James Russell Lowell
Elementary School
Family Handbook
2006 – 2007
September 2006
Ms. Darilyn Donovan
PRINCIPAL
We Touch the Lives of Children
Table of Contents
IMPORTANT INFORMATION .................................................................................................... 3
GENERAL INFORMATION......................................................................................................... 4
EXPECTATIONS........................................................................................................................... 5
YOUR CHILD’S DAY................................................................................................................... 6
ACADEMICS ................................................................................................................................. 8
POLICIES & PROCEDURES – ATTENDANCE ....................................................................... 10
POLICIES & PROCEDURES – BEHAVIOR ............................................................................. 13
POLICIES & PROCEDURES – HEALTH.................................................................................. 17
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ........................................................................................ 19
PARENT CONTACT PROCEDURE .......................................................................................... 20
GETTING INVOLVED................................................................................................................ 22
STAFF DIRECTORY, PHONE & EMAIL ADDRESSES.......................................................... 24
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Principal: Ms. Darilyn Donovan
Address: 175 Orchard Street, Watertown, MA 02472
Main Office Telephone Number: 617-926-7770
Main Office Fax Number: 617-926-2676
Main Office Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, staffed by Diane Foote-Ferrigno
Principal’s Email: [email protected]
Watertown Public Schools Website: www.watertown.k12.ma.us
School Nurse: Katherine Taverna RN: 617-923-6475, Fax Number: 617-924-4191
Guidance Counselor: Veronica Knight: 617-923-6266
Special Ed Team Chair/Behavior Specialist: Greg Roberts: 617-923-6266
School Cafeteria: 617-926-7771
Kids-In-Common after school program: 617-926-1157
Lowell Extended Day Program: 617-926-7779
Courses for Kids after school programs, Rita Foglia: 617-926-7764
Parent-Teacher Organization, Laura Demore 06-07 President: 617-926-2644
Lowell School Site Council: [email protected]
School is in Session:
Kindergarten/Pre-K: 8:10 AM to 2:25 PM (on early release days, release at 12:10 PM)
1st to 5th Grade:
8:15 AM to 2:30 PM (on early release days, release at 12:15 PM)
Children must be in their classroom by 8:20 to avoid being marked tardy.
Weather Closing Info: TV Channels 4, 5, 7; WBZ Radio 1030; www.watertown.k12.ma.us
Changes in Emergency Contact Information
Please notify the main office immediately whenever there is any change in your child’s
emergency contact information. This includes:
• Change of address
• Change of home phone number
• Change in parent/guardian work or cell phone numbers
• Changes in emergency contact person (neighbor, relative, or friend) and/or phone number
• Change in parent’s email address
Dismissal Plans
It is very important that we are aware of the plan you have made for your child at dismissal. We
want to be sure we have the best information and that all plans are sanctioned by you. We know
your contacts, but we need the actual plan, i.e. “My child may walk to our home independently.”
Read and fill out the following form, sign that you are in agreement and return it to school by
September 14th. We will keep this plan on file should questions arise. In the event that your
regular plan changes, I would ask you to fill out a revised form for the file. On days when your
dismissal plan changes, for that day only, please send a signed note to your child’s teacher.
Thanks for your help in this important aspect of ensuring the children’s safety.
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
GENERAL INFORMATION
Welcome to J.R. Lowell Elementary School
Welcome to the James Russell Lowell Elementary School! We are committed to achievement for
ALL students through high expectations of students and staff, a strong academic focus on state
standards, grade level outcomes and collaboration between home and school.
The Lowell School is a school of possibilities. We are dedicated to assuring a superior
educational environment that promotes success for ALL our students. Please read the handbook
carefully, review it with your child(ren) and keep it handy as a reference. We hope it is helpful
to you as you navigate the school community.
Should you have any questions please feel free to give me a call or drop me an e-mail. Good
communication is the key to our success.
Dari Donovan, Principal
Mission Statement
The Lowell School, with the active involvement of its families and neighbors, seeks to provide a
supportive learning environment which fosters academic excellence, encourages individual and
collaborative endeavors, and promotes social responsibility and respect for diversity. We seek to
support students in developing the knowledge, skills and attitudes that will serve them well in
their lifetime. This requires all the abilities to effectively engage and contribute to society as
they know it, and the imagination and sense of activism to change it for the better.
Profile of the School
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5
Number of students: 405
Average class size: 19.29
Student Body Diversity: There are 27 different languages spoken in the homes of our students
History of the James Russell Lowell School
The James Russell Lowell School opened in September 1927. It was named after James Russell
Lowell, poet and United States Ambassador to England and, at a later date, Spain. As trustee of
his wife’s estate, James Russell Lowell deeded to the Town of Watertown a parcel of land to be
used as a school. The original James Russell Lowell School location is now the site of the North
Branch Library. When it became necessary to build the present larger school, the name of the
school was retained. In 1996, an addition was built and the old part of the building was
renovated.
James Russell Lowell lived near Longfellow House in Cambridge but made frequent visits to
Watertown, as his wife Maria Lowell was a Watertown native. His description of a winter brook
in “The Vision of Sir Launfal” is said to have been inspired by a brook in Watertown.
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
EXPECTATIONS
Elementary school education is most effective if a partnership is achieved among students,
families, teachers and administrators. Within that partnership, there exists recognition and
respect for the fundamental role of responsible family members in the education of the student. A
student'
s family brings to the partnership valuable knowledge and wisdom about the student as
well as insights to the family culture and history. Some ways of creating an effective partnership
between home and school are listed below:
Students:
• Strive to do their best in school.
• Take responsibility to complete homework on time
• Take pride in their work and conduct.
• Respect the rights of peers and adult authority.
• Obey school rules and regulations.
• Ask for help or assistance when needed.
Teachers:
• Respect each student as an individual.
• Maintain an effective learning environment.
• Exhibit qualities of competence, creativity, self-control, and professionalism.
• Inspire and motivate students to strive for excellence.
• Implement school department rules and regulations.
• Guide students toward the development of self-discipline.
• Communicate in a timely and effective manner with administrators and parents.
Responsible Family Members:
• Ensure your student arrives well rested, properly dressed, and fed a good breakfast.
• Drop off and pick up your student on time for school.
• Instill in your student respect for peers and for adult authority.
• Exhibit qualities of patience, support, and self-control.
• Reinforce in your student the importance of completing assignments on time.
• Encourage your student to always do their best.
• Support school rules and regulations.
• Communicate in a timely manner with administrators and teachers.
• Alert school staff to any significant situations or incidents involving your student.
• Demonstrate support for your student’s school by becoming actively involved in school.
Administrators:
• Provide leadership in the schools by example.
• Observe and evaluate teacher performance.
• Communicate in a timely and effective manner with staff members and family members.
• Implement school department rules and regulations.
• Foster an atmosphere of respect and achievement in the schools.
• Facilitate development of individual students.
• Facilitate staff development.
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
YOUR CHILD’S DAY
Morning Arrival
Teachers are on supervision duty at each entrance door beginning at 8:05 AM. Should you and
your student arrive prior to 8:05 AM, we ask that you remain and provide supervision until that
time.
•
In the event of rain:
• In the event of rain, a sign will be posted on the entrance door.
• Teachers on supervision duty will greet students at Doors #1 and #6.
• Teachers on supervision duty will be in the cafeteria and the second floor hallway.
• Kindergarten/Pre-K, Grades 1 and 2 will line up in the cafeteria.
• Grades 3, 4, and 5 will line up in the second floor hallway, near the elevator.
• Parents are requested to not stand in the line up areas inside the building.
•
For students who eat breakfast in school:
• Students enter the cafeteria door at 7:45 AM.
•
For parents dropping off children at school:
• Lowell Street is closed from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM and is reserved for authorized
use only.
• If you are driving your child to school: Please consider the safety of our children
who are walking nearby. Please do not block traffic or driveways, and pull your
car clear of others before stopping.
• Parents are not allowed to park, or wait in their cars, in the school parking lots.
Exception: Parents with handicap permits are allowed to park in handicap
parking spaces.
Start of the Day
• All students must be in their classroom by 8:20 AM or they will be marked tardy.
• Students arriving after 8:20 AM need to sign in at the front office, entering by the front
door. All other doors will be locked at 8:15 AM.
• Students begin their day with Morning Meeting. This part of the day is essential in
establishing community and orienting students to the day. When children are late it is
often difficult for them to assimilate into the classroom culture.
• Students and classroom schedules may vary, but all classes are exposed to reading,
writing, mathematics, science and social studies curriculum.
• Each day, the entire class attends a special class outside of the classroom. The specials
consist of Art, Music, Library/Technology and Physical Education, for about 40 minutes.
September 2006
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Recess
• Recess is an important part of the school program, and children are sent outdoors for
recess except in the most inclement weather. Recess provides students with opportunities
to exercise, get some fresh air, and socialize.
• Depending on the class schedule, recess is either immediately before or after lunch.
• Make sure your child comes to school dressed appropriately for the weather. During the
winter, please send your child in with a winter coat, boots, gloves, a hat, and snow pants
for younger children. During wet weather, please send your child in with a raincoat with
hood or a hat, and appropriate shoes.
Lunch
• The Lowell School has three lunch periods each day, arranged by grade. The lunch period
lasts for 45 minutes, with 20 - 24 minutes for eating and the remainder for recess.
• Students can bring lunch from home or purchase lunch at school. The cafeteria provides a
menu that includes a variety of hot entrees prepared each day, sandwiches, salads, and
snacks, as well as milk. Menus will be sent home monthly.
• Students may bring cash to pay for lunch, or parents may buy lunch and milk tickets in
advance by sending a check made out to “Watertown Public Schools” in an envelope
marked with the student’s name, the teacher’s name, and the notation “lunch tickets.”
• Free and reduced priced meals are provided for those who qualify. Forms are available in
the main office at any time, or call 617-926-7756. They are sent home at the beginning
of each school year. Families must re-apply each year for eligibility.
Afternoon Dismissal
Teachers will provide supervision of their students to the space directly outside the exit door.
We ask that all families fill out and return a dismissal plan, that will be kept on file and allow
teachers and school personnel to be aware of your arrangements. Please update the plan with
long-term changes as they occur. If your plan changes for the day only, please send in a written
note to the teacher.
• Be punctual about picking up your child. If your child is not picked up by 2:40, the child
will be sent to the main office, and the parents and emergency contacts will be called. At
2:45, the child will be sent to the Lowell Extended Day Program, and the parent will be
required to pay the daily drop-in fee.
• Students are required to leave the building unless they are involved in an activity
supervised by a teacher or staff member. We encourage all students to take part in one of
our supervised after school programs.
• For parents picking up children at school: Lowell Street is closed from 7:00 AM to 4:00
PM and is reserved for authorized use only.
• If you are picking your child up at school: Consider the safety of our children who are
walking nearby. Do not block traffic, and pull your car clear of others before stopping.
• Parents should not enter the building at the end of the day, even during inclement
weather. After dismissal, doors will remain locked for the safety of our school
community.
• Parents are not allowed to park, or wait in their cars, in the school parking lots.
Exception: Parents with handicap permits are allowed to park in handicap parking
spaces in the school parking lot.
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ACADEMICS
Open House
Parents and guardians are strongly urged to attend this important event held in the fall, as it will
give you a first-hand opportunity to see what your child will be doing during the school year. It
is most effective when just parents and teachers can have this time together.
Grade Level Outcomes
The curriculum for each grade - what your child will be taught – is governed by state standards.
Refer to the Massachusetts Department of Education website www.doe.mass.edu for more
information. The Watertown Public School Department interprets these standards, and produces
Grade Level Outcomes that describe the skills that each student must be able to demonstrate by
the end of each school year. The Grade Level Outcomes may be downloaded from the website,
www.watertown.k12.ma.us.
Performance Indicators and Report Cards
Performance Indicators are based on student performance in class as well as homework and
project completion outside the classroom. Report cards will be distributed in January and June.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
In the late fall and early spring, a conference is scheduled with parents of each student to discuss
progress. It is very important to your child’s progress that you attend. You will meet with your
child’s teacher and any applicable specialists to discuss strengths and areas for improvement.
Additional conferences may be scheduled by parents or teachers as needed throughout the year.
Textbooks and Other Borrowed Materials
During the year, students may have access to textbooks, other books, and materials. These items
should be cared for and returned to the school in good condition. Students will need to pay for
replacement books or materials that have been lost or damaged.
Extra Help
Many students, at some point in their school career, may require extra help in academics. Do
not be alarmed, just be proactive. Make an appointment with your child’s teacher first. Be sure
you understand the difficulty. Together with the teacher make a plan to address the issue. Many
times small adjustments at home or at school can make a world of difference. There are also
many other options to explore in school and after school to assist your child in making academic
progress.
September 2006
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Testing
Standardized testing is required by state law (1993 Education Reform Act) and federal law (No
Child Left Behind Act of 2002) in Grades 3, 4, and 5. A student’s successful performance on the
MCAS is required to obtain a high school diploma. A portion of the Watertown Public School’s
state and federal funding depends on the successful performance of its students on the MCAS
exams.
The MCAS tests take place over the course of several weeks in March, April, and May. Please
do not schedule family vacations during the testing windows. More information on the
MCAS may be obtained on the Massachusetts Department of Education website at
http://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/. Your child’s MCAS results will be sent home, along with
explanatory material when they are released from the DOE.
In addition, ESL students are tested annually for both written and oral English proficiency. More
information may be obtained on the Massachusetts Department of Education website at
http://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/epa/.
Withdrawal of Students
Students moving from Watertown to another community will be processed through the
principal’s office. A Massachusetts Transfer Card will be issued and a Record Release Form
signed so that student records may be forwarded to the receiving school upon request.
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
POLICIES & PROCEDURES – ATTENDANCE
Attendance
Students are expected to be present and punctual for all classes. The Massachusetts Department
of Education has strict guidelines on attendance, and state and federal funding to the Watertown
Public Schools is tied to attendance.
School Attendance: Chapter 76, Section 1 of the Massachusetts General Laws states that all
children between the ages of six and sixteen must attend school. A school district may excuse up
to seven day sessions or fourteen half day sessions in any period of six months. In addition to
this law, each school may have its own attendance policy with which parents and guardians
should be familiar.
Parental Responsibility: M.G.L. Chapter 76, Section 2 states that every parent or guardian of a
child shall cause him or her to attend school as required, and, if he or she fails so to do for seven
day sessions or fourteen half day sessions within any period of six months, he or she shall, on
complaint by a supervisor of attendance, be punished by a fine.
Inducing Absences: M.G.L. Chapter 76, Section 4 states that it is a crime to induce a minor to
miss school, or unlawfully to employ or to harbor a minor who should be in school.
Supervisor of Attendance: M.G.L. Chapter 76, Section 20 empowers a school department
employee who may apprehend and take to school without a warrant any truant or absentee found
wandering in the streets or public places.
Dismissal
Parents are requested to be punctual about picking up their children after school.
• Students in Kindergarten/Pre-K are dismissed by their teacher. Teachers will only
release a child to a parent/guardian or other authorized adult.
• Students in grades 1 to 5 may leave school unaccompanied if a release form has been
submitted to the main office with the child’s dismissal plan.
• On days when your dismissal plan changes, for that day only, please send a signed note
to your child’s teacher.
Important Information About Late Pick-Up:
Parents, guardians or other designees are expected to pick up their children at the close of school
at 2:30 PM on full days and 12:15 on Early Release days. If a child is not picked up by 2:40 PM,
the child will be taken to the school’s office. A phone call will be placed to the home, work or
emergency numbers in an effort to make contact. If a child is not picked up by 2:45 PM, the
child will be placed in the Lowell Extended Day Program, where the appropriate supervision will
be provided for safety. A late fee of $10.00 will be charged for the first 15 minutes and $10.00
for each additional 15 minutes or part thereof. This fee is due at time of pick-up.
September 2006
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Transportation
The Lowell School is a neighborhood school. Students and parents are encouraged to walk to
and from school.
Crossing Guards
Crossing guards are on duty before school starting at 7:50 AM and at dismissal time starting at
2:20 PM. Locations are determined by the school principal in consultation with the police
department. Students should be advised to go to the following locations for crossing guard
assistance:
George Street & Fuller Road
Lowell Avenue & York Avenue
Orchard Street & Carroll Street
Orchard Street & Lexington Street
Orchard Street & Waverley Avenue
Snow Days and Delayed Openings
State law requires 180 days of instruction, and also requires that any snow days be made up
before June 30th.
Snow days and delayed openings are listed on the website
www.watertown.k12.ma.us, and also broadcast on the following radio and television stations:
WCVB Television (Channel 5)
WHDH Television (Channel 7)
WBZ Television (Channel 4) and Radio (AM 1030)
Cable Television Service - If available, check the local community channel
WBUR Web site - part of National Public Broadcasting (Radio - FM 90.9),
Announcements usually begin between 6:00 and 6:30 AM. All parents and students are urged to
depend on the above communication services. PLEASE DO NOT CALL the School Department,
Police Department, or Fire Department for school cancellation information as these lines must
remain open for emergency situations
On days of delayed opening, school will open up to two hours after the regularly scheduled time.
All students should report to homeroom for attendance and announcements. Lunch will be
served at the regular time, and school will close at the regular time.
Absences
Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 76 section 1 and Chapter 119 section 51 A, the
school is mandated to file a report of suspected child abuse or neglect if a student between the
ages of six and sixteen is absent without excuse for more than seven days or fourteen half days in
any period for six months.
Excused absences include those caused by religious holidays, medical appointment, illness, and
bereavement. The school does not condone the practice of students taking vacation time that
does not coincide with regularly scheduled school vacations and holidays. Therefore it is not the
responsibility of teachers to provide homework assignments in advance of such times, or to
provide extra help to make up for work missed.
September 2006
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Tardiness
A student is considered tardy if he or she is not in the classroom by 8:20 AM. Students who are
tardy must sign in at the main office before going to class. As a parent, it is your responsibility
to insure your child arrives at school on time. Children who are tardy lose valuable instruction
time, and also disrupt the entire classroom with the interruption.
Habitual tardiness results in significant loss of instructional time equaled to unexcused absences.
Should this occur, a notice of concerned would be issued and a support meeting scheduled
between parent(s) and school personnel.
Early Dismissal
Students may not leave the school grounds at any time during school hours without permission
from the main office. If a student is to be dismissed early, the parent/guardian must send in a
note to the classroom teacher with the time of dismissal indicated. The student will then bring
the note to the main office and must be signed out by an authorized adult.
Emergency Situations
In the event of an unscheduled early dismissal, the school will contact parent/guardian regarding
the plan for dismissal. Please do not call the school so that the phone lines may be available for
critical incident management purposes.
Visitors
For the safety of all children, the school doors are normally locked. Visitors may use the
intercom at the front door to speak to the main office and gain admittance. All visitors, including
parents and volunteers, must sign in at the main office during school hours. This policy is in
effect for the safety of the children as well as the visitors. It is imperative that the front office be
aware of all persons in the building should an emergency situation arise.
Professional Development Days
The Lowell School has certain times set aside for teachers’ professional development and
curriculum planning. With the continuous changes to improve curricula, it is important for
teachers to have dedicated time set aside to learn the new things they are required to teach.
These days are shown on the school calendar.
Half Days: Students are dismissed right after lunch at 12:15 PM (12:10 for
Kindergarten).
Full Days: There is no school on these days.
September 2006
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JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
POLICIES & PROCEDURES – BEHAVIOR
James Russell Lowell School is a community of learners.
As a caring and responsible community:
We care about ourselves, others, and our learning environment,
We share our thoughts and feelings in kind and respectful ways,
We dare to try our best, be creative and explore new ideas.
We care, share, and dare.
At the Lowell School we believe:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The goal of school discipline is to foster self-control and a sense of community within
and among students.
Discipline should preserve the dignity of all individuals.
A well conceived discipline plan contains a clearly articulated prevention component. It
is much easier to prevent challenging behavior than to change such behavior after the
fact. A pro-active approach leads to students that are more able to demonstrate
responsibility, self-discipline and community.
Appropriate behavior should be modeled by all staff.
A pro-active plan also views discipline as an opportunity to learn a set of skills, not an
occasion to “do something to them.”
Behavior change and the strengthening of school climate require long-term commitment
and the courage to critically and creatively examine current practices.
Social competency is a set of skills necessary for effective, productive, satisfying
interpersonal relations that result in acceptance and personal fulfillment.
Parents play a primary role in making a school discipline system successful.
Students are responsible for their actions.
Students must respect the rights of others to attend a safe and orderly school.
Students must understand the consequences of both positive and negative behavior.
All students can learn and practice skills essential to self-discipline.
Discipline fosters internal controls for student responsibilities.
Rules should be clearly stated and consequences applied fairly and consistently.
Staff must consistently employ appropriate methods of classroom management.
Establishing, maintaining and restoring relationship is an essential part of the discipline
process.
September 2006
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School-Wide Rules
It is imperative that all staff members are familiar with the school wide discipline system and
understand their role in interacting with students who violate school rules regardless of where the
violation takes place. Staff members are equally responsible for monitoring behavior outside of
the classroom and checking misbehavior that happens in their presence.
1.
2.
3.
4.
We care about each other’s feelings
We keep others and ourselves safe.
We respect property.
We are responsible for what we say and do.
School-Wide Practices
At the Lowell School, we are working to develop a common language regarding rules & logical
consequences for behavior that disrupts the safe learning environment, making it hard for others
to learn A clearly articulated 4-tiered approach to label misbehavior and determine appropriate
responses will be used.
Classroom Practices
Teachers and staff will clearly articulate the expectations for behavior and the logical
consequences in each classroom and learning space. Teachers involve the students in the process
of coming up with the rules and logical consequences, so that when rules are broken it is not
personalized. When a teacher responds to behavior, it is clear that the student has violated
agreed upon rules.
Lunch Practices
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Follow directions the first time they are given.
Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.
Respect others: No name calling, teasing or fighting.
Leave table and floor clean.
Do not get up without permission.
Use an indoor voice.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Follow directions the first time they are given.
Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.
Respect others: No name calling, teasing or fighting.
Stay in assigned areas.
Use playground equipment properly.
September 2006
Recess Practices
page 14 of 24
When the system does not support improved behavior:
The appropriate school personnel, along with the parents, should consider the following supports
when a pattern of misconduct is present:
• Functional Behavioral Assessment
• Individual Behavior Plan that substitutes for or builds on the regular discipline system
• Positive behavior supports and accommodations
• Modifications or accommodations to regular discipline system
Suspension and Expulsion
Every member of the school community has the right to a safe learning environment. Each
student is expected to behave in a way that does not disrupt or interfere with the educational
process of others. Our goal is to maintain a safe environment and help all students learn.
However, any student who repeatedly failed to follow school rules and expectations for proper
student behavior may be suspended by the principal. The following policy is enacted through the
1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Act. A copy of these laws is available through the
principal, superintendent and the Department of Education.
•
In-School Suspension: As an alternative for being sent home for behavioral problems,
students may be placed in another classroom for the day. During that time, the student
cannot participate in recess and is not allowed to eat lunch with his or her peers. The
student is expected to work quietly on assignments, and not to talk to other students. The
classroom teacher, principal, or his designee will notify parents if such a situation should
occur.
•
Out of School Suspension: Students will be subject to out-of-school suspension for a
period of 1 to 10 days when involved in incidents of severe misbehavior. Out-of-school
Suspension is a very serious consequence and is considered a last resort. Parents will
always be notified prior to suspension. A parent or legal guardian should return to school
with the child on the day of re-admittance and confer with a school administrator at that
time.
•
Expulsion: This is the most severe form of discipline imposed. Because expulsion is
such a serious matter, the decision to exclude a student from the Watertown Public
Schools is made by the principal and Superintendent.
Discipline of Students with Special Needs
State and Federal regulations govern discipline issues regarding students with special needs. The
Special Education team must determine on an annual basis whether the student'
s disability
interferes with his or her capacity to meet the regular discipline code, in accordance with the
student'
s IEP. Students and parents should see the Principal or Administrator of Special
Education for more information regarding State and Federal regulations concerning the
discipline of special needs students.
September 2006
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Conduct on Buses, Field Trips, and Events
Your child represents the Lowell School while participating in school-related activities outside
the school building, whether on the school bus, a field trip, or attending a school event
(assembly, concert, etc.) as a participant or audience member. Misbehavior may result in
suspension of bus privileges, field trips, and/or attendance at school events.
Building a Bully Free School
Watertown is committed to building bully-free schools. Bullying will not be tolerated at the
Lowell School. School staff will review school rules with students on a regular basis regarding
bullying:
1. I will not bully others.
2. I will try to help students who are bullied.
3. I will include students who are left out.
4. I will tell an adult when someone is being bullied.
The school policy for addressing incidents of bullying involves the use of a behavioral rubric
with graduating consequences for each bullying offense.
Definition: Most experts define bullying as unprovoked, repeated and aggressive actions or
threats of action by one or more persons who have (or are perceived to have) more power or
status than their victim in order to cause fear, distress or harm. Bullying can be physical, verbal,
psychological or a combination of these three. Specific examples include name-calling, taunting,
teasing and put-downs; saying or writing inappropriate things about a person; deliberately
excluding a person from activities or conversation; threatening a person with bodily harm;
hitting, kicking, tripping, shoving or otherwise inappropriately touching a person; taking or
damaging a person‚s belongings; and making a person do things he or she does not want to do.
Bullying can also occur through electronic means via Web postings, e-mails, chat rooms and text
messaging.
Electronics
All electronics must be kept in the student’s backpack turned off. Children are not permitted to
use electronic devices including cell phones during school hours because of the disruptions they
may cause. Failure to observe this rule will result in the item being confiscated.
•
•
First offense: student may pick up the item in the office at the end of the day.
Second offense: a parent or guardian must pick up the item in the office.
Skateboards, Scooters, Wheelies
Skateboards and scooters may not be used on school grounds. Please do not allow your child to
wear “wheelie” sneakers to school. These particular articles pose a safety concern.
September 2006
page 16 of 24
JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
POLICIES & PROCEDURES – HEALTH
School Health Services
The school nurse is a vital part of the school community and is available during school hours to
provide care to students and staff as needed. Student health services are designed to protect and
support all students in the maintenance of good health. The direct telephone number to the
nurses’ office is: 617-923-6475. The school nurse maintains all student health records in
accordance with Massachusetts General Laws. All students are required to have the following:
•
•
•
A physical exam by a Massachusetts primary care provider, which must include evidence
of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health School Immunization Requirements
for the entering grade level.
The student health records must be dated no more than 365 days prior to the date of entry
to the grade.
Student health records are required before entering Kindergarten and 4th grade, as well as
any new student entering the school.
Illness or Injury
Students may request or be sent to see the nurse with a pass issued by a staff member. The nurse
will make the determination about what treatment if any is needed. Parents are notified when
necessary. Please be sure to update emergency information as it changes. In case of illness or
injury, a student will be released to a parent, guardian or other responsible adult designated by
the parent or guardian.
Medications
Written authorization from the primary care physician is required for all medications given out
during the school day. Medications must be brought to the school by the parent or guardian in
the original container with the label intact. The parent or legal guardian must give written
permission in order for the nurse to give medication to a student. Parents are asked to call and
make an appointment to meet with the school nurse to discuss any medication issues or medical
concerns.
September 2006
page 17 of 24
When To Keep Your Child Home From School
Please keep your child at home if he or she has:
• Cold with cough and fever: If your child has a cold and cough symptoms with a fever
or they do not seem to be getting better, call your doctor. Your child may not attend
school with a fever over 100°.
• Sore throat, with fever and swollen glands: This may be signs of strep throat. Call
your doctor to have your child evaluated. Children are still contagious the first 24 hours
on antibiotics and must remain home. Your child may not attend school with a fever over
100°.
• Red Eyes: When the white part of the eye looks red and there is a yellow or green crusty
discharge, call your doctor. Your child may have conjunctivitis, a common but
troublesome condition that may be a contagious infection. Your child may need an eye
ointment, and may attend school after 24 hours of treatment.
• Rash: A rash is usually a sign of a viral illness. It also may be a reaction to a medication
or chemical (plants, detergents). If your child has an unusual rash or it is associated with
a fever, contact your doctor. Keep your child home from school until you have discussed
the rash with your doctor.
• Stomachache, vomiting, diarrhea: A child with vomiting and/or diarrhea should be
kept home until symptoms have cleared for approximately 12 hours, and the child is able
to keep down food and liquid. Consult your doctor if fever and stomach pains do not go
away or your child is not eating well and appears dehydrated (dry mouth, no tears,
sunken eyes, urinates less than 4 times in 24 hours).
• Head Lice/Nits: Students may not return to school until hair has been treated and all
eggs/nits have been removed. If your child has lice, please contact the school nurse so
she may check siblings and class mates. This is kept confidential. The school district
policy requires that a student be certified as nit-free by the school nurse before being
allowed to return to school.
• Chicken Pox: Students must remain out of school for at least 1 week from the
appearance of eruptions. All lesions must be scabbed over with no new eruptions, and
you must have a doctors note or note from the Watertown Board of Health (617-9726446) to return to school.
Since school health rooms are not equipped to accommodate sick children and since crowded
health rooms lead to further spread of disease, it is imperative that sick children be kept at home.
It is also crucial that parents make every effort to pick up children as soon as possible when
notified by the school of a child’s illness.
Exclusion for Health Reasons
Students are expected to participate in all in-door and out-door school activities. If your child
cannot participate for health reasons, verification must be made by a doctor in the form of a
signed note.
September 2006
page 18 of 24
JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Lowell Extended Day Program
The Lowell Extended Day Program, part of the Watertown Community Education Program,
seeks to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children after school. While recognizing the
opportunities for learning and growth during after school hours, we believe that children need a
change of pace during their after school time, including time for rest and relaxation. With this in
mind, we provide a program in which children may choose from a variety of structured
enrichment activities and unstructured playtime when they may visit with friends and
schoolmates or play quietly by themselves. Homework time is provided daily for children in
grades 2 to 5. Emergency coverage is also available. A fee is charged. For more information,
contact Beth Sahakian, Director: 617-923-7653.
Kids-In-Common After-School Program K-5
Kids-In-Common is a private, non-profit program that has been providing quality after-school
care since 1987. The goal of the program is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for the
children. Kids-In-Common provides various activities that promote the physical, intellectual and
social well-being of the children. The activities meet a child’s need for recreation, friendship,
problem solving, and allowance for individual choice. Your child will participate in activities
such as woodworking, arts and crafts, dramatic play, music and sports. Your child will have the
opportunity to complete his or her homework during our homework club, all while having access
to our many educational resources. A healthy snack is provided daily. Kids-In-Common is
licensed by the Mass Office of Child Care Services (O.C.C.S.). For more information, contact
Bob Galante, Director: 617-926-1157.
Before School Program
The Before School Program, part of the Watertown Community Education Program, is available
at the Lowell School and runs from 7:15AM to 8:20AM. It provides quiet activities, games and
crafts. Homework time is provided. Emergency coverage is also available. A fee is charged. For
more information, contact Beth Sahakian, Director: 617-923-7653.
Courses for Kids
Courses for Kids, part of the Watertown Community Education Program, is an after school
enrichment program at the Lowell School that provides classes such as woodworking, nature
detectives, art, mad science, chess, drama, karate and Irish dancing. Notices will be sent home
listing the courses offered each term. For more information contact Rita Foglia, Program
Coordinator: 617-926-7764.
Watertown Recreation Department
The Recreation Department offers a wide range of after-school programs throughout the year.
Children can receive instruction, develop skills, and play games. “T” Ball, soccer, flag-tag
football, basketball, ragball, softball, baton twirling, and track & field are some of the programs
run for elementary school youngsters. For additional information, see the Watertown website
www.ci.watertown.ma.us, or contact. Thomas Sullivan, Director: 617-972-6494.
September 2006
page 19 of 24
JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
PARENT CONTACT PROCEDURE
NATURE OF CONCERN
Academic Progress or
Discipline
INITIAL CONTACT
Teacher
REFERRAL
Principal
Teaching Methods
Teacher
Principal
Curriculum
Teacher
Principal
Health Concerns
Student Placement
Student Services
School Nurse
Guidance
Guidance
Principal
Principal
Principal
Crossing Guards
Principal
Special Needs Transportation
Team Chair
Policy - District
Superintendent
617-926-7700
Principal
Watertown Police Department
617-972-6500
Special Education Office
617-926-7766
School Committee
617-926-7700
Director of Food Services
617-926-7756
Assistant Superintendent
617-926-7700
School Lunch Program
Community Education
Programs (Adult Ed/Summer
School/Before and After
School Programs)
Director of Community
Education
617-923-7653
Anonymous Calls or Complaints
There will be no response within the School Department to anonymous calls, letters, or
complaints.
September 2006
page 20 of 24
School Committee Grievance Procedure Policy
Students or Parents/Guardians who feel that a regulation has been applied inequitably or
unjustly, should attempt remediation through a conference with the teacher involved. Should this
prove to be unsatisfactory or undesirable, the grievance may be taken to the Guidance Counselor
or the Curriculum Coordinator/Director at the secondary level.
The aggrieved party, if dissatisfied, may present his or her grievance to the Principal who, after
hearing the facts and after consultation with the Teacher, takes any action he or she thinks is
indicated.
If the aggrieved party feels that the solution or decision is not agreeable to him or her, he or she
may appeal to the Superintendent. The Superintendent, after consultation with the Principal,
takes action.
If the aggrieved party feels that the action taken by the Superintendent is not agreeable to him or
her, the aggrieved party may present his or her case to the School Committee for a ruling.
If you have any questions, complaints or need any information regarding any of the above named
Titles, please contact the Coordinators as follows:
Title IX, Title VI, and ADA, Sexual Harassment Coordinator is:
James Morrissey
Director of Personnel
Watertown Public Schools
30 Common Street
Watertown, MA 02472
617-926-7700 (phone)
617-923-1234 (fax)
[email protected]
504 Coordinator is:
Lillian Brooks
Nurse Leader
Watertown Public Schools
30 Common Street
Watertown, MA 02472
617-926-7700 (phone)
617-923-1234 (fax)
[email protected]
September 2006
page 21 of 24
JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
GETTING INVOLVED
The Lowell School encourages parents and guardians to become involved in school activities to
support and enhance your child’s educational experience.
Parent-Teacher Organization
The Lowell Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) is a voluntary group of parents, teachers and
administrators, who meet to discuss and organize activities and events. The PTO supports the
school in many ways. Family dues are collected at the beginning of the school year to help with
these efforts. A handout will be sent home determining how much is need for the specific school
year. This money goes right back to the classroom and supports your children in the following
ways: The PTO meets approximately every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the school year. Look for
the dates in the notices that come home from school. All parents are encouraged to attend and be
part of this terrific organization. President for 2006-2007: Laura Demore at 617-926-2644
Site Council
The Lowell Site Council consists of parents, teachers, the principal, and community members.
School councils were created in every district by the 1993 Education Reform Act to assist
principals in managing increased authority at the school level. They provide input to the
principal regarding student, parent and community needs. Four parent and four teacher
representatives are elected by parents and teachers respectively to serve staggered three-year
terms. The Site Council is co-chaired by the Principal and a parent. Duties and responsibilities
include:
• Adopting educational goals for the school
• Identifying the educational needs of students attending the school
• Reviewing the school buildings annual budget
• Formulating a school improvement plan
The Site Council generally meets the fourth Tuesday of each month. (Please check the monthly
school calendar sent home.) Meetings are public and all parents are encouraged to attend, and
volunteer for a sub-committee.
Parent Members for 2006 - 2007:
Nancy Alberico, Myrto Flessas (Parent Co-Chair), Michelle Gaseau, Vinnie Piccirili
Teacher Members 2006-2007:
Ruth Bender (Grade 4), Diane Centofanti (Resource and Reading Disabilities), Jessica
Hudon (Kindergarten)
Contact the Lowell School Site Council at: [email protected]
September 2006
page 22 of 24
Watertown School Committee
The School Committee is comprised of elected representatives who set the educational goals,
standards, budgets, and policies for the town school system. Meetings are held on the first
Monday of the month, and all parents are urged to attend as often as possible. Check the
Watertown Tab & Press listings or the Watertown Public School website
www.watertown.k12.ma.us for more information.
English Language Parent Support Group
This group is a partnership between ELL teachers and ELL parents to support student progress. It
is where ELL families can get answers to whatever questions they have about their child’s
schooling. Meetings are held regularly to share information and resources to meet the needs
particular to students and families who are learning English and adjusting to American culture.
Classroom curriculum, themes and special events are explained and discussed. Parents and
teachers collaborate to support home reading, study and assigned homework. Families are
encouraged to share information and resources to support their home languages and cultures.
Attendance is on an as needed basis. Parents are welcome at all ELL meetings of their child’s
grade level. For further information contact the Lowell School ELL Department.
Watertown Special Education Parent Advisory Council (WSEPAC)
The Watertown Special Education Advisory Council of Watertown (Watertown SPED PAC) is a
pro-active group which serves as a resource for those whose lives are impacted by children with
special needs. We strive for respect, understanding, and appropriate education for all children
while encouraging full participation in community life.
The Watertown SPED PAC meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month, including
the summer months, from 7-9PM currently in the Lowell School Library. Meeting notices are
posted in the schools, newsletters, local community access cable channels, the Watertown Tab,
Parents and Kids, the Watertown Shopper, and on the WSEPAC website
www.watertownspedpac.org. Membership is free, and the council welcomes parents to join and
participate.
September 2006
page 23 of 24
JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
STAFF DIRECTORY, PHONE & EMAIL ADDRESSES
To e-mail a staff member type their first initial, followed by their last name, and
@watertown.k12.ma.us. Example: Zeph Shaker= [email protected]
To call a staff member without a direct-dial number, call the main office 617-926-7770. Please
note teachers cannot take calls during class and there is no direct dial to classroomsl
Darilyn Donovan, Principal
Diane Foote-Ferrigno, Secretary
Greg Roberts, Evaluation Team Chairperson/Behavioral Specialist
Veronica Knight, Guidance Counselor 617-923-6266
Katherine Taverna, R. N., Nurse 617-923-6475, (Fax) 617-924-4191
Kindergarten/PreK
Instructional Assistants
Art
Jennifer Eacott
Lisa Austin
Anna Lochiatto
Jessica Hudon
Lois Balian
Library/Media/Technology
Jennifer Dalton
Jennifer Belli
Aimee Pellegrine
Christine Breen
Jeanne Cronin
Noreen Cassidy
Ann Niederkorn
Grade 1
Maralyce Dally
Technology Specialist
Ann Cox
Margaret DesJardin
Kathleen Fucci
Rosmarie Doolin
Anne Sudbay
Lynne Tarr
Maria McDermott
Health / Physical Education
Lynn Lombardo
Sarah Noftsker
Beverly Roche
Eileen Donahue
Grade 2
Jane Rogers
Greg Marcotte
Dorothy Buonomo
Lisa Taufiq
Music
Sonya Muncherian
Adam Vachon
Sheri Park
Stacy Vachon
Anthony Spano
Grade 3
Kevin Shpritzer
Vicky Kherlopian
Erin McCormick
Grade 4
Ruth Bender
Lorraine Evans
Aaron Gould
Grade 5
Debra Garabedian
Mary Ford
Nancy Samaria
Instructional Support Staff
Linda Cohen
Carole Fantasia
Maryanne Fitzpatrick
Jennifer Holt
September 2006
Reading/Reading Recovery
Phyllis Udell
Caron Corey
ELL
Evelyn Galamb
Mary Horrigan
Special Education Teachers
Diane Centofanti
Teresa Hasserdjian
Margaret Riley-McDonald
Patricia Sclafani-Hinkley
Lindsay Jacobson
Food Services /Cafeteria
Sevim Cinar
Deborah Falter
Barbara Lacerra
Laureen Raftes
Rose Russo
Dolores Williams
Maggie Bitgood
OT/PT
Maureen Chaberek (COTA)
Maryanne Blahut (OT)
Nancy Salvucci (CPTA)
Speech/Language
Robin Mullen
Jean Qualters
page 24 of 24
Custodians
Robert Daly
John Connors
James Logue
Don Smith