Thomasville City Schools

 Harper Elementary School

Thomasville City Schools

 Harper Elementary School

 2010 - 2011

CLAWS

   Children Learn A Winning Spirit

Harper Elementary School

110 Bartow Street

Thomasville, Georgia 31792

Phone:  229-225-2622

Fax:  229-225-2692

Allan G. Rodemoyer

Principal

Catherine Swain

Literacy Coach
 

Table of Contents

“Five Schools – One Mission: Opening Windows of Opportunity for World Class Leaders”

915 East Jackson Street

Thomasville, Georgia 31792    ●       229-225-2600

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Matthew Conyers, Jr., Chairman

Andrew Jones, Vice Chairman

Darrell Allen

John Everett

Hazel Jones

George R. Lilly, II

Jimmy Woodward

Sabrina Boykins-Everett, Superintendent

ADMINSTRATION

The Thomasville City School System does not discriminate in education and activities

or in employment on the basis of race, national origin, sex or disability.

THOMASVILLE CITY SCHOOLS

2010 – 2011 Abbreviated Calendar

2010-2011 Abbreviated Calendar

A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians and Students,

Play to Win!

As we begin another school year at Harper Elementary, we continue to make positive changes. New bulletin boards, paint and tile floors have been installed in the hallways and cafeteria. A new computer lab, with state of the art computers, has been added. The previous office area was converted to a teacher conference and data room. Finally, we added an additional first grade, fourth grade and two Pre-K classrooms.

Our theme for the 2010-2011 school year is “Play to Win.” Every person has been endowed with a certain mixture of abilities and opportunities which makes him/her unique. As educators, we have the responsibility to encourage our students to not settle for mediocrity with their dreams and goals. We must also stress that success does not come without effort and enthusiasm.

We have achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for seven consecutive years and been named a Distinguished Title I School for four years in a row. We will continue to encourage our students to do their best, make wise choices, display tremendous effort and awe-inspiring enthusiasm and “Play to Win” in all their future endeavors.

My door is always open.

Sincerely,

Allan Rodemoyer

Faculty & Staff Assignments: 2010-2011

Mr. Allan  Rodemoyer, Principal

Miss Catherine Swain, Literacy Coach

The Principles of CLAWS

All students who attend Harper School are expected to practice the four principles of CLAWS while they are at school.  These rules are as follows:

·       Do the right thing.

·       Treat others the way you want to be treated.

·       Be responsible.

·       Learn something new everyday.

MANDATORY PARENT CONFERENCES

Parent meetings and two mandatory conferences are scheduled throughout the school year.  As a parent or guardian, you must agree to attend the meetings and conferences to support your child’s progress at Harper Elementary.

ARRIVAL

The school day begins at 7:40 A.M.; however, there is an early morning drop-off for students beginning at 7:15 A.M.  Parents/guardians who choose to use the Early Morning Drop-off must sign the child in each day in the school cafeteria.

DISMISSAL

Pre-Kindergarten students will be dismissed at 2:45 P.M.  All students must be picked up before 3:10 P.M.  Please be aware the dismissal time for students in grades K-5 is 3:00 p.m.  

EARLY DISMISSAL

If a student must leave from school early, he or she may be picked up by a parent, guardian, or designated adult only.  You must first go to the school office and sign out the child.

Please remember the names you put on the approved pick-up list for your child.  These will be the only people your child is allowed to leave campus with.  Also, please let all designated adults know they will need to have a form of picture identification ready to show in the office.

You should always keep the teacher and the assistant teacher informed of any changes to your child’s pick-up arrangement in writing.  In case of an emergency, you should phone the teacher.

TARDNIESS

DO NOT DROP YOUR CHILD OFF BY HIMSELF/HERSELF AT SCHOOL! Students who arrive after 8:00 A.M. must be escorted into the building by an adult.  NO Exceptions!  

·           Students who come in after 8:15 A.M. are marked tardy.  If your child is tardy to school, you must sign him/her in at the office and walk your child to the classroom. 

Chronic tardiness is defined as late arrival or early departure more than once per week.  Students who are late or leave early for 10 consecutive days without medical or other reasonable explanation may be removed from the roster.

The following actions will be taken after 2 unexcused tardies:

1.         The teacher will contact the parent/guardian regarding the tardy.  If there is not satisfactory resolution, then…

2.         There will be a parent conference called to discuss the tardy issue.  If there is not satisfactory resolution, then…

3.         There is a referral to the Resource Coordinator or Principal.  After this step with no satisfactory resolution, then…

4.         There will be a referral to the School Social Worker/Student Service Director.

If a child has been excessively absent or tardy due to personal illness, the parent/guardian must provide the school with a written statement from his/her physician to confirm a chronic medical condition.  Patterns of unexcused absences or tardies will be referred to the Student Services Department at the Board of Education’s Central Office.  This referral may result in an additional referral to the District Attorney’s office for further action.

STUDENT INFORMATION FORMS

Please inform the school immediately of any changes in your child’s personal information, such as change of address and phone numbers (work and home), changes in guardianship, or changes in other important information.   It is very important that our records are kept up to date.            

CONTACT PHONE NUMBERS

The school must have current telephone numbers (work and home) for each child in case you need to be contacted during the school day.  Please provide school personnel with at least three emergency numbers who can be contacted in case you cannot be reached.  It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to inform the teacher and/or office of any changes in telephone number.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT RECORDS

Parents/guardians must provide the school with copies of documents listed below.  All documents must be on file for your child to remain in the Pre-K Program.

a.       Proof of Age  (Birth Certificate)

b.      Social Security Card

c.       Georgia Residency Documentation (mortgage statement, rent receipt or utility bill ONLY)

d.      Immunization Certificate 3231 (within 30 days of entry)

e.       Certificate of Ear, Eye, and Dental Examination: Form 3300 (within 90 days of entry).

I Can Problem Solve (ICPS) is the discipline program used with the Pre-Kindergarten students.

GOAL

To teach children thinking skills that can be used to help resolve or prevent conflict

Foci:    Teach children how to think, not what to think

·           Guides children to think for themselves

·           Teaches children how to evaluate their own ideas

·           Encourages children to come up with many solutions to problems

Content: Pre-Problem Solving Skills

·           Learning a problem-solving vocabulary

·           Identifying one’s own and other’s feelings

·           Considering other people’s points of view

·           Learning cause and effect

Problem-Solving Skills:

·           Thinking of more than one solution

·           Considering consequence

·           Deciding which solution to choose

Method: Teaches skills through the use of games, stories, puppets, and role-playing

·           Guide the use of skills in real-life situations

·           Integrates ideas into other cognitive skills

·           Includes parent participation

Benefits:  For Children

·           Fun for children-presents lessons in game form

·           Builds self-confidence

·           Builds listening skills

·           Encourages generation of alternative solutions

·           Provides skills to handle new problems

·           Facilitates social interaction among peers

·           Teaches skills applicable to other situations

·           Increases sensitivity to others, sharing, and caring

·           Increases independence

·           Increases ability to wait

·           Increases ability to cope with frustration

·           Increases ability to cope with frustration

·           Decreases impulsivity

·           Decreases social withdrawal

Being able to follow the rules and understand consequences are vital parts of education. Learning how to live and work together enhances a child’s positive self-image.  Every effort is made to catch a child exhibiting good behavior.  Good behaviors are praised and encouraged.  The children are always told how special they are and how much they are loved.  We affirm that they are acceptable, but sometimes their behavior is not.

When an inappropriate behavior occurs, positive steps will be taken to assist the child in gaining control of his behavior.  If the inappropriate behavior continues, or is severe, contact will be made with the parent or guardian.  Parents or guardians are expected to respond promptly to any communication from the school.  We expect parents or guardians to be very involved with efforts to manage behavior.

Students are expected to…

·           Be kind to others.

·           Listen and follow directions.

·           Show respect for others and property.

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of J. K. Harper Elementary School is

to provide a quality education that promotes lifelong learning for each student.

PHILOSOPHY

Harper Elementary School believes that educating students for responsible citizenship is necessary for preserving democracy.  We believe that in a democratic society a person must value his country and what it stands for, understand what it means to be a responsible citizen, and have the fundamental skills necessary to participate in the society.

Harper Elementary School believes that all students are capable of learning what is needed to be productive citizens of these United States.  We recognize that students have individual differences and unique needs which must be addressed.  We believe that students learn best in a structured orderly environment.

Harper Elementary School further believes that the education of the child is the responsibility of the school with the support of the parents.  Parent participation and attitudes toward the school and parent support of the program are necessary for success.

BELIEF STATEMENTS

The students at Harper Elementary School will…

1.         Commit to always try to do their best.

2.         Learn basic and critical thinking skills.

3.         Accept personal responsibility for their behavior.

4.         Work together to become problem solvers.

5.         Set personal goals and strive to achieve them.

Harper Elementary School, the place where

“Children Learn A Winning Spirit.”

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT GOALS

1.         To improve students’ interpersonal skills;

2.         To increase student academic achievement in reading;

3.         To increase student academic achievement in math;

4.         To extend the school community through collaborative networks;

5.      To maximize student opportunities for academic success through increased average daily attendance rate; and

6.      To demonstrate an awareness of the benefits of living a healthier lifestyle.

SCHOOL TRADITIONS

School Mascot  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ……….. . . . . . . . . . ………….Eagle

School Colors   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ………………..Red & Gold

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND (NCLB) ACT

In compliance with the requirements of the No Child Left Behind statute, the Thomasville City Board of education informs parents that they may request information about the professional qualifications of their student’s teacher(s). The following information may be requested:

1.         whether the teacher has met the Georgia Professional Standards Commission requirement for certification for the grade level and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;

2.         whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which Georgia qualifications or certification criteria have been waived;

3.         the college major and any graduate certification or degree held by the teacher;

4.         whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals, and if so, their qualifications.

If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher’s qualification, please contact the principal.

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION

SCHOOL VISITORS

The faculty and staff at Harper welcome parents, guardians, and other interested members of the community to visit the school. Visitors are requested to “sign in” in the school office and receive a visitor’s pass upon first entering the building. Please do not go directly to your child’s room. Meeting with teacher(s) should occur before 8:00 a.m. or after 3:10 p.m. or during their planning time by appointment through the school office.

SCHOOL HOURS

Parent and student cooperation is requested in observing the daily school schedule.

All students are encouraged to arrive at school no later than 7:50 a.m. and should be picked up between 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.  SUPERVISION IS NOT PROVIDED FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES K-5 WHO ARRIVE BEFORE 7:20 A.M. OR REMAIN LATER THAN 3:30 P.M.

TARDINESS

Tardiness interrupts your child’s instructional time. A note should accompany your child to explain the reason for his/her tardiness. Any student who arrives after the beginning of the school day (8:15 a.m.) is considered to be tardy and must check in at the office.  Students with regular tardiness will be reported to the Student Services Department at the Board of Education’s Central Office.

EARLY RELEASE

We encourage parents to schedule doctor and dental appointments for their children after school hours. If this is not possible, and a parent needs to take a student out of school, the parent or guardian must personally check the student out in the front office. If the student returns to school, she/he must report to the office to sign the student back in.

MOMENT OF REFLECTION

In compliance with Georgia law, at the opening of school on every school day in each public school classroom, the teacher in charge shall conduct a brief period of quiet reflection for not more than 60 seconds with the participation of all the pupils.  This moment of quiet reflection is not intended to be a religious service or exercise but shall be considered an opportunity for a moment of silent reflection on the anticipated activities of the day.

TELEPHONE USE

Use of the telephone by students is limited to emergency calls and school business calls only. Call to bring homework or to ride home with friends, etc., will not be permitted. These matters should be taken care of at home. A note from the student’s teacher is required before the telephone may be used. 

COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE

Students below the age of 16 years are required by Georgia law to attend school except for occasions of personal illness, death in the family or religious holidays.  In addition, House Bill 984 states that students are allowed up to 5 excused absences per year to visit a military parent on leave.  Students who have been absent must bring a note from a parent/guardian on the day they return to school.  Excused absences are those for personal illness, death in the family or recognized religious holidays. 

Parents/guardians will be contacted by telephone or a form letter if a student’s attendance record reflects any of the following:

·         3 unexcused absences

·         5 total absences (combination of excused and unexcused),

·         6 unexcused tardies

·         8 total tardies (combination of excused and excused)

If a student has been excessively absent or tardy due to personal illness, the school must have a written statement from his/her physician to confirm a chronic medical condition.  Please provide this statement to the Office as soon as possible.  In cases of unexcused absences or tardies, the student will be referred to the Student Services Department at the Board of Education’s Central Office.  This referral may result in an additional referral to the District Attorney’s office for further action.
 

CURRICULUM

The State of Georgia has implemented a new curriculum, the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS).  The GPS is a conceptual curriculum, requiring instruction to be integrated with the concepts, knowledge, skills, and abilities to achieve deeper understanding by students.  Each subject area is comprised of content strands, performance standards, elements, and tasks.  Core subject areas of the GPS consist of English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics (M), Social Studies (SS) and Science (S).  Students in grades K-5 are provided instruction in core subject areas, general music, media and physical education.  Technology, band and strings supplement the core instructional program.

Staff members are trained to utilize researched-based strategies, programs, and resources designed to improve student achievement.  Some of these programs/resources include Learning-Focused, Scott Foresman Reading, Accelerated Reader Program, SRA Reading Mastery, Harcourt Math, DIBELS and iLearn Math and other computer software that supports classroom instruction.

The Character Education Program has been established to support positive behavior and good citizenship skills for life. Positive behavior is also recognized through the Eagle Award and the CLAWS Club.  For these recognitions, homeroom teachers select students who have demonstrated the character traits that are taught each month and the principles of CLAWS.

         ACCELERATED READING PROGRAM

All students are expected to participate in the school’s Reading Campaign through the Accelerated Reader (AR) Program.  The program is designed to manage and track student’s independent reading utilizing computer-generated tests.  Through the AR Program, teachers should monitor a student’s book level, reading zone, running average, and reading goal.  Parents are encouraged to talk with teachers on a regular basis about their child(ren)’s progress in the AR Program.  Each nine-week, students will be recognized for their participation and achievement in the AR Program in the following areas:

A basic prerequisite for all students in grades K-5 is an average percent correct between 85 – 92 percent. 

The guidelines for each grade level are as follows:

·           In Kindergarten, students will participate in the school’s AR Program beginning in January. Students are expected to read a minimum of 50 half-point AR books.

·           In grades 1 and 2, students are expected to read a minimum of 60 half-point AR books within their reading zone.

·           In grade 3, students are expected to read independently a minimum of 60 books in combinations of half, one or more points.  At least 25% should be chapter books.

·           In grades 4-5, students are expected to read independently a minimum of 60 books in combinations of half, one or more points.  At least 50% should be chapter books.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are very expensive.  Students are expected to cover and properly care for textbooks that are assigned to them.  State law requires students to pay for lost or damaged textbooks before they can be issued a replacement.  Fines for damaged or lost books are based on the current replacement cost.  Report cards are held at the end of the school year for students with outstanding fees.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Conferences may be arranged through the office or by a note to the appropriate teacher. Conferences should be scheduled before school, after school, or during a teacher’s planning period.  Please refer to the common planning schedule for these times. The school leadership asks that you do not request a conference during instructional time. The school leadership and support staff are always available for parent conferences.

HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is assigned regularly, is reasonable and meaningful, and reflects the objectives of the instructional program. It builds character, sharpens skills, and involves parents. All homework assignments are expected to be completed at home. Grades will not necessarily be given for each assignment, but completion or non-completion will be recorded. Continual neglect of homework assignments will require parent notification. When students are absent, parents may phone the school and request that assignments be sent to the office to be picked up at the end of the school day.

Students will receive a homework notebook (agenda) listing assignments. Parents should provide a space and quiet time for their children to complete the homework each night. Remember, parents and children should also read together regularly.

GRADING POLICY

Thomasville City Schools operate on a nine-weeks reporting system. Midterm reports are issued half way through each grading period.  Report cards will be issued to students at the close of each nine-week grading period. Both reports will contain academic and conduct grades. Attendance will be reported on the student’s report card. All reports must be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to the classroom teacher the day after it is issued.

The grading system for our school system is as follows:

Grades of Unsatisfactory (U) or below 70 are considered failing grades.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

Promotions are made by classroom teachers at the end of the school year based upon the satisfactory completion of grade-level standards.  Students who fail to meet state standards for promotion shall be retained at their current grade level.   Georgia law requires students to score at grade level in reading on the third grade CRCT, and at grade level in reading and math on the fifth grade CRCT, in order to be promoted to the next grade level.  All students who do not meet state standards on the spring administration of the CRCT will be provided additional instruction during the summer.  At the end of the program, students will be given the opportunity to retake the CRCT.  Students who fail to meet state standards on the CRCT retest will be retained.

MEDIA CENTER

The Media Center is open from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.  These times include 15 minutes before school and 30 minutes after school.  The media center operates on a flexible schedule and is available for students and teachers to use. It is always open while school is in session.

Students should take care of library books that are checked out. Return or renew books on time. Quiet and good behavior must be maintained at all times in the media center so as not to disturb people who are there for serious work. Remember, the media center is for everyone. Report cards will not be issued at the end of the school year until all library books are returned or fines are paid.

INTERNET USE

Students and parents are required to sign a letter of agreement for children to use school-based Internet resources.  Parents are expected to discuss with their child acceptable standards for on-line behavior.

AWARDS

At the end of each nine-week grading period, Student Recognition Programs will be held. At this time, various awards are presented to students who excel in various areas such as academics, attendance, and citizenship.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT

All students enrolling in Thomasville City Schools must present a current, adequate certificate of immunization on Georgia Form #3231, a certified copy of their birth certificate, Georgia Form #3300 which shows they have passed a current dental, vision, and hearing screening, a Social Security card, and documentation of legal guardianship (if applicable).

STUDENT INFORMATION FORM

During the first week of school, your child’s teacher will send home a student information sheet for you to complete. Having this information returned promptly and correctly is of utmost importance. A record of this information is kept in the school office in case you need to be contacted. Please make sure all telephone numbers are accurate and clearly written. Remember to put the name and telephone number of a person who can be contacted in case you cannot be reached.

Please notify the school if you change addresses or telephone numbers during this year. However, we request that parents/guardians update the student information form each nine weeks.  It is very important that our records are kept up to date.                               

SCHOOL INSURANCE

School insurance is available to all students. Purchase of the insurance is optional. Parents interested in purchasing this insurance for their children should complete the application and return it to the school.

CLASS PARTIES

Students will have two parties during the school year. These will be before Christmas break and Valentine’s Day. Parties will be held the last hour of the school day. We do not celebrate individual birthdays; however, you may send a cookie or cupcake to be eaten at the beginning of recess.  Please do not bring any other food items such as drinks, chips, etc.

WITHDRAWAL OF STUDENTS

The established procedures for withdrawing a child from school are as follows:

1.      Notify the office the day of withdrawal from school.

2.      Return all school property.

3.      Clear all charges.

4.      Sign a “Release of Information” for student records to be forwarded. 

DRESS CODE

During the school day, the primary focus of the student should be to learn.  Some clothes that are suitable for wear outside of school are not suitable for wear at school.  The age and gender of the child and what is developmentally appropriate will be considered in the enforcement of the dress code.

·           No bare midriffs, tank tops, halter-tops (one shoulder out, tube tops) no lower or plunging necklines, spaghetti straps, loose fitting sleeveless tops that do not cover foundation garments.  All tops/blouses should be tucked in.  All boys are required to tuck in their shirts/blouses.

·           No sagging pants or shorts, no low waist pants, low rider pants, pants/shorts with holes.  Boys must wear a belt if pants/shorts have loops.

·           No overly short dresses or shorts (must come to the fingertip of the middle finger when the arms are down to the side).

·           Clothing depicting disruptive words, violence, vulgarity, drugs, alcohol, or disrespect for others will not be allowed.

·           Hats, scarves, headbands, du-rags, bandanas, or other head coverings are not allowed in the school building.

·           Students are expected to wear appropriate footwear for school activities.

Any student found in violation of these standards will be sent to the office.  Students must call home for a change of clothes or shoes. 

LOST AND FOUND

Any lost article found at school is taken to the Lost and Found area.  Clothing is one of the main items that is not claimed. Write your child’s name in sweaters, jackets, caps and lunchboxes for identification in case these items become misplaced.  Articles remaining at the end of the school year are donated to a local charity.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

Problems arise each year because students bring articles that are hazardous to the safety of others, which disrupt the learning environment, or which interfere with school procedures in some way. Such items as toys, radios, cassette players, cards, electronic games, cell phones, etc., if brought to school will be confiscated. Parents are asked to check their children’s book bag(s) for such items before they come to school.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Each year the students at Harper participate in practice tornado and fire drills. The practice of these drills is important to ensure that everyone knows what to do should an emergency situation arise. Below are the procedures that should be followed.

A fire drill shall be held once a month in compliance with the law. The designated routes for evacuation are posted in each classroom.  The signal to evacuate the building is a continuous sounding of the bell. Students and staff should remain in the designated area until notification is given to re-enter the building. In case of a tornado warning, students are to walk into the hall, sit against the wall, and cover their heads. The signal for a tornado warning is shorts blasts of the bell.

BUS CONDUCT

School bus transportation for students is a privilege that may be forfeited for inappropriate behavior. A student is to ride the bus to which he or she is assigned.  Students will be allowed off the bus only at school or designated locations. The bus monitor is in charge of the bus and its occupants en route to and from school. Students riding the bus must comply with the requests of the bus monitor and all bus regulations of the Thomasville City School System.

Rules And Regulations For Students Transported by Thomasville City Schools

All students riding a public school bus for any reason must comply with the following conduct for students during school hours and at school related functions, in a manner that is appropriate to the age of the student:  Students should avoid:

1.       Verbal assault of teachers, administrators, and other school personnel;

2.       Physical assault or battery of teachers, administrators, and other school personnel;

3.       Disrespectful conduct toward teachers, administrators, and other school personnel;

4.       Verbal assault of other students;

5.       Physical assault or battery of other students;

6.       Disrespectful conduct toward other students; and

7.       Verbal assault of, physical assault or battery of, and disrespectful conduct toward persons attending school related functions.

The specific provisions shall include but not be limited to:

(A)     Students shall be prohibited from acts of physical violence as defined by Code Section 20-3-751.6, bullying as defined by subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-751.4, physical assault or battery of other persons on the school bus, verbal assault of other persons on the school bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other persons on the school bus, and other unruly behavior;

(B)     Students shall be prohibited from using any electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, including but not limited to cell phones; pagers, audible radios, tape or compact disc players without headphones; or any other electronic device in a manner that might interfere with the school bus communications equipment or the school bus driver’s operation of the school bus; and

(C)     Students shall be prohibited from using mirrors, lasers, flash cameras, or any other reflective devises in a manner that might interfere with the school bus driver’s operation of the school bus.

(D)     If a student is found to have engaged in physical acts of violence as defined by Code Section 20-3-751.6, the student shall be subject to the penalties set forth in such Code section.  If a student is found to have engaged in bullying as defined by subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-751.4 or in physical assault or battery of another person on the school bus, the local school board policy shall require a meeting of the parent or guardian of the student and appropriate school district officials to form a school bus behavior contract for the student.  Such contract shall provide for progressive age-appropriate discipline, penalties, and restrictions for student misconduct on the bus. Contract provisions may include but shall not be limited to assigned seating, ongoing parental involvement, and suspension from riding the bus.  This subsection is not to be construed to limit the instances when a school code of conduct or local board of education may require use of a student bus behavior contract.

ASBESTOS ABATEMENT PLAN

A copy of the school’s current AHERA Management Plan and AHERA Re-inspection form is on file and available for public view at the school board office.

BICYCLES

Bicycles may be ridden to school by students and parked in the proper place.  Students should use a chain/lock for their bicycle.   Upon entering the school zone, a student must get off his/her bicycle and walk it inside the school area.  When leaving school, bicycles must be walked out of the school zone.

TRAFFIC SAFETY

Parents should not block driveways while waiting to pick up students. DO NOT ASK YOUR CHILD TO RUN ACROSS A DRIVEWAY TO MEET YOU.  This can be very dangerous, and we are requesting that students not do it.   Also, children who walk to school should be encouraged to go directly home upon dismissal from school.

Please help us to prevent the risk of serious injury by carefully adhering to all rules of traffic safety:

•     All students should be dropped off and picked up at their designated areas.  Please do not put your child in a hazardous situation by dropping him/her off in an unauthorized or unsupervised area.  This rule is only intended to prevent serious injury and to ensure the safety of all students.

•     Do not stop to pick up or drop off a child until you have driven to the far end of the pick-up area directly behind the car ahead of you. 

•     Students are not permitted to cross the street unless accompanied by an adult.  Acknowledge and obey the school safety patrols.  Walking students have the right of way.

                            SERVICES FOR STUDENTS

Early Intervention Program (EIP)

The Early Intervention Program is one of Georgia’s educational initiatives to improve student learning.  The primary goal of this program is to offer immediate and direct assistance to help students achieve academic success at their grade level.  Students who do not meet grade-level standards on the Criterion Referenced Competency Tests must be served through EIP.  Classroom teachers may also determine the eligibility of students for participation in EIP through the EIP checklist.  Identified students may receive extra instruction in reading and math through an EIP teacher in a self-contained classroom or a pullout model.

Counseling

The counselor works with individual students, small groups, and large groups.  Topics discussed through classroom guidance activities include study habits, responsibility, self-esteem, conflict resolution, organizational skills, and bullying. 

Student Achievement Pyramid of Interventions:

The Student Achievement Pyramid of Interventions represents the process of continually implementing “progress monitoring” and then providing layers of more and more intensive interventions so that students can be successful and progress in their learning.  There are four tiers of intervention.  Tier 1 is standards based classroom learning.  This is effective instruction that should be happening in all classrooms for all students.  Tier 2 is needs based instruction/learning.  This tier describes pre-planned interventions that should be in place for students who are not being sufficiently successful or adequately challenged with Tier 1 interventions alone.  These interventions are layered in addition to the Tier 1 instruction that is provided.  Tier 3 is student support team driven instruction/learning.  This provides an additional layer of analysis and interventions.  The Student Support Team (SST) meets to discuss students who are still not provided the instructional experiences to meet their needs.  During this process, the team analyzes the specific needs of the individual student.  The team includes the student’s teachers, other personnel, and parents to determine the issues that need to be addressed for the student.  Tier 4 is specially designed instruction/learning and is developed specifically for students who meet the eligibility criteria for special program placement.  Tier 4 provides instruction that is targeted and specialized to meet students’ needs.  This would include formal gifted education services for students who qualify.  It may include special education and related services for eligible students.  Tier 4 does not represent a location for services, but indicates a layer of interventions that may be provided in the general education class or in a separate setting.

Psychological Services:

There are two full time psychologists employed by the Thomasville City Schools.  Psychologists provide direct consultation concerning student learning and behavioral or emotional difficulties, assist with the Pyramid of Interventions, assist in determining eligibility for special education and gifted programs, and also develop in-service programs for the professional staff. 

Special Education Services:

These services (Tier 4) serve all exceptionalities including intellectual disabilities, specific learning disabilities, emotional/behavior disorders, hearing impaired/deaf, vision impaired/blind, orthopedically impaired, other health impaired, autistic, and speech/language impaired.  Services are available for students ages 3 through their 21^st birthday.  Students may need special education services for part of the day or for the whole day based on their needs.  Individual Education Programs (IEPs) are developed by a team that consists of the parent, the special education teacher, the regular education teacher, and a representative from the local education agency (Thomasville City Schools).  The IEP is reviewed annually to determine if the child is making progress and if he/she continues to meet eligibility for these services.

Gifted Services:

These services (Tier 4) are provided for students who have met Gifted eligibility in accordance with state of Georgia rules and regulations.  Services are available for students in kindergarten through 12^th grade.  At the kindergarten and first grade levels, students are served collaboratively.  The school system feels strongly that these students should remain in the regular education setting to develop the strong foundation in basic reading and math skills.  At the second through fifth grade levels, services are provided in a resource setting as well as collaboration in the regular education classroom.  At the middle and high school, services are provided in a resource setting, an advanced content class, and/or collaboration.  All services are in accordance with state approved service models taught by certified gifted instructors and are designed to meet students’ gifted needs.

504 Plans

Students who have a disability that significantly impacts learning but does not require special education services may qualify for a 504 plan.  This plan is collaboratively developed by a team that can include the parent, teachers, guidance counselor and building administrator.  Accommodations are developed to ensure that a child is not discriminated against due to a disability.

MEDICATION POLICY

Ideally, parents should administer medications at home. However, the Thomasville City School System recognizes that students may not be able to attend school without medication(s) prescribed for the treatment of injuries, illness, or chronic conditions. All medication that is to be given to students at school must be in the original bottle, labeled properly, and dated.

Parents or legal guardians who want the school staff to administer the approved non-prescription and prescription medications must complete and sign a copy of the Medication Permission Form that authorizes the school staff to do so. This written permission form will be kept on file by the school staff member who will administer the medication.  Forms may be obtained at the school office or in the nurse’s office.

ILLNESS  

If your child becomes ill at school, we will contact you immediately. If we cannot reach you, we will use the emergency contact information you have provided. Please remember, we cannot keep ill children at school.

HOSPITAL/HOMEBOUND

If a student is likely to be absent from school for 10 days or more as a result of surgery or a non-communicable disease, she/he may be eligible to participate in the Hospital/Homebound Program.  The parents/legal guardian should inform the school as soon as possible.

FREE and REDUCED MEAL PROGRAM

During the first week of school, all students receive an application for free and reduced meals to take home to their parents. Free and reduced meals are available to students based on the completed household application.  Applications should be completed and returned to the school as soon as possible.

Students who received assistance the previous year will continue on the same lunch status for the first two weeks of school.  After the new application is returned and processed, parents/guardians will be notified in writing of the children’s new status.  Students who do not return the Free and Reduced Meal Form by the date designated by the school will have to pay full price for all meals.

Meal Prices

                                    Regular prices:             Breakfast - FREE                     Lunch - $1.00

                                    Reduced prices:                       Breakfast - FREE                     Lunch - $.25

All adults, visitors and 2^nd student meals will be charged as follows:

                                                                        Breakfast                   Lunch

                                    Dine-in                                    $1.75                           $2.75

                                    Take-out                                  $2.00                           $3.50

ELEMENTARY STUDENT CHARGING

Only one week of meal charges will be allowed for students in elementary school.  After that, he/she must bring a meal from home until the deficient balance has been collected.  Students may not charge for any a-la-carte or extra item.  Only reimbursable meals will be allowed for a charge. 

PARENT CONCERNS

The Thomasville Board of Education has a policy for the proper channeling of concerns, questions or problems students or parents have involving personnel, instruction, discipline, learning materials or other school matters.  Each concern or problem is a personal matter and must be settled on an individual basis.  Concerns should come from a parent or guardian about his/her own child.

Step 1.  Make an appointment with the teacher.  The parent or guardian and usually the student should talk with the teacher.  Most questions, concerns or problems can be answered at this level.  If a solution is not found, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2.  Make an appointment with the principal.  The principal will decide whether or not the teacher will attend this meeting.  If a solution is not found, proceed to Step 3.

Step 3.  Make an appointment with the superintendent.  Discuss the concern with the superintendent, who will decide whether or not the principal will attend this meeting.  If a solution is not found, proceed to Step 4.

Step 4.  Request that the superintendent place the matter on the Board of Education Agenda.  The Board recognizes the right of any member of the community to petition the Board for review of a problem as long as the parent has made every effort to resolve the problem at each step.

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)

The PTO is a vital part of our program. We encourage parents to support the PTO by becoming active members. A successful school needs the services of an active PTO.  PTO dues are $3.00 per family and can be paid during the month of August.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS

Our school appreciates the assistance of the parent volunteers who provide support and services to all areas in the school classrooms, media center, and office.  You may phone the school office if you wish to sign up.  If you have the time, we have a job for you.

                                    Teacher Recognition                Classroom Helper                                Room Mother

Reading Volunteer                                 Art Festival                                          Tutorial                          

Mentor                                                   Bulletin Boards                                    Media Center

Landscaping                                           Book Fair                                             Special Projects

PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AGENCIES

AGENCY                                                                                 CONTACT                _____       TELEPHONE

DFACS                                                                                       Explain your “hardship”                         229-225-4005

Salvation Army/Needham House                       Beverly Corley                                                229-226-3772

Red Cross                                                                                   Kristin Riggs                                                229-226-2181

St. Thomas Episcopal Church                            Father Charles Bennett                         229-226-5145

First Baptist Church                                                        Minister Reid Wiley                             229-228-6800

Halcyon Home (Battered Women)                     24-Hour Crisis Line                             229-226-6666

Kids First Program MH/MR/SA                          Carol Cone                                                      229-227-5472

Family & Community Partners                           MR/Behavior Case Mgr.                      229-605-9823

MIDS (Transportation)                                                                                                                           877-247-0914

Food Bank                                                                                                                                                                229-226-4277

Part II

DISCIPLINE

Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS)

Positive Behavior Interventions and Support is Harper’s school-wide discipline plan.  The purpose of the plan is to teach, support and recognize appropriate student behavior throughout the school in an effort to maintain a safe and orderly environment that is conducive for optimal learning.  Core components of Harper’s PBIS Plan include clearly defined student behavior expectations, rules, rewards, consequences and established procedures to improve consistency among school staff and elevate levels of supervision.  Responsibilities for students, staff members and school administrators are outlined.  The plan also serves as a tool for behavior problem-solving, a method for evaluating the performance of the school-wide discipline plan, and a means of identifying aspects of the plan that need to be improved and/or modified over time.

PBIS Mission Statement

The mission of Harper Elementary School is to use Positive Behavior Interventions and Support to teach students how to make appropriate choices to avoid conflicts and accept responsibility for their behavior.

Harper’s Core Expectations

·         Do the right thing.

·         Treat others the way you want to be treated.

·         Be responsible.

School-wide/Classroom Rules

Please see PBIS Behavior Matrix on the following page.

Positive Behavior Interventions and Support

School/Classroom Matrix

1.         Staff members will minimize the unauthorized use (abuse) of the Time Out Room.  School-wide rules are established to govern the assignment of students to the Time-Out Room.

2.         Teachers are expected to communicate and display clear expectations and rules inside the classrooms and at strategic locations in the halls, cafeteria, etc.

3.         Staff members are expected to teach and re-teach rules and procedures.  They will practice, demonstrate, and reinforce rules and procedures as necessary.

4.         Teachers are expected to communicate with parents in a timely fashion.

5.         Teachers are expected to maintain a well-organized classroom environment.  All staff members are expected to implement rules and procedures consistent with Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (BPIS) and be prepared to manage disruptive behaviors.

6.         Teachers are expected to plan appropriate learning activities and be knowledgeable of content.  Effective use of instructional time use is essential to good discipline.

7.         Teachers are expected to implement their classroom management plan consistently from day to day.

1.         Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is conducive to learning and in a manner that does not interfere with the teacher’s right to teach or other students’ right to learn.

2.         Students are expected to follow all school rules and procedures before, during and after school.

3.         Students are expected to accept responsibility for personal choices.

4.         Students are expected to be respectful and polite to self, staff members and their peers. They are expected to show appreciation for diversity and differences in others.

5.         Students are expected to be respectful of school property.

6.         Students are expected to use good manners.

7.         Students are expected to leave gum, candy, toys, and other unacceptable items at home.

8.         Students are expected to attend school regularly and come to school on time.

9.         Students are expected to help keep the school safe and clean.

10.     Students are expected to be active participants in the learning process. Do their best.

11.     Students are expected to report to school officials any illegal activity involving drugs and/or weapons.

1.         Parents are expected to sign and return the “Parent-School Compacts” that are printed in the Student Handbook.

2.         Parents are expected to require their children to be punctual and to attend school daily.  They are also expected to make sure that their children attend school during all testing opportunities.

3.         Parents are expected to sign-in and receive an appropriate visitor’s pass before visiting classrooms. NO EXCEPTIONS.  Parents should not interrupt instruction.

4.         Parents are expected to sign and return all required school correspondence in a timely manner.  Progress reports and report cards should be signed by parents and returned to the homeroom teachers.    

5.         Parents are expected to monitor student dress and reinforce the dress code of Harper/Thomasville City Schools.

6.         Parents are expected to teach and model respect and responsibility at home.

7.         Parents are expected to cooperate fully with teachers, principals, and other school staff members and to encourage their children to follow all school rules.

8.         Parents/guardians assume legal responsibility for the behavior of their children as determined by law and community practice.

9.         Parents are expected to provide the school with up-to-date phone numbers in case contacting a parent becomes necessary.  They are also expected to provide changes of address and pick up authorization.

10.     Parents are expected to participate in parent-teacher conferences as requested.

11.     Parents are expected to become meaningfully involved in their children’s school experience (monitoring homework, study time, attending school functions, etc.)  Parents should make sure all homework and projects are returned to school.

12.     If parents experience a problem with a teacher or staff member, they should avoid criticizing school officials in front of their children.  Instead, they should make an appointment and speak with the appropriate adult.

13.     Parents are expected to follow established guidelines for addressing any concerns they may have about their children and school matters.  Please see Parent Concerns on page 24 of this handbook.

Thomasville City Schools

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Code of Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places:

·         At school or on school property at any time:

·         Off school grounds at any school activity, functions or events and while traveling to and from such events;

·         On vehicles provided for student transportation by the school system.

Rule 1A-Disruption and Interference with School - No student shall:

(a)      occupy any school building, gymnasium, school grounds, properties or part thereof with intent to deprive others of its use;

(b)      block the entrance or exit of any school building, property, corridor or room thereof so as to deprive others access thereto;

(c)      set fire to or otherwise damage any school building or property;

(d)      discharge, display or otherwise threateningly use any firearms, explosives or other weapons on school premises;

(e)      prevent the convening or continued functioning of any school, class, activity, lawful meeting or assembly on school campus;

(f)       prevent students from attending a class or school activity;

(g)      except under the direct instruction of the principal, block normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic on a school campus or adjacent grounds;

(h)      continuously and intentionally make noise or act in any other manner so as to interfere seriously with the teacher’s ability to conduct his/her class;

(i)        in any other manner, by the use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or any other conduct, intentionally cause the disruption of any lawful mission, process or function;

(j)        refuse to identify himself/herself upon request of any teacher;

(k)      activate a fire alarm under false pretense.           

Rule 2A-Damage, Destruction or Theft of School Property

A student shall not damage, destroy, dispose of or steal school property.

Rule 3A-Damage, Destruction or Theft of Private Property

A student shall not damage, destroy, dispose of or steal private property, either on the school grounds or during a school activity, function or event off school grounds.

Rule 4A-Assault and/or Battery of a Student

A student shall not cause physical injury to or behave in such a way as could reasonably be expected to cause physical injury to any student or make oral or written threatening, harassing, or intimidating remarks or symbolic gestures toward any student, which threatens the safety or well-being of that student or have the likelihood of provoking a fight.  This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

 4A - Assault and/or Battery

A student shall not cause physical injury to or behave in such a way as could reasonably be expected to cause physical injury to any person:

(a)      on any school grounds during and immediately before and immediately after school hours;

(b)      on any school grounds or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group,

(c)      off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event, or

(d)       en-route to and from school.

CODE OF CONDUCT (Continued)

Assault:  Any threat or attempt to physically harm another person or any act, which reasonably places another person in fear of physical harm. (Example:  threatening language or swinging at someone in an attempt to strike)

Battery:  Intentionally making physical contact with another person in an insulting, offensive, or provoking manner or in a way that physically harms the other person. (Example:  fighting)

Rule 4B-Assault and/or Battery of a School Employee or Non-Employee

A student shall not cause physical injury to or behave in such a way as could reasonably be expected to cause physical injury to a school employee or non-employee or make oral or written contact, threatening, harassing, or intimidating remarks or symbolic gestures to, or in the presence of, a school employee, or non-employee, which threatens the safety or well-being of the employee or non-employee.  This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(a)      on any school grounds during and immediately before and immediately after school hours;      

(b)      on any school grounds or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group,

(c)      off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event,

(d)      en route to and from school,       

(e)      oral threat/intimidation,

(f)       written threat,

(g)      symbolic gestures,

(h)      bullying,

(i)        insult,

(j)        use of vulgar or profane language directed toward an employee or non-employee,

(k)      ethnic slur,

(l)        racial slur,

(m)    sexual slur,

(n)       religious slur,

(o)       harassment,

(p)      sexual harassment,

(q)      disrespectful conduct, and

(r)       arguing.

Non-Employee: An individual visiting the campus as a volunteer, substitute teacher, or any other authorized individual on the school premises.

Assault: Any threat or attempt to physically harm another person or any act, which reasonably places another person in fear of physical harm. (Example: threatening language or swinging at someone in an attempt to strike)

Battery: Intentionally making physical contact with another person in an insulting, offensive, or provoking manner or in a way that physically harms the other person. (Example: fighting)

5A - Weapons and Dangerous Instruments

A student shall not possess, handle, or transmit any object that reasonably can be considered a dangerous weapon, or use any object in such a manner which reasonably might be expected to cause injury to another person:

(a)      on any school grounds during and immediately before and immediately after school hours;

(b)      on any school grounds or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group,

(c)      off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event, or

(d)      en route to and from school.

CODE OF CONDUCT (Continued)

6A - Narcotics, Alcoholic Beverages, and Stimulant Drugs

A student shall not possess, sell, use, transmit, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind:

(a)       on any school grounds during and immediately before and immediately after school hours;

(b)       on any school grounds or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group,

(c)        off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event, or

(d)       en route to and from school.

(e)        Appropriate use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription from a registered physician shall not be considered a violation of this rule.

7A - Disregard of Directions/Commands or Uncooperative Behavior

A student shall not fail to comply with lawful directions (verbal and written) or commands of any principal, teacher, student teacher, substitute teacher, teacher aide, school bus driver, or other person in a position of authority within the school system when:

(a)       on any school grounds during and immediately before and immediately after school hours;

(b)       on any school grounds or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group,

(c)        off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event, or

(d)       en route to and from school.

8A - Disrespect Toward School Authorities

A student shall not behave with disrespect toward any principal, assistant principal, teacher, student teacher, substitute teacher, paraprofessional, school bus driver, or other person in a position of authority with the school system.

9A - Unexcused Absences

A student shall not be absent from school or from any class or other required school function during required school hours except for illness, religious holidays, death in the family, or other providential cause, except with written permission of the teachers, principal or other fully authorized school official.

10A - Dress & Grooming

A student shall not dress, groom, or wear emblems, insignias, badges, or other symbols where the effect thereof is to distract unreasonably the attention of other students or otherwise to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school.  The principal or other duly authorized school official shall determine whether any particular mode of dress, apparel, grooming or use of emblems, insignias, badges, or other symbols results in such interference or disruption as to violate this rule.

Rule 11A - Extortion

A student shall not communicate a threat to another student with the intention of extorting anything of value or any advantage or benefit for himself/herself or another person.

Rule 12A - Forgery

A student shall not sign the name of any person or any fictitious person to any document, which is to be submitted to any school official with the intention of gaining any benefit or advantage for the student signing the document or for any other student.

13A - Vulgar and/or Profane Language

A student shall not use vulgar and/or profane language/materials (this includes written verbal or non-verbal expressions and possession of pornography in any form) on school property or in the vicinity thereof.

14A - Attempts

A student shall not attempt to violate any of the substantive rules contained herein.

 CODE OF CONDUCT (Continued)

15A - Encouraging Others to Violate Rules

A student shall not encourage, urge or counsel others to violate any of the substantive rules contained herein.

16A - Smoking

Smoking is not permitted for any student.  The use, possession, distribution, and sale of tobacco products on school property, at school functions, on school buses, or at extracurricular/co-curricular activities is prohibited.

17A - Electronic Pagers and Communication Devices

Possession of an electronic communication device is permitted but should not be visible, heard or used during the school day or inside the school building.

18A - Extracurricular Activities During Suspension

Students who have been suspended from school will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities or to attend any school-sponsored events during the period of suspension.  The Board of education may also place on probation a student who is re-admitted to school following suspension or expulsion.  The terms of probation will be determined on an individual basis.

19A - Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment of one student to another or from a student to an adult is prohibited.  It is a violation of state and federal law for any person to sexually harass any other person.  Sexual harassment is defined as…unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of sexual or sexually oriented nature by anyone, including students.

20A - Gang Related Activity

A student shall not participate in any gang-related activity.

21A - Sexual Misconduct

A student shall not engage in physical sexual activity on school property or at school sponsored events.  A student shall not be in possession of any sexually oriented device or material.

22A - Discriminatory Behavior

Any behavior based on a student's race, national origin, sex or disability that is unwelcome, unwanted, and/or uninvited by the recipient is prohibited, including verbal or non-verbal taunting, or physical contact.

23A - Bullying

A student shall not bully another student or school employee.  Bullying is defined as:

1.         Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so; or

2.         Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm.

Rule 24A-Repeated Violations/Misbehavior/Chronic Disciplinary Problem Students

Students who chronically disrupt or repeatedly violate other school rules may be charged with repeated violations of school rules or misbehavior.  This rule applies after remediation attempts, including the development and implementation of a student disciplinary and behavioral corrective plan have been unsuccessful.  The student and parent must be notified in advance that further violations will lead to a RULE 24A charge pending a disciplinary tribunal hearing which may result in long-term suspension or expulsion.  

PARENTS’ LIABILITY

Under House Bill 1450, passed by the 1982 Georgia General Assembly, “parents and guardians of minor children will be liable for their willful or malicious damage to school property up to $5,000 plus court costs.”

STUDENT RIGHTS

A policy manual of the Thomasville City Board of Education listing student rights in disciplinary matters is available in all schools.  The Student Discipline Policy includes the right to notification of parents and hearing appeals.

SEARCHING STUDENTS

Student Interrogations and Searches Policy JCAB

Any student may be searched with a duly issued warrant.  Any student may be searched without a warrant where there is reasonable suspicion and circumstances make it impractical to secure a warrant.  (Example:  Where a student is obviously under the influence of drugs, or where school officials have reasonably reliable reports or reasonable suspicion that the student possesses drugs and/or dangerous weapons and the student could get away if the authorities delayed to get a warrant.)

Other conditions under which school authorities would be acting properly in searching a student or his possessions without a warrant are:

·            if the student has consented;

·            if the contraband item is in plain view;

·            if the evidence or contraband is discovered while responding to an emergency;

·            if the official has reasonable suspicions to believe the individual is armed and dangerous; and

·            in all other circumstances where the school official acts to protect the life and property and health of students, teachers, or other individuals.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

O.C.G.A. 20-2-751.7 (a) The Professional Standards Commission shall establish a state mandated process for students to follow in reporting instances of alleged inappropriate behavior by a teacher, administrator, or other school employee toward a student which shall not prohibit the ability of a student to report the incident to  law enforcement authorities.  Each local school system shall be required to implement and follow such state mandated process and shall include the mandated process in student handbooks and in employee handbooks or policies.

Student Reporting of Acts of Sexual Abuse or Sexual Misconduct

a.         Any student (or parent or friend of a student) who has been the victim of an act of sexual abuse or sexual misconduct by a teacher, administrator or other school system employees is urged to make an oral report of the act to any teacher, counselor or administrator at his/her school.

b.         Any teacher, counselor or administrator receiving a report of sexual abuse or sexual misconduct of a student by a teacher, administrator or other employee shall make an oral report of the incident immediately by telephone or otherwise to the school principal or principal’s designee, and shall submit a written report of the incident to the school principal or principal’s designee within 24 hours.  If the principal is the person accused of the sexual abuse or sexual misconduct, the oral and written reports should be made to the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee.

c.         Any school principal or principal’s designee receiving a report of sexual abuse as defined in O.C.G.A. 19-7-5 shall make an oral report immediately, but in no case later than 24 hours from the time there is reasonable cause to believe a child has been abused.  The report should be made by telephone and followed by a written report in writing, if requested, to a child welfare agency providing protective services, as designated by the Department of Human Resources, or, in the absence of such agency, to an appropriate police authority or district attorney.

Reports of acts of sexual misconduct against a student by a teacher, administrator or other employee not covered by O.C.G.A. 19-7-5 or 20-2-1184 shall be investigated immediately by school or system personnel.  If the investigation of the allegation of sexual misconduct indicates a reasonable cause to believe that the report of sexual misconduct is valid, the school principal or principal’s designee shall make an immediate written report to the  superintendent and the Professional Standards Commission Ethics Division.

Annual Notice About Your Rights Under the

FAMILY AND EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

FERPA gives parents, guardians, and students 18 years of age and older certain rights concerning school records. These rights are listed below.

1.         As a parent or guardian you have a right to review your child’s school records, and those persons 18 years and older have a right to review their school records. To review the records, you should give the principal a written request listing the records that you wish to see. The principal must allow you to see the records within 45 days from receiving your request.

2.         As a parent or guardian you have the right to request changes in your child’s school records if you believe the records to be inaccurate, misleading, or that they violate your privacy rights. If you are a student age 18 years or older, you may also request changes in your record if you believe the records to be inaccurate, misleading, or they violate your privacy rights. To change school records, you must notify the school principal in writing which information you wish changed and why you think it should be changed. If the principal agrees with the request, the records will be changed. If the principal disagrees with the request, a hearing may be requested with the Superintendent.

3.         Some of the information in your child’s school records are not confidential and may be released without your consent. This information is known as "directory information."  Directory information includes the following:

·           full legal name, address, and telephone listing

·           the image or likeness in pictures, videotape, film, or other medium

·           dates of attendance

·           major field of study

·           participation in officially recognized sports and activities

·           height and weight of athletic team members

·           degrees and awards received

·           most recent educational institution attended

·           subsequent educational institution attended

·           academic work intended for publication or display

4.         Military recruiters and institutions of higher education are entitled under federal law to a list of names, addresses, and telephone numbers of high school students unless you object to such release.

5.         Both parents have a right to see the school records of their child unless there is a certified copy of a court order on file at the school that specifically denies the right to access school records. Copies of school records are available and the school has an option to charge a minimal copying fee.  If you have any questions about these rights, please contact the school office.

Annual Notice About Your Rights Under the

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)

PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:

•Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)–

1.        Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

2.        Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;

3.        Sex behavior or attitudes;

4.        Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

5.        Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;

6.        Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;

7.        Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or

8.        Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

• Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

1.        Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;

2.        Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and

3.        Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

1.        Protected information surveys of students;

2.        Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and

3.        Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.

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

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW          

Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

If you do not want directory information released, or if you do not want your child to participate in surveys, please complete the form included in this packet and return to your child’s homeroom teacher. This form must be received no later than August 27, 2010.

NONDISCLOSURE OF

STUDENT INFORMATION AND SURVEY

PARTICIPATION FORM

If you do not want directory information released, or if you do not want your child to participate in surveys, please complete this form and return to your child’s teacher.

Name of Student:           ___________________________________________

School:       ____________________________________________________

Date of Birth:       ___________________________

______       I refuse permission for the release of any directory information.

______       I refuse permission for participation in any surveys.

________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature                                  

_____________________________________

Date

Each school is to keep the original signed form in the student’s permanent record folder and a copy of this form is to be forwarded to the Director of Student Services, Thomasville City Schools, 915 East Jackson Street, Thomasville, Georgia  31792.

Harper Elementary School

Please sign and return this form to your child’s teacher.

In order to provide the most effective communication to parents regarding activities and/or resources for your child, various information is presented in an annual student handbook.  Our desire is to involve parents in the education of their children.  We want parents to understand the daily activities of the school and the expected behavior for their child (ren) while they are at school, attending a school function or are in route to a school related function.

Your signature below indicates that you have reviewed the Student Handbook and understand its contents.  Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school at 225-2622 for an appointment with the principal or the principal’s designee.

Student Name: ______________________________      Grade:     _____________

Parent Signature: ____________________________      Date: ______________

All Students must comply with the disciplinary policies and procedures that are printed in the Thomasville City School System Code of Conduct Handbook. A copy of these policies and procedures is included in this handbook for you to review. 

2010 – 2011

School – Student – Parent

COMPACT

(Please sign and return this form to your child’s teacher.)

As a teacher, I will…

•  Believe that each student can learn;   •  show respect for each child and his/her family;  •  provide an environment conducive to learning;  •  help each child grow to his/her fullest potential;  •  provide meaningful and appropriate homework;  • enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently;  •  maintain open lines of communication with student and their parents;  •  demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude.

As a Student, I will…

•  Attend school daily and arrive on time;  •  read at home and at school everyday;  •  always put forth my best efforts in class;  •  obey the rules of CLAWS;  •  work cooperatively with my classmates, teachers, and other school staff;  •  show respect for myself, my school and other people;  •   come to school with my homework and my supplies;  •  believe that I can learn and will learn.

As a Parent/Guardian, I will…

• Make sure that my child attends school daily and is on time; • provide a quiet place at home  that will enable my child to study;  •  work with my child to see that all homework assignments  are completed; •  communicate regularly with my child’s teacher(s) about his/her progress; •  support the school in developing positive behaviors; •   show respect and support for my child, the teacher, and the school

As the Principal, I will….

• Provide a safe and orderly environment that is conducive to learning; •  assist teachers in providing high quality instruction; •  provide an environment that allows for positive communication among  teachers, parents, and students; •  maintain an open door policy.


 

Teacher:  _______________________________________    Date: ______________________

Student:  _______________________________________     Date: ______________________

Parent:   _______________________________________      Date: ______________________

Principal:  _______________________________________   Date: __________________