Dear Parents,

The Lower School faculty and I look forward to a happy and productive year with your daughters. We believe when you send your daughters to Bryn Mawr you come with them and so we have prepared this handbook for you to explain life in the Lower School. It contains information about the procedures, policies and traditions of our school community. Everything you need to know about the Lower School, from uniform regulations and homework policy to the Parents’ Association and the Bryn Mawr Bazaar, is covered in this manual. The more informed you are, the better partners we will be in your daughters’ education.

We look forward to your participation in our school activities and to a successful and rewarding Lower School experience for your family.

Sincerely,

Patricia M. Nothstein Lower School Director

109 West Melrose Ave 410 323 8800 P brynmawrschool.org MD 21210 410 377 8963 F

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Academics, Conferences, and Student Learning Reports Academic Honor Code 1 Acceptable Use Policy 1 Homework 2 Homework Slips 2 Conferences and Report Cards 2 Student Records 3 Standardized Testing 3 Summer Reading 3

Additional Support for Students Reading Support 4 Counselor 4

Arrival and Dismissal Carpool Safety Regulations 4 Safety Measures 4 Carpool Procedures 4 Changes in Pick-Up Arrangements 5 Northern Parkway Pick-Up 5 Walking 6

Before and After School Care Morning Supervision 6 Extended Day 6 Drop-In Care 6 Sibling Supervision 6

Bryn Mawr School Traditions Bazaar 7 Founders Day 7 Gym Drill 7 Spirit Days 7 Symbols of the School 7

Health Center Health Center 8 Head Lice 8 Food Allergy Protocol 9

Parent Involvement and Communication Class Parents 10 E-Mail 10

Gift Giving 10 Lower School Communications Committee 11 Parents’ Association 11 Parking for Parents/Visitors 11 Thursday Letter 11 Visitors to Campus 11 Voice Mail 11 Volunteer Opportunities 11 Website 12

Safety and Security Being Safe at School 12 General Campus Safety 12 Communicating with Parents and Families 12 Communicating with Members of the Campus Community 13 Safety and Security Measures 13 Emergency Procedures 13 How You Can Help 13

School Day Routines and Information Assemblies 14 Attendance 14 Community Responsibility 14 Lost and Found 14 Lunch 15 Private Music Lessons 15 Recess and Snack 16 Snow Days 16 Toys, Cell Phones, and Electronics in School 16 Uniform Regulations 17 Values 18

Special Events Birthdays 18 Days Out of Uniform 18 Field Trips 18 Grandparents’/Special Friends’ Day 18 Halloween 18 Readathon 19 Service Learning 19 Summer Activities 19

School Store The Bryn Mawrket 19

ACADEMICS, CONFERENCES AND STUDENT LEARNING REPORTS

ACADEMIC HONOR CODE Honor implies acceptance of personal responsibility in all areas of school life. The school must operate in an atmosphere of trust, and it must be able to assume the honesty and integrity of all of its members in all circumstances. Respect for one’s self and for others constitutes the basis of honorable behavior. The school, therefore, expects every individual to treat all members of the community with respect for their rights, privileges, beliefs, property, and opinions. In addition, the honor code applies to all class work and homework. All academic work should be the student’s own.

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY The implementation of comprehensive computer network at The Bryn Mawr School provides an unlimited supply of resources and information to the community, but the system also places an enormous responsibility on all users.

Student Responsibilities  Students shall accept the responsibility for maintaining the integrity of the school’s computer software, computer hardware, and electronic mail system.  Students shall be personally responsible for all uses.  Students shall use the network for educational purposes only, consistent with the philosophy of the school.  Students shall use only school purchased or distributed software on the network.  Students shall keep all educationally inappropriate materials or files harmful to the integrity of the network from entering the school.  Students shall report all issues of violations.

School Responsibilities  The school will provide instruction in the appropriate use of the network in personal safety and privacy.  The school will discourage and take steps to prevent access to educationally inappropriate materials.  The school will determine consequences for computer and network abuse, which may include disciplinary action such as financial retribution, up to expulsion and possible legal action.

Parental Responsibilities  A parent must sign a permission slip for her daughter to gain access to the network on school time and equipment.  Parents acknowledge that they are aware that questionable files exist on the Internet. Revised 6/24/13 1

HOMEWORK Homework is assigned to reinforce academic skills. Homework assignments will not cover new material, therefore; students should be able to complete it without assistance. By providing a quiet place and establishing a regular time and procedure, parents help foster the good work habits necessary for productive homework.

At Parents’ Evening, each child’s teacher will suggest how much time should be spent on homework. Parents are encouraged to see their daughters are responsible about completing their assignments and returning them to school. It is suggested, and strongly encouraged, that all students read at home each day; both independent reading and being read to are appropriate for all grade levels. No homework is given over weekends or school holidays: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Spring Break, Easter, Passover, and Memorial Day.

Students in K, PF, and grade 1 who are absent are not assigned homework unless the student is absent for three or more days.

Students in grades 2-5 who are absent may receive homework if parents call the Lower School Office at ext. 1222 before 9:00 AM to request it. Assignments may be picked up after 2:00 p.m. in the office or sent home with a sibling or fellow carpool rider.

Homework Slips will be given by teachers to students in grades four and five who do not turn in their homework on time or fully completed. This slip should be signed by the parent and returned to the teacher with the completed assignment. Multiple homework slips may indicate an issue with organization or academics. In such a case, the teacher will follow-up with the student’s parent(s) to strategize solutions.

CONFERENCES AND STUDENT LEARNING REPORTS The Lower School recognizes that open communication between parents and teachers is of the utmost importance during a child’s school years. Parents should be in touch with the school at any time they are aware of circumstances that might affect their daughter’s school behavior or performance.

Conferences Two conferences are held during the school year. A Parent-Teacher Conference takes place in the fall and a Parent-Student-Teacher Conference is held in the spring. Parents will be assigned the same time for both conferences. Parents are welcome to set up additional conferences with their daughter’s teachers if the need arises. A schedule of each teacher’s available meeting times is on file in the Lower School Office.

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Student Learning Reports Student Learning Reports (SLR) will be posted to the Bryn Mawr website four times a year, in November, January, April and after the close of school in June. Parents will receive an email explaining how to access them on the website.

STUDENT RECORDS The school keeps a file for each student. Permanent record cards, on which standardized test scores are recorded, copies of all report cards, comments, and correspondence are included in the file. Parents must provide written authorization for their daughter’s transcript to be sent to another individual or institution. In compliance with the Family Education Right to Privacy Act, any eighteen-year old student or the parent of a younger student in good standing may, in writing, request to see the student’s record. A waiting period of 24 hours after written notice has been received shall pass before such a viewing. Records will be reviewed in the presence of a school official.

STANDARDIZED TESTING The Lower School administers two standardized tests, the Otis-Lennon School Ability Index and the Educational Records Bureau Achievement Tests, Comprehensive Testing Program 4 (ERBs). Both tests provide valuable information about your daughter’s ability and achievement. We do, however, recognize that no one test gives the whole picture of a student’s progress.

The Otis-Lennon is administered to third and fifth graders on one day in November. The test results are given as a single score ranging from 0 to 150. The test is designed to indicate the child’s school ability. These scores are recorded on the Lower School records of third and fifth grade students.

ERBs are administered to third and fourth graders during the first week of May. This test is given over four days (approximately an hour to an hour and a half a day) and is designed to measure a child’s level of achievement. The child is tested in several areas including reading comprehension, writing mechanics, and math. The results of the ERB test are tabulated offsite by ERB and then returned to Bryn Mawr. They are recorded on each third and fourth grade student’s Lower School record.

SUMMER READING The Lower School summer reading lists are comprised of books that girls can read on their own, as well as books that can be read as a family. The lists (by grade) are posted on the school website in late spring.

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ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS Every student in the Lower School has a team of faculty working to support her academic, social, physical, and emotional growth. At times, a student may need extra help in one or more of these areas. In addition to the on-going support from the classroom teacher, the following is in place in the Lower School to aid our students:

Reading Support There is a reading specialist and a reading support teacher on the faculty who meet with students individually and in groups to help assess their needs and strategize with their teachers as to how they may be best be served in the classroom.

Counselor The counselor is available to meet with students individually and in small groups, as well as serving as a consultant for classroom teachers, to help students work through friendship, social, and individual issues that may arise. The counselor is also available as a resource for parents who may have concerns about their child’s emotional well-being.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

CARPOOL SAFETY REGULATIONS Each parent’s understanding and observation of all transportation policies will assure the safety of all students and adults at the Lower School.

Safety Measures  It is very important that drivers do not drop off students before the faculty or staff member in charge of morning arrival is on duty. Please see below for morning carpool drop off times: Monday through Friday: 7:25 a.m. to 7:55 a.m.  Please refrain from using cell phones in the carpool line.  Please keep all children fastened in their car seats, booster seats or seat belts.  When delivering and picking up students at the Lower School, please pull up to the furthest possible point at the portico loading zone. When loading and unloading students, please keep the gear in the “park” position and let students out on the portico side only.  Pedestrians must cross the carpool lane to access the parking lot, so drivers should use caution in the Lower School driveway at all times.  Please drive slowly on the Bryn Mawr campus and in the surrounding neighborhood.

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Carpool Procedures  A single carpool line will be used and will form on the west side (Bryn Mawr side) of Boxhill Lane, north of the Lower School driveway entrance. The place where the carpool line forms will be clearly marked and cars will turn right only from Boxhill Lane into the Lower School driveway. No cars will be permitted to turn left from Boxhill Lane into the Lower School driveway.  The lead cars in the carpool line should proceed along the Lower School driveway, keeping to the right, to the area at the top of the Lower School portico that is marked “Student Pick-Up and Drop-Off Area, Please Pull Up to Here.” Students may be dropped off and picked up in this designated area only.  At no time is a car to get out of the carpool line to move ahead of cars unloading students.  Cars leaving the Lower School driveway must turn right onto Boxhill Lane. No cars will be permitted to turn left onto Boxhill Lane from the Lower School driveway.  Carpool procedures are in effect for both morning and afternoon carpools between the hours of 7:30-8:00 a.m. and 2:30-3:50 p.m. and during the hours designated for special school dismissals. The 3:30 p.m. carpool is not allowed access to the Lower School driveway until after the 2:45 p.m. carpool. (The 2:45 p.m. carpool concludes at 3:05 p.m.) Cars arriving for the 3:30 p.m. carpool can begin to line up on Boxhill Lane at 3:00 p.m. When the 2:45 p.m. carpool has concluded, the security guard will then direct the 3:30 p.m. carpool vehicles onto the driveway.  For the safety and security of the students, drivers will not be permitted to drop off or pick up students anywhere along Boxhill Lane, at an undesignated area along the Lower School driveway, or on the Gordon Drive.

CHANGES IN PICK-UP ARRANGEMENTS Changes in transportation arrangements (which include early dismissal, taking home a friend, or being picked up by another person) should be reported to the Lower School Office by phone call, note or email. Dismissal Change forms are available on the Bryn Mawr website. Messages about carpool changes should be communicated to the Lower School Office and not left on a faculty member’s voicemail or email. This will ensure that the message is received in a timely manner. Students leaving school for an off-campus appointment during the school day should be picked up and returned to the Lower School Office.

NORTHERN PARKWAY PICK-UP Students in grades 2-5 have the option of being picked up after school at the Northern Parkway Circle. This alternative pick up spot should be noted on the Afternoon Dismissal Form (sent home in the summer mailing). Before leaving school each day, students must sign out on the Walkers’ Board, which will be placed on a table in the Multi-Purpose Room lobby each afternoon. Girls going to Northern Parkway will be escorted by a Lower School teacher.

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WALKING Parents of students walking to Gilman, Roland Park Country School, or home at the end of the day, must designate this alternative dismissal arrangement on the Afternoon Dismissal Form (sent home in the summer mailing). Walkers must sign out each day on the Walkers’ Board, which will be placed on a table in the Multi-Purpose Room lobby each afternoon. The girls will be escorted to the Northern Parkway by a Lower School teacher before walking to their final destination.

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE

Morning Supervision As a service to Bryn Mawr families, the School provides before-school adult supervision for students from 7:00-7:40 AM in the Dining Center. Lower School children must be walked to the Dining Center by their parents or carpool drivers; they may not walk there unattended. At 7:40 AM the adult on duty will escort the Lower School students to the Lower School. There is no charge for this service. Students must pay cash for breakfast items.

Extended Day Program Students needing consistent after-school care at Bryn Mawr must be enrolled in the Lower School Extended Day Program. The Program provides a safe, enjoyable, and enriching environment for girls needing after-school care. A variety of activities are offered, such as arts and crafts, study hall, and indoor and outdoor play. There is also a daily snack. Yearly contracts detailing costs and dismissal options are available through the Director of Lower School Extended Day Program. Students who have not been picked up twenty minutes following their scheduled dismissal will join the Extended Day Program. Fees for drop-in care are published each year.

Drop-In Care: Parents needing occasional drop-in care for their daughters (available from 2:45-5:30 PM Monday-Friday) must fill out a dismissal change form and send it to the Lower School Office on the days their daughters will need this service. They will be charged the drop-in rate per hour. The drop-in fee is available from the Director of the Lower School Extended Day Program.

Sibling Supervision: Supervision is provided for students in grades kindergarten through grade 1 who have a sister(s) in grades 2-12. There is no charge for this service which is available Monday-Friday from 2:45-3:30 p.m.

Release of Students from Extended Day: The safety of our students is of the utmost importance; therefore, students participating in Extended Day may only be picked up by a parent or, with an accompanying note from the parent or guardian, by an older sibling or other

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designated adult. If a student’s older sibling picks up a Lower School student at carpool, it must be understood that they are leaving the campus at that time. Lower School students are not allowed to wait for pick up at another place on campus, whether accompanied by an older sibling or not. Faculty and staff will direct Lower School students back to Extended Day if they are seen elsewhere on campus after school without an adult. This is to ensure the safety and adult supervision of the Lower School student.

BRYN MAWR TRADITIONS

BAZAAR The Bryn Mawr Bazaar is held on the first Saturday in May during Alumnae Weekend. Third grade students begin the day’s festivities with traditional Maypole Dances. All Lower School families are encouraged to attend; activities are planned for all members of the school community. Proceeds from this event benefit Bryn Mawr’s financial aid program.

FOUNDERS DAY An all-school convocation is held in the graduation garden in early fall to celebrate the founding of the school. Bryn Mawr was founded in 1885 with the ardent belief, revolutionary for the time, that girls were entitled to the same academic challenges as boys. The five founders are: M. Carey Thomas, Mary Elizabeth Garrett, Mary Mackall Gwinn, Elizabeth Tabor King, and Julia Rebecca Rogers.

GYM DRILL Gym Drill is held on the Upper Field on the afternoon of Bazaar. Each class (grades 6-12) performs a folk dance. Reunion alumnae classes join in the Banner March in which the Gym Drill class captain for each class passes down her banner to mark the completion of the year. Fifth grade students march in the banner march, as well, and their class captain accepts the sixth grade banner.

SPIRIT DAYS Once in the fall, winter, and spring, the Athletic Department organizes a Spirit Day. Students come to school dressed in Bryn Mawr colors and accessories. Spirit Days usually coincide with major Upper School athletic events. In the fall, an all-school parade occurs at the end of the day. Lower School students participate in the fall Spirit Day only.

SYMBOLS OF THE SCHOOL Flower –Daisy Colors –Gold and White Motto – Ex Solo Ad Solem (From the Earth to the Sun)

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HEALTH CENTER

The health policies of the school are under the supervision of an advisory physician. However, the services of the school doctor and nurses are never intended to replace the advice and care of a child’s own physician. The Bryn Mawr Health Center is open each school day from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the school nurse is available by beeper at all times during those hours. Students who are injured or ill will be seen in the Health Center. The school nurse will notify parents after a complete assessment. You can contact the Health Center by phone 410-323-8800, ext. 1242, email [email protected] or fax 410-323-8072.

The Health Center will observe the following parameters written and approved by the school physician:  No student may attend school until all medical forms including the Power of Attorney are received by the Health Center. These forms can be accessed via the Bryn Mawr web site.  Any student with a temperature of 100.4 F or greater will be sent home. Students will not be allowed to return to school until they have been fever free for a 24-hour period.  Any student who vomits or has a new onset of diarrhea during the school day will be sent home. She may not return to school for a 24-hour period.  Any student diagnosed with strep throat must remain at home for 24 hours after starting antibiotics.  Parents must write a note for any student who needs to be excused from physical education during the school day. A doctor’s note is required to excuse a student from physical education for more than two days after any illness or injury. The doctor’s note should indicate any physical restrictions and the date for return to normal activity.  Students may not carry medications in school. All prescription medications must be delivered to the Health Center in a pharmacy-labeled bottle and accompanied by a note from the physician. All non-prescription medications must be delivered to the Health Center in the original package and accompanied by a parent’s written permission to administer the medication.  Once a day medications should be given at home in the morning or night. Medications ordered twice a day should be given at home in the morning and at night. Medications ordered for three times a day should be given at home at breakfast, after school, and at bedtime.

Head Lice  In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, The Bryn Mawr School does not follow a “No Nits” policy. Parents will be notified by the school nurse if live lice are discovered during the school day. Children will be permitted to return to school the next day after appropriate treatment is started. Parents may take their child home during school hours to begin treatment.

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 Current evidence does not support the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of classroom or school-wide screening for decreasing the incidence of head lice among school children. However, Health Center employees will screen at-risk grades and cohorts, as necessary. Parents will ultimately be responsible for the maintenance and treatment of the child’s infestation. School administrators are encouraged to help educate parents and staff about the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of head lice.

Food Allergy Protocol

The Bryn Mawr School Guidelines for Managing Students with Food Allergies: Food allergies can be life-threatening. Recognizing, understanding, and managing the risks of serious food allergies are safety responsibilities that are taken very seriously at Bryn Mawr. The Bryn Mawr School is committed to working with students, parents, and physicians to optimally provide a safe educational environment. However, the school cannot guarantee that any student or adult will never experience an allergy-related reaction on this campus or at a school- sponsored activity. In the end, the responsibility for food allergy risk reduction lies with the student and their parents/guardians.

A person can be allergic to any food at any given time. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, “there are eight foods that account for 90% of allergic reactions: peanuts, tree nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews, pistachios, pecans, etc.), fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, soy, and wheat.” Most allergic reactions come from a first time, undocumented sensitivity or accidental ingestion.

Family’s Responsibility  Notify the school of the child’s allergies.  Submit written medical documentation (including the school’s Emergency Health Care Plan), instructions, and medications as directed by the child’s physician. A photo of the child must be included with the written form.  Supply the school with properly labeled medication and replace the medications after use or upon expiration.  Submit emergency contact information.  Educate their child about how to self-manage and advocate for her own health.  Debrief with school staff, the child’s physician, and the child (if appropriate) after an allergic reaction has occurred.  Send in substitute snacks/food for their child, in case a proper substitute is not available at school.

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School’s Responsibility  Know and follow pertinent federal laws including ADA, IDEA, Section 504, and FERPA, additionally any law and policy that applies.  Review health records submitted by parents.  Include food-allergic students in school activities.  Assure all staff interacting with food-allergic students on a routine basis identifies food allergies, recognizes signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction and emergency care, and assists the student and family in minimizing risk.  Properly store student’s medications and have emergency kits available on campus.  Educate faculty and staff on campus about allergic reaction signs and symptoms and how to manage a reaction on campus.  Discuss food allergy management with families’ on-campus and at off-campus functions like field trips and retreats.  Educate students to refrain from sharing foods.

Student’s Responsibility  Should refrain from sharing food.  Should not ingest anything with unknown ingredients or known to contain any allergen.  Should be proactive in the care and management of their food allergies and reactions based on their developmental level.  Should notify an adult immediately if they eat something they believe may contain the food that they are allergic to and if they notice any symptom of an allergic reaction.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT AND COMMUNICATION

CLASS PARENTS Class Parents assist parents and teachers in the Lower School throughout the school year. They welcome new families and contact parent volunteers to organize classroom celebrations and special activities. They meet monthly with the Chair of the Lower School Communication Committee, the Chair-Elect, the Director of Parent Programs and the Lower School Director to discuss current activities and share this information with parents.

E-MAIL Each faculty member has an e-mail box. Parents may send e-mail messages to teachers using the following email convention: [email protected]

GIFT GIVING Children and parents are asked to refrain from any gift giving to members of the faculty and staff, with the exception of a gift the child has made herself. Understanding that parents and Revised 6/24/13 10

students wish to thank the faculty for its dedication, the Lower School Class Parents will organize a voluntary holiday gift fund for the teachers in December. This tribute to the teachers, regardless of whether or not the family contributes, comes from all the Lower School students and their families.

LOWER SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE Class parent representatives from each grade, the Lower School Communications Committee Chair and Chair-Elect meet monthly with the Director of Parent Programs and the Lower School Director. Lower School parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.

PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION All parents are members of the Bryn Mawr School Parents’ Association and should feel welcome and involved in the life of the school.

PARKING FOR PARENTS/VISITORS Visitors are asked to park in the two designated Visitor spots and not in the numbered spaces reserved for faculty. Parents attending Lower School events should park in the neighborhood, taking care not to block neighbors’ driveways or walkways. Please avoid parking on Boxhill Lane near the entrance to the Lower School driveway, so as not to impede carpool traffic.

THURSDAY LETTER The Thursday Letter is a weekly communication from the Lower School Director that contains important news, announcements, and calendar information. It can be accessed through the Parent Portal under “newsletters” and is also sent electronically to your e-mail.

VISITORS TO CAMPUS For the students’ safety, all visitors, including parents, should sign in at the Lower School Office to receive a visitor badge before entering any classroom.

VOICE MAIL Each Lower School faculty member has a voice mailbox accessible by dialing 410-323-8800 and asking for that teacher or by dialing 410-323-1118 and dialing in the extension. Faculty voice mail numbers are in the School Directory. Although faculty members check their voice mail daily, it should not be used to request homework, make carpool changes, or deliver urgent messages.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Parents are encouraged to volunteer at Bryn Mawr and share in their daughter’s experience at the School. Each summer, parents have the opportunity to sign up for various volunteer opportunities. Parents may also contact their child’s class parents directly for ideas as to how to volunteer. Revised 6/24/13 11

WEBSITE The Bryn Mawr website may be accessed at www.brynmawrschool.org Divisional newsletters, report cards and comments will be distributed via the Parent Portal. They will no longer be sent home in the mail. Please take a few minutes to make sure that you can access the Parent Portal using your username and password, and that your e-mail is correct in our system. You can visit the Parent Portal at: www.brynmawrschool.org/parents. If you have any questions or encounter difficulty accessing the Parent Portal on the Bryn Mawr website, please contact [email protected]. Please check that our e-mails are not going into your spam folder.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

BEING SAFE AT SCHOOL Maintaining a safe and secure school environment and being prepared for emergencies on campus are of utmost importance to everyone at Bryn Mawr. Faculty, staff, and students work together to make safety and security a priority, and the school regularly reviews and tests the effectiveness of safety and emergency procedures, plans, and drills in cooperation with the school’s Security Department.

GENERAL CAMPUS SAFETY Our 26-acre setting, an open, yet protected campus environment allows members of the school community and the greater community, by permission, to take advantage of the beauty and amenities of our grounds. All school employees are required to wear identification, and visitors to Bryn Mawr must display a visitor’s badge. The school grounds are patrolled and monitored seven days a week, 24 hours a day, by several full-time school security personnel and a professional security company. In addition, a school administrator is on duty each school day between 3:00–5:30 PM as an emergency contact.

COMMUNICATING WITH PARENTS AND FAMILIES In the event of a weather-related or emergency school closing, Bryn Mawr will use e2Campus emergency notification system. The e2Campus system provides families with notices of emergency school closings by sending broadcast messages directly to e-mail, voice, and text messaging inboxes. Bryn Mawr has contracted for the service through the e2Campus/Omnilert Company LLC, and the service will be effective for you immediately upon your registration on the school’s website. To register for e2Campus ENS or to update your e2Campus contact information if there have been changes to it in the past year, go to http://utility.brynmawrschool.org/_utility/e2Campus.aspx and follow the instructions.

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COMMUNICATING WITH MEMBERS OF THE CAMPUS COMMUNITY The school uses campus-wide bells and alarms initially to notify school personnel and students of an emergency. School marshals communicate the protocol to be followed on our campus and the Director of Security is in communication with and Roland Park Country School by two-way radio (Channel 3), e-mail, and cell phone.

SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES  School buildings are unlocked with unlimited access during regular school hours with the exception of Bryn Mawr Little School, which has its entrance on a buzzer system throughout the day.  All school buildings are locked on a regular schedule in the afternoon.  After-school programs are supervised and staffed until every student is picked up.  Campus lighting is excellent.  Detailed safety and security protocols are in effect for all school events on the main campus and at Bryn Mawr at Mt. Washington.  Information about campus safety and security is shared on a regular basis with the tri-school community as well as with area neighborhood associations.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES  The school employs a full-time nurse practitioner and trains and certifies key personnel each year in the administering of emergency first aid, CPR, and the use of a defibrillator. There are 6 AEDs (defibrillators) on our main campus and one on our Mt. Washington campus.  The school’s full-time athletic trainer works with our student athletes and adults on campus to help reduce and prevent injuries and maintain health and wellness.  School personnel and teachers review emergency procedures and plans and must take a blood-borne pathogens quiz each year.  The school has after-hours emergency protocols and information in place, and school personnel are specifically trained to handle emergencies that may occur during off-school hours.  Emergency drill protocols are posted in each school building and classroom. All school personnel and students participate in emergency drills throughout the school year, including fire drills, lockdown drills, and a weather drill. The school also has regularly updated crisis and disaster plans and a pandemic flu plan.

HOW YOU CAN HELP  Let your daughter know that if anyone or any situation on campus makes her feel uncomfortable, she should alert an adult immediately.  If you are on campus and notice someone or something suspicious, please call our Campus Security Office immediately at ext. 1616, 443-744-7424, or 443-552-8896. Revised 6/24/13 13

 If someone is in need of medical assistance, please call 911 first, then contact the Campus Security Office.  Please remember to keep your contact information current at school, especially the e-mail address that you would like the school to use to share important and timely school information.

SCHOOL DAY ROUTINES AND INFORMATION

ASSEMBLIES Every Friday morning begins with an all-Lower School assembly in the Multi-Purpose Room. It is a wonderful opportunity for the entire Lower School community to gather together. Assemblies may be put on by a Lower School class or a Middle/Upper School group (choral or dance, for instance), and sometimes an outside speaker/performer comes to entertain and educate the students. Parents will be notified in advance of assemblies to which they are invited.

ATTENDANCE The school believes that regular attendance is crucial to on-going academic progress and relies on parents to see that absences and lateness are kept to a minimum.  It is important that students arrive at school on time each and every day. School begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. If a child is late, she should report to the office to obtain a late slip to avoid being marked absent for the day.  When a child is ill, parents are asked to notify the Lower School Office by 9:00 a.m. Before 8:00 a.m, please use the voice mail number, 410-323-1118, ext. 1222.  Parents are encouraged to schedule appointments on early dismissal days. However, when a student needs to leave school for an appointment, she must bring a note or a Lower School dismissal change form from her parent. The student should report to the Lower School office before leaving. If she returns to school later in the day, she must check in at the office before rejoining her class.  Bryn Mawr respects the observance of religious holidays and understands that students may be absent on those days.  A student’s presence in the classroom is a vital part of her learning at Bryn Mawr. For this reason, parents are requested to plan family trips during scheduled school vacations - in December, March, and during the summer months - and not during the school year. In addition, early departures on the day before a vacation or late returns following a vacation can be detrimental to a student’s progress. In the event of a foreseen absence, please send a written explanation to the the Lower School Director.

COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY The faculty of the Lower School has expectations for each student to be a contributing member of the school community. Girls are expected to help keep our campus and classrooms neat, tell

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the truth, stand up for themselves and their classmates, and to be kind and respectful to their teachers and to one another. The seven Lower School Value Affirmations are: Respect, Responsibility, Resilience, Compassion, Cooperation, Integrity, and Mindfulness. These are traits that Bryn Mawr students are expected to embody. We also ask the students to give back to the larger community through service learning activities, organized by the Student Council, throughout the year.

LOST AND FOUND All personal belongings found at the Lower School are placed in the Lost and Found box located just inside the portico entrance to the Lower School Administration Building. Children and parents are encouraged to check regularly for lost items. Please mark all belongings with each student’s name. Unmarked clothing left in the Lost and Found will be disposed of on the day of dismissal for the December and March vacations and on the day of Lower School Final Assembly.

LUNCH The school promotes healthy eating habits and discourages waste. Trading food is not allowed. Parents are asked not to send candy, gum, glass bottles, or soft drinks of any kind.

Kindergarten, Pre-First, Grades 1, and 2 Students bring their lunches, including a drink (no soft drinks, please), with napkins and utensils. All lunchboxes/bags should be clearly marked with each child’s name.

Grades 3 – 5 Students have the option of buying all or part of their lunch in the Dining Center or bringing it from home. Third, fourth, and fifth grade students will be provided with a lunch card in order to purchase food and drink items. The amount they spend will be billed monthly to each student’s account. Lower School students are not allowed to use the microwave or hot water dispenser for “cup of noodles” or any kind of instant lunch. If a student chooses to bring her lunch, utensils and cups should be included as they are only available for students purchasing their lunch. If your daughter forgets her lunch, her teacher will see that she purchases one in the Dining Center. The lunch will be charged to the student’s account.

PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS Private music lessons through the Bryn Mawr Music School are scheduled after school, at lunch, and at recess. Applications for our youngest students and students new to Bryn Mawr should be carefully considered. They should be made only when there is particular interest and commitment on the part of both the student and her parents. Please be aware that considerable time and discipline are required to make this musical experience a successful one for our students. Application forms for private music lessons are sent home in late spring for the following school year. These forms are also available on the Bryn Mawr website. Revised 6/24/13 15

RECESS and SNACK The students pause for a mid-morning snack at their scheduled morning recess. The snack is brought from home. Parents are encouraged to “pack a snack” with their daughters that is nutritional and something she will enjoy. The school provides white and chocolate milk. Students are encouraged to use their recess and lunch drinks, as well as water from water fountains, to maintain proper hydration. Since all students are expected to go outside for recess, please dress your daughters in proper outerwear. Parents who prefer that their daughters remain inside because they have been sick, must send a written request to school each day their daughter is to remain inside. Students may not play in the snow during winter recess unless they are appropriately dressed in a warm coat, hat, snow pants, boots, and gloves.

SNOW DAYS In inclement weather, Bryn Mawr, Gilman, and Roland Park Country School decide together about school openings and closings. As soon as a decision is reached about a closure or late opening:

 You will be notified by e2Campus notification system  It will be posted on the Bryn Mawr web site: www.brynmawrschool.org  It will be recorded on The Bryn Mawr School phone: 410-323-8800  It will be broadcast on WBAL radio (1090 AM) at twenty minutes after the hour and ten minutes before the hour and on WBAL-TV (Channel 11).

Please note that no announcement will be made if Bryn Mawr is OPEN. In the event that it snows during the school day, parents may pick up their children when they judge it safest to do so. If it is before the designated dismissal time, parents should come to the Lower School Office.

TOYS, CELL PHONES, AND ELECTRONICS IN SCHOOL Toys from home are a distraction in the classroom. With her teacher’s permission, a student may bring in a special toy for Show and Tell or a project; otherwise, we ask parents to make sure that toys are left at home. This includes hand-held video games, iPods, computers, and other electronic devices. It is permissible for students to bring in sports equipment that will be used after school.

Lower School students do not need a cell phone during the school day. If a question or emergency arises, girls are able to use a land line to phone home. If parents give their daughter a cell phone for use after dismissal, it must be with the understanding that the child will keep it in her backpack throughout the day and that Bryn Mawr accepts no responsibility for lost phones.

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UNIFORM REGULATIONS The school requires that all students wear a clean regulation uniform. Summer uniforms are worn in the fall and after spring break while the winter uniform is worn from early November (you will be notified of the exact day) to Spring Break. It is important that the required uniform combination listed below be followed. Fingernail polish, jewelry, and makeup are not part of the Lower School uniform; however, a watch and stud earrings may be worn by girls whose ears are pierced. All clothing and equipment should be clearly and securely marked with the owner’s first and last names.

Summer Uniform:  Green/white cord jumper; plain white knit short-sleeve or long-sleeve polo shirt or plain white turtleneck  Bryn Mawr uniform shorts or dark green athletic shorts; short all-white ankle socks that cover the ankle bone (no lace trim or tennis socks)  All white low-cut athletic shoes; kindergarten and pre-first students are required to wear sneakers with Velcro fasteners.

Winter Uniform  Green serge uniform; plain white knit short-sleeve or long-sleeve polo shirt or plain white turtleneck  Bryn Mawr uniform shorts or dark green athletic shorts; green knee-high uniform socks or plain forest green tights  All white low-cut athletic shoes; kindergarten and pre-first students are required towear sneakers with Velcro fasteners.

Please note the following:  A dark green Bryn Mawr Lower School sweatshirt may be worn with either uniform. It is the only sweatshirt allowed. A dark green cardigan sweater may be worn, as well.  Green sweatpants or leggings may be worn under either uniform when the weather turns cold until Spring Break.  Short white socks may not be worn over tights.  School uniforms are available at Arthur’s Uniforms (two locations):

1777 Reisterstown Road – Suite 116 8227 Cloverleaf Drive – Suite 308 Baltimore, MD 21208 Millersville, MD 21108 443-524-1469 410-987-2605

Outgrown, gently-used uniforms may be turned in to the Office during the year. The Parents’ Association sponsors two campus-wide Recycled Uniform sales each year, one before school starts, the other on the day of the Bazaar. Parents will be notified of sale dates and times. Revised 6/24/13 17

VALUES Our values program is as much a part of the Lower School curriculum as language arts or math. It is the cornerstone of the Lower School program that each student learns to treat one another with respect, dignity and compassion. The program is adapted to meet the needs of our students. Young girls learn that each person has a responsibility for more than herself and her own well being.

SPECIAL EVENTS

BIRTHDAYS Student birthdays will be celebrated seasonally. Each grade will celebrate student birthdays four times a year. Class parents will organize a celebration for fall, winter, spring and summer birthdays. A child’s birthday may be recognized through the gift of a “Celebration Book” for the Lower School Library. All families receive information about this program from the Parents’ Association.

DAYS OUT OF UNIFORM All Lower School students will be notified, in advance, of days such as Spirit Day and Halloween when they do not need to wear their uniforms to school. On days out of uniform, Lower School students are expected to dress appropriately (no cut-offs, halter tops, or tops with spaghetti straps). On all days out of uniform, students should wear athletic shoes so that they may participate in physical education.

FIELD TRIPS Each year, opportunities arise for students to travel outside the classroom on field trips. Parents will be asked to sign permission slips specifically issued for each trip so that their daughters can participate. Expenses incurred in connection with field trips and cultural events will be covered by a yearly fee charged to each child’s incidental account. The cost of the five-day trip to the Echo Hill Outdoor School in the fifth grade will be billed to each student’s account. Limited financial aid is available to families already receiving aid to help defray the cost of this longer trip. Transportation for most field trips is by bus.

GRANDPARENTS’/SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY Grandparents’/Special Friends’ Day is held each year for grandparents or special friends of students in kindergarten, pre-first, second, and fourth grades. This event gives grandparents or special friends the opportunity to visit their special students in their Lower School classrooms.

HALLOWEEN Halloween is traditionally celebrated in the Lower School with a parade. Students and teachers may come to school in costume. Girls must have athletic shoes for physical education and may

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bring other clothes to change into if they do not wish to spend the day in costume. If your daughter does not celebrate Halloween, she may dress out of uniform.

READATHON Each fall, the Parents’ Association sponsors a Readathon for the Lower School. The proceeds from the Readathon are used to bring an author to speak at the fifth grade’s annual Newbery Luncheon as well as to pay for other Lower School programs.

SERVICE LEARNING In an effort to foster a lifelong commitment of service to others, locally as well as globally, the Lower School Student Council organizes service learning projects throughout the year.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES Bryn Mawr offers summer programs that are described in brochures provided each spring to Lower School families. Please call the Office of Summer Programs for any further information.

SCHOOL STORE: THE BRYN MAWRKET The Bryn Mawrket stocks school supplies and other Bryn Mawrabilia. It does not stock the complete school uniform, although it does carry some uniform items. The Bryn Mawrket is open daily during the school year:

7:45 AM-4:00 PM Monday-Thursday 7:45 AM-1:00 PM Friday

School uniforms are available at Arthur’s Uniforms (two locations):

1777 Reisterstown Road – Suite 116 8227 Cloverleaf Drive – Suite 308 Baltimore, MD 21208 Millersville, MD 21108 410-828-4709 410-987-2605

Lower School students may not visit the Bryn Mawrket during the school day. Parents who cannot arrange to visit the school store may telephone the Bryn Mawrket to request items. These purchases will be charged to the student’s account and delivered to your daughter in the Lower School.

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