Handbook 2015-2016

Office Telephone – 203-869-6756 Fax – 203-869-1052

Ms. Jill Flood, Principal Ms. Mary Grandville, Assistant Principal

TABLE OF CONTENTS Mission and Core Values ...... 4 Vision of the Graduate ...... 4 Board of Education ...... 4 Principal’s Letter ...... 5 Central Administration ...... 6 Business & Operations ...... 6 Program Administration ...... 6 SCHOOL FACULTY AND STAFF ...... 7 ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION ...... 8 Office ...... 8 Visitors (GPS procedure Eo80.2) ...... 8 Parents, guardians, and/or members of the community are welcome in our schools and are encouraged to visit the schools/classrooms. All visitors are required to check in at the main office and are required to wear a visitor’s badge...... 8 General Visits: General inquiries about your child do not require an appointment and may be directed to the main office staff. Visitors are asked to make appointments for information or inquiries with the building leadership and/or teachers...... 8 Classroom Visits/School Tours: A written request must be submitted to the principal at least 48 hours in advance, specifying the focus of the visit and alternative times/dates...... 8 School Volunteer (GPS procedure E080.6) ...... 8 Early Dismissal ...... 8 Emergency Closures ...... 8 Student Profile Information ...... 8 Fire Drills and Emergency Preparedness (GPS procedure E051.16) ...... 9 Notice of Connecticut Sex Offender Registry (GPS procedure E051.16) ...... 9 Health Education ...... 9 *Child Abuse (GPS procedure E051.30) ...... 9 *School Records and Directory Information (GPS procedures E080.10, E040.29, E040.28, and E051.9) ...... 9 *Drugs, Tobacco, & Alcohol (GPS procedure E001.19) ...... 10 Admission/Placement (GPS procedure E040.16) ...... 11 *Homeless Students ...... 11 *Migrant Students ...... 11 *Pesticide Application (GPS procedure E051.17) ...... 11 ATTENDANCE INFORMATION ...... 11 Residency Verification and Registration ...... 11 *Attendance (GPS procedure E040.3) ...... 11 Attendance Law ...... 12 Tardiness ...... 12 *Truancy ...... 12 Religious Holidays ...... 12 Family Vacations ...... 12 Court Ordered Custodial Restrictions ...... 12 BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES (GPS procedure E002.1) ...... 12 *Harassment/Threatening Behavior ...... 12 *Sexual Harassment/Equal Opportunity (GPS Procedure L 020.2) ...... 13 Fighting ...... 13 *Dangerous Weapons and Instruments ...... 13 *Bullying ...... 13 Detention ...... 13 *Philosophy of Discipline ...... 14 Suspension ...... 14 Expulsion ...... 14 EDUCATIONAL POLICIES AND SERVICES ...... 14 Pupil Personnel Services ...... 14 Homebound Instruction ...... 15 School Health Program ...... 15 Health Assessments and Immunizations ...... 15 Administering Medications (GPS procedure E001.12) ...... 15 Self-Administration of Medication ...... 16 *Psychotropic Drug Use (GPS procedure E001.18) ...... 16 School Health Screenings ...... 16 Asbestos ...... 16 Communicable/Infectious Diseases (GPS Procedure E001.17) ...... 16 Illness ...... 16 Guidelines for Childhood Illness ...... 16 Hospitalizations and Injuries ...... 17 Special Health Care Needs (GPS procedure E001.20) ...... 17 Nurse’s Office ...... 17 Student Insurance ...... 17 Special Education ...... 17 Planning and Placement Team (PPT) ...... 18 Individualized Education Plan (IEP) ...... 18 2

Equal Opportunity for Students with Disabilities ...... 18 *Ceremonies and Observances (GPS procedure E001.1) ...... 18 Strategic Improvement Team (GPS procedure E010.1) ...... 19 Assigning Students to a Teacher and Classes (GPS procedure E040.17) ...... 20 Class Size Guidelines (GPS procedure E040.21) ...... 20 Grouping (Differentiated Instruction) (GPS procedure E040.22) ...... 20 *Promotion/Acceleration/Retention (GPS procedure E040.18) ...... 20 *Teacher and Paraprofessional Qualifications (GPS procedure L000.6) ...... 20 Standardized Testing Program (GPS procedures E003.3 and E003.4) ...... 20 *Homework (GPS procedure E040.23) ...... 20 *School Homework Practices (GPS Procedure E040.23) ...... 20 Field Trips ...... 21 Summer School (GPS procedure E001.2) ...... 21 School Lockers ...... 21 *Dress Code ...... 21 Recess Wear ...... 21 Footwear for Physical Education ...... 21 Americans with Disabilities Accommodations ...... 21 Soliciting by Students (GPS procedure E080.9) ...... 21 Distribution of Printed Materials from Outside Organizations (GPS procedure E 051.6) ...... 21 SCHOOL-HOME COMMUNICATIONS ...... 22 Kindergarten Registration ...... 22 Conferences ...... 22 *Report Cards/Grades (GPS procedure E003.1) ...... 22 Friday Folders ...... 22 Duplicate Mailing ...... 22 E-Mail Correspondence ...... 22 *Title I Comparability of Service (GPS procedure E001.6) ...... 22 *Title I Parent Involvement ...... 22 GENERAL INFORMATION ...... 22 Birthday Celebrations (New 9/08-GPS procedure E080.13 and E051.8) ...... 22 The Greenwich School Lunch Program ...... 23 Free and Reduced Price Lunch (GPS procedure E040.13) ...... 23 Children without Lunch Money ...... 23 Snow Day Procedure for School Lunch Program ...... 23 Nutritional Information ...... 23 Food Allergy Information (GPS procedure E051.31) ...... 24 Wellness Policy (GPS Procedure E051.8) ...... 24 Personal Items ...... 24 Class Pictures ...... 24 Dogs and Pets ...... 24 STUDENT TRANSPORTATION (GPS Procedure E051.4 and E051.5) ...... 24 General Guidelines ...... 24 Eligibility ...... 24 Pupil Walking Distance ...... 25 Safety Rules ...... 25 Roles and Responsibilities for Bus Procedures ...... 25 Rights and Responsibilities ...... 26 Schedules and Bus Stops: ...... 26 *Questions, concerns, requests & complaints ...... 26 CURRICULUM INFORMATION ...... 26 Advanced Learning Program (ALP) (GPS procedure E001.13) ...... 26 English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (GPS procedure E001.5) ...... 26 Foreign Language in the Elementary School (FLES) ...... 27 Language Arts ...... 27 Library Media & Technology ...... 27 Physical Education ...... 28 Science ...... 28 Social Studies ...... 28 Visual Art ...... 28 Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Agreement (GPS Procedure E040.4) ...... 28 Receipt of Handbook ...... 32 Personal Reminders ...... 33 Questions I want to ask the teacher during my parent conference: ...... 34 School Friends’ Information ...... 35

* Statement required by law While some GPS policies and procedures are referred to throughout this handbook, a complete and updated list of all policies and procedures can be found at http://www.boarddocs.com/ct/greenwich/Board.nsf/vpublic?open. This site can be searched by keyword. 3

Greenwich Public Schools Setting the Standard for Excellence in Public Education

Mission and Core Values It is the Mission of the Greenwich Public Schools • to educate all students to the highest levels of academic achievement; • to enable them to reach and expand their potential; and • to prepare them to become productive, responsible, ethical, creative and compassionate members of society.

Core Values: “As educators, we value… A Comprehensive education: we provide our students with a challenging, well-rounded education that includes the arts, humanities, mathematics, the sciences, technology, and health, and that fosters students’ social and emotional well-being. High expectations: we hold ourselves and our students to high standards of performance and behavior. Integrity: we are honest, ethical, and respectful of others, and we foster those traits in our students. Accountability: we establish clear goals, measure progress, and take responsibility for results, and we teach our students to become responsible, self-motivated learners. Collaboration: we partner with parents and our diverse community to support our students’ learning, and we teach our students to work cooperatively with others to accomplish goals. Diversity: we appreciate, respect, and learn from diverse viewpoints, and we teach our students to do the same. Life-long learning: we challenge ourselves to continue our own professional and personal development, and we strive to instill a love of learning in our students.”

Vision of the Graduate

Greenwich Public Schools is committed to prepare students to function effectively in an interdependent global community; therefore all students will develop their individual capacities to: • Pose and pursue substantive questions • Create opportunities that tap their unique interests, passions and curiosities • Explore, define and solve complex problems • Generate innovative, creative ideas and products • Advocate for ideas, causes and actions • Communicate effectively for a given purpose • Conduct them in an ethical and responsible manner • Respond to failures and successes with reflection and resilience • Collaborate with others to produce a unified work and/or heightened understanding • Recognize and respect other cultural contexts and points of view

About this Handbook

This handbook provides information about the most commonly referenced Board of Education Policies and Administrative Procedures for the Greenwich School District. The handbook does not provide complete policies or procedures. Changes in the policies are made throughout the year and are made available to parents and students through newsletters, web pages, and other communications. For the most current and up to date Policies and Procedures please go to http://www.boarddocs.com/ct/greenwich/Board.nsf/vpublic?open. Throughout this handbook the term parent is used to represent both parents and legal guardians.

Board of Education

By state law, the Board of Education is responsible for the public schools. It generally meets twice a month - once in a work session and once in business meeting - to review, discuss and/or take action on Board and Administrative reports/proposals and to review/revise Board Policy. Members of the public may address the Board during the public hearings held at the monthly business meetings on an agenda item or a non-agenda item. Meetings dates, times, agendas, policies and documents are available on the GPS web site: www.greenwichschools.org. The Board is bipartisan and unpaid. Two members from each political party are elected every two years for a four-year term. Listings of current Board members and meeting dates may be obtained through the Superintendent’s office (625-7400) and/or through the Greenwich Public Schools web site www.greenwichschools.org.

GREENWICH PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Principal’s Letter

Dear Parents and Families of North Street Elementary School,

Welcome to North Street School. The Mission of the Greenwich Public Schools is to educate all students to the highest levels of academic achievement; to enable them to reach and expand their potential; and to prepare them to become productive, responsible, ethical, creative and compassionate members of society. The Vision of North Street School states, “As a school community we believe that building a positive learning environment, where all members are valued and respected for their unique strengths and differences, is fundamental to student success. By fostering a sense of curiosity and a love of learning in our students we help them become responsible, self-motivated learners. It is our strong belief that engaging students in cognitively demanding, rigorous tasks in a safe and welcoming environment will enhance their learning and set the standard for excellence in public education.”

North Street School is a wonderful, neighborhood school serving approximately 400 students from preschool through grade 5. We are located on 20 beautiful acres in the central part of Greenwich, Connecticut. Our school is proud to offer a comprehensive and rigorous educational program that includes English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, technology, art, music, physical education, and other related services such as school psychology and speech therapy.

Mary Grandville and I want to share our enthusiasm with you as the leadership team of North Street School. We recognize the importance of our roles and understand that it is an honor and a privilege to be involved in the educational foundation of our young learners. We believe that collaborative interactions between parents, staff and administration will create a supportive learning community where all students can succeed.

The purpose of this handbook is to acquaint you with everything that you and your children need to know about our district/school policies and procedures. Please take the time to read through this invaluable resource with your family and become familiar with the information it contains. Please feel free to contact the school if you have any questions.

Please sign and return the “Receipt of Handbook” which states you have received and read the handbook and that you agree to comply with all of the procedures as they are outlined in the document. (page 32)

Best Wishes,

Jill Flood Principal

The Havemeyer Building, located on Greenwich Avenue, houses the Board of Education, and the offices of the Superintendent of Schools and his staff.

Central Administration Superintendent William McKersie (203) 625-7425 Deputy Superintendent Ellen Flanagan (203) 625-7446 Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Irene Parisi (203) 625-7463 Instruction & Professional Learning Director of Pupil Pers. Serv/Spec. Ed. Mary P. Forde (203) 625-7466 Director of Human Resources Robert Stacy (203) 625-7460 Director of Communications Kim Eves (203) 625-7415 Chief Information Officer Phillip H. Dunn II (203) 625-7452

Business & Operations Managing Director of Operations James Hricay (203) 625-7471 Accounting Supervisor Anthony Giovannone (203) 625-7429 Accounting Angela Vinci (203) 625-7438 Director of Facilities Ron Matten (203) 625-7437 Director of Technology Janice Gunnip (203) 625-7442 Food Services John Hopkins (203) 625-7424 Transportation Manager Janice Domiziano (203) 625-7449 Warehouse/Purchasing Eugene Watts (203) 625-7411 Director of School Safety Services Tom Bobkowski (203) 625-7478

Program Administration Adult Learning Program/Continuing Education Alan Curtis (203) 625-7403 ELL Coordinator/AVID District Director Trudi Durrell (203) 413-8454 Secondary FLES/World Languages Viviana Conner (203) 625-8061 Humanities Antoinette Fornshell (203) 625-7484 Unified Applied Arts Irene Parisi (203) 625-7463 STEM Sheila Civale (203) 625-7483 Special Education Carleen Wood (203) 625-7487 Special Education Kathy Coon (203) 625-7472 Special Education Jeffrey Libby (203) 625-7492 Advanced Learning Program Bonnie O’Reagan (203) 625-7422 Library & Media Fran Kompar (203) 625-7435 Title I Irene Parisi (203) 625-7463

SCHOOL FACULTY AND STAFF

Ms. Jill Flood, Principal Ms. Mary Grandville, Assistant Principal Kindergarten PreK Mrs. Vikki Cappiali Mrs. Danielle Micallef Mrs. Karen Hamilton Ms. Nicole O’Neill Mrs. Ilene Rietsch Ms. Emily Holroyd Grade 1 Ms. Shaundale Riley (P.A. Pre-K) Ms. Lissa Bentley Ms. Maryann Mortenson (P.A. Pre-K) Mrs. Laura Bernann Ms. Arielle Cline/Debbie Beinstein (P.A. Pre-K) Ms. PJ Connolly Mrs. Tara Nordholm (P.A. Pre-K) Mrs. Stephanie Nicoletti Mrs. Lisa Bria (P.A. Pre-K) Grade 2 ESL Ms. Claire Crocco Mrs. Vivian Serraillier .4 Mrs. Kelly Fujitani Reading Dr. Elizabeth Manning Ms. Karen Bakota Grade 3 Special Education Ms. Kerry David Mrs. Peri Giella Ms. Dawn Lopes Ms. Lauren Williams Mrs. Susan Zerman Speech/Language Grade 4 Ms. Beth Bloedel, Ms. Theoni Stavrianopoulos Mrs. Andrea Abbott Spanish Mrs. Tara Santillo Mrs. Virna Diaz-Jimenez Mrs. Darcey Zygmont Nurse Grade 5 Mrs. Marilyn Furtak, RN Mrs. Catherine Gunthrope Office Mrs. Maryann Jagodzinski Ms. Eileen Phelan Mrs. Jill Winningham Mrs. Linda Kocot ALP Mrs. Debbie Jezierski, PPS Clerk Mrs. Jessica Baker Café Aides Ms. Jacqueline Lowry .5 Mrs. Fran Wallace Art Mrs. Maryann Bria-Tiriolo Dr. Cheryl Iozzo Cafeteria Media Mrs. Geraldine Tuccinardi Mrs. Terese Case Mrs. Dina Nickerson Mr. Nick Stelluti Custodians Mrs. Jean Larkin Mr. Christopher Jordan, Head Custodian Music Mr. Harry Lefflbine Mrs. Janet Atherton .3 Mr. Nick Bria Ms. Victoria Boretsky Dental Mr. Aaron Lofaro . 2 Strings Mrs. Jeannie Schnakenberg Ms. Julie Overland .4 Strings OT Professional Assistants Mr. Dan Dompierre Mrs. Pearly Ann Boodoosingh PT Mr. Chris Bortot Ms. Dana Luhrs Mrs. Mary Ann Bria Permanent Substitute Mr. Anthony Buzzeo Mr. Joseph Mozian Physical Education Mr. David Bruni Mr. Cristofer Brown Psychologist Dr. Kent Sullivan-Wiley

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION *The following methods of communication will be used for notification of school closures and delayed openings: - GPS Web Site: www.greenwichschools.org Office - CT Weather Web Site: www.ctweather.com, click on IAN Office hours are posted, Monday through Friday. Parents Cancellations or follow link on GPS web site wishing to deliver messages, forgotten homework, musical - District ParentLink: The District will use the ParentLink instruments, etc., are asked to come to the office. Every electronic telephone communication system to call the effort is made to reduce classroom interruptions. primary number for each family. - Radio: local and regional stations Visitors (GPS procedure Eo80.2) - Television: Cablevision Channel News 12 and other local and regional stations

Parents, guardians, and/or members of the community are Please note: A delayed opening means faculty will also arrive welcome in our schools and are encouraged to visit the late to school. Since there is no supervision available before schools/classrooms. All visitors are required to check in at the stated delayed opening time, students must not arrive the main office and are required to wear a visitor’s badge. early on these days. Parents who must report to work at their usual times should arrange for their child to stay with General Visits: General inquiries about your child do not another adult or go to the home of a classmate until school require an appointment and may be directed to the main opens. office staff. Visitors are asked to make appointments for information or inquiries with the building leadership and/or In the event of an EARLY RELEASE: teachers. In the case of an early release, a decision is made prior to Classroom Visits/School Tours: A written request must be 11:00 a.m. in order to follow the standard early release submitted to the principal at least 48 hours in advance, schedule. However, a decision could be made at any time to specifying the focus of the visit and alternative times/dates. dismiss earlier or later than the ‘standard’ schedule. In either case, the early release dismissal times are listed on the GPS Web Site. It is suggested that if there is a chance of School Volunteer (GPS procedure E080.6) inclement weather, and parents/guardians will not be The Superintendent encourages the use and involvement of available that day due to work or other obligations, that volunteers in the Greenwich Public Schools in the belief that parents/guardians check in with emergency contacts and this provides an opportunity for citizens to render genuine make arrangements in case an early release is called. services to the public schools. The Superintendent also believes that such involvement furthers the District’s goals *The following methods of communication will be used for and objectives in community relations. Efforts shall be made notification of an unscheduled Early Release: to involve all segments of the community in the volunteer - GPS Web Site: www.greenwichschools.org program. - Local Radio Station: WGCH - Gmail for GPS staff Early Dismissal *The following methods of communication MAY be used for notification of an unscheduled Early Release: While we do not encourage scheduling appointments for students - Other local and/or regional radio and television stations during the day, we recognize early dismissal is sometimes unavoidable. - School ParentLink: Schools will use their ParentLink electronic telephone and/or email system at the discretion of When a parent requests an early dismissal, the child must bring a each school’s building leader and based on the school’s Early written note to the school. The note shall state the following: time of Release notification protocol. dismissal, purpose, and name of person who will pick up the child. The note should be given to the classroom teacher who will forward it Please check the GPS website at to the office where it will be recorded in a Dismissal Book, initialed, and returned to the classroom teacher. http://www.greenwichschools.org/page.cfm?p=66 for additional and/or updated information. All children who are dismissed for whatever reason must be signed out in the office by the parent or designee picking up the child.

Emergency Closures IMPORTANT: Do not rely on any ONE form of communication for information related to school closings, delays In the event of a DELAYED OPENING and/or early release. and/or a SCHOOL CLOSING:

Please check phone, email, web, television and/or In the event of inclement weather or other causes (power radio in anticipation of any changes of opening outages, etc.) for the delayed opening or closing of school, status for schools. the Superintendent or his/her designee will determine an appropriate and safe course of action. Generally, the decision is made and announced* between 5:00AM and 6:00AM. Student Profile Information Please note that although every attempt is made to determine the opening status of the schools as early as possible, the Superintendent reserves the right to make that With the beginning of each new school year, families will decision at any time based on the conditions of the moment. receive a Student Information Profile Sheet from our district In the case of a delayed opening, please continue to check the database. This profile contains all of the student's data status of the schools, as the status could change to a closing if (home, address, phone number) including emergency the weather or an emergency situation continues or worsens. contact information. Parents must please review the profile sheet, update the information as appropriate and return it to school immediately. This information will be used to update 8

the student's profile in our database and will be referenced in *Child Abuse (GPS procedure E051.30) an emergency. The Board of Education shall protect the health and welfare of all students who may be subject to injury or neglect by requiring certified professional staff members and Fire Drills and Emergency Preparedness (GPS instructional aides to make a report when they have procedure E051.16) reasonable cause to suspect that a child under the age of 18 years has been abused. While certified and paraprofessional Fire drills and emergency preparedness drills are held at staff members are mandated by statute to report suspected regular intervals as required by state law. Students must child abuse, all staff members are encouraged to make a follow the directions posted in each classroom. The school report when they have reasonable cause to suspect a child will host a drill each month for a total of 11. In the 1st 30 under the age of 18 years has been abused. The staff member days of the school year the school with have two (2) fire may make the report to the building administrator, the drills. Superintendent of Schools, the Department of Children and Families, or a law enforcement agency.

Notice of Connecticut Sex Offender Registry (GPS Child abuse is defined as any physical injury inflicted by procedure E051.16) other than accidental means or by injuries which are not in Dear Parents: keeping with the explanation given for their cause; In accordance with Public Act 09-199, effective September 1, 2009, whenever a registrant on the Sex Offender Registry is released into the community, the maltreatment, such as, but not limited to, malnutrition, Connecticut Sex Offender Registry will notify the Superintendent of the district in sexual molestation, deprivation of necessities, emotional which the registrant resides or plans to reside. This notification is in addition to maltreatment, cruel punishment, or neglect. that which is made to the local police department.

This information is available to the public at: A certified professional staff member or instructional aide http://www.communitynotification.com/cap_office_disclaimer.php?office=5456 who has reasonable cause to suspect a child has been subject 7 to abuse shall make or cause to be made an oral report to the Please note: You should type in the names of each Greenwich post office to Commissioner of the Department of Children and Families search the entire Town e.g. “Glenville, Old Greenwich, Riverside, etc.” or a law enforcement agency within 12 hours of reasonably

If you are interested in receiving notification of specific registrants being released suspecting a child has been abused or neglected. into the community and/or changes in their status, you may sign up for notification on the Connecticut Sex Offender Registry web site listed above. We strongly recommend frequently checking the Connecticut Sex Offender Registry *School Records and Directory Information (GPS website to keep apprised of any status changes or additions to the list of procedures E080.10, E040.29, E040.28, and E051.9) registered sex offenders living in Greenwich.

District Procedure E-0151.16 outlines the internal notification of Principals and A student’s school records are confidential and are protected all staff members with each registration and/or change in status on the Sex by federal and state law from unauthorized inspection or use. Offender Registry. Principals maintain a file on all registrants with the information available form the Sex Offender Registry site. This file is available to A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the be reviewed upon request. time the student enters the District until the student

As with any possible emergency, all staff members are on alert and understand withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student the procedures in place should they encounter a situation requiring emergency from school to school. action. Please take this opportunity to speak to your children and remind them to be alert for strangers and to immediately report any suspicious activity to a By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or responsible and trusted adult. Please know that we maintain close contact with the Greenwich Police Department on all reported incidents involving sex divorced, have access to the records of a student who is offenders. under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to Health Education the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.

Health education is provided in grades kindergarten through The principal is custodian of all records for currently fifth as part of federal and state mandates. enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent

is the custodian of all records for students who have In accordance with Connecticut law and Greenwich Board of withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during Education policy, parents have the right to exempt their regular school hours upon completion of the written request children from specific portions of the health program. These form. The record’s custodian or designee will respond to portions are: reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the HIV/AIDS Grades 2 & 5 records. Puberty Grade 5

In the interest of fully informing each parent, dates and Parents of a minor or of a student who is a dependent for tax times for parent information sessions on this curriculum will purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials be established each year and parents will be notified of these with legitimate educational interests are the only persons sessions so they may attend. You will also receive forms to who have general access to a student’s records. “School use should you choose to exercise your right to exempt your officials with legitimate educational interests” include any children from any of the above areas. employee, agents, or facilities with which the District

contracts for the placement of students with disabilities, as We believe strongly in the importance of fully educating each well as their attorneys and consultants, who are: child to health issues, which are part of our complex society. 1. Working with the student; We also believe, after years of development and review by 2. Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the professional and community groups, our health curriculum student’s case, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for a provides high quality education in all critical health areas. student with disabilities under IDEA or an individually designed program for a student with disabilities under Section 504; 3. Compiling statistical data; or

4. Investigating or evaluating programs. eligible student to the following entities. Each organization Certain other officials from various governmental agencies may request the information in a standard print or electronic may have limited access to the records. Parental consent is format. The production of mailing labels or the development required to release the records to anyone else. When the of custom formats is the responsibility of the requesting student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the organization using the data provided. right to consent to release of records. 1. Federal, state and local governmental agencies The parent’s or student's right of access to, and copies of, including but not limited to regional, inter-district, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that and other specialized schools and programs. are not considered educational records, such as teachers’ 2. Representatives of the news media personal notes on a student that are shared only with a 3. Employers or prospective employers substitute teacher and records pertaining to former students 4. Nonprofit youth organizations after they are no longer students in the District, do not have 5. Parent Teacher Associations for the purpose of to be made available to the parents or student. producing and distributing class lists and/or school directories to members of the school A student over 18 and parents of minor students may inspect community the student’s records and request a correction if the records 6. Military recruiters or institutions of higher are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the education as described in related procedure E- student’s privacy or other rights. If the District refuses the 040.28 request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to a No information may be released directly or indirectly to a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the private profit-making entity other than employers, hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the prospective employers and representatives of the news right to place a statement commenting on the information in media. School or district administrators should forward any the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades questions regarding disclosure, including but not limited to may be challenged, parents and the student are not allowed the type of organization, to the Deputy Superintendent. to contest a student’s grade in a course through this process. Parents or the student have the right to file a complaint with The District, when a student moves to a new school system the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District or charter school, will send the student’s records to the new is not in compliance with the law regarding student records. District or charter school within ten business days of The District’s policy regarding student records is available receiving written notice of the move from the new District. from the principal’s or superintendent’s office. Unless the parents/guardians of the student authorize the record transfer in writing, the sending District is required to Copies of student records are available without a charge for send a notice when the records are sent to the new District. the first set of copies and then at a cost of $0.50 per page, payable upon receipt for duplicate copies of records. Parents Parents and eligible students have the right to file a may be denied copies of a student’s records (1) after the complaint with the U.S. Department of Education student reaches age 18 and is no longer a dependent for tax concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the purposes; (2) when the student is attending an institution of Requirements of FERPA. Complaints may be addressed to: post-secondary education; (3) if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge; or (4) when Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of the District is given a copy of a court order terminating the Education, 5400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC parental rights. 20202-4605.

Certain information about District students is considered The District’s HIPPA Privacy Officer is the, School Nursing directory information and will be released to anyone who Supervisor (TBD). follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory information *Drugs, Tobacco, & Alcohol (GPS procedure E001.19) about the child. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days after the issuance of this handbook. Directory information includes a student’s name, The schools play three important roles in helping to prevent address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major student drug, tobacco, and alcohol use. Operating in field of study, grade levels, photograph, e-mail address, conjunction with the home and community, they: participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of • Try to prevent drug use through education attendance, awards received in school, and most recent • Intervene with drug users and at-risk students previous school attended. • Promote recovery through referrals and reentry support

Military recruiters or institutions of higher learning shall Smoking and/or use of smokeless tobacco is prohibited for have access to secondary school students names, addresses elementary, middle, and high school students. Students shall and telephone listings, unless a parent/guardian or not manufacture, possess, sell, distribute, or use illegal or secondary student aged 18 or over requests in writing that harmful substances in school buildings, on school grounds, such information not be released. or while involved in any school or school-approved activity.

On an annual basis the school system gives parents annual In addition to the prohibition pertaining to alcohol, drugs, notice of their rights, including the right to refuse to permit tobacco and inhalants, the Board of Education prohibits the disclosure of any or all Directory Information as defined. use of performance-enhancing drugs, including anabolic Denial to disclose Directory Information represents a denial steroids and food supplements, including Creatine, by to disclose same information to any/all institutions without students involved in school-related athletics or any co- express permission. If a parent (or eligible student) does not curricular or extracurricular school activity or program, object within the time specified in the notification, school other than use for a valid medical purpose as documented by and district administrators will release such information a physician. upon request without the specific consent of the parents or

*Migrant Students The District has a program to address the needs of migrant students. A full range of services will be provided to migrant students, including, but not limited to: applicable Title I Admission/Placement (GPS procedure E040.16) programs, special education, gifted education, vocational A student seeking enrollment in the Greenwich Public education, language programs, counseling programs and Schools for the first time or following attendance in another elective classes. Parents/guardians of migrant students will Connecticut public school District, out-of-state attendance, be involved in and regularly consulted about the private school attendance or admission through a bona fide development, implementation, operation and evaluation of foreign exchange program should contact the principal. A the migrant program. student who is transferring from non-public schools or schools outside the District will be placed at his/her current *Pesticide Application (GPS procedure E051.17) grade level pending evaluation and observation of the The Superintendent directs his/her designee to provide student after such assessment and consultation with the adequate and appropriate notice to students, staff and parents, the principal will determine the grade placement of parents/guardians prior to pesticide application in school the child. Nonresidents may attend school on a tuition basis buildings and on school grounds, in conformity with provided space is available. Nonresident students from applicable statutes. The definition of pesticide application other school Districts within the state, (Districts in the excludes disinfectants, sanitizers and bait formulations. Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport and New London regions) Parents/guardians who want to be notified prior to pesticide who apply pursuant to Board of Education regulations, may applications inside their child’s school assignment area may enroll in particular programs or schools within the District contact their school office for information. on a space available basis, without payment of tuition, as part of the inter-District public school attendance program ATTENDANCE INFORMATION called Open Choice. The Regional Educational Service Centers will determine which school Districts are close enough to make transportation feasible. A student who has Residency Verification and Registration attained the age of sixteen and who has voluntary terminated Connecticut General Statue and Greenwich Board of enrollment in the District’s schools and subsequently seeks Education Policy require students enrolling in Greenwich admission may be denied readmission for up to ninety school Public Schools be residents in the Town of Greenwich. Prior days from the date of such termination. A student, nineteen to registering parents are required to provide proof of years of age or older may be placed in an alternative school residency. Verification is required of all incoming and rising program or other suitable educational program if he/she ninth grade students. Verification is conducted at the cannot acquire a sufficient number of credits for graduation students school; all required forms detailing required by age twenty-one. Students who are classified as homeless documentation can be found on the Greenwich Public under federal law and do not have a fixed residence will be Schools website, www.greenwichschools.org link to the admitted pursuant to federal law. Residency Verification section.

Residency is verified for all students new to the Greenwich Parents who move during the school year must re-verify Public Schools at the District central office using a standard their new address and complete numbers 1 through 4 on the set of acceptable proofs (photo id, tax bills, mortgage Residency Verification Checklist before the new address can statements, verifiable rental agreements, and utility bills be added into the student database. Parents who lease other than telephone). Once residency is verified, property must supply a new lease or extension letter from registration materials including an application, verification their Landlord/ Property Manager along with a of the student’s birth date and medical form are processed at Parent/Guardian Affidavit when their lease expires. the school level. Changes of address are also verified at the District level. Students who are living with someone other Students who are living with someone other than a parent or than a parent or legal guardian are referred to central office legal guardian are referred to central office for for sponsorship. In this case, the adult with whom the sponsorship. In this case, the adult with whom the student is student is living provides proof of residence and signs an living provides proof of residence and signs an affidavit affidavit attesting that the student is living with him or her attesting that the student is living with him or her on a on a permanent basis. Once residency and sponsorship have permanent basis. Once residency and sponsorship have been verified, the registration process is completed at the been verified, the registration process is completed at the school level. school level. Sponsorship must be re-verified every year.

Students enrolled in a school identified for school *Attendance (GPS procedure E040.3) improvement pursuant to federal law may transfer to another public school within the District that has not been Attendance information can be found in the following identified for school improvement. The transfer will be procedure: allowed in accordance with law. Transportation will be provided by the District. Absences If a child is to be absent, parents must call the school before 9:00 a.m. You must call each day your child will be absent *Homeless Students from school. Homeless students, as defined by federal and state 1. Unexcused Absence – any absence from an entire legislation, will have all programs, services and regularly scheduled school day for which absence is not transportation that other students enjoy and may continue to excused as defined below. attend the school origin. The local liaison for homeless 2. Excused Absence – an absence from a regularly children is Mary P. Forde. scheduled school day for: • reasons of health, including illness, incapacity, or doctors’ visits. The District reserves the right to require a physician’s,

or other appropriate official’s, certification for absences in missed will not be expected the next day. Missing school for excess of five consecutive days or a total of fifteen school a religious holiday is an excused absence and students will days in any school year. not be penalized. • religious holidays • court appearance Family Vacations • funeral • approved school activities, such as field trips or college Family vacations taken while school is in session are visits considered unexcused absences. Parents are strongly urged • appointments which cannot be scheduled outside of school to refrain from withdrawing students from school at non- hours vacation times. However, if circumstances do cause a • suspension or expulsion vacation during school times, parents should inform the office and classroom teacher in writing. Since personal The school system discourages absences for reasons other vacations are not excused absences, teachers are not than those stated above. In exceptional circumstances, a responsible for preparing materials in advance for students. family may request a student be excused for a limited period. It is important to keep in mind when planning family Parents should initiate a request for the limited absence at vacations during the spring break, that the break may be least two school days prior to the proposed absence. The shortened or completely eliminated due to weather or principal or designated administrator will review the emergency closings during the school year that exceed those student’s academic and attendance records, teacher planned for in the school calendar. The district is obligated recommendations, and grant approval or disapproval. by state statute to open school for a minimum of 180 days of student attendance per year. Attendance Law Court Ordered Custodial Restrictions The Connecticut Statutes require parents or guardians of children from the age of five through eighteen years to be Parents should notify the school office immediately of any responsible for their regular attendance in a public day custodial restrictions regarding their child. Documentation school, in their District, during times the school is in session, from the court must be provided to the school regarding any or in another school providing instruction as according to special custodial arrangements. law; otherwise, they must be able to show that the child is receiving instruction equivalent to that of the public school. The law gives five days’ leeway before violation lays a parent BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES (GPS procedure E002.1) open to prosecution. Behavior Guidelines are all reflected in the following procedure: Tardiness School start times vary. A student will be marked tardy if Appropriate behavior is expected from all students. It is the he/she arrives in his/her classroom after that time. Children responsibility of the professional staff to be knowledgeable who are tardy must report to the office to verify attendance about and to use techniques used to reinforce positive and lunch. Parents are encouraged to have their children at behavior and enable students to develop self-discipline and school on time. Tardiness is disruptive to the educational respect for the rights of others. In cases where student process. Repeated tardiness can result in disciplinary action, conduct endangers persons or property, seriously disrupts such as detentions, or may require referral to the school the educational process, or violates a published rule of the psychologist. In extreme cases, tardiness can be considered school or policy of the Board of Education, students will be educational neglect and requires school personnel to report subject to removal from class, suspension, or expulsion from such cases to an appropriate state agency. school.

Teachers may remove from class students who deliberately *Truancy disrupt the educational process in the classroom. It is the A student age five to eighteen inclusive who has four Board’s intention suspension from classes and from school unexcused absences in one month or ten unexcused absences privileges, including transportation, be used only for serious in one year is considered truant. disciplinary offenses.

When a student is truant, all of the support services of the *Harassment/Threatening Behavior school are to be used to assist with the problem with particular emphasis on referral to Pupil Personnel Services Every child has the right to feel safe, valued, and comfortable staff, the Pupil Study Team and, if necessary, the Planning in school. No one else’s behavior should ever make children and Placement Team process. The school will coordinate feel afraid or embarrassed because of their color, their services with and referrals of students to community religion, the country in which they were born, their gender, agencies providing child and family services. their sexual orientation or disability. The Greenwich Public Schools has zero tolerance for harassment or threatening When none of these interventions is successful, and the behavior of any kind. parent or other person having control of a truant child fails to attend the required meeting with school personnel and/or Please teach your child that if he/she is harassed, bullied, fails to cooperate with the school in attempting to solve the threatened, or sees harassment or threatening behavior truancy problem, the Superintendent shall file a written happen to someone else, the behavior should be reported to complaint with Superior Court that this is a family with a teacher or the principal. To maintain a positive and service needs. productive learning environment, the Board of Education and District officials will make every attempt to halt any harassment or threatening behavior by calling attention to Religious Holidays this policy and/or by direct disciplinary action. For serious Students who miss school due to a religious holiday will be threats, disciplinary action will include notification of the allowed sufficient time to make up missed work. Work superintendent or his/her designee, possible involvement of

the Youth Division of the Greenwich Police Department, school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or and/or suspension. at any school-sponsored activity. A violation of this policy will result in the mandatory recommendation by the *Sexual Harassment/Equal Opportunity (GPS Superintendent of expulsion for one calendar year. Procedure L 020.2) Further, the possession of a facsimile of a weapon, Title IX of the Federal Education Amendments of 1972 (20 dangerous instrument, or martial arts weapon in any school U.S.C. 1681, 1682) prohibit school systems from engaging in building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or at any employment practices and operating educational programs school-sponsored activity may result in disciplinary action or activities, which discriminate on the basis of sex. Sexual including suspension and/or expulsion. Harassment is also prohibited based on Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and State Law – Sec. 10- 15c. Harassment based on sexual orientation is also *Bullying protected under State Law – Sec. 10-15c. Sexual Harassment In accordance with state law and the Board’s Safe School is defined as unwanted and unwelcome behavior of a Climate Plan, the Board expressly prohibits any form of sexual nature which interferes with a student’s right to learn bullying behavior on school grounds; at a school-sponsored study, work, achieve, or participate in school activities in a or school-related activity, function or program, whether on comfortable and supportive atmosphere. or off school grounds; at a school bus stop; on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by a local or regional board of education; or through the use of an electronic The Greenwich Board of Education has adopted an internal device or an electronic mobile device owned, leased or used Grievance Procedure providing for the prompt and equitable by Board of Education. resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by The Board also prohibits any form of bullying behavior regulations implementing Title IX of the Education outside of the school setting if such bullying (i) creates a Amendments of 1972. A copy of the Title IX Policy and hostile environment at school for the student against whom Grievance Procedure can be obtained at each school in the such bullying was directed, (ii) infringes on the rights of the main office, at the Board of Education, Department of student against whom such bullying was directed at school, Human Resources or at or (iii) substantially disrupts the education process or the http://www.boarddocs.com/ct/greenwich/Board.nsf/vpubli orderly operation of a school. Discrimination and/or c?open by clicking on Policies and Procedures. retaliation against an individual who reports or assists in the investigation of an act of bullying is likewise prohibited. The Director of Human Resources shall serve as the District Students who engage in bullying behavior shall be subject to Title IX Compliance Officer. In addition each middle school school discipline, up to and including expulsion, in and the high school have a Title IX Coordinator located at accordance with the Board's policies on student discipline, the building. suspension and expulsion, and consistent with state and federal law. Director of Human Resources For purposes of this policy, “Bullying” means the repeated Greenwich Public Schools use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic 290 Greenwich Avenue communication, such as cyberbullying, directed at or Greenwich, CT 06830 referring to another student attending school in the same Phone Number – 203-625-7460 school district, or a physical act or gesture by one or more Fax Number – 203-625-7408 students repeatedly directed at another student attending Email [email protected] school in the same school district, that: 1) causes physical or emotional harm to such student or The district will provide every student with equal educational damage to such student’s property; opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, sex, sexual 2) places such student in reasonable fear of harm to himself orientation, national origin, religion, age, economic status, or herself, or of damage to his or her property; marital status, or disability. No student will be excluded on 3) creates a hostile environment at school for such student; such basis from participating in or having access to any 4) infringes on the rights of such student at school; or course offerings, student athletics, counseling services, 5) substantially disrupts the educational process or the employment assistance, extracurricular activities or other orderly operation of a school. school resources. Consistent with the requirements under state law, the Greenwich Board of Education authorizes the Fighting Superintendent or his/her designee(s), along with the Safe Fighting is not an acceptable solution to a problem. If a child School Climate Coordinator, to be responsible for developing is having difficulty with another student, a group of students, and implementing a Safe School Climate Plan in furtherance or is being threatened by anyone, the student should discuss of this policy. the situation with his/her classroom teacher. If the problem continues, the student should see the assistant principal or Greenwich Public Schools Safe School Climate principal. If a student is involved in a fight in school, the District Norms: student may be sent to the assistant principal or principal. Be Here The principal will contact the student’s parents and assign a Be Safe consequence. Be Honest Care For Self and Others Let Go and Move On *Dangerous Weapons and Instruments The Board of Education is concerned for the safety and Detention welfare of all students and school personnel in school or at school-sponsored activities. For this reason, the Board prohibits student possession of a firearm, a deadly weapon, a If a child is to be detained after school hours for makeup dangerous instrument, or a martial arts weapon in any work or discipline, the child will be requested to notify his

home. The child’s teacher or an administrator will also make Students shall make restitution for damages, which result a follow-up communication with home. No student will be from their actions. detained until the parent/guardian has been notified and has given authorization. When it appears a student may have broken the law, the principal or his/her designee must inform the student’s *Philosophy of Discipline parents and the police. All students shall be afforded the procedural due process guaranteed by law. The Board of Education’s goals in establishing disciplinary guidelines are to ensure an orderly and safe environment If a staff member obtains physical evidence from a student conducive to education, and to encourage students to indicating that crime has been or is being committed by the develop self-discipline, self-control, and voluntary student, or that the student intends to harm himself or compliance with just rules. others, the staff member is required to turn such evidence over to school administrators or law enforcement officials as An orderly and safe environment is essential to allow all soon as possible. students to pursue their education and must be maintained to protect the rights of all students. The school District is committed to the principle that disorderly and disruptive Expulsion behavior should not be permitted to interfere with the rights Expulsion is the most extreme action in disciplining of other students to pursue their education. students. Self-discipline leads each child to become a mature, responsible citizen. Discipline in a school setting that relies The Board of Education may expel a student from school solely on external enforcement measures without focusing on privileges if, after a full hearing, the Board finds that the developing self-discipline is merely crowd-control, leading student’s conduct endangers person(s), property, or the children to develop low levels of commitment to good educational process, or is in violation of a publicized Board behavior. policy. Students who have been expelled may be eligible for In order to maintain order and discipline, the administration an alternative educational program. shall establish regulations governing student conduct. Each Expulsion from school will result in the loss of all extra- school shall inform students and parents at the beginning of curricular and social privileges during the period of each school year of the administrative regulations and the expulsion. school rules regarding student conduct. The administration, through its principals and teachers, and with the help of Student possession and/or use of weapons, including martial parents, shall see that such regulations and rules are arts weapons, or other dangerous instruments in any school implemented. Students shall then be accountable for building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or at any complying with the standards of conduct. Any student who school-sponsored activity is cause for expulsion for a fails to comply with the rules and regulations concerning calendar year. A student who offers illegal drugs for sale or student conduct is liable to a range of disciplinary actions. distribution on or off school grounds is also cause for Parental support in developing self-discipline in their expulsion for a calendar year. children at home and in cooperating with school authorities about their children’s behavior at school is essential to an Whenever a student is expelled, notice of the expulsion and effective approach to discipline and creating safe and orderly the conduct for which the student was expelled will be school climates. included on the student’s cumulative education record. The record will be expunged if the student graduates from high Suspension school and the expulsion was not for weapon possession and/or for the sale or distribution of illegal drugs. No student may be suspended without an informal hearing before the building principal or the principal’s designee EDUCATIONAL POLICIES AND SERVICES unless the principal determines an emergency situation exists. Pupil Personnel Services If it is necessary to suspend a student before the hearing is The following services are available to students through the held, a hearing shall be held as soon after the suspension as Greenwich Public Schools: possible. In the informal hearing the student shall be informed of the reasons for the disciplinary action and be Health Services: to assess the health of each student, prevent given an opportunity to explain the situation. Nothing in the disease, and promote health and a healthful environment. information hearing shall be taken to prevent a more formal Psychological Services: to assist students needing specialized hearing from being held if the circumstances warrant. help with their intellectual and emotional development. School Social Work Services: to assist students who have Except in an emergency situation which is defined above, no emotional, social, or personal problems, which interfere with student shall be suspended without prior consultation with their successful school experience. the student; one or both of the student’s parents, if it is Speech and Language Services: to help students with speech, possible to contact them (if it is impossible to contact a language, or hearing impairments reach maximum levels of student’s parents, they shall be notified as soon as possible development. thereafter); a teacher administrator or other professional staff member who is in a position to assess the student’s The Psychological, School Social Work, and Speech and needs and problems. Language services are an integral part of the entire educational program and serve as a support network to Information regarding the appeals procedure will be students, teachers, and families. provided to the parent or eligible student as part of their notification of the right to appeal.

Homebound Instruction following immunizations required to register for entrance: Homebound or hospitalized instruction must be provided • 4 DPT, DTaP (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) - Last when a student’s condition will cause an absence of at least dose must be received on or after 4th birthday. three consecutive weeks’ duration. Instruction may be • 1 Tdap must be given to student in grades 7 provided in the case of an absence of less than three through 12 who have completed the primary series. continuous weeks, if appropriate. Provided nothing in the • 3 TOPV or IPV (polio) - Last dose received on or student’s condition precludes it, such instruction shall begin after 4th birthday. as soon as possible and no later than two weeks from the first • 2 MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) - First dose day of absence, and continue until the student is able to must be given on or after the 1st birthday. Second dose return to school. Homebound requires a doctor’s referral, of measles (or MMR) must be given at least 4 weeks which includes a projected date of return. after first dose. • 1 HIB (haemophilus influenza, type b) – For those Homebound or hospital instruction shall be provided at least entering before the age of 5 years, a single dose of HIB one hour per day or five hours per week for grades K-5, and is required on or after the 1st birthday. at least two hours per day or ten hours per week for grades 6- • 1 Pneumococcal – for those entering before age 12. Where evaluative data indicate these time requirements five, given on or after their 1sr birthday are too great, instruction may be decreased. • Hepatitis B – 3 doses must be given. • 2 Hepatitis A - given six months apart, 1st does on or after their 1st birthday in grades K through 2. HEALTH SERVICES (GPS procedure E001.8) • Test for Tuberculosis – Each child enrolling in school for the first time (and at each mandated physical examination), must have an assessment for exposure to tuberculosis disease. If the risk assessment is positive, The major purposes of the School Health Program are to a tuberculin skin test (PPD/Mantoux) must be done. assess the health of each student, prevent disease, and Results must be recorded in millimeters. Based upon promote health and a healthy environment for all students the test results, the school nurse will determine and staff. admission to school. • 2 Varicella (chickenpox) – Two doses on or after the 1st birthday grades K through 3, & 7 through 12. School Health Program Grades 4 through 6 , 1 dose. MD verification of the The School Medical Advisor, appointed by the disease is also accepted. Superintendent, and the School Health Nursing Supervisor • 1 Meningococcal – One dose required grades 7 direct the School Health Program. Each District school is through 10. provided with the services of a public health school nurse The school nurse in each school monitors required health All students must be immunized and must present a and immunization assessments, plans nursing care to meet certificate from a physician or local health agency. If the student health needs, and provides health care referrals, student should not be immunized due to medical or religious emergency care, and programs that promote a healthy reasons, a statement from a physician or the parent as environment. appropriate must be provided.

Health Assessments and Immunizations Administering Medications (GPS procedure E001.12) The GPS District recognizes that periodic health assessments The public health school nurse, the principal, or teachers, are important to determine health status of students, who have been properly trained, may administer facilitate the removal of barriers to learning, and determine medications. whether some special adaptation of the school program may be necessary for a medical reason. The District requires that No medications, including over the counter, can be students have health assessments and screenings prior to administered without: school enrollment and at 3rd, 6th and 10th grade levels as 1.The completed Medication Authorization Form signed by a required by the State Department of Health and District physician or dentist licensed in the states of Connecticut or Policy. The District shall provide health assessments without New York or a licensed advanced practice registered nurse or charge when needed. a licensed physician assistant. 2.The completed written authorization of the parent or To participate in the competitive sports teams at the middle guardian of the child, section provided on the Medication and high schools, a physical examination is required every 13 Authorization Form. To avoid medication emergencies, the months. The physical examination must be documented on first administration of authorized medication shall not occur the “Physical Exam for Sports Participation” form. The form during school hours or at a school sponsored activity. can be obtained through the school nurse. 3.The medication must be provided in the original container with the appropriate label. The GPS District adheres to those state laws that pertain to 4.Over-the-counter medicines (i.e., Tylenol, Advil, Benadryl, school immunizations and health assessments. Attendance etc.) must be in an unopened container and must also have a in school may be denied to any student who fails to obtain completed medication form signed by practitioner and parent. the health assessments (HAR-3) and immunizations as required under C.G.S. 10-206. Parents, wishing their The school nurse will not administer any medication unless children exempted or excused from physical examinations, the above conditions are met. The appropriate Medication health assessments, screenings and immunizations, must Authorization Form can be obtained from the school health comply with State Medical or Religious Exemption rules. office. This authorization is required for administering both The public health school nurse at each school is very willing prescription and over-the-counter medications BEFORE the to answer questions that a parent may have regarding new medication can be administered. A new Medication student health requirements. Administration Form is required for each medication, each All students in Connecticut schools must submit proof of the academic year. Medications must be picked up at the end of

the school year, medications cannot be held at the school Asbestos over the summer. The State of Connecticut enacted legislation requiring all public buildings to be reevaluated to determine if asbestos is Self-Administration of Medication present and if it poses a significant health hazard to the In cases in which the parent wishes the student to be able to building’s occupants. Greenwich Public School buildings self-administer medication, the parent or guardian must fill have on file plans showing the location of asbestos in each out and sign the self-administration section on the building and measures undertaken to comply with Medication Administration Form. All other sections of the regulations to maintain a safe school environment. Requests form must also be completed. The Medication to review these plans may be made in the school office. Administration Form must be renewed at the beginning of Asbestos Management Plans are updated every three years each school year and signed by the authorizing physician. and more frequently as required, often as a result of capital The public health school nurse must also agree that the projects. student is capable of safely self-administering the medication in school before the student may self-administer the Communicable/Infectious Diseases (GPS Procedure medication. E001.17) Students with any medical condition that may expose others *Psychotropic Drug Use (GPS procedure E001.18) to disease or contagious and infectious conditions within the School personnel members are prohibited from school setting will be excluded from school and referred for recommending the use of psychotropic drugs for any student medical diagnosis and treatment. Additional information enrolled within the school system. Members of the school concerning this may be obtained from the school nurse. medical staff, including school nurses, may recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical Illness practitioner. Additionally, with written consent from When a student is ill in school, the public health school student’s parent/guardian, school personnel may consult nurse, or designated staff member, determines if the student with the medical practitioner regarding the use of such needs to go home. The public health school nurse, or psychotropic drugs. designated staff member, contacts the parent/guardian. When a pattern of numerous cases of a communicable School Health Screenings disease (such as strep throat) occurs, the school notifies At-school screenings such as those described below should parents of symptoms of which to be aware. This notification not be considered a substitute for regular physical is via a School Health Alert notice sent home with students. examinations. They are meant to supplement a child’s yearly Ill students who are to be excluded to their homes may not physical examination. The screenings are done because walk home alone. Parents or authorized emergency contacts vision and postural problems can develop quickly, and must escort the ill student home. Please note the guidelines screenings help pick up the problems early so that treatment below: can begin before vision and hearing problems affects the child’s learning. The following health screenings are done: Guidelines for Childhood Illness The following guidelines are to help us provide a healthy Scoliosis Screenings: The public health school nurses screens environment for your child in school. th th th female students in 5 and 7 grades, and males in 8 grade for scoliosis. Parents have the right to refuse school Please keep your child home when he/she has: screenings for their child if they so desire. If a student does not meet minimum standards after two screenings, a written • cold symptoms with fever, malaise, cough, referral will be sent to parents suggesting that a doctor discolored nasal drainage evaluate the student. diarrhea &/or vomiting • Vision & Hearing Screenings: The public health school nurse • eye drainage (profuse &/or thick) screens all students in K, 1st, and 3rd through 5th grades for • fever (for any reason) distance vision. In addition, all students in K, 1st, and 3rd • rash (undiagnosed – not seen by M.D.) through 5th grades are screened for hearing. If further • when your child feels too sick to take part in the attention or additional care is indicated, parents are notified school day in writing. The student’s health care provider should screen students in K, grades 3, 6 and 10. Your child may return to school when:

Dental Screenings • Temperature is normal for 24 hrs after stopping Dental screenings are offered to children in all grades Tylenol or Ibuprofen Kindergarten through Eighth. This screening is provided in • diarrhea &/or vomiting has stopped for 24 hrs addition to the child’s regular dental visits. The dental • rash has been seen by M.D. (must bring note to hygienist makes referrals when there is evidence of need for school nurse) further restorative/preventative dental care. Children are generally non-infectious: Fluoride Rinse Program (“Swish and Spit”) A weekly fluoride rinse program is offered to students in first • 24 hrs after starting antibiotics through fifth grades. Participation in this program is • after all chicken pox lesions are scabbed (usually 1 voluntary. Permission slips will be sent home with students week) and when parental permission is obtained, it will remain in • 1 week after the onset of any communicable effect until parents request a change. disease

Children unable to participate in PE class &/or recess A procedure (E001.22) has been developed by the District because of injury (wearing cast, splint, or using crutches) or that outlines specific steps building administration will illness, must bring a note to the school nurse from the child’s follow to: M.D. • Educate families and staff about bed bugs Greenwich school District and the public health school • Investigate bed bug sightings nurses reserve the right to send home any student who • Communicate with families in the event of a displays signs of ill health or injury that, in the nurse’s confirmed bed bug siting judgment, may jeopardize the general welfare of the student • Partner with families directly impacted by a bed &/or the class. bug siting to provide appropriate support

Hospitalizations and Injuries The full Bed Bug Procedure (E001.22) as well as a Bed Bug If your child is returning to school after being hospitalized or FAQ is available on the GPS website. treated in an emergency room, it is necessary to bring a note to the school nurse from the child’s healthcare provider or Nurse’s Office the ER physician stating that the child may return to school, The school nurse’s office is designed to provide care to and delineating any restrictions or treatments the child may students who become ill or are injured while in school. need while in school. Any injury (causing the child to wear a cast, splint, or to use Please check with your school nurse for specific hours. crutches or have stitches) or illness which would prevent the child from participating in activities, such as gym or recess, A cumulative health file is maintained for each student. This requires a note from your health care provider explaining the file includes notations of past illnesses, results of physical restrictions and the anticipated time frame. examinations, and other pertinent health information.

Special Health Care Needs (GPS procedure E001.20) Parents are notified of any deviation from the normal pattern of health and suggestions are given for follow-up. It is Meeting Students’ Needs: likewise important that parents notify the school nurse in “Students with Special Health Care Needs” refers to those case of a student’s illness. If a student is to be excused or students who have a medically diagnosed chronic health limited for an extended period from participation in school condition, such as asthma, diabetes, life threatening food or activities, he/she is required to bring a statement signed by a insect allergies, seizures, cardiac abnormalities, chronic physician. The school nurse is available to parents and infectious disease, acquired disability, mental health students for conferences regarding health issues. conditions, or a significant acute illness or injury requiring treatment and a recovery period, such as mononucleosis, lyme disease, or a fractured arm or leg. These students have Student Insurance needs that often require accommodations in a school setting School insurance is made available to families through a to provide a safe environment where the child is able to specific program. Brochures are distributed to all students at achieve at a level equal to his/her ability. For those students, the beginning of each academic year. While the program is access to education may require: not mandatory, it is desirable that parents take advantage of • Assessment and periodic reassessment of the the opportunity to provide adequate protection for their child’s health status and level of functioning in order to children while in school. Any such arrangement is determine what special services or program modifications he contractual between the parent and insurance carriers and or she may need; the Greenwich Public Schools assumes no liability from • Close collaboration with families; disputes arising from such contract. • Development of an individualized health care plan (ICHP) and/or school health plan (SHP), and/or Special Education emergency care plan (ECP) to address health and safety needs for school attendance; The Greenwich Public Schools provide services to students • Related services necessary to ensure successful eligible under IDEA through District services and supports functioning in educational settings; designed to meet the individual needs of each student with a disability. The goals are to ensure the provision of all • Enhanced communication with staff health and mandated services in a manner that is compliant with state social service providers in the school and the community; and federal regulations. Using the IDEA frame of least • Education of school personnel restrictive environment (LRE), students are educated with

their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate The State of Connecticut Department of Education Guidelines for Serving Students with Special Health Care for each individual student. Students’ instructional Needs, 2003, as adapted, will be used to develop and environments include general education (with and without promote safe and appropriate educational opportunities for paraprofessional support), “push in” special education, co/collaborative teaching, special education classes (all students with special health needs on a case-by-case basis. students in the setting have disabilities), in-District special

programs, day programs in special schools outside the Bed Bugs District, residential placements (for both educational and Bed bug infestations in schools are uncommon. However, a non-educational reasons), education in hospitals, bed bug could hitch a ride to school on the belongings of a student or staff member, and then could be carried home by homebound instruction and short-term diagnostic another student or staff member. This is no minor concern placements. given the expense of eradication and the social stigma At the preschool level, young children are served in associated with this issue. The GPS is committed to community preschool classes, through the speech “clinic” addressing all incidents of possible bed bug sightings in a and in integrated preschool classrooms. Students may also confidential and respectful manner. receive related services as described in their IEPs. These

services may include: behavior/social skills/mental health

supports from psychologists, social workers and/or guidance major life activity such as learning, self-care, walking, seeing, counselors, speech therapy, hearing and vision services, hearing, speaking, breathing, working, and/or performing nursing services and occupational and physical therapies. manual tasks. The District also provides additional services to students with disabilities to ensure that they can access the Many students will be eligible for educational services under curriculum and participate in the activities of the school both Section 504 and the Individuals with Disabilities community. The District has an assistive technology coach Education Act (IDEA), but entitlement to services under the who is responsible for conducting assistive IDEA or other statutes is not required to receive services technology/augmentative communication evaluations and under Section 504. who assists the IEP teams in making recommendations for high and low tech devices for individual students and The following is a description of the rights and options provides training and technical assistance to staff and granted by federal law to students with disabilities under families regarding the effective use of technology. Section 504. The school District is required to:

Planning and Placement Team (PPT) • Provide notice with respect to identification, evaluation, or placement of your child; Individual Education Plan Team (IEP Team) Evaluate your child appropriately according to the • standards set in the regulations; Any student who is identified as possibly needing special education and/or related services must be referred to a • Ensure that your child receives services and is special education PPT for consideration and possible educated in facilities that are comparable to those evaluation. The PPT is a group of professionals representing provided to students without disabilities; the teaching, administrative, and pupil personnel staffs, the • Make evaluation, educational, and placement parent or guardian of the referred student and when decisions based on a variety of documented appropriate, the student. If the team suspects that the information sources, and by persons who know student may have a disability, an evaluation of the student is the students and who are knowledgeable about the completed. The PPT will determine whether the student evaluation data and placement options; meets the IDEA eligibility criteria. If the student meets the • If eligible under Section 504, provide your child IDEA eligibility criteria, an IEP will be developed. Parents with the accommodations, modifications, and must give their written consent before any evaluation can be related services necessary to meet your child’s done and before any services can begin. There is a process of needs as adequately as the needs of students regular assessment of each student’s progress throughout the without disabilities are met; year, an annual review of the IEP and a three-year review of • Provide your child with an equal opportunity to the student’s eligibility in order to provide a “free and participate in nonacademic and extracurricular appropriate public education” (FAPE). activities offered by the school system; • Make available copies of all relevant records Individualized Education Plan (IEP) relating to your child; • Notify you of proposed significant changes in the The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is developed educational program of your child and respond to annually for each student who meets the IDEA eligibility objections you may have regarding those changes; criteria. The IEP is developed to reflect the student’s present • Inform you of your right to file a local grievance to level of performance. Using the student’s strengths and resolve complaints of discrimination by filing a weaknesses, the IEP Team develops a series of annual goals written request for a hearing with Greenwich’s and short-term objectives and describes the supports and Superintendent of Schools, indicating the specific services the student will need to master the goals and areas of discrimination and the remedy that you objectives. The IEP Team must meet at least annually but are requesting. Any such requests should be filed meetings can be called at any time by either the school or within 45 days of the action or decision with which parents to discuss proposed changes to the IEP. you disagree; • Inform you of your right to request a local Equal Opportunity for Students with Disabilities impartial due process proceeding; and The Greenwich Public Schools will not discriminate on the • Inform you of your right to file a court action if basis of disability as required under the ADA (Americans you are dissatisfied with the grievance and/or due with Disabilities Act), the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities process decision. Education Act), Section 504, and Connecticut General Statute 10-76a and any other similar law or provision. Mary P. Forde, Director of Pupil Personnel Services (625-7466) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Section 504 of the The Office for Civil Rights of the United States Department Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as well as compliance with the of Education enforces the requirements of Section 504. The ADA. address of the regional office is: U.S. Department of Education The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as Office for Civil Rights, Boston Office Section 504, is a nondiscrimination statute enacted by the John W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse, Room 701 U.S. Congress. The purpose of the Act is to prohibit Boston, MA 02109-4557 discrimination and to assure that individuals with disabilities have educational opportunities and benefits District FERPA Officer is Mary Forde. equal to those provided to nondisabled students. *Ceremonies and Observances (GPS procedure An eligible student under Section 504 is a student who (a) E001.1) has, (b) has a record of having, or (c) is regarded as having a Opening Exercises physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a

cultural, economic, and social development of the United The morning opening exercises shall include the following: States and other nations, and instilling understanding, tolerance, and a respect for a pluralistic society. Religion 1. An opportunity at the start of each school day to must be discussed in a neutral, objective, balanced, and allow those students and teachers who wish to do so to factual manner. observe this time in silent meditation. 2. An opportunity each school day for students to The study of religion may naturally occur within the context recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Students may decline to of studying other topics. The curriculum’s approach may not recite the Pledge of Allegiance and may refrain from saluting be devotional or doctrinal nor have the effect of promoting or the flag. A student who chooses not to participate may inhibiting religion. Sacred texts, such as the old and new remain seated during the flag salute. testaments of the Bible and the Koran, may be studied as The morning opening exercises may also include activities literature, but not as religious doctrine. The lesson must be such as one or a combination of the following: secular, religiously neutral, and objective. •Patriotic song (participation is voluntary) •Reading If religion is discussed, care must be taken to include •Music minority as well as majority religions. Any discussion of •Student speakers religion in the classroom should be very sensitive to the •News reports beliefs of different students in the class. In no event should •Sharing experiences any student feel that his/her own beliefs or practices are •Announcements being questioned, infringed upon, or compromised. •Planning the day’s work •Appropriate activities for special days Students may be excused from a class or program due to the •Assignment of duties conflicting religious beliefs of the students or their parents. A written request from a parent or partner is required. United States Flag 3. Religious Holidays – observing religious holidays in the The flag of the United States of America shall be displayed in form of religious worship or other practices is each classroom and raised above each schoolhouse and at unconstitutional. Teaching about the historical, other appropriate places during all school sessions, weather contemporary, and cultural aspects of holidays with both a permitting. The flag shall be raised before the opening of religious and secular basis may be constitutional if it furthers school and taken down at its close every day. a genuine secular program of education, is presented objectively, and does not have the effect of advancing or Flags at all schools and building administered by the Board inhibiting religion. The study of religious holidays should shall be displayed at half-staff as directed by the chief reflect this nation's diversity. executive officer of the Town of Greenwich. Religious symbols such as crosses, crèches, and menorahs Religious Ceremonies may be used as teaching aids in the classroom provided the symbols are displayed as an example of the cultural and Decisions of the United States Supreme Court ruled public religious heritage of the holiday, and are temporary in schools shall be religiously neutral and any practices must: nature. They may not be used as decorations. Symbols of religious holidays, which have acquired secular meaning, • Have a secular purpose such as Christmas trees, may be permissible decorations. • Have a primary effect, which neither advances Students may be excused from classes if the religious beliefs nor inhibits religion of the students or their parents conflict with the content of a • Avoid excessive government entanglement with classroom activity. A written request from a parent or religion guardian will be required.

1. Prayer in Public Schools – vocal, denominational, or Music, art, literature, and drama with religious themes may nondenominational prayer – and ceremonial reading from be included in teaching about holidays, provided they are sacred texts, such as the old and new testaments of the Bible presented in a religiously neutral, prudent, and objective and the Koran, are unconstitutional practices in public manner, and relate to sound, secular educational goals. schools. Prayers delivered by clergy at official public school Religious music or drama may be included in school events graduation ceremonies are unconstitutional. School officials, such as assemblies, concerts, and programs so long as the employees, or outsiders may not deliver prayers at school programs are objective and educational and do not focus on assemblies. Student volunteers may not deliver prayers at any one religion or religious observance. Student school assemblies, even if the assemblies are voluntary. participation should be voluntary.

It is unconstitutional for teachers to pray with or in the Strategic Improvement Team (GPS procedure E010.1) presence of their students in school, or in their capacity as a teacher or representative of the school. Continuous improvement is an essential element of our A student may engage in private prayer or other religious success. Annually, each school is required to develop a activities, including engaging other students in religious Strategic Improvement Plan (SIP). The School Data Team, discussion, as long as that private religious activity does not made up of building administration and teachers, is materially disrupt the school’s educational mission and responsible for: activities. Personal religious activity may not interfere with • Reviewing student performance data to identify an the rights and well being of other students. area of academic need; • Developing a SMART Goal (specific, measureable, 2. Religion in the Curriculum – religion may be presented as achievable, relevant and timely (?); and part of a secular educational program, with the goal of • Creating an Action Plan with specific strategies teaching students about the role of religion in the historical, and a timeline designed to achieve the SIP Goals.

students will progress annually from grade to grade. A Strategic Improvement Team (SIT), comprised of Students who master objectives at an exceptional rate may administrators, teachers and parents, is convened at key be considered for acceleration to another grade or class. points throughout the year to review and monitor SIP Students who fail to master basic learning objectives at a implementation and results. normal rate will be provided remediation by the teaching staff during the school year and their parents will be notified Assigning Students to a Teacher and Classes (GPS of such. If remediation efforts fail to result in mastery of the procedure E040.17) learning objectives, retention will be considered. Retention and acceleration decisions will be the responsibility of the The building principal will have the responsibility and the teaching staff and principal, after prior notification and authority for the assignment of each student to his or her discussions with parents. The final decisions rest with the class and, therefore, his or her teacher with the best interests building principal in accordance with regulations established of the child in mind. The principals will not take requests to by the superintendent. place children with particular teachers. The parent(s) will have the opportunity to inform the principal or designee in the spring prior to classroom assignments concerning the *Teacher and Paraprofessional Qualifications (GPS child's learning style, specialties and difficulties, and procedure L000.6) particular needs, personal or educational. The parent(s) Parents have the right to request information about the is/are also encouraged to discuss with the principal the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). The child's progress in the fall once classes are under way. response will indicate whether the teacher is certified for the However, the principal will make the final determination in subject matter and grade taught; the teacher’s undergraduate placing all children. major and any graduate degrees or certifications a teacher may have. Parents will also be advised, if requested as to whether the child is provided service by paraprofessionals Class Size Guidelines (GPS procedure E040.21) and their qualifications. The Board of Education will, to the best of its ability, maintain class sizes within the following class size Standardized Testing Program (GPS procedures E003.3 guidelines: and E003.4) All students in grades 3 through 8 and in grade 10 will Kindergarten-Grade 1: 21 participate in standardized assessments. Students receiving Hamilton Ave only: Kindergarten-Gr.1 15 special education services participate in these assessments Grades 2-3: 24 except in the rare case when the student’s IEP Team Grades 4-5: 26 determines participation in the assessment is not appropriate, In order to graduate students must meet Grouping (Differentiated Instruction) (GPS procedure District standards for graduation, in addition to required E040.22) course credits. Standardized assessments are some of the measures used to determine if students have met the The Board of Education believes that a critical dimension of identified standards. a quality educational program is the extent to which it offers courses, activities, experiences, and instruction tailored to the particular needs and abilities of each student. The Board Greenwich Public Schools provides additional opportunities of Education also recognizes its responsibility to educate all for students to demonstrate their knowledge and progress students to their highest academic potential. through a Comprehensive Assessment System. The types of assessments used are universal, diagnostic, formative and In each grade level, appropriate student learner objectives or summative. Some of these assessments are used for progress outcomes shall be established consistent with the high monitoring, determining special supports (remediation and expectations that the Board of Education has for the students enrichment) and placement. and teachers. Such objectives shall be made known to students and the public, and, for each grade level, shall be Please refer to the updated procedure at uniform across the District. Expected levels of performance http://www.boarddocs.com/ct/greenwich/Board.nsf/vpubli on these student learner objectives shall be established and c?open for more information. such tests or other assessment devices obtained or written as appropriate to measure each student’s degree of attainment of the standards. Assessment instruments developed within *Homework (GPS procedure E040.23) the District shall reflect teacher input, and shall meet such Worthwhile homework benefits students. Homework should standards of reliability and validity as are necessary to be an extension of the class lesson, be clearly understood by accurately measure student performance. the students, be well planned and meaningful. Homework shall not be used as a form of punishment. Homework Students may be grouped based on a variety of factors that assignments should be minimized over vacations and should include: similar past performance, performance on academic not be assigned on major religious holidays. assessments, student interests, and/or learning styles. The goal remains that each student master the learning Purpose of Homework objectives of the course. Instructional groupings should be 1. Practice of Skills organized as heterogeneously as possible with opportunities Practice provides students with the opportunity to reinforce for remediation and acceleration integrated into each class. and master specific skills presented in class and to review content. *Promotion/Acceleration/Retention (GPS procedure 2. Preparation for Future Classes E040.18) Prepares students for future classes, and may include preparation for discussion, reading, research, studying or Student promotion is dependent on each student’s mastery other information-gathering/processing activities. and acquisition of basic learning objectives. Normally,

3. Extension of Class Work • consider health, safety, and respect for the Extension focuses on individual application, research, and academic environment in their choice of attire; study; takes students beyond work covered in class. • not wear hats in the school building (except for religious reasons); and Please refer to the school’s homework practice below and • not wear clothing advertising alcohol, drugs, or the GPS Homework Procedure at tobacco, or displaying offensive language. http://www.boarddocs.com/ct/greenwich/Board.nsf/vpubli c?open for more information. Recess Wear

We believe fresh air and free activity time (recess) are important. Therefore, each day, except during periods of Field Trips rain, students will go outside after lunch. Please have your Field trips are educational trips away from the school, child dress accordingly, i.e., boots for snow, gloves, hats, etc. organized by the teachers, and they are an integral part of the educational program and are linked to curricular Footwear for Physical Education objectives. Parent permission is required for student participation in trips. Buses will be used as a means of • Athletic, sport, specific running or cross-training transportation for these trips. On the day of the field trip, shoes are required (no fashion sneakers will be parents must sign in at the office prior to going on the trip. permitted, i.e. Mary Janes, slides, mules or after- This is for insurance purposes. A signed permission slip is a sport shoes) must for students to be able to participate. • Shoes with laces or Velcro closures are required (no elastics) – (Shoes must be tied throughout the Students who have emergency medications as well as entire class) authorized medication doses during regular school hours will • Shoes must be worn with socks have those medications carried by and administered by the • Shoes must have a closed-in heel and toe teacher voluntarily. The nurse will give the teacher those • Shoes must support the heel medications. Any medication that needs to be given on field • Water shoes that are worn in water, at the beach, trips other than during the regular school hours (8:45-3:15) or in a pool or shower are not allowed must be supplied by the parent. An additional medication • Shoes with platforms are not allowed authorization form is required to cover those added times Shoes that have a strap with a buckle are not and medications. Please see the nurse. • allowed • Sport sandals are not allowed Summer School (GPS procedure E001.2) • High heels on shoes are not allowed • Skate board sneakers are not allowed The Board of Education sponsors a summer school program • Shoes with pop-up wheels are not allowed (even if providing remedial and enrichment courses at all levels, and the wheels are removed) review courses and credit recovery at the secondary level. • Rubber clog-type shoes (i.e. Crocs, etc.) are not Summer school information is sent home in the spring. allowed Extended School Year (ESY) services are provided for all • Shoes must pass the “kick test” - they cannot fly off students with IEPs found eligible during a PPT meeting. when foot is kicked forward Send your child to school wearing what you School Lockers would wear to a fitness center Lockers may be searched at times when the principal, or his/her designee, believes this to be necessary to protect the Americans with Disabilities Accommodations life, health, or safety of students in his/her building. Should special accommodations for access under the Locker search should be carried out with discretion. Lockers Americans Disabilities Act be required to attend a school should not be searched indiscriminately. This means that function or meeting, please contact the school secretary. the school principal, or his/her designee, has information or belief that the locker(s) may contain property, which the student may not legally possess, or property, which presents Soliciting by Students (GPS procedure E080.9) clear and present danger to the student or others within the All solicitations of funds must receive prior approval of the school building. school principal. Funds so collected may not be used to replace budgeted funds for existing programs or activities. The use of substance-sniffing dogs is permissible to check for All funds collected shall be subject to approved accounting illegal substances in lockers. Identification by such trained procedures and periodic audit. animals provides justification for a locker search by a school administrator. Distribution of Printed Materials from Outside Organizations (GPS procedure E 051.6) When a locker is searched, the principal, or his/her designee, shall report this on the same day by telephone and in writing All requests from groups or individuals to have materials to the Deputy Superintendent. distributed to the parent community, with the exception of school-connected organizations, will be referred to the office of the superintendent to determine whether the request *Dress Code complies with District procedure. Events, activities, A student’s choice of clothing or grooming styles has been programs and/or services offered by not-for-profit held to fall within his/her right of privacy, as a form of self- organizations will be posted to the District’s Community expression. The Board of Education may not impose Web Calendar for access by anyone in the school community limitations on dress in which fashion or taste is the sole once approved by the Superintendent’s Office. consideration; however, at the elementary school level, it is requested that students:

SCHOOL-HOME COMMUNICATIONS Duplicate Mailing In the case of shared custody arrangements, there may be a Kindergarten Registration need for duplicate mailings (two copies of report cards, two copies of Friday folder information, etc). Under these Entrance Age – Children may enter Kindergarten if their circumstances, the parents must notify the school each year fifth birthday falls on or before January 1 within the given in writing, listing the appropriate contact information. school year.

Orientation – Kindergarten children are screened in the fall, E-Mail Correspondence after they enter Kindergarten, so the school personnel can E-mail is a convenient way to communicate information to effectively plan a program. An orientation for parents is held teachers. You are welcome to use e-mail, but please do not in the previous spring for all parents of incoming use e-mail to communicate any information teachers must Kindergartners. have immediately. Teachers use their non-instructional periods for planning and meeting with colleagues. Program – The full-day Kindergarten offers an educational Therefore, they may not be able to read their e-mail within a program that is individualized and focuses on the social, 24-hour period. If you have a message you must get to your emotional, and academic needs of the students. child’s teacher that day, please write a note or call the office.

Residency is verified for all students new to the Greenwich To send a message to any teacher or administrator, type first Public Schools at the District central office using a standard name, underscore, last name, followed by set of acceptable proofs (photo id, tax bills, mortgage @greenwich.k12.ct.us. statements, verifiable rental agreements, and utility bills other than telephone). Once residency is verified, [email protected] registration materials including an application, verification of the student’s birth date and medical form are processed at the school level. Changes of address are also verified at the *Title I Comparability of Service (GPS procedure District level. Students who are living with someone other E001.6) than a parent or legal guardian are referred to central office for sponsorship. In this case, the adult with whom the The Board of Education believes that at all times its schools student is living provides proof of residence and signs an should be equally as well equipped and maintained as may affidavit attesting that the student is living with him or her be possible within existing financial limitations. It shall be on a permanent basis. Once residency and sponsorship have the policy of the Board of Education to insure comparability been verified, the registration process is completed at the of services funded by state and local sources in both Title I school level. project schools and non-project schools. The Board of Education will therefore: 1. Maintain a District wide salary schedule. Conferences 2. Provide services with federal, state and local funds Parent-Teacher Conferences allow parents to discuss in schools serving Title I project areas that are at children’s special needs, talents, and interests. One school- least comparable to services in non-project areas. initiated parent conference is scheduled in the fall for all 3. Use federal, state and local funds to provide for an students. Additional conferences may be initiated by either equivalence among all schools with the same grade the parent or the teacher. Parents are encouraged to contact levels in teachers, administrators, auxiliary their child’s teacher at any time. personnel. 4. Use federal, state and local funds to provide for an *Report Cards/Grades (GPS procedure E003.1) equivalence among all schools with the same grade levels in the provision of curriculum and A system of annual evaluation of student performance shall instructional materials, books and supplies. include standardized measures of achievement and school 5. Nothing in this policy will prohibit the learning ability. It shall also measure attainment of administration from addressing identified Greenwich curricular objectives. Annually, the problems at individual schools. Superintendent shall report on these measures to the Board and the public through monitoring reports. Reporting progress in academic, learning, attitude, effort and *Title I Parent Involvement attendance to students and their parents will be done on a Parents of a child in a Title 1 funded program will receive a regular basis. Report cards are issued three times a year for copy of the District’s parental involvement policy, including elementary schools and four times a year for middle school provisions of an annual meeting and involvement of parents and high school. Please carefully review your child’s report in the planning, review and implementation of Title 1 card. You are encouraged to contact your child’s teacher if programs. you have any questions or concerns. GENERAL INFORMATION Friday Folders In an effort to assist elementary school parents in receiving Birthday Celebrations (New 9/08-GPS procedure information from the school, information may be sent E080.13 and E051.8) electronically or in Friday Folders. If the school uses Friday Although the Greenwich Public Schools recognizes the Folders; all brochures, school activity notices, and other significance of birthday celebrations for elementary aged information will be placed in each student’s Friday Folder. students, our priority is to protect instructional time during This information will be carried home by students; therefore, the school day. We ask that the following guidelines be parents should make a practice of asking their children for adhered to in each of our elementary schools: the information each Friday. Celebration: • Parent/s will confer with classroom teachers to determine the date and time of an in-class 22

celebration. The time may not interfere with frozen, never canned), skim and low fat milks are available instructional time (examples of appropriate times every day. during the school day include: snack time, inside recess, lunch period, etc.). School personnel will We offer Middle School students multiple hot choices and determine the appropriate time of the celebration. cold choices on a daily basis. In addition to this, students are • Celebrations will be limited to 10 minutes. offered a large variety of ala carte choices in addition to the • Although parents may attend such celebrations, it meals available. These range from specialty salads and is strongly encouraged that parents drop off snacks sandwiches to other student favorites. at the main office prior to the start of the school day, avoiding any disturbance to classroom instruction. Parents must adhere to the 10-minute The High School Food Service program offers many hot limit for their birthday celebration visitation due choices and an expansive combination of cold choices per to the impact extending this time would have on day. In addition to this we offer the student body a broad ala instructional time. carte program to meet all their dining needs including an ala Birthday treat: carte and National School Breakfast program served from 7 to 11 daily. • In accordance with the Greenwich Public Schools Wellness policy/procedure*, we encourage the sharing of healthy treats or non-food items. Current menus are posted on the GPS website. • A list of healthy party treats to parents and teachers is provided below. • Students are not allowed to distribute treats to Debit Account System: and/or visit other rooms. The Greenwich Schools use a debit account system that allows students and faculty to deposit money into a lunch Suggested Healthy Food Items include: account by personal check or by debit or credit card at FRUITS: Melon, Fruit kabobs, Grapes, Berries, Fruit salad MyLunchMoney.com. There is no need to carry cash every or cups, Pineapple, Fruit smoothies, Dried fruit, Sorbet, day. Money deposited into an account can be restricted for Frozen fruit bars lunch meals only, or can be designated for a combination of DAIRY: String cheese, Cheese cubes, Yogurt, Low-fat lunch meals and a la carte purchases. Deposit forms and pudding further information are available on the GPS website. SNACKS: Rice cakes, Whole-grain crackers, Animal crackers, Graham crackers, Pretzels, Popcorn, Baked chips Free and Reduced Price Lunch (GPS procedure with low-fat dip, Bread sticks E040.13) VEGETABLES: Baby carrots, Vegetable tray with low fat dip, Salad, Dried vegetables National School Lunch Program regulations require that BAKED GOODS: Whole-grain bagels, Muffins, Raisin lunches be provided for needy students when family income bread, Homemade desserts, Pita bread pizza, Oatmeal raisin is insufficient to provide the basic necessities, including food cookies, Mini sandwiches and wraps of the proper quality and amount for good nutrition. Application forms and further information is available on the GPS website. Flavored or plain sparkling water (without added sugar or sweeteners), 100% fruit juice and water are good beverage choices. Children without Lunch Money The Greenwich Food Services Department does not extend Note: Some classrooms have requested that certain foods credit for children who have forgotten their lunch, forgot or such as peanuts or tree nuts not be brought to school due to lost their money or are out of money on their debit students with allergies to those foods. Please comply with account. Children who fall into this category will be those requests where applicable. provided a lunch, free of charge, consisting of a Peanut Butter/Sun Butter and Jelly Sandwich or a Cheese Sandwich served with Milk and Fruit. After a second consecutive The Greenwich School Lunch Program day, the school office will be notified to contact the parent or guardian.

We are engaged in work that is important to the health and welfare of the children of Greenwich. It is a task that we take Snow Day Procedure for School Lunch Program considerable interest and pride in. We value our reputation If school is cancelled, the cancelled day’s lunch will be served for quality food and good service. Our District, which the next scheduled school day. Example: If school is participates in the National School Lunch Program, also cancelled on Tuesday, on Wednesday we will serve Tuesday’s follow the National Guidelines/Standards developed by the menu. Wednesday’s menu will be served on Thursday. Connecticut State Department of Education. Our staff Thursday’s menu will be cancelled. members have been trained to recognize and encourage that children take a complete well-balanced meal. Nutritional Information

The National School Lunch Program introduced the first Menu: changes in 20 years with the introduction of the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (HHFKA). The program, which began in the 2012-13 school year, was implemented to We offer the Elementary student body a large variety of well- expose consumers to more healthful food in conjunction with balanced, quality meals on a daily basis. Each day we offer restrictions on calories, portion sizes, vegetables and grains. several hot choices and cold choices. Wholesome School meals are planned to encourage children to choose a sandwiches, salads, yogurt, fresh fruit, vegetables (fresh or variety of foods by making food choices on a daily basis. Our entree, side dishes and milk choices are offered to help

students best meet their recommended nutrient levels. The consumption of nutrient-dense foods, such as whole grains, following key nutrients are the focus of our meals: calories fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. (<30% calories from fat, <10% calories from saturated fat), protein, calcium, iron, vitamin A & vitamin C. Personal Items

The school will not be responsible for any personal items that have been lost or stolen. Food Allergy Information (GPS procedure E051.31) . The Greenwich School Lunch Program recognizes the increasing prevalence of potentially life-threatening food Class Pictures allergies among children. Effective management of food allergies in the kitchen includes implementing strategies for Each year, class and individual pictures are taken. Parents avoidance of offending foods by allergic children. It is the are notified of the scheduled dates. Both class and individual intention of the Greenwich School Lunch Program to provide photos may be purchased. assistance and information to parents in order to help them determine whether or not their child consumes food items Dogs and Pets served in the cafeteria. Parents are strongly encouraged to Greenwich Public Schools does not permit animals in contact the Food Services Office located at the Board of classrooms with the exception of certified service animals Education or read food labels posted on the GPS website. per Tools for Schools indoor air quality program guidelines. These guidelines are designed to promote safe, clean Wellness Policy (GPS Procedure E051.8) learning environments. The Wellness Policy supports parents' efforts to provide a For health and safety reasons schools request that parents healthy diet and daily physical activity for their children. and neighbors keep dogs and other pets away from school grounds during school hours. School hours include and The district will offer healthy eating information for parents, extend through the period when after school activities take send home nutrition information, post nutrition tips on place. The Greenwich Health Department has designated all school websites, and provide nutrient analyses of school school grounds as restricted areas for dogs (Greenwich menus. Municipal Code, Section 6, Article 7 – Animal Control). The legal notice states that in all restricted areas a) dogs must be Schools should encourage parents to pack healthy lunches kept on a secure leash less than ten (10) feet in length; and b) and snacks and to refrain from including beverages and dog handlers or owners must provide for the prompt removal foods that do not meet the nutrition standards for individual of feces should the dog defecate in said areas. School staff foods and beverages. will contact the Police Department’s animal control officer to The school will provide parents a list of suggested foods that retrieve stray dogs. meet the district's snack standards and ideas for healthy celebrations/parties, rewards, and fundraising activities. STUDENT TRANSPORTATION (GPS Procedure E051.4 and E051.5) The district will provide opportunities for parents to share their wellness practices with others in the school community: For all Transportation guidelines please see the following • Parents and other family members are invited to district procedures: periodically eat with their student in the cafeteria. • Families are invited to attend exhibits of student General Guidelines nutrition or health fairs The District shall provide safe, reliable, efficient and • Schools will work with community institutions to assure economical transportation for all public, private, and screening services are available for interested families parochial students in Greenwich to the extent required by

law. The Transportation Manager, the Director of School The district will provide information about physical Safety, and the Managing Director for Operations with the education and other school-based physical activity involvement of the Director of Pupil Personnel Services and opportunities before, during, and after the school day; and school administrators, are responsible for all aspects of support parents' efforts to provide their children with student transportation. opportunities to be physically active outside of school. Such supports will include sharing information about physical activity and physical education through a website, Eligibility newsletter, or other take-home materials, special events, or Free transportation is provided to and from school for physical education homework. students living beyond the established pupil walking distances within their attendance Districts, and students Schools will provide students with access to a variety of attending a District magnet school that live within that affordable, nutritious and appealing foods that meet school’s designated cluster area. Western - Hamilton Ave.; students’ health needs and accommodate ethnic and cultural Central – Julian Curtiss; Eastern – International School at food preferences. School meals will include a variety of Dundee). healthy choices that meet USDA requirements and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and are modified, as Students may also receive transportation in the following appropriate, for special dietary needs. To encourage healthy special circumstances: choices for students, Nutrition Standards used by the District will provide clear guidance about foods and beverages a. Students living within established walking distances, who available on school grounds throughout the school day. The purchase a courtesy pass on a space-available basis, upon Nutrition Standards will focus on increasing nutrient payment of a fee, and with the provision that there will be density, decreasing fat and added sugars, and moderating no change in bus routes or stops. This provision also portion size. Procedures and practices will encourage the applies to students living within established walking

distances and/or attending a District magnet school The bus driver is the responsible adult on the bus. Their outside their attendance cluster (Eastern, Central, directions must be followed. The driver will remind the Western) Full description of Courtesy pass procedure students of their responsibility to follow guidelines. delineated on the district website. Parents b. Students who live within the established walking distances Contact school or District administrator to notify them that a but whose walking routes to school are determined to be bus is more than 30 minutes late picking up students in the not pedestrian friendly based on established standards morning or dropping off students in the afternoon. and criteria c. Students with disabilities whose IEPs or Section 504 In Case of an Accident: Accommodation Plans stipulate specialized Bus Driver will contact bus company by radio or phone. transportation. Police Department Pupil Walking Distance Notify bus company and Superintendent of accident. Free transportation is not provided for students that live within the following walking distances to and from school. Transportation Manager & Director of School Safety Established pupil walking distances also apply to a students’ • Contacts the school(s) involved, including those with assigned bus stop. Additional reference to mileage can be subsequent bus runs, both public and/or private found in the policy on the GPS website. • Reports the information to the Managing Director of Operations and/or the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary: One mile Business. Middle School: One and one-half miles • Reports the information to the Director of Pupil Personnel High School: Two miles Services if students with special needs are involved.

Safety Rules Bus company (any and all service providers) The following guidelines and protocols are designed to • Reports immediately by phone to the District insure that students arrive at school and return home safely, Transportation Manager and or Director of School Safety and that there is clear and consistent communication • In the absence of the Transportation Manager and the between and among school, home, the bus company, police, Director of School Safety, contacts the Managing Director of and central office administrators: Operations • Reports back within an hour of the initial notification with 1. School administrators are responsible for securing and details about delay or accident including injuries, property maintaining a written permission slip in advance and for damage, or citations verifying space availability on a bus whenever a parent or • Files a written report no later than 48 hours following the guardian requests permission to travel on a bus other than accident his/her own assigned route or to another student’s home. • Contacts the Police Department with the understanding Slips will be kept on file in the school office for the balance of that no student is to be taken off a bus or released to the academic year. parents/adults unless the police have authorized an 2. Connecticut Motor Vehicle Regulations (Sec. 14-275c-16) evacuation or the bus driver determines that remaining on a states that at least twice during each school year, each pupil bus may result in serious injury. shall be instructed in safe (bus) riding practices, and • Maintains contact with the bus driver to identify causes and participate in emergency evacuation drills. School leaders solutions. should contact the District Transportation Manager for assistance in arranging for these Managing Director of Operations (Director of drills. Budget & Systems, Assistant Superintendent for 3. Parents must be informed in writing that students in Pre- Business) K through Grade 1 who are eligible for bus transportation • Provides back up and support to the Transportation must be met at the assigned bus stop by a responsible adult. Manager. If no responsible adult is at the bus stop, the bus driver is • Shares information with other District administrators directed to contact the bus company and to return the including Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and the student to school and the supervision of the school Communications office who will, as appropriate, update administrator. information on the website.

4. The following roles and responsibilities apply in the event Director of Pupil Personnel Services or designee of an accident (any incident, • As necessary, establishes and maintains communication without limitation and no matter how slight, where an with impacted non-District schools attended by children automobile, motorcycle, truck, van with special needs. or other motor vehicle, any bicycle, animal or any other • Notifies parents of special needs students, providing personal or public property contact information for updates. comes into contact with any bus) or delay (more than 30 minutes after the scheduled School Administrator(s) pick-up/arrival time). The sequence and responsibilities may Notifies parents of students involved, providing contact vary depending on the information for updates. If there are obvious weather circumstances. conditions or other extenuating circumstances, the school principal may contact the bus company directly in the event of any delay. Roles and Responsibilities for Bus Procedures Bus Driver

Rights and Responsibilities transportation issue (e.g., substantiation of a claim of a While Districts are required to provide transportation pedestrian safety condition, or variance from the services to eligible students, Connecticut Statute (C.G.S. 10- procedures), and the requested change. 233c) allows Districts to suspend transportation services for any pupil whose conduct while awaiting or receiving transportation to and from school endangers others or violates District policies and procedures. Unless an CURRICULUM INFORMATION emergency exists, transportation will not be suspended without advance written notification to parents or guardians Advanced Learning Program (ALP) (GPS procedure and an informal hearing convened by the school and/or E001.13) District administrators. The pupil will be informed of the The ALP program is a system-wide program, which serves reasons for the disciplinary action and given an opportunity the needs of students who are gifted and talented. Students to explain the situation. If circumstances warrant, the qualifying for ALP services are identified and selected by a District may convene a more formal hearing. In emergency team from the school, primarily consisting of the school situations, the hearing may be held as soon after the psychologists, classroom teachers, and the ALP teacher. suspension as possible. Unless there is a formal hearing, no Criteria used for identification and selection of ALP students pupil shall be suspended more than ten times or a total of combine teacher recommendation, standardized test results, fifty days in one school year, whichever results in fewer days. and ALP teacher observations. The ALP student’s instructional program may involve any of the following Schedules and Bus Stops: options: accelerated or expanded activities, in academic School bus scheduling, including the location of stops, are subjects, enrichment or mini-courses, field work, subject to change based on safety and educational needs, independent study, mentor programs, computer programs, number of students, frequency of ridership, and trip training in critical thinking skills and research. The regular duration. Typically the length of time students are on the classroom teacher, the ALP teacher, the media specialist, bus will not exceed 60 minutes. The goal of the district is to school staff, and community volunteers will be utilized to have busses arrive at school approximately 10-15 minutes provide the ALP student with an enriching and cohesive prior to the school start time. Late bus routes usually vary program throughout the school day. from regular morning and afternoon routes and stops based on ridership. Only transportation to and from an alternate In the middle school, in addition to teaching the Greenwich location shall require the approval of the Director of School Public Schools’ language arts objectives, the ALP English Safety. curriculum includes thematic units developed by the College of William and Mary Center for the Gifted Education. School-related trips Athletic and field trip transportation may be handled in part The goals of these units are to develop students’ skills in by private transportation companies operating under literacy analysis and interpretation, persuasive writing and arrangements independent of other school transportation linguistic competency, and to strengthen students’ reasoning contracts, consistent with all purchasing, bidding, and skills. Through the study of Utopian literature and the insurance requirements. literature of persuasion and that of the 19th century and the 1940’s, students investigate the overarching theme of change, considered one of the most basic and pervasive *Questions, concerns, requests & complaints features of life experience. The open-ended approach to Parents or other interested parties should report any and all discussion emphasizes the search for meaning in literature bus issues and/or questions using the on-line transportation while enhancing grammar, vocabulary, reading reporting system available through the District’s website comprehension, and textual analysis skills. The literature (www.greenwichschools.org). Those who do not have access studied embraces multiple genres: short stories, poetry, to a computer should contact their youngster’s school office essays, autobiographies, novels, non-fiction and plays. where someone will either answer the question or file an online transportation report. In addition students participate in WordMasters, a national vocabulary program that encourages growth in vocabulary If the question, concern, request or complaint is not and verbal reasoning. addressed at the school level or by the Transportation Manager to the satisfaction of the person who initiated the The middle school also offers the seminar program. It is a process, the escalation procedure, which should be continuum, which allows reasoning models and approaches communicated to parents through school handbooks and by to problem solving to be revisited, practiced and refined over those addressing problems, is as follows: a three-year period. Seminar students frame their own a. Submit a written appeal to the Managing Director of questions, engage in research, analyze and discuss ideas, and Operations who will consent with the individual filing the apply what they have learned to social problems. The appeal and others as appropriate (supervises the overarching theme for all three grades is “What does it mean Transportation Manager) to be human?” In sixth grade the focus is on evolutionary b. If no resolution matter is forwarded to the Superintendent change, seventh grade on the concept of systems, and in of Schools for review eighth grade on public health systems. d. In accordance with Section 10-186 Connecticut General Statutes, the parent or guardian of any child denied English Language Learning Program (ELL) (GPS transportation may, in writing, request a hearing with the procedure E001.5) Board of Education. The Board of Education shall conduct such a hearing within ten (10) days using an impartial The ELL program with the Greenwich Public Schools is hearing officer. The recommendations of the hearing designed to facilitate the acquisition of communicative and officer shall be binding on the Board. The hearing officer academic English, academic content and cultural knowledge will be guided by state law. This must be submitted in to enable English Language Learners (ELLs) to succeed in writing and should include a description of the mainstream classes and in U.S. communities as quickly as

possible. Our services are provided as both a pullout and a The World Language program at the middle school level is a push-in model depending on a student’s needs. continuation of the FLES program provided in all Greenwich The Superintendent of Schools, or a designee, shall ascertain elementary schools. Students either continue their studies of annually the number of children of limited and non-English Spanish or may begin their study of French in the sixth speaking ability within the school system, classify them grade. (A continuation of French is available for Julian according to their dominant language, and report these data Curtis students at CMS.) Classes in Native Language Arts are to the State Department of Education. All in need of available for heritage and native speakers of Spanish at all instruction shall be provided with appropriate services. three middle schools. The goal of language study is communicative proficiency combined with cultural Foreign Language in the Elementary School (FLES) knowledge, which will enable students to interact in a variety of real-life situations with native speakers of Spanish or The FLES program in the Greenwich Public Schools is a French. The major focus at this level is oral/aural content-connected program, which uses an interdisciplinary competency, supported by reading and writing. Authentic model to deliver both language and content instruction materials are used to create meaningful contexts for student through a communicative approach. The target language interaction. Performance assessments and project work (Spanish or French) is used by both teachers and students occur frequently, and technology is integrated whenever for a minimum of 90% of the instructional time. In this possible. Students also study a variety of content units, content-connected program, the new language students are which reinforce their language skills as well as their learning is the medium of instruction as well as the object of knowledge of the target countries and cultures, both past and instruction while students learn to communicate about the present. curricular areas of social studies and science. Following the content-related instruction, the curriculum branches out and personalizes the topics for students, thus enabling them to Language Arts communicate about themselves and their lives. Our program The language arts department supports the strategies and provides students with the opportunity to communicate skills required for students to comprehend and communicate about relevant and meaningful content in thematic units effectively in a 21st Century Society. Reading, writing, related to specific core content and to their personal listening, speaking and language are addressed within the experience. core curriculum that is aligned to the Connecticut and Common Core English Language Arts Standards. All five As students progress through the grades, they become more strands are taught through an integrated and constructivist proficient in each of the five basic language skills: speaking, approach to support student engagement and the capacities listening, reading, writing and cultural understanding. within Greenwich Public Schools’ Vision of the Graduate. Reading and writing are used to reinforce the content students have learned to communicate and are competencies Literacy instruction is most effective when written, spoken acquired in the target language at the same time students are and visual communications are taught in context. Students enhancing these skills in English. World language are expected to be active and flexible learners as they instruction is an integrated part of the elementary organize, analyze, revise, synthesize and evaluate curriculum and an integral part of the school environment. information. Students are also encouraged to develop an appreciation and respect for all forms of literacy, with a The following are characteristics of our FLES methodology: balance of nonfiction and fiction genres. Students develop • Words and expressions are taught in context, not knowledge and skills in the areas of reading, writing, in isolation. listening, speaking and language to develop proficient use of • Meaning is expressed through visuals, gestures, language, to support critical literacy, and to become college manipulatives, mime, and context, not through and career “ready” upon graduation. translation. • There is an emphasis on the integration of Library Media & Technology productive and receptive abilities. The Library Media Center is the hub of our schools and plays • Associations are made between the target language a central role in the education of our students. Our media and the object, action or concept, rather than the specialists teach skills on how to use information, create English equivalent. engaging presentations with the newest technology, and • The emphasis is on functional communication discover new ideas through interdisciplinary lessons using activities in real-life situations, based on the both print and digital resources. Teachers and media national and Connecticut World Language specialists work together to design lessons that help students standards. locate, evaluate, interpret, synthesize, use and present • The content-based instruction reinforces the information in ways similar to real-world expectations. concepts and core knowledge taught in the areas of Students produce multimedia presentations, create websites social studies and science. and produce digital movies and podcasts. Projects are • Assessments are done in three modes: embedded throughout our curricular areas and are taught in interpersonal, presentational and interpretive, as context-- not in isolation. Our school media centers per the state and national standards. maintain a rich collection of books suitable for all reading interests but also go beyond the physical spaces they occupy, K-5 FLES is available at the four magnet schools: as more resources are available 24/7 through the power of The International School at Dundee the Internet. We truly have "Media Centers without Walls” Julian Curtiss School of World Languages The resources and lessons provided through the Library New Lebanon School Media Center help prepare students for their 21st century Hamilton Avenue School world.

3-5 FLES is available at the remaining seven elementary Regular classroom visits are scheduled to develop library schools skills as well as a love of literature. The Center is open to students throughout the day as a resource. All classes World Language at the Middle School 27

receive instruction in the Computer Center at least once per content ranges from fitness walking, through the use of heart week, and have the opportunity to sign up for lab time rate telemetry, to adventure programming, orienteering, beyond their weekly scheduled time. racquet sports, dance, and team sports.

Math Science The guiding principle that drives mathematics instruction in the Greenwich Public Schools is that every student needs and The Greenwich Public Schools provides a rich and deserves a high-quality, comprehensive, and challenging challenging educational experience in science to every program that will lead to mathematical proficiency. With the student. Children learn the essential understandings of living adoption of the Common Core State Standards, student organisms, the physical world, and of their interrelationship. learning in the area of mathematics is focused on developing Additionally, students develop the ability to apply scientific the skills and dispositions necessary for students to become knowledge to make informed decisions regarding personal, mathematically proficient. The Common Core includes both community and societal issues. Standards for Mathematical Content, which address skills Greenwich Public Schools support an inquiry approach to and conceptual understanding at each grade level, and science as a basic component in the daily instruction of every Standards for Mathematical Practice, which address the school student. Through inquiry-based exploration, our dispositions and habits of mind that students at all levels students develop problem-solving, analysis and need to possess in order to apply their mathematical communication skills that support and encourage the knowledge and leave the Greenwich Public Schools “college investigation of the conceptual themes as described in the and career ready.” Connecticut Science Frameworks and the conceptual framework for the new Science National Standards.

Music In our Music program students will: [1] express ideas, Social Studies feelings, and human experience, [2] know artistic choices are The social studies program has three major components: influenced by personal experience and human development, [3] create in the arts using imagination, self-discipline, skills, knowledge (concepts and content), and application. problem-solving and experience, [4] grasp that process The skills component is sequenced and developmental to impacts product, [5] learn that artistic expression can be provide the student with the tools and processes to analyzed, described, and evaluated, both intellectually and understand and use the concepts and content at each emotionally, in a variety of ways, [6] understand that particular level. The essential skills categories that form the responding to the arts enhances one’s life and influences matrix include quantitative, geography, social interaction, one’s personal expression, [7] study the art discipline as a research, and critical thinking. As the students move language unto itself, communicated through a unique system through the program, they apply their learning to of symbols and terms, [8] comprehend that literacy in the arts is valuable in facilitating the transfer of artistic increasingly sophisticated concepts and content. Social expression, [9] connect the arts to other disciplines, personal studies education seeks to arm the students with the experiences, and daily life and [10] find similarities and knowledge and abilities that will enable them to put what differences in the arts produced among cultures and across they know and what they can do towards the betterment of time. the human condition.

Physical Education The Greenwich Public Schools Board of Education has Visual Art adopted the six National Standards for Physical Education, In our Visual Arts program students will: [1] express ideas, developed by the National Association for Sport and Physical feelings, and human experience, [2] know artistic choices are Education, as the framework for the Physical Education influenced by personal experience and human development, Curriculum. The standards have been re-clustered into four [3] create in the arts using imagination, self-discipline, standards for which instructional objectives and assessments problem-solving and experience, [4] grasp that process have been identified for each grade level. These detail what impacts product, [5] learn that artistic expression can be students should know and be able to do as physically analyzed, described, and evaluated, both intellectually and educated individuals. A physically educated person not only emotionally, in a variety of ways, [6] understand that acquires the skills and knowledge to perform a variety of responding to the arts enhances one’s life and influences physical activities, but also participates in such activities one’s personal expression, [7] study the art discipline as a regularly, and understands the implications of non- language unto itself, communicated through a unique system participation. The instructional program emphasizes the of symbols and terms, [8] comprehend that literacy in the developmental, educational, and sequentially appropriate arts is valuable in facilitating the transfer of artistic nature of model physical education programming as expression, [9] connect the arts to other disciplines, personal identified through national best practices and 21st century experiences, and daily life and [10] find similarities and programming. The program content is articulated both differences in the arts produced among cultures and across vertically and horizontally, thus enabling students to engage time. in a wide range of sports and activities through which they learn and transfer the essential skills and knowledge for lifetime activity and fitness. As a leader in current activity and sport trends, the Greenwich Public School’s program

Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Agreement (GPS Procedure E040.4)

Acceptable Technology Use Regulations/Internet Safety Terms of Agreement The Greenwich Public Schools (“District”) provides students and staff access to the World Wide Web and other electronic networks.

These procedures are written to promote positive and effective digital citizenship among students and staff. Digital citizenship represents more than technology literacy. Successful, technologically fluent digital citizens live safely, ethically and with civility in an increasingly digital world. They recognize that information posted on the Internet is public and permanent and can have a long- term impact on an individual’s life and career. Expectations for student and staff behavior online are no different than face-to-face interactions. Access is a privilege, not a right, and carries with it responsibilities for all involved. Misuse means any violation of this agreement or any other use that is not included in the agreement but has the effect of harming another or his or her property.

Parental Permission It is assumed that parents grant their child the right to access the network unless a permission denial form is signed and returned. Furthermore, please note that under no circumstances will PreK-12 student photos on the GPS website be identified with first and last name unless, explicitly agreed to by the parents or by students over the age of 18. Network The District network includes wired and wireless computers and peripheral equipment, files and storage, e-mail and Internet content (blogs, web sites, web mail, groups, wikis, etc.). The District reserves the right to prioritize the use of, and access to, the network. All use of the network must support student instruction, research and professional learning consistent with the mission of the District. The District provides access to its computer networks and the Internet for educational purposes only. If you have any doubt about whether a contemplated activity is educational, you may consult with the person(s) designated by the school to help you decide. Use of Personal Electronic Devices Connection of any personal electronic device to any network on school grounds is subject to all regulations and guidelines in this document. Connection of student or staff personal laptops to the District network must be equipped with up-to-date virus software, compatible network card and is configured properly.

Acceptable Use Creation of files, projects, videos, web pages and podcasts and other projects using network resources in support of educational purpose; Participation in district-approved blogs, wikis, bulletin boards, social networking sites and groups and the creation of content for podcasts, e-mail and web pages that support student instruction and professional learning; With parental permission, the online publication of original educational material, curriculum related materials and student work. Sources outside the classroom or school must be cited appropriately; Unacceptable Use Unacceptable uses of technologies and the Internet include, but are not limited to: Causing harm to others or damage to their property. In the opinion of the Administration, producing and/or uploading content/videos/images, either through the use of the District network or from home computers, which could result in the disruption of the educational process or day-to-day operations of the school. In these cases, students will be asked to remove the content and may be subject to discipline. Use for personal gain, unauthorized fundraising, commercial solicitation and compensation of any kind; Activities incurring liability or cost by the District. The District will not be responsible for unauthorized financial obligations resulting from the use, or access to, Greenwich Public School’s network or the Internet; Downloading, installing and use of games, audio files, video files or other applications (including shareware or freeware) without permission or approval from a District representative; Support or opposition for ballot measures, candidates and any other political activity; Hacking, cracking, vandalizing, the introduction of viruses, worms, Trojan horses, time bombs and changes to hardware, software and monitoring tools; Uses that jeopardize the security of student or staff access and of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. For example, disclosing or sharing your password with others or impersonating another user. Unauthorized access to other district computers, networks and information systems; Employing another’s password or some other user identifier that misleads message recipients into believing that someone other than you is communicating or otherwise using his/her access to the network or the Internet; Cyberbullying, hate mail, defamation, harassment of any kind, discriminatory jokes and remarks; The sending, sharing, viewing or possessing pictures, emails or other material of a sexual nature in electronic or any other form on a cell phone or other electronic device is prohibited in the school setting. Information posted, sent or stored online that could endanger others (e.g., bomb construction, drug manufacturing); Accessing, uploading, downloading, storage and/or distribution of obscene, pornographic or sexually explicit material; Attaching unauthorized equipment to the network. Any such equipment will be confiscated; and Participating in blogs, wikis, bulletin boards, social networking sites and groups and the creation of content for podcasts, email and web pages that do not support student instruction, research and staff development.

Privacy Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for your education. The District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of the District and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials. No student or staff user should have any expectation of privacy when using the District network. The District reserves the right to disclose any electronic messages to law enforcement officials or third parties as appropriate. All documents are subject to the public records disclosure laws of Connecticut.

Copyright Downloading, copying, duplicating and distributing software, music, sound files, movies, images or other copyrighted materials without the specific written permission of the copyright owner is generally prohibited. However, the duplication and distribution of materials for educational purposes are permitted when such duplication and distribution fall within the Fair Use Doctrine of the

United States Copyright Law (Title 17, USC) and content is cited appropriately. Permission to publish any student work requires permission from the parent or guardian.

Confidentiality of Student Information Personally identifiable information concerning students may not be disclosed or used in any way on the Internet without the permission of a parent or guardian, or, if the student is 18 or over, the permission of the student himself/herself. Users should never give out private or confidential information about themselves or others on the Internet. A supervising teacher or administrator may authorize the release of directory information, as defined by law, for internal administrative purposes or approved educational projects or activities. Internet Safety In using the network and Internet, users should not reveal personal information such as home address or telephone number. Users should never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone “met” on the District computer network or the Internet without a parent’s permission if under 18 years of age.

Filtering and Monitoring Filtering software is used to block or filter access to visual depictions that are obscene and all child pornography in accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and other objectionable material. The determination of what constitutes “other objectionable” material is a district decision and will be consistent with the policies and regulations of Greenwich Public Schools. Parents and Users. Despite every effort for supervision and filtering, all users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school-aged students. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use of the network and Internet and avoid these sites. Filtering software is not 100% effective. While filters make it more difficult for objectionable material to be received or accessed, filters are not a solution in themselves. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use of the network and Internet and avoid objectionable sites; Any attempts to defeat or bypass the Internet filter or conceal Internet activity are prohibited: proxies, https, special ports, modifications to Agency browser settings and any other techniques designed to evade filtering or enable the publication of inappropriate content; E-mail inconsistent with educational and research purposes will be considered SPAM and blocked from entering District e-mail boxes; The District will provide appropriate adult supervision of Internet use. The first line of defense in controlling access by minors to inappropriate material on the Internet is deliberate and consistent monitoring of student access to District computers; Staff members who supervise students, control electronic equipment or have occasion to observe student use of said equipment online, must make a concerted effort to monitor the use of this equipment to assure that student use conforms to the mission and goals of the district; and Staff must make a concerted effort to become familiar with the Internet and to monitor, instruct and assist effectively.

Use of New Web Tools Online communication is critical to our students’ learning of 21st Century Skills, and tools such as student e-mail, blogging and podcasting and other forms of online communication offer an authentic, real-world vehicle for student expression. Again, as educators, our primary responsibility to students is their safety. Hence, classroom blogs, wikis, student e-mail, podcasts or other Web interactive use must follow all established Internet safety guidelines. Staff and students using blogs, podcasts or other web tools for educational purposes are expected to act safely by keeping ALL personal information out of their posts. Staff and students using such tools agree to not share their user name or password with anyone besides their teachers and parents and treat blogspaces or discussion forums as classroom spaces. Speech that is inappropriate for class is also inappropriate for a blog. Users who do not abide by these terms and conditions may lose their opportunity to take part in the project and/or be subject to consequences appropriate to misuse. Use of E-Mail: All staff is provided district-sponsored e-mail through Google Apps for Education, Gmail service. Students in grades six through twelve are also provided with e-mail in a Google education domain that is filtered. As with any technology, student email is a privilege – not a right –which can be revoked at any time for inappropriate use. The following are guidelines: All users are expected to use email in a professional, legal and ethical manner. Email is provided and intended for school-related communication. Attachments from anyone not recognized by the receiver should not be opened. Email is not considered private. Users should not put anything into email that they don’t want to be public. With few exceptions, ALL emails are subject to public release as per the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Consequences of inappropriate use of student email may include, but are not limited to: loss of email and/or computer privileges, alternative assignments, or other consequences, as deemed appropriate. Any illegal use will be referred to appropriate authorities. Do not assume that a sender of e-mail is giving his or her permission for you to forward or redistribute the message to third parties or to give his/her e-mail address to third parties. This should only be done with permission or when you know that the individual would have no objection. Student Information, Photos, Work on the Greenwich Public Schools’ Web Site Using student pictures on the Greenwich Public Schools website promotes learning, collaboration and provides an opportunity to share the achievements of students. However, safety of students is a priority. The school website will follow all procedures for content, copyright and appropriateness per Web Publishing Procedures (E051.34). Images of PreK-12 students may be included in the website without identifying captions or names. In grades 9-12, websites may include full names for student work/honors without accompanying images. Any exceptions to this guideline, available in grades 9-12 only, will be communicated and signed-off by individual parents through Greenwich High School personnel. Parents or students over the age of 18 may opt out of any use of image/student work by indicating their wishes on this Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Agreement. Disciplinary Action

All users of the Greenwich Public Schools network and electronic resources are required to comply with and agree to abide by the provisions set forth in this agreement. Violation of any of the conditions of use explained could be cause for disciplinary action, including revocation of network and computer access privileges, suspension, expulsion or termination in the case of employees. Any use which violates state or federal law relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, or which violates any other applicable law or municipal ordinance, is strictly prohibited and will be reported to law enforcement and/or other appropriate state or federal agencies.

Receipt of Handbook I/We______have received and read the School Handbook. We agree to comply with all of the procedures as they are outlined in this document and will address any questions to the appropriate recipient.

Child’s Name

Parents’ Name ______

Parents’ Signature ______

Date______

(Please return signed form to your child’s homeroom teacher by Friday, September 4th)

Personal Reminders

This is a handy spot to write yourself notes. Some parents use this area to write down information unique to their child’s classroom or schedule.

Questions I want to ask the teacher during my parent conference:

School Friends’ Information