Pinelake.dadeschools.net



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Pine Lake Elementary School

Bringing Our “A” Game

16700 S. W. 109th Avenue

Miami, Florida 33157

(305) 233-7018 FAX: 305-233-4042

Crystal Coffey Alberto Carvalho

Principal Superintendent

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Patricia Fairclough Barbara Mendizabal

Assistant Principal Superintendent, South Regional Center

August 14, 2015

Dear Parents and/or Guardians:

It is our pleasure to welcome you and your child to Pine Lake Elementary for the 2015-2016 school year! This year will be both exciting and challenging for each of us. The administration and staff are enthusiastic and excited about the tremendous teaching and learning process that will take place. We are also pleased that you have chosen us to provide your child with the educational services required.

This Parent/Student Handbook, which you are receiving today, contains much valuable information. We ask that you and your child(ren) read this important document and discuss its contents. Additional information will come to you at various times during the year. Please staple or clip it into the Handbook for reference purposes.

I am looking forward to meeting each of you during the course of the school year. I invite you to join with school personnel in our effort to provide an outstanding education for each child. By working together we can make Pine Lake Elementary a school where each child achieves success!

Please acknowledge that you have received the Parent/Student Handbook by signing below, and returning this cut-off sheet on the next school day to your child’s teacher. Thank you for your cooperation and the opportunity to serve you.

Sincerely,

Crystal Coffey, Principal

I am the parent of _______________________________. My signature below acknowledges receipt of the “Parent/Student Handbook”.

__________________________________ __________________________

Parent’s Signature Date

ABSENCES - EXCESSIVE

Students who are excessively absent (more than 10 days) will be referred to Children and Family Services if deemed necessary due to continued absences.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Students who participate in these activities must have prior permission from their parents to participate in these activities. Students will not be allowed to call home on the day of the activity to receive permission. Parents who give their children permission to participate must pick them up from the activity on time.

AFTER-SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMS

After School Care will be provided by the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) at Pine Lake Elementary School for all students in kindergarten through grade five. Children may access this Program 1:50 - 6:00 P.M. Please call 786-970-9916 for additional information beginning at 2:00 P.M.

ASSEMBLIES

At all times, students’ behavior should be courteous. An indication of the cultural level of the school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, excessive applause, boisterousness, and talking during a performance.

ARRIVAL

School begins at 8:20 A.M for K – Grade 1 and 8:35 A.M. for 2nd – 5th Grades. Unless a student is participating in a Before School Program (i.e. tutoring, etc.) no student should be on school grounds prior to 7:30 a.m. as we do not provide supervision until the cafeteria opens at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast. If a student does not participate in the breakfast program, he/she must still report to the cafeteria where there is supervision until they are for picked-up by their teachers.

DISMISSAL

Dismissal times vary according to grade level. Kindergarten and first grade students are dismissed daily at 1:50 P.M. Students in grades 2 - 5 are dismissed at 3:05 P.M. except for Wednesday when all students are dismissed at 1:50 P.M.

Students should be picked up promptly. If students have been instructed to walk home by their parents they should do so immediately after dismissal unless they are participating in an after school activity with prior parent permission. Students dismissed at 1:50 P.M. are NOT to wait at school for older brothers or sisters. We consider students waiting alone in front of the school to be at high risk. Students should be picked up within 15 minutes after dismissal, or parents should see YMCA (Aftercare) services.

All parent drop off and parent pick up will occur in front of the school (109 Avenue). Please note Miami-Dade County School buses and private mini buses will drop off in the front of the school in the morning and pick up in the back of the school in the afternoon. It will be very important that all parents follow directions and cooperate with school personnel so our students will always be safe in this process.

ATTENDANCE

Developing a habit of prompt, regular attendance is important for all students. Your child's education can be seriously affected by repeated absences or late arrival. Your cooperation in sending a note of explanation with your child will save class time and will also show your child that you think school is important. Good attendance habits play an important part in a child's academic progress, and we try very hard to reduce the number of absences and tardies. Students granted an excused absence have the right to make up classwork within a reasonable length of time.

A student should not miss a day of school for a doctor or dental appointment. The student can be picked up at school in time for the appointment or dropped off at school after the appointment. If you pick up your child, please come to the office to sign him/her out before leaving school. A half day of learning is better than an absence.

EXCUSED SCHOOL/CLASS ABSENCES AND TARDIES

1. Student illness: Students missing 5 or more consecutive days of school due to illness or injury are required to provide a written statement from a health care provider. The written statement must include all days the student has been absent from school. If a student is continually sick and repeatedly absent from school due to a specific medical condition, he or she must be under the supervision of a health care provider in order to receive excused absences from school.

2. Medical appointment: If a student is absent from school due to a medical appointment, a written statement from a health care provider indicating the date and time of the appointment, must be submitted to the principal.

3. Death in family

4. Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a faith that such a holiday or service be observed.

5. School- sponsored event or an educational enrichment activity that is not a school-sponsored event, as determined and approved by the principal or principal’s designee: The student must receive advance written permission from the principal or the principal’s designee. Examples of special events include: public functions, conferences, and region, state, and national competitions.

6. Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance

7. Other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent/guardian or student, as determines and approved by the principal or the principal’s designee. The principal shall require documentation related to the condition.

UNEXCUSED SCHOOL ABSENCES

Any absence that does not fall into one of the above excused absence categories is to be unexcused. Any student who has been absent from school will be marked unexcused until he/she submits required documentation as specified above. Failure to provide required documentation within three school days upon the return to school will result in an unexcused absence. Unexcused absences include:

1. Absences due to vacations, personal services, local non-school event, program or sporting activity.

2. Absences due to older students providing day care services for siblings

3. Absences due to illness of others

4. Absences due to non-compliance with immunization requirements (unless lawfully exempted)

AWARDS

Students receive special recognition at the school through a variety of award programs. These awards are intended to promote and recognize academic skills, athletic achievement, and various aspects of good citizenship. The method for determining the awards will be based on a variety of factors including teacher judgment.

CALENDAR/SCHOOL HOURS

School begins on August 24, 2015. The 2015-2016 school calendar is attached. Please examine the key carefully to identify which days your child should not report to school.

CARE OF SCHOOL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY

We try to instill in students pride in the appearance of their school. Students must not mark school furniture, walls, ceilings, floors, or equipment with pen, pencil, marker, or any other instrument. Students must not tamper with fire alarms, fire extinguishers, plants, trees, or any electrical system in the school. Anyone who willfully destroys school property through vandalism, arson or larceny, or who creates a hazard to the safety of our students will be referred to the proper law enforcement agency. We hope that students and parents will report incidents of destruction to school property during and after school. If you should happen to damage something by accident, you should report it to a teacher or the office immediately.

Students must not bring large amounts of money, radios, or cameras to school. Students must not use cell phones in school during the day and not at all during instructional time. Notebooks, jackets, sweaters, raincoats, lunch boxes, wallets, etc. should be marked with the owners name in large letters. The few minutes taken to do so makes return of lost items more likely. If a student wears glasses or watches, we ask that the student take responsibility for the care of them. Students should not leave money or other valuables in the desk. All toys are to remain at home.

Cell Phones

Possession of a cellular telephone is not a violation of the Code of Student Conduct (CSC). However, the possession of a cellular telephone which disrupts the educational process; the use of the cellular telephone during school hours; and the possession or use of a cellular telephone which disrupts or interferes with the safety-to-life issue for students being transported on a M-DCPS school bus, would be a violation of the CSC.

CAFETERIA / MEAL APPLICATIONS

New applications must be completed each year for free or reduced priced meals. This program is designed to serve those students whose family income is such that paying full price for school meals would result in a severe economic hardship to the family. Remember, all information on the application is subject to federal audit, and income records can be subpoenaed. Reduced lunch charges must be paid by the week on the first school day of each week. Breakfast is free to all students and will be served between 7:30 – 8:15 A.M. each morning.

We strongly encourage all students who purchase lunch to pay in advance on a weekly basis. This will prevent children from losing their money. We have limited resources to meet the needs of children who lose their money, leave it unprotected in or on desks, or who forget to bring their money. Students may also bring a lunch from home. Milk and juice may be purchased separately.

Regular lunch costs $2.25 daily or $11.25 per week. Students receiving free or paying reduced lunch prices the previous school-year will continue to so for the first twenty (20) days of the new school year. The new application form, which is sent home on the first day of school, must be completed and returned promptly if you wish to continue to receive these benefits. The breakfast program is free to all students. The reduced lunch price is $ .40 daily or $ 2.00 per week.

Paypams

Miami-Dade County Public School’s Department of Food and Nutrition allows parents/guardians the convenience to pay on-line via the internet or telephone for their child’s/children meals with credit or debit card. The parent/guardian will create a lunch account on-line for the child and will be able to access the following:

a. View the account balance

b. Schedule automatic payments

c. Receive low-balance e-mail reminders

d. View a report of the daily spending and cafeteria purchases

CAFETERIA/DURING MEALS

Student behavior in the dining room is based on courtesy, cleanliness, and cooperation. This means leaving the area in the condition in which you would like to live. Students must use soft voices and good table manners so that the lunch period can be a happy time for everyone.

Parents are not allowed to come and assist their own children with breakfast or lunch meals during school hours, unless they receive permission for extreme extenuating circumstances, for a specific day from the principal. School personnel will serve in a supervisory role during this period. Only school board employees are allowed in the cafeteria and school volunteers who have been officially processed.

CAFETERIA RULES

• Keep in a single line

• Always be courteous to the cafeteria workers

• Always use acceptable table manners

• Discard the trash appropriately

CHANGE OF ADDRESS / TELEPHONE

It is extremely important that every student maintain an up-to-date address and working telephone number at the school office. Notify the school immediately if you have a change of address or telephone number during the school year.

K-12 CORE CURRICULUM

The subjects and content information taught to our students follow the guidelines of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ K-12 Core Curriculum. This curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad range of knowledge in order to develop mastery of the NGSSS and the Common Core State Standards outlined for each grade level.

CONFERENCES

We appreciate the keen interest that you show in the progress of your children. When you wish to arrange a conference with your child’s teacher, please send a note to the teacher and indicate a date and time which is convenient for you. Teachers are usually available for scheduled conferences after pupils are dismissed. Conferences cannot be scheduled on Tuesday afternoons when faculty meetings are held. A mutually convenient time should be decided upon by the parent and the teacher. When teachers are in class or otherwise responsible for the supervision of children, they are unable to confer with parents. Some teachers have time before a day begins or at the end of a day to meet with parents. If you schedule a conference and something arises that prevents you from keeping the appointment, please advise the school.

We appreciate your cooperation in not seeking “instant conferences” during school hours. Conferences held while school is in session takes the teacher away from the instructional program.

When visiting the school, you are requested to “sign-in” at the school office. For the safety of the students and staff no adults are allowed in the building without identifying themselves at the Security desk and/or main office. The office will contact the teacher (as per the contract between the United Teachers of Dade and MDCPS) and he/she will indicate whether or not the parent/guardian will be sent to the classroom.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Resolutions to conflicts are to be resolved in a nonviolent manner. If there is a conflict between students, please encourage your child to seek out their teacher or counselor for assistance.

DISCIPLINE

One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While it does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure. It is the training that develops self-control and character education. It is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people. Take part in making your school an effective place of learning and develop the habit of self-restraint which will make you a better person.

Students are expected to put forth their best effort and to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that will promote a safe, orderly learning environment. School and classroom rules and expected behavior are explained to the children.

Any behavior or inappropriate language which causes the learning atmosphere to deteriorate or be disrupted will not be tolerated and may subject the student to corrective measures. Acceptable corrective measures may include but are not limited to, the following:

1. Teacher-student conference

2. Deprivation of privileges or preferred activities

3. Time-out

4. Communication with parent via note, telephone, or conference

5. Referral to counselor

6. Referral to administrator

7. In-school suspension, work detail at school site, or out-of-school

suspension

DRESS AND GROOMING

Students, faculty, and staff are expected to dress appropriately and be groomed in a fashion that reflects pride in oneself and one's school. Cleanliness and neatness of hair and clothing are essential. PINE LAKE IS A MANDATORY UNIFORM SCHOOL and Ibiley Uniform Company is the company we use.

Please review the following items with your children:

1. Shoes should be safe and appropriate for Physical Education (PE) activities. The PE instructor sends a letter to all parents at the beginning of the school year that delineates the proper dress code for Physical Education activities.

2. Thongs, clogs, high heels, sandals, shoes with metal cleats and other shoes without back straps are not permitted.

3. No written messages, pictures or symbols on clothing which portray ideas which

are contrary to health, safety, and welfare of students; e.g., Messages which relate to drugs, smoking, alcohol, sex, and profanity.

4. “See -through” blouses or blouses that are too low in the front will not be

permitted.

5. Mandatory Uniforms for all students is our policy.

6. No half shirts or blouses will be allowed.

7. Hats or caps should not be worn at any grade level, unless for religious or medical reasons.

8. No jewelry is recommended.

9. No “cut-offs” are to be worn.

10. No tank tops (all grades).

Since both self-esteem and achievement are enhanced by recognizing the school as a place of work, we stress the importance of sensible, comfortable attire. Any child who wears inappropriate/unsafe attire to school will be removed from class. Office personnel will call home to have appropriate clothing brought to school.

EARLY DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS

For the safety of each child, when it becomes essential that a student be dismissed early from his/her daily schedule, the parent must visit the office to properly release the student and notify the teacher. The only acceptable reasons for early dismissal of students are illness, doctor's appointment or family emergency. NO STUDENT WILL BE DISMISSED TO ANYONE WHOSE NAME DOES NOT APPEAR ON THE EMERGENCY CONTACT CARD. A PHOTO ID WILL BE REQUIRED. (This is for your child’s safety). We will not release any student to anyone other than parents or legal guardians without expressed written permission from parents. It is the parent’s responsibility to make certain that individuals who are authorized to pick up their children are on the Emergency Contact card. A sign-out book is located in the office and must be signed before any student may leave the building.

EMERGENCIES

Emergency Contact

Emergency Contact

Change of Address

If you move or if your telephone number is changed, please notify the school office immediately. School records must be kept up to date so that you can be reached in an emergency. Likewise, advise the school of any change in the names and numbers for your emergency contacts, those persons we may contact if we are unable to reach you. In the event that neither the parent nor the emergency contact is able to be reached, the Office of Children and Families Services (DCF) will be called. NO STUDENT WILL BE DISMISSED TO ANYONE WHOSE NAME DOES NOT APPEAR ON THE EMERGENCY CONTACT CARD.

Emergency Contact Information

Student Data/Emergency Contact Cards are distributed during the first week of school. Students are expected to bring the cards home and present them to their parents or guardians. The card must be carefully completed and then returned. The information provided on the Student Data/Emergency Contact Card will enable school staff to contact the parent/guardian immediately in the case of an emergency. Students may only be released from the school to the persons listed on the emergency contact card after presenting picture identification. No persons, other than school staff, will have access to the information submitted.

ENROLLMENT

New students may be enrolled when they arrive in the district.

Students entering Kindergarten must be five years old on or before the first day of September. Students entering first grade must be six years old on or before the first day of September and have successfully completed kindergarten. Parents must show proof (report card or letter from previous school showing that the child completed kindergarten). STUDENTS MUST ATTEND THE SCHOOL WITHIN THEIR ATTENDANCE BOUNDARY AREA. Students are to attend the school in which the parent or legal guardian resides unless they are on an out-of-area transfer.

Be sure to bring the following information with you when you enroll your child:

? An original birth certificate.

? Your child's immunization record (DH 3040 Form) and a complete physical

examination ( DH 680 from a private doctor or local health provider).

? An exact address. ( We must have proof that the residence is the parent's legal residence. Example: FPL receipt or Deed or Lease in the legal guardian’s/parent’s name).

? New students in grades 1-5 should bring their most recent report card.

Confidential Information

Parents, guardians and students are protected by The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Florida Statutes from individuals’ access to information in students’ educational records, and are provided the right to challenge the accuracy of these records. These laws provide that without the prior consent of the parents, guardian or eligible student, a student’s records may not be released, except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws. The laws provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement to the release of the student records, which include but are not limited to, school officials with legitimate educational interest and lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders.

Each school must provide to the parents, guardians or eligible students annual notice in writing of their right to inspect and review students records. Once a student reaches 18 years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the consent is required from the student only, unless the student qualifies as a dependent under the law.

ENVIRONMENT

When you visit the school, please join with the staff and greet everyone (even those you do not know) with a smile and a positive greeting. We must model positive behavior for our students. We would like to be known as "the school that cares." Adults that come to school with a concern must also come with a positive attitude knowing that we will do our best to address their concerns. Please assist us by teaching your children not to litter or walk through the grassy areas.

EVACUATION DRILLS

Evacuation drills are held at irregular intervals throughout the school year. Remember the basic rules:

1. Check the instructions in each classroom (they are posted) indicating how to

leave the building in case of fire.

2. Walk. No talking. Move quickly and quietly to designated areas.

EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION

The school Board of Miami-Dade County ensures that all students suspected of having a disability are identified, evaluated, and provided appropriate, specially designed instruction and related services, if it is determined that the student meets the state’s eligibility criteria and the parent consents to initial placement.

Prior to referral for evaluation, the student must have participated in the school’s Progress Monitoring Plan (PMP) program/ Rti process and have been referred to the school’s intervention team.

Students with disabilities who are eligible and require special education will have an individual Educational Plan (IEP). The IEP describes the student’s strengths and weaknesses and documents the services and supports the student needs in order to access a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).

The IEP is a working plan that must be developed by the IEP team at least once every 12 months and reviewed, when appropriate, to revise and address any lack of expected progress toward annual goals, or to consider any new information that has been provided through re-evaluation or by the parent/guardian.

Parent involvement in the exceptional student education process is very important. Parents will be asked to participate in the IEP process each year and to consider the needs for their child’s re-evaluation at least once every three years.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states that parents of a child with a disability have certain procedural safeguards. The Summary of Procedural Safeguards for Parents of Students with Disabilities documents all information about the rights of parent/s guardians. This notice of procedural safeguards is made available to the parent.

Rights that are presented in the procedural safeguard document include, but are not limited to, the right of prior written notice; informed consent; participation in meetings; records, independent educational evaluation, meditation, state complaint; local education agency complaint; due process hearings; resolutions meetings; due process; attorney fees; discipline; and private school placement.

As the parent/guardian of a child with disabilities, you are a very important member of the team that plans your child’s education. Be informed and get involved. If you have any questions, please contact your child’s school. Staff from the special education department and your child’s student service provider will help to answer your questions. Additional information may also be found at .

EXEMPTION FROM ACTIVITIES

Pupils are expected to be able to participate in the daily activities of the school program. If for some medical reason it becomes necessary for a child to be excused, a note should be brought from the parent. If the duration of the request is to be for three days or more, an exclusion form, available in the school office, must be secured by the parent and completed by the child's physician.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips broaden the learning experiences offered to your child. All trips will be appropriate for the students' age and related to subjects being studied in the classroom. Field trips will be adequately supervised. Parents are asked to assist the teacher as chaperones on field trips. We require that there be an adult for every ten students on the field trip. We need parents to assist us in this endeavor. IF THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH CHAPERONES, THE FIELD TRIP WILL BE CANCELED. Parents serving in this capacity may not have other children in the family accompany them and they must have been approved as a “School Volunteer”. Students may go on a field trip with their class or club only.

GENERAL STUDENT REGULATIONS

The following rules are listed for your general information:

1. The use or possession of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs is forbidden.

2. Chewing gum in school is prohibited.

3. The following items are not permitted at school,

a) Weapons of any sort, i.e., guns (real or toys), knives, B.B. shots or other ammunition

b) Fireworks, matches, cigarette lighters

c) Glass containers of any kind

d) Games or toys

4. Radios, Walkmans, and personal cassette players are not permitted.

GRADING AND PROMOTION

Report cards are issued every nine weeks and are a record of the progress of each child. Interim progress reports are sent home during each grading period to notify parents of student progress. These notices are to be signed by the parent and returned to the teacher. It is the school’s desire that every student work to the best of his/her ability at all times. Parents will be notified during the reporting period if a child’s academics, effort, and/or conduct is unsatisfactory. Your child's teacher will be glad to talk with you about any of the information on these reports.

GRADE REPORTING

Academic Grades

Academic grades are to reflect the student’s academic progress based on the competencies/benchmarks for the grade level/course in which the student in enrolled. The grade must not be based upon the student’s effort and/or conduct.

|KINDERGARTEN GRADES |NUMERICAL VALUE |VERBAL INTERPRETATION |GRADE POINT VALUE |

|E |90-100% |Outstanding progress |4 |

|G |80-89% |Above average progress |3 |

|S |70-79% |Average progress |2 |

|M |60-69% |Lowest acceptable progress |1 |

|U |0-59% |Failure |0 |

|K-12 GRADES |NUMERICAL VALUE |VERBAL INTERPRETATION |GRADE POINT VALUE |

|A |90-100% |Outstanding progress |4 |

|B |80-89% |Above average progress |3 |

|C |70-79% |Average progress |2 |

|D |60-69% |Lowest acceptable progress |1 |

|F |0-59% |Failure |0 |

|I |0 |Incomplete |0 |

Conduct

Conduct grades are to be used to communicate to both students and their parents/guardians the teacher’s evaluation of a student’s behavior and citizenship development. These grades are independent of academic and effort grades.

Grade Point Average

When calculating the grade for the semester or an annual course, the following grade point averages are to be used:

A = 3.50 and above

B = 2.50 – 3.49

C = 1.50 – 2.49

D = 1.00 – 1.49

F = 0 – 0.99

Honor Roll Qualifications

| |Principal’s Honor Roll |Asst. Principal Honor Roll |Conduct Honor Roll |Effort Honor Roll |

|Academic Average |4.0 |3.50 – 3.99 | | |

|Academic Grades |All A’s |All A’s and B’s | | |

|Effort |All 1’s |All 1 and 2 | |All 1’s |

|Conduct Average |4.0 |3.50 – 3.99 | | |

|Conduct Grades |All A’s |All A’s and B’s |All A’s | |

HALLS

Students should be in the halls only at the beginning and close of school and while moving from one class to another, unless they have special permission or special duties that require them to be there. Students in the halls during class time must have passes and travel in pairs. Students are asked to be courteous at all times and to keep to the right when moving in the halls. Running and shouting in the halls are not permitted.

HEALTH SCREENING SERVICES

All kindergarten students and new entries in grades one, two and four are screened for health problems. Areas checked are vision, hearing, height and weight, and general health appraisal. It should be understood that such screenings do not substitute for a thorough examination in a doctor's office, but are simple tests that can be given with ease to large numbers of students in an attempt to identify those children who are in need of a more thorough examination.

HOME / SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

There are several evaluations during the regular school year and report cards will be sent home after completion of each nine weeks. Standardized Achievement Test results are made available for students in grades two through five, and in addition, fourth grade students will receive writing assessment test results while 5th grade students receive a science assessment.

Pine Lake Elementary stresses the need for positive communication between the home and school. Efforts are made by the administration and teachers to notify parents of the many good things students do in school. Letters or notes regarding honor roll, outstanding behavior, and good attendance will be sent home throughout the year. We hope that parents will recognize the positive aspect of school life with their children.

HOMEWORK

As a part of our effort to assist your child in maintaining satisfactory progress, we feel that home practice and review of concepts studied in school are important, especially in the basic skills. The following guidelines should help you become familiar with teacher expectations regarding homework:

1. Your child will, in general, receive homework assignments daily.

2. Homework for students in K-3 grades will usually require from 15-30 minutes to complete. Students in grades 4-5 assignments usually will require from 30-50 minutes for completion.

3. You can help maximize your child's learning at home by:

a. Showing an interest in your child's work.

b. Providing a place and time for quiet study without TV interference.

c. Assisting in practice on spelling words and number combinations.

d. Encouraging home reading by listening to your child read or you read to your child for 30 minutes daily.

e. Reviewing the homework for neatness and completeness.

f. Refraining from doing the work for your child.

g. Discussing problems related to home study with the teacher.

ILLNESS

The importance of regular attendance cannot be over emphasized, but children should not be sent to school when they are ill. If a child becomes ill during the school day, and it appears that he/she would be best cared for at home, the parent will be called. Our limited facilities in the school clinic make it possible to keep children in the clinic for only very short periods of time.

INJURY

These procedures will be followed to aid injured children:

1. Teachers will send the child to the office if the injury is minor.

2. Teachers will notify the office if the child is unable to be moved.

3. Basic first aid will be administered by the principal, assistant principal, physical education personnel, or office personnel.

4. The parent will be called and the injury described. Emergency contact persons will be called if the parent cannot be reached.

5. The Emergency Rescue Squad will be called for critical injuries requiring

the type of care school personnel cannot offer, and the parent or

emergency contact will be notified.

6. Accident form will be completed and other reports completed as necessary

INSTRUCTIONAL BOOKS – EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS

All textbooks, supplementary books and library books needed by your child for school and homework are furnished from tax dollars. We are able to provide the materials and equipment requested by teachers for classroom instruction.

INSURANCE

Student insurance which covers accidents that happen on school property or 24-hour coverage may be purchased by parents through the school at the beginning of the school year. It is designed to furnish a low cost accident policy which augments your existing medical coverage.

INSURANCE IS MANDATORY IF YOUR CHILD IS REGISTERED IN THE AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM.

Student Protection Plan

The Student Protection Plan is designed to cover students or injuries while traveling to and from school or when involved in accidents while engaged in supervised activities on the school premises. Participation in this program is voluntary. The school will forward the 2015-2016 enrollment application and additional information to the parents.

Florida KidCare

Florida KidCare provides high quality, low cost health insurance for uninsured children aged birth to 18. KidCare includes MediKids, Healthy Kids, The Children’s Medical Services Network (CMS) for children with special health care needs and Medicaid.

“Miami-Dade County Public Schools is a recipient of a Boots on the Ground Partnership contract for marketing and outreach services. In the coming weeks a variety of materials will be provided to schools to families to enroll their children in Florida KidCare. Go to for enrollment procedures.

INTERNET USE POLICY– Board Policy 7540.03

Access and use of the internet is a privilege, not a right, and its use must support the educational objectives of the District. Students must always get permission from their teachers prior to using the internet. In addition, the District prohibits the transmission of materials such as copyright material, threatening or obscene material or material protected by trade secret, which violate local, state, and federal law or regulation, as well as the use of the internet for product advertisement, commercial activities, political campaigning or solicitation.

LOST AND FOUND

Please be sure that children's names are in wallets, purses, sweaters, coats, lunch boxes, etc. Many of these articles are lost and unclaimed each year. Articles found in and around school should be turned into the main office where the owners may claim their property with identification. Parents are advised not to allow children to wear expensive jewelry or bring extra money to school.

MEDIA CENTER

Students visit the Media Center on a regular basis to check out books for the Accelerated Reading Program as well as books for general interest or a specific topic. Students may have two books at a time, one Accelerated Reader and another book. Exceptions may be made for projects for special area classes. When a book(s) becomes overdue, the students may not check out any items until the book is returned to the media Center or the book is paid for in the Main office. The classroom teacher may request that the student be registered on Accelerated Reader for classroom use until the overdue book is located. It is important that students return all books when withdrawing from Pine Lake Elementary School.

MEDICAL INFORMATION

Parents should make the school aware of any medical problem a child might have. School employees may not administer medicine to any student unless the school has the appropriate form signed by the doctor. School employees are not permitted to give aspirins or apply ointment for cuts or abrasions. In the event of an injury at school, parents will be notified.

MEDICATION

School personnel are allowed to administer medication as prescribed by a physician and according to his/her directions. There are forms in the school office that must be completed by the physician and the parent for this purpose. Pupils are not permitted to bring and/or keep medicines of any kind in the classrooms. Pupils cannot self-medicate.

MESSAGES

Telephone messages cannot be delivered to children in the classroom. We feel this is for your child's protection. We cannot adequately identify parents, relatives, etc., over the telephone. Emergencies will be handled on an individual basis. Please refrain from communicating with your child via cell phone during instructional periods.

NEWSLETTERS/CALENDARS

During the year, we will send home notes concerning school activities, rules, and other information which we feel necessary for you to have.

OFF-LIMIT AREAS

Our school is maintained and operated for the benefit of our students. However, safety considerations dictate the designation of a few off-limit areas where students and parents are not allowed. These areas include the boiler room, storage areas, teacher's lounge, kitchen maintenance area, trash collection area, and the delivery area.

PARENT PORTAL

Parents/Guardians of all Miami-Dade County Public Schools students, including employees, have access to the Parent Portal. In order to access the information in the portal you must first establish a parent user account. At this time you can see an update of personal information including grades, attendance, and bus route information, and have access to the Parent Resource link, which takes you to sites such as Parent Academy, School of Choice, etc.

You will also have access to electronic books for each subject; free and reduced lunch applications with balance renewal capability; access to a new Choice application that will allow parents to indicate preferential school choice via the portal; and access to the Supplemental Educational Services (SES) component of the No Child Left behind Act (NCLB).

PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)

The Pine Lake Elementary School Parent-Teacher Association works with state and national PTAs to support and speak in schools, in the community and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting youngsters.

PARENT VISITATIONS

Between the time pupils are admitted to the classroom and the time they are dismissed, teachers must be permitted to devote their attention to their pupils. No conferences can be held while teachers have direct responsibility for children. In certain instances, appointments can be scheduled during the teacher's "special subject" or planning periods throughout the day at the teacher’s discretion. Parents or members of the community are not permitted to “socialize” with employees during the workday.

PARTIES / SOCIAL EVENTS

Two classroom parties will be planned by teachers and room parents. Details of time and other arrangements will be in keeping with school policy and will be communicated to you in writing. INDIVIDUAL BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND SIMILAR EVENTS CANNOT BE SHARED AT SCHOOL. Please do not bring any food items to the school for birthday parties. If these items are brought to school they will be returned.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education is required for all students. Students must dress appropriately for physical education classes (sneakers, shorts, etc.)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXEMPTIONS

Children are required to participate in physical education classes. If for any medical reason your child should not participate, an exemption form must be completed and on file. A new form must be completed each school year. Parent-written requests to excuse a child will be honored for one to five days. Students wearing shoes or clothing believed by the teacher to be unsuitable for play will not be permitted to participate.

RAINY DAY PROCEDURESRAINY DAY PROCEDURES

On rainy days, students will assemble in the cafeteria as usual for pick-up by their teacher. Instruct your child as to what he/she should do on rainy days at dismissal time. Do not ask your child to call you. The phone cannot service all students. Make your "rainy day" arrangements in advance. A form will be sent home so you can let your child's teacher know your rainy day plans. In case of severe weather (lightning) we are requesting that parents have a special plan in effect. Parents are requested to enter the school to pick up their children. Please do not blow horns.

REGISTRATION

Parents entering their children into a Dade County school for the first time must provide or complete the following forms with the school at which their children will attend: Certificate of Birth, Student Medical Examination, Certificate of Immunization, proof of address, proof of grade level. Pupils will be assigned to classes and begin attending school when registration is complete.

SAFETY

The safety of our students is everyone's job. If our children are to be kept protected and safe, each of us must cooperate by being patient and cautious at all times. Please read the following sections very carefully.

Autos

All auto drivers, at and near the school, must use great caution and concern. It is vital to remember these rules and apply them:

1. All speed signs must be obeyed.

2. All rules relating to bus zones, pick-up and drop-off must be followed.

3. Drivers must adhere to street signals in the vicinity of the school.

4. No U-turns are permitted on the streets.

5. All students must exit and enter cars from the sidewalks

6. Do not call for children to cross streets

7. During after-school hours the entrance to the Faculty Parking lot is on SW 109th Avenue

Street Crossing Procedures: WE HAVE INSTRUCTED OUR STUDENTS TO CROSS ONLY AT CROSSWALKS AFTER SCHOOL FOLLOWING STREET CROSSING PROCEDURES. School personnel, volunteer parents and school safety committee members will be happy to receive and answer questions or listen to suggestions you may have.

Parking Areas:

The school parking lot is for the use of faculty, staff, and school delivery trucks. Parents waiting for children should not block driveways. The parking lot is now available for parent parking. (Back area (West Side) only).

Private Bus:

Private buses must follow all rules that apply to private cars. Students who ride private bus transportation must wait at the back of the school (at areas designated by school personnel) until their transportation arrives. Supervision is provided for 15 minutes after dismissal. Parents who utilize private bus transportation for their children must make certain that the private bus will pick their children up on time. Supervision is not provided for these students by school personnel fifteen minutes after dismissal.

Walking:

Pupils who walk to and from school must be well-informed about the route they are expected to take. All pupils must use crosswalks and street lights when crossing streets.

SAFETY PATROL

The safety patrol is chosen by the Patrol Sponsor from a list of students recommended by the fifth grade teachers. Reliable, trustworthy pupils whose school work and citizenship are satisfied are eligible for selection and appointment. No pupil shall be appointed until his/her parent or guardian has given their consent in writing for him/her to serve.

SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer Program

The School Volunteer Program is responsible for electronic registration, background checks and trainings of volunteers. There are two different levels of volunteerism.

|Level 1–complete a database background check |Level 2–complete a fingerprint background check |

|Day chaperones for field trips |Certified Volunteers |

|Classroom assistants |Mentors |

|Math and/or Reading Tutors |Listeners/Oyentes |

| |Athletic/Physical Education assistants |

| |Overnight chaperones |

Any individual interested in volunteering in Miami-Dade County Public Schools must:

• Show a current valid government identification picture.

• Show a social security card (check name and number).

• Complete a background check

• Upon clearance, attend and orientation at the school.

Volunteers in the school provide much needed help and support for students and teachers. If you are able to give an hour or two each week, or more, please contact the school at 305-233-7018. Volunteers will be given a specific assignment by the school administration.

Volunteers should sign in and out at the office in the Volunteer Book. It is important that your whereabouts be known in case you are needed elsewhere. The books help us to keep a record of the total number of hours volunteered. The number of hours volunteered is the basis for awards given by the district.

All volunteers are required to wear “School Volunteer” identification tag while on school grounds.

SPOT SUCCESS

Additionally, M-DCPS is proud to launch SPOT success, an initiative that enhances the Code of Student Conduct (COSC). It supports civic, moral and ethical values, encourages a positive and supportive school climate, and allows all school personnel to recognize and reward students for exemplifying model student behavior. Parents/guardians can check to see if their children are recognized through the SPOT success system by creating a Parent Account. For instructions, log on to M-DCPS Website at , click on Parent Portal and follow the directions on the screen. If you need additional assistance, you may contact your child’s school.

STUDENT BEHAVIOR

The Miami-Dade County Public School system has a Code of Student Conduct that we adhere to in order to keep a safe learning environment. Each year teachers are required to review this Code of Student Conduct with their students.

A major consideration in the application of the Code of Student Conduct is to identify the most appropriate disciplinary action necessary to bring about positive student behavior. To that end, the violations have been divided into six subgroups and a variety of administrative actions, depended upon the severity of the misconduct, have been recommended or mandated. It should be mentioned here that before, during, and after the implementation of any disciplinary action, student services personnel play a vital role in assisting the student in resolving any problems influencing his/her behavior.

At Pine Lake Elementary we have established a behavior modification program to bring about positive student behavior. All staff members strive to accomplish it. Students needing help are referred to the counselor. Parents are contacted as soon as problems that need their attention arise, and the administration has conferences with students and/or parents for proper rapid intervention.

Any student who has a firearm at school or who commits an assault with a weapon will be subject to felony arrest, fingerprinting, and referral to the judicial system, according to state statutes; and recommended for expulsion from Dade County Public Schools.

The Code of Student Conduct identifies violations identified by principals, administrators, teachers, students, and community members which are representative of those acts frequently causing disruption of the orderly educational process.

It should be pointed out, however, that this list is not all inclusive and a student committing an act of misconduct not listed, will nevertheless, be subjected to the discretionary authority of the Principal. As part of our discipline plan students may be assigned detention. Parents will be responsible for their children serving the assigned detention.

STUDENT PARENT CONTACT

Parents are not permitted to seek out or chastise students (who are not their children). If there is a problem, please report to the office for assistance.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Students must be aware of the following:

1. Students have the responsibility to report to the teacher or principal any criminal

act or disruptive behavior occurring on the school premises.

2. A general inspection of desks may be conducted if items belonging to the school

or another person are missing. Students should also be aware that they may be

requested by the principal or designee to disclose property on their own person.

3. A student, who for religious or other deep personal conviction, does not wish to participate in the pledge may silently stand and not pledge allegiance to the flag.

4. If a student is threatened or hit by another student, HE/SHE IS NOT TO HIT THAT STUDENT BACK, but report the incident immediately to the teacher. If the student is not satisfied with the way the situation was handled, he may report it to the Assistant Principal or Principal.

5. The student has the right at ALL TIMES to speak to the Principal if he has a problem of any kind. The teacher must allow the student to see the Principal when it is convenient for the teacher and will not interrupt a learning activity.

6. The students must come to class with paper, pencil and other supplies which they may need for the particular class.

7. Students may not leave the class without permission of the teacher and a hall

pass.

Parents are responsible within limits, for any damage to school property as a result of their child’s actions. Section (74.24 Florida Statutes), authorizes recovery of civil damages not to exceed $1,000.00, from the parent of any child who willfully destroys any property, belonging to the school district. Section 233.47, Florida Statutes also makes the parent responsible for loss, destruction, or unnecessary damage to textbooks and other instructional materials used by his/her child.

SUPPLIES

To be prepared for his/her work, each student should bring 2 pencils and have a book bag in which to carry books and papers. Students are responsible for bringing other supplies as requested by teachers such as: notebook paper, folders or notebook, rulers, crayons, scissors, paste, book covers, etc. We strongly encourage parents to cover textbooks.

TARDIES

Any child not in the classroom by 8:20 A.M. (Grades K – 1) and 8:35 A.M. (Grades 2-5) is marked tardy. Students who have excessive tardies (2 or more per week or 4 or more per month) may be required to stay for after-school detention. Parents will be notified of the date and time for detention. We ask for your cooperation in this matter of good attendance and punctuality.

TELEPHONE

The school is equipped with a telephone to help conduct the business of the school and our lines must be kept open for this purpose. CHILDREN MAY NOT USE THE TELEPHONE EXCEPT FOR EMERGENCIES AS DETERMINED BY SCHOOL PERSONNEL.

Students will not be allowed to call home to receive permission to stay after school for an activity. All activities are announced in advance and it is the student's responsibility to get permission before the day of the activity. Students must also make arrangements as to the time they are being picked up with their parent prior to the activity.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are furnished by the State of Florida and paid for with your tax dollars. Students are responsible for the loss or damage of these books and will be charged proportionately for any loss or damage. Books which are taken home should be carried in book bags and protected with book covers.

TRANSFERS

A student wishing to transfer from one school to another within Miami-Dade County shall obtain the transfer from his or her present school before being admitted to another school. Verification shall include two of the three items listed below, or a letter issued by a School Social Worker.

A. A broker’s or attorney’s statement that verifies the parents’ purchase of residence or a properly executed lease agreement.

AND

B. An Electricity Deposit receipt or billing statement that shows the parent’s name and service address. If the deposit receipt is used, the billing statement must also be submitted to the school within 40 days of registration or the transfer will be revoked.

We retain the right to ask for proof of address at the time a student transfers into Pine Lake Elementary.

Students who are on region or district approved transfers are required to adhere to school rules and procedures or their transfer may be revoked by the Principal.

UNIFORMS

Since the school is your child’s “place of business”, he/she should be dressed appropriately. School is a serious place where children should concentrate on learning. Based on your vote, Pine Lake Elementary is a mandatory uniform school.

VANDALISM

It is important for parents and members of the community to instill upon children and young adults pride in their school. It is forbidden for youngsters to be inside the building unauthorized. Writing on walls, damaging, or stealing school property is considered a misdemeanor and offenders will be penalized accordingly through the justice system. Please direct your children to stay away from the building after school hours or during weekends.

VISITORS

Due to legal regulations, students are not permitted to have guests attend school with them at any time. Parents/guardians are always welcome and tours may be arranged to view school. Classroom visits require a 24-hour notice. Visitors must first register with the security monitor at the front entrance, sign-in and produce photo identification, and then proceed to register in the main office.

For the safety and protection of our students, visitors must always obtain a pass from the office before proceeding to a classroom. This includes parents and former students. Visitors dropping in disrupt normal routines and interrupt instruction. Parents delivering a forgotten item to a child should leave it at the office.

WITHDRAWALS

If it is necessary to withdraw a child from school, the school should be notified at least two days in advance (if possible). We must be sure that all textbooks and library books that have been issued to your child have been turned in. It is necessary to complete the report card and the transfer form for your child's new school. In order to transfer your child you must bring proof of your new address (lease, FPL bill, in parents’ or guardians’ name).

APPENDIX A

CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT (ELEMENTARY)

The Code of Student Conduct can be located @ under the section titled Parent Portal.

APPENDIX B

HEALTH SCREENING

According to the guidelines established by the Florida Legislature, at the beginning of each school year, parents shall be notified of the screening activities available through the School Health Services Program for students in grades kindergarten, first, second, fourth, and for students entering Florida schools for the first time in grades three and five. Also, vision screening is mandated for students in grades kindergarten, first, fourth and for students entering Florida schools for the first time in grades two, three and five. Additional grade levels may be provided with a health appraisal and screening services such as vision, hearing, growth and development, and nutrition in accordance with priorities reflected in the local county health plan, subject to the availability of staff and funds.

It should be understood that such screenings do not substitute for a thorough examination by a health care provider, but are tests that can be given with ease to large numbers of apparently healthy children in an attempt to identify those children who are in need of a more thorough examination. It is requested that you provide the school with written notification if you do not want your child to participate in the screening program.

APPENDIX C

PHYSICAL EDUCATION STATEMENT AND INFORMATION BULLETIN

The aim of the physical education program at Pine Lake Elementary is to provide a well-balanced program of experiences to help boys and girls achieve the broad goals of education. The program strives for the maximum potentiality of all students and is adjusted to needs and abilities by assessing each individual’s fitness status and level of achievement. We feel that the physical education program is a vital and integral part of the total program of education with unique responsibilities for the development and maintenance of effective physical fitness and shares responsibility for the social, emotional and mental well-being of the child by providing, opportunities for developing the qualities of leadership, sportsmanship, self-control, courtesy, ability to get along with peers, enjoyment, self-confidence and competitive spirit.

Our program offers a broad variety of well-planned, vigorous activities to develop basic neuromuscular coordination, perceptual motor skills, physical strength, agility and endurance, effective body movement and posture and personal health.

Procedures for Having Your Child Excused from Activity Due to Illness

At no time will a child that is not feeling well be made to participate in any activity he or she is unable to or should not participate in. We do ask on these occasions, that a dated note be brought in, explaining the child’s problem, so the proper precautions can be taken. We also request that any time your child’s participation is limited by a doctor’s request, a note should be secured from the doctor and given to the physical education teacher. It is our policy to believe all children when they say they are ill with or without a written note from home, but on these occasions when a student does not have a note we request that one be brought in the next day, to insure that the parent has been informed of the child’s illness.

Dress Requirements

For all children’s safety, we request that only shoes that will permit safe, unrestricted movement be worn. We recommend the wearing of sneakers or tennis shoes. Any closed shoe will also suffice. We discourage the wearing of sandals or shoes with thick soles or high heels because of the potential danger of ankle sprains. We also discourage the wearing of boots because they restrict the child’s movement a great deal. We ask that girls, when wearing skirts or dresses, wear shorts under them, so that they will be able to participate without fear of embarrassment.

APPENDIX D

Family Rights And Privacy Act

August 24, 2015

Dear Parents,

The revised Family Rights and Privacy Act became a Federal law in November, 1974. The intent of this law is to protect the accuracy and privacy of students’ educational records. Without your prior consent, only you and authorized individuals having legitimate educational interests will have access to confidential and other kinds of information contained in those records. You may revoke a waiver of access for actions occurring subsequent to the revocation. Waiver and revocation statements must be signed by the appropriate party.

You may have an appointment to inspect and review your child’s records. The appointment may be made in person or by telephoning the school at 221-4011. Upon review of the records if you have reason to believe that any information contained therein is inaccurate, misleading or; in appropriate, you have the right to challenge that information. If there is agreement, the necessary steps to amend or correct the information contained in the record will be taken. If agreement is not reached, a hearing will be scheduled. The hearing will provide you with the opportunity to present your views and reasons for the challenge. You may bring with you, at your expense, any individual who may be of assistance. Following the hearing, should there be a failure to reach an agreement, you have the right to appeal the decision to the appropriate region superintendent. In the event that your appeal fails at any level of the hearing procedure, you have the right to have entered into the record a statement of the issue as you see it.

The rights pertaining to access and challenge described herein are transferred to your child upon the attainment of his/her 18th birthday or admission to a institution of post secondary education, unless limited by court order.

Directory information, which includes name, address, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height, if a member of an athletic team; degrees and awards received; and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended may be released separately or as part of a list to appropriate individuals unless you make a written request within twenty days of receipt of this letter to the contrary. This information will be released only in accordance with the guidelines established by Dade County Public Schools.

You have the right to file a complaint with the Family rights and Privacy Act Office, Department of HRS, Washington, DC 20201, if you think this school or school system is not in compliance with the law. You have the right to obtain a copy of the official approved directive for implementing the provision of the Family Rights and Privacy Act contained in the document, Student Educational Records. A copy of this document is available through the Division of Student Services, Dade County Public Schools.

If you have any further questions, please contact the school.

Sincerely,

Crystal Coffey, Principal

APPENDIX E

TIPS FOR PARENTS

We suggest that you implement these suggestions to provide your child with an environment in which he/she can best succeed:

1. Establish a definite bedtime using these guidelines

8:30 P.M. Grades K - 2

9:00 P.M. Grades 3 - 5

2. Parents should check their child’s book bag or folder every night for possible communication from the school.

3. Plan a specified time and place for homework following hours suggested under “HOMEWORK”.

4. Check that homework is correctly completed and replaced in the book bag.

5. Utilize some of these suggestions to develop a positive attitude toward reading

6. Give your child appropriate jobs to develop the habit of responsibility. Some suggestions are: Taking out trash, setting the table, caring for pets, making own bed, placing dirty clothes in the hamper, etc.

7. Discipline your child for misbehavior. For a punishment, deprive them of a privilege such as TV, riding bicycle, or playtime. Let them know what is right or wrong. Reward them for good behavior with special events.

8. Cooperate with and support teachers and school. Keep in touch with your child’s teacher. See “CONFERENCES” section.

APPENDIX F

PROHIBITED ITEMS

So that students can concentrate on their learning and not be distracted by inappropriate items brought to school, students should not bring to school any of the following:

1. Any weapon or facsimile resembling a weapon.

2. Anything which could cause injury to the owner or another student.

3. Any flammable items such as matches, lighters, fireworks.

4. Any item prohibited in the Code of Student Conduct manual.

5. Toys (except when permitted by teachers for educational purposes).

6. Expensive jewelry, excessive jewelry.

APPENDIX G

August 24, 2015

Student Accident Insurance Coverage

Dear Parents,

Your child’s health and well-being are important to us. You can buy Student Accident insurance coverage in the event your child is injured at school or on a field trip and needs immediate first aid, ambulance, the emergency room or doctor’s attention.

The cost is reflected in the literature.

We have sent an envelope and application for this coverage home with your child. Please attend to this important matter as soon as possible.

Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,

Crystal Coffey

Principal

APPENDIX H

[pic]

Pine Lake Elementary School

Bringing Our “A” Game

16700 S. W. 109th Avenue

Miami, Florida 33157

(305) 233-7018 FAX: 305-233-4042

Crystal Coffey Alberto Carvalho

Principal Superintendent

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Patricia Fairclough Barbara Mendizabal

Assistant Principal Superintendent, South Regional Center

August 24, 2015

Dear Parent/Guardian:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for registering your child with Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS). Please be assured that DCPS continues to strive to make our schools safe places for your child to learn.

Recently the state of Florida, in response to the Jimmy Ryce tragedy, amended the Sexual Predators Act, requiring that all individuals designated as sexual predators “register within 48 hours after entering the county of permanent or temporary residence. Temporary residence includes a stay of two or more weeks.” Some of the changes that have been made require that certain predators’ names and information be circulated in the community depending on the time frame in which the act was committed. A sexual predator is an individual who has either been convicted of a capital, life, or first-degree sexual

felony on or after October 1, 1993, or an individual who has been convicted of a second-degree sexual felony on or after October 1, 1993, and has previously been convicted of a sexual felony offense within the last ten years or released from incarceration for said offense within the last ten years.

M-DCPS is currently working with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and local law enforcement agencies to notify the community of any registered sexual predators living in Dade County. During the course of the school year, you will be receiving letters from my office informing you that a sexual predator has moved into Dade County. When you receive these letters, I hope that you will seek to provide protection to your child by reviewing the safety precautions which can be found in a booklet available to you at our school. We also encourage you not to solely rely on this information; rather try to seek other sources to help educate your child on safety measures. If you wish to find out about any registered sexual predators already residing in Dade County about whom letters were previously sent, please feel free to come to the school and review the binder in our office containing information about these individuals.

The efforts of the school system, combined with yours and those of local law enforcement agencies, will enhance the safety of our children. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

______________________________________

Crystal Coffey, Principal

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