OLDE PROVIDENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL



Parent and Student Handbook2012-2013Hand In Hand We Build the Future24003003175Olde Providence Elementary School 3800 Rea RoadCharlotte, North Carolina 28226Phone (980) 3433755FAX (980) 3433722Revision History:Revision to Sibling Guidelines, pg.1711/2012Whole document review and update8/2012A Letter From The PrincipalDear Olde Providence Families, Welcome to the Olde Providence 2012-2013 school year! Whether you are returning or new to the school, welcome to Olde Providence. We have had a strong commitment to academic achievement ever since the school opened in 1967. We anticipate another great year of academic success due to the collaborative effort between staff, parents and students, as we all commit to our mission, “Hand in Hand, We Build the Future.” It takes the entire school community to successfully reach common goals and ensure the success for all students. This Handbook is a commitment to our mission statement, “Hand in Hand, We Build the Future.” It is one way the school demonstrates a commitment to open communication with the parent community. Within this handbook, you will find answers for many of your questions regarding procedures that need to be followed to allow for a safe and orderly academic environment. It is our hope that by posting it on the website, we are making the book more accessible to you, while protecting our environment. Limited copies are available upon request, for those with no computer access. Thank you for taking the time to read the contents. Sincerely, Rachel McKenziePrincipalA Letter From The PTA PresidentDear Olde Providence Parents,On behalf of the PTA we welcome our new and returning families to the 2012-2013 school year!? We are excited that you have chosen Olde Providence Elementary for your student’s education and we know that this will be a year filled with successes and memorable experiences.A major component of OP’s success is the involvement of our parent and extended family base. Thousands of volunteer hours, over 17,000 in 2011-2012, for the second year in a row, were logged both in our classrooms and our homes in support of curriculum and enrichment programs. We hope that you will find your place in this support network of volunteers as well. Let us know what interests you, or if you have a new idea for us to pursue together. Our PTA values each contribution made – everyone makes a difference.?The PTA packet contains information to help you get connected to the OP PTA and to the school. In it, you will find information regarding our primary means of communication and how to stay informed of OP activities, a Membership Enrollment Form, School Directory Form, School Directory Ads Form, a Volunteer Form with Committee Descriptions, a Spirit Wear information and order form and OP’s Sibling Policy.In our continued efforts to go green the PTA Roster and Calendar of Events are posted on our website like last year and they are available for you to download and print as needed. Important updates and information will be posted regularly on the website throughout the school year, as well.Please take time to complete these forms and choose how you want to get involved with your OP family. Please contact a board member if you have any questions or want more information about a particular committee.Find out more by visiting our website at: can also contact us through email at oldeprovidence.pta@cms.k12.nc.usWe look forward to working with you this year!Hand in Hand We build the Future at OP…Lori Rosenthal – PTA PresidentPam Cohen – Executive Vice PresidentTracy Edmondson – VP of ParliamentCindy Uselton – VP of FundraisingAmy Strasser – VP of ProgramsMitzi Lynch – SecretaryTrisha Riesmeyer - TreasurerOlde Providence HandbookTable of ContentsLetter from the PrincipalLetter from the PTA PresidentTable of ContentsSchool CalendarSchool HoursAttendance PoliciesAbsencesTardinessLeaving School EarlyHealth InformationImmunizationsMedications at SchoolSickness and AccidentsAccident InsuranceSchool NurseSchool Rules and PoliciesSchool RulesOP Behavior Management SystemStudents’ PropertyLost and FoundDress CodeDismissal From SchoolTransportation ChangesDay Care InformationBefore-School and After-School Enrichment ProgramBus SafetyBus RulesConsequences for Infractions of Bus RulesSchool ClosingsOP Traffic BeatArrival and Departure General InformationArrivalsDismissalsTraffic and ParkingSchool SafetySafety PlanLockdownFire DrillsVisiting the SchoolSchool VisitorsSchool/Classroom ObservationsSibling Guidelines - NewLunch ProgramLunch PaymentsLunch BoxesLunch VisitorsBirthday CelebrationsCommunicationHome School AgreementConferencesE-Mail CommunicationTargeting Phone Messages (Connect-Ed System)OP Web PagePTA Web Page and NewsletterSchool Events and PartiesField TripsSpecial ProgramsPartiesSibling Guidelines – Repeated – NewCurriculum and ClassworkRationaleProgram DescriptionGrading ProceduresForgotten HomeworkWork Requests for Absent StudentsMedia CenterComputer LabArt, Music and Physical EducationEnglish as a Second Language (ESL)Accelerated ReaderReligion in the Public SchoolsGeneral GuidelinesGuidelines for Winter HolidaysSpecial Services – StaffAssistant PrincipalStudent Services Specialist (SSS)Speech-Language ClinicianExceptional Students Resource TeacherParent Teacher AssociationSchool StoreMembershipSchool Leadership TeamParent GuidelinesHow You Can Help Your Student In SchoolMiscellaneous PoliciesStudent Records – privacyWithdrawing & Transferring of Student RecordsPayments to School – Returned Check Policy2012-2013 School Calendar First Day of School August 27, 2012Labor Day Holiday September 3, 2012Parent ConferencesOctober 29, 2012Teacher WorkdayNovember 6, 2012Veterans Day HolidayNovember 12, 2012Thanksgiving BreakNovember 21-23, 2012Winter BreakDec.21, 2012- Jan. 1, 2013Martin Luther King Jr. HolidayJanuary 21, 2013Teacher WorkdayJanuary 22, 2013President’s Day HolidayFebruary 18, 2013Teacher Workday March 29, 2013Spring BreakApril 1-5, 2013Memorial Day Holiday May 27, 2013Last Day of SchoolJune 7, 2013MidQuarter ReportsSeptember 25thDecember 11thFebruary 26th May 2nd Report Card DatesNovember 8thJanuary 31stApril 17thJune 7th For information about Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools please visit the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools website at cms.k12.nc.us or call the information center at 980-343-3000. The central switchboard can direct your calls to any department at the Education Center. School Hours7:45 a.m.Students Begin Arriving8:15 a.m.School Day Begins3:15 p.m.School Day EndsAttendance PoliciesAbsencesRegular attendance at school and punctuality are important from the very first day until the last. Frequent absences interfere with a student’s progress toward meeting minimum standards for promotion. Parents should strive to make all medical and dental appointments after school hours. Family vacations should be planned around the school calendar so that students do not miss school.Each student must bring a written excuse from the parent/guardian stating the reason for absence upon his/her return to school. If a note is not received within 5 days after the student’s return to school, the absence will be marked as unexcused. Missing the school bus and oversleeping are not excused absences.TardinessA word about tardies:Early morning traffic in this area is heavy and slow and this year, construction on Rea Road could slow you down. If you are going to carpool, you'll need to start your journey quite early to avoid being tardy. When the tardy bell rings, students should have unpacked their bookbags, run any necessary errands, sharpened their pencils and be seated ready for instruction. When students are tardy, not only is the student who is late starting behind, his late entrance also interrupts his classmates and his teacher. In addition, a student who is habitually late is learning the damaging lesson that it is okay to ignore deadlines.Students who arrive to the school after 8:15 a.m. must report to the office. Students are expected to be in class at the time of the bell. Parents must accompany students to the office when they are late. Tardy passes are issued at the office to ensure that each student is counted present for the day. We strongly encourage parents to have their students in the classroom by 8:15 since the instructional day begins promptly at 8:15 am.CMS counts all tardy occurrences as part of your student’s attendance record. Normal morning traffic, Rea Road planned construction and rainy weather are not valid excuses for being tardy. Students signing in tardy after 11:30 a.m. will be counted absent for the day.Leaving School EarlyAs a safety precaution, parents must come to the office to pick up their students. No student will be dismissed from the classroom. Parents should not go to the student’s classroom to pick up their student. Written requests for permission to leave early must be sent to the teacher. Students signed out before 11:30 will be counted absent for the day. No student will be dismissed to anyone other that a parent/guardian without written permission. Students cannot be ready and waiting for parents at the office. He/she will not be called for early dismissal until a parent comes into the office to sign him/her out.Students cannot be called for early dismissal after 2:30 p.m. It interferes with afternoon announcements and orderly dismissal in the classroom. If you cannot pick up your student before 2:30, please wait for them according to their normal afternoon transportation plan. Early dismissals should be for necessary and infrequent activities such as doctor’s appointments. Leaving early for after school activities are not valid requests for early dismissal. Health InformationImmunizationsNorth Carolina state law requires that all students enrolling for the first time or transferring must present a certified birth certificate, proof of address, and record of immunizations. If required immunizations are not presented at time of registration, the parent/guardian is given thirty (30) days to fulfill this requirement. Otherwise, the student is not legally enrolled and must be suspended until all records are in order. Kindergarten students must also have a CMS Health Assessment/Physical form completed by a physician before beginning school. Forms are available in the office. The immunizations required for school enrollment are:Hep B – 3 does1st dose at birth, 2nd dose at 1-2 months, 3rd after 6 monthsDTP-5 doses4th dose may be administered as early as 12 months if 6 months have elapsed since 3rd dose, final dose at or after 4 year. If any dose after 4 years, 5th dose is not required.Polio (OPV or IPV)-4 dosesIf 3rd dose received after 4th birthday, 4th dose is not required.MMR-2 doses1st dose must be after 12 months old and doses spaced 30 days apart, 2nd dose recommended at 4 yearsVaricella – 1 doseOn or after 1st birthday, if student is born on or after 4/1/2001Medications at SchoolThe school personnel cannot administer or supply Tylenol, aspirin, Neosporin, sunscreen or any other medication (prescription or over the counter) without authorization from a physician and a parent.If your student needs medication either periodically or on a regular schedule, the school must receive written authorization from the doctor stating the dosage and times medication is to be administered. A medication authorization form must be completed and signed by the parent and the doctor before any medication can be given. (Medication authorization forms are available in the office.) All medications must be brought to the office in the original pharmacy container labeled with the name of the student, the name of the drug, the dosage, the name of the doctor and the time interval between dosages.Sickness And AccidentsIf a student becomes sick at school, every effort will be made to contact the parent. In case of an accident, first aid will be administered. The school does not have the facilities to keep a sick student in the health room for an extended period of time. Parents should be sure that home, business and emergency phone numbers are current so that they can be reached. Parents will be called to pick up their student if the student vomits, has diarrhea or has a fever of at least 100 degrees. Do not send your student to school if he/she has had a fever of 100 degrees or above or has vomited within the past 24 hours.Accident InsuranceAccident insurance is available through the school. A brochure explaining the coverage is sent home with your student the first week of school.School NurseThe school nurse is in the school 2 days per week to monitor immunization records, students with ongoing medical concerns and communicable diseases. The nurse screens for health problems, which may interfere with learning or may become a permanent handicap. When a student is referred for a health problem, the nurse assists parents in finding the proper medical resource. School Rules and PoliciesSchool RulesStudents must follow all rules established by Olde Providence in addition to refraining from those behaviors prohibited by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education. To practice Respect, Responsibility and Kindness. Follow adult directions at all times.Walk quietly, promptly and in an orderly fashion at all times.Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.Show courtesy and respect for self, others and school property.Avoid inappropriate language and gestures.Leave food, gum, toys, trading items and electronic equipment at home.Olde Providence Behavior Management SystemA school-wide behavior management program for all students is utilized to reinforce appropriate behavior and to correct inappropriate behavior. This provides a consistent framework for all school personnel to provide recognition for students who demonstrate adherence to school rules and to address inappropriate behavior. All grade level discipline plans are aligned with CMS Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. Students can earn reward privileges based on homework and behavior. Fifth graders may earn courtyard lunch privileges.Olde Providence Staff have established a system of school-wide rules and behavioral expectations for common areas. The expectations are posted on signs in these areas. Olde Providence rules are consistent with the CMS Rights, Responsibilities and Character Education Handbook. The Handbook is used to determine the consequence(s) if a students does not follow the rules. Students' PropertyWe will promote good character throughout the school year. In keeping with our character standards, we ask that students are especially mindful of the following school rules regarding property: Students should not bring anything of value to school, as the school cannot be responsible if it is lost or broken. Trading items often creates conflicts and distracts from educational time. Students are not permitted to trade or sell items at school. MP3 players, pagers, radios, cassette players and other electronic devices are not allowed at school or on the bus. They will be confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian on the first offense. Any subsequent offenses will result in full year confiscation.BYOT (Bring Your Own Technology) is in the pilot stages of CMS. Current information will be released once the BYOT program is rolled out to OP.Cell phones are permitted on CMS property however, cell phones must be turned off while on the bus or during the instructional day. Cell phones are to remain in back packs. Any violation will result in confiscation of the phone to be returned to the parents in a time frame not to exceed one week.Charlotte-Mecklenburg School policy states that no weapon, facsimile of a weapon or object that could be used as a weapon can be brought to school. This means no toy guns, such as water pistols and cap guns, matches, caps, firecrackers and anything that could shoot as a projectile object. Principals are required to confiscate these objects and notify the police immediately.Please refer to the CMS Rights and Responsibilities and Character Education Handbook for additional information found online. and FoundAll belongings (e.g., clothing, lunch boxes, etc. and especially sweatshirts and jackets) should be clearly labeled with the student’s name. Belongings with names can be returned to the owners. All unclaimed items are kept in the school office and donated to charitable organizations periodically throughout the year.Dress CodeAppropriate dress helps to set the mood for learning at Olde Providence. Many faddish trends are fine in other places but detract from our educational mission here at school. Conservative dress is always in good taste in the school setting. Please adhere to the following guidelines:The best shoes (and safest) are those, which "hug" the whole foot. You can never go wrong with tennis shoes. Do not wear high heels, platforms, flip-flops, crocks or heely shoes. We expect students to run and play at recess in safe shoes to prevent injury.Tee-shirt logos must be appropriate for elementary school. This means no tobacco or alcohol advertising, no drug or sexual messages, direct or implied, and no profanity of any sort including the word often used for one's bottom. In addition, tee-shirts may not depict or refer to weapons (guns, knives, etc.) or death. Plain tee-shirts or OP tee-shirts are always in good taste.Natural hair color for both boys and girls is expected during school hours. Midriffs should be covered at all times.Tank tops and spaghetti straps should not be worn unless worn over or beneath an a shirt that covers the entire shoulder. The over-blouse should not be made of sheer material.Hats are fine when worn outside but should not be worn in the building. This rule applies to both boys and girls. Bandana scarves, when worn on the head, are considered hats.Young men should wear pants buttoned at the natural waistline, not low slung. Shorts should be of reasonable length and fit nicely (plenty of room for movement). Skin "art" of any type is not appropriate in the school setting, (i.e., temporary tattoos, writing on skin).Skirts/shorts should be reasonable length. A good rule of thumb to use is to let both arms hang naturally by your side. The skirt (or dress) should touch the end of your fingertips.Thanks for making sure our boys and girls look like the young men and young ladies they are. If you have any questions, please feel free to call any member of the Administrative Team at 980343-3755. Dismissal From SchoolTransportation ChangesIt is for the safety of students that transportation changes be minimal and in writing. Following consistent routines, helps the school staff to dismiss your student in a predictable pattern. This helps us ensure that your student is delivered safely to you. Please limit the use of phone call changes for emergencies. In the event of an emergency, we will take your dismissal change over the phone and notify the teacher at the end of the day. Transportation changes must be in written form and submitted to the teacher the morning the change is to occur. Do not email transportation changes to the school or to a teacher. Transportation change notes must include the date, teacher’s name, student’s first and last name and parent/guardian name and signature. Due to crowded buses and safety concerns, students cannot ride home with another student on a bus which they are not assigned. Parents should make arrangements to pick up students in the carpool line when setting up a play date.Going Home With A FriendWe are unable to change afternoon dismissal plans for birthdays or play dates. Please communicate any needed changes in writing. Please make a note, however, that any plans for “going home with a friend” must be by carpool. We are unable to accommodate students riding home on another student’s bus for any reason. This is a CMS transportation policy.Day Care InformationPlease notify the teacher in writing if your student attends a day care center and uses the center’s transportation. CMS bus transportation to daycares will be provided only within the student’s attendance boundary and will not begin when school starts unless parents provided this information at the end of the last school year.Before-School & After-School Enrichment ProgramOlde Providence is the location for a Before School and After School Enrichment Program that offers student care between 6:45 and 8:00 a.m. and 3:15 and 6:00 p.m. at a reasonable price. Bus SafetyOP assigns each bus route a color. Please be sure your student knows his/her afternoon bus color and is familiar with the Bus Safety Rules outlined in the CharlotteMecklenburg Schools handbook.Bus RulesIt is important for students to follow all bus rules so that the driver may concentrate on driving. Bus rules are:Students are to stay seated at all times.Students are to use quiet voices when talking on the bus.Students are not to touch other students or their belongings.Students are to obey the bus driver at all times.No food or drinks allowed on the bus.Students are to wait at the appointed bus stop in a safe and orderly manner.Cell phones must remain in book bags and must be turned off. Consequences for Infractions of Bus RulesAny infractions on the school bus and bus stop are treated in the same manner as an in-school office referral using the Rights and Responsibilities and Character Education Handbook as a guide for consequences. School ClosingsIn the event of hazardous weather conditions, an official decision on school closings and delays will be made for all Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. That decision will be broadcast on local radio and television stations by 6:00 a.m.If weather conditions become hazardous during the school day and the decision is made for early dismissal, an announcement will be broadcast on local radio and television stations and posted on the CMS website (cms.k12.nc.us) under the link “Stay in Touch”. Please make sure your student knows what to do in case of early dismissal. Please do not call the school.On rare occasions school may need to close early. Each family should develop a plan in case of emergency dismissal. A letter about emergency dismissals will be sent home early in the year. Students are to bring to school a signed form indicating that they know what to do in case of early dismissal.OP Traffic BeatFor the safe and orderly arrival and departure of our students from the car lot, please observe the following procedures. Thank you for your help.Arrival and Departures General InformationPlease do not talk on cell phones while driving through the car line.We have had several incidents where parents were not attentive to students, staff or other cars and narrowly missed hitting someone.Animals are not allowed on school property. If you walk to the school with an animal, please stay on the other side of both parking lots, out of the way of the congested areas. If you drive to the school, please keep your animal in your car. Students will be loaded/unloaded only from the right side of the car to ensure safety for both student and staff member. Students may open their own doors as long as the car is in the Loading/Unloading area. Students should close the car door. Parents are welcome to wait for their students who are walkers/car parkers under the tree beyond the parking lot or by the tree on the bus lot side; an Eagle Scout made benches for your comfort. Walkers must cross at the two designated walkways where adult supervision is provided. CROSSING ANYWHERE ELSE IS A SAFETY HAZARD FOR THE WALKER AND DRIVER and DELAYS THE CARPOOL PROCESS. For your own safety, please adhere to the entrance and exit markings to the parking lot. Please note we have designated handicap parking spaces. Please observe this law; we do have some students whose parents will need these spaces.Arrivals may arrive between 7:45-8:15 AM. Only Jazz Choir, Jump Rope Team Members, Chess Club and Safety Patrol may arrive in the building prior to 7:45 on the days of the meetings. If you need an earlier drop-off time, the BSEP program opens at 6:45.NO SUPERVISION IS PROVIDED UNTIL 7:45.To facilitate a quick arrival for all students please, have all papers signed, all bags packed, money distributed, and breakfast finished. Be ready to exit the car, when at the unloading area. Students cannot be dropped off at any other location on campus other than in the car lot circle. For SAFETY, do not drop your student off on the road or the middle of the parking lot, or the back of the school. Arrival after 8:15 requires that you must park your car and walk your student in to the office to get a tardy pass. The student is expected to be in his/her classroom seat at 8:15. Tardy arrivals are reported on the CMS Attendance. DismissalsPM dismissal on the car lot will be directed by a staff member. Six cars are loaded at a time; areas for student loading are indicated by painted stripes on the sidewalk. Students are called to the appropriate cone where staff members will monitor loading the car on the side closest to the sidewalk color.Please be advised that students who walk to Windyrush or Summerlin to meet their parents are escorted only to the edge of the parking/bus lot. You may want to reconsider picking them up in the carpool line.Parents who pick up their students early for appointments should report to the office for them to be called and signed out through the secretary. Do NOT go directly to the classroom; they cannot be dismissed to you from the classroom. Any early pickups need to occur by 2:30 p.m. Transportation changes must be called in by 2:30 to ensure timely notification to your student’s teacher. Frequent changes are discouraged and should be for emergencies only. Parents should congregate outside of the building at the trees across the parking lot when waiting for the students to be dismissed. Do not wait in the lobby, hallways, classrooms, or sidewalk. This allows the teachers to provide an orderly dismissal.At times, parent volunteers may be in the school and may ask the office to have their student dismissed to the area designated for PTA work. The changes to the dismissal plan are minimal and are made for the safe and orderly environment of the school. During the 2007-08 School Year, the SLT and staff members studied the dismissal process along with the CMS Safety Director. These changes reflect the extent of the study. Thank you for reviewing the guidelines and abiding by them for the overall safety of the school. Please read these traffic expectations carefully and understand the necessity for specific procedures in order to ensure a safe and orderly arrival & dismissal of students. Thank you!Traffic And ParkingFor the protection and safety of all students when dropping off or picking up your student, please:Instruct your students to remain behind the colored line on the sidewalks.Do not use the bus parking lot during arrival or dismissal time.Cross only at the crosswalks.Refrain from using cell phones during pick up/drop off.Follow the direction of the transportation director.Follow posted traffic direction signs.All students must be dropped off in the carpool line. There is no drop-off/pick-up behind the cafeteria or on the bus lot or on Rea Road.Carpool Side - Parents who pick up students to walk them home, should wait under the trees at the benches and students will walk across the upper crosswalk to leave campus. Parents with strollers waiting to pick up students from dismissal should stand away from the carpool loading area and the bus loading area. On the carpool side, parents should stand under the tree that is across the parking lot on the playground side.Bus Lot Side - Parents should allow the students to be lined up with the walkers and wait for them under the tree at the far side of the bus lot. Dogs are not allowed on CMS properties. Any dogs arriving with families should remain in the vehicle. This is a safety precaution to protect all students. If you are walking with a dog on a leash, please stay on the opposite side of the parking lot in the grassy area by the playground, or at the tree on the opposite side of the bus lot. School SafetySafety PlanEvery school in CMS has a safety plan in place to ensure a safe environment. Elements of our plan include locked doors after 9:00, visitor identification, student name tags, practice drills, and CMS safety audits. We are asking that all parents say good-bye to their students at the entrance of the school after the first week, all students are able to locate their classrooms on their own. We will have members to assist those in need. Not only will this build independence in the students, it will also help Olde Providence continue its high standard of safety. Parents are asked to wait for their student at dismissal outside under the tree on either the carpool or the bus lot side. LockdownIn response to a crisis on campus, we practice lockdown drills. We have a plan to secure all students and staff in the building or outside within two minutes. If you should be at Olde Providence during a drill, you may be asked to return to your car or come into the main office. If you are volunteering with students in your supervision: You will need to go to a secure location with a locked door. Go to the closest classroom with a locked door and follow the direction of the staff member you are with. Fire DrillsOlde Providence practices monthly fire drills. If you are in the building at the time of the fire alarm, you are requested to evacuate along with the staff and students. Visiting The SchoolSchool VisitorsThe Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education has directed all schools to implement a visitor identification system. The primary purpose for the regulation is to ensure the safety of all students and staff. In order to comply with this regulation, visitors are required to come to the office, sign the visitor computer, and get an OP visitor tag. Visitors are NOT allowed to go directly to classrooms or other areas at any time. School/Classroom ObservationsAll requests for a classroom observation must be arranged through a school administrator. We request a 24 hour notice be given to allow time to adequately arrange for the observation. Protecting the teaching time is the highest priority of the school. Sibling Guidelines At Olde Providence, we encourage parents to be involved in the school and in their child’s education.? When practical, we invite the entire family to some events.? At the same time, the school environment needs to remain conducive to learning and the safety of our students is paramount.With these objectives in mind, the Sibling Guidelines are as follows:Only parents/adults are invited to school parties, as the rooms become over crowded.? Only parents/adults are eligible to attend field trips.Preschool siblings may come to the school with a parent who is involved in an individual volunteer activity such as AR, Art, other PTA work, etc.? If a parent is doing volunteer work with a pre-school sibling,?please complete the work at a table in the front lobby. Preschool siblings are welcome to come with parents to eat lunch with the older child. Preschool-aged siblings are welcome to attend awards ceremonies (such as AR awards,? MLK awards or fitness awards) of the elementary aged child. We require that the preschool aged children remain with the parent at all times.?? We request that parents do not remove other school-aged siblings from their classrooms for these events as this is disruptive to the learning environment.Field day activities are for the school-aged child.? The opening ceremonies are open for the entire family to attend, but the field day is restricted to the school aged participant and the adult volunteer or spectator so that the adult volunteer can focus on the safety of the school children. Our goal is to create a family friendly environment, while maintaining a safe and orderly school. Thank you for your support of this effort.Lunch ProgramLunch PaymentsBreakfast and lunch are served in our cafeteria. Prices can be located on the CMS website.Lunches may be paid for each day; or a check payable to “Olde Providence Cafeteria” may be sent for a week or month; or you may participate in the “PayPams” electronic payment. You may gain information about how to use “PayPams” at . Information on “PayPams” will come home at the beginning of school. Free and reduced price breakfast and lunch are available. Forms are available online.Student Nutrition will allow only minimal debit balances. You will be notified in writing when your student is nearing a depleted account. Lunch BoxesIf your student is not buying lunch in the cafeteria, his/her lunch should be sent with him/her in the morning. We will not interrupt instruction to deliver or announce lunchboxes that are brought to the office after 8:15. Forgotten lunches can be placed on the table in the lobby for the student to pickup on their way to the cafeteria.Lunch VisitorsLunchtime provides a pleasant break from the classroom routines and a chance to socialize. Each class has an assigned time for lunch. Parents are invited to join their student for lunch. You must be an approved volunteer to have lunch at any CMS school. Parents must sign the visitor’s log in the office, pick up a lunch visitor badge and wait for the student’s class in the lobby. Adult lunch cost is al-a-carte. Due to the limited seating at the classroom tables, a new visitor table has been designated. Please join your student at the visitor table for lunch. You student may choose one friend to eat with you. Please also say goodbye to your student in the lobby at the end of lunch. Please do not bring commercial meals and sodas such as; McDonalds, Chick-fil-a, etc. for your student to eat. We are trying to promote healthy eating habits. School meals provide nutritionally balanced meals. Students may not bring soft drinks for lunch. Nutritious meals are encouraged.As it is difficult for new kindergartners to finish lunch on time, kindergarten teachers ask that students not bring money for snacks; each class has a snack procedure which will be shared with parents.Each classroom has its own procedure for lining up and seating. Each day different students have responsibilities for cleaning up by removing silverware, paper products, sponging tables and sweeping around the tables.One table in the cafeteria is reserved for our students with severe nut allergies. This table is designated at Peanut Free. A student with a nut allergy will eat there and they may invite a friend, providing the friend’s lunch is also peanut free. The best assurance is that the friend purchases a cafeteria lunch, as we know the cafeteria is peanut free. Birthday CelebrationsDue to allergies and limited staffing we will no longer allow the students/staff to serve birthday treats in the cafeteria or classroom. This has become increasingly difficult to monitor with allergies and distribute due to limited staff numbers. For off-campus Birthday or party celebrations please use the student directory to send invitations to individual students via email or USPS. Invitations may be brought to the school only when every homeroom student is being invited. No individual invitations can be distributed at school.The school day is reserved for instructional purposes; the delivery of flowers or gifts of any nature to the school is prohibited. CommunicationHome School AgreementsEach grade level team will design a Home School Agreement. This is a contract between the parent, the teacher and the student that outlines the expectations for behavior and academics. Parents will receive the contract/agreement at the beginning of the year. Mutual expectations from teachers, parents, students, and staff are explained. We request that you read and sign the agreement. The Home School Agreement supports our Mission Statement of “Hand in Hand, We Build the Future.” Home/School Agreements will be signed during the first week of school.ConferencesConferences are set up for all parents at the end of the first grading period in October. The conference date follows the last day of the quarter. Parents may arrange additional conferences by sending a note to the teacher or calling the school office at 980-343-3755. Teachers also welcome telephone conferences. Each teacher’s first duty is to teach. Teachers cannot meet with parents for “drop-in” conferences during school hours. This situation places the teacher in an awkward position and is unfair to the students in the class.E-Mail CommunicationE-mail communication is another mode for parents and teachers to communicate and teachers will check their emails in the morning and again in the afternoon before they leave. Email communications should never be used for transportation changes. Handwritten notes must be sent to the school via your student anytime there is a change in a student’s usual transportation. Emails will also never be used for early dismissal requests nor will they replace the use of progress reports and homework assignment planners.Targeted Phone Messages (Connect-Ed System)Periodically, we will use a phone messaging system to contact groups of families. These messages are intended to keep the families abreast of upcoming dates or other important information. OP Web PagePlease check out the latest OP information by logging on to our web page. You can locate us at: Events and PartiesField TripsTeachers schedule a variety of field trips to extend the curriculum. Parental permission forms are sent home before each field trip. Although the Charlotte-Mecklenburg system provides some transportation, the school must pay for most bus trips out of our instructional funds. Non-required field trips will have a student cost included; however, parents will be notified well in advance of the cost. Preschoolers/siblings are not allowed to accompany parents on field trips because supervision of students is the highest priority. Parents that accompany students on field trips must be an approved CMS volunteer. Special ProgramsOP students participate in a variety of school performances including concerts, plays and musicals. It is OP policy that school-age siblings remain in their classrooms for instruction during programs due to academic reasons and space seating issues.PartiesThere are two planned parties (social times) per year for each class. Grade parents volunteer to help organize and assist with winter and end-of-year parties. Guidelines for party themes and activities are provided to room parents. All food served at parties must be store-bought and include a label and list of ingredients. Valentine’s Day is an in-class celebration with refreshments and the sharing of cards. Treat bags are given out at one party only. Parents cannot bring in treats or treat bags on their own during the year. Parents are invited to attend as volunteers at parties but siblings are not allowed due to space and supervision concerns. Sibling Guidelines - Repeated?At Olde Providence, we encourage parents to be involved in the school and in their student’s education. When practical, we invite the entire family to some events. At the same time, the school environment needs to remain conducive to learning and the safety of our students is paramount.With these objectives in mind, the Sibling Guidelines are as follows:Only parents/adults are invited to school parties, as the rooms become over crowded. All parents in attendance must be an approved volunteer. Only parents/adults with pre-approved Volunteer status are eligible to attend field trips.Preschool siblings may come to the school with a parent who is involved in an individual volunteer activity such as AR, Art, other PTA work, etc. If a parent is doing volunteer work in the classroom for the teacher, this is acceptable upon the teacher’s approval. Preschool siblings are welcome to come with parents to eat lunch with the older student. Preschool-aged siblings are welcome to attend awards ceremonies and special programs (such as 1st grade Author’s Tea, etc.) of the elementary aged student. We require that the preschool aged students remain with the parent at all times. We request that parents do not remove other school-aged siblings from their classrooms for these events as this is disruptive to the learning environment.Field day activities are for the school-aged student. The opening ceremonies are open for the entire family to attend, but the field day events are restricted to the school-aged participant and the adult volunteer or spectator so that the adult volunteer can focus on the safety of the school students. Our goal is to create a family friendly environment, while maintaining a safe and orderly school. Thank you for your support of this effort.Curriculum And ClassworkRationaleThe mission of Olde Providence Elementary School is “Hand in Hand We Build the Future”. The school is committed to providing a nurturing environment conducive to learning where staff and students create a collaborative atmosphere. Staff, parents, and students strive to be the best that they can be by working together to promote high academic and behavioral expectations.The Olde Providence staff believes that the ability to communicate clearly in oral and written language is an essential goal of education and one of the hallmarks of successful living. In the information age, effective communication demands a higher level of literacy, requiring students to master skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, computing, problem solving, and critical and creative thinking. In addition, an understanding and appreciation of our cultural diversity is essential.Program DescriptionThe Olde Providence program offers elementary students a strong scholastic program concentrating on effective communication skills and processes.At the elementary level, an enriched academic program is featured. All curricular areas will focus on skill development for effective expression of ideas and information. Communication skills will be extended by integrating instruction in art and music. Social studies will highlight international studies and cultural diversity. The mathematics program will include an algebraic strand. The use of technology will enrich all academic areas, and a computer lab will be available for the use of all students.Special features of the program are:Emphasis on higher level thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, problem solving, organization and logic Reading instruction that focuses on phonics, comprehension and expressive writingLiterature incorporated throughout the curriculumDiscussion in seminar settingsExtensive analytical and creative writing program, including Use of a computer lab with word processing Opportunities to promote active citizenshipMathematics, featuring an algebraic strand and enrichment materialsScience, emphasizing handson learning experiencesMulticultural Awareness eventsCharacter EducationVisual and performing arts integrated with the academic programGrading ProceduresThe school year is divided into four grading periods of nine weeks each. Mid-quarter progress reports are also sent home to inform parents of their student’s academic progress and behavior. Progress reports and papers are sent home for parent review. The grading scale for 3rd-5th grades is listed below:93 – 100=A85 – 92=B77 – 84=C70 -76=DBelow 70=FAll 3rd-5th Grade students will receive electronically produced report cards through the NCWise system. Parents in 3rd-5th grade will have electronic access to student’s grades as they are updated. All 3rd-5th grade parents will have a log-in and password to access their student’s grades. Please check your student’s grades weekly for his/her academic progress. The progress reports in grade 3-5 will indicate that grades are available on Parent Assistant. Forgotten HomeworkStudents will not be allowed to call home for forgotten homework or book bags. Staff is not available to open a door after school hours to get forgotten work. We will not interrupt a classroom to deliver or announce homework brought to school after 8:15. Office personnel will put it in the teacher’s mailbox.Attendance School is in session 180 days per academic year. Every day holds multiple learning opportunities for students and we prefer that students be present every day to maximize their learning potential. However, we understand that students may be absent due to illness, family emergency or educational leave. A student’s absence will be coded excused when the parent/guardian provides the school with written communication to the homeroom teacher within three days of the student’s absence stating the reason for the illness. The administration of the school may require a physician’s note to excuse an absence if the student’s absences are deemed excessive. Letters for Excessive Excused Absences and TardiesOlde Providence will contact parents by letter, by telephone and/or by home visit should a pattern of excused absences and/or tardies develop. Unexcused Absence LettersParents will be notified by letter after three (3) unexcused absences. The unexcused absence letters are state-mandated letters and are rather blunt and to the point.Another letter is sent to parents on the sixth (6) unexcused absence. At this time, student services personnel become involved and a plan of action is developed for working with the student and the family.After ten (10) unexcused absences, the principal sends a certified letter to the parents informing them that the case is being referred to the District Attorney's office for possible prosecution.Again, these letters and procedures are mandated by state attendance law.Work Requests for Sick StudentsMake-up WorkWhenever a student is absent, it is important for the student to have access to the information presented in class. The teacher will collect the work during the day while the student is absent. It will be given to the student upon his/her return to school. If the student is absent for 2 days or more, the work will be placed in the front office for pick-up after 3:15. Please do not come directly to the classroom to request make-up work.If a parent calls requesting make-up work for absences less than 2 days, teachers will have 24 hours to collect the work. The message will be put in the teacher’s mailbox. We cannot guarantee that the teacher will receive the message and have time to act on it before the end of the school day. It is the student’s responsibility to turn in the work to the teacher for grading. Educational LeaveIf you wish to apply for Educational Leave, the form is available in the office. It must be completed outlining the learning objectives of the trip, the specific activities that promote the learning and a description of how the student will document this learning. It must be submitted to principal five (5) school days before the planned absence. Teachers are not required to prepare work in advance of the absence whether the Educational Leave is approved or unapproved.If Educational Leave is approved, the school will provide a required assignment which includes open-ended questions about the education opportunity. The student must communicate with all of his/her teachers prior to leaving, to request that work be collected for them during their absence. Class work and homework assignments will be given to the student upon his/her return from the trip. The work must be completed and returned to the teachers in one packet for grading. The student will have the same number of days to complete the work, as they were out. For example, if a student was absent four days, the work will be due four days after their return. Any missing work will be entered as a zero (0) in the NCWise grade book for grades 3 and up. The work will be graded and factored into the student’s grades for the quarter. The extra assignment will be presented to the class upon teacher discretion. ProjectCongratulations! You are taking an educational journey. To assist you in making the most of your learning opportunity, please answer the following questions in any manner (journal, power point, scrapbook, brochure, etc) that you choose. Make sure to put your name and date on the project you create and turn it into your teacher. S/he may ask you to share your learning experience with the classroom. As you create your project, please use the conventions of writing you have learned appropriate for your age and grade. For example, a Kindergarten student may use illustrations or photographs, and a fifth grade student should use an element of technology. Before Leaving Where are you going?Why did you choose to go there?What do you plan to learn from your visit?During your visitWhat is significant about this location?How is it different from Charlotte?What famous people have lived in this location?What contributions have those people made to our culture? (If in US)What did you notice that was the same about your culture and the culture you visited? (if outside the US)What did you notice that was different about your culture and the culture you visited? (If outside US)After your JourneyWould you recommend that other people go to this place?What should other students do to prepare for a visit to this location?Media CenterClasses will be scheduled in the Media Center to support classroom instruction and research. Books may be checked out for one week and renewed for one additional week. Teachers may also request special research time. We have open check out each morning from 7:45-8:15. Students need to report to their homeroom teacher before going to the media center for open check out. Computer LabStudents go to computer lab once each week. The emphasis is to extend classroom instruction. Students will be taught proper use of equipment and computer ethics. Proper care of expensive technology will also be stressed so that we can protect this valuable investment.Art, Music and Physical EducationIn addition to normal classroom activities, students participate in art, music, and physical education classes one day each week with special certified teachers. The art, music, and PE teachers work collaboratively with classroom teachers to integrate the special area curriculum with the grade level performance standards.English as a Second Language (ESL)Olde Providence offers support for English as a Second Language students. Students enrolled in the ESL program are pulled for ESL support during the day where they receive direct instruction to build language fluency. Accelerated ReaderOlde Providence has an Accelerated Reader program that is required. AR books can be located in the OP Media Center as well as at public libraries. As of 2007-08, Olde Providence through PTA support launched the new AR Renaissance Learning web-based program. Over 100,000 book titles are available for testing comprehension. Reading AR books is a standard homework expectation.Religion In The Public SchoolsReligion in Public Schools – General GuidelinesThe Supreme Court has indicated many times that teaching about religion, as distinguished from religious indoctrination, is an important part of a complete education. The public school’s approach to religion in the curriculum must be academic, not devotional.Religious holidays offer opportunities to teach about religion in elementary and secondary schools. Teaching about religious holidays, which is permissible is different from celebrating religious holidays, which is not. Study of holidays serves academic goals of educating students about history and cultures as well as about the traditions of particular religions.The use of religious symbols as examples of religious or cultural heritage is permissible as a teaching aid or resource. Religious symbols should only be displayed on a temporary basis as a part of the academic program.Sacred music may be sung or played as part of a school’s academic program. School concerts that present a variety of selections may include religious music. The use of music, art, drama, or literature with religious themes is permissible if it serves a sound educational goal in the curriculum, but not if used as a vehicle for promotion religious belief. Guidelines for Winter HolidaysThe following guidelines are followed for the winter celebrations:The three holidays most focused on during the winter months are Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa but our ESL diversity offers other celebrations to study as well.Keep in mind that while students learn about these holidays, the following are the main focus:History and CultureTraditionsCustomsSymbolsCurriculum related stories and literature relating to each grade level are read and studied. Student involvement may include the opportunity to share on the WOPE News. Other presentations on the news or in the individual classroom may include music, art, and symbols of the season. Parents may present mini lessons, as long as they are aware of the guidelines and follow them in their presentations. Crafts made during the winter parties will be winter related. An alignment of the study of cultural celebrations to the standard course of study by grade level is available upon request.Special Services - StaffAssistant PrincipalThe assistant principal assists the principal in administrative matters. He/she primarily works with the staff and administration in providing an excellent instructional program. The assistant principal helps the staff implement systemwide objectives and is available to discuss curriculum with parents and teachers. He/she is also responsible for selecting teaching materials and coordinating special programs and activities. The assistant principal provides support for classroom instruction and helps determine in-service needs of teachers.CounselorThe counselor provides support to students with behavioral or academic concerns. Group counseling and classroom guidance lessons will be delivered. Individual counseling is available for limited sessions. The counselor does not provide therapy. The counselor will be available to support concerns of families too. The counselor also checks student attendance and assists families in using community resources.PsychologistThe psychologist consults with parents and school staff concerning behavioral management, academic achievement, and social skill development. The psychologist assists in screening students with special learning needs and conducts indepth evaluations when indicated. SpeechLanguage ClinicianThe SpeechLanguage Clinician conducts hearing screenings of all kindergarten and first grade students and screens older students as needed. He or she screens referrals from teachers and parents for speech and language therapy and provides regular therapy to those students identified as eligible according to state and local program guidelines.Exceptional Students (EC) Resource TeacherThe Exceptional Students Resource Teacher provides individual instruction to those students identified as learning disabled, mentally handicapped or emotionally handicapped. He or she assists in the evaluation process to identify students with special learning needs and consults with classroom teachers and parents to develop appropriate methods and materials to meet those needs.A team of professionals is available in the school to identify and serve students with special learning needs. The support team consists of the Student Services Specialist, the SpeechLanguage Clinician, the EC Resource Teacher, and the school nurse and systemwide teachers for hearing and visually impaired students.Parent Teacher AssociationSchool StoreThe PTA maintains the school store where students may purchase pencils, erasers, and paper. The store is open from 7:45 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. and grade levels will have assigned days to go. This store is run as a service to the students and not for profit.MembershipThe PTA wants and needs your special expertise and encourages you to join the PTA. Membership dues are collected each fall. Volunteer opportunities abound. Please sign the volunteer lists in the classroom early in the year. If you arrive after the start of the year, please ask a PTA board member how you can become involved. The PTA sends home weekly email blasts and special announcements about programs and meetings as well as information on topics of interest for all parents. The School Leadership Team Each of the Charlotte/Mecklenburg schools has a School Leadership Team. The School Leadership Team for Olde Providence consists of parent and staff representatives who meet to provide support and guidance in matters relating to the general welfare of the school. The School Leadership Team studies the programs and policies of Olde Providence with emphasis on identifying strengths, weaknesses and future needs. The SLT meets 4-6 times a year. Meetings are open to the general school population. Minutes are published on the SLT website. A brief annual report to the Board of Education on the status and needs of the school is submitted at the end of each school year. Elections are held annually. Parent GuidelinesHow You Can Help Your Student In SchoolShow an interest in what your student tells you about school activities and show an appreciation of things your student does at school.Provide a safe place to keep school supplies and the work that your student brings home.To avoid turmoil in the morning, encourage your student to organize school clothes, books, signed papers and forms, and lunch money the night before.Regular homework in grades K5 is necessary for a strong academic program. Nightly reading is a requirement at all grade levels. Each teacher will communicate his/her classroom expectations. Don't engage in battles over homework. Set up a time and place for homework. If there is an ongoing problem, contact the teacher.Have regular bedtimes on school nights. Students who stay up late have a hard time concentrating in class.Give your student responsibilities at home and help your student realize the importance of the tasks. Example: feeding and caring for a pet.Encourage friendships with other students.Read with your student often when your student feels that reading is important to you, it will have importance for your student.Join the PTA and other school organizations and attend the meetings. Work with the principal and teachers toward improving your school. Miscellaneous PoliciesStudent RecordsThe Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is a federal law that governs the maintenance of student records. Under the law, students who are l8 years of age and/or their parents have the right to inspect records kept by the school and the right to correct inaccuracies in the records. Access to the records by persons other than the parents or the student is limited and requires prior consent by the parents and student. Withdrawing And Transfer Of RecordsWhen withdrawing, notify the school one-week in advance of the date of your move. If possible, provide the name and address of the new school so that your student’s records can be transferred. All books and materials must be returned to the school before your departure. Please notify the school as soon as possible if you change your address within the county and are remaining at Olde Providence. New proof of address will be required.Payments To School/Returned Check ChargesAt times, parents will be asked to provide funds for a variety of items, including field trip fees, workbooks, lost books, lunch money, etc. We will gladly accept your checks. ATTENTION CHECK WRITERS!!!When you provide a check as payment, you authorize us to use information from the check to make a one-time electronic fund transfer from your account or to process the payment as a check transaction. You authorize us to collect a fee as indicated below (plus a bank fee if allowed by your state law). Through electronic fund transfer from your account if your payment is returned unpaid. Please include the following on your check: Drivers License #, Full Name, Street Address, Phone Numbers$25.00 will be charged for any returned checks plus any bank fees. ................
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