Rochester Elementary School Parent-Student Handbook 2016-2017

Rochester Elementary Early Childhood-1st Grade 707 West Main Street, Rochester, IL 62563 Phone: (217) 498-9778 Fax: (217) 498-9160 Rochester Elementary 2nd – 3rd Grade 456 Education Avenue, Rochester, IL 62563 Phone: (217) 498-6216 Fax: (217) 498-6217 --

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Welcome to Rochester Elementary Schools and to the new and exciting adventures and experiences that await you here. We have prepared this handbook to tell you about our schools. You will find that the rules and regulations that govern our lives at school make it possible for all of us to live, learn, work and play together. Take time to read this book carefully. Don't put it off. Be sure you understand everything in it. If you have any questions about anything, please contact the schools. We will be glad to help you find the answers to your questions. Our school will be what we make it . . . be proud of it . . . take good care of it . . . become part of it! You have the power to determine your success. Start off on the proper foot. Remember, the longest journey starts with a single step. Put your best foot forward. Together we will continue Rochester School District’s Tradition of Excellence! Best wishes for a great year!

Jeff Reed - RES EC-1 &

Carrie Ross – RES EC-1 &

2-3 Principal:

2-3 Assistant Principal:

MISSION STATEMENT OF ROCHESTER SCHOOLS All individuals involved in education in the Rochester School District will be encouraged and enabled to develop attitudes and values necessary to learn the skills and acquire the knowledge to reach their full potential as a positive contributing member of an ever-changing global society.

DISTRICT PHILOSOPHY The major purpose is the development of the individual for complete living in a democratic society. It is the belief that Rochester Community Unit Schools should provide this education for all students. The best use will be made of all available measures in order that students, as adults, may become worthy citizens of the community, state, nation, and the world.

DAILY SCHEDULE The building will be open to students at 8:10 a.m. Non-bus students should not arrive at school before 8:10 a.m. unless enrolled in Early Bird Bridge Program. Students entering the building after 8:30 a.m. will be marked tardy. Kindergarten Lunch: 11:10 a.m. First Grade Lunch: 11:40 a.m. Second Grade Lunch: 12:15 p.m. Third Grade Lunch: 12:45 p.m. Pick-Up Dismissal: 3:20 p.m. Bus Dismissal: 3:25 p.m. ROCHESTER SCHOOL DISTRICT IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR STUDENTS WHO ARRIVE AT SCHOOL BEFORE 8:10 A.M. OR WHO LOITER AFTER SCHOOL. --

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Animals at School………………………………………………………………………. Appointments …………………………………………………………………………… Asbestos Management………………………………………………………………….. Attendance ……………………………………………………………………………… Badges…………………………………………………………………………………… Bullying, Intimidation & Harassment (Prevention of & Response to)………………….. Cell Phones/Electronic Devices ………………………………………………………… Child Abuse…………………………………………………………………………….. Classroom Assignments…………………………………………………………………. Classroom Observations……………………………………………………………........ Closed Campus …………………………………………………………………………. Communicable Disease Policy …………………………………………………………. Communication………………………………………………………………………….. Crisis Plan ………………………………………………………………………………. Discipline Policy and Procedures……………………………………………………….. Dress ……………………………………………………………………………………. Field Trips ………………………………………………………………………………. Food Services …………………………………………………………………………… Grading …………………………………………………………………………………. Health Information ……………………………………………………………………… Homelessness …………………………………………………………………………… Homework……………………………………………………………………………….. Insurance ………………………………………………………………………………… Lost and Found …………………………………………………………………………. Lunchroom Policy ………………………………………………………………………. Notes from Home ………………………………………………………………………. Parent/Teacher Conferences ……………………………………………………………. Party Invitations ………………………………………………………………………… Pest Management Control ……………………………………………………………… Promotion/Placement/Retention ………………………………………………………… Property Damage ……………………………………………………………………….. Quarterly Celebrations …………………………………………………………………. Rental and Care of Textbooks ………………………………………………………….. Response to Intervention (RtI) ………………………………………………………….. Room Parents …………………………………………………………………………… Section 504 ……………………………………………………………………………… Sex Equity Policy……………. ………………………………………………….............. Sexual Harassment Prohibited………………………………………………………….. Snacks at School ……………………………………………………………………….. Special Deliveries……………………………………………………………………….. Special Programs ……………………………………………………………………….. Student Records …………………………………………………………………………. Telephone ……………………………………………………………………………….. Testing ………………………………………………………………………………….. Toys at School ………………………………………………………………………….. Transferring to Another School ………………………………………………………… Transportation ………………………………………………………………………….. Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………. Weather …………………………………………………………………………………. Acceptable Use Policy ………………………………………………………………….. Elementary Handbook Agreement Form…………………………………………………

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4 4 4 4-6 6 6-8 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 10-17 17 17 17-18 18-19 19-21 21 21 21 21 21-22 22 22 22 22 22 23 23 23 23 23-24 24-25 25 25-26 26 27 27 27-30 30 30 30 30 30-33 33-35 35 36-37 38

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ANIMALS AT SCHOOL Due to the number of students with pet allergies, pets will not be allowed inside the schools. If students want to share their pet with their class they will need to do so with pictures. Parents picking up students should not bring pets into the building. APPOINTMENTS Parents are encouraged to make all student medical and dental appointments after two o'clock whenever possible. Parents are to pick students up IN THE OFFICE for appointments. Please do not go to the classroom or out to the playground to gather your children. ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan, as required by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is located in the main office of each school building and available for review upon request. ATTENDANCE There is a close relationship between student attendance and academic success. When a student is absent from school, valuable information (some of which can never be made up) is missed. Illinois State Law requires children between the ages of 6 and 17 to attend school regularly. School personnel and parents must work together to ensure that students attend school on a regular basis. The following guidelines will be followed to encourage students to attend school regularly. The guidelines are intended to maintain an open line of communication between the school and parents of students who are absent from school. Reporting Absences BY PHONE: Parents/guardians must call the school prior to 9:00 a.m. to report their child’s absence. Parents/guardians need to report absences EACH day a child is absent and include the following information: • Student’s name, grade, and teacher’s name • Parent’s/guardian’s name • Reason for absence In an attempt to determine the reason for an absence, office personnel will call parents/guardians. BY NOTE: Parents/guardians may report an absence by sending a note to school on the next day the child attends ONLY in the event that the parent/guardian cannot report the absence by phone on the day of the absence. The student must report directly to the office on the day of return with a note explaining the reason for the absence. Notes must include: • Student’s name, grade and teacher’s name • Parent’s/guardian’s name • Reason for absence BY DOCTOR’S NOTE: If a student is absent due to a medical or dental appointment, they must return to school with a written excuse from the doctor or a member of the doctor’s staff that includes the date and time of the appointment and the time the student left the office. If the note excuses an absence due to illness or injury, it must include the reason for the absence and the specific dates the student is excused from school. Absences • Absences not cleared within a 24 hour period may result in an unexcused status. • When a student has been absent from school for three or more days, a medical excuse may be requested by the office before the student may return to classes. • Students should not come on campus for any reason -- on a day they are reported ill unless arrangements 4

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have been made with the office. Students are not allowed to participate in or attend extracurricular activities if absent any part of the day due to illness or unexcused absence. This includes but is not limited to class parties, music programs, special class events or programs. Students who leave for medical/dental appointments must secure assignments from classes missed prior to leaving for the appointment. Assignments from these classes are due at the regular time.

Classification Of Absences: Excused Absences In order for an absence to be excused, parents/guardians must make either written or verbal contact with the school office using the procedures listed above in “Reporting absences”. Twelve days of parent/guardian excused absences are allowed during the school year. Doctor excused absences will not be deducted from the twelve parent/guardian excused absences allowed. Unexcused absences will be deducted from the student’s twelve excused absences allowed. The following are examples of excused absences: • Verified medical or dental appointment – written verification includes appointment time, departure time from medical or dental office, and doctor’s or dentist’s signature; student is excused for the time of the appointment. • Death in immediate family • School-sponsored trips or events • Student illness reported by parent/guardian by procedures listed above; may not exceed 12 days per year • Doctor-excused illness with a list of specific days in which student is to be excused • Court appearance • Observance of a religious holiday • Absence due to extenuating circumstances when approved by building principal Conditional Absences A conditional absence (pre-arranged absence) is an absence that is approved by the school administration in advance of the absence. Conditional or pre-arranged absences count toward the twelve days of parent/guardian excused absences. (Example: If you miss five days for a vacation you would only have seven days of parent/guardian excused absences left.) The following steps must be followed: • Obtain and complete a pre-arranged absence form from the office. This must be done at least 24 hours before the scheduled absence. • Students must take the form to all teachers to sign. Teachers may provide assignments if appropriate. Teachers may choose not to send homework for conditional absences. If homework is not provided students will be granted time to complete the work equal to the number of days absent. • The pre-arranged form must be brought to the office after completion for verification. • All provided assignments must be completed the day the student returns to school. • Failure to complete the 4 steps above will result in a grade of “0” for all assignments due. • Previously announced tests must be taken the day the student returns. Vacations Parents are strongly encouraged to take vacations during the regular scheduled school vacations time! It is not possible to totally re-create missed lessons and activities. To be considered an excused absence notification must be in writing and submitted at least 7 days in advance of the planned trip.

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Unexcused Absences An unexcused absence is any absence from school with parental knowledge and/or approval, but not acceptable to the school administration. All unexcused absences will result in the student receiving a zero for each class missed; and, additional disciplinary action may be taken. Also, any absence that exceeds the allowed 12 excused absences is considered unexcused. The following are examples of unexcused absences: • Skipping school • Oversleeping • Car trouble • Suspension from school • Parental tardiness • Staying home to care for younger children • Visiting friends • Minor aches and pains or feeling tired • Any other reason that was not excused by an administrator • Any absence that exceeds the twelve allowable days and is not excused by a doctor’s note. Truancy Truancy is defined as any absence without a valid cause for any school day or portion thereof. Habitual or chronic truancy is defined as unexcused absences that equal or exceeds 5% of the prior 180 consecutive school days. Students who are truant may be referred to the Sangamon County Truancy Officer or Truant Alternative Program. Letters will be sent to the student’s home and to the Sangamon County Regional Office of Education for students who accumulate six or more days of unexcused absences. Attendance Reports Attendance reports will be reviewed at least quarterly. Once a student has missed the sixth day during the first semester parents are informed by letter, and concern is shared about their student’s attendance. The letter informs parents that, if the student misses 12 enrolled days, a licensed physician’s medical excuse will be required for an excused absence the remainder of the year. When a student has missed 12 days for the year, a certified letter stating that, for the remainder of the school year, a licensed physician’s medical excuse will be required is mailed to the parents. (For a student to have an excused absence, a licensed physician’s medical excuse must be presented.) If a student has less than 6 absences during the first semester the initial letter of concern will not be sent until the student reaches their eighth absence during the third quarter or not until their ninth absence during the fourth quarter. BADGES For the safety and security of our students, all staff and visitors are required to wear badges in the building during the school day. Any adult in the building not wearing a badge will be escorted to the office. BULLYING, INTIMIDATION & HARASSMENT (PREVENTION OF AND RESPONSE TO) Our schools believe that all children have an absolute right to be educated in a safe and secure environment and to be protected from others who may wish to harm, degrade/put down, or abuse them. There is no justification whatsoever for bullying behavior and it will not be tolerated in any form. Bullying is the intentional desire to hurt, threaten, or frighten someone else through verbal, nonverbal or physical aggressions. This occurs when a person is exposed repeatedly and over time to negative direct or indirect actions. --

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Bullying, intimidation, and harassment diminish a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors and providing all students equal access to a safe, non-hostile learning environment are important school goals. Bullying on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, military status, unfavorable discharge status from the military service, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender-related identity or expression, ancestry, age, religion, physical or mental disability, order of protection status, status of being homeless, or actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy, association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic is prohibited in each of the following situations: 1. During any school-sponsored education program or activity. 2. While in school, on school property, on school buses or other school vehicles, at designated school bus stops waiting for the school bus, or at school-sponsored or school-sanctioned events or activities. 3. Through the transmission of information from a school computer, a school computer network, or other similar electronic school equipment. 4. Through the transmission of information from a computer that is accessed at a non-school related location, activity, function, or program or from the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by the School District or school if the bullying causes a substantial disruption to the educational process or orderly operation of a school. This paragraph (item #4) applies only when a school administrator or teacher receives a report that bullying through this means has occurred; it does not require staff members to monitor any non-school related activity, function, or program. Definitions from Section 27-23.7 of the School Code (105 ILCS 5/27-23.7) Bullying includes cyber-bullying (bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication) and means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or electronically, directed toward a student or students that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following: 1. Placing the student or students in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s or students’ person or property; 2. Causing a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s or students’ physical or mental health; 3. Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ academic performance; or 4. Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school. Cyber-bullying means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, including without limitation any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic system, photo-electronic system, or photooptical system, including without limitation electronic mail, Internet communications, instant messages, or facsimile communications. Cyber-bullying includes the creation of a webpage or weblog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages if the creation or impersonation creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying also includes the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons if the distribution or posting creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying. Restorative measures means a continuum of school-based alternatives to exclusionary discipline, such as suspensions and expulsions, that: (i) are adapted to the particular needs of the school and community, (ii) contribute to maintaining school safety, (iii) protect the integrity of a positive and productive learning climate, (iv) teach students the personal and interpersonal skills they will need to be successful in school and society, (v) serve to build and restore relationships -- among students, families, schools, and 7

communities, and (vi) reduce the likelihood of future disruption by balancing accountability with an understanding of students’ behavioral health needs in order to keep students in school. School personnel means persons employed by, on contract with, or who volunteer in a school district, including without limitation school and school district administrators, teachers, school guidance counselors, school social workers, school counselors, school psychologists, school nurses, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, school resource officers, and security guards. Bullying Prevention and Response Plan The Superintendent or designee shall develop and maintain a bullying prevention and response plan that: advances the District’s goal of providing all students with a safe learning environment free of bullying and harassment. This plan must be consistent with the requirements listed below; each numbered requirement, 1-12, corresponds with the same number in the list of required policy components in 105 ILCS 5/27-23.7(b) 1-12. 1. The District uses the definition of bullying as provided in this policy. 2. Bullying is contrary to State law and the policy of this District. However, nothing in the District’s bullying prevention and response plan is intended to infringe upon any right to exercise free expression or the free exercise of religion or religiously based views protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution or under Section 3 of Article I of the Illinois Constitution. 3. Students are encouraged to immediately report bullying. A report may be made orally or in writing to the district complaint manager or any staff member with whom the student is comfortable speaking. Anyone, including staff members and parents/guardians, who has information about actual or threatened bullying is encouraged to report it to the district complaint manager or any staff member. Anonymous reports are also accepted by phone call or in writing. Complaint Manager: Suzanne Keller, Director of Educational Services #4 Rocket Dr., Rochester, IL 62563 (217) 498-6210 A reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of bullying is prohibited. A student’s act of reprisal or retaliation will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions. A student will not be punished for reporting bullying or supplying information, even if the school’s investigation concludes that no bullying occurred. However, knowingly making a false accusation or providing knowingly false information will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions. CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES Using a cellular telephone, video recording device, personal digital assistant (PDA), or similar electronic device in any manner that disrupts the educational environment or violates the rights of others is prohibited. All cell phones and similar electronic devices must be kept powered-off and out-of-sight from the time the student enters the building until the end of the school day unless: (a) the supervising teacher grants permission; (b) use of the device is provided in a student’s individualized educations program (IEP); or (c) it is needed in an emergency that threatens the safety of students, staff, or other individuals. CHILD ABUSE Any district employee who suspects or receives knowledge that a student may be an abused or neglected child or, for a student aged 18 through 21, as abused or neglected individual with a disability, shall (1) immediately report or cause a report to be made to the -- Illinois Department of Children and Family Services 8

(DCFS) on its Child Abuse Hotline 800/25-ABUSE or 217/524-2606 and (2) follow directions given by DCFS concerning filing a written report within 48 hours with the nearest DCFS field office. The employee shall also promptly notify the Superintendent or Building Principal that a report has been made. CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENTS Each spring classroom teachers and the principal will compile class lists for the following school year. Parent requests for teachers will not be accepted. Requests related to the grouping of students must be submitted prior to May 1. CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS All classroom observations must be pre-arranged, at least 24-hours in advance pursuant to District Policy 120- AP2, E1. CLOSED CAMPUS Rochester CUSD schools operate a closed campus. Students normally will not be allowed to leave campus after arriving at school for any reason other than to keep doctor and dentist appointments. Students leaving campus for any reason must be given permission by the principal or the principal's designee. Students normally will not be allowed to go home for lunch. COMMUNICABLE DISEASE POLICY The Rochester CUSD schools have adopted a communicable disease policy. A copy of this policy is on file for review on the District Website and in the District Office. COMMUNICATION All parents are encouraged to sign up for Family Access to receive daily announcements, news, upcoming events, and grades. Skylert is another system used to phone/text/email all parents about upcoming events, early dismissals or school cancellations. CRISIS PLAN Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan The Building Principal ensures that proper procedures for cleaning-up potentially hazardous material spills are followed: • A building custodian is responsible for the actual cleanup • Personal protective equipment, chemical neutralization kits, and absorbent material are available in each building at all times. • Spill residue is placed in containers designated for such purpose and disposed of in compliance with local, State and federal law. Evacuation • Evacuation rules are posted in each room. The rules will indicate the primary and alternate exits and the evacuation area to which students should proceed upon leaving the building. The posted rules are discussed with each class using the room during the first days of the school year. • A distinct signal is used for evacuation only. Another signal is used for return to class. • No person remains in class during evacuation drills. • Evacuation areas are no closer than 50 feet away from buildings and out of driveways. • Each student is responsible for moving quickly and quietly, and in an orderly manner through the assigned exit to the assigned evacuation area. • Each teacher: o Maintains order during evacuation -9

o Assigns students to hold the door open – these students will rejoin classmates outside when the last person has passed through the doors o Takes roll book and check roll when the class is in the assigned area – a missing student’s name will be reported immediately to the building principal or designee. The building principal reports each evacuation to the Superintendent. The building principal conducts evacuation drills at regular intervals, but at least once yearly. Such drills can coincide with fire drills. The Rochester Elementary schools’ crisis plan is available in each room of the schools at all times. Fire Procedures, Policies, and Drills The fire alarm is a loud horn-like sound produced by an electrical buzzer that sounds continuously until manually shut off. Upon hearing the signal, students and teachers will move immediately out of the building. Fire drills will be conducted during the school year. Each pupil and teacher should learn the fire drill regulations. Pupils are to leave the building in an orderly manner when the fire buzzer sounds. Leave all books and school items behind. Fire procedures are for the purpose of protecting life. Remember to close windows and doors. Move quietly and in a single file. Do not visit while leaving the building. Once outside of the building move at least 100 feet from the building. Wait for the all-clear signal before re-entering the building after fire drills. Storm and Disaster Drills • The warning for these drills is a series of high-low alternating tones. • Room windows and doors should be closed. • Students should move quietly too designated areas in hallways or coatrooms within the classroom away from window areas as best as possible. • Students should sit facing the wall and cover their heads with an open textbook. • The signal to return to the room will be a tone and announcement on the intercom. False Bomb and Fire Alarms Turning in a false bomb or fire alarm is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. Class A misdemeanors carry a maximum term of imprisonment up to one year and a maximum fine of $1,000. DISCIPLINE POLICY AND PROCEDURES It is the policy of the school district to have rules and regulations, which allow each student the opportunity to work and study in an environment conducive to learning. Students are expected to be courteous, diligent, honest, and respectful and to abide by the rules and regulations of the school district. Conduct beliefs Structure and direction are needed to accomplish daily tasks and to get along with others. Students are expected to do their best in their schoolwork and to be on their best behavior at school. Besides the conduct rules expressed in the handbook, a set of school-wide rules are introduced at the beginning of the year and reviewed throughout. Copies of the school-wide rules are distributed at Parent Information or Meet the Teacher Night. It must be understood, by both the parent and the student, that for students to learn we must have an atmosphere conducive for learning. In general, infractions of school and classroom rules can result in any of the following consequences: Conference with the teacher and/or the principal, loss of privileges, written -10

assignments (such as sentences about rules, letters explaining behavior, and behavior study packets), conference (in person or by telephone) with parent(s), detention, removal from class ("time out"), suspension, and restitution (for damage to property or person). Teachers and/or the principal will keep parents closely informed whenever a student's behavior becomes a problem. Recommended Student Behaviors • Listen to directions the first time they are given • Talk quietly and keep unnecessary noise to a minimum • Walk in the building at all times. (Loitering in the halls is not permitted) • Behave and follow the restroom rules • Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself. (Fighting, tackle games, and rough play will not be tolerated.) • Keep school property clean • Contact the playground supervisor immediately if a problem occurs • Show respect, at all times, for persons and property. • Follow directions the first time they are given. • Stay in your seat or assigned area • Use all objects and equipment properly • Students will not bring items that are considered dangerous or cause distraction onto school grounds. Such items or toys may be, but are not limited to: knives, guns, swords, bats, baseballs, radios, walkietalkies or look-alike weapons. Such items will be confiscated and parents will be called. • All food is to be eaten in the classroom or cafeteria and not to be taken outside. (Gum chewing is not permitted unless teacher directed.) • Students are not permitted to buy or sell candy, pop, tickets or any other merchandise during school hours without the approval of the administration. • No skateboarding on school grounds at anytime. Using or possessing an electronic paging device: Using a cellular telephone, video recording device, personal digital assistant (PDA), or other electronic device in any manner that disrupts the educational environment or violates the rights of others, including using the device to take photographs in locker rooms or bathrooms, cheat, or otherwise violate student conduct rules will result in Levels I, II, III, or IV disciplinary action in relationship to the severity of the action or actions. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, creating, sending, sharing, viewing, receiving, or possessing an indecent visual depiction of oneself or another person through the use of a computer, electronic communication device, or cellular phone. Unless otherwise banned under this policy or by the Building Principal, all electronic devices must be kept powered-off and out-of-sight during the regular school day unless: (a) the supervising teacher grants permission; (b) use of the device is provided in a student’s individualized education program (IEP); or (c) it is needed in an emergency that threatens the safety of students, staff, or other individuals. Hazing: Any District employee who observes any act of hazing that does bodily harm to a student must report that act to the Building Principal, Superintendent, or designee who will investigate and take appropriate action. If the hazing results in death or great bodily harm the employee must first make the report to law enforcement and then to the Superintendent or Building Principal. Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that results in bodily harm to any person which act is directed to or required of a student for the purpose of being initiated into, affiliating with, holding -office in, or maintaining membership in any group, organization, club, or athletic team whose members are 11

or include other students. Disciplinary Procedures: 1. Actions Taken Prior to Office Referral (Level I Acts of Misconduct) Each teacher is to establish a Classroom Management Plan (CMP) to be approved by the building principal and put into use prior to making an office referral, unless the behavior warrants an immediate office referral. Disciplinary actions may be used by the teacher according to his/her “Classroom Management Plan.” 2. Office Referrals A pupil should be referred to the office when the seriousness of the offense, persistence of the misbehavior, or the disruptive effect to the class makes the continued presence of the pupil in the classroom detrimental to the educational process. Most office referrals would be made for Levels II, III and IV Acts of Misconduct. 3. Suspensions Suspension means temporary removal only by the school administration from any or all parts of the school program. Student suspensions include removal from classrooms, buildings, buses and/or school activities. Suspensions are not to exceed ten (10) school days for a single incident. Classroom teachers may temporarily remove students from their classrooms. 4. Expulsion Expulsion means the removal of the student from the total school program for a period of time not to exceed the remainder of any school year. The board of education has the sole power to expel a student. No student will be expelled until he/she has been offered a hearing before the board of education. 5. Due Process Regulations The student is notified of a discipline infraction and given the opportunity to state his/her version of the incident to the administrator or designee. The administration determines the consequences. Parents have the opportunity to discuss the disciplinary action taken with the building administrator. The Different Levels of Acts of Misconduct The grounds for disciplinary action also apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including but not limited to: 1) On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any time; 2) Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school. 3) Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event Level I - Acts of Misconduct Level I Acts of Misconduct are minor misbehaviors that impede the orderly operation of the classroom, school, and or bus. These misbehaviors are usually handled by the individual staff member but may require the assistance of school support personnel if the misbehavior is repetitive or severe enough. Level I Acts of Misconduct include: a. Classroom disturbances b. Cheating/lying/dishonesty c. Not following directions d. Littering e. Playground rule violation f. Dress code violation --

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Level I – Possible Disciplinary Options 1. Conference with student 2. Conference with parent (by phone or in person) 3. Consequences as stipulated in the teacher’s classroom management plan 4. Verbal reprimand 5. Behavioral contract 6. Counseling 7. Withdrawal of privileges 8. Recess detention Level II - Acts of Misconduct Level II Acts of Misconduct involve misbehaviors whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school. Infractions that result from the continuation of Level I misbehaviors require the intervention of administrative and/or school support personnel in order to correct the situation. Misbehaviors that do not represent a direct threat to the health and safety of others, but whose educational consequences are serious enough to require corrective action will be handled by administrative personnel. Level II Acts of Misconduct include: a. Continuation of modified Level I Acts of Misconduct b. Bullying c. Defiantly disobeying the rules d. Forgery of notes, passes, or excuses e. Gambling or trading of property f. Bus misconduct; Library misconduct; Cafeteria misconduct g. Swearing or inappropriate language h. Possession/Use of beepers, pagers, cell phones, or hand-held games that is disruptive to class time i. Cheating or Copying Level II – Possible Disciplinary Options 1. Conference with student 2. Conference with parent (by telephone or in person) 3. Recess detention 4. Time out in the office 5. Withdrawal of privileges 6. Referral to outside agency or school district support services 7. Alternative Education Room Level III - Acts of Misconduct Level III Acts of Misconduct involve acts directed against person or property but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health and safety of others. The corrective measures will be determined by the administrative personnel and the resources available to the district for remedial action. Level III Acts of Misconduct include: a. Continuation of unmodified Level II Acts of Misconduct; b. Use or possession of tobacco products in school, on school property, or at school events; c. Extortion; d. Fighting/affray, instigating a fight, or battery against another student; e. Possession and/or sale of stolen property; f. Trespassing; g. Gross disrespect, insubordination, vulgarity, open and persistent defiance of authority; h. Threats to others to apply force, a threat to do physical injury, bullying, verbal harassment, intimidation, -13

hazing ,or sexual harassment to another student or school employee; i. Plagiarism; j. Use, possession, and/or distribution of tobacco products in school, on school property, or at a school event (a police report may be filed if the student is under the age of 18); k. Misuse of social media or networking sites; l. Tampering with computer hardware, software, or files; including causing damage to a school issued device whether it is assigned to the student, to another student, or is a loaner; m. Possession of school forms without authority, including but not limited to, tests, keys and answer booklets; n. Identity theft (examples include using others’ lunch card and computer login/password); o. Sexting; p. Making an explicit threat on an Internet website against a school employee, a student, or any schoolrelated personnel if the Internet website through which the threat was made is a site that was accessible within the school at the time the threat was made or was available to third parties who worked or studied within the school grounds at the time the threat was made, and the threat could be reasonably interpreted as threatening to the safety and security of the threatened individual because of his or her duties or employment status or status as a student inside the school. Level III – Possible Disciplinary Options 1. Temporary removal from class 2. Alternative Education Room 3. from school suspension 4. Loss of credit for assignments, tests or projects if directly related to offense 5. Suspension of bus privileges 6. Alternative Programs: a. Programs for disruptive youth b. Other appropriate district/community alternatives Level IV - Acts of Misconduct Level IV Acts of Misconduct are those that are so serious that they always require administrative actions that result in at least temporary removal from the school. These misbehaviors may involve law enforcement authority intervention and action by the Board of Education and/or a Student Review Committee. Level IV Acts of Misconduct include: a. Continuation of unmodified Level III Acts of Misconduct; b. Furnishing or selling controlled substances (drugs or look-alikes); c. Criminal damage to school property on or off campus. Off campus includes, but is not limited to, school buses and school vans; d. Setting false alarms; e. Setting fires (includes fireworks or explosives); f. Possession of weapons, or look alike weapons, and/or the use of weapons or other objects to produce bodily harm or threats of bodily harm on school grounds; g. Vandalism/Malicious activity; h. Gang/Gang activity or unapproved organizations; i. Other acts of misconduct which are seriously disruptive and/or create a safety hazard to students, staff and/or school property. j. Criminal damage to or theft of personal property belonging to school personnel on or off campus k. Criminal damage to property of students; l. Fighting with or assault/battery to another student or staff member; m. Open and persistent defiance of school staff, gross insubordination and/or vulgarity directed at a school employee or volunteer; n. Possession, use or being under the influence of controlled substances, inhalants, mind-altering substances, -14

drug paraphernalia or look-alikes, and alcohol (see page 18 definitions); o. Theft; p. Making an explicit threat on an Internet website against a school employee, a student, or any schoolrelated personnel if the Internet website through which the threat was made is a site that was accessible within the school at the time the threat was made or was available to third parties who worked or studied within the school grounds at the time the threat was made, and the threat could be reasonably interpreted as threatening to the safety and security of the threatened individual because of his or her duties or employment status or status as a student inside the school. Level IV – Possible Disciplinary Options 1. from school suspension 2. Alternative Programs: a. Programs for disruptive youth b. Other appropriate district/community alternatives 3. Board action that may result in appropriate placement 4. Action as recommended by a student review committee 5. Expulsion Drugs & Alcohol (Marijuana, controlled Substances, Paraphernalia, Look-Alike) Rochester School District 3A students found to be under the influence, in possession or control of, or selling or delivering any controlled substance (alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia, look-alikes, marijuana) while in school, on school district property, or at any school sponsored activity at Rochester, or any other school shall be subject to disciplinary action. School officials will cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies. To facilitate implementation of this policy, the following terms are defined: • Under the Influence - Any student who has consumed or used any amount of a controlled substance, marijuana, drugs, or intoxicants, including alcohol, will be considered to be under the influence. • Possession - Any student who has possession or control of any alcoholic beverage, marijuana, and any controlled substance other than as prescribed by a physician for that individual, any other intoxicating substance, or any drug paraphernalia shall be subject to disciplinary action. A substance or item need not be in a student's immediate presence to be in his/her possession or control. • Delivery - Any student who delivers, receives delivery of, or attempts to deliver or receives delivery of any alcoholic beverage, marijuana, any controlled substance, or any drug paraphernalia shall be subject to disciplinary action. Delivery means a transfer of possession or control to another person whether or not the substance or item is in that person's immediate presence. Delivery includes, but is not limited to, any gift, exchange, sale or other transfer with or without payment or other consideration. • Look Alike - A look-alike substance is a substance which by dosage unit, appearance including color, shape, size, container and/or packaging, markings or by representation made would lead a reasonable person to believe that the substance is an alcoholic beverage, marijuana, or a controlled substance. • Drug Paraphernalia - Drug paraphernalia means all equipment, products and materials of any kind that are peculiar to, marketed for, used in packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body, marijuana or any controlled substance other than as prescribed by a physician. Early Intervention Program A student and family may elect to have a drug/alcohol assessment. The assessment or other school approved counseling program may reduce the length of school suspension. --

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Disciplinary Consequences for Drug & Alcohol The disciplinary consequences are listed below: 1. Self Help - students using a controlled substance, alcohol or tobacco, may request help from school authorities PRIOR TO DISCOVERY by the school without any penalty. Services by the school staff and/or referral to outside agencies are always available. 2. Under the influence or possession of alcohol or drugs - first offense: A student who has consumed any amount of alcohol or drugs will result in a ten-day suspension from school and may possibly be requested to appear before the Board of Education. A student may elect to enroll in an early intervention or other school approved counseling program for the first offense to reduce the suspension to five days. If the student elects to enroll in the program, the student will be allowed to return to school, after the suspension has been assessed by the principal, as long as he/she continues in the early intervention program. If a student fails to complete the assessment and any additional recommendations, the remaining days of suspension shall be revoked. Second offenses shall automatically result in a ten (10) day suspension from school and appearance before the Board of Education for possible expulsion from the total school program. 3. Selling alcohol or drugs: Students determined by the administration to be selling alcohol or drugs will be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agency and will be suspended from school. Those students will not be given the opportunity for early intervention and will be required to appear before the Rochester Board of Education to discuss the student's possible expulsion from the total school program. 4. Prescription medicine must be kept and distributed from the main office or the nurse's office. 5. In addition, any student found guilty of one of the above offenses will be subject to suspension or removal from athletic teams, cheerleaders, pom-poms, student council, national honor society, or any other organization. Prohibiting Gangs and Gang Activities It is the school’s responsibility to maintain a safe and disruption free environment. The school code of Illinois (IL Rev. Stat. Ch. 122, par. 31-1 through 31-4) provides that “any public school fraternity, sorority, or secret society is inimical to the public good.” “Gangs”, as defined in this policy, shall mean individuals who associate with each other primarily for criminal, disruptive and or activities prohibited by law and or by the school district’s rules and regulations. Gangs, gang-related activities and secret societies are not acceptable in the school setting. The board of education is aware that their presence interferes materially and substantially with the education process and the requirement of appropriate discipline in the school. They also foster anti-social behaviors, attitudes and practices that may endanger the health, safety and welfare of our students. Therefore, students are prohibited from participating in any activity related to a gang, secret society, and public school fraternity or sorority, while attending school or school sponsored events. Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to, the following: • Soliciting and recruiting others for membership. • Participating in and or inciting physical violence. • Wearing, possessing, using, displaying in any manner, distributing or selling any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other item commonly associated with membership in or affiliation with a gang, secret society or any fraternity or sorority. • Using any communication, verbal or nonverbal suggesting showing membership or affiliation with a gang, secret society, or any fraternity or sorority. • Engaging in any activity intended to promote the interests of any gang or gang activity. No organization -16

or group of students shall conduct meetings or assemblies on school premises without prior approval of the building principal. No organization of students shall be approved which is determined by the building principal to promote disorder, violence, or racial discord. Students refusing to comply with this policy shall be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion in accordance with the policies of the district governing student conduct and school discipline policy. DRESS The attire and grooming of students is the responsibility of the students and their parents. However, the school will request a modification of student dress or grooming if: • it is a danger to his/her or other students' safety and health. • it causes a substantial (general) disruption in the school. • any item(s) worn that take(s) away from the instructional integrity of the classroom/school environment. Items with alcohol, tobacco and drug logos or disrespectful slogans and violence are forbidden. Special dress may be required for certain classes or activities. It should be noted, however, that such requirements will be kept to a minimum. White-soled gym shoes are required for physical education class. FIELD TRIPS Field trips will be taken throughout the year. Permission slips for all field trips for the year will be electronically signed during the completion of online registration. If this information is not completed, the student will not be allowed to go on a trip. Student behavior on all trips must meet the expectations of the school. Those students who misbehave may be excluded from participating in future trips. Chaperones may need to drive separately if there is not room on the bus. Siblings are NOT allowed on field trips. This is time to spend with your school-age child. Chaperones will also be responsible for supervising a small group of students on a field trip. Dealing with a sibling could be a distraction from duties as a chaperone. FOOD SERVICES Free and Reduced Priced Food The district shall take part as feasible in available federal and state food programs to assure that all children in the district receive proper nourishment. In accordance with the wishes of the Board, no child in need shall be denied a free lunch or other food simply because proper application has not been received from his parents/guardians. The Superintendent shall be responsible for notifying district patrons of eligibility criteria for free and reduced price food services policy. District policy, in conformance with the appropriate federal and state regulations, is as follows: Eligibility Criteria and Selection of Children A student's eligibility for free and reduced price food services shall be determined by the income eligibility guidelines, family-size income standards, set annually by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and distributed by the State Board. The district also shall consider the following factors in making an eligibility determination: 1. Illness in family. 2. Unusual family emergencies (fire, flood, etc.) 3. Seasonal unemployment by family wage earners. 4. Other family emergencies or situations of a catastrophic nature. --

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Notification At the beginning of each school year, the district shall notify the students and their parents/guardians in writing of available food services, eligibility requirements for free and reduced price food service and the application process for free and reduced price food services. In addition, the Superintendent shall make a public announcement through the local news media, the local unemployment office and major area employers contemplating layoffs of available food services. Parents/guardians enrolling a child in the district for the first time shall receive the eligibility information at the time of enrollment. Non-discrimination Assurance In making individual determinations and in providing free or reduced price food services, the District shall make every effort to avoid overt identification of students receiving such services. For income guidelines and additional information regarding free or reduced lunches, contact the district office. The regular hot lunch price is $2.00. K-3 students are to send a monthly payment in a marked envelope with their name, what the money is for and the amount. Please place students’ names in the memo area so that we will know where to place the money. Lunches may be purchased daily, weekly or monthly. Weekly/monthly purchases are recommended. Negative Lunch Balances Students with a negative lunch balance will receive notification weekly. Keep in mind that payments received, have a 24-hour processing time. For example: Money received on Monday morning will not be credited to an account until Monday afternoon or Tuesday morning. Therefore, it will not impact a student’s ability to make a lunch choice until the following day. GRADING Reports Report cards are issued to students electronically during the second week following the close of each nine weeks grading period. Kindergarteners will receive a semester checklist. This reporting system was designed to indicate a student's progress, without adding the pressure of letter grades. 1st Grade students will nd rd receive a quarterly evaluation of progress, which also contains a skills checklist. 2 and 3 Grade students will receive percentages and a skills checklist in all subject areas. Mid-quarter progress reports are posted electronically at the middle of each grading period. Upon receipt of the report, parents are encouraged to contact the school if any questions arise concerning the report. Placement Students new to the district will be placed by the former school's permanent records or by staff testing. Students who are less than six years old as of September 1, and who are entering school for the first time will be placed in Kindergarten. Students must be five years old on or before September 1, of the current school year, to be eligible for enrollment in Kindergarten. Grading Scale The grade scale used in the Rochester Schools to determine final grades is as follows: A = 93%---100% A- = 90%--- 92% B+ = 87%--- 89% B = 83%--- 86% B- = 80%--- 82% C+ = 77%--- 79%

C = 73%--- 76% C- = 70%--- 72% D+ = 67%--- 69% D = 63%--- 66% D- = 60%--- 62% F = 59%---- 0%

--

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Student reports will be calculated by points and given a percentage for the final report (RES 2-3). The scale is consistent with Rochester Schools in determining letter grades. The scale is consistent with Rochester Schools in determining grade level expectations.

Third Grade

Second Grade

A............90-100 B............80- 89 C............70- 79 D............60- 69 F.............0 - 59

Exceeds Grade Level Expectations................ 90-100 Above Grade Level Expectations .................. 80-89 Meets Grade Level Expectations ................... 70-79 Below Grade Level Expectations .................. 60-69 Well-Below Grade Level Expectations ......... 0-59

HEALTH INFORMATION Physical Exams A physical exam must be completed and signed by the health care provider for all students entering school for the first time and before entering Kindergarten. This includes Early Childhood, Pre-K, and Speech only students. This exam must be dated within the 12 months prior to the first day of school or before the established exclusion date determined by the school district which is the first day after the Labor Day Holiday. This exam must include a listing of the dates of all the required immunizations required for the student’s age/grade level. All required information of the exam must be completed by the health care provider and the parent/guardian must complete the health history portion of the form. Students who do not have a physical exam on file by the deadline date are excluded from school until the requirements are met. Dental Exams Students entering Kindergarten and Second Grades are required to have a dental exam completed within the 18 months prior to May 15 of the school year. Report cards are withheld if this requirement is not met. School Nurse A registered nurse is on duty full time in our district. Her duties are to provide emergency treatment in the case of accidents, to assist in the control of contagious diseases, to maintain health records, and to conduct screenings. The nurse is NOT A DOCTOR. Please do not send ill or injured students for the nurse’s diagnosis. Guidelines for keeping a child at home are as follows: • A temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater. • An undiagnosed rash or eruptions on the skin. • Strep throat – your child must be on prescribed medication for 24 hours before returning to school. • Pink eye (conjunctivitis) – your child must be on prescribed medication for 24 hours before returning to school. • A cough so severe as to be a disruption to the class. In general students must be symptom free for 24 hours before returning to school in order to prevent recurring illness. Students must be temperature (elevated) free without temperature reducing medication 24 hours before returning to school. Students who have been absent with a contagious disease must be referred to the nurse’s office for approval to return to school. --

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It is particularly important that the student has adequate rest and a good breakfast. Hats, boots, and gloves are necessary outdoor wear during the bad weather. Students in the elementary building who are ill or injured should report to their classroom teacher or a supervisor before going to the nurse. In cases of serious injury where a student should not be moved, the nurse is to be called to the student. Vision and Hearing Screenings Vision and Hearing Screenings are done annually according to mandates set up by the Illinois Department of Public Health. All K and 2nd grade students are required to have their vision/hearing screened. All 1st and 3rd grade students are required to have their hearing screened. All new students and special education students receive vision and hearing screenings. Any parent or teacher may request a vision and/or hearing screening. Vision Screening Students in the following grades will be screened for vision: New students to the district, Special Ed, Preschool, Kindergarten, 2nd, 8th, and parent/teacher referrals. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this vision screening IF an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that evaluation is on file at the school. This notice is not a permission to test and is not required to be returned. Parents and teachers are notified if the child fails the screening. The nurse should be contacted if at any time during the year a parent is suspicious of a hearing or vision problem. Eye Exams All children entering kindergarten and upon first entry into an Illinois school beyond kindergarten are required to have an eye examination completed by a licensed optometrist or medical doctor who performs eye examinations. The eye examination should be recorded on the Eye Examination Report Form. This examination is due on the first day of school. District Medication Policy Students should not take medication during school hours or during school-related activities unless it is necessary for a student’s health and well-being. When a student’s licensed health care provider and parent(s)/guardian(s) believe that it is necessary for the student to take a medication during school hours or school-related activities, the parent/guardian must request that the school dispense the medication to the child and otherwise follow the District’s procedures on dispensing medication. No school district employee shall administer to any student, or supervise a student’s self-administration of any prescription or non-prescription medication until a completed and signed “School Medication Authorization Form” is submitted by the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s). No student shall possess or consume any prescription or non-prescription medication on school grounds or at a school-related function other than as provided for in this policy and its implementing procedures. A student may possess an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) and/or medication prescribed for asthma for immediate use at the student’s discretion, provided the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) has completed and signed a “School Medication Authorization Form”. The school district shall incur no liability, except for willful and wanton conduct, as a result of any injury arising from a student’s self-administration of medication or epinephrine auto-injector or the storage of any medication by school personnel. A student’s parent/guardian must indemnify and hold harmless the school district and its employees and agents, against any claims, except a claim based on willful and wanton conduct, arising out of a student’s self-administration -20

of an epinephrine auto- injector and/or medication or the storage of any medication by school personnel. Nothing in this policy shall prohibit any school employee from providing emergency assistance to students, including administering medication. HOMELESSNESS Your school-age children may qualify for certain rights and protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Act for Homelessness. Additional information can be accessed here: Homeless Liaison Flier HOMEWORK Students needing extra practice in the fundamentals will normally be given homework assignments. Generally, the purpose of homework in the elementary school is to give the student experience in following directions, enjoyment in using skills being learned and practice with an application of skills being developed. Parent support with homework will indicate to your child that you want to be involved in their education and that schoolwork is important. The rewards of homework may be more fully realized if students are provided the proper study conditions, some of which are: • A quiet, properly lighted place to study. • A study schedule of reasonable length. • A set routine of getting something done during study time. • Parental encouragement and interest, but avoidance of undue pressure. • Parental help and direction when asked but avoidance of doing work. • Parental example, encouragement of reading & constructive discussion in the home. Statements about homework related to absences are included in the sub-section "Types of Absences", included in the section heading "Absences". Late work - The consequences for students not fulfilling the assignment are left to the discretion of individual teachers. INSURANCE The state of Illinois offers a free insurance program for students who are on a fixed income. Please see the school nurse for more information. Parents and students must assume the responsibility of informing the school nurse and/or classroom teacher of injuries received on campus while going to and coming from home. All injuries should be reported the day they happen. It is nearly impossible to confirm claims to the company if too much time has elapsed between the injury and the reporting time. LOST AND FOUND Any article found by students should be taken to the principal's office where the owner may claim it upon proper identification. Articles, which have not been claimed after a reasonable length of time, will be removed from the school. LUNCHROOM/RECESS POLICY Due to the safety and security of our students during indoor/outdoor recess, we ask that parents only attend lunch. When attending lunch, please send a note the morning of your expected visit, and indicate a lunch choice. Parents need to check in at the office before--proceeding to meet their child outside the cafeteria. 21

Parents are asked not to go down to their child’s classroom. All visitors are asked to sit with their child at the tables reserved for parents in the cafeteria. Please do not ask other students to join you. NOTES FROM HOME Students must have a note signed by a parent or guardian for the following situations. • Explanation of an absence. • Request for a student to leave the school grounds for any reason during school hours. • Student attendance in an after-school activity or group meeting. (Examples: Pom clinic, Scouts, Soccer • League) • A request for an extended release from outdoor recess must be accompanied by a doctor’s note. • A request for an extended release from PE class must be accompanied by a doctor’s note. PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled for the Fall and Spring. We will send more information about dates and choices for scheduling prior to those dates. In the case of blended and/or separated families, we will hold one conference asking that all involved meet to discuss their child’s progress. PARTY INVITATIONS Birthday party invitations are not to be sent to school to be distributed to students. When only some of the students in a class receive an invitation, feelings of poor self-esteem and resentment are encouraged. Also, it is not possible for us to release addresses and telephone numbers of students without parental consent. PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM The Rochester School District has developed an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program for controlling insects, rodents and weeds throughout the School District. The IPM focuses on making the school buildings and grounds an unfavorable place for pests to live and breed. It may be necessary to use chemicals from time to time to control a pest problem. Individuals may request prior notification of individual pesticide applications on School District property. Anyone who has requested to receive this notification will be notified through the District’s automated calling system, at least two business days before a pesticide is applied for structural pests and four business days before a pesticide is applied to control lawn pests. If a chemical application must be made to control an emergency pest problem, notice will be provided as soon as possible after the application. Exemptions to this notification include cleaners and pesticide formulated as bait. If you wish to be notified of pesticide applications, contact Brad Alewelt in the District Office at 4986210 ext. 4109. PROMOTION / PLACEMENT / RETENTION A student may be promoted to the next grade, placed to the next grade, or retained in the current grade. Students are promoted if they have met the requirements for the current grade level. Students are placed when promotion is impossible and retention does not appear to be a positive possibility. Students are retained when they have experienced some academic difficulties. They are given a second chance at a given grade level. A positive attitude by parents is necessary if this second chance is to be a good experience for the child. Final decisions about retention are made by the Educational Team - after input from the staff and parents. --

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PROPERTY DAMAGE If damage is caused either accidentally or voluntarily to any school property, the student will be expected to pay for the full repair or replacement of said damage. A student may also be suspended or expelled depending on the nature of the offense. QUARTERLY CELEBRATIONS At the end of each quarter a special activity or assembly will be planned for all students who meet the good behavior goals for the quarter. During first semester, the goal is to have less than 3 office referrals. By second semester, grades 2-3 are expected to have less than 2 office referrals in order to attend the celebration. Students who exceed the limit of office referrals will be required to attend an intervention activity in place of the celebration. RENTAL AND CARE OF TEXTBOOKS Renting textbooks rather than requiring students to buy them is both economical and convenient to everyone. In return, students are expected to take reasonable care of the books. Books must remain usable from three to five years for our present system to work. Books are graded in one of four categories when issued to the student: NEW, GOOD, FAIR, or POOR. A book may logically depreciate one category each year, but if there is more depreciation than this, an additional fee will be charged at the end of the school year. Books will be classified as NEW only one year. The only conditions demanding an additional fee when a book is assigned to you in POOR condition, are when the book is abused or if it is lost. If you disagree with the way books are graded or evaluated when issued to you, bring this to the attention of your homeroom teacher at the beginning of the school year. RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION (RtI) RtI is a process designed to help schools match student needs to research based interventions. Student progress is monitored on a frequent basis. The information gained from the RtI process is used by school personnel to make decisions regarding the student’s educational program. Perhaps the greatest benefit of an RtI approach is it allows for early help or support within the general education setting. Through school-wide screening, progress monitoring, and teacher input, students are identified and interventions are put into place to address learning needs. RtI is divided into 3 tiers. Tier 1 uses the core curriculum and is provided to all students. Generally 8090% of all students can meet expectations at this level of instruction. Tier 2 involves small group interventions for students who are struggling to meet expectations. Approximately 5-10% of students need these interventions in addition to the Tier 1 instruction in order to meet grade level expectations. Tier 3 interventions are more intense and used for students who do not meet expectations, even after Tier 1 instruction and Tier 2 interventions have been implemented. A more customized intervention plan is put in place for this 1-5% of the student population. ROOM PARENTS The classroom teachers will select “Room Parents” for each classroom in grades K-3. The K-1 room parents are responsible for the games for Fall, Winter and Valentine parties. When participating as a room parent, please remember to leave other children at home because it is necessary to place your attention to the party and to the other students in the classroom. Games selected for parties should be of the quiet nature. The Fall Party decorations should reflect a fall theme. It is important to keep parties light hearted and fun for all children to enjoy.-23

Grades 2-3 will have school-wide academic and behavioral quarterly celebrations, but will not participate in classroom parties. Parents may be asked to help in the classroom by their child’s teacher. Each parent must fill out a volunteer form to be considered for helping out. Room parents are expected to abide by the school policy for visitors in the building. SECTION 504 Section 504 is a Civil Rights Act that prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal financial assistance. The school district shall provide a free appropriate public education to all children with disabilities enrolled in the District as required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American’s with Disabilities Act and any amendments thereto, including the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. It is the intent of the District to ensure that students who are disabled within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate educational services. An eligible student under Section 504 is a student who: has a record of having, or is regarded as having, a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities of the student as defined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans With Disabilities Act and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. Students may be disabled within the meaning of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act even though they do not require services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). For those students who are not eligible for services under IDEA but, because of disability as defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, need or are believed to need special instruction or related services, the District has established and implemented a system of procedural safeguards. The safeguards address the student’s identification evaluation and educational placement and services. The system of procedural safeguards also includes notice, an opportunity for the parents or guardians of the student to examine relevant records, an impartial hearing with opportunity for participation by the student’s parents or guardian, representation by counsel, and a review procedure. The District’s 504 procedures can be found at 6.30011 AP-1 and also obtained by request from the District or building 504 Coordinator or his/her designee. Both Board Policy 6.30011 and Administrative Procedure 6.30011 AP-1 is also available on the District’s website at http://www.rochester3a.Sangamon.k12.il.us In addition, the District’s Notice to Parents/Guardians Regarding Section 504 Rights shall be provided to parents/guardians prior to any action by the District in regard to the identification, evaluation, reevaluation, development or implementation of their child’s 504 Plan. The Notice to Parents/Guardians Regarding Section 504 Rights may also be provided to the parent or guardian at any time by requesting a copy from the District or building 504 coordinator or his/her designee. The Notice is also available on the District’s website. If the parent/guardian does not agree with the decision of the District regarding the student’s identification, evaluation or educational services under Section 504 the following procedure shall be used: Parent/guardian shall schedule a conference with the District Superintendent (who is the District 504 Coordinator) or his/her designee to discuss the parent/guardian’s disagreement with the identification, evaluation, reevaluation, or 504 Plan development or implementation regarding their child. The Superintendent or his/her designee will inform the parent/guardian of the superintendent’s decision regarding the issues in disagreement within 5 school days of the conference. --

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If the parent/guardian does not agree with the decision rendered by the Superintendent or his/her designee, the parent/guardian may request a 504 hearing before an impartial hearing officer. Parents/students may file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights. The Illinois regional Office for Civil Rights is located in Chicago at: Chicago Office for Civil Rights US Department of Education Citigroup Center 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1475 Chicago, Illinois 60661 Phone 312/730-1560 Fax: 312/730-1567 TDD: 877/521-2172 Email: [email protected] Parent/student complaints concerning Section 504 matters other than the student’s identification, evaluation and/or placement under Section 504 are addressed in the District’s Uniform Grievance Procedure (Board policy 2.260). Contacts: The Superintendent of Rochester CUSD 3A, or his/her designee, is the overall Section 504 Coordinator for the District. Section 504 Coordinators are also designated at each building and are listed below. If you have any questions about the District’s Section 504 policy or procedures please contact the Superintendent or his/her designee or one of the building coordinators listed below. Rochester District 504 Coordinator – Dr. Tom Bertrand, Superintendent or his designee, , Director of Educational Services Rochester High School 504 Coordinator – Cassie Carey, Assistant Principal, or her designee; Sandy Hendricks, Grades 11-12 Counselor, or Nick Bond, 9-10 Counselor Rochester Junior High 504 Coordinator- Kim Poole, Principal Intermediate School 504 Coordinator- Joe Viola, Principal Elementary EC-1 School 504 Coordinator – Jeff Reed, Principal Elementary 2-3 School 504 Coordinator – Jeff Reed, Principal SEX EQUITY POLICY No student shall, on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity be denied equal access to programs, activities, services, or benefits or be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege, advantage, or denied equal access to educational and extracurricular programs and activities. Any student may file a sex equity complaint by using the Uniform Grievance Procedure. A student may appeal the School Board’s resolution of the complaint to the Regional Superintendent of Schools and, thereafter, to the State Superintendent of Education. Rochester Community Unit School District No. 3A does not discriminate on the basis of actual or potential marital or parental status, and no student in the district shall be subjected to sexual intimidation or sexual harassment by any school employee, by other students, or by the effect of any school policy or practice. Students who are involved with harassment issues need to report to the Rochester Elementary School Office. Harassment issues will be discussed with administrative personnel, social worker, and or nurse. These people can be located at Rochester Elementary School at 707 West Main Street in Rochester, Illinois. SEXUAL HARASSMENT PROHIBITED Sexual harassment of students is prohibited. A person engages in sexual harassment whenever he or she makes sexual advances, requests sexual favors, and/or engages in other verbal or physical conduct, 25 --

including sexual violence, of a sexual or sex-based nature, imposed on the basis of sex, that: 1. 2.

Denies or limits the provision of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or that makes such conduct a condition of a student’s academic status; or Has the purpose or effect of: a. Substantially interfering with a student’s educational environment; b. Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment; c. Depriving a student of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or d. Making submission to or rejection of such conduct the basis for academic decisions affecting a student.

The terms intimidating, hostile, and offensive include conduct that has the effect of humiliation, embarrassment, or discomfort. Examples of sexual harassment include touching, crude jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, teasing related to sexual characteristics, and spreading rumors related to a person’s alleged sexual activities. The term sexual violence includes a number of different acts. Examples of sexual violence include, but are not limited to, rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual abuse, and sexual coercion. Making a Complaint; Enforcement Students are encouraged to report claims or incidents of sexual harassment, teen dating violence or any other prohibited conduct to the nondiscrimination coordinator, building principal, assistant building principal, dean of students, or a complaint manager. A student may choose to report to a person of the student’s same sex. Complaints will be kept confidential to the extent possible given the need to investigate. Students who make good faith complaints will not be disciplined. Nondiscrimination Coordinator: , Director of Educational Services #4 Rocket Dr., Rochester, IL 62563 (217) 498-6210 Complaint Managers: , Director of Educational Services #4 Rocket Dr., Rochester, IL 62563 (217) 498-6210

Meg Thurman, Director of Special Education #4 Rocket Dr., Rochester, IL 62563 (217) 498-6210

Any person making a knowingly false accusation regarding prohibited conduct will likewise be subject to discipline. SNACKS AT SCHOOL Due to the risk of food borne illnesses and food allergies in the school all foods brought from home, excluding personal lunches must be prepackaged, so labels can be read for content and allergy alert information. The Sangamon County Department of Public Health discourages homemade foods being served in the school setting and recommends all foods be store bought to ensure food safety. We encourage all families to read food labels when sending foods to school and avoid sending foods with nuts or manufactured in a plant with nuts. For questions regarding this provision, please contact the school nurse. In addition, birthday treats will now be purchased ONLY through Aramark (School Food Service Provider) and will be distributed during the students’ lunch hour. Please note: All order must be placed and paid for two weeks in advance. --

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SPECIAL DELIVERIES No flowers, balloons or gifts should be sent to school children. SPECIAL PROGRAMS Title I is a literacy program designed to provide additional instruction for those students in grades K-3 who are reading below grade level. Placement is determined by classroom assessments and teacher referral. Title I is considered a Tier 2 intervention. The Title I program is funded in whole or in part using federal grant money. Enrichment Classes - Rochester Elementary School offers a pullout-enrichment program for students in third grade. Inclusion in SPIRAL (Special Programs Involving Rochester’s Advanced Learners) is determined by a student’s scores on achievement tests, intelligence tests and by teacher recommendation. Using these scores with a modified Baldwin Matrix students are placed in the program. All students in third grade are screened for SPIRAL. Early Bird - Students may be eligible for an Early Bird Reading and/or Math Program, which meets from 7:50-8:20 am. Placement is determined by test scores, class performance, and teacher referral. This is considered a Tier 2 intervention for RtI (Response to Intervention). Special Education Programs and Services State and Federal legislation requires a free and appropriate education for all children with disabilities between the ages of 3 and the day before their 22nd birthday. To meet these requirements, Rochester School District provides special education programs and services. Programs and services are designed to meet the needs of students who have disabilities which adversely affect their success in a preschool or regular classroom setting. Referrals may be made by parents, teachers, or other concerned individuals. Special education referral forms may be obtained from your building principal. Also available upon request are the complete "Explanation of Procedural Safeguards to Parents of Children with Disabilities" and ISBE Regulations governing special education. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, a multidisciplinary committee of educational personnel determines the child's eligibility for programs and services. The parent/guardian of a student receiving special education services or being evaluated for eligibility is afforded reasonable access to educational facilities, personnel, classrooms, and buildings. This same right of access is afforded to an independent educational evaluator or a qualified professional retained by or on behalf of a parent or child. When a child is eligible for special education, an Individual Education Program (IEP) is written which sets goals and recommends services specific to the child's unique needs. Parent/guardian consent is required prior to the evaluation and for special education placement. Parent participation is encouraged at every step. Discipline of Students with Disabilities: The school will comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) when disciplining students. Behavioral interventions will be used with students with disabilities to promote and strengthen desirable behaviors and reduce identified inappropriate behaviors. No special education student shall be expelled if the student’s particular act of gross disobedience or misconduct is a manifestation of his or her disability as determined through a manifestation hearing. Any special education student whose gross disobedience or misconduct is not a manifestation of his or her disability may be expelled pursuant to the expulsion procedures. STUDENT RECORDS A school student record is any writing or other recorded -- information concerning a student and by which a

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student may be identified individually that is maintained by a school or at its direction or by a school employee, regardless of how or where the information is stored, except for certain records kept in a staff member’s sole possession; records maintained by law enforcement officers working in the school; video and other electronic recordings that are created in part for law enforcement, security, or safety reasons or purposes; and electronic recordings made on school buses. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Illinois Student Records Act afford parents/guardians and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s school records. They are: 1.

The right to inspect and copy the student’s education records within 15 school days of the day the District receives a request for access. The degree of access a student has to his or her records depends on the student’s age. Students less than 18 years of age have the right to inspect and copy only their permanent record. Students 18 years of age or older have access and copy rights to both permanent and temporary records. A parent/guardian or student should submit to the building principal a written request that identifies the record(s) he or she wishes to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The District charges $.35 per page for copying but no one will be denied their right to copies of their records for inability to pay this cost. These rights are denied to any person against whom an order of protection has been entered concerning the student. 2.

The right to request removal from the student’s academic transcript one or more scores received on college entrance examinations. A parent/guardian or eligible student may ask the District to remove certain scores of college entrance exams from their student’s academic transcript. Students often take college entrance examinations multiple times in order to improve their results. Test publishers provide the results from each examination taken to the student’s high school. Schools must include each of these scores on the student’s transcript, which may result in academic transcripts having multiple scores from a single college entrance exam. A parent/guardian or eligible student may not want certain scores to be sent to post secondary institutions to which the student applies. To request the removal of scores on college entrance examinations, the parent/guardian or eligible student must submit a written request stating the name of each college entrance examination that is the subject of the request and the dates of the scores that are to be removed. 3.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/ guardian or eligible student believes are inaccurate, irrelevant, or improper. A parent/guardian or eligible student may ask the District to amend a record that is believed to be inaccurate, irrelevant, or improper. Requests should be send to the building principal and should clearly identify the record the parent/guardian or eligible student wants changed and the specific reason a change is being sought. If the District decides not to amend the record, the District will notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the decision and advise him or her of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent/guardian or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 4.

The right to permit disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the FERPA or Illinois School Student Records Act authorizes disclosure without consent. Disclosure without consent is permitted to school officials with legitimate educational or administrative interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical--staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person 28

serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or any parent/guardian or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student has enrolled or intends to enroll, as well as to any person as specifically required by State or federal law. Before information is released to these individuals, the parents/guardians or eligible student will receive prior written notice of the nature and substance of the information, and an opportunity to inspect, copy, and challenge such records. Academic grades and references to expulsions or out-of-school suspensions cannot be challenged at the time a student’s records are being forwarded to another school to which the student is transferring. Disclosure is also permitted without consent to: any person for research, statistical reporting or planning, provided that no student or parent/guardian can be identified; any person named in a court order; appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons; and juvenile authorities when necessary for the discharge of their official duties who request information before adjudication of the student. 5. The right to a copy of any school student record proposed to be destroyed or deleted. The permanent record is maintained for at least 60 years after the student transfers, graduates, or permanently withdraws. The temporary record is maintained for at least 5 years after the student transfers, graduates, or permanently withdraws. Temporary records that may be of assistance to a student with a disability who graduates or permanently withdraws, may, after 5 years, be transferred to the parent/guardian or to the student, if the student has succeeded to the rights of the parent/guardian. Student temporary records are reviewed every 4 years or upon a student’s change in attendance centers, whichever occurs first. 6. The right to prohibit the release of directory information. Throughout the school year, the District may release directory information regarding students, limited to: Name Address Gender Grade level Birth date and place Parent/guardian names, addresses, electronic mail addresses, and telephone numbers Photographs, videos, or digital images used for informational or news-related purposes (whether by a media outlet or by the school) of a student participating in school or school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics that have appeared in school publications, such as yearbooks, newspapers, or sporting or fine arts programs Academic awards, degrees, and honors Information in relation to school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics Major field of study Period of attendance in school Any parent/guardian or eligible student may prohibit the release of any or all of the above information by delivering a written objection to the building principal within 30 days of the date of this notice. 7.

The right to request that military recruiters or institutions of higher learning not be granted access to your student’s information without your prior written consent. Federal law requires a secondary school to grant military recruiters and institutions of higher learning, upon their request, access to secondary school students’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers, unless the -29

parent/guardian, or student who is 18 years of age or older, request that the information not be disclosed without prior written consent. If you wish to exercise this option, notify the building principal. 8.

The right contained in this statement: No person may condition the granting or withholding of any right, privilege or benefits or make as a condition of employment, credit, or insurance the securing by any individual of any information from a student’s temporary record which such individual may obtain through the exercise of any right secured under State law.

9.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington DC 20202-4605 TELEPHONE Students will be allowed to use the telephone before and after school and through the noon hour at teacher or staff discretion. In cases of emergency, the telephone may be used at other times during the day. Arrangements for going home with a friend should be made at home, not at school. TESTING The Rochester Elementary School Campus (K-3) will test students using AIMSWEB math and reading. Parents will be provided assessment results from student scores. Students that do not meet testing requirements will be progress monitored. Chapter and Unit tests are administered regularly in each academic subject. 3rd Grade students will take the PARCC assessment (state mandated) in the spring. TOYS AT SCHOOL No toys or electronic devices should be sent to school. Items will be confiscated if used during the school day. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen or broken items. TRANSFERING TO ANOTHER SCHOOL A twenty-four hour notice is needed to process materials and records properly. All textbooks and library books must be turned in and all indebtedness paid before a student's records are transferred to another school. TRANSPORTATION DROP-OFFS: Any students being dropped off by parents should be done after 8:10 a.m. due to no supervision before that time. Students are to be dropped off at the main entrance of the building only. The north parking lot is restricted to parents between the times of 7:50 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. and 2:55 -4:00 p.m. due to bus drop-off only. At dismissal time, student pick-ups will be picked up in the gym (EC-1) and commons area (2-3) at 3:20 p.m. Do not go directly to your child’s classroom. Parents will be required to sign their children out before leaving. If someone else will be picking up your child, make sure the office is notified by noon in writing or by phone. When picking up your child, you may be asked to show a picture ID. BUS RIDERS: Parents may make up to two choices for bus transportation. Examples: home and babysitter. You will be asked to specify your two choices at the beginning of the year. We would also appreciate no transportation changes the first two weeks of school, as we are trying to finalize bus assignments and routes at that time. Any special plans for after school -- which require a change in transportation, should 30

involve a parent pick-up at school or the regularly scheduled drop-off spot. Students will not be allowed to have non-school transportation drops, such as riding home with another student, scout meetings, piano lessons, tutoring sessions, etc. Students will be placed on the bus if no note or call has been received by 2:00 p.m. Students will not be dropped off if the bus driver does not see any sign of someone being home. Parents are encouraged to send a note with their child the morning of a transportation change. For emergency purposes, transportation requests may be phoned in up to 2:00 p.m. Parents who abuse the transportation system will be contacted by the administration and a letter will be sent home. Buses Students are expected to display good behavior and observance of all rules and regulations in order to make bus travel safer. Any student who persists in violating any of these rules and regulations may be denied the privilege of riding the bus. Electronic visual and audio recordings may be used on school buses to monitor conduct and to promote and maintain a safe environment for students and employees when transportation is provided for any school related activity. All bus students are expected to observe the following rules: • Students will not be permitted to ride buses other than the ones they are assigned to before or after school except in the case of an emergency and it is cleared through the principal’s office. The driver is in charge of the pupils and the bus. His/her relationship with pupils should be on the same plane as that expected of a teacher. The privilege of all pupils to ride on the bus is conditional on their good behavior and observance of the rules and regulations. Safety demands complete cooperation. Should any pupil persist in violating any of the rules and regulations, it shall be the duty of the driver to notify the school administrator and after due warning has been given to the pupil; the school administration may then forbid such pupil the privilege of riding the bus. • Loud talking, profanity, and laughing; throwing of paper, coats, etc. on the floor or through the air; or extending hands, arms, or heads out of bus windows are forbidden. (Windows are not to be lowered below the black safety marks.) • Windows are not to be lowered below the black safety marks. • Standing in the traffic lanes while waiting for the bus or trying to get on or off while the bus is in motion is forbidden. • Students getting on and off buses are to cross roads at bus stops only under the protection of the bus "stop arm" extension. • Students must be on time at the designated bus stops. The driver cannot wait for tardy students. There is a time schedule to be kept. • Students are permitted to leave the bus only at appointed stops. • When seats are assigned, pupils must occupy seats assigned to them. • Pupils must refrain from unnecessary conversation with the driver while he/she is driving. • At all bus stops where students must cross roads, they must receive permission from the driver to cross the road. The crossing procedure shall be made with the protection of the bus "stop arm" extended. • Students are to use emergency exits at the rear of the bus only during an emergency. Bus Accident The bus driver will determine if there are any injuries and call 911 if appropriate. The driver will notify the Transportation Office and/or District Office of an accident. The Director of Transportation and available administrators will go to the site of the accident. --

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Information Gathering While at the accident scene the driver and/or transportation supervisor shall: 1. Obtain the name, birth date, and phone number of every passenger on the bus. 2. Obtain the name and address of all witnesses. 3. Regarding other vehicles involved in the accident, obtain the: • Other drivers’ names, license numbers, addresses and phone numbers • Make, model, year, and license plate numbers of other involved vehicles • Other drivers’ insurance carrier information • Name, address, and phone numbers of passengers in other involved vehicles Transportation Office or District Responsibilities 1. Confirm that police and emergency services as appropriate were notified. 2. Transportation supervisor or designee will go to the accident scene to assist the bus driver. 3. Arrange for the parents of children on the bus to be contacted. 4. Arrange alternate transportation for the children. 5. Contact the District’s insurance carrier as soon as possible and follow its instructions. 6. Help the bus driver complete accident report forms, including insurance forms. 7. Obtain any accident reports completed by third parties, including police reports. 8. Mail accident forms to the Secretary of State’s office in prescribed time period. Vehicle Inspection Following an accident, each damaged bus component must be inspected before the bus is returned to service. District Incident Commander (Typically Director of Transportation, Superintendent or Designee): • When appropriate dispatch the district transportation director, school administrator or designee from each campus to the accident location. • School official(s) at the scene will access level of support needed and convey this to the School Commander and Superintendent’s office. • School Commander or designee at the scene will refer to the trip list to assist with obtaining the names of student passengers, their conditions disposition, and location(s) where injured were taken to the district office so parent notifications can be made. • Direct school official(s) at the scene to accompany injured students to the hospital. • The School Commander or building principal will ensure any special health information or medication for any injured student that is sent to the hospital and obtain the destination hospital for injured students. Superintendent • If multiple hospitals are used, the Superintendent’s office will send an administrator to each hospital. • The Superintendent or designee will notify the parents/guardians of students involved, and if injured, the name/location of the hospital the student where the student was taken. • District staff will assess counseling needs of victim(s) or witness(s) and implement post-crisis procedures. • Direct the district public information officer to prepare a media release and parent letter of explanation for the same day distribution, if possible. For further information, please refer to the District Crisis Plan. Electronic Recordings on School Buses: Electronic visual and audio recordings may be used on school buses to monitor conduct and to promote and maintain a safe environment for students and employees when transportation is provided for any school -32

related activity. Notice of electronic recordings shall be displayed on the exterior of the vehicle’s entrance door and front interior bulkhead in compliance with State law and the rules of the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety. Students are prohibited from tampering with electronic recording devices. Students who violate this policy shall be disciplined in accordance with the Board’s discipline policy and shall reimburse the School District for any necessary repairs or replacement. Review of Electronic Recordings: Electronic video and audio recordings are viewed to investigate an incident reported by a bus driver, administrator, law enforcement officer working in the District, supervisor, student, or other person. They are also viewed at random. Viewing and/or listening to electronic video and/or audio recordings is limited to law enforcement officers working in the District and District personnel. These individuals must have, (1) a law enforcement, security, or safety reason, or (2) a need to investigate and/or monitor student or driver conduct. A written log will be kept of those individuals viewing a video recording stating the time, name of individual viewing it, and date the video recording was viewed. If the content of an electronic recording becomes the subject of a student disciplinary hearing, it will be treated like other evidence in the proceeding. An electronic video or audio recording may be reused or erased after 14 days unless it is needed for an educational or administrative purpose. VISITORS School property - District buildings, grounds and parking areas; vehicles used for school purposes; and any location used for a School Board meeting, school athletic event, or other school-sponsored event. Visitor - Any person other than an enrolled student or District employee. • All visitors to school property are required to report to the Building Principal’s office and receive permission to remain on school property. All visitors must sign a visitors’ log, show identification, and wear a visitor’s badge. When leaving the school, visitors must return their badge. On those occasions when large groups of parents and friends are invited onto school property, visitors are not required to sign in but must follow school officials’ instructions. Persons on school property without permission will be directed to leave and may be subject to criminal prosecution. •

All visitors, including parents and siblings, are required to enter through the front door of the building and proceed immediately to the main office. Visitors should identify themselves and inform office personnel of their reason for being at school. Visitors must sign in, identifying their name, the date and time of arrival, and the classroom or location they are visiting. Approved visitors must wear a badge identifying themselves as a guest and place the tag to their outer clothing in a clearly visible location.

•

Visitors are required to proceed immediately to their location in a quiet manner. All visitors must return to the main office and sign out before leaving the school. Visitors are expected to abide by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct himself/herself in a manner that is appropriate will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or disruptive behavior.

•

To deliver a message, personal items, books, lunches, etc., please report to the office. The office staff will make sure such items or information is delivered to the appropriate party and/or the classroom teacher will be notified. When picking up a child from school (other than at dismissal time), please come to the office. Children will be dismissed from the office only. Only parents, guardians, or designees may pick up a child from school. Guests (students) of students are not permitted to visit during the day to attend classes unless discussed with the Principal first.

•

Except as provided in the next paragraph, any person wishing to confer with a staff member should --

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contact that staff member by telephone or email to make an appointment. Conferences with teachers are held, to the extent possible, outside school hours or during the teacher’s conference/preparation period. •

Requests to access a school building, facility, and/or educational program, or to interview personnel or a student for purposes of assessing the student’s special education needs, should be made at the appropriate building. Access shall be facilitated according to guidelines from the Superintendent or designee.

The School District expects mutual respect, civility, and orderly conduct among all individuals on school property or at a school event. No person on school property or at a school event (including visitors, students, and employees) shall perform any of the following acts: 1. Strike, injure, threaten, harass or intimidate a staff member, a School Board member, sports official or coach, or any other person. 2. Behave in an unsportsmanlike manner, or use vulgar or obscene language. 3. Unless specifically permitted by State law, possess a weapon, any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon or looks like a weapon, or any dangerous device. 4. Damage or threaten to damage another’s property. 5. Damage or deface school district property. 6. Violate any Illinois law, or town or county ordinance. 7. Smoke or otherwise use tobacco products. 8. Consume, possess, distribute, or be under the influence of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs, or possess dangerous devices or weapons. 9. Use or possess medical cannabis. 10. Impede, delay, disrupt or otherwise interfere with any school activity or function (including using cellular phones in a disruptive manner). 11. Enter upon any portion of school premises at any time for purposes other than those that are lawful and authorized by the school board. 12. Operate a motor vehicle in a risky manner; in excess of 20 miles per hour; or in violation of an authorized district employee’s directive. 13. Engage in any risky behavior including roller-blading, roller-skating, or skateboarding; or 14. Violate other district policies or regulations or an authorized district employee’s directive. 15. Engage in any conduct that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the District or a School function. Exclusive Bargaining Representative Agent Authorized agents of an exclusive bargaining representative, upon notifying the Building Principal’s office, may meet with a school employee (or group of employees) in the school building during free-times of such employees. Enforcement Any staff member may request identification from any person on school grounds or in any school building; refusal to provide such information is a criminal act. The Building Principal or designee shall seek the immediate removal of any person who refuses to provide requested identification. Any person who engages in conduct prohibited by the policy may be ejected from school property. The person is also subject to being denied admission to school events or meetings for up to one calendar year. Procedures to Deny Future Admission to School Events or Meetings Before any person may be denied admission to school events or meetings as provided in this policy, the person has a right to a hearing before the Board. The Superintendent may refuse the person admission pending such hearing. The Superintendent or designee must provide the person with a hearing notice, --

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delivered or sent by certified mail with return receipt requested, at least 10 days before the Board hearing date. The hearing notice must contain: 1. The date, time, and place of the Board hearing; 2. A description of the prohibited conduct; 3. The proposed time period that admission to school events will be denied; and 4. Instructions on how to waive a hearing. Convicted Child Sex Offender State law prohibits a child sex offender from being present on school property or loitering within 500 feet of school property when persons under the age of 18 are present, unless the offender is: 1. A parent/guardian of a student attending the school and has notified the Building Principal of his or her presence at the school for the purpose of: a) attending a conference at the school with school personnel to discuss the progress of his or her child academically or socially; (b)participating in child review conferences in which evaluation and placement decisions may be made with respect to his or her child regarding special education services; or (c) attending conferences to discuss other student issues concerning his or her child such as retention and promotion; or 2. Has permission to be present from the School Board, Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee. If permission is granted, the Superintendent or Board President shall provide the details of the offender’s upcoming visit to the Building Principal. In all cases, the Superintendent, or designee, who is a certified employee, shall supervise a child sex offender whenever the offender is in a child’s vicinity. WEATHER When snow or other emergency conditions force either the cancellation or early dismissal of school, notice will be given as early as possible on radio stations WTAX, WMAY, WCVS, WDBR, WQQL, and WNNS. Each student should know in advance where to go in case of early dismissal. If there are special arrangements, the classroom teacher should be made aware of the change in the child's routine. Children will go outside for all recesses when it is not raining, hailing, lightning, and 20 degrees or above. If the conditions are favorable for immediate thunderstorms or tornados, the students may also be kept indoors. If the wind chill drops below 20 degrees, or the heat index rises above 90 degrees, recess will be held indoors unless the Principal chooses a brief outdoor recess in its place, only used when long duration of indoor recesses occur. Please remember to send coats, gloves, and hats to school with your children every day throughout the winter months. It is in the students best interest to have these items at school at all times so that they may be used to keep them warm and dry or to prevent sickness. A note from the doctor will be required if a student must stay inside due to health reasons for longer than 3 days.

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ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY Technology empowers individuals to become independent, lifelong learners who are confident in solving problems, developing critical thinking skills, communicating ideas, and working collaboratively. Technology usage is a privilege, not a right that carries with it many responsibilities. Technology resources are defined as: - Technology software including CDs, videos - Technology equipment such as computers, printers, scanners, interactive boards, projectors, headphones, cameras, and VCRs - Networks including the Internet, intranet and E-mail Access to Technology Resources must be for the purpose of educational research or school-related activities and be consistent with the educational objectives of the District. All users will have the opportunity to work with the school’s technology resources. To guarantee their safety students users will be monitored at all times. Rochester Elementary School makes every effort to filter internet information through the use of electronic filters and user policies. Our safety efforts include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Blocking access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet. 2. Providing for the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications. 3. Preventing unauthorized access including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online. 4. Preventing unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding minors 5. Restricting minors’ access to materials harmful to minors. Terms of Agreement Using technology at school is a privilege. I will follow these rules: 1. I will be polite, respectful and considerate when using all technology resources. 2. I will use all technology resources in a responsible manner. 3. If my class is completing a project requiring an email account, I will use it for school use only. 4. I will respect the work and files of others and agree not to open another person’s files. 5. I will keep my logins and passwords private and only use my account to login. 6. I will only go to websites where my teacher has instructed me to go. 7. I will only print with teacher permission. 8. I will not put personal information on the Internet. 9. I will not use inappropriate, insulting, racial or harassing language or attack other individuals using technology. 10. I will not violate copyright law by using information that I do not have permission to use. Unacceptable usage will result in a variety of consequences including suspension from technology resource usage for a set period of time determined by the Building Administrator and the Technology Facilitator. Possible consequences could include assignment to alternative education, suspension from school, expulsion and/or legal action. Web 2.0 Tools As we are moving forward with technology, web-based educational activities, including blogs, podcasting, and creating movies with flip video will be used throughout the year. Some of the activities may require a student email account to be created for educational use only. With your permission, the school will be creating an -36

email account when a class project arises that requires one. The email accounts will be used for classroom projects only and will be monitored by the technology staff and teachers. Teachers may upload the projects along with student work and photos from the classroom to their online educational communication resources including, but not limited blog pages. Students’ full names will never be posted with work or a photo, as online safety is a priority. These online communication resources that teachers will be using are password protected sites for individuals in that classroom only. Limitation of Liability Rochester Elementary School makes no guarantee that the technology resources or service provided will be error free or without defect. Rochester Elementary School will not be responsible for: - any damage suffered, including but not limited to, loss of data or interruption of service - the accuracy or quality of the information obtained - financial obligations or legal actions incurred by the use

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ELEMENTARY HANDBOOK AGREEMENT FORM Please read the entire handbook before completing this agreement form. Please turn this form into your child’s teacher on or before Friday, August 26th. Please print the student’s full name and teacher’s name: Student’s full name: _______________________________________________________

Teacher’s name: __________________________________________________________

I have read and agree to comply with the 2016-2017 Parent – Student Handbook

Parent’s Signature: Date:

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