Saddle Brook Middle School Student Handbook 

Board Members 

Mariana Ianneillo, President 

Victoria Torbic, Vice President

Michael Accomando

Regina Barrale

Michael Errichiello

Vincent Laurentino

Michele Roloff

Hayley Traverso

Sylvia Zottarelli

Superintendent of Schools

Toni Violetti

Business Administrator/Board Secretary

Raymond Karaty

Director of Curriculum & Instruction 

Nicole De Bonis

 Director of Planning/Research & Evaluation

Jaynellen Behre-Jenkins

Director of Special Services

Jillian Cawley

Supervisor of Early Childhood & Special Services

Brooke Hanenberg

District Technology Specialist

Niles Patel 

Saddle Brook Middle School Leadership Team 

Principal

Brenda Coffey

School Counselor

Michael Bacs 

Administrative Assistant

Lisa Siroky

School Nurse

Carol Rabe

Supervisor of Athletics & Phys. Ed.

Chris Ianneillo

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students: 

On behalf of the faculty and staff, I would like to officially welcome you to the start of the 2025/2026 school year.  As the Principal of Saddle Brook Middle School, I am very excited to begin another year in this great community and it is my sincere pleasure to lead and serve you.

Welcome to a new school year and the exciting opportunity that it provides. 

Saddle Brook Middle School is dedicated to educating the whole child. We offer a host of opportunities for students to explore interests in academics, athletics, and the arts. We strive to provide unique experiences for both our middle and high school students. Students are encouraged to grow creatively, solve problems, appreciate others, and accept personal responsibility as members of our academic community. The school recognizes the individuality of each student and strives to maximize his/her own potential. 

This handbook has been prepared as a guide for you to become acquainted with the policies and procedures that will be followed during the ensuing year. It is important that you and your parents read this handbook carefully so that you are aware of both your choices and responsibilities. As with any guide, this handbook serves as a framework. A complete copy of the Saddle Brook By-Laws, Policies, and Regulations is available in each school building and Board of Education Office. Throughout any given school year, as the need arises, this handbook may be adjusted and updated to reflect policy changes. In the absence of specific instructions, you may seek assistance from a teacher, counselor, coach, secretary, or administrator. 

The Administrative Teams’ number one priority for the students at Saddle Brook Middle School is to provide for their physical safety and emotional well-being. The students and our staff need to feel safe to perform at their very best. The other important priority is to provide an authentic and rigorous educational experience to every student.

If you have any questions about the school program, activities, rules, or procedures, please call us. Remember, the best way to succeed is to study, participate in co-curricular and/or athletic activities, respect yourself, your peers, your teachers, and of course, your parents. 

I look forward to working with you and supporting your efforts to make the 2024-2025 school year great for all of us. 

Brenda Coffey

Principal

Saddle Brook Middle School

Parents are responsible for monitoring the progress of their children in school. This includes, but is not limited to making sure students are well-rested and prepared to learn each day. Parents should be cognizant of the school’s policy on homework, make-up work, absences, lateness, and discipline. Parents of students who consistently report they have no homework should contact the child’s teacher or guidance counselor. Parental support and encouragement have a positive impact on student performance.      

Oh, Saddle Brook, our alma mater,

 To thee we pledge devotion true, 

And mingle merry hearts and voices, 

In praise of gold, white, and blue

When in thine honored halls we gather, 

Our hearts are filled with joy and cheer

 And echoing our song and laughter, 

That toll from year to year.

When from your faithful care we’ve parted,

 We’ll e’re recall your guiding hand

 Of truth and honor and of loyalty 

On which our future has been planned

So as we leave your learned portals, 

To those who follow we reply,

 Have faith and cherish all your moments 

Spent here at Saddle Brook High.

Bell Schedule 

School Closing, Delayed Opening, or Early Dismissal

In the event of inclement weather, the need may arise to have a delayed opening, early dismissal, or close school altogether. Decisions on shortening the school day will be made as early as possible and will be communicated through email, phone call, and text message. You can also refer to the School District Website for updates. If school is closed or there is an early dismissal, all school activities are canceled that day. 

Emergency Closing

In the event of severe inclement weather or other emergencies, students will be dismissed at the discretion of the Superintendent or their designee.  All students are to leave the school building by 3:00 p.m. unless they are under the supervision of a teacher or coach. Please make arrangements for the supervision of your child/children after 3:00 p.m.   For all other inquiries, please contact the Main Office at 201-843-2880.

The Board of Education requires the pupils enrolled in the schools of this district to attend school regularly in accordance with the laws of the State (N.J.A.C. 18A:38).  Regular attendance at school is vital and an integral part of the learning process. The educational program that is offered by this district is predicated on the presence of the pupil and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation. All students are expected and required to attend school every day unless some compelling reason makes it necessary to be absent. Student attendance is governed by District Policy and State Regulation and requires that every student make all efforts meets the minimum attendance requirement and provides an appeal process to address emergency circumstances beyond the control of the student or family. 

It is important to understand the nature of an “excused absence.”  Truancy makes reference to the legal obligation (N.J.S.A. 18A: 38-25) for children between the ages of six and sixteen to attend school.  If a student is found to be truant, a school is required to follow legal steps in order to ensure that parents are compliant with state law.  When your child’s absence is deemed “excused” (whether for medical reasons, a college visit, a driver’s license test, etc) the absence does not count towards truancy. 

The following are the allowable excused absences as per the New Jersey Department of Education and Saddle Brook Board of Education:

• Religious Observance (click here to view the 2023-2024 School Year Observances)

• College Visits (up to 3 school days per year for juniors and seniors)

• Take Your Child to Work Day

• Participation in observance of Veterans Day or district board of election membership activities

• The closure of a busing district that prevents a student from having transportation to the receiving school. 

In accordance with Saddle Brook Board of Education Regulation:

• A student returning from an absence of any length of time must provide a written statement that is dated and signed by the parent or adult student listing the reason for the absence. 

• A note explaining a student’s absence for a noncommunicable illness for a period of 3 or more school days must be accompanied by a physician’s statement of the student’s illness with medical clearance to return to school.

• A student who has been absent by reason of having or being suspected of having a communicable disease must present to the school nurse written evidence of being free of communicable disease, in accordance with Policy 8451.

• The Superintendent of Schools or designee may require a student who has been absent from school due to a suspension or other reason concerning the student’s conduct to receive a medical examination by a physician regarding the student’s physical and/or mental fitness to return to school.  The Superintendent or designee will notify the student’s parent of the specific requirements of the medical examination prior to the student’s return to school.

Although all of a student’s absences may be considered excused towards truancy, that does not exempt him/her from a loss of academic credit.  

As per Saddle Brook Board of Education Regulation:

“A secondary student may be dropped from a course or denied course credit when he/she has been absent from 10% or more of the class sessions [19 for full year courses, 9 for half year courses, and 5 for quarter courses], whatever the reason for the absence, except that absences for the observance of a religious holiday, absences for those excused in accordance with the reporting requirements of the school register and as per the NJDOE, or absences caused by a student’s suspension will not count toward the total.”

Throughout the school year, we will send letters through both standard and electronic mail if your child’s number of absences reaches five (5), ten (10), and fifteen (15).  If your child’s number of absences exceeds the number of absences allowed, you will receive a notification letter regarding denial of course credit and the right to an attendance appeal.  In order for a student to be eligible for an attendance appeal, he/she is required to continue attending class and completing all assignments.

The SBMS Attendance Appeal Committee consists of the Principal, the attendance secretary, the school nurse, at least one teacher, the guidance counselor of the student who has submitted the appeal, and a case manager, when appropriate.  In addition to the documentation provided in the appeal by the parent and/or student, the student’s teacher(s) will be required to provide written feedback on the child’s performance in class to determine if mastery of the course material has been achieved.  If the Attendance Appeal Committee determines that three or more of the student’s absences were due to cutting, the student will lose credit for the course.  The Attendance Appeal Committee will notify students and parents by both standard and electronic mail of its decision. 

If a student misses more than one-half a class period, it will be an unexcused absence for the period. 

In order to receive attendance credit for the day, a student must be present for a minimum of four hours of instructional time, not including homeroom, lunch, or passing time. Students must be present for one (1) hour during both the morning and afternoon in order to be recorded as present for a full day. Students arriving after 9:39 a.m. or leaving prior to 1:12 p.m. will lose attendance credit for the day. 

Students who have completed a minimum of four hours of instructional time but sign out of school prior to the end of the school day may not participate in, attend, or be involved in any co-curricular programs or after-school activities at Saddle Brook High School School or other localities. 

Parents/guardians are responsible for notifying the school on the first day of a student’s absence. In the event this procedure is not followed by the parent/guardian, assigned school personnel shall contact the parent/guardian by phone. The attendance officer shall be sent to the home if telephone contact cannot be made. If the absence continues unexplained for three days, the principal or their designee shall notify the Saddle Brook Police Department. 

Parents are required to report student absences to the school by calling (201) 843-2880 ext. 1415 between 7:15 and 8:00 a.m. the morning(s) of the absence(s). 

Upon return to school, a student must present a parental note (may be an email), plus any other documentation such as a medical excuse, to the main office personnel. The note must include the following:

Full name of student: 

Date(s) of absence:

Reason for absence :

Parent/guardian’s signature:

Phone number :

NJ Statutes Governing Attendance 

18A:38-25. Attendance required of children between 6 and 16; no exceptions. Every parent, guardian, or other person having custody and control of a child between the ages of six and sixteen years shall cause such child regularly to attend the public schools of the district or a day school in which there is given instruction equivalent to that provided in the public schools for children of similar grades and attainments or to receive equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school. 

18A:38-27. Truancy and juvenile delinquency are defined. Truancy means 10 or more cumulative unexcused absences. Any child between the ages of six and sixteen years who shall repeatedly be absent from school, and any child of such age found away from school during hours whose parent, guardian, or other person having charge and control of the child is unable to cause him to attend school and any pupil who is incorrigible, actually vagrant, vicious, or immoral in conduct, shall be deemed to be a juvenile delinquent and shall be proceeded against as such. 

18A:38-29. Warning and arrest of vagrants or habitual truants. The attendance officer shall examine all violations of this article, shall warn any child violating any of the provisions of this article and the parent, guardian, or other person having charge and control of the child of the consequences of the violation if persisted in, and shall notify such person in writing to cause the child to attend school within five days from the date on which notice is served, and regularly thereafter. The attendance officer shall have full police power to enforce the provisions of this article and may arrest without warrant any vagrant child or habitual truant or any child who is habitually incorrigible or who is vicious or immoral in conduct or illegally absent from school. 

18A:38-31. Violation of article by parents or guardians; penalties. A parent, the guardian, or other person having charge and control of a child between the ages of six and sixteen years, who shall fail to comply with any of the provisions of this article relating to his duties, shall be deemed to be a disorderly person and shall be subject to a fine of not more than $25.00 for a first offense and not more than $100.00 for each subsequent offense, at the discretion of the court. 

In any such proceeding, the summons issued therein, or in special circumstances warrant, shall be directed to the alleged disorderly person and the child.

Removal from Roll: As a reminder, The Saddle Brook Board of Education mandates that the following will apply when a student is absent for an extended period (10 or more consecutive days) of time during the school year over a consecutive calendar period:

• A student who is out of school for ten (10) consecutive days will be marked absent. 

• On the eleventh (11th) day the absence will be changed to a withdrawal from school dated back to the first day of absence. 

• Once the withdrawal is completed the Department of Children Protection and Permanency (DCPP) will be notified that the student is no longer enrolled in Saddle Brook Public Schools.

• As a courtesy, parents, guardians, and students will be notified of excessive absences prior to withdrawal and will be provided the opportunity to appeal and/or provide supporting documentation to prevent withdrawal and bring the student back to good standing.

Assignments

Pupils absent from school for any reason are responsible for the completion of assignments missed. No student excused for a religious holiday shall be deprived of an award, eligibility to compete for an award, or the opportunity to make up a test given on the religious holiday. 

When a student does not complete assignments due to an extended absence or other reason, he/she will receive an “incomplete” for the marking period. Students will be given ten (10) school days following the end of the marking period to make up the missed work. If work critical to the pupil’s understanding of the subject is not made up by the end of the next marking period, the grade for that subject area may be an “F.” 

If work is missing during the final marking period of the school year, the grade will be left to the discretion of the teacher with the approval of the principal. The teacher who has given an incomplete is responsible for reporting to the pupil the work he/she has missed and citing the consequences mentioned above. 

Course Credit 

Awarding of credit shall be dependent upon a student not accruing more than (18) unexcused absences for each full year course or a proportionate number of days for courses less than a full year. The limit set on the maximum number of days a student may be absent before being denied course credit should not be perceived as a license to be absent for inappropriate reasons. 

Course Credits   Absence Limit

5 Credits (Full-Year) 18

2.5 Credits (Semester course)         8

1.25 Credits (Health/Driver's Ed)         4

Arrival at School 

Students are not allowed in the building prior to 7:30. Students should report to Cafeteria B if they are purchasing breakfast. Students may not loiter in the parking lot or on school grounds before or after school. All students are required to check in at the front desk kiosks using their student ID. The kiosks are available at each entrance

All students must report to Period 1 by 8:00 a.m. A warning bell will sound at 7:50 a.m. Any student who arrives after 8:00 a.m. must scan in at the computers set up in the front lobby. Every 5 tardies counts as 1 absence. (See disciplinary guidelines for tardy offenses.) 

Leaving School 

During the school day, students are not permitted to leave the school grounds without permission (see disciplinary guidelines). When leaving for any reason, students must sign out at the computers set up in the front lobby.  After school, students must be under the direct supervision of a staff member or must leave the premises.  Any student wishing to be dismissed early should present a parental note to the main office before homeroom. S/he must also arrange to be picked up by his or her parent. 

Students who become ill during the school day may only be excused by the school nurse. A parent/guardian will be contacted in such cases and asked to pick up the student. 

While 18-year-old students are legally allowed to sign themselves out of school, this practice is strongly discouraged. It should be used only in cases of illness approved by the nurse or a family emergency approved by the administration. A parent will be contacted. At no other time should students be signed out from school. Violations will be subject to disciplinary actions.

Students and parents are instructed to use the following chain of command in addressing disputes such as discipline, grades, attendance, school policies, etc. 

• Teacher 

• Guidance Counselor 

• Principal

• Director of Curriculum & Instruction (for Academic purposes)

• Superintendent of Schools 

• Board of Education

Student Photo I.D. Tags 

All students must have their student IDs with them at all times. Photo I.D. cards must be visible on the front of the student. Students will be responsible for replacing any I.D. tags deemed damaged or unrecognizable by the administration. Lost or damaged student I.D. tags will be replaced at the student's expense of $5.00. Lost lanyards are an additional $5.00. Lanyards and photo IDs are the property of the school and must be returned prior to graduation. 

Visitors must sign in at the security desk, leave their driver’s license, and wear identification badges during their stay. Alumni of Saddle Brook High School are welcome to visit the building after school hours when the faculty and staff have fulfilled their obligations to the present students. Arrangements for visits should be made prior to arrival. Guests at school activities, i.e., dances and proms, must be pre-registered by a Saddle Brook student no later than a week prior to the event. See the Vice Principal for a permission form. There is a limit of one guest per student. Outsiders will not be admitted at the door. 

The Faculty and Administration recognize the value of field trips to support and enhance the curriculum. However, participation is a privilege for students who are in good standing with academics, attendance, and conduct. Students who have accumulated excessive absences, discipline referrals, or are in danger of failing one or more classes will not be eligible to participate in field trips. Decisions involving attendance and/or conduct will be referred to the Vice Principal. Teachers reserve the right to not sign off on permission slips if a student is in danger of failing. 

Effective June 1st, 2023 working papers are only available online at the NJ Department of Labor and Development. You can register here and contact our main office with any questions. 

The mission of the Saddle Brook Guidance Department is to provide assistance, support, and guidance throughout their educational career in the Saddle Brook Schools. Our counselors work with students on their caseload and act as the liaison to parents, teachers, and the Saddle Brook community in order to strengthen our students while preparing them for life outside the hallways of Saddle Brook. We help guide their academic development and aid in reaching their career and college goals. We are committed to providing the best school counseling services we can for the students in Saddle Brook. We strive to help develop the whole child while fostering life-long learners. 

Our plans for the future 

With the recent move to foster and implement 21st-century learners, our school counselors strive to assimilate to an ever-changing society. The mission of our school counseling program is to support all students through character education programs, career and college education and exposure to a variety of experiences to best prepare them for the future. We address a student’s academic, social, career, and personal skills to achieve learning and post-high school success as directed by the Saddle Brook School District and the New Jersey Department of Education. 

The Saddle Brook Schools counseling and guidance department continues to grow with their students, researching and implementing new and available school programs, intervention strategies, and resources to best serve their school community. The district and department are committed to improving continuously to help their students prepare for everything the 21st century offers. 

Services 

Saddle Brook Middle School offers a host of services and programs to ensure the success of our students. 

▪ College & career counseling 

▪ Schedule assistance and planning

▪ Character education programs 

▪ Grade-level information workshops for students and parents

▪ Assistance with transitions 

▪ Referrals to I&RS Committee, Section 504 Committee, and CST 

▪ Standardized testing administration 

▪ Conflict resolution 

Please visit the Guidance Department web page for the latest information about upcoming events. 

Referrals

Guidance Counselors may utilize referrals for students in need to the following committees and service teams: 

Intervention and Referral Services Team (I&RS) 

This is a committee comprised of teachers, counselors, administrators, and child study team members who meet on a regular basis to address academic, social, or behavioral issues that students may be demonstrating. 

Section 504 Committee 

Students with disabilities and handicaps are often referred to in Section 504. Section 504 is a part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that prohibits discrimination based upon disability. Section 504 is an anti-discrimination, civil rights statute that requires the needs of students with disabilities to be met as adequately as the needs of the non-disabled are met.

Child Study Team (CST)

The CST consists of the school Psychologist, Social Worker, and Learning Disability Teacher Consultant.

•  A student's final grade is determined by averaging their marking period grades

• Grade point values are added together and divided by four into courses with no exam and five in courses with an exam.

• Honor roll calculated each MP. High Honor Roll (grades included are A+, A ONLY), Honor Roll grades included are A+, A, A-, B+, and B ONLY), Satisfactory for Citizenship grade for both High Honor Roll and Honor Roll.

• Students will need an average of 65 to pass for the year.

▪Final grades will be calculated by weighing each marking period as 25% of the final grade. For semester courses, each marking period will represent 50% of the final grade.

▪ Honor roll will be calculated each Marking Period. The requirements for each Honor Roll Level are outlined in District Regulation 5440  and are as follows:

Marking Period 1

25%, 88, B+

Marking Period 2

25%, 92, A-

Marking Period 3

25%, 94, A

Marking Period 4

25%, 95, A

Final Grade

92, A-

Saddle Brook Middle School places significant value on final exams as a comprehensive assessment of student learning. These exams will be administered at the conclusion of the fourth marking period each academic year.

To ensure adequate preparation, the Final Exam Schedule will be disseminated to both students and parents several weeks in advance of the exam period.

Recognizing diverse learning styles, teachers will have the flexibility to determine the format of final exams, which may include traditional exams or project-based assessments.

Scheduling of students begins in late January.  Students are reminded to make their requests with the knowledge that those requests cannot be changed. After the course request deadline has passed, students may not alter their course requests. Any appeal for a course request change must be initiated in writing by the parent and requires a discussion or conference. 

An add/drop period will be provided for students wishing to make changes to their schedules.  For full-year courses, the add/drop period will be the first 15 school days of the school year.  For semester courses, the add/drop period will be the first 10 school days of each semester. Any course dropped after the add/drop period will be an official withdrawal on the transcript. Withdrawals are only permitted pending available space in another class and are in no way guaranteed. 

Saddle Brook Middle School offers a variety of Honors courses to provide our students with a rigorous learning experience that extends beyond the curriculum requirements of the state. Students in Honors level courses should expect an increased and challenging workload in addition to higher expectations of performance. To be admitted into an Honors course, the following criteria must be met:

• Teacher recommendations for each honors course are requested.

• Meet all prerequisite course grade requirements as outlined in the Program of Studies.

• A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or higher.

• Have less than 10 unexcused absences for the year.

• For those not currently enrolled in Honors, a passing score on the Honors Placement Tests are held each spring.

• For those requesting an Honors English or Math course, a passing score on the corresponding New Jersey Student Learning Assessment.

These requirements have been designed to ensure the continued success of our students. Students who do not meet these requirements may find these courses overwhelming and should consult their guidance counselor to determine the best course of action. 

Teacher Recommendations

Teacher recommendations are required for each honors course in which a student would like to enroll. Recommendations for all courses are put into Genesis by the teacher. If a student is considering an Honors placement for the following school year, they should consult with the teacher of the prerequisite course. Students may also reach out to their guidance counselor for further information.

Honors Placement Testing

In order to be admitted to an Honors course, all students who are not currently enrolled in an 

Honors course must take a placement test. The test is given during the spring for the following year. Tests are graded on a PASS/FAIL basis and results are turned over to the guidance office for scheduling. 

Additional information regarding enrollment in Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment courses can be found in our Accelerated Handbook here

Course Waiver Form

The purpose of this form is to request an honors course in the event a student does not obtain a teacher recommendation. This waiver form must be completed by June 1st in order for consideration in Honors. Guidance and Administration will review each request on a case by case basis and take into account the following; overall GPA, progress in the previous course, demonstrated work ethic, and attendance. Students who waive into a course are still required to sit for the placement test. Additionally, the Guidance Department and teachers must adhere to the specific course prerequisite guidelines detailed in the Program of Studies, which can be found on our website here . 

Please be aware that in choosing more rigorous course(s), students may need additional support (attending extra help sessions, private tutoring, study groups, parental support, etc.), so as to keep up with the pace of instruction. Honors courses are significantly more rigorous in-depth and breadth, requiring students to complete assignments that are more complex at an accelerated pace. 

Most Honors and Advanced Placement courses require summer assignments. There is NO WAIVER for this requirement. If a student fails the first marking period, the Guidance Department will remove the student from the class at that time, as per policy. This will result in a schedule change that will likely dramatically change a child’s current schedule. 

In order to waive into a course, please fill out the Course Waiver form found here. Once you have completed the form you can print it out or email it to your guidance counselor. 

Students enrolled in 7th or 8th Grade Mathematics, Algebra I and Geometry will be required to sit for the NJSLA.  All 8th Grade students will be required to take the NJSLA-Science exam.

The PSAT/NMSQT is offered once a year in October. Saddle Brook Middle School, in our continued efforts to improve our students’ college & career readiness, administers the PSAT to all sophomores. All other students may take the exam by request.  

Saddle Brook Middle School provides computer use and Internet access for all students, faculty, and staff. Internet access is currently obtained through Cablevison, which will soon be superseded by another internet service provider accessed through the school's network. Students agree that the following actions (which are not exhaustive) constitute unacceptable use of computers, the school computer network, or the Internet, whether that use is initiated from school or any other site: 

▪ Using impolite, abusive, or otherwise objectionable language in either public or private messages 

▪ Placing unlawful information on the Internet 

▪ Using the Internet illegally in ways that violate federal, state, or local laws or statutes 

▪ Using the Internet at school for non-school related activities 

▪ Sending messages that are likely to result in the loss of the recipient’s work or systems 

▪ Sending chain letters or pyramid schemes to lists or individuals, or any other types of use that would cause congestion of the Internet or otherwise interfere with the work of others 

▪ Using the Internet for commercial purposes 

▪ Using the Internet for political lobbying 

▪ Changing any computer file that does not belong to the user 

▪ Sending or receiving copyrighted materials without permission 

▪ Knowingly giving one’s password to others 

▪ Using another person’s password 

▪ Using Internet access for sending or retrieving pornographic material, inappropriate text files, or files dangerous to the integrity of the network 

▪ Circumventing security measures on school computers, networks, or remote computers 

▪ Attempting to gain access to another’s resources, programs, or data 

▪ Vandalizing, which is any malicious attempt to harm or destroy hardware or the data of another user either on the computer or on the Internet and includes the uploading or creation of computer viruses 

▪ Falsifying one’s identity to others when using the Internet 

▪ Changing any computer files that do not belong to the user

Students are encouraged to use the library for study, research, and leisure reading. The Library/Media Specialist and aides are available to assist all students in the use of the computers and online catalog. Proper use of the computers is governed by the Acceptable Use Policy as established by the Board of Education. 

The Saddle Brook Middle School Library is a member of the Bergen Electronic Library For Schools, otherwise known as BELS. Students need a personal card from the Saddle Brook Public Library to borrow books and magazines from our school library. Borrowing library cards is not allowed. 

Print materials are accessed via our online catalog. Interlibrary loans can be arranged for students needing resources from other libraries. In addition to the online catalog, students can also access the Internet, as well as a variety of subject and magazine databases. 

The library is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Borrowing privileges are temporarily suspended for those students with unpaid fines or overdue materials. Students who ignore repeated library notices are referred for administrative action. 

The general loan period is for three weeks; reference books and magazines are loaned overnight. Renewals are available for all items. Fines are charged for overdue items. 

Please see Carolyn Sapontzis, our MS Media Specialist for more information about programs and services.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & ATHLETICS             

Chris Ianneillo, Supervisor of Athletics 

The Physical Education and athletics programs at Saddle Brook Middle School are a critical component of our philosophy of educating the whole child. We take great pride in the efforts of our athletes, the leadership of our coaches, and the support of our fans. Our goal is to involve as many student-athletes as possible in our interscholastic athletic programs. Participation in athletics helps to advance the physical, emotional, social, and moral growth of student-athletes. As the students become involved, we will attempt to ensure their experiences are among the most rewarding and positive that they have during their middle school years while helping to prepare them for challenges of Saddle Brook High School.

Physical Education Uniforms

Students are permitted to participate in Physical Education in their regular school attire as long as it is aligned with Board of Education Dress Code Policy and Regulation #5511. However, students are required to wear rubber soled sneakers (no crocs, slides, flip flops, or dress shoes) and may not wear jewelry during activities. Changing for Physical Education classes is optional but students who wish to change will have access to the locker rooms. 

Opening Dates for Athletics

Opening dates for the athletic season are the following: 

Fall Sports - August, 12, 2024 - December 2, 2024

Winter Sports - November 25, 2025 - March 9, 2025

Spring Sports - March 10, 2025 - June 15, 2025

Practices every day after school begin about 3:15 p.m. and can last until approximately 8:00 p.m. Teams practice and/or have games on Saturdays. Game schedules are published prior to the start of the season. Schedules can be found on our website. Some athletic contests may require early dismissal from school. Students are responsible for work missed or assigned when they miss class. Classes interrupted due to athletic events are kept to a minimum.

Eligibility 

Saddle Brook Middle School follows the eligibility rules of the N.J.S.I.A.A. To be eligible for both the fall and winter sports season, students must have passed 30 credits at the end of the previous year (June report card or summer school if the class is taken again). To be eligible for the spring sports season, students must pass 15 credits at the end of the fall semester (January - February report card). All ninth-graders are eligible for the first semester. 

Maximum participation of girls and boys in accordance with interest, maturity, and ability to benefit is encouraged. However, our interscholastic athletic program is recognized as a competitive program. There are occasions when it becomes necessary to “cut” students in some sports. 

Insurance 

Parent’s health insurance is primary in case of accident or injury occurring during the play or practice of interscholastic sports and for injury sustained while traveling to and from such activity. The Board of Education purchases a limited secondary insurance policy for all interscholastic sports. This coverage is a secondary policy. The insured must first claim benefits under any other medical insurance. If there is any balance due after payment has been made by your other carrier, you would then submit all receipts of payment made by the other carrier and all the medical bills incurred on the claims for consideration of payment of the balance due under this athletic policy. Insurance forms are obtained from the school nurse. Insurance forms must be filed within 90 days of the injury. Before insurance forms will be issued, there must be an incident report on file with the school nurse. The coach/trainer and the athlete complete this incident report. 

Transportation is provided to and from all away contests. Participating Athletes driving to the site of opposing schools is prohibited. The Athletic Director may approve an athlete riding home with their parent/guardian if the parent/guardian completes the Travel Release form before the contest. The form is available in the Athletic Office. 

Hazing 

Definition: Hazing is a fundamental violation of human dignity. Hazing is any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off school premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. 

Saddle Brook Middle School will not tolerate hazing and harassment of any kind, anywhere at any time. Violations of this policy will be cause for disciplinary action, which may include removal from a team.

Varsity Sports 

Visit the Athletics web page for a current list of coaches. 

▪ Baseball 

▪ Basketball (Boys/Girls) 

▪ Football Cheerleading (Fall) 

▪ Competition Cheerleading (Winter) 

▪ Cross Country (Boys/Girls) 

▪ Football 

▪ Indoor Track (Boys/Girls) 

▪ Lacrosse (Boys/Girls) 

▪ Soccer (Boys/Girls) 

▪ Softball 

▪ Tennis (Girls) 

▪ Track (Boys/Girls) 

▪ Volleyball (Girls)

▪ Wrestling 

Equipment & Locker Room

Equipment issued by the school becomes the responsibility of the athlete. Special care must be taken to lock all equipment in a locker that will be provided. Students & Athletes will provide their own lock. 

Physical Education Excuses

1) A doctor’s medical excuse is required to be excused from 3 or more days from participation in Physical Education.

2) Students with a nurse’s excuse, or a parent’s notes are limited to 3 excuses from class per marking period.

3) Students who have a one-day medical and are not able to participate on a limited basis will be responsible for making up the missed work.

4) Students with extended medical excuses from a doctor will be required to write written reports for physical education credit. These reports will be assigned through the student’s teacher of record. 

Saddle Brook Middle School offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities for diverse interests. Students are encouraged to participate. Please click here to see our current offerings. Students are also encouraged to suggest new activities through their representatives on the Student Council. 

Advisors: Ellen Josephson and Colleen Sharpe

Membership in the SBMS chapter of the National Junior Honor Society is an honor bestowed upon a student. Selection for membership is made by a faculty council and is based on outstanding Scholarship, Character, Leadership, and Service. Once selected, members have the responsibility to continue to demonstrate these qualities. 

LEADERSHIP 

The student who exercises leadership:

1. Is resourceful in proposing new solutions, applying principles, and making suggestions.

2. Demonstrates initiative. 

3. Exemplifies positive attitudes. 

4. Is able to delegate responsibilities. 

5. Demonstrates academic initiative.

6. Successfully holds positions of responsibility and school offices. 

7. Is a leader in the classroom, at work, in school, and in community activities. 

SERVICE 

The student who serves: 

1. Volunteers dependable and well-organized assistance, is gladly available, and is willing to sacrifice to offer assistance.

2. Works well with others and is willing to take on difficult responsibilities.

3. Enthusiastically renders any requested service to the school. 

4. Shows courtesy by assisting visitors, teachers, and students. 

CHARACTER 

The student of character: 

1. Takes criticism willingly and accepts recommendations graciously. 

2. Upholds principles of morality and ethics.

3. Cooperates by complying with school regulations concerning property, programs, etc.

4. Demonstrates the highest standards of honesty and reliability. 

5. Shows courtesy and respect for others. 

6. Manifests truthfulness in acknowledging obedience to rules, avoids cheating in work, and shows an unwillingness to profit by the mistakes of others.

7. Actively helps rid the school of bad influences or environment. 

Any of the following will eliminate a student from consideration: 

▪ Maximum of 2 discipline referrals. 

▪ A misrepresentation of factual information on the Student Activity Information Form. 

The faculty council surveys academically eligible students to determine interest in the membership and to obtain information regarding service and leadership activities. Students so surveyed should understand that such surveys are not applications for membership, and that review of information gathered does not guarantee selection. 

Dismissal of NJHS Members 

Members should understand fully that they are liable for dismissal if they do not maintain the standards of Scholarship, Character, Leadership, and Service that was used as the basis for their selection. Members should also understand that they are allowed limited warnings during their membership but that in the case of a flagrant violation of school rules or civil laws, a warning is not necessarily required. Furthermore, a student who is dismissed or who resigns may never again become an Honor Society member. Please refer to the NJHS National Constitution  for more information about dismissal procedures. 

If a student becomes ill in school, the student should report to the nurse. If the nurse is not available, students should report to the main office. Teachers should also report all injuries or accidents at once to the health office. Students sustaining injuries should also report for treatment. A parent or individual listed on the emergency form is always contacted before releasing an ill or injured student from the health office. Each student must have on file in the health office and main office a completed emergency form. Any student leaving the building because of illness without the nurse’s certification or official permission from the administration will have the absence recorded as unexcused and will face disciplinary action. 

Mental Health

It is recognized that good mental health is necessary for a successful education experience. In order for students who experience depression or other psychological difficulties to reach their full educational potential, many health services are available. Students are encouraged to contact the following staff members regarding these services: School Nurse, Guidance Counselors, Child Study Team Members, Student Assistance Counselor, and Administrators. It is important to know that help is available from the above and that the aforementioned staff may refer a student and their parent(s) to outside agencies as appropriate.

Emergency Forms 

So that we may conform to the wishes of parents, emergency forms must be filled out for each student, through the parent portal of Genesis.

Accidents and Insurance 

The school is responsible only for immediate first aid. The Board of Education does not pay any medical or hospital bill incurred as a result of an accident to the pupil at school. The parent or guardian is responsible for the payment of such bills. We urge you to avail yourself of the protection afforded through school insurance. You will be given information regarding various insurance plans during the first week of school. 

In the case of an accident, no matter how minor, the student should report that accident to the teacher immediately. In the case of a severe accident or acute illness, emergency care will be administered by the school nurse. Parents will then be notified. 

Insurance 

Additional student insurance is available at a normal cost and is optional. When a student insured under the plan is injured, he will be given a claim form from the nurse’s office. This form must be completed by the parents and presented to the doctor or hospital. The school merely acts as a medium in supplying the insurance and assumes no liability, either for the injury or the subsequent negotiations with the company. Saddle Brook Board of Education does not insure against the loss of or damage to personal property, including musical instruments, athletic equipment, etc. If you wish to obtain insurance coverage, one option is to add a rider to your homeowner’s insurance policy. 

Medical Transportation 

It is the responsibility of parents to provide transportation and further care for a student if a student becomes ill or injured on school property. A student may not be sent home without parental approval and no student may drive when excused for medical reasons unless consent has been given by the nurse as well as by the parent. 

Medications in School

In order for a student to take medication, prescription or non-prescription, in school, a written order from a physician and a written request from a parent must be submitted to the school nurse. Medication authorization forms for physicians and parents are available in the nurse’s office. For short-term medication, a written physician’s order co-signed by a parent will suffice.

Medication must be brought to school in its original, appropriately labeled container. At your request, a pharmacist will provide you two labeled containers, one for school and one for home. All medications are to be kept locked in the nurse’s office, to be administered only by the nurse or a parent. One exception to the rule is an asthma inhaler, provided that the requisite medical authorization forms have been submitted and that those forms indicate that the student may carry the inhaler and may self-medicate.

Your cooperation in this matter is essential to ensure your child’s well-being.

Immunization

In order to safeguard the school community from the spread of certain communicable diseases and in recognition that prevention is a means of combating the spread of disease, the Board of Education Policy #5320 (click here)  requires the immunization of pupils against certain diseases in accordance with state statute and rules of the New Jersey State Department of Health.

No child shall be admitted to school unless he or she has completed required immunizations or has been granted provisional status in accordance with rules and regulations implementing this policy.

The Board shall not require the immunization of any pupil for whom such immunization is medically contraindicated or any pupil for whom the administration of immunizing agents conflicts with bona fide religious tenets or practices.

No immunization program, other than that expressly required by the rules of the New Jersey State Department of Health or by an order of the New Jersey State Commissioner of Health, may be conducted in district schools without the express approval of the Board. 

N.J.S.A.   18A: 40-20

N.J.S.A.   26:4-6

N.J.A.C.   8:57-4.1 et seq. Adopted: January 15, 1997

Physical Examination 

In accordance with guidelines established by the State of New Jersey, all new students are required to have a complete physical examination. All students engaged in interscholastic athletics must have a medical examination (history and physical) within one year (365 days) of the first practice session. N.J.A.C. 6A: 16-2.2(h). 

Scoliosis Testing 

The New Jersey Legislature has charged that “every Board of Education should provide for the biennial examination of every pupil between the ages of ten and eighteen for the condition known as scoliosis.” N.J.A.C. 6A:16-2.2(f), N.J.S.A. 18A: 4D – 4.3 to 4.5. 

Students in grades 7, 9, and 11 are initially screened by the school nurse. If a spinal problem is suspected, your child will be rechecked at a second screening by the school doctor. If further consultation is recommended, parents will be notified and will be asked to see their own physician for further evaluation. If you prefer to have your child examined by your own physician, you must bring a note from your doctor to the school nurse stating that your child has been examined for scoliosis and the results of the examination. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY

The Saddle Brook Board of Education affirms its responsibility to ensure all students in the public schools of Saddle Brook equal education opportunity and all employees equal employment opportunity regardless of economic status, marital status, political affiliation, and non-applicable handicap. Furthermore, the Saddle Brook Board of Education shall maintain working and academic environments free of harassment. To fulfill these responsibilities, the school district reaffirms its present school and classroom programs and employment contract practices. 

The procedure to file a grievance is set forth: 

Step 1 The grievant must present a written complaint to the district affirmative action officer. 

Step 2 The affirmative action officer shall have five (5) school days to investigate and respond to the grievant. 

Step 3 If the grievant is not satisfied with the decision at Step 2, an appeal in writing may be made within ten (10) school days to the Board of Education which will hear the complaint within thirty (30) calendar days. 

Step 4 The Board of Education shall respond to the grievant within thirty (30) calendar days of the hearing. 

Step 5 If the grievant is not satisfied with the Board’s decision, the grievant may file the complaint with the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, Washington, D.C. The grievant maintains the right to bypass the grievance procedure and submit the complaint directly to the Office of Civil Rights. 

The following information is provided in compliance with federal and state civil rights guidelines. 

District Nondiscrimination Policy 

The Saddle Brook Public Schools ensure all students in the public schools of Saddle Brook equal educational and vocational opportunity and all employees equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, religion, sex, ancestry, national origin, social or economic status, political affiliation, and non-applicable handicap. Furthermore, the schools shall maintain working and academic environments free of harassment. The officers are: 

Affirmative Action 

Mr. Donald J. Meisch, Jr.

Saddle Brook High School

201-843-2880

Title IX Coordinator
Mrs. Brenda Coffey

Saddle Brook Middle School

201-843-2880

504 Compliance 

Ms. Jaynellen Behre-Jenkins

Director of Planning/Research & Evaluation

Saddle Brook Middle School

201-843-2880

Addendum 

Right to Know Officer – Mr. Raymond Karaty, Saddle Brook Board of Education Secretary & Business Administrator 

Americans with Disabilities Act Officer – Mr. Raymond Karaty, Saddle Brook Board of Education Secretary & Business Administrator. 

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS PROVIDED AS A PUBLIC SERVICE BY OUR LOCAL DRUG AND ALCOHOL AWARENESS ORGANIZATION: 

Citizens Against Substance Abuse (CASA) 

TOLL-FREE 24 HOUR EMERGENCY HOTLINE NUMBERS 

Saddle Brook Municipality 1-201-843-7000 

Police, Fire, Ambulance 911 

Poison Control 1-800-222-1222

For Home Problems 1-800-322-8092 

Center for Hope and Safety 201-944-9600

National Domestic Violence 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788

Domestic Violence 1-800-572-7233 

National Human Trafficking 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733

Narcotics Anonymous 1-800-992-0401 

Alcoholism 1-800-322-5525 

National Suicide Prevention Hotline #988

National Runaway Hotline 1-800-786-2929 

Violent Crimes 1-800-242-0804 

NJ Youth Helpline call or text 1-888-222-2228

Child Find 1-800-322-8174

Child Abuse Hotline 1-877-NJ-ABUSE

Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-4A-CHILD

STD Information 1-800-227-8922 

HIV Info 1-800-HIV-0440

Gambling Hotline 1-800-426-2537

Genesis is the student information system provided to all students, parents, and staff which the district uses for grades, report cards, notifications, discipline, and other areas related to your education. It is important that you sign into Genesis frequently to keep track of your progress. The link to Genesis can be found on the district homepage.

During the registration process, you provided the district with your email address and a Welcome Email was sent to you from Parent Access with a randomly generated password.  The very first time you log in, you will be prompted to change your password.  Passwords must be at least 7 characters. If you have not received a Welcome Email, please contact the main office of your child's school to verify the email address we have on file.  To log into Genesis Parent access:

1. Go to the Genesis Parents Access link that can be found on District Home Page and each School’s Home Page or use the following link/click the image below:

2. Enter your Email Address in the USER NAME field.

3. Enter your password in the PASSWORD field.

4. Click the LOGIN button.

Your Genesis Parent Access User Name is the email address you provided to the district when you registered your child in school.  If you did not receive a Welcome Email, are unsure of the email address on file, or wish to add/change the email address on file, please contact parentaccess@sbpsnj.org

What if I Forget My Password?

In the event you lose your username and/or password please contact parentaccess@sbpsnj.org.

Logging Out

It is important to log out of Genesis Parent Access properly.  In this era of Internet access, it is important to always properly close your sessions so that unauthorized persons cannot gain access to your information.  Closing the browser without logging out leaves your session open on the Genesis servers.  This creates a security hole that only you can close.  Be secure, always log out properly. 

This applies not only to Genesis Parent Access but also to every Internet/Web Application you use. 

To log out, click the LOGOUT button located in the upper right corner of every screen.

Accessing your @hsms.saddlebrookschools.org district Gmail account 

1. Go to www.gmail.com. 

2. Click on the “Sign In” button located in the webpage’s top right corner. 

3. Type in your username@hsms.saddlebrookschools.org Gmail address in the email or phone field.

4. Click on the “Next” button. 

5. Type in your district password in the password field. 

6. Click on the “Next” button.