Sparks Elementary



Catonsville ElementaryParent/StudentHandbook19913605213352016=2017Linda Miller, PrincipalDanalee Potter, Assistant Principal443-809-0800catonsvillees.CONTENTSPageWelcoming Message3Attendance/Lateness---------4 School Hours17 Escorting Students to Class/Early/Emergency Dismissal9 Parent Drop Off/Bus Loop---------------------------------8Communication with Teachers6 Homework Guidelines/Absence Homework Policy/Make-up Work 11 Conferences/Notes from Home 6 School-Home Folder/Newsletter13 School Records/Reporting Student Progress 16Field Trips / Supervision on Field Trips9Guidance10Inclement Weather Procedures11Lunch/Student Nutrition/Food Policy13Other School Activities/Groups ------------------------------19 Audience Behavior/Before & After Care5 Cell Phones/Dress Code----------------------------------- 6 Lockers/ Lost and Found/Toy Alert13 PTA / Parent Quick Reference21 School Improvement and Technology--------------------17Parking----------------------------------------------------------- 16Residency & Withdrawal from School 17School Nurse---------------------------------------------------14 Consent to Administer Medication14 When Not To Send Your Child To School15 Immunization Policy 15 School Staff22 Student Behavior Handbook/Behavior Policy5Transportation/End of Day Pick-up18Visitor/Volunteer Guidelines and Sign-in19 APPENDIXWelcome to Catonsville Elementary School!A Message from the Administrative TeamThe mission of Catonsville Elementary School is to provide a positive and safe school environment where students and adults feel welcomed and respected. Catonsville Elementary is committed to providing rigorous instructional opportunities designed to meet the needs of all students. Staff and students will work to create skilled problem solvers, collaborative partners and effective communicators. Together with parents, we will encourage the development of lifelong learners and productive members of a global society. We believe that in order to realize this mission, the home and school must work in partnership. Your involvement in your child’s education continues to make a difference.This handbook has been provided especially for you. The purpose of the handbook is to provide important information about our school’s policies, procedures and routines. When you have a question about a school policy or procedure, this handbook provides a great first source of information. Take time to carefully review the handbook as it is updated on a yearly basis.Let’s keep the lines of communication open. Please do not hesitate to call us at any time. We welcome questions and concerns. It’s also nice to hear the good things you might have to say. We look forward to working with you! Linda Miller Danalee Potter Principal Assistant PrincipalPOLICIES AND PROCEDURESArrival The doors to the school open at 8:25am and arrival takes place until 8:40am for all students. Students that ride the bus enter the building through the front doors of the school. Students that walk or are car riders enter the building through the doors near the gym and student drop off/pick up area. Adult supervision both outside and within the building is provided during the arrival period. Adult supervision is not provided prior to 8:25am. See additional arrival procedures in the Appendix.Late ArrivalsIt is very important that all students arrive on time to school. A late arrival means that the student starts the day at a disadvantage. All students are expected to be in their seats, ready to begin work, at 8:40 am. Students arriving after 8:40 are considered late and should follow these guidelines:1.Parents should park and escort their child to the office.2.Enter through the front door and report to the office.3.Parents should provide the secretary with a reason for their child’s tardiness.4.At that time students will receive a late slip which they can give to their classroom teacher and their name will be removed from the absentee list.5.These slips are maintained to document late arrivals.6.Days tardy are reflected on the report card. Letters will be sent to parents of students with multiple late arrivals. In addition, a referral may be made to the Pupil Personnel Worker.AttendanceThe Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has issued guidelines regarding student attendance. Students are counted present for a full day if he/she is present at least 4 hours. Students are counted as absent for a full day if the student is present less than 2 hours of the school day. Students may be credited with half-day attendance if the student is present at least 2 hours of the school day.Your child is expected to attend school daily unless you have a legitimate reason for being absent. (Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) determines the acceptable reasons for a student being absent. These include death in the immediate family, illness of student, court summons, violent weather school related or approved work, observance of a religious holiday, state emergency, suspension, lack of authorized transportation or other emergency. Upon your child's return to school he/she will need to provide:A parent or doctor’s note explaining the reason for the absenceThe date(s) of the absenceA parent signatureResearch shows that the single most important factor contributing to student achievement is school attendance. When a student is absent or late to school, key instruction is missed. Students’ attendance percentage (days present) is included on the report card quarterly. Schools are held accountable for student attendance at the local and state levels. Students falling below the accepted attendance rate at the end of each quarter will receive a letter for parent review. A referral may also be made to the Pupil Personnel Worker and/or Student Support Team. In addition, a student with 10% or more of unexcused absences, may have grades lowered by 1 letter grade. We are happy to assist our families in a variety of ways in order to improve student attendance.Our staff attendance committee monitors student attendance and works to recognize students with good and/or improved attendance on a quarterly basis with the following awards*:Gold Level Award:100% Attendance; No late arrivals/early dismissalsSilver Level Award:98% Attendance; No more than 3 late arrivals/early dismissalsBronze Level Award:96% Attendance; No more than 5 late arrivals/early dismissalsImproved Attendance Award: Improved attendance after the end of the second quarterRecognition of student attendance can be in the form of awards assemblies, certificates, special celebration for Gold Level students, reward coupons, etc.*Subject to change based on schoolwide attendance needs and attendance committee refinements.Audience BehaviorStudents and parents are expected to demonstrate appropriate behavior during all school assemblies and evening performances. Proper audience behavior includes sitting quietly and responding appropriately to the performance. ALL CELL PHONES SHOULD BE TURNED OFF OR SET TO SILENT OR VIBRATE.During evening performances, siblings must remain with parents at all times. Parents should accompany children who need to use the bathroom or to go out in the hallways. Should a child become disruptive parents are asked to take the child from the performance immediately. Following these guidelines will ensure the safety of all children and the enjoyment of the performance for all those attending.Before and After School Child CareYMCA is a before and after school child care provider and housed within our school. Childcare is provided from 7:00 a.m. to 8:25 a.m. and from 3:10 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Interested parents should call 410-747-9622 for more information. YMCA has an inclement weather policy please be aware that if schools close early the YMCA will NOT operate after schools close.Behavior All students will receive a copy of the BCPS Student Behavior Handbook and Sexual Harassment in Schools brochure during the first few weeks of school. The administrators will meet with each grade level to discuss the content of the handbook and brochure with all students. The handbook is then to be taken home by the child and shared with a parent. Once you have reviewed this manual with your child there is a page for you to sign and have your child return to his/her teacher. This will then be collected by the administration and kept on file throughout the year. Students are expected to follow the rules and regulations as outlined in the BCPS Behavior Handbook in school as well as while riding the bus to and from school as well as on field trips. If you have a concern about your child’s behavior or the behavior of another student, please contact your child’s teacher and/or the administration. Keep in mind that we will work to address your concern while maintaining student confidentiality. A Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation Reporting form is available in the school office as well as on the BCPS website. While this form is available to our parents, we ask that you bring your concerns directly to your child’s teacher and/or the administration to afford us the opportunity to work with you and your child.Breakfast Breakfast is available daily to students. Breakfast begins at 8:25 and ends at 8:40. Students are expected to go straight to the cafeteria upon arrival and take their breakfast to the classroom. Breakfast choices include cereal or a hot entrée. The cost of breakfast is $1.40 Reduced price breakfast is $.30.Book Return All textbooks and library books must be returned to the school by June 1st. If a book is lost then the replacement cost must be received by this date. Failure to return books by this date may limit your child’s participation in end-of-year activities and/or may have the final report card withheld. Fifth grade students must return all items prior to participating in the farewell assembly.Cell PhonesWe do not encourage students to bring cell phones to school. As described in the BCPS Student Handbook, when students bring cell phones to school, they must be turned off and stored in their bookbag or locker. This also applies to a student’s time on a field trip and being transported to and from school on the bus. If students are found using their cell phone during school hours, it will be confiscated and returned only to the student’s parent/guardianCode of Conduct/Positive BehaviorStaff, students and parents are expected to follow the school’s Code of Conduct entitled, Buzz-Worthy Behavior. The code is as follows:Be Respectful~Respect other’s space, other’s opinions and acknowledge othersBe Responsible~Apologize earnestly, be inclusive and refrain from idle complaintsBe Safe~Speak kindly, think the best and rediscover silenceBe Prepared~Listen, pay attention, don’t shift responsibility and blameCommunication Folder Every child at Catonsville will receive his/her very own Thursday Folder. This folder is to go home every Thursday and is returned by students on the next school day. Items such as bulletins, information from teachers, and student work will go home in the folders. Parents are asked to review the folder, pull out appropriate materials, review your child’s work and sign for receipt of the munication with TeachersThe best way to communicate with the teaching staff is by sending an email message. Email addresses for school staff can be found on the school’s website, catonsvillees.. Just a reminder, phone calls to request early pickup or a change in pick up for a child must be shared directly with the office staff, not left as an email message. In addition, teachers spend the majority of their day involved with instructional activities. They will reply when they are available to do so. We encourage staff to respond to parents within 24 hours.ConferencesConferences provide an opportunity for open lines of communication between home and school. Conferences can be initiated by the teacher or by the parent.If you would like to schedule a conference with your child's teacher, please contact the teachers by sending a note, email, or leaving them a message. Indicate the reason you are requesting a conference, as it will help the teacher to be better prepared to discuss the issue(s) at hand. It would also be helpful for you to indicate times and dates you are available.DismissalStudents are dismissed at 3:10pm beginning with walkers and car riders. Walkers will exit through the doors near the gym. Car riders will remain in the gym until their ride arrives. Students that are bus riders remain in their classrooms until their bus arrives. They then line up in the hall before proceeding outside to the bus. Adult supervision is provided during the dismissal period both outside and within the building. See additional dismissal procedures in the Appendix.Early DismissalShould it be necessary for you to pick up your child prior to the end of the day:?A note should be sent to the main office which includes the date, the child’s first and last names and the name of the child’s teacher.?Phone calls to request an early pick-up must be shared directly with the office staff before 2:00 p.m., not left as a voice mail message or an email message.?When you arrive, check in at the office area.?Your child will be waiting for you in the office.?You will need to sign the dismissal log in the office.Due to the busy preparations for our school’s afternoon dismissal, we ask that you do not request your child for early dismissal after 2:50pm. After 2:50pm, all students will be dismissed at the regular dismissal time.Change in Dismissal RoutineIf you wish your child to leave school with someone other than the parent/guardian, you are required to write a note stating the name(s) of the person(s) who will be calling for your child. The note should be given to your child’s teacher who will send it to the office. Your child should be aware of the change in routine prior to coming to school. Photo identification is needed for anyone other than the parents/guardians when picking up a students. In addition, if your child’s dismissal is different than the usual routine plan, please send a note stating the change. Do NOT call the office for routine dismissal procedures. It is important that your child is familiar with his/her daily dismissal routine and that the routine is as consistent as possible. Please note that students may only ride the bus if they are assigned as a bus rider to that bus. Distribution of Non-School MaterialsAs stated in BCPS Policy/Rule 2361, the process for distributing flyers and other types of published information is as follows.Only materials from the following organizations may be approved for distribution: School-sponsored events, established school partnership organizations, entities of federal, state and local government, PTA’s.Request to distribute materials must be submitted in writing to the principal at least twenty (20) days prior to requested distribution date. The flyer must be included with the request.All materials must include the following disclaimer stating: “This organization and its materials are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Baltimore County Public Schools, the Superintendent, or this Baltimore County Public School or office.”Organizations may only distribute materials after obtaining a written approval form from the principal.Items for distribution must be delivered to the school or office at least 10 days prior to the intended distribution date.Materials will only be distributed on the date(s) stated on the approval notification.Flyers must be separated in 20 packets of 25.Dress and GroomingAccording to the BCPS Student Handbook, Student dress and grooming are the responsibility of the students and their parents/guardians, unless there is a definite safety or health hazard, a hindrance to the educational processes, or a case of obscenity.In order to create a more positive and respectful learning environment at Catonsville Elementary School, following are dress and grooming suggestions:The length of shorts or a skirt should not be shorter than one’s fingertipswhen standing with arms down at one’s sides.Shirts with spaghetti straps may only be worn with a shirt over or under them.One’s stomach should not show.Flip flops should not be worn due to safety concerns in the building, for P.E. class and on the playground. Sneakers should be worn during P.E. class and on the playground.Drop Off/Pickup LoopStudents may be dropped off or picked up as car riders in the designated student drop off/pick up loop at the back of the school. Adult supervision is provided during the designated arrival and dismissal times. If you are dropping off or picking up your child(ren), please follow the directions of the adults on duty.Emergency Early Dismissal PlanAt the beginning of each school year, parents will be asked to review and make the necessary changes to an Emergency Early Dismissal Plan Form. Parents will be asked during the spring to update this form. This form provides the school with specific instructions about where a child is to go in the event of an emergency early school dismissal. If there is a countywide closing of schools, parents are notified through the local media, Baltimore County Public School website and through the BCPS information line (410-887-5555). In addition, you can register at to be notified by email and/or text messages.From time to time there are emergency events, such as a broken water main, when Catonsville is the only school to close. In such an event, Catonsville Elementary is required by Baltimore County Board policy to have direct verbal contact with each parent before children can be released from school. We will attempt to make this contact by phone. In order for a child to be sent home on the bus, we must have verbal or email confirmation from his/her parent. Otherwise children will remain at school for parents to pick them up.Please keep in mind that if Catonsville Elementary closes for any reason, the YCMA (housed at C.E.S.) will be closed as well. Please do not call the school for information about emergency closings. It is important that our phone lines remain open for incoming phone calls from our central office during these times.Emergency Drills Throughout the school year, staff and students participate in a variety of announced and unannounced emergency drills. Some of the drills include: fire, 500ft. evacuation, severe weather, lockdown and drop & cover. Practicing such drills allows staff and students to remain calm and follow established procedures in the event of a true emergency.Enrollment All students within the established boundaries of Catonsville Elementary may attend. Registering a student requires specific types of documentation including (but not limited to) proof of residency, 3 pieces of mail within the past 60 days and photo identification. Some families have unique circumstances and may need to register through a Residency Officer or Pupil Personnel Worker. Questions regarding registration may be directed to the school office.Escorting Children to their Classrooms If you must walk your child to his/her classroom, be sure to sign in as a visitor to the school either in the office or in the kindergarten hall. During this time of the morning, our staff and students are preparing to begin the day’s learning. If you need to speak with your child’s teacher, feel free to contact him/her to schedule a conference. By mid-year, all of our students (even our youngest students) are familiar with the location of their classrooms. Most students can walk to their classrooms unassisted and independently by October. Field TripsFrequently, field trips are scheduled to extend the students' learning experiences. Notices will be sent home describing each field trip. It is imperative that the required permission slip be signed and returned by parents, at least 3 days in advance of the field trip. Written permission from the parents is required for a child to participate in any field trip. This also gives teachers time to follow up on students who have not returned permission slips in order to eliminate confusion at the last minute. If your child is absent on a field trip day, we are unable to reimburse the field trip fee. The field trip fee is based on a predetermined number of students and the money is disbursed on the day of the trip. Often there is a need for a number of parent volunteers to accompany the children on a trip. All parent volunteers must be at least 21 years of age. If you are selected to assist during a field trip please make every effort to attend since everyone is counting on you. If you are chaperoning a field trip, each adult must complete a BCPS Volunteer Application and training as well as the Field Trip Chaperone Agreement. If this is not completed and returned in advance of the trip (at least 30 days prior to the trip), chaperones will not be able to attend. If you are unable to attend the field trip as a chaperone, we are unable to reimburse the fee. Preschool-aged students and siblings are not permitted to attend field trips. Students attending school sponsored field trips must ride the bus to and from the field trip destination. Keep in mind that the Superintendent reserves the right to cancel a field trip if circumstances suggest that travel is unsafe or for any reason determined within the Superintendent’s sole discretion. Neither the Board of Education, Superintendent or BCPS shall be financially responsible for looses due to changes or cancellation of a field trip.Supervision on Field TripsThere are several important things for you to be aware of when you are acting as a chaperone on a field trip. Please keep in mind that you are assuming the supervisory responsibility for students and their safety.Never take students off of the site without the prior knowledge and approval of the teacher-in-charge and/or principal or assistant principal.Cell phones should be kept in your pocket/purse and set to Silent or Vibrate. You will be asked to give your cell phone number to the teacher in the event of a field trip and/or school emergency.Since this is an educational activity, siblings or other family members are not allowed to attend. No smoking on school property or during field trips.Follow the directions of the teachers at all timesStudents are not permitted to be dismissed to parents from the field trip location.Food Policy The Health Department requires that foods be commercially prepared to avoid foodborne illness. This also allows nutritional information to be available for students with dietary restrictions or allergies.Birthdays and Class CelebrationsOften, parents want to send in a treat to celebrate their child’s birthday. Please be aware that with the number of students in our school, there is the potential for several students to have food allergies, some of which may be severe. In addition, often there are many sugar-filled snacks being brought into the building If a parent wants to send in a treat (which is always optional), we suggest some alternatives such as fruit cups, small packages of Goldfish, pretzels, or popcorn, Teddy Grahams, Gogurt, or non-food items such as pencils, stickers, erasers, or glue sticks.The following guidelines for birthday treats will be followed:All treats will be served during lunch.All treats must be distributed by the teacher. No food is to be distributed in the building except under the supervision of a teacher.Parents should inform the teacher a day or two ahead of time if he/she plans to bring in a treat. Birthday treats should be brought to school by 8:45 am. After 8:45, please leave the treats in the office.The Health Department requires that foods be commercially prepared to avoid foodborne illness. This also allows nutritional information to be available for students with dietary restrictions or allergies.Keep in mind that some students have specific dietary needs and/or are sensitive/allergic to various types of ingredients (such as peanuts and wheat). In addition, please note the following:The serving of any potentially hazardous foods, such as any food requiring hot or cold temperature control, cannot be brought to school by unlicensed individuals or facilities to be served to students at school and PTA sponsored functions. This comes from the State Department of Health regulation (COMAR 10.15.03). Pizza, for example, may be served in the school but only if it is delivered to the school by a pizza company and eaten right after delivery.Parent/volunteers who wish to prepare food for school and PTA sponsored events (such as end of the year picnics and events) must do so under the supervision of a BCPS Office of Food and Nutrition services employee who has been trained in safe food handling and sanitation. Hot dogs or hamburgers may be purchased from the cafeteria and the Cafeteria Manager must be aware of the mercially prepared foods in competition with the school cafeteria during lunch hours is not permitted.GuidanceCatonsville Elementary School has a full time school counselor. The counselor uses an educational approach to problem solving and is a resource in our school. She interacts with the students at Catonsville by providing classroom guidance, assemblies, counseling groups, and individual referrals. The counselor consults with members of the staff and is available for parent conferences in order to discuss individual concerns about your child.Homework GuidelinesBaltimore County Public Schools has issued the following homework guidelines. Homework counts as 10% of the report card grade in grades 1 and 2. It counts as 15% of the report card grade in grades 3, 4 and 5.Grades 1 – 3 An average of 30 minutes per day for all subjects combined 3 to 4 times per week. No weekends or holidays. Grades 4 – 5 An average of 60 minutes per day for all subjects combined 4 to 5 times per week. No homework assigned over holidays. Possible long-term assignments.Absence Homework PolicyWhen a student is absent, it is encouraged that they obtain, complete and return the assignments missed. (Keep in mind that not all assignments can be made up outside of the instructional day. This is based on the rich discussions, cooperative activities and small group instruction that occur on a daily basis within the classroom.) Arrangements can be made by contacting the school office, or by leaving an email message with the student's teacher. Teachers will need adequate time to gather materials and information for these assignments. Students will have the same number of days they were absent to make up the work. If the make-up work is not completed in the time given, the students will not receive credit for it.Makeup Work for Prolonged Excused AbsencesIn the case of prolonged absence such as for illness, it is recommended make-upassignments be requested by the parent. Arrangements can be made by contacting the school office, or by leaving an email message with the student's teacher. Teachers will need adequate time to gather materials and information for these assignments. Assignments will be available for pick up in the office at the end of the school day or early on the following day. Students will have the same number of days they were absent to make up the work (e.g. 5 days absent, 5 days). Make-up assignments will be graded. If make-up work is not completed in the time given, the students will not receive credit for the work.Make-up Work for Prolonged Unexcused Absences (Vacation) MSDE and BCPS policy considers absences due to vacations as "illegal" absences, and students are not to receive credit for work missed. We realize that vacations are an important part of family life, though we cannot condone these vacations during times when school is in session. We will work with parents and students to make-up work that has been missed when students return from their vacations. The work that children miss while on vacation will be collected and given to them upon their return to school. Students will have the same number of days they were absent (e.g. 5 days absent, 5 days to complete the work) to make up the work. This work will NOT be graded. It will however, assist in the continuity of your child’s instructional program. Additionally, tests and quizzes will be given upon your child’s return to school. In addition, a student with 10% or more of unexcused absences, may have grades lowered by 1 letter grade. Inclement Weather Procedures*Please note Catonsville Elementary cannot call parents concerning county wide school closings and individual plans for children as there are several hundred students in the school. Emergency closings may also mean that the phone lines are not in service. (The only exception is if Catonsville is the only school to close due to an emergency such as a broken well water pump. In that case, the school staff must have direct verbal contact with parents in order to release students.)When it is decided that all schools are to be closed for inclement weather or excessive heat, announcements will be made by local television and radio stations. Students and parents are therefore, asked to please not call the school for this information. These announcements are made for the cancellation of school, as well as for delayed openings and early dismissals.School Closing PoliciesDelayed Openings and Early DismissalsMedia Announcements: The following message will be given to television and radio stations: “All Baltimore County Public Schools closed.” – (Catonsville Elementary is closed).On occasion schools in the Hereford zone will be closed while other schools in Baltimore County remain open.”Baltimore County Hereford Zone Only Schools closed.” (Catonsville Elementary is open).One hour delay – for either all Baltimore County Public Schools– Catonsville Elementary will open for students at 9:25 a.m. Students may not be in the building prior to this time.Two hour delay – for either all Baltimore County Public Schools– Catonsville Elementary will open at 10:25 a.m. Students may not be in the building prior to this time. Breakfast with cold items only will be served on days with a delayed arrival.One Hour Early DismissalStudents in grades kindergarten – 12 in all schools will be dismissed one hour earlier than normal. Afternoon pre-kindergarten students will be dismissed with students in grades 1-5 and will travel home on the same buses with these students. Dismissal time for Catonsville will be 2:10 p.m. LUNCHES WILL BE SERVED TO STUDENTS AS USUAL.Media Announcements: The following message will be given to television and radio stations: “All Baltimore County Public Schools will close one hour earlier than normal closing time.”Two Hour Early DismissalStudents in grades K-12 in all schools will be dismissed two hours earlier than normal. There will be no afternoon pre-kindergarten. Morning pre-kindergarten will be dismissed with students in grades 1-5 and will travel home on the same buses with these students. Dismissal for Catonsville Elementary will be at 1:10 p.m. Pre-kindergarten parents are allowed to pick up their students at the regular 11:30 a.m. dismissal time, if they desire. Every effort will be made to serve lunches to all students, thus some adjustments to lunch shift schedules will be necessary.Media Announcements: The following message will be given to television and radio stations and posted on the BCPS website : “All Baltimore County Public Schools will close two hours earlier than the normal closing time. There will be no afternoon prekindergarten. Morning prekindergarten students will be dismissed with other elementary students.”Three Hour Early DismissalSame procedure as Two-Hour Closing. Dismissal time for Catonsville Elementary will be 12:10 p.m. Every effort will be made to serve lunches to all students, thus some adjustments to lunch shift schedules will be necessary.Media Announcements: The following message will be given to television and radio stations and posted on the BCPS website : “All Baltimore County Public Schools will close three hours earlier than the normal closing time. There will be no afternoon prekindergarten. Morning prekindergarten students will be dismissed with other elementary students.”Last Day of School The beginning of June all students are asked to clean out their desks/lockers and take all personal items home. If your child(ren) forgets items on the last day of school a letter or phone call will be placed to the parents to pick up the items by July 1st. If the items are not picked up by this date, they will be donated to a community church and/or shelter.Learning CottagesCatonsville Elementary houses two learning cottages behind the school. Each learning cottage is equipped with the amenities of a regular classroom including a telephone, walkie-talkie and computer access, etc. Procedures have been established and are in place for students and staff working in the learning cottages. This includes traveling back and forth to the school building, bathroom breaks as well as arrival/dismissal and emergency procedures.LockersStudents may wish to keep a sweater or sweatshirt in their locker for physical education class or recess on cool days. Food items should not be kept in lockers overnight. Money and other valuables should never be kept in lockers. Personal student locks may not be put on lockers.Lost and FoundA lost and found collection is maintained on a large pegboard in the cafeteria corridor. This gives students an opportunity to check for missing items on a daily basis, on their way to and from lunch. Lost items not claimed by the end of the school year will be donated to a charitable organization. PLEASE label all of your child's apparel, school supplies, and lunch box/bag for easy identification and return.LunchStudents have three choices for lunch on a daily basis. They do not have to sign up for lunch in the morning. The county menu provides for two hot plate items and a salad. Some students may choose to bring their own lunch from home. Milk, juice, water, ice cream and various snacks may also be purchased. A price list for all items is provided for students at the beginning of each year. If students forget to bring in money for their lunch, there are two options available to them. If there are extra lunches they will be provided with one and charged accordingly. If there are no extra lunches that day, they will be given an alternative item. The cost of lunch is $2.90. Reduced price lunches are $.40. A bag lunch is also available for school field trips.If your child has a specific food allergy, please make the school nurse and classroom teacher aware. During the lunch shifts, a table is available for students with such allergies.Baltimore County Public Schools prohibits staff warming food for students during the lunch shifts. Please do not send meals that must be warmed for students. BCPS also discourages commercially prepared food from establishments outside of the school being brought to students for lunch.NewslettersAt the beginning of each month, on Thursday, a school newsletter, The Beeline will be sent home in Thursday Folders which will keep you informed about important events in the school and community. In addition, each grade level and special area teacher provide information on the units of study and upcoming classroom events. The newsletter will be sent home with the youngest child in the family attending Catonsville Elementary. Remember to ask your child for the newsletter on a regular basis. As much as possible, all school notices will be sent home on Thursdays. The PTA newsletter, The Buzzword, will be sent home the last Thursday of the month in the Thursday Folders. Both newsletters are available electronically on the school and PTA websites as well as by email distribution as indicated by parent preference.Notes from HomeWhen sending a note to your child's teacher or to a member of the office staff, please include the date, your child's first and last name, as well as the teacher's name. This will expedite processing the information included in the note and will ensure that the message is handled in an efficient manner. When notes are sent to school with the students, we ask them to give it to their teacher upon arrival.NurseCatonsville Elementary has a full time nurse in the building. The nurse provides first aid to sick and injured children and staff, serves as a resource person, provides health screening and implements health related laws.The health and well being of your child are primary concerns while your child is in school. In order to ensure and maintain his/her good health and safety, please take a few minutes to review the following guidelines:If your physician decides it is necessary for your child to receive a medication during the school day, the approval and specific directions must be provided to the school by the physician. Parents must bring the medication to the school in the original box or bottle with the current prescription label on the container. All medications (even over-the-counter medications) require a written physician’s order. Students are not to have medications in their possession or in their locker at any time. This is a violation of the BCPS Behavior Handbook.Please keep all home, work, and emergency phone numbers at school up-to-date. When children become suddenly ill or injured at school, it is essential that we have current phone numbers in both the office and the health suite.Please keep the nurse informed of significant changes in your child’s health. For example: changes in diet, daily medication, new allergies, and changes in physical restrictions, vision and/or hearing impairment.By communicating your child’s special health and safety needs to us, we can ensure a safer and healthier school year. Consent for the Administration of Approved Discretionary MedicationsBaltimore County Public Schools have a program that allows for the School Nurse to administer discretionary medications in accordance with established protocols. These medications are Tylenol, Benadryl, Tums, Cough Drops, and Throat Lozenges. These discretionary medications are intended for occasional use only. This service is available to alleviate your child's minor discomforts and avoid early dismissals when possible. YOUR CONSENT MUST BE OBTAINED BEFORE ANY MEDICATION CAN BE GIVEN TO YOUR CHILD. THE PARENTAL PERMISSION MUST BE RENEWED EACH YEAR. The following guidelines are available to help parents make decisions as to whether a child should be sent to school. A responsible decision on the part of the parent will reduce the number of ill students at school and prevent the spread of germs. Also, frequent hand washing is a primary way to prevent the spread of these germs.When NOT to Send Your Child to SchoolVomiting more than once in the previous 24 hours.Uncontrolled diarrhea.Fever above 100 degrees need to be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school.Pinkeye with white or yellow discharge need to be on medication for 24 hours.Strep infections until 24 hours after treatment notify the school if your child does have strep.Uncontrolled coughing if your child has an asthma attack during the night or before school and is still experiencing wheezing or coughing. If s/he is asymptomatic and has medication in school, call the school nurse and she will monitor the student during the day.Extreme fatigue with no appetite accompanied by behavior change.Frequently Asked Health QuestionsWhat if my child has a cold or sore throat?Take your child's temperature if no fever, send the child to school. (The Centers for Disease Control recommend a throat culture for any sore throat lasting three days or more).Should I send my child if we get up late?Yes, being late is better than being absent.Some ways to ensure a good start to a school day:Be sure your child has a regular bedtime (before 9:00 on school nights and earlier for younger students).Have your child decide what to wear the night before and lay the clothes out.Breakfast is a must Many children come to school without breakfast and are fatigued by midmorning.Immunization PolicyAll students attending a public school in Maryland are required by law to have their immunizations up-to-date. Opt Out PreferencesParents are offered the right to state their preferences in specific circumstances. Students will bring home a form at the beginning of the school year and/or as part of the registration packet.Directory InformationUnder the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, school systems may release directory information (name, address, date of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, height/weight-if a member of an athletic team, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received) on enrolled students. Parents are provided with an opportunity to Opt Out of releasing such information. Request must be made in writing to the school principal by October 1 or within 30 days of the student’s enrollment. If parents do not express their preferences, they are giving BCPS permission to share their child’s directory information.Telecommunications and Intellectual PropertyIf parents do not want their child(ren) to participate in the following: use of telecommunications; being photographed/video-taped/audio-taped during school-sponsored activities/learning experiences~this includes any class photo, yearbook and/or memory book; having his/her intellectual property published/produced/displayed, they have the opportunity to opt out. Request must be made in writing to the school principal by October 1 or within 30 days of the student’s enrollment. If parents do not express their preferences, they are giving BCPS permission to use telecommunications and to publish/produce/display their child’s intellectual property.Parent FeedbackParents have an opportunity to provide feedback to school staff through a climate survey. The survey is distributed to parents in paper and electronic forms in November and during American Education Week. In addition, the administration meets with a small focus group of parents to discuss instruction, communication and safety. This is an opportunity to provide important feedback to the administration. It is also a time for the administration to share information in these areas with parents.Parent Teacher Association (PTA)Our school has an active and supportive PTA. You can become involved by joining as a member, participating in various PTA events and/or by attending PTA meetings. PTA meetings are held the first Thursday of the month at 7:00pm in the school auditorium. All are welcome to attend. The PTA publishes a newsletter, The Buzzword, the last Thursday of the month in paper or electronic form as indicated by parent preference. Feel free to visit the PTA website cespta. Parking The front bus loop is off limits to personal automobiles from 8:00 9:00 and from 2:30 to 3:30 in the afternoon. In addition, the student drop off/pick up loop is off limits from 8:00-8:25 and from 2:30-3:10. If you are dropping off your child in the morning and must come into the school, please park in the visitor area of the parking lot or on the street in front of the school and sign in at the school office.Parking for parents attending school events or field trips is in the visitor area of the parking lot. We strongly suggest that you carpool for such events. Keep in mind that spaces for school staff are numbered. Please do not park in a numbered space. Additionally, the business owners from the parking lot next door to CES have asked that we inform parents/visitors that their parking lot is not to be used during business hours. It is a private parking lot and you may be subject to towing and/or tickets. If you choose to use this location prior to the start of the school day, be aware that students must cross the driveway in order to reach the school building. This is a safety hazard for our students.PLEASE DO NOT PARK IN THE FRONT BUS LOOP DURING THESE TIMES:? Morning Time 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. ? Afternoon Time 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.PLEASE DO NOT PARK IN THE STUDENT DROP OFF/PICK UP LOOP DURING THESE TIMES:? Morning Time 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. ? Afternoon Time 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.Reporting Student ProgressGood communication between parents/guardians and teacher is very important to the educational process. For students in grades one through five, there are four reporting periods during the school year. The report cards will be distributed in November for the first term, February for the second term, April for the third term, and June for the fourth term. First graders will only receive report cards in February, April and June, Conferences will be held with first grade parents for the first term. A conference day will be available to all parents in November. Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students receive progress reports in November and in May. Interim reports may be sent home halfway through the quarter.ResidencyBCPS Policy and Rule 5150 requires that every student have current residency information in their file at all times. It is parent’s responsibility to inform office staff of your plan to move during the school year. It is school system policy that you provide your new address location within 10 days of your move. All new residency information must be provided. If you fail to inform office staff of your new information your child may be withdrawn from school due to fraudulent enrollment. If fraudulent enrollment is determined you may be required to pay tuition for the time period your child(ren) was enrolled in school. School HoursOur regular school day begins at 8:40am (doors open at 8:25) and ends at 3:10pm. The morning prekindergarten session is from 8:40am to 11:10am (doors open at 8:25) and the afternoon session is from 12:40pm to 3:10pm (doors open at 12:25). It is our hope that students will ride their assigned bus, especially for the first week of school, in order to become familiar with their pick-up time and bus driver.Students who are transported by parents should not arrive before 8:25. Adult supervision is not provided before this time, as teachers are not on duty prior to this time. The school cannot assume responsibility for the safety of your child prior to the start of the school day or once the school day has ended. Should you require childcare prior to 8:30 or after 3:30 you may wish to look into daycare services such as YMCA. YMCA is housed at Catonsville Elementary Both before and after school and can be reached at 410-747-9622.School Improvement Team (SIT)The School Improvement Team (SIT) meets quarterly throughout the school year. The team reviews school data, decision making and revises the School Improvement Plan each year. The team is made up of school staff, administration and parents. If you are interested in participating, contact the administration.Student Nutrition Account ProgramAll Baltimore County Public Schools participate in a student nutrition account program (SNAP) This program allows parents to deposit money into a lunch account from which students may draw. Choices are given as to how the money can be allocated: for lunches only, for a cash account, or as a combination of the two. Each student will be issued a number code to use for purchases made in the cafeteria. Forms to deposit money will be sent home on the first day of school. This program has been very successful and we encourage parents to take advantage of the convenience and flexibility of this program. Students do not have to use SNAP program but if they forget their money they could always have money on hand to cover the cost of their meal. School Records At the beginning of each school year, parents will be asked to complete an emergency form as well as verify their contact information. It is extremely important that the office be informed when/if any of this information changes. The information on these cards is used to contact parents when a child becomes ill/ injured or in the event of a school emergency. Therefore, the importance of up-to-date information is imperative. Custody papers and other related legal documents are required to be on file at school as part of the student’s records. Parents may request to review their child’s record with administration and/or request copies of items in their child’s file. A fee may be assessed for copying requests.Technological Access to the School and SystemCatonsville Elementary can be accessed through the internet at catonsvillees.. General information about our school is available on this website. In addition, administration, teachers and staff can be contacted through the teacher directory located on the website. All BCPS school staff has access to email for school system-based communication purposes. In addition, the school system website, , contains much useful information for parents (such as policies, curriculum, etc). School data can be reviewed at . Toys in SchoolTo prevent loss or damage, students should only bring toys and personal recreation items to school when they are needed for an assignment or when requested by teachers. Catonsville Elementary will not be responsible if any items brought to school (such as Yu-Gi-Oh or other trading cards, radios, CD’s or I-Pods, cameras, Gameboys, etc.) are damaged, lost, or stolen or traded. Students should not bring these items to school.Transitioning Fifth Grade StudentsAccording to BCPS Policy and Rule 5150 and Pupil Services Enrollment Procedures, each spring, parents of resident students transitioning from elementary to middle school (and middle school to high school), must provide proof of residency before June 30th. Proof of residency includes photo identification, proof of ownership/rental and three supporting documents. This process should be completed by the end of June. FAILURE TO PROVIDE PROOF OF RESIDENCY MAY RESULT IN YOUR CHILD BEING WITHDRAWN FROM THE SYSTEM.Transportation RegulationsTransportation to and from school is a privilege afforded students. Transportation is provided for 5 days of school to one destination. When students' behavior is such that it causes the driver to be distracted from concentrating on driving, it places the bus and the students' safety in jeopardy. When this happens, students may be denied the privilege of riding the bus to ensure the safety of others and to avoid a bus accident. Students are expected to ride their assigned buses to and from school and be picked up and discharged at the same stop. Students without notes will be asked to ride their assigned bus. Students are not allowed to ride other buses, unless an emergency situation occurs. These requests must be approved by an administrator.County policy requires that an adult meet all pre-kindergarten students at their mid-day stop or these children will be returned to school. This policy was instituted with the safety of your children in mind.Please know that the safety of our children is of utmost importance whenever they are in our care. Students must continue to follow the rules and regulations as outlined in the BCPS Behavior Handbook while riding the bus to and from school as well as on field trips. This safety concern extends to the school bus and therefore most Baltimore County Public Schools buses have working to install video cameras on school buses as an additional safety measure. We want you to be aware of the effort that the county is taking in protecting your child and to inform you of these video cameras.Use of School FacilitiesFrom time to time, outside organizations (such as Recreation & Parks, PTA and PTA Committees) request to use areas of the school campus for their activity or event. According to BCPS Policy 1300, before planning the activity , event or meeting, permission must be granted to the organization. Organizations requesting permission for use of the building must complete a Use of Facilities form and submit it to the principal at least 30 days in advance of the activity/event/meeting. The form is available in the school office. Proof of insurance (Indemnification Form) must be submitted with every request. The request is reviewed by the principal and then sent to additional BCPS offices for approval. Approval must be obtained before the activity/event/meeting occurs. Activities/Events/Meetings may not be approved if they interfere with the regular school program and/or if space is unavailable. Charges may be assessed depending on the specific needs of the organization.Visitation of ClassroomsBaltimore County Public Schools requires all visitors to sign in at the school office and await direction before visiting other areas of the building. Those wishing to observe classes or meet with staff members should arrange the visit in advance to ensure that the time is appropriate and does not interfere with instructional time and planned activities. Upon your arrival at the school, be sure to check in with the main office to sign in and obtain a visitor’s badge. Other family members wanting to visit with your child should be discussed and arranged with the principal and/or assistant principal prior to the family member coming to school.Visitors ALL persons visiting the building are required to report to the school office for permission to visit any area of the building. When visiting the building, please sign in using the Visitor's Book on the table in the main office. Once you have signed in, please wait to be directed by the office staff. While in the building, you need to wear a visitor's pass at all times for security reasons. These can be picked up in the office when you have signed in the Visitor’s Book. We ask that all visitors follow the school’s Guidelines for Appropriate Etiquette (Appendix) when visiting our classrooms and participating in school functions.Parents should not go to the classroom to drop things off for their children as it interrupts the instructional program for all students. Please come to the main office and needed items will be delivered to your child at an appropriate time that does not interfere with the instructional program.Volunteer GuidelinesCatonsville Elementary has enjoyed the support of many parents in a variety of volunteer roles. We encourage your involvement in the Catonsville’s school program. Volunteers can serve in both instructional and non-instructional roles. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer at school please contact your child's teacher, the office staff, or the PTA to inquire as to how you may be of assistance. All volunteers must complete a BCPS Volunteer Application before working with our students in any volunteer capacity (including chaperoning field trips).To ensure a safe and quiet learning environment, infants and younger siblings are not permitted in the classrooms while parents are volunteering. Please make arrangements for child care prior to volunteering.During the month of September and in the spring, there will be an orientation meeting for interested volunteers. State Law requires that all volunteers be trained annually in Child Abuse and Neglect policies and procedures. You will receive a Volunteer Handbook. When you volunteer, a badge will need to be worn whenever you are working in the building during the school. When you volunteer, you must sign in using the Volunteer Book and record the number of hours that you worked. Please be sure to wear your volunteer badge at all times. Please remember to log in all volunteer hours. Water BottlesOften, teachers allow students to maintain water bottles in the classroom. Water, only, is acceptable in water bottles. We strongly encourage use of clear water bottles. Water bottles may be refilled at the school water fountain during appropriate times throughout the school day.Website Much information about Catonsville Elementary can be found on the school’s website, HYPERLINK ""catonsvillees.Withdrawal from SchoolIf it is necessary to withdraw a child before the end of the school year, please inform the school several days in advance. It is necessary for the office and the teacher to prepare written information and records in preparation for the transfer of student data from one school to another. The school will need:Your new addressThe name and address of the new schoolYour signed consent for release of recordsAPPENDIXParent’s Quick ReferenceGETTING THE HELP YOU NEED!For issues relating to your child’s classroom or school concerns, use the following steps:Consult the Catonsville Elementary School Parent/Student HandbookConsult the school website: catonsvillees.Contact the teacher/counselor at 410-887-0800.Contact Linda Miller, Principal, or Laura Kelly, Assistant Principal at 410-887-0800.Additional Information available by phone:Athletics410-887-2328Bus Transportation410-887-4321Career & Technology410-887-8921Child Care Assistance410-887-4314Community Relations410-887-2446Free/Reduced Price Meals410-887-7855General/School Closings410-887-5555Gifted/Talented Programs410-887-4330Magnet Schools410-887-4127Multicultural Education410-887-2444School Boundaries410-887-4215Special Education410-887-3660Additional Information available through the internet:Catonsville Elementary School Websitecatonsvillees.General School InformationAdministration and Grade Level LinksCatonsville Elementary School PTA Websitecespta. PTA Activity CalendarPTA Executive Board and Chairperson Contact InformationGeneral BCPS Information Parent Information LinkSchool ClosingsCurriculum Summaries by Grade LevelBCPS PoliciesMaryland State Curriculum Individual School Performance Appropriate Etiquette When Visiting the SchoolWhen visiting the school, please keep in mind the following:Be respectful of the work that our teachers and students are doing. Do not interrupt the teachers instructing or the students learning that is occurring in the classrooms.Remember to silence or place your cell phone on vibrate. AT NO TIME should visitors be using their cell phones to take/make calls or to take photos. (Keep in mind that not all of our students are permitted to be photographed or videotaped.)If you would like to conference with your child’s teacher(s), contact them by phone or email in order to make an appointment. Our students and staff thank you for your cooperation!Catonsville Elementary SchoolArrival & Dismissal ProceduresCar RidersBus Students ArrivalDrivers will enter the school campus via Bishop’s Lane.Drivers will drive straight ahead and stop at the intersection of the student drop off loop.When directed by school staff, drivers will pull up alongside of the drop off area next to the building. THIS IS ONLY ONE LANE!!Students will exit from the PASSENGER side of the car. Students are not to walk around the car to the sidewalk.Students will enter the doors near the gym and walk directly to their classrooms. (Arrival time is 8:25am-8:40am. School staff are on duty at this time.)Drivers will follow the drop off loop and STOP at the intersection of the loop and driveway. When directed by school staff, drivers will exit the school campus via Frederick Road (right turn only).NOTE: The student drop off and bus loops are CLOSED from 8:00am to 9:00am!After 9:00am, there is NO PARKING in the student drop off/pick up loop.All buses will enter through the front loop. Bus students will enter the building through the front doors and walk directly to their classrooms.DismissalDrivers will enter the school campus via Bishop’s Lane.Drivers will drive straight ahead and stop at the intersenction of the student pick up loop.When directed by school staff, drivers will pull up alongside of the pick up area next to the building. THIS IS ONLY ONE LANE!!Students will be called to the pick-up area by school staff.Students will enter the car from the PASSENGER side of the car. (Please adjust all car and booster seats accordingly if needed). Students are not permitted to walk around to the driver’s side of the car. (Dismissal time is 3:10. School staff are on duty at this time.)Drivers will follow the pick up loop and STOP at the intersection of the loop and driveway.When directed by school staff, drivers will exit the school campus via Frederick Road (right turn only).NOTE: The student pick up & bus loops are CLOSED from 2:30pm to 3:30pm.All buses will pick up students and exit through the front loop. Bus students will exit the building through the front doors and board their buses.We appreciate your patience and cooperation with our procedures and staff during arrival and dismissal! Catonsville Elementary SchoolArrival & Dismissal ProceduresWalkersVisitors to the Building ArrivalStudents that are walkers will enter the building through the doors near the gym and student drop off area.Students will wait outside of these doors until the bell rings and staff are on duty. (Arrival time is 8:25am-8:40am. School staff are on duty at this time.)Students will enter the doors near the gym and walk directly to their classroomsDismissalStudents that are walkers will exit the building through the doors near the gym and student pick up area.Students will be dismissed from their classrooms as walkers during the afternoon announcements at approximately 3:07pm.Students will walk directly to the dismissal area and exit through the doors near the gym. (Dismissal time is 3:10pm. School staff are on duty at this time.)Visitors to the BuildingMorning (8:25am-8:40am)Parents that would like to visit the building may enter through the doors near the gym and student drop off/pick up area. Please park in designated visitor spaces only.Parents/Visitors must STOP, SIGN IN and OBTAIN A BADGE at the desk located just inside of the door.Parents/Visitors may proceed to the office, classroom or cafeteria.If parents/visitors are leaving the building prior to 8:40am, they will SIGN OUT and RETURN THE BADGE at the desk near the gym doors.If parents/visitors are leaving the building after 8:45am, they will SIGN OUT and RETURN THE BADGE at the desk inside of the school office. Parents/visitors are then to exit the building through the front doors.During the Day & Afternoon (after 8:40am)Parents that would like to visit the building may enter through the front doors of the school between the hours of 8:40am and 4:30pm. Please park in designated visitor spaces only.Upon entering the building, parents/visitors must SIGN IN and OBTAIN A BADGE at the school office.Upon exiting the building, parents/visitors must SIGN OUT and RETURN THE BADGE at the school office. Parents/Visitors are then to exit the building through the front doors.We appreciate your cooperation with our procedures and staff in order to keep our students & staff safe! ................
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