A Guide for Families

Russell Cave Elementary 2012-2013

Principal: Betsy Rutherford

3375 Russell Cave Road Lexington, KY 40511 859-381-3571

www.russellcave.fcps.net Welcome to Russell Cave Elementary

Whether this is your first or fifth year at Russell Cave, this book is intended to help you. We have developed this guide in order to help you answer practical questions. After reading it, we think that you’ll see why we believe Russell Cave is one of the best-kept secrets in Fayette County. We know that you will come to love Russell Cave Elementary as much as we do. We look forward to having a wonderful school year. If you ever have any questions, please feel free to contact the school. Have a wonderful year! Table of Contents 1. Calendars  2012-2013 Schedule of Activities  SBDM, Title I Parent Nights and PTA schedules 2. School Information  School Hours, Phone Numbers, Website  Mission and Belief Statements  History of Russell Cave  Guidelines for Success 3. Discipline and Reward System  Classroom Management Policy  Dress Code Policy 4. Student Evaluations.  Report cards, Midterm reports and conferences 5. Cafeteria  Cost for children and adults (breakfast too); cafeteria accounts  Free/Reduced Lunch Program 6. Health  Notes for absences, need for doctor’s notes  Medications at school  Judging a sickness; signing out a sick child  Nurse on Duty  Vision and Hearing Screenings 7. Transportation Procedures  Drop off and pick up procedures  Dismissal  Bus Tags 8. Weather  Snow Days; Make-up Days  Outside Play  Emergency Management Plan 9. Programs  Academic Support; Emotional, Behavioral and Gifted Needs  Student Technology Leadership Program  Orchestra and Band  Morning News 10. Extra Curricular Activities  Academic Team  Dance Team  Chorus/Keyboarding  Drama Club  Book Club  Arts and Humanities Club  Science Club 11. Special Courses  Arts and Humanities  Library/Drama  Practical Living  Technology  Science Lab  Music

12. Family Resource Center 13. Policies  Parent Involvement Policy  Visitors to the School  Curriculum  Wellness/Nutrition  Schedule of the school day  Use of school space  Student Assignment  Writing Portfolio  Technology

1. Calendar 2012-2013 Calendar of Events / Calendario de Eventos August/Agosto 2012 9 Open House at Russell Cave 5:30-7:30 p.m./ Recepcion Escuela Abierta 5:30-7:30 p.m. 15 First Day of School/Primer Día de Escuela 16 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 24 No Classes for Students/No hay clases September/Septiembre 2012 3 Labor Day (FCPS closed)/Día del Trabajo-Feriado No hay clases 13 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 20 Fall Festival at Russell cave 5:30-7:30 P.M./ Festival de Otoño en la Russell Cave 5:30-7:30 P.M. October/Octubre 2012 12 No Classes for Students/No hay clases 15 No Classes for Students/No hay clases 18 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 25 Parent / Teacher Conferences / Noche de conferencias de padres y maestros 23- 31 Red Ribbon Week / Semana de la Cinta Roja November/Noviembre 2012 6 No Classes for Students/No Hay Clases 8 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 15 Starry Night at Russell Cave 5:30-7:30 p.m. / "Nocke Estrellada" en la Russell Cave originalmente llamado "PAC night" 5:30-7:30 p.m. 21- 23 No Classes/Thanksgiving Holiday / Feriado no hay clases -Dia de Accion de Gracias December/Diciembre 2012 13 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 20 Parent Night (Performance) / Noche de Familia ( Presentaciones) 21 Winter Break Begins (End of 1st Semester) Comienzan las Vacaciones de Invierno (Terminan el Primer Semestre) January/Enero 2013 2 Classes resume (Begin 2nd Semester)/Retorno a clases (Empieza el Segundo Semestre) 17 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 21 Martin Luther Kings, Jr. Holiday (no school)/ Feriado MLK Jr.( No hay clases) 24 Parent / Teacher Conferences / Noche de conferencias de padres y maestros February/Febrero 2013 7 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 8 No Classes (Possible weather make up day) No hay clases (Posible dia de recuperacion de clases en caso del mal clima) 18 No Classes President's Day/ Feriado no hay clases - Dia del Presidente 21 Starry Nigh at Russell Cave 5:30-7:30 p.m./"Noche Estrellada" en la Russell Cave originalmente llamado "PAC night" 5:30-7:30 p.m. March/Marzo 2013 14 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 15 No Classes / No hay clases 21 Parent / Teacher Conferences / Noche de conferencias de padres y maestros 1st- April/Abril 2013 5th Spring Break / Vacaciones de Primavera 18 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 25 Starry Night at Russell Cave 5:30-7:30 p.m. / "Nocke Estrellada" en la Russell Cave originalmente llamado "PAC night" 5:30-7:30 p.m. May/Mayo 2013 16 PTA Meeting 3:00-SBDM Meeting 4:00 / Reunion de PTA 3:00 - Reunion de SBDM 4:00 24 Last Day of School for students / Ultimo dia de clases para los estudiantes

Title 1-Family Nights Family Nights will be scheduled this school year to allow parents to learn more about specific curriculum and goals set for their child’s grade. Teachers, school staff and FRC will provide valuable information that will help keep you on top of your child’s learning as well as to help you support your child at home. Details will be sent home as the nights approach. Please be sure to attend all Title 1 Family Nights. All family nights are held at the school on the last Thursday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Schedule of Title 1 Family Nights

 August 9, 2012 Open House  September 20, 2012 Fall Festival  October 25, 2012 Parent/Teacher Conference Night  November 15, 2012 Starry Nights  December 20, 2012 Performance Night  January 24, 2013 Parent/Teacher Conference Night  February 21, 2013 Starry Nights  March 21, 2013 Parent/Teacher Conference Night  April 25, 2013 Starry Nights

Other Events:

At publication time, many events have been planned but not firmly scheduled. News on the following events will appear in the school newsletter and on the school marquee.

 Arts and Humanities Show Cases  Scholastic Book Fairs  Field/Fun Day  Career Day  Arts Day

Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Meetings General meetings of the PTA are held in the cafeteria a minimum of four times a year. All parents are encouraged to join PTA and attend all meetings. Meetings will be held at 3:00 p.m. the 3rd Thursday of each month (before SBDM). Meeting notices will appear in the school newsletter, along with a tentative agenda and news regarding childcare during the meeting.

School Based Decision Making Council (SBDM)

The SBDM Council meets once a month, or more if necessary, to discuss issues of funding, policy and procedure. The council meetings are open to parents and/or guardians of Russell Cave students. The meetings are generally conducted in the library at 4:00 p.m. on the 3rd Thursday of each month except for December and February. The December meeting will be conducted the 2nd Thursday at 4:00 p.m. and the February meeting will be held on the first Thursday at 4:00 p.m. The meetings are listed below, but reminders will be issued in the school newsletter, Channel 13 as well as on the marquee.

The meetings schedule for PTA and SBDM are as follows: PTA Meetings at 3:00 in the Cafeteria SBDM Meetings at 4:00 in the Library

August 16, 2012 September 13, 2012 October 18, 2012 November 8, 2012 December 13, 2012 January 17, 2013 February 7, 2013 March 14, 2013 April 18, 2013 May 16, 2013 2. School Information

School Hours: 7:45am-2:35pm (School opens at 7:15am)

Important School Contacts All can be reached by calling 859-381-3571  Principal: Betsy Rutherford  PSA: Mary Benson/Marci Casey  Secretary: Wanda Collins  Bookkeeper: Ann Wilson  Title I Social Worker: Julia Bennington  School Nurse:  Family Resource Center: Cathy Sutphen o 859-381-3574 (se habla espanol)  Cafeteria Manager: Illa Thurmond  Library: Dottie Fields

Web Site: www.russellcave.fcps.net

This website contains a staff listing, links to staff e-mail, a calendar of upcoming events, the school menu, minutes of the most recent PTA and SBDM meetings, photos and descriptions of recent school events, among other things. It also contains links to many educational sites. Mission Statement: The mission of Russell Cave Elementary School is to ensure that all children learn at high levels

Belief Statement: We believe that every child that attends Russell Cave Elementary can and will learn at high levels. History of Russell Cave Elementary

Russell Cave Elementary School started as a one-room school house constructed prior to 1900 on Mt. Brilliant's Farm, and was named for a cave that was located on the farm. Russell Cave High School was constructed on the school's present site on Russell Cave Road in 1916. The building was destroyed by fire in the spring of 1926, and the students attended classes first in a tent and then in a barn until the school was rebuilt. Russell Cave became an elementary school in the early 1950's and has since been renovated. Russell Cave Guidelines for Success The guidelines for success are introduced to all students at the beginning of the school year and practiced by everyone at Russell Cave on a daily basis.

Responsible for Self Considerate of others Excellent in academics Successful in life

3. Discipline and Reward Systems Classroom Management and Discipline Policy Adopted by SBDM 10/21/2010

The Ticket System at Russell Cave is as follows:  Mustang Flag-Perfect   Green- Great  Yellow- Warning  Red-Caution  Blue-Danger  Levels of Misbehavior: Level 1:  Level 1 may include behaviors that are performed more than once (i.e. tapping pencils, talking, not listening, need reminding) these actions are not defiant, so they can be corrected with proximity control and warnings. They can be considered “teachable moments”. Note: Tickets will not be pulled for not having homework Level 2:  At this level, behaviors have become defiant or include pushing, cussing out loud, and back talking (especially after many warnings have been given). These behaviors mostly include not following school wide and classroom rules.  The purpose of pulling tickets for level 2s and documenting is to note which students need to be referred to the SBIT team and keep teachers accountable in parent communication. Keep up with rewarding students; this will get rid of a lot of behavior problems. Level 3:  Behaviors at this level may include having weapons, fighting; severe bullying that has not been solved by mediation or other warnings.  Level 3 form goes immediately to the office with the student.  *If you make a 4th Level 2, clip them together and the student takes them immediately to the office. Immediately a level 3.

Documentation Instructions: 1. Each teacher (specials/classroom) will have a brown accordion FOUNDATIONS folder with a blue folder inside labeled “Behavior incident forms”. Therefore, all behavior forms/Foundations forms are together and consistent school-wide. 2. When a student reaches blue, staff members should fill out the behavior form (level 2), located on SharePoint. E-mail a copy to the principal, PSA and Guidance Specialist. Also print two copies, one to send home to parents and one to keep in the teacher’s file. This keeps open communication between teacher/parent. This is a FYI referral to let principal know what is going on in the classroom. 3. When a child is doing a Level 1 behavior, but does it defiantly (time after time), it becomes a level 2. When documenting Level 2 behaviors, please indicate the infraction on the weekly behavior monitoring chart. This chart should accompany the class to all areas of the building. (i.e. specials, cafeteria, etc.) 4. Consequences for card flips are as follows:  Yellow-1 minute Time-Out/Cool Off  Red-3 Minute Time-Out/Cool Off  Blue-think Sheet and 5 Minute Time-Out/Cool Off. These consequences are to be used in conjunction with in-class consequences and incentives as directed by the teacher.

Russell Cave Routines 1. GRAB AND GO BREAKFAST: Students will “grab” their breakfast from cafeteria staff in front hallway and then “go” to class. Students will eat while working on morning work and dispose of trash and food in correct manner in classroom. 2. BATHROOM BREAKS: Go as a whole class twice a day so students aren’t leaving during instructional time as often (unless there is an emergency). This will cut down on playing in bathrooms/hallways. 3. CHAMP ALL PARTS OF SCHOOL: This will remind teachers and introduce our CHAMPS procedures to new teachers. 4. BEHAVIOR CHART: Classroom teachers are responsible for taking their weekly behavior monitoring chart to all areas of the building. This will aid in correct documentation of behaviors. Reinforcements used at Russell Cave:  Star Student  Birthdays  Special Area classes  CHAMPS Bucks  CHAMP’s Bucks Store  Nine Week Assemblies  Principal Shining Star Awards  Academic Technology Programs  Cafeteria  “Hollas” After School Detention Guidelines:  Parent/Guardian will be notified of their child’s misbehavior.  Teachers will escort students to the detention area with appropriate work by 2:45pm. The student will remain in detention until 3:45pm.  Students assigned to after school detention are expected to reflect on their behavior, work productively, stay on task.  If transportation cannot be arranged for the date assigned, the after school detention will be reassigned for another day within the week.  Parents are required to pick up their children from after school detention at the front door at 3:34 p.m. Students will not be dismissed early from an after school detention. Dress Code Policy Accepted by SBDM: April 2006 Amended 9/26/2011

Appropriate attire and acceptable appearance strongly correlate with school success. Russell Cave Elementary School students are expected to be neatly dressed and well groomed at all times. Other than on a theme day, the following is a description of generally acceptable attire for students who attend RCE:  Students may not wear garments with obscenities, vulgarities, profane language, double meanings, alcohol or cigarette advertisements, or ethnic or racially stereotypical language or pictures.  Students may not wear pants or shirts that sag below the smallest area of their waist. There cannot be any part of an undergarment revealed. Long shirts or sweaters will not later this requirement.  Students may not wear any clothing that is deemed too revealing by the teacher and/or principal. (Examples are: short shorts, tight shirts, plunge cut dresses or shirts, shirts that expose midriff, or any tank top without a shirt underneath.)  Students may not wear hats or sunglasses while inside the building.  Students may not wear footwear such as flip-flops or clogs that could cause injury.  Students may not wear facial jewelry except in the ear.  Other dress considered by teachers or principal to be inappropriate, unsafe or distracting.

Consequences of Violating Dress Code: st  1 offense: Warning by the teacher with a telephone call to parent/guardian from the homeroom teacher. nd  2 offense: Warning with a telephone call to parent/guardian from the Principal, PSA or Child Guidance Specialist and requesting parent to bring a change of clothes. rd  3 offense: Telephone call to parent/guardian from the Principal requesting a change of clothes and after school detention.

Note: Students will be required to correct their dress with each violation. 4. Student Evaluations Progress reports marking the current level of achievement are sent home at the end of each nine weeks. Please be sure to sign all report cards and return a copy of them to the teacher. A copy will be returned to you. Teachers offer two parent-teacher conferences at the end of the first and second nine weeks. It is highly recommended that parents set a time to meet with the teacher to discuss student progress. At the end of the 3rd nine weeks, the school will offer student-led conferences where students have the opportunity to share all that they are learning. If you would like to talk with the teacher during the 3rd nine weeks, please schedule a conference with them. Parents may request a conference at any time outside of these conference periods. Do not hesitate to ask for additional conferences. 5. Cafeteria Cafeteria Manager: Illa Thurmond

Breakfast Paid (K-12): $1.35 Reduced Price: $ .30 Full assistance: Free Milk: $ .60 Adults: $1.75

Lunch Paid (K-12): $2.15 Reduced Price: $ .40 Full assistance: Free Milk: $ .60 Adults: $3.50

Cafeteria Accounts: Every student is automatically given an “account” in the cafeteria computer system, which also lists their food allergies. To put money in the account, send a check (payable to Russell Cave Cafeteria) or cash to school. Make sure you put your child’s name on the envelope and mark it “Cafeteria”. The money will be deposited into your child’s account. You will need to add money to the account throughout the year, but may send it in any increments you like. For siblings, you may write one check and indicate how you would like the money split. Any money left on the account will be rolled over to the next school year, either at RCE or at a local middle school. You may receive a refund if you are moving out of the district.

Charges: Students May not charge snacks sold in the cafeteria. In the event that a lunch needs to be charged so your child may eat, you will be notified and responsible to pay.

Mealpay Plus: On line prepayment system.

Please be sure to fill out the free/reduced lunch application at the beginning of the school year. All families are asked to fill one out. You could be charged and held responsible for these charges until free/reduced lunch application is received. 6. Health Notes for Absences: Within 3 days of your child returning to school after a period of illness, please send a note explaining their absence to the teacher. Please include the following: current date, student’s first and last name, teacher’s name, the date(s) of the absence, the reason for the absence and the parent/guardian signature. Up to 10 absences for illness may be excused with a parent note. After that, a doctor’s note is required. Calling the office to let them know a student is out sick helps with tracking attendance; it does not replace a written note.

Medications at school: Prescription medications may be dispensed by the school with written parental consent. Parents need to come to the school office to fill out a consent form and deliver the medication. Medication must be in the original prescription bottle. Prescriptions must clearly state student’s name, dosage and the doctor’s instructions. The office must know if your child needs to carry or have emergency access to an emergency item such as an inhaler or EpiPen. With the exception of such items, students may not carry medication. Medications should not be shared. Parents wishing to dispense medication themselves should come to the office and check in.

Nurse on Duty: A nurse is available to the students at Russell Cave Elementary. When the nurse is not available, office staff will make your child feel comfortable while he/she is waiting to be picked up. They will also apply general first aid (Band-Aids, etc.). Some teachers and staff have also received formal training in First Aid and CPR.

Should my child stay home today? According to the Health Department guidelines, students who are running a fever of 100 degrees or above should stay home, as fevers often indicate a contagious infection. Students with vomiting or diarrhea should also stay home for at least 24 hours after the last episode. If you suspect chicken pox, check with a doctor. Students do not have to miss school for a slight cold, but heavy congestion or coughing will surely make them feel miserable, as well as contribute to spreading the virus. Consider how well you think they will perform given their symptoms or the medications they are taking. Students with strep must stay home until they have been on prescribed antibiotics for 24 hours. Please notify the office of strep throat, chicken pox, pink eye or any other contagious illness as soon as you can.

Signing out a sick child: Come to the school office. Sick students are usually in the first aid room. If not in the first aid room, students will be called to the office upon parent arrival. Parents must sign the student exit log before retrieving your student and leaving the building.

Vision and Hearing Screenings: Vision and hearing screenings are provided free-of-charge to certain grades during set times of the year. You will receive more information about these screenings once the dates have been set. Screenings only identify potential problems and recommend follow-up where needed. 7. Transportation

Drop Off Procedures- Car riders must enter the drive through lane, stop at the crosswalk and wait for directions from RCE staff member. Cars may not be in bus lanes at any time.

Pick Up Procedures Busses will load first. Cars will only be permitted behind busses. Car riders will be dismissed after bus dismissal and with a car rider tag. If you need a tag, please contact the office.

Dismissal Procedures Bus riders will be dismissed by bus over the intercom. Students will line up in the hallway and wait to be escorted to their bus. Car riders will be dismissed after bus riders.

Bus Tags: □ Every student must have a tag in order to get on the bus □ Bus tags will now be computerized in addition to color coded. □ The original bus tag that is issued will be at no charge. Any replacement tags will be $3.00 each. No Exceptions. This is a district rule and applies to every student. □ Your child must take care of this tag!!

Drop-off and Pick-up after 7:45 and before 2:35 □ Parent must come to office □ Must sign student Entry/Exit log □ Will count as a tardy/absent □ NO CHANGES IN TRANSPORTATION WITHOUT WRITTEN NOTIFICATION. THIS IS A DISTRICT RULE!!! NO EXCEPTIONS. 8. Weather: Snow Days: Snow days (and any other closure for bad weather) are announced by It’s About Kids Support Services (IAKSS) no later than 5:00am that morning. The IAKSS releases school closing information to the local TV and radio stations. All local news shows and Channel 13 display the information. You may also receive a computerized telephone call from the district office. Make sure your phone numbers are updated.

Days missed due to bad weather are generally made up by adding days back to the calendar, and/or by adding days on at the end of the school year. Attendance on make-up days is mandatory.

Parent tip-when scheduling summer vacations and appointments, you may want to consider the possibility of make-up days, and give yourself a week buffer after the original closing date of school.

Outside Play: Students will go outside and play as long as the weather permits, as the fresh air provides much needed exercise and stimulation. Please dress your child as if he or she might be going outside for exercise; warm coats, hats or hoods and gloves/mittens are essential once winter begins. Children will not be permitted to play outside if the temperature is below 32 degrees.

Emergency Management Plan: As part of the emergency management plan, students regularly practice severe weather drills, in addition to fire and earthquake drills. Non-weather drills, such as bus evacuations and lockdowns, are also practiced periodically. 9. Programs Russell Cave has developed unique programs and provided services to help students with diverse needs and abilities.

Academic Support: In addition to its teachers during the regular school day, Russell Cave has received a grant to provide additional academic support to students in need during through an after-school program. This program will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:00-5:00pm starting in September and ending in March. Other teams that provide academic support during school hours are the ESL team and Special Education team. If you have additional concerns regarding your student’s academic progress please contact your child’s teacher or the school PSA.

Emotional or Behavioral Support: Parents whose children have emotional or behavioral needs may take advantage of the school’s guidance office to create a learning model that best suits their child. Parents are also encouraged to work with the teachers in setting goals, exploring rewards and discipline and examining teaching methods which best address their child’s needs. For further information please contact the school guidance teacher or the Title I social worker.

Gifted Students: Primary students K-3 with special academic abilities may be allowed to participate in the primary talent pool. Fourth and fifth graders who meet certain test scores and other criteria may be asked to join the Gifted and Talented program. These programs meet weekly during school and focus on challenging logic skills, exploring new themes, improving writing and learning research methods. Eligibility criteria and program information can be obtained from the school gifted instructor.

Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP): The Student Technology Leadership Program is an extra curricular club available to all fifth grade students. Students involved in STLP will be responsible for the daily presentation of WRCE, the Russell Cave daily news and maintenance and cleaning of technology items throughout the building. In addition, students will be working on an annual project incorporating technology which is presented at the district STLP competition. A key part of STLP is Leadership. Students involved in STLP are not only participating in technology activities, but are expected to be school leaders in every way.

Orchestra and Band Fourth and fifth grade students have the opportunity to participate in orchestra. Orchestra meets 2 times per week and allows students to begin to develop musical interests and abilities that they may carry with them throughout life. Band is available to 5th grade students 2 times per week also and is a great way for students to get involved and try something new. 10. Extra Curricular Activities

 Academic Team  Chess Club  Chorus/Music  Science Club  STLP  Art Club  Debate Team  Drama  Dance Team

Additional clubs may be available throughout the year. You will be informed of these opportunities, dates and times of meetings through weekly classroom newsletters as well as the Mustang Monthly. Students may not be involved in 2 clubs that meet on the same day at the same time. They must choose one club. However, they will be allowed to participate in more than one club if meetings are held on different days. It is the responsibility of the parent to pick up their child from meetings at the appropriate time. Failure to do so could result in your child being eliminated from participation. 11. Special Courses

Arts and Humanities: In the arts & humanities classroom, students will have the opportunity to explore the arts through hands-on activities. Students will create works of art using various media and techniques, such as painting, print- making, and pottery. Students will have the opportunity to experience music through singing, listening, and playing instruments. In addition to producing original art and music, students will learn content specific vocabulary that will allow them to discuss and describe their creations. Learning about the arts gives students a window onto the rich and interesting world around them, teaching them about their own history and culture, as well as those of other people. For further information please contact the Arts and Humanities teacher: Kari Reckart

Practical Living: During practical living time students have the opportunity to participate in physical activity as well as learn about health issues, personal hygiene, careers, nutrition, recycling, and many other practical real world topics. Practical Living promotes the overall concept of good health and focuses on the well-known link between physical activity and good health. For further information please contact the Practical Living Teacher: Abby Jackson

Library/Drama: One of the primary purposes of the students’ visits to the library is to take home new books to read. Students check out books on a weekly basis and are taught responsibility through the check and return procedures. Library books are the responsibility of the borrower; if books are damaged or lost the student or family may be asked to pay for their replacement. Library time also consists of exposure to elements of drama which can be found in most great literature. Additionally students will learn basic research skills that they can carry over into the classroom and throughout life. For further information, please contact the school Library/Media specialist: Dottie Fields.

Technology: Each day the use of technology increases in our society. Students need to be prepared with real world skills for using and understanding technology. Students attend one hour of technology instruction during each four day rotation. During this time students will be using various forms of software (i.e. Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Kidspiration), Internet, and hardware (i.e. computers, digital cameras, video cameras). All technology work will be based on science and/or social studies curriculum that is being taught in the regular classroom. This provides students multiple opportunities for exposure to the same content by varying the presentation. For further information, please contact the Technology Specialist: Pamela Hambrick

Science Lab: Beginning this year, Russell Cave students will all have the opportunity to receive science instruction through a hands-on science lab. When students go to science lab they will complete experiments, learn about the scientific method and process. While learning important core content for science, students will also develop a love for asking questions and learning about the world around them. For further information please contact Science Lab Teacher: Julie Jones 12. Family Resource Center Coordinator: Cathy Sutphen (859)381-3574

Family support programs occur in a community where resources, leadership, and caring come together in response to real problems and real opportunities. Often families need support to encourage their children's success in school. Recognizing the importance of the total family in high academic performance and educational success, Family Resource and Youth Service Centers (FRYSC) were created and implemented to assist families and children meet national and state academic standards.

The resource centers were included in The Kentucky Education Reform Act of 1990. The centers' mission is to enhance students' abilities to succeed in school, assisting students and their families with access to community programs and/or information about programs. The mission of FRYSC'S is to create community partnerships that are dedicated to helping students and their families overcome problems that keep students from succeeding in school. FRYSC'S coordinate existing family and youth support services

Se habla español 14. Policies

Parent Involvement Policy for Russell Cave School 2010-11

At Russell Cave School, we believe it is important for our school staff, the community and families to work together. We also believe this will lead to a successful learning experience for each child. The Russell Cave Parent Involvement Policy has been developed by and agreed on by the parents* and school staff. So that all visitors may read the policy, it will be posted in the school hallway. A school newsletter, as well as the school web site, will include the policy. Any suggestions for revisions will be considered in future meetings. In order to ensure strong communication between home and school, Russell Cave School, with the assistance of the Family Resource Center, will provide the following:  A fall Open House where parents meet their child’s teacher, learn about the requirements of the Title I School wide Program, sign the Parent-School Learning Compact, and will be introduced to the curriculum expectations for that grade level.  Additional meetings for parents that explain and provide information about the State’s academic content standards, the State student achievement standards and local academic assessments with an emphasis on strategies and materials to help parents and teachers work together toward improving student achievement.  Varied times scheduled for parent conferences and parent meetings to accommodate the schedules of more parents.  A minimum of two scheduled parent conferences, with one being a student led conference, to discuss student progress, test information, suggestions for student improvement and concerns the teacher or parent may have. Conferences are offered at various times to better meet parent schedules.  Materials and parent training workshops to help parents learn strategies to help improve student achievement.  A Parent-School Learning Compact reviewed and revised by parents and school staff. It will specify responsibilities that parents, school staff and students have for improved student achievement.  Newsletters informing parents of grade level expectations, parenting tips and suggestions, parent activities, programs, and other school-related information. Invitations will be sent two weeks in advance of meetings and followed by an additional reminder.  A minimum of two meetings during the school year inviting parents to help plan, review and make suggestions to improve the Parent-School Learning Compact, Parent Involvement Policy, and the Title I Program.  A parent survey of the Title I School wide Program to encourage parent evaluation and also parent input concerning topics for meetings along with suggestions for convenient meeting times. Every effort will be made to ensure all information in this school policy is in a format and language the parents can understand. Title I funds may be used to pay expenses such as transportation, child care, translation fees or home visit expenses when necessary to enable parents to attend school-wide meetings and training workshops. Parents and the community are invited to visit Russell Cave School and make suggestions to improve our school. A working partnership between Russell Cave Staff and Russell Cave Parents can help improve our school and help guide our students to become successful learners. *parents, when used in this document, also refer to a child’s caretaker or legal guardian RUSSELL CAVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Alignment with Kentucky Common Core Academic Standard Policy January 24, 2012

1. The school shall organize all instructional and other activities to be aligned with Kentucky Common Core Standards established in state laws and regulations in a manner that is consistent with Fayette County School Board policy. 2. The school shall utilize technology in a manner consistent with Fayette County School Board policy and state laws and regulations 3. The school shall appraise all programs in a manner that is consistent with Fayette County School Board policy. Programs shall be appraised upon request of the SBDM Council by assigning the program appraisal to the appropriate committee for completion and recommendation to the council. 4. It shall be the responsibility of the principal to ensure that all SBDM Council procedures and policies are consistent with local school board policy. Russell Cave Elementary Consultation in Filling Vacancies

Proposed January 2012 SBDM Approved 1/19/2012

The school council shall be consulted prior to the principal’s selection of personnel to fill all non-principal school-based vacancies that shall occur in the school.

A vacancy occurs when a staff member retires, resigns, is dismissed, is not offered contract renewal, accepts a transfer to a position outside the school, dies, or if a new position is created at the school and the Superintendent has declared a vacancy. When a vacancy occurs, the following sequence shall be followed:

1. An interview committee including the principal shall be formed. The Russell Cave Elementary School- Based Decision Making Council believes that in order to have a positive selection process of qualified applicants for a vacancy, it is very important to involve parents, faculty, and support staff, when appropriate, within the selection process. A good faith effort will be made by the Principal to ensure that a parent member of the Council and a teacher from the field of the vacancy will have the opportunity to participate in the interview process. 2. The interview committee shall prepare a list of questions which shall be used with all candidates. These questions shall be prepared prior to interviewing any candidate. 3. The principal shall review written/electronic applications and select up to three candidates including school transfers to be interviewed from the pool of candidates previously screened by Fayette County Public Schools Office of Human Resources, consistent with district personnel policies. The principal will review references of the selected candidates. 4. The committee shall interview the candidates and upon completion of such interviews shall rank candidates or request additional candidates to be interviewed. 5. The principal shall present this information in consultation with the Site-Based Decision Making Council. After consultation, the principal shall make the final decision and submit the name of the candidate by Personnel Action Form to the Office of Planning and Budget. Planning and Budget will submit this information to the superintendent as required by KRS 160.345 (2) (h).

All timelines will be shortened when a position is required immediately due to the needs of the students, or the availability of candidates.

The committee and the principal shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, race, creed, marital status, political affiliation, sex or disabling condition in employment, educational program, or activities it operates.

Russell Cave Elementary Curriculum Policy January 19, 2012 Date accepted by SBDM: Mission: We, at Russell Cave Elementary, believe all students can learn at high levels.  The process of developing an aligned curriculum should be an ongoing process, involving the entire staff.  The curriculum shall be defined as what is taught and how it is organized for delivery.  The curriculum is based on the Kentucky Core Academic Standards (KCAS). The teachers will:  align the foundational programs with the Kentucky Core Academic Standards (KCAS).  develop long-range plans to teach the KCAS.  develop unit plans based on the long-range plans.  develop weekly/daily plans using the unit plans.  use the foundational programs to fidelity. Literacy curriculum will include:  minimum 90 minutes of standards-based literacy instruction daily.  research-based reading program, Harcourt Trophies, as the foundational literacy program for Tier I instruction.  Fountas & Pinnell Guided Reading instructional strategies for small group reading instruction.  Reading Recovery, Leveled Literacy Instruction and modified guided reading to address the specific needs of Tier II & III students.  analysis of reading data (dra, MAP, KPREP, AimsWeb formative) to make instructional decisions.  constructed responses (short answer, extended response or on-demand) into daily literacy lessons.  writing instruction according to the RCE writing plan. Russell Cave Elementary School Extracurricular Programs Policy

An extracurricular program is any program that takes place outside of the instructional day.

 Approval of the extracurricular programs shall rest with the SBDM Council. Criteria for participation shall be set by the council for each program approved.

 The person or organization that is to sponsor and supervise the extracurricular program must receive initial approval from the council for the development of the extracurricular program by submitting the program’s purpose, format, costs, and eligibility requirements. The selection of participants, attendance procedures, and eligibility requirements will be subject to Council approval and must adhere to all federal, state and local guidelines. The program supervisor will report progress and/or development of the program to the SBDM Council on a regular basis as defined by the council.

Suggested extracurricular programs include (but are not limited to):  Academic Team  Book Club  Chess Club  Chorus/ Music Club  Dance Team  Debate Team  Drama Club  Girls on the Run  Science Club  Spanish Club  Sports Club  STLP  Student Council

Discipline Students attending any extracurricular program will be expected to follow the Russell Cave Guidelines for Success and Russell Cave School Rules. If a student chooses not to, the program supervisor shall issue a Mustang Citation. This should be turned into the PSA. When two citations have been issued, that student will be removed from the club for the remainder of the quarter. In the next quarter, the student may resume participation in the extracurricular program, with the permission of the program supervisor as well as the classroom teacher.

Scheduling When club times conflict, students are required to commit to one club, unless students receive prior permission from the program supervisor to attend both.

Transportation When transportation is not provided by the school, parents will be responsible to make transportation arrangements for prompt pickup at the clubs’ designated ending time. The sponsor reserves the right to discontinue a student’s involvement when repeated offenses occur.

Russell Cave Elementary Instructional Practice Policy

Russell Cave Elementary believes all children can learn at high levels. In order for all children to learn at high levels, students will be provided with the highest quality instruction, appropriate support and maximum quality learning time.

A. We believe students learn best when they:  are provided a structured learning environment with consistent expectations.  understand classroom and school procedures.  are informed of the learning/languagetargets.  are actively involved in their own learning.  have ownership over their learning.  communicate frequently with peers about their learning.  learn content that shows application to real life situations.  are taught within a targeted learning zone based on data.  make connections across content areas.  are given rigorous activities to demonstrate learning.  are supported by consistent and open communication between the school and home.

B. We believe teachers shall implement Best Instructional Practices that:  create an organized, student-friendly and well-maintained classroom.  teach and implement the school-wide behavior plan consistently.  apply the CHAMP behavior management system across all activities.  develop unit plans based on the Kentucky Core Academic Standards (KCAS).  develop lesson plans to teach the KCAS using unit plans.  post and inform students of daily learning/language objectives.  incorporate student data book as an essential component of learning.  maintain fidelity to the core literacy, mathematics, social studies and science programs.  deliver literacy lessons that include whole group instruction, guided reading instruction within small groups, and a writing component.  provide reading instruction across all content areas.  provide instruction and opportunities for students to write to learn, to write to demonstrate learning and to write for an authentic purpose.  deliver math lessons that include whole group instruction, differentiated small group instruction, math fact practice, mental math and independent math practice.  deliver social studies lessons that that are standards based and include multiple intelligence teaching strategies, considerate text, graphically organized notes, processing assignments and multiple intelligence assessments.  deliver science lessons that include hands-on and/or experiential learning activities.  deliver arts and humanities lessons that include hands-on and/or experiential learning activities.  deliver technology lessons to instruct the students on 21st century technology skills.  integrate student use of technology into instruction and student learning in all content areas daily.  deliver directed and structured practical living arts activities.  require students to respond to learning through a constructed response questions and/or on-demand prompts.  use formative assessments to make instructional decisions and summative assessments to measure student growth and program effectiveness.  provide for differentiated instruction using appropriate response to intervention (RTI) strategies for tier I, II and III students such as Reading Recovery and Leveled Literacy Intervention  provide for real-life learning applications that use manipulatives, hands-on, and/or experiential learning experiences within each lesson.  correlate instruction with the sheltered instruction observation protocol (SIOP).  consider and address the learning styles of students when planning and implementing instruction.

C. Multimedia must be:  rated appropriately for the age and developmental level of the students.  correlated with a current unit or theme of study and support instruction.  reflected in the teacher’s lesson plan.  related to a standard.

D. Field Trips must:  include all students.  relate to current area of study.  reflect the teaching of core content and processes.  include pre-trip preparation and post-trip evaluation/assessment.

E. The leadership team shall:  provide support to teachers in planning and implementation of lessons.  collaborate with teachers to plan and implement lessons, gather materials, review data, and assist with behavior management.  model teach as needed.  observe lesson implementation and provide timely feedback based on best practice instructional strategies described in this policy.  observe classroom management/environment based on the STOIC observation form and provide timely feedback.  collect data that includes: Flashback Friday data, constructed response data, MAP, DRA, standards monitoring, IEP data.  approve all field trip requests in advance. Russell Cave Elementary Principal Selection Policy May 14, 2012

Criteria Development for the New Principal:  The “It’s About Kids” Support Services (IAKSS) SBDM support staff for the school council shall chair at all meetings at which the principal is not present.  The school council shall conduct a special meeting of the School-Based Decision Making (SBDM) Council to begin development of criteria for the new principal within 10 working days from the date of the posting of a principal vacancy at the school.  The public, including staff, parents, and students, shall be invited to address the school council on criteria for the new principal at this special meeting.  The school council will continue to meet at least twice a week in special meetings until the school council has approved criteria.  Upon approval, the criteria shall be distributed to the superintendent, staff and the local media.

Interview Preparation:  Within 5 working days of the approval of criteria, the school council shall conduct a special meeting to develop interview questions for use in interviewing qualified applicants.  Special meetings will continue at least twice a week until the school council has developed and approved a set of interview questions and a procedure for conducting interviews.

Interview Screening and Scheduling:  Within 5 days of the receipt of the list of qualified applicants, the school council shall conduct a special meeting to screen the qualified applicants.  Assignments will be made to the various school council members to check references and review applications and resumes.  Results of these reviews shall be communicated to the school council and discussed in closed session.  Biweekly meetings will be conducted until the school council has selected persons to schedule for interviews, contacted these persons to schedule, and agreed on this schedule of interviews.

Interviews and Selection:  Upon completion of the interviews of all qualified applicants, the school council shall begin deliberations on the final selection of a principal.  All discussions leading to the selection of the new principal shall be conducted in closed sessions.  Upon consensus agreement by the school council on a candidate to select, the school council shall return to open session and recess. Russell Cave Elementary Primary Policy Primary Exit Criteria January 18, 2011 Policy Statement

Positive parent involvement is necessary for students to be successful in the primary program. A positive partnership shall be formed between home, school, and community with continuous communication through conferences, report cards, phone calls, parent meetings, emails, and newsletters.

Exit Criteria for the successful completion of the Russell Cave Primary Program shall e reviewed with parents or guardians annually by the end of February of each academic year. Evidence of progress shall include, but not be limited to: teacher observations, anecdotal records, student work samples, individual and group assessments. The Lights Retention Scale may be used to help determine placement for the following school year.

Prior to the end of the 3rd nine weeks, teachers shall provide evidence to support possible retention to the school principal for review. Final recommendations for primary level placements, as decided by teachers and principal, shall be provided to parents in writing by the end of the 3rd nine weeks. If consensus is not reached between the teacher/s and caregiver/s, with regard to a recommended placement for the upcoming year, a committee shall meet to: 1) review all the data, 2) develop an action plan which includes modification and 3) determine proper placement to ensure the student’s success. The committee shall be comprised of: parents, principal, classroom teachers and other appropriate support staff.

Exit Criteria

Reading: It is expected that students will be reading on or above third grade level as measured by district assessments in January. Measures of competency may include Development reading Assessment levels and MAP.

Math: Primary math skills shall be mastered before primary students may advance to the next level. Measures of competency may include MAP.

Written Language: Students shall effectively express themselves orally and through written form as evidenced by on-demand writing and on-going writing samples across a variety of genres. Students are expected to use conventional spelling Russell Cave Elementary Schedule of School Day and Week Policy Policy Development Date 1/18/12 Date accepted by SBDM: 1/19/2012

The following is a policy for scheduling the school day and week, subject to the beginning and ending times of the school day and calendar, and transportation requirements established by the Board of Education.

1. The principal or his/her designee will appoint an ad-hoc committee of staff members to serve as the Scheduling Committee.

2. The Scheduling Committee, along with the principal, shall develop a proposed master and special class and lunch schedule by June 30th and ongoing as needed. The schedule will be designed to meet the goals and objectives of the School Improvement Plan and the requirements of the curriculum. When possible, the schedule will reflect a commitment toward flexible grouping of students and common plan time for teams of teachers in order to improve student achievement.

3. The Scheduling Committee, along with the principal, will develop the daily instructional schedule, exclusive of the literacy and math blocks. Instruction time shall follow state guidelines and be adhered to by the faculty as stated in the School Improvement Plan.

4. The Scheduling Committee, along with the principal, will develop a schedule for classified staff, including all extra duties, prior to the first day of school.

5. The Scheduling Committee, along with the principal, will make a master schedule that ensures all staff receives breaks and uninterrupted lunch based on time stated in KRS 158.060 prior to the first day of school.

6. The Scheduling Committee, along with the principal, will develop the schedule of extra duty assignments (cafeteria, bus, etc.). All available staff members will share in the responsibility of arrival and dismissal of students to ensure the safety and welfare of the children.

7. Gifted and Talented, ESL, Resource, Band, Orchestra, and other like teachers shall work in collaboration with the classroom teacher and principal in scheduling their class times per parameters set forth by the master schedule.

8. If any changes are necessary after finalization, the principal, in consultation with the staff affected, shall make adjustments. 9. Before and after school programs shall be selected/approved on an annual basis by the principal with budget approval from the SBDM Council. The schedule shall be determined by the principal at the time of the selection.

RUSSELL CAVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Space Policy 160.345 (2)(i)(5) January 2012 SBDM Approved 1/19/2012 Use of School Space During the School Day School space is defined as all buildings and grounds occupied by the school, and shall include the use of buildings and grounds of the Russell Cave School campus during the school day. The principal shall determine the use of school space during the school day with consideration to . Federal, state, and board policies, requirements and restrictions . Student movement and safety . Primary, grade level, and team teaching groupings . Adequate space and ventilation . Goals and objections of the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan . Class size

1. The Principal shall assign the use of all school space after consultation with affected personnel and evaluation of instructional needs based on the above criteria.

2. If school space issues arise during the school year the council will determine space use at their next regular meeting or at a special called meeting for that purpose.

Russell Cave Elementary Student Assignment Policy Policy Development Date Revised 3/13/2012 Date accepted by SBDM

Policy Assignment of students to classrooms— The purpose of this placement policy is to ensure that all students currently enrolled and all new students enrolling in Russell Cave are placed in a heterogeneous classroom and provided with the best possible environment for each child to learn and succeed.

Placement Criteria In attempting to create balanced, heterogeneous classrooms, established criteria will be used when assigning students. Criteria considered in the development of balanced, heterogeneous class lists shall include:  Achievement levels  Age  Ethnicity  Gender  Identified special needs and supports  Potential interpersonal conflicts and/or family relationships

By the first Tuesday in May, classroom teachers, ESL, special education, and support teachers shall meet in teams to develop student placement recommendations for the next school year. By May 15th, these recommendations will be submitted to the Principal who will finalize the lists. Regularly scheduled grade level and/or instructional team meetings may be used during this process. Parent input is always welcome in the placement of students. New Enrollees The Principal shall assign students enrolling on the first day of school and during the school year to an appropriate classroom taking into consideration the placement criteria above. This assignment is temporary until an evaluation of school records and current placement is made. If a change in placement is necessary, the Principal or designee shall notify the parents/ guardians prior to the reassignment.

Initial Placement for Kindergarten When information is available, students enrolling in kindergarten shall be assigned in accordance with the placement criteria above. The Principal shall make class assignments.

Changes in Assignment (based on district staffing policies) In the event of changes to classes based on either gaining or losing staff as a result of district staffing policies, the Principal shall use the established placement criteria in the process of reassigning students to balanced, heterogeneous classrooms. The Principal or designee shall notify parents or guardians prior to reassignment.

Changes in Assignment Once school has started, changes in class assignments are strongly discouraged but can be taken into consideration by the Principal from any interested party including the parent/guardian, teacher or child guidance specialist. All pertinent information provided by any interested party (including parent/guardian, teacher or child guidance specialist) shall be considered and the Principal will make the final decision. The Principal or designee shall notify parents or guardian(s) prior to reassignment.

Notification of Assignments Written class lists will be posted at the school on orientation night. They will also be made available through one or more of the following: summer home visits, school website, Move Up Day (an opportunity to meet next year’s teacher during the last week of school), teacher letter.

Russell Cave Elementary Technology Policy Policy Developed: March 13, 2012 Accepted by SBDM: April 19, 2012

Purpose: The RCE Technology Committee believes teachers and students should strive to use technology to enrich educational experiences. We aim to ensure the maximum and daily use of technology by students, teachers, and administrators. Technology will be integrated into the daily curriculum and the administrative process. Professional development will be offered at different levels to help teachers learn how to integrate technology into the Kentucky Common Core Standards with the assistance of the District Technology Coordinator and/or the School Technology Coordinator.

Definition: RCE defines technology as the most modern and effective voice, video, and data tools and services possible for use by the students, teacher and administrators and the community that will directly enhance learning.

Procedures: Anyone using technology will sign and comply with an “Acceptable Use Policy”. Misuse will be reviewed and consequences administered by team teachers and administrators on an individual basis and disciplinary action.

Monitoring: The technology policy will be monitored through program review data and grade level unit plans. Attendance at technology PDs will be monitored through Professional Development logs. Wellness Policy January 2010 Physical Activity

All Students shall participate in moderate to vigorous physical activity each day as follows:  Each student shall engage in 15 minutes of planned, moderate to vigorous physical activity each day (separate from recess).  The Wellness Activity can include outdoor or indoor classroom activities (walking, running, dance aerobics, etc.).  Each student shall have at least 20 minutes of supervised recess, outdoors whenever possible. Teachers will engage students in moderate to vigorous physical activity/team games.  Each student will participate in physical education class (Practical Living). The class will require vigorous activity for 75% of the class.  Students shall not be deprived of recess or other physical activity as a consequence for behavior or academic performance, nor shall they be held out of Practical Living for disciplinary reasons. Movies or other non-physical activities shall not be substituted for physical activity during recess.  Students should be given periodic stretch/ movement breaks throughout the school day.  Appropriate accommodations shall be made for students with special needs, as required by law

Nutrition Policy

 Russell Cave Elementary shall implement the nutritional standards required by federal and state laws and regulations. Those rules apply to our food program and to other times food and beverages are available during the school day.  Russell Cave Practical Living curriculum shall address the full Core Content; health, consumerism, and physical education.  The total curriculum shall reflect an integrated concern for wellness (making science and social studies connections).  Russell Cave Staff will reduce the amount of sweets, sodas (junk food) by offering healthy alternatives during classroom parties.  Russell Cave Staff will not offer sweets as rewards for positive reinforcement on a regular basis.

The provision of this policy shall be implemented to comply with provisions required by federal law, state law, or Fayette County Public School Board policy. If any specific requirement does not fit with those rules, the principal shall notify the council so that the policy can be amended to comply.

The principal shall share this policy with the Kentucky Department of Education when KDE asks for this information. Russell Cave Elementary Writing Portfolio Instruction and Scoring Policy Policy Development Date: 2/20/07 Date accepted by SBDM 05/16/07

Portfolio Requirements All students in grades K-5 are required to maintain a working portfolio. Portfolio pieces will be maintained in each student’s own portfolio binder or folder and will stay with the child from year to year. Portfolio pieces may be revised for use in the 4th grade portfolio assessment. Each working portfolio will contain the following pieces as mandated by KRS 156.070:  *Personal expressive (personal narrative or memoir)  *Literary (short story, script, or poetry)  Transactive (persuasive letter, editorial, article, or how-to)  Reflective (“letter to next year’s teacher” and/or reflection on one’s own growth in writing looking through the lens of literacy) Teachers will make appropriate accommodations for beginning writers as to what is accepted as a written piece, but will expect some type of work on paper from each student. Pieces can be handwritten or typed.

Scoring of Portfolios All certified teachers will have training on scoring writing portfolios and will participate in the scoring process. The exemption of participating staff will be made at the Principal’s discretion. The evaluators will be trained to score using a process that follows best practices and current policies.

Maintenance of Portfolio Binders or Folders All portfolio binders or folders K-5, will be scored, organized, and then sent to the school’s cluster leaders after the last day of school. Teachers will ensure all pieces have a name, date, and title included. Portfolio pieces will be sent home after 5th grade and only scores will be sent on to middle school within the cumulative folder.

Best Practices We will pursue continuous improvement in the quality of student writing, including the following procedures:  All teachers, including special area teachers, will give assigned writing tasks that relate to the content being studied in class. The faculty is encouraged to look for opportunities to integrate different content areas wherever practical.  When conferencing, teachers will focus on 1 or 2 needs as determined by work sample analyses.  The school’s cluster leaders will provide professional development and/or individual training on writing instruction.  All 4th grade students will have a staff mentor for the purpose of conferencing and individual support of writing portfolios.

* one of the two must be included/selected in portfolio for assessment Visitors to the Schools

PARENTS Communications between home and school must be an integral part of the educational process if students are to achieve the greatest educational success. Therefore, parents are expected and encouraged to visit their child's school, under the following guidelines: 1. Visits must not interrupt the instructional program for students, i.e., teaching, testing, etc. 2. They should be scheduled in advance with the teacher and/or Principal and must be reasonable in length and frequency. 3. Visits should be related to the need(s) of the child.

LOCAL CITIZENS/GUESTS Professional educators and others who have legitimate educational interests pertaining to the District’s public school program are encouraged to visit the schools. To ensure that school personnel are aware of the presence of visitors, all visitors must report immediately to the Principal's office upon entering the school and identify themselves as well as declare their purposes for visiting. Professional educators and citizens who are from other communities who wish to observe the schools in operation are welcome. Arrangements for such visits must be made in advance with the Superintendent.

RESTRICTIONS Guests or visitors of students are not allowed at school without permission from the Principal. In addition, no salespersons or peddlers shall come onto school property without prior approval of the Superintendent/designee. Visitors shall not enter classrooms without the prior consent of the Principal. Principal’s prior approval also is required for access to students for the purpose of conducting an interview or survey. Such activities that disclose protected information shall comply with the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA).

CONDUCT All visitors to the schools must conduct themselves so as not to interfere with the daily operation of the school program. (Please refer to Policy 10.21.)

TOBACCO PRODUCTS PROHIBITED The use of all tobacco products by visitors is prohibited in buildings, on grounds or on field trips of the Fayette County Public Schools. The exception to the prohibition is the outside use of tobacco at athletic events or other school events. Tobacco products may not be used in any school building at any time.

Volunteer Procedures When coming to the school, all volunteers must sign-in at the office and receive a visitor’s badge. No visitor is allowed in the school without signing in and receiving a badge. Lost and Found

Lost and Found items lost at school are placed in a large blue container at the top of the ramp by the gym. Items left on the bus are sometime kept by the bus driver until the next day, and sometimes turned into the office. To make locating items easier, please label your child’s book bag, lunch bag or box, and all coats, jackets and sweatshirts. Notes and Numbers