Newbury Elementary School
Student-Parent Handbook
2007-2008
Janis R. Gingerich, Principal
(440) 564-2282
Fax: (440)-564-9690
Richard A Wagner, Superintendent
(440) 564-5501
Fax: (440)-564-9460
Within a stimulating and compassionate environment, it is the mission of the Newbury Local Schools to challenge our students to graduate as lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible community members.
Integrity
We will provide an honest, truthful and ethical environment.
We will create an environment based on treating others in a manner in which we wish to be treated
We recognize the importance of enthusiasm, dedication and determination in upholding the high standards of the Newbury Local Schools.
We encourage mutual support, teamwork, and shared responsibility among students, staff, parents, and the community.
We recognize that all students can learn and that each student is unique – possessing varying abilities and potentials.
We will provide a superior education enabling students to achieve at the highest potential.
Newbury Elementary School
14775 Auburn Road Newbury, Ohio 44065
(440) 564-2282 Fax: (440) 564-9690 Janis R. Gingerich, Principal
Welcome to Newbury Elementary School.
Students: Welcome to you who are coming to Newbury Elementary School whether you are joining us for the first time or are returning. We are all excited to get to know each of you better very soon.
Change in each new school year is anticipated. You have new teachers and new classmates. You are different just by being older. A new school year is a sign of growing up.
Parents and Guardians: Learning and growing up is a cooperative and collaborative process that is much more successful for the student when the adults work together for the overall good of the students. Please do not hesitate to call me if you have a question or concern, and if I have a concern related to your child, I will call you.
School is one of the places for learning the skills and acquiring the knowledge students will need as they grow and mature. Honoring this serious commitment, we, the Newbury Elementary Staff, expect each child to come to school with an attitude that says, “My education is extremely important to me, not just today, but for the rest of my life. I want to be the best so I must give and act my best.”
It is expected that students will follow all school rules and procedures. It is also important that parents and school staff will work to support each other to provide the students of NES with an educational year filled with accomplishments and achievements.
JRG
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Arrival & Starting Times....................................................................................................................... 8
Attendance/Anticipated Absences…………………………………………………………………….12-14
Bicycles, Skateboards, and ATV”S....................................................................................................... 23
Bus Rules............................................................................................................................................... 23
Bus Transportation............................................................................................................................... 11
Cafeteria Rules....................................................................................................................................... 19
Child Custody....................................................................................................................................... 9
Classroom Rules.................................................................................................................................... 19
Clothing – Dress Code........................................................................................................................... 9-10
Code of Conduct.................................................................................................................................... 17-18
Computer Usage Policy......................................................................................................................... 27-29
Confidentiality…………………………………………………………………………………………9
Core Values……………………………………………………………………………………………2
Dangerous Weapons.............................................................................................................................. 21-22
Dismissal - During School Day............................................................................................................. 12
Dismissal – To Parents at End of School Day...................................................................................... 11-12
Emergency Card/Forms......................................................................................................................... 9
Entrance Requirements.......................................................................................................................... 8
Fees........................................................................................................................................................ 14
Field Trips/Exclusion From................................................................................................................... 24
Fine Art Classes.................................................................................................................................... 24
Gifted Information / Special Education................................................................................................. 24-25
Goals...................................................................................................................................................... 6-8
Grading Procedures................................................................................................................................ 16
Harassment/Sexual Harassment/Hazing/Bullying.................................................................................. 19-20
Health Services/Notes............................................................................................................................ 29
Homework............................................................................................................................................. 16-17
Honor Roll…………………………………………………………………………………….……….16
Insurance................................................................................................................................................ 31
Invitations…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19
Library/Book Policy.............................................................................................................................. 26
Lice Infestation...................................................................................................................................... 31
Lost & Found........................................................................................................................................ 26
Make-up Work……………………………………………………………………………………….. 14
Medication Policy................................................................................................................................. 30
Medication Forms................................................................................................................................. 34-35
Newbury Elementary School Mission Page.......................................................................................... 6
Newbury Local School District/Board/Administration……………………………………………….33
Parent / Child Agreement....................................................................................................................... 36
Parking................................................................................................................................................... 9
Philosophy............................................................................................................................................ 6
Physical Education................................................................................................................................ 25
Promotion & Retention Policy.............................................................................................................. 14-16
Pupil Progress........................................................................................................................................ 16
Purpose.................................................................................................................................................. 6
PTO/Board…………………………………………………………………………………………….32
Recess, Outside/Inside........................................................................................................................... 10-11
Records.................................................................................................................................................. 9
School Closing-Emergency/Weather...................................................................................................... 25-26
School Compact……………………………………………………………………………………….26-27
School Student Property....................................................................................................................... 23
Searches-Locker, Desk, & Student (School Student Property).............................................................. 24
Suspension/Expulsion............................................................................................................................ 22
Telephone Use by Students.................................................................................................................. 26
Visitations.............................................................................................................................................. 14
Welcome…………………………………………………………….………………………………… 3
Wellness………………………………………………………………………………………………..31
2007-2008
Mrs. Gingerich, Principal
Mr. Sterlekar, Guidance Counselor/Testing Coordinator
Ms. Munn, Kindergarten Teacher-Half Day Program
Mrs. Miller, Kindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Berger, Grade 1 Teacher
Mrs. May, Grade 1 Teacher
Mrs. Stefancin, Grade 3 Teacher
Mrs. Wurster, Grade 3 Teacher
Mrs. Baker, Grade 4 Teacher
Mrs. Jackson, Grade 4 Teacher
Mrs. Vartola, Grade 4 Teacher
Mr. Fitz, Grade 5 Teacher
Mrs. Michaels, Grade 5 Teacher
Mrs. Morris, Grade 5 Teacher
Mr. Cataldo, Grade 6 Teacher
Mrs. Ewing, Grade 6 Teacher
Mrs. Fletcher, Grade 6 Teacher
Mrs. Andler, Physical Education Teacher
Mrs. Chernesky, Special Education
Ms. Proctor, Music Teacher
Mrs. Scheer, Librarian
Mrs. Church, Art Teacher
Mrs. Yehl, Special Education
Mrs. Lee, Title I Tutor
Ms. Price, Title 1 Teacher
Ms. Parker, Speech Pathologist
Within a stimulating and compassionate environment, it is the mission of the Newbury Local Schools to challenge our students to graduate as lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible community members.
Newbury Elementary School provides opportunities for every student to learn. Each individual is exposed to a stimulating education program and learning environment including social and cultural experiences to encourage an appreciation of our American heritage and democratic rights and privileges.
The Newbury Elementary School program offers students opportunities for continuous and sequential learning experiences. These experiences are designed to encourage desirable cognitive and affective changes as well as promote a success-oriented environment that fosters an atmosphere of positive interaction within the school and community.
Through a child-centered education, the physical, social and emotional growth of each student is developed. Mental development and self worth are nurtured. It is our ideal that each child will develop a positive self-image, enabling him/her to continue the learning process and become a responsible member of our democratic society. Students are encouraged to assume responsibility for their actions, develop an awareness of career opportunities, and embrace the process of life-long learning.
Newbury Elementary School provides a child-centered learning environment that encourages each student’s personal growth and ability to master basic skills. School programs are developed to fulfill the academic, emotional, social, and physical needs of students, allowing them to grow as individuals. There are opportunities for students to learn how to be contributing citizens in our democratic society, to become aware of career opportunities, and develop a sense of responsibility for their actions. Newbury Elementary School fosters an atmosphere of positive interaction within the school, and between the school and community.
I. To gain a general basic education
A. Develop background and skills in the use of language and numbers.
B. Develop background and skills in the natural sciences, geography and history.
C. Develop a fund of information and concepts.
D. Develop special interests and abilities.
II. To develop skills in reading, writings, mathematics, speaking and listening
A. Develop ability to communicate ideas and feelings effectively.
B. Develop skills in oral language and written composition.
C. Develop skills in mathematical computation.
III. To learn how to examine and use information in the areas of science and social studies
A. Develop ability to examine constructively and creatively.
B. Develop ability to use scientific methods
C. Develop reasoning abilities.
D. Develop skills to think and proceed logically.
IV. To practice, and understand the ideas of health and safety
A. Establish an effective, individual physical fitness program.
B. Develop an understanding of good physical health and well being.
C. Establish sound personal health habits and information.
D. Develop a concern for public health and safety.
V. To develop pride in work and a feeling of self worth
A. Develop a feeling of student pride in achievement and progress.
B. Develop self-understanding and self-awareness.
C. Develop the student’s feeling of positive self-worth, security and self-assurance.
VI. To learn how to be a good citizen in a democratic society
A. Develop an awareness of civic rights and responsibilities.
B. Develop attitudes for productive citizenship in a democracy.
C. Develop an attitude of respect for personal and public property.
D. Develop an understanding of the obligations and responsibilities of citizenship
E. Develop patriotism and loyalty to ideas of democracy.
F. Develop knowledge and appreciation of the rights and privileges in our democracy.
G. Develop an understanding of our American heritage.
VII. To learn to respect
A. Develop appreciation and respect for the worth and dignity of individuals.
B. Develop respect for individual worth and understanding of minority opinions while accepting majority decisions.
C. Develop a cooperative attitude toward living and working with others
VIII. To develop a desire for learning
A. Develop intellectual curiosity and eagerness for lifelong learning.
B. Develop a positive attitude toward learning.
C. Develop a positive attitude toward continuing independent education.
IX. To develop skills to enter a field of work and to gain information needed to make job selection
A. Develop abilities and skills needed for employment.
B. Develop an awareness of opportunities and requirements related to a specific field of work.
C. Develop an appreciation of good workmanship.
D. Promote self-understanding and self-direction in reaction to student’s occupational interests.
E. Develop the ability to use information and counseling services in the selection of a job.
X. To learn how to be a good manager
A. Develop an understanding of economic principles and responsibilities.
B. Develop ability and understanding in personal buying, selling and investment.
C. Develop skills in management of natural and human resources and man’s environment.
XI. To appreciate culture and beauty in the world
A. Develop abilities for effective expression of ideas and cultural appreciation (fine arts).
B. Cultivate appreciation for beauty in various forms.
C. Develop creative self-expression through various media (art, music, writing, etc.).
D. Develop special talents in art, literature and music.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
In keeping with Newbury Board of Education policy, children must reach their fifth birthday on or before August 1 to be admitted to kindergarten classes. Children who reach the age of five (5) between August 1 and September 30 may be admitted to kindergarten based on a score in at least the eightieth (80th) percentile on a diagnostic test administered by the District. Children who score above the seventieth (70th) percentile may be retested.
All parents registering children will need to provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate, previous school records, and proof of residency.
ARRIVAL AND STARTING TIMES
Primary classes (K-3) will begin at 8:55 a.m. Intermediate classes (4-6) will begin at 9:00 a.m. Children arriving at 9:00 in the K-3 wing and 9:05 in the 4-6 building will be considered tardy. A parent must come in to sign in the children if they are tardy.
SUPERVISION IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS BEFORE BUSES ARRIVE IN THE MORNING OR AFTER THEY LEAVE IN THE AFTERNOON. PLEASE DO NOT DROP YOUR CHILDREN OFF BEFORE 8:50 A.M. IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, PLEASE NOTIFY THE OFFICE TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS.
PARKING
Parents coming to school during the school day are asked to park in the school parking lot and not in the school drive. There are several visitors’ parking spots.
KEEPING RECORDS CURRENT
It is very important that student records be kept current. If there is a change in address, phone, parent’s place of employment, family doctor, or persons to be notified in case of emergency, please inform the school secretary immediately. It is best to notify the secretary in writing whenever possible.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Under the Directory Information Act, a student’s address, phone number, age, weight, etc. shall be released to school related agencies (e.g. PTO). The parent does have a right to object to or restrict the release of this information. Your restriction or objection must be in writing and turned in to the school office by September 15.
CHILD CUSTODY
In all cases where custody of the child has been granted to one natural parent, with restrictions to the non-custodial parent, that portion of the court’s document must be on file in the school office. This is for your child’s protection and safety. Please bring a copy of this mandate as soon as possible to the school office. We will not be able to honor the court’s ruling without the appropriate documentation.
EMERGENCY CARD
Please fill out the registration and emergency data forms completely and return them by the end of the first week of school. Problems can thus be avoided in case of accident or illness. Emergency medical treatment cannot be given without these forms on file in the school office.
CLOTHING
All clothing worn by children to school should be marked with the child’s name. This will help us return lost items to their owner. Once snow arrives, children are required to wear boots if they will be going out to recess. It is difficult for a child to sit for the entire afternoon of learning with wet socks and shoes on. Boots are a must not only in protecting the child’s health, but also to keep the buildings and classrooms clean.
DRESS CODE
1. Hair must be kept clean and trimmed so as not to obstruct vision. (Hair coloring outside the range of natural hair colors is not appropriate for school.)
2. Cosmetics and wigs are not appropriate.
3. Clothing must be clean and neat. Clothing and accessories shall be such that they will not harm a person or cause damage to school property, such as cleats on shoes. (Hats, bandanas, caps and head coverings are not permitted.)
4. T-shirts worn with suggestive, inappropriate symbols or writing, including
alcohol or tobacco advertisements, are not allowed Affirmative type sayings on
clothing are permitted, but no put downs or negative writing.
5. Dresses, skirts and shorts should be an appropriate length, which is defined as
at least approximately knee length.
6. Suggestive patches or flags are not permitted.
7. Suitable foot covering must be worn to prevent disease and/or foot injury.
Flip-flops are not permitted due to the potential for injury. Shoes shall not have cleats, wheels, or nails that can damage school property.
8. Shorts will be permitted until September 15 and after May 1 provided they are appropriate for the school environment. Appropriate shorts include, but are not limited to, dress shorts, Bermuda shorts and walking shorts. Inappropriate shorts include, but are not limited to, spandex shorts, short-shorts, ragged cut-off shorts and boxer shorts. Clothing with holes will not be permitted. While we acknowledge that hot weather can be uncomfortable, we also wish to maintain an appropriate standard of dress for school. If weather conditions permit, the principal may make exceptions. Please help us maintain this standard.
(Baggy pants and/or pants worn below the student’s waist are not appropriate for school wear.)
9. Shirts must reach the waist (no bare midriffs). Spaghetti strap types and
tank tops are not permitted.
10. Students coming to school in violation of these standards or deemed to be
wearing other inappropriate clothing by staff or administration will be required to call home to get suitable clothing.
Although the above rules must be considered regarding proper dress, the administration reserves the right to further determine appropriate and inappropriate dress based on these guidelines.
PLAYGROUND RULES Proctors are employed by the school district to supervise students during recess. Students are expected to follow the directions of the proctors and to follow these playground rules:
1. Keep hands off other people.
2. Use playground equipment correctly.
3. When the whistle blows line up immediately. Enter the building quietly as other students are working.
4. No tackle football. This will result in the loss of football privileges. (Soccer is permissible only if play is controlled.)
5. No climbing trees.
6. There will be no throwing of snow, ice, wood chips, stones, etc. Proctors will monitor which snow mounds if any can be played upon, depending on proximity to parking lot. Snow balls may be made in preparation of making a snowman, but not for throwing.
INDOOR RECESS RULES
1. Use quiet indoor voices as other students are working.
2. Follow teacher classroom rules as to what you are allowed to do.
Remember the proctors are in charge. Treat them as you would your teacher. Failure to treat the proctors with respect, or failure to follow the above rules may result in loss of recess and continued abuse will lead to further consequences.
3. Running, jumping, throwing balls, practicing gymnastic moves, or playing
personal electronic games, personal electronic music equipment or trading
card games will not be accepted.
OUTSIDE RECESS
The children will be going outside for recess all year long, except during severe weather. Children can study better in the classroom if they have an opportunity to get outside for exercise and fresh air. If a child is not able to go out for recess, a note from a physician is required. Please make sure that your child is dressed appropriately for the weather with boots and warm outerwear.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
Each child who is transported is expected to ride his/her assigned bus to and from school. If a child wishes to get off at a stop other than his/her usual one, or ride another bus, the parent is required to write a note to this effect. If space is available on the bus assigned to the particular route, permission will be granted. Children living close to school will be permitted to walk home only if a note from the parent is on file in the school office. Send a note with your child to give to his/her teacher in the morning. Include first and last name of your child, the name of your child’s teacher, the date of the bus route change, and the specific instructions. We are compelled to place all students on their regular bus unless there has been a note or phone call received by the office with sufficient notice so that the building secretary will have time to verify the information. No child’s drop-off point will be changed without the change having been verified by the building secretary. Verification must be voice contact with the student’s parent or guardian. Parents are asked not to make multiple changes in their child’s drop-off point. In an emergency you may call the elementary office, but do not call any later than 11 A.M. for different bus transportation for your child.
Bus riding privileges will be revoked by the principal for severe or repeated misconduct on buses or at bus stops (please refer to the section on Bus Rules, page 23).
Personal vehicles are not permitted in the bus lanes during restricted hours. Restricted hours are posted at the bus lanes and it is imperative that parents follow the times posted when dropping off and picking up students.
DISMISSAL TO PARENTS AT END OF DAY
A note is needed if your child is to be picked up from school at regular dismissal time. Please send it with your child in the morning to give to the teacher. Include first and last name of your child, the name of your child’s teacher, and the date of the pick up. A pass will then be assigned to your child.
Parents who are picking up K-6 children at the end of the school day must wait until the class has been dismissed. Passes from the office for end of the school day dismissals are required to pick your child up. All parents must sign their child out in the office located in the intermediate building. Parents must wait in the lobby of the intermediate building and their student will be dismissed to them. Please do not wait outside your child’s classroom. This interrupts the end of the day instructions to all students.
K-3 (dismissal is at 3:15 p.m.) students will ride their regular bus to the Intermediate building. Students will then be released to the parent with the pass to pick them up. Please be prompt in picking up your child. The Intermediate building is dismissed at 3:20 p.m.
In an emergency you may call the elementary office, but do not call any later than 1:30 p.m. for parent pick up.
DISMISSAL DURING SCHOOL DAY
All children who are to be taken from school prior to the regular dismissal must notify the office in writing. Please send a note with your child to give to his/her teacher in the morning. Include first and last name of your child, the name of your child’s teacher, the time of the pick up, and whether the student will be returning to school that day. This enables the teacher to prepare the student ahead of time and adjust the daily schedule if needed.
PARENTS MUST COME TO THE OFFICE AND SIGN THE CHILD OUT. THE CHILD WILL THEN BE CALLED TO THE OFFICE (GRADES 4 –6) OR RELEASED TO THE PARENT WITH A PASS (K – 3). PLEASE DO NOT GO DIRECTLY TO THE CLASSROOM.
ATTENDANCE
Good attendance at school is recognized as essential if students are to gain as much as they can from their educational opportunities. Perfect attendance at school is therefore encouraged and should be a goal to which all Newbury students aspire. Of course, children who are not feeling well should not attend school. Please refer to the Health Notes section of this Handbook. If your child is not going to attend school, please call the school office at 564-2282 between 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. If the call is not made, the school will call you to verify the student’s absence.
If your child is absent due to illness the day of an evening concert or special practice after school, he or she will not be allowed to participate in the event. The principal’s approval will be needed for any exceptions.
Terminology:
1. Truancy: Unauthorized absence from school or class without the prior knowledge and permission of school officials and parents.
2. Unexcused Absence: Absence not authorized by school officials such as (but not limited to) truancy, unexcused reasons on absence note, class cutting, failure to produce absence note or medical excuse when asked. Another type of unexcused absence is out of school suspension which is a corrective action applied to some conduct code violations. An unexcused absence results in the student’s receiving a zero for the class or classes missed. Although missed work must be completed to provide continuity of instruction and learning and to eliminate the possibility of an Incomplete, no credit is given for the completed work. Note: removal from class for discipline constitutes an unexcused absence.
3. Excused Absence: Absence from school with knowledge and consent of both the school and parents/guardians. The following is a list of reasons that a student’s absence will be considered excused:
· Personal illness
· Serious illness in the family
· Quarantine of the home
· Death in the Family
· Emergency family situation which in the judgment of the principal constitutes a valid reason for school absence
· Observance of religious holidays
4. Excused absences are permitted in the sense that the reason for being absent is legally acceptable: however, the absence is still counted on the student’s attendance record. With excused absence, a student shall receive proper credit. All classroom and homework missed due to an excused absence must be made up according to the regulations established by the classroom teacher.
Excessive Absences
After ten (10) days of absences have been accumulated in any school year, the principal may require a valid medical excuse for any absence. Before taking this action, the principal will inform the parents of the child’s attendance record and offer the parents the opportunity to challenge the attendance record in a hearing to be held not later than five (5) days after the notification.
If the pattern of absence continues, the principal will refer the case to the County Attendance Officer for further disposition.
ANTICIPATED ABSENCES
There may be times when parents know ahead of time that their child will be absent. When this occurs, parents are asked to write a letter to the teacher and principal explaining the reason for the anticipated absence.
Medical Care: Teachers may give some assignments on the last day
the
child is in school and indicate any quizzes/tests to be made up the day the
student returns to school. All other work and tests will be given to the child
upon return to school.
Family Vacation, etc.: If the cause for the absence does not fall under the “excused” category, the following procedure will apply: A student may be granted excused absence for family vacation under the following conditions:
A. The vacation is necessitated because of the parents’ work schedule.
B. The student must be accompanied by one or both parents.
C. A letter of request has been submitted and approved by the administration two (2) school days before departure. An internal form will be provided to the student’s teachers before the departure date. The principal may not approve vacations that lead beyond the Excessive Absence notification on page 13 or beyond the point where the student’s academic achievement is likely to suffer, except in unusual circumstances.
Note that these excused vacation absences count in the student’s total of absences. Excessive or careless use of this policy may result in reduced student achievement.
When your child is granted permission to go on vacation, these procedures will apply:
1. Major assignments, such as special reports or long term projects should
be submitted to the teacher prior to the absence if the teacher requests
them.
2. At the discretion of the teacher, tests that are to be administered to the
class may be administered to the student prior to the absence or upon
return to school.
3. Daily work assignments or similar assignments may be given to the
student prior to the absence.
4. Upon the return of the student, all accumulated assignments will be
given to the child or parent and a due date set for their completion.
MAKE UP WORK POLICY
If your child is absent, the teacher will accumulate all assignments and papers for the days missed. It is not necessary to request work if the child has missed one day. For illnesses lasting longer than one day, you may call the school office on the morning of the second consecutive day of absence. You may pick up your child’s work in the office between 3:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Assignments must be made up and turned in within a period of time equal to the number of days absent. Failure to turn in assignments will negatively impact final grades.
VISITATIONS
Please respect the rights of others and the educational process by making prior arrangements to visit or talk to teachers. Feel free to call the office or send a note if you wish to observe or schedule a conference with your child’s teacher. Please do not go to the classroom without stopping at the office first or making an appointment. For the benefit of your child’s education we want to limit the number of unscheduled interruptions. All visitors must report to the elementary office upon arrival. Name badges will be used to identify visitors.
FEES…$50 for Grades 1-6 and all-day Kindergarten;
$32 for half-day Kindergarten
Parents are asked to pay the school for some supplies that students consume during the course of the school year. Included in these supplies are consumable products such as writing paper, art materials and student workbooks. Students’ fees are cumulative and will follow the student into the following year. Every student will be asked to send an additional $4.00 to help the PTO defray the cost of refreshments for three class parties during the school year: October, December, and February. These fees will be collected in the first two weeks of school.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION POLICY
The promotion of each student will be determined individually. The decision to promote or retain a student will be made on the basis of the following, which will be taken into consideration by the teacher when forming an opinion: reading level and grade, mental ability, age, physical maturity, emotional maturity, social adjustment, and overall school performance. Promotion procedures demand continuous analysis and study of the cumulative student records so that decisions may be as objective as possible. Following sound principles of child development, the Board discourages the skipping of grades.
A student will be promoted to the succeeding grade level when she/he has:
1. Completed the state mandated requirements at the presently assigned grade;
2. In the opinion of the professional staff, achieved the instructional objectives set for the
present grade;
3. Demonstrated sufficient proficiency to permit him/her to move ahead in the
educational program of the next grade;
4. Demonstrated the degree of social, emotional, and physical maturation necessary for a
successful learning experience in the next grade.
A student may be placed, or assigned to the next grade level when retention will no longer serve any good purpose. The superintendent shall develop administrative guidelines for promotion, placement, and retention of the students which:
1. Require the recommendation of relevant staff members for promotion, placement, or
retention.
2. Require that parents are informed in advance of the possibility of retention of a
student at a grade level.
3. Assure that efforts will be made to remediate the student’s difficulties before retention occurs.
4. Require that a student be retained if he/she is truant for 10% or more of the required school days and has failed at least 2 courses of study, unless the principal and the teachers of the failed subjects determine that the student is academically prepared to be promoted.
5. Provide any students who do not pass the Ohio Achievement Test in Reading and/or Math with a summer opportunity for remediation; the student may be promoted based on judgement and consensus of the principal and teacher(s).
6. Identify any student who does not pass 3 or more parts of the Ohio Achievement Tests upon receipt of the spring test results.
A building level report will be generated listing all such students, their respective scores, their grades in each subject failed, and any other information the school deems pertinent to make an informed decision regarding the possible retention of the student. While successful state assessment (Diagnostic and Achievement) test performance by the students is vital, students will not be retained solely on the basis of these test results.
Building principals, in conjunction with appropriate grade level teachers, and the guidance counselor, will review all students identified for remediation or retention in their respective buildings. Since 2001, one of the following recommendations has been made for each student with notification being provided immediately thereafter to each parent and student:
1. The student will be retained in the current grade.
2. The student will be placed in the subsequent grade with a requirement to attend summer remediation sessions, with a minimum required attendance rate of at least ninety percent (90%) unless otherwise prearranged and approved by the administration. Academic success during summer school will be eighty per cent (80%) passage of materials covered.
3. The student will be required to show appropriate effort and academic progress where placed.
4. In rare situations, where other factors do not indicate a need for either retention or
summer school, the student will be placed in the subsequent grade with the encouragement to attend summer remediation sessions.
The building principal has the final responsibility for determining the promotion, placement, or retention of each student. This decision shall be made in consultation with teachers and parents.
The parents and the school district shall share the cost of providing summer remediation sessions. Summer school fees will be established annually.
REPORTING PUPIL PROGRESS
A written pupil progress report will be issued following the end of each nine-week grading period. The first and third report will be supplemented by interpretive parent/teacher conferences. Other parent/teacher conferences will be held as needs arise. Either parent or teacher may initiate these.
GRADING SCALE
98%-100% = A+ 92%-97% = A 90%-91% = A-
88%-89% = B+ 82%-87% = B 80%-81% = B-
78% - 79% = C+ 72% - 77% C 70% - 71% C-
68% - 69% = D+ 62% - 67% D 60% - 61% D-
59% and Below = U/F
HONOR ROLL
After each grading period, grades 4, 5, and 6 will assemble an honor roll and publish it based on the following criteria:
· 4.0 Honor Roll: All As
· Honor Roll: 3.4 average or higher with no more than one C
· Merit roll: 3.0- 3.39 average with no more than two Cs
HOMEWORK POLICY
Newbury Elementary School intends to be as consistent as possible in its practice, regarding work to be done at home. Following is a summary of our rationale, considerations, and guidelines regarding homework.
RATIONALE
Education is a continuous process. It is natural for students to learn throughout the entire day. Homework is defined as any assignment made to strengthen weaknesses, to reinforce daily lessons, to supplement and enrich the student’s educational experience, or to allow completion of daily work when adequate class time was given.
CONSIDERATIONS
A student has many needs including rest, relaxation, solitude, play, and extracurricular activities. Students grow at a gradual rate, and they should be introduced to the responsibility of homework starting in the primary grades, and growing at a gradual rate through the intermediate years.
Sometimes extenuating circumstances do prevent a student from completing homework assignments. A call or note to the individual teacher will normally result in consideration given.
GUIDELINES
Homework assignments will be an extension of the classroom programs and every attempt will be made to make sure students understand the coursework. It is important that students request clarification from the teacher if they do not understand an assignment. Homework is to be completed by students--not parents or others. If parents are to help with a specific assignment, they will be advised by the teacher as to what is expected of them. Important functions include helping to gather materials, taking the child to the library, and giving examples of ways to gain information on a topic.
Homework assignments will be reasonable in length. In the event that a student is absent, assignments must be made up and turned in within a period of time equal to the number of days absent.
DAILY TIME ALLOCATION GUIDELINES
Each student is an individual with different capabilities. It is quite difficult to ascertain the exact amount of time that it will take each student to complete an assignment.
The guidelines listed represent the maximum amount of time that students should spend daily on homework. Some teachers, particularly at the primary level, will not give daily assignments for homework. At the intermediate level, it is possible that homework might be less on some nights than time suggested, and more on others.
First Grade 15-30 Minutes
Second Grade 15-30 Minutes
Third Grade 30-40 Minutes
Fourth Grade 30-45 Minutes
Fifth Grade 50-65 Minutes
Sixth Grade 70-80 Minutes
Homework turned in late will be penalized by a lower grade. Homework not turned in within one week of a due date will be assigned a zero, and recorded as such in the teacher’s grade book.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The personnel of Newbury recognize the need to help students decide how to change their behavior, avoid facing severe consequences and, mature without blaming others for their problems.
Our goal is to aid students to make better decisions and take responsibility for their decisions. As always, the focus of Newbury staff will be to recognize and reward positive behavior.
The following rules are based on safety concerns for all students while they are attending school. We believe that our rules and consequences for not following the rules will be consistent and fair. To ensure an environment conducive to the educational process, students are expected to behave in an appropriate manner.
Failure to comply with rules and regulations of Newbury Elementary School will result in disciplinary action. This may be in the form of oral reprimand, referrals, conferences, loss of recess, before or after school detentions, removal from class, denial of participation, behavioral contracts, emergency removal from school, Saturday detention, out of-school suspension, court referrals and/or recommendation of expulsion to the superintendent of schools.
In dealing with individual cases, the principal has the discretion to vary any disciplinary measures to make all discipline consistent and fair in each individual case. At any time when deemed necessary by the principal, court referral and/or referral for counseling may be made.
Newbury students will:
1. Follow all adult directions (please see Insubordination, page 19).
2. Show appropriate use for hands and feet. Aggressive or threatening behavior is not
permitted. Fighting is prohibited (please see Harassment, page 20 ).
3. Use appropriate language. Any obscene or profane language or gesture is unacceptable
(please see Profanity, page 20).
4. Respect themselves and others. Bullying is prohibited. Any repeated action by a
student that intimidates another student, whether physically or verbally, is defined
as bullying. (please see Harassment, page 20).
5. Respect all school property and the personal property of other students.
6. Behave in a manner that does not infringe on the rights of others to
learn. This includes
making inappropriate noises, comments or gestures.
7. Be permitted to bring toys, electronic games, radios, headsets or other similar items to school with teacher permission only.
8. Not sell any item to other students for personal profit during school hours.
9. Not chew gum. This is unacceptable anytime during the school day, during after school activities, or while on field trips.
10. Not display any form of affection for another student that is inappropriate for public
display.
CONSEQUENCES
1. Verbal reprimand by teacher.
2. Teacher dispensed disciplinary action which may include:
a. Call home by student and teacher.
b. Office referral where principal will decide appropriate disciplinary action.
After investigating the teacher referral, the principal may choose any of the following consequences. These options are not listed in any particular order. This list does not imply a sequence of discipline procedures but rather options that may be chosen depending upon the discipline necessary for the situation. Discipline will be progressive where possible and appropriate.
1. Conference between student, teacher, and principal.
2. Conference with parents
3. Loss of privileges
4. Removal from class
5. Denial of participation
6. Behavioral Contracts
7. After School Detention
8. Emergency Removal from school
9. Saturday Detention
10. Out-of-School Suspension
11. Court Referral
12. Recommend Expulsion to the Superintendent
CAFETERIA RULES
1. All students will WALK at all times.
2. All students will remain seated, until given permission to do otherwise. Once a seat is taken, switching seats will not occur.
3. Students will not throw anything or take other people’s food.
4. Students will leave area neat and clean before lunch ends.
5. Students will use inside voices.
CLASSROOM RULES
Each teacher will have classroom rules along with school rules posted in the classroom.
INVITATIONS
Students will not be permitted to pass out personal party invitations (birthday, swim, graduation, sleep over, and others that cover parties outside of the school day) during the school day, including on buses before and after school, at lunch, and at recess time. Invitations such as these should be mailed from home to those students being invited so that feelings are not hurt and academics can be the focus during school hours.
INSUBORDINATION OR REPEATED VIOLATIONS OF DIRECTIONS, POLICIES, RULES OR CODE OF CONDUCT
A student shall not fail to comply with the directions of teachers, student teachers, substitute teachers, bus drivers, proctors, teacher aides, secretaries, cafeteria employees, custodians, volunteer workers, principal or other authorized school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under the authority of school personnel. Repeated violations of any rule, directive, or discipline procedure shall also constitute insubordination.
PROFANITY, INDECENT OR OBSCENE LANGUAGE
A student shall not use profane, indecent or obscene language, either written or verbal, in communicating with any administrator, faculty member, school personnel, or another student. Included in this prohibition are obscene gestures, signs, pictures or obscene or defamatory publications.
HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT/HAZING
The school believes that every individual deserves to be able to come to school without fear of demeaning remarks or actions. The harassment of other students or members of staff, or any other individuals is forbidden. This includes any speech or action that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive learning environment.
A student shall not act or behave in a manner that would cause physical or mental injury to another person (teacher, student, volunteer worker, visitor, or staff members). A student shall not threaten to cause physical or mental injury to another person during a normal school day or after school activity.
Hazing is prohibited. Hazing is defined as doing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student (or other) organization that causes fear in or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person. Permission, consent, or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing does not lessen the prohibition.
Conduct constituting any of the above types of harassment may take different forms including, but not limited to, the following:
A. Gender/Ethnic/Religious/Disability Harassment
1. Verbal:
Written or oral innuendoes, comments, jokes, insults, threats or disparaging remarks concerning a person’s gender, national origin, religious beliefs, etc. toward a fellow student, staff member or other person associated with the District. Conducting a “campaign of silence” toward a fellow student, staff member or other person associated with the District by refusing to have any form of social interaction with the person.
2. Nonverbal:
2.Placing objects, pictures or graphic commentaries in the school environment or making insulting or threatening gestures toward a fellow student, staff member or other person associated with the District.
3. Physical:
3.Any intimidating or disparaging action such as hitting, hissing or spitting on a fellow student, staff member or other person associated with the District.
B. Sexual
Members of the District staff are prohibited from harassing a student through conduct or communications of a sexual nature as defined below or to have romantic or sexual relations with a student. Students are also prohibited from harassing other students through conduct or communications of a sexual nature as defined below.
Sexual harassment can be defined as unwelcom