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MT. PENN
PRIMARY CENTER
STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2015-2016
ANTIETAM SCHOOL DISTRICT
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WELCOME
The administration and staff would like to take this opportunity to WELCOME you to
the Mt. Penn Primary Center of the Antietam School District. The information contained
in this handbook has been prepared to answer your questions concerning the operation
and procedures regarding the school. If we have overlooked a question that you would
like to have answered, please call the school so we may help you.
The Mt. Penn Primary Center has excellent teachers committed to providing our students
with a quality education in a child-centered environment. The best education possible for
your child may be attained through the cooperative efforts of the staff and supportive
parents. Our community working together will provide a lifetime of success for our
students.
MISSION STATEMENT
ANTIETAM’S COMMITMENT:
A COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
PLEDGED TO LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT.
POLICY OF NONDISCRIMINATION
The Antietam School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national
origin, religion, age, sex, handicap, or Veteran status in its activities, programs, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504. For information regarding civil rights, grievance
procedures, services, activities, and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons, contact Dr. Melissa Brewer, Compliance Coordinator, Antietam School District, 100 Antietam Road, Reading, PA
19606, (610) 779-0554.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TOPIC PAGE Academic Support Programs
ESL (English as a Second Language) 9
Guidance Services 9
Remedial Reading/Title I 9
RTII 9
Special Education Services 9
Administration/School Board Members 5
Arrival Times 7
Attendance 8
Absence Call in Procedure/Request 9
Absence/Tardy Excuses 8
Compulsory Attendance 8
Educational Leave 9
Unexcused/Unlawful Absence 8
Withdrawals 9
Calendar 19
Chewing Gum 17
Closings 17
Discipline 12
Cafeteria Manners 14
Corporal Punishment 12
Discipline Code 13
Harassment/Discrimination 12
Dress Code 13
Philosophy/Information 12
School Rules 13
Drop Off-Pick Up Areas for Students 7
Entrance/Exit Doors 8
Doors Locked 8
Inclement Weather Early Entry 8
Visiting School - Parents and Guests 8
Health Information
Health and Nursing Services/Guidelines 11
Dr./DDS. Appointments 11
Emergency Cards/Emergency Forms 11
Exclusions from School 11
Healthful Hints 12
Medical Responsibilities/Pertinent Facts 11
Medication/Prescriptive Drugs-Administration 11
Physical/Dental Exams 12
Library Information/Policies 19
Lunch Information Free and Reduced Lunch Program 10
Leaving the Building for Lunch – Lunch Notes 10
Lunch Prices 10
Lunch Payment/Balances
Cash Use/Computerized Accounts 10
Negative Accounts Balance – No Cash 10
Milk/Lunch Substitution 10
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Parent Lunch Visits 11
Recess 11
Student I.D. Cards 10
Miscellaneous Items Bicycles/Skateboards 18
Electronic Devices Policy 16
Helpful Tips for Home 17
Holiday Gift Giving 17
Homework 17
Integrated Pest Management Program 17
Report Cards 18
Smoking Policy 18
Telephone Pagers 18
Parent Activities 16
Parents Volunteers 15
Parent-Teacher Conferences 15
Parent Teacher League (PTL) 15
Membership 15
PTL Business Meeting 15
Parents’ Night (Open House) 15
Staff 6
Telephone/Electronic Information 7
Contacting Teachers 7
Student Telephone Use/Messages to Students 7
Voice Mail 7
Testing Programs (Elementary) 14
Testing Individual Needs 14
Time Schedule 7
Transportation Information 15
Transportation Services Bus Evacuation Drills 16
Transportation Behavior Regulations 15
Transportation Discipline Policy 16
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SCHOOL DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Melissa Brewer
Superintendent
Mrs. Lauren Zuidema Primary Center Principal-MPPC
Mr. Keith Shively
Special Education Supervisor-MPPC
Mrs. Shirley Feyers Elementary Principal-MPEC
Dr. Felice Stern
Principal- MS/HS
Mr. James Croyle Assistant Principal-MS/HS
Mrs. Melissa Devlin
Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Literacy
Mrs. Tracy Detwiler Business Manager
Mr. Kyle Schaeffer
Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. David Stauffer President Mr. Walter Saylor Vice President Mrs. Judith Swartz Treasurer Mrs. Julia Kleiman-Baer Mr. Chris Faro Mr. John Fielding Mrs. Michelle Worrall Mr. Larry O’Boyle Mrs. Ann Sellers Mrs. Pamela Janda Secretary (non-member)
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MT. PENN PRIMARY CENTER HIGHLY QUALIFIED STAFF (MPPC)
Principal: Mrs. Lauren Zuidema
Secretary: Mrs. Tina Steckbeck
Special Education Supervisor: Mr. Keith Shively
GRADE: K – Mrs. Jacqueline Kast Room 202
K – Ms. Katie Longlott Room 210
K – Ms. Lauren Morrow Room 206
K – Mrs. April Olson Room 208
1 – Mrs. Abby Salgado Room 205
1 – Mrs. Casey Votodian Room 207
1 –Mrs. Stephanie Hartman Room 209
1 –Mrs. Tanya Hess Room 211
LS– Mrs. Mary Galvin Room 203
Reading – Mrs. Jennifer Cox Room 201
Reading - Mrs. Linda Stanko Room 200
Nurse - Mrs. Sharon Heffner Nurses Suite
SPECIAL AREAS: (*indicates serving both buildings)
Art* Mrs. Tara Halvorson
District Nurse* Mrs. Nedra Koller High School
Enrichment Program* Mrs. Melissa Faro
E.S.L.* Mrs. Rebecca Giatras
Guidance Counselor* Mrs. Mary Benischeck Guidance Office-MPEC
Library* Mrs. Sarah Westley Library
Music* Mr. Keith Gillner
Mr. Roderick Nevin
Physical Education* Mr. Dean Stump Gymnasium
Computer Technology Ms. Julie Bentley Computer Lab
Psychologist* Dr. Virginia Kelbish MPEC/MPPC
Mrs. Katherine Groom Antietam High School
Speech Therapist* Mrs. Amy Rossetti
Technology Assistant Mrs. June Leonard Administrative Office
PRIMARY AIDES:
Mrs. Robin Derr Mrs. Lisa Haake
Ms. Jennifer Rothermel Mrs. Crystal Weand
Mrs. Beth Cozzone Ms. Helen Reinbrecht
CUSTODIANS:
Mrs. Sandra Bricker – MPPC Mr. John Thomas, Jr. – MPPC
MAINTENANCE:
Mr. Joseph Buzalewski Mr. Lee Yochum
MPPC CAFETERIA PERSONNEL:
Mrs. Denise Rankin MPPC Cafeteria Personnel
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TELEPHONE/ELECTRONIC/ADDRESS INFORMATION
Superintendent’s Office....................779-0554 FAX.....779-4424
Business Office.................................779-2606 FAX.....779-4424
Antietam High School Office………779-3545 FAX.....779-0378
100 Antietam Road
Mt. Penn Elementary Center ........779-3547 FAX.....779-6937
2310 Cumberland Avenue
Mt. Penn Primary Center………...370-2898 FAX….370-2981
201 N. 25th Street
CONTACTING TEACHERS AT SCHOOL If you are calling teachers, please call between 7:50 and 8:20 a.m. or from 3:15 to 3:20p.m. Teachers may
not be called in their classrooms during the teaching day, except in an extreme emergency. If they are
unavailable at the time of your call, they will return your call at their earliest possible convenience.
TELEPHONE USE/MESSAGES TO STUDENTS/PHONES FOR STUDENT USE Messages may be taken by the office staff when there is an emergency or when it
is essential for a student to receive information.
VOICE MAIL Our Voice Mail system is in use prior to 7:30 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m. for your convenience. Please leave a
message and the appropriate person will respond.
WEBSITE
To access our district website, log on to: www.antietamsd.org and locate the Primary Center section for
menus, e-mail addresses, activity dates, Principal’s Bulletin, and much more information.
TIME SCHEDULES
7:30 a.m. Office opens
7:50 a.m. Teacher day begins
8:05a.m. Breakfast
8:20 a.m. All students enter building
8:30 a.m. School begins
3:15p.m. Student day ends
3:20 p.m. Teacher day ends
4:00 p.m. Office closes
ARRIVAL TIMES – Primary Center/Elementary Center Please arrange your child’s route to school so that it will be safe and he/she will not arrive prior to 8:05/8:20 a.m., Only
those students purchasing breakfast will be allowed to enter prior to 8:20. Students should be in their seats by 8:30 a.m.
DROP OFF/PICK UP AREAS FOR STUDENTS
Children may be dropped off/picked up on the street, with parents’ assistance. Please do not allow your child to cross
without being alongside of them. Our buses and vans access the circle drive. Please drop off or pick up and move on.
Parking /Standing/Stopping is prohibited in the circle drive in front of the building. Please do not jeopardize
these areas by parking/stopping/standing. The parking lots may be used if space is available for all school activities.
ENTRANCE/EXIT DOORS The main entrance on N. 25th Street is the only door of entry for students.
DOORS LOCKED Please be advised that all school doors will be locked everyday at 8:30 a.m. If your child is late for school, he/she will
need to ring the bell at the N. 25th Street door for entrance, and report to the school office immediately upon arrival
before going to his/her classroom.
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INCLEMENT WEATHER EARLY ENTRY Only on days when the weather is inclement or frigid, students may enter the building at 8:10 a.m. and stand inside the
entrances until the 8:20 a.m. bell.
VISITING SCHOOL - PARENTS OR GUESTS All parents/guardians and visitors to our schools must ring the doorbell, show a picture ID, and report to the office upon
entering the building to sign our “Visitor’s Page”, you will also need to leave a form of identification to receive the
“visitors tag”. All adults entering must have a photo id. No siblings should be brought when visiting, working in the
classroom, or on a field trip.
To avoid interruptions, please leave all student materials in the office and the teacher or student will be notified of their
availability. Do not go directly to a classroom or interrupt a class while in session. If you need to speak to a teacher,
the office will contact the teacher for you. Parents and visitors should not venture past the lobby area at any time
before, during, or after school hours without permission.
ATTENDANCE:
COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE
Compulsory school attendance is enforced in the Antietam School District. Every pupil of compulsory school age must
be in attendance every day that school is in session. Excusal from school attendance is not a function of the home. The
principal or his/her designee may excuse an absence from school for the following reasons:
1. Pupil illness
2. Quarantine
3. Recovery from an accident
4. Required court attendance
5. Death in the immediate family
6. Religious holidays
7. Educational tour or trip (advance request only)
8. Unavoidable medical appointments
Absences not listed above shall be unexcused. Unexcused absences shall include absences which result from parental
neglect.
UNEXCUSED/UNLAWFUL ABSENCES Absences for reasons other than stated above or not approved by the Administration will be considered unexcused. In
addition, should a student not provide the school with a parental note explaining his/her absence within 3 days, the
absence will be considered unexcused. Unexcused absences are truancies and are subject to disciplinary actions.
NOTE: All children of compulsory school age - from the date of entrance until age 17 - are unlawfully
absent if absent from school for any unexcused absence. The Antietam School District
will take legal action against parents or guardians of children who are of compulsory school age
and are unlawfully absent from school.
PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED FOR UNLAWFUL ABSENCES 1. After any unlawful absences, a letter will be sent to the parents requesting their assistance in complying with
the compulsory school attendance laws.
2. When a child has 3 unlawful absences, the school will issue the “1st Official Notice” as required by Section
1354 of the Pennsylvania School Code, and may require a doctor’s note for subsequent absences.
3. Any additional unlawful absences will be considered a second offense and will require the serving of a
warrant on the parent by an alderman, magistrate, or justice of the peace - Section 1333 of the Pennsylvania
School Code.
LATE ARRIVALS/TARDY
Students must be in their classroom when the bell rings at 8:30. Students who enter the building after the 8:30 bell are
considered tardy (late). Notes or a phone call from parent/guardians must accompany the students when they arrive to
be considered excused (stating an acceptable reason for the tardiness).
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WRITTEN EXCUSE When a child is absent, a note must accompany him/her upon return to school or within 3 days or they will be
unlawfully unexcused.
ABSENCE CALL IN PROCEDURE/REQUEST For the safety and concern for all our students, we ask that on each day your child is absent you call the school between
7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to report their absence. If the office staff does not receive a call from you, the principal or a
designee, will call your home to verify that your child is accounted for. A message may be left on our voice mail
before 7:30 a.m. Thank you for your cooperation.
PHYSICIAN’S NOTE
IF a student is absent three or more consecutive days, a note from the physician must be submitted to the office upon
their return to school. When your child returns to school after being absent with a communicable disease, a doctor’s
note is required.
When a student is absent 10 days by parental note, an excuse from a physician will be required for all future excused
absences.
EDUCATIONAL LEAVE Just a reminder that educational leave (excused absence) is available when you take your child out of school for reasons
other than illness, death in the family, or any unusual circumstances not directly involving your child. All you have to
do is request the educational leave form, complete it, and return it to the Principal’s office prior to the dates involved.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office and they can help you in determining what is or what is not
educational leave. Approval will not be granted after-the-fact and an unexcused absence will result. Each child is
limited to ten (10) days per school year and each child is responsible for all work missed during the absence.
WITHDRAWALS
When moving from the district, it is necessary to notify the elementary office so they may prepare a copy of
immunization, which will be needed when enrolling your child in another district. Teachers and staff will summarize
the student’s progress and prepare the student’s file, including health records, to forward to his/her school of
enrollment. All records will be forwarded by U.S. mail.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS:
ESL (ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE) – EEL (English Limited Learners)
This is an assistance program for our students who have Limited English Proficiency. Students needing help are
immersed in a literacy programs that allows success in reading, conversation, and all areas of the curriculum.
GUIDANCE SERVICES Our guidance program offers many and varied services to students, teachers, and parents. The guidance counselor
conducts services, which are an integral part of the total elementary program. The goal of the guidance effort is to help
children realize their greatest potential. The program also includes preventative and developmental classroom activities
in all grade levels. Parents with physical, social, emotional, or environmental concerns affecting their children should
contact the counselor.
RESPONSE TO INSTRUCTION AND INTERVENTION (RTII)
Our Response to Intervention program provides additional instruction for all students, either through enrichment,
additional literacy practice, or remediation. Through annual data analysis, every student is placed in an intervention
classroom based upon the area that would most meet their academic reading needs.
READING PROGRAMS/TITLE I The Title I Reading Programs are intended to provide supplemental help to those students with reading difficulties.
Student scores from testing, or teacher referrals are used as a determination services. Parents will be informed about
their child’s eligibility for services in the fall of each academic year. Any parents with questions may contact Mrs.
Zuidema, the Reading Supervisor, at (610) 370 2898.
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SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
Children of school age who have been identified with a disability that requires specially designed instruction will be
provided with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that dictates the supplementary aides and services required to
meet their unique needs in accordance with federal and state guidelines. The following are disabilities identified by the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act:
1. Specific Learning Disability
2. Cognitive Impairment (formerly Mental Retardation)
3. Speech and Language Impairment
4. Emotional Disturbance
5. Deaf/ Hearing Impairment
6. Blind/Visually Impairment
7. Orthopedic Impairment
8. Multiple Disabilities
9. Other Health Impairment
Students identified as gifted and in need of specially designed instruction will also be provided with an individualized
education program (GIEP).
Students identified with a disability that requires adaptation or accommodation, but does not require specially designed
instruction, will be provided with a Chapter 15 Service Agreement, in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
For more information on programs provided for students with exceptionalities or any questions about special education
services and rights, please contact the Supervisor of Special Education, Mrs. Christine Raber at (610)-370-2898. The
special education office is at the Mount Penn Primary Center.
LUNCH INFORMATION:
LUNCH & BREAKFAST PRICES 2010-2011 Lunch (students) $ 2.45
Reduced .40
Adults $ 4.00
Milk (only) (low fat, white) $ .60 ( chocolate) $ .60
Breakfast (students) $ 1.40
Reduced .30
Adults $ 2.50
LUNCH PAYMENTS/BALANCES:
COMPUTERIZED ACCOUNTS As a convenience, so that students do not need to carry cash and are never without lunch money, we have a
computerized system that allows the student to deposit amounts of their choice into their cafeteria account. Please see
the school website for further information. They may do so by dropping a money envelope in the “Drop Box” in the
office or giving it to their teacher in a well-marked envelope. Once the balance of a student’s account is below $5.00 a
notice will be sent home. A notice will also be sent home for negative balances. Students will use their ID card for all
transactions, including the purchase of their lunch or milk.
NEGATIVE ACCOUNT BALANCE POLICY– NO CASH
Grades K-3: If students in these grades reaches a negative ten dollars ($10.00) and no deposit/payment are
received, they will receive an alternative meal in accordance with the NSLP guidelines, until money is
received on the account to clear the debt.
STUDENT I.D. CARDS
Students must have their I.D. Cards whether paying cash or using their account for lunch. Lost cards will be replaced
at a cost of $5.00 each, and students must have an I.D. Card to purchase lunch and access library books.
CASH USE
Students are able to use cash on a daily basis to purchase lunch. They will drop a money envelope in the ‘drop box’ in
the office in the morning. Please indicate your child’s name, grade and teacher.
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NEGATIVE ACCOUNT BALANCE – NO CASH
We realize that at times children forget to bring their lunch money, parents forget to send it or give it to them, or the
computerized account has a low or negative balance. The child will receive a paper indicating to the parent that there is
money owed to the cafeteria. Negative balance accounts are to be reimbursed the next school day.
FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH PROGRAM Through a federal program, free and reduced lunches are available for our students. To receive free or reduced lunch
prices, parents must complete an application, which is sent home the first day of school. Applications may be
requested during the school year as needed.
LEAVING THE BUILDING FOR LUNCH – LUNCH NOTES
Students are permitted to go out with an adult for lunch upon parental request and permission by note. Two types of
notes are used: (1) a blanket note for the year, or (2) a daily note.
MILK/LUNCH SUBSTITUTION Due to the fact that the district receives subsidies for milk to accompany the school lunch, substitutions for milk will be
allowed only with a doctor’s note and request. For lactose intolerant students the USDA regulations require us to
substitute only soymilk in place of regular milk. If a child has been determined by a doctor to need meal/drink
substitutions, our cafeteria will attempt to meet their needs.
PARENT LUNCH VISITS
From time to time, parents enjoy having lunch with their children. We support the practice, but ask that on the day you
will be having lunch with your child that you call the office or send a note to the teacher informing us of your arrival.
This allows our cafeteria staff to be prepared.
RECESS Children will have a recess each day weather permitting. Please be sure that your child wears appropriate seasonal
clothing. If possible, please send in a pair of sneakers to keep in their locker for the occasions that your child may wear
sandals, as running in sandals/flip flops have caused injuries. It is assumed that a child well enough to be in school
will participate outdoors. If for some reason your child is to remain indoors, a note must be written to explain the
circumstances. A note from a family physician will be required if the request is for more than three (3) days or
frequent. If the temperature is below 60 degrees, the child will need a jacket (sweater, sweatshirt, etc) to be allowed to
play outside at recess. Those students without proper covering will not be allowed outside for recess.
HEALTH INFORMATION:
DOCTOR/DENTIST APPOINTMENTS We are urging that you schedule doctor appointments around the school hours. I realize that certain doctors have strict
hours and this cannot always be avoided. If you must pick your child up prior to 3:15, send a note to the child’s teacher
that morning. When you come in for your child, please report to the office and we will call him/her to the office.
EMERGENCY CARDS/EMERGENCY FORMS
At the beginning of the school year, you are asked to complete an emergency form and update the school
Sky Lert/Skyward system and return it to the school. If any changes are made regarding the information located on
Skyward (i.e., work information changes, emergency person changes, etc.) please notify the school office immediately.
We rely on this information to be accurate if we must get in contact with you.
EXCLUSIONS FROM SCHOOL:
1. Pink Eye - (Contagious conjunctivitis) Signs & Symptoms: Red eye, itchy, burning, crusted material in
A.M., drainage from eye. Not all red eyes are Pink Eye. Allergies have similar responses, however,
seem only to last a short time and stop without any treatment. Pink Eye, when diagnosed by a doctor,
requires medication to render the child “non-contagious”.
2. Chicken Pox - A doctor’s note is required for the child’s re-entry to school. Signs & Symptoms: Many times
the child has vague symptoms - fever, runny nose, doesn’t feel well prior to outbreak of the pox. The pox are
red spots, which fill with fluid then dry and become crusted. They may be anywhere on the body and erupt at
various times.
3. Scabies - This skin rash is caused by a mite that gets under the skin, causing itching (especially at night) and
a rash. It generally occurs in folds of the skin. It also is easily treated and requires a doctor’s note
for re-entry to school.
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4. Lice - Particularly head lice shows no preference to its home, although it’s less likely to occur on hair that is
washed frequently. The louse lays its egg, which appear as silver dandruff, on a strand of hair and will not
easily be removed. Treatment is with a medicated shampoo. Children excluded from school require a head
check by the school nurse for re-entry. Clothing and household articles, as well as articles in contact with the
infected person, must be given special care. The best treatment is prevention. Don’t use each other’s combs,
hair products, and hats. Have parents check heads regularly, especially around ears and the nape of neck.
Report to parents or school nurse for itchy head to be checked.
MEDICAL RESPONSIBILITIES - PERTINENT FACTS 1. When a child becomes sick in school, it is the parent’s responsibility to transport the child home.
2. First aid in the school is limited to emergency treatment only. The nurse will not redress wounds.
3. There will be no diagnosis made by school personnel.
MEDICATION/PRESCRIPTIVE DRUGS - ADMINISTRATION
When sending prescription medication, please have the child’s name and instructions printed clearly on the label.
Only the nurse may administer medications. All medication must be sent to the nurse, not kept with your child or
in the child’s desk, or classroom. We do not allow over-the-counter drugs to be sent to school to be taken. We do
allow your child to take Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Maalox. Cough drops, and lozenges (supplied by the parent)
may also be given when deemed necessary, which you have identified on the respective emergency card. A
Medication Form must also be completed.
Students requiring the use of inhalers during school hours need also to file a medication form with the school
nurse. The student, if deemed capable by the judgment of the parent(s) and nurse, may carry and use his/her
inhaler as prescribed. In this case, the student needs to inform the nurse after each use for documentation
purposes.
A pulmo-aide machine (nebulizer) is available in the Health Room for students requiring inhalation treatments.
Each student must supply his/her own tubing/set up and medication. Please contact the nurse for assistance in the
event the student will need breathing treatments.
If your child is allergic to anything (especially bee stings, wasps, etc.) and requires medication immediately, the
medication along with instructions need to be available in the Health Room.
PHYSICAL EXAMS/DENTAL EXAMS Physicals are required upon entry to school, sixth and eleventh grade. Dental exams are required upon entry to school,
third and seventh grade. Physical and dental exams are available at school for students. Private exams are to be
completed prior to school exams or at that time by the school dentist/physician.
HEALTHFUL HINTS
There are less frequent infections/diseases that are also exclusions, however they rarely occur.
Check your child’s temperature when they feel ill (usually best indicator of illness). If elevated, keep your child
home for 24 hours. Temperature is usually lowest in the morning and rises during the day.
If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea, please keep them home. For whatever reason, he/she will be more
comfortable at home and will avoid spreading his/her illness.
Enforce good eating habits. Encourage children to eat breakfast. Breakfast should be the most important meal of
the day. If the child has difficulty eating early, try to adjust sleep/wake cycle - at least encourage milk or juice and
build on it if they refuse to eat.
Encourage daily bathing and regular shampooing. A healthy person is less likely to become ill.
DISCIPLINE CODE
PHILOSOPHY/INFORMATION
It is our philosophy that appropriate school behavior is necessary for a positive atmosphere where learning and
growing can take place. Students are expected to behave at all times in a manner that brings praise and respect to
themselves, classmates, parents, their school and community.
Students, teachers, and parents share the responsibility of maintaining a safe climate that promotes and encourages
learning. Discipline should begin at home at an early age in order to be practiced at school, and then reinforced in
the home environment throughout the child’s school years.
Students have a right to know and understand the guidelines for expected behavior and be assured that all
guidelines are consistent throughout the school. Students should recognize that they would lose their rights when
their actions infringe on the rights, needs, or property of others.
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Responsible behavior is an integral part of Antietam’s commitment: a community partnership pledged to
lifetime achievement.
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT The Board of Directors of the Antietam School District has adopted policy, which addresses corporal punishment.
Policy 218. Student Discipline states that “the use of corporal punishment by school employees as a form of discipline
is not sanctioned by the Board of School Directors of the Antietam School District. Corporal Punishment will not be
administered at the Mt. Penn Primary Center.
HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION (defined as the disturbing, annoying, or tormenting of others repeatedly)
Our school should be a safe haven for all persons entitled to enter. The Antietam School District will not tolerate
bullying, discrimination, prejudice, harassment, or any other form of treatment of its students, staff, and third parties
that threatens the safe, comfortable environment for education. Any person found to be violating the personal freedom
of another in the school will be dealt with according to the law, our behavioral code, and district policies. Complaints
of harassment or discrimination of any kind should be reported to the school principal at which time all complaints will
be investigated. This is in compliance with Title IX regulations.
SCHOOL WIDE DISCPLINE CODE OF CONDUCT
Understanding the importance of positive behavior management, our staff designed a school-wide discipline plan using
a card system. Through the use of a pocket chart, the plan was designed to include various steps to help students
monitor their behavior throughout the day. Each morning students begin the day with the green card on top. If a student
violates a school, classroom, cafeteria, or playground rule, they will first receive a verbal warning. If the undesirable
behavior continues, the student will turn a card. This is a visual reminder to the individual student to adhere to desired
school rules and behavior. A student has 5 color-coded cards in his/her individual pocket on the chart. If the student is
having an “off” day and progresses through the cards to the pink card, she or he must come to the office and parents or
guardian will be called to alert them of the situation. At each level there are strategies built into the plan to help
students monitor their behavior.
Our mission at Mt. Penn Primary Center is to enhance learning and create an environment that promotes
safety, health, cooperation, and respect for yourself and others.
SCHOOL/CLASSROM RULES The school-wide rules listed below will be followed and enforced in all areas of the school and on the school grounds.
School Theme: Be Your B.E.S.T.
o Rules:
Be kind
Everyone keeps hands, feet and objects to self
Stop, look and listen to the speaker
Talk, walk and work quietly
DISCIPLINE CARDS AND CONSEQUENCES
Green Card Making Good Choices
Yellow Card Warning
Orange Card Five minute time-out
Blue Card Loss of Recess (Max. 15 min), Behavior Form in classroom
Pink Card Sent to principal, behavior form in office, call home by teacher and/or principal
DRESS CODE We ask that children dress appropriately for the weather and in good taste. The District Dress Code Policy states that
the following are restricted:
1. Shorts may be worn year round. The length of all shorts and skirts must be at or below the end of the
wearer’s fingertips when his/her arms are extended down by his/her sides.
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2. Inappropriate clothing and accessories include those having messages or pictures with references to drugs,
ethnic/racial harassment, tobacco, alcohol, suicide, blatant sexuality, or profanity.
3. Shirts and tops must cover undergarments, the midriff/lower back, and shoulders with at least a three finger
width strap, and be able to be tucked into the pants, skirt, or shorts. Judgment on low cut tops will be made
by the administration.
4. Holes in pants must be below the fingertip length rule as described above and may not be larger than a fist.
5. Hats, bandannas, and headbands may not be worn in school without permission by the administration.
6. Sports Spandex may not be worn unless shorts or a top extending to fingertip length are worn over top.
7. Undergarments may not be seen through or extending outside of clothing.
8. Clothing or accessories that are the source of disrupting noise may be judged inappropriate by the
administration.
9. Due to health and safety reasons, footwear must be worn on school property. Flip-Flops, Cleats, and Heelies
are not allowed to be worn on school property. Open-ended shoes, sandals or shoes with a back strap are
acceptable.
10. Coats/jackets, sunglasses, and chains, among others similar items, may not be worn in the school building.
CAFETERIA MANNERS 1. Walk - no running while entering, getting in line, or exiting onto the playground.
2. Talk with your friends, but no yelling or screaming to others - speak to those in talking distance.
3. While waiting in line, no pushing or shoving for safety.
4. Do not speak with food in your mouth, and do not chew with your mouth open.
5. Always have respect for those in charge in the kitchen or cafeteria.
6. Everyone should make an effort to get along with each other at all times.
7. Remain in your seat, unless told otherwise.
8. Make sure all trash and garbage are placed in the proper containers or areas before leaving your table.
9. Do not leave the cafeteria unless a teacher aide has given you permission.
ELEMENTARY TESTING PROGRAM
In accordance with the recommendations of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of School Directors has approved
a district-wide testing program designed to provide information concerning the proficiency of all children on
standardized tests of academic achievement and aptitude.
The results of these tests provide a continuing record of each child’s academic progress in comparison with national
norms. They are also an invaluable aid to your child’s teachers and counselor in diagnosing individual strengths and
weaknesses in order to provide your child with necessary and more effective individualized instruction. During this
school year, as noted in the school calendar, the following tests may be administered to your child.
GRADE NAME OF TEST PURPOSE
K-1 STAR To determine literacy development and eligibility for the
Mt. Penn Primary Reading Program as well as identifies skills that
have been mastered, and those that need additional intervention
and/or instruction.
K-1 Fountas & Pinnell Benchmark Assessment
To determine literacy development, instructional and independent
reading levels of a student. This assessment allows teachers to
instruct student at their appropriate level and address skill deficits.
TESTING FOR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS:
Enrichment Identification: Students who have been identified by teachers or parents as potentially requiring gifted services may be
administered the S.A.G.E. and/or the Woodcock Johnson Test of Academic Achievement as part of the
screening process. Parents would be notified prior to testing, and would be provided with the results of the
test. After screening, the team would determine whether a full multi-disciplinary evaluation is warranted. If
so, the Permission to Evaluate would be sent to the parent or guardian. Parents or guardians may also initiate
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a full multi-disciplinary evaluation by submitting that request in writing. Subsequently, the Permission to
Evaluate would be issued to the parent or guardian listing the recommended evaluation procedures. The
Permission to Evaluate must be received prior to beginning a full multi-disciplinary evaluation.
Mt. Penn Primary Center Remedial Reading Program/Title I :
A reading assessment (STAR and/or Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment) is given to every child 3
times per year to provide a benchmark of their progress. Using this data, and other information, children
experiencing reading difficulties will work with a reading specialist during our daily intervention time.
Other: Various related and appropriate tests may be given as needed or required to measure a student’s ability for
placement purposes or assessment of progress.
Your child’s scores on these tests will be checked carefully and maintained in his/her school record as long as he/she
attends school in the Antietam School District. No individual or agency outside of our school district will be permitted
to examine your child’s school record without your written permission.
Should you wish to examine your child’s record file at any time, you may arrange to do so by making an appointment
with the building principal.
PARENT ACTIVITIES:
PARENT-TEACHER LEAGUE (PTL) The Mt. Penn Elementary Center Parent-Teacher League is already functioning and has made progress in providing
educational experiences for your child. Our third grade swim program, fun day T-shirts, craft fair, assembly programs,
school equipment, library books, book fair, fun nights for the family, candy guessing contest, $5.00 field trip money,
holiday shop, and holiday monetary donations to classrooms are some of the activities and events provided by this
organization for our school students. This organization will be happy for your support in whatever way possible.
PTL BUSINESS MEETING Meetings are usually held the first Tuesday of each month in the school library at 7:00 p.m. All new and old plans are
discussed and decisions on what we will do are made. We encourage and welcome everyone to attend our
monthly PTL meetings it is a great way to meet new people and support our school community. .
MEMBERSHIP Please return the membership form as soon as possible with your family dues of $5.00. The classroom with
the highest percentage of participation, including the teacher, will receive a $50.00 donation to purchase a
necessary item for their classroom.
PARENT VOLUNTEERS We LOVE having our parents come assist in the classroom, parties, and fieldtrips, however, with all of our students so
full of energy we ask that parents do not bring other children to the school when volunteering.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Teachers will hold conferences with all students’ parents in November. Conference information and requests will be
sent home in October and parents will be notified of the scheduled time. Report cards will be handed to the parents and
reviewed at this conference. If a conference is not held or attended, a report card will not be issued.
Conferences will be held in April on a limited basis when a conference is requested by the classroom teacher or parent,
but teachers will not meet with all parents unless requested. Report cards will be sent home via the children to those
parents are not scheduled for an April conference.
PARENTS’ NIGHT (OPEN HOUSE) On Wednesday, August 28th our Primary Center teachers will host a Parents’ Night from 7- 8 p.m. to formally
present their educational programs, expectations, requirements, and procedures for their respective grade levels. The
information presented should assure a positive school year for our students and their parents. Parental involvement and
understanding of our programs is important to student success.
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Our Parents’ Night Open House is for parents only, and not designed to discuss your child’s progress. If you wish to
discuss your child’s progress, please call the respective school for an appointment.
TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION:
TRANSPORTATION BEHAVIOR REGULATIONS Students have a responsibility to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner and to obey the driver as a passenger.
Safety for everyone will be realized only when each student understands that his/her safety depends on the conduct of
him/herself and everyone else on the vehicle. Student responsibilities are as follows:
1. Report to the bus stop at least five minutes ahead of time scheduled because unless the rider is in sight, the
driver will not wait.
2. Stand in an orderly and safe manner away from traffic lanes while waiting for the bus.
3. Respect the property rights of people who live at or near the bus stop.
4. Board the bus only when the bus has stopped, and cross the highway only when the bus driver signals you to
cross.
5. SIT in your assigned seat on the bus and remain seated until it is time to get off.
6. Keep your hands inside the bus at all times and only open windows with the bus driver’s permission.
7. Recognize that the school bus/van driver has the same authority on the bus as the teacher has in the
classroom.
8. Avoid loud talking and confusion; do not distract the driver’s attention while he/she is driving.
9. Place books, book bag, or lunch boxes on your lap.
10. Avoid eating or throwing trash on the bus.
11. Keep glass jars, or blunt objects off the bus.
12. Transport pets to school in a vehicle other than the school bus.
13. Keep Walkman devices w/headphones toned for individual use only
14. After leaving the bus, cross the highway at least ten feet in front of the bus, but only after looking to be sure
that no traffic is coming from either direction.
15. Always enter/exit the bus/van in an orderly manner. PLEASE do not push or shove.
16. Do not play around the bus or stop on the roadway while crossing.
17. Walk home immediately. Do not talk or go with strangers.
TRANSPORTATION DISCIPLINE POLICY
The following is the Antietam School Board Policy concerning school bus discipline and the suggested punishment for
respective inappropriate behavior. Please review these consequences for misbehavior with your child along with the
School Bus Rules and Regulations enclosed. Thank you for your cooperation.
Student behavior while waiting for the school bus or while riding the bus must be appropriate to assure the safety of all
students.
Students who have committed acts of misbehavior are subject to the following penalties:
A. Pushing, hitting, shouting, tripping, littering, profane language, insulting driver, eating or drinking, opening
windows against driver’s orders, arms or heads out of windows, refusing to identify him/herself to the bus
driver, or other similar offenses deemed by the principal to merit the following penalties:
1. First Offense - A warning and parents will be notified.
2. Second Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for three (3) days.
3. Third Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for fifteen (15) days.
B. Fighting, smoking, damaging the bus, throwing objects in the bus, throwing objects out of windows, opening
exit doors, or other similar offenses deemed by the principal to merit the following
penalties:
1. First Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for (3) days.
2. Second Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for thirty (30) school days.
Review case after 10 days
3. Third Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for remainder of the year.
Review case after thirty (30) school days
C. Hitting or pushing the bus driver, throwing objects at the bus driver
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when he/she is on or off the bus, or other similar offenses deemed by
the principal to merit the following penalties:
1. First Offense - Immediate suspension of riding privileges.
Review case after thirty (30) school days
Names of students and the nature of the misconduct shall be reported by the bus driver. Acts of misbehavior, which
occur during the morning trip, shall be reported upon arrival at school the same day that the alleged misbehavior
occurred. Alleged misconduct occurring during the afternoon bus trip will be reported the following morning. Every
effort will be made to effect disciplinary procedure within a 24-hour period. However, a student brought to school by
school bus shall be returned home by bus prior to the beginning of any suspension of his/her riding privileges. The
principal shall notify the parents of the nature of the misconduct and of any disciplinary action, which has been taken.
We do not allow non-authorized students to ride buses for convenience sake. Neither do we allow students to ride
other than assigned buses. If a child should miss the bus or a walking student oversleeps, we insist that the child be
brought to school since he/she will only miss a portion of the school day. Keeping a child home for these reasons is
inexcusable.
BUS EVACUATION DRILLS School bus evacuation drills are held periodically so that pupils know exactly what to do in case of an emergency. The
riders are to cooperate fully with the bus driver and any assigned helpers. Absolute silence must be observed.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS:
BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS/IN-LINE SKATES In keeping with the policy of not allowing bicycles at the school because of the hazardous traffic conditions that exist,
we are not allowing skateboards, wheelies and in-line skates to be brought to school, either. If a child brings a bicycle,
in-line skates or a skateboard to school, it/they will be confiscated and a call to the parent will be made to come in to
pick it up. By working together, we can prevent an injury, save a child’s live, or prevent any traumatic experience that
could occur.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES POLICY
Cell phones may be brought to school, but must be turned off when entering the building. They must be kept either in
the student’s backpack or locker (cubbie). If a student does not follow this procedure, their phone will be confiscated
and kept in the office. The phone will be returned to parent/guardian only.
CHEWING GUM
Chewing gum is not allowed to be chewed in either building as a prevention from finding it on floors, carpets, desks,
chairs, and personal items, to name a few. Thank you for your cooperation.
CLOSINGS If it becomes necessary to close school due to snow or any unforeseen circumstances, the announcement will be made
as early as possible on the following local radio/TV stations as well as through our SKYLERT System:
WRAW (1340 AM)
WEEU ( 830 AM)
WRFY (102.5 FM)
Channel 69 (9-Berks Cable)
Please do not call us for this information; it is imperative that the school’s phone lines be kept open.
Make sure your child knows where to go and what to do in the event of a cancellation or especially on an early
closing during the school day. Your Family Early Dismissal Plan should contain this information.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR HOME
A. Children should get themselves out of bed. Even a six-year old can have an alarm clock.
B. Help your children develop the habit of planning their clothes the night before. Some children enjoy “making
a person” on their bedroom floor - laying out everything they’ll wear.
C. Set up a place near the front door where everyone can leave hats, coats and school book bags.
D. When kids don’t do their part, let them face the results. If Mom or Dad is always willing to drive to school
with a forgotten notebook or gym bag, kids learn it’s OK.
HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING
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Our guideline concerning holiday gift giving stipulates that gifts will not be exchanged student-to-student, teacher-to-
student, and/or student-to-teacher in our classrooms. This guideline has been established to alleviate inequity,
concerns, and/or disappointments on the part of our students and parents. Any gifts given to teachers will be returned
to the respective student. We expect that you will honor this guideline to prevent any uncomfortable situations. Thank
you for your cooperation and consideration.
HOMEWORK
Homework is an integral part of a child’s educational process and should be used to reinforce skills taught,
individual initiative, self-discipline, responsibility, and independence. Homework must also be viewed as a
cooperative link between the school and the home.
Check with your child’s teacher at Parents night for grade level awareness
HOMEWORK REQUESTS DURING ABSENCES Homework may be obtained on a day of absence by calling the school office prior to 10:00 a.m. with pick up after 3:00
p.m. Another student, brother, or sister may also be used to carry homework home by picking it up in the office or
classroom at 3:00 p.m.
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
The Antietam School District participates in an Integrated Pest Control Management Program. Parents have a right to
request notification anytime we have a treatment done at the schools by submitting their request in writing to the
Superintendent’s Office @ 100 Antietam Road, Reading, 19606.
LIBRARY POLICY In the primary grades a student must return the previous book or books in order to receive others.
Any student having an overdue book will not be allowed other books until the overdue book is returned
Students are responsible for the care of the library books in his/her possession.
Students will be charged for lost or damaged books.
REPORT CARDS
Report to parents will be issued four (4) times per year in grades 1 to 6, and three (3) times in Kindergarten.
1. At Parent-Teacher Conferences in November (if conference is not attended, report card will not be
issued)
2. Sent home via student in January (No Kindergarten)
3. Sent home via student in April or at Parent-Teacher Conference if requested and held 4. Sent home via student in June
Report cards are issued to the parent of residence as listed on our school records. If the Non-Resident parent wishes
to have a copy of the report card it can either be picked up in the school office, or a self-addressed, stamped envelope
can be sent to the school for the report card to be returned. This also applies to other school correspondence.
SMOKING POLICY Tobacco use by students, employees, and the general public is prohibited in school buildings, on school buses, on
school property and while on school sponsored events (field trips). Suspensions and/or citations will be issued by
school administrators or police.
2015-2016 Schedule
July
July 6-August 6 Early Start Kindergarten Program
July 10 New Student Tour
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August
Aug 25-27 Teacher In-Service
Aug 31 First Day of School
Aug 31-Sept 18 STAR and F&P Testing
September
Sept 1 PTL Meeting – MPEC 7 pm
Sept 3 MPPC Open House 6:00-7:00
Sept 4 No School Holiday
Sept 7 No School Holiday
Sept 25 Early Dismissal 12:35
October
Oct 6 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
Oct 12 In-Service Day, No School
Oct 14 Picture Day
Oct 14 Title I Parent Night 6:00-7:00pm
Oct 30 Halloween Parade 8:50am
Oct 30 Early Dismissal 12:35
November
Nov 3 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
Nov 19 Picture Retake Day
Nov 23-25 Parent-Teacher Conferences
Nov 26-Nov 30 School Closed
December
Dec 1 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
Dec 4 Early Dismissal 12:35
Dec 23 Early Dismissal 12:35
Dec 24-Jan 1 School Closed
January
Jan 4-15 STAR and F&P Testing
Jan 5 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
Jan 18 In-Service Day, No School
February
Feb 2 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
Feb 12 In-Service Day, No School
Feb 15 Holiday, School Closed
Feb 29 – March 4 Read Across America Week
March
March 1 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
March 11 Parent-Teacher Conferences 11:30-7:00pm
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March 18 Early Dismissal 12:35
March 21- 28 Holiday, School Closed
April
April 5 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
April 21 Kindergarten Registration 4:00-7:00pm
April 22 Kindergarten Registration 8:00-11:30pm
May
May 3 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm
May 2-6 Teacher Appreciation Week
May 10 MPPC Grandparents Day
May 16-27 STAR and F&P Testing
May 27 Early Dismissal 12:35
May 30 Holiday, School Closed
June
June 6 Color Day
June 7 Color Day Rain Date
June 8 Color Day Rain Date
June 9 Last Day of School
June 9 Awards Assembly
June 10 In-Service Day