Tilford Elementary
School
436-4728
Vinton-Shellsburg Community Schools
Where Character Counts!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
District
Belief
Statements.......................................................................................................3
Staff.....................................................................................................................
...4
a.
b.
c. Grant Wood Specialist
Building
Expectations............................................................................................
8
a.
Teacher Rights
b.
Student Rights
Bus
Procedures...............................................................................................
8
a.
Basic Guidelines
b. Emergency Bus Routes
c. Ways to
Have a Safe Bus Ride
d.
Consequences for Failing to Follow Safe Bus Riding Rules
Board
Policies...................................................................................................
12
a.
Harassment
b.
Solicitations From Outside
c. Care of School
Property/Vandalism
d. Student Lockers
e. Weapons
f. Search and Seizure
g. Bomb Threat
h. Student Appearance
i.
Animals in the Classroom
j.
Student Attendance (Absence Procedures)
Steps
to follow when Absent
.19
General
Information.........................................................................................
.20
a. Classroom Assignments
b. Visitors/Volunteers
c. Student Visitation
d. Telephone
e. Waiver of Student Fees
f. Cumulative Folders
g. Contact Information
h. Building Emergency/Evacuation
Plans
i.
Inclement Weather Policy
j.
School Delays or Cancellations
k. School Supplies
l.
Teacher Gifts
m. Parties Outside of School
n. Support Services Available
o. Physical Education
Daily
Schedules
.
25
District
Information
...
26
a. 2 hr. early dismissal dates
b. Grades and Report Cards
c.
d. Damage to School Property
e. 504 Plan
Health
Procedures.............................................................................................
.27
a. Illness Procedures
b.
Cleanliness
c.
Health Rooms/Nurse's Office
d.
Health Care Services Provided (GWAEA)
e.
Communicable Diseases
f.
AIDS Precautions
g.
Medication Policy
h.
Lice and Scabies Infestations
i.
Accidents
j.
Emergency Medical Treatment
k. Immunization Requirements
Hot
Lunch
...32
We
Have A
Problem.........................................................................................
..33
Some
Practical Suggestions...................................................................................
.34
Who
to
Contact..................................................................................................
.35
Telephone Directory
...36
Equity.....................................................................................................................
.36
School
Calendar
..37
The mission of the
BELIEF STATEMENTS
1. All
individuals can learn but often at different rates.
2. Every
individual has dignity and worth and deserves fair treatment.
3. Every
individual has physical, mental, emotional, and social needs which must be met.
4. Every
child deserves a caring, secure, and supportive environment.
5. Justice,
honesty, and integrity are essential to the development of the individual and
society.
6. The
academic skills of reading, writing, and mathematics are the foundation of
education.
7. Students
must be prepared to think and make decisions.
8. Good
citizenship results from the effective balance of an individual's rights and
responsibilities.
9. Effort
is essential to achievement.
10. Growth depends on individuals recognizing the need for change
and responding positively to it.
11. Positive attitudes and enthusiasm are
contagious.
12. Students, staff, family, and community should be partners in
education as they experience lifelong learning.
13. Within our organization, total community effort toward a common focus accomplishes success.
TILFORD
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
STAFF ASSIGNMENT
Jim Murray Principal
Sheila Wendel Assoc. Principal/Dir. of Instruction
Sharla Wrage Guidance Counselor
Amy Salger Guidance Counselor
Esther Strong Secretary
Lisa Boeckmann Secretary
Joyce Erickson Lunch Clerk
Nichole Lutz Alt. Kdg. Teacher
Diane Higgins Kdg. Teacher
Sara Manuel Kdg. Teacher
Jane Schminke Kdg. Teacher
Jill Tennyson Kdg. Teacher
Teresa Wilson Kdg. Teacher
Rhonda Barron First Grade Teacher
Tina Martinez-Vasquez First Grade Teacher
Sara Mathis First Grade Teacher
Cherie Neblung First Grade Teacher
Lynette Voss First Grade Teacher
John Frazier Second Grade Teacher
Shirale Hanson Second Grade Teacher
Kim Isbell Second Grade Teacher
Cheryl Jorgensen Second Grade Teacher
Kathy Knutsen Second Grade Teacher
Shelley Haisman Third Grade Teacher
Laurie Hyland Third Grade Teacher
Cindy Karr Third Grade Teacher
Sheri Miller Third Grade Teacher
Sara Patterson Third Grade Teacher
Marty Annis Fourth Grade Teacher
Kim Davis Fourth Grade Teacher
Kristie Davis Fourth Grade Teacher
Danielle Phippen Fourth Grade Teacher
Becky Sturtz Fourth Grade Teacher
Jennifer Heckmann Title I Teacher
Ann Janechek Title I Teacher
Jill Johnson Title I Teacher
Sara Lindmeier Title I Teacher
Erin Gaines ELP Teacher
Pauline Elwick Media Specialist
Steve Arnold Resource Teacher
Sue Bogue Special Education Teacher
Stephanie Francois Special Education Teacher
Lisa Murray Special Education Teacher
Jane Stolen Special Education Teacher
Cara Patterson Special Education Teacher
TILFORD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
(continued)
STAFF ASSIGNMENT
Deb Hesson Reading Coach
Ken Huelman Physical Education Teacher
Mindy McClintock Physical Education Teacher
Amber Hansen Music Teacher
Connie Zenk Music Teacher
Lindsey Otto Art Teacher
Marilyn Yedlik Nurse
Louise Pry Nurse Associate
Andrea Petersen Library Associate
Deb Garbers Teacher Associate
Diane Hesson Teacher Associate
Jeannine Peyton Teacher Associate
Kelly Shipley Teacher Associate
Rosalee Sturtz Teacher Associate
Judy Wood Teacher Associate
Karen Bunge Special Education Associate
Roxann Harms Special Education Associate
Beth Hendryx Special Education Associate
Terese Husnik Special Education Associate
Angie Mullinex Special Education Associate
Jacqie Osborn Special Education Associate
Eileen Timmermans Special Education Associate
Dea Burroughs Head Cook
Barb J.
Anderson Cook
Lottie Evans Cook
Diana Fuller Cook
Melvin Hurst Custodial
John Scriven Custodial
SHELLSBURG ELEMENTARY
STAFF ASSIGNMENT
Shelly Petersen Principal
Sheila Mason Secretary
Robyn Benson Lunch/Secretary
Colleen Dwars Kindergarten (KD)
Nichole Lutz Kindergarten (KL)
Becky Gardemann 1st Grade (1G)
Jodi Hacker 1st Grade (1H)
Angie Hach Second Grade (2H)
Teresa Matheny Second Grade (2M)
Karen Blair Third Grade (3B)
Beth Jensen Third Grade (3J)
Donna Frede Fourth Grade (4F)
Ann Gordon Fifth Grade (5G)
Shelly Patterson Fifth Grade (5P)
Nathanael Brandt Fifth Grade (5B)
Danise Shannon Fifth Grade (5S)
Jaimie Walker Fifth Grade (5W)
Julie Evans Fifth Assoc.
Kelly Pirkl K-2 Title 1
Lisa Dekowski 3-5 Title 1
Steve Arnold 5th gr. Special Education
Angie Shanley K-4 Special Education
Erin Gaines ELP
Denise Moeller
Linda Davenport 5th gr. Special Education
Pauline Elwick Media Specialist
Bernice Fischels Guidance Counselor
SHELLSBURG ELEMENTARY
(continued)
STAFF ASSIGNMENT
Jim Harris Physical Education
Gib Ziemer General Music
Annie Laursen Art
Kim Hambly Nurse
Joan Beatty K-2 Teacher Assoc.
Judy Mumm 3-4 Teacher Assoc.
Lori Werning Computer Lab Assoc.
Jamie Kroupa Media Assoc.
Elaine Schirm BLC Assoc.
Denise Hobbs Custodian
Dean McGowan Night Custodian
Rose Relf Head Cook
Mary Berry Cook
Lisa Vogt Cook
Linda Mahr Dishwasher
Gloria Spencer Dishwasher
GRANT WOOD SPECIALISTS
Tilford/Shellsburg
STAFF ASSIGNMENT
Monique Smith Speech
Katie Soukup Speech
Linea Starkey Occupational Therapist
Nancy Veldhuizen Social Worker - Tilford Elementary
Sandy Lyons Education Consultant
John Bethke AEA Representative Shellsburg Elementary
Emily Thompson Physical Therapist
Barb Roberts School Psychologist
BUILDING EXPECTATIONS
TEACHER RIGHTS
1. To have a classroom that provides a
positive learning environment
2. To determine and request appropriate
behavior from students
3. To ask for help from parents, the principal, and other school
personnel when assistance is needed for a student
STUDENT RIGHTS
1. To be provided with a classroom
atmosphere most conducive to learning
2. To have a teacher who will provide positive support of a
student's appropriate behavior
3. To be provided with a teacher who will help the student limit
his/her inappropriate behavior
To
provide all students the excellent learning climate they deserve, the following
behavioral expectations will be implemented.
The following are ways to encourage Good Learning Habits.
1. Follow directions
2. Stay on task
3.
Raise your hand before speaking
4.
Keep hands, feet, and other objects to yourself
5.
Walk quietly through the hall
6.
Respect others and their property
7. Use appropriate language
BUS
PROCEDURES
BASIC GUIDELINES
All
students who normally ride a bus are expected to do so unless a note or call is
received from parents giving other instructions.
The
safety of every child on our school buses is of great concern to all of
us. Your cooperation is necessary in
emphasizing the need for your child or children to adhere to the following
rules that have been established for the safety of students and the orderly
operation of the bus fleet.
1. Students should be at their pick-up stations
at the established time. School buses
will not wait for students to appear. If
the bus waits for students, the bus will be late all along the route.
2. All pupils shall be received and discharged
from the right front entrance of every school bus and if pupils must cross the
highway, they shall be required to pass in front of the bus, look in both
directions, and proceed to cross the highway only on signal from the bus driver.
3. According to State statutes, pupils may be
picked up or discharged along established regular bus routes only at designated
stations (where bus students reside).
Students who wish to be discharged from the regular route at some place
other than that which has been previously designated, may do so only if the
stop is a designated pick-up on the route.
The pupil must also submit a note to the building principal from the
parents requesting such, before the privilege is granted.
4. Students who wish to ride a bus that is not
their regular means of transportation to and from school must bring a note from
their parent/guardian. This note will
need to be brought to the office to be signed by the principal.
5. In the fall there always seems to be one or
two people who are not aware of the state laws governing school districts and
eligibility of students to be transported.
Chapter
43 of School Rules of Iowa states, that pupils whose residence is within two
miles of the school are ineligible for transportation at public expense. In other words, if you live within two miles
of your child's attendance center or town shuttle you are not eligible for
transportation.
The
misunderstanding seems to occur when a parent of a young child makes
babysitting arrangements at a home which is more than two miles from
school. According to state law, we must
determine transportation eligibility on the basis of a child's home address not
babysitter address. If you live within
two miles of school and your babysitter lives four miles from school, your
child is not eligible for bus transportation even if the bus directly passes
the babysitter's home.
6. In accordance with the State statutes and
Board of Education policies, school buses shall not stop on the highway to pick
up or discharge pupils when traveling to and from extra-curricular
activities. For such trips all students
involved are to be picked up and discharged at one central point.
7. A ruling by the Attorney General prevents a
school bus from loading or unloading students when there is less than 300 feet
visibility because of fog or a snowstorm.
Buses will not be sent out unless there is 300 feet of visibility, we
will plan to delay school opening for up to 2 hours depending on
conditions. Such delays will be
announced on the same stations listed under School Cancellation. If the buses are out and fog suddenly
develops, the drivers will not stop unless there is at least 300 feet of
visibility. If this should be during
morning pick-up, the driver will continue on in to school and parents will be
notified by phone that the bus was unable to stop. During the evening route the bus will stop in
a safe farm yard off the road and wait for conditions to clear before continuing
the routes.
EMERGENCY BUS ROUTES
During time when the country roads are too muddy and soft or too icy for the school buses to travel, emergency routes will be used. These routes will be on hard surface roads only. When emergency routes are followed in the morning, they will also be followed in the afternoon. "Emergency Bus Routes Only" will be announced on WMT, KXEL, KHAK, KOEL, and KRNA radio and KWWL, KGAN, and KCRG TV.
WAYS TO HAVE A SAFE BUS RIDE
1.
Follow driver's directions
2.
Stay in seat, face forward, feet on floor, aisle clear
3.
Do not eat or drink on bus
4. Use 6-inch voices, no cursing or profanity
allowed
5.
Keep hands, feet and objects to oneself
6. Behave in a safe manner at
all times
CONSEQUENCES FOR FAILING TO FOLLOW SAFE BUS RIDING RULES
First
Offense --
The driver verbally warns a student that the unwanted behavior must stop.
Second
Offense --
The driver places a check mark after the student's name and detains the student
at the bus stop to talk to him/her about the unwanted behavior. A bus conduct report form will be completed,
sent home and signed by a parent/guardian in order for bus service to continue
for the student. Building principal will
be notified by phone, in person, or by receiving a copy of the bus report.
Third
Offense --
Driver places a second check mark after student's name. A bus conduct report is completed, sent home
and signed by a parent/guardian. Parent,
student, driver, transportation director, and principal may hold a joint
conference.
Suspension
of student's bus riding privileges may occur.
Fourth
Offense --
Driver places third check mark after student's name. Parents, transportation director, and
building principal are contacted.
Student may be excluded from bus service for an extended period of time.
Please
keep in mind that getting your children to and from school safely is the prime
objective of a bus driver. For safety
reasons, it is necessary for students to respect the privilege of riding a bus
and behaving appropriately. It is
important that you stress to your child/children the importance of following
the procedures stated above. It may be
necessary to immediately impose bus riding restrictions if a student exhibits
severe behavior problems.
BOARD POLICIES
EMPLOYEE TO STUDENT HARASSMENT
School Board Policy #403.7
Harassment of employees and students will not be tolerated in the school district. School district includes school district facilities, school district premises, and non-school property if the employee or student is at any school sponsored, school approved or school related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events where students are under the control of the school district or where the employee is engaged in school business.
Harassment
includes, but is not limited to, racial, religious, national origin, age,
disability and sexual harassment.
Harassment by board members, administrators, employees, parents,
students, vendors, and others doing business with the school district is
prohibited. Employees whose behavior is
found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the investigation
which may result in discipline, up to and including, discharge or other
appropriate action. Other individuals
whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to
appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the superintendent or board.
Sexual
harassment shall include, but not be limited to, unwelcome sexual advances,
requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual
nature when:
submission to such conduct is made
either explicitly or implicitly a term of condition of an individual's
employment;
submission to or rejection of such
conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions
affecting such individual; or
such conduct has the purpose or
effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or
creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.
Other
types of harassment may include, but not be limited to jokes, stories, pictures
or objects that are offensive, tend to alarm, annoy, abuse or demean certain
protected individuals and groups.
Employees
and students who believe they have suffered harassment shall report such
matters to the Level 1 investigator or building principal. Prior to investigations, the Level 1
investigator shall notify the building principal of the complaint. However, claims regarding harassment may also
be reported to the superintendent, who may be the alternate investigator for
harassment complaints.
Approved July 1, 1993
Revised 8/19/96
Revised 8/21/2000
STUDENT-TO-STUDENT
HARASSMENT
School Board Policy #502.12
Harassment
of students by other students will not be tolerated in the school
district. This policy is in effect while
students are on school grounds, school district property, or on property within
the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned and/or
school-operated buses, vehicles or chartered buses; while attending or engaged
in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct
directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school
district.
Harassment prohibited by the school district includes, but is not limited to, harassment on the basis of race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status or disability. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the investigation procedure, which may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.
Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
· Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a students education or of a students participation in school programs or activities;
· Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions affecting the student; or
· Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a students performance of creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.
Sexual harassment as set out above, may include, but is not limited to the following:
· verbal or written harassment or abuse;
· pressure for sexual activity;
· repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications;
· unwelcome touching;
· suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning ones grades, achievements, etc.
Harassment on the basis or race, creed, color, religion, national origin, marital status or disability means conduct of a verbal or physical nature that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students when:
· submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a students education or of a students participation in school program or activities;
· submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions affecting the students; or
· such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a students performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.
Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following:
· verbal, physical or written harassment or abuse;
· repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
· implied or explicit threats concerning ones grades, achievements, etc.;
· demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.
The District will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment. The building principal will be responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging harassment.
Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding is also prohibited. A student who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.
It shall also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the investigator and principals, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy. The superintendent shall also be responsible for organizing training programs for students and employees. The training shall include how to recognize harassment and what to do in case a student is harassed.
Revised
August 21, 2000
SOLICITATIONS FROM OUTSIDE
School Board Policy
Generally,
employees should be free from solicitations at their place of employment. No organization or individuals, including
employees, may solicit or distribute flyers or other materials within school
district facilities or on school district grounds without the approval of the
superintendent.
Approved July 1, 1993
CARE OF SCHOOL
PROPERTY/VANDALISM
School Board Policy #502.2
Students
shall treat school district property with the care and the respect they would
treat their own property. Students found
to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be required
to reimburse the school district. They
may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules
and regulations. They may also be turned
over to local law enforcement authorities.
Approved August 16, 1993
STUDENT LOCKERS
School Board Policy #502.7
Student
lockers are the property of the school district. Students shall use the lockers assigned to
them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongs
necessary for attendance at school. It
shall be the responsibility of each student to keep their assigned lockers
clean and undamaged.
To
ensure students are properly maintaining their assigned locker, the principal
of
the
building may periodically inspect the lockers. Student lockers may be searched
in compliance with board policy regulating search and seizure.
Approved August 16, 1993
Revised August 21, 2000
WEAPONS
School Board Policy #502.8
The board believes weapons and
other and look-a-likes dangerous objects in school district facilities cause
material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a
threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the
school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school
district.
School
district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons or dangerous
objects and look-a-likes. Weapons and
other dangerous objects and look-a-likes shall be taken from students and
others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within
the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the
control of the school district.
Parents
of students found to possess a weapon or dangerous object on school property
shall be notified of the incident.
Confiscation of weapons or dangerous objects shall be reported to the
law enforcement officials, and the student will be subject to disciplinary
action including suspension or expulsion.
Students
bringing a firearm to school shall be expelled for not less than 12
months. The superintendent shall have
the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for a student
on a case-by-case basis. For purposes of
this portion of this policy, the term "firearm" includes any weapon
which is designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the
frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon,
or any explosive, incendiary or poison gas.
Weapons
under the control of law enforcement officials shall be exempt from this
policy. The principal may allow
authorized persons to display weapons or other dangerous objects or
look-a-likes for educational purposes.
Such a display shall also be exempt from this policy. It shall be the responsibility of the
superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative
regulations regarding this policy.
Approved August 16, 1993
Revised October 17, 1994
Revised August 21, 2000
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
School Board Policy #502.10
School
district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a
search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a
reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, rule,
regulation or law has been violated. The
search shall be in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and
discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the
safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district
facilities. The furnishing of a locker,
desk or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy
to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, shall not create a
protected student area and shall not give rise to an expectation of privacy
with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility.
School
authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials
discovered in the search. Items of
contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled
substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for
controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, weapons, explosives,
poisons and stolen property. Such items are
not to be possessed by a student while they are on school district property or
on property within the jurisdiction of the school district: while on school
owned and/or operated school or chartered buses; while attending or engaged in
school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will
directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school
district. Possession of such items will
be grounds for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion and may be
reported to local law enforcement officials.
The board believes that such illegal, unauthorized or contraband
materials cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment
or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or
visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of
the school district.
It
shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the
principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Approved August 16, 1993
Revised August 21, 2000
BOMB THREAT
School Board Policy #804.6
As
soon as a bomb threat is reported to the administration, the school district
facility should be cleared immediately.
A thorough search will be made by the appropriate school district, city,
or county officials. Employees and
students shall remain outside the school district facility until it is
determined that the danger no longer exists.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to file a report or keep a report of each incident for the school district records.
Approved August 16, 1993
STUDENT APPEARANCE
School Board Policy #502.1
The
board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial
disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and
safety of students, employees, and visitors on school property or on property
within the jurisdiction of the school district.
Students
are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are
compatible with the requirement of a good school environment. Those standards generally acceptable to the
community as appropriate in a formal school setting will be the reference
criterion.
The
board expects students to be clean and well groomed and wear clothes in good
repair and appropriate for the time, place and purpose intended. Clothing or other apparel promoting products
illegal for use by minors; clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or
reference to subversion; and headwear, are disallowed. While the primary responsibility for
appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to
the education program will not be tolerated.
When, in the judgment of a principal, a students appearance or mode of
dress disrupts the educational process, or constitutes a threat to health or
safety, the student may be required to make modifications.
It
shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the
principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Approved August 16, 1993
ANIMALS IN THE CLASSROOM
School Board Policy #606.5
Live
animals will not be allowed in school district facilities except under special
circumstances and must be present for an educational purpose. Permission from the principal will be
required of anyone wishing to bring an animal into school district
facilities. Appropriate supervision of
animals is required when animals are brought into the school district
facilities.
The
person bringing the animal must furnish transportation for the animal brought
to school. Animals will not be allowed
to travel to and from the student's attendance center on the school bus.
It
shall be the responsibility of the building principal to determine appropriate
supervision of animals in the classroom.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE
School Board Policy #501.3
Parents
within the school district who have children over age six by September 15, in
proper physical and mental condition to attend school, shall have the children
attend the school district at the attendance center designated by the
board. Students shall attend school the
number of days school is in session in accordance with the school calendar.
Approved 8/16/93
STEPS TO FOLLOW
WHEN ABSENT
The policy of the school is
that parents are to call the school by 9:00 AM on the day of the absence. This is done for a number of reasons,
including good school attendance practices, missing or lost children checks,
and classroom management and work assignments.
1. Please
call your child's school by 9:00 AM.
If we do not receive a call notifying us of the reason for your child's
absence, we will call your home to verify the absence; it is a BIG help to us
if you can save us a call and we appreciate your cooperation! Some days we have so many children absent that
with incoming calls too, we are unable to call you in a timely manner.
2. If your child has been diagnosed with an
infectious disease, such a strep throat, chickenpox, head lice, etc., we
appreciate a call notifying us of same so that we may send letters home to
alert parents of the other children in your child's classroom.
3. Students need to check with their teacher
about school work they may have missed.
Some recesses or free time may need to be used to make up the work.
4. For absences due to reasons other than illness or the death of a relative or friend, the school is to be contacted prior to the absence.
5.
If your child is late to school parents MUST bring the student into the
office to sign the student in and to receive a slip admitting them to class.
6. Students absent from school due to illness
will not be permitted to attend school sponsored events that evening.
STUDENTS LEAVING SCHOOL BEFORE DISMISSAL
TIME
To
be excused during school hours, a child must bring a personal note, or we must
have a call from a parent stating the reason for the absence. An early dismissal slip must be completed at
the office and taken by the parent to the child's teacher. The child must be signed out in the
office. Children are not to be released from
school before time at the request of anyone other than the child's parent or
guardian. Parents having total custody rights who do not wish to have the
non-custodial parent take the child from school must leave a copy of the court
order with the school district.
When
arriving late due to a doctor or dentist appointment, etc., the parent should
bring the child to the office so that a slip may be completed indicating the
reason for arriving late, as well as the time of arrival. Your child should take this slip to his/her
teacher. In order to keep accurate
attendance records, it is important that this procedure be followed.
STUDENT DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
Students
not following their usual dismissal routine must have a note indicating
where they are to go and how they will get there. If the teacher does not have a note, they
will be sent home following their usual routine.
GENERAL INFORMATION
CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENTS
As the 2007-2008 school year nears completion, the elementary staff will begin making plans for the next school year. One of the items that we will be working on is class lists for the 2008-2009 school year. The following will be considered when making class assignments for the next school year:
1. The number of boys and girls in each classroom
2. The number of Title I students per classroom
3. The number of Special Ed students per classroom
4. The number of Expanded Learning Program (ELP) students per classroom
5. Students that need to be separated for various reasons
The staff will try to develop classrooms of children that will function in the best manner possible. There will always be some students that, through mutual agreement, require a specific teacher and we have tried to address those needs in our grouping process.
Many
times elementary schools are pressured by parents to place (or not to place) a
student in a particular class or with a particular teacher. The philosophy on student placement is that
parents have a right to request
student placement, but the principal has the ultimate responsibility for making
placement decisions.
If
you would like to request a particular teacher (or not have a particular
teacher) for the 2008-2009 school year, you will need to file a written request in the
principals office. Your request will
require justifiable reasons for requesting the placement. Placement based on the assumption that a
certain teacher is better than another will not be considered a justifiable
reason. We believe all of our staff
members are competent and caring teachers.
The final decision for placement will rest with the elementary principal. Once class lists are developed there will not be any changes next fall when class lists are announced at student registration unless adjustments need to be made to balance class size.
VISITORS/VOLUNTEERS
The
elementary staff extends a cordial invitation to parents to visit their child's
room anytime except during the first month and the last month of school, or
the week before large holidays, such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter. If possible, we would appreciate your calling
the school the day before your visitation. When you do visit we would appreciate it if
you would limit your stay to a short one rather than visiting for the whole
day. Parents visiting/volunteering
should make alternative arrangements for non-school age children.
When
parents or visitors come to our school, please stop in the office first to sign
in and receive visitor identification.
We ask that you sign out as you leave.
OPEN
HOUSE is scheduled each academic year.
We invite you to take this opportunity to tour the buildings and learn
more about your child's learning environment.
STUDENT VISITATION
When
a parent volunteers as a chaperone on a field trip, alternative care should be
made for preschool children. Children of
school age who may be visiting in your home may visit the classroom for a short
time if accompanied by an adult.
Arrangements need to be made prior to the day of the visit. If you wish to visit your child during lunch,
an alternative space may be provided for you.
Please refrain from bringing in restaurant food and pop for yourself and
your child.
TELEPHONE
Students
are not allowed to call home without the teacher's or principal's
permission. Phone use should be limited
to special needs and to receive permission to stay after school to help the
teacher or to do work.
WAIVER
OF STUDENT FEES
Students
whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the
Family Investment Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI),
transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are
eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived. Students whose families are experiencing a temporary
financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student
fees. Parents or students who believe
they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the principal
or secretary at registration time for a waiver form. This waiver does not carry over from year to
year and must be completed annually.
CUMULATIVE FOLDERS
Parents
may view the contents of their child's cumulative folder in the presence of the
building principal. Contact the building
office to set up an appointment.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Parents are responsible for contacting the school when contact information changes. Make sure you call the office immediately if phone numbers, addresses, daycare providers, or you change employment occur. It is critical to have these numbers as emergencies can arise with your student at any time.
BUILDING EMERGENCY/EVACUATION PLAN
Should there ever be a fire or other emergency requiring the evacuation of students, the following plan will be used:
SHELLSBURG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
K-4 students walk to:
5th graders walk
to: Masonic Lodge
Buses
will transport students who normally ride the bus from these locations. If your child walks home he/she will be
allowed to walk from these areas and if your child is usually picked up, they
will need to be picked up at the above listed locations.
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY
Children
will continue to go outside for recesses even in cold weather. Parents should see that children are properly
dressed for adequate protection from the wet and cold weather. Children are not permitted to play in the
rain.
If the
temperature is 0 degrees F or colder,
children will remain inside. Wind
chill factor will also be considered.
The teacher on recess duty or the principal will make the decision to
cancel recess periods outside.
Parents,
if you wish for your child to remain inside for recess because of illness,
please send a note to let the teacher know.
SCHOOL DELAYS OR CANCELLATIONS
School delays or cancellations will be announced on the following radio and TV stations: KCRG (9), KWWL (7) and KGAN (2) television stations and Shellsburg and Vinton Cable stations. WMT (AM/FM), KQMG, KHAK, KDAT, KRNA, KZIA, KXEL, KOEL (AM/FM) and KCCK radio stations. You may also call the Vinton-Shellsburg information line 472-4728 push 6.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
A list of school supplies will be available
at registration. For elementary students
all clothing, school bags, and shoes need to be marked with their name.
TEACHER GIFTS
We discourage gifts to teachers from students. A gift of a game or book for the classroom might be an alternative way of showing support. A letter of appreciation to the teacher would also be meaningful.
PARTIES OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL
No invitations will be exchanged at school. Contacts and invitations to personal parties are to be handled privately outside of school unless all children in the class are receiving an invitation.
SUPPORT SERVICES AVAILABLE
Additional support services are available to assist teachers when concerns arise with students. These services include our building staff, (special education teachers, counselor, nurse, health secretary, etc.) and Grant Wood Area Education Agency support staff, (psychologist, social worker, consultant, speech-language
pathologist, occupational and physical therapist, work experience coordinators and others). Grant Wood Agency support staff are an important part of our team. They often assist with students who are struggling academically or behaviorally. They assist with developing supplemental and intensive assistance plans. They also may visit classrooms to observe and work with students. Of course, no educational placement decisions are made without parent input. Teachers and families may use input on an informal basis or request formal assistance in identifying strategies to address a concern, in carrying out these strategies, or in monitoring individual student progress. These services are available for all students through teacher or parent request. Working together, we can provide the best education possible for all of our children.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
If students are unable to participate in
physical education class due to an illness or injury they should not go out for
recess. It seems reasonable that if a
student is too ill or injured to participate in physical education class he/she
should not risk additional illness by participating in physical activity during
recess.
Procedures for handling P.E. excuses are as
follows:
1. All medical excuses written by parents will
be referred to the school nurse. She will
make the judgement as to level of participation, if any, for that day.
2. The nurse will use her judgment and call
parents as she feels it necessary to verify the situation.
3. A doctor's note for extended illness or
injury will be required.
SCHEDULES
STANDARD DAILY SCHEDULE
STUDENTS SHOULD NOT ARRIVE BEFORE 7:50 A.M.
7:45
A.M. -- students have the option of breakfast or playground
8:15
A.M. -- students to their classroom (unless they are at breakfast)
8:05 A.M. -- TARDY BELL Doors will be locked after 8:15 except glass doors by
principal office
3:10
P.M. pick up students
3:20
P.M. bus and walkers dismissed
STANDARD EARLY DISMISSAL SCHEDULE
There
are several early dismissals scheduled during the 2004-05 school year for
teacher inservice. The buses will leave
Tilford at 1:30 P.M. on those dates, so the dismissal times for West are as
follows:
1:10 Shuttle
bus and town students
1:20 Country
students
SHELLSBURG
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
STANDARD
DAILY SCHEDULE
STUDENTS SHOULD NOT ARRIVE BEFORE 7:45 AM.
7:45-8:15
-- Breakfast/Playground
8:20
-- Entry
8:30
-- Tardy Bell - Doors will be locked at 8:30 except doors by the office.
3:00
-- Vinton students dismissed
Shellsburg 5th Graders in study hall/PAL program
3:20
-- All town students dismissed
3:35
-- Bus students dismissed
STANDARD
EARLY DISMISSAL SCHEDULE
1:00
-- Vinton 5th Graders dismissed
Shellsburg 5th Graders in study hall/PAL program
1:20
-- All town students dismissed
1:40
-- Bus students dismissed
DISTRICT INFORMATION
Scheduled 2hr. early
dismissal dates are as follows:
Aug. 27, 28, Oct. 11, Nov. 20, 29, Dec. 6, 21, Jan. 17,
Feb.29, Mar. 6, 10, April 17, May 30.
GRADES
Report
card marking will vary depending on the grade level and will be explained on
the report cards.
REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS
There
are three grading periods each consisting of twelve weeks.
Report
cards will be sent home with the students at the end of each trimester.
MEDIA CENTER
EXPECTATIONS
It
is very important for the media center to have an atmosphere in which studying
or pleasure reading can take place. This
atmosphere can be achieved by each person respecting the rights of every other
person.
Ψ
The student will come to the media center with the teacher's
permission.
Ψ
The student may borrow books and magazines for a period of two weeks.
Ψ
Books may be taken home, but students may lose this privilege if they
lose or are careless with them.
Ψ
Students should not shelve books when returning them to the media
center. The media center staff will
shelve all returned books and equipment.
Ψ
It will be the responsibility of the student to properly care for
material that is borrowed from the center.
Ψ
If material has become
damaged or lost, the student will be responsible for payment of part or all of
the original cost of the material.
Ψ
Reference books need to be available at all times for teachers and
student use; therefore check at the desk for limited borrowing.
The
media center staff is anxious to assist each student in becoming an independent
user of the media center.
DAMAGE
TO SCHOOL PROPERTY
School equipment, furniture, books, etc. are provided for the childrens use. It is the responsibility of each child and parent to care for books and equipment used. Should a child fail to care for books issued to him/her or misuse school property in any way, he/she will be required to pay for the damage. Books lost or significantly damaged during the first year will be replaced at full replacement cost. Damage to books over one year old will be charged at a prorated basis. Final charge will be determined by the administration.
We
want children to use school equipment.
Furniture, books, and other materials are intended to be used. This is an excellent opportunity to teach
respect for public property.
504 PLAN
Section
504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires the
Questions
regarding the district's 504 Plan may be directed to any of the building
administrators or to the Superintendent.
HEALTH PROCEDURES
ILLNESS
OR INJURIES
If children have a note that indicates they may not participate in physical education due to illness or injury, they will be expected to not participate in recess for the same period of time.
CLEANLINESS
We
expect students to come to school clean and well groomed.
HEALTH ROOMS/NURSE'S OFFICE
The
school maintains a health room/nurse's office in each building. Cots are provided for the emergency care of
accident victims and for the care of sick children until their parents can be
contacted and the child taken home.
The
purpose of these rules is to prevent the spread of disease.
Children who are obviously
ill should not be sent to school. A child's
temperature should remain normal for 24 hours without the use of Tylenol before
returning to school. A child who is
taking medication to reduce a fever, should not be sent to school. A child who has a temperature of 100°F or higher will be sent
home. A child who has vomited or has
had diarrhea within the last 24 hours should not be sent to school.
If
your child has been hospitalized and will be returning to school, it is policy
to have a doctors note/release upon their return.
An
emergency card for each grade school child is kept on file in the school health
room/nurse's office. This card contains
such information as: name of parent, address of parent, telephone number, and
the name of the family or preferred doctor.
Therefore, it is especially important to keep the school informed of any
changes in telephone, address, employment, etc. so that we may contact the
appropriate person in a timely manner.
HEALTH CARE SERVICES PROVIDED (GWAEA)
Annual Grant Wood Area
Education Agency Hearing Screening Parent Notification Policy
Grant
Wood Area Education Agency will be providing a hearing test for your child
during the upcoming year. Routine
screening is performed in grades K, 1, 2, and 5. Students in other grades may be tested if
there is a known history of ear problems or if the student is new to the
school.
The
school calendar will indicate when testing is to be done. Parents
who do not want their child tested will need to indicate in writing to the
school. The school will then notify
the Grant Wood audiologist of your request.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Students
exhibiting symptoms of possible communicable diseases are reported to the
school nurse. Each case is treated
according to school guidelines with length of exclusion from school variable
with the specific disease. Please
contact the school if your child is treated for a communicable disease such as
strep throat, scabies, or head lice.
This will alert us of other cases in the school and enable us to take
preventative action to stop the spread of the disease.
AIDS PRECAUTION
To
provide for the safety and protection of our students and staff, we have
initiated several precautionary measures.
The
staff is prepared for emergency situations involving blood by having gloves,
washcloths and disposable plastic bags in every classroom. The recess personnel also are equipped with
supplies for any injuries that may occur on the playground.
MEDICATION POLICY
If
your physician has prescribed medication for your child that must be taken
during school hours, the school nurse or trained office personnel will see that
your child receives the medication. In
order to give prescription medication, the medication must be in the original
container, stating the childs name, medication name and dosage. Also A PERMISSION SLIP MUST BE SIGNED BY THE
DOCTOR AND THE PARENT/GUARDIAN.
Medication permission slips are available in the nurses office. No medication will be given without written
permission. This included aspirin,
Ibuprofen, Tylenol, antacids and cough drops.
If you would like your child to have pain relievers, antacids, cough
drops and/or any other over-the-counter medications at school, you must send a
supply to school with your childs name clearly written on the
package/container. You must also send a
signed note indicating how much of the medication is to be given and for what
condition; for example: (name of student) may have one Tylenol tablet
as needed for a headache. The school
does not supply any of these medications.
For
prescription medication, most pharmacists will provide you with an extra
container for any medication that needs to be taken during school hours. The policy for grades K-2 is that an adult should bring the
medication directly to the nurses office.
If the directions make it possible for parents to administer the
medication at home, it would be extremely helpful to the school if you would do
so.
If
there are any changes to the original prescription, we must have a written or
verbal order from the parent or prescribing physician providing us with the
proper information. We feel that extra
caution is warranted when it comes to administering medication to your child,
and we thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Ψ In the event of a late start, medications routinely
given @ 8:00, will not be given, unless permission to do so has been received
from the parents. This can be done
through a phone call or note, giving permission to give the med at a later
time. This will alleviate confusion
& possible over-medication of the student.
LICE AND SCABIES INFESTATIONS
Upon
receiving notice of suspected cases, the school nurse examines the child to
confirm the report. If confirmed, each
child in that classroom and siblings will also be checked. If a large number of cases are confirmed, a
school-wide check will be done. All
students with confirmed cases will be sent home with a note explaining
treatment (lice) or a medical referral (scabies). If a school age child becomes infested, the
child should be kept home and given proper treatment. He/she must be free of infestation before
returning to school. It is the school's
policy to have all nits removed and that the child be checked by the school
nurse upon returning to school.
Re-admission to school will be allowed 24 hours after treatment (or with
a note from a physician). Repeat
treatment is recommended in 7-10 days.
Rechecks of infested students are conducted at 1,2, and 3 week intervals.
ACCIDENTS
The
school will administer first aid to all minor injuries. In case of a major injury, parents will be
contacted and emergency care will be given.
If
parents cannot be located and the school feels that the child needs immediate
medical attention, the doctor listed on the child's emergency card will be
called. Every effort will be made to
contact the parents or emergency number.
Please notify the office of any changes, such as new employment,
emergency and sitter's number.
Responsibility
for reporting the accident will rest upon the injured person, the teacher who
is on playground duty at the time of the accident, and upon anyone who may have
witnessed or received a report of it.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT
There
may be instances throughout the school year when children will be injured and
it would be wise to seek the help of a doctor immediately. It is possible that this could happen to your
child and you not be available by telephone to secure permission for treatment. Therefore, we would like to have your written
consent on file so there will be no delay in receiving treatment. This form is for your convenience and your
child's benefit.
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
Children
must have at least 3 DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus), Polio shots (of
which the last one must be given after age 4) and 2 MMR (Measles, Mumps and
Rubella) shots. The first dose shall
have been given after 15 months of age.
The second dose shall have been received at least 30 days after the
first dose. Three doses of Hep. B vaccination are required.
One
dose of Varicella vaccine (Chickenpox) is required for children with a date of
birth on or after September 15, 1997. A
medical waiver does not need to be filled out if the child has had the disease. On the immunization certificate simply write
that the child is immune because he/she has had history of the disease.
HOT LUNCH PROGRAM
Students will be served the menu for the day with the exception of those with special dietary needs due to a medical condition. These needs should be in writing and given to the school nurse or principal who will relay the information to the building head cook. Milk will be served with all hot lunches unless we are otherwise notified in writing from a doctor.
Please note that if your child has a negative lunch balance of more that $5.00, he/she may only receive a peanut butter sandwich and milk until their account returns to a positive balance.
If you would like to eat lunch with your child, please notify the school the day before or early the same day you plan to eat.
WE HAVE A PROBLEM
A Parent's Guide for Solving
Problems at School
(Vinton-Shellsburg Community Schools)
Unfairness,
misunderstanding, hurt feelings, and conflict are experiences common to us all.
We
recognize the special pain that parents feel when their children experience
these problems in school and the difficulties that children, parents, and
school staff face as they try to overcome these problems.
How
to successfully solve problems at school is what this guide is all about.
STEP ONE
Take your concern to the
person closest to the problem.
No
matter where the problem is, take your concerns there first. Whether in the classroom, on the bus, or on
the practice field, the quickest and easiest solution can usually be found with
the staff member most directly involved.
Sometimes
this approach just isn't possible or leads to an unsatisfactory conclusion;
then what?
STEP TWO
Present your concern to the
next level.
Building principals, and the director of transportation are examples of the next level of school personnel to contact. Their interest in your problem will be increased if you share with them the steps you've already taken with the person closest to the situation, or if you will take the time to openly share with them the reasons why you feel uncomfortable dealing directly with the person who's closest to the problem.
STEP THREE
Talk
with the superintendent of schools.
Sometimes all the best intentions can't solve a
problem. When you believe you've worked
hard with those closest to the problem, and you've taken the problem to the
next level but still haven't achieved a satisfactory outcome, the
superintendent of schools is the next place to go.
Keep
in mind that the superintendent's day starts early and often ends late in the
evening. Part of the superintendent's
job requires attendance at area-wide meetings outside the district. As a consequence, a meeting with the superintendent
will probably require some advance planning.
STEP FOUR
Contact your school board
members.
School
board members are elected to represent the interest of all parents and district
residents, and you should always feel free to tell them your point of
view. School board members do not,
however, have authority in day-to-day school operations.
So
when should a board member be contacted and what can they do?
Contact
a board member....
after
other means to solve a problem have been tried
when
a policy is being enforced but you believe it results in bad consequences
when
you believe a policy isn't being enforced
when
policies or procedures are not enforced fairly for all
The
board member may take one or all of the following actions:
informally
discuss the issue with the superintendent or other administrators
request
that the board review the specific policies that relate to the situation
propose
new policies for the board's consideration
The
laws of the State of
SOME PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS
Don't be a stranger.
Make time to talk with school
personnel regularly. Know who your
children's teachers, bus drivers, and coaches are and how they may be
contacted.
Communicate concerns quickly
and openly.
Get
concerns out in the open early. The
problem you or your child faces may be the result of an oversight or
misunderstanding that can be easily rectified once it is brought to the
attention of the appropriate school personnel.
Give everyone a chance to
understand your concern.
If
you call for an appointment to see the person involved, why not let them know
in advance what the general nature of your concern is? This gives them a chance to reflect on it
before the appointment and ask other staff members for information that might
relate to your problem or concern. If a
personal visit isn't possible, why not call once to state the problem, and during
that conversation, offer to call back at a time when you can both discuss the
situation in more detail?
Be careful sharing
frustrations with your children.
A
unified team of parent and teacher provides the most effective educational
experience. Use caution when sharing
frustrations regarding school with your children so that a temporary problem
does not permanently alter the student's perception of teamwork between school
and home.
WHO TO CONTACT
CONFERENCING WITH A TEACHER
All
students will be provided with a scheduled, personal parent-teacher conference
during the fall and spring. Our
elementary schools strive for 100% attendance by families. Due to being limited to the number of
conference slots available, divorced or separated parents may not necessarily
be provided with separate conferences.
In the event that the family is unable to attend, a rescheduled date and
time will be provided.
You
may contact any teacher in the district by calling their building. Teachers are often available to come directly
to the phone at 8:00 AM or at 3:30 PM.
At other times leave a voice mail message and your call will be returned
as soon as possible.
A current list of board members can be obtained from the superintendents
secretary by calling 436-4728 ext.9102.
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Tilford
Elementary Shellsburg
Elementary
Jim
Murray, Principal Shelly
Petersen, Principal
436-4728
ext. 9200 436-4728
ext. 9500
Mike
Timmermans, Principal Jay
Pedersen, Principal
436-4728
ext. 9400 436-4728
ext. 9300
Superintendent's
Office Transportation
Dr. Randy Braden, Supt. Keith McGowan, Director
436-4728
ext. 9101 472-3118
Building & Grounds
Les
Bearbower, Director
472-5415
Director
of Instructional Services
Sheila
Wendel
436-4728
ext. 9205
Food
Service & Nutrition
Karen
Ackman, Director
436-4728
ext. 9338
EQUITY
The