Vicenza Elementary School
“Home of the Cougar Cubs”
Student and Family Handbook School Year 2017-18
Department of Defense Education Activity Europe South District
INTRODUCTION
This handbook has been prepared as a source of information concerning school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. If you have questions that are not covered in this handbook, please feel free to call the school for more information.
Vicenza American Elementary School is one of 181 schools world-wide that make up the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) headquarters in Virginia. DoDEA is among the largest school districts in the United States. We provide a quality education for the eligible minor dependents of Department of Defense military and civilian personnel on overseas assignments, who are in kindergarten through grade twelve.
The DoDEA Director is Mr. Thomas M. Brady
The address is: Department of Defense Education Activity Office of Dependents Education 4800 Mark Center Drive Alexandria, VA 22350-1400 Commercial 001-(571) 372-0590
DoDEA Web Site Address: www.dodea.edu
The Deputy Director, Europe, located in Sembach Germany, is Dr. Dell McMullan The address is: DoDDS Europe Office of the Director Unit 29649 APO, AE 09136 The telephone numbers are: Local: 0611-143-545-1503 From U.S.: 011 (49) 611-143-545-1503 DSN: (314) 545-1503
DoDDS-E Web Site Address: http://www.dodea.edu/Europe/index.cfm
The Europe South District Superintendent, located in Vicenza, is Mr. Kent Worford The address is: Office of the Superintendent Europe South District Unit 31401 Box 11 APO AE 09630
The telephone number is: DSN 637-8504 Commercial: 0444-61-8504 Email Address: italy[email protected]
2 The Vicenza Elementary Administrator is Ms. Allison Peltz, Principal The Address is: Office of the Principal Vicenza Elementary School Unit 31401 Box 11 APO AE 09630 Her telephone number is: DSN 637-8646 Commercial 0444-61-8646 Email address is: [email protected]
The Vicenza Elementary Administrator is Mr. Jonathan Daniels, Assistant Principal The Address is: Office of the Assistant Principal Vicenza Elementary School Unit 31401 Box 11 APO AE 09630 Her telephone number is: DSN 637-8646 Commercial 0444-61-8646 Email address is:
Parents are encouraged to handle concerns directly with teachers first, and then with administrators if the problem is not resolved. However, if a matter cannot be resolved at the local level, parents have the right to access the above Chain of Command in order from bottom to top. We strive to resolve issues at the lowest level possible.
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Welcome To Vicenza Elementary School
4 Table of Contents
Academic Support Programs 42
All Star Student 32
Anti-Bullying Policy 28
Attendance 17
Birthdays 35
Cellular Phone Policy 35
Chain of Command 50
Change of Registration Information 19
Child Find 43
Child Supervision Policy 15
Closing of School and Emergency Evacuations 19
Community Relations, Communication 48
Community Strategic Plan 12 Continuous School Improvement (CSI ) 12
Counseling Services 39
Daily Schedule 15
DoDEA Mission Statement 11
Dress and Grooming 32
Early Dismissal 17 Enrollment 44
Entrance Requirements and Registration 15
Expected Student Behavior 27
Fire Drills 19
Gang Awareness and Prevention 30
Gifted Education Program 41
Going Home 15
Guidelines for Supervising Student Activities 33
Health 38
Homework 36
Host nation, Intercultural Program 40
Information Center 34
Italian Partial Immersion Classes 41
Kindergarten 44
Late Arrival 18
Letter from the Superintendent of the Mediterranean District 8
Letter from Vicenza Elementary School (VES) Administration 10
Lost and Found 48
Lunch and Recess Schedule 17
Messages, Use of Telephones 34
Newsletter 17
No Smoking Policy 39
Other Guidelines 18
Other Health Information 38
Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) 49
Pledge of Allegiance and Salute to the American Flag 20
Portfolio Conference 50
5 Progress Reports and Conferences 35
School Advisory Committee (SAC) 49
School Bus - Table of Consequences 23
School Bus Transportation 22
School Colors 11
School Improvement Goals 11
School Lunch Program 16
School Mascot 11
School Open House 49
School Phone Numbers 14
School Values 11
Special Education 42
Special Programs 39
Student Conduct and Discipline 25
Student Photographs 20
Student Placement 37
Study Trips 33
Sure Start Program 44
Suspension 28
SY 2016-17 Calendar 9
Terra Nova Standardized Testing 20
Textbooks 20
Transfer and School Clearance 19
Vision Statement for Vicenza Elementary School 11
Visitors to School and Classrooms 18
Volunteers 20
Weapons, Replicas, and Prohibited Items 29
Wednesday Folders 49
Appendix 51
USAG_Italy_Policy_Letter_15 52 USAG Italy Policy Letter#24 56
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This handbook is not intended to create a contractual relationship with the student; rather, it is intended to describe the school, its current practices, procedures, rules, and regulations (code of conduct). The administration and faculty have established the rules contained in this handbook and may establish future rules and codes of conduct not included in this edition, that are consistent with those established by DoDEA.
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Dear Parents,
Welcome to Vicenza Elementary School, home of the Cougar Cubs! We are a school community that cares about our children and understands the sacrifices that our military families make. Our faculty and staff have shared values and a commitment to academic excellence. We believe strongly that children learn best when they have the opportunity to engage in authentic learning that will give them the tools to succeed in a constantly changing world.
This year, in addition to continuing with our College and Career Readiness Standards for Math, we will be implementing the DoDEA College Career Readiness Standards for Science in grades Pre-Kindergarten through Five. What this means is that we will focus on giving our students the knowledge, habits and skills in science that will give them the foundation to be competitive as they compete for college and career opportunities.
I’d like to invite our families to play an active role in their children’s education. We have a very active PTSA and School Advisory Committee. In addition, you are always welcome to volunteer in our classrooms.
I am very proud of our school. It has a large student population but, a small school feel. Come join us as we work together to help your children succeed.
Allison L. Peltz Principal, Vicenza Elementary
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DoDEA Mission Statement
Educate, Engage and Empower each student to succeed in a dynamic world.
Vision Statement for Vicenza Elementary School
VES=Values, Excellence, and Success. Building a strong foundation for life-long learning.
School Improvement Goals
• Goal 1: All students will increase reading comprehension. • Goal 2: All students will demonstrate improvement in the area of number sense.
School Values
Vicenza Elementary School values are Respect, Responsibility, and Compassion
School Mascot
Our school mascot is the cougar cub.
School Colors
Our school colors are black and gold.
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11 CONTINUOUS SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT (CSI)
Vicenza Elementary School, along with all other schools in DoDDS, is involved in a process in which our school is continuously examining our educational practices. All DoDDS schools undergo an accreditation process every five years.
In April, 2015, VES was fully accredited by AdvancEd. The school had an exceptional review and we are extremely pleased with the results.
Student achievement and success is the focus for this type of accreditation. Following the establishment of a vision statement at each school, target areas in which improvement is desired are identified in the initial phase of the evaluation process. Continual review and adjustment occurs and as goals are met, new target areas are identified. Over the years to come, constant change should be observed and improvements made in the achievement and success of all students of Vicenza Elementary School. This entire process coincides with the National Goals for Education, as well as the goals which are being established through the DoDEA Community Strategic Plan. The National Association of Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accredits DoDEA Sure Start programs.
COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN (CSP)
DoDEA is proud to present the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) for School Years 2013/14 – 2017/18. The CSP demonstrates DoDEA’s commitment to continuously improve in its efforts to educate and prepare military-connected students to excel in today’s increasingly competitive, global 21st Century environment. The CSP is provided in two volumes.
Volume II establishes DoDEA’s immediate strategic direction, focusing the DoDEA community on our school system’s most essential strategic imperatives: 1) establishing an educational system that progressively builds the college and career readiness of all DoDEA students; and 2) establishing the organizational capacity to operate more effectively and efficiently as a model, unified school system.
• Director’s Message • Strategic Priorities • Performance Measures
Volume I establishes the foundation for the organization’s strategic plan. It provides the strategic plan’s enduring, foundational elements that define the desired levels of organizational reform. The foundational elements include DoDEA’s mission and vision statements, core values, and strategic goals.
• Director’s Message • Vision and Mission Statement
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12 • Core values • Strategic goals
Together, the volumes provide the framework for putting the desired standard-driven reform in place in DoDEA.
For more information go to: http://www.dodea.edu/CSP/
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SCHOOL PHONE NUMBERS
Ms. Allison Peltz Principal 0444-61-8642
Mr. Jonathan Daniels Assistant Principal 0444-61-8659
Ms. Alisa Pehrson Administrative Office 0444-61-8640
Ms. Manuela DeMuri Registrar 0444-61-8645
Ms. Deanna Doughton School Secretary 0444-61-8643
Ms. Sonia Di-Crescenzo Personnel Secretary 0444-61-8644
Ms. Gisella Ferrari Office Automation 0444-61-8646
Ms. Diana Vidrini School Psychologist 0444-61-8650
Ms. Vacant Counselor 0444-61-8655
Ms. Chaun Burrus Counselor 0444-61-8648
Ms. Maria Albin Counselor 0444-61-8652
Ms. Susan Buffington Nurse 0444-61-8656
Ms. Julia Bertrand Information Specialist 0444-61-9246
Ms. Beth Potter School Liaison Officer 0444-71-5998
Ms. MaryBeth Turner Transportation 0444-61-8678
In the case of inclement weather or base emergency, please listen to AFN, contact the Garrison webpage www.usagvicenza, call 0444-71-7867 or go on to usarmygarrisonvienza facebook page for updates.
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14 Entrance Requirements and Registration
To enter Sure Start, a child must be 4 years old by September 1st of the current school year. To enter Kindergarten, a child must be 5 years old by September 1st of the current school year. To enter first grade, a child must be 6 years old by September 1st of the current school year.
Daily Schedule
Students should not arrive at school earlier than 0800 hours when school doors open. Please do NOT bring or drop children off at school before 0800 hours.
0800 – School doors open and supervision begin 0805 - First bell rings 0810 – Classes begin 1440 – Classes dismissed 1455 – Buses depart Thursday Early Release Schedule 0800 – School doors open and supervision begin 0805 - First bell rings 0810 – Classes begin 1310 – Classes dismissed 1325– Buses depart
Going Home
Parents wishing to pick their children up from school can meet their children in the area in front of the school. All students will ride assigned buses. Parents must meet their children at the home bus drop off point. Any exceptions regarding the destination of students after school must be in the form of a note or an email sent early in the day notifying the child’s teacher, i.e. don’t ride the bus today, go to SAC, etc. Without a written note, the Student will be directed to go home in the usual manner. Phone calls will not be accepted after 2:00 p.m. unless there is an emergency.
Child Supervision Policy
All students below age 9 will be released from school only to parents, legal guardians, siblings in 6th grade or above, and/or parent designees. However, children should not be going to a post location without parental supervision or by previous arrangement, i.e. SAC. Since each child is unique, every parent, guardian, or designated adult caregiver must exercise reasonable judgment before leaving a child unsupervised. Important variables to consider are as follows:
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a. Maturity of the child. b. Child’s knowledge of and ability to apply emergency procedures. c. Presence of any physically or emotionally disabling conditions. d. Accessibility to parents or another designated informed adult. e. Number and ages of other children present without direct supervision. f. Age-appropriate responsibilities given to the child.
NOTE: Parents of children with an identified attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral problem, developmental delay, impulsivity, psychiatric problem, or other physically or emotionally disabling condition that could inhibit their children’s ability to make appropriate choices should not give those children the degree of self-management and responsibility described in this policy. (Please see appendix for the specific policy)
School Lunch Program
The Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) School Meal Program provides USDA approved healthy meals in the DoDDS schools worldwide. There have been significant changes to the menus for the USDA line since the adoption of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, initiated in October 2009. The US Congress established a new requirement that all school districts with federally funded school meal programs develop and implement wellness policies that address changes continue into the coming school year, replacing many menu items with “healthier” alternatives and offering more entrée and side dish choices to all students’ grades 1 to 12. Fried foods and sugary drinks are not served in our cafeteria. Students pay for their meals using our Horizon Fast Lane register system. Setting up a meal account with AAFES is strongly encouraged for speed and efficiency. This can be accomplished by establishing an account at the Cashier’s Cage located in the back of the Post Exchange. Once funds are applied to the account the child is then issued a personal pin number to use to pay for their meals. Information about reduced price lunches may be obtained from Ms. Beth Potter at the Schools Liaison Office, Davis Hall, Room 42 at ext. 634- 5998. Please check with AAFES for further guidelines.
MyPaymentsPlus is a great new online service that allows you to track your child’s account, make payments and to receive notifications of balances. Please note that there is a $5.00 charge for applying funds by credit card online to accounts, but consider the advantages of not having to wait in line at the PX. When setting up your online account, please select “exchange” when asked to enter state, and you will need your child’s student account number, available at either the PX after you set up the pin account with them, or at the cafeteria.
Visit MyPaymentsPlus online at www.mypaymentsplus to get started!
Reminder: Money left in an account when school closes in June for summer break is still available when school starts the next year. This also applies to negative
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16 accounts, a negative balance will carry over to the next school year, however, attempts will be made before closure to bring all accounts to zero or positive balance using the sponsor’s chain of command if accounts are not reconciled in a timely manner.
Students may also bring their lunches from home. In keeping with the DoDEA nutrition policy, students may not bring canned soda to school with their lunch.
Prices:
Grades K-5 $2.50 Grades 6-12 $2.75 Reduced Price Lunch $0.40 with signed approval letter Lunch Plus (Extra Entrée) $1.25 Adult Meal $5.00 A la carte: Various according to items purchased
Lunch and Recess Schedule 10:55 – 12:35 (There is a total of 45 minutes of lunch and recess per class)
Early Dismissal
If you wish for your child to be dismissed from school early, please notify the teacher in writing. In the note, please indicate when you will come to take your child, or if someone else is picking up your child. (That person must be listed as an emergency contact in your child’s record). Please report to the office first, and they will make arrangements for your child to come from the classroom. Without a written note, the child will be directed to go home in the usual manner.
Newsletter
School wide Parent Newsletters will be sent home via email weekly. Sponsors and parents are asked to keep their email and related information current. This can be done in the office and/or with the child’s teacher.
Attendance
It is the responsibility of parents to notify the school before 9AM any time your child will be/is absent. The Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS) educational program is organized on the assumption that students will attend school regularly and punctually. Students may not leave the classroom or school grounds without permission. Regular attendance at school is critically important. The purpose of this action is to ensure the safety of the child, establish patterns of good attendance, and to ensure that students and educational programs have an opportunity to be successful. Children who are Table of Contents
17 taught at home and school that punctuality and attendance are behaviors expected of responsible citizens not only do better in school, but also learn a life skill that serves them well in later years in the adult world. Attendance is taken each morning and entered into a computer program by 0900 hours daily. At that time, if a reported absence is unexcused, the office will call the parents that morning to make certain that the student is fine and accounted for. For any absence, a signed, written note from the parent of the student is needed to consider the absence “excused”, without a note from the parent, the child’s absence is recorded as “unexcused” by DODDS regulation. Excused absences are: • Illness or injury to the student. • Family emergency such as severe illness, injury or death. • Medical or dental appointments (please schedule after hours, as much as possible). • Meeting religious obligations. Other Guidelines
With five days of advance notice, teachers will provide appropriate assigned homework for up to two weeks of long-term leave. It is the responsibility of the parents to see that children complete the work. Work is due immediately upon return to school. Please work with the school when you expect an extended absence to ensure your child’s success.
Visitors to School and Classrooms
You are encouraged to visit your child’s classroom and your school. For security reasons, all visitors must sign in at the main office and obtain a visitor’s pass. At the end of the visit, the badge must be returned to the office. Persons who refuse to report to the office or refuse to identify themselves will be reported to the Provost Marshall’s Office. Discussions with the teacher during class time should be avoided except for emergency situations; your child and others lose valuable instructional time while these unplanned conversations take place. Teachers will be happy to schedule conferences during their planning times or at some other mutually convenient time. While we realize that you may have younger children, please do not bring them with you when you come to your child’s class. Note: Please return your “Visitor’s Badge” to avoid a phone call from our office; we are required to keep 100% accountability of these badges. Parents are requested not to take lunch money or lunches, permission forms, or homework directly to the classroom, but to leave such items in the main office for delivery to the classroom.
Late Arrival For security purposes, parents are required to escort their children to the office and sign them in when arriving late. Students arriving after 8:15 AM will receive a late pass to give to their teacher for admission into class. Table of Contents
18 Closing of School and Emergency Evacuations
In the event of early dismissal from school, a public information campaign will be initiated to inform the community, and the school bus system will be activated. This public information would be executed through various mediums, including email, AFN radio and TV, Facebook, the installation Emergency and Mass Notification system, and the installation message board’s displays. Families in the Vicenza Military Community are asked to monitor these systems at all times for information update.
In the event of an actual crisis, parents are advised to monitor AFN broadcasts. The Family Assistance Center will establish a telephone number to answer questions and relay information in the event of a crisis. Please be sure to pick up your children at the designated staging area only. Collecting students from school or enroute to the staging area could cause needless confusion in the school’s accountability process. Parents can get their students’ location by calling the Student Transportation Office at 0444-61- 8678 or the Emergency Operations Center at 0444-71-8288. Situations that may require closing of school are: Facility deficiencies that would endanger the health or safety of students and/or school personnel Inclement weather Health epidemic An Alert Bomb or terrorist threat
Fire Drills
During the first month of school, fire drills are held weekly. Thereafter, they are scheduled monthly throughout the school year.
Transfer and School Clearance
Please notify the school registrar by sending a copy of your PCS orders at least ten working days in advance of your scheduled departure date so that school records may be prepared for you. Parents may pick up student records at the end of the last day of attendance at the Elementary School Office from the registrar.
It is our recommendation that copies of certain records be hand-carried by the parent- sponsor to avoid unnecessary delays in registration and attendance at the receiving school. Additional “official” copies may be mailed directly to the receiving school upon receipt of a request signed by the parent.
Change of Registration Information
Students are required to clear all debts (payment for lost books etc.) before or on the last day of attendance.
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It is extremely important that the school has your correct current contact information (work, home and cell phone numbers; e-mail addresses; emergency contacts; etc.) in our file, including correct military and civilian local addresses. It is also very important to have emergency contact phone numbers on file other than the sponsor or spouse; preferably a neighbor or someone at your duty station, in the event you cannot be reached. If you have changes in current information, please notify the school as soon as possible in order that corrections can be made.
Pledge of Allegiance and Salute to the American Flag
All classes are required to have, as a part of daily opening activities, the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and salute to the American flag. Students have the right to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and to salute the American flag; but may decline to do so as long as they respect the rights of others who wish to participate.
STANDARDIZED TESTING
We will be using the PARC this year and will be assessing students throughout the school year.
Textbooks
Students in some classes will be issued textbooks and will be held accountable for the return of the texts in proper condition.
Student Photographs
Individual school pictures are taken in the fall, and class pictures are taken in the spring. These activities are sponsored by the PTSA.
Volunteers
Volunteers are always welcome at our school. Persons interested in volunteering should come to the school and pick up a volunteer packet. Instructions as to how to register online are included in the packet. Completed packets should be returned to the
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20 school for processing. Upon completion, an email will be sent notifying the applicant of the outcome. If approved, the applicant needs to come by the school to be processed for a volunteer badge.
Some of the areas needing volunteers are: 1. reading to the children – classroom and library 2. helping the children with reading and math 3. making copies for the teachers 4. cutting out designs for teachers 5. working in the office 6. helping with art/music specials 7. attending the playground at lunch and recess
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School Bus Transportation Bus transportation to and from school is a privilege, not a right. School buses, as well as discipline on the buses, are the responsibility of the Administration and Vicenza School Bus Office. We want our school bus transportation system to be as safe as possible. The Department of Defense Dependents Schools transport our students using locally contracted commercial transportation companies with well-maintained buses and properly certified drivers and safety aides. However, the safe operation of our school buses goes well beyond the drivers and vehicles – it relies on the proper conduct of students, and support of parents/sponsors, DoDDS Officials and Community leaders. DoDDS Officials and contracted bus operators take the safety of the children that ride school buses very seriously. We expect parents and sponsors to do the same. We consider the school bus ride, both to and from school, to be no less than an extension of the school day. This means that school rules apply to all students, no matter where they are in the school day, whether walking to the bus stop, or waiting at the bus stop, on the bus to or from school, playing on the playground, or learning in the classroom. No matter where they are during the school day, your child’s safety and security is paramount. Because our bus drivers must focus their attention on the road and not be distracted by what is happening in the back of the bus, the behavior of our students while riding is of the utmost importance. The District Office through the School Bus Offices has adopted rules to govern behavior on the bus. These rules are based on common sense safety and security guidelines with a view toward keeping our children safe, and transporting them from home to school and back again in a secure environment. To that end, DoDDS-Europe has adopted a concrete set of sanctions in order to enforce school bus behavior guidelines. Safety demands strict implementation of these with sure consequences for misbehavior that may potentially distract a driver and endanger the entire bus. These sanctions are incremental in nature and increase consequences for repeat offenders, ultimately providing DoDDS the tools necessary to ensure the safe operation of the bus and the security of all passengers on the route. Please take the opportunity to review these simple rules and corresponding sanctions for infractions with your children. Ultimately, the parent is responsible for their child’s behavior on the bus. We look forward to working together with families to enhance the overall safety and security of our children. All children are expected to follow the 10 simple rules while on the school bus. Violations of these rules and any other conduct detrimental to good order and discipline may draw a suspension or expulsion from the bus.
The 10 School Bus Rules 1. Obey the driver or adult. 2. Enter and exit the bus safely and always show your bus pass. 3. Stay properly seated and use seatbelts when available. 4. Keep your hands, feet and other body parts to yourself. 5. Do not throw things. 6. Put nothing out of the window. 7. Remain quiet and do not disturb the driver or others. 8. No profanity, indecency, smoking, prohibited items or vandalism. 9. Do not eat, drink or chew gum. 10. Be responsible, be safe. Older students are expected to set an example for the younger students. Older students are expected to behave more maturely and thoughtfully than younger students; therefore, they will be held more responsible for the consequences of their conduct. Table of Contents 22
SCHOOL BUS - TABLE OF CONSEQUENCES (Revised 11 March 2003)
Category Examples of First Second Third Fourth Fifth if Infractions Referral Referral Referral Referral Referral
1- Boarding or exiting the bus unsafely to Verbal/Written 1-5 day 6-10 day 15-20 day Suspension of include suspension crossing in front of or behind the bus Warning suspension suspension Riding 2- No bus pass or improper bus pass Privileges A 3- Standing while bus is in motion or not for the being Remainder of Minor properly seated 4- Obstructing an empty seat, door, stairs or SY Misconduct aisle 5- Making excessive noise 6- Disturbing/insulting/harassing other students 7- Public Display of Affection (PDA) 8- Eating, drinking, chewing gum 9- Using profane/obscene language or gestures 10- Littering 1- Failure to comply (or disrespectful, 1-5 day 6-10 day 15-20 day Suspensio B talking-back, lying) with bus driver or other adult’s suspension suspension suspension n of Riding Serious instructions Privileges 2- Exchanging or refusing to show bus for the Infractions pass Remainder 3- Horseplay and spitting 4- Throwing objects at, within, or out of of SY the bus 5- Sticking objects/body parts out the window/door 6- Full or partial nudity 7- Damage/theft/pilfering <$100 1- Tobacco/Alcohol use 6-10 day 15-20 day Suspensio C 2- Sitting in driver’s seat/tampering with controls suspension suspension n of Riding Severe 3- Interfering with driver Privileges 4- Unauthorized operation of emergency for the Offenses exits Remainder 5- Fighting, hitting, biting, pushing 6- Vandalism/damage/theft >$100 of SY 7- Any action that leads to a bus accident 1- Possession/use of weapons or other SCHOOL SUSPENSION/EXPULSION D prohibited items PROCEEDINGS INITIATED Criminal or 2- Possession of illegal substances Serious Incident Report to appropriate authorities 3- Lewd or indecent acts Notification to installation Commander via Schools Liaison Office (SLO) if appropriate Illegal Acts 4- Threatening or causing injury to another person SLO to be informed when suspensions/expulsions from bus occur 5- Bomb Threats
Note: 1- All rule infractions are cumulative in most cases for the SY. A series of minor infractions may result in serious consequences. 2- All misconduct must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Depending upon severity, warnings, suspensions or expulsions may be deemed appropriate regardless of sequence or frequency of misconduct incidents. 3- Possession of weapons or prohibited items, controlled substances, alcohol or other serious incidents will be reported on DoDEA Form 4795 and may result in suspension or expulsion from school in addition to the loss of bus privileges. 4- Discipline of students with disabilities must be consistent with the provisions of Encl. 5 to DoDEA Reg. 2051.1
Please call the numbers below for bus information. For situations concerning bus problems and bus complaints, please call the School Bus Office.
School bus transportation services are located in Building 700 in Villagio Housing Area. (located in the Middle School) The office is open between 0730-1630. (Bus Loading Zone times 0740-0805 and 1430 – 1505, closed for lunch from approximately 1200-1300.)
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Contact numbers: 637-8678 or 8679 Commercial 0444-61-8678 or 8679 Email: [email protected]
Students who do not comply with behavior standards while around or riding DoDDS school buses will be identified and subject to appropriate consequences which may include any or all of the following:
• Reminder of rule (as appropriate) • Conduct referred to Principal (Counseling of student or Letter of Warning to Student/Sponsor) • Suspension of School Bus riding privileges. • Revocation of School Bus riding privileges.
Incidents of student misconduct may be observed/reported by DoDDS Officials, drivers, safety aides, students or parents/sponsors. DoDDS Officials will conduct investigations and a recommendation (if required) will be made to the Principal or Assistant Principal for appropriate action, as listed above.
Complaints or concerns regarding school bus behavior or misconduct should be addressed in writing to the School Bus office as soon as possible after a problem or concern is identified. As a minimum their complaint/concern should include the following specifics:
Name of individual making report Phone number Date/Time of incident Bus route (and or bus stop if applicable) Nature of incident/concern
Complaints or concerns regarding school bus operations (bus is early, late, speeding, etc.) should be reported to the school bus office (SBO) as soon as possible after the problem or concern is identified. These complaints or concerns can be called into the SBO, please provide specifics as to route # and physical location of bus when problem/concern is identified. Working together, we can ensure a safe environment for our student riders.
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Student Conduct and Discipline
Positive attitudes and behaviors on the part of the students play a major role in planning and carrying out worthwhile school activities. Every effort will be made in the learning process to build students' self-esteem and a feeling of adequacy in order to gain maximum emotional, social and intellectual growth and development. Team spirit on the part of the parents provides the support and encouragement the classroom teacher needs to gain good rapport with the students. When parents support the school, the students normally support and cooperate with their classroom teachers. When teachers receive parental backing, students respond much more positively to school policies and procedures.
It is the policy of DoDDS schools that discipline be maintained consistently and appropriately. We encourage students to grow in self-control, develop a sense of regard for fellow students, and to have pride in their school community. Students have the responsibility for conducting themselves in a manner that does not violate the rights of other people. They share with the principal and teachers the responsibility of developing a climate within the school that is conducive to productive learning.
VES has three School Values and our School Rules are imbedded in them.
1. Respect 2. Responsibility 3. Compassion
It is the “Responsibility” of all of us to provide a safe environment that nurtures and encourages learning. If we are being “Responsible” then we will be safe on the playground, in the classroom and through-out the school.
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School Wide Expectations for Student Behavior Cafeteria Restrooms Hallways Recess/Playground Bus BE Be kind to your Be kind to your Be kind to your Be kind to your Be kind to your COMPASSIONATE classmates classmates classmates classmates classmates
Speak nicely Maintain privacy Speak nicely Speak nicely for yourself and others Solve problems peacefully
Help someone if they fall down
BE RESPONSIBLE Manage your Manage your WALK in Manage your body. Stay in your seat and AND SAFE body, WALK, use body, walk straight lines wear your seatbelt. quiet voices on the RIGHT Dress appropriately. Use side of the Keep hands and feet to Clean up your urinals/stalls hallway Use equipment yourself area when you are correctly appropriately. finished eating Face forward Keep belongings in Wash your Once the signal is sound, backpack Use cafeteria tools hands, keep Keep your recess is over, walk to appropriately soap and water hands and feet your line to wait for your Follow the rules on the in the sink to yourself teacher bus, speak quietly Stay in your seat Throw trash in Step on each Get on and off at your trash cans step on stairs assigned stop
Report problems Go directly to to your teacher your destination
BE RESPECTFUL Follow adult Follow adult Follow adult Follow adult directions Follow bus directions directions directions driver’s/monitor’s Take turns and share directions Use quiet voice Be quick and Be silent silent Use kind words Use quiet voice Use good manners Stay in your Maintain privacy own space Include others Use kind word. Wait patiently in for yourself and line others Solve problems Greet and thank the peacefully bus driver/monitor Say “thank you” to the lunch servers Use Rock Paper Scissors and monitors
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Expected Student Behavior
• Show respect for the learning of others by not displaying disruptive behavior. • Protect others and self from danger and injury. • Demonstrate respect for school property. • Obey all school adults promptly. • Use appropriate language. • Wear appropriate attire to school. • Take responsibility for own actions. • Bring no items that could cause physical harm to oneself or others. • Toys and other entertainment items (electronic or otherwise) brought from home are prohibited in classrooms, common areas or the playground. The only exception to this rule is in the case of specific teacher permission. Failure to comply will result in confiscation. Repeated compliance failures will result in the items being held in the school office until retrieved by the parent. • Cell phones provided by parents for students may be brought to school but must be turned off during the school day. • Gum, soda and candy are not allowed in school, including in school lunches, except on specially approved occasions. • Drugs and any gang-related clothing or paraphernalia are forbidden articles. • Expensive articles should not be brought to school. The School cannot be responsible for such items or for money a child has brought to school. Pets or other animals are not permitted in the school unless they are approved for study or used in connection with classroom projects. If you have any doubt about bringing an article to school, consult your child's teacher or the administrators. Prohibited items may be confiscated and held in the school office and /or returned only when parents come to retrieve them from school.
At VES, we believe that a safe environment free from the disruptive behavior of others is the right of each student and is necessary for effective teaching and learning. We also believe that it is important that discipline is not only fair, but also perceived by the children to be fair. To this end, the administration, counselor, teacher and/or aides will interview the child(ren) accused of breaking a school rule and any witness(es); the child may ask for others to be interviewed to provide information. We do our best to ensure that we gather all of the information to get the whole story. All circumstances are considered before giving consequences or calling parents. Consequences range from talking to the administration to calling the parents, to missing recess, being detained in the office, to suspension or expulsion. We will do our best to match consequences with the misbehavior, the age of the child, and all other individual information. Pro-active and positive discipline is practiced by all teachers to help children avoid misconduct.
Students and parents must be responsible for properly maintaining the textbooks and equipment used by students, for respecting property, for obeying school rules, and for accepting reasonable and appropriate consequences if their responsibilities are not fulfilled. Every effort will be made to help a child who fails to make a satisfactory Table of Contents 27
adjustment to school. Parents will be informed, and teacher conferences will be held with them. However, more serious action will be taken if a pupil persistently violates school rules or commits a serious breach of conduct.
We, the administration and staff of Vicenza Elementary School, believe that every student will get the best education possible if: • Students come to school prepared to participate in the learning activities • Students respect the teachers • Teachers respect students • Teachers communicate often with parents • Parents communicate often with the teachers and administrators • Parents see that students get adequate rest and nutrition • The administrators facilitate the educational program and support teachers
Each classroom teacher has a discipline policy that complements the school discipline plan. Your child’s teacher will discuss and review their classroom expectations for student behavior with your child and you via letter and/or in person. When teachers, parents, and administrators work together, we believe that children’s best interests are served.
The Department of Defense Education Activity Regulation 2051.1, which thoroughly outlines disciplinary expectations and consequences for DoDDS students, is available online at www.dodea.edu for your review. Suspension
A student’s behavior may prohibit a student from attending school for a period of time normally not exceeding 10 days. When a student is suspended, s/he is also excluded from attending and/or participating in all school-sponsored activities: trips, assemblies, concerts, programs, after-school activities/clubs, etc. All formal suspensions require a letter to be sent to the parents, the District Superintendent, and the Base Commander. Please be aware that the letter will include specifics as to the reason(s) for suspension. Suspensions from school for a period in excess of 10 days may require a formal hearing and must be approved by the Superintendent or designee.
The principal will ensure that parents are informed of the reasons for suspension, the length of suspension, and the conditions of reinstatement. Fighting, throwing rocks, abusive language, sexual harassment, and name-calling with racial or ethnic overtones may result in immediate suspension. Anti-Bullying Policy
Definition of bullying: Bullying is when an individual or group repeatedly (different from a one-time inappropriate event) uses power with the intent of hurting or humiliating others physically, verbally, or emotionally. Table of Contents
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Definition of bully: Any person engaged in the above activities.
Definition of victim: Any person who is upset or troubled by someone who is deliberately, repeatedly harming him or her physically, verbally, or emotionally.
Definition of witness: Any person seeing or hearing any form of bullying directed at someone else. Witnesses have the responsibility to report to a member of the school staff or their parent as soon as possible.
Policy: Bullying is considered to be a serious matter and is not acceptable in any form at Vicenza Elementary School. Actions regarded as bullying include the persistence of teasing, ridicule, name-calling, sarcasm, physical violence, social ostracism, unkind gossip, verbal threats, intimidation, cyber bullying, threatening or obscene gestures, and/or malicious exclusion. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive, but simply an indication of typical behaviors that constitute bullying.
No individual should be subjected to deliberate mistreatment by another. It is the responsibility of the victim and/or witness of bullying to tell the bully that the behavior is unwanted and should stop. It is also the responsibility of the victim and/or witnesses to immediately notify a member of the school staff and/or their parents.
When reported to a school staff member, he/she will evaluate the situation and take appropriate action, which may result in a range of consequences varying from re-teaching to missing recesses to suspension from school for a number of days. Only administrators have the ability to suspend students. Again, this list is neither completely inclusive nor exclusive of possible consequences for bullying behavior.
The school staff is dedicated to teaching our students positive life skills in order to avoid these types of situations arising in the first place; however, we feel strongly that action should be taken when and if they do happen.
Weapons, Replicas, and Prohibited Items
DoDDS enforces a ZERO TOLERANCE FOR WEAPONS POLICY. Students and parents are hereby notified that possession of weapons could result in expulsion from school.
It should be noted that possession or use of a weapon, use of an object as a weapon, or prohibited items on DOD property, regardless of ownership, is a crime and will be reported to security officials. Weapons and prohibited items are not allowed on school buses or at any school functions or activities. Toy weapons, replicas of weapons, or Table of Contents 29 items that resemble weapons will be considered as weapons. Knowing about a weapon without reporting it to a school official is considered a policy infraction. Disciplinary action could include suspension or expulsion.
Students are not allowed to bring knives, matches, lighters, bullets, firecrackers, caps or other explosive devices, slingshots, cap guns, and/or water pistols to school. Other objects that are likely to be dangerous, cause misconduct, or cause anxiety to other pupils such as itching powder, shaving cream, etc. may not be brought to school. Rocks are considered as a weapon; throwing rocks is dangerous and may result in suspension. Items that look like a weapon or could be used as a weapon may not be brought to school. This list is not all-inclusive; it is impossible to list every such article. However, any item being used to frighten, intimidate, or harm another student, teacher, staff member, or volunteer will be considered a weapon. Drugs and any gang related clothing such as headgear or paraphernalia are forbidden. Any such items brought to school will be confiscated. Students who bring such articles or who participate in their use or misuse, regardless of ownership, face suspension or possible expulsion.
Please note the level of severity of consequences may be elevated according to prior or repeated behavior problems. This would mean that for the same misbehavior, children could receive varying consequences.
Gang Awareness and Prevention
Gang-like activities, such as vandalism and bullying are a community problem, a problem of the unit, the garrison, the parents, and the schools. DoDDS-Europe, as part of that community, will work with installation agencies and units to help ensure coordinated actions are in place.
Within DoDDS-Europe schools, vandalism, bullying or any other gang-like activities are not tolerated. Any form of initiation, assault, or bullying, may result in suspension for those participating. Military communities fully support our discipline actions.
Fortunately, the overseas military environment is not a fertile ground for gang recruitment, as we have strong families, close communities, and high values. Nonetheless, gang- wannabes, and other forms of bullying do occasionally surface. When it does surface, the entire community takes swift action to ensure appropriate measures are taken.
Teachers and school administrators are proficient at recognizing wannabe activities and the wearing of specific colors (identifying garments), drawing of symbols associated with a certain gang, and or club by flashing a unique hand or body gesture or symbol.
Gang-like activities or bullying may have once been considered a rite of passage. However, parents, educators and community leaders now see bullying as a devastating form of peer abuse that can have long-term effect on youthful victims, robbing them of self-esteem, isolating them from their peers, causing them to drop out of school, and even prompting health and mental problems. Table of Contents
30 Gang-like, or wannabe activities and bullying normally includes: joining a fight in progress that is not yours, making threats on behalf of another person or group, and intimidation using a group threat. This list is not all-inclusive. Students engaged in these types of behavior can expect suspension for two to five days depending on the nature and severity of the offense.
Students that engage in or have association with acts of hazing on or off post are also subject to disciplinary actions. Hazing is defined as, “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, or holding office in an organization.”
Graffiti in any form will not be tolerated. A person or persons who, without the consent of the owner, utilizes aerosol paint or other permanent markers to intentionally or knowingly make markings, including inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings will be suspended based upon the nature and severity of the offense.
DoDDS-Europe schools prohibit wearing of specific colors associated with or intended to identify the wearer as a gang member wannabe. This can include certain sports franchise merchandise, or certain kinds of jewelry. School dress codes also prohibit wearing clothing that promote or advocate the use of drugs, violence, or other undesirable behaviors.
DoDDS-Europe promotes open and honest communications with parents should they have concerns regarding dress requirements. The primary consideration in making such decisions is concerns for the wellbeing and security of all students.
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All Star Students Listed below is a profile of an All Star Student we want to encourage at Vicenza Elementary School. 1. Someone who takes responsibility for themselves in the way they look, talk and act. 2. Someone who attends school regularly; brings a note excusing illness or an emergency upon returning to school 3. Someone who gets to class on time with appropriate learning materials, exercises good study skills and work habits, and upon completing an assignment, quietly finds something constructive to do rather than disrupt others. 4. Someone who challenges themselves, is not merely concerned with getting a right answer, but creatively thinks of several solutions to a problem, does their homework regularly, hands assignments in on time, and corrects their own mistakes when appropriate. 5. Someone who has good manners remembers to say “please” and “thank you”, is friendly, courteous, and shows respect to everybody in our school regardless of whom they are. 6. Someone who is honest with themselves and with the property of others. If they make a mistake they admit it, accept the consequences, and continue on with a smile on their face. 7. Someone who follows the basic rules of our school 8. Someone who can pick up his or her own litter and place it in the appropriate receptacle, and occasionally pick up after someone else. 9. Someone who volunteers to do a little extra to make his or her class, school, or community a better place. Our school is fortunate to have many children like this! Let’s try for 100% this year!
Dress and Grooming
DoDDS-Europe schools prohibit wearing of specific colors associated with or intended to identify the wearer as a “gang member wannabe”. This can include certain sports franchise merchandise, or certain kinds of jewelry. School dress codes also prohibit wearing clothing, jewelry, backpack, school supplies or accessories that promote or advocate the use of drugs, violence, or other undesirable behaviors.
Students are expected to adhere to proper and reasonable standards of dress and appearance in keeping with the occasion. Our aim is not to be overly restrictive of students but to provide an atmosphere that is safe, conducive to learning, and free of distraction. Please label articles of clothing and all personal possessions. We recommend reflective tape/devises be used on outer clothing during dark and on foggy weather.
• Dress and grooming will be clean, neat and in keeping with health, sanitary, and safety requirements. • Shoes or sandals must be worn; tennis shoes must be worn on PE days for safety reasons. We encourage students to not wear open backed sandals as they may be a safety issue. Table of Contents 32
• Shorts may be worn if they meet the following standards: They should be approximately mid-thigh length. Cut-offs, swim wear, or nylon shorts are not appropriate. • Midriff tops, sleeveless undershirts, and mesh shirts are not considered appropriate. • Clothing with inappropriate or vulgar language may not be worn to school. • In keeping with the military traditions, hats are permitted outside only. Hats are not to be worn inside the school buildings.
Study Trips
To enhance your child’s total education, study trips are planned throughout the year. Study trips are part of the regular instructional program. Students are expected to attend unless there are extenuating circumstances. Teachers who are planning to take study trips will notify parents well in advance and ask for volunteer chaperones. Notification will include destination, date and time of study trip and other information, such as whether to bring a lunch, admission costs, etc. If you have concerns please talk to your child’s teacher.
Study trips are school; they just take place outside of the actual school walls. If a student has difficulty behaving appropriately in school and/or on study trips, a parent/guardian may be required to accompany the student on the trip or the student may not be permitted to participate in the trip.
Active parent participation in chaperoning study trips is necessary to provide a safe, enjoyable experience for the children in the class. Parents who attend study trips are there to help the teacher supervise the students; therefore, it is inappropriate to bring preschool or other children on these trips.
DoDDS-Europe Guidelines for Supervising Student Activities
This guide has been prepared to outline those duties and expectations for adult supervisors, who are acting in an official capacity preparing and accompanying DoDDS- students on DoDDS sponsored activities. It is designed to insure the safety and well-being of DoDDS students. District Superintendents, Principals, and activity project officers may add to this guideline but may not delete any items.
1. Adult supervisors are expected to comply with those requirements for travel as outlined in DoDEA Regulation 2051.1 concerning disciplinary rules and procedures and the Administrators Guide DoDEA-Manual 2005.1 concerning “School Sponsored Trips And Excursions.” These documents are available on the DoDEA Web Site at www.dodea.edu (Regulations). 2. Supervision must be provided during the entire period of the activity to include travel in accordance with the DoDEA Administrators Guide DoDEA Manual 2005.1. It Table of Contents
33 will be the responsibility of the “sponsors and chaperones to devote full-time supervision to the group members on the trip” from the point of departure to the point of return. It is the responsibility of the adult supervisor to make a reasonable attempt that the students comply with all of the rules, regulations, and expectations relating to the activity. 3. Supervisors will not possess, use, and/or consume alcoholic beverages or any other controlled substance while in a supervisory role. 4. Supervisors will make every reasonable attempt to ensure that students do not purchase and/or consume any prohibited or controlled substances such as alcoholic beverages, drugs, and cigarettes. 5. It will be the responsibility of the adult supervisors to note any violations of the rules and behavior expectations. In cases in which a serious incident, situation, or event occurs, the adult supervisor must immediately notify the principal and parents of the student(s) involved. Should the incident be determined as serious and affecting the safety and well-being of the student(s) a subsequent report, by either the supervisor or an activity Project Officer, must be filed through the principal to the District Office and DoDDS-Europe in accordance with the Administrators Guide, DoDEA Manual 2005.1 6. When a designated chaperone is acting as the adult supervisor numbered items 2-5 would apply.
Information Center
The Information Center is a key component of your child’s educational program. The teachers and specialists in the classroom use materials from the center. Items available in the Information Center are books, computers with CD ROM and Internet capabilities, DVDs, and all of the equipment needed to use them.
Students and parents are responsible for damaged or missing materials. Parents may contact the Information Center by calling 634-7710 and leaving a message for the Information Center Specialist. Parents are encouraged to visit the Information Center at any time.
Messages, Use of Telephones
Due to constant activity in our school office, we earnestly request that parents not call for the purpose of relaying routine message to their children but instead only for true emergencies. Messages received after 2:00 p.m. are always difficult and sometimes impossible to deliver. Likewise, children may be permitted to use the telephone only for emergency purposes. Lost lunch money, or forgotten homework are not considered to be emergencies. Table of Contents
34 Cellular Phone Policy
Students may, when given permission from the teacher, make telephone calls from the classroom. These calls should be for emergency situations only. Although landline phones are readily available at our school, we realize that many parents want their children to carry a cell phone for security purposes. Student cell phones are to remain turned off at all times when students are on school grounds, on the bus, or involved in school activities. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the cell phone is turned off and kept out of sight. The only exception to this policy would be a call made at the explicit request of school personnel or a responsible adult acting on behalf of school authorities, i.e. substitute teachers, bus drivers, bus monitors, field trip chaperones, etc. The right to bring a cell phone to school implies responsible use; misuse or mishandling could result in the loss of this privilege and/or confiscation of the phone. Neither the school, nor school personnel, nor DoDDS/DoDEA will take responsibility in any circumstances whatsoever for the loss, destruction, theft, or unauthorized use of any personal cell phone.
Birthdays
Sometimes we are asked about celebrating children’s birthdays in school. This is certainly not encouraged, nor required. However, if parents want to bring in treats for the class, please check with your child’s teacher first. Teachers cannot manage whole cakes, party favors, games, etc. Birthday treats will be eaten in the classroom, not in the cafeteria at lunchtime.
Progress Reports and Conferences
Report cards are issued every nine weeks. Parent conferences are scheduled at the end of the first reporting period and are an important means of communication. Parents are encouraged to make every effort to attend. In addition, teachers are available for a conference on most days after school. If you wish to have an appointment, please write a note to the teacher in order that a time convenient to you and the teacher may be determined. Please do not contact the principal concerning a teacher or your child’s problem until you have first talked to the teacher. Since the teacher has firsthand knowledge of the situation, no action can be appropriately taken until the teacher is involved. Mid-term progress reports will be sent for any student not achieving a satisfactory level during a nine-week marking period either by e-mail or via the students.
The first report card will be given to parents at Parent-Teacher conferences scheduled at the end of the first quarter. Report cards for the second, third and fourth quarters will be mailed home. Teachers at VES are happy to meet with parents if a conference is requested. For Gr.4 & 5 students only, teachers implement an electronic grade book program. One feature of the program is the Parent Connection, which allows parents to access and view their child’s grades and assignments throughout the school year. If a parent is interested in participating in this program you will need to log on to the following website- https://dodea.gradespeed.net. More information will come out at the beginning of the school year. We encourage all parents to participate in this program to ensure knowledge of their child’s progress. Table of Contents 35
Homework
Definition: Homework is defined as assignments to be done outside the classroom to reinforce classroom instruction, increase understanding and retention, transfer and extend classroom instruction, prepare for class discussion and provide curriculum enrichment opportunities.
Purpose: We endorse the use of homework as an instructional tool because research studies indicate that homework, accompanied by meaningful feedback, enhances student learning. We also recognize that our children are more than students and need time for family interaction, play and work, as well as for study; therefore, homework should not infringe excessively on the student’s out-of-class time. The school supports that the development of study skills is an integral part of a student's education and the assignment of academically appropriate homework is an extension of classroom instruction and supports the teacher's instructional objectives.
Policy: Teachers are responsible for the specific homework policies of their classes. Students are responsible for the completion and return of assigned work. Parents are responsible for the supervision of students' homework and studies.
1. It is the policy of our school to assign homework, as appropriate, to all students capable of completing assignments. 2. Homework assignments each week will be consistent with DoDEA’ s suggested guidelines of ten minutes per day per grade level, so for example, a second grade student should not be assigned more than about 20 minutes of homework per day. 3. Homework assignments are reinforcements for classroom curricular areas and are assigned to support student learning as appropriate for the ability of the student. 4. Assigned homework will reinforce instruction accomplished in class; it will not introduce new or unfamiliar concepts or skills. 5. Homework will be done outside class time, not during the instructional period. 6. As appropriate to the nature of the assignment, teachers shall evaluate and return homework assignments to students and shall periodically inform students and their parents of the student's academic progress and mastery of learning objectives. 7. This policy does not apply to those students receiving homebound instruction and to those students whose instructional program is governed by Individualized Educational Plans (IEP's) when those plans exclude the prospect of homework. 8. Parents will be encouraged to see their child's teacher when homework is too stressful or is taking too long. Assignments may be modified according to child and family needs.
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36 Teacher Responsibilities Teachers will: 1. Identify the manner in which homework affects the determination of a student's evaluation. 2. Provide clear, concise directions for the completion of homework assignments. 3. Check homework for completeness and mastery of concepts as appropriate to the nature of the assignment. 4. Evaluate, review, and return homework in a timely manner. 5. Periodically discuss with students and their parents the student's academic progress, including performance on homework assignments.
Parent Responsibilities It should be recognized that homework might not always be paper and pencil tasks. Some of the homework in the primary grades will be students reading to parents and parents reading to students, taking part in host nation activities, or creative art activities. Ways parents can help include: 1. Provide a good environment for the student and a consistent time each day for homework to be done 2. Reinforce desirable study habits by giving praise 3. Give encouragement and help when needed 4. Take an interest in the student's school activities 5. Guide the student toward independent and effective use of time 6. Monitor the completion of assigned homework
Student Responsibilities It should be recognized that homework is the responsibility of the students. They are expected to complete all assignments in a timely and accurate manner.
Student Placement
It is the policy of DoDDS that each student will be provided an appropriate program of study designed to foster academic and personal success. Placement of students will be considered on an individual basis and decisions will reflect the best interests of the students. At each school, the principal will establish a committee to recommend placement of students being considered for other than routine grade or class placement. The committee is composed of the counselor, the classroom teacher, specialist or other teacher, the assistant principal, the sponsor/parent, and others, as appropriate. This committee will make a written recommendation to the principal on placements that require retention, double promotion, and any “other than routine grade or class placement” that is designed to promote student success. In addition to designing a plan to promote student success, the committee recommendations to the principal must assure that each student retains a positive self- image. The progress of each student who has been placed as a result of this committee’s recommendation shall be reviewed not less than once during a grading period for three successive grading periods. Table of Contents 37 For classroom change requests, the following procedures are followed: • Conference – a parent-teacher conference is held for problem-solving purposes. Alternatives to reassignment are explored. • Parent Written Request – a written request is submitted to administration stating specific concerns/reasons for reassignment. • Intervention/Probationary Period – the administrator and other appropriate personnel, such as the counselor and resource or other teacher, consults with the classroom teacher and parent to develop a plan. The child will remain in the current educational setting for a minimum two-week probationary period to be closely monitored by teacher and/or resource personnel. • If the probationary period is unsuccessful, a request for a classroom change will go to the Placement Committee
Health
The Vicenza school health program has three main areas of focus – education, screening programs, and promotion of a safe and healthy environment. The health room is for emergency situations and minor situations that occur during school hours. The Health Room is supervised by the school nurse Children are most often sent home for the following reasons: 1. Temperature over 100 degree F 2. Uncontrollable body functions 3. Appearance of great discomfort, despite the temperature 4. Communicable diseases School policy states that, in the event a student becomes ill and the school nurse notifies the parent, the parent must come to the school for the student. The student is not permitted to walk home.
Other health information:
Please take your child to the base health facility if illness is severe or occurs before or after school hours. It is requested that each student’s state of health be established before coming to school. If your child is not feeling well enough to stay in class, s/he should stay at home. Children need to be free of vomiting/diarrhea and without fever (over 100 degrees) for 24 hours before returning to school. If a doctor prescribes an antibiotic for your child, your child needs to take the antibiotic for 24 hours before returning to school. If a doctor has diagnosed that your child is unable to participate in any school activity, please submit a written diagnosis and excuse from the doctor stating the problem and the time period involved. Please call the school nurse if your child has a communicable disease. Parents are asked to schedule appointments after school when possible.
Table of Contents 38 The school nurse does not administer medications, to include aspirin and cough drops, except specific individually prescribed medications for conditions such as: Severe asthma Allergies to bee stings Severe heart conditions Hyperactivity When short-term illnesses require the use of medication during the school day, the parent must provide the medication to the school nurse in its original container with a written order from the child’s doctor. Children cannot carry medication of any kind to school for any reason. When the student who is receiving medication at school is going on a study trip it is the responsibility of the parent to administer the medication. The school staff does not assume the responsibility for measuring or administering medicines.
Re-Admission Following Illness Children should return to school only when they are well enough to participate in usual daily activities. Only a well-child learns well. A well child is one that is physically, mentally, emotionally and socially fit. Our goal is to foster each child’s fullest potential; with your help it will be achieved.
No Smoking Policy
Students are prohibited from possessing or using tobacco products during the school day on or off school property, on school-owned and operated buses or on chartered buses, or when participating in school-sponsored or school-supervised activities on or off campus. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action/consequence to be determined by the principal which may include referral to counseling or appropriate authority for any student found to be smoking or in possession of tobacco products during the school day whether on or off campus. There will be no designated smoking areas defined or condoned by DoDDS-E schools.
Special Programs
Counseling Services VES School Counselors provide a comprehensive competency-based counseling Table of Contents 39 program to all students. The school counseling program helps build the foundation for life- long learning by assisting students in developing self-respect, awareness of others and positive learning attitudes in the areas of academic, career and personal/social development. School counselors provide direct and indirect services and activities to students, families, and school staff for developing strategies that deal with education, personal, and social challenges that may interfere with the educational process. The counseling program at VES promotes learning by assisting all students in mastering the attitudes, knowledge and interpersonal skills necessary to be successful in today’s multicultural society.
Characteristics of the School Counseling Program • Addresses 21st Century Teaching, Learning and Leading Skills o Critical Thinking and Problem Solving o Initiative & Entrepreneurship o Effective Oral & Written Communication o Collaboration Across Networks and Leading By Influence o Agility & Adaptability o Accessing & Analyzing Information o Curiosity & Imagination • Supports DoDEA’s College & Career Readiness Vision (CCR) • Student focused • Reaches EVERY student • Comprehensive in scope • Attends to students in three domains: Academic, Career, and Personal/Social • Preventive in design • An integral part of the total school curriculum • Provides system support • Driven by data • Monitors student progress • Seeks continual improvement
Host Nation, Intercultural Program
A unique feature of the DoDDS curriculum is the host nation-intercultural program. The program, taught by native Italian teachers, acquaints the students with the Italian language, people and culture through study trips, student exchanges, and other special activities. Italian Language Partial Immersion classes are available in grades one through five, based on standardized selection criteria. Table of Contents
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Italian Partial Immersion Classes
Vicenza Elementary offers Italian language partial immersion for one class of students in each grade from first through fifth. If you are interested in having your child in the Italian Partial Language Immersion Program, please review the following goals and criteria, fill out the application form and return it to the school registrar.
The goals for this program are: * Students will achieve some functional proficiency in Italian. * Students will maintain and continue to develop skills in their first language, English. * Students will master subject content at their appropriate grade level. * Students will acquire an understanding and appreciation of another language and culture, which will in no way detract from the appreciation of their own culture.
These criteria will be used in selecting students for the partial language immersion class: 1. Current immersion students will have first priority. 2. The child's sponsor must NOT have a DEROS before the end of the current school year. The immersion class size will be slightly larger than the other classes, but it will be stable, since usually no students will be added during the year. 3. Students with special needs can be enrolled in the immersion class, if approved by the Case Study Committee. Children who have been diagnosed with auditory processing difficulties or language delays will be given additional screening before being considered. 4. The racial and gender composition of the immersion class will be as close as possible to that of the other classes. 5. When the above criteria have all been considered, and if there are more applications than available spaces, a lottery system will be used to select students.
Gifted Education Program
The goal of the DoDEA Gifted Education program is to identify students with high potential and exceptional performance and to offer challenges that match their strengths. Students found eligible for gifted education services have demonstrated areas of unusual strength or potential. Services are provided because the identified students have a documented need for changes in their instructional program. Differentiation of instruction provides academic challenges and social and emotional support, to assure the continued growth and development of identified students. DoDEA schools determine the most effective ways to meet the needs of students identified for gifted education services. Students are also encouraged to attend a variety of after-school enrichment activities.
Referral for Gifted Education (GE)
A student is referred through one of three ways: 1. Parent or teacher recommendation or 2. Student transfers in from GE program in another DoDEA school or 3. Student is identified through records reviewed by GE teacher -- note that all students with total TN scores at or above the 97th percentile should be recommended for referral Table of Contents
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Permission for referral and assessment form is sent home to parents before any further data is gathered, including observation in the general classroom, pulling students into GE room for observation, or testing. Once parent permission is obtained, GE teacher begins compiling the student portfolio. This includes student work, one cognitive ability test if appropriate given by GE teacher, observation notes from both the GE resource room and regular ed classroom, two or more teacher rating scales, comments from staff members obtained via e-mail, information gleaned from records check. GE teacher purges any reference to student name, grade level, ethnicity, etc. from student portfolio prior to presentation to committee.
GE SELECTION COMMITTEE • Committee is given copies of GE regulations on selection criteria and copies of the descriptor banks to use during discussions. • A student blue card is filled out during the committee session. • The committee is presented the student portfolio info. • Discussion ensues. Decision is made regarding eligibility as well as services that are specific to student strengths. Committee members should have the menu of service options to refer to as they select a program that best meets individual student needs. It is recommended that the classroom teacher be part of this discussion. The Special Education staff or ESL teacher should be included in cases where a student with dual exceptionalities or who is a speaker of another language is being referred. Parental letter is given to Principal for signature. If the student is selected for the program, the letter includes a list of services to be provided by the school--two or more service options are to be selected from the menu provided in the program guide. For example, a student with exceptional ability in mathematics will need to have compacted curriculum/enrichment as part of the program, either in the general classroom on a daily basis or in the next higher grade or in the resource room with an advanced math group. This curriculum-specific service would be in addition to whatever multi-disciplinary units are offered in the resource room.
Academic Support Programs
Academic support programs, such as Read 180, Math Lab, and Leveled Literacy Intervention are available for students needing extensive help in mathematics or language arts/reading. Enrollment is generally for a short period of time. ESL is for students working on acquisition of English. Students are provided academic support in their classrooms and in small groups.
Special Education
Special education is specially designed instruction, support, and services provided to students with an identified disability requiring an individually designed instructional program to meet their unique learning needs. The purpose of special education is to enable students to successfully develop to their fullest potential by providing a free appropriate public Table of Contents
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education in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as implemented by DoD Instruction 1342.12, "Provision of Early Intervention and Special Education Services to Eligible DoD Dependents." In DoDEA, special education and related services are available to eligible students, ages 3 through 21 years of age. To be eligible for special education: • The child must have an identified disability;
• The disability must adversely (negatively) affect the child's educational performance; and
• The child must require a specially designed instructional program.
Decisions regarding the type of special education services to be provided and the educational placement for the provision of such services is based upon a student's individual need. Students with disabilities are educated in the least restrictive environment that is most appropriate for them. A variety of special education services are available beginning with full participation in the general education classroom to the extent possible--often with the provision of supplementary aids and support--as determined by the school's Case Study Committee (CSC) which includes parents. Services are provided in the least restrictive environment for each student and may include: • Consultation provided by special educators to the general education teacher;
• Collaborative instruction in the general education classroom through co-teaching by the general and special education teachers; and
• Instruction in the special education classroom for part or all of the school day.
DoDEA recognizes clearly defined categories of disabilities with specific criteria for determining eligibility. The primary categories and specific disabilities recognized by DoDEA are: • Physical Impairment – includes autism spectrum disorder, blind, deaf, hearing impairment, other health impairment, orthopedic impairment, traumatic brain injury and visual impairment • Communication Impairment – includes articulation, fluency, language/phonology and/or voice • Emotional Impairment • Learning Impairment – includes intellectual disability and specific learning disability • Developmental Delay
CHILD FIND PROGRAM
A child with disabilities from birth to 21 years of age is eligible for an appropriate educational program. Parents of children with disabilities, not enrolled, should arrange to meet with the CSC Chairperson. All children with disabilities who are not enrolled have a full range of services available to them. Community members knowing of non-enrolled children with disabilities, who are dependents of U.S. Military or DoD Civilian Sponsors, are encouraged to make the sponsor aware of the educational services available at all Vicenza Schools. Call the school office for information at any time during the school year.
Table of Contents 43 Sure Start Program
The Sure Start program is a high quality full day preschool program. Sure Start is modeled after the Head Start Program, a successful approach to preparing at risk children for entering kindergarten. There are specific criteria for acceptance into the program, and the Sure Start Steering Committee, consisting of DoDDS and military community members, makes selections. This early childhood program is for students who will be 4 years old by September 1 the year they start. The Creative Curriculum for Early Childhood is followed as the designated curriculum. Parent involvement is mandatory and includes home visits, parent education meetings and participation in the child’s classroom. Applications are available at the school office. If you have questions, please call the school at 0444-61-8646 or 637- 8646.
Kindergarten
Philosophy Since each child is a unique individual with a special pattern of attitudes, needs, interests, perceptions and values, education for each child should include a variety of learning experiences and educational approaches. As educators, we recognize and appreciate our own individual differences and methods in teaching youngsters, and we feel richer for it.
Enrollment Any child who is five years old by September 1 of the year of enrollment, and command sponsored is allowed to attend a DoDDS Kindergarten. Verification of age will be made by birth certificate or passport. An up to date immunization record must be presented at registration. Kindergarten attendance is not mandatory for future enrollment in first grade.
Enrollment It is DoDEA Regulation 1342.13 that:
4.1. While overseas, DoD dependent students may be enrolled in a DoD dependents school or be provided support for enrollment in non-DoD schools or may take correspondence courses when no DoD dependents school is available, at U.S. Government expense, under the conditions prescribed in this section. The provision for medically related services and special education of dependents with disabilities who enroll pursuant to this Regulation can be found in references d) and (e).
4.2. Enrollment of other minor dependents in DoD dependents schools be allowed, provided that space is available and that tuition is paid. Students may be enrolled in DoD dependents schools in the following priority order:
4.3. Enrollments are based on the following categories: 4.3.1. Category I: Space-Required/Space-Guaranteed.
4.3.1.1. Space-Required, Tuition-Free. 4.3.1.1.1. Command-sponsored DoD dependent students shall, upon the request of their DoD sponsor, be enrolled in DoD dependents schools on a space- required, tuition-free basis. Table of Contents 44
4.3.1.1.2. If, as determined by the Director, DoDEA, or designee, no DoD dependents school is available within the commuting area, command-sponsored DoD dependent students are eligible for education in non-DoD dependents schools at U.S. Government expense, usually in that same foreign country, or in private boarding schools, or through correspondence courses at U.S. Government expense only in accordance with guidance issued by the Director, DoDEA. Sponsors who live within the commuting area of a DoD dependent school and choose to send their dependents to host nation schools, international schools or private boarding schools are personally responsible for their dependents' tuition and educational programs, including the provision of special education.
4.3.1.1.3. If adequate housing is available within the commuting area of a DoD dependents school and an appropriate educational program is available at that school, tuition will not be authorized for the attendance of DoD dependent students in a non- DoD school in that same locality.
4.3.1.1.4. DoD dependent students who are the dependents of a DoD sponsor who is detained by a foreign power or is declared missing in action or otherwise unlawfully detained may remain in a DoD dependents school, or in a non-DoD school, at U.S. Government expense for as long as the detention or missing status exists, subject to the approval of the Director, DoDEA, or designee.
4.3.1.1.5. DoD dependent students who are authorized attendance in a DoD dependents school or in a non-DoD dependents school may complete the current school year if the DoD sponsor is transferred, dies, or retires during the school year, but subsequently shall lose their eligibility to attend, except on a space-available, tuition- free basis in a DoD dependents school as prescribed in subparagraph 4.3.3.2.. below.
4.3.1.1.6. If DoD dependent students are authorized to accompany their DoD sponsor to the country of the sponsor's assignment, such dependent students ordinarily will not be entitled to space-required, tuition-free education in a DoD dependents school in a different overseas country or to education in a non-DoD school at U.S. Government expense in that different country. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Director, DoDEA. or designee.
4.3.1.1.7. Minor dependents who are space-required, tuition-free students who have been granted an exception to the feeder plan or commuting area shall be enrolled as space required, tuition-free at the gaining school. Transportation will not be provided at government expense.
4.3.1.1.8. Minor dependents of full-time civilian DoD sponsors (locally hired, appropriated fund or non-appropriated fund employees) who are citizens or nationals of the United States, but who are not entitled to transportation to or from an overseas area nor entitled to a living quarters allowance as authorized by references (f) and (g) shall be enrolled on a space required, tuition-free basis. Such dependent students will not be entitled to education in a non-DoD school at U.S. Government expense. Table of Contents
45 4.3.1.2. Space-Required, Tuition-Paying. Minor dependents of DoD sponsors who are eligible for space-required, tuition-free enrollment, but are assigned to a Military Assistance or Foreign Military Sales Program shall be enrolled on space-required, tuition-paying basis. Tuition shall be paid by the program, not by the student's sponsor.
4.3.1.3. Space-Created. Tuition-Paying. Minor dependents of U.S. citizens who are full-time defense contractor personnel whose organization has executed contracts or other agreements with the DoD when the applicable contract or agreement authorizes dependent education on a tuition fee basis in the DoD dependents schools shall be enrolled on a space guaranteed, tuition-paying basis.
4.3.2. Category II: Space-Available, Tuition-Paving (Federally Connected). Under 20 U.S.C. 921-932 (reference (c)). if the Director. DoDEA. or designee. determines that space is available, consistent with the local military commander's policy concerning access to the installation and agreements with the host nation, other minor dependents in the categories specified in this subsection may be enrolled in a DoD dependents school upon payment of tuition. The amount of tuition shall be determined by the Director, DoDEA, or designee, and may not be less than the rate necessary to cover the average cost of enrollment of children in the DoD dependents schools. Minor dependents in this category may be enrolled in the following priority order:
4.3.2.1. Minor dependents of other full-time U.S. Government Agency employees stationed overseas.
4.3.2.2. Minor dependents of United States citizens who are full-time employees of organizations overseas which serve defense-related interests not covered in Category HI and/or which have executed contracts or other agreements with the U.S. Government. Examples of individuals whose minor dependents are covered by this paragraph include:
4.3.2.2.1. Employees of permanent party American Red Cross,
4.3.2.2.2. Boy and Girl Scouts,
4.3.2.2.3. Post Exchange concessionaire contractors,
4.3.2.2.4. Employees of the United Service Organizations, Inc., and 4.3.2.2.5. University education personnel.
4.3.2.3. Minor dependents of host-nation or third-country national military or civilian personnel accompanying or serving with the Military Services overseas, when recommended by the major overseas commander and when approved by the Director, DoDEA, or designee.
4.3.2.4. Minor dependents of other sponsors who are serving the national defense interest, as determined by the Director, DoDEA, or designee.
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46 4.3.3. Category III: Space-Available, Tuition-Free. Under 20 U.S.C. 921-932 (reference(c)), if the Director, DoDEA, or designee, determines that space is available, consistent with the local military commander's policy concerning access to the installation and agreements with the host nation, other minor dependents in the categories specified in this subsection may be enrolled in a DoD dependents school, in the priority order given below, on a space-available, tuition-free basis:
4.3.3.1. Minor dependents of military DoD sponsors who are stationed in overseas areas to which their dependents are not authorized transportation at U.S. Government expense or minor dependents of civilian DoD sponsors who are not entitled to a living quarters allowance as authorized by references (f) and (g), when the sponsors elect to transport these dependents at their own expense to overseas areas in which the sponsors are stationed (non-command sponsored dependents). If at any time during a DoD sponsor's overseas assignment that sponsor's minor non-command sponsored dependents become command- sponsored or the sponsor acquires minor, command-sponsored dependents, those dependents shall be authorized space-required, tuition-free status.
4.3.3.2. DoD dependent students who are dependents of DoD sponsors who die while entitled to compensation or active duty pay at the time of the sponsor's death and are on Temporary Change of Station Orders or deployed overseas for a period of more than 60 calendar days, provided that the deceased military Service member's spouse: (1) is a citizen of a foreign country; (2) desires to return to his/her country of citizenship; and (3) seeks to enroll the deceased military Service member's dependents in a DoD Dependents school in the spouses' country of citizenship. The DoD dependent student must be enrolled in a DoD dependents school either within 1 year of the DoD sponsor's death or, if the dependent is below school age when the sponsor dies, within 1 year of the dependent's becoming eligible to enroll. This enrollment limitation may be waived by the Director. DoDEA or designee.
4.3.3.3. Non-command-sponsored DoD dependents who are enrolled in a DoD dependents school may remain in a DoD dependents school if their sponsor is declared missing in action or otherwise unlawfully detained for as long as the detention or mission status exists, subject to the approval of the Director. DoDEA or designee.
4.3.3,4. Minor dependents of Reserve component members of the Armed Forces who are ordered to active duty under either section 12301 or 12302 of 10 L.'.S.C., for a period of 180 days or more to an overseas location, on an unaccompanied tour, on either a temporary duty or permanent duly change of station basis when: (1) there is a DoD dependents school in the assigned overseas location, and the minor dependent is transported to the assigned overseas location at the sponsor's expense: or (2) there is no DoD dependents .school in the assigned overseas location, but the minor dependent was enrolled, and will remain enrolled, in a DoD dependents
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school, when the sponsor was ordered to active duty. All minor dependents shall he allowed to finish the school year if the activated Reserve component member returns to an inactive status.
4.3 3.5 Minor dependents of military and diplomatic personnel participating in the Partnership for Peace Program in Brussels and Mons. Belgium: \Naples. Italy: London. United Kingdom: Brunssum. the Netherlands: and Oberammergau. Germany: and dependents of active diplomatic, defense attaché, and military liaison personnel from the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union assigned at Ankara, Turkey
4.3.4. Category IV: Space-Available. Tuition-Paying (Non-federally Connected). Under 20 U.S.C. 921-932 (reference (c)), if the Director, DoDEA, or designee, determines that space is available, consistent with the local military commander's policy concerning access to the installation and agreements with the host nation; upon payment of tuition, other minor dependents in the following categories may be enrolled in a DoD dependents school:
4.3.4.1. Dependents of U.S. citizens residing in overseas areas, including dependents of retired personnel, or of deceased personnel not covered in subparagraph 4.3.3.2. above.
4.3.4.2. Dependents of foreign nationals, when there is no objection from the host nation and when such inclusion does not displace or prevent inclusion of U.S. citizen-sponsored minor dependents seeking admission on the same basis at the same time.
Lost and Found
Items lost at school are turned in to the school office. Lost items may be claimed by checking with the school office or by checking the bin under the front stairway on the ground floor. We urge parents to mark all items brought to school, including lunch bags or boxes, hats, coats, scarves, gloves, overshoes, etc. Valuable items, such as glasses, jewelry, and money will be kept in the front office.
Community Relations, Communication
Vicenza Elementary School involves the students, parents, school staff and the community, as a whole. We hope that all avenues of communication will be explored and utilized throughout the year in order to maintain and enhance school-community relations. When concerns arise about classroom educational practices or procedures, please: • Communicate the concern to your child’s teacher and attempt to find a mutually acceptable solution. • If such a resolution cannot be reached, then inform the school counselor for
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48 assistance. If the problem is still unresolved, then inform the principal or assistant principal of your concerns. • If appropriate, the principal or assistant principal will arrange and be present at a meeting with the parent and teacher. • In the rare case that a mutually acceptable resolution is not reached, the parent may then forward the concern to the Mediterranean District Superintendent.
School Advisory Committee (SAC)
The SAC is composed of voting members, parents and teachers elected by the school community. The School’s Administrative Officer and the Principal also serve on the committee. Elected members serve a two-year term. The purpose of the committee is to discuss school matters of interest and concern within the community and make recommendations for policy changes as necessary. SAC meetings are held quarterly September to June at 3:00 p.m. in the Elementary School VTC Room. Forms are available in the school office for your convenience in addressing items of interest to the SAC committee.
Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA)
The Vicenza Elementary/Middle/High School PTSA serves as a catalyst for making special things happen for our students. We strive to fund programs and opportunities not available through other channels. Regularly scheduled executive board meetings provide opportunities for parents to become involved, active, and helpful to our children. Announcements for PTSA meetings are sent home at the beginning of each month in a regular school /parent email/newsletter. The school office can direct you to a PTSA officer regarding your questions and concerns. The PTSA can be reached via email at: [email protected]
Wednesday Folders
Your child will bring home a two-pocket “Wednesday Folder” containing information about upcoming class and school-wide events. Please keep the information and have your child return the folder to his or her classroom teacher the following day.
School Open House
A School Open House is scheduled around the start of school in September. Rather than a parent-teacher conference, this is a time for parents to see where their child spends his or her school day. Teachers will explain their instructional programs, expectations, classroom management, and grading system to the parents. Parent-Teacher Conferences are held for all students at the end of the first quarter.
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49 Portfolio Conference
Portfolio conferences take place usually after spring break. This is a time to view the work your child has done during the year. This is also the time for early registration for the next school year.
CHAIN-OF-COMMAND FOR ADDRESSING SCHOOL RELATED ISSUES
If you have a concern, please communicate it to us. The chain-of-command would be to begin with the lowest level.
Teacher – Leave a message by phoning 0444-61-8646 for the teacher to phone you.
Nurse – If health related, call 0444-61-8656
Counselor – If concern is not solved with the Teacher call the appropriate grade level Counselor. 0444-61-8646
Assistant Principal – If concern is not solved with the Teacher, Nurse and/or Counselor, ask for the Assistant Principal.
Principal – If the Teacher, Counselor, Nurse or Assistant Principal and you have been unable to solve the problem, call the school office for an appointment to meet with the principal.
Speaking directly with your child, the Teacher, the Nurse, Counselors or Administrators is the best way to solve individual and particular concerns.
Pedestrian, Bicycle , Roller Shoes and Skateboards Safety
Children are to use sidewalks when walking to school. All students, including Family members, who ride bicycles to school must wear helmets. Once on school grounds, all bicycles must be walked. The use of roller shoes such as roller shoes marketed by Heelys, inc. and hover boards or similar devices in any public or official building, including the school is prohibited. Skateboards are not allowed on school grounds. For more information see the USAG Policy Letter #24 in the Appendix.
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Appendix
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51
IMIT-MWA
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY UNITED STATES ARMY GARRISON ITALY UNIT 31406, BOX 80 APO AE 09630
MEMORANDUM FOR SEE DISTRIBUTION
SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #15, Child and Youth Supervision
1. This memorandum explains the installation’s child and youth supervision policy. The enclosed table provides information to help parents safeguard their children. In conjunction with the Europe Region’s Child and Youth Supervision Guidance, this policy recognizes the unique housing situation of USAG Italy that requires our children to walk further distances than usual. In order to ensure the safety of younger school-aged children, the Commander, USAG Italy, has seen fit to raise the age of children who are allowed to walk to and from school unaccompanied to the age of nine.
2. References:
a. AR 608-10, Child Development Services.
b. AR 608-18, The Army Family Advocacy Program.
c. Uniform Code of Military Justice, Article 134.
d. Army in Europe Child and Youth Supervision Policy, 5 January 2016
3. Definitions:
a. Child: Birth through age 11.
b. Youth: Age 12 through age 17.
c. Adult: Age 18 or older, or a married person under the age of 18.
d. Supervision: The act or process of watching and directing what a person does or how something is done.
e. Appointed guardian: A person appointed by an officially recognized entity to provide direct supervision of a child or youth.
f. Babysitter: A person engaged by parents or a guardian to provide temporary, time- limited supervision and care of a child or youth.
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g. Reporting POC: Military police, 634-7626/7233 or 0444-71-7626/7233.
IMIT-MWA SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #15, Child and Youth Supervision
4. This memorandum establishes policy under which children and youth, from birth through age 17, may be left alone to care for themselves. This policy is based on a child’s age, not his/her grade in school. Failure to comply with the requirements described in this policy may result in intervention by military or local national authorities or other community agencies, as well as administrative or judicial action.
5. The primary goal of this policy is to promote the safety of children and youth of USAG Italy. Parents or legally appointed guardians are responsible for the appropriate supervision, health, safety, well-being, and behavior of children in their care, whether physically present or not. Failure to exercise parental responsibilities may constitute neglect.
6. Families with children of different ages living in the same home must arrange appropriate care for all children. It is the primary job of the parent and not of eldest child to ensure supervision of younger children. The age of the youngest child in the home will determine the appropriate level of supervision required.
7. Since each child is unique, every parent, guardian, or designated adult caregiver must exercise reasonable judgment before leaving a child unsupervised. Important variables to consider are as follows:
a. Maturity of the child.
b. Child’s knowledge of and ability to apply emergency procedures.
c. Presence of any physically or emotionally disabling conditions.
d. Accessibility to parents or another designated informed adult.
e. Number and ages of other children present without direct supervision.
f. Age-appropriate responsibilities given to the child.
NOTE: Parents of children with an identified attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral problem, developmental delay, impulsivity, psychiatric problem, or other physically or emotionally disabling condition that could inhibit their children’s ability to make appropriate choices should not give those children the degree of self-management and responsibility described in this policy.
8. The enclosure provides guidance on the level of adult supervision needed for children based on the age of a child or youth. Incidents of unsupervised children will be reported to the military police, which is the designated Family Advocacy Program (FAP)
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53 Report Point of Contact (RPOC) who will ensure that incidents are investigated in accordance with reference 2b. The FAP RPOC will forward cases of unsupervised
IMIT-MWA SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #15, Child and Youth Supervision
children to FAP-Clinical and to the garrison commander for appropriate evaluation and disposition.
9. The Point of Contact for this action is the Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program Manager, DSN 634-7489.
MARKS.STEVEN.MI
Digitally signed by MARKS.STEVEN.MICHAEL.1080554458 DN: c=US, o=U.S. Government, ou=DoD, ou=PKI, ou=USA, cn=MARKS.STEVEN.MICHAEL.1080554458 Date: 2016.02.12 16:51:09 +01'00' STEVEN M. MARKS COL, SF Commanding
CHAEL.1080554458
Distribution: Electronic
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54
CHILD AND YOUTH SUPERVISION GUIDELINES BY AGE
May be Left Age of May be Left Alone at Home May be Left May be Left May be Left in May May Child Alone at for > 2 Hours Alone Outside Vehicle Babysit Babysit Home for < 2 and Walk to Overnight Unattended Unattended Siblings Others Hours and from (To Include School Alone Playing) Newborn through No No No No No No No age 4 Yes, in playgrounds or yards with Age 5 No No No No No No immediate access through (visual sight or age 6* hearing distance) to adult supervision. Yes, except in hot Yes, in playgrounds Age 7 No No weather. Keys No No No. At age 9, or yards with through must be removed may walk to immediate access age 9* and the handbrake and from (visual sight or applied. Maximum school. hearing distance) to 10 minutes with adult supervision. adult within sight. Age 10 – No. Age 10 – No. Age 10 Yes, with ready Yes, with ready No Yes Yes, provided Age 11, Age 11, through access (phone access (phone keys are removed Yes** may Yes** may age 11 number) to number) to an and the handbrake babysit only babysit only an adult adult is applied. for siblings for siblings supervisor. supervisor, but or close or close no longer than family family 6 hours. friends for up friends for to 2 hours up to 2 hours Yes, with ready Age 12 Yes access (phone No Yes Yes Yes, up to 3 Yes** through number) to an hours age 14 adult maximum.** supervisor, but no longer than 6 hours. Yes; Age 15 Yes Yes Age 15 with Yes Yes Yes** Yes** through access to adult age 17 supervision; sponsor in local area. Age 16/17 may be left alone not to exceed 5 consecutive days. Parents must designate an adult official point of contact that will make daily face-to- face contact. NOTES: *Children under the age of 9 must always be accompanied by a parent or designated caregiver when walking to and from school or a bus stop and while waiting at a bus stop. **Refer to country-specific guidance available at the Army Community Service, Family Advocacy Program. It is highly recommended that youth who wish to babysit (siblings or others) complete the Red Cross Babysitters Course.
Encl
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IMIT-SO
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY UNITED STATES ARMY GARRISON ITALY UNIT 31401, BOX 42 APO AE 09630
MEMORANDUM FOR SEE DISTRIBUTION
SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #24, Pedestrian, Bicycling, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding, and Roller Shoes Safety
4. References:
a. Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6055.04, DoD Traffic Safety Program
b. Army Regulation (AR) 385-10 The Army Safety Program
c. IMCOM Regulation 385-10, Safety Program
5. Purpose:
a. Establish pedestrian safety requirements on post.
b. Establish the requirements for operating bicycles on or off base.
c. Establish requirements and restrictions for in-line skating, skateboarding or similar devices and the use of roller shoes on and off post.
d. Establish restrictions for use of headphones, earphones and other listening devices.
e. Establish road restrictions for Darby Military Community.
6. Applicability: This policy applies to all personnel assigned or operating within the Vicenza Military Community (VMC) and Darby Military Community (DMC) to include, Military personnel, DoD Civilians, Family members, and contractors within the USAG Italy area of responsibility (AOR).
7. Policy:
a. Pedestrians.
• Pedestrians will use sidewalks when walking along post roads and streets in order to separate pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic to the maximum extent possible.
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SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #24, Pedestrian, Bicycling, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding, and Roller Shoes Safety
9. Pedestrians will walk facing traffic on/off post when sidewalks are unavailable.
10. Pedestrians will cross roads and streets at the nearest marked crosswalk. When crosswalks are not available, pedestrians will cross the road at a right angle when traffic is clear in both directions.
11. Pedestrians are encouraged to wear highly visible or reflective material when walking in periods of darkness or reduced visibility.
12. Joggers/runners will wear highly visible or reflective material when running in periods of darkness or reduced visibility.
13. Units conducting organized physical training (PT) will conduct a risk assessment to select routes and useable areas with lowest risk.
14. Runners should carry their identification cards on them while running on and off post. This is to identify personnel in case of an accident.
b. Bicycles.
(1) Bicycle helmets. All personnel, including Family members, who ride bicycles on Army installations will wear bicycle helmets approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Previously purchased bicycle helmets certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) may also be worn but when purchasing a new helmet, riders must purchase CPSC certified helmets. Outside CONUS riders may wear HN helmets if the helmet meets or exceeds CPSC standards.
(2) The Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) and/or hard hat is not approved for use as a bicycle helmet.
(3) Bicycle riders must wear helmets that fit properly and must have the chinstraps fastened. Children/infants riding on the same bicycle or riding in a bicycle trailer must also wear a helmet and use chinstraps.
(4) Bicycles must be maintained in accordance with (IAW) Italian Law (Codice Della Strada). This law requires bicycles to be equipped with a working head lamp (yellow or white), tail light (red), rear reflector (red) below rear light, pedal reflectors (yellow), wheel reflectors (white) and a bell.
(5) High visibility/reflective clothing (PT Belt, Vest, or other clothing having reflective material) is recommended to be worn at night, or during periods of limited visibility. The same type of clothing is recommended during daylight to assist in recognitions from other vehicle traffic.
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57 IMIT-SO SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #24, Pedestrian, Bicycling, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding, and Roller Shoes Safety
(6) The riding of bicycles on any sidewalk within the installation is prohibited. This provision does not apply to parents of young children and children learning to ride bicycles.
(7) Bicyclists will ride in the same direction as vehicular traffic when possible.
c. In-Line Skating (Rollerblading), Skateboarding or Similar Devices On and Off Post. (1) Community streets and parking lots are not authorized for skateboarding, trick bikes, in-line skating, or similar devices. The Vicenza Community Skate Park is located in Villaggio Housing Area. The Skate Park is the ONLY approved site for skateboarding or similar devices, in-line skating, or trick bikes within the VMC. The Community Skate Park is adjacent to the Villaggio above ground swimming pool, is isolated from street traffic, and contains approximately 5000 square feet of space to conduct various in-line skating, skateboard, and trick bike activities.
(2) Soldiers, DoD civilians, retirees, their dependents, and guests are eligible to use the Skate Park. Skate Park rules and safety requirements must be followed at all times and are posted on the Skate Park entrance.
(3) The use of protective gear is mandatory. Helmets with chin straps fastened, knee pads, wrist guards and elbow guards will be worn by all individuals using the skate park. Head injuries are the number one cause of disabling injuries for skaters.
(4) In-line skating (rollerblading) or skateboarding is not authorized on Italian roads. Italian Law (Article 190/8-9-10) prohibits in-line skating or skateboarding on Italian roads. When conducting these activities at approved locations off post, all traffic signals, signs, and devices must be obeyed. Approved helmets and protective gear must be worn at all times and reflective garments must be worn during periods of reduced visibility.
d. Roller Shoes and Hover Boards. The use of roller shoes such as roller shoes marketed by Heelys, Inc. and hover boards or similar devices in any public or official building within the USAG Italy area of responsibility or the Community Skate Park in Villaggio is prohibited.
e. The road from Camp Darby to Tirrenia (Viale Mezzapiaggia/Via Pisorno) is off- limits during darkness to walking, running, bicycling, in-line skating, skateboarding or similar devices and use of roller shoes. During day light hours the use of motor vehicle to travel this road is highly encouraged.
f. Headphones and Earphones. IAW DoDI 6055.04, the use of portable headphones, earphones, cellular phones, or other listening and entertainment devices
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58 IMIT-SO SUBJECT: U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Italy Policy Letter #24, Pedestrian, Bicycling, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding, and Roller Shoes Safety
(other than hearing aids) while walking, jogging, running, bicycling, skating, or skateboarding/similar devices on VMC/DMC roadways is prohibited. These devices impair senses and mask or prevent recognition of emergency signals, alarms, announcements, approaching vehicles, and human speech.
5. Point of contact for this Garrison Policy is the Safety Office at DSN 634-8109/7045 and email at: usarmy.usag-italy.imcom-europe.mbx.usag-italy-safety-office@mail.mil.
Digitally signed by MARKS.STEVEN.MICHAEL.1080554 458 DN: c=US, o=U.S. Government, ou=DoD, ou=PKI, ou=USA, cn=MARKS.STEVEN.MICHAEL.1080554458 Date: 2016.04.08 07:15:14 +02'00'
MARKS.STEVEN.MIC HAEL.1080554458 STEVEN M. MARKS COL, SF Commanding
DISTRIBUTION: Electronic
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