Family-Student Handbook 2020-2021

Arboretum Elementary Heritage Elementary 849-1800 849-2030

Prairie Elementary Intermediate School 849-2200 849-2176

Please note that the 2020-21 Family-Student Handbook makes no reference to COVID19 due to the timing of handbook creation, release of information from the State of Wisconsin / Dane County and related decisions of the School Board and District. Additional information related to our operations during COVID19 will need to be communicated at a later date. Table of Contents

Welcome 1 Americans With Disabilities Statement of Accommodation 2 ADA Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities 2 Equal Education Opportunities 2 Discrimination 2 Statement of Non-Discrimination 2 Academic Honesty Policy 3 After School Child Care 5 Arrival at School 5 Attendance 6 Behavior at Co-Curricular Events 10 Calendar 2019-2020 School Year 11 Classroom Code of Conduct 12 Chromebooks 12 Communication 12 Court Orders 14 Daily Schedule 14 Detentions 15 Electronic Communication Devices 15 Emergency Defibrillator 15 Field Trips 16 Food Service 16 Grade Reporting 19 Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying 20 Health Concerns 24 Independent Practice 26 Internet Use Policy 27 Lockers / Cubbies 28 Lost & Found 28 Parent Involvement 28 Pets 29 Prohibited Items 30 Promotion/Retention 31 Safety 32 School Rules 34 Student Services 36 Student Dress 37 Student Records 38 Supplies/Textbook Fees 39 Types of Transportation 40 Weather Emergencies 41 Appendix 42

Welcome

Dear Parents / Guardians and Students,

Welcome! We are proud to be a part of a strong tradition of excellence that has been established throughout the Waunakee Community School District. These are your schools and we want them to be places for both students and families to be successful. Our staff are eager to create and maintain an environment that is welcoming, safe and encourages continual academic, social and personal growth.

You are invited to be an active participant in your child’s education. Families play an important role in every student’s success and are encouraged to be involved in your child’s school. Please keep in touch with your child’s teacher(s), especially when questions arise. Please consider getting involved with your school’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) in its efforts to support school programs and serve the school community. Most importantly, we urge you to take every opportunity to work with your child in everyday learning situations, to encourage reading, and to discuss with your child what s/he is learning at school. There is no substitute for a combined homeschool effort in providing children educational excellence.

This handbook will help students and parents understand our high expectations and provide basic information on how our schools operate. Please keep it as a ready reference. Although we attempt to cover an extensive amount of information, we realize information on specific situations may not be included. Please feel free to contact us if you are unable to find answers to your question.

Sheila Weihert Dan Carter Dean Kaminski Tim Mommaerts Principal Principal Principal Principal Arboretum Heritage Prairie Intermediate

Americans with Disabilities Statement of Accommodation

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires public institutions to provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Individuals requiring the assistance of auxiliary aids or special accommodations because of a disability are asked to contact the sponsoring group or school office at least 24 hours prior to the event to arrange for appropriate accommodations.

ADA Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities

Any person who has a qualifying disability by the Americans with Disabilities Act who requires assistance with access or materials should contact us at least twenty-four hours prior to the school event so that necessary arrangements can be made to accommodate the request.

Equal Education Opportunities

The right of a student to be admitted to school and to participate fully in curricular, extracurricular, student services, recreational or other programs or activities shall not be abridged or impaired because of student sex, race, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, physical, mental, emotional or learning disability or handicap.

Discrimination

No person (meaning K-12 student) may be denied the benefits of or be discriminated against in any curricular, extracurricular, pupil services, recreational, or other program or activity because of the person’s sex, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

The Waunakee Community School District is committed to a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of age, race, creed, color, handicap, marital status, sex, national origin, ancestry, arrest record, conviction record, membership in the national guard, state defense force or any reserve component of the military forces of the United States or this state or nonuse of lawful products off the employer’s premises during non-working hours or any other factor provided for by state and federal laws and regulations. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning staff, students, the public, educational programs and services and individuals with whom the Board does business.

In keeping with state and federal law, the Waunakee Community School District shall strive to remove any vestige of discrimination in employment, assignment and promotion of personnel; in educational opportunities and services offered students, in their assignment to schools and classes and in their discipline; in the location and use of facilities; and, in educational offerings and materials.

WCSD has designated Kurt Eley, Director of Student Services and Brian Grabarski, Director of Human Resources as Title IX Coordinators for the District. Staff related concerns should be directed to Brian Grabarski, Director of Human Resources. Student related concerns should be directed to Kurt Eley, Director of Student Services.

Academic Honesty Policy

The Waunakee Community School District regards academic honesty as a cornerstone of its educational mission. It is expected that all school work submitted for the purpose of meeting class requirements represents the original efforts of the individual student. All forms of academic dishonesty will make a student subject to disciplinary action.

Some Examples of Misconduct include:

● Copying from others ● Having or using notes, formulas or other information in either written or programmable calculator or other technology based format without the teacher permission ● Having or using a communication device such as a cell phone, pager, PDA or electronic translator to send or obtain unauthorized information ● Taking an exam for another student ● Providing or receiving information about all or part of an exam ● Having or using a “cheat sheet” that is not specifically authorized by the teacher ● Altering a graded exam and resubmitting it for a better grade ● Working together on a take-home exam unless authorized by the teacher of the class where the take home exam is used

Plagiarism in paper and assignments includes, for example: ● Giving or getting improper assistance on an assignment meant to be individual work ● Acting as a provider of paper(s) for a student or students ● Making up data for an experiment (“fudging data”) ● Citing nonexistent sources (articles, books, etc.)

Examples of other forms of academic dishonesty include: ● Misrepresenting academic accomplishments, such as tampering with computer records ● Deceiving a teacher or making up a false reason or excuse to get special consideration on an exam or an extension for an exam or paper

Use of computer or tablet in any of the following ways is prohibited:

● Unauthorized copying of any software ● Copying or using another student’s data disk or flash drive information ● Unauthorized use of hard copy (printed material) to develop one’s own software

Parent Responsibilities—Parents will:

● Communicate to their son/daughter the values of moral and ethical behavior ● Refrain from placing undue pressure for high grades ● Be aware of a student’s need for a quiet time and a place for study ● Support the student’s efforts, but not edit, type, word process or in any other way do the work ● Encourage the student’s wise use of time

Student Responsibilities—Students will:

● Protect his/her work (Do not lend or borrow homework) ● Not look at another student’s test or allow his/her test to be seen by another student ● Not talk during a test or about the test until all classes have had a chance to take it ● Not use technology for inappropriate use

Disciplinary Actions

Any action taken with respect to cheating shall take into account the student who has violated this policy and the need to provide an appropriate consequence.

Procedures for implementation of this policy shall include:

∙ Explanations of the Academic Honesty Policy and Procedures. Students will then sign and date an Acknowledgement of Academic Honesty Policy form. ∙ In each incident of alleged academic dishonesty, parents will be notified directly (by phone or a conference) and a brief written statement of the situation shall be provided to the principal by the teacher, with a copy to the parents.

Procedure

Staff Responsibilities All teachers will educate students during the first week of class as to what constitutes cheating and what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. This information will be reinforced on a regular basis.

Violation of Academic Policy In most cases the teacher is granted the authority to exercise his/her good judgment in applying a range of consequences. The principal has the authority to exercise judgment in determining an appropriate consequence. Consequences and procedures for students in grades K4 will be established by the building principals.

The following rules for conduct apply to all students in grades 5-6 and violation of the rules could result in consequences as described.

Procedures for dealing with alleged academic dishonesty in grades 5-6 may be:

First Offense ∙ The teacher who observed the alleged dishonesty will confront the individual student, preferably not in the presence of other students, provide a written description of the incident to the student and permit the student to respond. A) Independent Practice - the student will lose credit on the assignment and may receive a grade reduction. B) Test or Quiz - The student will lose credit on that test or quiz and will receive a grade reduction for the marking period. Extra credit cannot be used to compensate for loss of credit due to dishonesty. ∙ The teacher will submit a copy of the disciplinary report to the office of the principal. ∙ The teacher will contact the parent by phone, make documentation of the call, and send a copy of the disciplinary report (written description of the incident) to the parent. The parent is asked to verify receipt of the same with a signature and return it to the teacher no later than the following school day.

Second Offense ∙ Penalties and procedures as in the first offense; plus: ∙ The teacher will contact the parent by phone, make a documentation of the call, and send a copy of the disciplinary report (written description of the incident) to the parent. The parent will be asked to participate in a conference with the principal to discuss possible disciplinary action.

Legal Ref: Section 943.70 Wis Statutes Public Law 94.553, Title 17 of the U.S. Code Adopted by the BOE: April 1997

After School Child Care

WI Youth Company offers an after-school program at Arboretum, Heritage, and Prairie Elementary Schools each day school is in session. Parents should call WI Youth Company’s office at 608-276-9782 for more information.

Arrival at School

The elementary school day begins at 7:40 a.m. Students should not arrive on school grounds before 7:15 a.m. Students who arrive before 7:15 a.m. will be unsupervised; we are always concerned for student safety and would appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Upon arrival to school, students should place backpacks in lockers or cubbies, then quietly walk to the cafeteria for breakfast or to the playground and remain outside until the first bell rings at 7:35 a.m. Students are not to be in the halls/classrooms unsupervised.

The Intermediate school day begins at 8:25 a.m. The first bell rings at 8:10 a.m. The second bell and announcements are at 8:18 a.m. Students should not arrive before 7:45 a.m. Students are to go directly outside to the playground or, in cold weather, to the cafe. Bus students go straight to the playground. Walkers, bikers and students dropped off by parents/guardians, will enter the front door and go to the

playground. No students are allowed in the halls without a pass. If a student needs to see a teacher, the student must go to the office for a pass. The library opens before school at 7:45 a.m. where students are able to read, complete their homework, and/or work on independent practice.

Late Arrivals to School

School doors are locked shortly after the final morning bell rings. Students who arrive late to school should call the office using the buzz-in system, then go directly to the main office for a pass. Intermediate students must sign in at the office. Parents should sign in elementary students. If the school receives notification from parents/guardians by phone or in writing of why the student will be late and the excuse meets the criteria set by Board of Education Policy and State Statute, the student’s attendance record will be marked as an excused tardy.

If a student habitually arrives late to school without an acceptable excuse, he/she will be considered truant as defined by board policy and may receive appropriate consequences.

Attendance

Anticipated Absence / Family Vacations

School Board Policy Number 430-Rule (3) states students may be excused for family trips that can be taken only during the normal school term. The intent of this excuse is to provide an opportunity for students to accompany their parents/guardians on a vacation which cannot be scheduled when school is not in session. A parent/guardian shall be required to notify the building principal prior to leaving on vacation of the pending absence for the purpose of reviewing the student’s attendance record and overall performance record. Student vacations or trips without parent/guardian accompaniment are not excused absences. According to state statute, a child may be excused by the parent for not more than 10 days in the school year.

While a vacation can be educationally profitable, please consider the following: ● It is impossible to “make up” all of the classroom presentations missed. ● Since many assignments and followup reading presentations are part of each day, it is not possible to furnish all materials in advance or do so accurately. We will accommodate all reasonable requests for homework. Each school will determine when homework must be completed after the student returns. ● Your child will not have the resource of teacher direction during vacation. ● Missed instruction may affect student grades and attitudes.

Please contact your child’s teacher and the school office prior to any planned absence.

Approved Legal Excuses

The compulsory school attendance law requires any person having a school-age child under his/her control to have the child attend school regularly. Attendance is the responsibility of parents/guardians. School authorities must enforce the law as cited in state statute 118.15 and School Board policy 431. School Board policy requires that students bring a written statement from home upon their return after an

absence. This note is to be signed by the parent/guardian, dated, and stating the reason for the absence. This must be an acceptable excuse according to School Board policy. Board of Education Policy Section 430-Rule (3) states students may be excused from school attendance for the following reasons:

● Evidence that the student is not in proper physical and/or mental condition to attend school or an educational program. ● An illness in the immediate family which requires the absence of the student because of family responsibilities. ● Medical, dental, chiropractic, optometric, or other valid professional appointments. Parents/guardians are encouraged to make appointments during non-school hours. ● A death in the family or funerals for close relatives/friends. ● Religious holidays. ● Family trips that can be taken only during the normal school term. See Anticipated Absence/Family Vacation. ● A court appearance or other legal procedure which requires the attendance of the student. ● A quarantine as imposed by a public health officer. ● Attendance at special events of educational value as approved by the principal. ● Approved school activities during class time. ● Special circumstance showing good cause approved in advance by the principal.

If student absences become excessive or questionable, (more than 10 days in a school year) the school principal may require the parent to obtain a statement from a physician or licensed practitioner as proof of the physical or mental condition of the student. Such excuses must be in writing and shall state the time period for which the excuse is valid, not to exceed 30 days.

Calling Your Child in Absent

If a student is to be absent from school, parents/guardians must call the school attendance line or email the attendance email address below before 8:30 a.m. for K-4 students and 9:00 a.m. for 5-6 students the morning of the absence.

The school attendance administrative assistant will call the parent/guardian if a call is not received by the time noted above. If you would like work, please indicate this when you call. After office hours, parents/guardians may call these numbers to leave a message on voice mail.

Arboretum 849-1800 ext. 1 [email protected] Heritage 849-2030 ext. 1 [email protected] Prairie 849-2200 ext. 1 [email protected] Intermediate 849-2176 ext. 1 [email protected]

Please provide the following information: your name, name of student, grade, teacher’s name, and reason for absence and whether or not you would like work collected. Parents who request work for their child may pick it up at the designated pick up location after school is over.

Please call your school attendance number (above) with any end of day changes.

End of Day Pick-Up Changes

If normal after school pick up arrangements have changed, please call the office or email the school’s attendance email by 1:00pm. This gives office staff time to notify the teacher because teachers may not be able to check their emails.

End of Day Pick-Up

It is the expectation that parents will pick up students promptly at the end of the school day. Students should be picked up at 2:40 p.m. at the elementary schools and at 3:35 p.m. at the Intermediate School.

Health Guidelines for Attendance

A student should remain at home if: ● There have been episodes of vomiting or diarrhea in the last 24 hours and the student is not yet tolerating regular diet. ● The student’s temperature is not normal (approximately 100 degrees or higher) and the student feels ill. Students need to be fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours before returning to school. ● The student is aching and fatigued enough to be unable to participate in class and school activities. ● The student has an uncontrollable cough or runny nose so that s/he cannot care for it in a sanitary manner. ● The student has been diagnosed with strep throat or other treatable contagious disease and has not yet had 24 hours of treatment. ● The student has an untreated contagious disease (impetigo, scabies, lice, etc.). ● The student has a recent injury that causes enough discomfort to significantly distract him/her from being able to focus on school activities in class.

We encourage parents to send students to school each day if injury or illness does not significantly compromise the student’s health and there is no threat of communicable disease to others. A phone call to school to explain an absence is required on the day your child will remain at home.

Remember – It is important that the school has up-to-date phone numbers available to call should a student become ill or be injured at school. If you have any questions about the guidelines, please call the school nurse.

Leaving During the Day

Although we encourage families to make appointments after school hours, we know that occasionally this is not possible. When students need to leave the building, they should bring a written note from a parent/guardian to their teacher as well as to the school office at the start of the school day. When it is time for the child to leave the building, K-4 parents are expected to meet the student in the main office and sign the child out. If an elementary student returns to school later in the day, parents are asked to walk the student to the office and sign their child in. Intermediate students are allowed to sign themselves out and back in if a parent has contacted the office prior to the student leaving. Students

will be given a pass so they may return to class. Partial day absences may result in your child being marked for a half-day absence.

Make Up Work

All work and exams missed due to excused absence need to be made up upon return to school with one day allowed for each day of excused absence.

Tardiness to Class

Late Arrival Protocol: Students are marked tardy if arrive prior to 9:40 am at the elementary schools and prior to 10:30 am at the Intermediate School. Students will be marked as half day absent if arrive after 9:40 am at the elementary schools or after 10:30 am at the Intermediate School.

Students who are tardy to class are responsible for making up missed time with the individual teacher. The teacher may require the student to make time up after school or during recess.

EXCUSED TARDIES Tardy notice sent home and classroom teacher encouraged to contact parent/speak 3 Excused Tardies with student 7 Excused Tardies Attendance summary from school 10 Excused Tardies Call from Attendance Committee member 12+ Excused Tardies Parent meeting (phone or in-person) with principal

Continued Excused Tardies Meeting with School Liaison Officer

Truancy Petition filed according to Village Ordinance (up to $500 fine)

UNEXCUSED TARDIES 3 Unexcused Tardies School office notification 7 Unexcused Tardies Attendance summary from school 10 Unexcused Tardies Call from attendance committee member 12+ Unexcused Tardies Parent meeting for problem solving and discussion of potential citation Continued Unexcused Tardies Meeting with School Liaison Officer Truancy Petition filed according to Village Ordinance (up to $500 fine)

Truancy

State statute 118.15 states, “Truancy means any absence of part or all of one or more days from school during which the school attendance officer has not been notified of legal cause of such absence by the parent or guardian of the absent pupil.” Tardiness can be considered truancy. If a student is truant, parents/guardians will be notified, informed and receive information on the severity of the situation from administration. If the situation is repeated, a parent/guardian meeting will be requested. If efforts to reduce truancy are ineffective, the issue will be referred to local law enforcement agencies and Dane County Human Services. Parents/guardians will be kept well informed of the situation through phone calls and letters.

Behavior at Co-Curricular Events

Attending co-curricular events is a privilege. Abiding by a few simple rules will help to insure that everyone has a safe, enjoyable time at the event. Appropriate behavior is expected of our students and families at both home and away events. Appropriate behavior includes: ● Respecting and supporting performers and other audience members. Be courteous and kind. ● Taking a seat when you enter and remain in that seat until intermission, halftime, etc. Please do not bring food into the gym. ● Not leaving the activity or event during the action. If you are at a concert, please wait until the doors open. ● Not making inappropriate comments or gestures to/about participants or spectators. Support the performers in an appropriate way. ● Please respect the supervisors and follow directions.

K-4 students must sit with parents at all events. 5th & 6th grade students may sit with their peers during home football games in the bleachers by the scoreboard. All K-6 grade students are to stay seated until the end of the quarter before going to the concession stand or restroom.

Students who are unable to abide by these simple rules will be asked to leave the event and may have their privileges to attend co-curricular events restricted.

Sportsmanship

Good sportsmanship is exemplified by: 1. Cheering with the cheerleaders. 2. Standing for school songs of both schools. 3. Standing and being attentive when the National Anthem is being played. 4. Showing respect for the officials. 5. Showing respect for the opponent.

2020-2021 SCHOOL CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 2020 Students Report September 1 No School - Labor Day September 7 OCTOBER 2020 Parent Teacher Conferences 4-8pm Grades 5-6 October 6 Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-7:30pm Grades K-4 October 8 No School - Parent Teacher Conferences (Grades K-12 a.m. only) October 9 No School - Fall Break October 22 No School - Fall Break October 23 NOVEMBER 2020 No School November 25-27 DECEMBER 2020 No School - Winter Break December 23-31 JANUARY 2021 No School – Winter Break January 1 No School - Staff Development Day January 18 PTO Family Fun Fitness at Waunakee High School January 22 No School - Staff Work Day January 25 FEBRUARY 2021 No School February 26 MARCH 2021 Parent Teacher Conferences Grades 5-6 March 16 Parent Teacher Conferences for Grades K-4 March 18 No School - Parent Teacher Conferences (Grades K-12 a.m. only) March 19 No School - Spring Break March 22-26 APRIL 2021 No School April 2 No School (possible snow make up day) April 5 MAY 2021 No School May 17 No School – Memorial Day May 31 JUNE 2021 Last Day for Students June 9 MARKING PERIODS First Trimester Ends November 30, 2020 Second Trimester Ends March 5, 2021 First Semester Ends January 22, 2021 Second Semester/Third Trimester Ends June 9, 2021

● Dates are subject to change.

Chromebooks

Each Intermediate School student will be issued a Chromebook to use while at school. Students will use the Chromebook assigned to them throughout the school year. The Chromebook remains the property of the Waunakee Community School District and will remain at the Intermediate School at all times. Devices will not go home with students. All digital citizenship rules are expected to be followed by students.

Classroom Code of Conduct

We are committed to maintaining an educational atmosphere of excellence. Teachers are expected to create a positive classroom environment conducive to learning and self-discipline. Students are expected to behave in a manner based on respect and consideration for the rights of others.

A student may be removed from class for, but not limited to, the following reasons: dangerous, disruptive, damaging, or unruly behavior, behavior that violates expectations set forth in Board of Education Policies and Student Handbooks, behavior that interferes with the ability of the teacher to teach effectively or interferes with the ability of others to learn, and behavior which is inconsistent with class decorum. Any student who engages in such behavior may be subject to removal from class. Placement procedures are outlined in BOE Policy 443.

The teacher who initiates the removal of a student from class will notify the principal and attempt to notify parents/guardians within 24 hours of the incident that caused the student to be removed from his/her class. Removal from class does not exclude additional disciplinary measures.

Students who are repeatedly or severely disruptive will be referred to the administration.

For more information, see BOE Policy 443.

Communication

Assignment Notebooks

Third through sixth grade students receive assignment notebooks to assist in the organization of multiple assignments, managing time, and in keeping accurate instructions. Second grade students also receive assignment notebooks at Prairie. The notebook enhances home-school communication. Most students will be responsible to share and have parents sign assignment notebooks each school day.

District Homepage

The Waunakee Community School District Homepage Internet site can be located at http://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us. While visiting the homepage, families can access teacher email and educational bookmarks students use at school on home computers. The sites have been reviewed by staff to insure appropriateness for student use. Student Internet use is monitored carefully to insure they stay on appropriate sites.

Email Etiquette

Email is a useful tool for communicating with parents and staff. Please remember that email communication is subject to open records review; therefore, it is important to be mindful when discussing sensitive information.

Home and School Folders/Communication

For your convenience, school notices and classroom work will be sent home on Thursdays. The school will issue one Thursday Folder to each student. The folder needs to be returned to the classroom teacher on Friday. To save on printing and paper costs, as much communication as possible will be sent home via a Thursday Folder Email with links to online documents (parent newsletter, calendars, etc.) Parents have an option to select paper or electronic communication. Electronic communication is sent via Infinite Campus Messenger/email. Please be sure to check your spam folder to make sure you do not miss any important parent communication.

Parent-Teacher Conferences Dates

Arboretum, Heritage, Prairie Intermediate October 8 p.m. October 6 p.m. October 9 a.m. October 9 a.m. March 18 p.m. March 16 p.m. March 19 a.m. March 19 a.m.

Party Invitations

All schools stipulate that invitations to private events (i.e. birthday parties, play dates, etc.) not be distributed at school. Thanks for your understanding and cooperation by not putting our staff and students in an uncomfortable situation.

This includes parents handing them out or putting them into backpacks in lockers or cubbies. Thank you for your understanding.

Process for Sharing Concerns and Questions

We value your thoughts. Please share your ideas with us. If your child tells you something about school that sounds unreasonable, please send a note or call. Remember, a child’s perception or understanding of an incident may be very different from what actually occurred. If you are especially pleased with something a teacher or the school is doing, please let us know. A positive phone call or note can make a teacher’s (or principal’s) day!

If you are concerned about a situation in your child’s education, please address the situation in the following order:

1. Teacher (your first contact) 2. Principal 3. District Administrator

Student Withdrawal from School

Parents should contact the school office and the District Registrar as soon as they are aware their child will be moving out of the district.

Telephone Messages/Usage

We need your help. Please make and review arrangements for after-school activities with your child prior to the beginning of the school day. We strongly encourage you to notify teachers and the office via a note of any change in your child’s normal pick up time or after school routine. Students are permitted to use the telephone in the school ONLY for school-related needs. In cases of urgency, a school staff member will call a parent/guardian.

Office personnel attempt to deliver all telephone messages to students and teachers. Emergency or last-minute messages to students should be called into the office at least one hour before school is dismissed. We cannot guarantee messages will be delivered if under an hour before dismissal.

Telephone Number / Email / Address Changes

Families are able to update telephone numbers and email addresses in the parent portal. If families have an address change, contact the district registrar at (608)849-2000, ext. 8470. Please note: a change of address requires proof of residency.

Court Orders

Parents/guardians, supply the school with a signed copy of any type of court order which may affect a student (i.e., who may pick up the child, who may have access to student records). The order will be maintained in the child’s file. If any changes take place during the year which alter the court order, the school must be notified. School officials are not responsible for enforcing court orders and can only notify authorities.

Daily Schedule

Arboretum, Heritage & Prairie Elementary 7:40 a.m. - 2:40 p.m.

Intermediate School 8:25 a.m. - 3:35 p.m.

PLEASE DO NOT DROP CHILDREN OFF BEFORE THESE TIMES:

7:15 a.m. at Arboretum, Heritage & Prairie Elementary Schools 7:45 a.m. at Intermediate School

PLEASE PICK UP YOUR CHILDREN BY THESE TIMES:

2:40 p.m. at Arboretum, Heritage & Prairie Elementary Schools 3:35 p.m. at Intermediate School

Detentions

Intermediate students are issued detentions for the following reasons: fighting, chronic or severe behavior problems, cruelty to others, injury to others, repeated breaking of rules, issues that happen on the playground, buses, halls, etc.

Detentions are served after school on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:35-4:05. Students are given 24 hours to notify parents and set up transportation home.

Electronic Communication Devices

Students are prohibited from using personal electronic devices during the school day. This includes, but not limited to, cell phones, smart watches, iPods, CD players, two-way radios, pagers, and other electronic communication or entertainment equipment during the school day. However, students may use portable media players for instructional purposes if they have specific permission from the supervising teacher. Students who bring any of the above items to school must leave them turned off and store them in their locker, cubbie or backpacks. The school is not responsible for the security of such items and may examine electronic devices such as smart watches and cellular phones and search their contents if there is reason to believe that school policies or rules have been violated.

Students must have permission from a supervisor or bus driver to use cell phones while riding on school buses.

Emergency Defibrillator

An important part of the emergency response plan includes the use of defibrillation via semiautomatic external defibrillators, commonly known as automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

AEDs are located in the hallway outside the gym (doors closest to the café) and on the second floor by the center stairways in the Intermediate, outside of the gym at Arboretum, in the front entryway to the Heritage office and outside the gym, and inside the cafeteria at Prairie.

Field Trips

Field trips are planned to enrich the school curriculum. You will be notified by your classroom teacher(s) of all field trips (walking and bus) in advance. State guidelines require us to obtain a signed permission slip from the parent or guardian before permitting a student to attend a field trip. The permission slip will provide a detailed description of the educational purpose, activities on the trip, and date and time of trip. Students without a signed permission slip will not be allowed to attend the trip. If you choose not to have your child attend a field trip, you must notify the school office in advance and make arrangements for your child to be supervised that day. Going on field trips is a privilege and this privilege may be taken from students who consistently make poor behavioral choices.

Field Trip Procedures

● Students are to ride to and from a field trip location in school district provided vehicles. The only exception to this policy could be a parent/guardian providing a written request to transport their own child from a field trip. These requests must be made prior to the field trip. A 24-hour notice is preferred. ● Only chaperones may ride on school provided vehicles in addition to staff members and the students involved with the trip. ● Chaperones may not bring other children on school sponsored trips. Chaperones are expected to assist with supervision of the students on the trip and caring for other children can interfere with that responsibility. ● Chaperones may drive their own vehicles to and from school trips if sufficient supervision is provided on the district provided vehicles. Chaperones may carpool with other chaperones. ● Chaperones may also transport their own child to and from the field trip if a written request stating a special circumstance is given to the school office and approved by the building principal at least 24 hours prior to the field trip. ● Only students, staff, and designated chaperones are part of the official field trip/cocurricular group. Others attending the same event on their own initiative are not part of the official group (i.e., parent with younger siblings cannot “meet you there.”) ● All chaperones need to be approved through our human resources department by the completion of an online School Volunteer Application form. Please use the following link: http://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us/families/volunteering.cfm Please understand that applications take 5-10 business days to be processed. Last minute applications may not be processed in time. Once approved, your application is valid for three school years.

Food Service

Food Service/ Milk System

The Waunakee School District does not participate in the USDA meals program. By opting out of this program we save on food waste & can offer an expanded menu to our students. Every meal will include

an entrée, sides, fresh fruit and veggies of their choice, and either milk or bottled water. At the elementary level there are two entrée choices offered daily.

Morning Milk Service

Milk service is offered during morning snack time at all our elementary schools. *Morning milk service is optional.* The cost is $36.00 per semester for daily milk. All K-6 students who qualify for free meals will also qualify for free morning milk service. All K-6 students that qualify for reduced meals will have a reduced rate of $8.00 per semester. If you have questions, you may contact the Food Service office at (608) 849-2185. The office is open during the school year from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and is located at 101 School Dr., Waunakee.

Food Service/ Milk Accounting System

Waunakee Food Service utilizes a computerized system in Infinite Campus. This accounting system operates as pre-paid, with a declining balance. Parents/Guardians may view their activity & make payments online thru the Parent Portal.

At the Intermediate School, each student enters their unique student ID at the registers when purchasing lunch or ala carte items. At elementary schools, students will use an ID badge that is scanned as they go through the end of the lunch line. The system deducts all charges and updates the current balance. Guests, such as parents/guardians, may charge to their students lunch account provided there are sufficient funds.

We encourage all payments to be made online via the Parent Portal. You may also mail or drop off payment to the Food Service Office at: 101 School Dr. There is a locked drop box outside the door for your convenience. Please be sure to include your student’s name with your payment. Checks are to be made payable to Waunakee Community Schools. Please be aware that payments are no longer accepted at each individual school. Parents are encouraged to check their lunch account balances regularly to avoid a negative balance. If a balance reaches $15.00 or less, an email will be sent to the parent/guardian to remind them their balance is getting low. If the account reaches a negative balance, the automated system generates a call. Any questions regarding student lunch accounts and/or food service in general should be referred to Kelly Regali, Food Service office at 849-2185.

Free & Reduced Lunch/Milk

Waunakee School District offers a Free and Reduced Meals program for those that qualify. Information and an application packet may be obtained in your school office, the Food Service office or online at the Waunakee School District website at www.waunakee.k12.wi.us under Food Service. Please be aware that you must apply every year after August 1st. If a household has not been approved by the first day of school students must bring a sack lunch or pay for their meals until the application has been approved. Any questions please contact Jessica Dargenio at 849-2185.

Menus

Monthly elementary menus, nutritional & allergen information are available online under Families, Food Service or on the Taher Food 4Life App.

Lunch Schedules

Arboretum and Prairie students have a 40-45 minute break to eat lunch and play on the playground. Students are encouraged to eat lunch at a slow pace and therefore are required to spend the first 15 minutes of their lunch break in the cafeteria.

Heritage students have a 30 minute recess prior to a 15 minute lunch break in the cafeteria.

Intermediate students have 41 minutes for lunch and recess.

Cafeteria Rules

Students are expected to display appropriate dining behaviors and courtesies. Students are reminded to: ● Use a level 2 voice in the cafeteria. ● Clean up eating area when finished. ● Use trash barrels for paper and uneaten food. ● Use recycle containers for any recyclable materials. ● Return trays, forks, and spoons to designated areas. ● Students must be dismissed by lunchroom supervisors. ● Do not take food / drink outside of the cafeteria. ● If needed, use the restroom closest to the cafeteria ● Walk quietly in the halls and go directly to the assigned area. ● It is recommended that carbonated beverages and squeeze bottles not be included in lunches. These items explode easily and can be very messy.

Parent/Guardian Visits for Lunch

Parents/Guardians are invited to join their child for lunch at school. Parents/Guardians are requested to call the school office or send a note by 9:00 a.m. to notify food service if they are intending on getting a school lunch so it is included in the lunch count. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to purchase lunch with available funds in their student’s lunch account but may pay with cash. Parents are reminded to sign in at the office.

Semester Milk Break

Morning milk is distributed each day. The cost is $36.00 per semester for grades K through 6. You may purchase semester milk, per semester thru the online pay system as you do food service payments. Please contact the food service office for questions at 849-2185. The milk choices are as follows: 1% White, Skim Chocolate, and Skim white milk.

Parents are encouraged to provide healthy snacks for morning snack break. To reduce the risk to students who have food allergies, parents are encouraged to provide fresh fruit or vegetables, or food items that have been commercially packaged. District Food Service staff is available to provide a list of healthy nutritionally appropriate snacks.

Grade Reporting

Progress Reports

Throughout the year parents/guardians should expect to receive information on their child’s progress in school. You may receive progress reports from teachers informing you of the academic and behavioral progress of your child. These reports come between trimester grade level report cards. If parents/guardians desire more information, please contact the teacher directly. Parents/guardians may also want to discuss monitoring their child’s progress with the school counselor who may be able to offer additional ideas and/or information.

Report Cards

Our focus is to create an atmosphere which encourages students to become lifelong learners with a growth mindset. The goal of the report card is to provide parents with information regarding their child’s performance in grade level curriculum areas. Each grade level has a curriculum which provides the overall structure for the learning process. Student grades on the report card are based on a variety of daily activities, individual and group assessments and teacher judgment. A variety of factors are considered when teachers evaluate the progress students make within the curriculum. Students are challenged through a curriculum that focuses on knowledge, skill, and development in the following areas:

Basic Skills: reading, writing, spelling, listening, mathematical problem solving and computation. Content Areas: science, world language, social studies Related Arts: music, art, physical education and technology Personal Development: the development of self-discipline and personal responsibility such as respect, engagement, resourcefulness and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work cooperatively with others.

The purpose of the report card is to document and provide parents/guardians with accurate information regarding their child’s education. Student performance is measured against a standard of educationally appropriate grade level expectations. The report card focuses on student strengths and areas in need of improvement. It is difficult to summarize concepts, skills and attitudes in a single letter grade. Rather than providing an overall grade in a specific area, various subskills receive a mark summarizing student performance.

1 = Minimal 2 = Basic 3=Proficient 4=Advanced

Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying

We are committed to a safe and civil educational environment for all students, free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, when the intentional written, verbal, or physical act: ● Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or ● Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or ● Is severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or ● Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendo’s, demeaning comments, drawing cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, oral or physical actions. This can take place online as well as at school. “Intentional acts” refers to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s).

Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to law enforcement will be used to change the behavior of the perpetrator and remediate the impact on the victim. This includes appropriate intervention(s), restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the violation. False reports or retaliation for harassment, intimidation or bullying also constitutes violation of this policy.

“Pupil harassment means behavior toward pupils based, in whole or in part, on sex, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability which substantially interferes with a pupil’s school performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive school environment.” [PI 9.02(9), Wis. Administrative Code] Any conduct that meets the elements of harassment will constitute harassment and will be dealt with accordingly.

Students learn about harassment, intimidation and bullying in guidance class and/or in a school assembly.

Sexual Harassment

It is the policy of the Waunakee Community School District to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from sexual harassment. It shall be a violation of Section G of the Policies of the Board of Education for students to harass other students through conduct or communication of a sexual nature.

Definition: Sexual harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advance, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature made by any student to another student when: ● Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education, or when ● Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic performance affecting that individual, or when ● Such conduct has the purpose or effect substantially interfering with an individual’s academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment environment.

Sexual harassment, may include, but is not limited to the following. ● Verbal harassment or abuse ● Pressure for sexual activity ● Remarks to a person with a sexual or demeaning implication ● Unwelcome touching ● Suggesting or demanding sexual involvement accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning ones grades, job, etc.

Some examples of sexual harassment are: graffiti of a sexual nature; displaying or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures, written material; sexual gestures; sexual or “dirty” jokes; name-calling of a sexual nature; spreading rumors about a pupil’s sexual activity or orientation.

Students who feel they have been sexually harassed should speak to an adult immediately. Severe situations should be referred to administration. Students may also follow the procedures outlined in the complaint processing procedures outlined in this publication.

Procedures for Dealing with Harassing Behavior

Parents/guardians of students may follow the procedures outlined in the complaint process above if they feel their child has been the victim of sexual harassment (sex discrimination). Students who harass others may be referred to the police.

Students who feel they are being harassed by another student should do the following: ● Respond assertively (tell harasser to stop, or walk away) ● Document the situation (write down the date, time and location where and when the situation happened. Write down other people who saw/heard it. Write down your assertive response.) Keep this document. ● If the harassment is severe, or if it does not stop after you have dealt with it assertively, go to the teacher in charge, or your homeroom teacher and tell him/her about the situation. ● If you are afraid to speak to your teachers alone, take a friend along to help you. ● Your teacher may involve others (school counselor, principal). ● Teachers will keep parents informed of more serious situations of harassment. ● Severe situations will be referred to administration.

Anti-Bullying (Waunakee School Board Policy #443.9)

Introduction

The Waunakee Community School District strives to provide a safe, secure and respectful learning environment for all students in school buildings, on school grounds, and school buses, other district owned vehicles and at school-sponsored activities. Bullying has a harmful social, physical, psychological and academic impact on bullies, victims and bystanders. The school district consistently and vigorously addresses bullying so that there is no disruption to the learning environment and learning process.

Definition

Bullying is defined as deliberate or intentional behavior using words or actions intended to cause fear, intimidation or harm. Bullying may be repeated behavior and involves an imbalance of power. The behavior may be motivated by an actual or perceived distinguishing characteristic, such as, but not limited to: age; national origin; race; ethnicity; religion; gender; gender identity; sexual orientation; physical attributes; physical or mental ability or disability; and social, economic or family status. Bullying behavior can be: 1. Physical (e.g. assault, hitting or punching, kicking, theft, threatening behavior) 2. Verbal (e.g. threatening or intimidating language, teasing or name-calling, racist remarks) 3. Indirect (e.g. spreading cruel rumors, intimidation through gestures, social exclusion and sending insulting messages or pictures by mobile phone or using the internet – also known as cyber bullying)

Prohibition

Bullying behavior is prohibited in all schools, buildings, property and educational environments, including any property or vehicle owned, leased or used by the school district. This includes public transportation regularly used by students to go to and from school. Educational environments include, but are not limited to, every activity under school supervision.

Procedure for Reporting/Retaliation

All school staff members and school officials who observe or become aware of acts of bullying are required to report these acts to the building principal or designee. Any other person, including a student who is either a victim of the bullying or is aware of the bullying or any other concerned individual is encouraged to report the conduct to the building principal or designee. Reports of bullying may be made verbally or in writing and may be made confidentially. All such reports, whether verbal or in writing, will be taken seriously and a clear account of the incident is to be documented. A written record of the report, including all pertinent details, will be made by the recipient of the report. The school official receiving a report of bullying shall immediately notify the school district employee assigned to investigate the report. The school principals or designee have been identified as the investigator.

There shall be no retaliation against individuals making such reports. Individuals engaging in retaliatory behavior will be subject to disciplinary action.

Procedure for investigating reports of bullying

The person assigned by the district to conduct an investigation of the bullying report shall, interview the person(s) who are the victim(s) of the bullying and collect whatever other information is necessary to determine the facts and the seriousness of the report. Parents and/or guardians of each pupil involved in the bullying will be notified prior to the conclusion of the investigation. The district shall maintain the confidentiality of the report and any related pupil records to the extent required by law.

Sanctions and Supports

If it is determined that students participated in bullying behavior or retaliated against anyone due to the reporting of bullying behavior, the school district administration and school board may take disciplinary action, including: suspension, expulsion and/or referral to law enforcement officials for possible legal action as appropriate. Pupil services staff will provide support for the identified victim(s).

Disclosure and Public Reporting

The policy will be distributed annually to all students enrolled in the school district, their parents and/or guardians and employees. It will also be distributed to organizations in the community having cooperative agreements with the schools. The school district will also provide a copy of the policy to any person who requests it. Records will be maintained on the number and types of reports made, and sanctions imposed for incidents found to be in violation of the bullying policy.

BEHAVIOR DIRECTED TOWARDS A CREATING A HOSTILE PUPIL BECAUSE OF ENVIRONMENT: The following are examples of ∙ sex The behavior is so severe (in view behavior that can constitute ∙ race of all circumstances) harassment: name-calling, making ∙ religion threats, spreading rumors, telling ∙ national origin or jokes, making fun of someone, ∙ ancestry gestures, physical intimidation, ∙ parental status pervasive (occurs often, is part of hitting, touching, pranks or ∙ physical disability a pattern of behaviors, permeates hazing, vandalism or destruction ∙ mental disability atmosphere) of property. ∙ emotional disability ∙ learning disability that it creates a hostile environment.

Discrimination Complaint Procedures

If any person believes that the Waunakee Community School District or any part of the school organization has inadequately applied the principles and/or regulations of Title IX and Section 504 or in some way discriminates on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, age or handicap, s/he may bring or send a complaint to: Waunakee Community School District, 905 Bethel Circle, Waunakee, WI 53597.

Informal Procedure: The person who believes s/he has a valid basis for a complaint shall discuss the concern with the local Title IX/Section 504 coordinator, who shall in turn investigate the complaint and reply to the complainant in writing within two days. If this reply is not acceptable to the complainant, s/he may initiate formal procedures.

Formal Complaint Procedures:

Step 1: A written statement of the complaint shall be prepared by the complainant and signed. This complaint shall be presented to the local Title IX/Section 504 coordinator within five business days.

Step 2: If the complainant wishes to appeal the decision of the local Title IX/Section 504 coordinator, s/he may submit a signed statement of appeal to the superintendent of schools within five business days after receipt of the local coordinators response to the complaint. The superintendent shall meet with all parties involved, formulate a conclusion, and respond in writing to the complainant within 10 business days.

Step 3: If the complainant remains unsatisfied, s/he may appeal through a signed written statement to the board of education within five business days of the receipt of the superintendent’s response. In an attempt to resolve the complaint, the board shall meet with the concerned parties and their representative within 15 days of the receipt of such appeal. A copy of the board’s disposition shall be sent to the superintendent within ten business days.

Step 4: If, at this point, the complaint has not been satisfactorily settled, further appeal may be made to the Office of Civil Rights, US Dept. of Education, 300 S. Wacker Dr., 8th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606.

Health Concerns

Accidents and Illness

With the understanding that school is primarily an educational setting rather than a healthcare facility and staff and resources are limited, the school may notify the parent or guardian of the need for an ill child to be cared for by the parent/guardian rather than the school staff. Students need to be fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours before returning to school. Students experiencing episodes of vomiting or diarrhea in the last 24 hours or not yet tolerating regular diet should also remain at home. It is extremely important that you provide the school office with current home, work, and emergency telephone numbers.

The parent/guardian of a student who appears significantly ill or injured will be notified by telephone to come to school to pick up the child in order to insure the child receives appropriate care related to the illness or injury. Ill or injured students whose ability to participate in routine classroom activities is compromised to a significant degree due to illness or injury will be sent home after appropriate basic assessment efforts have been employed; these efforts may include questioning, observation and temperature taking. Effort may be made, if appropriate, to make the child more comfortable and rest.

Should a parent/guardian refuse to comply with a school request to take the child home, a referral to Dane County Human Services for suspected neglect may be made.

Head Lice

Head lice may be detected among students. The school staff works diligently to detect a problem early and eliminate the opportunity for the spreading of this disease. However, to manage the potential or actual problem of head lice, an effort at home is required as well.

To Do List: ❒ Observe for itching particularly in the ear, neck and crown regions. ❒ Check your child for head lice/nits regularly. ❒ Notify the school and the child’s close contacts immediately if you discover head lice in your family. ❒ Be aware that medicated shampoo and/or other treatments such as olive oil, Cetaphil, etc. alone are NOT the answer. The removal of nits and a complete household cleaning is also necessary. ❒ Check your child’s backpack daily throughout the school year to avoid missing any fliers that may be sent to inform you that lice have been found in your child’s classroom. If this occurs you should check your child daily for at least a week for nits/lice o Checking for nits/lice is best done by parting very small sections of hair and looking carefully for tiny egg-shaped specks attached to the hair shaft that can’t be blown or brushed away or removed except by pulling them off individually. Combs and/or hands used should be thoroughly washed after examination. o Nits can be found anywhere on the head and anywhere on the length of the hair. If one family member or person your child comes in daily contact with has head lice, the entire family should be checked.

Head lice is considered a communicable disease by the health department and should be reported to school as soon as cases are discovered. Students found to have lice will be excluded from school until they are properly treated; students will be examined after treatment before they are allowed to return to class.

Immunizations & Health Records

State law requires that all students in grades Kindergarten through 12 have at least minimum protection against certain communicable diseases; current immunization cards must be maintained on all students. Health records are kept by the school health nurse and are updated yearly. Please supply the school with any updated information on immunizations or special health concerns.

Medication

Whenever possible, we encourage parents to administer medication to children at home. Please check with your child’s health care provider to see if prescribed medication can be given outside the school day and thereby eliminate bringing medication to school.

Prescription Medication: Written consent and instruction from parents/guardians and a licensed health care provider must be submitted to the office on a “Medication Consent” form (see appendix H) prior to office personnel dispensing any prescription medication to a student. Medication must arrive in the original container with the child’s name, name of drug and dosage method, time and quantity to be given, physician’s name and duration of treatment on the container’s label. Over the counter / non-prescription medication:

Over the counter, non-prescription medication to be administered at school should be brought to the office by the student’s parent/guardian in the original container. Prior to dispensing any over the counter medication, parents/guardians are required to complete a “Medication Consent” form (see appendix H) stating time and quantity of medication to be administered.

Under no circumstances will a student be given medication or allowed to take medication him/herself, prescription or non-prescription, without written notification from parents to the school.

Independent Practice

Independent practice which contributes to the growth and development of the student is valuable.

Independent practice will be assigned to: ● supplement, support, and extend learning, ● reinforce classroom instruction by providing practice, integration, and application, ● help students become resourceful and work independently

The Board of Education recognizes the professional judgment of the classroom teacher to determine the appropriate amount and relevance of independent practice. Students in grades K-4 should expect 5-40 minutes of Independent practice three or more times per week. Students in grades 5-6 should expect 30-60 minutes. The amount of time needed will obviously vary according to the individual student’s age, needs, capabilities, and motivation.

Each student must be personally responsible for work missed during an absence. Makeup work should be completed as soon as possible upon the return of the student to school. For extended absences, the student should make special arrangements with his/her teachers.

A Checklist for Helping

Make Sure Your Child Has ✔ A quiet place to work with good light. ✔ Regular time each day for doing homework. ✔ Basic supplies, such as paper, pencils, pens, markers and ruler. Questions to Ask Your Child ✔ What’s your assignment today? ✔ Is the assignment clear? (If not, suggest calling a classmate.)

✔ When is it due? ✔ Do you need special resources (a trip to the library or access to a computer)? ✔ Do you need special supplies (graph, paper or poster board)? ✔ Have you started today’s assignment? Finished it? ✔ Is it a long-term assignment (a term paper or science project)? ✔ For a major project, would it help to write out the steps or make a schedule? ✔ Would practice be useful?

Other Ways to Help ✔ Review teacher comments on homework that has been returned and discuss comments with your child. ✔ Contact the teacher if there is a question about homework. ✔ Congratulate your child on the effort.

Internet Use Policy

The Waunakee Community School District will provide students access to technology resources including mobile devices and the Internet to support educational excellence in all our schools. The use of the Internet and similar communication networks by students and staff is a privilege — not a right. Failure to follow established rules can lead to appropriate disciplinary action as well as the loss of access to the Internet. The librarian in each building shall maintain a record of those students who do not have access to the Internet (or other materials). Legal action may also be taken where/when appropriate. See BOE policy 365-Rule 2 for more information.

Students will be taught digital citizenship, responsibility, and acceptable use of the Internet. Staff will be responsible for informing students of the District’s policies, procedures, and rules annually.

Lockers / Cubbies

Lockers/cubbies are provided by the school for the students’ convenience. The locker/cubby is used solely for storage of outerwear and school related materials. The locker/cubby is NOT student property and is assigned with the understanding that school officials have the right to open and inspect the locker or cubby at any time. Students are responsible for paying to repair any damage done to their locker. Locker/cubby inspection will be held on a regular basis. Students are expected to keep lockers/cubbies clean.

Lost & Found

A lost and found area is maintained at each school. Each year many very good items of clothing are unclaimed. Please label your child’s clothing so items may be returned if lost. The lost and found area is cleaned out at the end of each trimester. Unclaimed items are given to local charities.

Parent Involvement

PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

Every parent/guardian of a K-6 student is automatically a member of PTO. The PTO is very active and organizes many projects aimed at serving our students.

Parents/Guardians Visiting School

Parents/legal guardians are encouraged to visit their children in the classrooms. Advanced arrangements should be made with the teacher. During school hours, when students are present, all doors in the schools are locked. All elementary schools and the Intermediate school have buzz in security systems. Please press the call button once to contact the office, then identify yourself and the purpose of your visit when the office staff responds. When you enter the school, check in using the Raptor Visitor Management System. Please be prepared to give office staff your driver’s license to be scanned. A personalized name badge will be printed and must be worn while in the school.

Parents/Guardians Volunteering

Volunteers are an important part of our school program. We are eager to involve community volunteers (parents/guardians, grandparents, etc.) in our educational family. Volunteers provide a needed service in a variety of ways: chaperoning field trips, supervising children during assemblies, helping with parties, tutoring, reading, cutting and pasting, attending PTO meetings, and being guest speakers on careers and special interests. If you are interested in being a volunteer, please contact your child’s classroom teacher or the school office.

Parents, guardians, grandparents, and anyone wishing to volunteer in the Waunakee Community School District will go onto our district website at Families Tab – Volunteer Criminal Background Check Online Form and complete an online application form. The link is http://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us/families/volunteering.cfm

The form will then be electronically routed to Human Resources for processing. Once processed and approved, the volunteer’s record will be updated in Infinite Campus. If the volunteer is not approved, they will be notified in writing by the District Office. Please note applications may take up to 5 business days to be processed. Once approved, your application is valid for three school years. Please see Waunakee School Board policy #353.1 for further information. Volunteers

Volunteers will check in using the Raptor Visitor Management System. Please be prepared to give office staff your driver’s license to be scanned. A personalized name badge will be printed and must be worn while in the school.

As a result of the time volunteers spend with students, they periodically see or hear information about students which needs to remain confidential. Please consider the following guidelines when volunteering in classrooms, on the playground, or during field trips:

● All academic information is confidential. ● Periodically students may share information about their family or neighbors. While at times these stories may be innocent and/or amusing, it is best to keep them confidential. ● If a student exhibits behavior problems or a reluctance to follow through with directions, please contact the classroom teacher or principal. We ask that parents do not share their impressions of student behavior in the community. ● If a student shares information that suggests s/he may be physically, sexually, or psychologically abused, the information should be shared immediately with the classroom teacher, guidance counselor or principal. While this information should remain confidential, it is important that volunteers inform the student of their responsibility to report the information to school authorities.

Pets

No mammals, fowl, reptiles, amphibians, fish, pets or exotic pets are allowed on school premises unless the animal or pet has been administratively approved as part of a classroom curriculum, building (i.e., pet day, VIP Day, birthday, family learning night, public/student observations, etc.), canine assistance or canine(s) being trained to provide assistance for the blind, deaf or mobility impaired individuals, as part of a law enforcement canine training program or as part of an administratively authorized drug search. This restriction applies to all activities held on school grounds or in school buildings as noted.

Any group requesting use of school facilities will be provided with copies of this policy and the district guidelines regarding pets in the classroom as part of a facility use request.

All pet visits to the classrooms need prior approval by the principal. Pets that visit the classroom need to be muzzled, on a short leash and a copy of the animal’s immunizations must be submitted to the office prior to the visit.

Prohibited Items

The following is a list of many, but not all, items that have no place at school: knives, weapons of any kind, look alike guns, cigarettes, any items that ignite (lighters/matches), drugs or look alike drugs/alcohol, water guns, hardballs, bats, articles of pornography, and violent or other paraphernalia not conducive to a safe, orderly environment. These items, plus anything else which could cause problems of control at school, will be taken from students with appropriate consequences applied (i.e. suspension, expulsion). Parents will be notified and, in most cases, asked to come to school to discuss the seriousness of the situation.

Electronic Communication Devices

In order to maintain a non-disruptive learning environment and reduce the opportunity to violate the academic honesty policy requirements, via texting we do not allow electronic communication devices to be used during the school day. Parents should refrain from texting or calling students on their cell phones or smart watches during the school day. If students choose to use cell phones, smart watches, or electronic devices outside of the guidelines in the handbook they will be subject to the following procedures:

1st time: cell phone/smart watch/electronic device is taken, turned into the office, and returned to the student at the end of the day. This will be documented in the office. 2nd time: cell phone/smart watch/electronic device is taken, turned into the office, and parents will be called to pick the phone up (not returned to the student), and consequences will be assigned.

The Waunakee Community School District shall not be responsible for the safety or securing of personal electronic equipment that students choose to bring to school. The district may examine the cellular phone and search its contents if there is a reason to believe the school policies, rules or regulations have been violated. (Legal Ref.: Section 118.258 Wisconsin Statutes)

Use of a cellular phone is subject to the provisions of the Waunakee Community School District Acceptable Use Policy.

1. Students who bring cell phones to school are responsible for keeping their telephones turned off and in their locker/cubbie during the school day. All parent to student communication during the school day should be done by calling the school office. 2. Student shall not turn on or use cell phones while being transported in authorized district vehicles to and from school-sponsored activities or field trips, unless they receive permission from the supervising teacher, bus driver or there is an emergency situation that jeopardizes the safety of students, staff, chaperones or the bus driver. 3. Any parent/guardian who wants his/her child to use a cell phone at an unauthorized time may submit a request to the student’s principal or his/her designee, explaining the reasons for the unauthorized use. The principal’s or his/her designee’s decision shall be final. Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco and Look Alike Products

Waunakee Community Schools are drug free schools. Smoking, vaping, chewing or possession of tobacco products or any items that ignite (lighters/matches) are prohibited at all times on school property, at school events, or activities sponsored by the school. Drugs, alcohol, and/or look alike related paraphernalia or any other substance that causes intoxication or results in mind or mood alterations, including deliberate use of over-the-counter or unregulated substances for this purpose but excluding substances taken as directed with a valid prescription are prohibited at all times. Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion. In addition, students who violate this policy will be referred to law enforcement officers.

Weapons and Look Alike Weapons

Weapons and look alike weapons are prohibited. No person shall possess, use, or store a weapon on school property, on school buses, or at any school related event. A weapon is an object that, by its design and/or use, can cause bodily injury or property damage. This includes, but is not limited to guns, knives, razors, karate sticks, nunchaku, metal knuckles, chains, and similar items or destructive devices such as explosives or fire bombs. A weapon is also defined as any facsimile firearm such as a toy, starter pistol or

other object that can be perceived as a weapon (look alike). Any student violating this policy shall be subject to penalties outlined in state, federal and local laws including mandatory expulsion from school. Parent/guardians and law enforcement officials will be notified in all cases. Weapons will be confiscated by the district.

Exception:

The building principal may allow weapons in the building for purposes of demonstration or educational presentations. This approval must be in writing and granted prior to the weapon being brought to school. The weapon will be maintained in the possession of the principal except during the actual demonstration or presentation.

Promotion/Retention

Academic ability is the major criteria to be utilized in determining the promotion or retention of a student at a specific grade level. The acquisition of the basic skills in the core subject areas are of primary concern. The subjects of reading and math dominate the elementary/intermediate years and gradually give way to more inclusion of science and social studies. Social development, beginning foundations of sound work habits, and the early stages of problem-solving and decision making, are equally as important.

The decision to promote or retain a student is done after careful consideration of all the academic criteria and other factors mentioned previously. A committee composed of the classroom teacher, director of student services, school counselor, school psychologist, school social worker, reading resource teacher and principal, review student progress in the areas of social development, school history of achievement, emotional development, ability, achievement test results, existence of exceptional educational needs, and other educational characteristics (age, learning style, work habits) and make a recommendation to promote or retain. Final placement of a student is made by the school principal and is subject to appeal by the parents/guardians. Safety

Crossing Guards

Adult crossing guards are on duty at the following intersections:

th 4 & South Street 6:45-8:15 AM 2:15-3:45 PM Aldora Lane & Woodland 6:45-8:15 AM 2:15-3:45 PM th Hwy Q & 8 Street 6:45-8:15 AM 2:30-4:00 PM Madison St. & Verleen 7:00-8:00 AM 2:15-3:15 PM Madison St. & Santa Fe 7:10-7:40 AM 2:20-2:50 PM Hwy Q & Centennial 6:45-8:15 AM 2:30-4:00 PM Main & South Streets 6:45-8:15 AM 2:30-4:00 PM th Hwy Q & 5 Street 6:45-8:15 AM 2:30-4:00 PM Arboretum Elementary 7:00-8:00 AM 2:15-3:15 PM th 8 Street & South Street 6:45-8:15 AM 2:15-3:45 PM Water Wheel Dr. & Woodland Dr. 6:45-8:15 AM 2:15-4:00 PM Simon Crestway & Woodland Dr. 6:45-8:15 AM 2:15-4:00 PM

Arboretum, Heritage, Prairie Elementary (4K) 10:10-11:40 AM Heritage EC: 10:10-11:40

Motorists should show respect for and follow directions from safety patrol students and crossing guards. If a crossing guard signals cars to stop, motorists must obey and remain stopped until the guard directs them to proceed. To avoid accidents involving children follow these tips: ● Obey all crossing guard signals and commands. ● Watch for children who may run to or from school and buses. ● Slow down near schools. The speed limit is 15 mph unless otherwise posted. ● Slow down and be ready to stop wherever children are present.

Dropping Off / Picking Up Students

Arboretum: Please drop off and pick up your child on the west side of the school in front of the main entrance. This drop off and pick up loop follows the perimeter of the parking lot. Arrows indicate direction. If you want to walk your child in, please park in the west parking lot and then walk your child in. Please do not park in the parent pick up and drop off area. Bus students will be dropped off and picked up on the north side of Arboretum School. Thank you for your help in creating a safe environment for the children at Arboretum.

Heritage: To keep everyone safe, please follow these expectations for drop off/pick up: Parent Loop: * Pull ahead as far as possible. * Do not stop in the cross walk area. * Do not go around a vehicle that is dropping off their student. * Have your student exit the vehicle on the passenger side. * Drivers should remain in their car to avoid exiting into the traffic lane. South Street: * Pull ahead beyond the “Student Drop Off Pick Up Starts Here” sign * Pull ahead as far as possible. * Do not stop in the cross walk area. * Do not go around a vehicle that is dropping off their student. * Have your student exit the vehicle on the passenger side. * Drivers should remain in their car to avoid exiting into the traffic lane.

Always be cautious of children on bikes and walking. Do not use the driveway in front of the school loading/unloading area to drop off children. The local police will ticket individuals using that area immediately before and after school. This area is only to be used by buses.

Prairie: Adults dropping off or picking up should do so only in the parent drop off area in the south parking lot or in the inner loop in the north lot. The outer loop in the north lot is for bus drop off only. For safety concerns and traffic, do not leave your vehicle unattended in the Pick Up/Drop Off area. Additionally, to ensure child safety, please wait for the next available spot along the sidewalk loop to drop off your child. Have your child exit the vehicle through the passenger side to prevent a potential accident or injury.

To encourage independence and to eliminate confusion, we would like the children dropped off at the front doors of the school or the back gates near the fence, where they can walk with other children to their classrooms. Thank you for your help in creating a safe environment for the children at Prairie.

Intermediate: When dropping off /picking up your student, continue on the main driveway toward the school drop-off loop. Use the far right lane as you approach the main entrance of the school. Please pull forward toward the main entrance as far as traffic allows prior to dropping off/picking up your student. To exit, continue on the loop and turn right at the main driveway. If you pull into the parking lot to drop off/pick up your student, please park in a non-handicap spot and walk with your student to the crosswalk when dropping off; meet your student at the crosswalk when picking up. You may not block traffic at any time.

Security System

The Waunakee Community School District has installed and activated buzz-in security systems at all schools. During school hours, when students are present, all doors in the school are locked. When coming to school during those times, please press the silver call button near the front door. Office personnel will answer your page. Please give your name and brief purpose of your visit. You will hear a click when office staff unlock the door for you to enter. All visitors need to report to the office to sign in. We also ask that you refrain from opening any doors for other visitors. We appreciate your patience, understanding and support of establishing a secure school environment.

Emergency Procedures

The safety and welfare of students and staff are our highest priorities. We practice safety drills throughout each school year to teach students and staff how to keep themselves safe in an emergency. Monthly drills include fire, hold, lockdown, and tornado. Once a year we practice bus evacuation drill to familiarize students with the features of a bus in case of emergency.

In case of a dangerous situation, safety drills are also practiced. Hold drills are issued if there is a threat to students or staff safety so to minimize exposure by keeping students in their classrooms while continuing with the instructional program. Classroom doors are closed/locked and classroom activities continue as usual. Students ignore bells and are not allowed to use the hallways.

Lockdown drills are practiced in the event of a serious threat to the safety of students and staff usually involving violent behavior or a weapon. In this drill, doors are closed, locked and barricaded. Depending on the location of danger, students may be asked to leave the building and proceed to the rally points. It is our hope students feel comfortable practicing the drills and gain confidence in their ability to handle a safety situation.

Student Accident Insurance Plan

The Waunakee Community School District secures a Student Accident Insurance Plan which covers all students in our school. The Insurance Plan is an EXCESS MEDICAL INSURANCE ONLY; if families have their own insurance they must use it to its fullest then this insurance will review and consider the EXCESS not paid by your policy subject to the master contract. The Student Accident Insurance Plan provides benefits to all students while attending school during the hours and on the days when school is in session.

Property Damage/Vandalism

Damage to school property or materials must be paid for by the student and/or parents of the student involved.

School Rules

Parents are essential in assisting children in developing and strengthening the qualities of respect, responsibility and self-discipline. Each teacher has a discipline plan they share with and remind students of regularly. Predetermined consequences and positive reinforcements provide the students with a logical way of predicting consequences of the choices they make.

Students are expected to display respect, responsibility and self-discipline at all times by: ● Keeping hands, feet and other objects to yourself. ● Respecting things that belong to the school and others. ● Using polite and appropriate language. ● Walking and using a quiet voice in the school building. ● Following directions from adults working in the school the first time they are given. ● Not interfering with learning or teaching. ● No gum chewing unless authorized by the teacher. ● Hats are not to be worn in school unless it is for a special event.

Students who escalate through the classroom discipline plan and/or consistently choose not to display respect, responsibility and self-discipline will be referred to the principal. Parents will be notified and students will receive appropriate consequences based on the severity of their behavioral choice.

Playground Rules

The following are some of the safety rules for equipment and property: ● Use playground equipment properly. ● Sit on the slide. ● Use jump ropes for their intended purposes. ● Do not jump off playground equipment. ● One person per swing; swings are to be sat on only. Twisting swings or winding of swings is not allowed. ● Baseballs, hardballs, and bats are only allowed with adult supervision. ● Pea gravel, wood chips, and sand are to remain on the ground and are not to be thrown. ● No games involving physical contact are allowed. ● Snowball throwing is not allowed unless your school has a designated target. ● At the end of recess: o All activities end when the bell/whistle sounds. o Please return all balls, ropes, etc.

Recess Attire

Students should always dress appropriately for weather conditions. General guidelines for keeping students in school in the morning or during recess are: temperature of 0°; wind chill of 10° or below, heat index of 100° or above or rainy conditions. School staff will monitor weather conditions and make decisions based on current weather reports. Students are expected to wear boots and snow pants while playing in the snow. Please label your child’s outerwear so it may be returned if lost.

Request for Students to Remain Indoors for Recess

An adult must be present whenever a child is to stay in for recess. Please limit these requests. We may require a note from a physician when it is necessary for a child to remain in for an extended period of time.

Safety and Well Being of Students

Safety is our primary concern. Any behavior which is potentially dangerous to the safety and well being of others is prohibited.

Student Services

Counseling Program

The Counseling program offers services for all students. Through classroom activities, small group discussions and individual meetings with students, the counselor helps students to better understand themselves, to make good decisions, and to solve problems. If you would like to discuss a concern with or feel your child could benefit from services of the school counselor, please call the school’s main number and select the school counselor option.

English Language Learner

Students whose first language is not English are eligible to receive English Language Learner (ELL) services. Generally, parents indicate this information on the enrollment form and then are asked to complete a short Home Language Survey. After the student’s English is assessed, parents must complete a Permission to Participate form. ELL Services are based on teacher(s) input, student language needs, and ELL teacher availability. Services may include direct instruction, “as needed” instruction, academic monitoring and/or providing translations. Instruction may occur in the classroom or in a pull-out situation.

Please contact the ELL teacher for additional translation services and resources.

Pathways

Students identified through nomination by parents or teachers as having a high interest or ability may be eligible to participate in programming provided through the Pathways Program. The Pathways program of the Waunakee Community School District provides assistance to meet the learning needs of highly able students.

Reading Specialist

The reading specialist helps in identifying students with needs in the area of reading and provides remediation to assist students in academic growth. The specialist in this area works with small groups or individuals and is often involved in the assessment process.

School Social Worker

The school social worker assists students and families who are experiencing difficulties in relationships at school and at home.

Special Education Programs

The Waunakee Community School District provides special education programs for students who have been identified as having disabilities. Students are identified through a process which involves individual assessment, multidisciplinary team meetings, and review by the Director of Student Services.

Programs offered are: Speech and Language, Cognitive Disabilities, Early Childhood, Learning Disabilities and Behavioral/Emotionally Disturbed.

Related Services are: Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Adaptive Physical Education.

Section 504 Accommodations

The Waunakee Community School District provides accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act to students who need accommodations to have equal access to their educational programming. These students need to be identified as having a disability. Students are identified through a process which involves individual assessment, a team meeting, and review by the Director of Student Services.

Some examples of Section 504 accommodations and disabilities include: Health services for students with diabetes; • Preferred seating for students with a hearing impairment; • Extended time for students with reading disabilities. •

Student Teachers

The Waunakee Community School District welcomes student teachers from area colleges and universities. Helping to train future teachers is part of the District’s responsibility to the educational community.

Statement of NonDiscrimination

The Waunakee Community School District does not discriminate against pupils on the basis of sex, race, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, religion, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability or handicap in its education programs or activities. Federal law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion or handicap. The Wisconsin Fair Employment Law also prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of creed, marital status, ancestry, arrest record or conviction record, or sexual orientation.

Student Dress

Students' clothing should be appropriate for the working and learning environment. Students are expected and required to wear clothing that is neat, clean, safe, fits well, is worn properly and reflects good taste. Any type of attire that is obscene, attracts undue attention to the wearer and causes a disturbance or safety concern for the wearer, or others, is not allowed. Students are expected to wear pants which fit appropriately, insure that no underclothing is showing, and that there is not a risk of pants falling down. Shirts must cover all underclothing (tank top straps should be at least ½ inch, stomachs should not be showing and halter tops are not allowed.) Shorts must be a minimum of 1 inch past student’s bottom. Clothing with advertisements for controlled substances (drugs including tobacco and alcohol), sexually explicit, gang related, vulgar or insulting decorations, are not compatible with the school environment and are not allowed. Students will be asked to get another shirt or turn their shirt inside out. Hats are not allowed to be worn in the school building. Hats, if worn outdoors, must be worn facing forward.

Student Records

Student records means all records relating to individual pupils maintained by the school but not including notes or records maintained for personal use by a staff member. “Record” means any material on which written, drawn, printed, spoken, visual, electronic or electromagnetic information is recorded or preserved regardless of physical form or characteristics.

Access to Student Records

Only licensed school officials, teachers and staff members who have a legitimate educational interest will be granted access to student records. An access listing in each school building lists these individuals. A record will be kept of all persons (except parents/guardians and eligible students) who have had access to a student’s central or cumulative file, and this record will be available for parents/guardians.

Parent/Guardian Right to Inspect and Review

Only parents/custodial guardians have the right to inspect and review their child’s records. They also have the right to have their request to inspect and review honored within a reasonable period of time (not to exceed 45 days after a request has been made.) A request from a third party must be accompanied by an authorization for such release from the parent/guardian or eligible students. Individuals must establish proper identification of the person requesting the record. The school contact person is the building principal. If circumstances effectively prevent the parent from exercising their right to inspect and review the student’s records, the educational agency must (a) provide the parent with a copy of the requested record; or (b) make other arrangements for the parent to inspect and review the requested records.

Procedure for Amendment of Records

The parent/guardian who believes information contained in the education records of the student is inaccurate or misleading or violates the privacy or other rights of the student may request that this information be amended. This request should include a statement of the record to be amended and the reason for the amendment. The request should be addressed to the district’s custodian of records (Director of Student Services).

Maintenance and Destruction of Records

Files may be reviewed at any time by the custodian of records. While students are attending school in the District, their records will be maintained in the school of attendance. The building principal shall have primary responsibility for maintaining the confidentiality of all pupil records kept at school. When the student ceases to be enrolled in the district (or should the new school of attendance be unknown), behavioral records will be maintained for one year after leaving (unless permission is secured to keep longer) and progress records shall be maintained for at least five years after the student ceases to be enrolled in the district.

Disclosure of Information from Records

School records, including personally identifiable information in behavioral records, will be transferred to

another district upon receipt of written confirmation of enrollment in such district. Disclosure to Federal and State Officials

The Waunakee Community School District will disclose information to federal and state officials under the following circumstances: a. An audit of federally supported education programs and; b. In connection with enforcement or compliance with federal legal requirements which relate to federally supported education programs.

Complaint Procedure

Complaints alleging educational agency or institution non compliance with the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERP-1) can be filed at the following address: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

Supplies/Textbook Fees

The Waunakee Community School District charges a supplies/textbook fee. This fee is approved annually by the Board of Education. The fee varies by grade level. The fee is charged to partially offset the district’s costs for providing necessary educational materials.

Waiver of Fees

The Waunakee Community School District charges fees for several purposes. The student registration fee will be waived for families who qualify for the federal free/reduced lunch program. Applications for the federal free/reduced lunch program are sent home to all families prior to the start of the school year.

Parents submitting an application for free/reduced price meals at the time of registration/enrollment do not need to pay the student fee. If it is determined later that the parent did not qualify, the school will contact the parent to collect the student fee. Please direct any free and reduced lunch application questions to 849-2185.

Student fees paid by parents who move out of the district are not reimbursable.

Supplies/Textbook Fees:

Kindergarten: $40.00 Grades 1-4: $45.00 Grades 5-6: $45.00

Types of Transportation

Bus Transportation The Bus Transportation Handbook is included in the Appendix of this handbook and covers all the information on bus transportation. If you have any questions on busing please call Lamers Bus Company at 850-5253, extension 2.

Bicycles Bicycle riding presents a safety hazard when children do not follow proper bicycle safety rules. Be sure your child is able to handle a bicycle safely before you allow him/her to ride a bike to school. Please remind your student to wait for the crossing guard to stop traffic on intersections where there is a crossing guard. For the safety of walkers and others using the sidewalks, we expect all bicyclists to walk their bikes on school sidewalks and all sidewalks leading to the school building. All bike riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets and lock their bikes. The school district is not responsible for stolen bikes.

Inline Skates/Scooters Inline skates/scooters/Heelies are not to be used on school grounds. Due to safety concerns, Heelies are not permitted in the school building. Inline skates should be removed before entering school grounds. Scooters should be walked when on school grounds. Electric scooters are not permitted to come to school.

Skateboards Due to liability and safety of children, skateboards are not allowed on the bus or to be ridden on school property. Intermediate students should get a permanent locker pass so students can take the skateboard/skates directly to the locker.

Weather Emergencies

Early Dismissal Information

If students are dismissed early from school due to inclement weather or other reasons, does your child know what to do? Please discuss early dismissal procedures with your child throughout the school year, especially on mornings of possible snow/ice storms.

If school is dismissed early your child will be instructed according to the information you supplied at the beginning of the year on the “Early Dismissal Form.” Parents are notified of an early dismissal through School Messenger, and public broadcasts on TV and Radio.

If an early release from school is required, our goal is to ensure students know what procedures to follow once dismissed and that all students arrive home safely and have adequate supervision upon arrival home.

School Closing for Inclement Weather and Emergencies

Parents may check the Waunakee School District website at http://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us or the resources below for school closings:

Radio Stations Radio Stations TV Stations Websites Q106 (106.3 FM) WMMM (105.5 FM) Channel 3 WISC www.channel3000.com WZEE Z104 (104.1 FM WMGN (98 FM) Channel 15 WMTV www.nbc15.com WOLX (94.9 FM) WNNO (106.9 FM) Channel 27 WKOW www.wkow.com WDLS (900 AM) WJJO (94.1 FM) WIBA (1310 AM) WTDY (1670 AM) WIBU (1240 AM) WTSO (1070 AM)

Parents may wish to consider subscribing to local media text alert systems as another option for receiving school closing information.

Parents are reminded to make arrangements for the care of their child if school is dismissed before the end of the day. Please review early dismissal arrangements with your child on a regular basis, especially when severe weather is forecast.

Appendix

Access to Patient Health Care Records A

Elementary & Secondary Education Act B

Equal Educational Opportunities C

Glossary of Educational Acronyms and Jargon D

Pupil Privacy Rights Notification E

English Language Learner (ELL) Services F

Student Record Rights Notification G

Student Accident Insurance Letter to Parents H

Response To Intervention Letter to Parents I

Medication Information ● Prescription Medication Consent Form J ● Over-the-Counter Medication Consent Form

Pupil Transportation Handbook K

ACCESS TO PATIENT HEALTH CARE RECORDS (Section 146.83, Wisconsin Statutes)

Wisconsin law requires a health care provider to provide each patient with a statement of access right to patient health care records. The statement must be provided either upon admission to an in-patient health care facility or upon the first provision of services to the health care provider. The law provides that if the patient or other person submits a statement consenting to the disclosure of information from patient health care records, the patient or person may: ● After providing a reasonable note, inspect the health care records of the health care provider relating to that patient at any time during regular business hours. ● After payment of reasonable costs, receive a copy of the patient’s health care records. ● After payment of reasonable costs, receive a copy of the health care provider’s x-ray reports or the x-rays referred to another health care provider of the patient’s choice.

The statement consenting to the disclosure of information from patient health care records must be written and include all of the following: the name of the patient whose record is being disclosed; the type of information to be disclosed; the types of healthcare providers making the disclosure; the purpose of the disclosure; the party to whom disclosure may be made; the signature of the patient or person authorized by the patient; and if signed by a person authorized by the patient, the relationship of that person to the patient or the authority of the person.

The health care provider must note the time and the date of each request by a patient or person authorized by the patient to inspect the patient’s health care records. Also the health care provider must note the name of the inspecting person, the time and date of inspection and the records released for inspection.

A parent who has been denied periods of physical placement by a court in action relating to annulment, divorced, or legal separation does not have the rights of a parent or guardian with respect to access of that child’s patient health care records.

No person may do any of the following: ● Intentionally falsify a patient health care record. ● Conceal or withhold a patient health care record with intent to prevent its release to the patient, or his or her guardian, or to a person with the informed written consent of the patient, or obstruct an investigation or prosecution. ● Intentionally destroy or damage record in order to prevent or obstruct an investigation or prosecution.

ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION ACT

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (also known as E.S.E.A. or “No Child Left Behind” provides you with the right to ask for and receive information on the qualification of your child’s teacher(s). Specifically, you have the right to request the following:

● Whether your child’s teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which s/he teaches. ● Whether your child’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualifications or licensing criteria have been waived. ● The baccalaureate degree major of your child’s teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher. ● Whether your child is provided services by instructional assistants, and if so, their qualifications.

You can check on the state certification of your child’s teacher by accessing the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction website at https://dpi.wi.gov/tepdl/license-lookup/public-search, or you may request the information from the Waunakee Community School District’s Human Resources’ office at (608) 849-2000.

Policies of the Board of Education Series 400: Students EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES 411

The School District is committed and dedicated to the task of providing the best education possible for every child in the District for as long as the student can benefit from attendance and the student's conduct is compatible with the welfare of the entire student body.

The right of the student to be admitted to school and to participate fully in curricular, extracurricular, student services, recreational or other programs or activities shall not be abridged or impaired because of a student's sex, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, color, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity (including gender expression, gender non-conformity, and transgender), physical, mental, emotional or learning disability or handicap. In addition, this school district is committed to providing learning environments free of discrimination on the basis of HIV infection or perceived HIV infection. To promote a productive learning environment, we must encourage an atmosphere respectful of individual differences so that people can learn in a functional and non-threatening atmosphere.

Students who have been identified as having a handicap or disability, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act, shall be provided with reasonable accommodations in educational services or programs. Students may be considered handicapped or disabled under this policy even if they are not covered under the district's special education policies and procedures.

The District shall also provide for the reasonable accommodation of a student's sincerely held religious beliefs with regard to examinations and other academic requirements. Requests for accommodations shall be made in writing and approved by the building principal. Accommodations may include, but not necessarily be limited to, exclusion from participation in an activity, alternative assignments, released time from school to participate in religious activities and opportunities to make up work missed due to religious observances. Any accommodations granted under this policy shall be provided to students without prejudicial effect.

Gender identity issues can affect student use of facilities and the provision of equal educational opportunities. The definitions below are not intended to label students but rather to assist in understanding these guidelines and District expectations for staff under District policies. Students may or may not use these terms to describe themselves.

Definitions A. “Transgender” describes people whose gender identity is different than their biological sex assigned at birth. B. “Gender identity” is a person’s deeply held sense or psychological knowledge of their own gender, regardless of the biological sex they were assigned at birth. Everyone has a gender identity. C. “Gender nonconforming” describes people whose gender expression differs from stereotypical or prevailing social expectations, such as “feminine” boys or “masculine” girls, or those who are perceived as androgynous. D. “Gender expression” refers to the way a person expresses gender, such as clothing, hairstyles, activities or mannerisms. E. "Ancestry" refers to the country from where your ancestors came. F. "National Origin" refers to the country from where you were born. G. "Creed" refers to the basic beliefs of a religious faith.

Any student who has a need or desire for increased privacy, regardless of the underlying reason, may be provided with access to a single-access restroom where such a facility is reasonably available, but no student shall be required to use such a restroom because of the student’s transgender or gender nonconforming status.

If a transgender student makes a request regarding use of segregated restrooms, segregated locker rooms or any similar changing area, or other physical space in which biological sex assigned at birth is generally a consideration in segregating students, that request may be first considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the relevant interests of the student, the District, and other students potentially affected by the request. A student who is transgender will generally be permitted

to access the men’s/women’s or boy’s/girl’s segregated restrooms that correspond to the gender identity that the student consistently asserts at school and in other social environments.

Any student who has a need or desire for increased privacy, regardless of the underlying reason, may be provided (to the extent reasonably available) with a reasonable alternative changing area (for example, a nearby restroom stall with a door, an area separated by a curtain, a physical education teacher’s office in the locker room, or a nearby single-access restroom) or provided with an alternative changing schedule. Any alternative arrangement should be provided in a way that gives adequate consideration to relevant privacy concerns.

If a transgender student makes any request regarding the use of locker rooms or any similar type of changing area, the request shall be assessed on a case-by-case basis to (a) facilitate the transgender student’s access to the District’s physical education curriculum and other relevant programs; (b) ensure adequate student privacy and safety; and (c) minimize stigmatization of the transgender student. The physical layout of the facility and the degree of undress required when changing for the applicable activity are examples of factors that will be considered in making the arrangements. A student who is transgender will generally be permitted to access the men’s/women’s or boy’s/girl’s segregated locker rooms that correspond to the gender identity that the student consistently asserts at school and in other social environments.

All students have the option of consistently accessing the facilities that correspond to the biological sex that the student was assigned at birth. Accordingly, the District’s willingness to address individualized concerns and requests that relate to restroom and changing area access does not mean that any student is required to establish an individualized arrangement or plan with the school. Physical Education Classes, Activities, and Sports A student who is transgender shall be permitted to participate in physical education classes and intramural sports in a manner consistent with the gender identity that the student regularly asserts at school and in other social environments.

Students who are transgender shall be permitted to participate in interscholastic athletics in a manner consistent with the requirements and policies of the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletics Association (WIAA).

Dress Codes

Within the constraints of the District’s dress code policy and dress codes adopted by the school, students may dress in accordance with their gender identity. School personnel shall not enforce a dress code more strictly against transgender and gender nonconforming students than other students.

Questions and Complaints

Questions and complaints regarding the interpretation or application of this policy shall be referred to the Director of Human Resources or the Director of Student Services (District's Equity Coordinators) and processed in accordance with established procedures.

Notice of this policy and its accompanying complaint procedures shall be published at the beginning of each school year and posted in each school building in the district. In addition, a student nondiscrimination statement shall be included on student and staff handbooks, course selection handbooks and other published materials distributed to the public describing school activities and opportunities.

LEGAL REF.: Section 118.13 Wisconsin Statutes PI 9 and PI 41 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code Title IX, Education Amendments of 1972 Title VI, Civil Rights Act of 1964 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Civil Rights Act of 1991

Cross Ref.: 342.1, Programs for Students with Disabilities 411-Rule (1), Student Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedures 411-Rule (2), Title IX/Section 504 complaint Procedure 411-Exhibit, Discrimination/Harassment Form 444, School Age Parents and Married Students 512, Sexual Harassment Special Education Handbook

Adopted: March 1994

Revised: September1995 March 2002 May 2005 May 2016

Waunakee Community School District

GLOSSARY OF EDUCATIONAL ACRONYMS AND JARGON

ASSESSMENT: The analysis and interpretation of MANIPULATIVES: Objects used to assist information that results in a judgment of a student’s students in mathematical problem solving. abilities or skills in a certain area. Examples of manipulatives are counting bears, cubes, and fraction bars. BALANCED LITERACY: An approach to reading PORTFOLIO: A collection of student work which incorporates strategies from the phonetic, which displays student effort, progress or sight word, and whole language approaches. achievement in given areas. RUBRIC: A scoring tool that lists the criteria COOPERATIVE LEARNING: An instructional for evaluation of a piece of work with delivery in which students learn in small groups. gradations of quality for each criterion from excellent to poor; such statements make expectations clear and how students can meet them and assists in judging the quality of their own and others’ work. DPI: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. STAR Assessment: This computerized test is given to grades 3-8. ESSA: Federal education law that requires states to SWD: (Student with Disabilities) A student test who demonstrates significant needs and qualifies for special education programming. FLEXIBLE GROUPING: Grouping of students for WAEF: (Waunakee Area Education various purposes and needs of students for specific, Foundation) A charitable foundation that short-term skill development; flexible grouping may supports educational projects in the Waunakee be by ability, interest, topic or random. area. WAEF has made grants benefiting education in public and private schools and the community. FORWARD EXAM: A state-mandated testing of WCSD: Waunakee Community School students for grades 3-8 and 10. District LMTC: (Learning Materials and Technology Center) Previously known as the IMC and/or Library.

WAUNAKEE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

NOTIFICATION OF PUPIL PRIVACY RIGHTS

The Waunakee Community School District has adopted policies and procedures that comply with federal and state law aimed at providing access to information and protecting pupil rights to privacy.

These include:

● Parent/guardian advanced notification of right to inspect and opt his/her child out of the administration of third party surveys which may delve into sensitive subjects.

● Parent/guardian right to inspect any instructional materials used in the curriculum.

● Parent/guardian advanced notification of an right to opt his/her child out of any physical screenings the school may administer (vision, hearing, etc.,)

● Parent/guardian right to request student directory data information not be released without prior consent:

A. The Waunakee Community School District identifies the following as directory data:

1. Name 2. Name as part of their participation in officially recognized activities/programs and/or sports. 3. Weight and height, if a member of an athletic team, 4. Photographs 5. Degrees and awards received

B. Parent/guardians have 14 days, from the date of receiving the annual Pupil Privacy Rights Notification, to inform the district that all or any part of the directory may not be released without their prior consent.

C. Parent/guardian are allowed 14 days to inform the district, in writing, of all the directory data items they refuse to permit the District to release without consent.

English Language Learner (ELL) Services

The identification and placement of students whose first language is not English in programs for English language learners (ELLs) is based on the following required steps (information paraphrased from the Wisconsin Department of Public instruction website and is available at http://www.dpi.wi.gov):

Step 1. Home Language Survey: The Home Language Survey (HLS) is a district developed tool required by Title 1 and the Office for Civil Rights that should identify students than may not be proficient in English meeting any of the following criteria ● Students who communicate in a language other than English: or ● Students who have been significantly exposed to another language other than English.

Having another language spoken in home or routinely used in another setting is not an automatic identification of a student as an ELL. The preliminary evaluation conducted in the next step determines the students that are to be referred for placement in a language instruction educational program for ELL students.

Step 2. Preliminary Evaluation: Assess academic history using: ● academic records from within or outside of the United States; ● course grades which, in relation to the student’s grade level, indicate the lack of progress is due to limited English language acquisition; and ● information on everyday classroom performance.

Step 3. Screener Evaluation for Instructional Placement: Students with limited English language skills who have recently arrived in the United States, or are newly enrolled in the school district and are potential ELLS, should be formally screened to help determine whether or not the student is in need of a language instruction educational program.

The WIDA-ACCESS Placement Test or W-APT is Wisconsin’s initial English language “screener.” The screener serves to identity ELLS and assists in placement into an appropriate language instruction educational program that meets the needs of the student.

The Waunakee Community School District provide ELL staff and programming to assist students identified as needing ELL services through the above process.

For additional information about our district’s program, please contact your building’s ELL teacher or the ELL website: http://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us/english_language_learners.cfm

Revised 7/5/2010

G WAUNAKEE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTIFICATION OF PUPIL RECORD RIGHTS

Federal law (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act) and Wisconsin State law (Chapter 118.125) affords parents and adult students (over 18 years of age) certain rights with respect to pupil’s education records.

They are: 1). Their right to inspect, review and obtain copies of pupil records

Parent/guardians or adult students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) the wish to inspect. Should a parent/guardian or adult student ask for assistance in submitting a request to inspect, review or obtain copies of records, the principal, (or designee) shall provide such assistance. A response to request shall be provided as soon as practicable and without delay, but in no case more than 45 days after receipt of the request. An adult student or the parent/guardian of a minor student shall, upon request, be shown the student's behavioral records in the presence of a person qualified to explain and interpret the records. Such a student or parent/guardian shall, upon request, be provided with a copy of the behavioral records.

2) Their right to request the amendment of the student's pupil records if they believe the records are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s right of privacy.

A parent/guardian or adult student who believes that information contained in the student's pupil records is inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student's rights of privacy may request the district to amend the records. Such request shall be addressed in writing to the school official having custody of the records. Within a reasonable time after receiving the request, the person having custody of the records shall decide whether to amend the records in accordance with the request and inform the parent/guardian or adult student of the decision. If the person having custody of the records refuses to amend the records, he/she shall inform the parent/guardian or adult student of the refusal and advise him/her of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent/guardian or adult student when notified of their right to a hearing.

3). Their right to consent to the disclosure of the student's pupil records, except to the extent state and federal law authorizes disclosure without consent.

Exception includes the following: Pupil records shall be made available to persons employed by the district. Who are required by the state to hold a license and to other district officials who have been determined by the board of education to have legitimate educational interests, including safety interests, in the pupil records. A "school official" is a person employed by the district who is required by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to hold a license; a person who is employed by or working on behalf of the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including a health or medical staff and police school liaison personnel); a person serving on the board, a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a specific task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a person serving on an official committee such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks. A school official has a "legitimate educational interest" if the officials needs to review a pupil record in order to fulfill his/her professional or district responsibility.

4). Their right to file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office of the US. Department of Education. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Compliance Office, US. Department of Education, Washington, DC 20202-4605

First Agency, Inc. 5071 West H Avenue Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009-8501 616/381-6630 Fax: 616/381-3055

Dear Parent:

This letter is intended as an outline of the student accident insurance for the coming school year. Highlighted below are some areas of importance that should be reviewed and understood by all concerned parties with respect to the coverage guidelines.

Only ACCIDENTS which occur in school sponsored and supervised activities, excluding participants in interscholastic sports are covered.

DEFINITION OF ACCIDENT:

An unexpected, sudden and definable event which is the direct cause of a bodily injury, independent of any illness, prior injury or congenital predisposition.

Conditions which result from participating in an activity do not necessarily constitute accidents. For example, illnesses, diseases, degeneration, conditions caused by continued stress to a particular area of the body, and existing conditions aggravated by an accident are not covered.

A. This plan of insurance is EXCESS ONLY: It will not duplicate benefits paid or payable by any other insurance or plan including HMO's or PPO's.

B. The policy will not cover expenses payable under the insured's HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), or PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). If the insured chooses not to use an authorized medical vendor (under HMO or PPO), the policy will only cover expenses incurred that it would have honored had the insured used the proper medical vendor.

C. Medical treatment for a covered accident must begin within 60 days of that accident. Only expenses incurred within 52 weeks are considered. Benefits are determined on the basis of REASONABLE AND NECESSARY for the geographic location where services are performed.

D. Specific exclusions of the policy include, but are not limited to, sickness, disease, or hernia in any form; nonprescription drugs; fighting; the use of electric bio-mechanical devices; and orthotics not prescribed exclusively for rehabilitation (e.g., playing brace, mouth guard).

E. Any person who knowingly files a statement of claim containing any false or misleading information is subject to criminal and civil penalties.

Accidents must be reported to the school within 20 days. Proof of loss must be submitted to First Agency, Inc. within 90 days after medical treatment ends. Questions regarding claim procedures may be directed to First Agency, Inc. at 5071 West H Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009 or 616//381-6630 or Fax 616/381-3055.

Arboretum Elementary, Heritage Elementary, Prairie Elementary

Dear Parents/Guardians,

In order to provide the most effective education for all children, we believe we must provide effective instruction to each child. The Waunakee Community School District believes in providing interventions to children who need more support in various academic and social/emotional areas in school. According to new federal guidelines, which emphasize Response to Intervention (RTI), schools must document which interventions are being provided and how individual children are responding to these interventions. We are transitioning from one type of intervention, such as Remedial Reading, to a spectrum of interventions that expands opportunities to meet children’s needs. In Waunakee, we utilize three different levels of interventions or support. Interventions are provided to children through the classroom, supplemental small group support, and alternate curriculum.

Children who are showing some difficulty in school will receive instruction and differentiation within the classroom, through classroom-based interventions provided by the classroom teacher. Most children will only need this level of support. Some children will need additional consistent support and may be pulled from the classroom to receive those supplemental interventions. Many children respond well to these first two types of interventions and are successful in meeting educational standards with this support. In the event that a child does not experience success with either classroom-based or supplemental interventions, the child may receive more intensive instruction that provides more frequent help.

If your child is struggling in the classroom, you will be contacted by your classroom teacher and the school’s intervention team will meet to address your child’s needs and to review the progress your child has made in the school year. Depending on your child’s needs, he/she may be screened by staff using an assessment tool to determine which level of support is needed, classroom-based or supplemental interventions. You will be involved throughout this process, as we work together to help your child experience success in school.

We are committed to helping all children succeed in school.

Sincerely,

Sheila Weihert Dan Carter Dean Kaminski Tim Mommaerts Principal, Arboretum Principal, Heritage Principal, Prairie Principal, Intermediate

Appendix J

Use below link to print medication forms:

Click here for Prescription and Non-Prescription Medication Forms

Please note: This 2020-21 Pupil Transportation Handbook contains no references to COVID19 or the potential changes to pupil transportation as a result of capacity guidelines on school buses that may be directed by the State of Wisconsin/Dane County. An addendum will have to be created at a later date once all capacity guidelines have been finalized.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section I – Eligibility for Student Transportation Transportation Services and Policies 1 Eligibility for Transportation Services 1 School Closings and Cancellations 1 Transportation Guidelines and Procedures 2-3

Section II – Bus Conduct Rules Student Ridership Expectations 4

Section III – Discipline Process Minor Rule Violations 5 Major Rule Violations 5-6

Section IV – Additional Information Assigned Seating Diagram Pre-K-4 7 Assigned Seating Diagram 5th -12th 8 Bus Safety Zones 9

Section I – Eligibility for Student Transportation

WAUNAKEE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AND POLICIES

The Waunakee Community School District will comply with all state regulations concerning the transportation of regular education students and students with disabilities. All transportation arrangements will be made by Lamers Bus Lines in coordination with the Waunakee Community School District.

This handbook shall be distributed to all students, parents/guardians, teachers, school bus drivers, and school administrators to be used as a quick reference guide on transportation rules and guidelines. More specific information is found in Board of Education Policies (750’s) which are available at: https://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us/district/boe_policy_700.cfm .

ELIGIBILITY FOR TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

The Waunakee Community School District provides transportation for: 1. Students in grades Kindergarten through fourth grade who reside more than 1.0 miles from their assigned school. The district shall provide transportation to students in grades 5-6 who live more than 1.75 miles from the intersection of Aldora Lane and Woodland Drive. The district shall provide transportation to students in grades 7-12 who live more than 1.75 miles from the intersection of Knightsbridge and South Street. 2. Students in grades K-8 will be transported to school from hazardous areas as defined by the Dane County Sheriff. Streets that are hazardous to cross for K-8 students include: Main Street; Division Street; County Highway Q; portions of Woodland Drive, and Highway 113. Please call Lamers at 850- 5253 option #2 with questions about your home address. 3. Students who are placed in a special education program if the IEP team deems transportation necessary for the safety of the child. 4. Students who participate in the Early Childhood or 4K program.

SCHOOL CLOSING AND CANCELLATIONS

Announcements for closing of schools will be made via local radio, television stations, news web-sites, the district messaging system and the district web-site between 6:00AM and 7:00AM or during the day if a storm develops after the students arrive at school. School closings are determined by the District Administrator. Tune to the following stations to learn about emergency school closings: RADIO TV Web-sites WOLX (94.9 FM) Channel 3 WISC https://www.channel3000.com/ WMMM (105.5 FM) Channel 15 WMTV https://www.nbc15.com/ WMHX(105.1 FM) Channel 27 WKOW https://wkow.com/ WMLI Lite 96 (96.3 FM) Channel 47 WMSN http://fox47.com/ WZEE Z104 (104.1 FM) https://waunakee.k12.wi.us/ WMAD (92.1 FM) SOCIAL MEDIA https://www.facebook.com/WaunakeeCSD/ WTSO (1070 AM) WNNO 106, (106.9 FM) WBKY (95.9 FM) WIBU (1240 AM) WDLS (900 AM) WRDB (1400 AM) WBDL (102.9 FM) WNFM (104.9 FM) WIBA (1310 AM/101.5 FM) Page 1

TRANSPORTATION GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES

The following information pertains to transportation practices in the Waunakee Community School District. This information is intended to provide each eligible student with safe, efficient transportation to and from school.

Bus schedules: 1. Will be established which will cause pupils to be picked up at a set time 2. Arrive at school before the start of the school day 3. Generally no earlier than twenty (20) minutes before the first bell.

Bus Route Number, Pick-up Time and Approved bus stop location: 1. Will be provided to scheduled riders and their families before school begins. Will be mailed from Lamers Bus Lines LLC, not the school district.

Students must be out at the bus stop location: 1. A minimum of five (5) minutes prior to the scheduled pick up time. 2. The bus will not wait or return for students.

Only Students Assigned On The Route Will Be Allowed To Ride: 1. Space and liability issues do not allow for additional or unauthorized riders. 2. A bus student who needs to accompany another bus student to/from home or who needs to use a different bus or bus stop a. Are required to have a note of explanation written by his/her parent/guardian b. This note must be approved by the Principal. c. The student will then receive a bus pass for a specific date or time period. 3. Students who are not eligible to ride the bus a. Are not allowed to ride with another student even with a parent note. b. Exceptions may be granted by the building principal. See above (#2) for the required notes requesting exceptions. 4. Students will be picked up and dropped off a. Only at designated stops along the route that are approved by the School District. b. It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to instruct his/her child where to get on and off and how to get to and from the bus stop locations. c. It is strongly suggested that a parent/guardian or a neighbor wait at the bus stop location to supervise younger students. 5. Bus routes a. Will not enter private driveways, cul-de-sacs, dead-end roads and areas that would create an unsafe situation or require the bus to back-up unless specifically authorized. 6. District Shuttle System a. Elementary (K-4) students will use the District shuttle system when necessary to transfer between the elementary school attendance areas. b. This service shall be provided for intra-district transfer students, students with disabilities, and students whose approved day care provider is in another attendance area. c. This service is NOT available for 4K students.

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7. Special Education, Early Childhood Student or 4K Student a. Attempts to contact emergency caregivers will be made by Lamers Bus Service and school district personnel. b. Drivers will attempt to drop the child off again at the end of the route. c. If there is still no one at the stop to receive the child, the Lamers Bus Service will bring the child to the local police and/or contact the appropriate county social services department. d. Parents will be responsible to pick up their child. 8. Day Care Providers: a. Requests for a student to ride a route bus to get on or off at a bus stop near a childcare provider must be in writing on the Request for Alternate Pick Up/Drop Off Online Form. (https://www.waunakee.k12.wi.us/district/Transportation.cfm) b. This form must be submitted to the WCSD before the routes are finalized for the start of the school year. c. These routes are finalized no later than 5 business days prior to the start of the school year. d. Bus routes and pick up/drop off locations will not change during the first two weeks of school. e. The District will consider requests only if the route bus can accommodate additional riders and if the ridership will be on a consistent basis. f. The District will permit only two (2) pick up/drop off locations including home. g. Route buses will not make additional bus stops along the route to accommodate a childcare provider. h. Fees apply when the home is not eligible for transportation or when the childcare provider’s location is not eligible for transportation. i. No refunds will be provided after fees have been paid and service has begun. j. The Waunakee Community School District reserves the right to cancel or revoke the request at any time during the school year.

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Section II – Bus Conduct Rules STUDENT RIDERSHIP EXPECTATIONS The following section explains student behavior expectations while on the bus. The Waunakee Community School District views transportation as part of the school day. Therefore, behavior expectations of the students riding the school bus shall be no less than what is required in the classroom. From a safety standpoint, the fact that students are on a moving vehicle requires rules that are even stricter than those for the classroom. Each bus driver carries the responsibility of ensuring transportation for students and is authorized to enforce all established rules. The Waunakee Community School District reserves the right to modify the following rules, expectations and consequences at any time. In addition, the District authorizes the use of video cameras on school buses to assist with student management issues.

The following includes most, but not all, of the basic Student Expectations. 1. Students may ride only on assigned routes and vehicles. Students should respect private property while waiting at the bus stop and wait only in designated locations. Students should not move toward the bus until it has stopped and the driver has motioned the students to board. Students should always cross the street in front of the bus. 2. Students should avoid crowding or pushing when getting on or off the bus. The use of the emergency door is restricted for emergency evacuations only. 3. Students should take a seat as soon as they board the bus and remain seated at all times until the bus has stopped completely at the destination or bus stop. Students must share seats with other riders. Students may be required to sit three (3) to a seat and/or sit in assigned seats. 4. The district reserves the right to assign seats to students. Students in grades Pre-K-4th and 5th through 12th will be assigned seats according to a seating diagram. (See “Assigned Seating Diagram” on page 7 and 8 of this handbook.) 5. All students are to be seated prior to the bus proceeding on its route. Students should keep arms, legs, head and other objects inside the bus and out of the aisle. Each student must keep arms, hands and legs to him/herself while riding the bus. 6. Students should use quiet and normal voices in conversations with fellow riders. Yelling, screaming or profane language is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Harassing behavior, disorderly conduct, hazing, or anti-social behavior will not be tolerated. Sexually harassing behavior (obscene language and actions) will not be tolerated. 7. For safety reasons, students are not allowed to carry onto the bus any live reptiles, animals, insects, firearms, explosives, flammable materials, scented items or items that can be sprayed, i.e. breath spray, hair spray, scented markers, etc.; slingshots, rubber band guns, water pistols, knives or other sharp objects, any other unsafe items or oversized items that would block an aisle, cause loss of passenger seat space, obstruct the drivers' view or create a safety hazard. If a student needs to bring such items to school, it shall be the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility to transport. 8. When getting off the bus, the student should immediately move away from the side and never toward the rear of the bus. If a student must cross the street, s/he must wait for the driver's signal and cross in front of the bus. If a student needs to cross the street in a different area, s/he must wait on the sidewalk until the bus leaves the area and cross at the nearest crosswalk. 9. Students should show respect for all bus drivers, adults assisting students and fellow students riding on the bus. 10. Bus drivers shall be responsible for the orderly conduct of all passengers and will report any behavior problems.

11. Students may not litter. Please help us keep our buses safe and clean.

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Section III – Discipline Process

MINOR RULE VIOLATIONS

EXAMPLES OF MINOR RULE VIOLATIONS:

1. Yelling, screaming, singing or talking loudly.

2. Using profane or unacceptable language.

3. Failure to remain seated or to sit in an assigned seat if required by the driver.

4. Not keeping hands, arms and legs to oneself or out of the aisle.

5. Blocking the aisle.

6. Littering or spitting on the bus.

7. Showing disrespect toward the driver or another person.

8. Riding on another route without approval or a bus pass from the school office.

9. Throwing items in or out of the bus.

10. Failure to share seats.

11. Teasing, name calling, bullying, threatening violence, etc.

MINOR RULE VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES

In general, minor rule violations will result in a verbal warning from the driver to the student. Multiple minor rule violations will result in a consequence determined by the driver. An example would be an assigned seat in the front of the bus. If the consequence is unsuccessful, Lamers Bus Lines shall report the violations to the school principal and the parent/guardian. The school principal and Lamers Bus Lines will cooperatively determine additional consequences. An example could be a temporary or permanent suspension of rider privileges from the bus.

MAJOR RULE VIOLATIONS

EXAMPLES OF MAJOR RULE VIOLATIONS

1. Smoking, chewing or possessing tobacco or related products. This includes vaping and JUULing.

2. Possessing prescription drugs not prescribed for the student(s), illegal drugs, related drug paraphernalia which includes devices used to abuse inhalants and /or alcoholic beverages.

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3. Vandalizing or damaging bus property (restitution will be required from the offender).

4. Tampering with bus emergency equipment.

5. Possessing a firearm, knife, explosive, flammable material or other object that may be considered dangerous or could be used as a weapon.

6. Interfering with the safe operation and travel of the bus and/or other motor vehicle.

7. Physically assaulting (hitting, punching, kicking, etc.) or verbally threatening the well-being of another person.

8. Any act that seriously jeopardizes the safety of the student, passengers or the bus driver.

MAJOR RULE VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES

The incident will be documented by the driver and shared with Lamers Bus Lines management immediately after the route. Lamers Bus Lines management shall immediately investigate the report and will contact the parent/guardian and school principal. The school principal and Lamers Bus Lines will cooperatively determine consequences. An example would be a temporary or permanent suspension of rider privileges from the bus.

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Section IV – Additional Information ASSIGNED SEATING DIAGRAM FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES PreK-4th

78 Passenger Bus 82 Passenger Bus Driver Driver

W M A 1 < 4K/RSV > 2 M W W M A 1 < 4K/RSV > 2 A M W

W M A 3 < 4k/Kdg > 4 A M W W M A 3 < 4k/Kdg > 4 A M W

W M A 5 < Kdg/1st > 6 A M W W M A 5 < Kdg/1st > 6 A M W

W M A 7 < 1st > 8 A M W W M A 7 < 1st > 8 A M W

W M A 9 < 1st > 10 A M W W M A 9 < 1st > 10 A M W

W M A 11 < 1st/2nd > 12 A M W W M A 11 < 1st/2nd > 12 A M W

W M A 13 <2nd> 14 A M W W M A 13 <2nd> 14 A M W

W M A 15 <2nd> 16 A M W W M A 15 <2nd> 16 A M W

W M A 17 < 3rd > 18 A M W W M A 17 < 2nd/3rd > 18 A M W

W M A 19 < 3rd > 20 A M W W M A 19 < 3rd > 20 A M W

W M A 21 <4th > 22 A M W W M A 21 < 3rd > 22 A M W

W M A 23 <4th > 24 A M W W M A 23 <4th > 24 A M W

W M A 25 <4th/STJ *> 26 A M W W M A 25 <4th > 26 A M W

* STJ is for Saint John’s Grades 5-7 that ride elementary routes W M A 27 <4th/STJ *> 28 A M W

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ASSIGNED SEATING DIAGRAM FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 5-12 Page 8

Driver Driver 78 Passenger Bus 83 Passenger Bus

W M A 1 < RSV > 2 M W M A 1 < RSV > 2 M W

W M A 3 < INT > 4 A M W M A 3 < INT > 4 A M W

W M A 5 < INT > 6 A M W M A 5 < INT > 6 A M W

W M A 7 < INT > 8 A M W M A 7 < INT > 8 A M W

W M A 9 < INT > 10 A M W M A 9 < INT > 10 A M W

< INT/MS < INT/MS W M A 11 > 12 A M W M A 11 > 12 A M W

W M A 13 < MS > 14 A M W M A 13 < MS > 14 A M W

W M A 15 < MS > 16 A M W M A 15 < MS > 16 A M W

W M A 17 < MS > 18 A M W M A 17 < MS > 18 A M W

W M A 19 < MS > 20 A M W M A 19 < MS > 20 A M W

W M A 21 < HS > 22 A M < MS / HS W M A 21 > 22 A M W

W M A 23 < HS > 24 A M W M A 23 < HS > 24 A M W

W M A 25 < HS > 26 A M W M A 25 < HS > 26 A M W

W M A 27 < HS > 28 A M W 78 Passenger Rows 1-2 –RSV Rows 3-10 – Intermediate 83 Passenger Rows 11-12 – Intermediate/Middle School Rows 1-2 –RSV Rows 13-20 – MS Rows 3-10 – Intermediate Rows 20-26 – High School Rows 11-12 – Intermediate/Middle School Rows 13-20 – MS Rows 20-28 – High School

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D o o r

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Family-​Student Handbook 2020-2021

Family-Student Handbook 2020-2021