McMath

Middle School

CHEERLEADING & MASCOT APPLICATION PACKET

Please attach to this cover sheet to the following forms and keep all other papers for further reference. Return by Friday, February 26 to Mrs. Hauser in Room B-16, or Mrs. Haught in the front office.

Cheerleader Application

Cheerleading Code of Conduct Contract

Informed Consent and Acknowledgment Agreement

Cheerleader Health Form

Cheerleader Questionnaire

Concussion Form

Camp Application

Payment Plan Option Form (if student makes the squad)

$15 Cash or Check made out to MMS Cheer for Cheer Clinic

Important Dates to Remember:

February 24th - Informational Parent Meeting @ MMS Library 6-7pm

February 29, March 3, 4 Mandatory Cheer Clinic 3:30-4:30pm (Gold Gym)

March 7 Cheer Clinic Performances 3:30-4:30pm (Gold Gym)

March 8 Team will be posted outside room A-11 and online at 3:20pm

March 24th Mandatory Parent Meeting @ MMS Library 6:30-7:30pm

August 3-5th Mandatory Cheer Camp @ Harpool Middle School 8am-5pm

**Please check the MMS cheer website by going to www.dentonisd.org, McMath page, click Student Services tab, and click Cheerleading. All information, calendars, pictures, updates, etc. will be posted here throughout the year. There is a link on this page to YouTube where you can watch and learn our cheers. You can also follow MMS Cheer on Twitter @MMScheerios for information.

Cheerleading Squad Application

Please circle which position you are applying for:

CheerleaderManagerMascot

Candidate Information

Name: ___________________________ T-Shirt Size (YS-Adult XL)_____

Date of Birth: _________________

Names of legal guardians and relationship to you:______________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

Have you ever received an office referral at McMath Middle School? ________

If you answered yes, please give a brief explanation of the action that warranted to referral or include a separate sheet of paper with explanation.

__________________________________________________________

Contact Information

Guardian:

Guardian Cell Number: ___-____-__________

Guardian Work/Home Number: ___-____-__________

Guardian Primary Email: ___________@_______________

*Please note that the coach sends out frequent emails to parents and needs an email you check often.

Student Cell: ___-___-______

Student Email: _________________@____________________________

Emergency contact (other than primary guardian): ____-____-___________

Emergency contact name: _____________________

MCMATH MIDDLE SCHOOL

CHEERLEADING CODE OF CONDUCT

The members of the McMath Middle School cheer squad must adhere to the following articles. It must be understood that as a member of this organization, the student becomes a representative of the Denton ISD and of McMath Middle School and each member must maintain high moral and ethical standards. Membership may be terminated at any time for unacceptable standards of conduct.

The Cheer Squad Code of Conduct is designed to be used as a guideline toward becoming the best you can be. Good judgment and common sense will be used when an incident occurs (not covered in the constitution).

Being a squad member provides for many students their first opportunity to share a common bond and a close relationship with others. Learning what it means to work very closely with other girls/boys and sharing in accomplishments and frustrations are all part of being a squad member. It is an honor to be chosen as a squad member. To remain an active cheer or pep squad member, a girl/boy must maintain passing grades, keep in good physical shape, and uphold all guidelines established in the McMath Cheer Code of Conduct.

ARTICLE I. PURPOSE

The purpose of the McMath Middle School Cheer Squad shall be to boost the morale and spirit of the school, to entertain audiences through cheering, to develop leadership, sportsmanship, and responsibility. It is also the squad members purpose to represent McMath Middle School in a manner that will reflect positively upon the school, as well as upon the squad whether in uniform or not. Each member agrees to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in this constitution.

ARTICLE II. MEMBERSHIP

Section 1.Each member must return the following forms by the posted due date.

A. Parent Permission Form: permits squad member to participate in all performances and shows understanding of financial responsibilities.

B. Physical Form: must submit a copy of squad members current physical to have on file, so coaches are informed of medical conditions.

Section 2.The term of membership shall be recognized as the time immediately following cheerleading tryouts through tryouts for the following year. Cheerleading is a FULL YEAR commitment.

Section 3.Members must have a commitment to cheering, supporting athletic teams and promoting school spirit among the student body and all organizations.

Section 4.A members resignation will be accepted only after the member has a conference with the coach and ALL financial obligations are met. All school properties must be returned in good condition. Once dismissed from the squad, reinstatement will not be allowed.

ARTICLE III. GRADES

Section 1.Academic Eligibility: Any member whose recorded six weeks grade average in any course is less than 70 will be ineligible to participate in any team event during the succeeding number of weeks as set forth by the UIL No Pass, No Play. To regain eligibility, a student must have a grade of 70 or above at the 3 week period in all classes. If not, probation will continue until the end of the six weeks period. Grades will be checked every three weeks.

Section 2.The second occurrence of academic ineligibility within the year may result in dismissal from the organization. Failing two or more classes, may result in being dismissed from the team permanently.

ARTICLE IV. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Section 1.All squad members must be in regular full day attendance to participate in practice or a scheduled activity.

Section 2.Members will participate in all activities in which the squad is involved. This includes all practices, performances, fund-raisers, and social activities that the squad is involved.

A student that is in athletics or other extracurricular activities may also be a cheerleader, but please understand there will be scheduling conflicts.

Section 3.Failure to comply with absence policies, to falsify reasons for absences or excessive absences may result in privileges being revoked.

ARTICLE V. CHEER/PEP ATTENDANCE

Section 1.In the event of an absence (excused or unexcused), the squad member must inform the coach of the absence and the reason for the absence PRIOR to the absence.

Section 2.If a squad member misses a practice of a new performance, then she/he may be removed from that routine.

Section 3. If a scheduling conflict arises, then exceptions may be made with prior approval from the coach.

Section 4. Squad members are responsible for obtaining any information that was given on the day of the absence.

Section 5.Schedules will be provided as early as possible, and families are expected to plan family functions and vacations accordingly.

ARTICLE VI. PRACTICES

Section 1.All practice sessions will be mandatory upon notification of these dates and times. Check posted announcements and webpage weekly for updated information.

Section 2.Members will arrive on time to practice and stay until dismissed.

Section 3.Members must wear the specified practice attire. Hair must be pulled back and secured from the face at all times. Jewelry/gum is not allowed in practice sessions.

Section 4.Members should schedule tutorials, make-up tests, etc. at times that do not conflict with practice or performance.

Section 5. On occasion, some routines will need some additional attention. If the coach feels more time is needed to perfect a routine, every effort will be made to notify the cheerleader of the extra time required to polish the routine.

Section 6.Members suffering from injury will be excused from practice upon receipt of written notice from an attending physician.

ARTICLE VII. UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT

Section 1.DO NOT make alterations to the uniforms without permission from the coach.

Section 2.If any uniform article is lost or damaged, the cheerleader will be responsible to pay to replace the lost item.

Section 3. All designated uniforms, jackets, warm ups, bows, poms, megaphones, etc. are to be used and worn by squad members only.

ARTICLE VIII. PERFORMANCES

Section 1.Squad members will perform at scheduled athletic games or special events.

Section 2.The coach reserves the right to pull any member from a performance due to absences, lack of knowledge of cheers/chants/dances, poor attitude, lack of effort, or excessive demerits.

Section 3.A uniform and equipment check will be held prior to performances. At this time the member should be completely ready for performance. This includes uniform, hair, etc.

Section 4.Performance Rules and Guidelines:

A. Never leave the stands, field or the group without permission from coach.

B. Never talk or cheer when a player is injured. Cheer when they recover.

C. Never speak to spectators, including family, without permission from coach.

D. Always pay close attention to the coach and follow their instructions.

E. Be knowledgeable enough about the sport to be a good spectator.

ARTICLE IX. SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

Special performances will be announced by the coach and are required for each girl unless specified otherwise by the coach. These may include, but not limited to clinics, high school football/basketball games and other community affairs. Performances/Events will be announced as soon as possible and each member is expected to make arrangements to participate. Try-outs may be held for these special performances. We will also have two school pep rallies in the year where the squad will perform. The coach reserves the right to call extra practices for these routines with every effort to notify parents and cheerleaders in a timely manner for scheduling purposes.

ARTICLE X. GENERAL CONDUCT

Section 1.Each squad member should be a leader within the school and should set a good example at all times. Squad members must display appropriate behavior both in and out of school.

Section 2.Denton Independent School District rules will be strictly applied whenever the cheerleader is officially representing DISD, attending a school sponsored activity or a school-sponsored trip. Each member must be aware that their conduct off-campus reflects upon the team image and that any member who is guilty of engaging in any illegal activity will be subject to dismissal.

Section 3.If an incident occurs during school or off campus at another event, a member should expect disciplinary action from the school as well as from the coach. The coach will determine consequences for inappropriate behavior after consulting with an administrator.

Section 4.Everyday Cheerleader Rules:

A. No gum or candy during practices or performances.

B. Be in proper attire during practices, game days, and performances.

C. If you do not like a decision, discuss it privately with the coach.

D. No public display of affection.

E. Gossip will not be tolerated.

F. Be respectful and treat others with respect.

G. If you do not know what is expected of you, just ask!

H. Inappropriate language is never allowed.

I. Do not complain or whine.

J. Insubordination will not be tolerated.

K. Be responsible for your own actions.

ARTICLE XI. CAPTAINS/CO-CAPTAINS

The coach will determine who will be selected as captain and co-captains for football season based on team performance and leadership qualities. Basketball season captains will be chosen by the squad.

ARTICLE XII. PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Section 1.Parents must give their permission for their daughter/son to fulfill all the responsibilities of being a member of the squad.

Section 2.Parents are encouraged to participate in various cheerleading activities and fundraisers. Some fundraisers help defray the cost of cheer uniform and equipment.

Section 3.Parents are required to get cheer/pep squad members to and from activities on time. Bus transportation will NOT be provided to cheer and/or pep squads.

Section 4.Parents must be willing to cooperate with the coach and keep her informed of dates that might conflict with squad activities. At least 24 hours notice of scheduled conflict is required.

ARTICLE XIII. FINANCES AND FUND-RAISING

Section 1.Parents must be willing to meet all financial obligations for having their daughter/son as a cheerleading member. All payments are final. No refunds. Once uniforms are custom ordered they cannot be returned and must be paid for in full.

Section 2Partial Fee Waiver Scholarships for camp are available. Please see your coach for further details.

Section 3.Each squad member will be required to buy all supplies and uniforms, unless otherwise stated, or the school has a uniform rental program.

A. Cheer uniform (shell and skirt), warm ups, camp wear, etc.

B. Accessories-bag, shoes, poms, socks, bows, etc.

Section 4.All financial obligations for camp must be paid for prior to attendance at camp.

Section 5.Turning in money:

A. All money will be turned into the coach.

B. The cheerleaders name must be written in the memo line on each check.

C. Make all checks payable to MMS Cheer

Section 6.Insufficient Funds: If a check is returned insufficient, we will follow D.I.S.D. policy. The team member will be responsible for paying the amount plus an additional thirty ($30) dollars to cover bank charges.

ARTICLE XIV. CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES

Section 1.The interpretation of this constitution is the sole right of the coach and administration.

Section 2. We have the right to add or change those things which we feel must be changed for the benefit of the squad or for the situation itself.

Section 3.This constitution is meant to be a basic operating instrument and is not intended to cover every operating policy.

Section 4.The constitution is subject to change at any time due to Texas Education Agency rule changes or with approval from the administration.

Section 5.The coach may enforce other rules as they become necessary during the school year for the benefit of the organization.

APPENDECIES: Each middle school is different based on populations and ability level.

Appendix A: Merit/Demerit System

Demerits may be given for any breaking of the Cheerleading Rules.

Merits may be given for responsible behavior and additional activities.

Merits/demerits will be given by the Cheer Coach and administrators and documented by Cheer Coach and sometimes managers.

The coach and administrators decision regarding demerits is final.

List of Merit and Demerits and their Given Value

MERITS

-Making posters on own time (2 merits per poster, no more than 4 per week)

-Bringing candy or goodies for players and/or coaches (2 merits per bag, no more than 4 merits per opportunity)

-Compliments form teacher regarding behavior (2 4 merits per positive contact about class behavior/work)

-Helping pick-up practice and game area (up to 3 merits per event)

-Cleaning cheer equipment or cheer closet (by appointment) (2 merits for 15 minutes of work)

-Others to be announced

Consequences for Earning Demerits

1. Squad members will be notified after earning a total of 15 demerits.

1. After earning a total of 20 demerits, the member may be placed on suspension and parents will be contacted. Suspension requires that the cheerleader be in full uniform and sit in the stands with the coach during at least one game or performance until demerits are made up. Game or performance is at the discretion of the coach.

1. After earning a total of 25 demerits, a cheerleader/pep squad member may be permanently removed from the squad. This will be a decision made by the coach and administrators.

List of Demerits and their Given Value

8 Demerits

Leaving practice or event without permission

Late pick-up from practice or event (more than 15 minutes late)

2 Demerits

Chewing gum at practice or game

Wearing jewelry to practice or game

Failure to bring supplies (poms, bow, warm-ups, megaphones, shoes, uniform, etc.)

Failure to be in correct uniform (socks, bow, undergarments, etc.)

10 Demerits

Cursing, gossiping, or spreading rumors

Lack of cooperation, respect towards the coach, peers, other adults in authority

Inappropriate behavior while representing the school (in or out of uniform)

Appendix B: CHEER SQUAD CODE OF CONDUCT CONTRACT

Automatic Removal

AEP Placement or Illegal Activity

Smoking, drinking, or drug use

Physical altercations with peers

16 Demerits (for entire placement not per day)

ISSC Placement and squad member may have to sit out the next game (multiple ISSC placements will result in removal from squad).

6 Demerits

Teacher referral or complaint

Absence not communicated before a practice or event

4 Demerits

More than 10 minutes tardy to practice or event

Not returning paperwork, money, or failure to comply with due dates

Public display of Affection at school or game

My daughter/son and I have read the McMath Middle School Cheer Squad Code of Conduct. We agree to abide by the rules and regulations stated and understand the consequences if the rules are not followed. I understand that decisions made related to the squad are made in the best interest of the team. If a situation arises, then I will contact the coach privately and confidentially not publicly - where my daughter/son is in an awkward position. I fully understand the absentee rules, practices and performance expectations, and financial obligations.

______________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

I will do my best as a cheerleader to always set a positive example for the McMath Middle School student body. I plan to follow the rules set forth in the Cheer Squad Code of Conduct and understand the consequences if I fail to adhere to the rules and regulations. I will commit myself to attending all practices, fund-raisers, performances, and will always strive to have a positive attitude. I will respect my coach and fellow team members at all times. I understand this elite position of McMath Middle School is an honor and will uphold my responsibilities as a member.

_______________________________________________

Student Signature Date

CHEER SQUAD CODE OF CONDUCT CONTRACT

I understand and consent to the responsibilities outlined in the Districts Student Code of Conduct/Discipline Management Plan. I also understand and agree that my child, ______________________, shall be held accountable for the behavior and consequences outlined in the Student Code of Conduct/Discipline Management Plan at school, and at school-sponsored or school-related activities. This shall include school-sponsored travel and any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location.

Students involved in extracurricular activities are held to a higher standard of conduct. DISD views participation in extracurricular activities as a privilege, not a right. I understand that any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct/Discipline Management Plan shall be subject to disciplinary action. This includes any misconduct, regardless of time or location that would reflect upon representing DISD in an extracurricular activity. Students involved in a major disciplinary infraction will be removed temporarily or permanently from extracurricular activities.

_____________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

____________________________________________________________

Student SignatureDate

Appendix C: Middle School Stunt Guidelines

Coaches Safety: American Association Cheerleading Coaches & Administrators (AACCA) Training

Use school cheer budget to pay for ($80.00). Training good for 3 years. Attend UCA or NCA camp with cheerleader to receive training every year. Parents sign Informed Consent and Acknowledgement Agreement.

Basic Stunts: Stunts will be limited to 2 persons high (2 bases, back spot, and flyer, and front spot if needed). May do stunts standing on thighs and/or shoulders. May do prep/elevator level stunts using a post and/or one foot step in. Single leg stunts (i.e. liberty, heel stretch) at thigh and/or prep level only.

Extended two leg stunts with front and back spot.

Dismount: Dismount from shoulder level. Step off with bases holding hands of flyer, sponge, or cradle.

Must follow stunt and dismount rules. Connection to prep may be with arms using an interlocking or overlapping grip.

Pyramids: Connection may also be with one foot to another person. 1 Extended stunt for every 2 prep/elevator stunts. 1 reload connection sequence per pyramid.

Basket Tosses: Prohibited, no expectations.

Tumbling: Not taught or spotted by school personal or peer. Must be able to do on own in a gym before performing at game. No twisting flips.

Additional (optional): Use safety Mats when learning new stunts. Hire UCA safety to teach technique and stunts.

Information: AACCA Safety Manual www.aacca.org, UCA webpage www.uca.com , NCA webpage www.nca.com

Appendix D: Financial Responsibility

Costs to expect as a cheerleader: This may not be all of the costs incurred during your childs participation as a cheerleader, but it is a general idea. Please note you will get to keep everything you pay for. Payment plans are available for these fees. Please see the payment plan form to choose the best option for you.

Camp Wear and gifts $15

UCA Cheer Day Camp-Summer 2014 (3 days) $150

Game Day Cheer Shirts and Sweatshirt $35

Bow to Toe Package Uniform (shell, skirt, shorts, briefs, sports bra, bow, long sleeve half top, socks, poms, bag, shoes, warm ups) $250

Total Estimate for a cheerleader= $450

Costs to expect as a mascot: This may not be all of the costs incurred during your childs participation as a mascot, but it is a general idea.

UCA Cheer Day Camp (3 days) $145 (optional for mascots but strongly encouraged)

Game Day Cheer Shirt and Sweatshirt $35 +extra $15 bow for females

Mascot uniform (dry clean at the end of school year) $50+

Total Estimate for the mascot=$280

Cost to expect as a manager: $50 (cheer shirt, sweatshirt and bow for females)

Informed Consent and Acknowledgment Agreement

McMath Middle School Cheerleading Program

Coach Name: Kelli HauserYear of program: 2016-2017

Cheerleading is a vigorous, physical activity involving motion, rotation and height in a unique environment and, as such, carries with it a higher than ordinary risk of injury. Be advised that serious catastrophic injury, paralysis or even death could occur particularly if a participant were to land on his/her head, neck, or back.

I/We, __________________, parent and/or legal guardians of ___________________, who is a student at McMath Middle School, voluntarily give my consent for our student to participate in the cheerleading program.

It has been adequately explained to me that cheerleading is an activity which involves airborne inversion of the body and, therefore, has an increased potential for serious injury, paralysis, or even death.

I understand that my daughter/son is required to be in good physical shape and condition and that the activities in which she/he will be asked to participate are strenuous and require physical and athletic agility. It has been fully explained to me that these activities include, but are not necessarily limited to, a variety of gymnastics maneuvers, including somersaults, back handsprings, and aerials; a variety of mounts, tosses, and stunts requiring coordination of more than one participant on the squad. I understand activities will not be confined to any one site or venue throughout the year.

I represent to the school that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, my daughter/son has no physical, medical, or mental disability or other limitation that would restrict her/his ability to fully participate in this activity. I have been informed that my daughter/son must be examined by a physician prior to participation in this activity. I further agree to notify immediately the appropriate school personnel in the event of any change in my daughters/sons health status.

I agree to, and by signing this agreement, release the coaches, advisors, volunteers and staff of McMath Middle School and the Board of Education from any claim of negligence brought forth by myself, my daughter/son, my heirs, executors, and designees, this includes any liability arising from claims for damages for injury to my son/daughter and any claims for loss of damages to her/his property which may arise out of her/his participation in this school sponsored program for the 2014-2015 academic year.

In witness whereof, we have affixed our signatures to this agreement this ____ day of ______, 20____, at McMath Middle School.

_______________________________________________________________________

Parent/guardian signatureDate

_______________________________________________________________________

Parent/guardian signatureDate

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Cheerleader signatureDate

McMath Cheer Squad Candidate Essay Questions Name__________________________

Please answer the following questions in as much detail as you can. Part of the selection process is how these questions are answered. Please write neatly. Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

1. Why do you want to be a cheerleader/mascot/manager?

2. What is your idea of a perfect cheerleader/mascot/manager?

3. What do you think it takes to be a McMath Cheerleader/mascot/manager?

4. Give some examples of how you have shown dedication.

5. Describe how you handle conflict.

6. How would you handle discipline?

7. How will you avoid drama?

8. Describe your personality and your attitude.

9. What is your definition of teamwork and why is it important?

10. What do you do if you dont get your way?

Cheer Squad Health Form

Please PRINT or write legibly

Participants full name:_____________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________ City: ____________________ Zip: _______________

Home phone: ______________ Parents cell Phone: _____________ Work phone: ________________

Email:_____________________________________

Date of birth ____________________ Social Security Number __________________________

Parents/Guardians Name:_________________________________________________

Doctors Name: _____________________ Phone: ____________________________

Preferred Hospital: _________________________________________

Insurance Information: (only fill out information for policies which carry your child)

Fathers Insurance Company: ______________________________________________

Policy Number: _________________________ Phone #: ______________________________

Mothers Insurance Company:___________________________________________

Policy Number: ___________________________ Phone #: ________________________

Emergency Contact: (other than parent/guardian)

Name: ___________________________________________________ Relationship:_________________________________

Home phone: _______________________ Parents cell Phone: ____________________ Work phone: ________________

Health History: (Do you have or have you ever had)

Diabetes Yes No

Tuberculosis Yes No

Heart Disease Yes No

Physical Deformities Yes No

Contact/glasses Yes No

Hernia Yes No

Asthmas Yes No

Dizziness/fainting Yes No

Back Injury Yes No

Speech Defect Yes No

Head Injury Yes No

Convulsion/epilepsy Yes No

Allergies Yes No

Kidney Disease Yes No

Bone/joint Disease Yes No

Chronic Nosebleeds Yes No

Vision problems Yes No

Nervous Disorder Yes No

High Blood Pressure Yes No

Any Medication Yes No

Chronic Illness YesNo

If you answered YES to ANY of these questions, please give a brief history of the problem, date symptoms first occurred, treatment for the problem, etc. You may write on the back of this page if necessary.

____________________________________________________________________________________

It is understood that even though all measures necessary are taken to ensure that all athletes are safe from harm, the possibility of an accident still remains. Neither the UIL (University of Scholastic League) nor Denton ISD assumes any responsibility in case an accident occurs.

If, in the judgment of any representative of the school, the above student should need immediate care and treatment as a result of injury or sickness, I do hereby request, authorize, and consent to such care and treatment as any be given said student by any physician, trainer, nurse, hospital representative from any claim by any person whomsoever on account of such care and treatment of said student.

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Parent/guardian Signature Date

We will also need a Physicians Physical on file with the cheer coach if there isnt one filed with the PE/Athletics office at McMath.