STUDENT/FAMILY HANDBOOK

2015-2016

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Welcome! We would like to personally welcome you to JES; we are so glad you are here! We have been working hard to get ready for you. We know this is going to be a great year.

STUDENTS As your elementary school, it is our job to provide you with a positive learning environment where you will learn, as our mission states. It is your job everyday to work really hard so your brain will take you far. Look around the school to see reminders about using your brain to become all that you can be. We will be continuing to talk about how working hard will open the doors to your successful future. And best of all—we are going to enjoy doing it because it is cool to be in school! FAMILIES You are your child’s first and most important teacher. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you to educate your children. It truly does take a village to raise a child; we sincerely invite you to make us part of your family’s village. As the administrators of JES, it is our job to serve. We are here to serve you, the children, and the JES faculty. Please feel free to contact us if you need any assistance. We are here to ensure that your child receives the best education that we can provide. We look forward to working with you during the school year.

William Caten , Ed.D

Justin S. Grigg,

Ed.S 3

SCHOOL INFORMATION Jouett Elementary School is located in the east end of Louisa County off Route 33 on Jouett School Raod. It primarily serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Programs are also available for preschool disabled students and at-risk preschool students. MAILING ADDRESS Jouett Elementary School 315 Jouett School Road Mineral, Virginia 23117 TELEPHONE NUMBERS 540-872-3931 540-872-3932 FAX NUMBER 540-872-4323 WEBSITE www.lcps.k12.va.us/jes OFFICE HOURS 7:30 A.M.-4:30 P.M. SCHOOL DAY FOR STUDENTS 8:00 A.M.-3:00 P.M.

For the safety of all students, you will be asked to show a picture ID at the front door each time you enter the building. We appreciate your support as we ensure the safety of all children.

MISSION STATEMENT Jouett Elementary will develop young minds to be critical thinkers and to foster the social, emotional, and intellectual development of each life-long learner. Our mission is to embrace diversity through a positive learning

community where children will recognize and achieve to their fullest potential.

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CONTENTS DIRECTORY ………………………………………………………………….7 LOUISA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS LOUISA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS LCPS CENTRAL OFFICE STAFF JOUETT ADMINISTRATION, FACULTY, & STAFF

INSTRUCTION ……………………………………………………………...14 SCHOOL SCHEDULE VIRGINIA ASSESSMENT SYSTEM REPORT CARDS & INTERIM REPORTS HOMEWORK TEXTBOOKS AND INSTRUCTIONAL FEES

STUDENT LIFE ……………………………………………………………...16 AWARDS ICE CREAM FIELD TRIPS MONEY YEARBOOK ASSEMBLIES COMPETITIVE SPORTS PICTURES CAFETERIA LIBRARY HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION FOLDERS/AGENDAS FIELD TRIP GUIDELINES STUDENT DRESS CODE

EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS …………………………………………...20 RULES LOUISA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD POSITION ON DEALING WITH DISRUPTIVE STUDENTS

DISCIPLINE …………………………………………………………………21 DISCIPLINARY ACTION & APPEALS OF SUSPENSIONS PERSONAL SEARCHES PROPERTY SEARCHES SUBSTANCE ABUSE

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ATTENDANCE …………………………………………………………...22 ATTENDANCE POLICY DOCUMENTATION OF SCHOOL ABSENCES MINIMUM ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS TARDY/EARLY DISMISSAL POLICIES ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

STUDENT RECORDS …………………………………………………….24 STUDENT RECORD POLICIES

SECURITY PASSWORD …………………………………………………..24 CLINIC …………………………………………………………………....25 MEDICATION MEDICAL PROBLEMS HEAD LICE

TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS ……………………………………..26 BUS TRANSPORTATION CHANGES TO TRANSPORTATION ROUTINE PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION—MORNING AND AFTERNOON ROUTINES

SCHOOL & COMMUNITY RELATIONS …………………………………..28 VISITORS VOLUNTEERS BREAKFAST BUDDIES PARENT - TEACHER ASSOCIATION (P.T.A) NO SMOKING/NO TOBACCO POLICY FIRE DRILLS AND BUILDING EVACUATION STUDENT INSURANCE

Louisa County Public Schools is an EO/AA employer and provides services and programs in a nondiscriminatory manner relative to race, color, gender, national origin, age, disability, and religion.

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DIRECTORY LOUISA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

LOUISA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

MR. GREGORY STRICKLAND CHAIRPERSON PATRICK HENRY DISTRICT

MR. TOMMY BARLOW CHAIRMAN MOUNTAIN ROAD DISTRICT

Phone: (540) 967-2648 (home); (540)223-0836 (cell) Email: [email protected]

804-556-4656 (Home) 804-310-4130 (Cell) 804-556-4666(Work) E-mail: [email protected]

MRS. GAIL PROFFITTVICE CHAIRPERSON MOUNTAIN ROAD DISTRICT

MR. TROY WADE VICE CHAIRMAN LOUISA DISTRICT

Phone: (804)556-4160 Email: [email protected]

434-466-8349 (Cell) 540-967-9233 (Office) 540-967-9234 (Fax) [email protected]

MRS. DEBBIE HOFFMAN GREEN SPRINGS DISTRICT Phone:(540) 832 - 3297 Email: [email protected]

MRS. STEPHANIE KOREN MINERAL DISTRICT

MR. SHERMAN SHIFFLETT MINERAL DISTRICT

540-894-0487 (Home) 540-894-6607 (Cell) E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: (540) 894-5842 Email: [email protected]

MR. WILLIE L. GENTRY JR CUCKOO DISTRICT 540-894-4751 (Home) 540-894-6437 (Cell) E-mail: [email protected]

MR. STEPHEN C. HARRIS CUCKOO DISTRICT Phone: (540) 967-2327 Email: [email protected]

MR. FITZGERALD BARNES PATRICK HENRY DISTRICT

MR. BILLY SEAY LOUISA DISTRICT

434-244-3131 (Work) 540-967-1967 (Home) 434-996-8534 (Cell) 434-244-3118 (Fax) E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: (540) 967-2191 Email: [email protected]

MR. ALLEN JENNINGS JACKSON DISTRICT

MR. RICHARD HAVASY GREEN SPRINGS DISTRICT

Phone: (540) 872-3052 Email: [email protected]

540-967-2393 (Home) 540-894-1023 (Cell) E-mail: [email protected]

MR. DAN BYERS JACKSON DISTRICT 540-872-3539 (Home) 204-687-1143 (Cell) Email: [email protected]

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CENTRAL OFFICE STAFF 953 Davis Highway Mineral, VA 23117 Phone: 540-894-5115 Fax: 540-894-0252 Website: www.lcps.k12.va.us Dr. Deborah Pettit Superintendent [email protected]

Mr. David Szalankiewicz Director of Facilities [email protected]

Mr. Doug Straley Assistant Superintendent for Administration [email protected]

Mr. Mark Outen Director of Technology [email protected]

Dr. LuAnne Unruh Assistant Superintendent for Instruction [email protected]

Ms. Robin Cleary School Social Worker [email protected]

Mrs. Teresa Byers Director of Elementary Instruction [email protected]

Ms. Alethia Coles

School Social Worker [email protected]

Carla Alpern Director of Pupil Personnel Services [email protected] Tom Smith Director of Secondary Education [email protected] Mr. Calvin McGhee Director of Finance [email protected] Mrs. Rebecca Fisher Administrative Assistant [email protected] TBA Director of Safety, Security, & Administrative Services

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JOUETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FACULTY AND STAFF ADMINISTRATION AND OFFICE STAFF Name

Room

Phone

E-mail @lcps.k12.va.us

William Caten

Principal

Office

4011

catenwf

Justin Grigg

Assistant Principal

Office

4012

griggjs

Loren Kearney

Guidance

Office

4060

kearnelc

School Psychologist

Office

Kimberley Staudinger

Nurse

Clinic

4040

staudika

Maranda Robinson

Bookkeeper

Office

4030

robinsmt

Noreen Thaw

Records Secretary

Office

4020

thawnm

Tina Dunivan

Secretary

Office

4021

Dunivatm

Resource Teachers Name

Room

Phone

E-mail

Patricia Seay

Talented & Gifted

TAG

3146

seaypm

Lois Loy

Librarian

Library

4080

loyls

Evan Pelot

Physical Education

Gym

4139

peloteb

Hope Suzuki

Art

33

4117

hardinhe

Jordan Stehle

Music

34

4115

stehlejt

Cochran Garnett

PALS

12

4113

garnetcc

Amanda Hurd

ITRT

22

8213

hurdaj

Jayne Sharpe

Reading

14

4124

sharpejh

Margaret Shelton

Title I

10

4105

sheltome

Cafeteria Staff Name Tammy Seay

Manager

Phone

E-mail

4050

seaytm

Jane Barlow Jean Rigsby Teresa Knighton Earnestine Jonhson Latisha Lewis

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Preschool NAME Rebecca Jasman

Teacher

Room

Phone

E-Mail

9

4126

jasmanrl

Kindergarten Name

Room

Phone

E-mail anderssm

Susan Anderson

Teacher

1

4101

Cherie Hunter

Teacher

6

4123

Valerie Richardson

Teacher

3

4137

richarvj

Tanya Olinger

Teacher

5

4133

olingeta

Tina Creecy

Teacher

4

4110

creecytm

wynncn

First Grade Name

Room

Phone

E-mail

Shelly Wright

Teacher

16

4120

hickssw

Jennifer Sandlin

Teacher

11

4111

sandlija

Kristi Thomas

Teacher

13

4114

hornkg

Karen Nicholson

Teacher

15

4103

nicholkb

Kim Colvin

Teacher

14

4146

colvinkh

10

Second Grade Name

Room

Phone

E-mail

Denise Adkins

Teacher

18

4109

adkinsde

Angela Wachter

Teacher

19

4127

wachteac

James Snider

Teacher

17

4128

sniderjh

Gail Massie

Teacher

21

4125

massiege

JoAnna Brown

Teacher

24

4104

brownjr

Third Grade Name

Room

Phone

E-mail

Vanessa Pendleton

Teacher

28

4136

pendlevt

Morgan Toxie

Teacher

26

4131

toxiems

Elizabeth Burchell

Teacher

25

4138

adamsea

Julie Bryant

Teacher

27

4119

bryantje

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Fourth Grade Name

Room

Phone E-mail

Kelly Luznar

Teacher

39

4112 luznarkl

Ashby Pond

Teacher

40

4140 pondak

Meg Grubbs

Teacher

35

Jen McIntire

Teacher

38

4144 mcintijp

Betsy Leale

Teacher

37

4122 Lealeel

Fifth Grade Name

Room

Phone E-mail

Jennifer Hedberg

Teacher

M3

4143 hedberjn

Kelly Clough

Teacher

M4

4107 cloughkm

Marcia Flora

Teacher

M2

4141 floramg

Amanda Harper

Teacher

M1

4129 harperam

Roger Brooks

Teacher

M5

4148 brooksrl

Bus Drivers

Custodians

Patricia Baber Angelia Butts Texannia Carter Audrey Berkebile Cathy Grant Georgianna Hall Jessica Minor Sue Nicholas Donna Smith Dianna Taylor Ann Toney

William Dandridge David Perry Kelly Hopkins Dianne Amos Elvin Shifflett

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Special Education Name

Room

Phone

E-mail

Lauren Reed

ECSE

7

4135

fenderlm

Annaliese Berkenstock

ECSE

8

4147

berkena

Speech

1-E

4121

atkinskk

4

36

4116

covertpm

Bethany Straub

SPED

31

June Trimble

2nd

36

4118

trimblje

Adam Ruemmler

3

36

4134

ruemmlad

Joel Abe

5

36

4156

abejj

Katherine Atkinson Paige Covert

straubbn

Instructional Assistants Rebecca Boisvert April Covington Karen Liles Joanna Harper Kim Phillips Mary Robinson Clara Shelton Priscilla Slaughter Carolyn Smith Tammy Smith Ruth Turner Becky Wood Ranisha Lee

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INSTRUCTION MASTER SCHEDULE Student learning is the main focus at our school. Our students spend two hours and thirty minutes in Language Arts and one hour in math each day. Science and Social Studies units are taught on a rotation; Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library skills are taught at least once each week. Our goal for instruction is to prepare our students to be successful in our ever-changing society.

VIRGINIA ASSESSMENT SYSTEM The Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) are taught at each grade level, K - 5, in the four core areas of Math, Science, Reading, and History and Social Science. Students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade are tested in May each year. Students in 3rd grade are tested on the Reading and Math SOLs taught in kindergarten, first, second, and third grade. The fourth grade students are tested on fourth grade Reading and Math material and fifth grade students are tested on the SOL taught in fifth grade for Reading and Math and the 4-5 materials for Science and History. Students must achieve a score of 400 or more, out of 600, on each test in order to pass the test. In order for our school to be accredited by the State, the following standards must be met by third, fourth, and fifth grade students:

Subject area

THIRD GRADE % of students who must score 400 or more

FOURTH GRADE % of students who must score 400 or more

FIFTH GRADE % of students who must score 400 or more

English

75%

75%

75%

Math

70%

70%

70%

Science

n/a

n/a

70%

History

n/a

n/a

70%

HOMEWORK Homework will be assigned to students at all grade levels. The purpose of these assignments is to provide experiences which will reinforce concepts that have been previously introduced by the classroom teachers. Parents should make certain that assigned homework is completed.

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REPORT CARDS Report cards are intended to provide parents with detailed information regarding their child’s progression through specific skills. All report cards reflect grading standards as adopted by the Louisa County School Board. The standards are as follows: S N U NM

Kindergarten—2nd (Satisfactory Progress) (Needs Time and Help to Progress) (Unsatisfactory Progress) (Not Being Taught At This Time)

A B C D F

3rd-5th (Outstanding work) 90%-100% (Above Average work) 80%-89% (Average Work) 70%-79% (Below Average Work) 65%-69% (Progress Too Slow For 64% or below Successful Completion Of Subject Requirements )

Student reading level is indicated on the report card. In grades 3-5, attendance information is listed for each grading period at all levels. Also, as part of the report card, parents of K-2 students will see how their child is progressing on the SOL objectives each nine weeks, parents of 3-5 students receive this update once a semester . Parents or guardians are asked to sign the report card envelope and return it to the teacher within three (3) days of receipt.

INTERIM REPORTS Students will receive progress reports at the midpoint of each nine-week grading period. This report is to inform parents of the student’s progress to that point. Students are expected to share these reports with their parents or guardians and return the envelope signed by the parents or guardians within three (3) days of receipt.

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Student Life AWARDS At the end of the semester and the end of the year, certain types of awards will be given: 1. PERFECT ATTENDANCE - Students who have not been absent during the school year, nor had more than 3 tardies/early dismissals in a 9 week period will receive a perfect attendance certificate. Please see the section on attendance in this handbook for further clarification. 2. HONOR ROLL - Students who have received a “B” average or above in every subject will receive honor roll. A combination of A’s and B’s will be recognized. 3. CITIZENSHIP AWARDS– Citizenship awards are awarded to two students from each class. Attendance, academics, behavior, and overall performance factor into the giving of this award which is presented at the end of each semester. 4. PRINCIPAL’S AWARDS—Principal’s awards are presented at the end of the year to students who have displayed a positive attitude and outstanding work habits throughout the school year. 5. PRESIDENTIAL ACADEMIC AWARDS — The Presidential Academic awards are given to fifth grade students who meet criteria established by the Office of the President at the end of the year.

ICE CREAM Several varieties of ice cream will be available to students. Each class will be allowed to purchase ice cream as scheduled by the teacher and at the teacher’s discretion. The cost for ice cream is 75¢ and snacks are 60¢. Money will not be accepted in the office for ice cream. If school is closed for any reason on your child’s scheduled ice cream day, they will not be able to get ice cream until the following week.

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MONEY Money for school activities must be turned in to a student’s teacher at the beginning of the school day. School personnel will not accept money in the office. The school also does not accept money for any Parks and Recreation program or activity. Ther e will be a $35.00 charge for returned checks.

DAILY SCHEDULE Grade Level

Lunch

Resource

Recess

Pre-Kindergarten Kindergarten

11:30—12:00

9:00—9:45

12:00—12:30

First

10:30—11:00

1: 15—2:00

11:00—11:30

Second

11:00—11:30

2:15—3:00

11:30—12:00

Third

12:00—12:30

8:15—9:00

11:30—12:00

Fourth

1:00—1:30

9:45—10:30

12:30—1:00

Fifth

12:30—1:00

11:45—12:30

1:00—1:30

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CAFETERIA The school serves both breakfast and lunch. They are made available to students daily. Meal costs are as follows: Breakfast Full Price Reduced Price Milk Lunch Full Price Reduced Price Adult Full Breakfast Adult Full Lunch

$1.25 $0.30 $0.55 $2.55 $0.45 $1.75 $3.15

Breakfast Lunch

Cafeteria Schedule 7:50—8:30 10:30—1:30

Applications for reduced price or free meals will be sent home with students in the back to school packet. Each application will be reviewed, verified, and the results sent home promptly. You may pay for lunch and breakfast by the week by sending a check or cash. Make your checks payable to the school. If your child does not have his/ her lunch money, he/she may borrow money from the cafeteria. The money needs to be paid back to the cafeteria on the next school day. Please make sure that your child has his/her money each day or pay for it by check for the week. LCPS also has the option to pay online; please see the LCPS website for details.

CAFETERIA PROCEDURES       

Students must know and enter their student identification number into a computer key pad while in line for lunch. All students are expected to be in the cafeteria with their class whether or not they eat lunch. Once seated, students will remain seated until they are dismissed by the person in charge. Food may not be taken from the cafeteria. All food must be eaten or disposed of in the cafeteria. After eating, the person in charge will permit students to clear the table and take trays to the proper area. Breaking in line and saving places will not be allowed. Students are asked to talk quietly during lunch. Students must walk at all times.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER The library provides a variety of materials, including books, magazines, audio-visual materials and other resources for use by teachers and students.

LIBRARY RULES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Students are entitled to use the library and check out books. Reference books, such as encyclopedias, are to be used only in the library. Library is part of the resource rotation. Books may be kept for a period of one resource rotation, unless otherwise specified. Lost or damaged books shall be paid for by the student. No book may be taken from the library without being checked out at the circulation desk. All materials, such as books, magazines and newspapers, are to be returned to their proper places after use. Students are expected to talk quietly at the appropriate times.

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HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION ENVELOPES/AGENDAS Home-school communication envelopes will be provided for each student. Teachers and school staff will use these envelopes to send home graded work and office flyers. Envelopes will be sent home at least once a week on Tuesdays. Student agendas/ homework folders will be used by each student K-5 to communicate daily homework and information. Please do not write notes about transportation arrangements and/or absences in a student’s agenda. This information needs to be sent to the office and therefore needs to be written on a separate piece of paper. Agendas will be available for purchase at the school for $4.00. Lost agendas are the families responsibility and will cost $4.00 to replace.

FIELD TRIP GUIDELINES Field trips are exciting educational opportunities for our students. In order for our field trips to be effective for our students, there are a few procedures that we are asking our families to follow this year.  

Chaperones MUST ride the bus. No extra parents/family members will be allowed to follow the bus. Only a parent or legal guardian can be a chaperone. All chaperones must be pre-approved by the principal and present a photo ID on the day of the trip. Only approved chaperones will be allowed to go on the field trip. No chaperones will be approved on the day of the trip unless in case of emergency. Siblings are not allowed to participate in the trip. Chaperones will be chosen by a lottery drawing – do not call the office to ask to be chosen. Teachers will set a deadline for parents to request to be a chaperone, and then there will be the lottery drawing. Only one parent/ guardian per household to chaperone, please.

 

STUDENT DRESS CODE Cleanliness and proper clothing are required. To accomplish this, a standard of student dress has been set. Clothing worn by students shall be neat, clean, and in good repair for the general health and safety of the student. Immodest clothing of such type that distracts from the learning process shall not be worn. Some of the items that we do not allow students to wear or display on school grounds are:

        

Any items that advertise drugs/alcohol Bandannas/Do-Rags Flip-flops Sagging pants that show undergarments See through items Crop tops, spaghetti strap tops, or halter tops No “Heelies” or shoes that have working wheels Shorts or skirts that do not reach mid-thigh Items pornographic or sexually suggestive in nature

 

Clothing that is shown to disrupt instruction No hats or sunglasses are to be worn in the school building

Students who come to school dressed inappropriately will be asked to change.

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EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly, courteous, dignified, and respectful manner at all times. As representatives of the school and as maturing citizens, students are expected to demonstrate self-discipline. Each student should strive to:     

Respect him/herself and others. Care for the property which belongs to the school, him/her, and others. Follow all safety rules. Be prepared with the necessary supplies and assignments for all classes. Do his or her best at all times in behavior and school work.

RULES

Students must obey school, classroom and bus rules. Behavior which inhibits academic progress, is dangerous, or detracts from the educational atmosphere of the school is not acceptable and is subject to school disciplinary action and, in some cases, legal disciplinary action. Among the behaviors which will result in consequences are those listed below:         



Disrespect to faculty/staff, other students, or guests. Fighting or the use of physical force. Lying, cheating, stealing, forgery, extortion, gambling. Destruction or abuse of property. Use of profanity, swearing, cursing, or obscenities, including gestures or drawings. Chewing gum. Inappropriate physical contact. Use of disruptive items such as radios, tapeplayers, electronic games, or toys without authorized approval Possession or use of knives or other weapons or explosives, including lighters and look-alike Verbal, written, or physical threats of bodily injury or use of force Bomb threats or false fire alarms.

  

Smoking or use of any tobacco products on school property. Possession, use, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs. Bullying.

Students and parents will be required to sign the Louisa County Public Schools Student Code of Conduct policy statement that will be kept in the student’s school record.

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DISCIPLINE DISCIPLINARY ACTION



The supervision and control of students will be maintained during the period when the student is on school property, going to or from school, or participating in any school-sponsored activity. If a student violates any school rule or regulation, he/she is subject to disciplinary action. Certain factors will be taken into consideration when addressing matters of discipline. The nature and frequency of the offense, the student’s age, and the student’s attitude will affect how disciplinary action will be handled. Some examples of corrective measures which may be utilized by the faculty and/or administration include:



1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.



Out-of-school suspensions can be appealed is met by requesting the Principal or the Superintendent’s designee to review the discipline. Such request must be made in writing to the Principal or the Superintendent’s designee within five (5) days of receipt of the notice. Failure to make a timely request will constitute a waiver of the right to such a review. Bus suspensions can be appealed to the principal in writing. This appeal must be made within five (5) days of the notice of suspension. In-school suspensions are only able to be appealed to the principal.

Time-out Loss of privileges Parental contact by note, phone, or in person Parent conferences Suspension in school Suspension from school and/or bus Expulsion from school Other strategies that are deemed beneficial and appropriate.

APPEALS OF SUSPENSIONS

PERSONAL SEARCHES A students’ person and/or personal effects (e.g. purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student is in possession of illegal or unauthorized materials that could be a threat to health, safety, and or welfare of other students.

PROPERTY SEARCHES Student desks are the property of the School Board and remain at all times under the control of the school administration. Periodic general inspections of desks may be conducted by school authorities at any time without cause, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE Students, parents and school personnel need to share in the responsibility of identifying students who are abusing substances such as alcohol or illegal or prescription drugs. Plunging grades and/or overall performance in class; mood swings/attitude changes; physiological changes (slow to respond, glazed eyes, etc.); or unusual comments or fascination about drugs are some possible symptoms of substance abuse. A parent, student, or school staff member may demonstrate their concern in this area by notifying the school principal or counselor.

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Behavior Chart Safety and learning continue to be a top priority at Jouett Elementary. In order to continue to improve academic growth and continue a positive school clime JES will use a common behavior chart and consistent rules for areas in the building. Below is an outline of the behavior chart used in each classroom, and the rules for areas of the building. Administration and teachers will review this information with your student; we ask that you review it with them as well. Behavior chart display in each classroom:

Outstanding Student (Blue)

Super Student (Purple) Ready to Learn (Green) Make Better Choices (Yellow) Take a Break (Orange) Parent Contact (Red) Every student begins the day on green which is “ready to learn” on the chart, moving up or down on the chart based on their behavior.

Rules for the hallways: 1. Walk silently on the right side. 2. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself. 3. Keep our hallways clean. Rules for the bathroom: 1. Use inside voices. 2. Use the toilet and flush. 3. Wash your hands. 4. Keep our bathrooms clean. Playground Rules: 1. Use equipment safely. 2. Wait your turn to use the equipment. 3. Keep your hands, feet and objects to yourself. 4. Lune up quickly and quietly at the end of recess. Cafeteria Rules: 1. Enter the cafeteria and lune up quickly. 2. Be prepared with your lunch choice, number and money. 3. Keep food and drink off the floor. 4. Keep your hands, feet, and other objects to yourself. 5. Clean your area, and lune up quietly when directed.

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ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCE POLICY Notice of Compulsory School Attendance in accordance with Section 22.1-254 of the Code of Virginia, every parent, guardian, or other person in the Commonwealth having control or charge of any child who will have reached the fifth birthday on or before September 30 of any school year and who has not passed the eighteenth birthday, shall during the period of each year the public schools are in session and for the same number of days and hours as the public schools, send such child to public school or to a private, denominational or parochial school or have such child taught by a tutor or teacher of qualifications prescribed by the Board of Education and approved by the division superintendent.

DOCUMENTATION OF STUDENT ABSENCE

MINIMUM ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS Any student missing twenty (20) or more days during the school year will be subject to failing the grade for the year. Students who consistently miss academic instruction due to tardiness and early dismissals may be considered under this policy.

Student attendance is an important focus for the faculty and staff. Lost instructional time can hinder a child’s ability to maintain academic success. We believe that parents and school officials need to communicate in order to understand expectations about attendance. Daily attendance will be kept by the teacher and administration. The day a child returns to school after being absent, the student shall present a written note from the parent explaining the absences. If applicable, a doctor’s note should accompany the parent’s note. Please be sure the note is: dated, signed by a parent, specific as to the day(s) for which it was written, specific as to the nature(s) for the absence(s). Absences explained by a parent’s note only will be coded as verified, meaning that we have received information from the parent about the absence. A doctor’s note or a note concerning a funeral will automatically be excused. Throughout the school year, a letter will be sent home to parents of children who have accrued 5,10, and 15 unverified/unexcused absences. With as few as 5 unverified absences, contact from school personnel will be made. If attendance issues persist after contact is made, a mandatory attendance conference will be scheduled where an attendance plan will be developed. Absences will be marked as verified with a parent’s note explaining the absence. All other absences will be reviewed and discussed at attendance conferences, if needed.

TARDY/EARLY DISMISSAL POLICIES The compulsory School Attendance section of the Code of Virginia §22.1-254 requires that school age children attend school regularly and for the hours per day set for the school. Therefore, the elementary schools in Louisa County have implemented the following policy:

1. A student will be counted as tardy after 8:15 a.m.

and as an early dismissal before 3:00 p.m. 2. A student will be allowed a total of no more than three (3) tardies and/or early dismissals or a combination of both totaling three (3) during a nineweek period. Once a student has accumulated a total of four (4) or more tardies and/or early dismissals, he/she will not be counted as having perfect attendance. 3. At the end of each nine-week grading period, if a student has accumulated a total of four (4) or more tardies and/or early dismissals, a letter will be sent home. This letter will state the number of tardies/early dismissals and possible consequences.

If you have questions about attendance, please contact our attendance secretary. Any unresolved issues about attendance should be referred to the assistant principal.

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Arrival and Departure Questions and Answers What time in the morning can I drop my child off? How will I know if school closes early due Buses will unload at 7:50 a.m. The school doors open to weather or other unexpected reasons? to students at 7:50 a.m. Under no circumstances may a If it becomes necessary to close school because of parent/guardian leave a child unsupervised. Please inclement weather or some unforeseen reason, such make sure your child arrives in the building safely. For notice will be announced at the earliest possible time students needing to arrive before 7:50 am, Parks and over the following radio/television stations. Recreation offers a before school care program. WTVR - Channel 6, Richmond WRIC - Channel 8, Richmond What time does school end in the WWBT - Channel 12, Richmond afternoon? WVIR - Channel 29, Charlottesville At dismissal, students will depart the building WRVA - Richmond (1140 AM) beginning at 3:00 pm. All buses will load and leave WCHV - Charlottesville (1260 AM) together once all students are safely on the bus. For WJMA - Orange (1340 AM) safety reasons, students will not be removed from buses WLSA - Louisa (105.5 FM) for pick up once loading has begun. WGCV - Richmond (99.3 FM) LCPS website—www.lcps.k12.va.us What is the latest time I can pick my child up

after school? If you have not sent a note and need to pick up your Parents and students are urged NOT to call the child at dismissal, please make sure you are in the office school, the principal, the assistant principal, or the school prior to 2:00 PM. Children who are picked up from board office at any time related to the early closing of school need to be picked up no later than 3:05 PM. school. All telephone lines must be kept open for official calls during this time. Please watch television, listen to What if I have to pick my child up from the radio, or check the LCPS Website for announcements school before dismissal? related to school closings. In addition, the county will Students who are dismissed early must be signed out issue an “all-call” to the home phone numbers when in the office and a secretary will call the student to the school will be closed or delayed. Please keep phone office. Teachers will not release students from the numbers current to receive these calls. classroom without authorization from the office.

What if another person needs to pick up my child from school? All people who pick up children (including parents) need to have a photo ID. At the beginning of each year, parents complete a card stating those people who have permission to pick up their child from school. The secretaries will ask to see a photo ID and look up the name of the person presenting himself/herself on the pick up card before releasing a student. This procedure is for the protection of your children and we appreciate your cooperation. If there is a question of custody, evidence of legal custody must be on file in the office verifying this issue. The school maintains a neutral position in these situations and must follow legal guidelines. Students will be released to those who have legal custody or others whom parents/guardians designate in writing.

How will the school know where to send my child in case of an unexpected early dismissal? Each student should have an early dismissal plan on file in the office stating where he/she is to go should this happen during the school day. If your child does not have an early dismissal plan, your child will ride the bus to his/her normal bus stop. You will receive a form in your back-to-school packet for you to tell us what to do with your child in the event of an early closing. This should be turned in to your child’s teacher by the second day of school. Please call the office for a form if this information changes.

Special Note: A student may be released from school to either a custodial or non-custodial parent who presents proper photo identification that matches the child’s birth certificate. If a court order exists that limits or denies this right, a copy of that paperwork must be provided to the school.

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STUDENT RECORDS STUDENT RECORD POLICIES 1. 2.

By law, all student records are confidential. (Public Law 93-380) Records may be examined by the parent or legal guardian. If you feel a need to view your child’s scholastic record, please call in advance to schedule a suitable date and time. 3. It is very important that legal guardianship paperwork is current and on file at the school at all times. It is the guardian’s responsibility to provide the office with the most current records on guardianship and/or custody. 4. Requests for a portion(s) of a child’s records (such as immunizations, report card, physical, etc.) must be made in writing by the student’s parent or legal guardian. This request may take several days to complete and cost 10 cents per page for the copies. **Please read the Louisa County Public Schools Code of Behavior for a complete listing of the rules and regulations governing student records.

WITHDRAWING A STUDENT It is very important to let the school staff know if you are planning a move. Withdrawing from school requires return of school materials, payment of any book fines, and closure of lunch account. The school will forward student scholastic records after you have registered in your new school.

RELEASE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION Items such as the Policy Manual of the Louisa County School Board, Personnel Handbook, Faculty/Staff Handbook, and Curriculum Guides as well as State publications used in schools are available for examination by the public. Most school documents, such as LCPS Policy Manual are available on the division’s website at www.lcps.k12.va.us. Requests should be made to the principal.

CHANGES IN STUDENT INFORMATION Notify the office staff in writing regarding updates to a student’s address, phone number(s), emergency contacts, etc. We encourage you to keep student, parent/ guardian information current. Proof of residency is required when changing address.

SECURITY PASSWORD Parent(s)/guardian(s) have the opportunity to designate a security password. The password may be up to 9 characters long and be any combination of letters and/or numbers. It should be something that you can remember but a combination that someone else would have trouble guessing. The best passwords are a combination of letters and numbers. Passwords are not case specific and cannot include symbols. This password will allow the school staff to answer some questions and process some requests over the phone. This may include requests about attendance and transportation*, but will not include requests for student records. Those requests must be made in writing. This password is for the use of a student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s) only. It is an optional additional security measure put in place for your convenience. If a child does not have a designated security password, no

student information will be given out and no bus passes will be taken over the phone. *Please be aware that all transportation requests must be made by 2 PM see page 26 for complete information on requesting a transportation change over the phone. 25

CLINIC Students who become ill during the school day may be sent to the clinic. Parents will be contacted if students are unable to return to class or if the illness or injury is severe. If you have addition questions please contact the school nurse.

MEDICATION Prescription Medication: Louisa County Public School personnel may give prescription medication to students only with a physician’s written order and written permission from the student’s parent or guardian. Such medicine must be in the original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse, or school division designee by the parent/guardian of the student. Nonprescription Medication: Louisa County Public School personnel may give nonprescription medication to students only with the written permission of the parent or guardian. Such permission shall include the name of the medication, the required dosage of the medication, and the time the medicine is to be given. Such medicine MUST be in the original container and delivered to the proper school personnel by the parent/guardian of the student.

MEDICAL PROBLEMS In the case of certain long-term medication, prior written clearance from the family physician is required. Parents should inform the student's teacher, the school nurse, and office staff of any chronic medical problems which affect a student, such as asthma, heart conditions, seizures, diabetes and allergic reactions.

HEAD LICE Millions of school children nationwide get head lice every year. Having head lice is not a sign of uncleanliness or poor health habits or hygiene. It occasionally exhibits itself in classrooms and can be stressful to a student and his/ her family when it is discovered. Head lice are common nation-wide and can be easily transmitted from one student to another. As a result, LCPS has a “nit-free” policy that requires any student found to possess head lice or their eggs (“nits”) be excluded from school until all lice and nits are removed. Students will be placed in the custody of the parent and checked before school re-entry to assure that the student has been treated and all nits and lice have been removed. In order to avoid embarrassment to a student and family, every effort will be made to maintain the confidentiality of the head lice problem. Two good resources to assist you in ridding your household of this problem is www.HeadLiceInfo.com or www.cdc.gov/lice/

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TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS **Please read entire section carefully. These sections contain important information for you and your child.

BUS TRANSPORTATION The Louisa County School Board considers the transportation of students a privilege to be enjoyed by eligible students and believes the safety of students to be of paramount importance. School bus drivers and school staff will address bus safety and conduct at the beginning of the school year. School Bus Rules are in the Student Code of Conduct Book. These rules and regulations have been approved for the general welfare of all individuals who ride school buses. Parents are required to review this booklet with their child(ren). They must also sign and return the detachable form indicating their support of these regulations. Failure to comply with these rules and regulations will result in disciplinary action. The nature of the disciplinary action will vary with the particular infraction, the age of the student and other factors. In the case of consistent or flagrant violations of regulations, a student may be considered for temporary or permanent suspension of bus privileges. .

**Please note: At 3:00 students load the buses. For safety reasons, students will not be removed from buses for pick up once loading has begun.

A brief note about afternoon transportation changes: The administration and staff want to ensure that every student gets home from school safely. We firmly believe that a child with a consistent after school routine is more secure. To that end, we want you as a parent to be aware that changes to transportation requests should not be an every day occurrence. However, you may find it necessary to make an occasional change to your child’s routine. For these times, a written request is necessary for your child to go on a different bus, to Parks and Recreation after school care, to an after school activity, or to be picked up if this is not what your child does on a daily basis. If at some point in the year, the office determines that . a child is getting an excessive number of changes in their transportation routine, we will ask parents to make a permanent change in a student’s daily afternoon routine.

CHANGE(S) TO TRANSPORTATION ROUTINE WRITTEN REQUESTS To request a temporary change, please follow this procedure: 1. All changes must be made in writing the day that the pass is to take effect. Changes will be in effect for one day only. Please write these notes on separate pieces of paper and not in the student’s agenda. 2. A note must include the following information:  The date for which the note applies  Child’s full name  Child’s teacher  Bus number, parks and recreation info, or who is picking up the child  The physical address of the stop where the child is getting off the bus  A phone number where the parent/guardian can be reached  The parent/guardian’s signature To request a permanent change to a child’s afternoon routine, please contact the office for information.

PHONE REQUESTS

ALL PHONE REQUESTS MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE 2:00 PM. The following policies for phone requests will be strictly enforced: Only parents or legal guardians may request changes in a student’s transportation. Because it is difficult to identify a caller, the parent or guardian must use the designated password when making a phone request. This is a safety precaution. You will need to provide the following information to make a temporary change:  Security password  Child’s full name  Child’s teacher  Bus number  Physical address for drop off  Name of parent/guardian calling

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PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION Morning Routine Parents who transport their children to school by car between 7:50 am - 8:10 am are asked to please enter the lane directly in front of the tennis courts and move forward for your child to be greeted by a staff member at the side entrance. Caution must be used to avoid accidents and injury when loading and unloading students. A staff member will greet students each morning. Parents and students are not to walk between parked cars. Parking is not allowed in the small circular driveway. PICKING YOUR CHILD UP AT DISMISSAL

Afternoon Routine To pick your child up from school, parents must go to the school foyer and show their photo id. We ask that you do not arrive to pick-up your child before 2:45. If you, or someone else, picks up your child daily, that person is to proceed to the front desk, sign the student out in the log book, and wait for school dismissal in the school foyer. At the dismissal bell, students who are being picked up in the afternoon will report to the front office. Parents that pick their children up from school regularly are encouraged to sign up for our Express Pick-Up option. Please see one of the secretaries in the office for more details. If you do not regularly pick up your child, you will be directed to the office for further assistance. After signing out your child, you will receive a day pick up slip to give to the staff member on duty which indicates that the child may leave school grounds with you. Secretaries will call all students at 2:55 pm. Students will not be called from classrooms prior to 2:55 pm to protect instructional time. In no situation will students be released from the building without being under the direct supervision of an adult.

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SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS The educational program at Louisa County Elementary Schools cannot be totally successful without receiving support from members of the surrounding community. The cooperation of parents, students, teachers, and administrators will ensure an excellent educational program. Parents are encouraged to support their school through participating in the Volunteer Program, serving on committees, helping the P.T.A., or assisting the classroom teacher in any of a wide variety of ways. However, because of security concerns, we ask that advance arrangements and notice be made whenever possible. This will also help the students and teachers maintain continuity within their classroom environment.

VISITORS Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit the school. We do ask that you respect the instructional time of teachers and not disrupt classes by visiting unannounced. The safety of all of our children is very important; therefore, all visitors to our school must follow these rules for entering the school building. 1. 2.

3. 4.

All visitors will be required to show a photo ID in the entrance foyer. If you are planning to go beyond the office area of the school building, you will be asked to sign in either our visitor or volunteer log book. You will then be issued the appropriate visitor/volunteer badge to display visibly while you are in the building. For the safety of our students, visitors are ONLY allowed to use restrooms that have been designated for adult use. Do not use student restrooms. When you are ready to leave the building, return to the office to sign out of the log book and return the visitor/volunteer badge.

Please remember….. ……..if your child forgets something needed at school, please bring it to the office. We will see that your child receives the item. ……...that during instructional times teachers are not permitted to engage in conversations with parents. If you need to speak with a teacher, please schedule a conference.

VOLUNTEERS Parents and other members of the community are encouraged to participate as members of the school Volunteer Program. Persons interested in sharing their time, talents and resources may sign up at the beginning of the school year when information is sent home or throughout the year by contacting the school. Please make arrangements to volunteer with a teacher in advance. Teachers will identify volunteers for their classrooms and notify the office of the day(s) and time(s) that a volunteer(s) will be permitted to come to their classroom. Volunteers will be required to show a photo ID, sign in at the office, and produce your volunteer card before they will be released to a classroom.

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PARENT - TEACHER ASSOCIATION (P.T.A.) The school has an active Parent-Teacher Association. General membership meetings are usually held the third Thursday of designated months at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Please see the school newsletter for dates and topics to be presented at PTA meetings. The PTA welcomes all to participate as often as they can to help build a strong and welcoming school environment. The Officers for the 2015-2016 school year are: President: Michelle McLeod Vice-President: Shaina Toney and Lauren Luck (Fundraising) Vice-President: Susan Louk (Membership) Secretary: Christina Clough Teacher Appreciation: Megan Ryan Movie Night: Daphne MacDougall

Website Coordinator: Crystal Paschall Scholarship: Whitney Frey Teacher Reps: Amanda Harper and Susan Anderson Santa Shop: Rachael Yarrington Principal: William Caten Asst. Principal: Justin Grigg

FUND-RAISING Activities which raise funds for school use will be primarily handled by the Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A.). Students are not allowed to engage in door-to-door solicitation. A student may not sell any item at school or on the school bus.

NO SMOKING/NO TOBACCO POLICY By order of the school board, no person shall smoke or use tobacco products of any kind on school property. This includes teachers, staff, students, parents, and any other adult. This policy includes all areas on school property (personal cars in the parking lot, ball fields, etc.) at all times (including after school hours). The use of electronic cigarettes is prohibited on school buses, on school premises and on school-sponsored activities.

FIRE DRILLS AND BUILDING EVACUATION A fire drill will be indicated by a continuous blast of the fire safety system. One continuous ring of the bell will indicate that it is safe to return to the classrooms. Teachers in each class will indicate the direction to be taken to exit the building. Students are to exit the building in a quiet and orderly line and remain with their teacher and class until they have returned to their classroom. Each classroom has an evacuation route posted for a fire drill or other emergency situation. Students are asked to become familiar with the evacuation routes from each classroom. Students will also practice other drills throughout the year. These drills are: Lock Down Drill (when all students go to their classrooms and doors are locked because a dangerous person is in or near the building), and Severe Weather Drills (used in case of severe, inclement weather) and Earthquake drills.

STUDENT INSURANCE Information regarding accident insurance for students will be provided in back to school materials.

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