Appoquinimink Preschool Center
Preschool Parent Handbook 2021-2022 www.appopreschool.org
Nondiscrimination Statement The Appoquinimink School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, age, disability, marital status, national origin, or other legally protected categories in its educational programs, activities, employment, or student admissions policies or practices.
ASD Compliance Ofcers Inquiries regarding compliance with the above should be directed to:
Title IX (Discrimination and diferent treatment based on sex) Dr. Stanley Spoor Director of Human Resources 313 South Fifth Street Odessa, DE 19734-4010 302.376.4127
Section 504 (Disability discrimination laws) Dr. Ed Gurdo Supervisor of Student Services 313 South Fifth Street Odessa, DE 19734-4010 302.376.4111 Appoquinimink Preschool Center 502 South Broad Street Middletown, DE 19709
August 2021
Dear APC Family,
We welcome you and your child to an exciting school year. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you as partners in your child’s education.
This handbook provides you with information relating to the school day and your child’s educational program. Please take a few minutes to read the handbook. As the year progresses please use this handbook as your source of reference.
We look forward to working with you in providing a positive school year for you and your child.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kim Brancato Principal Table of Contents
Appoquinimink Preschool Center Contacts page 4 Appoquinimink School District Contacts 4 Board of Education 4 Classroom Learning 5 Communication 6 Assessment/continuous Progress 6 Conference Dates 6 Delaware Early Learning Foundations 6 Field Trips 7 Special Educations 7 Related Services 8 Transition 8 School Health Services 9 Immunizations/Medical Requirements 10 Emergency Card 10 Illness 10 Injuries 11 Medication Policy 11 Clothing 11 Attendance 11 Parent Transportation 12 Afternoon Dismissals 12 Early Dismissals 13 Transportation 13 Late Openings/Early Closings/Cancellations 13 Automated Phone Messages 13 Smart Phone Messages 14 State School Closing Website and Email Notification 14 Local Radio Stations 14 Change of Address/Phone Numbers 15 Nutrition 15 Classroom Celebrations 15 Birthday Parties 15 Parent Involvement 16 Volunteers 16 Visiting Classrooms 16 Out of School Volunteer Opportunities 16
Fundraisers 17 Safety 17 Nuclear Power Plant 18-23 Community Notification 23-29 Sick/Appointment Notes 31 Appoquinimink Preschool Center Contacts 376-4400
Principal Kim Brancato School Secretary Angelica Groom Educational Diagnostician Kathy Gerstley School Nurse Aimee Hastings School Psychologist Laura Donnelly
Appoquinimink School District Contacts 376-4128
Superintendent Matthew Burrows Assistant Superintendent Sharon Pepukayi Assistant Superintendent Thomas Vari Human Resource Director Stanley Spoor Director of Early Learning Gina Robinson Facilities Supervisor Andy Walton Food Services Supervisor Janice Vander Decker Transportation Supervisor Stacey McIntosh Director of Student Services Josette McCullough Executive Director of the Office of Instruction and Student Services Kalia Reynolds Public Relations Lilian Miles
Board of Education
Mr. Norman Abrams Mrs. Michelle Wall Mrs. Kelly Wright Mr. Richard Forsten l Appoquinimink School District Early Childhood Program
Classroom Learning The Appoquinimink Preschool Center (APC) classrooms are active, busy places. The teachers work to be facilitators of children’s learning. The children will often be involved in activities together; conversing and sharing ideas as the teacher works with small groups or individuals. Children often learn best when they have hands-on experiences.
Classroom lessons are guided by a comprehensive curriculum from Teaching Strategies: Creative Curriculum. . Teachers create developmentally appropriate activities related to the themes, providing the children with a variety of play based learning experiences.
Children may not all be involved in the same activity at the same time. It is important to meet the needs of individual children. It is also important for children to have choices during the school day. The APC is dedicated to the special needs of young learners. The staff strives to develop the whole child with opportunities in language, math, science, creative expression, physical education, social interaction and activities that reflect a commitment to an anti-bias, multicultural environment.
The APC staff use a Conscious Discipline approach that positively guides and supports children and emphasizes respect for each child. Our staff will use developmentally appropriate expectations of children’s behavior and the use of positive behavior support and guidance strategies. To help children become aware of self-regulation and their emotions throughout the school day, APC staff have been trained in using The Zones of Regulation. By using The Zones of Regulation, children are able to recognize and identify their feelings/level of alertness and use learned strategies to move towards independent regulation.
The staff strives to create a School Family environment that enables our children and families to feel safe, loved, and supported. Through Conscious Discipline and Zones of Regulations strategies, the staff will help children learn pro-social behaviors, build confidence, and build a sense of community that will develop greater respect for others’ rights and feelings as well as their own. https://consciousdiscipline.com/
Communication We are committed to building a strong home and school connection. We strive to provide frequent communication to families through weekly classroom and school newsletters, automated phone messages, flyers, progress reports, conferences and through the school website; www.appopreschool.org Visit the website often to keep up to date on school and district news.
The principal and classroom teacher will be sending a weekly newsletter through your email. If you would prefer a paper copy of the newsletters, please inform your child’s teacher.
Assessment/Continuous Progress The staff at the APC uses assessment to determine the children’s strengths, progress and needs. The purpose of assessment is to support decision making regarding teaching and learning, identify concerns, which may require focused intervention for individual children and helping programs to improve their educational and developmental interventions. The APC uses Teaching Strategies GOLD, an observational assessment, to document student progress. Teachers document progress and skill development through ongoing observations, curriculum based assessment and input from families. Checkpoints are completed in the fall, winter and spring and information is shared with families during conferences.
Progress Reports are issued three times per year. Parent conferences are held a minimum of three times per year. Conferences can be requested at any time.
November 22 & 23, 2021 PK Parent Conferences February 17 & 18, 2022 PK Parent Conferences June 9 & 10, 2022 PK Parent Conferences
Delaware Early Learning Foundations: Preschool The Delaware Early Learning Foundations (DELF) were developed by a workgroup through the Delaware Department of Education to serve as a curriculum framework, skill expectation for children ages 3-5. The DELF’s are linked to the skill expectations children need as they enter kindergarten and provide a curriculum guide for early childhood programs. Learning opportunities are intended to be a set of broad-based activities through which children are exposed to new learning concepts, having opportunities to acquire new skills, practice those skills as well as master previously learned skills.
The DELF is organized into eight domains: ● Social Emotional ● Approaches to Learning ● Language and Literacy ● Mathematics ● Science ● My family, My Community, My World ● Creative Expression ● Physical Development and Health
Field Trips Field trips are considered to be an extension of the classroom. Educational values to be gained by taking field trips will be maximized by careful pre-planning and follow-up activities. Our big field trip is our walking trip to the Middletown Fire Station. Parent chaperones will be needed for this trip. We will also bring exciting experiences to the APC such as; visits from community helpers such as police officers, fire fighters with their service vehicles, farm animals, puppet shows and musical performances. In May, full day four-year-old classes will take a trip to the kindergarten centers for a tour of their home kindergarten school. Children will ride on school buses equipped with STAR seats. Children attending kindergarten outside of the district are assigned to one of the district kindergarten centers for a tour.
Special Education All Special Education services will follow state and federal guidelines. The APC supports early childhood inclusion as a fundamental right for all of our children. For our program this means that children with and without disabilities play and learn together in their early childhood classrooms. The definition of early childhood inclusion: “Early childhood inclusion embodies the values, policies and practices that support the right of every infant and young child and his or her family, regardless of ability to participate in a broad range of activities and contexts as full members of families, communities and society. The desired results of inclusive experiences for children with and without disabilities and their families include a sense of belonging and membership, positive social relationships and friendships, and developmental and learning to reach their full potential. The defining features of inclusion that can be used to identify high quality early childhood programs and services are access, participation and supports.” (DEC/NAEYC, 2009)
What is meant by access, participation and supports?
Access—means providing a wide range of activities and environments for every child by removing physical barriers and offering multiple ways to promote learning and development.
Participation—means using a range of instructional approaches to promote engagement in play and learning activities, and a sense of belonging for every child.
Supports—refers to broader aspects of the system such as professional development, incentives for inclusion and opportunities for communication and collaboration among families and professionals to assure high quality inclusion.
Related Services Students identified with specific needs may receive speech and/or language therapy, occupational therapy or physical therapy based upon their Individualized Education Programs (IEP).
Transition
Children transitioning from the Birth to Three (Child Development Watch Program) will have a Transition Meeting with the Appoquinimink Preschool Center Child Find Coordinator and the Child Development Watch Family Service Coordinator. A tour of the facility will be provided and necessary information, evaluations and paper work will be transferred at that meeting.
Meet the Teacher Night will be held Thursday, September 1 from 4:00-5:30 PM. Class lists will be posted that night and families can meet the teachers and tour the classrooms. Name tags will be handed out that night.
Home Visits will be held Tuesday, September 7th and Wednesday September 8thh. Classroom teachers will call families who signed up to have a home visit. This is a great time for you and your child to have a personal meeting with the classroom staff.
Back to School Night will be held Thursday, September 30 at 6 PM. Each teacher will provide families with an overview of the classroom schedule, curriculum, assessment, calendar of events, teaching philosophy and supplies.
Students will remain in their assigned classroom throughout the school year. Changes are not made during the school year due to a child’s age. (3 year old turning 4 years old)
Children enrolling during the school year may schedule a building tour and a classroom visit. Families may schedule an individual tour of the building and meeting with the principal throughout the school year.
In the spring, our three year old classes spend time in the four year old classes, to give them an opportunity to see what they will experience next school year. Teachers meet to review the needs of the students and to prepare them for the full day four year old program.
Kindergarten Transition Kindergarten Readiness Night is offered at the APC and each of the Kindergarten Centers in the district has a Kindergarten Preview Night. Parents are invited to learn about the programs, curriculum and policies of the schools. Children enrolled at APC do not need to register for kindergarten, since they have already registered for the district when enrolled in the district preschool program. The district offers informational sessions on the Kindergarten Spanish and Chinese Immersion programs. The immersion programs are Choice programs and families must register for those programs even if held in the child’s feeder pattern school. School Health Services
Appoquinimink Preschool Center has a full time registered nurse, Aimee Hastings. As the health services expert, the school nurse serves as the health professional for the school community and provides services to support learning. Besides the individual management of special health needs, the school nurse provides: ● quality, direct nursing services for chronic and episodic conditions ● health screenings and referrals ● health promotion for students and staff ● care coordination for students with chronic health conditions ● health services management ● a link to healthcare providers in the community ● an on-site health resource for students, families and staff
If you have questions regarding school health services and/or the role of the school nurse, please visit her website or contact her at [email protected] .
School Health Regulations
Appoquinimink School District follows Delaware School Health Regulations. They can be found by accessing the following link: Delaware School Health Regulations.
COVID Pandemic Response
Appoquinimink School District follows guidance from Delaware Division of Public Health and Delaware Department of Education. Please visit the district’s Pandemic Response Website for the most current information. We are awaiting further guidance from the DOE and Delaware Division of Public Health for the 2021-2022 school year. If you have any questions, please reach out to our school nurse, Aimee Hastings, at [email protected] or 376-4402.
Emergency Treatment Card
All students must have a new emergency treatment card on file at the beginning of each school year. It can be completed here and emailed to [email protected]. If you prefer a hard copy, we will send one home at your request. If information on the emergency card changes during the school year (allergies, medications, chronic conditions, phone numbers, address, emergency contacts etc…) please notify the main office and school nurse of any changes.
Medication Administration in School
The district has set forth the following requirements for safe administration of medications in school.
Medication Administration
Chronic Disease Management in the School Setting
If your child has a chronic health condition such as seizures, food allergies, or diabetes, please contact Mrs. Hastings so that we can meet with you to discuss your child’s condition and how we can implement an individualized health management plan for school.
Clothing – Outdoor play is a regular part of the preschool day. The children will have opportunities to play outside everyday so please dress your child for the weather. For safety on the playground, do not send your child in open toed shoes or flip-flops.
Attendance
Children who attend our preschool daily and on time experience better outcomes than those children who attend only occasionally. Please abide by the start and end times. Children who arrive after the arrival time must be signed in by their parent at the main office. Upon signing in, parents/caregivers will need to scan a United States identification or driver license. This is a required safety precaution.
If your child is ill, please keep him/her at home. If a lengthy illness is expected, please notify the school nurse. Please send a note to school explaining the absence when your child returns to school.
Parent Transportation
Parent Drop Off and Pick up – Please follow the enclosed map during drop off and pick up from school. Drive to the far right of the building to the Parent Drop Off Area. Please remain in your car with your child and wait for a staff member to arrive to escort your child into the building. It is the parent’s responsibility to take the child out of the car seat and hand the child over to a staff member and to secure the child back in the car seat at the end of the day.
Afternoon Dismissals
The Appoquinimink School District prefers to release students during the school day to their parents or legal guardians.
If the parent/guardian would like his/her child released to another individual a written request must be submitted in advance of the release of the child. The individual must provide a valid photo identification when picking up the child.
The written request must state the following information:
● Student’s full name and Teachers name ● Date and time to be dismissed early ● Who /contact number of the person picking up the student ● Reason for dismissal ● Parent/Guardian Signature
We have a form that may be used. The form is attached to the Parent Handbook and also may be printed from our website. “Sick/Appointment Note” form. The individual picking up the child must show identification before the school will release the student.
Early Dismissal for appointments – Written notice as outlined above should be submitted prior to dismissal. Please park at the front of the building and go to the office to sign out your child. A picture ID will be required. Please arrive before 3:00 pm for early dismissal.
Transportation
Bus Transportation – The Appoquinimink School District provides transportation for children eligible for special education. Children must ride the bus they are assigned by transportation. Parents should not plan on their child riding a different bus for short-term sitter arrangements, parent appointments, etc. All preschoolers riding the bus will use the Safe Guard Star Safety seats. We will review the school bus rules with the children. Please make sure to talk to your child about the importance of staying in their seat on the bus, just as they do riding in your car. For more information regarding the Safe Guard Star Seats please visit: SafeGuardSeat.com.
The Appoquinimink School District requires a parent/guardian or designees to meet their child at their assigned bus stop each day.
Failure of a parent/guardian or designee to meet their child at their assigned bus stop will result in returning the child to school. The parent will be responsible for picking the child up at school. The parent will receive a letter from the school reminding them of the district’s policy.
For any changes in bus stops parents/guardians will need to complete a new transportation form and there will be a (5) day processing time. The reason for the length of time is to notify drivers and to update bus listings. Please keep in mind that this is for the safety of your child. When your child is riding the bus to school there is a 10-minute plus (+) or minus (-) pick up time. Therefore, if your child’s pick-up time is 8:35, the child should be ready no later than 8:25. Depending on traffic or road conditions, the bus may be there by 8:25 or as late as 8:45. Please make sure that your child is ready for their bus, the bus will not wait. LATE OPENINGS/EARLY CLOSINGS/CANCELLATIONS During inclement weather or emergency situations, early dismissal/school closing information for the Appoquinimink School District will be available from the following:
Automated Phone Message The district employs an automated phone messaging system to help alert parents. To ensure its effectiveness, it is crucial that we have the correct phone numbers for your family. Please be sure to check the information currently on file, and supply updates to the office at your home school whenever changes occur.
Smart Phone Text Messages If your family has a smart phone whose number is on file with the school district, you will receive an automatic text announcement.
State School Closing Website and Email Notification Parents can register for email notification and/or view the status of school closings across the state. Go to: http://schoolclosings.delaware.gov to register for this service.
School and District Websites A notice will be posted on the home page as news if schools are opening late, or closing
Local Radio Stations A list of reliable local stations will be contacted with the information as well.
92.9 FM WDSD 93.7 FM WSTW 99.5 FM WJBR 1150 AM WDEL 1410 AM WDOV 1450 AM WILM
*The District will use the School Messenger notification system whenever possible. Please do not call the school or District Offices for school closing information.
⮚ One hour delay (school begins at 10:30 a.m.) o AM Preschool classes will be delayed one hour. o Full day preschool classes will be delayed one hour.
⮚ Two hour delay (school begins at 11:30 a.m.) o AM Preschool classes will be cancelled. o Full day preschool classes will be delayed two hours.
Please expect buses to be delayed by the appropriate time delay.
If school is dismissed early because of inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances, be sure you have arranged an emergency plan for your child. We will make every attempt to ensure the safety and well-being of your child. You received a weather contingency form to fill out in the registration packet to be used if school dismisses earlier than the normal schedule. If your plans or information has changed since registering please notify the office in writing.
CHANGE-OF-ADDRESS/PHONE NUMBER
Please inform the school office immediately if there is any change in your home address, phone number, cell phone or change in your work location. We must have updated information to be able to contact you in case of any emergency.
Nutrition Snack For our half day 3 year old classes will have a light snack that will be served daily in the classroom. Arrangements can be made with the school nurse to accommodate for various food allergies or dietary restrictions. Our full day classes will receive breakfast and lunch at no cost. Parents are able to send their child’s lunch to school if preferred.
Classroom Celebrations A few times throughout the year, teachers will have celebrations in the classrooms. Teachers will inform parents when help is needed. Birthday Parties Due to the number of students with severe food allergies, and the district emphasis on wellness, birthday celebrations may no longer include food. Please save birthday cakes and cupcakes for your home celebrations.
We realize many parents like to do something special in school for their child’s birthday. We’d like to suggest you consider donating a small gift, such as a book or game to your child’s classroom or coming into the classroom to read a story to the children, lead an art project, dance or bubble party.
Parent Involvement
Volunteers Volunteering can be exciting and rewarding. It is an excellent way of showing your child that you are interested in his/her education. Classroom teachers will inform parents of their volunteer procedures at the beginning of the year. All Parent Volunteers must complete the TB Questionnaire prior to volunteering at the APC. In order to have a good working program, volunteers are asked to be consistent in attendance and notify the teacher in advance if unable to be present. Volunteers are asked to regard all work in school as confidential. Volunteers must report to the office to sign-in upon arrival and sign-out before leaving. All volunteers must wear a visitor’s tag when in the building when students are present.
Classroom volunteers may be asked to assist teachers by: ● Supporting students during lunch and recess ● Copying, stapling and sorting materials ● Reading to and with children ● Helping prepare/create art/craft projects
Visiting Classrooms Parents are welcome to visit classrooms to observe instruction. The following procedures should be followed:
● Arrangements are to be made in advance with the classroom teacher. The secretary will ask if these arrangements have been made and check with the classroom teacher. ● Visitors must sign-in at the office upon arrival and sign-out before leaving. A visitor’s tag will be issued and must be worn at all times that students are in the building. Out of School Volunteer Opportunities Many parents cannot visit the classroom during the day. However, there are many projects that can be done at home. Talk to your child’s teacher if this sounds like something that interests you.
Policy Council
The Policy Council members are: Parents and Family members APC and other Appoquinimink School District Staff Members Community Partners who serve young children and their families Community Members interested in supporting early learning Policy Council Leadership roles include; chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary The Policy Council providers feedback to APC leaders regarding: Program policy and procedures School readiness goals and the Student Success Plan Student and family events Criteria used to admit grant funded students for the next school year
Fundraisers The school may conduct a variety of fundraisers. The money raised through the fundraisers is used to support special projects such as the playground, the classrooms and other school needs. We appreciate your support for the school. Fundraising may occur for charity organizations such as Pediatric Cancer, Make-a-Wish and Down Syndrome Association. Fundraisers and the projects: Safety
The Appoquinimink School District is dedicated to ensuring the safety of each student. All doors are kept locked and staff must utilize a key card to enter the building. Family members must enter the main office and sign in to visit their child. Upon signing in, visitors will need to scan a United States identification or driver license. After visitors are cleared, printed identification badges must be worn at all times in the building. All staff is trained and skilled in safety procedures. Drills are routinely practiced to ensure preparedness for emergencies. The APC Safety Committee meets regularly to review our Emergency Procedures Guide and to discuss and resolve any safety issues or concerns. Fire Safety APC has a fire drill monthly as required by state law. At such times, the teachers will guide the children out of the building to a designated area on the school property. The Weather Contingency form will be used in case we need to notify families of an emergency. Please keep the information updated
Bullying Prevention APC uses a social skills curriculum to teach the children about appropriate social skills, play skills and interactions. All of the classroom teachers support positive interactions, acts of kindness and appropriate expression of feelings and emotions. As a school system we are required to investigate all incidents of bullying. While incidents of bullying are very rare for our age group of students we ensure that staff are trained and informed regarding regulations and policies. The bully prevention policy is appendix V in the Student Code of Conduct. The DOF School Ombudsperson phone number is 1-800-220-5414
Nuclear Power Plant The following emergency information is provided for you. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT EMERGENCIES AT THE NUCLEAR POWER PLANT FOR PARENT AND GUARDIANS OF THE CHILDREN ATTENDING THE APPOQUINIMINK PRESCHOOL CENTER. The Appoquinimink Preschool Center is located within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) of the Salem and Hope Creek Nuclear Power Generating Stations, located just across the Delaware River in New Jersey. Should an emergency occur at the nuclear power plant, detailed plans have been developed to protect the health and safety of Delaware residents.
If an emergency occurs, Emergency Management Officials will notify APC.
If children must leave the school, they will be assembled and counted by their teachers, then moved by school bus as follows:
APC goes to Caesar Rodney High School* at 239 Old North Rd, Camden-Wyoming, Delaware (below Dover) All children will be cared for until their parents or guardians arrive. During an emergency, parents and guardians can receive current emergency information on how to pick up their children by listening to their local Emergency Broadcast System (EBS) Station:
TELEVISION WPVI TV-6 WCAU TV-10 WTFX TV-4 (Fox)
RADIO WDEL 1150 AM / WSTW 93.7 FM WDOV 1410 AM / WDSD 92.9 FM WILM 1450 AM WJBR 99.5 FM WSCL FM / WSDL FM WXCY 103.7 FM
If you want further information, call the Delaware Division of Emergency Planning and Operations at 800 292-9588.
Directions to Caesar Rodney High School
1. Start out going northeast on Main St toward Gray St. 0.6 mi 1 minute
2. Turn right onto Summit Bridge Rd / SR-71. 1.0 mi 1 minute ● Summit Bridge Rd is 0.1 miles past Brook Ramble Ln ● If you are on Pine Tree Rd and reach Fair Hill Dr you've gone about 0.2 miles too far
3. Turn left onto New Discovery Rd. 0.3 mi
● New Discovery Rd is 0.4 miles past Macey Ln ● If you reach Ratledge Rd you've gone about 0.1 miles too far
4. Take SR-1 S (Portions toll). 19.9 mi 19 minutes
5. Merge onto S Dupont Hwy S / US-13 S via EXIT 97 toward Salisbury / 3.1 mi Norfolk. 4 minutes
6. Turn slight right onto US-13-ALT / Old Camden Rd. 0.6 mi 1 minute ● US-13-ALT is 0.1 miles past Charles Polk Rd
7. Take the 2nd right onto Old North Rd. 0.2 mi
● Old North Rd is 0.2 miles past Chapel Dr ● Veterans of Foreign Wars is on the corner ● If you are on Main St and reach Center St you've gone about 0.1 miles too far
● Caesar Rodney High School
Dear Appoquinimink Parent:
As you may already know, several but not all of the schools in our district are within the 10-mile radius of the Salem and Hope Creek nuclear power plants. If Public Health officials were to ever declare a nuclear emergency at these power plants, the district would enact our emergency procedures which may include evacuation, lockdown, and/or distribution of potassium iodide (KI) tablets. At this time, your child may not be in a school within the 10-mile radius but may be when he/she moves to another school in the district. More detailed emergency procedures are available at your specific school. At this time, the following schools are not located within the 10-mile radius of the power plants: Olive B. Loss Elementary Bunker Hill Elementary Appoquinimink High School
In a nuclear emergency, ALL students will be given KI tablets unless you sign the form below.
KI is a common chemical substance found in iodized table salt and has been proven safe for children and adults of all ages with few exceptions (see below). If taken in time and at the appropriate dose, KI can protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine exposure during a nuclear emergency. The Department of Public Health and the Delaware Emergency Management Agency have supplied the schools within the 10-mile radius enough KI tablets for all students and staff. As part of the emergency procedures, the KI tablets would be administered to students at the direction of Public Health officials. You completed this form at registration.
If you have additional questions after reading the information, please feel free to contact your healthcare provider, pharmacist or school nurse.
Safeguarding Our Students Welcome to the Appoquinimink School District, where education and safety are equally important! Assuring your child’s safety and well-being is important to us. We are part of the State Emergency Plan as we are located within 10 miles of the Salem and Hope Creek Generating Stations. In the event of any radiation threat or exposure, our students will be quickly evacuated. They will be given KI (potassium iodide) directed by a public health official. Staff will remain with your child until he/she is picked up at a Relocation Center in the Dover area.
IKI (potassium iodide) tablets reduce the risk of thyroid cancer when exposed to radioactive iodine. Notify the school in writing if you do NOT want your child to receive KI (potassium iodide). The only reason not to take KI is a known allergy to iodide, which is found iodized table salt.
Questions and Answers Regarding KI In the event of any radiation threat or exposure, students will be given Potassium Iodide (KI) only if directed by a public health official.
What is KI? KI is the abbreviated chemical name for potassium iodide. It is a form of iodine and found in iodized table salt. If taken in time and at the appropriate dosage, KI protects the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine and reduces the risk of developing thyroid cancer as a result of exposure to radiation released during a severe nuclear emergency.
What is the benefit of taking KI during a nuclear emergency? During a nuclear emergency, people can breathe in or swallow radioactive iodine. Once inside the body, the radioactive iodine can cause a variety of health effects. The thyroid gland is very sensitive to radiation. KI can prevent the risk of developing thyroid cancer as a result of exposure to radioactive iodine, which is especially important for children. While KI can help to protect the thyroid gland, it cannot protect against other health effects caused by radiation.
How soon after a nuclear emergency should KI be taken? KI should be taken as soon as possible. You should only take one dose and only when public health officials tell you. Can everyone take KI? Everyone, including children and babies, can take KI except those who are allergic to iodine or have rare disorders such as dermatitis herpetiformis or hypocomplementemic vasculitis.
Are there any common side effects caused by KI? KI has few side effects. Children are not at a higher risk of side effects. Side effects usually happen when people take more doses than needed. Possible minor side effects are skin rashes, swelling of the salivary glands, metallic taste, burning mouth, sore teeth/gums, stomach upset, diarrhea, or headaches. If you have severe side effects or a severe allergic reaction, call a doctor or go to the nearest hospital.
Where can I get more information? Contact your local pharmacist, healthcare provider or school nurse.
How do I let the school know I do not want my child to receive KI? Schools should be notified in writing if you do not want KI given to your child(ren). You can use the enclosed form. Please note that KI is recommended for everyone, at all ages, unless they have a known allergy to iodine.
Things to Remember: 1. Notify the school in writing immediately if you do NOT want your child to receive the KI (potassium iodide) tablet.
2. KI (potassium iodide) tablets will be stockpiled at the Relocation Centers or KI may be purchased at your local pharmacy. If the school is open, they will have KI for the students.
3. In an emergency, go directly to the Relocation Center. Do not go to the school to pick up your child.
If your child attends: Brick Mill Elementary Cedar Lane Early Childhood Center Cedar Lane Elementary Silver Lake Elementary Townsend Elementary
Go to: DOVER HIGH One Patrick Lynn Drive Dover, DE
If your child attends: Appoquinimink Preschool Center Everett Meredith Middle Louis L. Redding Middle Middletown High Old State Elementary Spring Meadow Early Childhood Center
Go to: CAESAR RODNEY HIGH 239 Old North Road Camden, DE
Note: Olive Loss Elementary, located to the north, Appoquinimink High School and Bunker Hill Elementary Schools, located to the west, are outside the 10-mile limit identified by the State of Delaware for evacuation in the event of a nuclear emergency.
4. Make a family plan for evacuation. Consider day care, elderly parents and other concerns.
5. For more information, contact: Your local pharmacist, healthcare provider or school nurse Local library State Activities (1-877-729-3362)
School Messenger Notification Keeping you informed is a top priority at the Appoquinimink School District. The district uses the School Messenger Notification Service which will allow us to send a telephone message to you providing important information about school events or emergencies. We will use School Messenger to notify you of school delays or cancellations due to inclement weather, as well as remind you about various events, including open house, field trips, and more. In the event of an emergency at school, you can have peace of mind knowing that you will be informed immediately by phone.
What you need to know about receiving calls sent through School Messenger
● Caller ID will display the school’s main number when general announcement is delivered. ● Caller ID will display 411 if the message is a dire emergency. ● School Messenger will leave a message on any answering machine or voicemail. ● The successful delivery of information is dependent upon accurate contact information for each student, so please make certain that we have your most current phone numbers. If this information changes during the year, please let us know immediately. If there is a specific number that you would like us to use for the general announcements, please notify the main office.
Community Notification
The police are responsible for notifying the community of sex offenders in the area. This information is available on the Delaware State Police web site (www.state.de.us/dsp/sexoff). By law, all adults or juveniles who are convicted or adjudicated of specific sex offenses are registered. Please note that not all sex offenders are child predators or pose a threat to children.
School districts and charter schools must keep notifications of registered sex offenders received from the police in a binder in each school. They must follow guidelines for distribution of notifications they receive. The guidelines will be available on the Internet (www.doe.state.de.us or www.state.de.us/kids).
The included notification may assist you in protecting your family. It is best that only parents and guardians share this information in an age appropriate manner with their child or children so that the child will understand appropriate actions for their safety.
Parents and guardians should use this information in an age appropriate way that helps children with personal safety but does not overwhelm the child. Prevent Child Abuse Delaware, a local nonprofit agency, has developed a list of safety tips to assist parent/guardian in helping their child feel safe:
● Review safety rules for your home – tell your child not to answer the door when you are not home and establish a plan for answering the telephone. ● Make a list with your child of three safe grown-ups he/she can talk to if afraid or in trouble and you are not there. ● Talk with your child about what places are safe to visit in your community and which are not. ● Review with your child the four private places, which are the mouth, the breasts, the genitalia, and the buttocks. Explain that no one should touch these places unless they are helping to keep the child healthy (exam by a doctor) or clean (bathing). ● Encourage your child to tell you if someone talks to or touches him/her in a way that makes them feel bad or that he/she doesn’t like. ● Encourage open discussion with your child about his/her willingness to talk to grown-ups in your family about the things that bother him/her. ● Determine if your child knows that the grown-ups in your family will listen to him/her. Ask yourself honestly if this is true. Do you and other adults in your family really listen to the children in your care? ● Tell your child that it is not the child’s fault if someone tries to bother him/her or touch him/her in a way they don’t like. ● Let your child know how special you think they are, encourage him/her to think of themselves as a person worthy of respect, who also respects others. Treat and talk with your child in a way that conveys your respect.
If you would like further information on how to keep your child safe, you can speak with the school counselor or contact Prevent Child Abuse Delaware at 302-425-7490.
For more information about the Sex Offenders Registry, contact Delaware State Police (302-739-5882).
If you have questions about an enclosed notification or specific offenders, please contact your local police.
Report child abuse by calling 1-800-292-9582. Do report emergencies by calling 911.
Do not post this notification publicly or where non-family members may see it. Remember it is best for children to get this information from their parents and guardians.
Do not take any action that may in any way harm or harass the offender, the offender’s family, household members or employer. Do not attempt to harass the offender or make unsolicited, unwanted contact. If you believe anyone is a physical threat to you or children in your care, please contact the local police.
Please use the information responsibly for the safety and well-being of those in your care.
Anyone who uses this information to commit a crime against another person is subject to criminal prosecution. Policy Number - 3104
Policy Title – Anti-Harassment/Anti-Violence Policy
Date Adopted: 9/11/07 Date Revised: 2/12/19 Date scheduled for review: 2022
Scope - This policy applies to all families with children enrolled in the Appoquinimink School District, to all members of the general public, all students, and to all school district employees.
Purpose – To provide all individuals with protection against harassment.
The Appoquinimink Board of Education believes that every employee, student, contractor, parent, or other person having contact with Appoquinimink School District should be treated at all times with appropriate courtesy, respect, and consideration by all people employed, students attending, or associated with our District. It is our policy that all persons be treated with civility and fairness, and that all employees/students be provided with the opportunity to teach/learn in an environment conducive to effective teaching and learning, characterized by mutual respect and free from intimidation, discrimination, sexual misconduct and/or abuse, sexual violence, foul or abusive language, ridicule, insult, overt hostility, and harassment as defined by this Policy. Appoquinimink School District strongly disapproves of harassment on any basis prohibited by this Policy or our Equal Opportunity Policy. This Policy also protects our students in all educational programs and activities. This includes academic, educational, extracurricular, athletic, and other programs of the school, whether those programs or activities take place in our school facilities, on a school bus, field trip, at a class or training program sponsored by the school at another location, or elsewhere.
The term “harassment” as used in this Policy means:
▪ Discriminatory conduct that is prohibited by law, such as sexual harassment and harassment on the basis of a person’s race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, disability or handicapped status, veteran status, or other characteristic prohibited by Appoquinimink School District’s Equal Employment Opportunity Policy; ▪ Sexual violence is a form of harassment under this Policy. Sexual violence is defined as physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will, or where a person is incapable of giving consent due to the victim’s use of drugs or alcohol. A person may also be unable to give consent due to their intellectual or other disability. Sexual violence can be, but is not limited to, such acts as rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual coercion. All such acts are forms of sexual harassment under District Policy. ▪ Other serious misconduct that the District prohibits because it interferes with a proper teaching, learning, or work environment even if it is not unlawful.
Of the conduct prohibited by law, sexual harassment needs to be defined because of its serious nature and consequences. Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment if:
▪ Submission to or cooperation with the conduct is either explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of a person’s employment or academic standing; ▪ Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions or academic standing affecting the person; ▪ The conduct would amount to sexual abuse of a minor; ▪ The conduct or behavior is committed by a person in authority such as a teacher, coach, or administrator; ▪ The conduct involves a sexual relationship by an employee with a student regardless of the student’s age or consent; or ▪ Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a person’s work performance, work/teaching environment, or learning environment – such conduct may include sexual jokes, posters, cartoons, and annoyances by undesired physical conduct, inappropriate physical contact, or sexual innuendoes made to a person known to find them offensive. ▪ Such conduct creates a hostile environment if the conduct is sufficiently serious that it interferes with or limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the school’s program.
Other conduct or comments constitute harassment prohibited by this Policy if a reasonable person would consider the behavior or comments to:
▪ Be unwelcome or offensive; ▪ Create an intimidating or hostile work, teaching or learning environment; or ▪ Ridicule or demean a person or group based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability or handicapped status, or other characteristic prohibited by Appoquinimink School District’s Equal Employment Opportunity Policy.
Examples of behavior that may be considered harassment include:
▪ Written or verbal abuse or threats; ▪ Offensive or insulting comments, innuendoes or actions; ▪ Offensive or demeaning posters, graffiti, pictures, drawings, or cartoons; ▪ Cultural, racial, or ethnic slurs; ▪ Vandalism of personal property.
Examples of Sexual Violence: ▪ Rape; ▪ Sexual assault; ▪ Sexual battery; ▪ Sexual coercion; ▪ Inappropriate sexual conduct.
Filing/Reporting a Complaint under this Policy
Harassment can come from many sources, including administrators, superiors, fellow employees, students, vendors, parents or other persons associated with the District. Any employee, student, or individual who believes that he or she has been the victim of harassment from any source in violation of this Policy, or if a staff members witnesses misconduct as described in this Policy should immediately inform one of the following persons: his or her teacher, supervisor, principal, Director of Human Resources, or Assistant Superintendent. If the complaint involves someone in the direct line of supervision or authority, or if the person is uncomfortable for any reason with discussing such matters with the designated people, or if the person is not satisfied after bringing the matter to the attention of these people, the employee should report the matter directly to the Superintendent. The complaint can be verbal or written in reporting a violation of this Policy.
Responsibility to Report
All principals, supervisors and other management or administrative employees are required to report promptly to their immediate superior and to the Director of Human Resources all known or suspected violations of this Policy, including all employees, students, applicants, contractors, or other complaints of unlawful discrimination or harassment. This reporting should be done whether a complaint has been filed or not. All complaints must be reported even if the person making the complaint requests that no one else be told or that it be kept confidential. Any employee who suspects or hears rumors of sexual misconduct toward a student must report it to the building administration or the Director of Human Resources.
Disciplinary action may be taken against a person who knowingly withholds information. A student making a complaint who is under 18 years of age, the District will contact their parent regarding the investigation and confidentiality of the student’s name. The District will request authorization to start an investigation for students younger than 18 years of age but shall also conduct an investigation to a limited extent if this authorization is not obtained. The District will seek full support from the parents of any student making a complaint who is younger than 18 years of age.
Investigation
All complaints will be investigated promptly and concluded within 60 calendar days. If a complaint is determined to be valid, appropriate corrective action will be taken, including further inquiry as necessary to determine that the harassment has stopped. Discipline of Appoquinimink School District employees, students, or contractors will be based on the severity of the offense and may include termination of employment or suspension or expulsion from school. The District will also take appropriate action with vendors or others not directly employed by the District who engage in harassment.
Although Appoquinimink School District must disclose information about the complaint – sometimes including the identity of the complainant – to conduct a proper investigation, the District will keep complaints, related investigations, and the terms of their resolution as confidential as reasonably possible. Retaliation against complainants, victims, or witnesses is strictly prohibited and is itself grounds for disciplinary action.
Employees, students, and others making complaints under this Policy are cautioned against making false accusations or providing false information in an investigation of possible harassment. Such accusations can have serious effects on the falsely accused. Disciplinary action may be taken against a person who knowingly gives false information in an investigation, who falsely accuses another person of harassment, or who refuses to cooperate in an investigation.
Any staff member/employee convicted of a sex act shall report it to their administrator or the Director of Human Resources immediately.
Harassment prohibited by this Policy does not include every minor annoyance, perceived lack of friendliness, personality conflict not accompanied by overt incivility, or other ordinary disagreements that occasionally arise in the school or workplace and may cause unhappiness. Still, some conduct that does not constitute harassment within the definition of this Policy may nevertheless interfere with an employee’s productivity or enjoyment of work at Appoquinimink School District. If you are subjected to such conduct and are unable to resolve the matter with the other person or people involved, or are uncomfortable attempting to do so, please ask your supervisor, principal or Human Resources for help or advice. While disciplinary action will probably not be appropriate, they can counsel the people involved and otherwise help resolve the problem.
Responsibility for Enforcement
All Appoquinimink School District administrators, managers, and supervisors are responsible for enforcing this Policy. All employees and students are responsible for respecting the rights of others and for maintaining a workplace and learning environment free of harassment as defined in this Policy.
This Policy will be reviewed annually with all District administrators. Building principals will be required to review this Policy with their staff annually as well as with students including rights and responsibilities to report violations of the Policy and to whom to report.
Any questions regarding this Policy should be directed to the Director of Human Resources.
Sick /Appointment Notes
Date: ______
Dear ______: (teacher)
My child, ______, (select and complete)
€ was/will be late on ______because ______.
€was / will be absent on ______because ______.
€ has a doctor/dentist appointment at ______am /pm. I will pick up at ______am / pm.
€ will be going home with______.
Thanks,
______Signature: Phone : ______e-mail: ______