Mission Statement

The mission of the Ninth Grade Center is to provide superior instruction, cultivate trusting relationships, and deliver exemplary experiences for each student in order to foster lifelong learning.

Vision Statement

The Ninth Grade Center’s vision is to be a premier educational institution that sets the standard for superior instruction, trusting relationships, and exemplary experiences. We envision a school where every student is engaged in meaningful learning experiences, guided by dedicated educators who foster a passion for knowledge and personal growth.

Collective Commitments

We are committed to continuous learning as educators through internal and external professional development opportunities, self reflection, and collaboration.

We are committed to individualized support and personalized learning through differentiated instruction, ongoing assessment, and targeted interventions to meet the unique needs of each student. 

We are committed to fostering positive relationships by prioritizing open communication, active listening, and mutual respect amongst all stakeholders. 

We are committed to providing at least one exemplary experience for each student by providing opportunities for students to engage in real-world applications of their knowledge, participate in meaningful community service, and explore their passions through co-curricular activities and enrichment programs.

Ninth Grade Center 

Phone: 636-366-4450

Fax: 636-366-4451

Address: 80 Elm Tree Road, Moscow Mills, MO 63362

Hours: 7:00 am – 1:55 pm, Wednesday Dismissal 12:45 pm

Office is open daily M-F from 7:00 am – 3:45 pm

Board of Education

The Lincoln County R-III School District Board of Education is a group of seven members who are elected to serve as the educational advocate of our community's youth. School board members devote countless hours in service to the district and play an essential role in our community as advocates for our students.

Find our District School Year Calendar on our website

Find the Ninth Grade Center Bell Schedule on our website

MAKE UP WORK

All work to be made up for credit must be completed within the amount of time designated by the teacher and in most instances must not exceed two weeks.  In  instances  of  absences,  which  are  longer  than  two  weeks  in duration, a longer period of time may be granted.  It is the student’s responsibility to check Canvas and communicate with their teacher regarding make-up work.

TROJAN W.I.N. (What I Need):

Academic Support

• Allotted time to complete homework and study.
• Interventions based on essential standards.
• Exploratory sessions (Technology, Art, FACS, Ag. Science,
• Foreign Language, Physical Education).

Social/Emotional Learning

• Students will have the opportunity to learn skills and develop tools to maintain emotional wellbeing and cope with stress.
• Time Management.
• Brain Breaks.

Extracurricular Involvement

• Students have the opportunity to be involved in extracurricular clubs and activities while also limiting time absent from class to attend meetings.

Reward Time

• Students meeting grade, behavior, and attendance goals will be eligible for reward time on designated days.

AFTER SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION: 

It is the school’s responsibility to transport students to after-school activities that are school related.  There will be a shuttle bus system in place to transport students to activities that are not on the 9th grade center site.  Note – If a student is participating in a school related activity/extra-curricular activity, parents are not to transport the student to the activity without prior written consent.  

BETWEEN CLASSES:

The time between classes is meant to be a passing period.  There is to be no loitering, students are to travel from one class to the other with possible stops at their lockers or the restroom as needed.  

Students are not to be in any automobiles or out of academic areas between classes.  Getting a drink or going to the restroom will not be accepted as valid reasons for being tardy.

CAFETERIA/COMMONS RULE:

Students are not to leave the cafeteria/commons area during lunch; students should not be in the academic wings for any reason during their lunch period.  If a student needs to use the restroom, there are restrooms located next to the cafeteria/commons.

At no time are food and drinks allowed out of the commons.  Students are to finish their entire lunch in the commons area.  Students elsewhere during lunch without permission face disciplinary action.

DANCES :

School dances are open to District students in grades 9–12 who are in good academic standing, current on all fines and fees, and be in attendance at least ONE HALF of the prior school day to attend. Students are required to present a valid school ID for admission.  Dance guest applications must be filled out and returned to the main office for administrative approval prior to the date of the dance in order for non-District students to attend. Once students leave a dance, they may not return.

FINAL EXAM SCHEDULE:

All students will complete a final exam or final project in all classes at the end of each semester.   Final Exams may not be taken early.   Make-up dates will be announced at the end of each semester.

HALL PASSES:

During class time students are not to be out of their classroom without a hall pass. Students must have an approved pass to leave a classroom. Infinite Campus  is to be used by students/staff to generate hall passes.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER GUIDELINES:

Library Hours 7:00 – 2:30

The LMC has books, pamphlets, vertical file materials, CD ROMs, VHS tapes, DVDs, daily and weekly newspapers, and magazines for use by students and faculty.  

BOOK CHECK OUT

There is no limit to the number of items a student may check out, as long as there are no overdues or fines.  Materials are checked out for 2 weeks.  Date due slips are placed in the materials.  The fine for overdue material is $.05 per day, per item.  The library uses a computerized circulation system.  Students are requested to show their ID to check out library materials.  Overdue notices are given weekly to third hour teachers. 

INTERNET

access is available in the Library.  The computer/internet usage agreement must be signed, on file, and followed.  The student’s ID card must be posted on the machine in use, and students must sign in with name, date, time in and time out.  Each student is given an individual technology user ID and it is the responsibility of the student to keep this Login information private.

SCHOLASTIC READING COUNTS:

We own computerized tests for over 1000 books. The books are marked with purple stickers.  Students may test over these books in the LMC.  Printouts will be given to the teachers who request them.  Students belong to the local and to the state club.  They may hold local and/or state offices.  

Library Rules:

• When students enter the Library Media Center, they will be expected to present their pass. If the LMC is already full because of scheduled classes, they will be asked to return to class.
• No more than 4 to a table.
• If the assignment is a group project, students may talk quietly.  At no time should people other than at their table be able to hear them.
• There is to be no food or drink in the LMC.

LOCKER ASSIGNMENTS:

Students will be assigned lockers, upon request through the Main Office, for the storage of books, clothing, personal articles, etc.  Students are not allowed to change lockers or share a locker with another student.  The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.  Students are required to clean out their assigned locker at the end of the year.  Maintaining and cleaning out gym lockers are the students’ responsibility as well.

LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES:

The main office serves as a clearing office for lost and found articles.  Students are asked to bring any articles that have been found to the office.  The office will donate any unclaimed articles at the end of each semester.

NEW HORIZONS HIGH SCHOOL REFERRAL PROCESS:

New Horizons High School is an alternative placement for Junior/Senior students who are at least 1 year credit deficient and in jeopardy of not graduating high school with their grade cohort.  NHHS utilizes the following referral process for student placements into the program.  To find out more information on the referral process, check the New Horizons High School’s website.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXCUSES:

Students requesting to be excused from physical activity during their physical education course due to medical or other reasons must have a written excuse from a doctor.  An alternative assignment will be provided to earn points for each day missed. 

PLAY AND MUSICAL SELECTION POLICY:

The Lincoln County R-III School District School Board and Administration recognizes student theatrical performances as essential to the establishment and maintenance of an atmosphere that fosters intellectual, cultural and artistic exchanges.  The following protocols are designed to support theatrical performances that challenge, nurture and extend student skills. 

Protocols for play/musical performance selection process:

• The drama sponsor(s) and/or choir director will present a proposed play/musical to the principal at least four weeks prior to auditions or technical crew selection.
• The drama sponsor(s) and/or choir director will ensure the proper procedures are followed regarding copyright laws and the formal purchasing of the performance.  
• A copy of the proposed play/musical will be submitted for review by the principal.
• The version of the script presented to the principal is the version to be performed.  If modifications are made to an established script, they will be presented to the principal before the script is approved. 
• During the review process, the principal can suggest changes to the sponsors regarding the content of the script.
• The principal may confer with additional building and district level administration during the review process.  The final decision on the production will be the responsibility of the building level principal.
• When the review process is completed and a decision is made, the principal will meet with the sponsors and outline the details of the final decision.

STUDENT DRIVERS:

All Ninth Grade Center students are denied driving privileges, regardless of age or licensure.  Any consideration of special circumstances must be approved by the administration.

USE OF THE ELEVATOR:

The elevator is available for use by students who have a medical need and/or other type of need, which would require the elevator.   The main office and the library each have a key and will open the elevator for students when asked.

MEAL CHARGING PROCEDURES:

Lincoln Co. R-III School District and Chartwells School Dining Services serve students with quality, well-balanced meals at affordable prices. All students have a meal account that is used to keep track of student deposits and purchases. Parents can view the balances of their child’s meal account via the Infinite Campus Parent Portal.

Your children may qualify for free meals or reduced-price meals. Parents need to complete the Free and Reduced Meal Application for all students in the household. The completed application is returned to Tina Walsh, 951 West College St., Troy, MO 63379.

STUDENTS IN 9-12 GRADE

• Students are not allowed to charge for any meals.
• If the meal account is negative, the student may receive a designated menu alternate for both breakfast and lunch.

No charges will be allowed for à la carte foods and beverages. Students must have funds available to purchase.

Parents/guardians of students with negative balances will be contacted electronically, by correspondence, or by phone call by the building’s administrative office or by the Food Service Department.

• Email notifications will be sent weekly to parents of all students.
• Secondary students will be reminded verbally of their daily balance by the cashiers.

On May 5 annually, all charging will be cut off.

• Parents/guardians will be contacted via phone calls, emails, and/or hard copy letters requesting “payment in full.” If there are financial hardships, parents will be offered to set up a repayment plan for their student(s) by building office personnel.
• All charges not paid before the end of the school year will be carried forward into the next school year.
• Graduating seniors are required to pay all outstanding charges in full.  Failure to do so may result in the delinquent student being denied participation in graduation ceremonies.

Meal applications are included in Student Enrollment Packets and sent home with all students on the first day of school. If a financial hardship is suspected, families will be encouraged to apply for free/reduced meals at any time during the school year.

Each building principal will notify all parents of this policy via the student handbook. This policy will also be published on the District’s website and communicated to all staff members and food service personnel.

A+ SCHOOL PROGRAMS:

if state funds are available and our high school continues designation as an A School prior to graduation, students may receive reimbursement for college expenses as determined by the Missouri General Assembly while attending a Missouri public community college or public vocational/technical school on a full-time basis. This reimbursement may be for the unpaid balance of the cost of tuition subject to legislative appropriation. This financial assistance is on the condition that the following requirements are met:

• Attend an A designated school for any three (3) years prior to high school graduation.
• Graduation from high school with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale (non-weighted GPA).
• Have at least 95 percent attendance record for the four-year period. Graduate with 50 documented hours of unpaid tutoring of students in approved settings.
• Maintain a record of good citizenship and avoid the unlawful use of drugs and alcohol.
• Make a good faith effort to secure federal post-secondary student financial assistance funds during the last semester of senior year.  Complete and submit the FAFSA form. (Social Security number required)
• All males who reach their 18th birthday must register for the Selective Service.  (This is a federal requirement regardless of whether you enroll in the A program or not).
• Students must score Advanced/Proficient on one of the following End of Course Exams (EOC):  Algebra I, Algebra II, or Geometry.  Additional alternatives may include a minimum math subscore of 17 on the ACT Math section with a 2.5 GPA; subscore of 16 on the ACT Math section with a 2.8 GPA or a subscore of 15 of the ACT Math section with a 3.0 GPA.

To maintain eligibility after high school graduation, the following requirements must be met:

• Enroll  and  attend  on  a  full-time  basis  a  Missouri  public  community college or public vocational/technical school.
• Maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Make a good faith effort to secure federal post-secondary student financial assistance each year.

ASSEMBLIES:

During the school year there will be times when students will be asked to attend an Academic or Activity Assembly.  During those assemblies students must sit in the section assigned to their class.  Students are expected to behave appropriately and give courteous attention at all times.

CREDIT RECOVERY:

Students who fail a class may be eligible to recover the credit using Launch.  Please see guidance for additional information.

FEES:

Students will be required to pay for materials used in Industrial Technology, Art, Agriculture, and Family and Consumer Sciences to make projects, which will belong to them when completed.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE:

Grade point average (GPA) is a number representing the average value of the accumulated final grades earned in courses over time. More commonly called a GPA, a student’s grade point average is calculated by adding up all accumulated final grades and dividing that figure by the number of grades awarded.

Current grade point average = the average of the course grades for all courses taken that semester only.

Cumulative grade point average = the average of the semester grades for all courses taken during high school.

Beginning with the Class of 2025 all courses, with the exception of W.I.N. Time, will be factored into the calculation of a student’s GPA.  This will include Physical Education, CYV, A+, and School Flex courses.

GRADE REPORTING, SCALE AND WEIGHTED GRADES:

Report cards are issued every nine weeks (quarterly).  Recorded on each student's grade card will be the academic and conduct grades for each subject, current grade point average, cumulative grade point average, and number of days he/she has been absent.  The current grade point average is based on the 1st semester and the 2nd semester grades.

The following grading scale is used at Ninth Grade Center and Troy Buchanan High School:

Weighted Grades: 

The purpose of having weighted grades is to encourage our students to enroll in our most rigorous courses in order to maximize their preparation for post-secondary education. A student must earn a C or  higher to receive a weighted grade in courses identified as Tier 2 or 3.

Tier 1 (no weight):

Diploma track courses not listed in Tier 2 or Tier 3.

Tier 2 (0.5 weight per semester):

Any Dual Enrollment Course through our partnering colleges and universities (Missouri Baptist University, St. Charles Community College, Missouri Southern State University and the University of Missouri- St. Louis) fall into Tier 2.

Tier 3  (1.0 weight per semester):

*See the Course Description website for specific details of each course.

GRADUATION EXERCISE

Commencement is a privilege not a right. In order to participate in commencement exercises, a student must have successfully completed all Lincoln County R-III School District graduation requirements. Students who fail to meet all graduation requirements will not be allowed to participate in graduation exercises. Students who fail to complete the graduation requirements in four (4) years have options that include:

• Return to school and complete the credits in which they are deficient.
• Complete the credits in which they are deficient via correspondence.
• Enroll in the Credit Recovery Program and complete the credits in which they are deficient on campus utilizing Launch.

• GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS: Regulation 2525 - Student Academic Achievement 

  Total Unit Requirement:

  Possible Credits - 32   Required Minimum for Graduation - 27

  The Board has adopted the following graduation requirements and diploma options commencing with the class of 2025:

  Subject	Regular Diploma	Cum Laude
  English	4	4
  Social Studies	3	4
  Math	3	4
  Science	3	4
  Practical Arts	1	1
  Fine Arts	1	1
  Physical Education	1	1
  Health	0.5	0.5
  Personal Finance	0.5	0.5
  Elective	9.5	9.5
  Freshman Seminar	0.5	0.5
  Cooperative Education	0	0
  Foreign Language	0	2

   

  Cum Laude Requirements: 

  	Cum Laude	Magna Cum Laude	Summa Cum Laude
  Required Coursework	*8 honors courses (including at least two in each core area)   *Honors courses include at least one AP course   *Two credits of Foreign Language	*10 honors courses (including at least two in each core area)   *Honors courses include at least two AP courses    *Two credits of Foreign Language	*12 honors courses (including at least two in each core area)   Honors courses include at least three AP courses    *Two credits of Foreign Language
  Credits	32	32	32
  Cumulative GPA	3.8-3.99	4.0-4.19	4.2 and above
  EOC*	Advanced or Proficient on 3 out of 4l EOC exams	Advanced or Proficient on 3 out of 4l EOC exams	Advanced or Proficient on 3 out of 4l EOC exams
  ACT/SAT*	24/1160	26/1240	28/1310

  Additional Graduation Requirements:

  The following are required by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for graduation:

• 1 unit of American History
• Pass U.S. Constitution Test (This will be given in 11th grade social studies)
• Pass Missouri Constitution Test (This will be given in 11th grade social studies)
• CPR Certification

Early Graduation:

Permission may be granted to graduate after seven (7) semesters of attendance by completing no more than three (3) outside units of approved high school credit and meeting all other specific requirements. Seven-semester graduates will be allowed to participate in graduation ceremonies at the end of the school year. Early graduates will be treated as graduated students for all other activities.  Early graduation should be a part of a cooperative plan arrived at by students, their parent/guardian and the school. Applications for early graduation must be submitted to the building Principal by October 15th of the student’s seventh semester.

School Flex Program:

Eligible students may pursue a timely graduation from high school through the School Flex Program. Eligible students participating in the School Flex Program will be considered full-time students. To be eligible to participate in the School Flex Program, an eligible student must:

• Attend school a minimum of two instructional hours per school day within the District.
• Pursue a timely graduation.
• Provide evidence of college or technical career educational enrollment and attendance, or proof of employment and labor that is aligned with the student’s career academic plan developed by the District.
• Refrain from being expelled or suspended while participating in the School Flex Program.
• Pursue course and credit requirements for a diploma.
• Maintain a 95% attendance rate.

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT: 

The Ninth Grade Center offers the services of a guidance department to each student.  The counselor's objective is to assist students in securing an education.  

Guidance services offered:

• Assist students in realistically appraising themselves and the world of work.
• Aid students in deciding whether or not to go to college and in choosing a school, which will best fill their needs.
• Assist students in obtaining scholarships and financial assistance to further their education.
• Assist students in finding jobs through various agencies.
• Aid students in their attempt to identify and eliminate causes of academic difficulties.
• Assist students in identifying and solving problems of a personal nature.
• Assist students in choosing high school subjects, which will give them the education they need.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY: 

Students who have a 3.5 cumulative grade point average or better for three consecutive semesters and no "I" or "F" semester grades are eligible for the National Honor Society.  Students who qualify on this basis are also evaluated on character, leadership and service by their teachers.

SCHOOL MEALS 

FREE AND REDUCED MEALS PROGRAM –

The Free and Reduced Meal Program is available for families with financial hardships and are unable to pay the full price of meals served in schools for their child(ren). A new application must be filled out every school year. Applications can be obtained via the district website, school building, or at Central Office after July 1 of each year. 

To apply, fill out a Free and Reduced Meals Application and return it to the school. Use one Free and Reduced Meals Application for all students in your household. The information provided on the application is confidential and will be used only for the purpose of determining eligibility. Applications may be submitted any time during the school year and extend into summer school as well. If your child(ren) qualifies, reduced meal prices are $.30 for breakfast and $.40 for lunch or free for both breakfast and lunch.  

USDA Non-discrimination Statement:  This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

SCHEDULE CHANGES:

Requests to drop a course may be approved by an administrator after an exchange of information involving the student, parent, teacher, and counselor.  Dropping a course after the first two weeks of the semester may result in a failing grade.

It is strongly recommended that change requests be submitted prior to the first day of school.  Any changes to a student’s schedule after the first day of school must be approved by the administration and will only be considered on an emergency basis.

STUDENT COUNCIL:  

The Troy Buchanan High School and the Ninth Grade Center Student Councils have as their goals to provide for student participation in school government, to unify all students under one governing body, to establish a better understanding between faculty and students, to create a greater sense of responsibility, and to promote the general welfare of our school.  

STUDENT IDENTIFICATION:

All students are required to obtain a student identification card.  An ID card is provided to each student at no cost. There is a $5 fee for replacing a lost card.  Students are to have their student identification card in their possession during school (lunch, library, etc) and at all school functions (dances, ball games, etc.).  

SUMMER SCHOOL:

Course offerings will be determined in the spring.  Students enrolled in summer school will be subject to the same expectations as the regular school year.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

There are many extra-curricular activities available to students in the areas of sports and clubs.  Following is a list of these activities.  Some activities have requirements for joining.  For more information, contact the coach or club sponsor.

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY;

The district provides opportunities for individual students to grow physically, socially, and intellectually through their experience in self-discipline and their contribution to a team that is made possible through competitive interscholastic athletics.  The purpose of secondary school athletics is both educational and recreational.

Interscholastic athletic competition for secondary school students is to be provided in a variety of sports.  Students are allowed to attain the privilege of representing their school in interscholastic athletics by meeting the standards of eligibility as set forth by the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA).  These MSHSAA standards, regardless of whether or not the athletic or non-athletic extra-class activity is under the official auspices of MSHSAA, apply to students participating in any extra-class activity involving two or more schools in which two or more students who participate are identified with their schools.  These standards include academic requirements, citizenship, age maximums, passing medical examinations and many more items that are posted in the school and discussed by the coaches with their athletes as well as mailed home to parents/guardians of all athletes.

While extracurricular activities do offer educational experiences, they are a privilege.  As such, extra-curricular activities may be withheld from any student as a condition of discipline.  Furthermore, all policies that apply to the regular school day also apply to extra-curricular activities.  In addition, coaches and sponsors may establish policies for their groups in addition to those stated herein.  Students demonstrating unacceptable behaviors may be suspended from participation in extracurricular activities. 

To see our available clubs and organizations, please visit our activities webpage

MSHSAA Activities

Band, Cheerleading, Choir, Dance, Scholar Bowl, Speech and Debate

MSHSAA Sports

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT

According to MSHSAA By-Law 2.2.3, a student shall not be considered eligible while under suspension.  This includes in-school and out-of-school suspensions.  The student who is expelled or who withdraws from school because of disciplinary measures shall not be considered eligible for 365 days from the date of expulsion or withdrawal.  If a student misses classes) Without being excused by the principal, the student shall not be considered eligible on that date. Further, the student cannot be certified eligible to participate on any subsequent date until the student attends a full day of classes (or has an excused absence from class) without an unexcused absence.  Each school has the authority to set standards that are more restrictive and shall have the authority to judge its students under those standards.

To be eligible to participate in or attend an evening contest or activity at TBHS, a student must attend two full blocks of the school day.  If the activity is on a weekend or holiday, the last student attendance day will be used to determine eligibility. Extenuating circumstances require prior administrative approval for participation or attendance. 

In the event that a student is assigned an afternoon detention period as a result of a classroom problem, the detention MUST be served before the student can return to an extracurricular activity.  He/she is not allowed to use the excuse of “I have practice, so I can’t stay.”  THE CLASSROOM OBLIGATION ALWAYS COMES FIRST.

HAZING -  Refer to Policies & Regulations 2920

Student hazing is expressly prohibited by Board of Education policy.  For purposes of this policy, hazing is defined as willful conduct directed at another student, whether occurring on or off school property, for purposes of initiation or admission to any school-related activity or athletic team.  Conduct prohibited by this policy includes, but is not limited to, exposure or contact of genitals, buttocks, or breasts (female students), directly or indirectly through contact with undergarments; threats of physical harm; and infliction of physical or mental harm or humiliation.

Students found to have violated this policy will be subject to suspension/expulsion from school and suspension and exclusion from activities/athletic participation, depending on the severity of the misconduct.

Non-students who participate in or enable the hazing of students may be excluded from attendance at school activities and school athletic events.  District employees, including sponsors and coaches who have knowledge of student hazing but fail to take corrective action, will be subject to discipline up to and including termination.