2012 – 2013 Parent / Student Handbook
GETWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2795 GETWELL ROAD MEMPHIS, TN 38118 (901) 416-0267
Dr. Kriner Cash, Superintendent Dr. Terrence Brown, Southeast Region Superintendent Mr. Michael Hawkins, Southeast Region Director Dr. Trina M. Holly, Principal Ms. Kecia Helminski, Instructional Facilitator
Strive for your personal best Obey school rules Achieve your goals Respect yourself, others, and the environment Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 2 FROM THE PRINCIPAL
July 30, 2012
Dear Parents and Families of Getwell Elementary School,
On behalf of the administration, faculty, and staff of Getwell Elementary School, I am privileged to welcome all new and returning students to a caring and responsive atmosphere that offers powerful learning experiences to meet individual student needs. Our entire school community works together to provide a warm, supportive, and nurturing environment that encourages the highest standards of teaching and learning. We are honored to have been chosen as your partner in your child’s journey of growth and learning.
This Student-Parent Handbook outlines policies and procedures for Getwell families. Regulations and expectations contained in the Handbook have been adopted to ensure the smooth and equitable operation of our school. All students are expected to be responsible and accountable for their own behavior throughout the entire school and off campus events. Please read the Handbook carefully and share pertinent information with your child.
We are on the brink of making even greater progress towards accomplishing all of our goals. We look forward to achieving and celebrating our success as students, parents, community and all school personnel work collaboratively together.
Sincerely,
Trina M. Holly, Ed.D. Principal
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 3 Table of Contents
Page Principal’s Message 1 Overall Goal 4 Belief Statement 4 Our Mission 4 Our Vision 4 School Mascot 4 School Colors 4 School Motto 4 School History 5 Report Card Periods and Attendance Periods 5 Memphis City Schools Academic Calendar 6
I. Introduction 7
II. Enrollment Procedures 7 Age Requirement 7 Health Requirements 7 Class Assignment 7
III. Student Absence and Illness 8 Attendance 8 Chronic Illnesses 8 Accidents and Illness 8 Medication 8 Truancy 9 Make Up Work 9 Withdrawal 9
IV. School Opening and Closing Procedures 9 Arrival and Dismissal 9 Traffic Before and After School 10 Inclement Weather 10
V. General Information 11 School Uniforms 11 Student ID’s 11 Payments 11 Lunch Program 11 Textbooks, Library Books, etc 11 Supplies 12 Bus Riders 12 Lost and Found 12 Party Policy 12 Telephone 12 Fire, Tornado, and Earthquake Drills 13
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 4 VI. School Visitors and Volunteers 13 Visitors 13 School Volunteers 13 Parent Teacher Association 13
VII. Evaluation of Pupil Progress 13 Grading System 13 Homework 14 Grade Reporting 14 Parent Conferences 14 Curricular Activities 15 Orff Music 15 Computer Lab 15 Library 15 Physical Education 15 Art 15 Strings 15
VIII. School Rules 16 Getwell’s School-wide Rules 16 Fight Free School 16
IX. Student Discipline 17 Getwell 5-Step Behavioral Response 18 Changing Classes/Restroom Breaks 18 Hall Passes 18 Assemblies 18 Field Trips 18 Personal Appearance of Students 18 Rights of Parents and Students 19 Celebrations 19
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 5 Overall Goal
To create a school environment that enables all children to succeed and demonstrate high levels of achievement.
Our Beliefs
Daily attendance is essential for learning. Children are valued and respected as unique individuals. High expectations increase individual student performance. Students should be encouraged to set goals for themselves and work toward reaching them. A wide variety of research based teaching strategies and data driven assessment techniques accommodate a diverse population with multiple learning styles, and provide challenges that are conducive to academic achievement. A safe, nurturing learning environment and positive school climate are essential components in promoting respect for self and others. The integration of technology is essential for students’ development of the skills necessary to succeed in an ever-changing society. Our students must be actively engaged in their educations in order to learn, produce quality work, and become critical thinkers and problem solvers. Collaboration among teachers, administrators, parents, and the community is essential for the continuous growth and effectiveness of our school.
Our Mission
Our mission is to develop highest levels of academic proficiency and personal character in all students.
Our Vision
Getwell Elementary School will be an exemplary, student focused educational society that has an exceptional staff, focused programs, and inspiring atmosphere where excellence is achieved, solid character is exhibited, hopes and dreams are fostered and responsible productive citizens are developed.
School Mascot: Exemplary Eagles School Colors: Blue and White School Motto: The Sky’s the Limit for Academic Excellence
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 6 Getwell School History
Getwell Elementary Schools is a Title 1, public urban school located in Southeast Memphis at 2795 Getwell Road. Getwell Elementary School was opened in 2001 with over 900 students. In the past ten years, the community surrounding Getwell has seen a reduction in population, thus resulting in a decline in student enrollment. Today Getwell Elementary School provides educational services to approximately 513 students in Pre-Kindergarten through Fifth Grade that includes three self-contained special education classes. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (now SACS CASI) has accredited Getwell Elementary since 2003.
Report Card and Attendance Periods 2012 – 2013 School Year
Report Card and Progress Report Periods
Report Report Card Progress Progress Report Card Report Card Days in Card Period Begins Report Period Report Issued Period Ends Issued Period Period Ends 1st 9 August 6 September 5 September 12 October 5 October 17 43 Weeks Monday Wednesday Wednesday Friday Wednesday 2nd 9 October 8 November 7 November 14 December 14 January 9 44 Weeks Monday Wednesday Wednesday Friday Wednesday Semester 87 3rd 9 January 2 February 6 February 13 March 6 March 20 44 Weeks Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday 4th 9 March 7 April 17 April 26 May 22 Mailed 49 Weeks Monday Wednesday Friday Friday Semester 93 Year 180
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 7 2012-2013 Memphis City Schools Academic Calendar
September 3 Labor Day (No School) September 13 Parent-Teacher Conferences (4 p.m. - 7 p.m.) September 14 In-Service Day (No School for Students) October 5 End of 1st Nine Weeks October 11-12 Fall Break (No School) October 15 2nd 9 weeks begins November 12 Veteran's Day (No School) November 21-23 Thanksgiving Break (No School) December 17 Winter Break Begins for Students
1/2 day In-Service/ 1/2 day Administrative Day for Teachers December 18 - January 1 Winter Break Begins for Teachers January 2 Return from Winter Break January 21 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (No School) February 5 TCAP Writing Assessment (Fifth Grade) February 18 In-Service (8 - 12) Parent Conferences (1 - 3) (No School for Students) March 11 -15 Spring Break (No School) March 29 Spring Break II (No School) April 23 - 26 TCAP Assessment May 22 Last Day of School
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 8 I. Introduction
The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with knowledge of policies and procedures of the Memphis City School System as they relate to Getwell Elementary.
It is the intent of the faculty and administration that each student becomes familiar with the information provided in the handbook. It will be of great value in helping the student adjust in our school and become an integral part of the Getwell Family.
After reading this handbook, please feel free to contact the school at 901-416-0267 if additional information or assistance is desired. II. Enrollment Procedures
The parent or guardian of a child entering pre-school, pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, or who has not been previously enrolled in another school within the district must furnish the following information:
1. Birth Certificate 2. Proof of recent physical examination 3. A new official Tennessee Certificate of Immunization displaying proof of the following immunizations: Poliomyelitis (IPV or OPV): final dose on or after the 4th birthday now required Varicella (2 doses or history of disease): previously only one dose was required Hepatitis A (2 doses) Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP, or DT if appropriate) Hepatitis B (HBV) Measles, Mumps, Rubella (1 dose of each, usually given together as MMR) 4. Social Security Number 5. Proof of residence in school district
Age Requirement
A child entering kindergarten must be five years of age on or before September 30 of the school year for which he or she enrolls. A child entering first grade must be six years of age on or before September 30 of the school year for which he or she enrolls.
Health Requirements
Under law, all students entering school for the first time are required to have a complete physical examination. This applies to kindergarten, first grade, and other pupils for whom there is no health record. Results of the physical examination are to be given to the school for inclusion with the student’s records.
Class Assignment
The principal makes student assignments to classrooms.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 9 III. Student Absence and Illness
Attendance
All children are expected to be in attendance and on time each day. Please refer to School Board Policy: Regularity of Attendance #6.200 for details concerning attendance. Student absences/tardies shall be excused only for the following reasons: (1) personal illness of the student, (2) death or serious illness in the immediate family, (3) validated court appearances of the student, (4) recognized religious holiday/event, or (5) any unusual case acceptable to the principal. (These reasons will include approved school sponsored/sanctioned activities.) A written note explaining the absence is required when a student returns to school. If absences become excessive, a doctor’s note may be required to document absences due to illness.
Tardies and early checkouts are monitored in the same manner as attendance. STUDENTS MUST BE IN THEIR ROOMS BY 8:30 a.m. OR THEY WILL BE MARKED TARDY. If your child arrives at school after 8:35 a.m. for any reason, please write a note explaining the reason and bring your child to check in with the office before reporting to his/her class. If a child is tardy three times, a warning letter will be sent home. If a child is tardy five more times, a parent conference will be held. Additional excessive tardies may result in referral to the district’s Student Attendance Review Board (SARB).
Chronic Illnesses
Teachers and office personnel should be made aware of chronic illnesses such as asthma, rheumatic fever, diabetes, allergies, etc. Definite written instructions are for office file should an emergency arise.
Accidents and Illness
If a student is injured or becomes ill at school, parents will be notified immediately. If the parent cannot be reached, the emergency contact listed on the registration form will be the next notified. Please be sure to update any changes in numbers on the registration form as the year progresses. Remember, seriously ill students cannot be kept at school.
Medication
If a child is to be given medication in school, all medication must be brought to the office by the parent (not the child), with the written directions from the physician, which indicate the frequency and dosage of the prescribed medication. The medicine must be in the original container prepared by the Pharmacist. The condition for which the child is being treated should also be listed. At the time the medication is brought to school, a written authorization must be filled out and signed by the parent before the medication can be taken. Medication can only be dispensed through the office.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 10 Truancy
Unauthorized absence is considered truancy. A student who has excessive tardies or a student who fails to attend a class may be subject to disciplinary action.
Make-Up Work
Students shall be permitted the opportunity to make up all work and classroom tests missed as a result of an excused or unexcused absence. All work and tests for unexcused absences should be made up as soon as possible, but no later than a week after the student returns to school.
Withdrawal
Legitimate reasons for withdrawal include the following:
1. Withdrawal to enroll in another school system 2. Withdrawal for health reasons, certified by a licensed practicing physician 3. Expulsion from school
IV. School Opening and Closing Procedures
Arrival and Dismissal
The official arrival time for students is 8:15 a.m. Students may begin entering the building through the southwest entrance at 8:10 a.m. and the front entrance at 8:15 a.m. (If you need to drop your child off prior to 8:10 a.m., before school care services are available for a fee. See Ms. Brown, general office secretary for details.) Students should enter the building and hallways quietly and proceed to their classrooms, walking on the right side of the hallway. Breakfast will be served in the classroom from 8:15 a.m. – 8:25 a.m. The bookstore will open at 8:15 a.m. Students must visit the bookstore before going to their classroom. Morning meetings begin at 8:30 a.m., thus if a student wishes to eat breakfast, he/she must be in class by 8:25 to receive breakfast.
Bus, daycare, and car riders will be escorted to designated areas for dismissal. Walkers will be escorted to the front of the building at 3:15 p.m. Students should be completely off campus by 3:30 p.m. unless they participate in Getwell After-Care or school tutoring. Parents are requested to make arrangements for timely transportation of their children. Please be aware that the safety of your child is at risk each time he/she is left unsupervised before and after school. It is the responsibility of parents and Day Care buses to pick students up no later than 3:30 p.m. each day. Adult supervision of students after school is from 3:15 p.m.-3:30 p.m. It is not safe to leave students on the school grounds without supervision. Make sure correct/updated phone numbers are on file in the office. Make sure your child knows how he/she is to go home each day. Students should know or always have written phone numbers of responsible adults. Please contact the office in emergency situations. Students that are not picked up by 3:30 p.m. will be placed in the Getwell After- Care program and parents will be charged a $10.00 drop-in fee per child. Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 11 There will be no early dismissals between 2:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. unless there is an emergency. If you arrive early to pick up your child, please wait in your car. We cannot allow parents to wait outside their child’s room due to the distraction it can cause. The ending of the school day is essential for review of the day’s activities, instructions on homework, and the preparation for the next school day. In the event of an emergency, it is vital that parents remain in their cars so cars can be moved if the situation requires.
Doctor and dental appointments should be scheduled after school hours. If this is not possible, please do not check the student out before 11:45 a.m. This keeps your child from losing credit for a day’s attendance. Parents must check students out of the school through the office. For the student’s safety, office personnel will not release any student to individuals who are not identified on the official registration forms.
Traffic Before and After School
Your child’s safety is #1 with us! Please do your part to help us have a safe and orderly dismissal. Please follow these procedures: Cars are to enter the south drive (next to Wendy’s). Cars are to utilize the left lanes. Daycare vans will utilize the right lane. Load and unload children only after you have parked at curb. Do not double park to load or unload children. If you let your children out across the street from the school, require them to go to the corner and cross with the crossing guard. Do not allow your child (even if accompanied by an adult) to cross in the middle of the street. Honk only to prevent an accident. Please adhere to no parking areas. Designate a spot outside to meet each day before walking home, if needed. Children will not gather inside the school building. Big brothers and sisters picking up students should meet in the designated pick up area.
Inclement Weather
Parents and students should have a plan in case of dismissal due to inclement weather. In order to be aware of parents’ intentions before the weather occurs, the school has provided a form for parents to indicate how their children will get home. Please make sure that this information stays current. Notify the school of contact information changes.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 12 V. General Information
School Uniforms
According to research in education, school uniforms reduce gang influence, decrease families’ clothing expenditures, and help mitigate potentially divisive cultural and economic differences. Throughout the country, the adoption of school uniforms has helped students develop pride and a strong sense of school affiliation. In addition, school uniforms provide protection against gangs and identification with gang clothing.
Memphis City School students will be required to wear uniforms. According to the Memphis City Schools policy, students may wear tan, navy blue, or black pants, skirt, or jumper and a white long sleeve or short sleeve shirt with a collar (polo or dress style). Approved shirt colors are white, light blue, or navy blue. Sleeveless tops are not acceptable. Jeans, tight-fitting or baggy pants are not acceptable. If belts are worn, they must be fitted at the waist. Shoes must not be higher than 1 ½ inches high. If sandals are worn, they must have a heel strap. Shirttails are to be tucked in as described in the board policy. See MCS Policy #6.310 for further details concerning uniforms.
Student ID’s
All students are required to wear student ID’s. Students will be issued their ID and lanyard at the beginning of the school year. If students lose or damage, their ID or lanyard there will be a $5 fee to replace the ID and lanyard. Replacement lanyards and ID pockets will be available in the school bookstore.
Payments
The school only accepts cash, money orders, or cashier checks for any type of payment.
Lunch Program
Please make sure your child has the correct amount of money needed for lunch. Send correct change if possible. We are unable to make change so that brothers and sisters can divide lunch money between them. Eligibility for free or reduced lunches will be determined as quickly as possible. An application must be on file to determine eligibility. The office will loan lunch money from the limited lunch reserve fund. Students are expected to return the loaned money the next day. If the lunch reserve is empty, students will receive the designated lunch provided by Nutrition Services.
Textbooks, Library Books, etc.
Textbooks are on loan to students attending Memphis City Schools. Parents and students are responsible for all textbooks and library books issued during the school year. Parents are required to read and sign textbook statements with an agreement to pay for lost or damaged books issued each school year.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 13 Supplies
The bookstore is maintained for the convenience of the students and will open from 8:15 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. each morning. Parents should assume the responsibility of seeing that their children have the necessary school supplies. Because Getwell Elementary is a community of stakeholders, all classroom supplies will be shared as community supplies. Please do not label or mark supplies with student’s names. Each teacher will collect and distribute supplies in a community fashion throughout the year.
Bus Riders
Students who are assigned to ride a school bus or day care bus will be sent home on that bus unless the homeroom teacher is notified by the parent in writing. The note must specify that the child will be picked up that day or for how many days and by whom. School bus riders must always wear bus passes.
Kindergarten and first grade parents are responsible for meeting or designating someone appropriate to meet their K-1 child at the bus stop every day. Any K-1 student who has no one at their bus stop in the PM to accept them will be returned to the school at the conclusion of the route. The student will then be placed in after-care and the parent is responsible for paying a $10 drop in fee.
Outstanding behavior is expected from our bus riders. Negative behaviors while waiting on and riding the bus are subject to disciplinary action.
Lost and Found
A “lost and found” is located in the main office. Lost articles may be claimed by proper identification. It is a good idea to clearly mark items with the owner’s name so items can be returned without delay. This also discourages unauthorized borrowing. Items not reclaimed may be donated to charities at the end of each nine week period.
Party Policy
As we maintain specific guidelines for a structured learning environment, we are most concerned about maintaining learning our priority. We have set the following party policies for grades Pre-K through Five: Class parties are permitted around winter break and on the last day of school. Birthday parties are not allowed; however, parents may send pre-packed snacks to school for a class celebration on the child’s birthday.
Telephone
Telephones are located throughout the building. Students must have permission from an adult to make a phone call. Urgent messages will be delivered to students. Students will not be called from class to receive telephone calls.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 14 Fire, Tornado, Earthquake Drills, and Emergency Drills
Drills are necessary for the safety of the students, staff, and faculty. Everyone should know the specific directions for reaching a point of safety from wherever he/she may be in the building. There should be no talking during drills so that directions can be quickly and accurately followed. Specific information for drills is posted in each room.
VI. School Visitor and Volunteers
Visitors
For the protection of the student, all visitors must report to the office and sign in upon entering the building. For example, if a student forgets, his/her lunch, the parent should take the lunch to the office, not to the classroom, so that the entire class will not be interrupted.
School Volunteers
There are many valuable resources available to classrooms through the use of volunteers. Each volunteer must complete a Volunteer Information Form. Criminal background checks are required for volunteers that work alone with children. They must also sign a statement that they have never been convicted or accused of any crime against a minor. Volunteers cannot perform any duties while MCS awaits the results of the background check (Board Policy 4.501). All volunteers are expected to sign in and out of the School Visitors’ Log maintained in the office.
Parent Teacher Association
The PTA encourages families to help their children, their school, and their community by becoming a member of the PTA. The dues are $5.00 for a single parent membership.
VII. Evaluation of Pupil Progress
Grading System
Grades are indicated by letter to express a student’s academic performance. The following grading scale is used in grades 4 and 5:
Academics Conduct
Excellent A 93 - 100 Excellent E Good B 85 – 92 Satisfactory S Average C 75 – 84 Needs Improvement N Low Average D 70 – 74 Unsatisfactory U Failure F Below 70 Incomplete I Not a final grade
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 15 Core academic subjects for students in grades PreK-5 are Mathematics, Reading/Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. Support subjects may include, but are not limited to, Art, Music, and Physical Education (P.E.). Student progress toward meeting academic standards in kindergarten – grade 3 is indicated using the following legend:
• Exceeds Standards (ES) – Consistently grasps and applies key concepts, processes and skills. Consistently extends understanding of key concepts, processes and skills. Performs beyond stated goals.
• Meets Standards (MS) – Grasps and applies key concepts, processes and skills. Meets stated goals.
• Not Meeting Standards (NMS) – Not grasping key concepts, processes and skills. Making less than expected progress.
Student scores on the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program’s achievement test for grades three through eight (3-8) shall comprise 15% of the student’s final grade for the spring semester in the subject areas of mathematics, reading/language arts, science and social studies.
Homework
The purpose of homework is to promote mastery of skills and concepts taught during classroom instruction. It is the student’s responsibility to recognize that homework is their responsibility; to complete, and submit homework assignments on time; and to request help with homework if needed.
Grade Reporting
Progress Report
Progress reports for all students shall include grades through the fourth week and will be issued during the fifth week of a nine week period, unless calendar constraints dictate that they be issued early in the sixth week. Progress reports may reflect commendation of a student or information indicating that a student is not being successful. If a student is not successful in any subject by the time the progress report is issued, the report shall indicate to parents that the student needs to improve.
Nine-Week Grades and Average
Nine-week grades are to be calculated based on the above grading criteria and documented student performance and must include documentation of all of the grading criteria.
Parent Conferences
We invite and urge parents to consult with their teachers or the principal for help with problems. Please send a note or call the school to arrange for a conference time. Teachers are happy to arrange meetings before or after regular school hours, as well as, during planning periods. Teachers cannot be interrupted during class time for impromptu conferences. However, parents and family are welcome to visit and observe after receiving permission through the office. Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 16 Two specific times, September 13, 2012, and February 18, 2013, have been designated as parent- teacher conference dates. Parents are required to meet with their child’s teacher on one of these dates. The teacher will allow parents to schedule a convenient time.
Curricular Activities
Getwell encourages a variety of activities in the curriculum to keep our children challenged. We are proud to be able to offer many exciting alternative events to include all children. Curricular activities offered weekly are as follows:
Orff Music
Music instruction is offered to students in kindergarten through fifth grades. The Orff technique involves body movement, singing, and playing musical instruments.
Computer Lab
The computer lab is available for use by students in kindergarten through fifth grades. During this time, students will not only use the computers to receive individualized instruction in reading and math skills, but also will complete projects that will both develop skills in using Microsoft Office tools and demonstrate concepts learned.
Library
Library is offered weekly for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. During this time, students are taught research, library reference skills, and means to determine the meaning and application of different types of media.
Physical Education
A quality physical education program is offered weekly for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. It includes a balance of health-related physical fitness, motor-skills, content knowledge, and personal and social development activities.
Art
Art is offered weekly for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. During this time, students are taught the fundamentals of visual arts.
Strings
Strings is offered to all 3rd grade classes two times per week for 45 minutes and selected 4th and 5th grade students two times per week for 45 minutes.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 17 VIII. School Rules
School Discipline Plan
Getwell’s School-wide Rules
1. Be respectful. 2. Be responsible. 3. Be ready.
Fight Free School
DEFINING A FIGHT
Our goal at Getwell is to have students come to school and feel safe and secure. A fight is when two or more persons engage in physical altercations such as hitting, kicking, shoving, pushing, or pulling hair. We will work together to create a fight free school where no fights or verbal put-downs will be tolerated.
WHAT IS A FIGHT FREE SCHOOL?
A school where the principal, staff, students, and parents set a goal to create a Fight Free Environment A school where Fight-Free behavior is promoted, recognized and encouraged through daily praise, recognition, and role modeling A school where Fight-Free behavior is discussed, taught, and practiced A school where students become aware of the alternative methods of dealing with anger and conflict
DEFINITIONS
FIGHT: Two people are involved/infringing upon the rights of others by physically attacking another person HERO: Person who chooses to remain Fight Free and not respond to a physical or verbal altercation. REPEAT OFFENDER: One who tries to interact with others in an inappropriate manner on a continuing basis. This might be manifested in a physical or verbal display of behavior. REWARDS: Can be administered to individuals or groups of students who choose to remain Fight-Free. The rewards can be school-wide, involve grade levels, single classrooms, or may even be administered on an individual basis. The awards may be given by any person or persons.
IMPLEMENTATION
Each class will create a flag representing their fight free pledge. This flag will be posted outside each classroom door. Total number of fight free days will be represented on class flags. If any class member engages in a fight, their class flag will be removed for a full class day.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 18 A school fight free flag will be created with participation from Getwell students. This flag will be raised everyday. If a fight occurs, the flag will come down. The students involved in the fight will assist with raising the flag the next day.
Fight Free Celebrations
Fight free days will be celebrated. School-wide celebrations will occur after a determined period of days that a fight does not take place.
IX. Student Discipline
One of the most important lessons that education teaches is discipline. While discipline does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure. Discipline is the training that develops self-control, character, orderliness, and efficiency. It is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people. Parents are urged to take time to discuss the importance of and need for good behavior and a good attitude while at school. Fighting, disrespect toward others, obscene language, or possession of instruments classified as weapons will not be tolerated. Students who break these rules continuously will be sent to the office and handled accordingly. If student persists in breaking school rules, his/her parents will be asked to work with the school staff in resolving his/her behavioral problems.
It is the responsibility of each student to operate as a responsible citizen. The Memphis City Schools (MCS) establish the policies governing student conduct. Students are expected to observe these policies as well as school rules, policies, and procedures. Getwell Elementary has created a School Discipline Plan that focuses on increasing respect and responsibility among students. This plan outlines rules, logical consequences, and special programs that teach students self-respect, as well as, respect for others. The administration and faculty enforce these policies as well as the observance of MCS Code of Conduct. The MCS Student Code of Conduct Handbook enables a student to learn about expectations for good behavior and the intervention and disciplinary actions that may be taken following misbehavior. The examples of offenses listed in the Student Code of Conduct Handbook are not the only acts that may result in disciplinary action. Any act that disrupts learning and threatens the order and safety of students and the school environment will be considered for disciplinary action.
Greater detail on MCS policies, rules and regulations that set standards for student behavior is available on the MCS web site (http://www.mcsk12.net/policy/policy_coc.asp). The Code of Student Conduct applies to all Memphis City Schools students at all times whenever a student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities. • On school grounds before, during, and after school hours • At any other time when the school is being used by a school group • Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event • Traveling to or from school, a school activity, or a school-related function • Whenever a Memphis City Schools student is in a capacity representing his or her school • On a school bus, a school-sponsored vehicle, or a MATA bus when traveling to and from school
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 19 Getwell 5-Step Behavioral Response
1. Redirection 2. Student Conference and Reflection 3. Communication to Parent/Guardian 4. Discipline Referral 5. Administrative Review and Action Plan
Changing Classes/Restroom Breaks
Students will change classes as a group accompanied by their teacher. Student will exchange classes in a single file line always staying to the right side of the hallway. Students are expected to do this in a non-disruptive manner. Running, scuffling, playing, and talking will be not tolerated. Hallways are “ZERO ZONES” for talking. Teachers monitor all restroom breaks and ensure that restrooms are left in a tidy manner.
Hall Passes
Students are NOT permitted in the hall during class periods unless they are accompanied by a teacher or have a hall pass in their possession.
Assemblies
Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and courteous manner during each program. Applause should be generous when appropriate. Whistling, stomping of feet, shouting out, booing and constantly talking will not be tolerated.
Field Trips
Students attending any field trip sponsored by the school must submit a signed parental permission slip before participating in the activity. Permission slips must be filed with the principal five (5) days before the field trip. Telephone calls for field trip permission will not be accepted.
Students presenting academic or behavioral issues may have field trip or extracurricular participation opportunities limited or curtailed unless the trip or activity is a required component of the classroom curriculum. Decisions to limit participation based upon behavioral concerns will be jointly made by parent/guardian, the teacher, and an administrator. Decisions to limit participation based upon academic issues will be made by the teacher and an administrator.
Personal Appearance of Students
As outlined in the School Discipline Plan, special celebrations days will be held in which students will not wear uniforms. Personal appearance or attire that is distracting in nature is detrimental to the school program and will not be tolerated. This would include shorts, halter-tops, tank tops and bare midriffs. Shorts must measure no more than five inches above the knees. Ripped jeans and T-shirts with suggestive wording are not to be worn. Hats and sunglasses are not appropriate in the building.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 20
Rights of Parents and Students
The Memphis City Schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, handicap/disability, or sex (including pregnant or parenting status) in its programs and activities. No student shall be denied equal access to, or participation in, any school sponsored class, activity, or honors program on the basis of the above.
Students and their parents/guardians who believe they have been discriminated against have the right to express concern. The following steps should be used in resolving issues:
1. Make an appointment with teacher (416 – 0267). 2. Make an appointment to see the principal (416 – 0267). 3. Make an appointment to see the Southeast Region parent counselor (416 – 7400).
Suspensions for more that 3 days may be appealed in writing and sent to Pupil Services at 205 North Claybrook. Parents/guardian or student can appeal suspensions/expulsions ranging of four or more days to a Hearing Officer. Celebrations
Golden Garbage Can
The Golden Garbage Can will be awarded on a weekly basis to the class who has the cleanest room for the week. Custodial workers will evaluate the classrooms.
Honors Programs
Principal’s List, Honor Roll, Citizenship, and Perfect Attendance awards will be issued to recognize students who have met required standards and criteria during the nine weeks grading periods. To receive an award for perfect attendance, students must not have absences, tardies, or early dismissals.
Student of the Month
Teachers select a student each month as Student of the Month. The students are spotlighted over the intercom and their pictures and profiles are displayed on the wall of the main building. Students are also recognized during the Honors Program.
Caught Being Good
Students are individually praised and issued a “Caught you Being Good” ticket when they are caught utilizing good decision-making skills. Students are then invited to a celebration.
Getwell Elementary School Handbook, page 21