Table of Contents Welcome 1 Mission Statement 2 School Calendar 3 About Our School – Schedule/Contact Information 4

UNITED ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Welcome back to the 2017-2018 United Elementary School Year. I hope it will be a good year for your child and your family, filled with learning successes. The entire elementary staff is looking forward to teaching and learning with your child. We believe that education is a shared responsibility between home and school and we will make every effort to involve you. Our staff members are well trained and prepared to meet the needs of all learners. We are proud of the tradition of excellence that exists at United. That is a tribute to everyone – students, staff and parents. Our handbook is designed to inform students, parents, and guardians of our school and district policies, procedures, expectations and calendar. We try to include a great deal of information in a concise and convenient manner. While our handbook covers most issues, changes that may occur during the school will not be reflected. During the year we will communicate with you in many ways through newsletters, our Education Connection call service, and on our school website (www.united.k12.oh.us). Please take advantage of these many ways to stay informed. Please feel free to contact us at any time for clarification or additional information as well as when any concerns arise. Please don't hesitate to contact your child's teachers with any questions or concerns or call me at school (330-223-8001) or by e-mail at [email protected]

Sincerely,

Tina Hughes

Mrs. Tina Hughes Elementary Principal

**Since you receive so many letters and forms on the first day of school, this checklist may help you organize the papers that need to be returned and the ones that need to be kept at home.

Forms to be returned Optional Return

Parent Signature Page (pg. 31) Free & Reduced Lunch Form Emergency Medical Authorization Healthy Start Classroom Requested Information Title Compact School Insurance Form Volunteer Form

To be kept at home Forms Available Online www.united.k12.oh.us

Teacher Introduction Letter Monthly Newsletter Student Handbook Kg-Gr. 2 Lunch Menu

Table of Contents Welcome 1 Mission Statement 2 School Calendar 3 About Our School – Schedule/Contact Information 4

To & From School 5-8 Arrival/Dismissal, Attendance Absences, Make-up Work, Tardies, Truancies, Vacations, Visitors, School Closings & Delays, School Bus Transportation Rules & Regulations

Academics 8-10 Planners, Homework, Grades, Report Cards & Interims, Parent Assist, Conferences, Honor Rolls, Testing, Gifted Services, Promotion/Retention, Class Assignments

Day-to-Day Guidelines 10-14 Activities, Breakfast & Lunch, Cafeteria, Cell Phones, Fees & Waivers, Field Trips, Fund Raising Raising Monies, Guidance, Invitations, Lost & Found, Lunch, Parent Teacher Organization, Parties, Recess, Physical Education, Prohibited Items, Surveillance Cameras, Tobacco Use by Students, Technology Use & Abuse, Telephone Use, Textbooks & Library Books, The Education Connection, Track & Field Fun Days Health & Safety 14-17 Health & Wellness Screenings, Defibrillators, Emergency Drills & Evacuation, Emergency Medical Authorizations, Hand Washing Protocol, Illness/Injuries, Immunizations, Lice, Medications Celebrations at United Elementary 18-20 Guidelines for Food/Snacks, Approved Snack Options, Not Approved Snack Options, Classroom Celebrations and Rewards, Inexpensive Examples of Non-Food Treats Discipline/ Code of Conduct 21-24 Dress Code, SOAR, Enforcement of Rules, Disciplinary Actions

Appendix 25-31 Enrollment, Equal Opportunity Education, Student Records, Conceal/Carry, Custodial/ Non-Custodial Parents, Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy, Leader in Me Habits, Parent Signature Page and Education Connection Updates

District Mission Statement The mission of the United Local School District is to assure that all children achieve their highest potential by providing and fostering educational opportunities in a caring and safe environment. Our school district, which is the heart of our community, will work in partnership with students, teachers, families, and businesses to equip our students with academic, technological, and social skills. This will enable our students to build positive relationships and become responsible members of our global society.

United Elementary Mission that defines us 2

Building leaders one student at a time through…. Relationships * Rigor * Relentless * Results

2017-2018 School Calendar

August 28 School Begins – First Day for Students

September 1-4 Labor Day weekend – No School 20 Early Dismissal – 2:30

October 12 Parent Teacher Conferences (1:45-9:45 PM) Early Dismissal - 1:30 13 No School 18 Early Dismissal - 2:30 27 End of 1st Nine Weeks 30 Begin 2nd Nine Weeks

November 22-27 Thanksgiving Recess – No School 28 Classes Resume

December 6 Early Dismissal – 2:30 21-Jan 2 Christmas Recess – No School

January 3 Classes Resume 15 Martin Luther King Day - No School nd 19 End of 2 Nine Weeks 22 Begin 3rd Nine Weeks

February 7 Early Dismissal – 2:30 19 Presidents’ Day – No School

March 8 Parent Teacher Conferences (1:45-9:45 PM) Early Dismissal - 1:30 9 No School 14 Early Dismissal – 2:30 23 End 3rd Nine Weeks 26 Begin 4th Nine Weeks 30-Apr 2 Easter Break – No School

April 3 Class Resume 7 11 Early Dismissal – 2:30

May 27 Graduation 28 Memorial Day – No School 31 Last Day for Students End of 4th Nine Weeks

* Make-up days, April 2, June 4, 5, 6, etc. if needed.

School Information United Elementary School 330-223-8001 www.United.k12.oh.us 8143 State Route 9 330-223-1521 [email protected] Hanoverton, OH 44423 330-223-1216 (Fax)

Daily Schedule School Day 8:50-3:30 K Lunch 10:45-11:15 1-2 Lunch 11:20-11:50 3-4 Lunch 12:05-12:35 5-6 Lunch 12:40-1:10

Christina Hughes Principal [email protected] Andrew Trotter Assistant Principal [email protected] Amanda Medure Secretary [email protected] Kerri Ackler Guidance Counselor [email protected] Sue Laughlin School Nurse [email protected] Mary Alice Sigler Special Education Coordinator [email protected] Tom Clemens Building & Grounds [email protected] Jim Reinsel Transportation Director [email protected]

Our Staff

Marisa Bezon Abbie Joyce Tara Schonauer Katie Bibri Chris Kadvan Laura Shepard Kelsey Brown Ashley Kennedy Karesia Sisco Ashley Bussard Patricia Kober Alexandra Smith Janice Carson Sue Laughlin Jennifer Spillman Heather Connor Christine Leheny Sandy Tedeschi Lori Conser Marybeth Malone Karrie Varagliotti Regina Davis Rachael Markijohn Abigail Walkama Sherrie Denton Beth McGaffick Amy White Kelly DeVille Emily McIntosh Alison Williams Theresa DiAntonio Jennifer Paynter Lydia Wilmoth Sarah Garn Angela Phelps Erin Young Brittany Grimm Jordan Phillips Debra Grimm Sue Rickard County Personnel Andrea Groubert Kim Salmen Kim Johnson Tina Henceroth Brenda Sarchet Karen Rhodes Susan Schopfer Bobbi Ridel

TO & FROM SCHOOL

Arrival / Dismissal  Students should not arrive before 8:35 AM as there is no supervision provided until that time.  Students may be dropped off at the entrance after 8:35 AM. If you are bringing your child to school after 8:50 AM, you must come into the building to sign in your child.  Parents picking up children at the end of the school day must come to the office to sign their child out. Students may not leave school grounds with anyone other than a parent or guardian unless arrangements have previously been made in writing or by phone call and approved by the principal or assistant principal.  High school students may not take elementary students from school during the school day without written permission of the parent and the principal.  Students are dismissed at 3:30 PM. (Students may not leave school before 3:20 PM except for medical appointments)  Unless we have been notified otherwise, all students will be dismissed following normal procedures.  Students may not remain in the building following dismissal without adult supervision.

Attendance Regular attendance is a significant factor for success in school. Regular attendance means that the academic learning process is not interrupted, less time is spent on make-up assignments, and students benefit from participation and interaction with others in the class. Many important lessons are learned through active participation in classroom and other school activities that cannot be replaced by individual study. (ORC 3321.04)

Absences Students may be excused from school for one or more of the following reasons and will be provided an opportunity to make up missed school work and/or tests: 1. Personal Illness 2. Illness in the immediate family 3. Death in the immediate family 4. Observation or celebration of a religious holiday 5. Quarantine 6. Other urgencies to be determined by the administration

Student absences for reasons that are not deemed “legal” under the Ohio Revised Code and excused under School District Policy and procedures are considered unexcused.

Notification of Absence If a student will be absent, the parents/guardians must notify the school at 330-223-8001 by 9:30 AM. If no phone call is received, the school will call your home using a recorded message. Two attempts will be made to reach your home. If no one is reached, a post card will be mailed to your home notifying you that your child was not in school that day. These steps are taken in order to comply with the Missing Child Act. A written excuse must be provided within 48 hours of the student’s return. The excuse must include the date, student's full name, reason for absence, dates of absence, and must be signed by a parent/guardian. When no excuse is provided, the absence will be unexcused.

Make up Work Students are permitted to make up work if they are absent from school with a valid excuse. If parents would like to request assignments when a student is ill, please ask when you call your child off in the morning. Every attempt will be made to gather work for an absent student; however, if requests are made after 10:00 AM, assignments will not be available until the following day. Work may be picked up in the office after 3:20 PM. Students are given the number of days to complete assignments and tests equal to the number of days they were absent. This does not apply to long-term projects which should remain on schedule.

Tardiness Students who arrive after 8:50 AM but before 10:30 AM will be considered tardy. Excused tardies may include medical appointments, attendance at a funeral or an emergency as deemed necessary by the school. Late buses or a missed bus stop will not cause a student to be tardy. Tardiness for other reasons will be considered unexcused and will affect attendance records, including perfect attendance. Excessive tardiness may be referred to the courts. Four unexcused tardies per semester will result in one unexcused absence.

Truancy Ohio House Bill 410 requires that all schools statewide follow a consistent attendance policy based upon hours of absence. As a result, an addendum to our handbook will be provided to our parents at the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year explaining United Local’s attendance policy.

Vacations Vacations that cause students to miss school are discouraged; however, the school does understand that some families may only take vacation time during the school year. In that event, parents must notify the 6

building administrator at least one week in advance of the vacation as to the dates the student(s) will be absent. Assignments will be given, if possible, by the teachers before the student leaves and must be completed and turned in on the first day of return. Other assignments may be given upon return. NOTE: Excusing student absences due to a vacation is not automatic, nor guaranteed. Administrative discretion will be used; therefore, it is vital that parents follow proper procedure. Students who have been absent from school for ten or more days without a doctor’s excuse will not be excused for additional vacation days.

Visitors Visitors to United Elementary are always welcome. All visitors must first sign in at the office and obtain a visitor’s pass allowing them to be in our school. This includes parents picking up students from the classroom or any meeting with a teacher. Parents wanting to speak with their child’s teachers will need to make arrangements with the principal or teacher to schedule a time during the teacher’s daily planning time/ conference period, or before or after school. We ask that parents do not request to deliver items to the classroom or talk to teachers without prior teacher notification. This helps keep all of our children properly supervised and safe.

No one, including relatives or neighbors, is permitted to visit a student in our school without written permission from the parent or guardian. Younger brothers and sisters are not permitted to attend school parties nor may they visit school unless accompanied by parents.

School Closings and Delays If school is to be closed or delayed due to weather or other calamity concerns, announcement of such will be made through area radio and TV stations (listed below) as well as through our One Call System. 570 AM WKBN 92.5 FM WZKL CH 9 WTOV 600 AM WSOM 101 FM WHOT CH 21 WFMJ 790 AM WPIC 105.1 FM WQXK CH 27 WKBN 1310 AM WDPN CH 33 WYTV

If school is on a two-hour delay, bus stops will be two hours later than regular times. There is no breakfast served or morning preschool when there is a two-hour delay.

School Bus Transportation Rules & Procedures A safe and efficient school bus program calls for teamwork by students, parents, bus drivers, teachers, and principals. Riding the school bus is a privilege and a part of a student’s educational experience. The driver is in charge at all times, and each bus driver has the authority to assign seats and/or administer discipline as needed. A student shall not behave in such a way as to distract the driver from performing his/her duties. The following behavior is expected of students who ride the bus:

While waiting for the bus:  Be at your assigned bus stop prior to the pick up time to maintain schedules When ahead of schedule, drivers will wait for students until the designated time. When on schedule, there will be no waiting for tardy students.  Wait for the bus off the roadway  Unsafe actions will not be tolerated  Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop  Cross the street in front of the bus after waiting for the driver to signal

While riding the bus:  Students will remain seated at all times.  Students will not eat or drink while on the bus.  Students will talk in a normal tone of voice.  Students will keep hands, feet and all objects to themselves.  Students will treat other riders and all property with respect and courtesy.  Students will refrain from pushing and shoving each other.  Small carry-on items must be transported in a sack or box and should remain in the container during the ride.  Water filled containers must be kept in book bags while on the bus.  Students may not transport pets (animals) on the bus.

All school rules regarding student conduct also apply to students when riding the bus or waiting at the bus stop. Failure to follow the bus rules and regulations will result in disciplinary action ranging from an assigned seat to losing bus privileges from 1 day up to the remainder of the school year. Video cameras may be used in school buses to help monitor student activity.

NOTE:  When bus transportation privileges are denied, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to provide transportation of the student to and from school. Students failing to attend will be declared truant.  For security reasons, only authorized school personnel may take a student off a school bus.

Late Buses Sometimes a bus may be running late due to weather or mechanical problems. Please wait ten minutes after your child’s scheduled pick-up or drop-off before calling the school office. A recorded message will be made when bus delays will exceed 15 minutes.

Bus Passes Long term bus pass requests for a different drop off or pick up will be approved by the bus garage if for all year changes. All other bus passes may only be written in emergency situations or when they pertain to the bus the student rides.

Academics

Planners All students in grades 3-6 are given a planner in which to record their assignments. Teachers reinforce the daily use of these planners and use them as a communication tool between home and school. Please use these as a discussion guide at home and a way to monitor your child’s schoolwork.

Homework Homework is a teacher-planned learning activity which takes place largely outside of the student’s regular school hours. It should reinforce classroom learning and expand on a student’s school experience. Homework is considered an important part of the instructional program. Parents are encouraged to set aside a regular time each evening to discuss any papers their child may have brought home from school and to talk with their child about the day’s events. Although homework may not be assigned each night, time should be spent reading, writing, studying math facts, reviewing for tests, etc.

The amount of homework should increase as a child moves through the elementary grades. Please refer to your child’s homeroom teacher’s letter for specific grade level policies and procedures. If your child is routinely spending more than an hour on homework at any grade level, please discuss it with your child’s teacher.

Students may be kept in from recess to complete assignments or other disciplinary action may be taken by the teacher or principals, such as after-school detention.

Grading Policy Students in grades K-2 receive standards-based ratings which indicate their progress toward mastery of their specific grade level standards.

Students in grades 3-6 receive grades in all subject areas, including Art, Music, Physical Education and Band. Grades are based on a student’s level of mastery on content standards. When percentage grades are used, they are based on the following scale: 93-100 A 85-92 B 70-84 C 60-69 D 59 & below F

A combination of letter grades, comments and checklists may be used to provide more information regarding an individual student’s progress. As content standards continue to evolve, report cards will be adjusted to reflect those changes.

Report Cards & Interims Report cards will be sent home at the end of each nine week grading period. After reviewing and discussing the grades, parents must sign the report card envelope and return to school as soon as possible.

In the middle of each nine week grading period, students will bring home an interim report advising parents of current progress and concerns or difficulties. The interim envelope should be signed and returned to school as soon as possible. Kindergarten students do not receive interim reports and first grade students do not receive interims for the first nine weeks.

Parent Assist Parents and guardians of students in grades 3-6, who complete a request, will be given access to Parent Assist. This program can be accessed through our district website and allows parents/guardians to view

grades at any time during the school year. It is also possible to view interim and nine-week report card grades.

Conferences Conferences are formally scheduled twice during the school year – once in October and once in March. These are opportunities to meet with teachers and discuss a student’s progress and any concerns. It is possible to call the school at any time and request a conference.

Honor Rolls (Grades 4-6) United Elementary students are recognized for achieving academic excellence. Students who achieve a 4.0 (All A’s) are listed on the Distinguished Honor Roll. The Merit Roll recognizes those students who have achieved a 3.0 -3.99 grade point average. Students receiving a C, D or F in any subject are exempt from either the Distinguished or Merit Honor Roll.

Testing The Ohio Department of Education has guidelines for measuring progress for students at all grade levels and has established mandated testing procedures at grades 3-6. Parents receive written reports indicating their student’s level of achievement. Intervention is provided to those students who are having difficulty meeting required levels of mastery. Please make note of dates for the assessments and keep them in mind when scheduling appointments or vacations.

Kindergarten Kindergarten Readiness Assesment Grades 1 & 2 Diagnostics (Reading, Math, Writing) Grade 3 AIR Assessment (Reading, Math, Writing) Grade 4 AIR Assessment (Reading, Math, Social Studies) Grade 5 AIR Assessment (Reading, Math, Science) Grade 6 AIR Assessment (Reading, Math, Social Studies)

Gifted Services The district provides gifted services for superior cognitive, language arts and mathematics in grades 3-6. Students are cluster-grouped and services are delivered through the general education classroom teacher using a differentiated curriculum. All students are screened for possible gifted identification at the end of 2nd grade and the beginning of 5th. Students may be referred at any time. Referral forms are available in the building administrator’s office. More detailed information is available on the district website.

Promotion / Retention Promotion from grade to grade is determined on the basis of student progress in attaining proficiency in grade level academic content standards. Retention is possible when a child demonstrates social and/or academic immaturity even with appropriate intervention. Decisions to retain are made together with teachers, parents, and administration.

Class Assignment Teachers and administrators work together to develop class lists. Our primary responsibility is to develop classes which reflect a balanced distribution of student learning styles and abilities. Every effort is made to best match students and teachers so that individual needs of each student are considered in the overall composition of each classroom. Requests for a specific teacher cannot be accepted.

Day to Day Guidelines

Activities Different activities are scheduled throughout the year to enhance the educational experience for all students. Activities may include picnics, track and field days and special events. Parents will be notified in advance of all activities.

Breakfast & Lunch Programs Breakfast and lunch will be available each day school is in session, with the exception of breakfast on a day with a two-hour delay. Our cafeteria uses a point of sale system that simplifies meal transactions and electronically manages student accounts. Students use the system by entering their personal number into a keypad when getting breakfast or lunch. Money may be placed on students’ accounts by sending a check or cash. Please place this in a sealed envelope with your child's full name clearly written on the front.

Free and reduced students enter their number along with all other students and no one is aware of who is prepaid or free. A record of your child’s payments and purchases are available on request. Although prices are subject to change, the cost of a student lunch is $2.85 and breakfast is $1.00. Students without lunch money or a packed lunch will be provided with a sandwich and drink. Milk may be purchased separately at a cost of $0.40 for those who carry their lunch.

It is important that parents return all free and reduced lunch applications promptly to insure that the information is entered into the system as soon as possible at the start of the school year. If at any time during the school year, your economic status changes and you feel that you may qualify for free or reduced lunches, please contact the school for the necessary forms.

Cafeteria Cafeteria rules and procedures ensure that everyone has an enjoyable lunchtime experience and guarantee the health and safety of all. These rules and procedures are explained to students and reinforced by lunchroom supervisors. It is the student’s responsibility to know and follow these. Continual disruption may result in assigned seating, removal from the cafeteria or other disciplinary actions. (See SOAR Chart for specific cafeteria behavioral expectations)

Cell Phones & Other Electronic Communication & Game Devices The use of electronic devices including cell phones, camera phones, IPods, cameras, etc…is prohibited during the school day, unless being used for classroom purposes and authorized by the teacher. They must be turned off and kept in students’ backpacks. The District is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Electronic devices will be confiscated if found with a student during the school day and only returned to parents. Electronic devices brought onto school property may be searched by school officials if students are in violation of school rules. (See Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy, pgs. 28 & 29) 11

Fees & Waivers The School Board has authorized that a consumable fee of $20.00 will be charged for each child grades K-6. This amount is pro-rated for students entering after January. If you are financially unable to pay your fees, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. Please contact the Treasurer’s Office with any questions concerning waivers.

Field Trips Field trips are planned to enrich the curriculum and add to the enjoyment of elementary students. Notification will be given for all field trips. Parent permission slips must be signed in advance and no student will be permitted to go without a returned permission slip. Teachers will arrange for the needed number of parent chaperones that will accompany students on any trip. As the primary purpose of chaperones is to aid in the supervision of students, they must ride the school bus. Siblings are not permitted to attend field trips with chaperones. Only parents or guardians are permitted to chaperone field trips. Parent chaperones must be good role models for students and are not allowed to smoke or make personal phone calls while chaperoning on a field trip. Chaperones are reminded that the use of social media to post pictures from field trips is prohibited.

Participation in field trips is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked due to academic concerns, truancy or behavior problems. All students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately and be good representatives of the United Local School and community. Field trip money will not be refunded.

Fundraising Monies Students and their parents or guardians are responsible for any money that is collected for a school sponsored fundraising activity. All money must be turned in when due or at the end of the activity.

Guidance Students wishing to meet with the guidance counselor complete a “Request to See Counselor” slip. The counselor will schedule a time to meet with the student. Students should use the Guidance Office as a resource in solving problems with other students or academics. Parents, also, should feel free to contact the Guidance Office with concerns. Respect of privacy and confidentiality is understood.

Invitations & Student Mail Invitations to birthday or any other kind of party may not be passed out at school unless the invitations are being given out to all girls (for a girl’s only party) or to all the boys (for a boy’s only party) or to EVERYONE in the class. No grade level wide invitations may be distributed through the school.

Students are not permitted to receive mail at United Elementary School unless a classroom project is involved. Parents will be notified if personal mail or packages are sent. Commercial advertisements or solicitations will be returned to the sender.

Lost & Found Clothing items are announced on the morning announcements and kept in the office for a week. Per health regulations, any unclaimed items will be disposed of after the week. Glasses will be kept in the office indefinitely throughout the school year. If they are not claimed by the end of the school year, they will be donated. Please do not send

your child to school with expensive items or large amounts of money. United Elementary School is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Lunch Due to limited space and other restrictions, all lunches are closed to visitors.

Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) The PTO provides valuable support services to many aspects of the school’s operation. They would welcome your involvement. For more information, please visit the PTO website which can be found as a link on the district website.

Parties During the year, parties are held for Halloween and Valentine’s Day. Room parents work in cooperation with the classroom teacher to plan the party. Chaperones may not bring siblings to parties so that their full attention can be given to the students they are supervising. Guidelines from the District Wellness Plan should be followed when planning for food and activities.

Recess Weather permitting, all students are expected to go outside for recess. Students should be properly clothed for daily outside play. Students are sent outside for recess when the temperature is 25 degrees or higher, the wind chill is 25 degrees or above, and playground conditions permit safe play. Students remain in on rainy or wet days.

Once on the playground, students are not permitted to re-enter the building before recess is completed unless they have permission from the recess teacher to go to the office or school nurse. If your child is restricted from physical activity due to an injury or illness, a doctor’s note will be required specifying the reason and duration of limited activity.

Students are expected to know and follow playground rules and procedures in order to ensure the safety of all children. Supervising teachers have the final say in allowed activities and use of equipment.

Physical Education The health and well-being of our students contributes to their ability to learn and maintain good health. All students must take part in physical education classes and are expected to participate fully. The only time a student is excused from class is with a medical excuse. In accordance with state law, a student may not return to class without a note of release written by a doctor.

Prohibited Items Items which are considered to endanger the safety of others or those which disrupt the teaching or learning process are prohibited. Bringing these items to school will result in them being confiscated and possible disciplinary actions. Confiscated items will not be returned to the student, but must be reclaimed by a parent/guardian.  Squirt guns, water balloons, or other water devices  Disruptive electronic devices such as cameras, IPods and cell phones (see cell phone policy)  Aerosol or pump sprays (these can potentially cause eye or lung problems)  Fundraiser items from an outside group or organization. Only items approved by the Board of Education are allowed to be sold as school projects. 13

 Flowers, gifts or balloons may not be delivered to school for any occasion.  Trading cards  Any item considered to be a toy that distracts from the learning process. (Younger students are permitted to bring in small toys for show and tell and recess activities.)  No student sales of any items on school property.

Surveillance Cameras For students’ safety and welfare, video surveillance cameras are placed throughout the building and school grounds and on buses. Actions recorded on these cameras may be used as evidence in disciplinary action. Any attempt to damage or interfere with these devices will result in disciplinary action and possible referral to local law enforcement. Only school personnel may view these surveillance tapes.

Tobacco Use By Students No student is permitted to smoke, dip, inhale, or chew tobacco at any time during school jurisdiction hours. See full policy online at ULES website.

Technology Use & Abuse Technology is integrated into the curriculum in order for students to learn and apply technology skills in all content areas. The use of the internet and similar communication networks by students is a privilege. Failure to follow established rules can lead to loss of technology use and access to the internet through school accounts. Prior to accessing the network, all students must have a signed “Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy” form on file. (See pgs. 27 & 28)

Telephone Use/ Phone Calls/ Messages Students are not permitted to use school phones without permission. Except in the case of an emergency, students will not be called to the office to receive a telephone call. If any other need arises, messages may be taken for students and delivered to them. Students will be allowed to call home on a school phone for forgotten lunch money, lunches, glasses or an emergency (as deemed necessary by the principal). Students may not call home for forgotten homework, band instruments or planners.

Textbooks, School Property & Materials The United Local Board of Education furnishes textbooks and other instructional materials to students. Books and materials should be treated with care and respect. Students are responsible for keeping textbooks covered and in good condition. The district has the right to assess fines or recover costs for damaged or lost property.

Borrowing library books is a privilege and is dependent upon careful use and return of these books. Books or materials that are damaged beyond repair or lost must be replaced. A $3.00 processing fee is added to the cost of library materials. Refunds are given when lost materials are returned before the end of the school year. No refunds will be made after the next school year begins.

The Education Connection Automated Phone Service United Local Schools uses an internet based automated phone calling system called The Education Connection. Parents may designate two phone numbers for each student. Notify the school office if either of your preferred numbers has changed. Calls will be generated from this system for school

closings, delays or other important events or reminders. (This is a voice activated system; please say, “Hello” when answering.)

Track and Field Fun Days Each spring, track and field fun days are held. These days are considered part of the physical education curriculum. All students are expected to participate. Parents and friends are invited to attend. All students must have classroom work completed in order to participate. This event can be taken away due to disciplinary reasons.

Health & Safety Health and Wellness Screenings Health screenings and assessments are a group of procedures which, when combined with health history, parent and staff observations and the school nurse’s professional judgment, provide an indication of health status. Health screenings are not intended to diagnose defects or pathology but to evaluate the need for further medical or other professional care.

Confidential health checks will be performed by the school nurse, speech therapist or other qualified designee during the first full week of school and as needed throughout the school year. Screenings may include vision, hearing, articulation, blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, pulse oximetry, height, weight, dental and scoliosis. If your child falls into a category considered to be at risk, you will be notified by telephone or letter referring you for further evaluation by your child’s physician.

If you do not wish your child to participate in any or all screenings, you must notify the school in writing by the Monday of the first full week of school.

Defibrillators The elementary has an automated external defibrillator located outside the nurse’s office for use in emergency cardiac resuscitation. Opening the storage box sounds an alarm. The defibrillator is in view of security cameras. Opening or using the defibrillator in any situation other than an emergency is strictly forbidden.

Emergency Drills (ORC 3737.73) Fire, tornado and lock down drills are conducted throughout the year as required by Ohio law. Each room in the school has a set of instructions for tornado and fire drill procedures posted by the door. All teachers review and practice these instructions, as well as lock down procedures, with their students during the first week of school.  Fire Drills: During a fire drill, everyone must remain quiet at all times so that any emergency instructions can be heard. Students are to walk rapidly from their classrooms to the designated exits. Everyone must leave the building during a fire drill.  Tornado Drills: During a tornado drill, each teacher directs his or her students to the designated shelter area. The signal for tornado drills is a loud siren.  Lock Down Drills: At least once a year, a level one, two or three, emergency lock down drill is conducted. Teachers will be requested to go into lock down mode and the emergency crisis plan is implemented. When the school is in lock down, no children can be released from the building and no one can enter.

Emergency Evacuation Plans Should a severe emergency arise and evacuation is necessary, elementary students will be bused to Winona Friends and Winona Methodist Churches. Students in grades 4, 5, & 6 will go to Winona Friends and students in grades K, 1, 2 & 3 will go to Winona Methodist.

Emergency Medical Authorization Forms Parents are required by state law to fill out an Emergency Medical Authorization Form. These are kept on file in the office and used in emergency situations. This form will be sent home with your child on the first day of school. It is very important that you fill it out completely, noting any health conditions, medical concerns or current medications and return it the next day. Parents must notify the school immediately if there are changes in any of this information.

Hand Washing Protocol Hand washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is very important to prevent illness and communicable diseases. Students and staff will wash their hands at various times throughout the day. Gel sanitizers may be used in place of hand washing and are available in all classrooms and at various locations in the school.

Illness/Communicable Disease/Injury Please consult your family’s health care provider should your child exhibit signs of illness. To avoid complications, as well to protect the health of fellow students and staff, students having the following communicable diseases should remain out of school for the specified length of time. Please notify your school nurse so appropriate measures to disinfect can be taken if your child is actually diagnosed by your physician with the following: Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) – 24 hours of antibiotic therapy required before return Diarrheal Diseases – Recommend return only after diarrhea free for 24 hours or the diarrhea has been determined noninfectious by your physician Pinworms – Communicable as long as worms are present Ringworm – Communicable as long as lesions are present or exclude until 24 hours of medical treatment has been completed and cover until lesion is gone. No contact sports until healed. Scabies – Communicable until completion of first treatment. Second treatment required in 7 to 10 days. Strep Throat/Scarlet Fever - 24 hours of antibiotic therapy required before return Pertussis (Whooping Cough) – 5 days of antibiotic therapy or clearing of symptoms before return Chickenpox – May return to school when all scabs are crusted Croup/Persistent Cough – Exclude when fevered (greater than 100 degrees F), cough has a brassy or harsh quality, high pitched sound with inhalation, or if your child is uncomfortable. Medical attention is necessary as complications can occur. Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum) – Exclusion is not necessary unless fevered or uncomfortable. Pregnant women should avoid exposure. Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease (Coxsackie virus) – Exclusion is not necessary unless fevered or uncomfortable. Impetigo – Exclude from school until 24 hours of treatment by a physician is completed and sores begin to heal. It is important that students are not sent to school if they experience(d) a fever (100 F or above), vomiting due to illness, diarrhea and/or a persistent cough within the last 24 hours. It is advisable to keep a child home until symptom free for 24 hours without benefit of any medication. If a child comes to school ill, parents will be called.

In the event that a child becomes injured at school, they will be referred to the school nurse. If a minor injury, the student will be treated and returned to class. If medical attention is required, parents or the other contacts listed on the Emergency Medical Authorization Form will be notified by the school nurse or office personnel.

Immunizations The state of Ohio dictates the immunization requirements for entrance into United Local Schools, according to grade level (Ohio Revised Code, Section 3313.671). Required immunizations by school year are available at the Ohio Department of Health website http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/immunizations/immunizationsummary-childcareschool12.ashx.

You may contact the Columbiana County Health Department at 330-424-0274 for appointments for free immunizations if needed. If a parent has a philosophical/religious objection, or the student's physician has a medical objection, an immunization exemption form is available and must be completed each school year. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide the complete immunization record. When transferring from another district, it is recommended that parents request a copy of the immunization record prior to leaving. Ohio law specifies a 14 day grace period after enrollment or after school starts during which time deficient immunizations must be completed or an appointment scheduled. If this is not met, the same law requires expulsion of your child from school until corrected. In addition to the required immunizations, many physicians recommend other vaccines such as Hepatitis A, meningococcal, and the HPV vaccine. Although not required at the current time for school admission, the school nurse is more than willing to update your child's record as these immunizations and other booster doses are given. Please remember that proof of a Tdap immunization is required before entrance into 7th grade. Many students may have already received the vaccine to protect against pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria and simply need to supply proof to the school. Please check with your provider.

Lice United Elementary has a nit free policy for all students. Reporting that a child has lice will be kept as confidential as possible. When cases of lice are confirmed, form letters are sent home telling about lice prevention and treatment. Children are not permitted to return to school or ride the school bus until head lice and/or nits are gone. Following treatment with an approved pediculocide, parents must bring students to school and report to the office to be checked by the school nurse. (More information regarding lice can be found on our school website.)

Medications (ORC 3313.73) Before any prescription or treatment may be administered to a student, the school requires a written statement from a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs accompanied by a written authorization from the parent. Blank documents for orders and signatures are available from the nurse, from the school’s website, or from the office.

Medications must be brought to the school by a parent or guardian in the unopened original container labeled with the student’s name if it’s an over the counter treatment or in a labeled bottle from the pharmacy if it’s a prescribed drug. Your pharmacist will prepare the medication for the school to comply. The nurse or other trained personnel will store and dispense medication as written by the

physician. A parent may administer medication to their child during the school day if needed in the office or the clinic. The nurse may dispense certain over the counter medications, when appropriate, from clinic stock with prior parental approval.

Any student with special needs, such as asthma, diabetes, seizures, or severe allergies, may carry their emergency medications if approved by your physician. This permission shall extend to any activity, event, or program sponsored by the school or in which the school participates. An epinephrine auto injector is required to be kept in the school clinic as backup if the student has permission to carry one. School staff responsible for your child’s care will be notified of their medical alert.

All medications must be picked up at the end of the school year. New physician’s orders/medication paperwork must be completed each school year.

Celebrations at United Elementary ______

We all love to recognize and celebrate birthdays and holidays in class, however, we have to remember that our goal is to provide the children with foods of maximum nutritional value on a regular basis. Although birthdays come only once a year, there may be 20 or more birthdays in each classroom! We also celebrate several holidays and many accomplishments. There is nothing wrong with an occasional treat, but unhealthy choices can easily become the norm rather than the exception. Parties and treats for celebrations, classroom rewards, food fundraisers, and snacks can expose children to high fat, high-sugar, low-nutrient choices.

United Elementary School recognizes the benefits of healthy celebrations!

Please join us in our goal to promote a healthy learning environment by helping to put food in its proper place. Refreshments should complement the fun, not become the "main event"! Please consider non- food options for events and celebrations and provide the children with snacks that are part of a well- balanced diet and give them an extra boost of energy and nutrients.

Guidelines for Food/Snacks For the health, wellness, and safety of all students, the following lists provide guidelines for snacks brought to United Elementary School. This list is exclusive to snacks intended to be shared with other students. Individual student snacks and lunches that are not shared are exempt from this list.

PTO holiday celebrations in the classroom may include one item from the normally not approved list if the classroom teacher agrees to allow it. The teacher must ultimately approve all incoming food since he/she is uniquely aware of the medical needs of the students in their care.

Our school practices strive to ensure food allergies of all the students are known before serving any foods. Unfortunately, students with food allergies are sometimes excluded from activities or experiences in an effort to be safe. With an aware and understanding community, children with food allergies can participate in and benefit from all the great experiences and opportunities that their peers do.

Water or 100% fruit juice is always the preferred drink in the classroom!

Approved Snack Options: Not Approved Snack Options: 1. Fresh/Dried fruit - trays, salads, or kabobs 1. Chocolate(s) 2. Fresh vegetables-trays, salads, or kabobs 2. Candy 3. Pretzels/Baked Lays chips 3. Cake products 4. Soft Pretzels 4. Soda 5. Goldfish™ crackers 5. Cookies 6. Graham crackers 6. Gum 7. String cheese 7. Donuts 8. Popcorn (individual serving bag) 8. Ice Cream 9. Granola bars/Trail mix (peanut free only) 9. Granola Bars w/chocolate or nuts 10. Fat free or low fat Yogurt/Gogurt™ (alone or 10. Any homemade items as dips) 11.100% fruit juice bars, strips, etc. To reduce the possibility of allergen exposure, foods brought into school for sharing and special 12. Pita chips and hummus events must be purchased in stores and have 13. Baked chips (individual serving bag) ingredient list available for inspection

14. Cheez-its (individual serving bag) 11. Any product(s) with nuts 15. Fig/Fruit Newtons™ To reduce the possibility of cross contamination 16. Tortilla chips and salsa contact, foods brought into school for sharing and 17. Sugar-free Jell-0™/Pudding special events must be purchased in stores and NOT be homemade products. 18. Vanilla wafers

19. Dried cereal 20. Pre-packaged cheese & crackers 21. Animal Crackers 22. Whole grain crackers/Wheat Thins 23. Whole grain cereals/cereal bars 24. Light popcorn/Rice cakes 25. Single-serving sugar free fruit cups

26. Graham crackers/Teddy grahams 27. Dried Pumpkin/Sunflower seeds 28. Others approved in advance by School Principal

Classroom Celebrations and Rewards "But it's only a cupcake..." Schools should not only teach children how to make healthy choices and to eat to fulfill nutritional needs, but should also provide an environment that fosters healthy eating. Providing food based on performance or for celebration connects food to mood. This practice can encourage children to eat treats even when they are not hungry and can instill lifelong habits of rewarding or comforting themselves with food behaviors associated with unhealthy eating or obesity.

Please consider non-food fun!

Inexpensive examples of non-food treats that would be welcomed in every classroom: Pencils: colored, with logos or Gift certificates to the school Finger puppets decorations store

Pens Pencil grips or Plastic sliding puzzles Erasers decorations Gliders Notepads/Notebooks Water bottles Tops Stencils NERF Balls Stretchy animals Post it Notes Jump ropes Temporary Tattoos Bookmarks Stickers Magnets Yo-yos Crazy Straws Sunglasses

*Talk with your child's teacher about other possible classroom likes/needs. Again, he/she should be notified in advance that you will be sending a treat.

It's important to provide consistent messaging around food and beverages and healthy eating throughout the school building. Promoting healthy options during meal and snack times while allowing food high in calories, fat, sugar and sodium at celebrations sends youth conflicting messages. Celebrations can include healthy options, but holidays and birthdays can also take on a non-food focus and instead provide opportunities for more play and time to enjoy music, dance, games, sports and other fun activities. Evolving policies and standards around foods and beverages allowed in classrooms creates the opportunity for starting new traditions to celebrate special days throughout the school year. Thank you in advance for your support and cooperation!

For more information see hittp://www.allergyhome.org/schools, https://www.healthiergeneration.org/, http://www.sde.ct.gov/sde/lib/sde/PDF/DEPS/Student/NutritionEd/Healthy Celebrations.pdf, http://sites.google.com/site/unitedelementary/healthy-snack-list

United Elementary Dress Code

In general, dress and grooming should be appropriate for school. It should, at all times, be governed by safety, good sense, good taste, cleanliness and be non-disruptive to the school day. (ORC3313.20) Radical departures from conventional clothing are inappropriate for school attire. Listed below are a few guidelines which will aid parents and students in determining if their clothes are suitable for school. If there is a question of appropriateness, the Principal or Assistant Principal will make the determination. 1. Dresses, shirts, tops or blouses of revealing material or style, or with spaghetti straps or narrow straps are not appropriate for school. The top of shoulders must be covered by at least two inches of material (strap width). This means halter tops and tank tops, including basketball jerseys can not be worn. Clothing which exposes midriffs, lower back, cleavage or underwear is considered inappropriate. 2. Shorts may not be worn over pants. All pants must be worn at the natural waist and be an appropriate size and length. Pants may not drag on the floor or be ripped, torn or frayed. Pajama bottoms are not appropriate. 3. Shorts may not be shorter than midthigh. Fingertip length means the shorts must be below the end of the student’s fingertips when arms are extended down at the student’s side. All shorts must be loose fitting. Tight fitting shorts or spandex material, such as athletic shorts or yoga pants, are not permitted. The layered effect of shorts under regular shorts is not permitted. Shorts with an undergarment style (boxer shorts) are inappropriate. 4. Jewelry, fake fingernails and nail polish should be tasteful and not distracting. Nose rings, pierced body parts (other than earrings), dog collars and chains are not appropriate for school. Glitter on hair or face, as well as excessive makeup, are not appropriate for elementary students. 5. Clothing, patches or jewelry promoting or implying obscenity, violence or hate based violence by words, slogans and/or pictures are not permitted. 6. Clothing must be clean and without holes, rips or tears. Cut off shorts and sweatshirts are not appropriate. 21

7. Skirts or dresses may not be shorter than midthigh. Use the fingertip length test to determine proper length. Extremely tight clothing, including shirts and skirts, are not appropriate at the elementary. 8. Accessories such as sunglasses, bandannas, sweat bands, gloves and arm bands are not appropriate during school. Hats and head coverings, whether worn by girls or boys, must be removed when in the building. Radical hair color and styles (hair must be out of eyes) are not appropriate for school. 9. Coats and jackets that are intended for outdoor wear shall not be worn in the classrooms during the school day. In cases of severe cold or low temperatures, coats may be worn in the classroom at the discretion of the teacher. 10. Shoes and socks are to be worn at all times unless sandals are being worn. Sandals must be secured to their feet. All types of high heels or flip flop shoes are not appropriate or safe for elementary students to wear. Due to damage to the finish on our floors, no sports shoes or turf shoes with plastic, rubber or metal cleats on the bottom are allowed in school. Shoestrings must be tied at all times. 11. Appropriate clothing is necessary in our gym classes. Students must wear clean tennis shoes to gym. Girls should not wear a skirt or dress on gym days. No boots are permitted on the gym floor.

Discipline Expectations and Policy Character, Behavior and Discipline We recognize that elementary students are at an age and developmental stage where they are learning how to act thoughtfully and appropriately in community. United Elementary approaches the formation of character with a teaching mentality. We seek to TEACH desired values and behavior; next to PRACTICE; then to REINFORCE. We constantly seek to reinforce values, such as respect, responsibility, honesty, cooperation and kindness as well as to respond explicitly to negative behaviors. A School-wide Positive Behavior Support System establishes common and consistent expectations for all to follow. Rules and procedures for all areas throughout the building and school day have been developed around a connection with our United Eagle mascot using a SOAR acronym.

S – Safe O – Organized A – Achieve R - Respectful I SOAR because I am….:

Cafeteria Hallway Recess Restrooms Bus

Safe - eat my own food - walk silently, facing - use equipment - wash & dry my - stay seated - keep hands/feet to self forward properly hands before leaving - keep aisles clear - stay seated & get up only - stay in assigned - walk carefully on - keep hands & with permission areas wet floors objects inside bus - use materials appropriately - report problems to a teacher

Organized - bring everything I need - walk with my group - know playground - have permission to use - go directly to bus to lunch in a single file line rules and use them the restroom when dismissed - get everything I need first on the right side of - line up quickly - throw paper towels in - upon arriving go time through the line the hall and safely the trash directly to class - keep track of my belongings

Achieve - make healthy choices - get to my destination - make good choices - have a purpose - make good choices - learn my lunch number in a timely manner - play fair - flush the toilet

Respectful - use good manners - keep hallways neat - include everyone - respect other's privacy - respect the posted - clean up after myself and clean - take turns - take turns rules of the bus - use inside voice - keep a reasonable - show sportsmanship - use quiet voices driver -accept consequences distance between - accept - accept consequences - use kind words without arguing or myself and others consequences without arguing or - accept consequences complaining - keep my hands off without arguing or complaining without arguing or walls and displays complaining complaining - accept consequences without arguing or complaining

The Right to Learn and Enforcement of Rules Each student at United Elementary has the right to participate in a learning environment that is safe, orderly and controlled. Students can and should expect to enjoy this right without disruption by another class member. When students choose to follow rules and procedures and demonstrate self-discipline, acknowledgement will be made. When students choose to ignore these expectations and rules, school personnel will intervene as immediately and directly as advisable, both in and out of class.

Acknowledgements for positive behaviors: Possible disciplinary actions may include: - participation in school activities - verbal warning - public recognition - loss of privilege - privileges - behavioral contract - special events - detention - commendations - administrative referral - Student of the Month & other awards

Classroom Expectations and Conduct: The staff at United Elementary assumes the responsibility of providing students with an appropriate learning environment. Teachers establish and maintain discipline rules in their classrooms which follow our School-wide Behavior Support System. Classroom consequences may range from a verbal warning to an administrative referral.

Infractions of a more serious nature will merit more serious consequences. Acts of behavior that tend to conflict with the educational program, which endanger the welfare of other students, the staff and/or the system cannot be tolerated. Students who repeatedly engage in inappropriate actions will be subject to more severe consequences.

Zero Tolerance Policy The United Local Board of Education has a "zero tolerance" for violent, disruptive, harassing/bullying or other inappropriate behavior by its students, and such behavior is prohibited as set forth in the Student Code of Conduct. (ORC 3313.661)

United Elementary supports the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program and believes that no one should be the object of bullying. Our students and staff follow these rules: 1. We will not bully others. 2. We will try to help others who are bullied. 3. We will include students who are easily left out. 4. When we know someone is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school or an adult at home. 5. Staff, parents and other adults will respond to bullying behaviors.

* Cyber Bullying after school hours should be reported to the proper authorities/Sheriff’s Department.

Offenses that may warrant administrative action: 1. Disruption of school 2. Insubordination - Failure to comply with reasonable requests or directions 3. Fighting, Attack or Assault 4. Threat of Violence or Bodily Injury 5. Dangerous Weapons and Instruments

6. Damage of Property or Vandalism 7. Unauthorized Possession (Theft) 8. Profanity/Obscenity 9. Violation of School Dress Code 10. Bus Misconduct 11. Harassment/Bullying 12. Forgery / Falsification 13. Academic Dishonesty / Cheating* 14. Repeated Violations / On-going Misbehavior 15. Disrespect of School Personnel 16. Physical Aggression 17. Frightening / Degrading Act 18. Excessive Horseplay 19. Tobacco

* Cheating Policy: 1st offense will result in loss of credit 2nd offence will result in loss of credit and after school detention 3rd offence will result in loss of credit and in school suspension

Possible Administrative Actions May Include: 1. Administrative Conference 2. Contract 3. Detention (Lunch or After School) 4. Denial of Privileges 5. In-School or Out-of-School Suspension 6. Emergency Removal 7. Bus Suspension 8. Restitution 9. Expulsion

NOTE: All disciplinary action is at the discretion of the Administration.

Appendix

Enrollment The superintendent shall require that each child who registers for entrance provide: 1. His/her birth certificate 2. A certified copy of any custody order or decree together with any modification in such an order or decree. *If a student is in Foster Care - Foster Care Status Sheet must be completed. 3. Immunization Record (see Health & Safety for list of required immunizations) 4. Proof of Residency, such as a) Mortgage/Bank payment book b) Lease (notarized) c) Utility bills 5. Identification of Parent/Guardian a) Ohio Driver's License b) Ohio I.D. of parent/legal guardian c) Some type of I.D. 6. Acceptance as Open Enrollment Student in accordance with Board Policy

Access to Equal Educational Opportunity It is the policy of the United Local School District to provide an equal opportunity for all students. In the pursuit of equal opportunity, the United Local School District will not discriminate against a student on the basis of race, color, creed, disability, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, place of residence within the boundaries of the District, or social or economic background.

Student Records The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students 18 years or older certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights include:  The right to inspect and review the student's education records.  The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that are believed to be inaccurate and the right to a hearing if the request is not honored.  The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education regarding the alleged violation of FERPA.  The right to consent to the disclosure of personally identifiable information within the student's records, unless disclosure is otherwise authorized by law or unless disclosure is made to school officials with legitimate educational interests. Such officials include district employees and those who are under contract with the district. The following is designated as "directory information" which may be disclosed without prior written consent: a student's name, address, telephone number, date, and extracurricular participation, achievement awards or honors earned, weight and height if a member of an athletic team, photograph, parent names, and previous school or school district. Parents have the right to submit a written request within ten (10) days after receipt of the District's public notice, directing the district not to release directory information concerning their child. (See Board Policy for further details.)

Conceal/Carry Unless otherwise authorized by law, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.122, no person shall knowingly possess, have under the person's control, convey or attempt to convey a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance into a school safety zone.

Custodial/Non-Custodial Parents United Elementary will make every effort to cooperate with parents regarding custody situations and will do so in accordance with Ohio law. It is the parent's responsibility to notify the school of any custodial arrangements and supply the school with a copy of any court order. The school will follow the orders of the court as outlined in the official court document.

Custodial parents must notify the school of any special circumstances, such as restraining orders, that may exist and who is permitted to pick up the student(s) at school. In the case of restraining orders, parents should provide both the child's teacher and the office with a copy of said document.

By law, non-custodial parents, except in the case of a court order indicating otherwise, are entitled to academic information regarding their child. To make receiving this information convenient and consistent, the non-custodial parent should supply his or her child's teacher with an appropriate number of self-addressed stamped envelopes. The non-custodial parent should also specify what information should be sent, choosing from report cards, interim reports, weekly newsletters and monthly calendars. If the non-custodial parent does not want to have the information mailed, two copies of requested items can be sent home with the student.

NOTE: This handbook has been adopted by the United Local Board of Education and does not reflect changes that may occur during the school year. When in doubt, contact the school with questions or check the school website for the most up-to-date information.

ACCEPTABLE USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY FOR THE COMPUTER NETWORK OF THE UNITED LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

The United Local School District is pleased to make available to student’s access to interconnected computer systems within the district and to the Internet, the world-wide network that provides various means of accessing significant educational materials and opportunities. In order for the school district to be able to continue to make its computer network and Internet access available, all students must take responsibility for appropriate and lawful use of this access. Students must understand that one student’s misuse of the network and Internet access may jeopardize the ability of all students to enjoy such access. While the school’s teachers and other staff will supervise student use of network and Internet access, they must have student cooperation in exercising and promoting responsible use of this access. Below is the Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy of the school district and the Data Acquisition Site that provides Internet access to the school district. Upon reviewing, signing, and returning this policy as the students have been directed, each student will be given the opportunity to enjoy Internet access at school because they have agreed to follow the policy. If a student is under 18 years of age, he or she must have his or her parents or guardians read and sign the policy. The school district cannot provide access to any student who, if 18 or older, fails to sign and submit the policy to the school as directed or, if under 18, does not return the policy as directed with the signatures of both the student and his/her parents or guardians. The student (and his/her parents/guardian if he/she is under the age of 18), agree to compensate and hold the Board, Board members, administrators, teachers and any other staff harmless from any and all loss, costs, claims or damages that result from the user’ access to the district’s computer network and Internet including (but not limited to) any fees or charges which are incurred via the purchase of goods or services by the user. Also, the user (or if the user is a minor, his/her parents/guardians) agree to cooperate with the school if the school needs to open an investigation of the user’s use of his/her access to the district’s computer network or on any other kind of computer that resides outside of the district’s network. Listed below are the provisions of your agreement regarding computer network and Internet use. If you have any questions about these provisions, you should contact the administrator of your school. If any user violates this policy, the student’s access will be denied, if not already provided, or withdrawn and he or she may be subject to additional school disciplinary action and legal action, if applicable. Violations may constitute a criminal offense and therefore the violator may be subject to criminal penalties. This policy applies to any and all activity that takes place on either school-owned devices or any personal device(s) that the student is using while accessing the Internet on the district’s Internet connection.

I. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY By signing this policy, you are agreeing not only to follow the rules in this policy, but are agreeing to report any misuse of the network to the person designated by the school for such reporting. Misuse means any violations of this policy or any other use that is not included in the policy, that has the effect of harming another or his or her property. By signing this policy, you are also agreeing that you understand all of the terms and concepts of the policy. If you do not understand any term or concept, you must ask an appropriate teacher or administrator to clarify any confusion. The district will not accept a student’s ignorance or confusion as a defense to a violation of this policy. Any damaged that is incurred as a result of intentional misuse while using any school owned device will be the responsibility of the user and charged to him/her. You are encouraged to report any violation of this policy to the designed school/staff individual.

II. TERM OF THE PERMITTED USE A student who submits to the school, as directed, a properly signed policy and follows the policy to which she or he has agreed will have computer network and Internet access during the course of the school year only. Students will be asked to sign a new Policy each year during which they are students in the school district before they are given an access account. Use of the school district’s computer network and Internet connection is a privilege, not a right.

III. ACCEPTABLE USES a) Educational Purposes Only: The school district is providing access to its computer networks and the Internet for only educational purposes. If you have any doubt about whether a contemplated activity is educational, you are instructed to consult with the person(s) designated by the school to help you decide if a use is appropriate. b) Unacceptable Uses of Network: The uses that are considered unacceptable and which constitute a violation of this policy include, but are not limited to the following: 1. Allowing another individual to use his/her network account/password to access the computer network or Internet. 2. Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law. 3. Transmitting offensive threatening, intimidating or harassing messages. 4. Offering for sale or use any substance (including, but not limited to drugs, alcohol or tobacco) the possession or use of which is prohibited by the school district’s Student Discipline Policy.

5. Viewing, posting, transmitting or downloading obscene, sexually explicit, vulgar or pornographic materials; intrude into the networks or computers of others. 6. Transmitting, downloading or posting any joke, picture or other material which are derogatory based upon a person’s race, gender, age, color, religion, national origin or sexual orientation. 7. Transmitting, downloading or posting message or any kind of other content of which a reasonable person would consider to be harassing, threatening, demeaning, disruptive or in any way inconsistent with the policies of the school district. 8. Transmitting, downloading or posting material that promotes violence or supports the destruction of property, which includes (but is not limited to) access of information that is related to the manufacturing of destructive devices. 9. Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property, including the property of the district. For example, don’t engage in defamation (harming another’s reputation by lies); use someone else’s password or some other user identifier that misleads message recipients into believing that someone other than you is communicating or otherwise using his/her access to the network or the Internet; upload a worm, virus, “trojan horse”, “time bomb” or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participate in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems. 10. Uses that jeopardize the security of student access and of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. 11. Uses that are commercial transactions. Students and other users may not sell or buy anything over the Internet. You should not give others private information about yourself or others, including credit card numbers and social security numbers. 12. Uses that violate any Board policy or guidelines, student code of conduct, or any other rules or regulations applicable to student conduct. 13. Uses that violate copyright laws applicable or any kind of illegal publication to any form of media or material, including but not limited to those that govern computer software, music, text or images. Even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, you should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them. 14. The downloading of freeware or shareware programs. 15. Posting, sending or otherwise transmitting any photograph of a student of the District, including yourself, to any Web site, Web page, chat room or electronic bulletin board system without approval from a supervising teacher or appropriate administrator. This list of prohibited uses is not exhaustive and is not to be construed to restrict the district in any way from taking appropriate disciplinary action should an inappropriate use occur that does not fall into one of the categories above.

C) Netiquette: All users must abide by rules of network etiquette, which include the following: Be polite. Use appropriate language. No swearing, vulgarities, suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or threatening language. Do not transmit any confidential information concerning others and take care to make sure that you protect against negligent disclosure of such information.

Avoid language and uses which may be offensive to other users. Don’t use access to make, distribute, or redistribute jokes, stories, or other material which is based upon slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sex, disability or sexual orientation. Any district policies against sexual harassment or any other kind of discrimination/harassment also apply to any kind of communication done on school computer/network systems.

Don’t assume that a sender of email is giving his or her permission for you to forward or redistribute the message to third parties or to give his/her e-mail to third parties. This should only be done with permission or when you know that the individual would have no objection.

Be considerate when sending attachments with email (where this is permitted). Be sure that the file is not too large to be accommodated by the recipient’s system and is in a format which the recipient can open.

D) Privacy: All data that is stored or accessed by a student on a school owned device can and will be monitored. Should there be a need to access any data, students will not have any privacy guarantee to such data. Students should not expect any level of privacy in regards to any content in their district-issued e-mail accounts; any district e-mail account is subject to be searched at any time, without any kind of prior notice by district officials. District e-mail account should be used for approved educational purposes ONLY. All policies, rules and regulations which apply to the use of the district’s computers, network and Internet connection apply equally to the use of district-issued e-mail accounts no matter if they are accessed via the district’s computers, network or Internet connection.

IV. INTERNET SAFETY General Warning re: Individual Responsibility of Parents and Users - All users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school-aged pupils. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use of the computer network and Internet and stay away from these sites. If a student finds that other users are visiting offensive or harmful sites, he or she should report such use to the person designated by the school. The district will educate minors about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response. The Superintendent/designee will develop a program to educate students on these issues.

Annually, any student who wishes to have computer network and Internet access during the school year must read the acceptable use and Internet safety policy and submit a properly signed agreement form. 29

United Local Elementary School…building LEADERS one student at a time.

UNITED ELEMENTARY PARENT SIGNATURE & UPDATE PAGE

2017/2018

My child and I have read and discussed the United Elementary handbook.

Student's name ______Date ______

Teacher ______

______Student signature Parent/Guardian signature

Refusal to authorize student inclusion in any pictures or videos. _____My child is NOT permitted to have his/her picture taken for a newspaper article, website or school related activity. ------Contact Information Update Date ______*If any of the information below has changed please fill out this form and return to the school.

Parent/Guardian Name______Student Name______

Student Address______

Cell Phone #______Old Cell Phone #______Contact Name______

Home Phone #______Old Home Phone #______Contact Name______

Work Phone # ______Old Work Phone # ______Contact Name ______

Additional Student(s): 1. ______Grade___ 4. ______Grade___

2. ______Grade___ 5. ______Grade___

3. ______Grade___ 6. ______Grade___

______(Parent/Guardian)

**If additional discussion is necessary about any of these changes, please contact the office at (330) 223-8001.

Parent Notification System Our Education Connection phone service will quickly notify all parents/guardians by phone in the event that school is cancelled or if there is an emergency requiring an early dismissal, so it is imperative that we have updated contact information. Periodically, reminders of upcoming events such as parent-teacher conferences will also be given using this system.

* Please sign, tear out and return this page to the homeroom teacher. 32