Doniphan-Trumbull Early Childhood Learning Center

WELCOME TO DONIPHAN-TRUMBULL EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING CENTER

2014-2015

PreK-12 Special Service Director: Nancy Niles

Early Childhood Specialist: Beth Walker Speech/Language Pathologist: Susanne Sorahan Early Ed Para/Bus Monitor: Angie Shafer

School Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 AM-1:15 PM

Lunch Time: 12:00-12:30

Start/End Date: Monday, August 25, 2014 Tuesday, May 5, 2015 1334 Student Days

Office Hours: 8:00-4:00

Classroom Phone: 402-845-6676

Office Phone: 402-845-2730

Elementary Office Outside Door: #3

WHEN YOU ENROLL IN OUR DISTRICT, YOU CONSENT TO OUR CODE OF CONDUCT, HOW WE MANAGE BEHAVIORS, AND OUR GENERAL PROCEDURES.

Early Childhood Learning Center Table of Contents

Welcome 4 Mission Statement 5 School Wide Goal 5 Accidents 6 Advisory Committee 6 & Back Cover Assessments 6 Attendance Policy 6 Behavior (Student) 6 Birth Certificates 6 Calendar 6 Child Abuse 6 Communicable Disease 7 Communication to Parents and Community 7 Community Integration 7 Concerns 7 Curriculum 7 Custody 8 Eligibility 8 Emergency Information 8 FERPA 8 Field Trips/Picture Permission/Class List Distribution 8 Files of Students 8 First Aid 9 Forms 9 Head Start 9 Health Policy 9 Identification for Special Education Services 9 IEP 9

2 Family Service Coordinator 9 Illness 10 Immunizations 10 Interviews 10 License 10 Medications 10 Mutual Respect 10 No Child Left Behind 10 Parent Compact 23 Parental Involvement 11 Parent-Teacher Conferences 11 Records 11 Registration 11 Religious Beliefs and Customs 11 Removal of Students 12 Report To Students 12 Rule 11 12 Rule 51 12 Safety and Emergency Drills 12 School Closings 12 School Hours 13 School Nutrition 13 Special Education 13-14 Suggested Supplies 15 TEAM 15 Transition from Early Learning Center to Kindergarten 15 Transportation 15 Visitors 16 Private Pay Sliding Scale 17 High Scope Curriculum Assessment Information 18-23 Parent Receipt Page Insert District K-12 School Calendar Insert Early Learning Center Calendar Insert Parent-School Compact Insert

Welcome to Doniphan-Trumbull Early Childhood Learning Center

Doniphan-Trumbull Public School believes in early intervention. Providing quality education to preschool students is of the utmost importance to our district. This school district believes in excellence in the classroom and will do everything possible to achieve it. To be an effective school, the home and school need to work as a team which will help make the educational process a positive experience for your child.

The pages in this handbook have information that you hopefully will find useful about the Doniphan-Trumbull Public School. This Parent-Student Handbook has been prepared to help you become familiar with the Doniphan-Trumbull Early Childhood Learning Center’s practices and procedures. It is intended to serve as a guide for parents and faculty members; and therefore this handbook will not attempt to cover every detail needed as circumstances arise. This handbook does not create a “contract”. The administration of the Doniphan-Trumbull School reserves the right to make decisions and make rule revisions at any time to implement the educational program and to assure the well being of all students. The administration will be responsible for interpreting the rules contained in the handbook. The administration of the Doniphan-Trumbull Public Schools reserves the right to amend policies in the handbook in order to enhance the educational experiences for the students of the Doniphan-Trumbull Public Schools.

The staff for the Early Childhood Learning Center is sincerely interested in making this year one in which your child will attain the maximum in educational growth and development. We urge you to do your part in carrying out the ideas of the District, and wish you success and happiness during your experiences at Doniphan-Trumbull Public School.

A parent/guardian is asked to sign the acknowledgment of the Early Childhood Learning Center’s Preschool Handbook receipt page that is an insert and return the form to the teacher. Let us know what you think of this Handbook after the word, “Comments”.

We are glad you are part of the Doniphan-Trumbull Early Childhood Learning Center!

Mary Yilk Elementary Principal/Director of Special Services

Mission Statement

COMMITTED TO ACTIONS THAT EMBRACE PROGRESSIVE OPPORTUNITIES, ADVANCED ACHIEVEMENT, GENUINE RESPECT, AND PERSONAL INTEGRITY THROUGH ACTIVE COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS.

School Wide Goal

All students PreK-12 will increase opportunities to utilize expressive literacy through written communication in meaningful context.

Adopted 2009-2010 School Year

EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING CENTER First Day: Aug. 25, 2014 Projected Last Day: May 1, 2015 Length of School Year 131 days Days Monday-Thursday Time 9:00-1:15 Extended School Year Based on need of student on IFSP/IEP Nutritional Services Breakfast & Lunch

ACCIDENTS Every student accident in the school building, on the school grounds, at practice sessions, or at any athletic event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the Principal. Parents are notified by note or by a phone call from the teacher if something has occurred at the school site.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE The Early Ed Advisory Committee meets at least twice a year to discuss issues relevant to the early ed program and how improvements can be made. This committee keeps us connected to our partners in the community and region.

ASSESSMENTS In response to Federal legislation, for “No Child Left Behind”, Nebraska Department of Education requires preschool programs to collect and report data through a program labeled “Results Matter”. The Doniphan-Trumbull Early Childhood Learning Center implements the Child Observation Record (COR assessment) to measure growth in key developmental areas, as outlined by the High Scope Curriculum. All data collected is reported to the state three times yearly.

ATTENDANCE POLICY Students are expected to be in attendance each school day. Parents are to call the school if their child will be absent or tardy. If your student rides the bus, you must also notify the bus driver to inform them not to pick up your child.

All students coming late or leaving early must check in/out of the elementary office. This helps with the efficiency of attendance records.

BEHAVIOR Students are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful, courteous manner at all times on school grounds, school vehicles, and school activities. If needed, the student’s IEP will provide goals for social and emotional growth.

BIRTH CERTIFICATES Nebraska law mandates that every student enrolled in school shall have a state certified copy of the birth certificate as part of their file within 30 days of starting services. You may call the office for information on obtaining a certified copy of your child’s birth certificate. (DTBE #5335). Copies of the birth certificate will be placed in cumulative file at the elementary office.

CALENDAR A yearly school calendar set by the school board will be maintained in the Principal’s office. A copy of the yearly calendar will be included with this handbook for your reference. The Early Childhood Learning Center has fewer instructional days, but follows the school calendar for in-service days, vacations, etc. The Early Childhood Learning Center teachers do send out notes to keep parents posted of the upcoming events. Please use the school calendar to plan your holidays and trips.

6 CHILD ABUSE Sec. 28-711 Nebraska School Laws: when any person has reasonable cause to believe that a child or an incompetent or disabled person has been subjected to abuse or neglect or observes such persons being subjected to conditions or circumstances which reasonably would result in abuse or neglect, he or she shall report such incident or cause a report to be made to the proper law enforcement agency or the department of welfare on the toll-free number 1-800-652-1299. Agencies receiving any reports of abuse or neglect under this sub-section shall notify the state central registry on the next working day by phone or mail.

Abuse shall mean knowingly, intentionally, or negligently causing or permitting a minor child or an incompetent or disabled person to be (a) placed in a situation that may endanger his life or health; (b) tortured, cruelly confined, or cruelly punished; (c) deprived of necessary food, clothing, shelter or care; or (d) left unattended in a motor vehicle, if such minor child is six years or younger. Legal reference LB207,1973.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE (see also ILLNESS) It is the policy of the District that procedures for the control of communicable diseases in the schools will be developed in a manner consistent with applicable state statutes and with regulations for communicable diseases control as established by the State Department of Health. A student suspected of having a communicable disease will be excluded from school.

The following table should serve as a guideline to parents with regard to the amount of time a student should be kept out of school with a communicable disease. • MEASLES: One week and until symptom free. • THREE DAY MEASLES: (German Measles) until rash is gone. • CHICKEN POX: May come back after one week, even with dry crusts if symptom free. • MUMPS: Nine consecutive days and until swelling is gone on both sides. • STREP THROAT: Return to school 24 hours after being on antibiotic. • RINGWORM: Must remain out of school until under treatment with a doctor. • PINK EYE: Must be symptom free in appearance or doctor documentation that child is no longer infectious. • IMPETIGO: Return after lesions have dried up and under the care of a physician. • TEMPERATURE: 100 degrees and above should remain home from school. Temperature must be normal 24 hours before returning to school. • SCABIES: Remain home until under treatment by physician. • HEPATITIS: Refer close personal contacts to family physician. • COLD/FLU: Remain home until better. • HEAD LICE: Return to school after treatment is initiated. Over the counter medications may be used. • INJURY: If injury is severe enough to cause any degree of concern for child’s welfare, call parents at once and recommend a medical opinion. Soap and water is suggested to cleanse any wound. No ointments are recommended. Cover wound with clean dry dressing. Ice should be applied to bumps or bruises for at least 30 minutes.

COMMUNICATION TO PARENTS AND COMMUNITY A mid-monthly newsletter is sent to parents from the elementary office to communicate activities and news that is happening. A mailed newsletter from the superintendent, secondary and high school administrators is sent to the entire community each month to inform patrons the happenings of the district.

Early Childhood Learning Center teachers communicate through many means; email, journals, notes, newsletters, monthly calendars, phone calls and conferences. Parents are encouraged to schedule classroom visits. Such visits provide opportunities for parents to observe strategies and techniques that are successful for their child.

The district uses a telephone system to enable mass callings of students, families and staff. This is used many times during the year to remind particular groups or classes of upcoming activities. The Early Learning Center students are automatically on the same calling list as the elementary. This phone system could also be used for emergency situations.

COMMUNITY INTEGRATION The Early Childhood Learning Center staff work very hard to integrate the students into the town and school community. These early childhood years are spent exploring the resources available to them such as; the bank, post office, businesses, restaurants, daycare, other preschools, and Prairie Winds.

7 CONCERNS Concerns of student’s class work, behavior, social/emotional status, or school activities should be initially expressed to the teacher. If the concern remains after the meeting/discussion, the principal/special service director should be contacted. It is encouraged that parent(s) put their concerns in writing.

CURRICULUM The High Scope Curriculum, which is one of the three curriculums mandated by the state, has been adapted by our school district and is used with all students attending the Early Childhood Learning Center. This is a research-based curriculum that is developmentally appropriate for the young learner. In addition, each child that is being served through an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will have an individualized curriculum according to the student’s needs. See “Curriculum” in Appendix.

CUSTODY DISPUTES The school will not be involved in custody disputes. Every parent has the right to the same information on their child. Parents will have legal rights to their child unless parental rights have been taken away or a restraining order has been issued. These documents are issued by the courts. The elementary office must have a copy placed in the student cum file for compliance.

ELIGIBILITY for the Early Childhood Learning Center: Resident students of the Doniphan-Trumbull Public School District will have the Early Childhood Learning Center available to them if they have been verified through Multidisciplinary Team Assessment (MDT), approved for placement by the Head Start criteria or meet the criteria for private pay.. MDT/IEP Some resident students attending the Early Childhood Learning Center will have had a Multidisciplinary Team Evaluation (MDT) and will be verified to receive services through an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Head Start Four students attending the Early Childhood Learning Center will be contracted through the Head Start program. Head Start eligibility is based on income. (see HEAD START SERVICES) Private Pay If the classroom has room for additional students, families with children that do not qualify under the special education guidelines or as eligible for Head Start, may inquire about Private Pay. A priority grid will be used to determine which students are to be enrolled in the program. The fee for Private Pay uses a sliding scale based on income. In the event that additional children are identified through a Multidisciplinary Team Evaluation as needing services, placement of private pay students will be reevaluated.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION Each parent is asked to complete emergency information forms. Each year it is very important for parents to verify the information given at registration time. Many times situations change and the office needs to be updated. The office will follow the written instructions. Special care should be used in filling out the “name to contact in emergency” section. Parents should make arrangements with a friend or relative to serve as an emergency contact person in the event the child is injured at school and the parent cannot be reached.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) a Federal law, requires that Doniphan-Trumbull Public Schools, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records.

FIELD TRIPS/PICTURE PERMISSION/CLASS LIST DISTRIBUTION FORM Parents will sign a form at the beginning of the school year to give permission for their child to be taken on field trips, pictures taken for public media and your child’s name to be shared with other parents for parties. Pupils taken on excursions or field trips in the interest of class activities must have the approval of the principal in advance, and wherever transportation is involved in such excursion, parent notification will be the standard procedure.

Permission must be given by the parent to allow snap shots to be used in the newspaper, elementary annual, television, etc. and permission to distribute class lists, addresses and phone numbers for school parties, home birthday parties/play activities , etc..

8 FILES OF STUDENTS The Doniphan-Trumbull Public Schools will protect the students’ “right to privacy” with respect to maintenance of all school records as provided for in the Nebraska State Statutes 79-4, 157, and Federal legislation as amended in (HR69). Parents have the right to view their child’s file at any time. A cum file is begun at the elementary office.

FIRST AID When possible, the school nurse/nurse para will perform appropriate first aid and emergency care measures in accordance with procedures outlined in their specialized training. When the school nurse/nurse para is not available, the office personnel will treat minor injuries with procedures trained by the school nurse/nurse para. In the event there is serious injury to a student, the family or guardian will be notified as soon as possible.

There is at least one staff member trained and certified for CPR in the Early Childhood Learning Center.

FORMS At the beginning of the school year or at the time services begin for your child, many forms are needed to fulfill requirements for the State and Federal Government. Your prompt return of all completed forms will be appreciated. Many of the forms will be completed at the MDT/IFSP/IEP.

HEAD START SERVICES Head Start contracts with Doniphan-Trumbull Public Schools to provide free educational opportunities for several eligible students in the school district. Families must complete the application process by setting up an appointment with the Head Start Office in Grand Island (308-385-5115). The Head Start office will contact the Doniphan-Trumbull school district to inform them of students accepted into the Head Start program and their start date. Parents of children who have met Head Start criteria will attend an orientation meeting at the Head Start Center in Grand Island before receiving services.

HEALTH POLICIES With parent permission, students will participate in a yearly Health Screening (hearing, vision, height, weight, finger stick for lead and anemia) provided through Head Start personnel and the district. Parents receive results of the Health School health screenings are not to be diagnostic and this screening process is by no means to take place of an exam from your doctor. If you have any reason to have medical concerns, please contact your family physician. The health screening date for the 14-15 school year is scheduled for Aug. 20,2014. It will be held in the Commons Area 6:00- 7:00 PM.

Asthma Protocol State Mandate The Nebraska Department of Education has mandated for all schools to develop an asthma protocol. Nebraska has a very high percentage of school age children diagnosed with asthma.

Our school has incorporated the mandated protocol with our specific school plan. To implement this specific plan, we will need to have updated health information for students and staff on an annual basis at the beginning of each school year. The goal of this mandate is to prevent deaths that may have otherwise occurred. Please call the school if you have questions, concerns or input. The school nurse will be glad to discuss this with you.

IDENTIFICATION FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES Child Find procedures will be a continuous process with district personnel available for pre screening and formal assessment of children birth to 5 years of age throughout the calendar year. Referrals may be initiated by parents, physicians, or other agencies. Screening dates are usually in April but referrals for screening and/or assessment may be arranged at anytime during the calendar year. The district will need prior approval from the parents before a formal assessment, completed by the assessment team, can occur. The team may consist of a school psychologist, speech and language pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, physician reports, or other pertinent specialists. INDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PLAN (IEP) Children 3-5 years of age that have met criteria of Rule 51 will be served free by the school district for educational opportunities and growth. The students will be served by an Individual Educational Plan (IEP). The Early Childhood Learning Center meets with parents twice a year to either renew or review the IEP.

FAMILY SERVICES COORDINATOR A Family Services Coordinator will be provided for families with children birth to three years of age that have challenges that need to be addressed by many agencies, one being the school system. This coordinator guides and assists families with young children through the process until the child reaches age 3. The students will have met criteria of Rule 51 and will be served free through an IFSP by the school district. (Individual Family Service Plan). The Early Childhood Learning Center staff and the Services Coordinator meet with the parents either quarterly, twice a year, or on a cycle agreed by all parties.

ILLNESS If a student becomes ill at school, action will be taken to accommodate the student’s needs. Please understand that there is not a place for ill children at school. When a child becomes ill at school, parents are contacted so that they can make arrangements outside of the school setting for their ill child. In case of a fever of 100 degrees or above, the child needs to be home. Temperature must be normal 24 hours before returning to school. Please see Communicable Diseases Section for additional information.

IMMUNIZATIONS Parents are urged to keep track of immunizations and booster shots. Please make certain the immunizations are kept up to date according to state law. A copy of current immunizations will be maintained in each student’s cumulative folder, housed at the elementary building site. Effective as of 2007, the State of Nebraska mandates the following immunizations be administered to preschool and school age children: measles, mumps, rubella, poliomyelitis, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus and hepatitis B, chicken pox. Exceptions to this law are:

• If the child did not receive the required immunizations because of a medical reason, the parent will need to have the physician sign the Refusal of Immunization for Medical Reasons form and turn it in to the school office before school begins. • If the child did not receive the required immunizations because of a religious reason, the parent will need to sign and have notarized the Refusal of Immunization of Student Religious Reasons form and turn it in the school office before school begins. (DTBE #5003)

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS Individual students may not be interviewed by any person, except an employee of the Doniphan-Trumbull Board of Education, or a Social Services person, without prior approval of a school administrator. No interviews will be granted unless it is deemed essential to the welfare of the student or as may be required by court order.

MEDICATION If a student must receive medication during the school day, medications must be given to the Early Childhood Learning Center staff in a prescription container, be properly labeled including required dosage; contain the name of the medication, student’s name, and the name of the prescribing physician. The parent shall fill out the medication form giving the staff permission and the directions for the dispensing of the medication. Only staff trained in distributing medication to students can dispense medicine. No medication or any pain relievers are allowed to be carried by the child or kept in backpacks or lockers. The staff will log each time a child is given medication during the school day to be used for reference by parents and the school nurse. All medications are stored in a locked container.

MUTUAL RESPECT The Doniphan-Trumbull Public School expects every faculty and staff member, as well as students, to be treated with respect and dignity. A show of disrespect toward a faculty or a staff member or insubordination on the part of the student will not be tolerated.

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND Notice Concerning Staff Qualifications: The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 gives parents the right to request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teachers. Upon request, Doniphan-Trumbull Public School will supply parents the following information about their child’s classroom instructor. 1. Whether the teacher has met State qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

2. Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or provisional teaching certificate.

3. The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher. You may also get information about other graduate certification or degrees held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.

Qualifications of paraprofessionals are also available upon request.

The request for information should be made to an administrator in your child’s school building. The information will be provided to you in a timely manner. Finally, Doniphan-Trumbull Public School will give timely notice to you if your child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who does not meet the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act (2001.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Parents are encouraged to join committees for academic and activity interest of the school. It shall be the policy of the Doniphan-Trumbull School District to allow parents and guardians access to all textbooks, curriculum materials, school records of their children and, to the extent they can be made available, standardized tests. With reasonable advanced request, parents will be allowed to attend and monitor classes, assemblies, counseling sessions, and other instructional activities, unless such attendance would substantially interfere with a legitimate school interest.

The school will provide parents with sufficient advance notice in the event unorthodox or experimental teaching methods, materials, surveys, or other educational activities are being considered for implementation. Further, the school will not sanction the use of any research, testing or surveys which tend to inquire into the values, beliefs, or privacy rights of students without explicit written permission of parents to do so.

When parents object to curriculum materials, teaching or counseling methods or other educational activities on the basis of conscience or religion, and ask that their children be excused from participation in such, the school will honor such requests. Good faith attempts to provide acceptable, alternate materials or activities in place of excused activity will be implemented. Students will not be penalized with diminished grades in the event they are excused from educational activities as a consequence of a parent’s objection.

The superintendent of schools is directed to implement procedures which will facilitate this policy, including the development of a compliant form wherein parents can identify objectionable educational materials and activities along with suggested resolutions to their complaint. (DTBE #1197)

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled twice a year to review each student’s progress. Teaching staff or parents may call for additional conferences as needed at anytime throughout the year.

Parents who are unable to attend scheduled Parent Teacher Conferences may reschedule or elect to appoint a representative to attend in their place. If so parents will need to complete a release/request form beforehand to grant us permission to share information about your child with a third party. Forms are obtainable from the school office and the Early Childhood Learning Center. A copy of completed forms will be placed in student’s file.

11 RECORDS The School District of Doniphan-Trumbull will transfer student records to other schools and institutions upon the written request of the parent/guardian of the student.

REGISTRATION All students in the program must complete a registration form to be enrolled in the Early Childhood Learning Center.

RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND CUSTOMS The Doniphan-Trumbull Board of Education believes in the preservation of and respect for private religious beliefs. Students adhering to a specific set of religious beliefs or holding to little or no belief shall be respected.

No teaching within the school shall be sectarian in nature. If any school program or instruction is, in any way, imposing upon a student’s religious belief, such student may be excused from participation.

The Board recognizes the importance of teaching high moral and ethical values. Students will be encouraged by the staff to develop high moral and ethical values.

REMOVAL OF STUDENTS School administrators and teachers may not consent to the removal of a student from school premises while the child is properly in attendance, either during school hours or during supervised activities without permission of the parents or guardian of the child. It is recognized however, that such removal may occur, pursuant to a legal arrest or valid court subpoena or order.

REPORTS TO PARENTS The Early Childhood Learning Center schedules individual parent conferences during designated Parent-Teacher Conferences, as well as throughout the school year. The Philosophy of the Early Learning Program includes a strong school-parent connection, in order to best encourage use of techniques and strategies, designed to promote learning opportunities, in a variety of environments throughout the student’s day. Instructors communicate frequently through a variety of formal and informal means with parents (i.e. conferences, personal contact, phone calls, calendars, notes, etc.)..

RULE 11 The Early Childhood Learning Center’s program meets Rule 11 criteria set by the State of Nebraska Department of Education

RULE 52 The Early Childhood Learning Center’s program for special education students meets the Rule 52 criteria set by the State of Nebraska.

SAFETY AND EMERGENCY DRILLS 1. Outside School Doors: The entrance doors are kept locked at all times. A visitor needs to obtain entry through the elementary main door (Door #3) and then obtain a pass at the elementary office.

2. Emergency Drills: All students are instructed in procedures to use during an emergency drill. Such instructions are practiced and posted in the school. Students will proceed to the assigned safe area to obtain shelter during a tornado drill. Students are not to leave the school building if a tornado hits unless they are released to their parents.

If a crisis occurs requiring evacuation of the classroom, the Doniphan-Trumbull Early Learning Center will go to the Catholic Church with the rest of the elementary students.

Non-Emergency Lock Down: All students and staff remain in their classroom or where ever they may be until the all clear is given by administration. A non-emergency lock down may occur for a variety of reasons. Teaching and learning still occurs at this time.

12 Emergency Lock Down: All students and staff remain in their classroom or where ever they may be until the all clear is given by administration. Lights are turned off and a safe place to sit is directed by the adult.

Lock In: All students remain at the school site until all clear has been called. Students may leave with their parent if arrangements are made through the principal’s office.

3. Connect Ed: Families and staff may be called quickly if an emergency arises.

4. Security Cameras: Surveillance cameras are in use in the main school building to monitor and to help secure school and personal property. Cameras are located in, but not limited to, the east and west gymnasiums, weight training room, parking lots, the elementary playground, several school hallways, and computer laboratories.

SCHOOL CLOSING NOTICES: Connect Ed phone system will be used to inform parents and staff as early as possible of school closing due to inclement weather. In addition, the school website has school cancellation information posted on all area schools.

The information will also be given to the media on KOLN/KGIN TV (Channel 10/11), KHAS/TV (Channel 5), NTV (Channel 13), and KLKN/TV (Channel 8) and radio stations KSYZ (Grand Island), KRGI (Grand Island), KHAS (Hastings), KICS (Hastings), KQKY (Kearney), KKPR/KXPN (Kearney) and KROA (Doniphan). Please do not call the school or school personnel when there is a possibility of a school closing. School phones will be needed to contact bus drivers, teachers, and the news media.

If severe weather happens during the school day, an hour notice will be given for parents if at all possible. The weather emergency form will be used.

SCHOOL HOURS Early Childhood Learning Center Student hours are from 9:00 a.m. -1:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The teachers may be available to you from 8:00-9:00 and 1:30 to 4:00, Monday-Thursday.

SCHOOL NUTRITION Students have the opportunity to have breakfast and lunch at the school site. Meals are served using family style. Meal times provide many learning opportunities for students to acquire a variety of skills in a natural setting. Meals are prepared by the Doniphan-Trumbull Public School Nutrition Program and served using safe food practices.

Qualification guidelines for free and reduced lunches are sent home at the beginning of the school year. While the preschool meal program is provided free to your child, your assistance in completing these forms does help our school’s reimbursement program.

“In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339 or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”

SPECIAL EDUCATION SPECIAL EDUCATION IDENTIFICATION AND PLACEMENT PROCEDURES What Does Special Education Mean? Special education means educational experiences, curriculum and services, including transportation, through the use of staff, facilities, equipment and classrooms which have been adapted to provide special instruction for students with disabilities. In addition, special education provides the support services necessary for evaluation, placement and instruction for students with disabilities. These services are free to parents, unless they elect to place their child in a program other than one approved by the school district. How are Students With Disabilities Identified?

13 The first step is for parents to provide written permission to have their child evaluated. The request for permission will include a description of the action to be taken and a description of each evaluation procedure. Written statements showing the results of the evaluation and the reasons for placement in a special education program must be kept on file. Within 45 days after a student has been verified as having a disability, a conference will be held with parents. Advance notice will be given. At the conference, an Individual Education Program (IEP) will be developed.

Students Who May Benefit A student verified as having autism, behavior disorder, hearing impairment, mental handicap, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, speech language impairment, traumatic brain injury, or visual handicap may be placed in regular education with support services or may benefit from a special education classroom or service. Independent Evaluation If a parent disagrees with an evaluation completed by the school district, the parent has a right to request an independent educational evaluation at public expense. Parents should direct inquiries to school officials to determine if the school district will arrange for further evaluation at public expense. If school district officials feel the original evaluation was appropriate and the parents disagree, a due process hearing may be initiated. If it is determined that the original evaluation was appropriate, parents still have the right to an independent educational evaluation at their own expense. Reevaluation Students identified for special education will be reevaluated at least every three years by the IEP team. The IEP team will review existing evaluation data on the student and will identify what additional data, if any, are needed. The school district shall obtain parental consent prior to conducting any reevaluation of a student with a disability. Individual Education Program (IEP) /Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP) Each student with a disability must have a written IEP/IFSP prepared by the staff in cooperation with parents specifying programs and services that will be provided by the schools. If necessary, the district will arrange for interpreters or other assistants to help parents in preparing and understanding the IEP/IFSP. Once in place, the program is reviewed on a regular basis with the parent. An IEP/IFSP is developed in a conference setting. Parents will be notified of the persons who will be in attendance. The IEP/IFSP conference shall include at least the following: 1. A representative of the school district; 2. An individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation results; 3. One or both parents; 4. The child (when appropriate); 5. At least one regular education teacher if the child is, or may be participating in the regular education environment; 6. At least one special education teacher; 7. A representative of the nonpublic school if the child is attending a nonpublic school; 8. A representative of a service agency if the child is receiving services from an approved service agency; and 9. Other individuals, at the discretion of the parent or school district. It is permissible for parents to bring other persons to the IEP meeting, but it is a good idea to inform the school before the scheduled meeting. The school district will provide parents with a copy of the IEP. Special Education Placement The student’s placement in a special education program is dependent on the student’s educational needs as outlined in the Individual Education Program (IEP). The school district must assure that students with disabilities are educated with students who do not have disabilities, to the maximum extent possible. Students are entitled to have supplementary aids and services to help them in a regular educational setting. Students with disabilities may be placed in special classes, separate schools or other situations outside the regular educational environment when the nature of the child’s needs require specialized educational techniques that are not available in current settings. Determination of a student’s educational placement will be made by a team of persons who knows the student and who understands the tests and procedures that assess the student’s learning abilities. Team members know the available programs and services which might help the student. Parents are asked for written consent to determine whether or not they approve the educational placement recommended for their child. If the parent does not speak English or is hearing impaired, an interpreter may be requested. Written notice shall be given to parents a reasonable time before the school district: 1. Proposes to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, verification or educational placement of a child or the provision of a free appropriate public education; or 2. Refuses to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of the child or the provision of a free appropriate public education to the child. Alternative Programs Parents have a right to know about available private and public programs, other than those offered by the schools. The school district staff will provide information about those programs on request. If parents place the student in one of those programs, however, the school district is not required to pay for the student’s education.

14 Access to Student Records Parents have the right to inspect and review any education records relating to their child which are collected, maintained or used by the school district in providing educational services. Nonpublic School Students Students in state-approved nonpublic schools may participate in special education programs in the same manner as public school students.

Parental Review of Programs Parents who want to review their child’s placement for any reason should request an IEP team meeting. If parents are not satisfied with the results of the conference, they may appeal to the Nebraska Department of Education for a formal hearing to be conducted by a state hearing officer. Parents dissatisfied by the findings and decisions made in a state level hearing have the right to bring civil action. Early Learning Services: Students will be served at home or center base within our school district’s boundaries. D-T personnel will not cross district borders to serve children. SUGGESTED SUPPLIES It is suggested that each student have a backpack that they are able to independently open and close. In addition preschool students may wish to leave an extra set of clothes at school in case of an accident. Diapers and pull-ups will be provided by parents, if needed. Other personal belongings, such as toys, should remain at home, unless approved or requested by classroom instructors. T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Achieves More) This is a parent/teacher partnership to instill school spirit and pride. This group sponsors monthly family activities and raises funds for various needs of the Doniphan-Trumbull Elementary and Preschool. All families are encouraged to attend the monthly activities. All parents are automatically members of TEAM once their child is enrolled in the elementary/preschool.

Families of the Early Childhood Learning Center are also encouraged to attend TEAM activities that are of interest to the family. All TEAM activities must have a parent attend and supervise evening activities.

TRANSITION FROM EARLY LEARNING CENTER TO KINDERGARTEN The Early Childhood Learning Center teachers, the school age special education staff, and the kindergarten teachers work together to assist with a smooth transition of pre school to school age services. Many times throughout the school year, the above named staff plan activities for students from the Early Childhood Learning Center that provide exposure to school age learning opportunities and environments.

TRANSPORTATION The Doniphan-Trumbull Public Schools will provide free transportation for students who are Head Start eligible or have been verified as eligible to receive Special Education Services. Parents of private pay will transport their own child to and from school or they may chose to arrange to have their child at a “pick up” point located along the current route.

The Doniphan-Trumbull Public School’s responsibility for each child begins when the student boards the bus and terminates when the student leaves the bus. The parents/guardians are responsible for the safety and general conduct of their child between the home and the bus loading and unloading station.

Schedule Changes: The Elementary office will need a dated written note about a schedule change and will share this information with the Early Childhood Learning Center staff and bus driver. If your child is ill in the morning, you will want to inform the bus driver beforehand to not come pick up your child and call the elementary office 402-845-2730.

15 Rules for Safety Pick Up 1. Your child must be ready 3-5 minutes before the scheduled pick up time. Drivers are instructed to wait only 3 minutes at each location. The bus driver will then notify the school about the absence and go on their route. 2. Walk your child to the bus to load. The bus driver and monitor are not to leave the bus. 3. Dress your child in clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. 4. Talk to your child about safe behavior while riding, loading and unloading, crossing in front of the school minibus, and wearing seat belts. 5. Do not send meals or snacks with your child to eat on the bus. 6. Do not detain the bus driver since the driver is on a tight schedule. Drop Off 1. The parent must walk to the bus and take the child off the bus. 2. The bus driver has been instructed to wait 3 minutes for the parent/caregiver to receive the student. 3. If the parent/caregiver does not come to the bus within the 3 minute period, the driver will keep the student on the bus, notify the school who will attempt to contact the parent/caregiver. 4. If a parent/caregiver cannot be contacted, the student will be taken back to the school. The office will try and reach the parent. If that is not successful, the office may call Department of Social Services for assistance.

Expected Behaviors 1. Students are to stay seated with the seat belts (or car seat harness) buckled up. 2. Students are to keep hands and feet to self. 3. Students are not to throw objects in the bus. 4. Students are not to scream or shout. Swearing or use of vulgar language is not allowed. 5. Eating food, gum, chewing, or drinking beverages are not allowed on the bus. 6. Nuisance items on the bus are not allowed (water guns, toys, etc). 7. Follow the directions of the bus monitor and driver. Drivers may assign seats whenever such action is appropriate. 8. Adaptive equipment for students with special needs will be transported.

Additional Transportation Information 1. If a child becomes ill at school, it is the parent’s responsibility to provide transportation home. 2. Students will not be picked up or dropped off at the parents work site. 3. Transportation will only be provided within the district’s property boundaries.

VISITORS Out of courtesy, call the office or teacher one day ahead of the visit. All visitors (parents, family members, Head Start personnel, other agencies etc.) shall report to the elementary office or superintendent’s office upon arrival for safety purposes. All visitors shall sign in and wear a pass issued by the office.

Parents are welcome at all times but for the sake of instructional continuity, it is urged to limit the frequency and duration of visits. A visitation time of 30 - 60 minutes is suggested.

Visits during the first and last two weeks of school are not encouraged due to many schedule changes and keeping students on task.

Preschool students may not have friends or cousins visit the school without an adult accompaniment.

Fee for Doniphan-Trumbull Early Childhood Learning Center

Preschool class may be composed of Head Start, verified and private pay students. A priority grid has been developed, with those students demonstrating the greatest need to be enrolled first. Verified students and Head Start students will have first priority. The remaining slots will be filled with private pay students. In the event that additional children are identified with high needs, placement of private pay students in the classroom will be re-evaluated.

Private Pay: Parents of private pay will transport their child to and from school or arrange to have their child at a designated pick up point along the bus’ typical route.

• Actual number of instruction days will vary monthly due to staff in-service days, conferences, vacation days, weather, etc. The Doniphan-Trumbull Public School yearly calendar will be followed.

Payments should be mailed to: Doniphan-Trumbull Public School Attn: Superintendent’s Office P.O. Box 300 Doniphan, NE 68832

Payments must be received by the 10th of each month: Payments are due for the months of September, October, November, December, January, February, March, and April. A monthly bill will not be sent to you. You will want to put a billing reminder on your payment calendar so that your payment arrives by the 10th of each month. The Early Advisory Committee believes that payments must be made on time each month. If a family owes more than two months, the child will be withdrawn from the class. Their slot will then be available to another child on the wait list.

Sliding scale for families available: If your family qualifies for free lunch, then your child will attend free of charge.

If your family qualifies for reduced lunch, then your child’s tuition will be reduced 60%.

Private Pay: Based on Free and Reduced Lunch guidelines Monthly Full Pay $150.00 Reduced $ 50.00 Free $0.00

Our Early Education Program Curriculum Is: Creative Curriculum

Aligned with the Assessment: Teaching Strategies GOLD Objectives for Development & Learning Social-Emotional 1. Regulates own emotions and behaviors a. Manages feelings b. Follows limits and expectations c. Takes care of own needs appropriately

2. Establishes and sustains positive relationships a. Forms relationships with adults b. Responds to emotional cues c. Interacts with peers d. Makes friends

3. Participates cooperatively and constructively in group situations a. Balance needs and rights of self and others b. Solves social problems

Physical 4. Demonstrates traveling skills 5. Demonstrates balancing skills 6. Demonstrates gross-motor manipulative skills 7. Demonstrates fine-motor strength and coordination

Language 8. Listens to and understands increasingly complex language a. Comprehends language b. Follows directions

9. Use language to express thoughts and needs a. Uses an expanding expressive vocabulary b. Speaks clearly c. Uses conventional grammar d. Tells about another time and place

10. Uses appropriate conversational and other communication skills a. Engages in conversations b. Uses social rules of language

Cognitive 11. Demonstrates positive approaches to learning a. Attends and engages

18 b. Persists c. Solves problems d. Shows curiosity and motivation e. Shows flexibility and inventiveness in thinking

12. Remembers and connects experiences a. Recognizes and recalls b. Makes connections

13. Uses classification skills

14. Uses symbols and images to represent something not present a. Thinks symbolically b. Engages in sociodramatic play

Literacy 15. Demonstrates phonological awareness a. Notices and discriminates rhyme b. Notices and discriminates alliteration c. Notices and discriminates smaller and smaller units of sound

16. Demonstrates knowledge of the alphabet a. Identifies and names letters b. Uses letter-sound knowledge

17. Demonstrates knowledge of print and its uses a. Uses and appreciates books b. Uses print concepts

18. Comprehends and responds to books and other texts a. Interacts during read-aloud and book conversations b. Uses emergent reading skills c. Retell stories

19. Demonstrates emergent writing skills a. Writes name b. Writes to convey meaning

Mathematics 20. Uses number concepts and operations a. Counts b. Quantifies c. Connects numerals with their quantities

21. Explores and describes spatial relationships and shapes a. Understands spatial relationships b. Understands shapes

22. Compares and measures

23. Demonstrates knowledge of patterns

Science and Technology 24. Uses scientific inquiry skills

25. Demonstrates knowledge of the characteristics of living things

26. Demonstrates knowledge of the physical properties of objects and materials

27. Demonstrates knowledge of Earth’s environment

28. Uses tools and other technology to perform tasks

Social Studies 29. Demonstrates knowledge about self

30. Shows basic understanding of people and how they live

31. Explores change related to familiar people or places

32. Demonstrates simple geographic knowledge

The Arts 33. Explores the visual arts

34. Explores musical concepts and expression

35. Explores dance and movement concepts

36. Explores drama through actions and language

English Language Acquisition 37. Demonstrates progress in listening to and understanding English

38. Demonstrates progress in speaking English

DONIPHAN-TRUMBULL EARLY LEARNING CENTER/EARLY CHILDHOOD AND T TITLE I ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PARENT-STUDENT-SCHOOL LEARNING COMPACT

PARENT: I understand that my participation in my child’s education will help their school achievement and attitude. To fulfill these responsibilities I will do my best to:

1. Provide a quiet place/time and encourage my child to complete schoolwork. 2. Have high expectations and be supportive of my child as an individual. 3. Help my child learn to resolve conflicts in positive ways. 4. Communicate, work with, and respect school staff and the cultural differences of others.

STUDENT: I know my education is important to me. It will help me become a better person. I will do my best to do the following:

1. Respect and cooperate with other students and adults. 2. Be responsible for my own behavior. 3. Be conscientious to do my best in class and schoolwork.

TEACHER: I understand the importance of the school experience to every student and my role as a teacher. I will do my best to carry out the following responsibilities:

1. Provide a safe, positive and healthy learning environment for all students. 2. Respect the cultural differences of students and families. 3. Have high expectations for myself and students. 4. Be aware of individual learning styles and teach to meet those needs.

Thanks To Early Ed Advisory Committee

The Doniphan-Trumbull Public School has an Early Learning Center Advisory Committee. This committee is in its 6th year to assist the growth and development of our programs offered to students within the district. I would like to thank these committed people for attending the meetings.

Advisory Committee: Gaye DeMars Shawna Williams Tammy Williams Glenda Gant Amy Schultz Carrie Gregory Steph Roach Beth Walker Deb Hartman Trisha Shafer Susanne Sorahan Deb Ross Jessica Moore Beth Schuler