2008-09 Student Handbook
Our district’s mission is to
facilitate the achievement of all students by empowering them to become
lifelong learners and productive, responsible citizens.
Our
schools promote student learning and achievement physically, mentally, and
emotionally.
Disclaimer
"The provisions in this handbook are not to be considered as irrevocable, contractual commitments between the school and the student. Rather, the provisions reflect the current status of rules, practices, and procedures as currently practiced and are subject to change without prior notification. Furthermore, this handbook is not considered the only resource for all district policy, procedures, or regulations. Board policies and the School Code of Illinois are also included as resources, copies of which are available to the public at the District Office. We invite your input as we continue to update and improve this document each year. Kindly direct such considerations to the school principal."
ACCEPTABLE COMPUTER USE
POLICY
All students must have a signed Acceptable Use
Policy on file in the school office for use of the computer network and
internet. That form is found in the back
of this manual to be returned to the grade school office.
ALCHOLIC BEVERAGES AND DRUGS
A student found to be illicitly using, possessing,
distributing drugs/alcohol/look-alike drugs or found to be in possession of
drug paraphernalia is in violation of school policy. The student will be given due process,
authorities may be contacted promptly, and parents will be notified as soon as
possible. An administrative review team
will determine the appropriate action to be taken. For each occurrence a suspension of up to ten
(10) days may be administered. Any
student found to be in possession of, distributing or using alcohol, a
controlled substance, illegal drug or look-alike drug may receive a ten (10) day
suspension. Other measures may include
but not limited to: A) recommendation to
the school board for expulsion, B) recommendation for counseling at parent
expense, C) recommendation for administrative advisory meetings with the
student upon his/her return to school to assure compliance with current school
rules concerning drugs.
Look alike drugs are defined as a substance not containing an illegal
drug or controlled substance, but one that a student believes to be or represents
to be an illegal drug or controlled substance.
Information regarding the
self-evaluation, responsible employee and complaint procedure regarding Title
II of the American Disabilities Act and the
ARRIVAL
PROCEDURES
When students arrive (outside doors
open at
Pre-K & E. Childhood – Homeroom K-8 Outside
Playground-Good Weather
K., 1st, 2nd,
3rd – Multipurpose Room K-8
Gym-Inclement Weather
4th, 5th, 6th,
7th, 8th – Gym II
ALBION
Third through eighth grade students are to exit the
building immediately upon dismissal.
Non-bus-riding kindergarten through second grade
students have designated areas to wait for their rides. Students are to exit the building either
through the elementary door #7 or the junior high door #1.
If your child
is leaving school in a manner that is not their daily routine due to an
emergency, please
send a note with your child to be given to the classroom teacher. If the school does not receive notification
of the change in dismissal, the child will be dismissed according to their
normal routine.
In accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency
Response act (AHERA) Public Law 99-519, the
The reports state
that asbestos-containing material have not been found at the Edwards County
K-12 Building. The reports do
mention that asbestos-containing materials have been located within the steam
tunnel under the
The
Regular attendance is the first step toward
successful schoolwork. Developing habits
of regular attendance and punctuality will help the students to attain an
effective learning climate and to make efficient use of the teacher’s
time. If it is necessary for a student
to be absent from school, parents are required to call the attendance center by
Edwards County CUSD # 1 will enforce
the laws of the State of
State
law (on safety) requires the school to attempt to call the parents to verify
the child’s absence when parents do not notify us. The school will require at least two phone numbers
where they might call to verify a student’s absence.
ANTICIPATED ABSENCE – The school may excuse
anticipated absences deemed necessary by the family. Students
and parents will plan these absences in advance with a written note to the
grade school office. Each
teacher concerned should be informed of the anticipated absence. Make-up work should be completed in advance
if it all possible. A written report of
the educational value and family of the experience during the absence is required
upon return to school. Second through
fourth grade will write a one page report and fifth grade up will write a two
page report. If the above procedure
is not followed, the absence may be considered unexcused. One week notification of an anticipated
absence is considered acceptable. The
building principal will consider emergency situations.
Teachers, administrators, and the school board do
not recommend anticipated absences.
CHRONIC
OR HABITUAL TRUANT – A “Chronic or Habitual Truant” is defined in the Illinois School
Code Section 150 ILCS 6/26-2A as a child subject to compulsory school
attendance and who is absent without valid cause from such attendance for 10%
or more of the previous 180 regular attendance days.
Using the definition cited above, the school district shall determine
if the subject is a “chronic or habitual” truant. If it is determined that the student is a
“chronic or habitual” truant, the appropriate supportive services and available
resources which must be provided to the chronic truant may include, but not
limited to:
A. Telephone contact
B. Letter sent to
parent/guardian
C. Conference
D. Counseling
E. Home visit
F. Referral to another agency.
EXCESSIVE ABSENCES – It is the concern of the
Board of Education and administration that absences from class may cause a
student to fall behind in his/her development of skills. Therefore, students are encouraged to be in
attendance. The following will be
observed in regards to EXCESSIVE absences (includes excused, unexcused, and/or
anticipated absences.
1. The school office will send
a letter to parents when a student has exceeded ten (10) absences in a semester.
2. Please be advised we are
cooperatively working with Illinois Department of Public Aid in the School
Attendance Initiative Agreement. If this
involves your family, you need to be informed that your child’s name will be
submitted to the proper department for future reference pertaining to
attendance.
3. If a student has an
excessive number of absences, a doctor’s note may be required to continue to
excuse the child from school.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND ABSENCES – Participation and
attendance at extra-curricular activities are acceptable if a student has been
in attendance for the entire school day.
Exceptions may be made by the administration.
EXCUSED
ABSENCES –
An excused absence will be given for “valid causes” (personal illness,
observance of religious holiday, death in the immediate family, family
emergency, other situations beyond the control of the students as determined by
the Board of Education, and other circumstances which cause reasonable concern
to the parent for the safety or health of the student – Illinois School Code
Section 1250 ILCS 5/26-2A). Under an
excused absence the student will have an opportunity to make up tests or other
work that has been missed starting the day he/she returns. Students will be given one (1) day for each
day absent to complete make-up work.
GOOD ATTENDANCE – Means that a student has
not been absent more than 1 ½ days during the year or has not had more than 3
excused tardies.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE – Means that no tardies
have occurred – unexcused (see explanation below) or excused (which includes
any time spent away from school not due to a school sponsored event, i.e.
doctor’s appointment, etc.).
TARDIES – If a student arrives at the school after
the bell has rung, he/she must report to the office for an admission slip and
will be considered tardy. Between
classes, Junior High students are considered tardy if they are not in the
classroom when the final bell rings. For
every two (2) tardies in a quarter, a detention will be issued.
UNEXCUSED
ABSENCE –
An unexcused absence will be declared if the absence is not due to “valid
causes” as described in the above Excused Absence section. Any
work missed will result in no make-up privileges for the hours or days missed. This category closely borders on the area of
truancy. If a note or phone call is not
made to the office or teacher, a student’s absence may be counted as unexcused.
Students need to have a consistent, routine plan for going home after school (i.e. car rider, bus rider, or walker). Please call the office if an emergency arises and your child needs to be transported in a different manner than usual.
The School Code of Illinois and the policies of the
Edwards County Community Unit District #1 determine the rules and regulations
governing the transporting of pupils to and from school. The purpose of these rules is to insure the
safety of those individuals riding school buses.
Students are expected to display the same good
conduct as in the classroom. The bus
driver has authority over students’ behavior while they are riding the
bus. Any misbehavior can be a
distraction to the driver and endanger the lives of all students on the bus. Such behavior will not be tolerated, and
students who cannot conduct themselves properly will not be permitted to ride
the school bus. The following behaviors
are required of students:
A. RULES FOR SCHOOL BUS RIDERS
1. Be on time at the designated
school bus stop – help keep the bus on schedule.
2. Stay off the road at the
times while waiting for the bus.
3. Be careful in approaching
the place where the bus stops. Do not
move toward the bus until the bus has been brought to a complete stop.
4. Do not leave your seat while
the bus is in motion.
5. Be alert to a danger signal
from the driver.
6. Remain in the bus in the
event of a road emergency until the driver gives instructions.
7. Keep hands and head inside
the bus at all times after entering and until leaving the bus. Do not throw anything out of the bus.
8. Remember that loud talking
and laughing or unnecessary confusion diverts the driver’s attention and could
result in a serious accident.
9. Be absolutely quiet when
approaching a railroad stop.
10. Treat bus equipment as you
would valuable furniture in your own home.
Never tamper with the bus or any of its equipment.
11. Assist in keeping the bus
safe and sanitary at all times. Eating
or drinking is not allowed on the bus without driver’s permission.
12. No tobacco products or
alcoholic beverages are allowed on any bus at any time.
13. Keep books, packages, coats,
and all other objects out of the aisles.
14. Leave no books, lunches, or
other articles on the bus.
15. Be courteous to fellow
pupils and the bus driver.
16. Help look after the safety
and comfort of smaller children.
17. Do not ask the driver to
stop at places other than the regular bus stop; he/she is not permitted to do
this except by proper authorization from a school official.
18. Observe safety precautions
at discharge points. Where it is necessary
to cross the highway, proceed to a point at least 10 feet in front of the bus
to cross the highway where traffic may be observed in both directions. Then wait for a signal from the bus driver
permitting you to cross.
19. Observe the same rules and
regulations on the trips under school sponsorship as you observe between home
and school. Respect the wishes of the
chaperone appointed by the school.
20. If students ride a bus that
they do not usually ride or plan to get off at a different location, they must
bring a note from home. The office will
send a note with the student to give to the driver if the request is
approved. The practice of riding a
different bus or getting off at a different location is discouraged.
B. THREE-STEP PROCEDURE IS
ENFORCED FOR SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE
1st Warning - Conference
held with the student. Parents are
notified and need to discuss the problem with their child.
2nd Warning - Your
son or daughter will not be allowed to ride the bus until a conference with a
parent is held. In the event that
parents cannot be reached by phone, a letter will be mailed explaining the
nature of the problem.
3rd Warning - Your
son or daughter has been suspended from riding the bus for a period of time and
another conference is required. A formal
legal notification follows.
The principal may bypass the 1st and 2nd
warnings in situations warranting more severe disciplinary measures. Alternative education days and out – of –
school suspensions may also be used in school bus disciplinary matters.
Gross disobedience or misconduct providing just
cause for suspension or denial of the privilege of riding the school bus shall
include:
1. Possession or use of drugs,
alcohol, or tobacco on the bus
2. Willful injury or threat of
injury to a bus driver or to another rider
3. Willful defacement of the
bus
4. Use of profanity in the
presence of the bus driver or other riders.
5. Obscene behavior.
A monthly calendar is prepared by the school office
and given to each student at the first of the month. The number of student attendance days and the
cost of lunches and special milk for the month will appear on the
calendar. All school holidays and early
dismissals will be included in the calendar.
When school is canceled due to inclement weather, it
will be announced on area radio stations – WFIW (104.9 FM; 1390 AM). School cancellations are also listed on the
local cable TV channel 16. Parents and
students are requested not to call school personnel. When school is canceled due to inclement
weather, all activities, practices, games, and meetings at the grade schools
are also canceled unless otherwise announced.
Each school district shall be responsible for
actively seeking out and identifying all children from birth through age 21
within the district, including children not enrolled in the public schools, who
may be eligible for special education and related services.
The elementary attendance centers in
1. Have successfully completed
the previous years’ work
2. Have passing grades in all
required subjects
3. Have a birth certificate on
file
4. Have a current physical
examination on file
5. Have student insurance or
insurance waiver stating that the parent has adequate insurance
6. Maintain eligibility on the
basis of weekly grade check
7. Ride the bus home unless
riding with parents. At extra-curricular
activities, alternative transportation may be allowed if a parent or guardian
signs and returns to the office a waiver that would allow the student to ride home
with a designated adult (age 21 or over).
8. Have a physical exam
completed before the student may participate in try-outs
9. Not be in the building
lingering in advance of scheduled games or practices
SPECTATOR
CONDUCT –
Display courteous conduct at all times.
The host school has primary responsibility for the physical management
of the activity including crowd control.
Disrespectful conduct will not be tolerated. If a fan is ejected from a game then they are
banned from the next contest per SIJHSAA and IESA rules and bylaws. The appropriate supervisor will administer
consequences.
DELIVERIES
The delivery of gifts, flowers,
balloons, etc. for students is not allowed at school.
DISCIPLINE
Affective citizenship and education are enhanced by
effective discipline. Such discipline is
the product of a relevant program and mutual respect among students, parents,
and staff. We also will encourage
students to demonstrate worthy behaviors with our character education program.
Good discipline must begin at home with the parents
and extend into the school and community.
When the student is capable of self-discipline, he/she will act as a
responsible, respectful citizen. When the
student is lacking self-discipline, he/she can be disruptive and deprive others
from their education.
For the purpose of enforcing
discipline in the school, the teacher and other certified employees stand in
relation of parents and guardians to the pupils and may, if deemed necessary,
administer discipline in order to enforce reasonable rules and necessary
behavior. Discipline may include
out-of-school suspension in accordance with the School Board policy and state
regulations. District staff is allowed
to use reasonable force for self-defense, to protect other personnel or persons,
and to defend property.
AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR POLICY
The
Board of Education has determined that a safe school environment facilitates
learning. Accordingly, it is the policy of this Board of Education that
aggressive behavior of students of the District shall not be permitted.
Aggressive behavior is defined as:
Any behavior that may cause physical of emotional harm to someone else and/or
urging other student to engage in such conduct. Prohibited aggressive
behavior includes, without limitation, the use of violence, force, noise,
coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, bullying, or other comparable conduct.
The main types of aggressive behaviors are:
Physical (hitting, kicking, grabbing, spitting, etc.)
Verbal (name calling, racist remarks, etc.)
Indirect (spreading rumors, wearing or possessing items
depicting or implying hatred or prejudice, etc.)
Grounds for disciplinary action apply whenever the student's prohibited
aggressive behavior is reasonably related to school or school activities, including
but not limited to:
1. On school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any other time
when the school is being used by a school group;
2. Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, or any activity or event
which bears a reasonable relationship to school;
3. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
4. Anywhere, if the aggressive behavior may reasonably be considered to be a
threat or an attempted intimidation of a student, visitor, or staff member or
an interference with school purposes and/or educational function.
Students who are the
victims of aggressive behavior, as stated in this policy, at anytime by anyone
are encouraged to notify any school district employee who in turn, reports the
alleged incident to a building administrator.
When there is substantial evidence of violation of this policy, the
administration and/or Board shall take appropriate action that may include
expulsion, suspension, detention, police contact and report, warning, and/or
such other disciplinary action as may be warranted.
Fighting during school or at school activities will
not be tolerated. Fighting constitutes
“gross misbehavior” which warrants school suspension.
GANG ACTVITY
Public
school fraternities, sororities, secret societies and gangs are prohibited. For
purposes of this policy, a public school fraternity, sorority, secret society
or gang means any organization composed wholly or in part of public school
pupils which seeks to advance itself by taking in additional members from the
pupils enrolled on the basis of the decision of its membership, rather than the
free choice of any pupil in the school who is qualified by the rules of the
school to fill the special aims of the organization.
Any public school fraternity, sorority, secret society or gang is detrimental
to the best interests of Edwards County Schools.
It shall be deemed an act of gross disobedience or misconduct for any student
to join, become pledged to join or to solicit any student to join, promise to
join or become a member of a public school fraternity, sorority, secret society
or gang.
The
THREATS
Threats by any means will not be
tolerated in the
Each teacher is responsible for the student behavior
and will determine what constitutes improper behavior. Behavior that is considered inappropriate
includes, but, is not limited to:
These
offenses may be referred to the administration for disciplinary actions.
Alternative Education will be served
during the regular school day or on Saturday.
Students will be required to complete the work regularly assigned during
the day so they will not suffer academically.
A student’s parents will be informed of the date the Alternative
Education plan will be in effect. If
this type of education does not have the desired effect, the next suspension
will be an out-of-school suspension.
Alternative education will be used when deemed
appropriate by school personnel.
Arrangements for students to serve consequences in an assigned location
during the regular school day or on Saturday will be made. The following rules will be in effect.
1. Students assigned to
Alternative Education will report at the designated time and remain until
released.
A student on out-of-school suspension is not permitted to attend school activities or be on the school campus for the duration of the suspension. The absence will be classified as unexcused.
Electronic
instruments are not needed at school as a general rule, except
calculators. Usage of other instruments such
as, cell phones, CD/DVD/MP3 players, iPods, pagers, etc. is not to take place during
regular school hours. Laser lights are not
allowed at school with students due to safety concerns. Cell phones are to be kept out of sight and
turned off at all times during the course of the school day. Cell phones or camera phones are not to be
used while on a school bus unless permission has been granted by the driver,
chaperone, teacher, sponsor, or coach. During this time, cell phones may only be used
if permission has been granted by the administration. Students who violate this policy will have
their cell phones confiscated and appropriate discipline will be
administered.
E-Mail use will be allowed only in the context of
the classroom curriculum and under the direct supervision of the teacher. Personal E-Mail/electronic messaging use by
students is prohibited.
Guidelines are posted in each classroom giving the
procedures for evacuation of the building in case of fire or earthquake. In addition, tornado procedures are posted. At
BOOK FEES -
According to
School Board Policy, no textbooks will be issued until fees are paid and/or
acceptable method had been established for payment. District approved books and workbooks are
included in the book rental fee. When a
child withdraws from school, all books are to be returned to the school. Book rent is determined by the Board of
Education. These rental charges will be
published prior to the beginning of school and registration. Charges and refunds are made as follows:
Quarter Charge Refund
First full price ¾ of charge
Second ¾ of price ½ of charge
Third ½ of price ¼ of charge
Fourth ¼ of price No refund
Fines
will be assessed for books showing undue wear or careless handling. A textbook list is available upon request.
INSURANCE - The insurance company determines the price of insurance. The price of insurance will be published
before registration.
MEALS - The price of meals is determined by the Board of Education. The price will be published prior to
registration. The price is also printed
on the monthly calendar put out by the grade school office. All meals must be paid weekly or
monthly. Free and reduced price meals
are also available to those who qualify.
Charges
will be allowed to accumulate to maximum of ten (10) days at which time the
office will send notification home.
No
food shall be ordered or delivered during the school day without special
approval.
SPECIAL MILK/JUICE - The price of special
milk/juice is determined by the Board of Education. The price will be published prior to
registration. The price is printed on
the monthly calendar put out by the office.
Special milk/juice must be paid for at the beginning of the week or
month.
SPORT FEES – The fee for participating
in sports including scholastic bowl are set by the Board of Education. The price will be published prior to
registration.
BOARD POLICY ON UNPAID BILLS
Parents will be asked to complete a general field
trip permission form. This form will
allow your child to participate on all field trips, which his/her class takes
during the school year. Parents will be
notified on trips in advance and parents may restrict their child’s
participation on a particular trip by notifying the school office or the
classroom teacher. Behavior, attendance,
and grades may affect the student’s ability to participate in a field
trip. Any outstanding debts should be
paid prior to participation. Students
not allowed to attend the field trips should still be in attendance at school.
FREE APPROPRIATE PUBLIC EDUCATION (FAPE)
Each local school district shall ensure that a free
and appropriate public education (FAPE) is available to each child with a
disability who is between the ages of 3 and 21, resides in the state and is
enrolled in the district, and requires special education and related services
to address the adverse effect of the disability on his/her education. The special education and related services
must be provided according to the child’s individualized education program
(IEP) at zero cost to the parent.
Grade Points Scale
A+ 4.0 100
A 4.0 94 – 99
A- 3.7 92 – 93
B+ 3.3 90 – 91
B 3.0 85 – 89
B- 2.7 83 - 84
C+ 2.3 81 – 82
C 2.0 76 – 80
C- 1.7 74 – 75
D+ 1.3 72 – 73
D 1.0 68 – 71
D- 0.7 65 – 67
F 0.0 64 & below
Scholastic averages are based on grades in English,
Recognition will be given to students in grades six,
seven, and eighth who earn the following grade point averages:
Superintendent’s
Honors.......…4.0 Scholastic
Honors……3.3
Scholastic
High Honors………3.7 Honorable
Mention…..3.0
Satisfactory and unsatisfactory may be used in the
primary grades and non-academic areas.
The above grading scale may need to be adjusted to consider ability and
effort of the individual student. Report
cards will be given to students at the end of each quarter in grades
kindergarten through eighth. Progress
reports will be distributed at the mid-term of each quarter.
Hallways are to be used for passage from one
classroom or one area of instruction to another academic or service area. This time is not free time or the student’s
own. Students should talk in soft
conversational tones between classes.
During regular class time any student in the hallway should have a pass
from the class he/she is attending.
Passes for the junior high will be in their planners. The number of passes will be limited per
quarter. Under no circumstances should
there be running in the halls.
Homework is a major component of the learning
process for today’s youth. Students are
expected to have homework completed and turned in to the teacher at the
assigned time. For students in grades 5
– 8, completed work or partially completed work will be checked and graded and
appropriate credit will be given.. With the Saxon
Math series that we are now using, students should expect homework on a daily
basis. Assignments not turned in may be
given a grade of “zero” and possible detention time assigned. Extenuating circumstances shall be considered
for extension of deadlines.
The Student Council will sponsor a field trip to
honor students achieving honor roll status three or more quarters each
year. Students who have received more
than three (3) detentions or any suspensions or
Saturday Schools are ineligible for the trip.
The
All injuries that occur at school should be reported
to the homeroom teacher, duty staff, and the office. The principal’s office will notify the
superintendent of serious injury.
Illinois Learning Standards for all academic
learning areas are on file in the school office. Parents are welcome to come and view them by
contacting the office.
No school property of any type should be loaned to
anyone without the permission of the proper authority.
LOCKERS
AND DESKS
Lockers and desks are under the ownership and control of the school. School staff may inspect lockers and desks at anytime. Any posted items in lockers or hallways must be of appropriate content
Any item found at school should be turned into the
office. An item lost or misplaced must
be claimed within a two-week period or it will be donated to charity.
Be courteous to others when using the media center –
library. All books to be checked out or
returned must be brought to the circulation desk. Two books may be checked out to a
student. If a student has special needs
for reports, etc., please check with the librarian. Please return all books to the circulation
desk prior to their due date.
A district employee shall generally not
administer medication required by a student at school. This policy includes even common and widely
used medications such as aspirin.
However, students recovering from temporary illness or students on
permanent medication who require medication during the school day may bring the
medication to school following these guidelines:
1. A medication form from the
school office should be completed by the student’s physician.
2. A medication/permission form
must also be completed by the parent.
Should a student require a continuing program of
medication, and it can be demonstrated that the student is of responsible age;
arrangements may be made for the self-administration of the medicine. This procedure shall be allowed after the
following conditions have been met:
A
form is available in the office for these guidelines.
In all cases, the school retains the
discretion to reject a request for administering medicine.
The district provides equal opportunities for all persons regardless of their race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, marital status, and other legally protected rights. This is covered by board policy 5:10. The district contact persons for anyone believing they have not received equal opportunities are Dawn Skillman and John Duncan.
Notes, letters, pamphlets, etc., for general
distribution to be sent home with students by outside school organizations,
individuals, or agencies should be cleared by the building principal in advance
before distribution to students.
Adequate time for pre-approval must be given.
PARENT
TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)
The primary purpose of the Parent Teacher
Organization is that of promoting parent and student welfare in the home, the
school, and the community. As an
excellent support extension, the PTO has continued to help provide a strong
link between the home and school.
Parents are encouraged to attend meetings and get involved.
Students who desire to leave school during the day
must obtain permission from the principal.
If a student becomes ill, he/she should secure permission from the
teacher to go to the office. In case of
an emergency, any teacher may give permission for a student to leave. All such permissions will be reported to the
office immediately.
All kindergarten and sixth grade students are
required by law to have a physical examination and an up-to-date immunization
record before being allowed to enter school. Children six (6) years of age and
under are required by law to have the lead screening questionnaire completed as
part of their physical. This should be
done prior to registration.
Vision screenings will be done, as mandated, for the
following children (PK, EC, 2, 8, SE, new students, teacher referrals, and
others as deemed necessary by school personnel) during the first two
quarters. 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 than an examination has been administered within the
previous 12 months and the evaluation is on file at the school. If a vision examination report is not on file
at the school for your child, then your child in the mandated age/group will be
screened.
Vision examinations are required by state law for
students in Kindergarten or those entering school for the first time. This exam must be completed by October 15 of
the current school year.
Dental exams are required in kindergarten, second
and sixth grades. These must be done by
May 15 of the current school year.
Hearing screenings will be done, as mandated, for
the following children (PK, EC, Kindergarten, 1, 2, 3, students with IEP’s, new
students, and others as deemed necessary by school personnel).
Immunization records must be kept up to date.
All required forms for physicals, vision and dental
exams may be obtained from the school nurse.
According to school board policy, every student shall
participate in physical education in grades K – 8. Students in 6th, 7th,
& 8th grades will dress in the following manner for P.E.: Gym shoes, shirt (solid color or white),
shorts and socks.
Students may be excused from P.E. for the following
reasons:
The administration feels that if a student’s illness
prevents him/her from participation in PE class, then the condition warrants an
examination by a licensed physician. If
a student is obviously not feeling well, then the PE teacher may restrict the
student’s physical activity. A student
with a medical excuse from PE may be required to do other types of activities,
such as, but not limited to, reports to ensure credit for the class can be
given. If a student misses PE due to illness
or lack of dressing, that student will not participate in sport practices or
events that day.
Adult staff members will supervise students on the
playground and at play in the gymnasium.
Students are to behave in a reasonable manner and follow the directions
of the supervisors.
RESPECT FOR STAFF
Certified and Non-Certified –We expect all
staff members to be treated with respect and human regard. We likewise expect the same from the staff
members to the students. A show of disrespect
toward a staff member or insubordination on the part of the student will not be
tolerated.
RESPECT
OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Damaging the building and its equipment will not be tolerated. Any student who vandalizes any school property may be suspended until a parent conference can be held. It is the hope of the school that each student will accept responsibility in this area. Due to costs to keep the building in operation, a student caught vandalizing the building or school property will be expected to pay for the damage and may face disciplinary proceedings.
RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION
Response to Intervention (RtI) – is a state regular education initiative that
provides interventions matched to students’ areas of weaknesses. It uses levels of performance on universal
screenings and looks at learning rates over time to make data-driven decisions
about the child’s education.
Differentiated instruction is one form of RtI. Small group instruction and learning centers
that continuously measure student performance are also means of accomplishing RtI requirements.
Progress monitoring and the use of scientifically researched-based
materials are components of RtI. Further decisions about the student’s
education are based on his/her response to interventions.
RtI has three essentials: a)
uses a three tier model of support, b) uses a problem-solving approach to
decision making, and c) uses an integrated data system that guides instruction.
Retention, promotion, and transfer shall be made in
the best interest of the student after careful consideration of all the
facts. The school will consider the
wishes of the parent but will have the final authority with regard to grade
placement. If a child is being considered
for retention, promotion, or transfer, parents should request a copy of the
school board policy relating to grade placement, which is more detailed.
The following will be the criteria
for retention/promotion:
1. Jr. High students failing
two or more of the Grade Point Average subjects will be retained.
2. Third through fifth grade
students must pass 4 of the 6 core subjects.
They cannot fail both math and reading.
3. In kindergarten through
second grades when considering promotion/retention, emphasis will be placed on
Math and
4. Standardized Achievement
Test and I.S.A.T. results.
Section 504 is a civil rights law to prohibit
discrimination on the basis of a disability in any program receiving federal
funds. A student is eligible if he/she
has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major
life activities or has a record of or is regarded as handicapped by
others. Our district special education
coordinator also serves as the district’s 504 coordinator,
Dawn Skillman.
Teachers
that present information on sexual education including sexual abuse will notify
the parents at least five (5) days prior to the teaching of the lesson. Parents may request their child not
participate in the lesson without consequences.
An activity of equal value may be required for credit.
SHOW AND TELL
Students are only allowed to bring toys for the
purpose of show and tell and will follow the teacher’s guidelines
. PE equipment may be brought by
5th -8th graders with permission.
In keeping with regulations as prescribed by the fire
marshal, recommended health practices, board policy, and state law; students
and non-students are not permitted to use tobacco on school premises. Additionally, students are not to be in
possession of tobacco on school premises or school activities. Students who do not observe the tobacco
policies will be suspended from school.
Tobacco is defined as cigarette, cigar, pipe, or tobacco in any form
including smokeless tobacco, which is loose cut, shredded, ground, powdered, compressed
or leaf tobacco that is intended to be placed in the mouth without being
smoked.
STUDENT APPEARANCE
Students are expected to present an appearance that does
not disrupt the educational process or interfere with the maintenance of a
positive teaching/learning climate.
Dress and grooming, which is not in accordance with reasonable standards
of health, safety, modesty, and decency, will be considered inappropriate. The building principal is the final authority
for judging the appropriateness of a student’s appearance. Specific items are as follows but are not
limited to:
1.
All clothing must
be clean, safe, and in good condition.
2.
Any clothing or
accessory that may disrupt the orderly operation of the classroom is
prohibited.
3.
Shorts, skirts,
and dresses must be of modest length.
4.
Clothing must
cover the torso of the body and no underwear should be visible. Modest cut necklines are required. No bare midriff, “see-through”, open split,
halters, or mesh tops are permissible.
5.
All shirts, tops,
blouses worn are required to have a sleeve that is attached around the entire
sleeve armhole. The sleeve should be at
least one inch in length. (For grades 6th, 7th, and 8th)
6.
No hats, caps,
scarves, or handkerchiefs may be worn in the building between
7.
Students must
wear shoes at all times.
8.
“Flip-flop” shoes
are not allowed for Pre-K through 5th grade.
9.
No sunglasses or
dark glasses, unless required by a prescription, are to be worn in the
classrooms.
10. Clothing, jewelry, belts, chains, etc. that may cause
safety concerns are not allowed.
11. Clothing, accessories, or other items that have
printing, depictions, or promotions of illegal substances or activities or
obscene, profane, slanderous, libelous, or incite students to disrupt the
educational process are prohibited. This
includes tobacco and alcohol products.
12. Students are not to wear “wheelie” shoes
(shoes with wheels in them).
STUDENT DIRECTORY
Directory
Information may be released to the general public without parental consent
unless a parent has submitted a written request not to do so. Information
that may be designated as directory information shall be limited to:
1. Identifying information: name, address, gender, grade level, birth date and
place, and parent's name and address.
2. Academic awards, degrees, and honors.
3. Information in relation to school-sponsored activities.
4. Major field of study.
5. Period of attendance in school.
Each student’s permanent and temporary records are
kept confidential. Only the student’s
parents/guardians, local, state, and federal educational officials have access
to student records for the educational and administrative purposes as seen in
the Family Educational rights and Privacy Act.
Grade
school students are expected to come to class prepared. Students must bring all necessary books,
paper, pencils, etc. to class with them and will not be allowed to return to
their locker to retrieve forgotten items.
SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS
Due to the ongoing need to increase
safety in schools, cameras have been located in Edwards County Schools to
assist with this mission.
Students need to ask permission from the teacher and
grade school office personnel before using the telephone during the school
day. Telephone usage should be
restricted to emergency situations (forgotten medication, glasses, etc.) and
situations, which occur due to changes in school, scheduled events. (i.e. changes in ball practice, music practice, etc.) Messages for emergency situations will be
delivered to students.
This federally funded program provides supplementary instructional services for elementary students in reading and math. Currently, Title I funds are used for the K-2 reading rooms, the intermediate grades reading/math project, and the after school tutoring program. Parents, school personnel, and other interested parties are welcomed to contact the Title I director with suggestions in writing for the program.
In accordance with ESEA, Title V: Federal, State,
and Local Partnership for Educational Improvement Act, section 1533, parents,
school personnel, and other interested parties are encouraged to provide input
into design, planning, implementation, and financial distribution of Title V
funds. Currently, Title V funds are
being applied to elementary computer instructions. Please feel free to contact the building
principal with suggestions for the program in writing.
When a student plans to transfer to another school,
parents should receive a copy of the I.S.B.E. Student Transfer Form from the
school office. Parents of students
transferring in to our school should sign a release for records to be sent to
grade school from their previous school.
UNIFORM GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Students, parents/guardians, employees or community members should
notify either complaint manager if they believe they have had their rights violated
as guaranteed by the state or federal constitution or statute or board
policy. The complaint managers are Dawn
Skillman and John Duncan. This is
according to board policy 2:260.
Students need to be cautious about wearing expensive
jewelry and watches to school. These
items along with cash and other valuables are the sole responsibility of the
students.
VIDEO
CAMERAS
The Board of Education authorizes the use of video
cameras to identify disruptive students and document the activities of
students. Members of the Board of
Education, the administration and other appropriate personnel are authorized to
view all videotapes for the aforementioned purpose. Persons authorized in this paragraph to view
these videotapes may show relevant portions of the tapes to students or groups
of students, their parents or guardians, and groups of parents/guardians to
identify disruptive behavior of students and/or document activities of
students. The videotapes may not be used
for general showings to individuals or to groups. The videotapes may not be given to the
media. All recorded videotapes shall be
kept in a secure location. Videotapes
may be preserved by the administration until it is determined they are no
longer necessary to keep.
Parents are encouraged to visit classes as
observers. Appointments for such visits
are a courtesy to the teacher and will result in less disruption of the
educational program. If a parent wishes
to confer with the teacher, an appointment should be made for a time outside
the school hours. Children either living
outside the district or not of school age ARE NOT permitted to visit
classes. All visitors are expected to
check in at the school office before proceeding to their destination.
The State of
The term “weapon” means (1) possession, use,
control, or transfer of any gun, rifle, shotgun; also (2) any other object if
used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm, included but not limited to,
knives, brass knuckles, or billy clubs, or (3) “look alikes” of any weapon as
defined in this section.
Per
law, a student who is determined to have brought a weapon to school, any
school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event, which bears a
reasonable relationship to school, shall be expelled for a period of not less
than one year and not to exceed 2 years. The superintendent may modify the
expulsion period, and the board of education may modify the superintendent’s
determination on a case-by-case basis.
Students are not allowed to bring knives or other sharp objects to school. If a student is found in possession of a knife or other sharp object, the knife or other sharp object will be confiscated and released only to the parent or guardian of the student. The intended use of the knife or other sharp object will be considered when disciplinary action is determined. Repeated offenses will result in the disciplinary action for insubordination as determined by the administration.
Authorization for Electronic Network Access
All use of the Internet shall be consistent with the District’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. This Authorization does not attempt to state all required or proscribed behavior by users. However, some specific examples are provided. The failure of any user to follow the terms of the Authorization for Electronic Network Access will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action. The signature(s) at the end of this document is legally binding and indicates the party who signed has read the terms and conditions carefully and understands their significance.
Terms and Conditions
1. Acceptable Use – Access to the District’s electronic networks must be (a) for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the educational objectives of the District, or (b) for a legitimate business use.
2. Privileges – The use of the District’s electronic networks is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The Building Principal will make all decisions regarding whether or not a user has violated this Authorization and may deny, revoke, or suspend access at any time; his/her decision is final.
3. Unacceptable Use – You are responsible for your actions and activities involving the network. Some examples of unacceptable uses are:
a. Using
the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other
contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any
b. Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or devirused;
c. Downloading copyrighted material for other than personal use;
d. Using the network for private financial or commercial gain;
e. Wastefully using resources, such as file space;
f. Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities;
g. Invading the privacy of individuals;
h. Using another user’s account or password;
i. Posting material authorized or created by another without his/her consent;
j. Posting anonymous messages;
k. Using the network for commercial or private advertising;
l. Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing or illegal material; and
m. Using the network while access privileges are suspended or revoked.
Dear Parents(s)/Guardian(s):
We now have the ability to enhance your child’s education through the use of electronic networks, including the Internet. The Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources. The District’s goal in providing this service is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. Your authorization is needed before your child may use this resource.
The Internet electronically connects thousands of computers throughout the world and millions of individual subscribers. Students and teachers may have access to:
1. Limited electronic mail communications with people all over the world
2. Information from government sources, research institutions, and other source
3. Discussion groups
4. Many libraries, including the catalog to the Library of Congress, and the Educational Resources Information Clearing House (ERIC)
With this educational opportunity also comes responsibility. You and your child should read the previous Authorization for Electronic Network Access and discuss it together. The use of inappropriate material or language, or violation of copyright laws may result in the loss of the privilege to use this resource. Remember that you are legally responsible for your child’s actions.
The District takes precautions
to prevent access to materials that may be defamatory, inaccurate, offensive,
or otherwise inappropriate in the school setting. On an unregulated network, however, it is
impossible to control all material and a user may discover inappropriate
material. Ultimately,
parent(s)/guardian(s) are responsible for setting and conveying the standards
that their child or ward should follow.
To that end, the
Please read and discuss the Authorization for Electronic Network Access with your child. If you agree to allow your child to have an Internet account, sign the following Authorization form and return it to your school.
I understand and will abide by
the Authorization for Electronic Network Access. I understand that the District and/or its
agents may access and monitor my use of the Internet, including my e-mail and
downloaded material, without prior notice to me. I further understand that should I commit
any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, and school disciplinary action
and or appropriate legal action may be taken.
In consideration for using the District’s electronic connection and
having access to public networks, I hereby release the
Date: ______________________________________________
User Signature: _______________________________________
(Required if the user is a student)
I have read this Authorization for Electronic Network Access. I understand that access is designed for educational purposes and that the District has taken precautions to eliminate controversial material. However, I also recognize it is impossible for the District to restrict access to all controversial and inappropriate materials. I will hold harmless the District, its employees, agents, or Board members, for any harm caused by materials or software obtained via the network. I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use is not in a school setting. I have discussed the terms of this Authorization with my child. I hereby request that my child be allowed access to the District’s Internet.
Date: ______________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name (please print)
____________________________________________________
Signature of Parent /Guardian
Acknowledgement of
Receipt of Edwards
Our family has received and read the
2007-2008 student handbook. We understand that if there is something in
the handbook that we do not understand, it is our responsibility to ask the
school administration for clarification.
Parent/Guardian’s
signature_________________________________
Date_____________________
Students attending
AGS/WSGS Grade
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
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I agree to allow my child’s name and picture to be published in the local
newspapers for school activities.
Yes Parent/Guardian’s
signature_________________________________
No Parent/Guardian’s
signature_________________________________