Harwinton Consolidated School 2015-2016 Student/Family Handbook

Harwinton Consolidated School

2015-2016 Student/Family Handbook

Harwinton Consolidated School 115 Litchfield Road Harwinton, Connecticut 06791 phone - 860-485-9029 fax – 860-485-9237 www.region10ct.org

1 Harwinton Consolidated School REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT #10 Burlington and Harwinton Connecticut

2015-2016 STUDENT/FAMILY HANDBOOK

Welcome to the 2015/2016 school year! We look forward to an inspirational year of teaching and learning at Harwinton Consolidated School.

The HCS staff welcomes your involvement. We strive to create an environment where parents, students, and staff work in partnership. The academic and social-emotional growth of our students is the key to their present and future success. The foundation for effective educational programming is based our shared commitment and dedication to the students of Harwinton Consolidated School. As our motto states, “We need each other’s success for the success of all.”

This handbook has been compiled to provide information to help you become familiar with our school. Families will be notified throughout the school year of additional school activities and special items of interest. The Husky Herald, our monthly newsletter, is an excellent source of information regarding special programs and important dates. News about school events will also be shared through emails from the school and PTO as well as featured on our website, which can be accessed at www.region10ct.org. We would appreciate the opportunity to respond to your questions and concerns during the year, and welcome your communication through notes, phone calls, emails and conferences.

We wish each of our students a very successful school year!

Sincerely,

Megan Mazzei Rebecca Kennedy Principal Assistant Principal

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Behavior Guidelines ...... 15 - 17 Board of Education Members ...... 3 Bus Service ...... 12 District Contact Information ...... 3 District Policies and Notices ...... 14, 16, 20-24 General Information ...... 6 – 11 Harwinton Consolidated School Staff List ...... 4 HCS Programs ...... 17, 18 Homework ...... 13, 14 Lunch Program ...... 12 PTO Information ...... 19 Report Cards ...... 13 School Hours ...... 5

2 Regional School District #10

CENTRAL OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Mr. Alan Beitman 24 Lyon Road DIRECTOR OF STUDENT LEARNING Mrs. Cherie Burke Burlington, CT 06013 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Mrs. Susan Laone Phone – 860-673-2538 DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS Mr. David Fortin Fax – 860-673-4976 DIRECTOR OF FOOD SERVICES Ms. Margaret Dreher DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL SERVICES Mrs. Linda Carabis Special Services Phone – 860-673-6195 Special Services Fax – 860-404-7793

HARWINTON CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL 115 Litchfield Road PRINCIPAL Mrs. Megan Mazzei Harwinton, CT 06791 ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Mrs. Rebecca Kennedy Phone – 860-485-9029 Fax – 860-485-9237

LAKE GARDA SCHOOL 61 Monce Road INTERIM PRINCIPAL Ms. Stefanie Carbone Burlington, CT 06013 INTERIM ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Mr. John Rechi Phone – 860-673-2511 Fax – 860-673-3721

HAR-BUR MIDDLE SCHOOL 26 Lyon Road PRINCIPAL Mr. Kenneth Smith Burlington, CT 06013 ASSISTANT PRINICPAL Mr. Peter Bogen Phone – 860-673-6163 ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Mrs. Martha Rouleau Fax – 860-673-3481

LEWIS S. MILLS HIGH SCHOOL 26 Lyon Road PRINCIPAL Mrs. Pamela Lazaroski Burlington, CT 06013 ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Mrs. Silvia Ouellette Phone – 860-673-0423 Fax – 860-673-9128

BUS COMPANY: All Star Transportation 860-605-9285

REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT #10 BOARD OF EDUCATION

Burlington Harwinton Mrs. Susan Baccaro Mr. Joseph Arcuri Mr. Bruce Guillemette Mr. Thomas Fausel Mrs. Brooke Joiner Mr. Corey Rewenko Mrs. Ellie Parente Mr. John Vecchitto Mr. Phillip J. Penn Mr. Paul Omichinski

3 HARWINTON CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL STAFF

Megan Mazzei– Principal Kim Mazzini– Secretary Rebecca Kennedy – Assistant Principal Patricia Cassidy– Assistant Secretary

Pre-School First Grade Second Grade Nya Duncan Joan Evans Doug Caneday Cheryl Hedrick Megan Lizotte Kindergarten Jill Vannini Catherine McIntire Sharon Haworth Christina Rogers Elizabeth Duval Julie McKenna Melissa Tharau

Third Grade Fourth Grade Darren Murphy Todd Adams Megan Norton Heather Carr Kelly Pergola Erin Parkhouse Robert Pirotta Amanda Werner Kathleen Rybak

Special Area Teachers Support Services Staff Art – Liz Spring District Occupational Therapist – Doreen Daneault Technology Assistant – Linda Surveski District OT Assistant – Bonnie Gray Instrumental Music – Kellan Mahford District Physical Therapist – Renee Casner Librarian – Gail Nelson Early Intervention – Julie D’Ambruoso Library Assistant – Nancy Schlosky Elementary Math Interventionist – Sheryl Barney Music – Dawn Marie Conroy E.L.L. Teacher – Daria Avery P.E. – Elizabeth Genest, Doug Rohner Language Arts Coordinator – Angela Pasqualini Spanish – Patti Smaldone Language Arts Consultant – Jillian Fountain Nurse – Darlene Rinaldi Partners In Literacy and Numeracy – Karen Czerwinski Teaching Assistants School Psychologist –Kathryn Masse Bryttnee Aeschliman Kaitlin Hill Special Education Teachers – Althea Green, Dawn Pease and Pam Alvarez Caitlin Kilbourne Brittany Root Susan Cisowski Sherrie Konopka Special Services Coordinator – Cherie Lindquist Diana DeRose Kristin McNally Speech/Language Pathologists – Kathryn Dowling & Eva Doyle Marsha Miles Heather Kelly-Welch Stacie Fallon Karen Murack STEM Coordinators – Bob Gauvain & Brennan Glasgow Melissa Fritz Mary Odell Student Support Center Coordinator – Greta Lindquist- Merlino Nancy Gudelski Katharine Stafford Jennifer Hill

Cafeteria Staff Custodial Staff Kristen Murray – Team Leader Frank Romaniello – Head Custodian Amy Ballerini Dennis Holtman Louise Mareno Raymond Royals Matthew Starr Security Kris Nelson

The staff at Harwinton Consolidated School works to foster an environment of communication among students, parents, staff, administrators, and the wider community. If parents have a question or concern about their child they should contact their child's teacher. Contact information is listed on the HCS website. Please note that calls to classrooms will be forwarded directly to voicemail between the hours of 8:50 and 3:35. Your phone call or email will be retuned at the teacher’s earliest convenience. Please contact the main office (860-485-9029) if an emergency situation or time-sensitive change in your child’s dismissal plan occurs.

4 SCHOOL HOURS

Regular School Hours AM Pre-K 9:05 am – 11:55 am PM Pre-K 12:45 pm – 3:35 pm Grades K – 4 9:05 am – 3:35 pm

Changes in our regular school day schedule:

90-Minute Delay Due to Inclement Weather: ♦ No A.M. Pre-School

♦ PM Pre-K: 12:45 pm – 3:35 pm ♦ K – 4 School hours: 10:35 a.m. – 3:35 p.m.

PLANNED EARLY DISMISSAL (November 25, December 4, March 18, June date(s) TBD): ♦ A.M. Pre-School hours: 9:05 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ♦ P.M. Pre-School hours: 11:20 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. ♦ K – 4 School hours: 9:05 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.

Early Dismissal Due to Inclement Weather: PRESCHOOL: ♦ No P.M. Pre-School ♦ A.M. Pre-School: • Students that are transported by a parent/guardian are dismissed at 11:55 • Students that ride District transportation are served a cafeteria lunch free of charge and dismissed at 12:30 p.m. o Unless otherwise requested by a parent, students will go to a regularly scheduled drop-off destination via their regularly scheduled mode of transportation with all other grades at 12:30.

GRADES K - 4 ♦ School hours: 9:05 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. • Unless otherwise requested by a parent, students will go to a regularly scheduled drop-off destination via their regularly scheduled mode of transportation at 12:30.

5 GENERAL INFORMATION ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PRESCHOOL: Our preschool hours are 8:50 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. to 3:35 p.m. Please observe these times if you are dropping off or picking up your child. Any child arriving later than 9:05 a.m./12:45 p.m. or leaving before 11:55 a.m./3:35 p.m., must be signed in or out of the office. We cannot provide supervision to students before or after their instructional day and would ask that you observe the start and end times of the a.m. and p.m. sessions. We understand that dismissal plans can change during the day due to unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, we ask that you call the main office directly to communicate any changes. Please do not use email communication for this purpose. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

For safety purposes, students will not be dismissed to an adult other than their parent/guardian unless the parent has contacted the school either by phone or in writing. If the school cannot contact a parent/guardian in the event of an emergency, the emergency contact will be called and asked to pick up the student.

Arrival and Dismissal Procedures for Pre-K Students: • Students who receive special education services are provided with District transportation. • If you are dropping off and picking up your child you will follow the procedures below: o AM Preschool – ! Drop-Off is between 8:50 and 9:05 in the rear of the lower building between the gym and music room. A staff member will be at the door to greet your child and walk them up to the classroom. ! Pick-Up is at 11:55 on the upper level at the exterior door closest to the preschool classroom. There is a sign posted at the sidewalk that leads to the door. You will be asked to sign for your child as part of the dismissal procedure. o PM Preschool – ! Drop-Off is at 12:45 on the upper level at the exterior door closest to the preschool classroom. There is a sign posted at the sidewalk that leads to the door. A staff member will be at the door to greet your child and walk them to the classroom. ! Pick-Up is at 3:35 in the rear of the lower building between the gym and music room. You will be asked to sign for your child as part of the dismissal procedure

GRADES K – 4: Students are not permitted to arrive at school before 8:50 am. Adult supervision is not available until that time. In order to begin our instructional day at 9:05 am, we request that all students are in their classrooms by 9:00 am. Our dismissal time is 3:35 pm. Any students arriving later that 9:05 am or needing to leave before 3:35 pm must be signed in or out of the main office.

Morning Drop-Off Procedure: We encourage all students to ride District provided transportation. If you need to drop your child off at school in the morning, please proceed to the rear parking lot near the gym. We ask that you park and walk your child to the door next to the music room. At 8:50 am a staff member will be available to greet your child as they enter the building. Students can proceed to their classrooms independently after they enter the building. Please do not drop students off at the upper entrance, as your vehicle will interfere with bus traffic. If you need to help your child carry something to their classroom in the morning, please park in the main office parking lot; enter the building, sign-in and get a visitor badge at the main office.

Afternoon Pick-Up Procedures: If you are picking your child up at the end of the day you should send a note in with your child that morning. We understand that dismissal plans can change during the day due to unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, we ask that you call the main office directly before 12:00 pm to communicate any changes. Please do not leave a voicemail for your child’s teacher or use email communication for this purpose. If you make arrangements to pick your child up from school at dismissal (3:35) you must use the entrance at the back of the building near the music room. You will need to sign-out your child before leaving. 6 EMERGENCY DISMISSAL, LATE OPENING AND CLOSURE Region 10 uses the School Messenger notification system to notify families in the event of a late opening, early dismissal, or closure due to inclement weather. This system provides an automated message that is sent to your home phone number, email, and/or cell phone. It is important that you notify the main office of changes to any of your contact information during the year so that you receive these notices.

If Region 10 schools must be closed due to inclement weather or another emergency, notification will also be made over the following radio and television stations: WTIC (1080 AM), WDRC (1360 AM), WZBG (97.3 FM), WRCH (100.5 FM), WKSS (95.7 FM), WDRC (102.9 FM), Channels 30, 8, and 3. Cancellation information is also available on Region 10’s website, www.region10ct.org.

In the case of an early closing due to inclement weather, Harwinton Consolidated School will dismiss at 12:30 pm with no afternoon Preschool. Please see inclement weather dismissal information on page 5 for details regarding the dismissal of students. All students (including AM Preschool students that ride District transportation) will have lunch prior to dismissal. Parents should make sure that children are instructed in procedures to follow in the event they arrive home and no one is home. (Neighbors should talk over the possible procedures, phone numbers should be available to children, and the location of house keys should be discussed.) Prior preparation and some common sense should help alleviate any fear that the children might have in such emergencies.

All delayed openings will be 90 minutes, with no AM Preschool. Students can enter the building at 10:20 am.

ABSENTEEISM Please call the school nurse at (860) 485-9029 EXT. 12103 before 9:20 am if your child is going to be absent. A written excuse must be provided to the nurse when your child returns to school. Parents may be requested to present a doctor’s note in cases of prolonged or persistent absence.

If an extended period of absence is expected, parents/guardians may call the office by 10:00 am of the second day to request missed assignments. The assignments will be available the next morning. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to pick up the assignments.

ATTENDANCE & TRUANCY Regular attendance in school is essential to the educational process. Connecticut state law requires that parents and persons having control of children between the ages of 5 and 18 must ensure that such children attend school regularly unless the parent or person having control of such child is able to show that the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction in the studies taught in the public schools. Parents will be notified in writing when excessive absenteeism may have a negative impact on academic progress.

Excused and Unexcused Absences: Students are considered absent if they are not present for at least half of the regular school day. An absence will be excused when a parent provides a timely written note approving the absence for the first nine absences in a school year. An absence must be due to an acceptable reason for the tenth and further absence to be considered excused. Acceptable reasons include: student illness (verified by a licensed medial professional), observance of a religious holiday, death in the family or other emergency beyond the control of the student’s family, mandated court appearances (additional documentation required), lack of transportation usually provided by the school district, visit with parent/guardian who is an active duty member of the Armed Forces (as required by state law, some restrictions apply) or extraordinary educational opportunities (pre-approved by the principal). All documentation of absences must be provided within ten days of the absence. For more information, please refer to the Board Administrative Regulation 5115A. 7 Truancy: Truancy is defined as four unexcused absences from school in any one month or ten unexcused absences from school in any school year. When a student is identified as a truant, the Principal will hold a meeting with the parent and appropriate school personnel to review and evaluate the reasons for the student’s truancy. If the parent of a child who is truant fails to attend the meeting or fails to otherwise cooperate with the school in attempting to solve the truancy problem, the school will file a complaint with the Superior Court alleging that the child’s family is a family with service needs. A truancy referral to the court is appropriate only when the school has exhausted all administrative and social service remedies and has reasonable cause to believe that the absenteeism constitutes truancy.

BIRTHDAYS Birthdays are important days at Harwinton Consolidated School! Please contact your child’s teacher if you’d like to send in a snack or treat for your child’s birthday.

The Celebration Book program is a great way to support the library at Harwinton Consolidated School and recognize your child’s birthday or other special family event in a manner that is lasting. To participate, you can purchase a hardcover book in your child’s name for the library collection for a suggested donation of $17.00. A bookplate will be placed in the book noting your child’s birthday or other special event in your family and the contribution of the book to the library. If you are interested in participating, please fill out the Celebration Book form, which can be found on the home page of the HCS Library wiki. If you have any questions or wish to speak with the Mrs. Gail Nelson, the Library Media Specialist, please call 860-485-9029 ex. 12109. You and/or your child may come to the Library Media Center to choose a book from those approved by the Region 10 Board of Education. Your donation will be acknowledged during morning announcements on or close to your child’s birthday or special event. Your child will have the privilege of being the first to check out the book. Summer birthday book donations will be announced in June.

We ask that children or parents do not distribute invitations to birthday or other parties at school in order to remain sensitive to children not invited to the party. The teacher will return invitations brought to school for distribution to the child or parent. Parents are welcome to speak with teachers about the possibility of distributing invitations to the whole class.

CASUALTY INSURANCE The school does not carry accident insurance to cover students. Parents who wish to purchase individual accident insurance can print the form from the Region 10 website.

FIELD TRIPS Throughout the school year various field trips are scheduled for students based on their grade level and the curriculum that is being studied in the classroom. Parents are notified prior to each trip and must give written permission for their child to attend. Some parents may be asked to chaperone the trip in order to ensure a safe and rewarding experience for the students. Parents who chaperone field trips will need to have a background check completed and approved prior to the trip. They must also sign a statement agreeing to the guidelines in the Region 10 Chaperone Handbook, which will be provided by the classroom teacher. We respectfully request that Parents/Guardians that are not chosen to chaperone field trips refrain from attending the event as it complicates supervision and they would not have provided the information required by the Region 10 Chaperone Handbook. Students will not be denied participation in field trips due to cost.

LOST AND FOUND POLICY Your child’s belongings should be marked with his/her name so that he/she will not lose them. There is a small lost and found area in the Nurse’s Office. Our lost and found box “runneth over” - please check for lost items! Items in the collection will be set out during parent/teacher conferences in the fall and spring and during the last week of school in June.

8 PARTIES IN CLASSROOMS Parties are held at the discretion of the classroom teacher on a limited basis and are usually connected with the instructional program. We have asked our teachers to help us ensure that the students are provided with healthy choices such as fruit, cheese, and vegetables in addition to a limited selection of sweets during classroom celebrations.

PERSONAL ITEMS Skateboards, wheelies and rollerblades are not allowed on Region 10 property. We ask that children not bring toys, large amounts of money or other valuable objects to school. We cannot assume responsibility for any damage or loss that may occur. Trading cards/games (for example, electronic games and other objects identified by the administration as inappropriate for school grounds will be confiscated by a staff member or an administrator and brought to the office where parents may retrieve them.

Region 10 schools recognize the learning potential available through technology and the Board of Education has adopted a policy for E-readers. If you would like your child to be able to use an E-reader in the classroom, please contact your child’s teacher. He/she will assist you in obtaining an E-reader policy agreement and release form to facilitate your request.

RECESS Recess is an important part of each child’s day. Children are not allowed to stay in from recess unless a note is brought from home signed by a parent. Should an extended time away from recess be needed a note signed by a physician will be required. Adult supervision is always provided for any child who stays in from recess.

Please send your child to school with appropriate recess attire. During the winter students should have a winter coat, snow boots and mittens. Students will have daily outdoor recess during the winter as long as the temperature is above 20 degrees.

SNACKS Your child’s teacher will notify you about their snack policy and procedures. We encourage you to send healthy, nutritious snacks to school with your child. A nutritious snack will “re-charge” your child and provide his/her brain with the energy needed to optimize their learning in the morning or afternoon. Some examples of healthy snacks that can provide this energy include: apples, grapes, baby carrots, bananas, whole-grain crackers, and cheese sticks. Gum and candy are treats for home; please do not send them to school with your child.

Some of the students at Harwinton Consolidated School have serious food allergies. If a student in your child’s class has a significant food allergy you will receive notification of restrictions and special procedures that will be put into place. Please follow the guidelines that you receive.

9 SPIRIT DAYS Each month a special Friday has been designated as SPIRIT DAY. On these days all students are encouraged to wear blue and white to show their school spirit. The class that demonstrates the highest participation level wins a popcorn party each month. Each year the PTO sells special shirts featuring our husky mascot. Spirit Day is a great way for our students to express their pride in Harwinton Consolidated School!

SPIRIT DAYS at HCS

September 25 February 26 October 30 March 18 November 20 April 29 December 18 May 27 January 29

ASSESSMENT Regular assessment of student progress is a necessary and important element in monitoring academic growth. Formal and informal assessments also present teachers with valuable information when designing and modifying instruction to best suit individual student needs. Universal screens in language arts and math are administered to students in kindergarten through fourth grade in the fall, winter and spring. Information gathered is used to measure student growth and inform ongoing instruction.

In the spring, students in grades three and four will take standardized language arts and math assessments (SBAC). We will provide specific information regarding these assessments to families prior to the test administration.

Student attendance during testing periods is essential in maintaining consistent testing conditions and providing the best environment for our students to demonstrate their strengths. Students should be well rested during testing periods so we can accurately assess their progress and better meet their learning needs. We appreciate knowing that our parents, students and staff consistently work together to ensure that testing is a positive experience for our students. Our goal is to ensure that each child is encouraged and supported to do their personal best.

STUDENT DRESS Dress guidelines are based on the premise that a student’s attire should be appropriate for school. Styles that are considered distracting or disruptive to the classroom learning environment, pose a health or safety threat, or damage school property should not be worn. Articles of clothing and accessories displaying obscenities or profanity and clothing showing bare midriff may not be worn to school. Appropriate dress, including shirts and shoes, must be worn at all times. Please remember that shoes should be sturdy and suitable for all school activities. Flip-flops and beach shoes are not acceptable footwear. Hats, such as baseball caps, must be removed before entering the building.

Appropriate dress will be determined by the administration. Parents may be called and students sent home when their dress is not appropriate. In addition, disciplinary action may be taken. Student and family cooperation is essential.

TELEPHONE The office telephone is for school business. Children should come to school prepared for the activities of the day. Parents can help their children by establishing regular morning routines, which allow ample time to prepare and get ready for the day. However, in an emergency situation the principal will grant permission to use the telephone as needed.

10 VISITORS Parents who wish to visit their child’s classroom are encouraged to do so and should contact the building principal to arrange for a time for the visitation. Parents must also be in touch with the classroom teacher prior to the visit. When visiting our school, please use the intercom at the main office and our office staff will buzz you in. All visitors must stop at the office as soon as they enter the building to sign in and pick up a visitor badge. After visiting their child’s classroom, a parent must meet with the teacher and/or administrator to discuss relevant issues. Visitations may not interfere with instruction or violate the privacy of any student.

In the wake of increasing concerns about school security we regard maintaining a safe environment among our highest priorities. For this reason we have limited parent access to the cafeteria during lunch periods. There are instances where we can make exceptions for a parent/guardian visiting their child/children at lunch. Special occasions (birthdays, unexpected parent/guardian day off after time away, return from military service, student is star of the week in his/her class, etc. . .) are instances where we will grant exceptions from the lunch visiting rule. The parent/guardian in this case can call the assistant principal prior to visiting. Upon arrival and signing in at the main office, the parent/guardian will join their child at a separate table for a “quiet” lunch together in the café.

VOLUNTEERS Volunteers provide valuable resources to the school by assisting in classrooms, the Library Media Center, and with clerical tasks. They contribute to improved instruction, enriched curriculum and positive school/community relations. Please contact your child’s teacher, the PTO, or the HCS office if you would like to help. Please consider joining our team!

Volunteers who will work in our school or chaperone a fieldtrip will need to undergo a background check. The form can be downloaded from the HCS “Office” website page. Forms must be submitted two weeks prior to your volunteer commitment. Please contact a building administrator if you have any questions about the background screening or if you would like to discuss any questions/concerns that you might have. We respect your privacy; results of background checks are kept confidential.

WEB SITE The Harwinton Consolidated School website can be accessed by going to www.region10ct.org. We try to keep the site updated with information about special events. The web site has links to the current lunch menu and school calendar. We know that papers tend to get lost at the bottom of your children’s backpacks, so we post copies of fliers and notices that have been sent home for your convenience on the page called “Bottom of the Backpack”.

Check out “BOTTOM OF THE BACKPACK” on the Harwinton Consolidated School web page for copies of flyers and notices that have been sent home.

11 LUNCH PROGRAM Harwinton Consolidated School has a wonderful lunch program. Each day a hot lunch, soup and sandwich, or salad plate in offered to the students. The menu is planned to meet state requirements for nutritious, palatable and inexpensive meals. The cost of a school lunch is $2.25. Milk is $.50. A monthly menu is sent home at the beginning of each month. Each student in Region 10 has a “lunch account”; families are encouraged to deposit money into their child’s account. Students are given a pin number that they use when they purchase their lunch. In the event that your child does not have money or a balance in his/her account to purchase a lunch, the cafeteria will provide a cheese sandwich or salad with fruit and milk for him/her to eat.

Student Lunch Schedule

Kindergarten 11:30 – 11:55 Grade 1 11:20 – 11:45 Grade 2 12:35 – 1:00 Grade 3 1:10 – 1:35

Grade 4 12:05 – 12:30

NUTRITION PROGRAMS The Regional School District No. 10 Board of Education participates in the National School Lunch Program and the Special Milk Program. Parents/guardians or students may apply for free or reduced price meals by obtaining an application from the main office and returning the completed form to the principal. Families may apply for this program at any time during the school year.

BUS SERVICE Bus service at Harwinton Consolidated School is provided under contract by All Star Transportation. They can be contacted at 860-605-9285.

The Board of Education transportation policy regulates designated bus routes and bus stops. The bus routes and stops are developed taking into consideration safety and efficiency. To this end, the Board of Education may accommodate one permanent Monday through Friday pick-up and drop-off schedule for each child per school year provided it is along established bus routes. In the event a permanent change to a pick-up and drop-off schedule is needed during a school year, a written request must be submitted to the school principal at least three weeks in advance of such change. A copy of the Region 10 transportation policy is available in the main office and on the website.

Proper student behavior on the bus will help ensure the safety of all. Please refer to the “Behavioral Expectations” section of this handbook for guidelines. The driver or a school administrator may assign a seat to students who misbehave on the bus. When students do not comply with bus rules, the driver will file a discipline report with the school administration. When a discipline report is received the following procedures are followed:

First offense: • Student will have a conference with a building administrator and a bus referral form will be sent home to the parents notifying them of the offense. Appropriate follow-up actions will be taken as needed. Second offense: • Student will have a conference with a building administrator and a phone call will be made to the parent. Appropriate follow-up actions will be taken as needed. Third offense: • Student will be suspended from riding the bus for a period of up to one week. Parents will be responsible for providing transportation to and from school.

These procedures may be altered depending on the seriousness of the infraction.

The Region 10 Board of Education has authorized the use of video cameras to monitor student behavior on school transportation vehicles. Please refer to the section of this handbook that contains District policies for additional information about video surveillance.

Complaints about school transportation safety should be made to the Region 10 Business Manager, Susan Laone, at (860) 673-2538. 12 REPORT CARDS Progress reports are sent home three times during the school year for all students in grades K-4. The following dates are currently scheduled for reports to be issued:

• First Report: November 30, 2015 • Second Report: March 14, 2015 • Third Report: Last Day of School

There are two scheduled parent-teacher conferences during the school year. The first conference is scheduled between December 1st and December 4th, 2015. March 15th through March 18th, 2016 is reserved for the second set of parent-teacher conferences. Teachers, parents, or the school administration may arrange additional conferences as individual needs arise.

HOMEWORK A student’s education is a collective set of experiences. Though many formal learning experiences occur during the day, many others take place in non-school settings. Within this range of out-of-school learning opportunities is the area commonly referred to as homework. Both as a supplement to daily instruction and an opportunity for independent practice, quality homework allows the student to reinforce knowledge and skills previously acquired as well as to extend student learning.

It is recommended that students read on a daily basis to encourage the love of reading and practice their skills and strategies. Each grade level has different expectations for the amount of time students read on a daily basis, with the ultimate goal being the development of a life-long reader. This can be accomplished through collaboration between home and school. We encourage you to read to and with your child and enjoy participating in their literacy growth!

Homework assignments are given to reinforce and augment lessons taught in class and provide exercises in the development of responsibility and of good work and study habits. In order to provide continuity and growth as a student moves though the school system, the following time ranges should be regarded as general guidelines for the assignment of homework. It is recognized that physical, social and family recreation are a vital part of a child’s time outside of the school day.

Region #10 Board of Education Homework Policy

In order to provide continuity and growth as a student moves through the school system, the following time ranges should be regarded as general guidelines for the assignment of homework.

Grade Average Time Spent on Assignment

K 15 minutes - once or twice a week 1 15-20 minutes - three times a week 2 20 minutes - four times a week 3 30 minutes - three or four times a week 4 30 minutes daily plus 30 minutes of independent reading

Homework assignments are given to reinforce and augment the lessons taught in class and provide exercises in the development of responsibility and of good work and study habits. These assignments allow for research, individual projects and strengthening of essential skills. They are intended to enhance the student’s knowledge in various subject areas. Teachers may assign missing work as homework in addition to planned assignments. If you are looking for a constructive use of time at home as a supplement to homework, we urge you to encourage pleasure reading. A sustained period of reading from 10-45 minutes daily, depending on age and readiness, is beneficial to every child. Parents do their part to support homework when they:

1. Provide their children with suitable study conditions (desk, light, books, supplies), reserve time for homework, silence the telephone, turn off the television and turn away visitors; 2. Encourage their children but avoid undue pressure; 3. Show interest in what their children are doing but do not do their work for them; 4. Understand the school expectations regarding homework.

14 HCS BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES

District, school, and classroom rules, procedures, and policies are in place to help ensure a safe and orderly environment. At HCS a system of School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) creates a climate of cooperation, academic excellence, and social-emotional competence. A high level of mutual respect is expected from all who are learning and working in Region 10 schools. We are proud of our school, staff and students. We expect them to reflect that pride in their behavior, in communication with each other, in treatment of their building and school property, and in their courtesy toward others. This environment provides students with the best opportunity for learning.

HCS has four school-wide behavioral expectations. Students should demonstrate each of these expectations throughout the school day:

• RESPECT OTHERS - Students should treat others as they wish to be treated • RESPECT PROPERTY - Students should take care of our building • BE RESPONSIBLE - Students should make positive choices • BE SAFE - Students should keep their hands, feet, and objects to themselves as well as move throughout the building safely

The Harwinton Consolidated School Behavior Matrix lists the behavioral expectations we have for our students in each area of our school. The HCS staff follows a set of behavioral lesson plans to teach students the expected behaviors. Correct behaviors are reinforced with Husky High Fives.

Respect Others Respect Property Be Responsible Be Safe All Areas Treat others as you Take care of our building. Make good choices. Keep hands feet and wish to be treated. objects to yourself.

Hallway Remain quiet. Keep your “paws” by your Go directly to and from your Walk on the right side sides. destination. of the hallway. Walk facing forward. Take one step at a time on the stairs. Cafeteria Use polite words. Keep the cafeteria clean. Only use your own money. Only eat your own Wait your turn. Check the table and floor. Use food and utensils the way food. Follow adult directions. they are meant to be used. Walk. Remain in your seat. Playground Play fairly. Take care of the playground Agree on game rules before Stay in assigned Include all who want to equipment and the you start to play. areas. play. playscape. Use problem solving to resolve Use the equipment in Follow teacher conflicts. a safe manner. directions.

Bus Avoid conflict. Take care of the bus. Save food and drinks for home Speak quietly. Use appropriate and school. Stay in your seat and language. face forward. Follow the driver’s directions. Bathroom Give others their Keep our bathrooms clean. Return to class in a timely Wash and dry your privacy. Remember to flush! manner. hands. Only use one or two paper Report any problems to your Keep your feet on the towels. teacher. floor at all times. Keep the water in the sink. Dismissal Follow teacher Keep your “paws” by your Speak quietly. Walk. directions. sides. Keep your backpack on your back. Classroom Be supportive of your Keep your classroom clean. Complete your assignments Keep all chair legs on classmates’ efforts. Treat your materials with Always do your best. the floor. Follow teacher care. Use your time constructively. directions. Use your own materials Be attentive. Use good manners. unless you have permission. Ask for help when needed.

15 DISCIPLINE Disciplinary actions are taken in order to maintain an safe environment that is free from disruptions to the learning process. The intent is to assist students in identifying unacceptable behaviors and learn appropriate behaviors. Discipline problems are normally dealt with at the level at which they occur (i.e. – classroom, cafeteria, bus, etc.). Consequences for misbehavior depend upon the severity as well as the frequency of the infraction. Progressive consequences occur based on the seriousness of the offense. Significant or repeated behavior may result in a consequence such as detention or other disciplinary action.

While a consequence is the result of negative behaviors, our focus is on helping Harwinton Consolidated School students recognize that positive choices have positive outcomes. We have the same high expectations for your children that you do, and we will work cooperatively with our students and their families to increase positive behaviors.

STUDENT RECOGNITION PROGRAM Students in grades K-4 at HCS will be awarded a “Husky High Five” when they demonstrate that they are following or exceeding our school-wide expectations. Classroom Teachers will track the number of High Fives that each student earns. Throughout the year, students will receive recognition for demonstrating the behaviors that are expected by students at Harwinton Consolidated School.

STUDENT SUPPORT CENTER The staff at Harwinton Consolidated School believes in minimizing classroom disruptions that interfere with student learning. If a student is having a difficult time focusing on learning, exhibits persistent negative behaviors or is disruptive to the class, he/she can access the Student Support Center (SSC). The SSC is not a place of punishment, but rather a place to discuss the issues that precipitated the student’s difficulty. The SSC coordinator talks to the student in an effort to improve the child’s skills so that they may begin to change their own behavior. The teacher will contact parents and the SSC coordinator when a child is referred to the SSC. Students are referred back to the teacher or a building administrator for an appropriate consequence if necessary. For more information about the Student Support Center contact our school psychologist, Mrs. Kathryn Masse (860-485-9029 x12114 or [email protected]).

REGION 10 BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY ON BULLYING Bullying is defined as:

“The repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic communication, such as cyberbullying, or a physical act or gesture directed at another student in the same school district that: (A) Causes physical or emotional harm to the student or damage to the student’s property, (B) places the student in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself, or of damage to his or her property, (C) creates a hostile environment at school for such student (a hostile environment is a situation in which bullying among students is sufficiently severe or pervasive as to alter the conditions of the school climate), (D) infringes on the rights of the student at school, or (E) substantially disrupts the education process of the orderly operation of a school.” 8 Bullying activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the school district and are prohibited at all times. Any individual who engages in bullying as defined in this policy may be subject to disciplinary action including suspension and expulsion.

A student who believes he or she has been the victim of bullying should report the matter orally or in writing to any teacher or member of the school administration. Students may also make anonymous reports. A copy of the board of education policy #5152 on bullying is available at the main office in every school.

16 Students found to have engaged in bullying as defined in the Board policy will be subject to disciplinary action. Any parent who wishes to see the entire Board of Education policy may find it on the Region 10 website or call the school office.

At Harwinton Consolidated, we take any act of bullying seriously, and the faculty emphasizes the importance of treating fellow students with kindness and respect. During each school year, classroom teachers help students to solve problems, learn to empathize with others, and find appropriate ways to handle anger. To further educate our students about the dangers of intimidating, ridiculing, and humiliating others, our teachers in grades K-4 teach lessons that educate students about these topics and teach them how to manage these situations and seek adult support if needed. We regularly assess school climate and welcome information from students and parents/guardians about their perspectives and opinions of the school climate.

Please refer to the section of this handbook that contains District policies for additional important information about discipline/behavior.

PROGRAMS AT HCS

CHORUS, BAND, AND INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS Students in grade 4 may elect to join the Harwinton Consolidated School Chorus, directed by Mrs. Dawn Marie Conroy. The Chorus will meet during the first half of the year. Rehearsal will be held during the “Specials” block on Mondays. The chorus will perform at a winter concert in December.

Students in grade 4 may also take instrumental music lessons in school and participate in band. The band director, Ms. Kellan Mahford, sends information on instrumental rental and lessons home with students at the beginning of the school year. Band rehearsal will take place during the school day during the second half of the year. The band will perform at a concert in the spring.

EARLY LEARNING CENTER The Region 10 Early Learning Center is an early intervention preschool program. We offer morning and afternoon sessions. The population served by this program has moderate to severe developmental delays. Most frequently the primary disability is language and/or cognitive delay. Other disabilities may be present. An important component of this program is “reverse integration” whereby non-handicapped peers with age-appropriate speech and language skills are included as an integral part of the learning center. Enrollment in this program is based on needs identified through the PPT process or by lottery. For more information regarding this program contact Cherie Lindquist, special Education Coordinator ([email protected]).

PARTNERS IN LITERACY AND NUMERACY (PILN) Partners in Literacy and Numeracy is a program focused on bringing families together through group meetings to discuss and learn about literacy and numeracy development as well as strategies that can be used to facilitate the cognitive growth of their three and four year old children prior to entering kindergarten. Through participation in this program, parents of preschool children are given a hands-on view of how literacy and numeracy is taught at school. It is our hope that parents will use some of the demonstrated strategies to work with their children at home in order to help prepare them for Kindergarten. PILN is held three mornings a month from September through June. Evening sessions are scheduled for those families that are unable to attend during the day. Please see the HCS calendar or the Partners in Literacy website for specific dates and times. Contact Karen Czerwinski ([email protected]) or the HCS office if you have any questions about our PILN program.

READING AND MATH SUPPORT Students who may be experiencing difficulty with math, reading and/or writing will be identified by classroom teachers and our language arts and math staff. Students are identified on the basis of assessments administered by the classroom teacher or a language arts or math support staff member or through observations of classroom performance. Intervention services may be provided individually or in a small group. If you have any questions about these support service contact Angela Pasqualini – language arts ([email protected]) or Brennan Glasgow – math ([email protected]).

SPECIAL EDUCATION COLLABORATIVE SERVICES The Special Education staff at Harwinton Consolidated School is dedicated to a collaborative model of providing services to students with identified disabilities. The special education staff provides appropriate instruction to students within the classroom environment. This allows teachers to provide alternative modes of instruction to identified students, as well as to those students who might benefit from additional assistance. Staff, both in special services and in general education, work closely together to ensure that the special needs of these students are met within the parameters of their classrooms.

The advantages of this type of approach are three-fold. First, students are full members of the general education classroom, their self-esteem is enhanced and their day becomes less fragmented. Secondly, there can be increased integration of a student’s individual instructional objectives within the curriculum themes of the classroom. And thirdly, successful remediation techniques and instructional strategies can be shared easily between the special education staff and the general education teacher.

Our Speech and Language Pathologists are an integral component of the collaborative process, providing language servicing within classrooms as outlined on a student’s IEP. We have found that the language-rich environment of the classroom is an excellent medium for generalizing the language and speech goals of students.

We would like to encourage parents with further questions or concerns about our model of services to contact Cherie Lindquist, building coordinator, at 485-9029 x12104. We welcome your feedback!

18 HARWINTON CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)

The Harwinton Consolidated School Parent Teacher Organization acts as a dynamic support group dedicated to sustaining high quality education in our school. The PTO funds special programs and activities as well as the purchase of supplementary classroom materials. PTO funds are mainly raised through the Scholastic Book Fair and various fundraisers.

The PTO is actively looking for parents to participate in their activities. Whether you have a lot of time, or just a little, please join the HCS PTO. If you would like to be a part of this group, enhancing the education of the children at HCS, please contact the President or Vice President, or come to one of the meetings. The PTO needs your support, please join today!

2015-2016 HCS PTO Officers

President: Kim Falconer Vice-President: Megan Lizotte Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 203-768-5237 Treasurer: Sheryl Barney Email: [email protected] 860-605-9045

Recording Secretary: Christina Rydingsward Communications Secretary: Matthew Falconer Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

PTO Email Address: [email protected]

2015-2016 HCS PTO Meeting Dates:

All meetings are at 6:30 p.m. in the HCS library. Please join us!

October 7, 2015 Meeting and New Parent Welcome November 4, 2015 Meeting December 9, 2015 Meeting January 6, 2016 Meeting February 3, 2016 Meeting March Date TBA April 6, 2016 Meeting May 25, 2016 Budget meeting and elections

19 DISTRICT POLICIES AND NOTICES

HEALTH POLICIES

CARE OF SICK CHILDREN Parents will be notified if a child becomes ill at school. Emergency contact information, including home, work and cell phone numbers of parents as well as the names and phone numbers of two other individuals to contact in case of an emergency, are required.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINE Connecticut state law requires a written order of an authorized prescriber and the written authorization of the student’s parent or guardian for school personnel to administer any medicinal preparation including over-the- counter, prescription and controlled drugs. This includes inhalers, epi-pens, and medications such as Tylenol or ibuprofen. Students are not allowed to carry or have medication in their possession unless the student self- administers the medication in accordance with a medication administration plan developed by school personnel in conjunction with the student’s parents and prescriber. All medications, except those approved for self- administration, shall be delivered by the parent or other responsible adult to the school nurse or other qualified personnel trained in medication administration. All medications will be administered by the school nurse, or in the absence of such nurse, other qualified personnel.

IMMUNIZATIONS Connecticut law mandates that all students be protected by adequate immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles, mumps, rubella, hemophilus influenza type B, hepatitis B, varicella, hepatitis A (for students who entered Kindergarten after August 1, 2011), pneumococcal and influenza (for students under the age of 5), and any other vaccine required by the schedule for active immunization adopted pursuant to state law. Students who have not been adequately immunized will not be admitted to school except in cases where the parent/guardian has provided a certificate from a physician stating that such immunization is medically contraindicated or the parent/guardian presents a statement that such immunization would be contrary to the religious beliefs of the child. Homeless children are entitled to immediate enrollment even if the documentation of immunization is not immediately available.

MANAGEMENT OF LIFE-THREATENING FOOD ALLERGIES Some students at Harwinton Consolidated School have serious, life-threatening food allergies. If a student in your child’s class has such an allergy, you will receive notification of restrictions and special procedures that will be put into place. It is important that you follow any guidelines provided to you. For more information, please refer to the district’s Guidelines for Food Allergy Management posted on the district’s website.

PESTICIDE USE The Regional School District No. 10 has an integrated pest management plan. Specific guidelines for the implementation of the pest management plan are provided to staff and parents/guardians of students at the beginning of each school year. Staff and parents/guardians may register for prior notice of pesticide applications within school buildings or on school grounds. Persons who have registered for prior notice will be notified by any means practicable on or before the day that any pesticide application is to take place at a school.

STUDENT CONDUCT In order to make all of the District schools safe places, the Region 10 Board of Education has instituted a strict policy on possession of weapons and drugs in school. The policy requires the Superintendent to pursue an expulsion hearing before the Board of Education if any weapon or drugs are in the possession of students in school. The Board may choose to expel a student for a period of time not to exceed one calendar year. For students under 16 years of age, an alternative education must be offered.

Experience has shown that elementary students who violate this rule usually do so by bringing to school hunting knives, jack knives, or toys that are a facsimile of a weapon. None of these are permitted and will cause an expulsion hearing to be held before the Board of Education. Parents should thoroughly discuss this rule with their children so they understand what the actions of the school will be. The Region 10 Board of Education policy on student conduct (#5114) will be sent home with students on the first day of school. Additional copies of the policy are available in the main office.

20 NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION In all of our programs and activities, the Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other basis prohibited by law and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.

Any student who feels he/she has been denied an equal opportunity to participate in or benefit from the activities, programs or courses of study offered by the school district in violation of this policy should immediately bring his or her complaint to the attention of the Building Principal, Assistant Principal or the Assistant Superintendent.

PROHIBITION OF UNLAWFUL HARASSMENT Students in the Region 10 Public Schools should feel respected and safe. Is the policy of the Board of Education to maintain a working and learning environment that is free from all forms of unlawful harassment based upon a student’s race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Unlawful harassment means unwelcome and offensive conduct that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s performance and/or learning opportunities or that is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. All forms of harassment are prohibited whether verbal, written, visual or physical and regardless of the medium through which it occurs.

A harasser may be a student, school employee, or any other person involved in or present for school-sponsored events or programs. All members of the school community are responsible for helping to assure that unlawful harassment is avoided.

If any words, images or actions of others at school make a student feel uncomfortable or fearful, the student or his/her parent or guardian should report it to the Principal, Assistant Principal or the Assistant Superintendent. Any person who has observed or otherwise become aware of conduct prohibited by this policy should bring the matter to the immediate attention of the Principal and Assistant Superintendent.

COMPLAINTS OF DISCRIMINATION AND/OR UNLAWFUL HARASSMENT The following individual has been designated to handle inquiries and receive complaints regarding discrimination and unlawful harassment:

Mrs. Cherie Burke Director of Student Learning 860-673-2538 Regional School District No. 10 24 Lyon Road, Burlington, CT 06013

All complaints will be promptly investigated in as confidential a manner as practical and appropriate corrective action will be taken when warranted. Any employee, student, volunteer or other individual under the control of the school system who is determined after an investigation to have engaged in harassment in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, including possible dismissal or expulsion.

This is a summary of Board Policies and Administrative Procedures 5150, 5150A. Copies of these policies and procedures are available on the district’s website and Board of Education offices.

21 WELLNESS The Board of Education recognizes the significant impact that good nutrition and physical activity have upon students’ overall health, behavior and academic performance. The District is committed to providing a learning environment that promotes healthy eating, encourages regular physical activity, reduces childhood obesity and teaches students the skills they need to maintain healthy lifestyles. More information is available in Board Policy

5141.5.

ACCESS TO PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES A student who has a disability impacting the ability to learn or function in the school environment may be entitled to special services including reasonable accommodations (Section 504 Plan) and/or special education (Individualized Education Plan). A 504 Plan outlines the modifications and accommodations that a student with a disability needs in order to participate fully in the programs offered by the school.

Special education is specially designed instruction created to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. In providing special education to students, the district complies with the requirements of federal and state law. Eligibility for special education is determined by a planning and placement team. Before a child is referred to a planning and placement team, alternative procedures and programs in regular education shall be explored and, where appropriate, implemented. Referrals for special education may be made by school personnel as well as from a student’s parents, physician, or social worker.

Regional School District No. 10 is committed to providing parents and other interested parties with information about the identification, evaluation and programming for students with disabilities. Parents who have questions about the services available to students with disabilities should contact Ms. Linda Carabis, Director of Special Services at 860-673-6195, Regional School District No. 10, 24 Lyon Road, Burlington, CT 06013.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO RELEASE DIRECTORY INFORMATION WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT Federal law enables the school district to release “directory” information about its students to the public without the prior written consent of parents or guardians. The term “directory information” refers to information that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Although the district uses its discretion and exercises caution when releasing directory information about its students, it is possible that information regarding your child may be released to parties such as the media, colleges, civic or school-related organizations, employment and military recruiters, as well as to the public via school district websites or in published programs for athletic, music, theater, and other school sponsored presentations.

Directory information includes the following categories of information: (1) Name of student; (2) Address; (3) Telephone number; (4) Electronic mail address; (5) Photograph; (6) Date and place of birth; (7) Major field of study; (8) Grade level; (9) Dates of attendance; (10) participation in officially recognized activities and sports; (11) Weight and height of members of athletic teams; (12) Degrees, honors and awards received (including publication of honor roll); (13) Most recent school previously attended.

A parent or guardian may object to the disclosure of any or all of the categories of directory information without prior written consent. To prevent the release of any category of directory information, a parent or guardian must file a notice of objection in the main office of the school in which the student attends.

22 SCHOOL RECORDS AND CONFIDENTIALITY The Region #10 Board of Education has adopted a written policy concerning the confidentiality and accessibility of student records. Copies of the complete board policy are available at the main office. Consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the student records policy affords parents of students and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students”) certain rights with respect to education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records. Parents of minor or dependent children and eligible students are entitled to review educational records upon request made to the school principal.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records when the parent or eligible student believes such records are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. A request for an amendment to educational records should be made in writing to the school principal and identify the record(s) at issue and the reason for the request.

3. The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records except to the extent that the law authorizes disclosure without consent.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by school officials to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT Internet access is available to students and staff in the Region 10 School District. The Board of Education is pleased to bring this access to Region 10 and believes the Internet offers vast, diverse and unique resources to both students and staff. To the greatest extent possible, the Board seeks to filter out objectionable content on the Internet. Total elimination of access to objectionable content is not possible. Individual student users must take responsibility for their own activities when navigating the Internet. Anyone with security or technical violations or who inadvertently accesses objectionable materials should report this immediately to the staff member in charge. Our goal in providing this service to staff and students is to promote educational excellence in the schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication.

The Region 10 Board of Education policy on acceptable use (#6165) will be sent home with students on the first day of school. Additional copies of the policy are available in the main office.

HOMELESS STUDENTS Enrolled students who become homeless (lacking a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence) and homeless students seeking enrollment in Region No. 10 schools should contact the district’s homelessness liaison: Linda Carabis Director of Student Support Services 860- 673-6195 24 Lyon Road Burlington, CT 06013

Homeless students may be entitled to transportation to the student’s school of origin, immediate enrollment despite the lack of certain records (e.g., immunization history) and other services that the district provides.

23 EXEMPTION FROM INSTRUCTION The Board of Education may offer programs of instruction regarding family life that may include family planning, human sexuality, parenting, nutrition, and the emotional, physical, psychological, hygienic, economic and social aspects of family life. When family life programs are offered in the curriculum, a student shall be exempt from any portion of the instruction upon the written notification by the student’s parent or guardian to the building Principal. Parents and guardians may also request, in writing, to the principal that his/her child be exempt from instruction on AIDS. Students who are exempt from instruction shall be assigned to a supervised study period.

Students may be excused from participating in, or observing, the dissection of any animal as part of classroom instruction, provided the parent or guardian of such student has requested, in writing, that such student be excused from such participation or observation. A request for exemption from the dissection of animals should be made to the teacher and/or school principal. If the request is granted, the student shall be required to complete an alternative assignment.

Region 10 Board of Education Polices are available online: www.region10ct.org