The Bobcat Way: 100% of our students will graduate and be fully prepared for a post-secondary education.
Mt. Wolf Elementary Welcome Letter
Dear Parents and Students,
It is my pleasure to welcome you and your child to our school. The Mount Wolf Elementary School’s administration, faculty, and staff are looking forward to another exciting year of new experiences and lots of fun! It is during the first years of life that children form attitudes about themselves, others, learning, and the environment. These attitudes last a lifetime, so we work very hard to find ways to help children develop positive attitudes.
Educating a child is successful when families and schools work together in the best interests of the child. We welcome your input and assistance in educating your child; after all, you are your child’s first teacher! Valuing education and the opportunities it provides is an important first step. We are hopeful that you will find time to participate in some of our school functions. We are always in need of parents to help with daily activities and special events.
Going to school is one of the most important experiences in a child’s life. School can be an exciting place where children meet new and different people and participate in many new and different experiences. We promise to work diligently to provide your child with wonderful experiences that help them to feel good about themselves and their school and eager to learn.
We are anxious to work with you and your child during this school year. If I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
Randi Beth Payne Randi Beth Payne, Ed.D. Principal
2 PTO President’s Welcome!
Dear Mt. Wolf Parents,
On behalf of the PTO Executive Board and Committee Chairpersons, I would like to welcome you to the 2011-2012 school year. The PTO, in partnership with the school, is proud to present you with this handbook. It will be a valuable reference guide for you and your family. Please take time to read its contents.
Throughout the year we will be asking for PTO members to volunteer to help us with our many school projects. The PTO stands for Parents (that’s you) and Teacher Organization. Please fill out a membership form and return it to school with your child (Membership dues are $5 per family).
PTO members are welcome to join us at our monthly PTO Meetings. Check your school calendar for dates and times.
The PTO Board is very enthusiastic about this school year. Many exciting events have been planned. We look forward to having YOU, the parent, be a part of your child’s learning experience at Mt. Wolf Elementary.
Sincerely,
Wendy Latshaw PTO President
3 PTO Officers
President Wendy Latshaw Kira (3rd) & Isabella (K)
Vice-President Tammy Barlett Stephen (2nd) & Allison(1st)
Treasurer Donna Orvis Angela (3rd) & Anthony (K)
Recording Secretary Stacy Kurilla Haylie (1st) & Rylie (1st)
PTO Committee Chairpersons
Book Fair Annie Gerber Abigail (3rd) & William (2nd)
Fundraising Tammy Barlett Stephen (2nd) & Allison(1st) Angie Lucabaugh Savannah (2nd)
Holiday Event Heather Knappenberger Parker (3rd)
Homeroom Coordinator Jenn Hoopes Mady (2nd)
Hospitality/Membership Shannan Adams Ethan (1st)
Memory Book Wendy Garman Griffin (2nd)
Teacher Representative Teresa Wilson
PTO Board Meetings are held in the library on the first Monday of the month (generally). They follow a scheduled agenda and are approximately 1 hour in length; beginning at 6:00 pm. Any person who is a PTO member is welcome to attend. Monthly meeting minutes are available in the office.
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Descriptions of Mt. Wolf PTO Committees for 2011-2012
Membership: This committee is needed from the beginning of the school year until the end of October. The purpose of this committee is to get the information out to parents to obtain memberships to the PTO. This committee also has to keep records of who has joined. Usually a display is put up and maintained in the school and a classroom competition occurs to see which class has the highest percentage of PTO memberships.
Fundraising: This committee needs to distribute sale flyers, collect & check orders and money, set delivery dates and sort and distribute the products. Fundraisers already planned for the 2011-2012 school year include Wolfgang Candy sale (Christmas).
Hospitality: This committee is in charge of BINGO night (Jan. 25), Teacher Appreciation (May) and VIP Breakfast (May 24).
Yearbook: This committee will be taking pictures and arranging the layout of the yearbook. The yearbook is assembled using an online program with School Annual Publishing Company. In addition to doing the yearbook, this committee also has to distribute the order sheets and track orders. The distribution of the yearbook is at the end of the year.
Book Fair: This committee will work with Scholastic Books to organize the set-up of our book fairs in the fall (October) and spring (April). They will also organize volunteers to assist the students on the days of the book fair.
Homeroom Coordinator: The Homeroom coordinator is in charge of organizing the Fall Costume Party (October) and Valentine Party (February) by procuring volunteers for each classroom/activity, purchasing necessary items and overseeing the actual events.
5 Mount Wolf PTO Calendar – 2011-2012 School Year
AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 15 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 6 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 3 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 18 Kindergarten 12 Open House, 26 Book Fair (during Orientation, 4 pm grades 1-3, 6:30 pm the day) 23 Building Preview, 29 Fall Picture Day 27 Book Fair and Grades k-3, 4-6 pm Costume Party, 6-8 24 First day for students
NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY 4 Elementary Report 5 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 9 PTO Mtg., 6 pm Card Distribution 7 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 14 Concert, Grades 24 Elementary 2-3, 6:30 pm Report Card Distribution 17 Picture Retake 25 Family BINGO Day Night 6:30 18 Parent Visitation Day
FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL 6 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 5 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 2 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 10 Valentine Parties, 30 Elementary 26 & 27 Book fair 2 pm Report Card (During the day) Distribution 15 Kindergarten (2012-13) Informational Meeting for Parents, 7pm @ CRO
MAY JUNE 1 Spring Concert, 4 PTO Mtg., 6 pm Grades K&1, 6:30 pm 7 PTO Mtg., 6 pm 5 Fun Day
6 MAY JUNE 10 Grandparents’ 13 Elementary Day Report Card Distribution
16 “Fun”damentals of Kindergarten, 6:30 pm @ MW 24 VIP Breakfast, 8:00 am
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Mt. Wolf Elementary School iRules
Mt. Wolf Elementary School iLearn Pledge
8 Mt. Wolf Elementary Belief Statements
Attendance
Every child of compulsory school age and having legal residence in Northeastern School District is required to attend either a public, private or parochial school unless he/she is excused according to regulations covered in the School Code.
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Absences and Excuses
Please remember to call the school office when your child is going to be absent or late for school. Your cooperation in helping us account for every child’s safety is appreciated. If your child is going to be absent for several days, let us know. By doing that, you need not call every day.
Remember: calls do not replace a written excuse for absence. It is the parent’s responsibility to send a written excuse for each absence. If an excuse is not received, the absence will be recorded as unexcused. Additionally, a written note from a parent does not indicate that the absence will automatically be excused. For example, “visiting,” “overslept,” and “away from home,” are not considered excused absences. Please use the Excuse Blanks found in the back of your handbook. Each excuse note must contain the following information: the child’s full name, the grade, the teacher’s name, the reason for the absence, the dates of the absence and the parent’s signature.
An absence from school, which is not supported by a written note from the parents within one week of the absence, will be marked as unexcused.
It is our hope that parents understand and promote the importance of daily school attendance. Naturally, there are times when a student is ill and unable to attend school. Please see the Nurse’s Information to assist you in making that determination.
Work Missed During an Absence
Students are permitted and are encouraged to make up all work that is missed during their absence. The student must arrange to make up the missed work within three days after returning to school. The length of time that will be given to make up work will be determined by the individual teacher based on the length of absence. Homebound instruction is provided when a lengthy absence is anticipated.
Address and Telephone Number Changes
Please notify the school if your address, telephone number, or emergency contact numbers have changed. It is very important that our information be kept up to date, especially in the event of an emergency.
Homebound Instruction
If a student is absent for an extended period of time (longer than 2 weeks), the parent should notify the school principal to secure the proper forms. When a
10 student is absent for a time less than this, the parent should contact the classroom teacher to secure assignments.
Excused Absences for Travel
The school district recognizes that students may have the opportunity to participate in pre-planned trips and educational experiences with their parent or guardian during the school year. It is recommended that contact with the child’s teacher or principal is made in advance before making final arrangements for an educational trip.
Requests for excused absence for an educational trip must be submitted in writing to the Superintendent two weeks prior to the trip. Request forms are available in the school’s office. The determination of each request will be made on the educational value of the planned experience.
Education trips must be limited to one (1) trip per school year up to a maximum of five school days.
Cafeteria
Mt. Wolf Elementary uses a Point-Of-Sale system via computerized cash registers for the cafeteria process. Each child has a cafeteria account accessed with their Student ID number. You may prepay any amount into the account balance and each day the amount of their lunch purchase will be deducted from their account. The cashier will remind the student when their balance is getting low and provide them with an envelope to add money to their account.
All students (paying, reduced, and free) will have their Student ID number entered when they go through the lunch line. Any money left in the account at the end of the year may be refunded or carried in the account until the following school year for lunch purchases. If a student has a zero balance in his/her account, he/she may borrow money from the cafeteria. Payment should be made the following day.
There are two meals available each day, breakfast and lunch. At lunch, a regular menu item and an alternate choice are available. This will appear on the menu, which is sent home with the students monthly. It also appears on the school web site, www.nesd.k12.pa.us. Also from time to time, there will be notices of cafeteria events posted on the back of the menu.
Students are expected to pick up waste and place their empty trays at the dishwashing shelf before leaving the cafeteria. Throwing food is not permitted. Manners are to be practiced in the dining area at all times.
11 A free lunch application will be sent home with every student at the beginning of school. Applications are available during the school year at the office for any new student or for anyone whose financial situation changes. If your child received free or reduced lunch at the end of the previous school year, he/she is in the same status for the beginning of school until you have a chance to file a new application.
Milk Price: $.50 Breakfast: $.90 Reduced Breakfast: $.30 Lunch: $1.80 Reduced Lunch: $.40
Concerts/Performances
We are pleased to offer two student performances. The Second and Third grade students will perform a Holiday Concert on December 14. The Kindergarten and First grade students will perform a Spring Concert on May 1.
We hope that by having two performances the seating, parking, and overall experience will be enhanced.
Fire Drill Procedures
Fire drills are held monthly, as required by state law. To ensure the safety of all children, the following rules must be followed.
1. Pupils will proceed to the assigned fire exit as soon as the alarm is sounded. Pupils will walk quietly to the exit door and continue to walk to their assigned area after they have left the building. 2. There must be no talking, either inside or outside the building, during a fire drill. This allows teachers to give last minute instructions, as needed. 3. Teachers will take their attendance cards or a roster of their students with them and check attendance outside the building. 4. Students may not re-enter the building until the all-clear signal is given.
Grading System
Report cards indicating grades, attendance records, social attitudes and/or teacher comments are issued quarterly for grades K-12, in all district schools. The grades represent the teacher’s best judgment of the pupil’s accomplishment for the nine-week period and should be evaluated in terms of the child’s performance, with the understanding that all children do not achieve equally.
Parents are encouraged to consult teachers early in the marking periods if problems are developing. Please respond when teachers indicate a conference
12 is desired. A copy of the report card, signed by the parent as evidence of receipt, shall be returned to the teacher after each report period.
Medical Information
If a student becomes ill or injured at school, he/she should report first to his/her classroom teacher or teacher on duty and then to the nurse’s office. If the nurse is not present, the school’s designee will see the student and if necessary, will contact the nurse. Transportation of the student to the home or to a medical facility is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
Emergency information is kept in the nurse’s office. At the beginning of each school year, parents are required to complete a new emergency procedure card for each child attending school.
If a parent’s address, phone number, place of employment, baby sitter or other information changes during the year, please notify the school. Any serious illness, accident, surgery or medical condition should also be reported to the school nurse.
A confidential list of the medical problems of students is distributed to teachers each year to make them aware of any special considerations for the individual student.
Communicable Diseases in School Children
The following information is taken from the Regulations of Communicable and Non-communicable Diseases of the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Each teacher, principal or superintendent shall exclude students from school who have been diagnosed by a physician or are suspected of having the disease by the school nurse for the indicated time of the following diseases:
STREP THROAT and SCARLET FEVER – 24 hours from institution of appropriate antibiotic therapy, must have a note from the physician.
PINK EYE (acute contagious conjunctivitis) – 24 hours from institution of appropriate therapy, must have a note from the physician.
RING WORM (all types) – After institution of proper treatment, must have a note from the physician.
IMPETIGO – Until judged no longer infective by the child’s physician after treatment is instituted, must have a note from the physician.
13 SCABIES – Excluded until physician institutes treatment, must have a note from physician.
HEAD LICE – If nits or lice are found, may return after one treatment with a shampoo specifically for killing lice. Shampoo must be repeated one week later. Child must return box top of head lice shampoo used for treatment.
CHICKEN POX – Contagious 2 – 48 hours before vesicle appears and during active disease. Student may return to school when all sores are dry (usually 7-14 days).
Dismissal for Medical Appointments
We encourage the parent or guardian to attempt to make doctor and dental appointments at times before or after school hours. If it becomes necessary for your child to leave school early for an emergency, doctor or dental appointment, send a note to the school a day before the appointment or that morning and stop in the office when you come for your child. Excuses of less than ½ day will not be marked as an absence. Any early dismissal requests of more than ½ day will require an excuse upon return the next day.
Health Services Provided
Your school nurse is dedicated to the wellness of every student. The Health Services provided by the school nurse or health assistant include:
1. Annual height and weight measurements for every student.
2. Annual vision screening for every student.
3. Hearing screening for all K, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students and any others with special needs.
4. Medical examinations of all K-students either by the family doctor (to be reported to school on a school form) or by the school doctor.
5. Dental examinations for K and 3rd grade students.
6. Providing a written notice for parents if a follow-up is needed after any of the above services have been performed.
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Medication at School
When a medication is ordered for three times a day or less, all doses should be taken at home unless specifically ordered by a physician for use during school hours. ANY medication, prescription OR over-the-counter (including Tylenol, ibuprofen, cough drops), that will be taken at school will need BOTH written parental AND physician permission. When visiting the doctor and medication is prescribed, ask the doctor for a note for the school. A doctor’s note can also be faxed to the school (266-6516). This can then be attached to the school form. Forms are available from your child’s school nurse.
ALL medication must be brought to school in an original container. The nurse will not accept medication in any other type of container. All containers must include the student’s name, name of the medication, amount to be given and time or interval between doses. When getting a prescription filled, ask the pharmacist for a second labeled bottle for the school.
Send ONLY ENOUGH MEDICATION to be taken at school. NEVER send the full prescription.
Numbered Day Schedule
Northeastern School District students follow a numbered day schedule for the school year. Under a numbered day system, students follow daily schedules of DAY 1, DAY 2, DAY 3, DAY 4, DAY 5, DAY 6, then repeat DAY 1, DAY 2, etc. Under the traditional Monday to Friday schedule, some students were not receiving equal curriculum exposure due to the frequency of school holidays falling on Monday or Friday. By using the numbered day schedule, students will be insured of equal instructional time.
What does this mean for your family? Students will have their “special” classes (art, music, physical education, and library) by numbered days rather than day of the week.
How will you know the schedule? The numbered day schedule is often found on class calendars.
How will this change? If there is a snow day, the numerical sequence will continue upon return. For example: Tuesday, Day 1; Wednesday, snow day; Thursday, Day 2…
15 Parent Concerns
1. To discuss a pupil’s general behavior or a specific disciplinary problem, please contact the classroom teacher. If matters cannot be resolved, contact the principal. 2. To discuss a matter on general school administration, please contact the office. 3. To discuss transportation matters – bus routes, stops, times of arrival and departure, missed pupils, etc., please contact Mrs. Smith at 266- 3667. 4. When you must contact your child immediately under emergency situations, call the office at 266-6570. Note: Pupils and teachers are called out of class only in cases of extreme emergency. Teachers will return calls at a convenient time during the day.
Parent Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher conferences are regularly held during the school year at the end of the first marking period in November. A conference, however, may be scheduled any time during the school year by contacting the school office.
Parent Visitation
1. Schedule your visit in advance. A phone call to the principal’s office is all that is needed. 2. Please remember to contact the school for an appointment if you wish to see a teacher since classes are not to be interrupted when they are in session. 3. All visitors must report directly to the office. 4. Visitors must be in the building for a purpose. Parents bringing books, gym shoes, etc., must report to the office. 5. Please report to the office upon entering the building to pick up a student or before going to a teacher's room. 6. The only time students are to be excused from class during the school day is for a visit to either the doctor or dentist.
Reading: Accelerated Reading Program
Students in Northeastern School District have participated in Accelerated Reader at all elementary schools for several years. Because we know that students become better at reading by participating in the act of reading, every student in kindergarten will read with his or her teacher and complete AR quizzes on the computer as a class. All students in grades 1-3 will complete a recommended number of minutes read per week and complete AR quizzes during school on
16 books of his or her choice or guided reading books, as assigned by his or her teacher. Of course, students who desire will have the opportunity to take more AR quizzes for personal growth. Tracking for incentives will be done by earning or exceeding the required number of points for a grade level. Each student starts over each marking period, therefore it’s never too late to get on board with AR!
Reading alone, reading aloud, or listening to someone read to them are all excellent practices to encourage at home. We recommend the following number of minutes per week:
Grade Average Minutes Required Minutes Monthly Requirement (to per Day per Week earn building incentives) 1 10 50 200 2 15 75 300 3 20 100 400
Individual teachers may require a specific number of minutes per night. Please check your child’s homework assignments for that information.
Recess
In the interest of good health, all children are expected to go outdoors during play periods with the exception of inclement weather. A child who is well enough to be in school is usually well enough to spend a short period on the playground. In addition to lunch recess, students can expect to participate in an additional short exercise break at another time in the day.
If, following a serious illness or injury, a child is unable to go outdoors during recess, a doctor's certificate stating this fact and including the time to be spent indoors should be sent to school. A doctor's certificate is also required if a pupil is not permitted to take part in Physical Education class for any time longer than one class period.
School Bus Conduct
REMEMBER – Riding the school bus is a privilege. Breaking any of the rules could deprive you of this privilege. In the interest of safety, students are required to conduct themselves properly while entering, riding and leaving school buses. Video and audio capabilities are on buses to monitor behavior. 1. Pupils may not ride any bus other than the one to which they are assigned. Walkers may not ride buses.
17 2. In cases of inclement weather or bus mechanical failure, pupils are expected to wait at least one half hour for the bus to arrive before returning home. 3. Pupils will stand on the side of the road and in no way interfere with traffic while awaiting buses. Pupils will respect the property of people who reside at or near the bus stop. 4. Pupils will observe regular classroom conduct, except for ordinary conversation, while riding the bus and at the bus stop. 5. The building administrator must clear any emergency situations involving a student having to change from his/her assigned bus. 6. Pupils will be seated and remain seated until they reach their bus stop. 7. Pupils and/or their parents are responsible for damage to bus equipment. 8. Fighting, eating and the use of profane language are forbidden. 9. The driver on each bus has the same responsibility for maintaining discipline as the teacher in the classroom.
School Closing – Weather
When weather conditions cause the schools to close, such announcements will be carried over local radio and TV stations at the earliest possible time. Similar announcements for the benefit of parents will be made in case of early dismissal.
The news of “early dismissal” comes from the Administrative Office via telephone. We ask that you listen to the local radio and television stations or check the website for the news of any early dismissals instead of calling the school. You will also likely receive a Global Connect call notifying you of a school closing or early dismissal.
School closings and early dismissal announcements can be heard on: WSBA-AM (910); WARM-FM (103.3); WOYK-AM (1300); WHTF-FM (92.7); WQXA-FM (105.7); Channel 8 WGAL and channel 27 WHP on TV.
Dismissals and closings are posted on the school district web site at www.nesd.k12.pa.us
School Pictures
During the fall and spring, individual student pictures are taken. Parents may choose from a variety of packages as described in a pamphlet that is sent home. Provisions will be made for retakes at a later date. Class photos will be included.
Fall picture date is: September 29, 2011
18 School Spirit Days!
Mt. Wolf Elementary School will celebrate school spirit at least once per month. Show your school spirit by wearing a Northeastern T-shirt or Orange & Black to school! Check your newsletters for more information. A flyer is being provided that explains each spirit day for the fall. Please SAVE THIS PAPER to refer to throughout the fall semester. A second flyer will be provided for after January 1st.
Special Education Services
Special services are provided for children who have been formally tested and identified as candidates for special programs. Classes are provided for children who have been recommended for placement in LS (Learning Support) and GS (Gifted Support). Assignment to these classes is made only with the consent of parents/guardians. Likewise, students cannot be withdrawn from these classes without parental agreement.
Special Services
PSYCHOLOGIST – A school psychologist is provided by the Lincoln Intermediate Unit to help the school staff and parents aid the student in reaching his/her potential. This is done through a referral process.
SCHOOL-WIDE TESTING – A variety of tests are administered to our students throughout the year. They test many things including students’ strengths, weaknesses and rate of growth. First grade students are given an Intelligence Quotient test. Third grade students are administered the PSSA in reading and math.
SPEECH, VISION, AND HEARING – The Intermediate Unit provides these services to the students of our district. Referrals may be made by parents or teachers through the school office.
Student Dress*
Clothing with ornaments of any kind that could mar or scratch furniture and/or damage school property shall not be permitted. The use of undergarments, which includes long underwear, shall be worn as their original design was intended.
Shorts of appropriate size and style will be permitted in the spring and fall only when the weather so warrants their use.
Transparent and immodest clothing which attracts undue attention including tank, tube, halter tops, low cut blouses (front or back), muscle shirts and cut off shirts is prohibited.
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Clothing which creates a hazard or injury to the wearer or clothing displaying slogans or pictures suggesting the use of alcohol, drugs, obscene language, lewd or illegal behavior is prohibited.
Baseball caps may not be worn in school buildings. Bare feet or footwear causing a potentially dangerous condition to the wearer is prohibited.
*As listed in the Northeastern School District Calendar.
Title One Reading
The school district, in cooperation with the federal government, provides a Reading Program for students who are identified as being in need of additional help in reading skills development. Certified Reading Specialists meet with small groups of students at least three periods per week. Classroom teachers typically refer students to the Title 1 program. All students are tested using the DRA to assess reading progress. Students who test out of the program are dismissed from the Title One Reading program.
Walkers/Car Rider Information
Parents or Guardians dropping off and/or picking up their children in a car should wait in their cars along the parking lot overhang or stand on the sidewalk. No parents are permitted to drop off or pick up along Maple Street or Sixth Street.
Morning Drop-off (8:30-8:38 am) All walkers are to be dropped off at the Parking Lot Ramp area in the morning. Because of traffic congestion and safety issues, no one may be dropped off anywhere except the Parking Lot Ramp. Drivers should remain in the car and pull up, single file, along the overhang. Children should exit the car and walk directly into the school. If you need to walk your child into the office, please park in a designated parking space, and enter through the “Daytime Entrance.” For the safety of all students, no parents will be admitted through ANY other doors
Afternoon Pickup (3:20 pm) 1. Walkers who travel by foot will be dismissed first to the Parking Lot Ramp area. If an adult is escorting a student home, the adult should be at the Parking Lot Ramp no later than 3:20 pm. 2. Car riders will be dismissed last at the Parking Lot Ramp. Car drivers must pull up, single file, in a line around the parking lot and flowing out onto Maple Street, if needed. As each car approaches the overhang, students will be dismissed from the vestibule to their Driver. Students will enter the car, buckle up, and then Drivers may pull away, remaining in the single file line. The next set of cars will approach the overhang, and their students will be called out
20 from the vestibule, following the same procedure. No drivers may get out of the cars and no cars may pass other cars. 3. Office Pickup: Because of the security procedures all parents must enter the building through the “Daytime Entrance.” If you need to pick your child up from inside school, prior to dismissal, please use the “Daytime Entrance.”
Please, drive SLOWLY! Remind your child to always look both ways before crossing the street.
General Expectations for Students
1. Students who walk should plan to arrive at school at 8:35 a.m.
2. During inclement weather, students may be permitted to wait inside.
3. Students should walk through the halls quietly and in an orderly manner.
4. Chewing of gum is prohibited in school.
5. All lost or found articles will be kept in the school office.
6. Children are permitted to go to the Health Room to see the nurse only if they have first asked a teacher for permission to do so.
7. Children are to restrict trips to the school office only for necessary items and then only after they have received permission from their teacher.
8. Students should not bring dangerous or disruptive objects to school.
9. It is assumed that a child who is well enough to be in school is well enough to go outdoors for recess, weather permitting. A note from the doctor may be required.
10. Any student taking equipment to the play area must return the equipment.
11. An adult will be on playground duty and students should play in their assigned areas. Guidelines have been set up for equipment use and rules must be followed.
12. Students found damaging school property will face disciplinary action, as well as being required to reimburse the school for the cost of the repairs.
13. Parents picking up students during school hours should first report to the office.
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14. We request that animals not be brought to school unless specific arrangements have been made with the teacher. If animals are included in the instructional program and are brought on school property, it is highly desirable to have them restrained or in an appropriate container. Animals are not allowed on the busses.
15. During lunch periods, pupils are to be in their classrooms, in designated areas, or outdoors.
16. Textbooks are loaned to the children by the district. If they are lost or damaged they must be paid for by the parent or guardian.
17. Children should use polite, respectful language and show courtesy to others.
18. Students needing the use of the telephone must have the call cleared through the office and then only for emergency situations.
19. Students should not bring toys, balls, etc. to school without prior permission from the school staff. The school supplies balls and games.
Guided Reading
Many teachers at Mt. Wolf Elementary send home guided reading books for your child to practice reading at home. Please continue to be conscientious in sending the books promptly back to school the next day. Often, the teacher needs those same books to reread with his/her reading groups the very next day.
Jewelry Policy
A jewelry policy was passed by the Northeastern School District. This policy went into effect, for elementary students, during the 2004-2005 school year. The district recognizes the right of students to wear jewelry and other adornments; however, the type and manner in which they are worn may pose a danger to the safety of the student or other students.
This policy pertains to physical education classes or other programs, which involve physical contact between students or physical contact by a student with physical objects. The administration and /or teaching staff require that students remove any jewelry, which might reasonably be considered as posing a threat to the safety of the student, or other students. Students may wear “spacers” in the case of new piercing.
22 Behavior Reinforcement
School wide plan: iPaws The three rules are always the first three rules. If classroom teachers wish to expand or extend the rules, they may. All adults are compelled to enforce the iRules. ALL adults in the school will hold all students accountable for following the iRules. Students who do not follow the rules in special classes or common areas will be required to add a paw in their classroom. Classroom teachers and special area teachers will discuss the responsibility of making the parent contact if necessary. When a student breaks a school/classroom rule, they must “pause to think” about their behavior and add a paw to their pocket… All classroom teachers will utilize paws on the following schedule:
K/1 Grade Verbal Warning Green-lose 5 minutes of playtime Yellow-lose all of playtime Orange-teacher makes parent contact through note or phone call Red-behavior referral to office (Typically a Level III behavior)
2/3 Grade Green-Warning Yellow-silent lunch Orange-silent lunch and recess and teacher makes parent contact through note or phone call Red-behavior referral to office (Typically a Level III behavior)
Faculty and Staff Listing
ROOM NAME ASSIGNMENT Office Randi Payne Principal Office Cindy Diehl Secretary 102 Dee Pandelaras Reading/ESL 101 Lisa Kinsinger Guidance 104 Cathy Horner/Tammie Harlacker LIU-PCC
23 105 Jenna Gargas/Joyce Stahle LIU-Autistic Support 106 Melissa Forry 1 107 Sue Zortman 2 108 Janie Whalen 1 200 Pete LoBianco 2 202 Kristin Stiffey 2 203 Linda Himes Kindergarten 204 Teresa Wilson Kindergarten/1 205 Ashley Donnelly 3 206 Sharon Willow Kindergarten 207 Kay McMillen Learning Support 208 Mary Jo Welker 3 Scott Lutz Intervention Specialist Katie Rowan Psychologist Library Sarah Gepfer/Marcy Kehler Library 201 Emily Lingenfelter Art 201 Donna Marie Dietz/John Rau Music/Instrumentals Gym Nicholas Donnelly Physical Education Jennifer Wagner Gifted Speech & Language Health Deb Beam Nurse Health Tiffany Keesey/Stacey Zelger Health Assistants Shelley Laughman Instructional Assist. Doris Boyer Instructional Assist. Sue Sanger Instructional Assist. Maria Heim Instructional Assist. Colleen Warrender Playground/Café Aide Allison List Playground/Café Aide Donna Orvis PCA George Brumbaugh Head Custodian Sandra Klinger Cook Wendy Garman Cafeteria Assistant Deb Wilt Cafeteria Assistant
24 Volunteer Clearances Policy
As part of the district’s ongoing efforts to ensure student safety, a volunteer clearance policy will be effective at the start of the 2011-12 school year. The district’s Safe Schools Committee is following a recommendation from the PA State Auditor General’s Office, which requires all volunteers to undergo both a Child Welfare and a PA Criminal Background Check. Those who volunteer more than 10 hours per week, and are in direct contact with students, must also undergo a tuberculosis test. The new volunteer application is posted on the district website (www.nesd.k12.pa.us) and is available in your child’s school office. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Whether you are a new volunteer or have been volunteering within in the district for years, you must complete the new application. Clearances do not have to be renewed unless there is a break of service of a year or more. Please understand that the majority of districts in York County require volunteers to obtain these clearances. Reviewing clearances allows the district to ensure the adults working with our students do not have a criminal background. The Northeastern School District wishes to take the necessary steps to maintain a safe school environment for our students.
Examples of Volunteers Requiring Clearances: Classroom Helpers Tutors Field Trip Volunteers Chaperones Book Fair Volunteers Kid Writing Volunteers
Examples of Volunteers NOT Requiring Clearances: Junior Achievement Presenters Guest Speakers Fundraising Distributors
25 No. 249
SECTION: PUPILS NORTHEASTERN TITLE: BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING SCHOOL DISTRICT ADOPTED: February 2, 2009
REVISED:
249. BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING
1. Purpose The Northeastern School District Board of School Directors is committed to providing all students with a safe, healthy, and civil school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with mutual respect, tolerance, and dignity. That that end, the school district has in place policies, procedures, and practices that are designed to reduce and eliminate bullying and harassment when they occur.
This policy is in effect while students are on property within jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-contracted or school-operated vehicles; and, while attending or engaging in school-sponsored activities. Students who file a bullying complaint or who have assisted or participated in any manner in a bullying investigation may not be retaliated against.
2. Authority Any violation of this policy shall be considered an infraction of the Code of SC 1303.1-A Conduct, with discipline implemented accordingly. All bullying behavior that is a SC 510 violation of the PA Crimes Code will be reported to the Appropriate legal 22 PA. Code S authorities. 12.3 (C) The Board encourages students who have been bullied to promptly report such incidents to the building principal or designee.
3. Definition Bullying shall mean an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act, or series of acts: 1. Directed at another student or students; 2. Which occurs in a school setting; 3. That is severe, persistent, or pervasive; and, 4. That has the effect of doing any of the following:
a. Substantially interfering with a student’s education; b. Creating a threatening environment; or, c. Substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
26 “School setting” shall mean in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at any activity sponsored, supervised, or sanctioned by the school. Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyber-bullying.
4. Delegation of The Superintendent or designee shall develop administrative procedures to increase Responsibility the awareness of the problems associated with bullying (i.e., a bullying awareness SC 1303.1-A program) and shall develop procedures for the prompt investigation of and correction action for bullying when verified.
This policy shall be implemented through the cooperative efforts of the Superintendent, building administrators, school staff members, parents/guardians, regional police and state police, and the school district’s community.
Each staff member shall be responsible for maintaining an educational environment free from bullying. Staff members who observe or become aware of an act of bullying shall take immediate, appropriate steps to intervene unless the intervention would be a threat to staff members’ safety. In that case, or if the bullying persists, s/he shall report the bullying to the school principal for further investigation. This investigation may include interviews with students, parents/guardians, and school staff; review of school records; and, any other appropriate means of investigation.
Each student shall be responsible in respecting the rights of his/her fellow students, to ensure the rights of his/her fellow students, and to ensure an atmosphere free from all forms of bullying.
The Board expects that students and parents/guardians who become aware of an act of bullying shall report it to a school official (usually the building principal) for further investigation. Any student who retaliates against another person for reporting bullying, intimidation and/or physical assault shall be subject to further disciplinary action.
Students shall be informed about the policy on the district’s publicly accessible internet website, and in every classroom. The policy shall be posted at a prominent location within each school building where such notices are usually posted. Each school building principal shall ensure that the policy and procedures for reporting bullying incidents are reviewed with students within ninety (90) days after the adoption of this policy and thereafter at least once each school year.
The Superintendent or designee, in cooperation with other appropriate administrators shall review this policy every three (3) years and recommend necessary revisions to the Board.
District administration shall annually provide the following information with the Safe School Report:
27 1. Board’s Bullying Policy 2. Report of bullying incidents
3. Information on the development and implementation of any bullying prevention, intervention, or education programs.
5. Guidelines The Code of Student Conduct, which shall contain this policy, shall be disseminated SC 1303.1-A annually to students. Title 22 Sec. 12.3 This policy shall be accessible in every classroom. The policy shall be posted in a Pol. 218 prominent location within each school building and on the district web site, if available.
Preventive Measures
A copy of this policy will be included in the student handbooks annually. The K-12 Anti-Bullying program will be introduced and integrated into the general curriculum. Teacher, counselors, specialists, and school administrators will routinely discuss bullying with students and will provide appropriate examples to assist students with recognizing, identifying, and reporting bullying incidents. All students shall be informed that bullying will not be tolerated in any form. All students shall be encouraged to report any bullying regardless of whether they are the victim or an observer.
When an investigation substantiates that bullying has occurred, the building principal or assistant principal shall inform a staff who work with the offending student and the victim about the bullying so that those staff can more closely monitor for future incidents of bullying. The primary purpose of such action is to protect the victim and deter such behavior in the future. The disciplinary action imposed on the offender will match the severity of the offense.
Reporting Procedures
Victims – All students who believe they have been the victim of bullying shall promptly report the bullying incident to a teacher, counselor, or building administrator.
Parents/Guardians – All parents/guardians who become aware of any bullying are encouraged to report the bullying incident(s) to a building administrator.
Witnesses – All students who witness bullying shall immediately report the bullying incident(s) to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Any teacher, counselor, or administrator who witnesses bullying shall immediately intervene and take appropriate action to stop the bullying.
Teacher/Counselors – Any teacher/counselor who witnesses bullying or receives a
28 report of bullying shall document such incident and promptly investigate the matter.
Administrators shall seek to discuss the bullying incident(s) with the victim in a place where the victim feels secure. The initial discussion with the victim shall not take place in the presence of the offending student(s). If more than one (1) student is involved in perpetrating the bullying, the administrator shall talk to each of the offending students separately. After the investigation has been completed, the building principal shall take appropriate actions consistent with this policy.
SC 1303, 1-A Disciplinary and Other Action Pol. 218, 233 A student who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student conduct, which may include:
● Counseling within the school. ● Parental conference. ● Loss of school privileges. ● Transfer to another school building, classroom, or school bus. ● Exclusion from school-sponsored activities. ● Detention. ● Suspension. ● Expulsion. ● Counseling/Therapy outside of school. ● Referral to law enforcement officials.
If an investigation substantiates that bullying has occurred, a written record of the incident shall be placed in the file of the offending student(s). The district recognizes that parents/guardians can play an important role in educating their children and preventing bullying. Accordingly, the parents/guardians of each offending student shall be informed of any bullying incidents involving their child. Parents/Guardians of the offending students will be encouraged to attend one (1) or more conferences with an administrator to review the bullying behavior and cooperative strategies for correcting it. The building principal or designee shall also inform the victim’s parents/guardians of any and all bullying incidents involving their child.
Disciplinary action shall be in accordance with the Board approved student Code of Conduct. Depending on the severity of the offense, the disciplinary action for bullying may include loss of privileges, removal from class, suspensions, and a Board expulsion hearing. If the investigation has determined that the conduct rises to the level of a crime, disciplinary action may also include referral to law enforcement officials. In addition to imposing any disciplinary action, the building administrator will discuss the bullying behavior with the offending student and the parent/guardian and review why the behavior is inappropriate.
29 In some circumstances, mediation may be used as a viable alternative or in addition to disciplinary action when addressing a first offense of bullying. The building administrator shall consider the nature and sensitivity of the offense in determining whether mediation is appropriate. Mediation shall not be used without the consent of the victim and their parent/guardian, or where the building administrator has a concern about retaliation being perpetrated against the victim. Victims shall not be pressured into participating in mediation. The Northeastern School District Board of Directors recognizes that a severe imbalance exists between the victim and the bully and that this imbalance can make mediation an intimidating situation for the victim.
All incidents of confirmed bullying, including those that are mediated, shall be recorded in writing and placed in the offending student’s discipline file.
The penalties and prohibitions in this policy are in addition, and do not replace or supersede, any related provisions in district policy prohibiting conduct such as harassment, violence, assault, and hazing.
References:
School Code – 24 P.S. Sec. 1302-A, 1303, 1-A State Board of Education Regulations – 22 PA Code Sec. 12.3 Board Policy – 000, 218, 233, 236
30 The NESD Wellness Policy
What is this, why do we need this, and how does this affect my child?
The federal government estimates that an unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity account for a large number of deaths each year. These may include deaths from cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and diabetes. Most children do not get the recommended 5 fruits and vegetables a day. This minimum is required for good health and disease prevention.
All School Districts are required to have a Wellness Policy. Each policy must include Nutrition Guidelines for all foods available on the school campus during the school day (30 minutes prior to school beginning and 30 minutes after school has ended). The Northeastern School District Wellness Committee has developed goals and guidelines for all foods available on the school campus. The areas of focus are:
Ala Carte Classroom parties Fundraisers Foods used as rewards Vending Machines School stores
This will have an impact on the PTO with fundraising and classroom parties/celebrations. In addition, we will be offering tasty, healthier, and affordable selections in all vending machines and ala carte areas in our cafeterias.
As parents, guardians, care givers, and educators, we can be positive role models. Help our district promote healthy lifestyle principles.
If you are interested in being a member of our Wellness Committee, please contact Kimberly Alessandroni, Director of Child Nutrition Services at the Administration Center (266-3667).
Special Thanks to the following contributing artists: Brittany Arentz, Jessica Bear, Damon Faulkner, Leah Gross, Grace Meile, Laney Seifert, and Drew Wilson
31 On-Line Payment Service mySchoolBucks.com
The Northeastern School District is pleased to announce a new payment service over the internet. Your child's school now accepts payments for school meals through the mySchoolBucks.com online payment service. mySchoolBucks.com offers a secure transaction gateway that accepts VISA® or MasterCard® as a means of adding money to your child's meal account. Credit or debit cards can be used.
Here are a few reasons to register now and begin using mySchoolBucks.com: ●Safety - Virtually eliminates worries about your child carrying money to school. ●Convenience - Make payments when it's convenient for you, from the comfort of your own home, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. ●Control – If you are using mySchoolBucks to pay for your child’s meal purchases, you will be able to view your child's meal purchases at the school cafeteria. Also, you can set up an automatic email reminder to alert you when a payment is needed for your child's account, or set up an automatic payment for any other items available on the mySchoolBucks site. ●Efficient - Make payments for all your children in one step, even though they may attend different schools in our district. To get started, all you need is a computer, internet access, and an email account. There is a fee to set up the account. The service automatically deposits the money into the student’s meal account at school within one to two business days. The Service or Membership Fee you pay does not go to the school district. All fees go directly to mySchoolBucks.com to cover the vendor's costs of operating the online service. Refunds will be handled through the District Office using usual procedures.
To Register On-line: Visit the website at www.mySchoolBucks.com. Follow the instructions on the screen and provide the required information in order to register. You can register each child using their date of birth and/or student identification number; and be sure to enter your child’s name exactly as you did when you registered them at school. You will receive notification by email of successful registration. For this reason, a valid email address is required when you sign up for the service. We are excited to be able to offer this new service to our families in the school district. We hope you will find it to be not only convenient, but a great timesaver!
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