Santo Domingo Elementary

2015-2016

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Parent/Student Acknowledgment

My child and I have read and discussed the Santo Domingo Elementary Parent/Student Handbook.

Student’s signature: ____________________________________________

Parent’s signature: ____________________________________________

Date: ________________________________________________

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

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Dear Santo Domingo Families,

Welcome! What a pleasure it is to welcome back our returning families and to offer a special welcome to our new families. Our friendly, dedicated faculty and staff are committed to ensuring that every student is offered the opportunity to grow and learn in a positive, safe, and caring environment.

You are very important to our school. We know that students of parents who get involved in their education do better socially and academically. A successful educational experience must be a partnership between the home and the school. Educators and parents alike contribute to the growth and development of our students' lives. As we work together, our efforts can provide the best possible educational experience for your child. Educating children is as exciting as it is challenging. Thank you for supporting our children as they learn and grow!

We look forward to another exciting year of learning, sharing, growing, and achieving together. This handbook was designed as a resource for you to keep on hand throughout the year as a guide to Santo Domingo’s policies and procedures. Dates of events for the year are also provided in the last pages of the handbook. It is one of the many communication pieces designed to keep parents informed and involved in our partnership to provide the best educational experience possible for our students. We also have updated information on our web site at: www. bernalillo -schools.org . Please do not hesitate to call your child’s teacher or our office with any questions, concerns, or comments at anytime during the year. We invite and value your input and feedback. Together we can work to make this a successful school year.

Your partner in education,

PrincipalLarryssa ArchuletaSanto Domingo Elementary

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SANTO DOMINGO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL100 Hwy 22 West

P.O. Box 459Santo Domingo, NM 87052

Contact Information:Santo Domingo Office……………..867-4441

Fax…867-7862

Santo Domingo Health Office……867-4441 ext. 5609Santo Domingo Counselor…………..867-4441 ext. 5611

BPS Transportation……...867-3207

Santo Domingo Elementary website: www. bernalillo -schools.org Click on “All District Schools” and then on “Santo Domingo

Elementary”

Office Hours – 7:30 am-4:00 pm Student School Hours –8:00 am-3:00 pm

Please Note * We will not accept pick-up/bus change requests after 2:00* A picture ID is required for anyone picking up a student.

BELIEFSWe all have a hand in learning.

Treat everyone with respect and dignity.

All of us together are better than any one of us on our best day.

VISIONSanto Domingo Elementary School a place of excellence where children can achieve full potential in their academic, creative, personal, physical and moral development.

MISSION Read

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Excel Achieve & Dream

All Santo Domingo Elementary Policies are aligned with Bernalillo Public School Policies

COMMITMENT STATEMENTSanto Domingo Elementary is committed to developing an inclusive, caring school community in which children can acquire the developmental, academic, and social skills that will enable them to be successful learners in the years to come. We are committed to developing children’s skills in language, literacy, and mathematics through the use of effective instructional strategies and through the best use of our resources.We recognize that for children to learn, staff and parents must be able to work together effectively as members of a community of learners. For children to learn, we must learn. For children to succeed, we too must succeed. All Santo Domingo policies and procedures are aligned with Bernalillo Public Schools policies.

BERNALILLO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Value Statements

The Bernalillo Public Schools honor the following principles in all aspects of its educational endeavors:

Rigorous Expectations-Expectations, challenges and accelerated learning. Ensure that all students are given a challenging curriculum that prepares them for college and work.

Relevant-Relate classes to students’ lives and goals. We value our rich diversity of cultures and languages that comprise the communities we serve.

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Relationships-Students come first! We will always place the best interest of students we serve as the fulcrum for all decisions. The school community will motivate and challenge students to achieve.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Abbreviated Day Schedule page 7 Arrival Time/Dismissal Time page 7 Art page 25 Attendance/Tardiness/Truancy page 7-12 Bilingual Program, Dual Language, Keres page 25Bus Transportation page 13Bullying Policy-BPS page 16-18 Cafeteria-Breakfast/Lunch page 13Classroom Changes page14Classroom Parties page 13Classroom Placements page 14Computer/Technology Lab page 26Contact Numbers page 4/30-31Counselor page13Delivery and Pick-up of Students page 14Discipline Philosophy/ Policy page 14-15Dress Code page 20Emergency Contacts page 21Emergency Plan page 21Family Educational Rights and Privacy (FERPA) page 21-22Field Trips page 22Films/videos page 21Fire/Disaster Drills page 21Harassment and Discrimination/Title IX page 19Health Room/Medication Policy page 23Homework page 23How to Improve Your Child’s Reading page 29Important Dates page 32Lost and Found page 24Library page 26Math page 26Music page 25Parent Concern Procedure page 24Parent/Teacher Conferences page 25Parent Teacher Association page 25Phone Calls/Messages page 24Physical Education page 26Protection of Pupil Rights page 27Reading & Writing page 27Special Education Services page 28Student Accident Insurance page 27Student Assistance Team page 28Student Expectations/Character Counts/Consequences page 15-16Student Possessions page 28Student Recognition page 15

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Student Retention page 28Visitors/ Volunteers page 28CES Handbook Form –Return to teacher page 2

ABBREVIATED DAY SCHEDULE

An abbreviated day is a school day that is shortened because of an emergency situation, inclement weather, or a change in the school calendar. If an abbreviated day is called during the day, 770 KOB AM Radio and the three television stations will carry official information for the district. One of three types of modified days will be announced.

One-Hour Delay: A delayed start-regular dismissal. Buses begin picking up students one hour later than normal. The teaching day begins at 9:00 am for all students. No classes or instruction will be eliminated.

Two-Hour Delay: A delayed start-regular dismissal. Busses begin picking up students two hours later than normal. The teaching day begins at 10:00 am for all students.

Regular Start-Early Dismissal: Every attempt will be made to contact parents if it becomes necessary to dismiss school early. The Governor’s Office of Pueblo students will also be contacted in the event of early dismissal.

ARRIVAL TIME/DISMISSAL TIME

Parents must make sure your child DOES NOT ARRIVE at school BEFORE 7:45 am. All students MUST go to the cafeteria. If we have inclement weather, students will remain indoors. Breakfast will be served from 7:50am – 8:15 am. 100% of our students receive free breakfast and lunch.

Students are dismissed at 3:00 pm. Students who ride the bus will be taken to the bus lane where they will board their appropriate bus.

ATTENDANCE/TARDINESS/TRUANCY

Santo Domingo Elementary adheres to the district’s attendance policy, which complies with the New Mexico attendance law. The parent/guardian must contact the school office (867-4441) to excuse a child for not being in school. The following are classified as Excused Absences: doctor’s appointment, illness, death in the immediate family, cultural days requested by Pueblo Governors, family emergency, religious commitment, diagnostic testing, school-sponsored activity, and extenuating circumstances, as agreed to by

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the school administrator. Upon the child’s returns to school, parents must provide a note to the attendance secretary providing dates and reasons for the absence. It is the responsibility of the parent/ guardian to provide absence notes as soon as the child returns. After 24 hours of the child’s return, the school cannot change the reason for an absence in our computer software program.

Parents may request student work assignments, no later than 9:00 am, and they may be picked up in the school office after 3:00pm.

WHEN A CHILD IS ABSENT , parents must call the office before 8:30 a.m. to report a student’s absence. IF YOUR CHILD IS TARDY (arriving after 8:30) the student must be walked by an adult to the office and obtain a tardy slip before he or she may go to class.

Good attendance is important for student learning. Any time your child is absent, arrives after 8:30 a.m., or leaves before the end of the school day of 3:00 p.m. he/she will not be considered for perfect attendance awards.

Please be aware that picking up your child before dismissal time is disruptive to the entire class. Students will miss direct instruction, daily end-of–the-day announcements, and may also miss homework or classroom assignments. If it is absolutely necessary that you need to check your child out of school during school hours, you are required to come into the office and sign them out. Students will only be released from the office.

A picture ID is required for anyone picking up a student. Per BPS guidelines, we can only release students to adults, 18 years and older, listed on the registration or emergency cards. You must come to the administrative office to show ID and to receive a check out form to give to the teacher. Staff will not release a student to anyone that does not have a form from the office. Any person that wants to pick up a student from a staff member must have a badge. This includes while buses are loading after school.

Parents should make a concerted effort to make medical and other appointments after 3:00 pm or during staff in-service days when students are not in school.

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Important Information About Truancy And Its Impact

STOP TRUANCY 

BEFORE IT STARTS

New State Law and Policy

Information and

Prepared by:Bernalillo Public Schools

Alan Tapia, Superintendent 

Help Keep Our Kids In SchoolAnd Open The Door To Their Future

 “There is a higher correlation between dropping out of school and ending up in prison than there is between smoking and getting lung cancer.” (Reading to Youth of the Mainstream, OJJDP, February, 1997)

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NEW MEXICO COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE LAW HB 106

The Governor of New Mexico has made truancy a priority as a means for improving education in New Mexico and has worked diligently with other lawmakers to establish laws that address this issue. House Bill (HB) 106, passed during the 2004 Legislative session, added new language to the Compulsory School Attendance Law. HB 106 defines truancy, requires early identification of unexcused absences and truancy, provides direction for enforcement of habitual truancy, describes penalties and allows for the suspension of a habitual truant’s drivers license. Criminal enforcement changes set forth in section 22-12-7 NMSA 1978 went into effect July 1, 2004. Other changes went into effect May 19, 2004.

TRUANCY DEFINED

House Bill 106 provides the following definitions: Truant - a student who has accumulated 5 unexcused absences within a 20 day period. Habitual Truant - a student who has accumulated the equivalent of 10 or more unexcused absences within the school year.  Unexcused Absences - an absence from school or class for which the student does not have an allowable excuse pursuant to the NM Compulsory School Attendance Law or rules of the local school board or governing authority of a private school.

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BERNALILLO PUBLIC SCHOOLS TRUANCY PREVENTION PROGRAM

The New Mexico Compulsory School Attendance Law (22-12-2) is intended to decrease truancy rates, decrease dropout rates, and increase attendance rates. BPS Truancy Officers have chosen to partner with parents and the communities in an effort to reduce absenteeism. The parent or guardian is responsible for their child’s attendance and can ultimately be prosecuted for contributing to his/her child’s failure to attend school. Prosecution is a last resort and it is our goal to take a proactive and preventative approach. The following steps outline the Truancy Program and process: 

Level I: 3 Unexcused AbsencesAction: School personnel may try contact family via phone to

Notify parent/guardian that three unexcused absences have occurred.

 Level II: 5 Unexcused AbsencesAction: School personnel will contact family via a letter mailed to the home to notify the parent/guardian that five unexcused

absences have occurred. 

Level III: 7 Unexcused AbsencesAction: A letter will be mailed to the family to request an attendance

conference with student, parent/guardian, and Truancy Officer.Truancy Officers and/or School Resource

Officer MAY conduct a home visit and meet with parents. 

Level IV: 10 Unexcused Absences*Action: School personnel will contact the family via phone to

notify parent/guardian that a Truancy Referral Packet will be processed and forwarded to Juvenile Probation,

Tribal Officials, and District Attorney within 48 hours.  

* Please note that this is ten unexcused absences per school year. The goal of the Truancy Prevention Program within BPS is to increase student achievement by addressing issues and providing support services to the families of students. At all levels school personnel will continue to make referrals for support services for the student and family.

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Did You Know

Truancy has been identified as an early warning sign of delinquent behavior, social isolation and academic failure. Truancy is often described as a “gateway behavior, a portal through which a student enters the juvenile court system, the adult welfare system, or the penal system”.  

 Skipping school used to be a one-time lark. The antics were short lived because, shopkeepers, neighbors, and family friends were quick to report students to parents or school authorities. To increase attendance Roswell, NM instituted a daytime curfew to help deter truants, most of whom had shown increasing patterns of delinquency. (Truancy: First Step to a Lifetime of Problems, Eileen M. Gary. NCJRS, November 2005)

 

 Studies have shown that students in HS developed patterns of absenteeism while in elementary school. (Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, Truancy Abatement Team, 2003)

 

 Each student, who falls into delinquent behavior and doesn’t graduate from high school, costs society from $1.7 to $2.3 million over a lifetime, whether it’s spent in jail or unemployed. (The State News Paper, SC, 2002)

 

 A HS graduate can expect to earn $338, 047 more in his/her lifetime than a high school drop-out. This is equivalent to a future earning of $78.25 for every additional hour a student stays in school. (Office of Ramsey County Attorney: Truancy Intervention Program, ORCA, 1995)

 

 71% of the United States prison population never finished high school. Many of these drop-outs cited falling behind as a result of truancy as the problem. (Correctional Education Connections. Adult Basic Education, Memphis Shelby Crime Commission, “Best Practices Truancy Programs, Memphis, 1999)

 

 Truancy is a stepping stone to delinquent and criminal activity. A report compiled of factors contributing to delinquency showed absenteeism is the most powerful predictor of delinquent behavior. (Truancy: First Step to a Lifetime of Problems, Eileen M. Gary. NCJRS, Nov 2005)

 

 For each additional year of secondary education completed, there is a 35% decrease in the probability of welfare dependency. (Office of Ramsey Court Attorney: Truancy Intervention program. ORCA, 1995. Taken from RAND Corporation Study. RAND, 1982)

 

 In FY 2001, in New Mexico, 29,560 cases were referred to juvenile probation/parole officers (JPPO). Of those cases, 32.3% were property offenses, which were the most frequent type of case referred to the JPPO’s. In the Northwest region of New Mexico which included Sandoval County, 18.9% of the 29,560 cases were property offenses. (Juvenile Referrals and Dispositions in New Mexico, Aki Roberts, PH.D. Senior Researcher, January 2003.)

 

 High rates of truancy are linked to high daytime burglary rates and high vandalism. In San Diego, Cal, 44% of violent juvenile crime occurs between 8:30 am and 1:30 pm. (Manual to Combat Truancy, U.S. DOE in cooperation with the U.S. Dept of Justice, July 1996)

 

 During a recent sample period on Miami, Florida, more than 71% of 13 to 16 year-olds prosecuted for delinquent violations had been truant. (Manual to Combat Truancy, U.S. Department of Education in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Justice, July 1996)

 

PARENT RESOURCESBHS Family Center 404-5227 SD Substance Abuse 465-2733 BHS Spartan Wellness 404-5237 5 Sandoval 867-3351BHS Resource Officer 404-5232 Sandoval Co. Sheriff 867-7500Bernalillo District Central Office 867-2317 Bernalillo Police Dept. 867-2304La Buena Vida Inc. 867-2383 CYFD Reporting 841-6100

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BUS TRANSPORTATIONThe district provides bus transportation. Students who do not obey the rules on the bus will lose their privilege of riding the bus. If you have specific questions regarding routes or times, please contact the bus department at 867-3207.

CAFETERIAStaff members are on duty to ensure student safety. Students are expected to follow their directions. A reasonably quiet atmosphere should be maintained in the cafeteria. Students may talk with each other in soft voices. Appropriate manners and eating habits are encouraged and expected of all students. Students ARE NOT PERMITTED to take food or drinks out of the cafeteria.

Breakfast/LunchAll students at Santo Domingo Elementary receive free breakfast and lunch every day. We ask that if you send in snacks or beverages, please make them healthy. Please no soda, potato chips, corn puffs, etc. Teachers will pick up their students at the assigned places promptly at 8:15 a.m. Classes have specific time slots for lunch in the cafeteria. You may check with your child’s teacher to find out the exact time of his or her lunch.

CLASSROOM PARTIESClassroom parties may be held the last hour and a half of the day and as indicated on the Master Schedule. Parties will be coordinated by the teacher of each classroom. Healthy refreshments are encouraged.

COUNSELOR There is a full-time school counselor in our school. The goal of our counseling program is to support students in being in being successful in their academic and social endeavors. The accomplishment of these goals requires a joint effort of parents, teachers, students, administration and the counselor. The counselor meets with students individually, in small groups and/or in classrooms presentations. Please contact our counselor at 867-4441 ext 5611 if you have any questions or concerns.

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CLASSROOM PLACEMENTS

Classroom placements are based on criteria designed to promote a quality instructional setting for our students. Efforts are directed toward placing students to achieve a balance of boys/girls, ethnicity, achievement levels, and social skills. Teachers complete pupil placement forms, which provide classroom information on student achievement levels, social skills and learning styles. Classroom placement decisions are based on information provided by parents and staff. Every effort is made to place students in a learning environment that will address their individual needs.

CLASSROOM CHANGES

The procedure for student transfers from one class to another is as follows:1. The parent making a request to transfer a student out of a class

must first meet with the teacher to discuss the matter. If the teacher/counselor agrees that a transfer is justifiable, the teacher/counselor must notify the principal of his/her recommendation. If the teacher disagrees with the transfer, the parents will be informed as to why a transfer is or is not in the best interest of the student.

2. If an agreement between the parent and the teacher cannot be reached, a meeting will be re-scheduled at a time when a school administrator can attend with the teachers and parents and listen to the request. The principal will serve as the school level arbitrator in all classroom changes.

DELIVERY AND PICK-UP OF STUDENTSTo ensure the safety of all of our children, parents, and staff, please abide by the following traffic procedures. Follow directions of duty personnel: enter the student drop-off or pick-up loop located at the front of the school; do not park in the fire lane, carefully continue in lane, circling back to Calle del Escuela. Due to safety concerns, no students may be dropped off in the bus route on the North side of the school. Parents may park in the Visitors’ Parking spaces at the front of the school, but must walk with the student to the duty person or the Administration Office.

DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY

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The Santo Domingo staff perceives discipline as a way of helping children look at, evaluate, and plan appropriate behavior which will allow them to function in today’s world. We believe that children learn best in a happy, congenial atmosphere, which will enhance the learning process. One of our first responsibilities as a professional staff is to establish a good rapport with the students.

The staff at Santo Domingo Elementary believes the goal of constructive discipline is:

1. The accomplishment of learning and personal growth.2. The realization of a positive self-image based on successful

school experiences.3. The internalization of democratic values and constructive

methods of handling feelings, resolving conflict and working for significant social change.

4. The development of caring, responsible, creative, joyful, healthy, committed and self-disciplined persons.

DISCIPLINE POLICYThe staff has a commitment to open communication with our parents and students concerning the implementation of our policy. In order for students to be able to define limits and rules with an understanding of natural consequences, every teacher will have class discussions on appropriate student behavior. Each class will discuss Santo Domingo School’s behavior expectations. The “behavior report” (ticket) will also be explained and discussed. Our primary rule of “No touching” encompasses the majority of behavior problems that can occur during the school hours.

STUDENT RECOGNITIONThe Santo Domingo staff expects students to behave in accordance with the six pillars of Character Counts: respect, responsibility, citizenship, caring, trustworthiness and fairness. In addition, Santo Domingo will implement Positive Behavior Strategies. We believe in teaching pro social behaviors and reinforcing them with rewards.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS :

It is expected that all students will follow the guiding principles at Santo Domingo Elementary. These principles apply to students in the classroom, on the bus, or anywhere on campus.Be Responsible Be Respectful Be Safe Be Positive Be Kind

The Six Pillars of Character are also a basis for appropriate behavior. These six core ethical values form the foundation of THE CHARACTER COUNTS Youth-ethics initiative. Our school embraces these six pillars of character.

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We believe that:

1. Respect means being tolerant of differences; using good manners; not using bad language; being considerate of the feelings of others; and dealing peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements.

2. Responsibility means doing what you are supposed to do; doing your best; using self control; being self-disciplined; thinking before you act and being accountable for your choices.

3. Citizenship means doing your share to make your school/community better; cooperating; staying informed; obeying the rules; respecting authority, and protecting the environment.

4. Caring means being kind; being compassionate; showing you care; expressing gratitude; forgiving others, and helping people in need.

5. Trustworthiness means being honest; having integrity; not deceiving, cheating, or stealing; and being reliable and loyal.

6. Fairness means playing by the rules; taking turns and sharing; being open-minded; listening to others; not taking advantage of others, and not blaming others carelessly.

CONSEQUENCES1 st and 2nd Reported Offense : Documentation Behavior Report (ticket); Teacher, Parent notified. Student meets with Counselor to complete REFOCUS form. 3 rd and 4 th Reported Offense : Documentation Behavior Report (ticket); Teacher, Parent notified; Student meets with Counselor to complete REFOCUS form. 5 th Reported Offense : Documentation Behavior Report (ticket); Teacher, Parent notified in writing; Parents conference with Principal and Teacher. The principal retains the authority to make appropriate decisions in individual situations.

ANTI-BULLYING/CYBER-BULLYING POLICYBernalillo Public School District believes that all students and staff have a right to a safe and healthy school and work environment. The district, schools, and community have an obligation to promote mutual respect, tolerance, and acceptance free from all forms of bullying/cyber-bullying.

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Bullying/cyber-bullying shall mean unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at a student by another student or staff on another staff member that has the effect of:

1. Physically, emotionally or mentally harming another;

2. Damaging, extorting or taking another’s personal property;3. Placing another in reasonable fear of

physical, emotional, or mental harm;

4. Placing another in reasonable fear of damage to or loss of personal property; or

5. Creating an intimidating or hostile environment that substantially interferes with another’s educational or professional opportunities.

Bullying/cyber-bullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing another student or staff member by way of any technological tool, such as sending or posting inappropriate or derogatory email messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or website postings (including blogs) which has the effect of:

1.    Physically, emotionally, or mentally harming another;

2.    Placing another in reasonable fear of physical, emotional, or mental harm;

3.    Placing another in reasonable fear of damage to or loss of personal property; or

4.    Creating an intimidating or hostile environment that substantially interferes with another’s educational or professional opportunities.

Bernalillo Public School District will not tolerate behavior that infringes on the safety of any student nor staff member. A student or staff member shall not intimidate or harass another student or staff member through words or actions. Such behavior includes: Bernalillo Public School District expects students and/or staff to immediately report incidents of bullying/cyber-bullying to the principal or their immediate supervisor. Staff is expected to immediately intervene when they see a bullying/cyber-bullying incident occur. Each complaint of bullying/cyber-bullying will be promptly investigated. This policy applies to students and staff on school or district grounds, while traveling to and from school, during the lunch period, whether on or off campus, and during any school or district sponsored activities.

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To ensure bullying/cyber-bullying does not occur on school campuses or district offices, Bernalillo Public Schools will provide staff development training in bullying/cyber-bullying prevention and cultivate acceptance and understanding in all students and staff to build each school's capacity to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment

Teachers will discuss this policy with their students in an age-appropriate manner and will assure students that they need not endure any form of bullying/cyber-bullying. Students who bully are in violation of this policy and are subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

The District will employ the Employee Code of Conduct and Student Code of Conduct to be followed by every student and staff member while on district property, when traveling to and from school or a school-sponsored activity, and during lunch period, whether on or off campus.

The Student Code of Conduct includes, but is not limited to:

Any student who engages in bullying/cyber-bullying may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

Students are expected to immediately report incidents of bullying/cyber-bullying to the principal or designee.

Students can rely on staff to promptly investigate each complaint of bullying/cyber-bullying in a thorough and confidential manner.

If the complainant student or the parent of the student feels that appropriate resolution of the investigation or complaint has not been reached, the student or the parent of the student should contact the principal or the Office of Student Services. The school system prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complainant or any participant in the complaint process.

The procedures for intervening in bullying/cyber-bullying behavior include, but are not limited, to the following:

All staff, students and their parents will receive a summary of this policy prohibiting bullying/cyber-bullying: at the beginning of the school year, as part of the student handbook and/or information packet, as part of new student orientation, and as part of the school system's notification to parents.

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The school will make reasonable efforts to keep a report of bullying/cyber-bullying and the results of investigation confidential.

Staff members are expected to immediately intervene when they see a bullying/cyber-bullying incident occur.

People witnessing or experiencing bullying/cyber-bullying are encouraged to report the incident; such reporting will not reflect on the victim or witnesses in any way.

The employee Code of Conduct includes, but is not limited to:A requirement that all employees avoid making false and derogatory statements about other employees, and when hearing negative gossip, rumors, innuendo, untruths or any other information of dubious origin or negative quality about other employees, bring such information to the attention of superiors for proper investigation and resolution.The employees must avoid engaging in violent, abusive, indecent, profane, boisterous, disruptive, unreasonably loud, or otherwise disorderly conduct such as would tend to disturb the peace or interfere with or obstruct the lawful mission, processes, procedures or functions of the schools or the School District while on school property, while present at a school activity, and during school transportation to or from such activities.Employees must refrain from violent, threatening, or unprofessional conduct toward other employees, supervisors, parents, members of the school community, members of the general public, and others with whom the employee has contact in connection with his or her duties.

Approved/Adopted: 7/14/2011

HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION/TITLE IXSanto Domingo Elementary strives to provide a school climate that is pleasant, educational, and free from intimidation, hostility, or inappropriate behavior that might interfere with academic performance. Harassment or discrimination of any sort – whether verbal, physical, or visual based upon race, color, religion, gender, national origin or ancestry, disability, or other protected status defined by law, will not be tolerated . If there is ever a concern, please contact the office immediately for the proper procedure to follow.The Title IX was the first comprehensive federal law to prohibit gender discrimination in educational institutions. Title IX benefits both males

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and females, and is at the heart of efforts to create gender equitable schools. The law requires educational institutions to maintain policies, practices and programs that do not discriminate against anyone based on gender. Under this law, males and females are expected to receive fair and equal treatment in all areas of public schooling: recruitment, admissions, educational programs/activities, course offerings, counseling, financial aid, employment assistance, facilities and housing, health and insurance benefits, marital and parental status, scholarships, sexual harassment and athletics.

No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving federal assistance. District contact person at BPS: Allan Tapia at 867-2317.

DRESS CODEThe dress code at Santo Domingo Elementary will be strictly enforced. It requires students dress in a manner that does not distract from the educational process. Children should dress appropriately for the weather and for the PE program. Students will go out to recess if weather conditions permit. The following code will be complied with:

Hair/makeup Hair must be of natural color. No Mohawks or shaved in lettering or designs permitted. No temporary tattoos.

Hats/sunglasses Hats and/or sunglasses may not be worn in the building at any

time. Hair nets and bandanas may not be worn to school.

Shoes It is strongly recommended students wear closed-toed shoes as

they will be running during recess and P.E. High-heeled shoes are not appropriate for everyday wear at

school. Shoes with wheels are not permitted at school.

Jewelry Cone shape, spiked or large earrings may not be worn to school.

Shirts Any type of shirt or clothing which represents drugs, alcohol,

violence, offensive language, graffiti or gang affiliation will not be permitted.

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Shirts must be worn in the appropriate size. Excessive tight or loose shirts will not be acceptable.

Muscle shirts or tank tops are not permitted. Shirts with spaghetti straps are not permitted. Strapless shirts are not permitted. No black T-shirts are allowed

Dresses/skirts/shorts Dresses, skirts or shorts must not be shorter than two inches

above the knee. Clothing must be sized appropriately.

Belts Belts may not be excessive in length Studded belts are not permitted

Pants/jeans Pants and jeans may not be excessively ripped or torn. Pants/jeans must be sized appropriately in waist and length. Excessive baggy or tight pants/jeans will not be permitted.

EMERGENCY CONTACTSParents MUST provide the school with emergency telephone numbers where they or an emergency contact can be reached in the event their child becomes ill or is involved in an accident. The information must be current and on file with the office: home telephone number, cell phone number, work number and family/neighbor phone number. Please notify the office of any changes of address or phone numbers. Every child will be required to have an emergency dismissal form on file.

EMERGENCY PLANSanto Domingo Elementary staff will direct the orderly movement of staff and students in case of emergencies. A detailed plan is on file in the office outlining specific plans for different emergencies. Safety is a top priority. Every precaution will be taken at all times to ensure the safety of every child, staff member, and visitor.

FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLSFire drills are required at regular intervals by law and are an important safety precaution.  It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone obeys orders promptly and clears the building by the

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prescribed route as quickly and quietly as possible.  Disaster and lock down drills will be rehearsed as well.

FILMS/VIDEOS

Multi-media resources such as CD laser discs and videos can explain or enhance a specific concept or objective being taught at CES. Other videos/DVDs are presented to our children to enhance, motivate, or clarify educational objectives. Only “G” rated movies may be shown at SDES. Permission slips are required for all “PG” rated videos. All videos shown must be approved by the administration using the Video Usage Form

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act 9 (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. 1232g:34 CFR Part 99) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s educational records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have been transferred are “eligible students”.

Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student’s records maintained by the school. Schools are required to provide copies of records, unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies.

Parents or eligible students have the right to request that school correct records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his/her view about the contested information.

Schools may disclose without consent “Directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, dates of attendance, and honors or awards.

FIELD TRIPS AND SPECIAL EVENTSOpportunities for students to participate in field trips and special activities occur throughout the school year. Parents are always

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encouraged to accompany the class to provide extra supervisory help and participate in the class activity.

Parents must have a permission form on file 24 hours in advance in order to take their student home from a field trip. Keep in mind that although field trips are designed to extend classroom learning, students must be active participants in the classroom by doing what is expected with regard to class work, homework, and behavior. We reserve the right to extend classroom learning by an alternate means and prohibit participation in fieldtrips for students who fail to meet classroom expectations. Santo Domingo Elementary students are under the same school rules during a fieldtrip as when they are on campus. The following regulations are to be followed for all fieldtrips:

Parents must sign permission slips for all fieldtrips. Verbal permission is not acceptable. Chaperones must be 21 years or older

Students must leave and return on the bus. Only in the event of an emergency situation may the parent sign their child out with the teacher at the location of the fieldtrip or must have signed a waiver form in advance.

Younger children may not be brought on field trips. Parents are not to take their children from other classrooms to

participate in a brother or sister’s field trip as the student will be losing out on instruction in his or her own classroom for that day. Students are to attend only those fieldtrips scheduled for their class.

HOMEWORKHomework is assigned to extend and enhance student learning. Consistent homework includes Nightly Reading. During Nightly Reading, learners will be expected to read (or be read to) four to five nights a week.

Kinder/1 – 10-20 minutes 2/3 – 30 minutes 4/5 grade – 35-45 minutes

Parents do play an important role with homework. One way is in helping the child establish a routine and place to study.

HEALTH ROOM/ MEDICATION POLICY Santo Domingo Elementary has a full time registered nurse OR a full time health assistant who may be on call to assist as necessary who provide a variety of services to the students. These include first aid, medication administration, vision/hearing screenings, health promotion activities, student wellness, including fluoride, basic hygiene and cleanliness, and growth and development. Community resource services available include: El Pueblo Health Services, Sandoval County

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Human Services, and La Buena Vida. Information is available by contacting the school’s Health Office (867-4441 ext. 5530).

Parents will be notified and asked to pick up their child as soon as possible (or within one hour) if a student exhibits any of the following symptoms:

Temperature of 100 or higher Vomiting or diarrhea Continual cough that interferes with a student’s ability to

participate in class Earache with otoscopic evidence of infection Severe tooth pain Sore throat involving pain, redness, white patches or difficulty

swallowing, especially when showing evidence of strep infection Uncomfortable red eyes with swelling and discharge Unexplained rash Obvious severe injury Difficulty breathing or uncontrolled asthma Other medical concerns

State law prohibits from administering any medication (including aspirin) to students without written parental permission. At Santo Domingo Elementary, the nurse or health assistant will dispense all medications unless unforeseen circumstances arise. Parents are to notify the school if a child has a specific medical problem or needs regular medication.

Your child should not bring any type of medications to school. Only a Parent/Guardian should transport medication to/from the school. If it is necessary that your child have medication during the school day, written permission MUST be on file with the school. Medications will only be accepted with written authorization by the child’s Docrtor, parent/guardian permission and must have the original pharmacy label on the medication container. If written authorization is not provided, parent/guardian may come to school to give the medication to their child. All medication, which is brought to school, must be taken to the nurse’s office. The medication policy includes both prescription drugs and over the counter medications.

No child will be allowed to attend school without an up-to-date immunization record or waiver. IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Diphtheria (DPT/DTAP) 5. Pertussis (DPT/DTAP)2. Tetanus (DPT/DTAP) 6. Poliomyelitis (Polio)3. Measles (MMR) 7. Rubella (MMR)4. Hepatitis B 8. Varicella (Chicken pox)

Parents will be contacted immediately when a student is involved in an accident or medical emergency. If parents cannot be reached for

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serious illness or injurys,nurse or health assistance and administration will contact the Bernalillo Fire and Rescue Service. All medical costs incurred through emergency treatment are the responsibility of the parents. Never hesitate to contact the school with any questions or concerns regarding your child’s health care. (867-4441).

PHONE CALLS/MESSAGESIf you call to speak with a staff member during instructional hours, you will be asked to leave a message. Office staff will deliver your message and the staff member will return your message during a non-instructional time. We do not want to interrupt your child’s learning opportunities.

Students may use the telephone only in case of an emergency. The student’s teacher or office staff member will determine whether or not the need to use the phone is an emergency.

LOST AND FOUNDYou are encouraged to write your child’s name in all outerwear. Our Lost and Found box, located in the cafeteria foyer, is usually overflowing with sweaters, jackets, and sweatshirts. Several times a year, we will spread out the items in the Lost and Found box for students and parents to claim.

PARENT CONCERN PROCEDUREParents who have concerns about their child’s progress in school should first contact the child’s teacher and make arrangements for a discussion over concerns. Should there be continuing concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the principal who will arrange a parent-teacher-principal meeting.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCESReport Cards are sent out at the end of each nine-week grading period for students in grades K-8. It is the goal of each teacher to meet with the parents of every student during the days allotted by the district for parent/teacher conferences. Your child’s teacher will contact you in writing, or by telephone, to schedule your conference time. Parents should attend the conference to obtain any information concerning a student’s progress in school. These conferences are essential components of our team approach for a quality education. Parents may also schedule conferences with teachers when they feel there is a need to do so.

PARENT/TEACHER ASSOCIATION

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There is a parent/teacher organization that holds meetings once a month during the school year. Information is disseminated through notes and school newsletters. Parents are notified of meeting dates and times through notes, school newsletters, and website. These are great opportunities for parents to get involved in the education of their children. If you would like to be a parent representative, please contact the principal.

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! PROGRAM OFFERINGS

Art/Music

Bernalillo Public Schools are very proud of their Fine Arts programs. Every student at Santo Domingo will participate regularly in developmentally appropriate art and music activities and will be provided with opportunities that will cultivate self-expression, imagination and creativity as well as critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Keres Programs

Keres Program: The Keres Immersion Program, in cooperation with the Santo Domingo Educational Committee and Community Partners, has developed a program that consists of oral thematic units, using manipulatives, visuals, storytelling, music, dance and other cultural aspects. The cultural values and life ways of the Pueblo People are also an important component of the lessons. The program facilitates learning, promotes diversity and expresses appreciation of all cultures. Instruction is provided daily by the Keres Resource Teacher.

Computer/TechnologySanto Domingo students will have the opportunity to use computers in a lab setting during regularly scheduled times. The use of these school computers will support academic learning and will be consistent with the educational goals of Santo Domingo Elementary. All equipment will be used properly and carefully. An “Acceptable Use Contract” signed by both the parent and the student is a requirement before a student will be allowed to use a computer.

LibrarySanto Domingo students go to the library at regularly scheduled times. The children listen to a story that incorporates the lesson for the week and then will be given time to select a book to take with them. The

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staff conducts a book fair each November to provide families the opportunity to purchase quality children’s literature to have in their homes. Volunteers are always needed for these special activities, which benefit all of our students.

Students will be allowed to check out book(s) for one week. All books not returned at the next library time will be considered overdue. Additional books may not be checked out until the overdue book is returned. Students having a book overdue by two weeks will receive a notice to take home to their parents. All books overdue by four weeks will be considered lost. Lost books must be replaced at current value. Report cards will be held on any student who does not pay for lost or damaged library materials.

MathSanto Domingo Elementary believes in creating hands-on experiences to make math concepts relevant and meaningful. Our school utilizes the McGraw-Hill, My Math Series. My Math offers activity-based mathematics that encourage students to think creatively, develop and articulate their own problem-solving strategies, and work cooperatively with their classmates.

Physical EducationSanto Domingo students will participate in physical education classes at regularly scheduled times each week. The purpose of this program is to provide quality elementary physical education to all students.  This is accomplished through various cooperation, team and skill building activities, which focus on overall physical wellness.  The curriculum includes the psychomotor, cognitive, affective and health related areas of fitness and health. 

It is necessary for a student to have written permission from parents to be excused from PE activities due to health reasons. Students should wear appropriate tennis shoes and clothing (loose fitting pants, shorts, and tops; girls are discouraged from wearing dresses or skirts).

Reading and Writing InstructionSanto Domingo’s goal is to have every student learn to read so that our students are capable of reading to learn. We ensure this through differentiated instruction, guided reading groups, and literacy centers. The Macmillan/McGraw-Hill “Treasures” language arts program will be used during a 90 minute reading block. The focus will be based on the six essential components of reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and oral language. Writing is also a strong component and is integrated throughout the Treasures curriculum.

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Protection of Pupil Rights The protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (20 U.S.C 1232h:34 CFR Part 98) applies to programs that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education. PPRA is intended to protect the rights of parents and students in two ways: It seeks to ensure that schools and contractors make instructional

materials available for inspection by parents if those materials will be used in connection with an ED– funded survey, which their children participate.

It seeks to ensure that schools and contractors obtain written parental consent before minor students are to participate in any ED funded survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

1. Political affiliations.2. Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the

student and/or his/her family.3. Sex behavior and attitudes.4. Illegal, anti-social self discriminating and demeaning behavior.5. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have

close family relationships.6. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as

those of lawyers, physicians and ministers.7. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for

participation in a program or receiving financial assistance under such program).

Parents or students who believe their rights under PPRA may have been violated may file a complaint with ED by writing to the Family Policy Compliance Office. Complaints must contain specific allegations of facts, giving reasonable cause to believe that a violation of PPRA occurred.

STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCENew Mexico law states that a school district cannot assume liability for costs incurred in student accidents. Insurance information will be provided to parents who are interested. Bernalillo Public Schools strongly recommends that parents consider accident insurance for their child/children.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE TEAM (SAT)The Student Assistance Team is designed to assist teachers and parents with concerns regarding the student/child. The team meets regularly to discuss issues concerning attendance, behavior and academics. Parents may request a meeting with the SAT team at any time. The process will include a detailed plan to address the concern.SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

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Bernalillo Schools provide a full range of Special Education programs to students who meet eligibility requirements. Students may qualify for Special Education placement only after an appropriate referral and diagnostic evaluation is completed. Referrals are made only after a wide range of alternative strategies have been used to assist a child in the regular classroom. Parents are notified of any referral and must give permission before testing can occur. An Individual Education Plan meeting is held with parents and staff to determine the most appropriate educational program placement for the child.

STUDENT POSSESSIONSPlease do not allow your child to bring toys, i-pads, trading cards or electronic devices, etc. to school. They can be easily lost, broken, or traded which can cause problems at school. Weapons of any kind are not allowed on school grounds, including toys that are “look-alikes”. Toys, scooters, skateboards, roller blades, skate shoes (heelies), and roller skates are not allowed at school.

STUDENT RETENTION If your child is not working at grade level, he/she will receive additional intervention and/or be referred to the Student Assistance Team (SAT). Parents will be notified of the possibility of their child being retained by the end of the 2nd nine-week grading period. A meeting with the SAT Chairperson, teacher and parent will take place by the end of the 3rd nine- week grading period to determine if a recommendation for retention should be made.

VISITORS/VOLUNTEERSAll visitors and volunteers MUST sign-in at the office (identification is required) visitors are required to pick up a visitor’s badge and leave keys/ ID until signing out. Visitors must be wearing a visitor’s badge at all times they are on the school campus. Staff members have the authority to stop any individual who is not wearing a badge. This policy will be strictly enforced for student’s safety and security. Sign-in sheets are checked daily and used for safety procedures, such as fire drills.

VOLUNTEERS: We expect all visitors to respect the confidentiality guaranteed to all Santo Domingo staff and students. Volunteers will be asked to sign a confidentiality form.Volunteers are encouraged to contact the office or their child’s teacher when they would be available to help. Please do not just drop in. Teachers will confirm times and activities for their individual classroom. Classroom visitors/volunteers are asked to arrange their visit in advance with the classroom teacher. This can be done in writing or by phone (867-4441). Any

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volunteers who may exceed 40 volunteer hours will be required to have a background check. No siblings are allowed to accompany volunteers assisting in classrooms. No children can be in the workroom at any time. Volunteers are always appreciated at our Book Fair, which is held in November. Please check with our librarian for specific dates.

HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR CHILD’S READINGThe single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children. National Commission of Reading

Reading: The Key to SuccessAt Santo Domingo, we want all of our children to become good readers. Reading is the key to success in school and life. We want all of our children to be successful, happy students. As a parent, you can help your child with reading.Please take a few minutes each day to listen to your children’s reading or to read to them. Talk to them about the stories and books they bring home. By taking a few minutes from your busy day to read with your child, you are showing them that learning and reading are important. You are giving them much needed practice. It is also fun to do. We have some other ideas for helping your child’s reading at home. These are listed below.

Reading: How the Parent Can HelpTeaching reading is an important and difficult job in which both the school and the parent can cooperate. Here are many ways you as a parent can help your child.

1. Talk to your child.2. Listen to your child; build oral language.3. Read to your child.4. Teach your child how to take care of books.5. Take your child on trips.6. Build up a reading atmosphere at home. 7. Encourage him to join the public library.8. Buy games and puzzles for your child.9. Make games.10. Buy books for your child.11. Praise your child.

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12. Keep your child well and rested.13. Give your child responsibilities.14. See that your child has good habits of attendance.

EARLY READING SKILLS1. Create appreciation of the written word.2. Develop awareness of printed language.3. Learn the alphabet.4. Understand the relation of letters and words.5. Know spelling patterns.6. Understand that language is made of words and syllables. 7. Learning letter sounds.8. Sounding out new words.9. Identify words in print accurately and easily. 10. Learn to read reflectively.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Bernalillo Public Schools 867-2317Algodones Elementary 867-2803Bernalillo Elementary School 867-3366Bernalillo High School 867-2388Bernalillo Middle School 867-3309Santo Domingo Elementary School 867-4441Cochiti Elementary & Middle School 867-5547La Escuelita Early Learning Center 404-5585Placitas Elementary School 867-2488Santo Domingo Elementary & Middle School 867-4441Child Protective Services HOTLINE-CYFD 841-6100Office of Multicultural Education 867-2317Office of Special Programs 867-2317Office of Elementary Education 867-2317Office of Transportation 867-3207Office of Food services 867-7802Office of Building Maintenance 867-7802Office of Technology 867-7829Office of Sandia Governor 867-3317Office of Santo Domingo Governor 771-6704Office of Santo Domingo Governor 465-2214

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Bernalillo Police Department 867-2304Bernalillo Animal Rescue 867-2304El Pueblo Health 867-2324Health and Social Services 867-3357Head Start 771-0647Peanut Butter and Jelly Pre School 867-2356La Buena Vida 867-2383Santo Domingo Health Clinic 867-2497

Important Dates

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First Day for Students August 13

Parent/Teacher Conferences October 8-9February 18-19

Labor Day September 7

Thanksgiving Break November 25-27

Winter Break December 23-January 8

Martin Luther King January 18

President’s Day February 15

Spring Break March 24-April 1

Last Day of School May 27

Report Cards Dates: October 16th 1st 9 weeksDecember 22nd 2nd 9 weeks March 11th 3rd 9 weekMay 27th End of year

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