I. Daily Participation Grade: 25% of Quarter Grade

All students being with a perfect 45 points. Students lose one point for each day not in class. Students lose one point for every tardy to class. Students lose one point for EVERY absence, excused or unexcused: you can't learn our songs when you're gone!

II. Concert Grade: 25% of Quarter Grade

Arrive on time, dress properly, do your best = A

No show, unexcused ablsence, unprepared, not in uniform = E

III. Behavior Grade: 25% of Quarter Grade

All students begin with a perfect 100 points. The score is decreased as students break rules by displaying disruptive or disrespectful behavior. For example, 5 points will be deducted for each instance of: disrupting class, chewing gum, being written up on a sub report, or not following directions.

IV. The Packet and Test Grades: 25% of Quarter Grade

All tests and classwork are averaged to make the test grade.

Quarter Grade = I + II + III + IV. If no concert, I, II and III = 33% each.

THE MUSIC PACKET AND TESTS

The Music Packet is to be used daily, as directed by Mr. Martin. Your work will be evaluated for each report card, and any missing or incomplete work affects your grade. It is the responsibility of the student to come to class prepared, having something to write with every day.

ABSENCE AND MAKE UPS

Making up a missed Packet assignment or test is the RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT. The teacher will not request the student to make up missed work, the student will inform the teacher they wish to make up the missed work. Work must be made up within one week of the original due date. Failure to do so will result in the grade of "F" given on that assignment.

UNIFORMS FOR CONCERTS

Students are required to purchase the required uniform for use at concerts. Students may fundraise in order to pay for their chorus shirts. Black shoes, black socks, and black pants must be purchased by the student. A student who comes to a concert without his / her uniform will not be allowed to perform and will be given a grade of “F” (zero) for the concert. The uniform code is strict; do not ask for an exception.

EVENING CONCERTS AND SCHEDULED REHEARSALS AFTER SCHOOL HOURS

All students are expected to attend all scheduled after school performances. However, in the case of serious illness or a death in the family, Mr. Martin may choose to excuse an absence. Students will not be excused from concerts to attend practices or non-academic activities, unless agreed to by Mr. Martin. Students may be excused from a rehearsal to attend a performance or game, with prior approval by Mr. Martin. In any case, please notify Mr. Martin of any conflicts in writing as soon as the conflict is known.

EXAMPLES OF UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

• Not having a ride to a concert: if you know this will be an issue, notify Mr. Martin at least a week in advance. There is always a way to get you safely to and from a concert if you plan ahead.

• Not being properly dressed in uniform: “I don’t have black shoes,” “I don’t have black dress pants.” If you cannot afford the uniform, fundraisers are available for your uniform purchase. Like 20 years of West Chorus members before you, with a little work and planning ahead, you can wear your uniform with pride.

• Behavior unbecoming of an artist during a performance: Talking on the risers, fooling around, chewing gum, or not contributing to the concert. Any violation of the Student Code of Conduct will be dealt with via the Assistant Principal’s office.

FAILURE TO ATTEND THE SCHEDULED CONCERT

It is impossible to make up a missed concert. Should a parent have a reason to appeal the failure to attend, this excuse will be provided to the chorus director. This may result in the student: being excused from the concert, being evaluated on the concert music for a grade, or being given a zero for the concert. Missed rehearsals without a valid excuse will also be given a grade of zero. If you have an unexcused absence for the Holiday Concert, you can expect to be dropped from the music program second semester. Switching from the Chorus to the Band in such cases is not allowed.

EXPULSION FROM A CONCERT

A student may be asked not to attend a concert by the Principal or the Chorus Director because of improper conduct or lack of preparation. Students who are suspended are not allowed to attend a concert during their suspension.

IN A NUTSHELL

Be nice. Do your work. Show up. Wear your uniform with pride. Do your best.