Handbook

CUSD believes that regular school attendance is essential to student achievement. We are committed to partnering with parents/guardians and students to ensure compliance with state attendance laws. In cases of chronic absenteeism or truancy, the district may use appropriate legal measures to address and resolve attendance concerns. For complete information, please visit the CUSD Attendance Policies and Regulations website. 

Absences

Absence Reporting / Attendance Line

Please be sure to complete the Parent Square Form or call the attendance line before 9:00 am when your child will be absent from school or will be late. Not informing the school office will result in an unexcused absence for your child. All absences must be verified within 5 school days. If verification has not been received within the five-day period, the absence(s) will be considered unexcused.

Excused Absences

Excused absences are defined under Education Code Section 48205. These include illness, quarantine, medical or dental appointments, the funeral of an immediate family member, jury duty, and other justifiable personal reasons approved in advance. State law requires that all absences due to illness be verified each day a student is absent. Please ensure that you complete the Parent Square Form for each day your child is out sick. If a student is out ill for 7 or more consecutive days, a doctor’s note will be required to verify the absences and clearance for the child to return to school.

Justifiable Personal Reasons

A student may be excused from school for justifiable personal reasons when requested in writing by a parent or guardian and approved by the principal or designee. Examples of justifiable absences include:

• Court appearances
• Funeral services for an immediate family member
• Observance of religious holidays or ceremonies
• Attendance at a religious retreat (limited to four hours per semester)

Medical Appointments

Please make appointments before or after school hours. However, if this is not possible, please abide by the following procedures: 

Leaving School Early

Parents, or an adult listed on the emergency card for release, must first come to the office to sign the student out. The office staff will then call the student from class to meet the adult in the office. Please try to avoid pulling students out during brunch or lunch periods; schedule departures before or after these times. Regular early departures for after-school tutoring, sports or non-medical appointments are not considered excused absences. If you have an unusual circumstance, please contact the principal to discuss the situation. 

Coming To School Late

If your child arrives at school after the 8:00 am bell, your child is considered late. Upon arrival, students must check in at the office and receive a slip to enter the classroom. Regular late arrivals for non-medical appointments are not considered excused absences. 

Religious Exercises or Holidays

Absences due to participation in religious instruction or observance of religious holidays may be considered excused under California Education Code. To qualify as an excused absence, a written request from a parent or guardian must be submitted in advance of the absence. If advance written notice is not provided, the absence will be marked as unexcused.

Extended Absence Policy

Students who are absent for more than ten (10) consecutive school days for an unexcused reason will be dropped from our enrollment. Please note that vacation and travel are considered unexcused absences under state law. When the student returns, they will be reinstated at our site, only if space is available. If no space is available, the student will be assigned to another school in the district where space permits. The District does not hold a student’s seat after a ten-day unexcused absence. The Student Assignment Office will assist families upon their return to confirm residency and determine appropriate school placement.

Travel and Vacations

CUSD strongly discourages family trips or vacations during the school year, as they interrupt instruction and student learning. Absences due to travel are considered unexcused and may negatively impact both academic progress and attendance records. We encourage all families to use the district academic calendar when planning travel to ensure that students are present during instructional days. While we understand that special circumstances may arise, state compulsory education laws require attendance, and the attendance policies will still apply.

Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason—including excused absences, unexcused absences, and suspensions. Unlike truancy, which only considers unexcused absences, chronic absenteeism focuses on the total number of days missed, regardless of the reason. This means that even absences due to illness or family emergencies are included in the calculation. Chronic absenteeism is a concern because frequent absences—no matter the cause—can significantly impact a student’s academic progress, engagement, and connection to school. Our school closely monitors attendance patterns and will intervene with support systems and resources to help students and families improve attendance before it affects long-term success.

Classwork/Homework During Absences

When a student is absent—especially due to illness—they should remain at home to rest and recover. For health and safety reasons, students should not return to campus during the school day to collect classwork or homework. Students absent for one or two days should check their teachers' Google Classrooms for assignments and/or speak with their teachers upon returning to school. Students are expected to make up all missed work during any absence.

If a student’s absence is excused under Education Code 48205, they must be allowed to complete any missed assignments or tests that can be reasonably provided, as determined by the teacher. Full credit will be given for work completed within a reasonable timeframe.

If an absence is unexcused—including absences due to travel—teachers are not required to provide or grade make-up work. However, students are still responsible for any missed content and are encouraged to review materials posted in Google Classroom or speak directly with their teacher upon return. Please note that grades may be impacted by excessive unexcused absences in accordance with CUSD Board Policy.

District Calendar

Please plan ahead using CUSD’s academic calendars for the upcoming school years. Schedule vacations and travel during breaks to avoid unexcused absences. Be sure to mark the first and last days of school, holidays, and recesses on your home calendar. Also, watch for minimum days and staff development days, as these may affect the usual school schedule. For the full district calendar, including minimum days, staff learning days, and holiday schedules, please visit the official CUSD Academic Calendar web page: https://www.cusdk8.org/about-us/calendar 

First Day of School Policy

Students are expected to be in attendance on the first day of school. If a student is absent on the first day of school, the parent/guardian must contact the school as soon as possible to report the reason for the absence. Extended family vacation/travel is considered an unexcused absence.

Last Day of School Policy 

Students are expected to be in attendance on the last day of school. If a student is absent on the last day of school, the parent/guardian must contact the school as soon as possible to report the reason for the absence. Family vacation/travel is considered an unexcused absence.

Potential Effects of Unexcused Absences

• Student report cards may be marked Incomplete

• Grades may be negatively affected

• Missed assignments may not be eligible for make-up
• Truancy notification letters will be sent as unexcused absences accumulate

Truancy Notification Timeline:

• Truancy Letter #1: Sent when a student accrues an unexcused absence rate of 3% or greater
• Truancy Letter #2: Sent when the unexcused absence rate reaches 7% or greater
• Mandatory SARB or Mediation Meeting: Required when a student approaches or exceeds 10% unexcused absences (30+ minutes) in one school year

Failure to comply with the law and Education Codes 48205, 48260, and 48262 may result in legal consequences, including an infraction or misdemeanor.

Short-Term Independent Study Contract 

The District does not support the practice of taking trips/vacations on school days. Absences due to family trips are unexcused. Short-term Independent Study (5-10 days) is not available for families. The District will not hold a student’s seat at a school after a ten-day absence. The Student Assignment Office will work with families upon their return to confirm residency and school assignment when an absence is more than ten days and is not pre-approved. 

School Attendance Review Board (SARB)

When a student continues to have attendance issues despite school-level intervention, the student and their family may be referred to the School Attendance Review Board (SARB). The SARB brings together school staff and community resources to provide intensive support and guidance to families in resolving attendance challenges (Ed Code 48320(a)). Although SARB’s primary purpose is to assist families, it also has the authority to refer cases to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, if necessary. These referrals aim to ensure families understand and comply with California’s compulsory education laws.

Compulsory Attendance Laws

Under California Education Code (Ed Code) Section 48200, school attendance is required for all children between the ages of 6 and 18. Students must attend school every day and arrive on time unless there is an excused reason, as defined by Ed Code. Parents/guardians are responsible for their child's attendance and must notify the school whenever their child is absent, including the reason for the absence—whether excused or unexcused.

Truancy

According to Ed Code Section 48260(a), a student is considered truant if they:

• Are absent from school without a valid Ed Code excuse for three full days in one school year;
• Are tardy or absent for more than 30 minutes during the school day without a valid excuse on three occasions in one school year;
• Or any combination of the above.

Schools are required to send written truancy notifications to parents after a student accumulates three unexcused absences or tardies of more than 30 minutes. These notices are intended to open communication between home and school. Parents are encouraged to reach out to the school with any questions about attendance.

Discipline Approach

At the middle school level, students are still learning to navigate social dynamics and test boundaries. Lawson Middle School recognizes that each student is unique and is committed to supporting their growth through individualized approaches, including progressive discipline and restorative practices.

As part of our PBIS program, students are randomly recognized for making choices that are Safe, Responsible, and Kind. All staff members are encouraged to consistently acknowledge and reinforce positive behavior throughout the day.

Most behavior concerns are addressed directly by classroom teachers or school staff through conversations, verbal problem-solving, or restorative strategies. Staff refer to a discipline response chart to guide appropriate actions. However, some situations may require additional support, and in those cases, students are referred to the school counselor or administration.

Lawson Middle School follows a progressive discipline model designed to help students reflect on their actions and develop more positive behavior over time. This approach ensures that consequences are respectful, consistent, and appropriate to the behavior, with the goal of promoting student learning and accountability. 

In addition, we are committed to using restorative practices when students need support in repairing harm and restoring relationships. These practices focus on understanding the impact of behavior, rebuilding trust, and fostering a caring school community. Restorative practices often begin with a conversation between the student and the teacher, focusing on the effects of the behavior and ways to make amends. This may include informal restorative circles or one-on-one discussions. When needed, the process may involve the student’s parents to collaboratively set goals and develop constructive solutions. In more serious cases, the process may include administrative support, such as facilitated meetings, formal restorative conferences, or written agreements aimed at repairing harm and restoring a positive learning environment.

By integrating progressive discipline with restorative practices, Lawson strives to create a school climate where students are held accountable in a supportive way, learn from their mistakes, and build stronger, healthier relationships with others.

Behavior Expectations - “The Lightning Way”

Online Behavior Expectations

All students are expected to demonstrate responsible and respectful digital behavior while using school technology. Expectations include:

• Keep your passwords private — sharing them can put your personal information at risk.
• Report misuse of technology to a teacher or staff member.
• Use appropriate and kind language when communicating or collaborating online.
• When working with others, ask permission before editing or deleting another student’s work.
• Respect the privacy of others — do not share their ideas, images, or personal information without their consent.
• Do not post or send unkind, threatening, or disrespectful messages that may make someone feel unsafe.

Levels of Behavior and Response to Behavior

Reporting Issues

Students who experience or witness discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying, or theft are encouraged to report it to a trusted adult immediately. Students may also submit a confidential Incident Report, available on the school website under the “For Students” section. This report goes directly to school administration and helps ensure timely and discreet follow-up.

Behavior Intervention

When behavioral issues arise, staff may use one or more behavioral interventions, based on the severity and frequency of the behavior. Although not an exhaustive list, the following are some examples used:

• Conference with student
• Check in / Check out system
• Restorative conversation
• School-based counseling referral 
• Behavior Contracts
• Visuals Supports
• Confiscation of item(s)
• Lunchtime or after-school detention
• School service
• Parent contact and/or conference
• Student behavior report
• Suspension from class
• Suspension
• Recommendation for expulsion
• Removal from extracurricular activities (assemblies, field trips, end-of-year activities, graduation)
• Contact with law enforcement

Suspension/Expulsion Offenses

The following behaviors may result in suspension or recommendation for expulsion, depending on the circumstances:

• Theft or attempted theft of school or private property
• Possession or use of tobacco or tobacco-related products
• Obscene acts, habitual profanity, or vulgarity
• Possession or attempted sale of drug paraphernalia
• Disrupting school activities or defying school authority
• Receiving stolen property knowingly
• Sexual harassment
• Possession of an imitation firearm
• Hate-related threats, actions, or participation in hate violence
• Harassment, bullying, intimidation, or extortion of peers
• Possession of matches, lighters, or fire-starting devices
• Fighting on campus or on the way to/from school

Harassment 

Harassment in any form is strictly prohibited. This includes verbal, visual, physical, sexual, and cyber harassment, such as:

• Offensive posters, graffiti, drawings, gestures, or language
• Religious, racial, ethnic, or sexual slurs or innuendoes
• Unwelcome touching or physically blocking movement
• Harassing behavior through digital platforms (text, email, chat, etc.)

Any behavior that creates an intimidating educational environment or negatively affects a student’s well-being is considered harassment and may result in disciplinary action, including suspension.

If you feel you are being harassed:

1. Clearly tell the person to stop.
2. Report the behavior to any staff member immediately.

Bullying

Lawson Middle School is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment free from bullying. Bullying occurs when a student or group repeatedly seeks to hurt or gain power over another student. Forms of bullying include:

• Physical: Hitting, pushing, kicking, damaging belongings
• Verbal: Name-calling, insults, racist or homophobic remarks, threats
• Social: Gossiping, excluding others, spreading rumors, silent treatment, humiliation
• Cyber: Hurtful or abusive messages, posts, images, or videos shared online; impersonation; online exclusion

Bullying is never acceptable and will not be tolerated. Students should report incidents to any staff member. Parents are encouraged to contact the school principal, assistant principal, counselor, or teachers if they have concerns.

Academic Integrity

Lawson Middle School is committed to fostering a learning environment where honesty, responsibility, and personal integrity are valued. Cheating is any action taken to gain academic credit or grades dishonestly and is strictly prohibited.

Examples of cheating include, but are not limited to:

• Using AI tools to generate or complete assignments unless explicitly approved by the teacher
• Obtaining oral or written answers from other students without teacher permission
• Filling in answers while the teacher is reviewing them—unless the teacher has instructed otherwise
• Getting test questions or answers from students who have already taken the test
• Copying homework or receiving answers by phone, text, or online
• Submitting someone else’s work as your own (plagiarism)
• Claiming credit for work not completed or changing incorrect answers to correct ones dishonestly

Helping others cheat is also a violation of academic integrity, including:

• Allowing someone to look at your answers during a test or quiz
• Writing answers on a classmate’s paper during peer correction
• Sharing test questions or answers with students who haven’t yet taken the test
• Letting another student copy your homework or sending them answers
• Assisting someone in claiming credit for work they didn’t do or read

If you are ever unsure whether something is considered cheating, ask your teacher before proceeding.

Your education is valuable, and learning to work honestly is essential to your success—both in school and beyond. Cheating not only impacts your grades but also your character, trustworthiness, and growth as a learner. Let’s work together to build a school culture grounded in our Lawson Core Values.

CUSD Board Meetings

Board Meetings are business meetings of the Board in a public setting. They are generally held on the second and fourth Thursday of the month when schools are in session; the schedule may vary during the summer and holidays. Most meetings are held in person in the CUSD Board Room located at 10255 N Portal Avenue, Cupertino, and all meetings are live-streamed via Zoom. Agendas are posted on the District's website 72 hours in advance of each regular/Advance meeting, and 24 hours before a special meeting. https://www.cusdk8.org/about-us/board-of-education/board-meetings 

Parent Contact Information

Parent contact information is provided to the school via the health and enrollment card. Report any changes of address, phone or work, emergency contact and childcare providers information to the office immediately, including updates to medical conditions and medication. Failure to do so may result in school communication not being properly shared. Additionally, your child’s safety may depend on it in a medical emergency. Office records are also used for the release of students in a disaster situation.

Parent Square

CUSD and Lawson staff use ParentSquare, a two-way communications platform, for district and school communication. With ParentSquare you can:

• Receive district, school, classroom, and group communication via email, text, or app
• Communicate in the language you prefer (for example, receive and reply in Spanish but the teacher gets the reply in English)
• Receive communication at the time you prefer - immediately or at a specific set time (daily digest)
• View District, school, and classroom information in one place
• View calendars
• Complete forms

You can use ParentSquare on any device. You can download the free mobile app for Android or iOS and/or access it from a computer on the ParentSquare website.

If you want to request an invitation for a certain email account, you can request one on the  ParentSquare website. Please note that this request has to be made with the email address currently on file with CUSD. If you do not remember which email is on file with CUSD, please fill out the "Join Your School" form on the website.

Report Cards

Report cards are issued twice a year, at the close of each semester. The marks on the report card represent the teacher’s evaluation of your child’s progress toward meeting grade level standards. The report card is a means of reporting progress. The staff welcomes any questions you may have concerning the marks or comments on the report card.

School Telephone

Students may use the office telephone for emergency purposes only. Telephone calls for forgotten homework or textbooks are not permitted. 

Staff Communication

You may contact staff members via email at lastname_firstname@cusdk8.org or by sending a message through ParentSquare. Please keep in mind that staff are actively engaged with students during the school day and may not be able to respond immediately. However, they will respond in a timely manner, typically within 48 hours.

Our goal is for all learners to take ownership of their learning, while being deep, critical thinkers, strong communicators, collaborators, and creative, civic minded problem solvers. We expect our students to exhibit innovation and seek out challenges, while working in collaborative teams to deepen understanding, and solve complex problems. We work to achieve this through the adopted curriculum and teaching strategies that support our Portrait of a Learner aspiration for all students. For information on the District adopted curriculum, please visit the Curriculum webpage. 

Electives

In addition to core academic subjects, Lawson offers a wide range of elective courses designed to enrich students’ learning experiences and support their personal interests and growth. Electives may include subjects such as music, art, world languages, technology, leadership, and more. Availability may vary by grade level and staffing.

Students will have the opportunity to rank their elective preferences during the course selection process. While every effort is made to accommodate student choices, placement depends on class availability and scheduling.

For information about elective offerings, descriptions, and course selection guidance, please visit the Counselors’ Corner: https://sites.google.com/cusdk8.org/lmscounselorscorner/lms-electives

English Language Arts (ELA)

ELA is made up of reading, writing, speaking and listening standards and our hope is to develop lifelong readers, writers, and thinkers. For more information about the district-adopted English Language Arts curriculum, please visit the CUSD ELA Curriculum Page

English Language Development (ELD)

Students identified as English Language Learners (ELL) will receive daily designated instruction within their classroom or grade level to develop English skills necessary to access content area classes and develop fluency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. During Designated ELD, students will engage in a variety of academic collaborative interactions (paired, small group and whole group) about content and complex text, develop vocabulary and various grammatical structures from complex texts and tasks and learn to use language skillfully when writing different text types in different content areas.

Student progress is monitored throughout the year, using ELPAC/ALPI/Alternate ELPAC, CAASPP/CAA and district benchmark assessments. Monitoring begins in August. Newly registered EL students are identified based on initial ELPAC results. Returning EL students are identified based on their summative ELPAC data taken in the Spring. For more information on ELD, please visit the District website or the CUSD ELD Master Plan.

Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP)

ELOP is after-school and summer school enrichment programs for Transitional Kindergarten (TK) through Grade 6 English Learners, Low-Income Students, and Foster Youth. The program aims to create a supportive and enriching learning environment that empowers students to excel academically, socially, and emotionally, in alignment with the broader goals of the CUSD Strategic. For more information on ELOP, visit the CUSD ELOP webpage. 

History / Social Science

Aligned with the California History–Social Science Framework, our instruction emphasizes the importance of inquiry-based learning to develop critical thinking skills and deepen historical understanding. Students explore the relationships between events, build chronological awareness, and learn to recognize perspective, bias, and corroboration in historical accounts. Through this approach, students are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, analyze both primary and secondary sources, evaluate evidence, construct well-reasoned explanations and arguments, and engage in respectful dialogue and critique to refine their thinking. For more information, visit the CUSD History/Social Science Page

Human Growth and Development

In accordance with the California Healthy Youth Act, students must receive comprehensive sexual health and HIV prevention education at least once in middle or junior high school, and once in high school, beginning in grade 7. Instruction must be medically accurate, age-appropriate, inclusive of all students, and designed to encourage communication with parents, guardians, or other trusted adults.

In CUSD, comprehensive sexual health education is provided in 7th grade. Prior to instruction, parents/guardians will be invited to attend or view a live or recorded webinar introducing the curriculum.

The webinar will cover:

• An overview of the topics and curriculum your child will receive
• How lessons align with the California Healthy Youth Act
• Ways to support your child’s learning at home

State law allows parents/guardians to opt their student out of part or all of the instruction. Students who do not participate will be given an alternate assignment. Details about the opt-out process will be shared by school administration in the annual notification. 

For more information, visit the CUSD HGD Curriculum Page.

Math

Mathematics instruction in CUSD is guided by the California Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, which include both content standards and Standards for Mathematical Practice. For more information about our math program, including course pathways and placement processes, please visit the CUSD Mathematics Curriculum page.

Physical Fitness Education

PE is an essential part of the middle school experience at Lawson. Our PE program is designed to promote lifelong fitness, physical well-being, and healthy habits. Through a variety of individual and team-based activities, students develop motor skills, coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

The curriculum focuses on:

• Building cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility
• Learning rules and strategies for a range of sports and games
• Understanding the importance of regular physical activity for overall health
• Encouraging positive attitudes, collaboration, and respectful competition

Students are expected to participate daily, wear appropriate athletic attire, and follow classroom and locker room expectations. If a student is unable to participate in daily physical education, a written explanation from a parent may be used for a three-day period. If the student requires a modified program for a longer period of time, a signed medical excuse from a physician is required. Students should bring this excuse to the office, where copies will be made for the PE teacher, the school nurse, and the office file.

Science

Science instruction in the CUSD is guided by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). These standards focus on inquiry-based learning and emphasize three key dimensions of science instruction:

• Disciplinary Core Ideas
• Crosscutting Concepts
• Science and Engineering Practices

Together, these dimensions help students develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and processes. In grades 6–8, CUSD uses the STEMscopes curriculum to support student learning in science. For more information and resources, visit the CUSD Science Curriculum Page.

ParentVue Grade & Attendance Monitoring

One of the most important ways families can support student success is by regularly monitoring academic progress and attendance through ParentVue: https://parentvue.cusdk8.org. ParentVue provides real-time access to grades, assignment scores, and attendance records, allowing parents/guardians to stay informed and support their student’s learning throughout the school year.

Progress Reports

Proficiency notices are sent home midway through the semester for students receiving a C- or less in any one classSpecific progress report dates are listed on the Lawson website.

Report Cards

Report cards are issued twice per year—at the end of each semester—and serve as an official summary of student performance. Final grades are viewable through ParentVue. Grades reflect achievement in each subject as follows:

• A = Excellent
• B = Above Average
• C = Average
• D = Below Average
• F = Failing
• I = Incomplete
• P = Pass
• NP = Not Making Progress
• MP = Making Progress
• CR = Credit
• NC = No Credit
• NM = No Mark

Each report card also includes: COND (Conduct): Reflects student behavior, citizenship, and respect for school rules and others and WKHBT (Work Habits): Reflects responsibility, effort, participation, and organization in daily schoolwork. Marks for COND and WKHBT include:

• O = Outstanding
• S = Satisfactory
• N = Needs Improvement
• U = Unsatisfactory

A temporary grade of Incomplete (I) may be issued if a student has an extended absence near the end of a semester. All missing work must be submitted within 10 school days, after which a final grade will be recorded.

School Nurse

The school nurse is generally on campus one to two days a week and will be contacted in an emergency. If your child requires modifications to physical activities, or requires the use of assistive devices such as a cast, neck brace, ankle brace, special boot, crutches, etc., a doctor’s note with the anticipated duration of use and specific restrictions is required. Students with assistive devices (i.e. crutches, wheelchair) cannot be at school without proper documentation.

Illness Guidelines

It is important that our students follow good health practices at all times and remain home when they are ill. Keeping ill children home from school is intended to protect not only the ill child, but also classmates and instructional staff. Please refer to the District Illness Guidelines for criteria for keeping students home when they are ill and for sending children home when they appear to be suffering from a contagious or infectious disease (Ed.Code section 48211, 48212).

Medication

If your student needs medication while at school, please note the following:

• Instructions for Medications in School
• Schools do not supply any medication to students, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as Benadryl, Tylenol, etc. Medications must be supplied by the student's parent or legal guardian.
• Each medication, whether prescription or OTC, should be accompanied by a signed doctor's order (see student medication authorization form)
• Each prescription medication should have a pharmacy label and all medications should be in the original box/container. The label should match the doctor's order.
• The Student Medication Authorization Form must be completed, front and back, and signed by both the physician and the student's parent or legal guardian. EACH prescribed and/or OTC medication must be listed on the Authorization Form.
• For anaphylactic allergy medications, including EpiPens, the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Action Plan protocol must be completed.
• All forms and medication need to be placed in a gallon-size Ziplock bag and labeled with the student's name and grade on the outside.
• Please remember to check the medication periodically to make sure that it does not expire during the school year. Expired medications will be discarded.
• If a student is expected to administer their own medications, the medication must be stored in the health office and the Self-Administration Form must be completed and signed by the student's doctor and a parent or legal guardian.
• All medication orders for the following school year must be dated after the end of the current school year.

Rare exceptions, such as emergency medication at the time of a bee sting, or the giving of sugar in the case of an insulin reaction may occur. Students are not to carry any type of medicine, including cough drops, eye drops or any kind of medicated lotions, in their backpacks or on themselves. All medications are to be picked up on the last day of every school year.

Mental Health 

The well being of our students, staff, and families is a top priority. Here is a list of optional local and national resources that support mental health particularly, in crisis situations.  Please note, if you have a serious and immediate safety concern regarding a student, yourself, or someone you know, please call 9-1-1. If your concern needs immediate mental health attention, support is also available by contacting one of the hotlines listed on the Mental Health Resource List.

Emergency Contact Information

**IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT ALL INFORMATION ON YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH AND ENROLLMENT CARD UP-TO-DATE AND ACCURATE**

You must include information to allow the school to get in touch with you in case of an emergency. List home and work numbers, voicemail/email, and contact people who can find you quickly in case of an emergency or to whom you give permission to pick up your child. List all up-to-date medical conditions and medication. Your child’s health and safety may depend on it. 

Parents are expected to be able to make arrangements to pick up an ill or injured child within 30 minutes of our phone call. No child is sent home until the parent is contacted and a plan is made for transportation. It is critical that all families have up-to-date contact and emergency contact phone numbers on record with the school where they, or a designee, can be reached immediately in an emergency situation. Transportation home is the responsibility of the parent.

At Lawson Middle School and across CUSD, the safety and well-being of our students are top priorities. Our district addresses these goals through multiple coordinated actions that include preventative planning, education, and collaboration with safety experts.

We foster a culture of kindness, inclusion, and connection through daily best practices, school-wide initiatives, and social-emotional learning for all students. Every day, teachers, staff, and administrators work to ensure students feel safe, supported, and a strong sense of belonging.

Lawson maintains a strong partnership with local safety agencies, including the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department and the City of Cupertino Fire Department. Our School Resource Officer (SRO) works to build positive relationships with students and staff and provides annual training for staff on school safety procedures.

Each year, our school participates in:

• Run, Hide, Defend drills
• Annual fire safety inspections
• Emergency preparedness and response training

Everyone in our school community plays a role in maintaining public safety. Please review the following safety policies and help us uphold them throughout the year.

Animals on Campus

To maintain a safe and distraction-free learning environment, animals are not permitted on campus before, during, or after school, as posted on signs around the perimeter of the school. This includes dogs and cats, though it is not an exhaustive list.

Exception: Animals required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be permitted.

Closed Campus

Only students and district employees are allowed on campus during school hours. All adult visitors must check in at the front office and obtain a Visitor’s Pass before entering campus or visiting any staff member or classroom. Parents/guardians wishing to meet with a teacher must schedule an appointment in advance. Students from other schools are not permitted on campus during the school day. Lawson students are not allowed to leave campus during regular school hours for any reason unless checked out through the office by an authorized adult. We do not allow drop offs of school lunches, homework, etc. 

Emergency and Disaster Preparedness

Lawson is fully prepared in the event of an emergency. Our schools follow a Comprehensive School Safety Plan, aligned with the District’s plan and developed in coordination with local emergency services.

In any emergency, our staff is trained to make responsible, prompt decisions to protect students. Emergencies could include:

• Prolonged power outages
• Fire
• Earthquakes
• Severe storms

Communication During an Emergency

We will use the following communication tools to provide timely updates:

• ParentSquare alerts (via text, email, and phone)
• CUSD and school websites
• Social media:
  Facebook
  Instagram

Student Release Procedures

To ensure student safety:

• No student will be released unless a parent/guardian or a person listed on the student’s Emergency Contact Card picks them up and can provide identification.
• All adults picking up a student must sign out at the main office or a temporary release station, if designated during an emergency.
• If you are unable to reach the school, we will care for your child until you or a designated emergency contact arrives.
• We have trained staff in first aid, and we coordinate directly with emergency response agencies.

Please keep your child’s Emergency Contact Information up to date at all times.

How You Can Help

• Do not call the school during an emergency—we need phone lines open for emergency services.
• Do monitor ParentSquare for real-time updates.
• Do not drive to school immediately after an earthquake or major event—routes must remain open for emergency vehicles.
• Do volunteer if you're able: Report to the Command Center to assist with first aid, calming students, search and rescue, or traffic safety.

Comprehensive School Safety Plan

Each school site, including Lawson, maintains a Comprehensive School Safety Plan, reviewed and updated annually in partnership with school staff, Lawson parent advisory committees and local agencies. These plans include protocols for:

• Incident Command Systems
• Emergency Response Teams
• First Aid and Supplies
• Emergency Drill Reports
• Lockdowns and Evacuations

Traffic Procedures

The safety of students during arrival and dismissal is a shared responsibility. Please follow all posted signage and school rules for drop-off and pick-up.

To ensure the safety of all students during drop-off and pick-up, please follow these guidelines:

• Form a single lane when dropping off your student, and do not exceed 5 MPH.
• Pull forward to the end of the parking lot before allowing your child to exit the vehicle.
• Do not block driveways or sidewalks.
• Never drop your child off mid-block in the street; always use designated crosswalks and follow the directions of the crossing guard.
• U-turns within 200 feet of another moving vehicle are illegal under California law. Making U-turns in front of Lawson during drop-off and pick-up is unsafe and prohibited.
• Please plan ahead and allow extra time during drop-off and pick-up to accommodate any unexpected delays.

The Cupertino Union School District does not provide home-to-school transportation for students in the regular middle school program. Alternative transportation options include:

• Santa Clara County Transit buses
• Carpooling within your neighborhood
• Walking or bicycling

Make sure all family members and anyone transporting your child are familiar with the guidelines.

Login & Technology Access

Each student has a CUSD Gmail account linked to their Student ID.

Student Gmail: [studentID]@cusdk8.org
Example: 123456@cusdk8.org

Use this login for:

• Email: www.gmail.com
• Google Classroom: classroom.google.com
• StudentVUE: parentvue.cusdk8.org

CUSD Technology Policy: Student Responsible Use of Technology

All students must sign the CUSD Use of Technology Agreement each school year. Responsible use of your CUSD-issued iPad ensures a smoother experience and helps avoid technical problems.

Visit: CUSD Technical Help for assistance.

Using Your CUSD Device

Follow these important guidelines:

• Always back up your device data to your Google Drive.
• Keep at least 8GB of storage free at all times.
• Delete unused photos, videos, and projects regularly to free up space.
• If you set a passcode, write it down and update it as needed.
• Do NOT put stickers on your device or its case.
• Do NOT remove the device from its case.
• If your device is not charging or you forgot your Google password, email Mrs. Hoang at: hoang_loann@cusdk8.org

Locked or Disabled Device

• If you forget your passcode, DO NOT enter the wrong code more than twice and DO NOT restart your device. This can disable it.
• If your device becomes disabled, it will need to be wiped. Email Mrs. Hoang immediately for help.

Google Classroom Help

Need help with Google Classroom? Watch this video to learn everything you need to know about using Google Classroom.

Athletics

Lawson Middle School offers a variety of after-school sports for students in all grades. Whether you’re new to a sport or have experience, there’s a place for you to grow, compete, and be part of a team! Visit www.valleyal.org to find information about:

• Tryout dates
• Sports seasons
• Team schedules

Make sure to check the site regularly and listen for announcements about upcoming sports opportunities. Don’t miss your chance to get involved!

Clubs

Lawson offers a variety of clubs and activities throughout the school year, which are created based on student interest and supported by teacher sponsors. Clubs generally meet during lunch and are supervised by staff members. All students are encouraged to participate and explore their interests. Students who wish to start a student-led club can follow the steps outlined in the daily announcements. In addition to clubs, Lawson hosts various lunchtime activities. Students should check the announcements regularly for updates on Leadership, ASB, and spirit events throughout the year.

Student ID Cards

All students are members of the Lawson Student Body Association (SBA). ID cards will be distributed after school photos are taken. Students must carry their ID card while on campus. It is required for:

• Meal service
• Library checkout
• Technology use
• School events
• Physical Fitness classes

Student Cabinet

Lawson has an active Student Cabinet that meets regularly with faculty advisors and supports community service projects. All students are encouraged to take part in student government and leadership opportunities. Participation builds valuable skills and allows students to have a voice on campus.

Where Everyone Belongs (WEB)

WEB is a program that promotes positive growth in our students’ attitudes, behaviors and beliefs by facilitating a support network for sixth graders. This network teams eighth grade students with incoming sixth grade students for the purpose of empowering the newcomers with ownership and knowledge of their new school. Fun social activities are planned throughout the school year.

After-School

All students are required to exit campus by 3:15 p.m., unless they are participating in official school business, such as Homework Club, Club meetings, School-sponsored athletics or activities, etc. Students may not remain on campus after school hours without supervision. This policy is in place to ensure student safety and proper campus supervision. 

Bicycles, Scooters, Skateboards, Rollerblades, Skate Shoes, and Self-Propelled Vehicles

These may be used as transportation to and from school. Upon arrival, students must dismount and walk their wheeled items directly to the designated storage area. Bikes should be taken immediately to the bike cage and securely locked. Students are responsible for locking their own bikes. The school is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged property, whether locked or not. The bike cage is unlocked during regular school hours for convenience.

Riding or using wheeled items on campus during school hours is not permitted. Violation of this policy may result in confiscation of the item and/or loss of school privileges, as determined by school administration. To ensure safety for all students, the following rules apply:

• Bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, and wheeled shoes (such as “Heelys”) may not be ridden on campus at any time.
• Any student riding these items on school grounds will have the item confiscated and held in the office until it is picked up by a parent or guardian.
• No self-propelled or motorized vehicles (including electric scooters or bikes) are allowed on campus at any time unless approved for official school purposes.

Cell Phone Use, Smartwatches, and Activity Trackers

Students are allowed to bring personal technology devices such as cell phones, smartwatches, and activity trackers to school, but the following rules apply:

• Cell phones must be turned off and stored in backpacks for the entire school day. They may not be used to make phone calls, send texts, take photos or videos, watch videos, access social media, or for any other purpose on school grounds without permission from a staff member.
• Smartwatches and activity trackers may be worn but may not be used to make calls, text, access social media, or disrupt the learning environment. If these devices become a distraction, students may be asked to remove them.
• Devices with camera, video, or voice recording functions must not be used in any way that infringes on the privacy rights of others.
• Students are solely responsible for the safe-keeping of personal technology brought to school. The school is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage.
• Students are not permitted to use any personal electronic device (including smart devices) during class time, passing periods, or breaks without explicit permission from school staff.

Consequences for Misuse:

• First Violation: The device will be confiscated and held by school administration.
• Second Violation: The device will be confiscated; parents/guardians will be contacted.
• Third Violation: The device will be confiscated; parents/guardians must pick it up from the office. Further violations may result in school revoking technology privileges.

Damage to Property

Students are expected to treat all school and personal property with care and respect.

• A minor offense is damage that the student can reasonably correct or clean.
• A major offense involves damage that requires the school district to place a work order or hire an outside contractor to repair or replace.

For major offenses:

• Parents/guardians will be notified immediately.
• The student will be held financially responsible for reimbursement of damages.
• The student may be subject to suspension.

Damaging personal or school property—intentionally or recklessly—may result in disciplinary consequences, including suspension.

End-of-Year Activities

Participation in end-of-year activities is a privilege, not a right. To be eligible, students are expected to meet the following requirements:

• All textbooks, library books and student devices must be returned in good condition. If an item is lost or damaged, the replacement cost must be paid.
• All outstanding cafeteria balances must be cleared.
• Student behavior must meet school expectations during the final weeks of school.

School administration may deny participation in end-of-year events if these expectations are not met.

Food, Drink, and Gum Policy

To help keep our campus clean and classrooms focused on learning:

• Gum and sunflower seeds in the shell are not allowed on campus at any time.
• Food and drinks are not permitted in classrooms, unless there is a special classroom event approved by the teacher.
• Water may be allowed in classrooms at the teacher’s discretion.
• Exceptions to this policy will only be made with a doctor’s note or if outlined in a student’s IEP or 504 plan.

Lost and/or Damaged Books

Students are responsible for taking care of all school-issued books, including textbooks and library books.

• If a library book is lost or damaged, the student will be asked to pay for its replacement. Until the fee is paid, the student may not check out additional books from the library.
• If a textbook is lost or damaged, the replacement cost must be paid immediately. The school provides textbooks for student use and expects them to be returned in good condition.
• In accordance with district policy, report cards may be withheld until all outstanding textbook or library book fines are resolved.

We encourage students to take care of all borrowed materials and return them promptly.

Office Hours

The office is open for routine business with the school community between 7:30 am and 4:00 pm every day students are in session. There are minimum days throughout the year the office is closed immediately after school for training purposes. Please check the school calendar for these dates. It is recommended that parents/guardians/visitors call 408-255-7500 or email the front office (lawson_frontoffice@cusdk8.org) for questions and correspondence. 

Public Displays of Affection (PDA)

Students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately at all times while on campus and during school-sponsored events. Kissing, hugging, holding hands, and other public displays of affection are not permitted and are considered inappropriate for the school setting.

Protecting Your Valuables

Students are responsible for their personal belongings at all times. Backpacks should never be left unattended to prevent loss or theft. We encourage students to bring only necessary school materials each day and to avoid carrying large amounts of money or valuables.

Textbooks, library books, and other school-issued materials are the student’s responsibility. Lost or damaged items must be paid for and replaced.

Students should not bring trading cards, game consoles, sports equipment, or other personal items from home unless a teacher specifically requires them for a class project. Items brought for classroom use must stay in the classroom or in the student’s backpack during recess and lunch.

Please remember that all personal belongings are brought to school at the student’s own risk.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The number one reason to join the PTA is to benefit your child. By getting involved, you also support Lawson’s community and contribute to enriching educational opportunities for all students. Lawson PTA plays a vital role in organizing and funding a wide range of school programs and events, including: Student Socials, Family Nights (Entrepreneur Night etc.), Fairs and Assemblies, Parent Workshops, Staff Appreciation Events, Student Contests (Reflections, HSA, etc.), 8th Grade Promotion

The PTA holds monthly meetings to plan events, discuss ideas, and bring programs to life. Whether you can donate your time, talents, or resources, your involvement makes a difference. To learn more, volunteer, or join the team, visit: www.samlawsonpta.org

Student Dress Attire

At Lawson, we want all students to feel safe, comfortable, and ready to learn. What you wear should support a respectful learning environment and not cause a distraction or safety concern. Here are the expectations for student dress:

• Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for walking and physical activity (no slippers or wheelies).
• Clothing must cover undergarments (including bra straps and underwear) and private areas when sitting, standing, or moving.
• Shirts must cover the midriff (stomach area).
• Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be at least mid-thigh in length.
• Clothing, backpacks, and personal items must not include inappropriate or offensive language, images, or references to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.
• See-through clothing, low-cut tops, and clothing that is overly revealing are not allowed.

If a student’s clothing does not meet these expectations, they may be asked to change into PE clothes or call home for a change of clothing. Repeated violations may result in disciplinary action. These expectations follow CUSD Board Policy 5132 regarding student dress and grooming.

Student Meals

All school meals are offered at no cost to all students—no paperwork or pre-order required. Breakfast is served during morning recess. Lunch is served during lunch recess. Each meal includes one entrée, a choice of fresh fruit and/or vegetables, and optional milk. Vegetarian options are available daily. No additional drinks or snacks will be sold. If your child has forgotten his/her lunch or snack, they can get a meal from Student Nutrition. 

Important Reminders

• Students must bring their Student ID card or know their Student ID number to pick up a meal.
• No meal drop-offs will be accepted at the office.
• Meal delivery services (e.g., DoorDash, Postmates) are not allowed for students.

Student Records

Parents or guardians may request a copy of their child’s cumulative records at any time during the school year by submitting a written request to the principal or office staff. Please note that there is a fee for printed copies, including immunization records and report cards.

Student Transfers/Moving

If you plan to move away from Lawson during the school year, please notify the school office several days before your child’s last day of attendance. Students transferring to another school district should inform the office at least five days prior to their last day of attendance. On the final day, students must check out through the front office by completing a Final Check-Out Sheet, which requires signatures from each teacher as well as cafeteria and library staff. All issued materials and books must be returned before the transfer can be finalized. Please note that school records will be sent to the new school only upon official request from that school.

Transportation

To ensure the safety of all students during drop-off and pick-up, please follow these guidelines:

• Form a single lane when dropping off your student, and do not exceed 5 MPH.
• Pull forward to the end of the parking lot before allowing your child to exit the vehicle.
• Do not block driveways or sidewalks.
• Never drop your child off mid-block in the street; always use designated crosswalks and follow the directions of the crossing guard.
• U-turns within 200 feet of another moving vehicle are illegal under California law. Making U-turns in front of Lawson during drop-off and pick-up is unsafe and prohibited.
• Please plan ahead and allow extra time during drop-off and pick-up to accommodate any unexpected delays.

The Cupertino Union School District does not provide home-to-school transportation for students in the regular middle school program. Alternative transportation options include:

• Santa Clara County Transit buses
• Carpooling within your neighborhood
• Walking or bicycling

Unauthorized Sales

Students may not sell candy, merchandise, or services on campus without prior approval from school administration. Unauthorized sales will result in confiscation of the items and possible disciplinary action.

Volunteering

Lawson recognizes and appreciates that volunteer assistance significantly enriches the educational program, increases student supervision, enhances school safety, and strengthens our connection with the community.

We encourage parents, guardians, and community members to share their time, knowledge, and skills with our students. In accordance with California Education Code Section 35021 and CUSD Board Policy 1240, all volunteers must be screened and authorized before participating.

• Volunteers who may be alone with students, even briefly, must complete a California Department of Justice (DOJ) fingerprint background check before volunteering.
• Volunteers with frequent or prolonged student contact are also required to undergo TB testing and clearance.

These measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
For more information and instructions on becoming a cleared volunteer, please visit the District Volunteering Site. All volunteers must sign in at the front office and wear a volunteer badge while on campus. Please note, volunteers may not bring younger children with them while volunteering for a teacher, the PTA, or the school.

At Lawson Middle School, we believe every student can grow, thrive, and succeed. Our goal is to help you become not just a strong student—but a thoughtful, resilient, and kind person. Here's how we support that journey:

Lawson Middle School Core Values

We live and learn by these values every day:

• Compassion
  We care about others. We recognize and respect the diverse needs of our classmates, families, and community.
• Humor
  We create joyful learning environments where everyone feels seen and welcome. Humor helps us connect and celebrate one another.
• Collaboration
  We work together to solve problems, create new ideas, and build community—skills that prepare us for life beyond school.
• Perseverance
  We keep going, even when it’s hard. Mistakes are part of learning. We embrace challenges with a growth mindset.
• Respect
  We treat others—and ourselves—with kindness and integrity. We listen, share, and support each other’s right to learn and grow.
• Relationships
  We build trust by forming strong, supportive connections with teachers, classmates, and families. Relationships make success possible.

Counselors

Students

If you have a concern or question for a counselor, stop by the office. If the counselor is unavailable, you may complete a "Request to See the Counselor" form. You will be called in as soon as possible. This form is also available on the Lawson website and can be submitted confidentially online.

Parents

If you have a concern or question for a counselor, please call the school office or email the counselor directly.

Mental Health

For a list of optional local and national resources that support mental health, particularly in crisis situations, please visit the District Mental Health Resources webpage. Short-term school-based counseling is available as part of a multi-tiered system of support. For information on short-term counseling school-based counseling availability and criteria, please contact the school psychologist. 

PBIS

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a schoolwide approach to help students succeed by teaching and encouraging positive behaviors. At Lawson, PBIS means:

• Proactive support for all students
• Clear expectations for behavior
• A safe, inclusive school environment
• Recognizing and celebrating when students do the right thing

Positive Recognition at LMS

When you're showing positive behavior or making great choices, you might be recognized with:

• PBIS Swag
• Head of the Line Pass
• Bolt Bucks

These are fun ways we say: "You're doing an awesome job—keep it up!"

Special Education

Lawson Middle School, is committed to providing quality special education services in the least restrictive environment. All of our special education programs on site focus on building academic, social-emotional, communication, pre-vocational, vocational and functional life skills within the educational setting. 

Special Education is specifically designed instruction to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability that has met the criteria under at least one special education eligibility category. For information on Special Education visit the District special education website or contact the school psychologist or principal. 

Time Management & Setting Priorities

Want to stay on top of your schoolwork and still have time for fun? Try these tips:

🕒 Figure Out Where Your Time Goes
Notice how much time you spend on different activities. Could some of that time be used more wisely?

📝 Keep a To-Do List
Write down everything you need to do. Don’t rely on your memory—crossing tasks off your list feels great!

🔢 Prioritize Your Tasks
Decide which tasks are most important or due soon. Tackle those first.

📅 Use a Planner or Google Calendar
Organize your day with your planner or your CUSD Google Calendar. Include time for breaks so you don’t get overwhelmed.

🔒 Stay on Task
Put distractions away and stay focused on one thing at a time. You'll finish faster and feel more accomplished.

Remember: Being a successful learner is about more than just grades. It’s about mindset, effort, and character. You've got this!

Where to Get Help