believe. engage. sore.
2016-2017
Welcome to Spring Independent School District!
We appreciate the professional spirit that you demonstrate in the service that you provide for the young people of Spring ISD.
While your position is an “as-needed” position, the responsibility that you assume as you conduct the lessons in a teacher’s absence is an important contribution to the success of our student’s instructional program.
We extend our appreciation and heartfelt thanks to you for sharing your talent with us. If we may be of assistance to you in any way, please contact the Substitute Office.
SUBSTITUTE OFFICE
Substitute office phone number: 281-891-6057 Substitute office email: [email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPRING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT ...... 1
BOARD OF TRUSTEES & SUBSTITUTE ...... 2
INSTRUCTIONAL CALENDAR…………………………..3
S.I.S.D. FACILITIES ...... 4
DAILY TIME SCHEDULE ...... 8
SELECTION PROCESS & CERTIFICATION STATUS .... 9
EXPECTATIONS OF SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS ...... 11
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT ...... 14
SALARY SCHEDULE ...... 16
LENGTH OF ASSIGNMENT ...... 17
INTERRUPTION OF LONG-TERM ASSIGNMENT ...... 17
REMOVAL FROM SUBSTITUTE ROSTER ...... 18
COMPUTER RECORDS OF DAYS WORKED ...... 18
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION ...... 20
SCHOOL MASCOT AND COLORS ...... 28
MAP OF THE DISTRICT ...... 30
SPRING ISD — THE DISTRICT
The Spring Independent School District is located 20 miles north of downtown Houston in suburban North Harris County. It encompasses 54.7 square miles of residential, commercial, and agricultural use properties.
We have twenty-six elementary schools (K-5), seven middle schools (6-8), six high schools. Spring is one of Texas’ 50 largest public school districts.
The District’s standards are high as we are constantly involved in the pursuit of excellence in our educational programs. Adhering to the same high standards as a regular teacher, our substitute teachers are considered a very important part of the educational program. Their contribution is essential to the success of our mission of developing students who excel academically, reason and solve problems rationally, and act responsibly by displaying good character and citizenship.
Students attend school in modern buildings that provide a mix of instructional space, ranging from individual enclosed classrooms to grade level teaching areas that enhance the team teaching process. Students are grouped for learning; and both Special Education and the Pyramid Program for gifted and talented students help meet students’ special needs. High school students are offered a variety of independent study and advanced placement courses, as well as, many career courses, and a wide range of electives. The District offers pre-kindergarten for four-year-old children who are non-English speaking or economically disadvantaged. Instruction using computers is an integrated part of curriculum at all grade levels including mathematics, language arts, science, social studies, and occupational/technical subjects.
A variety of extracurricular activities are available, including athletics, music, theater arts, journalism and other numerous clubs and organizations. The music program has been awarded state and national recognition. Students have won state debate honors and have excelled in other University Interscholastic League competitions, as well as, regional, state, and national vocational competition.
Our Vision Statement: “Spring Independent School District will be a district of choice known for high quality academics with innovative and specialized programs that meet the needs of all students in a positive learning environment.”
Thank you for choosing to be part of our vision.
SPRING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dr. Deborah Jensen, President, Position 1 Chris Bell, Vice President, Position 2 Justine Durant, Assistant Secretary, Position 3 Rhonda L. Faust, J.D., Position 4 Rhonda Newhouse, Secretary Position 5 Don Davis, Position 6 Jana Gonzales, Position 7
ADMINISTRATION
Superintendent of Schools……..……….Dr. Rodney E. Watson
Chief of Staff..…………………..………………….Julie F. Hill
Chief School Leadership & Student Support Services Officer…………..….Lupita Hinojosa
Chief Financial Officer………………………..Ann Westbrooks
Chief of Police……………………………….Victor L. Mitchell
Chief Communications Officer…………..Tiffany Dunne-Oldfield
Chief Human Resource Officer.….....…..Deeone G. McKeithan
Chief of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment………….………..Dr. Lauren Topek
Chief Operations Officer………………………..Mark Miranda
SUBSTITUTE OFFICE
Human Resources Director… ……..…..…...Dr. Jeannine Porter
Substitute Clerk………..…..…………...……...Flavia Montalvo
Substitute Clerk……….……………………….Amanda Barajas
Administration Offices: 281.891.6000 16717 Ella Blvd. Houston, TX 77090 Human Resources Division: 281.891.6040 Substitute Office: 281.891.6057
SCHOOLS
Early College Academy……………………………………..281.891.6880 1001 Southridge Rd Houston, TX 77090
Dekaney High School……………………………………….281.891.7342 22351 Imperial Valley Houston, TX 770073
Spring High School…………………………………………281.891.7039 19428 I-45 North Spring, TX 77373
Westfield High School………………………………………281.891.7130 16713 Ella Blvd. Houston, TX 77090
Wunsche High School………………………………………281.891.7650 900 Wunsche Loop Spring, TX 77373
Bailey Middle School……………………………………….281.891.8000 3377 James Leo Drive Spring, TX 77373
Bammel Middle School……………………………….…….281.891.7900 16711 Ella Blvd. Houston, TX 77090
Claughton Middle School…………………………………..281.891.7950 3000 Spears Road Houston, TX 77067
Dueitt Middle School……………………………………….281.891.7800 1 Eagle Crossing Spring, TX 77373
Roberson Middle School…………………………….…….281.891.7702 1500 Southridge Houston, TX 77090
Twin Creeks Middle School………….…………………….281.891.7850 27100 Cypresswood Spring, TX 77373
Wells Middle School...... 281.891.7750 4033 Gladeridge Houston, TX 77068
Anderson Elementary………………………………………281.891.8360 6218 Lynngate Spring, TX 77373
Bammel Elementary………………………………………..281.891.8150 17309 Red Oak Houston, TX 77090
Beneke Elementary………………..………………………..281.891.8450 3840 Briarchase Houston, TX 77014
Booker Elementary……………….………………………...281.891.8750 22352 Imperial Valley Houston, TX 77073
Burchett Elementary……………………………………….281.891.8630 3366 James Leo Drive Spring, TX 77373
Clark Primary (Grades PK-1)……………………………..281.891.8600 12625 River Laurel Houston, TX 77014
Clark Intermediate (Grades 2-5)…..………………………281.891.8540 1825 Rushworth Houston, TX 77014
Cooper Elementary……………………..…………………..281.891.8660 18655 Imperial Valley Houston, TX 77073
Eickenroht Elementary……………………………………..281.891.8840 15252 Grand Point Drive Houston, TX 77090
Heritage Elementary…………………….………………….281.891.8510 12255 T. C. Jester Houston, TX 77067
Hirsch Elementary…………………………………………..281.891.8330 2633 Trailing Vine Spring, TX 77373
Hoyland Elementary…………………………………………81.891.8810 2200 Wittershaw Drive Houston, TX 77090
Jenkins Elementary…………………………………………281.891.8300 4615 Reynaldo Spring, TX 77373
Lewis Elementary…………………………………………...281.891.8720 3230 Spears Road Houston, TX 77067
Link Elementary...... 281.891.8390 2815 Ridge Hollow Houston, TX 77067
Major Elementary………………………….……………….281.891.8887 16855 Sugar Pine Drive Houston, TX 77090
Marshall Elementary…………………….………………….281.891.4900 24505 Birnamwood Spring, TX 77373
McNabb Elementary...... 281.891.8690 743 East Cypresswood Drive Spring, TX 77373
Meyer Elementary……………..……………………………281.891.8270 16330 Forest Way Houston, TX 77090
Northgate Crossing Elementary……….…………………..281.891.8780 23437 Northgate Crossing Blvd. Spring, TX 77373
Ponderosa Elementary…………………….………………..281.891.8180 17202 Butte Creek Houston, TX 77090 Reynolds Elementary...... 281.891.8240 3975 Gladeridge Houston, TX 77068
Salyers Elementary………………..……………………….281.891.8570 25705 Hardy Street Spring, TX 77373
Smith Elementary………………….………………………281.891.8420 26000 Cypresswood Spring, TX 77373
Thompson Elementary...... 281.891.8480 12470 Walters Road Houston, TX 77014
Winship Elementary……..………………………………...281.891.8210 2175 Spring Creek Spring, TX 77373
DAILY TIME SCHEDULE
Student Substitute 1/2 Day 1/2 Day Schools Full Day Full Day A.M. P. M.
High
Dekaney 7:15-2:30 6:45-3:00 7:00-11:00 11:00-3:00
Spring 7:15-2:30 6:45-3:00 7:00-11:00 11:00-3:00
Westfield 7:15-2:30 6:45-3:00 7:00-11:00 11:00-3:00
Wunsche 7:15-2:30 6:45-3:00 7:00-11:00 11:00-3:00
Early College 7:55-3:00 7:25-3:30 7:30-11:00 11:00-3:00
Virtual School 7:00-3:00 6:30-3:30 7:00:11:00 11:00-3:00
Middle
Bailey 9:00-4:15 8:30-4:45 8:15-12:15 12:15-4:15
Bammel 9:00-4:15 8:30-4:45 8:15-12:15 12:15-4:15
Claughton 9:00-4:15 8:30-4:45 8:15-12:15 12:15-4:15
Dueitt 9:00-4:15 8:30-4:45 8:15-12:15 12:15-4:15
Roberson 8:15-3:30 7:45-4:00 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Twin Creeks 9:00-4:15 8:30-4:45 8:15-12:15 12:15-4:15
Wells 9:00-4:15 8:30-4:45 8:15-12:15 12:15-4:15
Elementary
Anderson 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Bammel 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Beneke 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Booker 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Burchett 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Clark Primary 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30 DAILY SCHEDULE
Student Substitute 1/2 Day 1/2 Day Schools Full Day Full Day A.M. P.M.
Clark Interm. 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Cooper 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Eickenroht 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Heritage 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Hirsch 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Hoyland 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Jenkins 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Lewis 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Link 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Major 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Mc Nabb 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Meyer 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Northgate Crossing 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Ponderosa 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Reynolds 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Salyers 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Smith 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Thompson 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30
Winship 8:00-3:15 7:30-3:45 7:30-11:30 11:30-3:30 SUBSTITUTE SELECTION PROCESS
The position of Substitute Teacher in the Spring Independent School District is a non-contract, part- time position used on an as-needed basis.
To apply for a substitute position in Spring ISD, you must complete an online application on the Spring ISD website.
Requirements necessary for a complete substitute’s personnel file include the following:
District Substitute Application Substitute Training Applicant Agreement Consent for Criminal Record Search Approved Homeland Security form Homeland Security identification documents College transcript showing at least 48 college credit hours or more Personal Data Sheet W-4 form Section 457—Designation of Alternate Retirement Plan Letter of Reasonable Assurance
CERTIFICATION STATUS
The following qualification is required to be a certified substitute:
A valid Texas teaching certificate, or A valid teaching certificate from another state
PLACEMENT PROCESS
AESOP (Automated Educational Substitute Operator) implemented by Frontline Data, Inc. is an automated system that uses an internet website and voice response software via the telephone. The website and voice response for telephone calls are linked. The system uses information acquired by the website and telephone to generate absence data reports for site administrators and District administrators.
Substitutes may contact AESOP to review and accept positions on the website at www.aesoponline.com or by calling 1-800-942-3767 using a touch-tone telephone. The Substitute Office telephone number is 281.891.6057.
EXPECTATIONS OF SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS
Substitute teachers are considered professionals. It is very important to provide a positive, professional model for the students to emulate.
The substitute teacher is expected to deliver instructions for the students in the classes assigned according to the plans provided by the teacher. Assistance is available from the department chair/team leader.
The substitute teacher is expected to arrive on time for each assignment. If you cannot arrive on time, notify the school and/or Substitute Office.
The substitute teacher is expected to become familiar with all emergency drills, protection procedures, evacuation routes, and bell signals and expectations for student behavior.
The substitute teacher is expected to perform all of the duties of the regular classroom teacher which include providing instruction to the class assigned, covering other teachers’ classes, assisting in the supervision of students, performing clerical tasks and all other duties as requested by the principal.
While interacting with a student, a substitute teacher is expected to behave professionally at all times. He/she shall never use sarcasm, profanity, or ridicule students. Under no circumstances shall a substitute teacher touch a student and/or attempt to forcefully remove a student from class. If a difficult situation should arise, seek the assistance of the principal, assistant principal, or another teacher.
The substitute teacher is expected to report personal injury of a student to the principal or assistant principal. Students appearing to be ill or injured should be sent to the school nurse or the nurse should be summoned to the classroom as soon as possible.
The substitute teacher is expected to work a full teaching day unless he/she is informed differently by the principal or Substitute Office. During the instructional day a substitute teacher shall not leave the campus without permission from the principal or assistant principal.
When a substitute teacher has been assigned to a class in which there is a student teacher, the substitute teacher is expected to remain in the classroom with the student teacher and assist as the student teacher directs the lesson.
It is essential that, as a substitute teacher, you are careful not to divulge any confidential information which has been received from contact with children and other people in the school. Your observations and interactions with staff or students should be treated as privileged communications.
If you have concerns or recommendations for improvement, please submit your ideas to a building principal or the Substitute Office.
REPORTING TO AN ASSIGNMENT
Upon arrival at the school, check in with the school secretary, or substitute coordinator for the campus; and confirm your assignment. Be aware that your assignment may be changed from the one you were given when you were first contacted.
It is mandatory that you sign the AESOP Daily Report. You will be required to sign in at the beginning and the end of the day.
Pick up the substitute folder, attendance roster, keys (if needed) and necessary materials for the day.
Learn the name of the team leader, department chair, or the teacher in charge who can assist you.
Obtain directions to the classroom or department.
Locate the lounge and restrooms.
Locate the lesson plans for the day.
Use the substitute folder to familiarize yourself with the daily schedule, special assignments, attendance procedures, dismissal procedures, restroom procedures, class management procedures, hall passes, detention hall and tardy slips.
Obtain information on all emergency drills and procedures and follow them very carefully in the event of an emergency or drill.
Since you are not conferencing with parents or developing lesson plans, you will be on call during the conference period to assist the team leader, office, library, etc., as needed.
PREPARATION FOR INSTRUCTION
Lesson plans and other instructions provided by the regular teacher shall be followed as closely as possible.
Before students arrive:
Introduce yourself to the neighboring teachers, team leader or department chair
Review the lesson plans and locate all needed materials
Write your name on the chalkboard or overhead
Place assignments on the board or overhead
Take charge of the classroom
Greet students at the door or as they enter the area
Direct students to their seats
Create a quiet, business like atmosphere
Have assignment ready to implement
Remain standing to organize the class
Take roll efficiently. Check off names as students arrive, or move quietly among the students checking names against a seating chart (if available).
Give explicit directions and explanations.
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
THE SUBSTITUTE SHALL NEVER LEAVE STUDENTS UNSUPERVISED. The supervision of students is both a classroom management and safety responsibility. The substitute teacher has the same responsibility as the regular teacher for the students’ well-being while in his/her care.
Substitute teachers are expected to review the District Student Handbook to become familiar with policies and procedures of the District.
Disciplinary problems may be avoided by keeping students occupied in meaningful activities and by providing firm and consistent treatment of students.
The substitute should review the classroom discipline plan. Check with the team leader, department chair, teachers or principal for necessary clarifications. Do not hesitate to ask for help.
The substitute teacher should have extra activities appropriate for the grade level ready so that students never have idle time.
The substitute teacher should emphasize positive behavior by giving appropriate positive specific feedback.
Organize the details to minimize time spent on procedural matters:
Have students pass papers to the front of each row and count them
Ask students to place homework or test papers on the corner of their desks and pick them up
Do not permit wandering, unnecessary pencil sharpening, etc…
Make use of student monitors to assist in collecting items or passing the trash can
Encourage student attention and active participation
Substitute teachers are expected to be an active part of classroom instruction. Monitor students carefully by moving around the classroom checking on each student by answering questions, and/or clarifying the assignment.
As you monitor the classroom, provide feedback to students about their work.
Keep an eye on the clock. Allow time for administrative and academic closure.
PROCEDURE FOR THE END OF THE DAY
Substitutes are required to stay through the teacher’s scheduled day even if the absent teacher has last period as a conference time. Your workday will begin at least 30 minutes before class starts and end at least 30 minutes after the students are dismissed. Many teachers have duty assignments at dismissal, such as hall supervision, bus duty, etc.
Organize all papers. Label by class period or subject, and leave papers in a secure place.
Make notes for the teacher indicating progress each class made in the lesson, list absentees, give information about behavior problems, students with good behavior, and parent phone calls/visits.
Secure the room.
Return the substitute folder, keys and materials to the secretary or team leader. The substitute has the same responsibility as the regular teacher for equipment and materials assigned to his/her care.
Sign out on the AESOP Daily Report.
Check with the school secretary about future substitute assignments.
TECHNOLOGY
All Spring ISD substitutes are issued a Spring ISD email address. This email address is subject to Spring ISD’s Acceptable use guidelines. District email addresses are for official use only. Examples of this include: communicating with Substitute office, Spring ISD campuses and/or staff.
The substitute office has created a substitute website for the purpose of providing additional resources to substitutes in our district. The website can be accessed by logging into the my.springisd.org website and clicking on the substitute link. Once in the website, substitutes have access to training PowerPoint's, teacher report forms and other pertinent documents that might be helpful to the substitute.
SUBSTITUTE 2016-2017 SALARY SCHEDULE
Daily Assignment
Retired Teacher…………………………………………………………$90.00 per day
Certified Teacher………………………………………………………..$90.00 per day
Registered Nurse...... $100.00 per day
LV Nurse...... $75.00 per day
Non-Certified Substitute Teacher in a teaching position...... $75.00 per day
Non-Certified/Certified Substitute Teacher in a paraprofessional or clerical Position……………….……………….…….……………….$60.00 per day
An Extension Center position is considered a paraprofessional position.
Long-Term Assignment
To qualify for a long term assignment you must be a certified substitute and work 20+ consecutive days in the same assignment for the same teacher. Long Term Certified Substitutes………….…………………………...$140.00 per day
If no certified teacher is available, with approval a non- certified substitute may fill the assignment. Long Term Non-certified Substitute.………………….………………$100.00 per day
Returning Substitutes
Non Certified Substitutes returning from the 2015-2016 school year who have worked 90+ days during the 15/16 school year will have a daily rate of $80.00. This rate will apply to teaching, teacher’s aide, and clerical positions.
******It is the responsibility of the retired teacher to keep track of their days worked in AESOP.*****
LENGTH OF ASSIGNMENT
Substitute teachers are called on an as-needed basis to fill positions when regular staff members are unable to report for duty. Every effort is made to keep the same substitute in the assignment for the duration of the regular staff member’s absence.
LONG-TERM ASSIGNMENTS
When a teacher is absent 20 or more days, a long-term substitute is placed in the position. A long-term substitute is one who is appointed to a classroom with full responsibility to plan, deliver and evaluate student learning.
The long-term substitute teacher shall be certified for the position in which he/she is placed. In the event a certified substitute is not available, State law requires that parents be notified if a non-certified substitute is placed for 30 or more days in the same class.
The long-term certified substitute teacher is paid at the daily rate of $140.00. A non-certified long– term substitute is paid $100.00.
The long-term substitute teacher is not eligible for District dental, life or long term disability insurance benefits.
INTERRUPTION OF A LONG-TERM ASSIGNMENT
The long term substitute is allowed up to five (non-paid) days of absence (continuous or non- continuous) for personal illness without the long-term assignment being considered interrupted.
If a long-term assignment is interrupted for any reason other than personal illness, it is at the discretion of the campus principal whether the substitute will continue in the long-term assignment.
REMOVAL FROM THE SUBSTITUTE ROSTER
There are times when it is beneficial for the District to discontinue the employment of a substitute. A substitute staff member’s name may be removed from the roster if he/she fails to meet the expectations of the position at any time for any reason at the discretion of the Human Resource Department. A substitute’s name will be removed for committing any of the following transgressions:
Failure to follow District policies and procedures.
Failure to follow specific directions of a principal.
Demonstration of conduct inappropriate to a person in a professional position. This includes any behavior in the workplace, or away from the workplace that interferes with the mission of Spring ISD.
Repetitive cancellations of assignment will result in conference with the Substitute Office.
LEAVING THE SUBSTITUTE SERVICE
If you decide you no longer want to substitute teach in Spring ISD, please submit a letter to the substitute office stating you would like to be removed from the Spring ISD substitute system. Upon submitting a letter you must return your ID badge to the Substitute Office, 16717 Ella Blvd., Houston, TX 77090.
COMPUTER RECORDS OF DAYS WORKED
We are using a computer-generated timecard to maintain the records of your days worked.
At each campus you will be asked to review a printout of the AESOP Daily Report that will show your name and information about the job that you filled for the day. It will be your responsibility to check this record to determine if it is correct. If the information is correct, you should put your initials beside your name under the “Filled” portion of the report.
You also have access to view your days worked in the AESOP system by logging in with the username and password that was provided to you upon your hire. We suggest that you also keep a hand-written record of the information about the jobs you work. Write down the confirmation number of the job you worked. By doing this, you will have your own record as reference should Spring ISD or AESOP experience computer problems.
SEE EXAMPLE OF DAILY REPORT→
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
BENEFITS
Substitute staff members are eligible for medical insurance. Please contact the Benefits Office regarding enrollment. Substitute staff members are covered under the District’s Legal Liability Insurance Plan. Spring ISD is also a Workers’ Compensation carrier.
EDUCATORS’ LEGAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
The Educators’ Legal Liability Policy protects substitute teachers against claims made against them for errors, omissions, and/or breach of duty in the performance of their jobs for the District (Board Policy CRB). The policy provides protection except when an administrative investigation determines that:
The claim arises from a staff member’s action which was not in accordance with official directives or established Board Policy; or
The claim arises from an illegal act, official misconduct or gross negligence on the part of the staff member; or
The legal counsel representing the District is/or becomes of the opinion that the claim arises from a condition described above or that there is a conflict of interest between the staff member and the District. In such event, the Board may authorize the employment of separate counsel to represent the staff member.
RETIREMENT SERVICE CREDIT
A substitute teacher may request credit for retirement by substituting 90 or more days per year and filing a TRS form at the end of the year. TRS will annually bill the substitute for the total amount due. Please contact the Benefits Office at 281-891-6052 for help, or Teacher Retirement System at 1-800-223-8778, as the amount to be paid varies with the number of days worked.
ALTERNATE RETIREMENT PLAN
In 1990 the United States congress passed OBRA 1990 (The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990). This Act required that beginning July 1, 1991, all District staff members not participating in a qualified retirement plan, such as TRS, be placed in Social Security or an alternate retirement program meeting Federal requirements. The Alternate Retirement Plan meets the Federal requirements to provide a retirement program for those District staff members not covered by TRS. Your participation in this plan is in lieu of Social Security.
The Alternate Retirement Plan is a retirement and investment plan for part-time, seasonal, temporary staff members, and substitute teachers who are not eligible to participate in the retirement programs provided through the Teachers Retirement System of Texas (TRS).
The Plan is an IRC Section 457 Deferred Compensation Plan administered by First Financial Administrators, Inc. Under the Plan, the substitute staff member will contribute 6.2% of their monthly pay through a before-tax payroll deduction. Social Security deductions will no longer be taken due to membership in this Plan.
An Alternate Retirement Plan account will be established in the substitute’s name where the contributions will be placed and will earn interest less appropriate fees. The funds in the account are 100% vested to the substitute staff member and all may be withdrawn at the time of retirement or termination from the District service. If the staff member should leave before retirement age, the contribution and interest paid on the account may be taken as taxable cash or the funds may be left in the account to continue to accumulate interest on a tax deferred basis.
The funds are intended to be used for retirement and can be withdrawn only after leaving the District. All withdrawal requests are paid only in the first three months of the calendar year following the staff member’s termination. Contact First Financial Group of America Administrative & Retirement Solutions, Inc. at: 1-800-430- 7999 for additional information.
AUTOMATIC PAYROLL DEPOSIT
Substitutes’ paychecks are deposited by electronic fund transfer (EFT) into an account at a bank, credit union, or savings and loan of their choice provided that the institution is a member of the Federal Reserve. This includes the majority of greater Houston banking institutions. With automatic deposit, a staff member’s pay is immediately available for use on the scheduled pay date. Contact the Payroll Supervisor at: 281.891.6095 for more information about the automatic payroll deposit service. Any change, such as changing banks or opening and closing accounts, must be made in writing to the Payroll Office two weeks in advance of the change.
TOBACCO FREE WORKPLACE
Policies DH (Local), GKA (Local), FNC (Local), FNCD (Legal) In an effort to protect the health of the staff and students, smoking or using tobacco products is prohibited on all District-owned property. This includes all buildings, playground areas, parking facilities, and facilities used for athletics and other activities. Drivers of District-owned vehicles are prohibited from smoking while inside the vehicle. Notices stating that smoking is prohibited and punishable by a fine are displayed in prominent places on all property.
Staff members in violation of this prohibition shall be subject to progressive disciplinary consequences. Repeated violations may result in dismissal.
A first time offender shall have the policies and the management guidelines reviewed with him/her by his/her supervisor. Written documentation of the review shall be placed in the staff member’s file.
A second time offender shall receive both a verbal and written warning that he/she shall be suspended from work without pay for five days.
A third time offender shall be suspended from work without pay for five days and shall be advised in writing that should the behavior occur one more time, the staff member shall be terminated from his/her position in the District for failure to comply with Board policy and failure to follow the specific directive of his/her supervisor.
A fourth time offender shall be terminated from his/her position with the District following procedure for termination outlined in Board policy.
In accordance with policies related to dismissal, a staff member may appeal the dismissal.
SAFETY
Policy CKA (Legal), CKB (Legal), CKC (Legal), CKD (Local), CKE (Local), CLC (Legal) The District has developed and promotes a comprehensive program to ensure the safety of its staff, students, and visitors. The safety program includes guidelines and procedures for responding to emergencies and activities to help reduce the frequency of accidents and injuries. To prevent or minimize injuries to the staff, co-workers, and students, and to protect the conserve District equipment, staff members must comply with the following requirements.
Observe all safety rules.
Keep work areas clean and orderly at all times.
Immediately report all accidents to their supervisor.
Operate only equipment or machines for which they have training and authorization.
Staff members with questions or concerns relating to safety programs and issues may contact the Director of Benefits at: 281.891.6053.
DRUG-FREE POLICY
Policies DH (Local), DI (Local) Spring ISD is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment and will not tolerate the use of illegal drugs in the workplace. Staff members who are in possession of, use, or are under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs as defined by the Texas Controlled Substances Act during working hours may be dismissed.
REPORT OF DRUG OFFENSES
A teacher, administrator, or other District staff member is not liable in civil damages for reporting to a school administrator or governmental authority, in the exercise of professional judgment within the scope of the teacher’s, administrator’s, or staff member’s duties, a student whom the teacher suspects of using, passing, or selling, on school property any of the following substances:
Marijuana or a controlled substance, as defined by the Texas Controlled Substances Act
A dangerous drug, as defined by the Texas Dangerous Drug Law
An abusable glue or aerosol paint, as defined by the Texas Controlled Substances Act, or a volatile chemical, if the substance is used or sold for the purpose of inhaling its fumes or vapors.
An alcoholic beverage, as defined by the Alcoholic Beverage Code.
NEPOTISM
Board Policy DK (Local). The District nepotism policy does not apply to substitute staff, except that substitutes will not be placed in the same department (secondary schools) or in the same grade level (elementary schools) where a person to whom they are related is assigned.
COMPUTER USE AND DATA MANAGEMENT
Policy CQ The District’s electronic communications systems, including its network access to the Internet, are to be used for administrative and instructional purposes only. No personal use of the system shall be permitted. Electronic mail transmissions and other use of the electronic communications systems are not confidential and can be monitored at any time to ensure appropriate use.
Staff members and students who are authorized to use the systems are required to abide by the provisions of the District’s communications systems policy and administrative procedures. Failure to do so can result in suspension or termination of privileges and may lead to disciplinary action. Staff with questions about computer use and data management may contact the Director of the Technology Division at: 281.891.6357.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
It is the intention of the Board of Trustees and the administration to provide an educational and work environment free of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is not tolerated in this District. The District has implemented a specific procedure to review and resolve complaints of sexual harassment.
WEATHER CLOSING
Policy CK (Local) The District may close schools for a full day or part of a day because of bad weather or emergency conditions. When such conditions exist, the Superintendent will make the official decision concerning the closing of the District’s facilities. When it becomes necessary to open late or to release students early, the following radio and television stations will be notified by school officials:
TV - KPRC(2), KHOU(11), KTRK(13), KRIV(26), KNWS(51), Channel 45-Spanish
Radio - KTRH(740AM), KLOL(101FM), KBXX(97.9FM), KPRC(950AM), KSEV(700AM), KIKK (95.7FM), KILT(610AM & 100.3FM), KODA (99.1FM), KLDE(94.5FM), Easy Country (92.9FM), KKRW (93.7FM), KLVL(1480 AM-Spanish)
Notices of school delays or closings are also available on the internet at www.cancellation.com or the SISD 24 hour Newsline at: 281.891.6002
GROOMING CODE FOR DISTRICT STAFF
District staff members are expected to exhibit neat, clean, well-groomed, professional appearances as determined by the individual school principal or departmental supervisor.
Clothing shall be clean, neat and appropriate for the assignment. Staff members’ dress shall not be suggestive and shall include all undergarments.
Hair shall be neat, clean and not to be worn in a style which disrupts the work or instructional environment. Male staff members’ hair styles shall conform to the hair code outlined for male students: “A male student’s hair may not extend below the bottom of a sport shirt collar.” Male staff members’ facial hair shall be neatly trimmed and shall not be worn in any way to disrupt the instructional or work environment.
Accessories shall be avoided that could become a safety hazard or disruptive to the instructional or work environment. Male staff members shall refrain from wearing earrings.
Staff members may not wear shorts except for physical education instructors and trainers during the physical education period, coaches during athletic practice, bus drivers as part of warm weather uniform unless specifically approved by the principal/department head for a special occasion. (Management Guideline DH)
Administration may advise a substitute to leave their campus and forfeit their pay for dress they determine is inappropriate as a professional in the building, and disruptive to the school environment.
SCHOOL MASCOT AND COLORS
On designated school and District spirit days, a shirt in the assigned school’s colors may be worn with other attire that still provides a professional appearance.
The following list provides you with each school’s mascot and colors:
Mascot Colors
High Schools
Dekaney High School Wildcats Columbia Blue/Silver/ Black/White
Spring High School Lions Green/White
Westfield High School Mustangs Red/Black
Wunsche High School Imagination Copper/Silver
Middle Schools
Bailey Buccaneers Blue/Orange/Silver
Bammel Patriots Red/White/Blue
Claughton Cougars Burgundy/Blue
Dueitt Eagles Blue/Gold
Roberson Razorbacks Black/Gold
Twin Creeks Warriors Black/Gold
Wells Wolverines Columbia Blue
Elementary Schools
Anderson Gators Green
Bammel Bulldogs Royal Blue
Beneke Bears Teal
Booker Bengals Blue/Black
Burchett Bobcats Red/Blue
Mascot Colors
Elementary Schools (Continued)
Clark Primary Cats Blue/Gold/White
Clark Intermediate Cats Blue/Gold/White
Cooper Cowboys Navy Blue/Red
Eickenroht Impalas Burgundy/Black
Heritage Huskies Blue/Silver
Hirsch Hawks Blue/Gold
Hoyland Pioneers Burgundy/Navy
Jenkins Jaguars Red/White/Black
Lewis Longhorns Teal/Black/White
Link Leopards Gold/Black
Major All Stars Royal Blue/Gray
McNabb Knights Navy/Teal/Terracotta
Meyer Mustangs Blue/Gold
Northgate Crossing Navigators Navy/Yellow
Oak Creek Armadillos Blue/White
Ponderosa Ponies Red/Blue/White
Salyers Cubs Green/White
Smith Scotties Red/Black
Thompson Timber Wolves Navy/Gold
Winship Wildcats Green/Gold