Warsaw Elementary School

Elementary Staff Profiles

Brett Ufkes

Principal

Brett Ufkes

Principal

Pam Teel

Secretary

Pam Teel

Secretary

Valerie Heisler

Pre-K / Interventionist

Valerie Heisler

Pre-K / Interventionist

Natsha Hill

Pre-K

Natsha Hill

Pre-K

Krista Little

Kindergarten

Krista Little

Kindergarten

Autumn Schweizer

Kindergarten

Autumn Schweizer

Kindergarten

Madison Huls

1st Grade Teacher

Madison Huls

1st Grade Teacher

Lydia Summers

1st Grade Teacher

Lydia Summers

1st Grade Teacher

Chuck Benge

2nd Grade Teacher

Chuck Benge

2nd Grade Teacher

Lori Longenecker

2nd Grade Teacher

Lori Longenecker

2nd Grade Teacher

Tiffany Spect

3rd Grade Teacher

Tiffany Spect

3rd Grade Teacher

Katielyn Koechle

3rd Grade Teacher

Katielyn Koechle

3rd Grade Teacher

Ciara Yuskis

4th Grade Teacher

Ciara Yuskis

4th Grade Teacher

Kristin McAllister

4th Grade Teacher

Kristin McAllister

4th Grade Teacher

Jacey Hartweg

5th Grade Teacher

Jacey Hartweg

5th Grade Teacher

Teri Inman

5th Grade Teacher

Teri Inman

5th Grade Teacher

Lindsay Smith

6th Grade Teacher

Lindsay Smith

6th Grade Teacher

Shelly Trone

6th Grade Teacher

Shelly Trone

6th Grade Teacher

Megan Ritter

Title

Megan Ritter

Title

Karen Weirather

Music

Karen Weirather

Music

Karly Deichmueller

Physical Education

Karly Deichmueller

Physical Education

Chelsa Mecklenburg

K-3rd Special Education

Chelsa Mecklenburg

K-3rd Special Education

Brooke Beckner

Social Worker

Brooke Beckner

Social Worker

Sue Peters

School Psychologist

Sue Peters

School Psychologist

Elementary School Student Handbook

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Elementary Handbook Intro

WELCOME TO WARSAW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A most satisfying parenting experience is to see your children experience success in their lives by developing academically and socially to their fullest potential.

The starting point in providing your children the opportunity to succeed is to insure that their progress in school is closely monitored. Through quality TEAMWORK between parents and school personnel, developing problems can be quickly identified and effectively addressed.

The faculty and I welcome and encourage you to work closely with us to educate your children. We will promptly contact you if we have concerns regarding your children. Likewise, if you note that your children are troubled by a situation that you believe may not be apparent to us, please promptly contact your child’s teacher. Together we will achieve the best results for your children.

Sincerely,

Bill Knowles, Principal
School Phone: 256-4614

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Dear Parents/Guardians:

This handbook is reviewed each spring by parent representatives from each grade and brought before the school board for their consideration. The policies and procedures in this handbook have been approved by the school board. We ask that you familiarize yourself with the contents and keep the handbook in a convenient location for your continued reference. Also, we recommend that you review the handbook with your student(s) to help them better understand what is expected of them.

Academic All-Stars

To become an Academic All-Star each quarter, a student must have achieved an average grade of B after grade values for core subjects (including band) and the average point value of music and physical education are tallied. Students, who achieve this status, will quarterly have their names posted at school, and have them listed in the parent newsletter. To qualify, non-band students must achieve 35 + points/quarter. Band students will need to achieve 42 + points/quarter to qualify.

Core Subject Area Grades & Grade Value Points:

A+ A A- B+ B B- C+ C C- D+ D D- F

12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Academic All-Star Computation:
Total the points from the four core subject areas and add the average grade value points from music/physical education. Example for a non-band student:

Letter Grade Grade
Value
Language Arts
Social Studies
Science
Math

B
B
B
B

8
8
8
8
32

Total 32 = Academic All Star List

Visitors and School Security

All visitors to the school building or grounds are requested to use the main entrance and CHECK-IN AT THE OFFICE WINDOW regarding the purpose of their visit. Visitors who will need to move about the building or grounds during school hours will sign in and be given a Visitor’s Pass. This will enable us to quickly identify individuals who entered the hallways or are on school grounds without permission. Also, individuals picking up students after school should wait between the double doors at the main entrance. Visitors are not permitted during mealtimes.

Periodic parent/guardian observations of their child’s classes are welcome and are arranged on an appointment basis. To schedule a visit, contact the principal to establish a time when students are in the class to be observed and are not scheduled to be taking tests. If visiting, please note that discussions between parents and teachers must occur at times outside of the teacher’s instructional time.

Students from other schools are generally not given permission to visit us unless the visiting child would have something of value to offer our school program. Anyone interested in such a visit must first secure permission from their child’s teacher(s).

Adult Conduct Toward School Personnel

Adults who, direct derogatory personal remarks, use profanity, and/or make threats toward school personnel, will be subject to a review of their conduct by the school administration with possible referral to the school board. The school board has the authority to ban individuals from school grounds for such behavior. Threats of violence will be cause for immediate contact with the police. In the interest of a safe school environment, the school district has zero tolerance for threats of violence from students and parents alike

Attendance

TARDINESS
Students that are not in their classroom by 8:20 a.m. will be recorded as tardy. Students who are tardy shall come to the Elementary Office for a tardy slip before reporting to class. This must be done regardless of the amount of time tardy. Students who demonstrate a pattern of tardiness will be counseled and their parent’s contacted to resolve the problem.

ATTENDANCE
A. Parent/Guardian Responsibility
1. Any person having the control of any child between the ages of 7 and 16 years shall cause such child to attend public school in the district wherein the child resides the entire time it is in session during the regular school term. The responsibility for regular school attendance rests upon the students’ parents/guardians.
2. When a student will be absent from school, their parent/guardian must contact the elementary school office by 9:00 a.m. on the day of absence in one of three ways:
a. Leave a message on the school answering machine at…256-4614
b. Talk to school personnel after 7:30 a.m. by calling…256-4614
c. E-mail the school office at: cusd316_eso@hotmail.com
3. If parent contact was not made then a note is to be submitted to the office upon re-admittance to school. Absences will be recorded as unexcused until a note with an excusable reason is received.
4. If the parent or guardian has not provided prior notice or called, the student will be assumed to be truant. To insure the student’s safety, a representative of the school will attempt to contact the parent to inquire about the student’s absence. This notification will be made by 10:20 a.m. Parents must provide at least one telephone number for notification.

[Note: Tardiness and unexcused absences are recorded as truancy. If truancy reaches 10% of the previous 180 regular attendance days, the truancy is considered chronic and parents/guardians must be reported to state officials and will be subject to court imposed penalties]

B. School Responsibility
1. The principal or designee will serve as the attendance officer and deal with all matters relating to school attendance and truancy.
2. It is the responsibility of the attendance officer, not the parent, to determine whether an absence is acceptable (excused) or not acceptable (truant). The attendance officer may excuse any student for the following reasons:
a. Evidence that the student is not in proper physical or mental condition to attend school. The district may request the parent or guardian to obtain a written statement from a physician or licensed practitioner as proof of the physical or mental condition if the students’ illness exceeds 5 consecutive school days or 10 total days of the school year. Such excuse shall be made in writing, shall state the period of time for which it is valid and shall not exceed thirty days.
b. Medical, dental, chiropractic, optometrical or other valid professional appointments.
c. Death in the family.
d. Quarantine imposed by a public health officer.
e. Short term family emergency.
f. A court appearance or other legal procedure which requires the attendance of student.
g. Attendance at special events of educational value as approved in advance by attendance officer or designee.
h. Family trips that must be scheduled during the normal school term. Parents/guardians shall provide at least two days prior notice regarding such family trips.
3. Students who are absent from school with the consent of their parent or guardian, but whose absence does not fall under the reasons listed above will be declared truant. Students who are truant will receive no credit for missed assignments and/or tests.
4. Students who are placed on in-school suspension will be able to make-up their work with full credit being granted. Credit will not be given for work during out-of-school suspension.
5. Students who leave school grounds without permission will be deemed as truant.
6. The school will allow one day of make-up time for each excused full or partial day of absence.

C. Student Responsibility
1. A student who has been absent shall present a written explanation of the absence signed by his/her parent/guardian to the office upon their return to school.
2. Written requests for a pre-approved absence should be made at least two school days prior to absence. Available work is to be made up in advance of prearranged absences. Failure to comply will result in no credit being given for missed assignments and/or tests.
3. Students are to check in and out at the Elementary Office when they leave and return to school.
4. It is the students’ responsibility to contact the teacher(s) to make arrangements for completing make up work missed during an absence from school. Students are required to attend all of their scheduled classes, study halls and lunch periods.
5. Students are required to attend all of their scheduled classes, study halls and lunch periods.

Bicycles/Scooters

Students who ride bicycles/scooters to and from school shall observe the rules of the road and exhibit courtesy to pedestrians. Bicycles/scooters must be walked on the school playground and parked in the provided racks. Scooters may not be taken to the classroom. Students who disregard the above rules shall have their bicycle/scooter privilege revoked. Warsaw Elementary School will not be responsible for lost or stolen bicycles/scooters.

Breakfast/Lunch Program

Students bring cold lunches or purchase breakfast/lunch at school on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Students eating cold lunch may purchase milk for 25 cents each. Anyone wanting milk with cold lunch or extra milk with hot lunch must pay 25 cents (even students on free/reduced). Students who forget their meal or money may charge a breakfast or hot lunch. Charges in excess of 5 school days will not be permitted.

Please keep a positive balance in your student’s account. Negative balance reports will be sent home with you student every Friday. If your student exceeds the 5-day charge limit, you will receive a letter by mail informing you to provide cold meals. Students will not be allowed to eat until the balance is paid in full. Also, please inform the office if your student is not allowed to eat breakfast at school. If your student has more than $20 left in their account at the end of the school year you will receive a reimbursement from the Superintendent’s Office. If they have under $20 left it will be rolled over to the next school year.

If circumstances warrant, free or reduced meals may be obtained by filling out the necessary forms provided by the Superintendent’s Office. Meal prices are published by the Superintendent’s Office and fees for monthly purchases are published in the parent newsletter. Due to health considerations, students may not give away/accept food from other students.

Citizen of the Month

Each month, in grades kindergarten through grade 2, two students from each grade will be identified by their teachers as Citizens of the Month. Certificates of recognition will be given to each winner.

Classroom/Playground/Bus Rules

A. School Bus Rules
Riding the school bus is a privilege not a right. Bus privileges, may be suspended by the principal for violations of bus conduct rules. Repeated and/or severe violations will be reported to the superintendent for possible revocation of all transportation privileges by the School Board.
1. Students will follow the directives of the bus driver in a respectful fashion.
2. Students will remain seated until their destination is reached.
3. Loud verbal behavior or improper language will not be permitted.
4. School bus property and the possessions of others must not be tampered with.
5. Aggressive behavior or inappropriate contact or gestures will not be tolerated.
6. Littering the school bus is reason to be required to clean the bus.
7. Throwing of any object on the bus or out of the bus is not permitted.
8. Opening windows without permission and/or extending any part of the body out
the windows are a violation of bus rules.
9. Animals may not be transported on the bus.
10. Illegal substances and/or dangerous items may not be carried on the bus.
11. Flammable materials may not be carried or ignited on the bus.
12. Any behavior, which is potentially hazardous to the occupants of the bus, will not
be permitted.
In order for a student to ride a bus other than their assigned bus, two conditions must be met:
1. The parent/guardian must send a note to the school office stating the students’ name, destination and the date the student wishes to ride the bus.
2. The office must certify that the bus will not be overloaded.

B. Classroom Rules
Each teacher establishes and posts rules for general behavior in their classroom.

C. Playground Rules
1. Students will show respect for and follow the instructions of playground supervisors.
2. Students will promptly go outside for recess and remain outside unless given
permission from a playground supervisor to be in the building.
3. Students shall remain in the designated play areas during recess.
4. When the wind chill is below 50 degrees F, coats must be worn while on the
playground. Boots or a change of shoes are required to play in snow covered areas.
5. Students are not to eat food, consume beverages or chew gum on the playground.
6. Students are expected to use playground equipment in the manner it was designed
for and intended to be used.
7. Students are expected to exhibit good sportsmanship in all play activities. Rough
game play such as: tackle football, intentionally knocking others down during
soccer, throwing elbows in basketball, etc., is not permitted.
8. Physical aggression such as: punching, pushing, grabbing, choking, wrestling, or
using martial arts on school grounds is not permitted.
9. Making threats, name calling, using racial or ethnic slurs, and inappropriate
gestures/language and/or contact are not acceptable.
10. Use of any object in an effort to injure others is prohibited on school grounds.
11. Throwing anything other than a school supplied ball in a game activity, is not
permitted. Students are not allowed to bring toys or any play items onto the playground without previous permission from playground supervisors.
12. At the signal for the end of recess, students are to promptly stop play and line-up for
return to class.

Classroom Treats

Due to health concerns we ask that all treats brought to school for distribution to the other students be store bought.

Computers and the Internet

Computers are being used in the elementary school to help supplement instruction, to provide access to the Internet’s resources, and to develop computer skills that will be necessary in tomorrow’s world.

Elementary students have access to one computer lab with 23 Internet ready computers and to two computers with printers in each classroom. These computers are all connected to a central file server providing each student a connection to all school district libraries, installed software programs and the Internet. Through supervision and the installation of screening software, access to controversial material is restricted. It must be recognized however, as new filtering software programs are developed, some computer “hackers” find ways to defeat the software. Consequently, the possibility exists that some unwanted material may appear on a student’s screen. Parents and students will need to sign an authorization form which releases the district from claims and damages arising from the use of the Internet. The form also stipulates that, if students commit any violation (intentionally enter addresses seeking undesirable sites) computer privileges may be revoked.

Disciplinary Actions

The Illinois School Code provides schools jurisdiction over their students during the regular school day and while going to and from school on school transportation. Jurisdiction includes any school activity and related misconduct regardless of time and location. To achieve a safe and orderly environment, schools must set expectations for conduct (establish rules), teach appropriate conduct and teach that there are consequences for misbehavior to insure compliance to rules.

School employees who personally witness misbehavior or have reliable evidence of misconduct, will take action based on the nature of the infraction. If the behavioral incident (or pattern of behavior) is deserving of a referral to the office, parents will receive a written copy of the referral and disciplinary action in the mail. If the misbehavior deserves the immediate attention of parents, attempts will be made to reach parents by phone. Please note, all referrals made to the office result in the principal meeting with the student to review the incident. Office action regarding the referral will be based upon the reported information on the referral and any new information resulting from the meeting with the student and/or other witnesses. Consequently, when a behavioral referral is made from the office, it verifies that misconduct deserving parent attention has occurred.

The nature of the parent response to a behavioral referral from the office will influence what the child learns from the experience. Parents, who work with school personnel in a constructive spirit to resolve the problem, will model an appropriate way to solve problems and reinforce in their child that misbehavior is unacceptable.

Disciplinary actions include but are not limited to the following:
Loss of Recess Privileges or Playground Activity – This measure is in response to students who are behind in their work due to misuse of class time or commit less severe behavioral acts in the building or on the playground. School-day detentions may be assigned for one or more recess periods (missed detentions are doubled). Less serious infractions on the playground may result in the loss of participation in playground activity.
Assignment To Office Time-Out Room – Students whose behavior becomes too disruptive in class or elsewhere on school property, will be assigned time in the office time-out room. Additionally, written and/or oral apologies are required for inappropriate acts directed toward others.
After School Detentions – If a student is given a detention for misconduct, parents/guardians will be notified at least one day ahead of time. Students are expected to report for detentions at 3:15 p.m. and will serve 30 minutes. Missed detentions will result in the doubling of detentions. Parents/guardians are responsible for transportation arrangements when students are to serve detention.
Fines or Work Assignments – Students who damage, litter, deface or make school property unsafe due to rule violations, mischief, and/or negligence, may be fined or given a related cleaning assignment to improve their respect for school property.
Exclusion From Events Scheduled To Reward Good Conduct – Students who become disrespectful or disruptive at school, commit more serious violations of school rules or demonstrate a pattern of repeated violations, will be referred to the principal. Three or more such referrals to the principal during the course of the school year will result in exclusion from events scheduled to reward good conduct. A written copy of behavior referrals made to the principal will be mailed to parents. Also, out-of-school suspensions will automatically disqualify a student from participation in such activities.
Suspension and Expulsion – Students, who are repeatedly referred to the office for unacceptable behavior or are referred for a severe violation(s) of school rules, will be subject to suspension. Suspension will be immediate and may be an in-school suspension, or out of school suspension. Suspensions may be for a period of up to 10 days per suspension. Parents/guardians will be notified (as soon as possible) regarding the circumstances and disciplinary action. If continued suspensions occur, the building principal will refer the student to the district administrator for possible expulsion proceedings. The district administrator will decide if the student, along with his/her parent/guardian should appear before the Board of Education for possible expulsion proceedings. The Board of Education will make the final decision concerning expulsion. In exceptional cases, the administration may request the Board to consider expulsion for a first offense. Expulsion from school is an extreme action that may be taken when all efforts to counsel with the student and the parents have failed to bring acceptable behavior, and when very serious incidents occur that require immediate action.

Emergency Drills

Emergency drills will be held periodically throughout the year. These include fire drills, tornado drills, evacuations and lockdowns (in case of intruders, etc.). Fire and tornado safety instructions will be posted inside each classroom. In the event of evacuation and lockdown drills, parents will be notified accordingly.

Enrollment Procedures

Formal registration is held in the High School cafeteria at designated dates and times. These times will be reported in the local newspaper and in registration packets mailed to all families currently known to have children living in the district. All School fees should be paid at the time of registration.

Entrance Age

For a child to enter kindergarten in Warsaw Elementary School, he/she must be five years old as of September 1 of the school year he/she will enter. Kindergarten screening is held annually in early March for prospective students as well as for 3 and 4 year olds.

Field Trips

Before students are allowed to go on field trips, written parent permission is required. Students who fail to return permission slips will be left at school. If your child has strong allergic reactions to bee stings or other special medical needs, kindly remind his/her teacher of that on the permission slip to insure that the appropriate precautions are taken or needed medication is taken along.

Equal Education

No student shall, on the basis of his or her sex, be denied equal access to programs, activities, services or benefits, or be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege, advantage or opportunity. Further details may be found in Board Policy No. 700.01

Grading

Grades K-1
Kindergarten academic progress will be reported as follows:

(+) Mastery ( ) Inconsistent Mastery (-) Not Mastered

Academic progress in first grade will be reported as follows:

(S+) Very Good (S) Satisfactory (N) Needs Strengthening (U) Unsatisfactory

Progress toward the achievement of specific grade level skills will also be identified so parents are well informed about their child’s strengths and needs.
Grades 2-3
Beginning in grades 2-3, letter grades will be used to report progress in language arts, mathematics and spelling. Progress in science and social studies will use the K-1 symbols. Letter grades for all core subject areas occurs in grades 4-6.
Grades 4-6

Percentage Score
100-98
97-92
91-90
89-88
87-82
81-80
79-78
77-72
71-70
69-68
67-62
61-60
59-0 Grade
A+
A
A-
B+
B
B-
C+
C
C-
D+
D
D-
F Letter Grades will be determined on a percentage basis as shown here. Quarterly grades are a combination of a daily work grade and performance on assessments (tests, quiz’s, and projects). The weight assigned to assessments is uniform within each grade level. Students and parents will be informed of grade level weighing of assessments at the beginning of school.
Late Work – Work is considered late if not handed in when requested by the teacher. Work handed in after the requested time will receive no higher grade than a C. Zero will be recorded for work that is more than two days late or that has been graded and returned to the rest of the class.

Make-Up Policy – At least one day of make-up time will be given for each excused day of absence and work will receive full credit.

Note:
Work turned in on time during an in-school suspension will be granted full credit. However, work missed due to an out-of-school suspension or truancy will be recorded as zero.

Illness Or Injury At School

The office will immediately notify parents/guardians if their student becomes ill or is injured at school. An Emergency Form with contact information is maintained in the office for every student. It is important that parents/guardians maintain current emergency contact information with the school so they may be reached should an emergency arise. Emergency forms are sent home with students on the first day of school and must be returned the next day to teachers.
MEDICATION
A. All prescription and non-prescription medication to be dispensed by school personnel must be brought to the school office. Medication must be in a container that provides the following information: student’s name, name of medication, dosage, frequency & time(s) to be administered.
B. Prescription and non-prescription medication cannot be dispensed by school
personnel to children without signed parent/guardian consent. For medication of 30 days or less duration, the parent/guardian must send a note to the school office that gives school personnel permission to dispense the medication. For on going medication, parents will need to have their physician complete an “Authorization for the Administration of Medication” form. This form is available in the school office, and when completed, is kept on file in the school office.
C. Students must be capable of administering their own medication.
HEAD LICE
Parents are requested to check the hair of their students regularly for head lice and treat as needed.

Homework

High expectations lead to improved student achievement and self-image. Well-planned assignments that require time outside the classroom can broaden knowledge, establish good work habits and promote a sense of responsibility. In general, homework increases gradually as students advance through the grades and normally averages about 30-60 minutes per night by sixth grade. Additionally, home assignments enable parents to see what the student is doing in school and provides opportunities for parents to demonstrate their interest in their child’s progress.

Insurance

Student insurance is available to all students at the time of registration through the Superintendent’s Office. The school district does not automatically provide accident insurance for students; it must be purchased by the parent/guardian.

Items Brought To School

No items are to be brought to school unless needed for the purposes of education.
Students are NOT to bring the following items to school. This includes and is not limited to toys, electronic devices, cell phones(except watches), living things, flammable/explosive items, sharp objects and projectile devices. In no case may animals be transported on a school bus. Also, floral or balloon deliveries to students are too distractive and are not permitted. However, edible treats and invitations are permitted, as long as they are for the whole class. In summary, no items other than lunch or book money, lunch box, book bag, school supplies, a change of shoes or baseball glove (with a name in permanent ink on it) should be brought to school unless their classroom teacher has requested and/or approved the item IN ADVANCE.

Lost and Found

The school is not responsible for lost valuables carried by students.  If items are lost, the office “Lost and Found” box should be periodically checked.

Medication

A. All prescription and non-prescription medication to be dispensed by school personnel must be brought to the school office. Medication must be in a container that provides the following information: student’s name, name of medication, dosage, frequency & time(s) to be administered.
B. Prescription and non-prescription medication cannot be dispensed by school
personnel to children without signed parent/guardian consent. For medication of 30 days or less duration, the parent/guardian must send a note to the school office that gives school personnel permission to dispense the medication. For on going medication, parents will need to have their physician complete an “Authorization for the Administration of Medication” form. This form is available in the school office, and when completed, is kept on file in the school office.
C. Students must be capable of administering their own medication.
HEAD LICE
Parents are requested to check the hair of their students regularly for head lice and treat as needed.

Newsletters

Parent newsletters are sent home with students during the first week of every month from September through May. Please consult them for noteworthy and timely information.

Parent Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled at the end of the first and third quarters. Also, when teachers determine that particular children are having difficulty at school, the parents will be contacted and a conference scheduled if necessary. Parents may also initiate the request for a conference with their students’ teacher(s).

Parent Teacher Organization
The Warsaw PTO works to foster a closer relationship between home and school. The PTO supports the schools mission to develop each child academically and socially to their highest potential. Membership is free and is open to all parents/guardians of children in grades Pre-K-6. Registration occurs annually during Open House in early September and at each general meeting. For more information, visit or call the elementary school office at: 256-4614.
Physical Education

Students in grades K-6 will be required to wear tennis shoes for physical education classes. Tennis shoes must be available at school if other shoes are worn to school on P.E. days. It is recommended that girls wear pants or shorts to P.E. class. Grade 3 students participate in a swim program as part of their P.E. class one semester per year. Students need to bring a towel and swimwear on swim days during their swim semester. Students are bused to the Keokuk Hoerner YMCA for these lessons.

Placement

A. Student Assistance
The Positive Attitude With Students (PAWS) was developed to meet the needs of students struggling with academics. The team consists of 3-4 elementary teachers, the referring classroom teacher, and the principal in placement decisions. It is the first intervention step for children experiencing difficulties in school.

When a teacher refers a child to the PAWS Team, parents are contacted and information pertaining to the problem is discussed. A meeting is then scheduled between the PAWSTeam, the student’s teacher and the parents to develop in-class accommodations to help solve the problem(s).

If academic problems at the end of the first semester indicate the possibility of retention, parents will be so advised by the PAWS Team. Additional contacts and/or meetings with parents will be scheduled during the second semester to discuss, implement and/or recommend further corrective measures. The PAWS Team will determine (near the end of the fourth quarter) if the implemented and/or recommended actions have produced student performance that meets the standards for promotion. PAWS decisions to retain a student may be appealed by parents/guardians to the Superintendent for review and ultimately to the School Board.

B. Promotion and Retention
Students must successfully complete the curriculum to be promoted to the next-higher grade. Public Act 90-548 prohibits age or social reasons to be considered in promotion/retention decisions. This act also requires the school district, not the parents/guardians, to decide if promotion occurs. To successfully complete the curriculum, students must, as a minimum, meet the following standards:

1. Have a cumulative core subject average of D- for the academic year
2. Have more passing than failing quarterly grades in core subjects for the
academic year

Core subjects include: Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, and Science.

Promotion Computation:
Divide total core subject grade value points for the year by the total quarterly core subject grades for the year. Example:

If total core subject grade value points for four quarters is 14 and there were 16 core subject quarterly grades, then 14/16 = 0.875 = F (student retained)

Problem Resolution
The school recognizes that problems and concerns sometimes arise. Individuals closest to the situation are in the best position to provide background information and often, are able to resolve the issue. Consequently, it is important that parents/guardians first contact those closest to the situation.
The proper sequence of communication is as follows:

1. Contact the appropriate teacher, aide, and bus driver or staff member.
2. If the problem is not resolved at step one, the parent contacts the principal.
3. If the problem is not settled at step two, the parent contacts the superintendent.
4. Following the superintendent, the final appeal is to the school board.

Report Cards
Report cards are sent home following the end of each quarter. Also, in the middle of each quarter, mid-term reports are mailed home to parents. Individual reports are issued on an “as needed” basis to parents of students who are not performing near their ability level.
Use Of School Facilities

All outside school groups wishing to use the buildings should direct their inquiries to the Superintendent for permission. Liability insurance, availability of faculty and custodial help will determine the charges to be considered. The scheduling of the multi-purpose room/gym must be done through the Elementary Principal.

School Cancellation

If adverse weather conditions develop that affect student safety, school will be canceled or dismissed early. Announcements of closings will generally occur before 7 a.m. and early dismissals will be announced just as early as is possible. Parents should monitor the following stations during adverse weather: Radio Station KOKX (1310 AM) Keokuk; WCAZ (90 AM, 92-10FM) Carthage; WTAD (930 AM, 99-10FM) Quincy; or WGEM Channel 10 TV. When school is canceled due to inclement weather, all extracurricular activities are also canceled. Parents should advise their children of what they are to do in case school is dismissed early.

School Hours
The school day for students in grades Pre-K-6 is 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Pre-K A.M. session is 8:15-10:30 and the P.M. session is 12:30-3:15. Students who walk to school should not arrive before 8:00 a.m. Students eating breakfast should not arrive before 7:45 am. Breakfast is served beginning at 7:50 am. Unless prior arrangements have been made with school personnel, students are to clear the school building within ten minutes past the closing of the school day (3:25 p.m.).
School Obligations
Student financial obligations must be met before fourth quarter report cards are issued.
Search And Seizure
If there is reasonable suspicion that the safety of students or school personnel is at risk, school personnel may initiate a search. Illinois Statute (105 ILCS 5/10-22.6) permits searches of “lockers, desks, parking lots and other school property owned or controlled by the school as well as personal effects left in those places and areas without notice or the consent of the student.” In addition to safety, if items of importance or value are missing and there is a reasonable chance they have not left a defined area, that area and persons in that area may be searched. If a search of an elementary student becomes necessary, students may be asked to turn their pockets inside-out, roll-up long sleeves or trouser cuffs, and/or remove their shoes. Although, pat-down searches are permissible, they would only be done if safety was an immediate concern. In that event, two adults of the same gender as the student would perform that search. Parents will be immediately contacted if a dangerous or missing item is found on or in the possession of their child. Also, parent presence will be required if there is good reason to believe that an item of importance or value may be concealed in such a manner as not to be revealed by the above search procedures.
Standardized Testing
For the purpose of determining the instructional progress and needs of our students, two standardized tests are given each school year. In late September, we administer the Stanford test to students in grades K-11. This is a nationally-normed test which gives us a picture of how our students compare both in academic achievement and intellectual ability to students in the same grades across the country. Results from this test are given to parents at third quarter conferences.

In the spring we administer the Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT). This test is given to students in grades 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, and 10. This test enables us to compare the progress of our students to students from across the state in math, writing, reading, social studies and science. Results from this test are provided to parents during first quarter parent conferences.

To help students perform at their best during these tests, we ask that parents ensure their students are well rested and have a good breakfast. We also ask that every effort be made to avoid scheduling medical appointments or vacations during the test periods. Students who are absent will need to miss instructional time to take the tests.

State Requirements For Enrollment
A certified live birth certificate must be submitted for each Kindergarten student and for each student new to the district. A certified live birth certificate (not a hospital record) must be presented within 30 days of enrollment. If 30 days has elapsed, the school will send a notice to the person enrolling the student that compliance must occur in 10 days. If compliance doesn’t occur in 10 days, the district is required by law to submit a report to the police.

A. A health examination is required for students entering Kindergarten, 6th & 9th grades, and all students entering or transferring into an Illinois school from another state (Kindergarteners also need an eye exam by an eye doctor). The “Certificate of Child Health Examination” must be completed by a medical doctor. Doctor appointments should be made early so the form is completed before school registration is completed in August.
B. The following immunizations are required:

DPT (Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus) – Four or more doses of DTP with the last booster received after age 4. If 10 years have elapsed since the last booster, an additional Td booster is required.

TOPV (Polio) – Three or more doses with the last dose being a booster given after 4 years of age.

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – Two doses, first dose at 12-15 months, second dose 4-6 years before start of school.

Hepatitis B – Three dose series, the 2nd dose should be given 1 month after the 1st dose, and the 3rd dose at least 3 months after the 2nd dose. Students must have completed their Hepatitis B immunization by the time they enter 5th grade.

C. A lead-screening questionnaire must be submitted for each kindergarten student prior to admission. If the questionnaire was completed in preschool, and the results were normal, it does not need to be repeated in kindergarten. However, a copy of the lead screening questionnaire results must be on file in school.

Important Note: State law requires proof of or a schedule for compliance for both the
health examination & required immunizations to be submitted to the school by October 15th of the current school year. Noncompliance will result in the student being excluded from school until proof of or a schedule for both requirements can be presented. During the time of exclusion, the student will be recorded as truant.

Student Dress
Students are expected to dress and groom themselves in a manner that will not be a distraction in school or represent a risk to their or other students’ health. Students wearing clothing that bears inappropriate messages/images or is distractive in terms of exposure or intentional uniqueness, will be refused attendance until appropriate clothing is worn.

Inappropriate messages/images include:
Profanity, Alcohol, Tobacco, Illegal Drugs, Weapons, Violent Acts, and Sexually Suggestive Material.

Distractive clothing includes:
a. Clothing that provides skin exposure to or near private areas, or through which under garments become readily visible. Examples include: midriffs, halters, low-cut tops, sleeveless tops with large side cutouts, short shorts, and see through clothing.
b. Clothing that could be disruptive in school or represents a danger in a school setting includes but is not limited to: hats, sunglasses, coats, roller skate shoes and/or accessories that could conceal weapons.

Due to space and supervision limitations, few students can be supervised indoors during outdoor recess periods. Recess will be outside when it is not raining and the wind chill is above 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Consequently, students must come to school appropriately dressed for the prevailing and forecasted weather conditions. Parents are asked to monitor their student’s dress to insure that weather appropriate clothing is worn to school. Coats are required when the wind chill is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, due to concerns over the transmission of disease, the school can not loan clothing to students for use at school.

Student Health
Students who have chickenpox, measles, mumps, pink eye, or other contagious conditions, will be excluded from school while the condition exists.

WHEN TO KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME
Additionally, students with fever, noticeable cold, or flu symptoms, should not be sent to school. Parents observing developing illness during the evening, may leave a message on the school answering machine regarding their child’s absence or e-mail the school office at cusd316_eso@hotmail.com

Due to space and supervision limitations, few students returning from illness can be accommodated indoors for recess. Exceptions include a note from a physician stating a date that outside activity can resume and instances of a return from a prolonged illness (chicken pox, pneumonia, etc.) or pre-approved by administration.

Student Records
Progress and behavioral records are maintained for each student. Parents of students may inspect these records by making an appointment with the principal during regular school hours. Copies of records will be provided at a cost of 10 cents per page.
Student Rules of Conduct

Quality education can only occur in an orderly environment. Observance of the following rules will provide a safe and orderly school environment. Students who choose to ignore these rules will be assigned consequences to encourage future compliance.

Note: Due to the possibility that unforeseen circumstances may arise that present safety issues or may be disruptive to the school environment, the principal may establish certain written rules and regulations not inconsistent with those established by the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Schools.

A. General – Students are expected to be truthful, to use appropriate language, behave in a safe manner, respect school property, and show respect for the feelings, dignity, physical safety, possessions, and the rights of others. Evidence of plans or attempts to cause injury, will be considered a severe violation of school rules. Possession or use of weapons or controlled substances will be cause for involving the police.

B. Sexting – Sexting will be considered as pornography – the possession, distribution, and/or the attempt to obtain pornography is prohibited. Any student found in violation of this policy shall be subject to the board’s disciplinary penalties for misconduct and/or possible legal action.

C. Aggressive Behavior-Bullying

Behavior First Offense Second Offense Third Offense Fourth Offense
Teasing
insulting, or other behavior that would hurt others’ feelings or make them feel bad about themselves

Exclusion
Starting rumors, telling others not to be friends with someone or actions that would cause someone to be without friends

Student will notify parent

Written restitution

Written warning put in student file

After school detention

Student will notify parent

Written restitution

Written warning put in student file

ILC

Student will notify parent

Written restitution

Written warning put in student file

ILC

Subsequent offenses will result in a mandatory meeting with the parents to develop an individualized plan for the remainder of the year.

OSS

Aggression
Pushing, shoving, grabbing, kicking, etc.

Harassment
Racial, ethnic, or sexual name calling or other severe harassment

Student will notify parent

Written restitution

Written warning put in student file

Police will be notified

ILC/OSS

Student will notify parent

Written restitution

Passing periods eliminated for one week

Written warning put in student file

Police will be notified

ILC/OSS

Student will notify parent

Written restitution

Passing periods eliminated for one week

Written warning put in student file

Police will be notified

ILC/OSS

Subsequent offenses will result in a mandatory meeting with the parents to develop an individualized plan for the remainder of the year.

OSS

Violence
Punching, kicking, and similar behavior with the intent to cause injury
Student will notify parent

Passing periods eliminated for one week

Segregated lunch for one week

Police will be notified

OSS (3-5 days)

Student will notify parent

Passing periods eliminated for one week

Segregated lunch for two weeks

Police will be notified

OSS (5-10 days)

Student will notify parent

Individual plan will be developed

Police will be notified

OSS (10 days)

Possible expulsion

D. School Bus Rules
Riding the school bus is a privilege not a right. Bus privileges, may be suspended by the principal for violations of bus conduct rules. Repeated and/or severe violations will be reported to the superintendent for possible revocation of all transportation privileges by the School Board.

1. Students will follow the directives of the bus driver in a respectful fashion.
2. Students will remain seated until their destination is reached.
3. Loud verbal behavior or improper language will not be permitted.
4. School bus property and the possessions of others must not be tampered with.
5. Aggressive behavior or inappropriate contact or gestures will not be tolerated.
6. Littering the school bus is reason to be required to clean the bus.
7. Throwing of any object on the bus or out of the bus is not permitted.
8. Opening windows without permission and/or extending any part of the body out
the windows are a violation of bus rules.
9. Animals may not be transported on the bus.
10. Illegal substances and/or dangerous items may not be carried on the bus.
11. Flammable materials may not be carried or ignited on the bus.
12. Any behavior, which is potentially hazardous to the occupants of the bus, will not
be permitted.

In order for a student to ride a bus other than their assigned bus, two conditions must be met:
1. The parent/guardian must send a note to the school office stating the students’ name, destination and the date the student wishes to ride the bus.
2. The office must certify that the bus will not be overloaded.

E. Classroom Rules
Each teacher establishes and posts rules for general behavior in their classroom.

F. Playground Rules

1. Students will show respect for and follow the instructions of playground supervisors.
2. Students will promptly go outside for recess and remain outside unless given
permission from a playground supervisor to be in the building.
3. Students shall remain in the designated play areas during recess.
4. When the wind chill is below 50 degrees F, coats must be worn while on the
playground. Boots or a change of shoes are required to play in snow covered areas.
5. Students are not to eat food, consume beverages or chew gum on the playground.
6. Students are expected to use playground equipment in the manner it was designed
for and intended to be used.
7. Students are expected to exhibit good sportsmanship in all play activities. Rough
game play such as: tackle football, intentionally knocking others down during
soccer, throwing elbows in basketball, etc., is not permitted.
8. Physical aggression such as: punching, pushing, grabbing, choking, wrestling, or
using martial arts on school grounds is not permitted.
9. Making threats, name calling, using racial or ethnic slurs, and inappropriate
gestures/language and/or contact are not acceptable.
10. Use of any object in an effort to injure others is prohibited on school grounds.
11. Throwing anything other than a school supplied ball in a game activity, is not
permitted. Students are not allowed to bring toys or any play items onto the playground without previous permission from playground supervisors.
12. At the signal for the end of recess, students are to promptly stop play and line-up for
return to class.

ITEMS BROUGHT TO SCHOOL
No items are to be brought to school unless needed for the purposes of education.
Students are NOT to bring the following items to school. This includes and is not limited to toys, electronic devices, cell phones(except watches), living things, flammable/explosive items, sharp objects and projectile devices. In no case may animals be transported on a school bus. Also, floral or balloon deliveries to students are too distractive and are not permitted. However, edible treats and invitations are permitted, as long as they are for the whole class. In summary, no items other than lunch or book money, lunch box, book bag, school supplies, a change of shoes or baseball glove (with a name in permanent ink on it) should be brought to school unless their classroom teacher has requested and/or approved the item IN ADVANCE.

E. Departure from School
For the safety of all children, school personnel need to be informed when students will be going home in a manner different than normal. Written or oral permission must be received from the student’s parent or guardian for changes from the student’s normal departure pattern.

1. Students who ride the bus will promptly board the bus after school and not leave the
bus while the bus is in the loading zone.
2. Students, who walk home, will walk in the walker’s line and follow the directives of
the crossing guard.
3. Bikers will walk their bikes behind the walkers. Bikers may ride
their bikes after crossing the street with the walkers.
4. All school pop and candy machines are off-limits to PreK-6 students before, during
and after school.
5. Students will promptly leave school grounds after school and not return until after
4:00 p.m.

Talented and Gifted
Are all students looked at for possible giftedness?
Yes, all students are considered for giftedness. Students in 3rd grade, new to the district or recommended for gifted screening are considered for giftedness.

What information is used to identify a student as Gifted?
Group achievement and aptitude tests scores, teacher’s checklists, and grade point average are used to determine giftedness.

What about younger students or students whose talents or gifts are not identified?
Younger students are difficult to test accurately. Older students may have talents or gifts that traditional means fail to discover. Whether identified gifted or not, teachers are asked to use appropriate strategies to meet the needs of any student who has already mastered grade-level skills.

Telephone
Students must request permission to use the office phone and may use it for the following purposes only: to obtain needed clothing, food, medication, or items requested by school personnel. Also, following examination by school personnel of reported illness or injury, students may be given the opportunity to explain the problem further to their parents/guardians.

The school office maintains an answering machine for parent convenience. This service enables parents to call the school during non-school hours to report student absence or other pertinent information. The machine is on 24 hours a day and will pickup on the fourth ring. The machine will record messages up to one minute in length and pauses of greater than 8 seconds will terminate the call.

Textbooks

One textbook per subject is given to each student on the first day of classes. Loss and unreasonable wear or damage is chargeable to the student. No new text will be issued until the lost text is paid for. Payment for loss/damage must be made at the end of the school year. No report card will be issued until payment is made.

Title I
Title I is a federally funded program designed to assist students in the area of reading and language art. Students who receive our services are usually a year or less behind their actual grade level in reading. Students enter the program in the early grades based on teacher recommendation. Older students enter based on both teacher recommendation and the STAR reading assessment. If a parent would like their child to receive services, they should discuss this with the child’s teacher. Students are placed on monitor, where we no longer provide services but we monitor their success in the classroom, once they reach their grade level in reading. In the program, we provide reading activities to small groups of students to boost their skills and self-confidence. We work with the student’s daily for one half an hour. While they are out of the classroom, they are not missing any core subject material. In order for your child to receive Title I services, parents must sign a compact when it is sent home with your child. If you ever have questions about anything sent home for Title I, please contact Mrs. Thill at school.
Withdrawal Procedures
Parents or guardians should notify the school as soon as it becomes apparent that the student will be leaving the district. On the last day of enrollment the parent should come to the office to:
A. Return school texts
B. Pay any outstanding money due
C. Go to the Superintendents’ office to obtain a book rental refund according to the
following schedule –
withdrawal during 1st quarter = ¾ refund
withdrawal during 2nd quarter = ½ refund
withdrawal during 3rd quarter = ¼ refund
Asbestos Notification