Neshaminy School District

Lower Southampton Elementary School

Family-StudentHandbook and Discipline

Code

2011-2012

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LOWER SOUTHAMPTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL7 School Lane, Feasterville, PA 19053

August, 2011

Dear Parents/Guardians:

It is a great pleasure for me to welcome you to Lower Southampton Elementary School. We hope that this year will be a successful one for everyone. Our staff is committed to excellence and understands that each child is a “shared responsibility.”  Currently, our school has about 485 students in Grades K-5, including Pre-First. We have four Learning Support teachers and contract specialized, support services such as hearing support, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and vision support through our collaboration with Bucks County Intermediate Unit #22.  Finally, we benefit from the full time services of our school guidance counselor and reading specialist. Cohesive collaboration ensures that no child is left behind. Our staff members take great pride in their work and you will find them coming into school early in the morning, and also working long after the children leave to prepare lessons which are standards-based and ones that inspire children to learn.  They are dedicated, hard working and deeply care about the children with whom they work each and every day.  Lower South provides a positive atmosphere for students to learn and grow, and the staff has high expectations for all students, and will work to help each individual reach his or her full potential.

Through this handbook for parents, we hope to directly communicate to you a better understanding of some of the policies, regulations, and services of our school. Please be sure keep this copy in your home throughout the year so that it is readily available. You will be asked to sign a form that you have read and received this handbook. We also have available our website www.neshaminy.k12.pa.us/lses which you will find a copy of this handbook as well as other pertinent information regarding your child’s education here at Lower South.

Research shows that when there is close cooperation between the home and school, it will benefit the child exponentially. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend scheduled school events and conferences throughout the year, as well as volunteering whenever possible. If you have not done so already we would encourage you to become an active member of the PTO Association, and to become involved with your child's education here at Lower South. It is our hope that this parent handbook will be helpful to you and that it will promote a positive experience for everyone. Should you have any questions which are not covered in this handbook, please feel free to call the Lower South School Office at 215-809-6350 for additional assistance.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Beth FoxPrincipal

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

American Education Week 6

Americans with Disabilities Act 6

Attendance 6, 7

Back To School Night 7

Birthday Celebrations 7

Bullying/Cyber-bullying 7, 8

Bus Students 8

Cafeteria 8

Care of School Property 9

Cell Phone Policy 9

Conferences 9

Discipline Code 9

Dress Code Policy 9, 10

Emergency Contact Cards 10

Emergency Dismissal 11

ESAP 11

FERPA (Family Educ. Rights & Privacy Act) 11

First Aid, Illness, and Emergency Info. 12

Global Connect 12

HIV Infection 12

Home and School Association (PTA) 12

Homework Guidelines/Policy 12, 13, 14

Immunization & Communicable Disease 14, 15

Inclement Weather Procedures 15

Insurance 15

Items in School 15

Library 16

Lost & Found 16

Lunch Program and Lunch Times 16

Medication Policy 17

Monthly Calendar and Newsletter 17

Non-Discriminatory Practice 17

No-Smoking Policy 17

Notice of Special Education Services 17, 18

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Parent-Teacher Communication 18

Parking Lot Safety 18

Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment 18

Recess 18

Relinquishing Children 19

Reporting Practices 19

Safety Patrol 19

School Board 19

Section 504 Notice 20

SEL (Social Emotional Learning)/Too Good Prevention Curriculum 20

Special Education Programs 21

Standardized Testing Schedule 21

Student Rights and Responsibilities 21

Telephone 21

Video Taping of Students 21

Visitors in School 21, 22

Walkers 22

Student Responsibilities and Discipline Code 23-30

Appendix – District 2011-12 Calendar

Annual Notices

AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEKTwo days are set-aside in November for parents to visit the classroom and see their child in a learning

situation. The dates for this year’s visitation are November 16th and 17th. An invitation will be sent home with your child as the event approaches. We urge you to get a baby sitter if you have small children.

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AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990Neshaminy School District is required by law to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of

1990. For information about accessible facilities and reasonable accommodations available to disabled individuals attending District activities or programs, please contact the office of Pupil Services, (215-809-6588) at least 72 hours prior to any District activity or program so that all necessary arrangements can be made to accommodate disabled individuals.

ATTENDANCEThe Lower South school day officially begins at 8:50am and ends at 3:15pm. The doors to the school

are open at 8:35am, so please refrain from dropping students off any earlier as there will be no supervision of children since the staff is busy preparing for the school day. Daily attendance is crucial to continued educational progress, so whenever possible, parents should attempt to schedule health appointments or other activities outside the school day hours. Any parent who will be picking up his/her child earlier than dismissal time (3:15 P.M.) should come into the office to sign them out. Please write a note to the teacher indicating what time you will be picking up your child and he/she will be called down at the appropriate time.

Kindergarten operates as half-day sessions. The morning kindergarten session hours are 8:50 a.m. to 11:28 a.m. and the afternoon kindergarten session hours are 12:37 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Dismissal begins at 3:15pm for “walkers and car riders.” Buses will be dismissed in the order in which they arrive and students riding the bus will be dismissed from the Gym at the end of the day. It is expected that all buses will be boarded by 3:30 p.m.

The following information is based on Board Policy #552 and pertains to students:

Students in afternoon kindergarten must be in their rooms by 12:30 pm. Children are expected to be in their classrooms at 8:50 am. Any student arriving after 8:50 am must be signed in at the school office by a parent or guardian. Students in the afternoon kindergarten arriving after 12:30 pm must be signed in at the office. All cases of early dismissal should be preceded by a note from the parent stating the time, date and

reason for dismissal. A student who leaves school prior to 10:10 am and does not return will be considered full-day absent. When a student arrives after 8:50 am but before 10:10 am, they will be marked as tardy A student arriving after 10:10 am will be marked as 1/2 day absent. A student who leaves before 12:35 pm is considered 1/2 day absent.

Excused Absences:All students are expected to attend school each day unless they are ill or a family emergency arises.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT A WRITTEN NOTE EXPLAINING THE REASON FOR THE ABSENCE IS REQUIRED WITHIN 5 DAYS AFTER THE CHILD HAS RETURNED TO SCHOOL. An appropriate absence note should be provided specifying the date(s) and cause of absence for each day. In the case of chronic or irregular absences, the school authorities may request a physician’s note showing such absences to be justifiable. If an illness extends beyond two days, a call from home is appreciated. If the school has not been contacted regarding an extended absence, the school nurse or other school personnel may contact the home for the information.

Students are excused for the major holidays of their faith upon request. Requests should be made in writing to the building administrator. Students may also be excused from school to participate in an educational trip (not a vacation). The itinerary and stated educational value to the student must be placed in writing by the parent or guardian and submitted to the building administrator. Please complete the necessary “REQUEST FOR EXCUSED ABSENCE” form that can be obtained in the main office.

Excessive Absence or Truancy The Neshaminy School Board of Education believes that regular attendance in the classroom is

conducive to learning and that frequent absences of pupils from school will disrupt the learning process.

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The consequences of a student's accumulating an excessive number of absences (excused or unexcused) are serious. Our school board policy on attendance provides punitive measures for students and parents involved in unlawful or excessive absences. These include but are not limited to:

Restriction from participation in school activities Written warnings Citations from the Home and School Visitor School district complaint filed with the District Magistrate Failing grades for worked missed Retention in grade level

Administrative DecisionSpecific questions not covered by these guidelines should be referred to the building administrator or

designee for a determination. Unusual situations or anticipated absence requiring interpretation of compulsory School Attendance Laws should be brought to the administrator’s attention before the anticipated absence. Parents and guardians are urged to stress punctuality and regular attendance habits with their children.

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHTThe date for this year’s Back-To-School night will be on Thursday, September 22, 2011 beginning at

6:45pm. This is a night for the parents to meet their child's teacher and visit the classroom. The teachers will give an overview of their program for the year including class schedules, curricular materials and expected levels of student performance. A flyer will be sent home prior to Back-to-School Night with more specific information for all parents.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONSChildren often appreciate very simple ideas which celebrate their birthdays in school. Due to the

Wellness Policy, parents may want to consider alternatives to sending in a snack or treat (i.e. donuts or cupcakes) and perhaps donate a book to the library in honor of a child’s birthday, or donate a board game to the homeroom. Please contact your child’s teacher to determine if there are any specific food allergies with students. In addition, invitations for home birthday parties must be delivered to classmates by US mail unless every child in the classroom is invited.

BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING POLICY:The Lower Southampton Elementary School supports a school-wide program to reduce bullying and

other violent behaviors. Bullying and bullying behaviors are not permitted at the Lower South School. Bullying occurs when one child or group of children repeatedly hurt another child through words and/or actions. Bullying and bullying behaviors may involve physical aggression, such as fighting, shoving, hitting, or kicking; verbal aggression, such as name-calling, threats, and rumor spreading; and/or non-verbal aggression, such as intimidation, threatening gestures and deliberate exclusion from a group or activity. Students engaging in bullying and/or bullying behaviors will be disciplined according to the steps outlined above. In situations where the behavior is chronic, or serious, the student will be referred to the building administrator.

Effective April 23, 2008, the Neshaminy Board of School Directors approved Policy #553 Bullying and Cyberbullying. All forms of bullying and cyberbullying by District students are hereby prohibited. Anyone who engages in bullying or cyberbullying in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate discipline. This policy is in effect while students are on property within the jurisdiction of the District; while on school-owned and/or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school-sponsored activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the health and safety of students and staff as well as the good order, efficient management and welfare of the District. Any student who retaliates against another student for reporting bullying or extortion or for assisting or testifying in the investigation or hearing may be subject to disciplinary action. Please refer to Board Policy 553 – Bullying/Cyberbullying for more information.

BUS STUDENTS

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Bus children are to ride their assigned bus both to and from school at their assigned bus stop . They are to get off the same stop as they got on when coming to school. Bus stops are where children go to line up for their bus, not a place to go in the morning to play tag, ball, hop scotch, jumping rope, etc. Motorists may not be driving defensively. Please speak with your child about the proper behavior at a bus stop and on the bus. Parents are encouraged to have an adult present at the bus stop for supervision if at all possible. Students must wait for the bus at their assigned bus stop no more than 5-10 minutes prior to their scheduled pick-up time. Requests for students to change buses to visit friends after school cannot be honored since most of our school buses are at or near capacity. Any request to change a bus student’s routine of getting to school or home should be placed in writing to the principal.

Children are expected to show the same respect to bus drivers as that afforded to their parents and Lower South Staff. Children should not eat or drink on the bus, chew gum, stay seated with hands and feet out of the aisle, and younger students will be seated toward the front of the bus. Repeated infractions of the bus rules may necessitate temporary or permanent denial of bus privileges. The bus driver will familiarize your child with the bus rules. Students should recognize however that the bus and bus stop are still considered to be part of their school day and are therefore subject to the expectations and consequences listed in the Lower Southampton Elementary School Discipline Code. Bus drivers have bus incident reports that are issued to the principal in the event that the behavior is serious in nature, and at that time, parents will be contacted and the principal will issue consequences to the student accordingly.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the bus, you may call the Neshaminy School District Transportation Office at 215-809-6260 between the weekday hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

CAFETERIA

Your child is scheduled for a thirty minute lunch period each day. They may take longer if necessary. Cafeteria aides supervise the cafeteria. We would like to make the cafeteria as pleasant an eating place as possible. We do need the children reasonably quiet for the last five minutes of the lunch period for the purpose of taking back their trays and to line up to be dismissed. We would hope that the table manners of each child in the cafeteria reflect the manners they have learned and use at home. Our school operates on 4 simple expectations for cafeteria behavior:

1. Stay seated. unless permission has been received to get up to purchase lunch, throw out trash or go to the restroom.

2. Keep your area clean. This requires children to look on, under and around the location where they are seated.

3. Keep hands and feet to yourself. Children are asked to respect the space of others so that they will be able to enjoy their own space free from disruption.

4. Maintain an appropriate noise level. While it is understood that eating lunch is a social experience, students are asked to speak to those nearby and not yell across tables or across the cafeteria.

Due to space limitations and for safety concerns, parents are asked not to join their children for lunch. In addition, students are asked to not share food with one another due to the many food allergies any students have.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY It is insisted upon that students take proper care of school property. Students are responsible for all textbooks and library books issued to them during the school year. Textbooks must be covered. Lost or damaged books must be paid for at a price determined by school personnel based upon condition, age, current pricing and replacement cost. In the event that a child should lose or destroy any school property, restitution must be made. Deliberate vandalism will result in suspension.

CELL PHONE POLICY

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In this day of technology, it is not uncommon for students to have a cell phone. However, cell phones may not be used during the instructional day and must be turned off and shall remain in their backpacks. If a student has a cell phone turned on during the school day, or if it is seen by a staff member, it will be confiscated and contact with the parents will be made. The school will not be held responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged cell phones. All cell phones are brought to school at their “own risk”.

CONFERENCESParents are asked to make conference appointments in order to discuss their child’s progress. Please do

not drop in for a conference unexpectedly. The teacher needs time to prepare materials if the conference is to be productive. Parent-teacher conferences will be held on or around November 21st and 22nd and parents will have an opportunity to sign up for a conference at Back-to-School night. To arrange for a conference at any other time, please write a note to the teacher asking for a mutual time to meet, or you may contact staff members by calling the school office at (215) 809-6350.

DISCIPLINE CODEIn the back of this handbook is the Lower Southampton School-wide Student Responsibility and

Discipline Code. It is each parent’s responsibility to read this document, discuss it, and encourage their child(ren) to follow all school rules. The staff will also be reviewing its contents at school. Each student and parent will be asked to return a form to school indicating that they have read and discussed the LOSO Promise, as well as the school-wide discipline policy that applies to all areas of our school including the bus, recess, classroom, and cafeteria.

As children interact with adults and peers in the school environment, it is imperative that students respect themselves while not abridging the rights of others. It is a responsibility of the school to ensure that each child is working toward the goal of self-discipline by fostering character traits defined in the “LOSO Promise.” Students recite the following promise each day after the Pledge of Allegiance: As a good citizen of Lower Southampton Elementary School, I promise to be: Compassionate and Courageous, Inclusive and Respectful, Tolerant and Understanding. I will make good choices.

The rules and regulations of the code are intended to promote an atmosphere with the school that is conducive to learning as well as to ensure the protection of the rights of students and staff.

DRESS CODE POLICYThe Neshaminy School District dress policy is as follows: School attire must meet reasonable

standards of cleanliness, not endanger student or public health, not be disruptive to the educational process and meet reasonable standards of appropriateness.

It is important that children come to school with the intention of doing their best. The way a child dresses usually reflects the child’s preparedness for learning and actions in school. We ask that children refrain from wearing shorts that are not at least finger tip length, tank tops and tops that expose the mid-section, see-through clothing and sandals or open-toed footwear. This last item is particularly important as children participate in gym regularly and play on the playground daily. Also, footwear that has wheels attached is strictly prohibited. Not only are these items unsafe in school, they do irreparable harm to the flooring surfaces in the hallways and classrooms.

Policy 508 - Student Dress Code:

I. STATEMENT OF POLICYSchool attire must meet reasonable standard of cleanliness, not endanger student or public health, not be disruptive to the education process and meet reasonable standards of appropriateness. Students may be required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in physical education classes, shops, extra-curricular activities, or other situations where special attire may be required to insure the health or safety of the student.

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II. EXAMPLES OF INAPPROPRIATE DRESSA. Hats without purpose worn in the building.B. Bare or stocking feet.C. Apparel with offensive words or picturesD. Heavy clothing normally worn only outdoors.E. Any apparel that overexposes the body.F. Shoes with heels on them (wheelies)

III. IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICYA. The entire school staff shall be responsible for encouraging appropriate standards of personal

appearance and for the carrying out of this policy. The achievement of this result shall be the responsibility of each building administrator.

B. Guidelines shall be published in staff and student handbooks and be sent to parents by way of appropriate media.

WARM WEATHER DRESS GUIDELINES: The word "reasonable" can be widely interpreted.  So, we are asking each and every parent to consider the clothing their children wear to school. Kindergarteners may dress differently than emerging adolescents.  It is suggested that students would be able to touch their shorts when their hands are straight at their sides.  Shirts should cover the trunk of the body and should not show any part of abdomens.   Please consider the happy medium between warm weather and appropriate school attire. As a parent, we are asking you to closely monitor what your child is wearing to school.

COLD WEATHER DRESS GUIDELINES: Sometimes parents leave the house before their children and they are not aware of what a particular child is wearing to school.   Or, sometimes children decide to switch jackets at the last minute thinking that one would be better than another.   Temperatures can drop dramatically during the day and that lightweight jacket will no longer keep a child warm.  Consequently, we ask our Recess Aides to please check to see that every child has warm clothing before going outdoors for recess in the cold weather.  Those children who seem to need something more are sent to the Health Office for a warmer coat or sweatshirt to wear, if available.  Please be sure that all jackets are labeled as they will be easily returned if lost.

EMERGENCY CONTACT CARDSWe must emphasize the importance of current and accurate information on the Emergency Contact

Cards that you complete for each child.  We use these cards to contact you in case your child becomes ill, injured or other reasons.  On each card please write the names and telephone numbers (cell phones included) of any adults whom we may contact if we are not able to contact you.  These adults are the only people who will be permitted to pick up your child.  Should it be necessary for another adult to do so, we must have your instructions in writing.  That adult must report to the office and must show us picture identification.  If the information such as work, cell phone numbers or change in last name occur during the school year, please send us the new information in writing and we will adjust the card accordingly.

EMERGENCY CLOSING FAMILY PLANIn the event school must close early for some unforeseen reason, the closing will be announced on the

district website, radio stations such as KYW-1060 (Our school number is 752.), local TV stations and the Neshaminy Cable TV Station Channel 28 on Comcast or Channel 43 on Verizon FIOS. We can never anticipate when an emergency will arise, but it is essential that your child/ren understands where he/she must go in case no one is at home and we are forced to close schools. The plan should indicate what a child should do in the case of an emergency closing, and what to do in the case no one will be at home. Please do not call the school office the day of the early dismissal as phone lines quickly become jammed and your call may go into voicemail and the office staff may not be able to return the call in a timely manner. The homeroom teacher will

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keep the Emergency Closing Form in their classroom and remind the students of this plan at the time of the closing.

ESAP TEAMThe Lower Southampton Elementary Student Assistance Program provides prevention and intervention

programs for all students, particularly those at risk, using a well-designed process and set of procedures. The focus is on identifying students who may be experiencing difficulty with basic life skills, learning skills, social interaction, self concept, communication skills, decision making and identity issues. Also, students whose families are going through crisis might be referred for help and support.

FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)Under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act parents have the right to inspect their student’s

educational records; to seek amendment to educational records that are misleading, inaccurate, or violate the student’s privacy; to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information of a student; and to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning failures by the school to meet said regulations. Requests to inspect records must be submitted to the building principal in writing. Complaints regarding FERPA infractions should be submitted, in writing, to the building principals.

As part of the school district’s annual notification under FERPA, we designate for this school year the following types or categories of information as “directory information.” Directory information means information contained in the educational records of a student, which is not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed, so that it may be disclosed without prior parental consent. The school district’s list of directory information includes: the student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degrees, honors and awards received and the most recent education agency or institution attended. Examples of how the school district may disclose directory information include releasing to the newspaper, or other news sources, information about students who have been named to the honor roll, National Honor Society, or as valedictorian, or who participate in any student clubs, activities or sports. These examples are for illustration only and are not an exclusive list of the manner in which directory information may be disclosed.

This notice provides you as a parent or eligible student with an opportunity to object in writing to any or all of those types of information that the school district has designated as directory information. You have the right to refuse to permit release by notifying the school district in writing that you do not want any or all of those types of information to be designated as directory information for your child or yourself.

Please submit any refusal with the types of information you wish removed from the list of directory information and mail your objections on or before, October 1 to your school’s principal. If no written refusal is received, the school district may disclose directory information without your prior consent.

It should also be noted that upon request the district discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks to enroll.

FIRST AID, ILLNESS AND EMERGENCY INFORMATIONFirst aid may be administered by the school nurse or the health aide when a child has an accident. They

will attend to the child’s needs and notify the parent or guardian. If it is determined that a child is too ill or injured to stay in school, the parent, guardians or others listed on the emergency card will be contacted to pick up the child.

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE SCHOOL STAFF HAVE ON FILE THE NAMES AND PHONE NUMBERS OF SEVERAL PERSONS TO CALL IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY AND THE PARENT(S) OR GUARDIAN(S) CANNOT BE REACHED. This information is kept on the emergency card that is

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distributed to each family at the beginning of the school year. Please call the main office at 215-809-6350 to update your emergency card if changes should occur.

GLOBAL CONNECTThe Global connect Telephone Messaging System is a school communication program for families so

that they receive emergency information in a timely fashion. It may also be used as a reminder of upcoming programs/events in the district or at school. For emergency closings, such as early dismissal due to snow, only the home telephone number will be notified.

HIV INFECTIONWhile providing a safe, healthy environment for its students and employees, our school district must

recognize the confidentiality of individuals who may be diagnosed as having HIV. All employees in Neshaminy School District are required to follow Universal Health Care Prevention in all settings and at all times. Questions regarding specific school board policies on this subject should be directed to the principal.

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION/PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATIONThe Lower Southampton Elementary School Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) can only be effective

with your support. We urge you to join and become an active member. Meetings are held every month, except for September, December, and June. Please refer to the calendar or website for more information about specific dates and times of the PTO meetings. The Lower South PTO has contributed greatly to enriching the educational programs for the children of Lower Southampton Elementary School while also organizing events that bring our community together throughout the school year.

Officers of the Home & School Assoc. For 2011-12: President Mrs. Potts1st Vice-President Mrs. Sfida2nd Vice-President Mrs. Plebani Treasurer Mrs. ErricoRecording Secretary Mrs. GallagherCorresponding Secretary Mrs. Harvey

HOMEWORK POLICY #619I. DEFINITION: Homework is any activity planned or approved by the teacher to be completed by the

student outside of the regular classroom without the immediate and direct supervision of the teacher.

II. THE PURPOSES FOR WHICH THE TEACHER ASSIGNS HOMEWORK ACTIVITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

A. Helping a student master a skill.B. Encouraging a student to learn new things.C. Assisting a student to understand what is being taught.D. Developing a sense of responsibility and independence.E. Promoting good study habits and motivation.F. Acquainting parents with what their child is learning in the classroom.

III. GENERAL PRINCIPLES CONCERNING HOMEWORK ACTIVITIESA. The purpose for which a homework activity is assigned must be shared with the student.B. The activities must be necessary, beneficial and clearly explained to the students.C. The homework must be relevant to the area of study, be reasonable in length and be appropriate to

the maturity and ability level of the student.D. Teachers must acknowledge completion of homework assignments and/or provide feedback on all

homework activities.

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E. Homework assignments must not be used as a disciplinary action for misbehavior of an individual student or a group of students.

IV. STUDENT AND PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:A. It is understood that the student has responsibilities to meet in carrying out homework assignments

made by the teacher. Failure to do so may subject the student to a lower grade for that assignment.B. Parents are encouraged to examine homework assignments and to offer advice toward successful

completion of same by the students.

V. IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS POLICYA. It is the responsibility of the administration and staff to carry out the provisions of the homework

policy.B. Individual building guidelines shall be developed and principals shall work with their respective

school staffs to formulate these guidelines and to establish processes to assist in carrying out the intent of this policy.

1. Such guidelines must be shared by individual teachers with students and parents and/or be included as part of a student handbook which is distributed to students and parents.

2. An explanation of the use/value of homework must be described such as: correcting, grading, class use, etc.

HOMEWORK GUIDELINES I. BACKGROUND

The foundation for study skills is an elementary school responsibility. As a consequence, there is a resurgence of interest in homework in the hope that more homework, will of itself, bring about better achievement, but it won’t! Simply increasing the amount of homework will not necessarily produce better scholarship.

Once children learn a skill, they need to practice it. If too much time elapses between learning and practicing, the skill is not mastered and may even be forgotten. Having effective practice exercises for students is a valuable part of the daily instructional program. The responsibility for homework rests with the student so please provide support as needed, but allow the child to complete it on his/her own. If the homework assignment was too difficult, we ask that you please send a note to your child’s teacher, rather than completing it for him/her.

I. PURPOSES Provides essential practice in needed skills. Trains pupils in good work habits and promotes responsibility. Affords opportunities for increasing self-direction. Enriches and extends school experiences. Helps children learn to budget on time. Acquaints pupils with out-of-school learning ideas. Minimize the temptation to merely copy information. Are adapted to individual needs, interest and capacities.

As a part of Lower South’s Organizational Study Skills, homework books have been purchased for every student in Grades 3 – 5 and it’s essential that homework assignments are copied each night from the students. Please note that students may not re-enter the building after school is dismissed due to a need for security and the fact that the custodians should not be pulled from their duties to supervise those who forgot their books or assignments.  Students must take an active role in these responsibilities. Concerns or questions relating to homework assignments should be directed to your child’s teacher.

IMMUNIZATION AND COMMUNICABLE DISEASE

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The Pennsylvania Department of Health requires that all children at any grade, Kindergarten through 12 (including all public, private and parochial and intermediate unit students) show proof of immunization before they can attend school in the Commonwealth. The following are required doses for entrance to school:

· Diphtheria and Tetanus – 4 doses with at least one dose on or after the 4th Birthday. May be given as DtaP, DTP, Td or DT. · Polio – 3 doses, the first dose after 6 weeks of age with the other doses one month apart. May be given as OPV or IVP but 4 doses of IVP are recommended. · Measles, Mumps, Rubella – 2 doses of Measles, 2 doses of Mumps and one dose of Rubella, given on or after the 1st birthday as an MMR. The second doses of Measles and Mumps are usually given as an MMR but may be Measles & Mumps only given at least one month after the first dose. · Hepatitis B – 3 doses with the first and second doses at least one month apart and the third dose 16 weeks after the first dose but not prior to six months of age. · Varicella –2 doses on or after the first birthday or evidence of chicken pox disease.

Provisional Enrollment Children entering school for the first time and children entering school from another state must have initial immunization shots in each vaccine. The parents’ plan for completion of the required immunization shall be submitted to the school. All immunization requirements shall be completed within eight months of entrance to school. If the requirements are not met, the student will be excluded.

Exceptions1. Medical Exception

Children need not be immunized if a physician provides a written statement that immunization may be detrimental to the health of the child. When the physician determines that immunization is no longer detrimental to the health of the child, the child shall be immunized according to procedure. Only licensed medical doctors and doctors of osteopathy can sign for medical exemptions. If a medical exemption is for a specific antigen(s), this should be indicated in the statement of exemption. All other immunizations will be required.

2. Religious Exception Children need not be immunized if the parent, guardian, or emancipated child objects in writing to the immunization on religious grounds or on the basis of a strong moral or ethical conviction similar to a religious belief.

Communicable Disease in School Children The guidelines for communicable diseases are regulated by the Department of Health. Children diagnosed with diseases may return to school after they have adhered to the appropriate time guidelines listed below:

a. Chickenpox – six days from the last crop of vesicles.b. Acute Contagious Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) – 24 hours from institution of appropriate therapy.c. Diphtheria – Two weeks from the onset or until appropriate negative culture tests.d. Impetigo Contagiosa – Unit judge non-infective by child’s physician.e. Measles – Four days from the onset of rash.f. Mumps- Nine days from the onset of until subsidence of swelling.g. Pediculosis Capitis (Head Lice) and Pediculosis Corporis (Body Lice) *See new Board Policy 539-

Control of Lice Infestation, on District Websiteh. Pertusis (Whooping Cough) – Four weeks from the onset or seven days from institution of

appropriate antimicrobial therapy.i. Respiratory Streptococcal Infections including scarlet fever – 24 hours from institution of

appropriate antimicrobial therapy.j. Ringworm – all types – until judged non-infective by the child’s physician.k. Rubella (German Measles) – Four days from the onset of rash.l. Scabies – Until judged non-infective by child’s physician.

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INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURES In the event of inclement weather, one of three conditions will exist and any decision will apply to all Neshaminy Schools:

1. Schools will be in session and begin at regular time.2. Schools will start two hours later than usual. Students should report to their bus stops two hours later

than usual and wait for at least 30 minutes for the bus to arrive. School will be dismissed at the regular time unless notification is given of an early closing. Lunch will be served to all students on these days.

3. NO SCHOOL. Students should not report to school. All before and after school activities will be cancelled.

We ask that you be ready for school closing or early dismissal and that you cooperate with the school in the following ways:

Please do not contact the school office as we need the lines to make outside calls. Please listen to the radio, visit the district website, or watch the local news. Please prepare your child with an early dismissal plan and where they should go.

Our staff is involved with emergency closing procedures and phone calls are extremely difficult to manage. Please use the regular means of transporting your child home from school and listen to radio stations KYW AM 1060, WMSB-AM 1490, and WPST-FM 94.5. Also, Neshaminy Network Television has 24 hour weather and Neshaminy school closing information. This can be viewed on Comcast Cablevision Channel 28 or Verizon Channel 43. The District’s school closing number is 752.

INSURANCE Student Accident Insurance is available to purchase through the School District. Literature will be sent home regarding the cost and the agent. If you wish to purchase insurance, the forms are to be completed and a check or money order for payment is to be sent directly to the insurance company.

ITEMS IN SCHOOLWe believe that students should primarily focus on learning when they are in school.   No electronic

games, i-pods, trading cards, toys, or special possessions of students should be brought to school.  This list is not all-inclusive. Occasionally some of these items are costly, look the same, cannot have names written on them and are easily broken, lost, or stolen.  That often results in anger, accusations, or disappointment.  Unfortunately, even putting items in one's backpacks or desk does not ensure security.  With their many duties, teachers should not be expected to guard students' belongs.  Items such as these that are brought to school will be held by the teacher or office staff and sent home with the child at the end of the day or held until a parent comes to pick them up.  Your cooperation and understanding is appreciated. The building principal has discretion over the safety and appropriateness of all items.

LIBRARYLibrary books are checked out to each child for one week. The book may be renewed once. Ask to see

your child’s library book/s. Discuss the content of the book. Your interest will promote his/her interest and progress. Students in kindergarten begin borrowing in the second semester of the school year or once they have become familiar with the responsibilities associated with choosing and returning an appropriate book.

LOST AND FOUNDPlease label your child’s belongings with their first and last name in the event an item may become lost.

All items found on the playground or in the building are placed outside the cafeteria where they are stored. Eyeglasses, lost money or jewelry is given to the office staff. Please have your child check the lost and found containers if he/she has lost anything. At the end of every year, we end up with a considerable amount of good

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clothing. Unclaimed clothing is donated to a charitable organization if not claimed by the end of the school year.

LUNCH PROGRAMThe school district’s Food Service Department is self-supporting and non-profit. It is not funded by

taxpayer dollars. However, each school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the educational program. As such, a well-balanced lunch is offered each day. The cost of a full lunch for 2011-2012, including milk, is $2.05; dessert is not included but can be purchased separately. Other a’la carte items are also available, including pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and a variety of salads. For students who bring their lunch, a selection of milk, including low fat, is available for $.50. A variety of snacks and ice cream is also available. Weekly menus are announced on radio station WBCB. They are also shown on the Neshaminy Network Television (Cable Channel 28 or FIOS channel 43) and can be accessed on the Web www.neshaminy.k12.pa.us and then select Food Service.

As participants in the National School Lunch Program, free or reduced priced lunches are available to Neshaminy students. Application forms are sent home with each child the first week of school; they are also available from your school’s nurse.

All Neshaminy School District schools use a Point of Sale system for the purchase of food, beverages, and snacks. It is a computerized system that allows for prepayment from paying students but also recognizes a student’s free or reduced payment status. Each student is assigned an account and PIN number with which to access the account. By prepaying, you can be assured that your child has money available daily to purchase a delicious and nutritious meal. Prepayments may be made by check or cash to the CASHIER or to the CAFETERIA MANAGER BEFORE school begins to keep the line moving during lunch times. Checks are to be made payable to Neshaminy Food Service Department. Daily cash payments will still be accepted, but it is important for the efficiency of the system that all students use their PIN number regardless of the payment method. However, the more students that use the prepayment method the quicker the lines will move. It is important that students do not share their PIN number with anyone. Should a problem arise with your child’s account, it can be closed and a new account with a new PIN number will be assigned.

If your child forgets or loses his/her lunch money or bagged lunch, the cafeteria staff will provide a lunch on a credit basis. The cost for the lunch must be repaid the next school day. This prompt repayment is important so that this privilege is not abused. We understand that children can lose or forget their money on a given day. It is essential; however, that the privilege of borrowing money is not abused. If a lunch loan is made to a child, the cafeteria manager will telephone the parents. All emergency meals must be repaid. We thank you for your support and cooperation in helping our students develop responsibility.

Lunch times:Pre-First, Grade 1: 11:30-12:00

Grade 2: 11:45 – 12:15Grade 3: 12:00 – 12:30Grade 4: 12:15 – 12:45Grade 5: 12:30 – 1:00

MEDICATION POLICYChildren with health problems requiring prescribed medication must submit the appropriate medical

documentation as well as a parental note to the school nurse. All prescription medication MUST be sent in the original, labeled container or be accompanied by a physician's order to take the medication during the school day. Over-the-counter medications, which are not listed on the student emergency card, will not be administered unless they are in their original container and are accompanied by a physician's order to take the medication during the school day. All medications are kept in the nurse's office and MUST be administered by the nurse or the nurse's aide. In cases when these conditions are not met and the administration of medication is necessary, the parent or guardian may come to school to administer the medication. Questions pertaining to this policy can be address to our School Nurse..

MONTHLY CALENDAR AND NEWSLETTER

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In order to be eco-friendly, the monthly newsletter will be available through the website at: www.neshaminy.k12.pa.us/lses If you would like a hard copy sent home, please call the office and one will go home with your child. However, the monthly calendar will be sent home at the beginning of each month with your child. Please alert your child that you will be looking for it. Please read the calendar carefully so that you will be aware of important activities.

NON-DISRIMINATORY PRATICES“Neshaminy School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on

the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion and/or handicapping conditions in its activities, programs or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX ad Section 504.” For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Mrs. Theresa Hinterberger, Human Resources Director at 2001 Old Lincoln Highway, Langhorne, PA 19047 or call 215-809-6606.

NO SMOKING POLICY Smoking and tobacco use by students, employees of the Neshaminy School District and all members of the general public is prohibited in/on the following areas:

All District facilities and buildings. Buses, vans or other vehicles owned by, leased by or under the control of the Neshaminy S.D. Property owned by, leased by or under the control of the Neshaminy School District.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICESNeshaminy School District provides special education and related services to resident children with

disabilities who are ages three through twenty-one. Under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or “IDEA,” children qualify for special education and related services if they have one or more of the following disabilities and, as a result, need specially designed instruction:

1. Autism2. Deaf-Blindness3. Deafness4. Emotional Disturbance5. Hearing Impairment6. Mental Retardation7. Multiple Disabilities8. Orthopedic Impairment9. Other Health Impairment10. Specific Learning Disability11. Speech and Language Impairment12. Traumatic Brain Injury13. Visual Impairment Including Blindness

The legal definitions of these disabilities, which the public schools are required to apply under the IDEA, may differ from those used in medical or clinical practice. The legal definitions, moreover, could apply to children with disabilities that have very different medical or clinical disorders. A child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, for example, could qualify for special education and related services as a child with “other health impairments,” “serious emotional disturbance,” or “specific learning disabilities” if the child meets the eligibility criteria under one or more of these disability categories and if the child needs special education and related services as a result. If you suspect that your child may be in need of services, please contact your school’s Guidance Counselor.

PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATIONParents are encouraged to keep in close contact with the school. Teachers may be contacted by note, or

by telephone. In addition, teachers also have access to e-mail and voice mail, but for time-sensitive or confidentiality issues, it’s discouraged since the e-mail or voice may not be received until the end of the school day. Please use the classroom teacher as the first line of communication in addressing your child’s needs.

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Teachers will generally share their preferred means of communication with those in attendance at Back to School Night. Parent-teacher conferences are held in November and as the needs arise. If you wish to have a conference with your child’s teacher or another member of the staff, please call ahead to make an appointment.

PARKING LOT SAFETY When dropping off or picking up children, parents are to enter the lower parking lot area and follow the arrows to the right. Children are to be dropped off in front of the steps. Please avoid parking for extended periods of time and/or leaving your vehicle unattended. During arrival times and dismissal times parents should not park in the upper lot as this is used for loading and unloading of the buses.

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENTSection 1061 of the "No Child Left Behind Act" affords parents and emancipated minors certain rights.

These rights include: The right to preview "protected information" student surveys and right to opt a student out of taking

such a survey. The right to receive notice and to opt a student out of receiving any non-emergency, invasive physical

examination not required by law. The right to preview student data collection surveys for marketing purposes and to opt a student out of

taking such a survey. The right to inspect instructional materials and assessment materials used as part of a school district’s

educational curriculum.(It should be noted that the Neshaminy School District does not authorize use of such student surveys, does not authorize collection of student data for marketing purposes, and does not authorize any student medical examinations unless required by law.)

RECESSWe make every effort to ensure that our students have fresh air and exercise each day. A 30-minute

recess period follows lunch. Please see that your child is dressed appropriately for weather conditions. If the outside temperature is 20 degrees or higher (wind chill will be taken into account), we will usually go outdoors. Recess is designated for students-only, so please do not plan to visit your child at this time of the day. At the back of this handbook are the rules and expectations for the playground and recess times.

Recess times:Pre-First, Grade 1: 12:00-12:30

Grade 2: 12:15 – 12:45Grade 3: 12:30-1:00Grade 4: 12:45-1:15

Grade 5: 1:00 – 1:30RELINQUISHING CHILDREN

If you are picking your child up at a time other than our regularly scheduled dismissal, whether or not your child is expecting you, please report to the office. We will call your child’s classroom and let him/her know you are here. Please do not go directly to the classroom to insure the safety and welfare of everyone.

The statements below apply to release of children and access to children in all situations including:  custody cases, regular dismissal, early dismissal and emergency situations:

Copies of the most recent legal communication that pertains to the school setting regarding: custody, release of students and access to students must be presented to the school at registration, prior to the beginning of each school year and at the time that an access situation arises. The most recent court order or legal documentation permitting or restricting release of a child will be followed.  A Court Order supersedes any other legal documentation, regardless of date of issue.

Any individual, to whom children may be dismissed, must be identified on the Emergency Information Card. Please write additional names and phone numbers on the reverse side of the card if necessary. 

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Students will be released only to those individuals whose names are on the emergency card. If for any reason someone will pick up your child other than who is listed on the emergency card, YOU must send a dated note to the office of this change.

In order for a child to be released to anyone who is not on the emergency card, a note concerning the specific release must be presented prior to or at the time of the release. In the event that a note is not provided, and the parent or guardian calls to request that a child be released to someone who is not on the emergency card, verification of the caller's identity must be made by the principal or designee before releasing the child.

The most recent court order or legal documentation permitting or restricting release of a child will be followed. A Bucks County Court Order supersedes any other legal documentation, regardless of date of issue.

REPORTING PRACTICESA report of your child’s progress is made four (4) times a year for students in pre-first through fifth

grade. Kindergarten students receive progress reports three times a year. At the end of the first marking period in November, a Parent-Teacher Conference is scheduled for each child and you’ll receive a written conference report.

A written progress report card is issued at the end of the second, third and fourth marking periods for students in pre-first through fifth grade. Kindergarten students receive written progress reports in March and June. The dates for conferences and report card distribution are indicated on our District and school calendars.

SAFETY PATROLThe Lower Southampton Elementary School has a Safety Patrol under the direction of Mr. Nesbitt and

with the guidance of the Lower Southampton Police Department and Keystone AAA. The members of the Patrol assist the students within the school, calling buses at the end of the day and at designated posts throughout the school.

SCHOOL BOARDThe Neshaminy Board of School Directors conducts a public meeting each month. All parents are

encouraged to attend these meetings. School Board Work Sessions are also opened to the public. The exact dates and locations can be found at the district website at www.neshaminy.k12.pa.us or by calling 215-809-6000.

SECTION 504 NOTICEUnder Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and under the federal Americans with

Disabilities Act, some school age children with disabilities who do not meet the eligibility criteria outlined about might nevertheless be eligible for special protections and for adaptation and accommodations in instruction, facilities, and activities. Children are entitled to such protections, adaptation, and accommodations if they have a mental of physical disability that substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program. Please contact your school’s Guidance Counselor for further information.

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING

The Neshaminy School District in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education has made Social and Emotional Learning a priority for the Neshaminy community. All employees, students, and community members are encouraged to be familiar with and participate in the SEL initiative. The district is dedicated to provide training and education to promote and reinforce the skills necessary for increasing interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. These skills have been identified as necessary for employment in the 21st century. Employers want people who know how to get along with others.  Communities need people who can

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contribute toward a peaceful neighborhood.  Children and adults will develop essential social and emotional skills such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

Takes Pride

Neshaminy School District has introduced a K-12 theme called Neshaminy ‘Takes Pride’ that recognizes the importance of developing life skills in preparation for a successful future. Each month we highlight a different trait that reinforces Social and Emotional Learning:

Trustworthiness - September Perseverance - February

Acceptance - October Respect - March

Kindness - November Initiative - April

Empathy - December Dependability - May

Service - January Esteem-building - June

Too Good for Drugs and Too Good for Violence

The school year, 2011-12, starts the district’s prevention curriculum in all of the grades from Kindergarten to graduation. The Too Good for Drugs and Too Good for Violence curricula teach life skills to aid students in making good decisions for themselves and their community especially with regards to drug use and violence. Tools, such as De-Escalation Skills, “I” messages, and Stop-Think-Plan, taught in this curriculum can empower students to stand up for themselves and express their feelings. Learning and rehearsing problem-solving skills will equip students with ways to advocate for themselves and others and to take ownership for their actions. Strong Social and Emotional Learning paves the way for strong Academic Learning to take place.

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMSChildren are identified as being exceptional through formal procedures, wide assessments and

evaluations culminating in a Comprehensive Educational Report followed by the development of an Individual Educational Plan. Lower Southampton currently offers programs for children who are eligible for Learning Support, Speech-Language Therapy, Occupational and Physical Therapy, Hearing and Vision Support and those who are identified as eligible for the Academic Enrichment Program.

Federal Law provides that identified students must be educated in the “least restrictive environment.” This concept mandates that children receive instruction by special education staff members only to the extent necessary to overcome the learning difficulties being experienced. Supplemental services can be provided through the resource room for a range of students (i.e. those who only need about one-half hour of time, those who need two or three days a week and those students who need a great deal more of their instruction provided by learning support staff). The primary goal of special education is to help students develop skills so that they can be successful in a regular classroom. This goal is consistent with the concept of “least restrictive environment.”

STANDARDIZED TESTING SCHEDULE4-Sight Benchmark testing Grades 3, 4, and 5 October 4-7, January 10-13

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COGATS Grade 2 February 21-27PSSA Math and Reading Grades 3, 4, and 5 March 12-23 PSSA Writing Grade 5 April 16-20 PSSA Science Grade 4 April 23-27

Please do not schedule vacations, doctor’s appointments, or other events or activities that would prevent your child from taking these very important assessments. More information about these particular assessments will come home as the dates of each one approaches.

STUDENTS RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIESThe majority of students at the Lower Southampton Elementary School respect public property and

personal property, as well as the rights of other students. Those students who act in a manner and/or whose conduct disturbs the learning environment or threaten the health, safety and welfare of themselves and of others, subject themselves to disciplinary action as per School Board Policy #505.

TELEPHONEOur office telephone number is (215) 809-6350. Should an emergency arise that makes it necessary to

communicate with your child, please call the office. If a need arises where a child MUST call home, permission must be received from their teacher or staff member to use the office phone. Frequent calls from the same student will be screened to be sure that due to lack of responsibility the child is not constantly asking parent/s to bring in assignments, etc.

VIDEO TAPING OF STUDENTS For instructional improvement purposes, teachers from time to time videotape their classroom lessons. Before that would occur, parents and guardians would have the option of having their children excluded. A form will be sent home. Families will express, on the form, whether or not permission is granted in this regard. This is form should be returned to the teacher within a day or two.

VISITORS IN SCHOOLParental interest in the educational process is the lifeline of school performance. Visitation of parents is

encouraged and always welcomed. However, we do ask that prior arrangements be made before visiting the classrooms. In addition, we are sure you will agree that the security of the building and the safety of our students are paramount to all of us.

While we encourage parents and guardians to be actively involved in their child’s education, visitors do not have automatic or immediate access to any school area or to any school personnel. Upon entering the building, the visitor must first proceed directly to the front office to sign in and obtain a visitor’s pass. This pass must be worn in a prominent place at all times while in the building. At the end of the visit, please return to the office, sign out and return the pass. We value the health, safety, and welfare of our students, therefore at no time should parents or visitors enter the school building and go directly to their child's classroom or any other area of the building. In an effort to protect our students, all staff members will be required to ask anyone they see in the building for the visitor's badge. Staff members will respectfully direct any person without a badge to the front office. In order to visit any place or person, visitors must always:

Check in at the front office and sign in with the purpose of the visit. Follow the school building procedures regarding visitations. Obtain a school visitor pass before frequenting any part of the school. Please turn off or place on vibrate

all cell phones and PDA’s while inside the building. In order to protect the students and integrity of the school facilities, all visitors are required to enter

through the main entrance and to advise the principal, or designee, of their presence and business. No person shall visit or audit a classroom or other activity, nor shall any person remain on school

premises without the approval of the principal or his designee. It should be understood after 8:35 a.m. that no visitors may interrupt the instructional process by taking

a teacher's attention away from the students while classes are in session.

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It is unlawful for visitors to remain on school grounds in violation of these rules.

WALKERSStudents termed as “walkers” are those children that, because of the distance to school, walk to school

rather than ride a bus. Walkers may not take the bus unless they have a note from a doctor stating they cannot physically walk to school. This doctor’s note should be sent to Mr. Paul Minotti, Department of Transportation, 2001 Old Lincoln Highway, Langhorne, PA 19047.

The school doors open for children to enter the building at 8:35 a.m. This is the time our staff is scheduled to arrive. Walkers are NOT to arrive at school before this time and should not be walking through private property without the owner’s permission.

Students are expected to go directly home when dismissed at the end of the school day (not play on the playground) in order to cross the street while the crossing guards are on duty.

LOWER SOUTH SCHOOL-WIDESTUDENT RESPONSIBILITY AND

DISCIPLINE CODEINTRODUCTION AND PHILOSOPHY

By nature, elementary-aged students are adventurous, spontaneous, and enthusiastic. These characteristics enhance a positive learning environment. However, occasionally discipline problems may possibly arise. In order to know which behaviors are acceptable and expected, students need very clear and firm limits. The key rule that will be in effect at all times is: Students must follow school rules and teacher’s directions.

As children interact with adults and peers in the school environment, it is imperative that the rights of others not be abridged. The responsibility of the school is to help each child work toward the goal of self-discipline.

To this end, many individuals may come in contact with the child. The influence of the classroom teacher, however, cannot be minimized. In all but the most serious breaches of discipline, the teacher is the one person charged with working with the pupil in an attempt to resolve the problem.

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When a pattern of unacceptable behavior becomes apparent, the teacher shall conference with the parents in an effort to:

Make them aware of the existing problem. Elicit their support and assistance.

If the above steps prove to be unsuccessful, then the assistance of the building principal shall be elicited. The principal shall determine if the involvement of special services personnel (guidance counselor, psychologist, social worker, home and school visitor, nurse, etc.) is indicated or if disciplinary action is needed.

The Lower Southampton Elementary School supports a school-wide program to reduce bullying and other violent behaviors. Bullying and bullying behaviors are not permitted at Lower South Elementary School. Bullying occurs when one child or group of children repeatedly, over time, hurts another child through words and/or actions. Bullying and bullying behaviors may involve physical aggression, such as fighting, shoving, hitting or kicking; verbal aggression, such as name-calling, threats and rumor spreading; and/or non-verbal aggression, such as intimidation, threatening gestures and deliberate exclusion from a group or activity.

Students engaging in bullying and/or bullying-behaviors will be disciplined according to the steps outlined above. In situations where the behavior is chronic, or serious, the student will be referred to the building administrator.

All staff members have a shared responsibility for the implementation of this discipline code while students are on the premises. This discipline code shall be periodically reviewed with students throughout the school year by individual teachers and the principal.

CODE OF CONDUCTLower South is a safe, caring, and orderly environment that is dedicated to working to meet the needs of the whole child. We recognize that each child is a unique being with individual, social, emotional, physical and academic needs. It is our goal to help each child realize his/her fullest potential and become a responsible citizen.

As citizens of Lower South, we commit ourselves to always show respect for ourselves, for others, and for our school property. Respect for ourselves requires that we always strive for self-improvement in our learning behaviors and social interactions. We work to be the best we can be. We respect others in our school and the school community, fellow students, teachers and staff, family members, friends and neighbors. We treat others with courtesy, compassion, and friendship at all times.

As responsible citizens at Lower South, we show respect for our school building and grounds and strive to keep it clean. We also encourage others in these goals.

These commitments are the collective responsibility of the students, faculty, staff and parents of Lower South Elementary School. In working together to these ends, we will be making Lower South School a better place to learn and work.

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All members of the staff shall administer discipline, within the building, on the school grounds, at the bus stop and while traveling on the school bus, on a consistent basis. Our goal is to guide students to make good decisions and be respectful of others in our school society. Parents are our partners and play a very important role in this process as they provide support to the school and encouragement to the students to do their very best each and every day. The Lower South staff will support parents' efforts in helping to develop students into responsible and productive citizens. The Lower South Student Responsibility and Discipline Code will help to set limits for students' behavior and can be summed into one word that will guide students toward appropriate behavior. That common word is "respect."

We have a pledge at Lower South, called the LOSO Promise, in which the students recite together at the beginning of each school day. The pledge is:

As a good citizen of Lower Southampton Elementary School, I promise to be:Compassionate and Courageous; Inclusive and Respectful; Tolerant and

Understanding.I will make good choices!

In order for any program to be effective and successful it must have support from all parties: students, teachers, and parents. All parties in this program have responsibilities. They are delineated in the following three sections:

STUDENT REPSONSIBILITIES: I WILL… Recite and follow the LOSO pledge each and everyday Walk quietly in the hallways Respect all adults in the building including aides, custodians, and substitutes Always ask permission before leaving an area Dress appropriately for school, knowing that short skirts/shorts, brief tops,

heelies, and clothing with inappropriate pictures, phrases, or sayings are not acceptable

Complete my classwork and homework on time Cell phones are turned off and not seen in school Gum chewing is prohibited on school property, as well as the school bus Prepare for my classes by being organized and ready to learn Leave all games, i-pods, trading cards, and other toys at home, unless

approved by teacher for special occasion Refrain from wearing hats in the building, except for assigned Spirit Days Behave in an appropriate manner everywhere in the building Show respect to myself and others by making appropriate choices Respect school property, and help to keep it free from damage

STAFF REPSONSIBILITIES: WE WILL… Provide a safe, orderly, and caring environment Be available to help our students Model appropriate expected behavior for all students Enforce school rules for all students Contact parents for support when necessary Encourage students to do their best Provide students with a variety of learning activities

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PARENT/GUARDIAN REPSONSIBILITIES: I WILL… Encourage my child to show respect Enforce homework policies Encourage consistent attendance Inform the teacher about situations which may affect my child’s learning and/or behavior Encourage my child to follow all bus and school rules Make sure my child dresses appropriately for school Sign and return all school communications promptly Attend parent conferences and school functions whenever possible Be supportive of the Lower South Student Responsibility Behavior and Discipline Code

DISCIPLINARY GUIDELINESLower South prides itself on being a Safe, Orderly, and Caring Environment; one in which all students can thrive and enjoy the love of learning. Students should feel safe and protected in our school and free of harm from others.

MINOR BREACHES OF DISCIPLINE

A. Definition: Misconduct that impedes the orderly operation of the classroom and/or school.

B. Examples: Violation of classroom rules and procedures established by the teacher Minor out-of-class problems, such as running or yelling in the halls, or

disruption of class. Found in an unassigned area without permission Breach of dress code Use of foul or abusive language or gestures Throwing objects (pencils, erasers, snowballs, etc.) Possession/use of non-instructional items (toys, games, trading cards, etc.)

Refer to the Parent Handbook for items not allowed in school

(PLEASE NOTE THAT THE LIST OF EXAMPLES GIVEN UNDER "MINOR BREACHES OF DISCIPLINE" IS NOT MEANT TO BE ALL INCLUSIVE.)

C. Procedures to be followed by staff for each minor breach of discipline:First Offense: Staff will talk with the student(s) involved, establish an action plan, and/or use any of the following:

Verbal reprimands Withdrawal of classroom privileges Behavior contracts Special assignments related to nature of the offense

Second Offense: Parental contact by the teacher will be made in an effort to develop a home-school plan of action.

Third Offense: Referral to the principal, only after steps 1 & 2 have been followed:

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a. Principal will meet with the student, investigate and carryout discipline code.

b. Principal will contact parent/guardians as soon as possible and will discuss disciplinary actions.

c. Principal will follow-up with staff about action(s) taken

D. A proper and accurate record of the offenses and disciplinary actions will be maintained by the administrator.

E. The principal has the right to exercise his discretion to choose more severe consequences based on the student's overall discipline record.

F. The principal makes the final determination of disciplinary consequences once a student is referred to the office.

MAJOR BREACHES OF DISCIPLINE

A. Definition: Misconduct that disrupts the learning climate of the school (repeated offenses or students' actions serious in nature) or that which is directed against other person or property.

B. Examples: Threats or assaults made against a member of the staff or student body Acts of defiance Abusive language or gestures Harassment in any form (repeated bullying, sexual, intimidation, disability, etc.) Cheating or lying Stealing Fighting Vandalism of school property, personal property or students or school personnel Possession of obscene literature or potentially harmful objects Smoking, use of tobacco products or substance abuse Possession of weapons or potential weapons Minor infractions after the third incident will be treated as a major breach of

discipline Making false statements against school personnel, either written or verbally.

(PLEASE NOTE THAT THE LIST OF EXAMPLES GIVEN UNDER "MAJOR BREACHES OF DISCIPLINE” IS NOT MEANT TO BE ALL INCLUSIVE)

C. Procedures after the classroom teacher has followed and documented steps outlined in minor breaches:

1. Student is referred to the principal.2. Principal will meet with the student, investigate and carry out discipline, as

warranted.3. First Incident:

a. Administrator will make parental contact as soon as possible to set up a conference time or conference call.

b. The conference should, if possible, include the administrator, teacher(s), and parent(s). The purpose of the conference is to devise a plan to resolve the problem.

c. A summary of the incident and consequences (as necessary) will be returned to the parents and teacher with a description of the resolution.

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4. Second Incident:a. The administrator will make a parental contact and inform them of the nature

of the offense.b. The administrator will attempt to set up a definite conference date to meet

with parents. The meeting should be held as soon as possible.c. The administrator may submit the student's name to the counselor, and/or

ESAP for review.d. Recess detentions and/or School Suspension may be enforced.e. A copy of the Discipline/Incident card will be returned to the teacher with a

description of the resolution.5. Any subsequent major offenses will be handled in the manner as stated in procedure

#4.

D. For each major incident that occurs, the following disciplinary actions will be considered as warranted.

First Incident for a MAJOR offense:a. Restrictions from school sponsored activitiesb. In-School Suspensions *c. Out-of-School Suspensions *

(*) Continued violations of major breaches of discipline will result in progressive days of suspension.

E. A proper and accurate record of the offense and disciplinary actions will be maintained by the principal.

F. The principal has the option to choose more severe consequences which may include police notification and/or referral for possible expulsion.

G. The principal will make the final determination of disciplinary consequences once a student is referred to the office.

Any regular education pupil who poses such a severe disciplinary problem that his/her presence in the classroom or in the school makes it impossible to conduct normal school activities, and whose behavior does not improve after having been involved with teachers, parents, administrators, and special service personnel to resolve the matter, shall be suspended from school by the building administrator (up to 10 days) until such time as the District Superintendent and/or Board of School Directors decide on a course of action to be taken based on the recommendation of the building administrator involved. Special Education students, and those thought to be special education students, whose behavior is a direct result of their disability or pose a severe discipline threat must be disciplined in a manner that conforms to federal and state statutes and regulations.

Students may not be on or near school grounds during the term of any suspension unless attending a conference relating to the incident and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Violators will be cited with "criminal trespassing." We suggest that parents/guardians plan a well-supervised day with students doing their regular school work while on suspension. Our work together will help teach students appropriate and acceptable behavior while attending Lower Southampton Elementary School.

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GUIDELINES FOR USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT

A. RESTROOMS Restrooms may not be used for loitering. Inappropriate use of restroom facilities, including the misuse of supplies,

interfering with the privacy of others and damaging or misusing equipment will not be permitted.

Staff members are charged with the responsibility of monitoring restrooms to ensure the proper use of facilities.

Students may only use the restrooms designated for their grade and/or location in the building with permission from an adult.

Teachers may institute a sign-in sheet to help manage bathroom concerns.

B. CAFETERIA Students will be expected to demonstrate a respectful attitude toward the

Aides who are responsible for supervision. A reasonable conversational level of talking is permitted. Screaming and

shouting will not be tolerated. The throwing of food or other items is not permitted. Students are to remain in their seats while eating and are only permitted to

move to other parts of the cafeteria under the direction of the aides. Students who leave the cafeteria before dismissal must carry a hall pass

provided by the aides. No student may return to any classroom during the lunch-recess without a

written note from a teacher giving permission. Sharing of food is not permitted due to allergies and the safety of others. Students are encouraged to use the restroom before coming to the cafeteria.

C. PLAYGROUND/RECESS Recommended types of balls: playground, tennis, basketball, soft rubber,

foam. No footballs or hardballs of any sort. Students should not bring in any sports equipment into school from home. Grade levels will play basketball only in their assigned areas. Wall ball games should not interfere with other play areas and should be kept

small and played only in designated areas.

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Students are not permitted to play on snow or ice, or throw snow or ice at any time.

Students are not permitted to play games which involve combative aspects (tackle and rough touch football, chicken-fights, wrestling, karate, etc.)

Students are not permitted to bring the following equipment onto the playground: heelies, skateboards, roller skates, rollerblades, hockey sticks, baseball/softball bats or balls, tennis rackets, bikes, yo-yos, and any other equipment deemed unsafe by the staff or principal.

D. SCHOOL BUS Students should arrive to their bus stop no more than 5-10 minutes before

their scheduled pick-up. While at the bus stop, students will refrain from playing games, throwing

items, using inappropriate language, and should wait respectfully for the bus to arrive.

Students should get on and get off the bus at their stop as assigned from the Transportation Department.

Students are expected to show the bus driver the same respect as they would any other staff member in the school by listening to all directions.

Refrain from eating candy, chewing gum, or drinking beverages on the school bus.

Keep all hands, feet and other items out of the aisle of the bus. Students who violate any of the rules posted on the bus will face

consequences which may include an assigned seat on the bus or loss of bus riding privileges.

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