARY MISSION POINT SYSTEM Requirements Gold Point Activities White Point Activities Requirements by grade: Service Activity Suggestions: CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES CLASS ORGANIZATION FUND RAISING UPPER SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL (USSC) JUNIOR AND SENIOR PRIVILEGES Junior-Senior Commons Room Senior Privileges GRADUATION Special Academic Policies Senior Project DRESS CODE Official School Uniform Spirit Friday Casual Dress Additional Notes

85 86 88 89 89 89 89 90 90 90 90 91 91 91 91 91 92 92 92 93 93 93 94 94

AUTOMOBILES BULLYING, CYBER BULLYING, RECORDING, AND HAZING CELL PHONE AND HEADPHONE POLICY TECHNOLOGY RESPONSIBLE USE POLICY Social Media Best Practices for Personal Accounts Policies for Personal Accounts Policies for Team / Official - Brand / Sub-Brand Accounts Policies for All Accounts (Personal, Official, Sub Brand, Team) DCDS Guidelines for Posting at School Functions DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY AND VANDALISM ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS LOCKERS MEDICATIONS HEALTH CLINIC PARKING PERSONAL PROPERTY RESPECT FOR FACULTY AND STAFF RESTRICTED AREAS ATHLETIC PROGRAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL ATHLETIC HANDBOOK INTRODUCTION MISSION CORE VALUES PARTICIPATION ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT FOR ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION ABSENCES AND INJURIES COMMUNICATION VARSITY LETTERS UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT SEASON TIMEFRAMES TEAM CAPTAINS TRANSPORTATION DIRECTIONS ADMISSION CHARGES TRAVEL AND BANQUET DRESS

94 95 95 96 97 98 98 98 99 99 101 101 101 101 102 102 102 102 102 103 103 103 103 104 104 105 105 105 106 107 107 107 107 107 108

ABOUT DCDS MISSION Detroit Country Day School develops citizens and leaders of the world in a culturally diverse environment of academic rigor, competitive athletics, and artistic expression, built on a foundation of service and character.

VALUES EXCELLENCE II We believe in excellence in every pursuit. II We strive to be the best version of ourselves and inspire others to do the same. II We uphold the highest standards of scholarship, sportsmanship, and citizenship.

COMMUNITY II We build strong connections and positive relationships. II We demonstrate care for all others and serve the greater good. II We foster a diverse and inclusive environment rooted in belonging.

RESPECT II We act with civility, loyalty, and a spirit of cooperation. II We recognize empathy as the foundation of a respectful community. II We nurture self-respect and treat others with kindness and compassion.

INTEGRITY II We embody honesty, sincerity, and humility. II We lead with ethics and take personal responsibility. II We hold ourselves and others accountable to our shared values.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES ● Detroit Country Day’s high standards are the foundation for educational excellence. ● We promote the appreciation of lifelong learning within an environment of excellence. ● We recognize and value the uniqueness of every student, challenging each to fulfill their potential. ● We stimulate creativity and develop the problem-solving capabilities of each student. ● We educate the whole child, helping him/her to develop practices oriented toward

lifelong physical, mental and emotional health. ● As a family-oriented school, we believe the partnership between family and school is the foundation for student fulfillment and success. ● We appreciate and learn from our cultural diversity and gender differences. ● We seek and support outstanding faculty who love young people, life and teaching. ● Our curriculum and instructional methods keep pace with the changing demands of our society. ● We are role models for our students.

MOTTO Mens Sana In Corpore Sano The school motto is derived from the writings of the renowned Latin poet, Juvenal: Mens Sana In Corpore Sano (Sound Mind in a Sound Body).

MASCOT Yellowjacket

COLORS Blue and Gold

ALMA MATER Hail to thee, our Alma Mater, Gathered here we sing thy praise! Scholars, athletes, sons and daughters of glory, Pledge our honor and love always. On the field and in the classroom We shall always bring thee fame. Through the years we will remember: Detroit Country Day School! Hail thy name!

FIGHT SONG Fight! Our team will hang right in there. Jackets will make the play. Blue and Gold will conquer, the whole school’s up, this is our day! Shout! We’re gonna stick right here ‘til our team has led the way! Fight! Shout! We’ll wipe ‘em out for Country Day!

LOWER SCHOOL SONG Three cheers for the kids in blue and gold! We’re the best team in all the land! We always play fair in every way! Let’s go for it, Country Day! To win is important, this is true, but losing comes sometimes, too. So win, lose or draw, we always say: “Let’s go for it, Country Day! Hooray!

PHILOSOPHY The Detroit Country Day School motto, Mens Sana In Corpore Sano (Sound Mind in a Sound Body), reflects the philosophy of our school. We value a broad-based, integrated, stimulating

curriculum that includes instruction in academics, the arts, physical education and character development, presented in a nurturing, structured environment. A multi-disciplinary approach involving visual, kinesthetic and auditory experiences is used to enhance learning opportunities and to allow for individual differences in processing information. We encourage students to be creative, responsible and independent thinkers. We adhere to the premise that creativity can flourish in a positive, exciting and challenging environment. As an extension of the family, we aspire to maintain close parent-faculty-student relationships. Our caring faculty is dedicated to meeting the needs of the whole child. In addition, our faculty helps develop character through a disciplined and dignified setting with an exposure to traditional values. We recognize that in addition to superior academic credentials, our faculty must also possess the character traits that will enable them to serve as role models for students in the areas of mutual respect, leadership, personal integrity and responsibility to the work ethic. The school dress policy contributes to an environment that reflects our belief that children learn best within an atmosphere demonstrating appropriate decorum. We hold self-esteem in high regard and work to promote a supportive social and emotional environment, both in school and at home.

HISTORY Detroit Country Day School was founded by F. Alden Shaw in 1914, with an enrollment of four boys. The school has preserved its original name for historic reasons: “Detroit” because it was founded in this city on West Ferry and because it still serves the metropolitan Detroit area, “Country” because the school provides an invigorating atmosphere separate from city center surroundings, and “Day” because it is a day school encouraging close family ties. Detroit Country Day School became an independent school in 1942 when Mr. Shaw donated his proprietary school to a non-profit educational trust incorporated by the State of Michigan. The educational corporation is governed by a board of trustees which serves without compensation. True to the school’s motto, Mens Sana In Corpore Sano (Sound Mind in a Sound Body), the school’s traditional focus on a well- rounded, liberal arts education has provided a spirit of achievement and excellence where the scholar-athlete-artist can thrive. From the school’s original site on West Ferry, the school moved several times until locating at its current main campus at West Thirteen Mile and Lahser Roads in the Village of Beverly Hills in 1957. In 1975, the Village Campus property was acquired at Bradway and Lahser Roads in Bloomfield Hills. This property housed the Junior School, grades three through five until 2019. In 1986, the Maple Road Campus property was purchased and became the home of the Lower School, grades pre-Kindergarten through second grade until 2019. In 2018 the Hillview Campus (Middle School) was expanded to include fourth through eighth grade. With the exception of The Hamlet, the Lower School was rebuilt and opened with a completely new school in November 2019. Today, the Lower School houses grades pre-Kindergarten through third grade. All three campuses occupy a total of 52 acres. Girls were first admitted in 1940 to grades Kindergarten through six and in 1972 co-education

was expanded to grades seven through 12. In 1973, the school’s first female students graduated from Detroit Country Day School. Today, young women represent close to half of the entire student body.

HEADMASTERS Mr. F. Alden Shaw

1914

1961

Dr. Rodney Snelling

1961

1967

Dr. Richard A. Schlegel

1967

1986

Mr. Gerald T. Hansen

1986

2007

Mr. Glen P. Shilling

2007

2020

Present

HEAD OF SCHOOL Mr. Rich Dempsey

PORTRAIT OF A DETROIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL STUDENT

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT Honor System Honor is developed and fostered through the shared DCDS Values of Excellence, Community, Respect, Integrity and Growth. The Lower School introduces the concept of Honor through

character development initiatives, the Responsive Classroom social curriculum, and the school character model – “Our House.” The Middle School employs an Honor Covenant and further develops the “Our House” school-wide character model. Students at the Upper School are held to the standard set by the student-developed School Honor Code, which highlights the importance of academic integrity and outlines the consequences of dishonorable conduct. Please refer to the school website Portal pages in the bottom search area for the complete School Honor Code Bylaws. A Commitment to Character Woven into the fabric of the Detroit Country Day School experience are our character development initiatives. Using our shared DCDS Values, students are encouraged to become morally responsible and self-disciplined citizens with problem solving, decision making, and conflict resolution as important elements of developing strength of character. Community service and service learning are both integral parts of our Detroit Country Day School character initiatives. Through role playing, peer group discussions, and in an environment of community building, students grow in their understanding of how their decisions affect themselves, others and the greater communities in which they participate. Whether in the classroom, advisory groups, on the athletic field or engaged in the fine and performing arts, the core values of our character initiatives are reinforced throughout the PK3-12 experience.

LOWER SCHOOL The Lower School provides ongoing programs that integrate discussions of good character and respect for others on a continuing basis. Lower School character development initiatives expose and educate students, teachers, staff, parents and the broader community to the core values of respect, cooperation, responsibility, and good citizenship. Our faculty and staff model these values through their actions and their words. Teachers choose appropriate character themes to complement their curriculum. Teachable moments are used to help students practice and demonstrate their developing understanding of how their decisions affect themselves, others and the greater communities in which they participate. As part of the Responsive Classroom social curriculum, every homeroom classroom begins the day with a Morning Meeting to set the tone for the day, set expectations for classroom collaboration and build classroom community. The Lower School further supports its character development initiatives through parent and community activities such as parent coffees and guest speakers programs. These events provide a forum for parents to discuss issues related to character development and parenting. The House Program is designed to reinforce character by offering students the opportunity to show their concern and empathy for others. House activities underscore the mottos of the five Houses: Loyalty, Integrity, Responsibility, Empathy and Respect. Students participate in service projects that benefit their school and community. Students get to know others in the Lower School during House Meetings, student activities, and Field Day. They remain members of the same House from year-to- year while at the school. Third grade students have leadership opportunities to mentor younger students. With support from both faculty and parents, the House Program serves as a platform for service, character initiatives, and school spirit.

MIDDLE SCHOOL The Middle School is a community of students, parents, faculty and staff who value academic excellence, artistic expression, athletic development and character growth. Participation in the school community is based on our commitment to “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body” and requires shared goals and accountability to one another. Great value is placed on the quality of relationships in our community. All members of our school community—students, parents, faculty and staff—strive to honor and model citizenship on campus and in the community at large. Members of our school community strive to uphold the four pillars of “Our House.” : ● Treat each other with RESPECT and kindness by valuing others in the community and caring for the physical and natural environment ● Be COOPERATIVE by working collaboratively with others, giving an honest effort and being attentive, thoughtful, and flexible in one’s approach ● Accept RESPONSIBILITY by following through on promises and obligations, assuming accountability for one’s actions ● Develop GOOD CITIZENSHIP by developing habits of service and lifelong learning in order to be an engaged, well-informed and contributing member of one’s community The School supports its character development initiatives through student-led groups like the Student Council and Class Boards. Classes are specifically structured to give students opportunities to delve into discussions on a wide-range of global history and issues. Several clubs provide students many service opportunities throughout the school year. Additionally, hands-on service learning opportunities, our Real Life program, and “Our House” activities cover a wide range of topics and experiences that encourage students to be respectful, cooperative, responsible and good citizens.

UPPER SCHOOL The Upper School prepares students for the rigor of college level academics and for the challenges of participating positively in our ever-changing global society. Our character-development initiatives, starting with our advisory program, support our philosophy to help students grow in the areas of self- reflection, personal integrity, responsibility, respect of self and others and an understanding of the importance of community and service to one another. Building on the more structured programs at the lower levels of DCDS, School students are continually provided with opportunities through classroom discussions, participation on teams, student-led activities, and daily personal conduct to explore and define who they are and what values mean to them as individuals and members of a larger community. Faculty, administration and staff provide guidance through role-modeling, conversation and examination of academic and co-curricular material. The Honor Council, Disciplinary Review Board, Student Council and Class Boards involve students in daily decision- making, leadership, and promotion of the core values important to strong citizenship. Community Service, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), Model UN, and The Day Times student newspaper, along with other clubs, provide students with opportunities to practice

good values and leadership, to explore the global society in which they live and to encourage their peers to consider their role(s) in their community. Strong personal relationships are developed through the advisory program and co-curricular participation. Topics important to character development are a part of casual and structured conversations during advisory. Teams, whether athletic, activity (i.e., Robotics, HOSA, Quiz Bowl), or performance (i.e., theatre production, musical ensemble, forensics) encourage students to accept and support one another and to take responsibility for their part in team endeavors.

LOWER SCHOOL ACADEMIC HOURS School Hours Start Time - 8:15 a.m. Dismissal - 3:00p.m. PK Hours Start Time - 8:15 a.m. Dismissal - 2:30 p.m. Office Hours In general, the school offices are open from 7:45 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Vacation and summer hours may vary slightly.

ACTIVITIES Activities at DCDS are an integral part of a student’s education. Activities provide diverse opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and responsibility. During the early childhood and elementary grade levels of the Lower School, activities are incorporated into the classroom.

ASSEMBLIES Assemblies at the Lower School include speakers and productions which stretch a student’s imagination, curiosity and knowledge base. These assemblies are age appropriate so not all students will attend every gathering. Assemblies at the Lower School may include student performances, guest presentations and all school meetings.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL In general, students may arrive between 7:55 and 8:15 a.m. Lower School students may attend Early Risers between 7:00 and 7:55 a.m. and should go directly to a grade-level Early Risers room. Students may enter their classrooms between 7:55 and 8:15 a.m. Parents use the drop-off lanes to let students walk into the building independently or, if needed, with teacher assistance. If parents/students need additional time, they may park in a parking space and walk their child to their respective school entrance. Dismissal Procedures After Hamlet dismissal p.m., PreK and JK students will be escorted to their older sibling’s. Parents wishing to use the designated pick-up lanes should remain in their cars during the pick-up process. Teachers supervise students’ dismissal, and assist students into the vehicles of authorized persons. If a car is equipped with a passenger side airbag, teachers may only place the child in the back seat. Each family is required to display their family name on a card

which the child’s teacher will provide. For students who ride the bus, a Lower School teacher supervises students to make certain they are on the correct bus. The bus drivers are fully trained and licensed; they take attendance on the bus to verify all of their passengers are on board. Politeness, good behavior and cooperation are requirements for those who ride the bus at all times. Discipline issues will be reported to the Lower School Director. No student will be allowed to leave the school with any person other than his/her designated driver unless a parent provides express permission for an alternate driver. All students should be picked up at 3:00 p.m. unless they are participating in the after school programs. Students not picked up at these dismissal times will be placed in the Beyond the Bell program until they are picked up. The Beyond the Bell program ends at 6:00 p.m. promptly every day; there is an additional fee for this service.

ASSESSMENTS and TESTING Standardized Testing Lower School student assessments are: ● Pre-K 3 students – PALS: Phonological Assessment Literacy Screening, internal assessments ● Pre-K 4 students – PALS: Phonological Assessment Literacy Screening, internal assessments ● Kindergarten students – Pioneer Valley Reading Assessment ● Grade 1 students – Pioneer Valley Reading Assessment, NWEA fall and spring ● Grade 2 students –Pioneer Valley Reading Assessment, NWEA fall and spring ● Grade 3 students --Pioneer Valley Reading Assessment, NWEA fall and spring

ATHLETICS All Lower School students participate in physical education classes as part of their daily schedule. In addition, students have the option of becoming involved with the Junior Jackets Sports Program which is committed to developing teamwork, sportsmanship, responsibility and enthusiasm for athletics. Junior Jackets Sports Program offerings include baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, lacrosse, martial arts, soccer, volleyball and flag football leagues. For complete details, please visit the Junior Jackets section of the website.

ATTENDANCE If a student is going to be absent, a parent is required to contact the Lower School attendance office before 8:30 a.m. by calling (248) 430-4340. In cases of extended illness, teachers may make accommodations for students enabling the completion of work at home if needed. Tardy All students are expected to arrive by the start time each day. All students who arrive after the start of school are considered tardy and must enter at the Main Entrance to be checked in.

Lower School students must be accompanied by a parent or authorized adult when signing in. At the Lower School, timeliness is critical for the elementary student. Parents assume the responsibility of bringing their children to school on time, thereby ensuring a good start to their day. Sign-Out Requests Sign-out requests must be submitted to the school office by a parent, stating the purpose, the time the student will leave and the time the student will return. Appointments should be made, if possible, outside the regular school day to minimize disruption to the student’s education. For students in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 3, parents and guardians must come to the school office to sign out and pick up their children. The school reserves the right to request identification of any individual requesting to pick up a student from school.

SCHOOL NURSE Lower School visits to the school nurse will be noted in Magnus.

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS Early Risers - Lower School Early Risers is a before school childcare program designed for families who need to bring their child to school prior to 7:55 a.m. Early Risers begins at 7:00 a.m. in a supervised location and continues for 55 minutes, at which time the students may go to their individual classrooms. There is no fee for this extra service; space is limited. Beyond The Bell Program – Lower School Beyond The Bell is an after school program designed to provide supervision and activities for children who need to remain at school for an extended time beyond the normal school day as needed. The program runs from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. each day. An hourly fee is charged, with a one-hour minimum. Additional time will be charged by the half-hour. There is a late pick-up fee charged after 6:00 p.m. Beyond The Bell fees are included in monthly statements. PM Enrichment Classes – (Grades 1 through 3) PM classes offer optional enrichment for Grades 1 - 3, to meet the growing interests of children beyond the normal academic day. There are three eight-week sessions which meet during the fall, winter, and spring, Tuesday through Friday, from 3:15 to 4:00pm Registration is available prior to the start of each session and is honored on a first-come, first-served basis according to space availability. Each student may sign up for 1 class per session. Junior Jackets Sports Program – (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6) Please refer to the website for detailed information. Violin Classes Violin instruction is offered before and after school for Kindergarten - third grade students.

There is no charge for this program and classes are taught by a dedicated strings teacher. Detroit Metropolitan Dance The school has a partnership with Detroit Metropolitan Dance to offer after school dance classes for students of all ages at the Lower School.

BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS OVERVIEW Our school’s mission statement emphasizes the development of service, character, and leadership within a dignified and supportive setting. General behavior expectations are central to this development. Clear conduct expectations enable all members of the school community to live together cooperatively, honestly, harmoniously and with mutual respect in a community of trust. It is the students’ responsibility to work to their full potential and adhere to the school’s behavioral expectations. Students are expected to always show respect and courtesy to all members of our school community, including faculty, staff, parents, alumni, visitors and fellow students. At the Lower School, teachers establish clear classroom rules at the beginning of the year. Discipline procedures begin with verbal warnings and counseling by the teachers and administration. Parent partnership is an important part of the discipline process. A behavior plan may be constructed to help a student meet behavior expectations. In the case of repeated offenses, a student may be suspended from school participation or expelled. Students are expected to exercise self-discipline and sound judgment for the common good in accordance with their developmental level. Each student must assume responsibility for his/her own actions. No student will interfere with anyone to the degree it makes the other person feel uncomfortable. Violations of this expectation may include racist behavior or language, physical abuse or unwelcome physical contact, insults, sexual comments, physical or verbal threats and other verbal abuse including by means of social and other media. In short, any actions or words that are deliberately hurtful or meant to demean another are unacceptable and intolerable. If a student experiences this kind of disrespect, they are encouraged to bring it to the attention of any teacher, dean, counselor, or administrator. Violence, negative behavior, bullying, anti-social behavior, theft, and dishonesty will not be tolerated. The school expects any student and their family to partner and cooperate in any investigation where a student is either directly involved or has information that may assist the school in completing such investigation. Offenders will face consequences ranging from counseling to expulsion, depending on the facts and circumstances. DCDS may elect to indefinitely suspend a student from the school and all related activities when full cooperation is not forthcoming. Dishonesty related to academic integrity may include plagiarism or cheating on assignments, quizzes, and tests. Offenses involving academic integrity are treated according to the procedures set forth in the academic integrity policy.

The school has a zero-tolerance policy on intoxicants and drugs. Attendance is contingent upon prompt payment of tuition and all other fees. Parents/guardians will be notified of delinquent account balances. DCDS may withhold student reports and transcripts and withdraw a student from class until any delinquent balance is paid in full. A student may be expelled from school for non-payment.

CONSEQUENCES Students and parents/guardians are expected to support the character tenets of the school that encourage respect, responsibility, cooperation, and good citizenship. The student and his/her parents and/or guardians are required to read and fully adhere to all provisions of the student handbook. A violation of such provisions may result in student discipline, suspension or expulsion. The school reserves the right to discipline, suspend or dismiss a student when, at the discretion of the school, the best interest of either the student or school will be served. All tuition and other fees remain payable in the event the student is suspended, withdrawn, or expelled. The school will take stringent disciplinary action including possible expulsion against any student involved in harassing another student, staff or faculty member, sexually or otherwise. The school director and deans will exercise discretion in determining consequences. Disciplinary consequences include reprimands, loss of privileges, counseling, detention, suspensions and withholding of transcripts and grades. Student and family members are expected to fully cooperate and partner where a student is either directly involved or has information that may assist the school in completing an investigation. As a rule, students should not bring to school any item that may be considered disruptive, or dangerous to the daily operation of the school. Such items will be confiscated and, in most cases, not returned. Offenses are punishable by detention, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the circumstances. Disciplinary action may include suspension or expulsion. Rules of conduct apply to all DCDS related activities on and off campus.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY Intentional or unintentional use or giving of unauthorized aid on any work for which a grade is earned will result in disciplinary action. This includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism and cheating on quizzes, tests, reports and any other unit of work submitted for a grade or teacher review, including homework. Teachers and administrators work to teach students academic integrity and will seek to create a teachable moment in a first offense and parents will be notified..

BUS RULES 1. Obey the driver politely and cheerfully, and do not interfere with the driver at any time. 2. Occupy the seat assigned by the bus driver. 3. Keep all body parts inside the bus at all times. 4. Help keep the bus clean and orderly (no eating, drinking, or chewing gum). 5. Do not throw any objects. 6. Students may not bring live animals or oversized articles onto the bus. 7. Sharp or possibly harmful articles are to be kept inside backpacks while riding the bus. 8. Boarding and exiting the bus: Students must board buses at designated locations. (Any alternate arrangements must be made in writing, in advance, by parents with the transportation office.) If crossing a roadway after exiting the bus: ● Make certain the bus is stationary ● On leaving, go to the front of the bus in sight of the driver ● Wait for the driver to signal for you to cross ● Look to the right and look to the left ● Walk, do not run, in front of the bus to the other side of the roadway If bus rules are violated the following steps are taken: 1. The driver issues a verbal warning 2. The driver submits a School Bus Incident Report for the incident to be addressed with the student and/or parent 3. A conference is held with the parent, driver, transportation supervisor, dean, or director Additional rules may be imposed by any bus services contracted to transport DCDS students.

CELL PHONES/INTERNET WEARABLES Students are discouraged from bringing cellphones to school. If a phone is brought to school, it must be off and in the student’s backpack during the school day. Use of camera functions on cell phones is prohibited in school areas, including restrooms. The use of Apple Watches and similar internet-capable devices are not permitted at school.

CLASS PERIODS The PreK3 and PreK4 schedule is unique and flexible because of the age of the students. Average class periods for Kindergarten through Grade 3 are 20-60 minutes.

FIELD TRIPS Field trips enhance the learning experience. Field trips are approved in advance through the school director. Regular dress code is required on field trips unless otherwise noted. As part of the back-to-school forms on Magnus, parents give permission for a student’s participation in day field trips for the entire year. Fees for day field trips are charged to the student’s account when applicable. In general, school buses will be used for all field trips.

Lower School students will occasionally attend assemblies held on another DCDS campus. These assemblies are not considered field trips. Students will be transported by bus. Families will be given advance notification.

HEALTH Health Appraisal and Emergency Medical and Transportation Release Information must be submitted online annually by August 1. Students admitted to the school after August 1 must submit information by their first day of school. Students may not be able to attend school or field trips if information is not on file. Immunization Requirements Michigan Health Code requires every new student to submit a Health Appraisal form, complete with evidence of immunization and signed by a physician. Medication The procedure for giving medications to students in school is mandated by the Michigan State Medication Law. No medication shall be administered to a student without a doctor’s order and parent’s written permission. Students must leave approved prescription or over-the-counter medications with the school nurse. Any medication needed during school hours or on field trips must be indicated in your online submission. Students may not carry medication of any kind, or keep it in their backpack or classroom, with few exceptions.. Infirmary Students who become ill or who are injured during the day are to report to the school nurse or office for assistance. Students must be fever free, without medication, and be able to hold down food for 24 hours before returning to school after an illness.

FOOD ALLERGIES Peanut and tree nut allergies: DCDS maintains a “peanut and tree nut restricted” environment. Peanut and tree nut products are not served, used in classroom activities, or used in cooking. Additionally, any snacks or food brought into the school from outside must not include peanuts, tree nuts, or nut products (oils, flours, or extracts, etc.). Students with food allergies should note that while DCDS does not prepare or serve products with peanuts or tree nuts, we cannot guarantee that students and parents entering the school will not bring in products with peanuts or tree nuts. Therefore, any student with a known peanut or tree nut allergy is prohibited from eating food brought in by another student or parent due to the risk of cross contamination, unless it is clearly marked with a manufacturer’s label as not containing an allergen. Other food allergens: DCDS and our Plum Market Food Service work together to label foods served in the cafeterias containing the 7 other ‘top 9’ known food allergens (milk/dairy, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, wheat, and sesame). Since peanuts and tree nuts aren’t served, there will not be labels for those. Students with known food allergies to these products should read labels provided (if developmentally appropriate) and avoid known allergens. For younger students, the teachers will assist in reading labels and helping students to avoid allergens. If

there are questions, students/teachers should discuss with a Plum Market Food Service employee and students should avoid eating the food in question. Known allergies to foods other than those listed should be discussed with the school nurse and food service personnel. Due to concerns with cross-contamination at the salad bars in the upper and middle schools, students with known allergies to foods served are encouraged to only eat the hot lunch and/or bring in their own lunch. All teachers, coaches, and bus drivers are made aware of their students with any known food allergies. They have been trained on the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction and anaphylaxis and are prepared to use emergency medications when needed. The school nurse will work with families of students with food allergies to ensure any special accommodations have been noted and discussed. The food service supervisor in each building is provided a binder at the beginning of each school year containing individual student’s food allergy action plans. That information is shared with the other food service workers.

HOMEROOM Lower School - All children are assigned to a specific homeroom and homeroom teacher. The homeroom teacher(s) is (are) responsible for monitoring each student’s academic progress, and social and emotional growth. In addition to daily teaching responsibilities the homeroom teacher also supervises recess, lunch and dismissal.

HOMEWORK AND ASSIGNMENTS, REQUIRED SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS A student’s homework and assignment information are available on the school’s Canvas learning management system accessed via the Portal pages or directly through the Canvas app. Parents and students are issued a user ID and password for log-in. Lower School introduces the concept of homework in Kindergarten, when students may have an occasional assignment. Homework gradually increases to weekly assignments for Grades 1, 2 and 3.

SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS All students have summer reading requirements. Lower School students will be assigned one book per grade to read, and an activity and/or questions to complete that complement the book. All assignments must be completed before school begins. Detroit Country Day School respects and honors all religions and cultures. Due to the extraordinary diversity of our student body, it is not feasible to cancel school for all the holidays celebrated by our students and their families. We would like all of our students and families to have the opportunity to celebrate and observe holidays together. Consequently, there will be no homework, quizzes or tests due on the day of the holiday and the day following these observances: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Christmas, Easter, Eid al Fitr, Eid al Adha, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. Students who will be observing a holiday beyond the dates of the above policy will be granted an extension.

LUNCH The school provides a nutritious lunch for students daily. There is a large variety of menu options including vegetarian selections; food preparation is supervised and planned by specially trained personnel under the direction of the food services supervisor. Teachers and lunch staff supervise students and encourage good table manners and healthy eating habits. The kitchen works closely with students who have special dietary needs. The kitchen provides a bag lunch if a class is to be off-campus for a field trip during the lunch period. Families may elect to send in a lunch from home. These lunches must be healthy, without treats such as candy and other desserts, similar to the school-provided lunches.

KEEPING INFORMED ● The parent and student portal can be accessed through the www.dcds.edu website. There you can find comprehensive, up to date, and timely information regarding all academic, athletic, arts, and activities programs. The event calendar on the portal contains the most current information available. ● Parents and students log in using their unique password to access the website portal system, where they can also obtain academic records, class information and assignments, and additional information. ● An e-Newsletter, “The Buzz” is distributed weekly. ● Pitcher’s Peek is sent weekly, from Director Pitcher, via ENotify. ● A school general directory is available on the website portal system. ● Information for Lower School parents is sent home regularly in student backpacks and via email. ● Parents may, and are strongly encouraged to, opt in to receive text messages about unscheduled school closings (i.e., weather, power outage, etc.). In the rare case of a grave emergency, an automated system will be activated to send a voice message to parents. This does not include unscheduled school closures (i.e. weather, power outage, etc.) In the event of a school closure due to weather or power, a text message and email will be sent to all families, and the information will also be shared on local TV and radio stations, DCDS social media and the school website.

MOVING UP Lower School Grade 3 students have a moving-up ceremony at The Performing Arts Center as they advance from Lower to Middle School. Parents, relatives and guests are invited to attend the presentation and the reception following the ceremony. Students are required to wear Color Attire (see below for specifics).

PARENT CONFERENCES Lower School parent-teacher conferences are held in Goals I, II and III. Conferences are not limited to these times and may be arranged by parents or teachers as often as necessary.

PERSONAL PROPERTY All personal property, including books, should be labeled with the student’s name. The school office has a Lost and Found. Unclaimed items will be donated periodically throughout the year. Students are urged not to bring expensive items, equipment or money to school. The school assumes no responsibility for personal property.

SAFETY AND SECURITY Student use of certain areas of the buildings and campuses are restricted as follows: ● Faculty workrooms, unless accompanied by a teacher or coach ● Faculty restrooms ● School parking lot, outside of designated safe walking areas; except during arrival and departure from school ● All construction areas Student Safety 1. Fire and tornado: Drills are conducted throughout the year. The school is equipped with an early warning system. Each class has an assigned “safe” location and specific procedures for calm and orderly evacuation. Parents should not try to contact the school or pick-up a child during an emergency. 2. School closing: In the event that school is closed due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, families will be notified via the RUVNA system by email and text (must opt in to texts). Information will also be posted on the school website (www.dcds.edu) and social media platforms. Local radio and TV stations also announce school closings. 3. Injuries: All injuries are reported to the school nurse. Parents will be notified of any major injury at the emergency phone number provided on the student’s Health Appraisal and Emergency Medical and Transportation Release. 4. Lockdowns: During a critical incident, the school will be locked down to protect students and occupants. a. Depending upon the circumstances and extent of the emergency, a school’s students may need to be evacuated to another location. The school will communicate information to parents as quickly as possible regarding the situation and where and when they may be safely reunited with their children.

TECHNOLOGY Misuse of technology at the Lower School is not tolerated. Depending on the severity of offense, consequences may be escalated. Examples of misuse include: playing on different apps than directed, searching for non-school related content on a web browser, watching YouTube videos when not directed to, using Google docs as a chatroom. Parents will be notified of any offense of misuse of technology. Parents, you authorize us to act on your behalf to grant consent for your student’s use of

software, including vendor Terms of Service and applicable privacy regulations.

BUILDING SECURITY The exterior doors at our schools are locked during the school day. A security guard is on site daily. In addition, Lobby Guard is utilized when visitors enter the building.

TEXTBOOKS Lower School students use school property textbooks, and parents pay a nominal textbook user fee. Workbooks and grade level novels are distributed in early September and student accounts are charged for these items.

TRANSPORTATION (BUS) SERVICE DCDS offers transportation (bus) service for our students. An annual fee is charged for use of this optional service. Please contact the transportation office for specific fees and details at (248) 595-8067.

UNIFORMS and DRESS CODE Purchasing School Uniforms All uniform items are available through Lands’ End (www.landsend.com). Select DCDS under the school Junior Kindergarten – 3rd Grade (PK3-PK4 students do not wear uniforms) Lower School Uniforms JK - 3rd Grade Mandatory Color Day Attire (Optional for daily, mandatory for: Picture Day, performances, Moving Up OR ● DCDS Crested White Polo, short-sleeved ● Navy Pants ● Belt (brown, black, or navy) ● Plain white or navy socks ● Plain white or navy tennis shoes

● DCDS White peter pan collared shirt, short-sleeved ● DCDS Jumper (or skirt for 3rd grade) ● Navy stretch shorts ● Plain white or navy socks or tights ● Plain white or navy tennis shoes

These are additional options for daily wear: ● Crested White Polo Shirt (short or long sleeves) ● Crested Navy Polo Shirt (short or long sleeves) ● Khaki Pants ● Navy Pants ● Khaki Shorts ● Navy Shorts ● DCDS Navy Sweater

● DCDS Navy Vest

Lower and School Outerwear Students go outside for recess daily and should dress appropriately for the weather, (e.g., gloves, hats, snow pants, and boots). For safety reasons students are not allowed on play equipment if they are wearing scarves. We urge parents to select clothing without drawstrings in hoods or elsewhere on the garment so their child(ren) may participate fully in recess. Students should wear tennis shoes or other rubber soled shoes for recess. Boots are appropriate for inclement weather. Flip flops, sandals and Crocs would not be considered appropriate for outdoor play. Casual Days Students will occasionally have casual days at the Lower School. Tank, tube tops, and lacy garments are not allowed. Torsos must be fully covered. Clothing, including necklines, should be modest, neat, without tears or holes and properly fitting. No obscene, violent, or blasphemous expressions or images may be on clothing. No beach attire is allowed, unless it is a designated water day. Nail polish is acceptable, however false nails are not. Additional Information The intent of our dress code is to minimize distraction and continue to foster a focused learning environment for all. A student or employee may not wear or display any insignia, badge or button depicting corporate, activist, personal or political statements, outside logos or messaging. This includes, but is not limited to, clothing and accessories such as neckties, backpacks, water bottles, electronic devices, notebooks, etc.

GRADING / REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS Parents access report card grades and comments information online through Veracross Students in PK-grade 3 receive descriptive report cards with checklists for specific skills and summary comments. Goal 3 standardized test scores are also available on Veracross. Goal Grading Periods The Lower School year is divided into three “Goals” or grading periods, each approximately 10 weeks long.

MIDDLE SCHOOL Detroit Country Day is a community of students, parents, faculty, and staff who have joined together for the purpose of academic excellence, artistic expression, athletic development, and character growth. The community is centered around relationships between the stakeholders. We value the relationships and participation in the school community is based on the foundation of our commitment to our motto of “A Sound Mind and a Sound Body.” This commitment requires shared goals and accountability to one another. When individuals join the Detroit Country Day School community, they freely and willingly choose to take upon themselves the responsibilities within the guidelines of Our House.

OUR HOUSE COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS

Communities, such as the Detroit Country Day Middle School, are collections of groups of individuals who are together bound to a set of shared ideas and ideals. We are organized around relationships and create social structures that bond people together. We are defined by our values, sentiments and beliefs that provide a reason for creating a sense of “we” from the “I” of each person. In Middle School, Our House serves as that statement of what we feel is important. Each member of the community - student, teacher, grade level dean, administrator, and parent has a role in helping the community function while upholding its values. Respect is the first element of Our House and the one that is most necessary in order for community members to be cooperative and responsible good citizens. We not only have the following as expectations but they are requirements for all of our students. Respect for Self Self-respect is the foundation of all strong and healthy relationships. For a community to function, each member must start with themselves. By using common sense, by taking pride in one’s conduct, and by adopting an enthusiastic outlook on life, the experiences at Detroit Country Day will be more positive. Each individual must exercise self-control and self-discipline for the common good. Respect for Others In a community, it is necessary for each member to show respect for all others and treat one another with respect and courtesy. It is also expected that no one will interfere with anyone else to the degree that it makes the other person feel uncomfortable. Examples of violations of this expectation may include such things as racist behavior or language, physical abuse or unwelcome physical contact, insults, sexual comments, threats and other verbal abuse. In short, any actions or words that are deliberately hurtful or meant to demean another are not acceptable. RESPECT FOR THE RIGHTS, BELIEFS, AND PROPERTY OF OTHERS IS BOTH EXPECTED and REQUIRED. If a person experiences this kind of disrespect, he or she is encouraged to bring it to the attention of the advisor, grade level dean, and/or Director. Students who exhibit these unacceptable behaviors and/or actions will face consequences ranging from counseling to expulsion, depending on the circumstances. Violent, negative, bullying or anti-social behavior will not be tolerated. Respect for the Environment It is a privilege to attend Detroit Country Day School. All members of the community are expected to behave in a way that not only facilitates their own learning but helps to promote an atmosphere of learning. Words, deeds, or actions that take away from or negatively affect the environment are not acceptable. These may include verbal, written, physical, or virtual communication and may extend beyond the normal school hours and into the weekend if it negatively affects Detroit Country Day School or its community members.

wrong. Detroit Country Day School students are expected to do the right thing. A significant purpose of our school is the development of those qualities of responsibility, morality and intellect that define good character. Rules and regulations of conduct are intended to enable all members of the school family to interact cooperatively, honestly, harmoniously and with mutual respect. For this reason, students whose conduct or influence is injurious to others are subject to disciplinary action by the school. The school may conduct an investigation in making determinations and taking appropriate action. The school expects the student and his/her family to partner with the school and fully cooperate in such investigation where a student is either directly involved or has information that may assist the school in completing such investigation. It is impossible to define precisely all areas and degrees of misconduct and unacceptable behavior; however, a summary of behavioral offenses is included in an effort to guide students toward acceptable conduct. Ultimately, the administration has the responsibility and charge to guide students in making appropriate choices. The administration will determine, adjust and assign consequences as appropriate in all situations, including those not specifically addressed in this code of conduct. Expectations of personal responsibility and appropriate conduct extend beyond the school day and grounds. Conduct jeopardizing the good name of the school, whether on or off campus, may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Community Tenets and Expectations Our community standards at Detroit Country Day School are consistent throughout the Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School experience. These shared beliefs form the backbone of our community and are the basis of our behavioral expectations. All members of our community – students, employees, and parents – are expected to conduct themselves in ways that align with our community values of:

EXCELLENCE II We believe in excellence in every pursuit. II We strive to be the best version of ourselves and inspire others to do the same. II We uphold the highest standards of scholarship, sportsmanship, and citizenship.

INTEGRITY

II We embody honesty, sincerity, and humility. II We lead with ethics and take personal responsibility. II We hold ourselves and others accountable to our shared values.

GROWTH II We empower innovation, creativity, and curiosity. II We pursue passions and embrace challenges with perseverance and courage. II We engage fully in the learning process and commit to continuous improvement. Students at DCDS are expected to conduct themselves in ways that contribute positively to the community. Deviation from our community standards will result in consequences as outlined below.

ATTENDANCE If a student is going to be absent, a parent is required to contact the Middle School office before 9:00 a.m. Students who arrive after the start of their first class. must report to the Middle School Office to check in and receive a pass. Absences When absent, a student may make up all homework, quizzes, and tests missed during an absence within a time period designated by the teacher, but the time must be at least the equivalent to the number of school days missed and can not exceed a period of one week, unless there are extenuating circumstances.. The school must be notified within 24 hours after the absence if prior notice is not possible. If parents fail to call, an administrative assistant will attempt to verify the absence by telephone. Students who miss major assignments, tests or exams at the end of a goal period will get an incomplete and only have 10 days from the end of the Goal period to complete work, otherwise the goal grade will become a 50. Pre-arranged Absences Family vacations occurring outside regularly scheduled school vacations are strongly discouraged. Such absences may involve academic penalties if the following proper procedures are not observed: ● Student is responsible to notify the teachers and advisor of a pre-arranged absence ● The responsibility for class work missed during unauthorized vacations rests solely with the student ● The student agrees to return to class with completed work assigned by the teacher, or prepared for an evaluation by the teacher

Extended or Repeated Absences Missing class work often results in incomplete assignments, delayed tests and quizzes, and the loss of understanding of material covered in class activities and discussions. In circumstances where a student has missed a significant number of days or major

assignments or evaluations, the student will meet the grade -level dean to create a schedule to complete missing work within a reasonable time frame. In case of severe illness, some assignments may be altered and a doctor’s note may be requested. When a pattern of repeated absences is noted, especially falling on days of evaluation, the advisor will meet with the advisee and contact the parents to acknowledge faculty concern. If necessary a meeting with the grade level dean and/or the school director may be necessary.

After-School Participation To be eligible to perform in any afternoon or evening event, a student must be in attendance for at least half the classes offered on that day. Exceptions are made only for unique circumstances and will be decided by the Director of Middle School. Early Dismissal For early dismissal, parents must come to the Middle School office to sign out and pick up students during school hours. The school reserves the right to request identification of any individual requesting to pick up a student from school, either during school hours or after school. Parent approval will be verified if anyone other than a parent requests to take a student from school. Bus Attendance Attendance on scheduled bus routes is taken by the driver. Students who delay the bus unduly will be reminded of their responsibility to others who are passengers on the bus. Buses must leave at the designated time.

DISCIPLINE PROCESS Communication and education are the pillars of the disciplinary process at DCDS. When a potential breach of the School’s community values and behavioral expectations occurs, the School has a procedure that serves as a guideline for its response. When expectations are not met by students, there will be communication by someone at school (teacher, advisor, dean or other administrator) to the student and in most cases the home about what has occurred. Our goal is not only to be communicative but also to help the student understand why and how their behavior has violated Our House. We all realize that Middle School students make mistakes, and we desire to work together to help young people use errors in judgment as opportunities for personal growth. Every effort will be made in a positive way to effect changes in behavior. To the extent possible, all disciplinary measures shall be progressive in nature. Nevertheless, there may be circumstances where the offense is particularly egregious such that progressive discipline must be bypassed. When a potential serious violation is brought to the attention of one of the Deans of Students, the Dean then communicates with the Director of Middle School and an investigation is begun involving conversations and written statements, from all those involved. All disciplinary situations are opportunities for growth. Personal growth requires a partnership between the School and the student and parents involved. This relationship extends to the discipline

process. Parents are notified and kept abreast of developments and urged to discuss the situation with their children. It is expected that students participate fully and honestly in this process. Once the investigation has concluded, disciplinary consequences are determined. If a student repeatedly behaves in a way that detracts from the community

Academic Review If a student demonstrates a pattern of academic performance that falls significantly below the School's expectations, the student may be placed on Academic Review. Academic Review is intended to provide clear notice that a student's current level of academic achievement, effort, work completion, or engagement requires immediate attention and intervention. A student may be placed on Academic Review if they earn grades in the D or F range, demonstrate a consistent pattern of missing assignments, fail to make satisfactory academic progress, or exhibit academic habits that place their success at risk. When a student is placed on Academic Review, the School will work in partnership with the student and family to develop a plan for improvement. This plan may include required meetings with teachers, advisors, counselors, learning specialists, or administrators; restrictions on participation in extracurricular activities; or other interventions deemed appropriate by the School. Academic Review is intended to support student growth and success. It is our hope that by being on Academic Review, a student will begin to demonstrate meaningful improvement. However, if sufficient progress is not made, a student may be placed on Academic Probation. This, in turn, may lead to more serious limitations on participation in certain School activities or a determination that continued enrollment is not in the best interest of the student or the School community. Such determinations may be made when a student demonstrates an ongoing inability or unwillingness to meet the School's academic expectations despite interventions, support, and reasonable opportunities for improvement. Disciplinary Probation If a student demonstrates a repeated pattern of behavior inconsistent with the School's values, behavioral expectations, and standards of conduct, the student may be placed on Disciplinary Probation. This status is intended to provide clear notice that the student's choices are having a significant negative impact on the learning environment, the well-being of others, or the overall community. Disciplinary Probation may result from the accumulation of disciplinary incidents, repeated violations of School policies, failure to respond to previous interventions, or conduct that reflects a disregard for the values outlined in our handbook. Disciplinary Probation is intended to support student growth and success. While on Disciplinary Probation, a student may be subject to additional behavioral expectations, restrictions on participation in certain activities, loss of privileges, or other conditions deemed appropriate by the School. Failure to demonstrate meaningful improvement while on Disciplinary Probation may result in more serious disciplinary consequences, including suspension, non-participation in off-campus experiences, or a determination that continued enrollment is not in the student's or the School community's best interest.

The school reserves the right, depending on the cumulative effect of the behavior on the community, to decide whether or not that student is able to attend off campus trips. Detroit Country Day School may at any time suspend a student pending psychiatric clearance IF there is a question about the student’s safety or the well-being of others with regard to their behavior, mental-health, or well-being.

Level 1 (Minor) Possible Consequence: Warning, meeting with the student, student and advisor, or phone call home. Repeated minor discipline issues result in increasingly serious discipline measures. Level 2 (Significant) Possible Consequence: Detention, In-School Suspension, or Suspension. Repeated significant discipline issues result in extended suspension or possible expulsion.

Level 3 (Severe) Consequence: Suspension to Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion

Examples are but not limited to ● Dress Code (resets every goal - after 4 dress code notifications, a student will serve a detention and additional detentions for each subsequent notification) ● Gum ● Minor disruptions ● Class Tardies (see chart below)

Examples are but not limited to ● Repeated level one infractions ○ ie: 4 Dress Code = call home with student and a detention, 6 Dress Code = 2 detentions, More than six will be a family conference with the grade level Dean. ● Disrespect towards another ● Lying ● Obscenities ● Horseplay/hands on another ● Violation of Tech Policy ● Unauthorized location ● Unexcused Absence to/from class (more than 10 minutes missed) ● Academic Dishonesty ● Use of demeaning language ● Retaliation ● Vandalism Examples are but not limited to ● Continued pattern of level two behaviors ● Harassment/bullying ● Theft ● Threats toward school or others ● Fighting and/or forcible/inappropriate physical contact ● Violation of the Law

*Dismissal/Expulsion from school does not allow for a tuition refund. Tardy Policies- A tardy is when you are late to school and/or late for class

Class Tardies

Reset per goal

A student will have 5 tardies without issue. However, each tardy after this will follow the process below: ● #6 Written Notice Home ● #7 Student meets with the Dean and Dean calls home. ● #8+ Detention (for each tardy) ● #9 Family Meeting with the Dean and Director *Medical appointments with a doctor’s note will not be counted toward this total. **Each classroom teacher will set their policy. Repeated tardiness equates to repeated classroom disruptions.

Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Hazing Bullying is a form of physical, verbal, and/or emotional harassment, intimidating or demeaning behavior toward another student by an individual or group of students. Cyberbullying is bullying behavior conducted through any electronic means involving either words or images. Hazing involves behavior taken against a student that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm. Bullying, harassment, cyber bullying, intimidation or threatening behavior towards others will result in consequences ranging from detention to expulsion.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY Integrity in academic matters is essential to ensure that knowledge is transmitted effectively and that fair credit is awarded to the student for the acquisition of that knowledge. Dishonesty in academic matters, by circumventing those goals, strikes at the very foundation of any academic community. Far from being a “victimless crime,” it erodes the atmosphere that is a precious asset of any academic community fortunate enough to have fostered and to enjoy such a feeling. Cheating hurts not only the cheaters, but their classmates, their teachers, and, in the long run, the whole school community. For these reasons, academic dishonesty is among the gravest offenses that may occur within a school. Hence, violations of this nature call into question the right of the offender to remain a part of the school community. Academic dishonesty is defined as the intentional using or giving of unauthorized aid on any work for which a grade is earned. This specifically includes plagiarism, misuse of generative artificial intelligence, and cheating on quizzes, tests, examinations, compositions, papers, reports on scientific experiments and any other unit of work that is submitted for a grade, including homework. The following steps are taken to enhance awareness and understanding of the philosophy, intent, and consequences of the Academic Integrity Policy: ● The students are advised of the policies and procedures regarding the academic integrity policy as well as a general review of the student handbook early in the year, during the first week of school, and within their advisory groups. ● Each Middle School faculty member reviews the policies in his/her class so that students are aware of the honesty policy related to assignments and projects unique

to that class. The policies are also usually explained in the course outline that is shared with parents and students. Examples of unauthorized aid are clarified. Academic Integrity Policy Procedures ● The faculty must immediately report to the Middle School Dean and Director any instance of academic dishonesty. ● The Director and Dean will meet to determine if the academic integrity policy has been violated. If so, a parent will be called. If possible, the student and teacher will be present. ● First offense: The student will receive a 50% on the work in question. Depending on the severity, they may also receive a consequence ranging from a detention to a suspension. The administration reserves the right to determine the degree of consequence for minor assignments such as daily work; however, the work cannot be made-up for a higher grade. ● Second offense: The student will receive a 50% on the work in question. Additionally, depending on the severity, they will also receive a consequence ranging from a detention to a suspension. The administration reserves the right to determine the degree of consequence for minor assignments such as daily work; however, the work cannot be made-up for a higher grade. ● Third offense: The student will receive a 50% on the work in question as well as a suspension from school. ● Any additional offenses will be referred to the HEad of School and may result in dismissal from school. ● For a Middle School student, the first, second and third offenses referred to above designate honor violations committed at any time during a student’s tenure in the Detroit Country Day Middle School. ● Students may make up all assigned work, tests and quizzes missed during suspension. The student is allowed as many days for make-up work as the days of the suspension. ● Suspensions are assigned so that the students may focus and reflect on the causes and consequences of violating the academic integrity policy. The administration and the teacher(s) involved will counsel the student in the matter prior to the suspension. Warning/Reflection Warnings are used when a student has violated the expectations of Our House on one or more occasions and a possible pattern of behavior is being established. Depending on the severity and/or frequency with which the misbehavior occurred, a communication may be sent home by the grade level dean and more than likely a conversation with a teacher, dean or other administrator will also occur. A reflection document may occur in which a student will, through writing or typing, explain what occurred and what their role was. They will then connect their behavior to Our House. It will be used to help students understand that their actions have not met the expectations of Our House and community values. Detentions Detentions may take place when either one or multiple behavior misconducts have occurred (depending on the frequency and severity of the offense). Our goal is for students to

understand fully how his or her actions have affected others before a detention is levied. Students will serve a detention for one hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:10-4:10 pm REGARDLESS of whether a student has a practice. In-School Suspension When warranted, an In-School Suspension may be utilized prior to giving a Suspension. An In-School Suspension is given when a student's behavior or actions violate school policies and/or rules but the violation is not at the level of a full suspension. It involves the student being removed from their regular classes and placed in a designated room or area within the school where they are expected to complete their schoolwork under periodic supervision. This allows the student to remain in school and continue their education while serving their suspension. Suspensions Suspensions will be used as a last resort after all other consequences have been exhausted or the occurrence is such that it warrants temporary removal from the community. A student will serve a suspension only after communication with the parent(s) has occurred. The student and parent(s) must meet with an administrator on the day of return to reflect an understanding of his/her renewed commitment to Our House. The student is allowed as many days for make-up work as the days of the suspension. It is the student’s responsibility to go to teachers for notes on class work and to make up work missed during the suspension. Students serving a suspension may not participate in any classes or activities during the day or after school, including athletics, social functions, and rehearsals, on the day(s) of suspension. Probation When normal consequences such as warnings, detentions, suspensions, and counseling by school administration and the advisor have not resulted in improved behavior, a student may be placed on notice of “disciplinary probation.” Disciplinary probation means that the faculty, deans, and director will make specific recommendations for an improvement plan that the student and parent must follow. A parent conference is required and outside counseling may also be required. A student on disciplinary probation may be excluded from extended class field trips and a re-enrollment contract will be held pending adherence to the improvement plan. Retaliation Policy Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, harassment, threat, exclusion, or other adverse action directed against a student or adult who reports discrimination, harassment, hazing, bullying, or other violations of School policy; provides information during an investigation; or witnesses or has reliable information regarding such behavior. Detroit Country Day School's policy also protects those students who provide information to administrators regarding student conduct. Retaliation also includes actions taken by a student against another individual in response to a perceived wrong, conflict, disagreement, or incident. Students who have the opportunity to walk away from a situation, seek assistance from an adult, or utilize appropriate conflict-resolution strategies, but instead choose to "get even," escalate the situation, or take matters into their own hands may be found responsible for retaliation, regardless of who

initiated the original incident. Retaliation against any individual for reporting concerns, participating in an investigation, or cooperating with School officials will not be tolerated and will be subject to disciplinary action. Each retaliatory offense will be investigated and sanctioned separately. Individuals who are not complainants but who participate in an investigation, including witnesses, will also be protected from retaliation under this policy. Lying and False Charges Any student who knowingly makes a false charge or who knowingly lies or withholds information during an investigatory interview, search, or other disciplinary context will be subject to the school’s disciplinary process and may face severe disciplinary consequences, up to and including expulsion. Backpack Policy Due to concerns over safety, backpacks of any type will not be allowed in classes or the hallways during the school day (8 am– 2:55 pm). Students are expected to use their lockers and carry supplies for each class. Students will be allowed to carry books to and from school in their bags, but the bag must be of a size to fit in their lockers which are 12” wide and 13 ¾” deep. The only bag allowed in classrooms is an appropriate laptop bag. Students may carry a very small purse if needed. Any bags with sports equipment that does not fit into the student’s locker must be stored in the Athletic hallway between the Dance Studio and the M/S Student Center. Loose items such as shoes and clothing need to be in bags against the walls. Bus Rules ● Obey the driver politely and cheerfully, and do not interfere with the driver at any time. ● Occupy the seat assigned by the driver. ● Keep all body parts inside the bus at all times. ● Help keep the bus clean and orderly (no eating, drinking, or chewing gum). ● Do not throw any objects. ● Students will follow the Cell Phone and Technology Responsible Use Policy while using Country Day transportation. ● Students may not bring live animals or oversized articles onto the bus. ● Sharp or possibly harmful articles are to be kept inside backpacks while riding the bus. ● Boarding and exiting the bus: Students must board buses at designated locations. (Any alternate arrangements must be made in writing, in advance, by parents with the transportation office.) ● If crossing a roadway after exiting the bus: make certain the bus is stationary, wait for the driver to signal for you to cross, look to the right and look to the left walk, do not run, in front of the bus to the other side of the roadway If bus rules are violated: ● The driver issues a verbal warning. ● The driver submits a School Bus Incident Report for the incident to be addressed with the student and/or parent. ● A conference is held with the parent, driver, transportation supervisor, dean, or director.

Destruction of Property Intentional destruction of others’ property, defacing of walls, classroom textbooks, and desks, and other such acts of vandalism cannot be tolerated. All such acts of antisocial behavior will be dealt with severely, requiring in every case that the cost of replacing or repairing the destroyed property be charged to the student or students involved. Accidental destruction of school property is not considered a disciplinary offense; however, the cost of replacing or repairing the destroyed property will be charged to the student or students involved. The removal of school property from its assigned location on the campus without permission will be considered theft. Possible community service projects, required counseling, suspension and/or dismissal may result. Fighting and Aggressive Behavior Country Day maintains a zero-tolerance policy against physical aggression. The penalty for all parties involved in fighting/physical aggression ranges from detention to expulsion from school. Depending on the circumstances, the school administration reserves the right to determine what constitutes fighting. Gambling Gambling in any grade at any time on campus or at off-campus school functions is strictly prohibited. Gum Chewing No gum is allowed in the Middle School building at any time because of the potential damage to school property. Gum must not be brought to school. Intoxicants, Vape, and Drugs Students are forbidden to possess or to use intoxicants, vape, or drugs or associated paraphernalia on the school campus or in connection with any school function. Moreover, there is to be no evidence of the use of intoxicants or drugs before any school function. The possession or association with someone who possesses intoxicants, vape or drugs or associated paraphernalia on campus, at an off--campus school -sponsored affair or before a school affair will result in severe consequences that could result in immediate dismissal from the school. All medications, both prescription and non-prescription, are to be turned over to the school nurse for dispensing. Students with documented need for an inhaler or epinephrine may self-carry if those medications have been checked in with the nurse first. Leaving Campus Requests for early dismissal must be made in writing or on the phone by a parent or guardian, stating the express purpose for such dismissal, the time at which the student should be excused, and the time the student will return to school. Students should never leave the campus during the school day or during school sponsored events without parent and school permission. Students who become ill during the school day must visit the Middle School office or the school nurse before making arrangements to leave. Leaving campus during a regular school day or a scheduled event without permission is a serious safety issue and a violation of our

community expectations. In some cases leaving without permission may result in disciplinary action. Students who change their afterschool transportation arrangements must notify the school secretary and their parents of the difference to avoid causing unnecessary confusion or concern. Lockers (Hall and Gym) Hall lockers with built -in combination locks are provided for the convenience of students in grades 6-8. Students in grade 4 and 5 do not have locks on their lockers. Students may not tamper with the locks in any way. Lockers are to be kept neat and clean at all times. No permanent changes may be made to locker interiors. Writing or the attachment of stickers outside or inside lockers is strictly prohibited. Locker interiors may be decorated provided that all materials are easily removable in June. The same rules apply to athletic lockers. Students are not to go into another student’s locker at any time; such action may result in suspension. Lock combinations should not be shared with other students. There is a charge to change a combination. Students may be held responsible for damage to a locker. Only food or beverage for athletic snacks, brought in proper containers, may be kept in lockers. Administration reserves the right to check student lockers. This act will be witnessed and may be done without student notification where the welfare of a student or the community is in question. Medications “Over-the--counter” medications may not be available through the school. If a student must have medication (prescription or over--the--counter) during the day, he/she must leave it in the school dispensary. According to state law, no medication shall be administered to a student without a doctor’s order and parents’ written permission. Students are not allowed to carry medication of any kind or keep it in their lockers, with the exception of prescribed inhalers and Epi-pens. Medication permission forms can be found in Magnus, along with the annual health physical and emergency forms and must be completed before the opening of school. Food

Students may bring in a snack to consume in their advisory during FLEX. There is to be no sharing of food, due to allergy concerns. Food may not be consumed in the hallway. It must be eaten in the cafeteria or in designated classrooms or areas with teacher permission. All school sales must be approved by the administration and monitored by a faculty member. Students may not sell food to others unless part of an approved sale. Personal snacks that adhere to the food allergy policy for after school consumption may be allowed especially for late athletic events. Food/beverages that meet the food allergy policy, are only allowed for designated advisory celebrations and must be inclusive and be delivered to the main office. No caffeinated beverages or peanuts/nuts are allowed. Pizza or restaurant food deliveries are not permitted. Please review the Food Allergies section at the beginning of this document. Personal Property Because of the similarity of many articles and supplies, it is of paramount importance that students identify their possessions clearly. Names should be labeled on all articles of clothing. All books should be marked legibly with the student’s and his/her advisor’s name so that lost

articles may be returned to the student as expeditiously as possible. Lost and Found is located outside of the MS office. The school assumes no responsibility for personal property left. Therefore, students are strongly urged not to bring expensive jewelry, equipment, electronic devices, or large sums of money to school. Student Restricted Areas Certain areas of the school building and campus are restricted in their use, and are as follows: ● All construction areas ● Teacher collaborations rooms ● Upper School building except for the athletic hallway and PAC with permission ● School parking lot, outside of designated safe walking areas ● Faculty workrooms and faculty restrooms ● Classrooms during the day and after school when a teacher is not present ● Emergency stairwell located near the elevator ● The elevator, by any student except one holding a legitimate pass ● Stairwells, except for passage to class ● The Nature Center and river area are off limits unless accompanied by a faculty member ● Other areas where common sense would dictate their restricted use are included in the off -limits areas, such as the kitchen (except the areas in front of the serving counter during lunch), the roof and any ladders leading to it, any offices unless there is a specific purpose for being there, custodial areas, storage rooms, the residential areas surrounding the campus and so on. Theft Evidence of theft within the school is considered a serious offense, punishable with one or more days of suspension or possible dismissal. A second offense may result in a recommendation to the headmaster for expulsion from the school. The selling or purchase of stolen items may result in suspension or dismissal from school. Threats The school takes the safety and well-being of faculty, students, staff, and guests seriously. Perceived or real threats, shared verbally or in writing or drawing, against the school community or any individual within it will be taken seriously, and may result in consequences beginning with suspension and possibly leading to expulsion and/or legal consequences. Unauthorized Possessions and Other Considerations Students are not to bring to school any items that might be considered disruptive to the daily operation of the school. Such items will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day. Depending on the circumstances, a suitable punishment may be issued. However, possession of dangerous, harmful items such as weapons, ammunition, martial arts equipment, etc., is punishable by suspension or dismissal from the school.

ACADEMIC HOURS/DAILY OPERATIONS Academic Hours Grade 4 and 5 starts at 8:15 and ends at 3:00 Grade 6, 7, and 8 starts at 8:30 and ends at 2:55

F.L.E.X. (Featured Learning Experiences) Period The F.L.E.X. period occurs daily. Among the scheduled activities are special assemblies, tutorials, study time, social interaction, Advisory, and clubs. Advisory - Grades 4 & 5 All fourth and fifth grade children are assigned to an advisory and advisor. The advisor is responsible for monitoring each student’s academic progress, and social and emotional growth. Each of the fourth and fifth grade children are taught social studies by their advisor. In addition to daily teaching responsibilities the advisor also supervises recess, lunch, and dismissal. Advisory - Grades 6-8 Advisory in Grades 6-8 at Detroit Country Day School continues to foster student inclusion, advocacy, and holistic well- being. With a foundation built upon strong relationships, the advisor acts as a guide to support each advisee as they navigate the middle years of their educational career. During this period, (often part of F.L.E.X.), students meet with their advisors in assigned rooms for the following purposes: an advisor /advisee activity, reading time, goal setting, academic reflection, character discussions or special assemblies (seated with advisor). Lunch Students and faculty in Grades 4, 5, and 6 are assigned to the Hillview Cafeteria for lunch period. Students and faculty in Grades 7 & 8 are assigned to the student center for the lunch period. Lunch attendance is required. Tutorials Many tutorials will be offered after school on a regular basis; the schedule will be defined in the Weekly Bulletin. Tutorials with specific teachers may be arranged by appointment either just before or just after school. Homework tutorials will be assigned after school as needed. Tutorials are open to all students seeking extra guidance. Office Hours The Middle School building opens at 7:00 a.m. There will be designated locations for each grade-level for supervision between 7:00 and 8:15 (grades 4 & 5) 8:15 (grades 6-8). The Middle School office will be open between 7:45 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. on regular school days. Dismissal Procedures Students should be picked up as soon as possible after their scheduled dismissal from class, athletics, or p.m. programs. Middle School students may not be picked up in the U/S. Students who are not in sports, but who must stay at school, must report and sign into a designated p.m. area by 3:15 p.m. Parents may pick up athletes after practices and games from the student center at the Hillview Campus. Students in athletics will return to the Middle School lockers for their belongings before reporting to the student center, but may not linger in the hallway including the Cooper athletic hallway.

No Middle School students are allowed to roam the campus. They must be either in a supervised location or at an athletic event. For students in grades 6-8 to attend an athletic event, students must first sign in to the student center by 3:15 pm and sign out to the athletic location no more than 10 minutes prior to the official start time of the game. If a student leaves the athletic event, they must return to the student center to sign back in if not immediately picked up. Students in grades 4 & 5 may not attend an athletic event without an adult. If a student has a later game, students should be in the Library or Student Center until the designated time that the team will be released. Afternoon dismissal times are as follows ● 2:55 p.m. - Grades 6, 7, & 8 - grade 7 picked up on first floor (Hillview); grades 6 & 8 picked up on third floor (13 Mile) ● 3:00 p.m. - Grades 4 & 5 - picked up on first floor (Hillview) ● 3:15 p.m. - Remaining students not involved in athletics must report to a supervised PM location, where they are required to sign in by 3:15 p.m. Bus students should remain in supervised areas until five minutes before bus departure. ● 3:10 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. - Athletics ● 4:15 p.m. - Conclusion of athletic practices. Athletes not picked up by parents report to the Middle School Student Center to await parent pick-up. All athletes should be picked up at the third floor entrance. After athletics, students may not wait unsupervised in the Fieldhouse, Upper School, Cooper hallway, or other areas. They must return to the Student Center until being picked up.

ACADEMICS Curriculum Middle School students are required to study five years of English, mathematics, science, history and world language. Additionally, students study art, special writing, physical education, general music, choir, band, orchestra, dance, STEAM, speech and drama. The Learning Support Department provides an optional waiver of the world language requirement for students with specific, documented diagnosis. The waiver must be approved by the Learning Support department. Summer Reading/Homework Students can access summer work on the school website. Please note that summer work has the designation of either “recommended” or “required” All summer work that is “required” needs to be completed by the first day of the new school year. For all summer work, please follow the designated instructions that accompany each subject listed. The Flint Library (MS Library) The Flint Library opens daily at 7:45 am. Homework Homework is a regular part of every academic class. Homework and assignments serve multiple purposes. They give students a chance to review and reinforce what they've learned, deepen their understanding of key concepts, and practice applying their thinking in different

ways. Beyond academics, assignments help build important habits—like time management, responsibility, and the ability to complete quality work independently. While students may have some time during the school day to get started on their assignments, it’s unlikely they’ll be able to finish all of it at school. As a result, families should plan for consistent evening study time throughout the year. Students in fourth and fifth grade are required to use a paper planner provided by the school. Starting this coming school year, Students in Grade 6 will also be required to use a paper planner provided by the school. We strongly encourage students to use a planner to help manage their academic, extracurricular, and personal responsibilities. Homework and Assignments Policy ● Students are expected to complete assigned work by the established due dates. Assignments are posted on Canvas and available to each student for each class outlining the assigned work and the due dates. ● Late homework or late assignments must be completed for course credit. Upon completion of late work, the student will receive partial credit as outlined by the course syllabus. ○ If a student fails to complete homework assignments on time, the following process will occur: ■ Late work may result in a student being assigned to Homework Tutorials (before school), Academic Enrichment (after school) or during the FLEX or recess period. ■ Failure to report to an assigned homework tutorial will result in a notice being sent home. ■ If necessary, an in-house suspension may be assigned in an attempt to obtain missing assignments. Testing Regular testing is essential for evaluation of student work. To avoid having more than two major tests in any given day, the faculty will coordinate testing dates. Testing Policy Grade 4 and 5 (no more than one of the following combinations in one school day) ● One test ● One test, one quiz ● Two quizzes Grade 6 (No more than two assessments in one school day) ● Two tests, or ● Two quizzes, or ● One test, one quiz Grades 7 and 8 ● Two tests, one quiz, or

● Three quizzes, or ● Two quizzes, one test Although every attempt will be made to preserve the policy above, conflicts may occur. Students with unique circumstances may have more assessments than stated and are encouraged to make individual arrangements with the teacher, if necessary. Academic Accommodations Students with documented disabilities, including medical and/or learning disorders, may qualify for formal accommodations. Determination of individual accommodations is based on the Learning Support Department’s review of the comprehensive evaluation and documentation (recommendations in the report are not guaranteed). Short term accommodations for medical conditions can be provided, on an individual basis, determined by our team of nursing, mental health counselors, and/or learning support. Holidays and Extended Vacations: Special Homework and Testing Policies Detroit Country Day School respects and honors all religions and cultures. Due to the extraordinary diversity of our student body, it is not feasible to cancel school for all the holidays celebrated by our students and their families. We would like all of our students and families to have the opportunity to celebrate and observe holidays together. Consequently, there will be no homework, quizzes or tests due on the day of the holiday and the day following these observances: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Mid-winter break, Spring Break, Easter, Eid al Fitr, Eid al Adha, Diwali, and Lunar New Year. Students who will be observing a holiday beyond the dates of the above policy will be granted an extension. Final Exams 8th grade students take assessment examinations at the end of Goal III. Final examination results are reported along with the final grades in June and may count up to 10% of the final grade. Final Exams may be in a different format than a “typical” written Final Exam. Examples are, but not limited to: Capstone Project, Showcase, or a Problem-Based Assessment Grading The year is divided into three goal periods, each approximately 10 weeks long. At the end of each goal, numerical grades are sent home as follows: 98–100

A+

77-79

B-

61-63

92–97

74-76

C+

D-

89--91

A-

68-73

50-59

86--88

B+

65-67

C-

80--85

D+

There is no grade lower than 50, which is considered failing. Country Day does not use a percentage system. The numbers indicate a letter range.

Incomplete Goal Grades An incomplete goal grade in any subject must be made up within two weeks after the goal period ends. Students who do not complete missing work within two weeks of the end of the goal will receive a 50 for the goal. Communicating Academic Progress While DCDS encourages students to take ownership of their academic experience and advocate for themselves, parents can stay informed about their child’s progress through Canvas. Teachers will post grades and occasionally include comments on major assignments to provide additional context. At the end of a goal, a brief comment will be available on Veracross in addition to a report card. Parents are welcome to contact a student’s advisor for additional academic information. Parents, students and advisors meet at least three times per year to establish and monitor goals and progress as well as to schedule for the future. These meetings are by appointment. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their growth and performance.

AWARDS AND HONORS Recognition Assemblies Student achievements in academics, arts and athletics will be shared in FLEX assemblies throughout the year. National Junior Honor Society, Shaw Chapter The Middle School National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) chapter, named in honor of the school's founder, seeks to recognize and encourage academic achievement, as well as leadership, service, honesty, character and citizenship. Membership is an honor that the faculty bestows upon the students who reach excellence in these areas after 7th grade school years and after Goal II in the 8th grade. Students have the opportunity to be inducted in the fall following Grade 7 and in the spring of the 8th grade year. Elected students must achieve summa cum laude status (see honor roll requirements) to be considered. Students who meet this requirement are invited to apply. Details and an online application are emailed directly to the student. Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony Speakers 8th Grade students that are chosen by their peers and in some cases, the faculty, will have an opportunity to speak at the Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony. Grade 8 Heart and “Ksoll” Community Service Award The award is designed to encourage community service and to honor retired faculty member, Katharina Ksoll, who fostered years of community service awareness through her work with the Student Council during her long tenure at the school. Students are encouraged to volunteer time to their school, religious groups, and their communities. Seeking out opportunities to be a contributing citizen is part of the DCDS strategic plan. Grade 8 Lisa Knaup Friendship Award

Grade 8 students meet as a class in the spring to hear about the merits of friendship symbolized by the life of Lisa Knaup as a memorial to this former DCDS teacher. One or more students will be honored by nominations from their classmates. This award encourages students to be kind and considerate to one another, and to recognize positive social energy. “Corpore Sano” Elite Achiever Award This award, presented by the Athletic and Physical Education Departments at Detroit Country Day Middle School, acknowledges outstanding achievement in interscholastic athletics and physical education FITNESS GRAM testing. To be eligible for the yearly award, students must meet the criteria set forth by the respective departments. Cynthia Goldberg Cup Award The Cynthia Goldberg Cup was established in 2010 by the Middle School faculty to honor Cynthia Goldberg, who was a dedicated educator and administrator at Detroit Country Day School for 28 years. This award is presented annually by the Middle School faculty to the 8th grade student who aspires to become an individual who is intelligent, open-minded, compassionate, eloquent, collaborative, honest, loyal, and graceful under pressure—all of the qualities that Cynthia Goldberg embodies. Other Awards Middle School students are encouraged to challenge themselves by entering competitions such as the: ● “America and Me” essay contest ● Art shows and exhibitions, such as Scholastic Art competition ● World Language Competitions ● Forensic Competitions ● History/Social Studies Competitions ● Math Contests, such as the Country Day Invitational, Michigan Math League State Test, Math Counts, and the American Math Competition ● Science and Engineering Fair of Metro Detroit ● School Writing Contest or other external writing contests ● Solo Ensemble, and Choral competitions ● Other academic competitions as announced Honor Rolls - 7th and 8th grade At the end of each goal, a list of students who have attained high scholastic achievement is computed and indicated on the grade report. This is also done at the end of the year with final grades so that those students remaining in the 7th and 8th grade who have sustained scholastic achievement throughout the previous academic year can be honored at a special assembly in the fall. Only the core academic classes of English, World Language, Science, Math, and History will be used to calculate the G.P.A. for Honor Roll status. Elective classes in all areas including Art, Performance Music and the rotators such as STEAM, World Religions, and Writing will be graded but not averaged in the G.P.A. They will, however, affect the Honor Roll status if they fall below the required grade designations. For example, if a student achieved summa cum laude based on their core academic class grades but had a grade below 85 in any class including an elective or a required rotator, they would achieve magna instead of summa cum

laude. The special designations are cum laude (with honor), magna cum laude (with high honor), and summa cum laude (with highest honor). Honor Roll status is awarded on the following basis: Honor Roll

Average

Required Grade Designation

Summa Cum Laude

93–100

No grade in any class less than 85

Magna Cum Laude

87–92

No grade in any class less than 80

Cum Laude

80–86

No grade in any class less than 75

Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony The 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony is an opportunity for faculty, parents, and friends to celebrate our students as they leave middle school and begin their upper school experience. Attendance is required for all Grade 8 students and selected musicians. Official “Color Day” school attire is required. Parents must communicate with the deans before graduation if a student cannot participate. Music students must inform the music teachers personally if they cannot participate.

TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL MEDIA Cell Phone Use We understand the role cell phones play in our student’s lives in the 21st century. At school, cell phones can easily become a distraction and require a substantial amount of responsibility to manage. There is a significant amount of credible research that suggests excessive cell phone use impacts adolescents mental health and well-being and is associated with increased stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. At Detroit Country Day School we live, “Mens Sana In Corpore Sano”, A Sound Mind In A Sound Body, everyday. To do that, we create an intentional environment where students have the greatest opportunity to grow, succeed and thrive. While we allow students to bring their phones to school, students are NOT ALLOWED to use their cell phones from the beginning of the school day (7:45 am for all grades 4-8) to the end of the school day (3:05 pm for grades 4 and 5 and 2:55 pm for grades 6, 7, and 8) for any reason without permission from a teacher or administrator. This is a change from previous years. Smartwatches (of any kind) fall into this category. Both watches and phones MUST be kept in the student’s lockers or backpacks during the day. If a student is in PM Supervision after the school has ended, and they choose to be on their phone, they are NOT ALLOWED to utilize any social media platforms. Chromebook Use We believe that a laptop or Chromebook can be a powerful tool to aid in our students’ learning. Owning and caring for such a device is also a big responsibility. Not only in how it is treated but also how it is used. During the time a student is on campus and until dismissal, Chromebooks may be used for educational purposes only. The purpose of the school issued

and managed Chromebook and use of the network is also described in the Technology Responsible Use Policy outlined below. Chromebooks are the only laptop type device allowed to be used during the day in Middle School. Chromebook Use Issues ● During the day, students must have their laptops with them or the laptops must be locked in their school locker. ● Laptops may not be left in a gym locker. ● Laptops must never be left unattended in a public area. If found, they will be taken to the office at which time consequences will occur. ● Because of the variety of off-campus events sponsored by Country Day, it is impossible to have a uniform security policy for these events. Provisions will be made to assist students in keeping their laptops safe. However, Detroit Country Day School and its personnel are not responsible for the safety of individual laptops. ● Students may not lend out their laptops. ● Laptops may never be left unattended on a bus. ● Unless expressly permitted by a teacher, students will not use class time to use computers beyond their academic needs. ● Teachers and administrators reserve the right to view the contents of students’ laptops. Wearable Technology Apple watches, smart watches or any sort of wearable technology (including wireless earbuds) that can be used to connect to the web or communicate using a phone or network, fall into the same category as cell phones. If a student does not meet the expectations, the following ● 1st offense - Phone, laptop, Chromebook or wearable technology will be taken to the office and the parent will be notified via email. The device may be picked up at the end of the day by the student. ● 2nd offense - Phone, laptop, Chromebook or wearable technology will be taken to the office and the parent will be notified via email. The device may be picked up in person at the end of the day by a parent or guardian. ● 3rd offense - Phone, laptop, Chromebook or wearable technology must be turned in at the beginning of the day to the office for one week. The device may be picked up at the end of the day by the student. Technology Responsible Use Policy To promote educational excellence, Detroit Country Day School (DCDS) provides computer, network, email, and Internet access (“The DCDS Technology Resources”) as part of the learning environment. The DCDS Technology Resources support the instructional mission of the school, providing students the ability to learn 21st century skills such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Parents, you authorize us to act on your behalf to grant consent for your student’s use of software, including vendor Terms of Service and applicable privacy regulations. In exchange for the use of The DCDS Technology Resources, students agree to the following:

I WILL: ● Use the Internet for educational purposes, research, and to gather information consistent with the goals of Detroit Country Day Schools Follow: ○ All Copyright and Trademark laws ○ The DCDS Social Media ○ Policy in the handbook ○ Terms and Conditions of all software agreements ● Report any misuses of the Internet including viruses, illegal access to accounts or illegal tampering to the appropriate administrator. ○ Accept responsibility for the care of the equipment and respect the individual work, files and programs of others. ○ Ensure my device (when applicable) is in working order. I WILL NOT: ● Use technology to record, transmit or post images, audio or video of a person or persons on school property without prior approval. ● Knowingly add a virus to any device. ● Hack or bypass network security and/or filters. ● Violate the DCDS Honor Code. ● Use any technology, including the Internet, that violates Federal, State, and Local laws. ● Use the Internet to view sites or send messages that are inflammatory, harassing in nature (cyber bullying), sexist, racist, or contain obscene material. ● Access inappropriate files or materials. ● Access or modify other accounts, data, files or passwords without authorization ● Allow others to use my accounts to access the Internet or school network. The use of these resources is a privilege and not a right. Users have no right or expectation to privacy when using The DCDS Technology Resources including, but not limited to, privacy in the content of their personal files, emails, and records of their online activity. While these systems have the power to deliver a vast number of resources to classrooms and enhance education, their effectiveness depends on the responsible and ethical use by every individual. Violation of this administrative rule will result in the loss of this privilege and may result in discipline or litigation in accordance with DCDS policy and state and federal laws. Pursuant to Federal Law, DCDS has implemented technology protection measures which block/filter Internet access to visual displays that are obscene, inappropriate or harmful to minors. Nevertheless, parents/guardians are advised that a determined user may be able to gain access to services on the Internet that DCDS has not authorized for educational purposes. In fact, it is impossible to guarantee students will not gain access through the Internet to information and communications that they and/or their parents/guardians may find inappropriate, offensive, objectionable or controversial. Parents/Guardians assume risks by consenting to allow their child to participate in the use of the Internet. Parents/Guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using the Internet. Consequences for students not adhering to the Technology Responsible Use Policy ● Offenders of unacceptable conduct online, defined as : Not adhering to the school’s

Technology Responsible Use Policy, will face consequences ranging from detention to expulsion, depending on the circumstances and severity. ● If a violation of the Technology Responsible Use Policy occurs outside of school and, as a result, disrupts our school environment, the offending student(s) will be held accountable, and depending on the circumstances and the severity, will face consequences ranging from detention to expulsion. As well, depending on the circumstances and severity, law enforcement authorities may be notified.

SOCIAL MEDIA - RESPONSIBLE USE POLICIES AND GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS Overview Sharing experiences at Detroit Country Day School (DCDS) through social networking /media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, blogs, etc.) can be an engaging way to connect with others in the community, exchange educational resources, log travel experiences, create educational content, and enhance classroom experiences. While the benefits are evident, those that participate in social networking/media always need to be cognizant of the inherent risks that come with using these tools. In the social media world, the lines are often blurred between what is public or private, personal or professional. Terms of service for each platform should be followed. At the middle school level, parents should also determine whether a student is mature enough to engage with social media. The goals of this document are to: ● Define what DCDS considers social media. ● Provide guidance and best practices for the appropriate personal use of social media by students, faculty, and staff at the school. ● Provide guidance for official use of social media by individuals representing the school. ● Clearly set boundaries for appropriate behavior by young people and adults when using social media. Social Media Defined Defined broadly, social media encompasses voluntary communications and experiences that are (but not limited to): ● Distributed electronically by organizations and individuals. ● Consumed on a desktop and mobile devices. ● Shared electronically by diverse individuals. ● Discussed publicly or semi-publicly by an engaged population. Social media is commonly encountered in the context of online software applications like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram. There are also many trending apps or sites such as Snapchat and Tik Tok.. On these platforms text, media, links, and opinions are shared, discussed, and redistributed. Best Practices for Personal Accounts ● Clearly identify who you are – The link between professional (student) and personal persona is sometimes blurred. Be thoughtful about your postings, content, and potential audiences. Be honest about your identity. ● Protect Your Identity – While you should be honest about yourself, it’s irresponsible to provide personal information that scam artists or identity thieves could use. Don’t

share your home address or telephone number. Policies for Personal Accounts ● Clearly state your views are your own - In personal posts, provide a personal statement that indicates you do not represent any brand or organization. Consider using a standard disclaimer: “The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of any other entity.” ● Never use DCDS crests, logos, or registered trademarks. Accounts using these images without permission will be considered in violation of the school social media policy. ● Responsible Use Policy. - Any personal postings should be on your own time outside of the academic day. Students found to be engaged in any type of online bullying will be subject to the discipline measures described under Behavioral Expectations in the Student Handbook. ● Maintain privacy – Do not share photos or information about other DCDS students, faculty, staff or families without explicit permission. ● Obey terms of service of any and all social media platforms. DCDS Guidelines for Posting at School Functions Below are guidelines to follow for members of the school community (students, faculty, administrators, and staff) when posting in social media spaces at any DCDS sanctioned or related event (this includes field trips), or on any of its campuses. If you plan to post at school functions, please notify the Communications Department at kbirmingham@dcds.edu to partner with you to improve DCDS social media communications and networking to promote events and successes of the school. . Think before you post ● Use good judgment and behave in a way that will make you and others proud and reflect positively on the school. ● Know and follow the school’s guidelines on Technology Responsible Use Policy. A copy of this policy can be found on the Portal and in the Student Handbook. All students and their parents at the beginning of the school year sign the policy ● Don’t assume anything is ever private despite your security settings. ● Do not use the school name to promote a product, cause, business, political party or candidate unless it is a DCDS sponsored event. Be respectful ● Always treat others in a respectful, positive, and considerate manner. ● Don’t spam, type using all caps, be hateful or use profane language. Be restrained and methodical, not reactive ● Refrain from responding to posts from individuals or entities that are derogatory, inflammatory, profane, or otherwise obviously intended to provoke. Take a screenshot of the post and forward to the Communications Department at kbirmingham@dcds.edu, and then delete the post, if possible. ● Do not take any further action until specifically directed by the Administration Be responsible and ethical ● If you are posting at a school function, please stick to discussing only those school-

related matters that are within your area of responsibility. ● Students should be open about their affiliation with the school and role/position they hold. ● Share and interact in a way that will enhance your reputation, the reputation of others, and the reputation of the school, rather than damage them. ● Never use social media to spread information about a crisis unless the information has been verified and approved by the Headmaster or Advancement Office. Be a good listener ● Be responsive to others when conversing online. Treat your interactions as if you were at a job or college interview. ● Social media can be an effective tool for discussions, but do not use it to vent or rant. Check and re-check ● Check all work for correct use of grammar and spelling before posting. Reading aloud to oneself is a good way to catch errors. ● Sharing content you see on social media channels can be powerful and informative, but always check links and content before re-posting. ● If a mistake happens: ○ Correct the mistake immediately, and make it clear what you’ve done to fix the mistake. ○ Apologize for the mistake if the situation warrants it. ○ If it’s a major mistake, please inform the Communications Department (kbirmingham@dcds.edu) so that steps can be taken to minimize the impact. Post information and images with care ● To ensure safety, be careful about the type and amount of personal information you provide. ● Avoid talking about school, personal schedules or situations. Post after the event has taken place and never mention any upcoming school trips or events, unless it is a well -publicized public event. ● Safeguard privacy – be respectful of the privacy of all families. If a parent is easily identifiable in the public eye, reconsider your actions to post. Do not identify students in any way by using first or last names. ● All awards announcements should be directed to The Buzz (thebuzz@dcds.edu) so that proper research and clarifications can be made. Parents’ requests for publication of awards and recognitions should be directed to The Buzz. Posts of awards on social media by DCDS branded accounts may be reposted on personal accounts if so desired. Names used in these instances have been granted permission by the proper sources. ● Respect copyrights, trademarks and photo credits. ● Photo captions should not include names. ● Students - If you do not want your image shared, do not pose for any pictures by staff members, parents, or students. Policing where photos go once captured is too difficult, so it is best not to pose for a picture you’d rather not be in.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE

Overall, dress regulations in the Middle School focus on neat, clean clothing in good taste that avoids extremes and fads, and is consistent in spirit and letter with the standards, philosophy and style of the school. Education is an important endeavor, and student dress should reflect the seriousness with which our students take their studies. Students should arrive in the building in the morning properly attired. Any student who is not in proper attire is to see a Dean before the school day begins for a dress code pass. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

Grade 4

Grade 5

Grade 6

Grade 7

Grade 8

DCDS monogrammed white long-sleeved oxford shirt OR DCDS monogrammed white or navy short sleeve or long sleeve polo

DCDS monogrammed white long-sleeved oxford shirt

Khaki pants with a black, dark brown, or navy solid colored belt. Students may also wear knee length navy or khaki shorts during fall and spring. OR

Khaki pants with a black, dark brown, or navy solid colored belt OR

DCDS Plaid Skirt or kilt hemmed to the knee or just above. If a skirt is shorter, a student has the option to wear leggings or tights or get a longer skirt. Leggings required Nov 1 - Spring Break

Optional - navy pants and short sleeve or long sleeve blue or short sleeved white DCDS monogrammed Oxford

Optional - DCDS tie

Optional - DCDS Tie

DCDS Tie required for boys

Optional - DCDS sweater or sweater vest

DCDS sweater or sweater vest required Nov. 1 Spring Break

DCDS sweater or sweater vest -required Nov. 1 Spring Break

DCDS sweater or sweater vest required Nov.1 Spring Break

Socks - Plain black, brown, navy or white

Shoes - Plain white or navy, or grey or black low top tennis shoes

Shoes - Plain white or navy, or grey or black low top tennis shoes or plain black, brown or navy solid, low heeled, leather or suede dress shoes (no boots, moccasins, slippers, Tasmans or canvas shoes)

Shoes must have a back - Plain black, brown or navy solid, low heeled, leather or suede dress shoes (no boots, moccasins, slippers, or canvas shoes)

Dress shoes are required for performances and special events. (No Tasmans)

No option - see above

*** Every Friday is Spirit Day *** - If students participate, they MUST wear a DCDS shirt, sweatshirt, or jersey to show their school spirit with the appropriate uniform bottoms. Physical Education Class Uniform (6th - 8th Grades)--Please note that 4th and 5th grade will not change for PE. In keeping with the school’s style, philosophy and standards, students are required to adhere to the physical education class dress code policy: ● Shirt: A short sleeve, loose-fitting DCDS navy, gold (Vegas or yellow), white or gray T-shirt is required. No other shirt colors are allowed. Shirts must have sleeves and a DCDS logo or wording. Tight-fitting body shirts or tank tops are not allowed. DCDS team uniforms or DCDS club shirts are not allowed. ● Shorts: Students are allowed to wear any athletic shorts of their choice. They do not specifically have to have the DCDS logo. Short shorts or writing on the back of the shorts are not allowed. ● Socks: Athletic socks of any color. School dress socks are not allowed. Consequences of Physical Education Dress Code Violations Any student not in proper dress code will automatically lose their daily participation points. A written note from a parent with an explanation for the dress code violation may excuse the

violation. This note must be submitted to the student’s physical education instructor prior to the start of the student’s next physical education class. Students with repeat violations of the dress code requirements will be issued a notification.

Casual Days Modesty governs our casual day policy. On these days students usually wear jeans, shorts, leggings, T-shirts and sweatshirts. Torso and shoulders must be fully covered. Plunging necklines, short shorts, tank tops and tube tops are not appropriate. The clothing should be modest, neat, without holes and properly fitting. No obscene or blasphemous expressions may be written on the shirts. Students wearing inappropriate clothing will be required to change. The Middle School will continue to adjust to the changing styles of what adolescents wear. Grooming As with the uniform, the focus is on neatness, cleanliness, and good taste, which avoids extremes and is consistent in spirit and letter with the standards, philosophy and style of the school. Advisors will clarify dress and grooming regulations and encourage students to adhere to Detroit Country Day School standards. We simply want students to represent their best selves each day. Wigs are not permitted unless warranted for religious or health reasons. In general, unusual styles that detract from the educational environment are not permitted. Mustaches and beards are not permitted except for religious reasons. Students may wear simple jewelry. Tattoos must be covered up. Body piercing, other than ears, is not allowed. Students may opt to wear light makeup. Students may not wear false nails in Grades 4 and 5 due to safety concerns.. Additional Information The intent of our dress code is to minimize distraction and continue to foster a focused learning environment for all. A student or employee may not wear or display any insignia, badge or button depicting corporate, activist, personal or political statements, outside logos or messaging. This includes, but is not limited to, clothing and accessories such as neckties, backpacks, water bottles, electronic devices, notebooks, etc.

ACTIVITIES Beyond The Bell Program Beyond The Bell is an after school program designed to provide supervision and activities for children who need to remain at school for an extended time beyond the normal school day as needed. The program runs from 3:10 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. each day. Students who stay beyond 5p.m. will be charged for time at Beyond the Bell. This is a tech-free area for our 4th and 5th graders who are encouraged to play cooperative board games or enjoy extra time to play outside. PM Enrichment Classes – (Grades 4 & 5) PM classes offer optional enrichment for Grades 4 & 5 to meet the growing interests of children beyond the normal academic day. There are three eight-week sessions which meet

during the fall, winter, and spring, Tuesday through Friday, from 3:10 to 4:10pm Registration is available prior to the start of each session and is honored on a first-come, first-served basis according to space availability. Each student may sign up for 1 class per session. Junior Jackets Sports Program – (Grades 4-6) Please refer to the Veracross Parent Portal for offerings. Band, Choir, & Orchestra Classes (Grade 4 & 5) Band, choir, and orchestra instruction is offered before and after school. Clubs (Grades 6-8) Middle School teachers sponsor carefully planned and structured activities of student interest as well as some opportunities for students to follow an area of interest/passion to create. Most clubs will be organized by grade level and range from fun games and fitness/sports opportunities to high level academic competitions. Competition Clubs like MathCounts, Science Olympiad, Quiz Bowl, etc can be multi-grade level (6-8) Class Board Committee (Grades 6-8) Students wishing to participate on the class board committees will need to attend a leadership guidelines meeting and complete an application. All class committee members must carry at least an overall grade average of 75, should be exemplary in behavior, possess a positive attitude, and demonstrate respect for the faculty and school code, including the academic integrity policy. Prior to the first committee meeting, the class advisor will review all nominees to check for compliance with the above criteria. Class board committee members must maintain the standards while in office; otherwise, they may be removed from office. School Social Activities and Class Advisors The school recognizes the need for social and emotional growth in this age group. Therefore, class advisors and class officers plan various age--appropriate activities. Class camaraderie, opportunities to develop planning and organizational skills in student leaders, and a chance to develop friendships are considered.. Some social functions may take place during the regular school hours. Other functions may be held from 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., or during early evening hours as specified on the monthly calendar. Social events are designed for this age group and limited to current Detroit Country Day Middle School students. Grades 6-8 have a class advisor or co-advisors. Their role is to develop leadership skills in the elected class officers, to create opportunities for appropriate social interaction and community service and to raise funds for class projects and events. Field Trips During the year, teachers may use field trips to enhance classroom teaching; these trips are a required part of the curriculum. The Middle School Director or Deans must approve all field trips. Regular dress code is required on field trips unless otherwise noted. As part of the back-to-school forms on Magnus, parents give permission for a student’s participation in day field trips for the entire year. Fees for day field trips are charged to the student’s account when applicable. In general, school buses will be used for all field trips. Students who present disciplinary or social concerns may be excluded from a field trip at the

discretion of the Dean and Director. For overnight and out-of-town field trips, in addition to the release form, a parent or guardian must also sign a Trip Agreement form. For overnight trips, a parent and student are required to attend a pre-trip meeting to explain the trip, make information available to parents and answer any questions parents may have. Absences, other than illness, from these trips should be pre-excused in advance. Fundraising All student groups and organizations considering holding fundraisers within the Middle School must seek approval from the director. All social functions on school premises require prior approval of the Middle School Director for use of class funds. Each class, and the Class Board, has the right to maintain a treasury for valid purposes, such as hosting social functions for one or more grades on the school premises, making a gift to the school, or raising funds for a worthy on-campus or off-campus cause. Such activities including the transfer and expenditures of all funds must be recorded in its financial books. Students selling items for non-profit organizations must obtain approval from the school administration and must abide by any regulations deemed appropriate for governing the sale. Students may not sell any items on their own on campus without express permission from the administration.

ATHLETIC PROGRAM Competitive teams are optional and not all sports are offered for 4th-6th graders. Students in Grade 7 are required to successfully complete one season of athletic participation during the school year. Students in grades 8 are required to successfully complete two seasons of athletic participation during the school year. One of the athletic sport activities must be an on-campus interscholastic sport. The second sport requirement may be satisfied by participating in an intramural or non-team sport or year-long physical education or year-long dance class. To receive school credit and fulfill state requirements, students must participate daily in the athletic program, including practice sessions and both home and away contests. Unexcused absences may result in loss of credit for the season. If a student does not complete the athletic requirements that student could be placed on “Notice of Probation” for the athletic department. The athletic office will monitor participation requirements and notify families in case of a deficiency.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETIC ATTENDANCE POLICY In Middle School, every student must participate in 7th and 8th grade athletics. The requirements are as follows: ● Grade 7 – one season ● Grade 8 – two seasons or one season plus the year-long PE or Dance class The Middle School Athletic Attendance policy is: ● Daily attendance for all sports. ● Absences may be considered excused if they are accompanied by a note explaining such reasons as medical or religious ● Absences caused by academic circumstances must be approved by the Athletic Director

Absences will be considered unexcused for the following reasons: Detention, suspension, or missing practice without a note. Excessive unexcused absences will result in decreased playing time. Excessive unexcused absences will require a meeting with the student, the coach, and the Middle School Athletic Director to determine credit for a season. ● Dismissal from a team will require a meeting of the student, his/her parents, the Head Coach and the Middle School Director plus the approval of the Executive Director of Athletics. ● ● ● ●

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Student ID Cards Students will receive a personal ID card with their school picture in the fall of each year, to be used as personal identification and may be used to record attendance in supervision locations or to enter specified athletic and social events at the school. Lockdown, Fire and Tornado Drills Posted in each room in the school are directions that occupants of the room should follow in case of a fire alarm. The continuous use of an emergency signal indicates a fire alarm. A designated safe route to the outside is indicated on the posting. Unannounced fire, tornado and lockdown drills will be held several times throughout the school year. Emergency Situations A disaster alert is signaled on the public address system. If there is a tornado, physical disaster or other critical emergency, students should follow the directions of the teacher in charge of their room or area. When there is sufficient warning, the entire student body may be asked to vacate classrooms and move to areas of safety. Students must move quickly in an orderly fashion and in total silence to the area designated by the teacher. Consequences for not observing safety procedures may include a detention. Students will practice all drills and lockdown procedures several times throughout the year. If the lightning detector sounds, students should seek safety in the nearest building, and remain there until the all-clear is given. Infirmary All students ill or injured must report to the school nurse, who will notify the school office. No student should call a parent for health reasons until seen by the school nurse. To prevent the spread and recurrence of communicable diseases, pupils who are ill or absent from school for any period of time should report to the infirmary first before returning to their classrooms. Students must be fever free and be able to hold down food for 24 hours before returning to school. All medications must be brought to the school nurse or office and administered there. A student may self-carry an inhaler or epinephrine if it has been checked in with the nurse first. No medication can be dispensed without a doctor’s written approval. During the school day, students must report to their scheduled place to check in with the supervisor or teacher before going to the nurse. Special lunches required for health reasons must be approved by and stored with the school nurse. Physical Examinations Athletic participation is a Country Day requirement and therefore it is mandatory that every

student in grades 4 through 12 have a new health physical annually. Physicals and emergency forms must be completed and signed by both physician and parent and returned to the Middle School academic office before August 1. Students may not participate in athletics without an updated Physical Form on file.

Immunization Requirements According to the Michigan Health Code, every student, Pre--K through grade 12, must have on file at the school a physical examination form, complete with evidence that the immunization requirements have been satisfied, signed by a physician. Students who do not have the proper health forms on file with the school nurse after the first week of classes will be subject to school sanctions. Those sanctions could include not being allowed in school and/or not being allowed to participate in athletics. Emergency and Medication Forms The emergency and medication forms must be submitted to the Middle School academic office before the opening of school via Magnus. For safety reasons, a student will not be able to attend school or participate in athletics if forms are not on file. Parents must provide information regarding back-up emergency numbers, health insurance carrier and policy numbers, and information concerning diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, and allergies (bee stings, medication and food allergies, etc.) Specific instructions as to care needed, including medication, must be thoroughly transcribed on this form. Upon completion, the form must be signed by consenting parents or guardians, and the doctor prescribing treatment and medication. If a student may need over--the--counter medication or a prescription medication during school hours or on field trips (including athletic team trips), the prescribing doctor and parent/guardian must also sign the medication form. Students are not allowed to keep medication in their lockers or on their person with the exception of inhalers and epinephrine. These instructions must be ordered and signed by the attending physician on the emergency medication form. The procedure for giving medications to students in school is mandated by the Michigan State Medication Law which Country Day strictly enforces. Teachers and coaches will take copies of these forms and a first--aid kit with them to every off-campus event. Finally, the parent’s/guardian’s signature on the form gives the school permission to have their child treated at the nearest hospital in case of severe emergency. The physical examination form, immunization form (new students only) and combined emergency and medication forms described earlier must be on file in Magnus with the Middle School academic office by the start of the school year. Students who do not have these forms on file may not be allowed to attend school until all forms are on file.

UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMIC HOURS Start Time: Monday 8:45 a.m., Wednesday 8:55 a.m. Tuesday, Thurs. & Fri. 8:15 a.m. Dismissal: 3:20 p.m. Upper School Attendance Policy The Upper School is a vibrant, dynamic learning community. To be fully immersed in the community, students must be here until classes end – and even beyond. Our program is comprehensive and designed to prepare students for rigorous college work and for rich, rewarding lives beyond. Using the principles of Mind, Brain, and Education Science (MBE), we have constructed an academic schedule that ensures students take no more than five 60-minute classes each day and builds in reflection and down time via our lunch break. We believe strongly that in-person, regular attendance is essential for a student’s intellectual growth and social and emotional development as a member of our school community. To that end, students are expected to attend all classes, assemblies, club meetings, and other scheduled events and activities. We work to partner with our students and their parents/guardians to ensure that students are present, on time, and stay for the full school day. Missing class sessions at the Upper School can cause students to fall behind in ways that can be difficult to overcome. While the occasional absence can be accommodated through the submission of make-up work and quizzes/tests/assessments, the real heart of our academic experience is found in the daily interactions between teachers and students, and in the daily conversations and discoveries that happen among peers within the intimacy of the classroom setting. These moments are integral to the student experience and cannot be replicated by make-up assignments, distance learning, or home tutoring. A student’s absence also negatively affects other students as the activity of other members of a student’s class, team, or project group often depends upon collaboration. In short, there is no substitute for being in the classroom on a daily basis and participating as an active member of our learning community. While the school differentiates between “excused” versus “unexcused” absences, it does so solely for internal record-keeping purposes. Unexcused absences may result in a disciplinary consequence. At any given time, and especially as it relates to attendance policies, a student’s attendance record is entirely cumulative and makes no delineation between excused and unexcused absences. Exempt absences do not count toward the DCDS attendance policy (e.g., field trip, athletic

early dismissal, officially documented college visit, and religious holiday observation). Tardiness A student is expected to report to school in time to be in class on time and to be on time for all other school commitments, such as assemblies, activities, study hall, detention, lunch, and athletics. After 10 minutes, a student will receive an unexcused absence. Tardies are cumulative and reset at mid-semester. Consequences, for classroom tardies, are as follows: After:

Consequence:

6+ cumulative tardies

A detention (for the 6th and 7th tardies)

8+ tardies

Saturday detention (for the 9th, 10th, and 11th equals Saturday detention)

12+ tardies

1-day in-school suspension + Parent contact

Attendance Policy Students must be present to excel academically. To that end, students are expected to arrive before the first block and stay until after the final block. Excessive absences will undoubtedly hold a student back from achieving their full potential in a course. Students must regularly attend class to acquire the content and skills necessary to earn academic credit. Similarly, the DCDS “experience” extends beyond the classroom. Social and emotional learning takes place in social, athletic, performance, and other settings. Once a student exceeds 10 absences in one semester, they will not earn academic credit in that course for the semester. Therefore, absences should be limited. *Each course meets approximately 55 times per semester. 5th absence

On the 5th absence in a class, parents, advisor, and student are notified of an attendance issue and reminded of the attendance policy.

8th absence

On the 8th absence in a class, parents, advisor, and student are notified of an attendance issue and reminded of the attendance policy.

11th absence

If a student accumulates more than 10 absences in a class, the student will receive a semester grade of 50, forfeiting academic credit for the semester.

20th absence

If a student accumulates 20 absences in a yearlong course, the student will receive a final grade of 50 for the year, forfeiting academic credit for the course.

Illness

Consecutive absences due to the same illness/injury may count as ONE absence with required documentation from a licensed medical provider.

Required TAP & AE

● ● ●

Extended Leave

● ● ●

●

● ●

Students required to attend academic enrichment opportunities are expected to fulfill these commitments. Three or more unexcused absences will result in a Saturday detention. Repeated absences will result in a meeting with student, adviser, parent, and Grade Dean. The school feels strongly that physical, in-person attendance is essential to earn academic credit. Pre-arranged extended absences for medical treatment are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. A student requesting an extended leave must provide documentation from the student's treating medical professional(s) stating the reason for the leave and any limitations or requested accommodation in order for re-entry. The School will review these requests and decide if an accommodation can be made. Requests are vetted by a committee consisting of the Deans of Students, the Academic Dean, the Learning Support Team, and the US Director. The Upper School administration may determine that an extended period of absence related to the same illness or injury will be counted as one absence for the purpose of the school’s attendance policy. If this is determined to be appropriate, the student may keep up academically via email and Canvas. If a student is granted a leave extending beyond ten days, an academic plan will be generated in consultation with the student’s medical and learning support team. A meeting with the student, guardian, and learning support team will take place to discuss the return. At the conclusion of the leave, the student must provide documentation from their treating medical professional(s) stating their ability to return and listing any limitations or requested academic accommodation for re-entry.

AFTER-SCHOOL PARTICIPATION To be eligible to participate in any afternoon or evening activity – such as a sporting practice/game or a performance/rehearsal – a student must be in attendance or receive a Dean’s permission. Excused absences for appointments require documentation. Our educational program extends beyond the classroom, so on days when school is in session but classes are not held, such as days for community events or special programming, students must participate in the day’s events in order to be eligible for afternoon activity. Exceptions may be granted for unique circumstances at the discretion of the Deans of Students or the Director..

CODE OF PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CONDUCT The goal of our Code of Personal Responsibility and Conduct is self-discipline. It is neither feasible nor desirable for the faculty and staff to constantly monitor behavior. Good judgment, and a sense of conscience provide a moral compass when choosing between right and wrong. Detroit Country Day School students are expected to do the right thing. A significant purpose of Country Day is the development of those qualities of responsibility, morality and intellect that define good character. Rules and regulations of conduct enable all members of the community to interact cooperatively, honestly, harmoniously, and with mutual respect. For this reason, students whose conduct damages the community or school culture are subject to disciplinary action. The school may conduct an investigation to determine appropriate disciplinary action. The school expects the student and their family to partner with the school and fully cooperate in such investigation where a student is either directly involved or has information that may assist the school in completing such investigation. Failure to participate in an investigation may lead to removal from school. It is impossible to define precisely all areas and degrees of misconduct and unacceptable behavior; however, a summary of behavioral offenses is included in an effort to guide students toward acceptable conduct. Ultimately, the Upper School administration has the responsibility and charge to guide students in making appropriate choices. The administration will determine, adjust, and assign consequences as appropriate in all situations, including those not specifically addressed in this code of conduct. Expectations of personal responsibility and appropriate conduct extend beyond the school day and grounds. Conduct jeopardizing the good name of the school, whether on or off campus, may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Community Values and Expectations Our community values at Detroit Country Day School are consistent throughout the Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School experience. These values form the backbone of our community and are the basis of our behavioral expectations. All members of our community – students, employees, and parents – are expected to conduct themselves in ways that align with our community values of:

COMMUNITY II We build strong connections and positive relationships. II We demonstrate care for all others and serve the greater good.

II We foster a diverse and inclusive environment rooted in belonging.

INTEGRITY II We embody honesty, sincerity, and humility. II We lead with ethics and take personal responsibility. II We hold ourselves and others accountable to our shared values.

GROWTH II We empower innovation, creativity, and curiosity. II We pursue passions and embrace challenges with perseverance and agility courage. II We engage fully in the learning process and commit to continuous improvement. Students at DCDS are expected to conduct themselves in ways that contribute positively to the community. Deviation from our community standards will result in the following consequences:

Level

Designation

Violations

Possible Outcomes

III

Community Violations. These are major school violations.

Violations that threaten/impact the well-being of others and/or the community. Examples include but are not limited to, dishonesty during a discipline process, including the Honor Council; possession/distribution/use of illegal intoxicants; theft; possession of weapons of any kind; harassment, which includes hazing, bullying, cyber-bullying, and/or physical/sexual misconduct, including but not limited to, repeated hostile behavior that risks embarrassment or emotional or physical harm, and/or shows serious disregard for the welfare of others and/or the community as a whole. Single, severe acts of harassment may be grounds for expulsion when conduct, speech, or expression is motivated by prejudice or bias

Though consequences for level III violations range from one or more Saturday detentions, in-school or off-campus suspension, disciplinary probation or expulsion, it should be noted that these offenses typically carry a suspension and may lead to expulsion. Repeated Community offenses will result in expulsion.

towards an individual or group of a particular race, nationality, sexuality, and/or social identity. II

Personal Violations

School Violations

Personal offenses such as disrespect for oneself, others, or the facilities. Examples include but are not limited to dishonesty, including academic dishonesty, swearing, gambling, disruptive behavior, which may include harassment (behavior used intentionally or unintentionally in a manner that others might experience as harassing, unreasonable, or humiliating).

Restorative discipline, detention, Saturday detention, in-school or off-campus suspension, or disciplinary probation.

Victimless offenses. Examples include but are not limited to dress code violations and attendance violations.

Warning, restorative discipline, or detention.

Repeated Personal or School offenses may be treated as a Community offense.

Repeated offenses may be treated as Personal or Community offenses.

Discipline Process Communication and education are the pillars of the disciplinary process at DCDS. All disciplinary situations are opportunities for growth. Personal growth requires a partnership between the School and the student and parents involved. This relationship extends to the discipline process. When a potential breach of the School’s community values and behavioral expectations has occurred, the School has a procedure that serves as a guideline for its response. When a potential serious violation is brought to the attention of the Deans of Students, the Deans commence an investigation, involving conversations with and written statements from all those involved. Parents (or other third parties) are not part of the disciplinary process; however, they are notified and kept abreast of developments and urged to discuss the situation with their children. It is expected that students participate fully and honestly in this process. Students who fail to cooperate during the disciplinary process may be dismissed from the School. Once the investigation has concluded, disciplinary consequences are determined. Repeat Offenses Repeated violations indicate a disregard for school community values. Therefore, the consequences become more severe when a pattern of unacceptable behavior exists. Additionally, repeated offenses, even Level-I offenses, will be considered when students go through the discipline process, including but not limited to treating a series of Level-I offenses as a Level-II or Level-III offense, which may subject students to Disciplinary Probation and further consequences.

Disciplinary Probation A student may be placed on Disciplinary Probation when their behavior violates community expectations to a degree that their next infraction will warrant serious discussion of permanent separation from the school. Disciplinary Probation can be the result of multiple transgressions or one major violation. If a student is placed on Disciplinary Probation, any additional Level-II or Level-III infraction (or a succession of Level-I infractions) may lead to the student’s immediate dismissal from DCDS. The length of the probationary period will be determined by the Upper School administration, but will not be less than one semester. Therefore, ONE TIME during their DCDS career, a student placed on Disciplinary Probation may apply to be removed from Disciplinary Probationary status after two full semesters – if they have committed no Personal or Community violations during that period of time. If a student is removed from Disciplinary Probation and commits a Level II-III offense, they may be subject to immediate dismissal. Intoxicants and Drugs Students are prohibited from being under the influence of, purchasing, selling, distributing, possessing, or using intoxicants or illegal drugs on the school campus or in connection with any off-campus school event or function. The School expects parents to report on Magnus their child’s possession or intended use of prescribed drugs on campus or at a school event or function. The School attempts to provide an environment which is free of intoxicants and illegal drugs, and students are expected to fully cooperate with the school Administration in any investigation of the purchase, sale, possession, or use of intoxicants or illegal drugs on the school campus or in connection with any off-campus school event or function. The school may assess sobriety to the degree permitted by law. The purchase, sale, possession or use of certain substances which are “legal” under the laws of this State when possessed or used by an adult (e.g., alcoholic beverages or marijuana) or when used, consistent with their intended commercial retail purpose (e.g., inhalants, “vapor” devices, solvents, glues), are viewed by the school as inappropriate for use as intoxicants by students and are prohibited by this policy. Dances Most dances begin at 7 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. Students must be present for 2 hours, arriving a half-hour after the dance begins and leaving no sooner than a half-hour before it ends. To ensure student safety and rule compliance, it is strongly recommended that a parent chaperone any buses or group transportation. Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment of members of the school community is strictly prohibited and will be treated as a Level III offense. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances,

requests for sexual favors, and/or other inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that takes place under any of the following circumstances: ● When such conduct has the effect of unreasonably interfering with the individual’s work and/or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment. Weapons Students are forbidden to possess or to use weapons of any kind on the school campus or in connection with any school function, on or off-campus. Weapons include any gun, knife, or

instrument that could be used to threaten, induce fear and/or to inflict bodily harm to another. This includes the possession of any "replica" or "toy" that has the appearance of an actual weapon, and can be used in a threatening way. Prohibited Items Students are not to bring or possess in school any items that might be considered disruptive or dangerous to the daily operation of the school. Such items will be confiscated. Detentions A student may serve a detention prior to receiving official notification. Overdue afterschool detentions (Monday-Friday, 3:30-4:30 p.m.) result in a Saturday detention (8-11 a.m.). An overdue Saturday detention will result in two Saturday detentions. Failure to serve detentions will result in disciplinary review and further consequences. Suspension A student who is suspended is expected to continue their coursework independently. Students suspended from school will not be readmitted to school until a re-entry meeting is held with administration, the student, and parents. A student has as many days as he/she was suspended in order to complete make-up work. During the period of suspension, the student may not be on campus, may not attend classes, off-campus school activities, and on or off-campus athletic practices or games. Students are not permitted to contact classroom teachers during a suspension. In case of a suspension at the very end of the academic year, the student may be required to serve the suspension at the start of the following academic year. Retaliation Policy Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a student or adult who participates in an investigation. Retaliation against any individual will not be tolerated and will be subject to strict discipline. Each retaliatory offense will be investigated and sanctioned separately. Disciplinary Review Board (DRB) The DRB exists for the purpose of reviewing student appeals of minor disciplinary cases. DRB cases are initiated by the student if they feel that disciplinary action directed toward him/her was inappropriate or unfair. Requests for review must be received within 24 hours of issuance of a consequence. Certain disciplinary consequences are not appealable to the DRB, including dress code, attendance detentions, and major violations. Disciplinary actions

appealed to the DRB are held in abeyance until the Upper School Director or Deans have acted on the recommendation of the DRB. Final determination on all discipline matters is made by the Upper School Administration. Meetings of the DRB are closed, and its deliberations and minutes are confidential. The DRB consists of two seniors, two juniors, one sophomore elected annually in the spring, and one freshman elected annually in the fall. The faculty advisor is appointed by the Upper School Director.

ADVISOR-ADVISEE PROGRAM

In order for students to thrive, they must feel valued, seen, heard, included, and supported. The adviser-advisee relationship is an integral piece of this objective, as the advisee knows that someone is interested and concerned and that they belong to a group. This feeling of belonging and sense of individual identity provides comfort and security, and the ripple effect permeates and enhances the climate of the school. The National Association of Independent Schools states “a strong advisory program has the advisor as the central figure in the student’s school life.” The advisor is a student’s champion, counsel, and collaborative partner. The advisor is also the faculty member who is most familiar with a student’s progress, concerns, and needs. By establishing, developing, and prioritizing this relationship, the faculty advisor can provide an additional layer of accountability throughout their advisee’s time here, as well. Parents should always contact the advisor first with questions or concerns relative to their own child or school policy. In turn, the advisor is also the school's liaison to the parents. This three-way communication network: advisor-advisee-parents, forms an essential component of the school’s commitment to providing personal care and attention to each of its students. Advisory Group Functions The advisory program also serves as the platform through which students (in comfortable, safe, familiar environments) can focus on both personal and academic development. Topics and activities are designed and implemented in developmentally appropriate ways. These experiences are chosen to bond advisor/advisee groups, to be springboards for further discussion, to enhance values and character development, and to allow the advisor to know his/her advisees better. One Dean of Students is in place to direct the placement and programming aspects of advisories.

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Leaving Campus Leaving during the school day should be limited. Requests for early dismissal must be made by a parent or guardian, stating the express purpose for such dismissal, the time at which the student should be excused, and the time when the student will return to school. Students wishing to leave campus at any time during the school day must have parental permission to drive their own car or ride in another student’s car. When students leave for medical appointments, students are given an appointment card to be signed by a representative from the doctor’s office and returned to the school. Failure to return the signed appointment card will result in a procedural detention. Medical and dental appointments should be made

outside of the regular school day, whenever possible. Students who become ill during the school day and must leave campus need to have a pass and the express permission of the Upper School Director or Deans and the school nurse. The student must sign out and leave the pass with the attendance officer. Planned absences for educationally related activities are handled by the Upper School Director. Lunch Lunch is divided into two periods. Students are required to eat during their assigned time unless granted an exception by a member of the faculty or administration. In keeping with our community values, students are required to clean up after themselves. Violation of lunch protocols will result in disciplinary consequences. Spectator Conduct At Detroit Country Day School, all community members are encouraged to attend school-sanctioned performances and to support the Yellowjackets, regardless of the venue or activity. In athletics, sportsmanship is everyone’s responsibility. Performers, coaches, parents, spectators, and administrators are all representatives of Detroit Country Day School, and are expected to promote good sportsmanship by modeling, teaching, and enforcing our core values of sportsmanship, trust, responsibility, and perseverance (and to adhere to MHSAA rules and regulations for athletic events). These expectations extend to all DCDS performance spaces. Any behavior that is dangerous or disrespectful to participants (or spectators) or interferes with the rights of others to perform (or watch) will not be tolerated. Violators may be issued a verbal or written warning and may be removed from the facility with the help of security, if necessary. In athletics, coaches or participants who are removed from the facility by an official are subject to MHSAA disqualification rules which include not being allowed to return for the remainder of the contest and the next contest. Multiple disqualifications will prevent coaches and participants from taking part in MHSAA tournaments. To help provide clarity, we offer the following list of DOs and DON’Ts: Sporting Events DOs ● ● ●

DON’Ts Loud cheering Singing Banners that support DCDS teams or participants

● ● ● ●

Taunting opposing performers or teams Throwing items in the stands or onto a performance space Banners that disrespect opposing players or teams Water guns or other devices for throwing/launching objects

Assemblies and Performances DOs ● ● ●

●

DON’Ts Respect the performers/speaker by paying attention Respect your fellow audience members Appropriate responses only! (i.e. laughing at jokes, applauding at the end of a scene or song, etc.) Clean up after yourself

● ● ● ● ●

No talking, unless audience participation is requested by the performers Noises off and lights out! (Phones or any other electronic devices turned off and put away) No photography or videography allowed No food or drink is allowed in the auditorium Interrupt performances by leaving for unnecessary breaks

*If a faculty or staff member asks a student to change their behavior at any event, it is expected that they will do so respectfully and immediately. Field Trips Field trips provide teachers, coaches, activity advisors and class sponsors with an opportunity to increase student enrichment in areas not available on campus. All field trips are approved in advance and coordinated by the Upper School Administration. Parents will be notified prior to the trip. All school rules, regulations and policies must be maintained during the entire period the students are off campus. This includes the regular school dress code in effect for the day of the trip unless otherwise specified. In general, students are transported by school bus; prorated costs for bus transportation may be billed to student accounts, along with any individual admission fees, ticket prices, etc. In the case of overnight field or athletic trips, parents must also sign a Trip Agreement form. A required meeting for parents is held prior to the trip to explain the trip, make information available to parents, and answer any questions parents might have. Daily Schedule The academic schedule is a rotating 60-minute, block schedule, designed with the student experience in mind and with best practices. Honoring our faculty’s commitment to Mind, Brain, and Education, our students take no more than five academic classes each day. The live schedule is always available at https:/fearthesting.com/. Clubs Our club program is robust, offering many different opportunities. Clubs are a way for students to explore different interests and find new passions. Clubs generally meet on Tuesdays from 9:20-10 a.m. and during lunch periods for non-Tuesday clubs and student alliances. All students must sign up for one Tuesday club, which is the primary source for the required Gold point each semester. Attendance is expected. Some clubs have special requirements or procedures for membership. It is the responsibility of the student to understand requirements and procedures for club membership.

Assemblies The DCDS Student Council organizes weekly school-wide assemblies. These are all-school gatherings designed to build community and encourage students to learn from one another and have fun. A typical assembly might feature a speech or performance by a student or faculty member, a message or a talent to be shared with the community. Attendance is mandatory.

U/S ACADEMICS MINIMUM ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION In keeping with the mission and the motto of Detroit Country Day School, graduation requirements must be satisfied within four categories: academic, athletic, activities, and service. ● 0.5 credit hour - assigned only for 1 semester courses ● 1 credit hour - assigned only for year long courses

**The Learning Support Department provides an optional waiver of the world language requirement for graduation for students who have an up-to-date comprehensive evaluation with specific, documented language-based diagnoses and/or significant hearing impairment. The waiver must be approved by the Learning Support Director and a team of Upper School administrators.

CREDIT HOUR REQUIREMENTS All students must be enrolled in a minimum of five courses each semester, four of which must be academic (English, history, math, science, or world language). A student who fails to meet the following minimum course credit requirements may be dismissed from the school. Freshmen

5.5 credits

Sophomores

11.5 credits

Juniors

16.5 credits

Seniors

22 credits

ADDING/DROPPING A COURSE The student course selection process is undertaken at the beginning of March for the fall. Students work with their advisor and current teachers to select a schedule that provides balance while challenging students to meet their academic goals. As a student begins to live the new schedule, some changes may need to be made. Student schedule changes are made by recommendation of the student’s faculty advisor and processed through the Upper School Academic Dean’s office. Deadlines and directions are provided to students throughout the first month of school via email, their teachers, and their advisors. ● A year-long course may be dropped and removed from the transcript only up to six weeks after school begins* ● A year-long course may be added to a student’s schedule up through the first five weeks. ● First Semester courses may be dropped only during the first five weeks of the course; semester courses may be added up to the first five weeks with permission of the Department Head and Academic Dean. ● Second semester courses may be dropped during the first five weeks of the course, but may NOT be added after the second week of the semester. ● A student may switch from an honors class to a non-honors class beyond the six week deadline mentioned above with the approval of the department chair and the Academic Dean. At 10 weeks into the term, students will be expected to stay in the honors course through the semester exam. Exceptions to these policies may be granted at the discretion of the Upper School Director. In the case of any course change within the first five weeks of school, students will not transfer grades from their previous course, but may be required to make up work in the new course at the teacher’s discretion. In the event of transfers beyond the five week period, students will transfer all grades from their previous course to the new course unless extenuating circumstances warrant an exception at the discretion of the Upper School Director.

*WITHDRAWAL POLICY FOR A COURSE Withdrawal from a course after the official drop deadline occurs only in unusual and extenuating circumstances like a documented extreme medical situation. Doing poorly in a course DOES NOT constitute a reason for withdrawal.

A student in a situation where a withdrawal may be appropriate must petition the Academic Dean for approval. The student and parent(s) will be required to meet with the College Counselor and Academic Dean to discuss the potential ramifications of withdrawing from a course and how they can best handle the W in the college application process. In the event that a Withdrawal is given, the student’s transcript will have a “W” listed in place of a grade. If a student repeats the course, the W will be replaced with the final grade earned. A student who has taken a “W” from a course must have approval of the Academic Dean to sign up for the course again. Students who have withdrawn will be required to attend TAP and/or additional support during the originally scheduled course time. Note: A student may not have less than 5 courses on their schedule.

DAILY PRACTICE/HOMEWORK The purpose of Daily Practice or Homework is to reinforce new content and to help students identify which topics they understand well and those in which they need improvement. Extended assignments are given in some classes.

ASSESSMENTS Teachers may assess students on any day of the week unless there is a specified no hw/test/quiz day for the school; however, students must be given five days’ notice on CANVAS. Quizzes, announced or unannounced, may be given at any time, but unannounced quizzes will not count as a major grade. A student is not required to take more than two tests in one day; Because major assessments must be published no less than a week in advance to encourage students to plan their time, students may petition their teacher of any potential testing conflict, at least two days in advance, to reschedule an assessment. Larger assessments in the form of long-term projects are not included in the “two-test” rule.

ASSIGNMENT PLANNING To aid students in the development of their time management and organizational skills, practice/homework/assessments and due dates are published in no less than weekly increments on CANVAS for each class. Students are expected to come to class prepared to work with the material of each day. Each assignment plan will contain specific due dates and topics. Assignments on CANVAS will be posted on the day the assignment is due at the start of that class time.

Classroom Materials and Books Faculty will provide students with a course policy and required materials at the start of the course. Books may be ordered through BNC K-12, which is linked on www.dcds.edu.

SUMMER READING/ASSIGNMENTS Some courses in the upper school will ask students to read a book or complete an assignment prior to the start of school. The assignments, available at the end of the June exam period, will include guidelines and purpose from the instructors. Required summer reading books may be ordered through BNC K-12, which is linked on www.dcds.edu.

ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATION POLICY Students with documented disabilities, including medical and/or learning disorders, may qualify for formal accommodations, which may include: ● Up to 50% extended time on quizzes, tests, and exams ● Use of a four function calculator when a graphing calculator is prohibited ● Use of computer for writing requirements ● No penalty for misspelling ● World language waiver Determination of individual accommodations is based on the Learning Support Department’s review of the comprehensive evaluation and documentation (recommendations in the report are not guaranteed). Short term accommodations for medical conditions can be provided, on an individual basis, determined by DCDS’s sports medicine, nursing and/or mental health staff, with the help of the learning support specialist. Detroit Country Day School provides academic accommodations as outlined above. Students eligible for extended testing time must make arrangements with their teacher prior to the test to ensure an appropriate testing environment. Extended testing time cannot conflict with or cause a student to miss another scheduled class.

ABSENCES: HOMEWORK AND ASSESSMENT POLICIES Detroit Country Day School firmly believes that in-class presence is a vital component of our school experience. Therefore, students are expected to attend all class meetings. Students and families are urged to schedule non-school related appointments outside of school hours. Students planning an absence must complete a pre-arranged absence form in advance. This form requires a signature from all teachers and must be submitted to the grade-level Dean. Students who miss class due to a prearranged absence—including school-sanctioned events, field trips, family commitments, or scheduled early dismissals—are still held to the same academic standards and deadlines as if they were in class. An approved absence does not grant an automatic extension for assignments, projects, or assessments. ● Students should consult CANVAS for assignments and assessments. ● If a student is absent the day before a scheduled assessment, they may not be

excused from completing the assessment or presentation. ● Students should communicate in person or via email with their teachers the day they return from an unplanned absence to create a plan, including new deadlines, to make up for any missed work. Students who miss school for illness/family emergency will generally have the number of days missed plus 1 to make up work. ● Make-up assignments/assessments take precedence over athletic practice and co-curricular activities. ● Students who do not make up work by the agreed deadlines may be subject to grade reductions, up to and including a 50 on the assessment. ● In an effort to encourage self-advocacy, we invite students to enlist the support of their advisor and teachers to help with planning. In the event of a multi-day illness the student may be required to use learning support services to manage make-up work. ● Guidelines for students missing more than two weeks of school for reasons of medical leave: ○ Every medical leave is an independent situation and is treated with care and sensitivity. When families make the school aware of a medical situation, the Student Support Team will meet with the family and student, when possible, to create a plan to help the student complete the necessary coursework. ○ The School believes that attendance (physical presence and contribution) in class is necessary to earn academic credit. For these reasons, if the leave is extended beyond two weeks, the school will generate a plan in consultation with the Student Support Team and Upper School Director to determine whether or not the academic coursework can be successfully completed.

GRADING Each faculty member will post a course policy to CANVAS that outlines and reviews the grading policies for their course. All assessments will be given a numerical grade according to the following scale: 98–100 A+

77–79 B-

61–63 D

92–97 A

74–76 C+

60 D -

89–91 A-

68–73 C

50-59 F

86–88 B+

65–67 C -

80–85 B

64 D+

*DCDS does not assign grades lower than 50. Grades do not correspond to percentages. Report cards will use the numerical grading scale while Detroit Country Day School Transcripts will report a single final letter grade rather than the internal number.

GRADE REPORTS AND TRANSCRIPTS Students should regularly check Canvas for assignments, assessments, and feedback. While families have continuous access to the online gradebook, we encourage focusing on overall

learning growth rather than daily grade fluctuations. We recommend checking Canvas at healthy intervals (e.g., weekly) rather than daily. To support this balanced approach, official Grades-To-Date (GTD) and Final Semester Report Cards are posted to the portal according to the following 16-week semester schedule: Semester 1: 5 Weeks into the Term: Students/Parents receive a Numerical Grade-To-Date (GTD) Report 10 Weeks into the Term:* Students/Parents receive a Numerical Grade-To-Date (GTD) Report and holistic faculty comments on student progress and opportunities for growth. End of Term 1 and Mid-Year Exams/Final Project:* Students receive the numerical grades earned, faculty feedback, and semester average for a full year course or Final grade for a semester course. Semester 2: 5 Weeks into the Term: Students/Parents receive a Numerical Grade-To-Date (GTD) Report and Faculty comments for grade 12 on progress and opportunities for growth. 10 Weeks into the Term: Students/Parents receive a Numerical Grade-To-Date(GTD) Report and holistic faculty comments for grades 9-11 on student progress and opportunities for growth. End of Term 2 and Final Exams/Final Project: Students receive the numerical grades earned, faculty feedback, and the final grade for all courses.

*First 10-week interval grades may be required by some colleges as part of seniors’ early application materials. First semester averages will also appear on seniors’ transcripts and will be sent to colleges as needed. Transcripts and Grade Calculation: With the exception of grades sent during the senior year, the Detroit Country Day Transcript only publishes the letter grade FINAL average for a course. The calculation for final grades fits into one of the following: Full Year Course grades 9-11

Term 1 Grade (T1G) 40% Semester 1 Mid-Year Exam/Final Project 10% Term 2 Grade (T2G) 40% Semester 2 Final Exam/Final Project 10%

Semester Courses grades 9-11 and First Semester grade 12

Term Grade (TG) 80% Final Exam/Final Project 20%

Full Year Course grade 12*

With senior exam exemptions or no final exam: Term 1 Grade (T1G) 50% Semester 1 Mid-Year Exam/Final Project 12.5% Term 2 Grade (T2G) 37.5% With a senior exam:

Term 1 Grade (T1G) 45% Semester 1 Mid-Year Exam/Final Project 10% Term 2 Grade (T2G) 35% Semester 2 Final Exam/Final Project 10% Semester 2 Course grade 12

Term 2 Grade (T2G) 75% Semester 2 Final Exam/Final Project 25%

*Semester 1 of Full Year Courses for Grade 12 will be calculated on the end of semester 1 transcript like any full year course 9-11. Note: Grades for seniors who do not qualify for the senior project will be calculated using the same rule as grades 9-11.

INCOMPLETE ACADEMIC WORK Individual departments will provide specific late-work guidelines at the start of each course. Please review the Absence policy related to homework and assessment. If significant required work is missing at the periodic checkpoints, a student's Grade-to-Date (GTD) may be replaced with an Incomplete. Students with an Incomplete due to missing work may be placed on Required Academic Support to ensure they receive the necessary help to manage their accumulating work. As designated by the department and outlined in course policies, students are required to complete all core assessments/assignments. If a student has outstanding work at the end of the term, they are granted a grace period of one week from the final day of the semester to submit any incomplete assignments. The official date of this grace period is regularly publicized by the Academic Dean. Grading penalties apply to late submissions. Per course policy, assessments/assignments turned in extremely late may be capped at a grade of 50. If a student fails to submit a core assessment/assignment by the one-week Incomplete deadline, the assignment will automatically receive a 50, and the student’s term grade will be reduced by 10 points. In the event that a student is eligible for short term accommodations for medical conditions, the incomplete deadline may be extended as determined by the Upper School Director and Academic Dean in consultation with DCDS’s sports medicine, nursing and/or mental health staff. Individualized plans will be created with the help of the Learning Support Specialist. If the situation extends beyond July 31, or if the student is unable to complete the course, the student may be required to repeat the course.

WEIGHTED GPA POLICY Beginning with the Class of 2024, Detroit Country Day School includes a weighted grade point average (GPA) on external transcripts for juniors and seniors, in addition to the traditional unweighted GPA. This change was implemented to ensure that students remain competitive for external scholarships, summer programs, and admissions at institutions that may rely more heavily on GPA in their initial review process (This would include some large,

moderately selective state universities, which may not conduct a holistic review. In contrast, highly selective colleges and universities often either focus on the unweighted GPA or recalculate applicants’ GPAs based on their own internal criteria.) It is important to note that while the weighted GPA appears on official transcripts for upperclassmen, it is not displayed on report cards or in Canvas grade reports. Internally, student performance continues to be assessed and evaluated using numerical unweighted grades. Students and families are encouraged to keep this distinction in mind when reviewing academic progress or considering the context of GPA reporting. The weighted GPA system at Detroit Country Day School reflects the rigor and workload associated with each course, as determined by the academic administration and department chairs. Advanced Placement (AP) and Advanced (ADV) courses receive a full additional grade point due to their substantial increase in difficulty and time commitment compared to standard college preparatory classes. These courses—such as AP Biology, AP U.S. History, and AP Literature —require a deeper engagement with complex material, while others, like Multivariable Calculus or Modern Physics, introduce concepts that surpass introductory college-level coursework. Honors (H) courses receive an additional 0.5 grade points, acknowledging their elevated expectations for analysis, depth of content, and academic pace when compared to college preparatory- level offerings.

ACADEMIC POLICY FOR RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCES Detroit Country Day School respects and honors all religions and cultures. Due to the extraordinary diversity of our student body, it is not feasible to cancel school for all the holidays celebrated by our students and their families. We would like all of our students and families to have the opportunity to celebrate and observe holidays together. Consequently, there will be no homework, quizzes, or tests due on the day of the holiday and, at times, the day following these observances: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Christmas, Easter, Eid al Fitr, Eid al Adha, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. Students who will be observing a holiday beyond the dates of the above policy will be granted an extension and they are expected to communicate with their advisor and teachers.

EXAMINATIONS/FINAL PROJECTS As a part of the college preparatory experience, comprehensive two-hour examinations are held at the end of each semester. In junior/senior and AP classes, the instructor, in coordination with department policy, may elect to use an alternative form of assessment to replace the Final Exam. Exams/Projects are a culmination of many weeks and months of work and are designed to challenge the skills and content students have practiced in the course. Review guides and project guidelines are distributed in a timely fashion so that students can appropriately adapt their schedules and timing. Instructions for exam alternatives must be provided no less than 3 weeks prior to the set exam date. Alternate assignments that replace an exam are typically due on the day of the exam or at the end of an exam week. A student that does not complete the final project will earn a 50 for the exam.

Generally, mid-year exams are held during the third week of January; final exams are held during the first full week of school in June. Students must come in regular school dress during exam week; however, color day attire is not required on Thursday during exam week. Exam week consists of: Extended office hours the school day before exams, Tuesday and Wednesday — two exams each day; Thursday — exam and make-ups or conflicts; Friday — exam correction day and in some instances, specially arranged conflict exams (students are not in attendance). Under special circumstances conflict exams may be administered on Friday. Students do not have to be in school when they do not have an exam. No departments will be permitted to give tests or quizzes or collect a large assignment fewer than seven days prior to their midyear or final exams. This does not apply to semester 2 senior final examinations. At mid-year, exams are returned and reviewed in class on the Monday following exam week. Discipline During Examination Weeks There will be no suspensions served during the week of mid-year or of final examinations. A suspension that otherwise would fall during one of these periods will be served at the beginning of the following semester. Final Exam/Project Policy during MHSAA State playoffs Most students have completed their athletic obligations by the time of June exams; however, in some instances our athletes are still pursuing state championships. In order to support the academic progress of scholar athletes involved in MHSAA designated state competitions during Final Exam week: ● Students competing over a full-day weekend tournament (Fri and Sat) when exams begin on a Monday will be allowed to postpone one exam on Monday. The exam they miss will be moved to the open conflict time. Because of logistics, the missed exam cannot be moved to an open space for an individual’s schedule. ● Students competing in an athletic contest the evening before an exam day may postpone the morning exam. The exam they miss will be moved to the open conflict time. Because of logistics, the missed exam cannot be moved to an open space in an individual’s schedule. ● Students with long term projects should expect to keep the deadline. If they have specific concerns, they should communicate with that teacher in advance.

SENIOR FINAL EXAMINATIONS AND TERM 2 PROCEDURES Seniors may be required to take final examinations or complete final projects. For seniors who have completed their cocurricular requirements and have an approved Senior Project, final exams will be held the week after classes end. ● ●

All seniors are required to take a final exam or complete a final project in a one semester course. There are no exemptions for one semester courses. Senior FINAL Exam Exemption–Seniors enrolled in a year-long course may be excused from the final exam in that course if the senior meets criteria established by the faculty.

STUDY HALLS All 9th and 10th-grade students with an open class period are assigned to a mandatory study hall, with the following academic exceptions: ● First Semester Exemptions (Sophomores Only): 10th graders are excused if they achieved Summa or Magna Cum Laude honor roll status during their 9th-grade year. ● Second Semester Exemptions (Freshmen Only): 9th graders are excused if they achieved an average of 87 or higher during the first semester of the current school year. Note: Excused freshmen and sophomores whose open period falls during Period 1 must sign in with the Attendance Office at the start of the day. Study hall is treated with the same importance as any academic class. Students are expected to arrive on time and remain for the entire period and engage in silent, individual study or reading. Once attendance is taken, students may utilize other resources: ● Tutorial Assistance Program (TAP): Students are welcome to attend TAP for extra academic help. ● Specialty Rooms (Art Studios, Labs, Library): Students must obtain written permission from a faculty member prior to the start of the period to utilize these spaces.

TUTORIAL HELP Detroit Country Day actively encourages all students to meet with faculty outside of the classroom. To that end, faculty are available during Wednesday morning office hours. In addition, faculty are happy to arrange academic support during lunch times and other mutually agreed upon times. The Academic Enrichment Center is staffed by Upper School faculty members. All students are welcome to visit the center during their study hall or free block M-Th (TAP or Tutorial Assistance Program) or after school M-Th. (AE or Academic Enrichment Program) To fully support the success of students, a student deemed to be struggling academically may be placed on Required Academic Support (RAS) for the term or longer if needed. The Learning Support faculty of the Academic Enrichment Center will address the individualized tutorial and study needs of all students on Required Academic Support (RAS). Students will be required to attend on a daily basis until the faculty removes the RAS status. The Center operates Monday-Thursday, 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., and is located in the Student Center. Any student on Required Academic Support must report at 3:30 p.m. and sign in with a faculty member. A student will be allowed to leave when a faculty member has signed him/her out. Some days, with faculty approval, students may leave before 4:30 p.m. if the student has fulfilled his/her academic responsibilities. In addition, the center is open during all blocks Monday-Thursday. Students on RAS will be expected to work in the Center during their study hall.

RAS in the Academic Enrichment Center takes precedence over athletics/mission point activities except on competition/performance days. During their season(s) of athletic/mission point participation, students seeking help must report to tutorials and then to activities. Students not on RAS may also select to receive tutorial help but they must have the permission of their coach/mission point advisor to be late for practices, etc.

HONOR ROLLS At the end of the year, the final year average that includes semester grades are utilized to determine a student’s honor roll status. Only the year-end Honor Roll Status is displayed on the transcript. Grades in all courses are figured into the semester grade, and year averages. Honor roll status is awarded on the following basis: Honor Roll

Average

Summa Cum Laude

93-100

Magna Cum Laude

87-92

Cum Laude

80-86

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY Detroit Country Day Honor Code Detroit Country Day School is an educational institution that promotes excellence in academic and non-academic pursuits. Developing and sustaining an unwavering commitment to honor not only attributes meaning to achievement, but also builds the foundation for living a meaningful life. The purpose of the student created Detroit Country Day Honor Code is to create an honorable environment and to emphasize the daily practicing of honorable behavior. For the community to reach these ideals, individuals must be responsible for their own honor and for upholding and strengthening the honor of others as well. The Detroit Country Day Honor Code was established in June 2006. Eighty-two percent of students and ninety-eight percent of faculty voted in favor of the establishment of an Honor Code and the creation of an Honor Council.

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY Article I: Pledges The pledge required on graded assignments represents the mission of the honor code: "On my honor, I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this work." By signing this pledge, students recognize that they have adhered to the spirit and letter of the Honor Code. Students also sign a second pledge: "I do not know of any violations of the Honor Code." Article II: Violations Violations of the Honor Code are cheating and plagiarism (including, but not limited to

misuse of generative artificial intelligence), as well as lying and stealing as they pertain to academic integrity. Cheating includes, but is not limited to, giving or receiving unauthorized aid on a graded assignment. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, failing to give credit whenever using another person's work. Lying includes, but is not limited to, misrepresenting the truth. Stealing includes, but is not limited to, taking the academic property of another student or faculty member without his/her permission. Article III: The Honor Council The Honor Council is a student-elected body whose purpose is twofold: to educate the school community on the value of honor and to investigate and recommend decisions on academic integrity allegations to the administration. The Honor Council is composed of four seniors, four juniors, three sophomores, two freshmen and three faculty members. For a student to run for Honor Council, he/she must gain faculty and administrative approval. Students elect Honor Council members to represent only their grade. Thereafter, the Honor Council interviews and elects the faculty candidates. An Honor Council member must be removed if it is found that he/she has committed an honor violation, breached confidentiality, has been suspended or been placed on academic probation. Article IV: Processing of Honor Violations All aspects of this process are meant to be instructional. The purpose of the investigation is to determine in a timely manner if the student(s) in question has committed a violation of the Honor Code. After a student or faculty member reports a possible academic-integrity violation to the Honor Council or Administration, the Honor Council Chair will appoint four members to serve on the investigative committee. An Honor Council Advisor will notify the student of the investigation. The investigation serves several purposes: to inform the student(s) in question of the allegations against him/her, to determine if there is sufficient evidence for a hearing, and, if a hearing is deemed necessary, to collect all evidence pertinent to the allegation. Throughout the investigatory process, a Dean or the Upper School Director will notify the parent(s) or legal guardian and the advisor of the student in question regarding the status of the allegations. The student(s) in question may present evidence, call on witnesses, and provide a statement on his/her own behalf. The Honor Council will hear all testimony and will consider all evidence and will render a decision after deliberating the case. Investigations are not open to the public so that the identities of the persons involved in the case are kept confidential. Members must recuse themselves due to conflicts of interest if they are unable to maintain impartiality. To find a student in violation of the Honor Code, three-fourths of the hearing panel must find the evidence "clear and convincing." For every case, the Honor Council will submit to the Director its decision on the allegation. Thereafter, the Director will decide whether or not to uphold, overturn, or modify the Council's decision and to issue and enforce an appropriate penalty. Article V: Graduated Penalty System The Director will follow a graduated penalty system, barring extreme circumstances. The purpose of the graduated penalty system is to enforce consistent punishment and to provide an educational opportunity for students who have made a mistake. A first offense warrants a Saturday detention, a fifty on the assignment, up to a one-point term deduction in the class in which the violation occurred, and a letter of apology or a meeting with the teacher and advisor. A second offense warrants a two-day suspension, a fifty on the assignment, a one-point term deduction in the class in which the infraction occurred, and a letter of

apology or a meeting with the teacher and advisor. A third offense warrants possible dismissal or withdrawal from the school. For all offenses, the student in violation and his/her parent(s) or legal guardian and advisor will meet with the Upper School Director. Article VI: Amendments The Honor Code is a fluid document that can be amended at any time. Every year, the Honor Council must meet to discuss possible amendments for improvement of the Honor Code. The Honor Council can suggest amendments to the student body and faculty. For each amendment, a vote of three-fourths of students and faculty is required to recommend approval to the Upper School Director. The Detroit Country Day Honor Code was established in June 2006. Eighty-two percent of students and ninety-eight percent of faculty voted in favor of the establishment of an Honor Code and the creation of an Honor Council.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL AWARDS An assembly is held each spring so that organizations outside the school may recognize student achievement. These awards vary from year to year, but include the Rensselaer Medal for the most outstanding achievement in math and science, Michigan Competitive Scholarship Certificates of Recognition, National Merit Scholarship awards, cum laude Society recognition, Phi Beta Kappa Secondary School Certificates of Merit, and many others. THE CUM LAUDE SOCIETY This is a nationally recognized organization in independent schools to honor students who perform at the highest levels academically, and demonstrate great character and comportment. All juniors and seniors who have maintained at least an 89 grade point average through the end of the first semester of their junior or senior year and who will have completed at least two full academic years at Country Day by the end of the current school year may be eligible for membership, provided they have not been found in violation of the academic integrity policy at any time in the Upper School.. For further consideration, the candidate must have taken an average of two honors courses per year while attending Country Day. Membership in The Cum Laude Society may not exceed 10 percent of the Junior Class and 20 percent of the Senior Class. Faculty members of the Society vote on each eligible student and award from one to five points in each of the following areas: ● Scholarship: number of honors courses completed, commitment to academic excellence, ability to work independently and with initiative, attempts to meet the academic challenges of the school ● Attitude: exemplifies a positive image with regard to academics both in and out of the classroom, demonstrates an appreciation for the intrinsic value of learning ● Academic leadership and involvement: actively participates and demonstrates

leadership in class, willingly participates in outside academic activities and competitions, contributes positively to the intellectual climate of the school In addition, students are assigned points according to their grade point average through the first semester of the year they are considered. Eligible students will be chosen for membership on the basis of the total points received. If there are two or more students who receive the same number of total points, students with the highest grade point average will be selected. Once elected to membership, a student who is suspended for violation of the Academic Integrity Policy will be removed from membership without a vote of the faculty members. Students who have violated the Academic Integrity Policy, but who were not suspended for the violation, will be reviewed by the faculty members of the Society and may be removed from membership by a two-thirds vote of all voting faculty members. COMMENCEMENT AWARDS At the Two Honors Convocations held annually during the last weeks of school, a number of awards are given for outstanding achievement in specific areas. The faculty reserves the right in any given year to withhold an award if, in their opinion, there is no student qualified. Unless excused by the Upper School deans or Director, all seniors are required to attend the Last Honors Convocation Assembly of the year. Among these awards are the following: ● Department Book Awards are made to outstanding students in the following areas: history, mathematics, art, music and computer science. ● The Edgar A. Guest Memorial Award is specially presented, when the English Department deems fitting, to the senior who has achieved exceptional accomplishments and demonstrated extraordinary promise in the field of writing. ● The Springer Memorial Award is made to the outstanding Upper School English student. ● The John E. Gilbert Foreign Language Book Award is awarded to the outstanding foreign language student of the year. ● The Richard Morrow Mathematics Book Award is given to the outstanding mathematics student of the year. ● The Ruth E. Zucker Mathematics Book Award is given to the senior young woman who by her perseverance, pursuit of excellence and contributions to the spirit of the classroom demonstrates high achievement and personal growth in the study of mathematics. ● The John Philip Sousa Award is given in recognition of outstanding achievement and interest in instrumental music. ● The Dennis Stephen Myers Plaque is awarded to the Upper School student who has made the most notable contributions in the field of dramatics. ● The Courtney B. Vance Theatre Cup is awarded to students who excel in their performance craft and have demonstrated stand-out leadership in their work and with their peers. In honor of DCDS alum Courtney B. Vance ’78 this cup was named in 2013 by the Performing Arts department. ● The Clayton Hill Gordon Science Award is given to the outstanding Upper School science student of the year.

● The Brown University Book Award is awarded by the English Department to the junior who best combines excellence in spoken and written expression with outstanding overall academic achievement. ● The Colgate Book Award is presented to the junior who has achieved high academic distinction combined with outstanding leadership in the school or community, and a particular awareness and sensitivity to global issues. ● The Cornell Book Award is awarded by the History Department to a junior who has demonstrated excellence in scholarship, has a keen interest in current affairs and has contributed to the school as well as the outside community. ● The Dartmouth Book Prize is awarded to a junior who ranks near the top 10 percent of the class, who is of high moral character, and who excels in at least one non-academic area. ● The Harvard Book Prize is awarded to the junior who best combines outstanding scholarship with achievement in other fields. ● The Mount Holyoke Book Award is presented to a young woman in the junior class who has produced an excellent academic record through enrollment in AP or honors classes, and who has exhibited qualities of leadership and service in the school community. ● The University of Pennsylvania Book Award is presented to a well-rounded junior with exemplary citizenship, community service, and evidence of leadership in academics and athletics. ● The Princeton Book Award is given to a junior who displays a concern for the opinion of others while demonstrating exceptional leadership, talent and competence in both academic and non-academic pursuits. ● The Smith Book Award is presented to the outstanding junior girl who exemplifies the academic achievement, leadership qualities, and concern for others that characterize the thousands of women who have graduated from Smith College. ● The Wellesley Book Prize is awarded to the junior girl who has made an outstanding contribution to her school in terms of scholarship, achievement, leadership, and citizenship. ● The Yale Book Award is given to a junior who manifests commitment to social improvement, integrity, and ethical standards. ● Head of School Book Awards are made to those students who, in the opinion of the Headmaster, on recommendation of the faculty, have contributed to the school in some manner not formally recognized. ● Scholarship pins are awarded to seniors who attained one of the three honor rolls at the end of their senior year. ● The Detroit Country Day School Honor Society recognizes with Membership certificates awarded to those seniors who have achieved end of year Summa Cum Laude status in any two of the four years in the Upper School, Membership with Distinction certificates to those seniors who have achieved end of year Summa Cum Laude status in any three of the four years in the Upper School, and Membership with High Distinction certificates to those seniors who have achieved Summa Cum Laude status in all four years in the Upper School. ● The White Scholarship Cup is awarded to the senior who attains the highest scholastic average throughout his/her four years in the Upper School. ● The Men’s Athletic Cup is presented to the male athlete in the Upper School whose achievement in terms of leadership, sportsmanship, ability, accomplishments and

contributions on at least two interscholastic teams make him the outstanding representative of what Country Day seeks to teach through athletics. ● The Steve Tarczy Award represents the highest honor a player may achieve, that of outstanding dedication and courage in playing athletics by overcoming physical obstacles and serving as an inspiration to others. ● The Women’s Athletic Cup is presented to the female athlete in the Upper School whose achievement in terms of leadership, sportsmanship, ability, accomplishments and contributions on at least two interscholastic teams make her the outstanding representative of what Country Day seeks to teach through athletics. ● The Albion College Book Award , given in memory of Howard R. (Skip) Neilson, is presented to the high school junior or senior who has served as a manager of an athletic team at Detroit Country Day School. This individual has demonstrated a true sense of team by supporting teammates and coaches in spirit and deed behind-the-scenes. The recipient must be a good scholar, well respected by the coaches, and admired by students and faculty. ● The Anthony C. Buesser Cup was established in 1994 to honor Anthony C. Buesser ’48, a long-time trustee and chairman emeritus of the Board of Trustees. It is presented annually, by vote of the Upper School faculty, to the senior who has distinguished himself or herself in the field of writing and oral expression; who has participated successfully in competitive, interscholastic athletics; and who has demonstrated qualities of courtesy, good sportsmanship and a willingness to help others within the school community. ● The Richard A. Schlegel Leadership Award is given to the senior who evidences through his or her achievement and the life he or she lives, to the knowledge of and in the opinion of the faculty, the most outstanding academic, intellectual and moral leadership in the finest tradition of the Country Day “lady scholar” or “gentleman scholar.” ● The Amy and Alden Shaw Award is presented to the senior who by his or her cooperation and contribution best furthers the principles and ideals of Detroit Country Day School. ● Gerald and Betty Hansen Cup was established in 2007 by the board of trustees and the Upper School faculty to honor the long-serving head of school and former math department chair and athletic coach along with his wife, a teacher for many years at Country Day. The award, presented annually by a vote of the Upper School faculty, recognizes the senior who best exemplifies the spirit of Country Day as demonstrated by his or her involvement and achievement in the four A’s of Upper School life: academics, activities, the arts, and athletics. ● The Head of School Cup is the award with the longest tradition at Country Day. Founding Headmaster, F. Alden Shaw, donated and first presented it in 1926. The recipient must be a senior who is a good scholar, an outstanding citizen, an athlete of achievement, and who is respected as well as admired by students and faculty.

LIBRARY The library is open Mondays 8:50 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Tuesdays-Thursdays 7:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and Fridays 7:45 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. It is a place for students to ask the Librarian for assistance, do research, study individually, or work quietly in a small group. Students are expected to be courteous and respectful of other students and to maintain a studious atmosphere. Using

self-checkout, students may check out books any time, and a digital library is available as well. There are no overdue fines; however, books not returned will be charged to the student’s school account. The cell phone policy applies in the Library, but headphones/ear buds are always allowed. No food is allowed, but drinks in closed-top containers are okay.

MISSION POINT SYSTEM Requirements A total of 8 mission points must be completed prior to graduation from DCDS. Four mission points music come from Blue Point athletic activities. The Silver Point is a non-athletic team activity such as: Quiz Bowl, Musical/Play, Sport Manager, Debate, Forensics, Science Fair, Robotics, Science Olympiad and Film/Video. Gold/White Points are from Activities and Clubs. There is an emphasis placed on skills development and self-discovery. Two points are needed per year - one point is earned per semester of participation. Ten hours of community service is required every year for a total of 40 white points prior to graduation. White points may be earned for approved in-school and out-of-school service projects. Activities serve as a way for students to broaden his/her horizons in terms of community service and volunteerism. A student who fails to meet the minimum requirement at the end of the school year will be denied all privileges normally accorded to the student’s grade until the deficiency is made up. By the end of the first semester, seniors are required to have completed the required semester gold point and full-year service hours to qualify for Senior Project. Gold Point Activities Club activity options are available on the portal and are many and varied. Please see “Clubs.” White Point Activities White Points – Service Requirement (Required 10 hours of service per year of Upper School attended = total of 40 hours of service) The white point requirement encourages students to develop an understanding of the importance of “giving back” to their communities – school, local, state, national and global. It provides opportunities for students to learn how a single person, small group and/or large organization can make a difference, and to experience how completing selfless service improves one’s own life. White points may be earned through approved on-campus and off-campus service activities. Service hours may be completed during the summer vacation and are applied to the following year (example: hours completed during summer of 2026 are applied to service record of 2026-27 school year). Summer service hours must be submitted by September 30 of the year completed. All summer hours are recorded as off-campus hours, except for those activities held at DCDS (i.e. summer camps). Students may not “pay hours forward”, and hours must be submitted during the year they were completed. Unpaid labor does NOT qualify as community service; hours must be completed with a nonprofit, charitable organization. Students must fill out the required verification form (found on their Community Service Canvas page) and submit that form via the Community Service Canvas page. On-campus hours will be submitted by the

faculty sponsor. Requirements by grade: ● 9th and 10th grade students may complete all of their hours through on-campus projects. They are also welcome to complete service by participating in activities off-campus, but they are not required to do so. ● 11th grade students must complete a minimum of 3 off-campus hours. ● 12th grade students must complete a minimum of 5 off-campus hours. Service Activity Suggestions: On-Campus: Admissions Host (5 hours max per semester) Open House, Peer Tutor, Elected Position (5 hours), Athletic Assistant, Usher, Junior Jackets. Off-Campus: Food Bank (Gleaners, Forgotten Harvest), Soup Kitchens (Capuchin, Crossroads, Detroit Rescue Mission) Organizations (Summer in the City, Lighthouse, Grace Center of Hope, COTS, Cass Community Social Services), Hospice or Hospital work (make sure when working in hospital that it is not a shadow of doctor and/or internship – go through the nonprofit hospital volunteer program.)

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Activities at Country Day are an integral part of a student’s education. Because textbook knowledge is useful only to the student who possesses the motivation to apply it, diverse opportunities are provided for students to learn how to handle meaningful responsibility. Both athletic and non-athletic activities are important vehicles to carry out this duty in the education of young people.

CLASS ORGANIZATION The class boards shall be organizations dedicated to providing service beneficial to the school and community, to increasing class unity and spirit between the grades by sponsoring social activities, and to raising money to fund such projects. The returning sophomore, junior, and senior classes of the Upper School meet in the spring to hear nominating speeches by candidates for the Class Board and to elect seven members to that body. The incoming Freshman class will elect four members in the spring; at the first class meeting in the fall, the class will elect three additional members to the Class Board. Candidates are self-nominated. The person receiving the most votes in the spring election shall be designated as interim president. In the fall, all seven members will vote for officers. A two-thirds vote will place a candidate into the position of president. If the interim president does not receive enough votes, the person with the second most votes will follow the same procedure. This will continue down the line, until someone is ratified as president. If no one is ratified, anyone interested in running for president may do so. Specific guidelines for this procedure are outlined in the Class Board By-laws. The Class Board will then meet as soon as possible to elect its remaining officers, generally vice president, secretary and treasurer; the remaining three board members serve on the executive board as full voting members. The class sponsor

is appointed by the Upper School Director.

FUND RAISING All student fund-raising events such as bagel sales, flower sales, etc., must be approved by the Upper School Administration. Each class has the right to maintain a treasury for valid purposes such as: social functions for one or more classes on the school premises, subsidizing the junior-senior prom, making a gift to the school and raising funds for a worthy on-campus or off-campus cause. All funds, including class or club dues, must be deposited in the class or activity account in the Business Office. Accurate accounting of funds must be made by the group treasurer, reported periodically to the group and verified with the account records maintained in the Business Office. It is specifically prohibited to maintain class or activity accounts outside the school.

UPPER SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL (USSC) The USSC exists for the purpose of encouraging and implementing student involvement in the planning and management of student affairs, fostering school spirit and providing student leadership. The USSC is an advisory, petitioning, and organizational body charged with giving its leadership, its opinions and suggestions to the administration regarding student affairs. The USSC is also involved in organizing events and other projects in the school. Council business may originate with students in the Upper School through members of the USSC, or with the faculty or with the administration. The USSC is composed of four seniors, three juniors, three sophomores and three freshmen elected annually in the spring. The USSC advisor must be an Upper School faculty member and is appointed by the Upper School Director. All meetings of the USSC are open to the general student body and the faculty.

JUNIOR AND SENIOR PRIVILEGES Junior-Senior Commons Room The Commons Room is a privilege. This room is maintained as a facility for quiet conversation, reading and study. Use of the room is restricted to seniors and juniors at any time the school building is open. Students using the room are expected to be self- disciplined. Inappropriate behavior in the Commons Room that results in detentions may also include the loss of the Commons Room privilege and assignment to a required study hall, or required Commons Room clean-up detail. Senior Privileges Senior privileges include delayed arrival and early dismissals. Seniors whose Mission, white or gold points or detentions are delinquent will not be granted privileges. Unless cleared in advance by the Upper School Director, seniors who fail to attend the annual Honors' Convocation will be required to serve a 3-hour detention prior to receiving his/her Blue and Gold yearbook.

GRADUATION At the end-of-year faculty meeting, each senior will individually be voted a diploma by the faculty upon certification that all academic, athletic, and activity requirements have been met, that all financial obligations to the school have been met, and that the senior has no outstanding disciplinary issues. All seniors will be allowed to participate in graduation exercises unless disciplinary issues exist. Regardless of one's participation in the ceremony, any student who has failed to meet the academic or co-curricular (white, blue, or gold points) requirements of Detroit Country Day School will not receive a diploma. Special Academic Policies ● Seniors must pass all of their courses in order to receive a diploma. ● The Incomplete Deadline for second term seniors is one week from the last day of senior classes. If a student fails to submit a core assessment/assignment by the one-week deadline, the assignment will automatically receive a 50, and the student’s term grade will be reduced by 10 points. ● Any senior who does not have passing grades at the end of the senior second term will forfeit the opportunity to go on senior project and will be required to continue to attend classes until the end of the regular school year. Senior Project Detroit Country Day School has been offering a Senior Project Program since 1968. The Senior Project is the ultimate experiential and participatory learning experience, connecting a student’s studies with his or her career explorations. The program is a capstone experience for the learner at DCDS, an opportunity for seniors to experience, enhance, and cultivate their knowledge with a professional interest. Preliminary discussions with each student’s advisor should begin to take place during the senior year. A detailed proposal for the Project is due in March. If a senior would like help in finding a sponsor or to see descriptions of previous Projects, he or she can meet with the Senior Class Dean or Director of Alumni Relations. In order to qualify for Senior Project, a student must have completed all white points, gold points, and be eligible to complete blue points by the completion of the school year. Additionally, eligibility is contingent upon a passing grade in all classes, and eligibility for graduation. The official start date of the Senior Project is in May. Each senior will display his/her Senior Project in a fair-style event at the Upper School. Students will prepare presentations of their Projects via print or digital mediums. This representation of the Senior Project experience must be reflective of the quality of work expected of a DCDS graduate. Each senior should be able to explain, in detail, the ideas and experiences which were formulated during the project. Seniors who participate in a Senior Project must: ● successfully complete the Senior Project; ● successfully present at the Senior Project fair;

● comply with all other graduation requirements mentioned in this handbook.

DRESS CODE Dress and grooming regulations in the Upper School focus on a neat, clean appearance that is consistent in spirit and letter with the standards, philosophy and tradition of the school. Education is an important endeavor, and student appearance and dress should reflect the seriousness with which our students take their studies. Students should arrive in the building in the morning properly attired. Blazers or sweaters must be worn in the halls and to enter the lunch room at lunch unless announced otherwise by the Upper School Director. Any student who is not in proper attire is to see a Dean before the school day begins for a dress code pass. Official School Uniform Regular School Dress (Regular school dress is worn Monday-Wednesday and at such official school events as plays, field trips, concerts, and banquets, whether they occur on or off-campus, and at other school sponsored evening events as specified. Color Day attire is required every Thursday and on other special occasions as announced. Color Day attire may be worn on other school days as well. When in Regular School Dress all students wear: ● School blazer* with DCDS crest and their last name on the monogram. (A DCDS letter sweater is an acceptable substitute unless announced otherwise by school administration.) All students will wear either a blazer or a letter sweater Monday through Thursday. ● White* or blue button down dress shirt ● Gray*, khaki, or navy uniform skirt or dress pants (ankle length slacks with no more than two front or two back pockets), worn with a belt ● Solid black, navy, white, neutral, or gray socks or tights ● Gray, brown, black, or navy dress shoes or dress boots acceptable for a professional workplace (hiking or work type boots, or slippers are not acceptable). ● Necktie* required for male students ● Jackets and outerwear are not to be worn during the school day. *On Color Day (Thursday), students must wear DCDS blazer/letter sweater, gray pants/skirt, white shirt, and DCDS necktie. Spirit Friday Fridays are semi-casual days. Students who do not wear spirit wear have a regular uniform day. Violators will receive dress code detentions, and repeated violations will result in a loss of Friday spirit wear/casual privileges. Allowed: ● Any DCDS school, DCDS club or activity, DCDS sport or DCDS class shirt, sweatshirt, hoodie, warm-up. Spirit wear must be visible at all times. ● Jeans, Khakis of any color, skirts of any color pattern as long as fingertip length ● Casual shoes, including athletic shoes.

Not Allowed: ● Hats ● Leggings, shorts, or sweatpants ● Jackets and outerwear ● Sandals, slides, or slippers Casual Dress Certain days may be designated as “Casual Days” by the administration. Such days will be announced via email to students. On casual days, most dress code rules are suspended with the following guidelines: ● Bare midriffs, bare shoulders, immodest necklines or shorts or skirts that are not fingertip length are not acceptable. ● Leggings or yoga pants should be covered by a top which extends to fingertip length in the back when hands are held at the sides. ● Graphic shirts or other garments with potentially polarizing or inappropriate messaging (language, relation to drugs or alcohol, or other messaging which contradicts the DCDS code of conduct) are not allowed. ● Casual dress may not be worn for on-campus or off-campus competitions and field trips unless specifically authorized by the Upper School Director. Additional Notes ● The intent of our dress code is to minimize distraction and continue to foster a focused learning environment for all. Community members may not wear or display any insignia, badge or button depicting corporate, activist, personal or political statements, outside logos or messaging. This includes, but is not limited to, clothing and accessories such as neckties, backpacks, water bottles, electronic devices, notebooks, etc. ● A student must have earned a varsity letter in order to wear a varsity letter sweater.

AUTOMOBILES Only automobiles that have been properly registered in the Academic Office may be operated by students, on campus or as school transportation. With written parental permission, a valid driver’s license, registered approval from the school and a permit, a student is allowed to drive to and from school. For school events, passengers may be carried only with the written permission of both the driver’s and the passenger’s parents. The speed limit anywhere on the school grounds is 10 m.p.h. Failure to observe any of the rules regarding car registration, parking areas or safety regulations may result in the student’s driving privilege being revoked. The parking lot is off limits for all students except during arrival and departure from school. Students must have signed permission from an administrator to go to their cars at any time during the school day. For parking restrictions, see Parking below. The School takes its responsibility for the health and well-being of all students very seriously. To that end, students who wish to leave during the day for any reason must receive permission to do so from the Attendance Office. A slip will be required to leave campus.

BULLYING, CYBER BULLYING, RECORDING, AND HAZING Bullying is a form of physical, verbal, and/or emotional harassment, intimidating or demeaning behavior toward another student by an individual or group of students. Cyberbullying is bullying behavior conducted through any electronic means involving either words or images. Hazing involves behavior taken against a student that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm. Detroit Country Day students are expected to respect themselves and others. Bullying, harassment, cyber bullying, intimidation or threatening behavior towards others will result in consequences ranging from detention to expulsion. Bullying, in any form, is a Community violation and among the School’s most severe offenses. Students may not record others without their knowledge, regardless of the intent or purpose, including to take notes in class.

CELL PHONE AND HEADPHONE POLICY At DCDS, our motto, Mens Sana In Corpore Sano, (a healthy mind in a healthy body), guides us and provides an approach to education driven by academic excellence, community engagement, physical activity, and interpersonal, face-to-face interactions. Our work with Mind, Brain, and Education Science tells us that great things are possible when distractions are limited and students focus on their relationships with each other and their adult mentors. Relationships between community members – teachers and students; and students and their peers – remain the bedrock of the Detroit Country Day School learning community and shape the student experience. The use of technology at Detroit Country Day School is educational. Our cell phone policy is indicative of this: our youngest (Lower School) learners are not allowed to have cell phones; our middle schoolers lock their phones during the school day; and our upper schoolers are allowed to have their phones, but they must be stowed and silenced in a bag/backpack or locker. Assessments If a student has an electronic device out during an assessment – including but not limited to phones, watches, glasses, rings, etc.-- in a manner that is not authorized explicitly by the instructor overseeing the assessment, the student will lose their phone privileges for an extended period of time, to be determined by the division head, and will turn their phone into the grade-level dean at the start of each day for the entire school day. Cell Phone Policy The primary use of technology at Detroit Country Day School is educational. Therefore, unless a student receives permission from a faculty member, their phone is to be silenced and stowed in a bag/backpack/locker from the beginning of each day until the end of the academic day. Headphones & Earbuds Headphones and earbuds, like cell phones, must be stowed. Headphones and earbuds are not allowed in the hallways but may be used in the library. If needed for a class assignment, they, like phones, may be used with faculty permission.

Parental Communication During the School Day As always, the School hopes to partner with parents in the enforcement of our policies. Parents who need to reach students during the academic day may contact the Academic Office or grade-level dean. Additionally, a student may always ask an adult to use their phone, should the need to call or text a parent arise. Accountability All students, teachers, and administrators bear responsibility for creating a healthy and safe environment at DCDS. If a student does not adhere to these guidelines, the following consequences will be applied: ● 1st Offense: The cell phone is confiscated and dropped off at the appropriate dean's office. The dean will hold the phone until the end of the day and log a cell phone warning for that student. ● 2nd Offense: The cell phone is confiscated and held at the dean's office, and a detention is issued. ● 3rd Offense: The cell phone is confiscated and held at the dean's office until the end of the day. The student will serve a Saturday detention and be required to turn their phone into their grade-level dean at the start of the day for 10 consecutive school days. ● 4th Offense: The cell phone is confiscated and held at the dean's office until the end of the day. The student will serve two Saturday detentions and be required to turn their phone into their grade-level dean at the start of the day for 20 consecutive school days. ● Any offense beyond this will result in a meeting between the students’ family and the administration, where additional consequences will be determined.

TECHNOLOGY RESPONSIBLE USE POLICY In order to promote educational excellence, Detroit Country Day School (DCDS) provides computer, network, email, and Internet access (“The DCDS Technology Resources”) as part of the learning environment. The DCDS Technology Resources support the instructional mission of the school, providing students the ability to learn 21st century skills such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Parents, you authorize us to act on your behalf to grant consent for your student’s use of software, including vendor Terms of Service and applicable privacy regulations. In exchange for the use of The DCDS Technology Resources, students agree to the following: I WILL exercise integrity, authenticity, and respect by: ● Using the Internet for educational purposes, research, and to gather information consistent with the goals of Detroit Country Day Schools ● Following: ○ All Copyright and Trademark laws ○ The DCDS Social Media Policy in the handbook ○ Terms and Conditions of all software agreements ● Reporting any misuses of the Internet including viruses, illegal access to accounts or

illegal tampering to the appropriate administrator. ● Accepting responsibility for the care of the equipment and respect for the individual work, files and programs of others. ● Ensuring my device (when applicable) is in working order. ● Only using approved AI tools, and only for educational purposes ● Being aware that content generated by AI should not be claimed as one’s own work or used in a deceptive manner. I WILL NOT: ● Use technology to record, transmit or post images or video of a person or persons on school property without prior approval. ● Knowingly add a virus to any device. ● Hack or bypass network security and/or filters. ● Violate the DCDS Honor Code. ● Use any technology, including the Internet, that violates Federal, State, and Local laws. ● Use the Internet to send messages that are inflammatory, harassing in nature (cyber bullying), sexist, racist, or contains obscene material. ● Access inappropriate files or materials. ● Access or modify other accounts, data, files or passwords without authorization. ● Allow others to use my accounts to access the Internet or school network. The use of these resources is a privilege and not a right. Users have no right or expectation to privacy when using The DCDS Technology Resources including, but not limited to, privacy in the content of their personal files, e-mails, and records of their online activity. While these systems have the power to deliver a vast number of resources to classrooms and enhance education, their effectiveness depends on the responsible and ethical use by every individual. Violation of this administrative rule will result in the loss of this privilege and may result in discipline or litigation in accordance with DCDS policy and state and federal laws. Pursuant to Federal Law, DCDS has implemented technology protection measures which block/filter Internet access to visual displays that are obscene, inappropriate or harmful to minors. Nevertheless, parents/guardians are advised that a determined user may be able to gain access to services on the Internet that DCDS has not authorized for educational purposes. In fact, it is impossible to guarantee students will not gain access through the Internet to information and communications that they and/or their parents/guardians may find inappropriate, offensive, objectionable or controversial. Parents/Guardians assume risks by consenting to allow their child to participate in the use of the Internet. Parents/Guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using the Internet. Social Media Responsible Use Policies and Guidelines for Students Overview Sharing experiences at Detroit Country Day School (DCDS) through social networking /media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, blogs, etc.) can be an engaging way to connect with others in the community, exchange educational resources, log travel experiences, create educational content, and enhance classroom experiences. While the benefits are evident, those that participate in social networking/media always need to be cognizant of the inherent risks that come with using these tools. In the social media world, the lines are often blurred between what is public or private, personal or professional.

Goals of This Document The goals of this document are to: ● Define what DCDS considers social media. ● Provide guidance and best practices for the appropriate personal use of social media by students, faculty, and staff at the school. ● Provide guidance for official use of social media by individuals representing the school. ● Clearly set boundaries for appropriate behavior by young people and adults when using social media. Social Media Defined Defined broadly, social media encompasses voluntary communications and experiences that are (but not limited to): ● Distributed electronically by organizations and individuals. ● Consumed on a desktop and mobile devices. ● Shared electronically by diverse individuals. ● Discussed publicly or semi-publicly by an engaged population. Social media is commonly encountered in the context of online software applications like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Discord, and Flickr. There are also many trending apps or sites such as SnapChat and Yik Yak. On these platforms text, media, links, and opinions are shared, discussed, and redistributed. Best Practices for Personal Accounts ● Clearly identify who you are – The link between professional (student) and personal persona is sometimes blurred. Be thoughtful about your postings, content, and potential audiences. Be honest about your identity. ● Protect Your Identity – While you should be honest about yourself, it’s irresponsible to provide personal information that scam artists or identity thieves could use. Don’t share your home address or telephone number. It is a good idea to create a separate email from your school account address to be used for social media. Policies for Personal Accounts ● Clearly state your views are your own - In personal posts, provide a personal statement that indicates you do not represent any brand or organization. Consider using a standard disclaimer: “The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of any other entity.” ● Never use DCDS crests, logos, or registered trademarks. Accounts using these images without permission will be considered in violation of the school social media policy. Policies for Team / Official - Brand / Sub-Brand Accounts We strongly encourage student teams, clubs and organizations to provide content to the official DCDS social media accounts and take advantage of opportunities for students to participate with our social media channels. This ensures that student photos, video and messaging reaches a wide audience of thousands of supporters and the communications department can help boost exposure. If students wish to create a social media account for a team, group or class at DCDS, you must work with your coach or advisor, who will monitor the account and have login and password access at all times. In addition, in order to create or

assume management of a team, club or student organization account:: ● Permission must be granted by the Director of Communications & Strategic Marketing or Assistant Communications Director. ● Your advisor will fill out a social media account request form. ● A disclaimer of spokesperson status must still be attached to the account. You may not use the words “the official account of…”. The only official accounts are maintained by school administration. ● Username and password information must also be provided to the Communications Department. ● You must follow the policies (listed below) that apply to all types of social media accounts as well as the full social media guidelines for student teams, clubs and organizations. Policies for All Accounts (Personal, Official, Sub Brand, Team) ● Maintain privacy – It is advised that you do not publish, post, or release information on families, students, faculty or staff that is considered confidential or private. Remember, online “conversations” are never private. A good practice and one in which the school follows is that individuals are typically not identified in photos, especially individuals under the age of 18. ● Maintain school/personal boundaries - If a school-related message needs to get out to students and parents through social media, the communications should be directed through the appropriate notifications channels in the Communications Department. If extenuating circumstances prevent the use of communications channels, then a Social Communications representative should be contacted to get the message out. See contact tree for Social Communications representatives. ● Be aware of liability – You are responsible for what you post on your site and the sites of others. Be aware of copyright and trademark infringement, defamatory, proprietary, libelous, or obscene postings. Do not post anything that you would not feel free to share publicly. ● Maintain and follow the school’s policies on Behavior and Technology. Any personal postings should be on your own time outside of the academic day. Students found to be engaged in any type of online bullying will be subject to the discipline measures described under Behavioral Expectations in the Student Handbook. ● Obey terms of service of any and all social media platforms. DCDS Guidelines for Posting at School Functions Below are guidelines to follow for members of the school community (students, faculty, administrators, and staff) when posting in social media spaces at any DCDS sanctioned or related event (this includes field trips), or on any of its campuses. If you plan to post at school functions, please notify the Communications Department at kbirmingham@dcds.edu to partner with you to improve DCDS social media communications and networking to promote events and successes of the school. Think before you post ● Use good judgment and behave in a way that will make you and others proud and reflect positively on the school. ● Know and follow the school’s guidelines on Technology Responsible Use Policy. A copy of this policy can be found on the Portal and in the Student Handbook. All students

and their parents at the beginning of the school year sign the policy. ● Don’t assume anything is ever private despite your security settings. ● Do not use the school name to promote a product, cause, business, political party or candidate unless it is a DCDS sponsored event. Be respectful ● Always treat others in a respectful, positive, and considerate manner. ● Don’t spam, type using all caps, be hateful or use profane language. Be restrained and methodical, not reactive ● Refrain from responding to posts from individuals or entities that are derogatory, inflammatory, profane, or otherwise obviously intended to provoke. Take a screenshot of the post and forward to the Communications Department at kbirmingham@dcds.edu and then delete the post if possible. ● Do not take any further action until specifically directed by the Administration Be responsible and ethical ● If you are posting at a school function, please stick to discussing only those school-related matters that are within your area of responsibility. ● Students should be open about their affiliation with the school and role/position they hold. ● Share and interact in a way that will enhance your reputation, the reputation of others, and the reputation of the school, rather than damage them. ● Never use social media to spread information about a crisis unless the information has been verified and approved by the Head of School or Advancement Office. Be a good listener ● Be responsive to others when conversing online. Treat your interactions as if you were at a job or college interview. ● Social media can be an effective tool for discussions, but do not use it to vent or rant. Check and re-check ● Check all work for correct use of grammar and spelling before posting. Reading aloud to oneself is a good way to catch errors. ● Sharing content you see on social media channels can be powerful and informative, but always check links and content before reposting. If a mistake happens ● Correct the mistake immediately, and make it clear what you’ve done to fix the mistake. ● Apologize for the mistake if the situation warrants it. ● If it’s a major mistake, please inform the Social Communications representative in your building so that steps can be taken to minimize the impact. Post information and images with care ● To ensure safety, be careful about the type and amount of personal information you provide. ● Avoid talking about school, personal schedules or situations. Post after the event has

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taken place and never mention any upcoming school trips or events, unless it is a well-publicized public event. Safeguard privacy – be respectful of the privacy of all families. If a parent is easily identifiable in the public eye, reconsider your actions to post. Do not identify students in any way by using their first or last name. All awards announcements should be directed to The Buzz (thebuzz@dcds.edu) so that proper research and clarifications can be made. Parents’ requests for publication of awards and recognitions should be directed to The Buzz. Posts of awards on social media by DCDS branded accounts may be reposted on personal accounts if so desired. Names used in these instances have been granted permission by the proper sources. Respect copyrights, trademarks and photo credits. Photo captions should not include names. Students - If you do not want your image shared, do not pose for any pictures by staff members, parents, or students. Policing where photos go once captured is too difficult, so it is best not to pose for a picture you’d rather not be in.

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY AND VANDALISM Intentional destruction of property of others, defacing of walls, desks and bulletin boards, and other such acts of vandalism will not be tolerated. Consequences for vandalism may range from restitution and apology to suspension or expulsion. In the event of damage to school or personal property, students found responsible will be accountable for restitution.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS Students are expected to maintain appropriate decorum and content in electronic communications. Electronic communications between students or from students to faculty or staff involving sexually explicit or threatening material of any kind may be subject to discipline, and/or referral to law enforcement as required by law. It is important for students to be aware that the distribution and / or possession of sexually explicit images of minors is a felony.

LOCKERS Hall lockers with combination locks are provided for the convenience of students. Students may not remove the locks or tamper with them in any way, nor may they add a padlock to the lockers. Lockers are to be kept neat and clean at all times. Lockers may be inspected with no prior notice. Students are urged not to share their locker combination with anyone. No permanent changes may be made to locker interiors. Writing or the attachment of stickers on the outside or inside of lockers is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

MEDICATIONS No prescription medication shall be administered to a student without a doctor’s order and written permission from the parent. It is prohibited to share prescribed medications with another person. Medication permission forms must be updated annually by every parent, along with the annual health, physical, and emergency forms. Any questions or concerns

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regarding self-medication should be directed to the School Nurse.

HEALTH CLINIC All students who become ill or who are injured during the day are to report to the school nurse for assistance. To prevent the spread and recurrence of communicable diseases, students must be fever free and be able to hold down food for 24 hours before returning to school.

PARKING During the entire academic day, student parking is limited to those areas marked as such, generally those spaces in the separate lot closest to Thirteen Mile Road. Unless directed by the parking supervisor, student cars are never to be parked in the visitors’ parking lot, the driveways, or the spaces along the side driveway. Students violating these parking restrictions risk losing their driving privileges or having their cars towed away at their expense. If you find no available parking space, please see the Department of Safety and Security. A $20 fee will be charged for parking to offset the cost of parking supervision. After September 30, the fee will increase to $50 unless a student is newly licensed.

PERSONAL PROPERTY Personal property, including books, laptop computer, book bags, coats, and athletic equipment should be stored in the student’s locked hall locker or gym locker. Personal property should not be stored in the hallways. The school assumes no responsibility for personal property. Students are urged not to bring expensive equipment or large sums of money to school.

RESPECT FOR FACULTY AND STAFF Students are expected to be respectful at all times to members of the faculty and staff and to visitors. Consequences for disrespect range from detention to expulsion.

RESTRICTED AREAS Detroit Country Day is a closed campus. Certain areas of the Upper School building and campus are restricted in their use, and are as follows: ● Locker room areas may be used only before school and after school during the athletic period. The use of cameras or cellphones used as cameras is prohibited in locker room areas. ● Commons room usage is restricted to use by seniors and juniors. ● Faculty workrooms and faculty restrooms are off limits to students at all times. ● Parking lots are off limits except during arrival and departure. Students must have signed permission from an administrator to go to their cars at any time during the school day. ● Classrooms are off limits at any time when a teacher is not present. ● Corridors and stairwells should not be used for conversation and congregating while

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classes are in session. ● Other areas of restricted use include the basement, the kitchen, the roof and any ladders leading to it, and any offices unless express permission is obtained.

ATHLETIC PROGRAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL ATHLETIC HANDBOOK INTRODUCTION Detroit Country Day School (DCDS) offers more than 30 interscholastic sport options for men, women, and co-ed participation, making our program one of the largest in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). By design, athletics at DCDS are “co-curricular,” complementing the regular curriculum and playing an important role in the education of our student-athletes (“athletes”). In fact, DCDS is unique among only a few Michigan high schools in that our athletes complete an athletic participation requirement in order to qualify for a DCDS diploma.

MISSION The DCDS athletic program is committed to developing teamwork, sportsmanship, responsibility and leadership in the ongoing pursuit of excellence. The DCDS athletic program is an extension of the classroom and, as such, operates in collaboration with academics and the arts in order to ensure a well-rounded education.

CORE VALUES ● Sportsmanship- Respect and treat opponents, officials, coaches, and teammates in the manner you, yourself would like to be treated and be gracious in victory and defeat. ● Trust- Be a trusted team member and teammate, and trust the expertise of coaches and integrity of officials. ● Responsibility- Honor your commitment to the DCDS athletic program. Communicate timely and accurate information to teammates and coaches. Be supportive and accepting of the contributions of others. ● Perseverance- Be courageous, maintain a positive attitude and continue to perform to the best of your ability in the face of adversity regardless of the score or challenging circumstances. ● Communication- Communication is essential in any successful program and must be a two-way process of listening and expressing support between athletes and coaches, teammates, coaches and parents, and parents and athletes. ● Commitment- As in academics, arts, and all other activities of the school, commitment on the part of each athlete is essential to achieving success in the athletic program. An athlete’s commitment in athletics is to teammates, coaches, the school and finally, and most importantly, to himself or herself and to put forth his/her best effort. ● Excellence- The DCDS athletic program pursues excellence. Athletic teams are a

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source of school pride and spirit and are not measured solely in terms of a win-loss record. Intangible qualities such as doing your individual best and being a responsible teammate exemplify the excellence objectives of our athletic program.

PARTICIPATION Season dates are set by the MHSAA and vary by sport. The athletic schedule is published on the school website (www.dcds.edu). Team size is affected by limits of facilities, staffing, and players required for any given contest. Most team tryouts take place during the first week of the season and selection is based on a variety of objective and subjective criteria such as skill, attitude, effort, potential to develop, “coach-ability,” the needs of the team, and “head to head” competition. An athlete who wishes to drop one sport and transfer to another must receive the approval of coaches and the Athletic Director. Due to the different needs of sports and teams, individual athlete participation (or the amount of playing time) is prioritized and will vary from sport to sport and level to level. Decisions are at the discretion of the coach. Playing time is never guaranteed. It is the coach’s responsibility to make sure that all athletes on the team are active participants. DCDS does not guarantee positions on varsity teams to any athlete in any grade. Each athlete earns his/her position on a varsity team during a tryout or evaluation period. It is the athlete’s responsibility to know the requirements and expectations of the sports team on which he/she would like to compete. The athletic department, through its coaches and program directors, schedules meetings each season to present and discuss requirements and expectations with athletes and parents. Tryout and practice schedules are posted at www.dcds.edu for Grades 6-12. Athletes involved in any sport are expected to attend all pre-season and season practices and competitions including those scheduled when classes are not in session (e.g. during the summer, school breaks, vacation days, and weekends). As a MHSAA member, and an independent school with no athletic league affiliation, we must schedule a number of contests during the school week. Every effort is made to keep late night contests and travel to a minimum. Athletes are responsible for all school assignments for the next day and should make appropriate plans ahead of time for work. Before any athlete can participate in tryouts, practices or contests, a valid physical examination for the current school year must be on file with the school. There are no exceptions to this rule. Students may not participate if they are ill, or experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches/pains or other COVID related symptoms.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT FOR ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION Athletes must attend all of their classes on a given day in order to participate in athletic contests, scrimmages, and practices. Exceptions to this policy may be allowed for excused or pre-arranged absences on a limited basis. Coaches will review this policy with athletes each season or during the pre-season. If athletes need to miss class due to athletic contests, the athletic office will notify the attendance office in order for the absence to be excused. Athletes are responsible for any missed work. Any concerns or questions regarding athletic participation should be directed

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to the Athletic Director.

ABSENCES AND INJURIES If an athlete is ill and unable to participate in all academic periods of the school day, s/he is not eligible to participate in athletics (either practice or competition) that day. This includes illness in the middle of the day. If an athlete needs to be excused (for any reason) from a practice or contest, the athlete must communicate with the coach at least one day in advance or the absence will be unexcused. Any exception must be approved by the grade level dean or school director. An athlete will not receive a Blue Point a varsity letter in a sport if s/he has excessive unexcused absences. After an athlete accumulates two unexcused absences in a season, he/she will be advised by the Athletic Director that any further unexcused absences will result in no Blue Point and no varsity letter. Three certified athletic trainers are employed to aid in the prevention and treatment of injuries. Athletes should notify a DCDS athletic trainer immediately of any injury. If the injury is of a serious nature, the athletic trainers may help to coordinate treatment and a plan for return to play with the athlete’s physician.

COMMUNICATION Professional and courteous communication among the athletes, coaches, parents, and administration is essential. The following guidelines are suggested: Athletes should learn and meet the coach’s expectations for conduct on and off the playing court or field, address concerns directly with the coach by determining a mutually beneficial time which avoids conflict with practice or game time to discuss problems, and accept constructive criticism. Parents should respect the coach’s responsibility for determining who, when, where and how athletes play, encourage athletes to talk to the coach if they have concerns about playing time or other questions, be a positive role model by exhibiting sportsmanship, trust, responsibility, and perseverance, and stay active in supportive roles. Parents should discuss concerns with coaches and/or the athletic director in a timely manner keeping in mind that DCDS coaches have been advised to utilize a 24 hour period of reflection before meeting with players and parents so that everyone involved has the benefit of some time to consider their experience and reflect upon the situation.

VARSITY LETTERS The requirements for earning a varsity letter are somewhat different in each sport. The criteria is set up by the coach and approved by the Upper School Athletic Director and Executive Athletic Director. The requirements are communicated to the athletes by the coach at the beginning of each season. A letter may be withheld for disciplinary reasons including, but not limited to, attendance and behavior. One varsity letter (monogram for sweater or jacket) will be awarded during an athlete’s years of eligibility. Additional letter certificates are awarded and recorded through the athletic office and distributed at the completion of each season. Some athletes who are unable to participate due to medical restrictions, etc. may still earn a

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varsity letter. These special situations are to be reviewed and agreed upon between coaches and the Athletic Director prior to the start or at the conclusion of a season. When designing letter sweaters and jackets with nicknames, mottos, themes and artwork, athletes are reminded to consider the core values of the DCDS athletic program: Sportsmanship, Trust, Responsibility and Perseverance. Athletes should consult parents and the athletic department regarding the appropriateness of unique designs before placing their orders to make sure they are acceptable. Letter sweaters and jackets may be purchased at: Art Knitting Mills 30004 West Twelve Mile Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 356-3404

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Athlete and parent cooperation is essential in the distribution, care, and return of all athletic equipment issued during the season. Our goal is to have the best, safest, and most appealing uniforms for our teams each season and to reduce costs for families and the School. Uniforms and equipment for most teams are owned by the School and issued to a particular athlete for his/her use during the season, under MHSAA guidelines. Some teams will need or wish to choose personal apparel items for their teams (e.g. swimsuit, t-shirt, jacket, etc.). These choices must have the prior approval of the Athletic Director and the knowledge and understanding of the athlete and his/her parents, as responsibility for this cost is generally the athlete’s. The care of the equipment and uniforms is the responsibility of each athlete. No altering of school issued uniforms or equipment is allowed without the prior approval of the equipment manager, coach and athletic director If alterations occur without these approvals, the athlete is responsible for any cost to restore the equipment or uniform to its original state or to purchase a new piece to replace the altered item(s). At the season’s end or when an athlete drops from a sport, uniforms and equipment must be returned to the equipment manager in the athletic cage or to the coach. Any broken, worn or torn equipment should be reported to the equipment manager. In order to receive credit for the completed season and qualify for participation in the next season, all school property, uniforms and equipment must be turned in within one week of the end of the season. If an athlete does not return his/her uniform and/or equipment, a non-refundable fee will be charged for replacement of the items. Fees for replacement costs are very expensive, often three to four times the original cost, due to set-up fees and printing charges. Failure to return a uniform or equipment may jeopardize the blue point for an athlete. For graduating seniors, approval to participate in graduation ceremonies will be withheld until a senior athlete returns his/her uniform and/or equipment or payment is made for the replacement cost as determined by the School. At the end of each season, all athletic lockers must be emptied and cleaned. All unclaimed items will be removed and discarded at the discretion of the athletic department.

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Pre-season practices or “captains’ practices” are arranged by team leaders and may be held prior to the season. These practices and times must be approved by the athletic department and made available to everyone. No equipment or uniforms can be issued for captains’ practices and all MHSAA rules must be followed. Sports seasons vary in length. Specific season dates can be found on the MHSAA or DCDS websites. General guidelines for seasons: ● Fall - Second week of August to mid-late October, playoffs may extend seasons well into November. ● Winter - Second week in November through mid-March ● Spring - Second week of March through late May or early June Athletes participating in two seasons that overlap will not be “penalized.” Every effort will be made to support the athlete on both teams and to communicate between the athletic department and coaches. Junior varsity and freshman seasons end prior to the start of state tournament play. Varsity coaches may ask some junior varsity or freshman athletes to dress for varsity playoff games. Athletes are permitted a one-week break from athletic participation between seasons.

TEAM CAPTAINS Captain selection processes are team-specific. Some coaches select the captains, some coaches enable team members to vote and some use a combination of these two methods. In several sports, there is a tradition involved. Coaches inform the athletic department of their selection process and have final approval of the individuals selected using the athletic program mission principles of teamwork, sportsmanship, responsibility and leadership and the program’s core values of sportsmanship, trust, responsibility and perseverance. Coaches confirm the athlete has not exhibited behavior that led to a suspension by the School or the MHSAA. Athletes are not eligible for, and will be removed from, positions of athletic leadership if they have been subject to serious disciplinary action resulting from a violation of MHSAA or school policy. Team awards may also be withheld.

TRANSPORTATION Students must use school provided transportation to off-campus athletic practices or contests unless they are riding with their own parent or guardian or have an Agreement for Participation in School Program and Use of Motor Vehicle form on file in the attendance office.

DIRECTIONS Directions to most contests are available in the athletic office or addresses of most events are available on the school’s athletic calendar on the website which also includes a link to Google Directions.

ADMISSION CHARGES For home contests, DCDS students, parents, alumni, faculty and staff are admitted free of

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charge by identifying themselves with a school ID or other identification, as needed. Admission is charged to everyone at state tournament games, whether hosted by DCDS or away, per MHSAA requirements.

TRAVEL AND BANQUET DRESS Athletes traveling as a team should dress in a manner representative of DCDS, such as in school uniform/team attire. Coaches will advise athletes of requirements for specific trips and occasions.

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