Dear Parents and Students, - Jefferson County School District



Dear Parents and Students,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to Carver Elementary School. The teachers and staff join me in saying we are ecstatic to have you as a part of the Carver family. We are looking forward to an exciting and successful year.

We are using this handbook as a means of communicating between the home and school. There are many policies, regulations, and services discussed in these pages. It is our hope that this handbook will be helpful to you and that it will promote a better understanding between the home and the school.

Parents and/or guardians are encouraged to visit Carver and to attend scheduled meetings for parents and teachers. Mutual benefits happen when there is a meaningful exchange of information between all stakeholders.

Carver Elementary School is dedicated to providing every child with the best educational opportunity possible. Through a close and shared partnership, I am confident that our school will continue to be a successful place for our students to grow and learn.

Sincerely,

Ms. Tiffany D. Pitts,

Principal

JULY 2013

Federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964); sex (Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act of 1990); or disability (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) in educational programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance.

Employees, students, and the general public are hereby notified that the Jefferson County Board of Education does not discriminate in any educational programs or activities or in employment policies.

The following individuals have been designated as the employees responsible for coordinating the school system’s effort to implement this nondiscriminatory policy.

Perkins Act – Donnie Hodges, Assistant Superintendent

Title VI – Sam Dasher, Director of Student Services

Title IX – Barbara Thomas, Director of Special Education

Section 504 and ADA – Cynthia Rabun, Assistant Superintendent

Sports Equity Issues – David Land, Athletic Director, JCHS

Inquiries concerning the application of the Perkins Act, Title VI, Title IX, or Section 504 and ADA to the policies and practices of the department may be addressed to the persons listed above at the Jefferson County Board of Education, 1001 Peachtree Street, Louisville, GA 30434, or call (478) 625-7626; to Regional Office for Civil Rights, Atlanta 30323; or to the Director, Office of Civil Rights, Education Department, Washington, D.C. 20201.

It is the policy of the Jefferson County Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, handicap, or disability in any employment practices, education programs, or activities. The Jefferson County Board of Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PARENT NOTIFICATION REGARDING HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHERS

AND PARAPROFESSIONALS

We are committed to continually seeking to improve instruction for our students. We hope that as a parent, you will become involved in our school improvement initiatives as we continue to monitor student achievement and set high expectations. We encourage you to get to know your child’s teacher and the class routines and expectations.

We are proud of the professional credentials of our teaching staff and will furnish to you, upon request, the professional qualifications of any of your students’ classroom teachers. This includes information concerning the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher is certified, the major fields and degrees held by the teacher, and the qualifications of any paraprofessional who provides services to your child.

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Carver Elementary School Profile

All of us at Carver Elementary School are involved in an on-going initiative of school improvement. We have developed a Vision Statement, Mission Statement, a Motto and a set of Beliefs which guide our efforts in school reform.

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Vision and Mission Statement and Motto and Beliefs

Vision Statement:

Carver Elementary School and community will do “Whatever It Takes” to ensure that every child will exit Carver Elementary prepared for middle school and beyond.

Mission Statement:

Carver Elementary school will work with parents and community in doing “Whatever It Takes” to provide a quality learning environment that promotes the personal, intellectual, and social growth of every child everyday.

Motto: Doing “Whatever It Takes” to become:

Competent

Unique

Better Educated

Students

Carver Elementary is committed to the following beliefs upon which our philosophy is based:

1. Students learn to set goals and make appropriate decisions given a supportive, safe, physically comfortable, and challenging learning environment.

2. Student learning is the chief priority for the school.

3. Continuous improvement is imperative to enable students to become confident, self-directed, lifelong learners.

4. Curriculum and instructional practices must incorporate a variety of learning activities that are meaningful, data driven, and essential for student achievement.

5. All students can learn when they are actively engaged in the learning process and given appropriate opportunities for success.

6. The staff and community share the responsibility for advancing students’ learning needs.

7. Positive relationships, challenging expectations, and mutual respect among and between students and staff increases students’ individual performance and enhances self-esteem.

8. The school and community must provide students with the best public education to enhance their understanding of essential knowledge and promote problem solving skills.

No Child Left Behind Act (Parent Notice)

Title II, Part A of the No Child Left Behind Act requires that all core academic subject teachers be “highly qualified” by the end of the 2006-2007 school year. All teachers hired after the first day of 2002-2003 school year in Title I programs must be “highly qualified.” [Title II, Part A, Section 1119]

You are encouraged to visit the Title II-A Website located at nclb/home.html to access documents as well as other information.

In compliance with the requirements of the No Child Left Behind statute the Jefferson County School District informs parents that you may request information about the professional qualifications of your student’s teacher(s). The following information may be requested:

1) certification

2) college major/graduate certification or degree held by the teacher;

3) if paraprofessional services are provided, qualifications of the paraprofessional.

If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher’s qualifications, please contact Ms. Tiffany D. Pitts at

(478) 252-5762.

[Section 1111(h)(6)]

Jefferson County Schools

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

GRADES K-12

Process of Behavior Support and Progressive Discipline

To the Students of Jefferson County:

The Jefferson County School System is committed to the operation of schools that are safe and free of behavioral disruptions that interfere with students’ ability to learn. A brochure has been developed to provide information to you and your parents regarding disciplinary actions which will result when the school rules are violated.

It is your responsibility as a student to read this brochure and follow the rules that contribute to a positive learning environment. Please discuss these rules with your parent(s) or guardians(s).

The rules and consequences discussed in this brochure are not exhaustive. The principal in your school has the authority to assign additional consequences if the infraction is significant in its frequency or intensity. If you have questions, contact the principal of your school.

Superintendent

Jefferson County Schools

STATEMENT ON AUTHORITY OF PRINCIPAL

The principal is the designated leader of the school and with the staff is charged by the superintendent with the safe and orderly operation of the school. In case of disciplinary violations covered or not covered by the brochure, the principal may impose corrective measures which he or she believes to be in the best interest of the student involved and the school.

STATEMENT ON AUTHORITY OF TEACHERS

The superintendent and the school principals support any teacher’s authority to remove from his or her class a student who repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn, where the student’s behavior is in violation of this student code of conduct.

CHARACTER EDUCATION

The school system has a proactive character education program that is based on good citizenship and sound moral development. All actions and behaviors by students and staff members should reflect the core values and character concepts that are an integral part of the character education program.

ATTENDANCE

Any parent, guardian, or other person residing in Georgia who has control or charge of a child or children and is in violation of the mandatory attendance law shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine not less than $25.00 and not greater than $100, imprisonment not to exceed 30 days, community service, or any combination of such penalties at the discretion of the court having jurisdiction.

STUDENT OFFENSES & DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

The list of Suspendable Offenses in this brochure is in accordance with established disciplinary procedures and policies of the Jefferson County School System. School personnel, parents and students should be aware that (1) The school principal will, in every case, take initial disciplinary action. (2) The office of the Superintendent may assist in cases if requested by principal or parent. (3) The principal at his or her discretion may take action that ranges from a simple reprimand to a 10-day suspension from school. Unacceptable behavior that warrants suspension beyond 10 days will be handled by suspension and referral of the student to the Student Discipline Tribunal. The case will then be processed in accordance with the regulations governing said body as established by State Law and the Jefferson County Board of Education Policy.

System and school information can be found on the system’s website:



Section 504 Student Rights and Procedural Safeguards

The Jefferson County Board of Education has adopted the student rights and procedural safeguards under Section 504. Copies of these documents may be obtained at the Board of Education Office, 1001 Peachtree Street, in Louisville, or from each school office. Copies of the adopted student rights and procedural safeguards under Section 504 may also be found on the system website at jefferson.k12.ga.us.

PTO

We encourage you to join our P.T.O. In order for Carver to be a true "school home" for your child, we ask that you be involved in the activities of the school. Participation of all parents in P.T.O. ensures strong parent, teacher, and student rapport. The cost for P.T.O. membership is $1.00 per parent. We will have two regular P.T.O. meetings. They will be held at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria.

Meals

Breakfast and lunch are served daily. Breakfast is served between 7:15 and 7:50 a.m. If you bring your child to school and would like for him/her to eat breakfast, do so before 7:50 a.m. Please provide the school with a doctor’s statement of any food allergies that your child may have.

Personal Property

Carver is not responsible for any personal item that your child brings to school. Any item brought to school and then lost, is the sole responsibility of the parent or guardian and child.

Student Records

Parents are guaranteed the rights to have access to their child’s school records. This is due to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act passed by Congress in 1974. Please see an administrator at the school for more information regarding this act.

School Hours

7:15 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. ** Please do not bring students to school before 7:15 a.m. **

Carver Elementary School hours are as follows:

7:15 Students may enter building

7:15 – 8:00 Breakfast is served

7:50 Attendance and announcements

8:00 Classes begin

10:55 – 12:30 Lunch

2:55 Car riders and walkers released

3:00 First load dismissed

School Visitors

All visitors must sign-in, in the school office and obtain a pass upon entering the school building.

Absences

Students are excused for sickness, death in the immediate family, or an extreme emergency. To be credited for an excused absence on their return, students should bring a doctor’s excuse or a note signed by the parent or guardian in the event of death in the family, an emergency, etc. A letter will be sent to the parent after 3 consecutive days or a total of 5 days. The school social worker may visit your home when a child is absent for 7 or more days.

Withdrawal

The withdrawal of a student from Carver can be completed through the office. Students must return all books and settle any school debts.

Tardiness

When students are late, this interferes with maximum instruction and good performance. Students are tardy after 8:00 and are to report to the office upon arrival to get a tardy pass before going to class. Parents will be notified when students are tardy on a regular basis.

Illness at School

If a child becomes sick or hurt at school, every effort will be made to contact the parent/guardian. Up-to-date emergency phone numbers should be made available to the school. If a parent/guardian can not be contacted, the school will take whatever means necessary to preserve the health of the child.

Parents of any child with health problems, which might cause a health emergency, should be certain to notify the school of the problem and the procedures that would need to be followed should the child become ill at school.

Medication

If your child requires medication during the school day, please bring the medication to the school and meet with the appropriate personnel. All medications (over-the counter drugs and prescription drugs) must be in the original container. Containers for prescription drugs must bear the name of the patient, the drug, the prescribing physician, and the name of the pharmacy filling the prescription. The school nurse or office will administer all medication.

Communicable diseases

Students with communicable diseases such as ring worm, pink eye, and impetigo should not attend school until a statement is obtained from a physician or health department official that the student is under treatment for the condition and may return to school.

Hospital/Homebound Program

Any student who has a medically diagnosed physical condition, which restricts the student to his/her home or to a hospital for 10 or more days, is eligible to receive services from the hospital/homebound program. In order for a student to receive these services, a referral must be completed by a physician stating that the student will be absent from school for 10 days or more and will be physically able to benefit from instruction. Once the referral form is completed and returned to the school system, the hospital/homebound teacher will schedule a time to come to the hospital or home to work with the child.

Students served in this program are counted as present just as if they were at school. Students are not eligible for hospital/homebound services if the absence is due to expulsion or suspension.

Early Dismissal

All children should remain in school until regular dismissal time so that maximum instruction can be provided. If early dismissal is necessary on an occasional basis (emergency, doctor's appointment), a parent or guardian must report to the school office to sign out the child. Children should not be dismissed prior to 3:00 p.m. on a regular basis.

Car Riders

Children should not arrive at school before 7:15 a.m. The school cannot be responsible for your child's safety before 7:15 a.m.

All car riders should be picked up at 2:55 p.m. Students will be released from the front parking lot. Parents are asked to drive to the curb and pick up the students.

Cellular Phone Usage

Cellular phones may be in the possession of a student at any time, but may not be in use or visible for any reason except for direct instructional purposes under the direction of a teacher, principal or other certified personnel from the opening time until the closing time of each school day.

Bus Riders

If your child is transported to and/or from school by bus, please make sure that he/she knows his/her bus number. Information regarding bus routes can be obtained from the school's office and Jefferson County website. Please discuss alternate transportation arrangements with your child prior to his/her coming to school. Phone calls relating to a change in transportation are disruptive to classroom instruction and may cause anxiety to the child involved except in emergencies. If you must call to change your child’s transportation, please do so before 12:00 p.m. Send a note to your child's teacher when there is a change in the usual transportation for your child. Children are not to be picked up from the school’s bus parking lot. They must be signed –out from the office.

Bus transportation is a privilege and furnished for students living more than 1 1/2 miles from school. If your child is transported to and/or from school by bus, please make sure the child knows the bus number.

The Jefferson County School System has implemented “The Safe Rider Program” All parents will be given the guidelines for the program and return the signed information. You may request more information on the program from the school’s administrators.

School Bus Safety Tips

Walking to the Bus Stop

• Always walk on the sidewalk to the bus stop, never run. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left facing traffic.

• Go to the bus stop about five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. While at the bus stop, wait quietly in a safe place well away from the road. Do not run and play while waiting.

Getting On and Off the Bus

• Enter the bus in line with the younger students in front. Hold the handrail while going up and down the stairs.

• When entering the bus, go directly to a seat. Remain seated and face forward during the entire ride.

Riding the Bus

• Always speak quietly on the bus so the driver will not be distracted. Always be silent when a bus comes to a railroad crossing so the driver can hear if a train is coming.

• Never throw things on the bus or out of the windows. Keep the aisles clear at all times. Feet should be directly in front of you on the floor and book bags should be kept on your lap. Large instruments or sports equipment should not block the aisle or emergency exits.

• Never play with emergency exits. If there is an emergency, listen to the driver and follow instructions.

• Hands should be kept to yourself at all times while riding on the bus. Fighting and picking on others creates a dangerous bus ride.

Exiting the Bus

• If you leave something on the bus, never return to get it. The driver may not see you come back and he/she may begin moving the bus. Make sure that drawstrings and other loose objects are secure before getting off the bus so that they do not get caught on the handrail or door.

• Respect the “Danger Zone” which surrounds all sides of the bus. The “Danger Zone” is ten feet wide on all sides of the bus. Always remain 10 steps away from the bus to be out of the “Danger Zone” and where the driver can see you.

• Always cross the street in front of the bus. Never go behind the bus. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before you attempt to pick it up, so they will know where you are.

• Never speak to strangers at the bus stop and never get into the car with a stranger.

Bus drivers are responsible for the safety of all students and may assign seats or set particular rules for their bus. Students not cooperating with bus procedures may be denied bus riding privileges for a period of time to be determined by the principal. In this event, the parent/guardian must provide student transportation. Cameras are used to monitor behavior for all loads.

|Bus # |Bus Driver |Route |

|210 |CharNette Moye |Wadley/Bartow |

|311 |Brenda Alexander |Wadley/LMS |

|111 |Tanzie McBride |Wadley (2 Loads) |

Volunteers

Adult volunteers are appreciated throughout our schools. If you have a few "free" hours during the week and you enjoy working with children, please contact Ms. Pitts at 478-252-5762.

Instructional Program

The pre-kindergarten and kindergarten instructional programs follow the guidelines published by the Georgia Department of Education. Instructional time is spent in individual and group work, oral language experiences, and in the socialization processes.

The curriculum in grades 1-5 consists of mathematics, science, social studies, health, arts (reading, composition, grammar, spelling, and handwriting). Textbooks are issued to all students for most subjects. Each child is expected to take care of issued texts and library books. If a book is damaged beyond normal wear and tear or if it is lost, the student must pay a fine based on the extent of damage and/or age of the book. Book covers are highly recommended for text- books.

Programs

EIP (Early Intervention Program) Grades K - 5

SST (Student Support Team)

Guidance Counseling

ESOL

RTI

The Response to Intervention provides specific help to students that have been identified as having problems in school. When students have problems that do not respond to traditional solutions, parents and teachers may work together during the RTI process. Each grade has a multitude of things to try and help the student overcome any problem(s). This process may continue for as little as six weeks or as long as a year or more.

Student Support Team (SST)

Carver has a Student Support Team (SST). The SST is a committee of experienced teachers and administrators who provide suggestions for teachers to implement with students who are exhibiting academic and/or behavior difficulties. Students may be referred to the SST by teachers, administrators, and parents.

Counseling Program

The counseling program at Carver Elementary offers many different types of services for the students. Small group sessions, whole class sessions and individual counseling sessions will be conducted by Mrs. Williams. Any student is eligible for these services and may ask for assistance at any time. Parents may also request the services of the counseling program if they feel that their child is in need of help.

Student Reading

Students will be responsible for twenty minutes of nightly reading. Books read should be within the student’s reading/Lexile range. The reading will be recorded on a student reading log and should be initialed by the parent or teacher. Students and teachers will conference to determine each student’s individual reading goal.

Gifted Education Program Notice

In order to qualify for gifted education services in Georgia, a student must show exceptional performance in the areas of mental ability, achievement, creativity, and motivation. In Jefferson County, all students in grades K-12 are screened for possible referral for gifted education services each year. A student may also be referred for consideration for education services for the gifted by teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self and other individuals with knowledge of the student’s abilities. Referral forms are available in each of the school offices or they may be obtained from Dr. Donnie Hodges at the Board of Education Office in Louisville.

Power School Parent Portal

Jefferson County Schools are promoting the Power School Parent Portal. This web-based portal allows parents to access their child’s grades and attendance at any school within the county. It also allows you to have email notifications sent to you on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

If you would like to enroll in the portal, please see Ms. Patterson in the office. She will assist you in getting your access ID and your student codes for students in grades 3-5.

To access the portal, the website is or visit the Jefferson County Website at jefferson.k12.ga.us, click on Parent/Student Resources on the left. Powerschool Parent Portal will be on the right side of the page.

An e-mail account is required to setup your login and access. If you do not have an account, a free account can be set up through Google Gmail, Windows Hotmail, or other public internet service providers.

Report Cards

Report cards are sent home on a nine weeks basis (see calendar for exact dates). They indicate students' progress in both academic and social skills during the grading period. Report cards should be read carefully, signed, and returned the next day.

Progress reports will be issued to all students at the mid point of the nine weeks grading period in grades 1-5 (see calendar).

Grading System

Grades 3-5

A= 90 -100 S= Satisfactory

B= 80 - 89 U= Unsatisfactory

C= 75 - 79 Below 70

D= 70 - 74 WP=Withdrew Passing

F= Below 70 WF= Withdrew Failing

Kindergarten, first, and second grades will have a standards-based report card.

Honor Roll - Grades 4 & 5

Distinguished Honor Roll - 90 or above average per nine weeks.

Honor Roll - 85 – 89 or above average per nine weeks.

President's Award for Academic Excellence

Students in the fifth grade will be awarded the President's Award for Academic Excellence if they have attained an overall average of 90 or above during fourth grade and the first semester of fifth grade.

Honor’s Day

Honor’s Day will be for grades PK-5. Invitations will be given to eligible students.

Testing

As required by the state and local boards of education, standardized tests are given to students during the school year. Students in grades 3 and 5 are given a writing assessment. The CRCT Test is administered to students in grades 3-5. Students in grades 2 & 4 will also take the ITBS. Kindergarten students are given the County Math & GKIDS and students in grades 2-5 are given the County Math Facts Tests.

The purpose of the testing program is to monitor student achievement in different academic areas. The results of the tests are used to identify the strengths and weaknesses in each student's skill development, to design instruction appropriate to student needs, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the educational program and determine how the program can be improved. Students in grades 3 and 5 must meet the mandatory CRCT score requirements for promotion.

Parents are encouraged to discuss test results with teachers in order to have a better understanding of their child's strengths and weaknesses. The teacher, parents, and student can then plan together learning experiences to meet the student's needs.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parents are encouraged to contact the school to arrange a parent-teacher conference any time they would like more information on their child's school performance. Parent-teacher conferences can be a productive way of helping to improve student performance. Parents should let teachers know of any major changes in the home environment which may affect school performance.

During the school day teachers are busy working with students and are not available for conferences. Parent conferences can be done at the following times or after school.

Teachers’ Planning Schedule

8:00 – 8:30 – Phillips and Little

8:30 – 9:00 – Spikes and Coleman

8:30 – 9:15 – McGhee, Akridge, and Jones

10:35 – 11:20 – Third grade

11:30 – 12:15 – First grade

12:50 – 1:35 – Second grade

1:45 – 2:30 – Kindergarten

Homework

Homework is important. It is an extension of the learning that takes place in school. It helps to provide extra practice of the learning skills, to provide an opportunity for students to develop good work habits, to provide an opportunity for growth in responsibility, to provide an opportunity for parents to observe what their child is studying, and to determine how well the child is achieving specific skills.

There are some things parents can do to help their child complete homework:

Provide a spacious, quiet, well-lighted place to study.

Work with the child to set a regular homework time.

Provide playtime after school and before homework.

Make sure the child brings home assignments clearly written down.

Encourage the child to do his/her best in spelling, handwriting, neatness, and accuracy. Be positive and give praise for improvement.

Remember that homework is assigned to the child, not to the parent. However, it is okay to help the child think through the assignment. The amount of homework assigned may vary from teacher to teacher, subject to subject, or year to year.

Promote the child's responsibility for seeing that his/her homework is returned to the school.

Reading

Parents who wish to have their children become good readers are advised to follow these guidelines:

Spend a little time together reading to your child and be sure to let him/her read to you.

Listen to your child and ask about stories he/she had read. It is important that children have a chance to tell you about what they have read.

Make the home a house of books. If your child sees you reading, you have set a good example that will be followed for life.

Give books as gifts. Ask your child's teacher or librarian for ideas.

Visit the public library and help your child select books. Check out some yourself.

Select books based on your child's interest: hobbies, sports, crafts are some ideas that might be exciting.

Give praise - lots of it. It encourages you child to read more.

Encourage your child to read the “take home” books that are provided by the school.

Gifts to Students

While the Jefferson County Board of Education realizes and appreciates the contribution that florists make to the school program, it also recognizes the hardship that the deliver of gifts such as floral arrangements, balloons, and stuffed animals places on the staff of the schools. Schools shall not accept the delivery of these or any such celebratory items from individuals or florists on behalf of students on or for the occasion of Valentine’s Day. Policy JLC

Appropriate Dress

Neat and appropriate dress is expected and required of all students. Any extremities in dress may be questioned.

To be acceptable, skirts and shorts must be of an appropriate length, no more than two inches above the knee.

Clothing that displays or implies profane, vulgar or obscene language/gestures or illegal activities will not be permitted.

Tank tops are not to be worn on campus as the only outer garment.

Blouses, shirts, and slacks must not expose the midriff or undergarments

Ripped jeans should not expose skin.

Shirts are expected to be tucked in.

All students are required to wear shoes. Shoes are expected to be laced up, tied and/or buckled.

Belts should be worn and fastened in the conventional manner.

Hats are not to be worn in the building.

Disruption of Public Schools

It is unlawful for any person to disrupt or interfere with the operation of a public school. Georgia law also prohibits the upbraiding, insulting, or abusing of any public school teacher or public school bus driver upon the premises of any public school in the presence of any public school in the presences and hearing of a pupil.

Violation of the law is a misdemeanor (O.C.G.A., #20-2-1181, 1976, 1989).

Teacher Authority to Remove Students from Classrooms

A teacher shall have the authority, consistent with Board policy, to manage his or her classroom, discipline students, and refer a student to the principal or his/her designee to maintain discipline in the classroom. Any teacher who has knowledge that a student has exhibited behavior which violates the student code of conduct and repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in his/her class or with the ability of such student’s classmates to learn shall file a report of such behavior with the principal or his/her designee. The principal and teacher shall, thereafter, follow the procedures set forth in Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. 20-2-737-738.

The Superintendent and/or designee shall develop procedures as necessary for implementation of this policy and this state law.

Prohibition against Bullying

The Jefferson County Board of Education Policy JCDAG states that acts of bullying shall be punished by a range of consequences through the progressive discipline process, as stated in the Code of Conduct. Upon a finding by a disciplinary hearing officer, panel or tribunal that a student in grades 6-12 has committed the offense of bullying for the third time in a school year, the student shall be assigned to an alternative educational program.

Please contact the school for additional information concerning this policy.

NOTICE TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS AND ELIGIBLE STUDENTS OF RIGHTS UNDER

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

AND PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) (the "Act"), you have a right to:

(1) Inspect and review, within 45 days of a request, the education records of a student who is your child, or in the case of a student who is eighteen (18) or older, or your own education records.

(2) Request the amendment of the student's education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights.

(3) Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that the Act and the regulations promulgated pursuant to the Act authorize disclosure without consent.

(4) The Jefferson County School District has designated the following information as directory information:

(a) Student’s name, address and telephone number;

(b) Student’s date and place of birth;

(c) Student’s e-mail address;

(d) Student’s participation in official school clubs and sports;

(e) Weight and height of student if he/she is a member of an athletic team;

(f) Dates of attendance at schools within the school district;

(g) Honors and awards received during the time enrolled in the district schools;

(h) Photograph; and

(i) Grade level.

Unless you, as a parent/guardian or eligible student, request otherwise, this information may be disclosed to the public upon request. In addition, two federal laws require school systems receiving federal financial assistance to provide military recruiters or institutions of higher learning, upon request, with the name, address, and telephone numbers unless parents have advised the school system that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

You have the right to refuse to allow all or any part of the above information to be designated as directory information and to refuse to allow it to be disclosed to the public upon request without your prior written consent. If you wish to exercise this right, you must notify the principal of the school at which the student is enrolled in writing within 10 days after officially enrolling in school or within 30 days of the date of the release of this notice.

(5) You are also notified that from time to time students may be photographed, video taped, or interviewed by the news media at school or some school activity or event; unless you, as a parent/guardian object in writing to your student being photographed, video taped or interviewed to the principal of the school where your student is enrolled.

(6) File with the United States Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by the School District to comply with the requirements of the Act or the regulations promulgated thereunder. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-5920.

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)

PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.

Parents and eligible students (18 or older or emancipated minors) shall be notified at the beginning of the year if the school district has identified the specific or approximate dates during the school year when any of the activities listed below are expected to be scheduled. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. The Board of Education has developed and adopted policies, in conjunction with parents, regarding the activities described below. In accordance with Board policies, prior written consent must be obtained from parents before students are required to submit to any survey that contains questions about one or more of the areas listed in paragraph (A) and that is funded in whole or in part by the U. S. Department of Education.

You have the right to inspect any survey or instrument used in collection of the information under subparagraphs (A) and (B) before the instrument is administered or distributed to a student and to opt your student out of participation in any activities described below in accordance with regulations developed by the superintendent.

A. The administration of any survey containing one or more of the following items:

• Political affiliations or beliefs of the students or the student’s parents;

• Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;

• Sex behavior or attitudes;

• Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

• Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relations;

• Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;

• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or

• Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program), without prior written consent of the parent of eligible student.

A) Activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or for selling that information (or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose)

B) Any non –emergency, invasive physical examination or screening that is required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school and schedule by the school in advance, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the students.

You may, upon request, inspect any instructional material used as a part of the educational curriculum for your student.

The school is required by federal law to give this notice to parents. However, the school does not have scheduled any such activities as are described above at the present. If any such activities are initiated during the school year, parents will be notified accordingly and will be afforded all the rights as described herein.

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U. S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D. C. 20202-5920

Tips for Parents

❖ Have a positive attitude about your child's school, teachers, and administrators. Children tend to develop attitudes similar to those of their parents.

❖ Show enthusiasm whenever your child learns something new or develops a new skill.

❖ Encourage good health habits such as eating nutritious foods, getting ample sleep and rest and plenty of physical activity.

❖ Listen to your child. Show a genuine interest in your child's questions and conversations.

❖ Talk about school in a friendly way so that your child will think of it as a happy place. Discuss school activities, school friends, new experiences and new things to learn.

School Events

Pre-K Parent Orientation Tuesday, August 20

Parent Night Tuesday, August 20

Grandparents Day Friday, September 6

Report card pick-up/PTO Tuesday, October 15

Fall Festival Thursday, October 3 (5 – 7 pm)

Parent Conferences October 15 – 31

Doughnuts with Dad Friday, Nov.1 (7:30 – 8:30 am)

Parent Night/

Performing Arts Program Tuesday, December 17

Parent Night/

Report card pick-up/PTO Tuesday, March 18

Parent Conferences March 18 – 29

Muffins for Mom March 28 (7:30 – 8:30 am)

Spring Fling April 3

Parent Night/Spring Recital May 20

Pre-K EOY Program May 13 (1:15 pm)

Fifth Grade EOY Program May 15 (1:15 pm)

Honor’s Day Program May 22 (invitation only)

***These are tentative Dates and are subject to change***

School Calendar

Jefferson County Schools

2013-2014

Approved 3/12/13

Wed, Jul 31, 2013 - Fri, Aug 2, 2013 .... Pre-Planning for Teachers

Mon, Aug 5, 2013 ............................................. First Day of School

Mon, Sep 02, 2013 ............................................ Labor Day Holiday

Thurs, Sep 5, 20.................................. Progress Reports Sent Home

Fri, Sep 20, 2013....... Staff Development, Students released at 1:00

Thurs, Oct 3, 2013 - Mon, Oct 7, 2013 ............ Nine Weeks Exams

Mon, Oct 14, 2013 ................................... Report Cards Sent Home

Fri, Oct 25, 2013 - Mon, Oct 28, 2013 .............. Fall Break Holiday

Wed, Nov 6, 2013 .............................. Progress Reports Sent Home

Mon, Nov 25, 2013 - Fri, Nov 29, 2013 ..... Thanksgiving Holidays

Mon, Dec 16, 2013 - Wed, Dec 18, 2013 .............. Semester Exams

Wed, Dec 18, 2013 ................................... Students released at 1:00

Thu, Dec 19, 2013 - Mon, Jan 06, 2014 ........... Christmas Holidays

Tues, Jan 07, 2014 ...Staff Development Teachers, Student Holiday

Wed, Jan 08, 2014.....................First Day of School after Christmas

Wed, Jan 08, 2014 ............................ First Day of Second Semester

Mon, Jan 13, 2014 .................................... Report Cards Sent Home

Mon, Jan 20, 2014 .............................. Martin Luther King Holiday

Mon, Feb 10, 2014 ............................. Progress Reports Sent Home

Fri, Feb 14 - Mon, Feb 17, 2014 ............... Presidents’ Day Holiday

Wed, Mar 12, 2014 - Fri, Mar 14, 2014 ........... Nine Weeks Exams

Fri, Mar 14, 2014 ..... Staff Development, Students released at 1:00

Wed, Mar 19, 2014................................... Report Cards Sent Home

Mon, Apr 07, 2014 - Fri, Apr 11, 2014 ................. Spring Holidays

Mon, Apr 28, 2014 ............................. Progress Reports Sent Home

Wed, May 21, 2014 - Fri, May 23, 2014...............Nine Weeks & Semester Exams

Fri, May 23, 2014 .... Last Day of School, Students released at 1:00

Sat, May 24, 2014 ...... Graduation - Jefferson County High School

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