Parent
Handbook
Longfellow
School
2013-2014
What sculpture is to
a block of marble,
education is to the soul.
-Joseph Addison
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Longfellow Elementary School
516 South Tracy Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59715
Office: 522-6150
Attendance line: 522-6160
Fax: 522-6180
CARES - Lynne Merrick: 548-1267
AM CARES - Peyton Holmes: 548-1267
Email to staff:
[email protected]
District website:
www.bsd7.org
Every Friday - early dismissal for kindergarten, firsts,
seconds & thirds at 2:10 p.m.
Please make sure your child knows his/her after school
plans and that those plans have been communicated to
your child’s teacher!
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August 2013
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to the 2013-2014 school year at Longfellow School!
The staff at Longfellow is committed to providing a safe, civil and
challenging educational environment for your children. We
encourage your participation with us in this endeavor. This Parent
Handbook has been developed to help you become familiar with
some of the procedures and policies. Working together helps build
confidence in our children and maximizes their opportunities for
success. Thank you for your investment in our school community!
Randy Walthall, Principal
TABLE OF CONTENTS
School Staff Contact Information - phone and email
Bozeman School District Calendar 2013-2014
Longfellow Parent Association (LPA)
Our Core Ideology and School Mission
Education Programs and Services
Parent Support
Annual Walking Field Trip
Foundations/M.B.I
Routines, Policies and Expectations
Pupil Rights
Medication Policy
Elementary School-Behavior and Discipline Reporting
Student Technology Acceptable Use Agreement
Release of Information and Student Records
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3
4
5
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8
10
12
13
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25
29
32
39
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LONGFELLOW CONTACT INFORMATION
In order to avoid disrupting learning, classroom telephones will not ring during instructional time. You
will be able to leave a message for the teacher on voice mail. If you have an immediate concern or
message, please call the office at 522-6150. Teachers check voice mail at the beginning and end of the
school day. Recommended times to contact teachers are 8:00 - 8:30 or 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
The Longfellow attendance line is for your convenience in reporting absences or tardies. The attendance
line is 522-6160. Thank you for using this message line to report absences.
LONGFELLOW SCHOOL - 2013--2014
Dial 522 then the following extension
Attendance Line
Walthall, Randy
Principal
Planalp, Nancy
Executive Secretary
Cota, Mary
Kindergarten & 1st
Harstedt, Amy
Kindergarten
Moellenkamp, Lisa
Kindergarten
Perry, Dawn
1st grade
Shern, Josie
1st grade
Crawford, Kristi
2nd grade
Lake, Laci
2nd grade
Ritter, Patti
1st & 2nd grade
Hopkins, Sue
3rd grade
Wallace, James
3rd grade
Hopkins, Kristin
4th grade
Nelson, Debbie
4th grade
Babcock, Linda
5th grade
Strickland, Mary
5th grade
Cloninger, Diana
Resource Teacher
Couture, Laura
Intervention Teacher
Damjanovich, Heidi
Music
Certalic, Michael
5th grade orchestra
Smith, Melissa
5th grade band
Lea, Jill
Psychologist
Kimble, Jill
Speech Pathologist
Oriet, Barb
Librarian
Carpenter, Cory
Health Enhancement
Rosendahl, Jasara
C.A.P. Coordinator
Richardson, Hal
School Resource Officer
Merrick, Lynne
CARES Director
Holmes, Peyton
CARES AM Director
Fiegi , Rocky
Head Custodian
Daum, Dan
Evening Custodian
Quigley, Kim
Instructional Coach
Cauble, Jude
Math Specialist
Werre, Clarissa
Computer Lab
Jannotta, Alysha
Parent Liaison
Longfellow’s FAX number
6160
6150
6150
6157
6171
6158
6154
6163
6159
6173
6155
6172
6185
6167
6166
6164
6176
6156
6181
6168
6291
4885
6153/6319
6153
6174
6169
587-3840
582-2224
548-1267
548-1267
600-1728
6150
6150
6151
6182
587-3840
522-6180
FACULTY E-MAIL
Electronic mail is an effective way to communicate with any staff member. Use the following address:
[email protected] example: [email protected]
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A calendar listing Longfellow events can be found online at: www.bsd7.org/events.lhtml
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LONGFELLOW PARENT ASSOCIATION (LPA)
The Longfellow Parent Association is a non-profit organization whose goals are to:
• Ensure a sense of community among students, families, teachers and
administrators by facilitating communication and many opportunities to come
together as a community.
• Encourage maximum parental involvement in all aspects of education.
• Assist in the identification, planning and funding of educational and social
programs, projects and activities.
All Longfellow parents and guardians are members of the LPA and are invited to join
monthly meetings held at the school. At these meetings, members brainstorm great ideas
for the good of our school, committees report on events and activities, fundraising efforts
are coordinated and a Principal’s Report is given. Attending LPA meetings is a fantastic
way to get involved and stay up-to-date on what is happening at Longfellow. Members
present during LPA meetings are eligible to vote and thus be involved in decisionmaking. A Volunteer Sign-Up List will also be sent home early in the school year.
LPA coordinates or contributes to Run For Reading, Winter Carnival, Teacher
Appreciation, assistance with the holiday program and vision/hearing/dental screening,
and many other events and activities. Funds raised by LPA also help pay for both
essential and supplementary materials such as student scholarships, playground
equipment, academic software and hardware, science field equipment, bus rental for field
trips, special assemblies, family education nights and much more.
LPA has a voluntary board voted in each spring by its membership. The 2013-2014
officers are:
Co-Chairs:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Volunteer Coordinator:
Bill Stoddart
Stephanie McDowell
Charlie West
Johnna Visser
Contact Information: [email protected]
LPA thanks you in advance for your time this year. Our efforts as a parent organization
go a long way in making our school a place of academic excellence, outstanding
creativity, and an all-around supportive environment for our children!
Please visit our website at www.lpabozeman.org
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CORE IDEOLOGY AND SCHOOL MISSION
Core Ideology describes a school district's consistent identity that transcends all changes
related to its relevant environment. It consists of two elements: 1) Core Purpose - the
school district's reason for being; and 2) Core Values - essential and enduring principles
that guide a school district.
Core Purpose of the Bozeman Public School District:
Bozeman Public Schools exist to provide an outstanding education that inspires and
ensures high achievement so every student can succeed and make a difference in a
rapidly changing world community.
Core Values of the Bozeman Public School District:
* High Student Achievement: We are committed to ensuring that all students achieve
at high levels.
* Committed, Quality Staff: We employ and retain well-qualified and talented staff
members who demonstrate a commitment to the core purpose of the District.
* Community and Family Engagement: We believe that parents and the community are
essential contributors in the achievement of our goals.
* Climate: We operate in a climate of respect, honesty and hard work, recognizing the
need to be adaptable and open to change.
* Fiscal Responsibility: We are fiscally responsible in the management and
expenditure of all District resources.
* Decision Making: We rely on best practices research to guide our decision-making.
Longfellow School Vision/Mission Statement
Longfellow School promotes educational excellence and social responsibility
through a caring, student centered environment that values the diverse needs of all
children. Students are challenged to become lifelong learners through the
collaborative efforts of all members of the Longfellow community.
We cultivate educational excellence through:
♦ literacy focus
♦ creative expression
♦ scientific thinking
We encourage social responsibility through:
♦ personal responsibility
♦ parental involvement
♦ community awareness
We value the diverse needs of children through:
♦ recognizing learners as individuals
♦ celebrating strengths and talents
♦ providing challenging opportunities and activities
LONGFELLOW EDUCATION GOALS
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Longfellow has developed a Long Range Strategic Plan (LRSP) that supports the
District’s Goals and Strategic Objectives. The LRSP targets a broad spectrum of goals
including academic, behavioral, safety and community engagement. Academic goals
have been developed for Longfellow at each grade level in the areas of math, reading,
writing and science.
The School LRSP is on line at www.bsd7.org. Parents are encouraged to visit the district
site and become familiar with the district and site goals.
Parents are invited to discuss Longfellow’s Vision/Mission Statement and building goals
with their child’s teacher and/or the building principal.
GUIDELINES FOR SUCCESS
Student success is paramount in our school community. Success in school and life
depends on our ability to solve problems. The Longfellow staff has developed these
Guidelines for Success to help our students recognize character traits that help them solve
problems and foster a sense of community. At Longfellow, students, parents, and staff
are expected to model the Longfellow CARES attitude.
Cooperates
Individuals make choices to work together for the good of all.
Accepts
We accept the unique qualities and attributes of one another and
we accept responsibility for our actions.
Respect
We respect the human dignity of each individual. We respect the
right of teachers to teach, students to learn, and we respect the
resources and property available to us at school.
Encourages
We challenge and motivate others to do their best and be
successful.
Shares
We look for ways to include others in what we do.
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EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Longfellow School provides classroom support and a variety of services that help
students achieve and develop their potential as learners and citizens. The following
educational services are available:
INSTRUCTIONAL OPTIONS AT LONGFELLOW
Longfellow teachers use a variety of instructional strategies within their classrooms to
meet the range of student needs, abilities, and interests. We take seriously the placement
of your child in an appropriate learning environment.
IN ALL CLASSROOMS
* Teachers and students accept and respect one another's similarities and differences.
* Assessment is an ongoing activity that guides instruction. Learning tasks are planned
and adjusted based on data collected.
* Students participate in learning activities that are challenging, meaningful, interesting
and engaging.
* The teacher is a facilitator of time, space and activities that foster self-directed learning.
* Students and teacher collaborate in developing class and individual goals.
* The pace of instruction is based upon student needs.
Placement in either instructional option described below is a decision that includes
parents, staff and administration. Flexibility exists in movement between instructional
options to best meet the needs of each child. The principal reserves the right to place
and/or change placement of any student to meet the needs of the school and its students.
Placement into or out of a particular classroom may be made by the principal during
the first several weeks of school if enrollment fluctuations require such adjustments.
Depending on enrollment, classroom configuration options may include:
Single grade classrooms:
A single grade classroom consists of children in a single grade level with various
abilities. Instruction is centered in the grade level curriculum. Students advance to the
next grade level and a different teacher at the end of the school year.
Multigrade classrooms:
A multigrade classroom consists of children from two consecutive grade levels with
various abilities. Instruction is centered in the grade level curriculum that is appropriate
for each child. Students advance to the next grade level at the end of the school year.
Students may have the same teacher the following year.
PEAKS PROGRAM
This program is provided for those students in grades 3-5 identified as being gifted and
talented. The District has a handbook available on the PEAKS program and how
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students qualify. More information is available online at www.bsd7.org or by talking
with the Principal.
LIBRARY/MEDIA PROGRAM
Our library/media center is staffed by our librarian, Barb Oriet. The school library is a
learning center where children are free to come throughout the day. In addition to books,
magazines, books on CD and tape, games, and other learning materials are available for
use and checkout. We have a Parent Library with resources available for checkout.
Parents who would like to help out in the library, either on a regular basis or only
occasionally are urged to contact Mrs. Oriet.
MUSIC, BAND, ORCHESTRA
Music instruction for all children is provided by our music specialist, Heidi Damjanovich.
Melissa Smith is our fifth grade Band Director and Mike Certalic is the fifth grade
Orchestra director.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH ENHANCEMENT
Physical education and health instruction for all children are provided by our full time
instructor, Cory Carpenter. Intramural activities and end of the year athletic activities are
also organized by Mr. Carpenter.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
The Bozeman Public Schools: Continuum of Services for Students with Disabilities.
The Bozeman Public Schools special education program is designed to meet the needs of
all students who have been identified with an educational disability. The main goal of the
program is to provide for appropriate educational services, designed to allow individual
students to grow as learners, and to prepare them for transition to life beyond K-12
education. The program is based on the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act (IDEA), the spirit of which holds the ideal that:
"Disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right
of individuals to participate in or contribute to society. Improving educational results for
children with disabilities is an essential element of our national policy of ensuring
equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic selfsufficiency for individuals with disabilities."
Students are identified for the program through an evaluation process in accordance with
state and federal regulations. These regulations describe both the process for the
evaluation and the eligibility criteria for qualification. Students may be eligible if they
meet criteria for one of the following impairments and a need for special education
services:
Autism
Deafness
Other Health Impairment
Developmental Delay
Emotional Disturbance
Specific Learning Disability
Cognitive Delay
Hearing Impairment
Speech Language Impairment
Deaf-Blindness
Orthopedic Impairment
Traumatic Brain Injury
Visual Impairment
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Once a student has been identified as a child with a disability, an Individualized
Education Program (IEP) is developed. This plan, developed by a team of educational
professionals along with the parents, explains the services a child needs in order to
receive an appropriate education. Services are provided at each school in the Bozeman
Public Schools. Service delivery follows a "least restrictive environment" placement
model, providing services as close as possible to the child's home school. When student
needs cannot be met within an attendance area school, services may be provided through
specialized programs. Specialized programs for students with more significant needs are
currently located at Morning Star Elementary, Whittier Elementary, Emily Dickinson
Elementary, Hawthorne Elementary and Hyalite Elementary schools. Students are taught
towards state-aligned educational standards using the instructional materials of the
general education setting, along with supplemental or replacement materials to meet
individual student needs. Supportive and related services are provided to students with
disabilities when required to allow that student to benefit from special education. These
services may include, but are not limited to: occupational therapy, physical therapy,
speech therapy, psychological or counseling services, assistive technology services,
school health services, orientation and mobility training, audiology services, and special
transportation.
Parents who suspect their child may have a disability are encouraged to work with their
child's classroom teacher, guidance office, and building principal. A complete evaluation
may be completed at any time, however a Student Assistance Team process can also be
initiated to identify the concerns and develop approaches and interventions. These
interventions can be crucial towards developing an understanding of student needs, and
may be sufficient to address concerns.
TECHNOLOGY
Longfellow has computers and other electronic media technologies for student use in
most areas of the school. We have a variety of software available for teachers and
volunteers when working with children. In addition, nearly all computers within the
school have Internet capabilities and are available for classroom use. Parents are invited
to come learn about computers and help with them in the classrooms. Parents have the
right to restrict their child from accessing and/or using the Internet while at school. All
parents are asked to read the “K-5 Technology Acceptable Use Agreement” for Bozeman
Public Schools on pages 38-39 of this Handbook. Please indicate your wishes regarding
Internet use by your child on the 2013-14 Parent Permission Form and return the form
to your child’s teacher. (A duplicate copy of this form can be found on page 41 of this
document.)
PARENT SUPPORT
There are many ways to positively influence your child's school experience. Here are
some suggestions:
•Start each day with a positive focus. A calm beginning at home makes the school day
much better.
•Encourage your child to have a good breakfast and lunch. Make certain that your child
sleeps at least eight hours each night.
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•Positively acknowledge your child for something he/she has done each day. Have a
special place to put schoolwork or whatever is brought home.
•Laugh and talk with your child about school experiences and listen attentively to what is
said about your child’s school day experiences.
•Stress attendance. If the child is ill, home is the best place; otherwise, your child needs
to take advantage of every school day.
•Keep the lines of communication open between yourself and your child’s teacher.
Inform the teacher of any family situation which could influence your child’s behavior.
Also, if he/she is reluctant to go to school, let the teacher know so that together you can
find the reason.
•Take your child to the library and encourage reading for pleasure.
•Demonstrate organization of school notebooks, materials, etc.
•Provide pencils, glue, scissors, paper, etc., for your child to use.
•Work at home with skills taught at school.
•Encourage your child to read at least 30 minutes a day, especially in the summer when
children may lose ground in reading skills. Model reading by reading out loud to your
child and have your child read out loud to you.
•Encourage your child to write for any and all occasions. On holidays, help your child
make cards and write greetings to friends and relatives. On vacations, encourage your
child to keep a journal. Have your child make lists of items to do around the house.
•At the grocery store, involve your child in tracking down bargains and comparing prices.
•At a baseball game, teach him or her about the math of batting averages and other
statistics.
•Use your family’s history to help your child write about or record family stories. This
will help him or her understand how history connects us with the past.
•Encourage your child’s curiosity about the natural world. If you can’t answer a
question, find the answer together.
•Encourage your child to participate in local music, art and museum programs and to join
local sports teams.
PARENT LIAISON
Parent liaisons are professionals who work to create a partnership between the schools
and parents to accomplish the common goal of successful children. This program is grant
funded under the THRIVE umbrella. Parent liaisons act as a link between the parent and
teacher, provide emotional support dealing with complex issues, assist parents in
exploring effective parenting techniques, and accessing community resources. Alysha
Jannotta is Longfellow’s Parent Liaison. Thrive’s phone number is 587-3840.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Parent and community volunteers are the heart of Longfellow School. There are a variety
of opportunities to get involved at your child's school. Volunteer forms will be sent
home early in the school year. Please consider how you can share your talents and
energies with our students.
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PARENT REPRESENTATIVES
Each teacher will be looking to parents to assist them in making the school year a
wonderful experience for each child. One such opportunity is by volunteering to be a
homeroom parent. Being a homeroom parent is a great way to be involved and to meet
other families during the school year. Homeroom parents play an important role in
helping teachers coordinate special events and activities and serve as an important link to
the Longfellow Parent Association (LPA). Please consider volunteering in this capacity!
Other special events sponsored and supported by the LPA include:
a. Back to School Night
b. Family Education Evenings and Family Fun Nights
c. School Carnival
d. Vision screening, hearing screening & dental screening
e. Individual and group pictures
f. Book Fair
g. Assemblies
h. Arranging volunteers for numerous school activities
i. Classroom parties
j. Reading or math mentors
k. Securing supplemental resources for classroom use
l. Other needs as defined by teachers
YEARBOOK
Preparation for the Longfellow yearbook starts in the fall and parents are needed for
coordinating photography and organizing the layout. Please contact the office if you are
interested in helping with this great project.
ARTWORKS
ArtWorks is an annual festival and fundraiser held in late May that supports the arts
curriculum for Longfellow children throughout the following year. It began in 1996 and
provides incredible art experiences for our students, including a vast array of artists-inresidence. In addition, some of the money raised from ArtWorks has been used to
purchase valuable art equipment and materials such as a dry mount press, kiln, slab roller,
extruder, drying racks, and a demonstration mirror. ArtWorks funds have also financed
enhancement projects around the school such as the scenic and tile murals in the
stairways and hallways, the metal “Longfellow School” sculpture and fences, as well as a
beautiful native Montana flower garden. ArtWorks was created from the desire of
teachers and parents to provide an adequately funded art curriculum. It is a self-sustained
program that receives no monies from the school district or LPA. Festival night includes
children’s art activities, musical entertainment, a silent auction and is highlighted by a
vibrant live auction. ArtWorks is a wonderful community event. If you cannot support
this arts program financially, please support it with your presence!
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ANNUAL WALKING FIELD TRIP PERMISSION
Throughout the school year, our teachers will be conducting various field trips. These
will be related to the curriculum and designed to be educationally meaningful. In order to
prevent our asking you to sign for permission for each walking field trip, we’re using one
form for the entire school year. Please indicate your approval for walking field trips on
the Parent Permission Form on page 41 and also return the Walking Field Trip form to
your child’s teacher. You will be notified each time your child will be leaving the
building for a walking field trip; the classroom teacher will send information regarding
the date, approximate time of the trip, the purpose, and the activities. Note: Trips
involving transportation require an additional signed permission form.
FOUNDATIONS/MONTANA BEHAVIORAL INITIATIVE
Social development is an important part of student growth through the elementary years.
Longfellow School has committed itself to helping students develop problem solving
strategies and attitudes that foster a sense of community.
Supported by the Montana Behavioral Initiative (MBI), and more recently Foundations
for Success, the Longfellow staff has developed programs and practices which teach our
students skills for success in academic, social and community settings. The Longfellow
staff has worked together to develop behavioral expectations in the following areas of our
school:
assemblies
before and after school
cafeteria
field trips
hallways
playground
restrooms
Olweus (anti-bullying)
Respect is an essential element in our MBI efforts to help students learn and grow and we
ask that all members of the Longfellow community treat each other accordingly.
Students are expected to demonstrate respect for adults, volunteers, and each other while
attending school and other Longfellow activities. Adults are asked to model respectful
behavior for our children and to help us reinforce those behaviors when and where
appropriate.
COMMON AREA EXPECTATIONS
*See Longfellow’s website for this information: www.bsd7.org/longfellow
ROUTINES, POLICIES & EXPECTATIONS
SCHOOL SCHEDULES
We encourage parents to help children be responsible for knowing days when she/he has
to bring something to school. Students should know when library materials are due, what
days band or orchestra meet and when parent permission slips are due. School
newsletters are meant for family use and help children feel confident when they know the
information. This practice develops responsibility and helps our school operate more
efficiently.
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CLASSROOM VISITS
Parents are encouraged to visit classes to learn firsthand about the educational program
and to observe their child in a group setting. Class visits furnish an excellent basis for
parent-teacher conferences. Parents are encouraged to make an appointment with the
teacher before visiting in order to avoid coming when the regular teacher is absent or
when tests are being given. Due to insurance coverage, friends and relatives of students
may NOT spend time in the classroom during the school day. All visitors are required
to register their visit by signing in and getting a visitor /volunteer pass in the main
office.
COMMUNICATIONS
As part of the District’s effort to decrease our use of paper, optimize everyone’s time, and
reduce our carbon footprint, we have created a “Community Connections” link that
provides families with information about community events and opportunities that, in the
past, have been sent home in students’ folders. You will continue to receive school
information via “hard copy” but community fliers, approved by the District, will now be
available on our website, with a few “hard copies” at the school site. The link for this is
http;//www.bsd7.org/web/connections/
The school will continue to send home important, school-specific communications,
including newsletters, lunch menus, and classroom news on a weekly basis. Parents may
choose to receive these electronically or in traditional paper format. Parents will be
asked to select a format for receiving information at the beginning of the year. Please
watch for this and communicate your preference to your child’s teacher.
Longfellow will be posting bi-monthly newsletters and other important information on its
website. Parents are encouraged to monitor the website for information they need.
The LPA has provided purple “take home” folders to carry this information between
school and home. Please help maintain the purple folders as they are used the entire
school year. Children will be charged for a replacement folder. Other important
communication is sent home as we receive it from the district. We ask you to hold your
child(ren) accountable for getting communications home to you. Thank you. In order to
save resources and paper, our policy is to send written communication home with the
oldest or only child in each family.
Thank you in advance for your help as we move into more electronic-based
communications!
PROBLEM SOLVING
It is our firm commitment to solve problems when they arise. If something is bothering
you about your child’s schooling, please make an appointment with your child's teacher
to resolve it. If that is not successful, we encourage you to make an appointment with the
principal.
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OFFICE HOURS
The office hours for Longfellow School are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Our office telephone
number is 522-6150. The voice mail attendance line is 522-6160. Our fax number is
522-6180.
DAILY RECESS SCHEDULE
8:00 - 8:27 a.m.
8:27 a.m.
9:45-10:45 a.m.
11:25 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
2:00 – 2:50 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
3:20 p.m.
before school recess
morning call-in bell
morning recess block
(each grade has a 15 minute recess)
lunch blocks (eat and recess)
afternoon recess block
(grades K-4 have a 15 minute recess
dismissal for kindergarten
dismissal for all other grades
Every Friday - early dismissal for kindergarten, firsts, seconds & thirds –
2:10 p.m. Please make sure your child knows his/her after school plans!
DRESS POLICY
Longfellow School believes that student dress is primarily the responsibility of the
parents. The school looks to the parents to ensure that their children are dressed
appropriately for each school day. It is imperative that children are prepared for the
changeable weather patterns in Bozeman. Parents need to ensure that students are
prepared for outside recess with appropriate clothing and accessories (gloves, hats, boots)
on a daily basis.
Clothing, footwear, hair and/or jewelry that draw undue attention to a child, pose a
danger to the child or to others, or cause a distraction in the learning environment, are
inappropriate for school. Clothing that advertises products or activities that are illegal,
profane or that school personnel deem offensive or inappropriate are not allowed at
Longfellow. Children who arrive at school inappropriately dressed may be asked to
change, if alternate clothing is available, or they may be asked to call home for a change
of clothing.
We ask that children wear closed-toe footwear to avoid splinters when they play in the
wood chips at recess and shoes with heel straps to help them navigate Longfellow’s many
stairs.
EVACUATIONS
A plan to evacuate students and staff from Longfellow to an alternate site is part of the
school’s safety plan. Should an evacuation be ordered, parents will be advised by the
district through a variety of means and given information regarding the reunification
process. For more information about the specifics of the school safety plan, including
evacuations, please contact the building principal.
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STUDENT ABSENCES
Please telephone the school office by 9:00 a.m. on the day your child(ren) will be absent
or tardy. Students will be marked tardy if they arrive at their classroom after 8:35 a.m.
Students are considered absent after 9:00 a.m. (or 1:15 p.m. - half day absence). It is a
state law that you inform the school of absences, but in addition, we ask that you do this
so that each Longfellow student is accounted for and safe. If we have not received a call
from you, the school office must call to confirm the absence. Because of the secretarial
time this takes, please remember to call in. Our ATTENDANCE VOICE MAIL
PHONE NUMBER is 522-6160. If you know ahead of time about an appointment, etc.,
send a note the day before.
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY
Regular attendance is necessary for success in school. The student who is frequently
absent misses valuable class instruction and discussion and finds it difficult to keep up
with the class. However, parents should not send a child to school when attendance
might be detrimental to his/her own health or that of others. During the cold and flu
season, we have many requests to keep students in during recess and noon. This creates a
problem, as we do not have inside supervision for the students at noon. If your child is
well enough to be in school, he/she will be expected to go outside. If there is some
extenuating circumstance, please call the office. Our principal will notify parents of
absences exceeding ten days per half year. In extreme cases, the principal may refer
students with chronic absences to the School Resource Officer or Department of Public
Health and Human Services (DPHHS).
Punctuality is very important. Students who are ready to start the school day promptly
have an attitude which helps to insure successful work. Pupils are considered tardy if
they are not in their rooms when school begins. A child will be counted absent for a half
day if he/she arrives after 9:00 a.m.
EARLY ARRIVAL -- LATE DEPARTURE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL
Parents are advised that playgrounds are not supervised before 8:00 a.m. or after
the buses leave in the afternoon. Students are expected to time their arrival at school so
that they arrive no earlier than 8:00 a.m. We expect that students stay on the playground
and not come into the building unless it is a necessity. Fifth grade band and orchestra
students may bring their instruments to the gym on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and
then go outside. If a student needs to call home, they must secure a hall pass from one of
the playground supervisors. If a teacher wants the student to come in and finish work, the
teacher will provide a hall pass. If a child has a treasure to share, birthday treats, foreign
language class, or intramurals, he/she can get a hall pass from the playground supervisor
and come in to take care of that business.
CHILDREN'S AFTER SCHOOL PLANS
We ask that all walking students go directly home from school and check in with their
parent before coming back to play on the playground. If you want your child to walk to
another child's home, please make those arrangements the day before with that child's
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parents and send a note to school for your child's teacher letting them know where your
child will be after school. We do not allow children to use the school phones during
the day or immediately after school to make social plans with their friends. These
arrangements should be made at home.
CARES MORNING AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Longfellow offers before and afterschool programs, entitled “CARES”, in partnership
with United Way kidsLINK. Morning CARES is from 7:30-8:30 and consists of
academic enrichment activities. CARES Afterschool is from 3:15-5:45 MondayThursday and from 2:10-5:45 Fridays (2:10-3:20 is “mini-CARES”, due to Early Release
every Friday for grades K-3). CARES Afterschool begins at 1:45 on other Early Release
days scheduled throughout the school year. There is no program on PIR days. Students
may attend on a regular or irregular basis. CARES Afterschool consists of a nutritious
snack, outside playtime, homework, and academic enrichment activities through the
Afterschool Partnership with MSU. There is a small fee for the CARES programs;
scholarships are available according to need. Parent Handbooks and Enrollment forms
for these programs are located in a wall rack on the main floor at the south end of the
hall. Please Note: If your child will be attending irregularly, it is important to let the
Program Coordinators know which days to expect your child by calling the CARES
phone: (406) 548-1267.
MAKE-UP WORK REQUIRED FOR ABSENCE
In case of absence due to illness or an emergency, it is the mutual obligation of the
student, the parent, and the teacher(s) to see that school work missed during the absence
is made up. If you would like to have homework when your child is absent for more than
one day, please call the school office at 522-6150 before 9:00 a.m. to report the absence
and give your homework request. Homework may then be picked up after 3:30 p.m.
LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS
If a student needs to be excused early from school for any reason, the parent or guardian
should send a note stating the time and reason that the student will be leaving. Parents
are requested to check with the child's teacher when picking up a child during the school
hours. THE SCHOOL DOES NOT PERMIT ANY CHILD TO LEAVE THE
PREMISES WITH AN UNIDENTIFIED PERSON. If a child is injured or sick they
should be picked up at the office. Parents must sign their students out at the office
when taking them during the school day.
LEAVING THE SCHOOL GROUND AT NOON
STUDENTS MAY LEAVE THE SCHOOL GROUNDS DURING LUNCHTIME
ONLY WITH THEIR PARENT/GUARDIAN. The parent must sign the student sign out
sheet in the office before leaving campus with the child. Children should wait in the
office to be picked up by the parent. Students whose parents want them to walk home for
lunch must have this prearranged with the school. Contact the school principal to make
these arrangements.
18
PARENTAL TELEPHONE REQUESTS & STUDENTS’ USE OF SCHOOL
PHONE
We receive a large number of requests from parents to deliver messages to students about
what to do after school. Please be assured that in case of emergencies, we are happy to
pass those notes along to students. We do ask, however, that parents make sure before
their child leaves home in the morning that the child knows what the arrangements are for
after school. Students may use the phone in the event of illness, forgotten lunches or
schoolwork, or to adjust pickup times. Use of the school phone to arrange to go to a
friend's home after school is not allowed. Social arrangements should be taken care of
before students come to school.
CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENTDISTRICT
POLICY:
Student possession and use of cellular phones, pagers, and other electronic devices
(including, but not limited to I-Pods, I-Phones, PDAs, CD Players, and MP3 Players) on
school grounds, at school-sponsored activities, and while under the supervision and
control of school district employees is a privilege which will be permitted only under the
circumstances described herein. At no time will any student operate a cell phone or other
electronic device with video or photographic capabilities in a locker room, bathroom, or
other location where such operation may violate the privacy right of another person.
Students may use cellular phones, pagers, and other electronic signaling devices on
campus before school begins and after school ends. Schools may regulate the use of cell
phones by parents and other adults while they are on school property. In special
circumstances, the building principals may authorize use of cell phones or other
electronic devices by students (for example, the use of I-Pods during a bus trip, or
exceptions due to a specific student situation). Specific building regulations shall be
published annually in student handbooks. The District is not responsible for lost or stolen
devices.
Unauthorized use of such devices disrupts the instructional program and distracts from
the learning environment. Therefore, unauthorized use is grounds for confiscation of the
device by school officials, including classroom teachers and supervisory aides.
Confiscated devices will be returned to the parent or guardian. Unauthorized use of such
devices may result in disciplinary action.
SCHOOL REGULATIONS RE: CELL PHONE USE AT SCHOOL:
Children may not use cell phones during the instructional day. Electronic devices used
for recreational purposes may not be used during the instructional day unless they have
expressed permission to do so from their teacher. Students may use cell phones to
communicate with parents or other caregivers before school and after school. Telephone
use by students during the school day is at the discretion of the teacher or other school
staff.
19
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY
Children should dress appropriately for Montana weather.
When the temperature falls below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, or if it is raining hard, students
will be directed to a supervised location inside of the building. Wet shoes and clothing
are a natural consequence for not being prepared for the weather. Please help your
child(ren) assess the weather conditions they may encounter during the day and help
them dress accordingly. If you need assistance securing winter clothes for your child,
please call the office or our parent liaison.
OLWEUS
Longfellow School is committed to helping children develop respectful approaches to
interacting with each other through all aspects of the school day. The things we identify
as “bullying behaviors” detract from the learning environment and are addressed within
our community. The Olweus approach is a community wide effort that seeks to have all
members of the Longfellow community address bullying behaviors with a firm and
consistent pattern of response. Students, staff and parents all have responsibilities to try
and help eliminate bullying behaviors. Together we can! For more information, please
contact your child’s teacher or the Longfellow office.
FIRE DRILLS/ EARTHQUAKE DRILLS
Fire and earthquake drill procedures have been carefully worked out for Longfellow
School. Practices will be conducted so that students may become familiar with the
routine.
EMERGENCY NOTICATION OF PARENTS
In the event of a school or District wide emergency, the District may chose to notify
parents through a REVERSE 911 process. Phone calls will be initiated from a list of
phone numbers provided to the school by parents. To make this system work efficiently,
please notify the school if your phone number(s) changes during the school year. If you
have questions about this service, please contact our school principal.
TRAFFIC SAFETY/ SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL
Please help us prevent the risk of serious injury by carefully adhering to all rules of
traffic safety.
Please do not put your child into 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.
We highly recommend dropping off and picking up your child in a designated place a
block from school. This will help decrease the congestion in front of the building.
“Walk a Block” is a safe and healthy plan for families!
When picking up a child, always pull to the curb. Do not stop in the middle of the street
to pick up or drop off a child. He/she may be killed or injured by walking into the path of
another vehicle.
20
Please do not park in the bus loading zone!
Please do not park in the staff parking lot behind the school!
Children are not permitted to cross the street except at the designated crosswalks.
Acknowledge and obey the school safety patrols. Pedestrians always have the right of
way.
Bicycles, scooters, skateboards and “wheelies” may be ridden to school. Upon arrival,
students are expected to walk their vehicles and put them in the proper place. When
leaving school, bicycles and scooters must be walked out of the school zone. All students
must wear a helmet when riding bicycles or scooters to and from school. Riders without
helmets must walk home. All bicycle and scooter riders and pedestrians are expected
to enter the school grounds from South Tracy.
TRAFFIC PLAN FOR LONGFELLOW SCHOOL
PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE OF RESIDENTS WHEN
PARKING NEAR THE SCHOOL. PLEASE DO NOT BLOCK
DRIVEWAYS AND ALWAYS DRIVE WITH CAUTION AND
COURTESY. THANK YOU!!!
S. TRACY AVE.
HANDICAP PARKING
5 MIN.
LOADING/
DROP OFF
BUS LOADING ONLY
PARKING
PARKING
DROPOFF/LOADING
Longfellow School
PARKING
DROPOFF/LOADING
Drop off/pick up zone
West Dickerson
S. WILLSON AVE.
HANDICAP
PARKING
STORY STR
21
STAFF AND HANDICAP
PARKING ONLY
Sandbox
• Keep leaves and sticks out
• Sand castles, etc. cannot be
saved once recess is over
• No throwing sand
• No “doggie digging”
• No digging under the fence
Fort
•
•
•
Slide
•
•
•
•
Wooden Roller
• Three people or less at a
time
• Spinning someone who
is hugging the roller is
not allowed
Walk when on the fort
No balls on the fort
Gentle play under the fort
Slide in the sitting position only
No climbing up
No blocking the bottom
No sliding toys down the slide or throwing
toys up the slide.
Bars
• Climbing is OK
• Standing on top of the
bars if they have side
support poles is OK
• No lifting kids up to bars
• No penny drops
Woodchip Area
• Woodchips stay on the
ground, not in grass or
sandbox
• No throwing woodchips
• No balls in this area
Swings
• Only 1 person per swing
• No jumping out
• Sit on bottom, not stomach or
knees
• Swing forward and back, not
sideways
• Swing facing the school (so if a
shoe flies off it doesn’t go in the
neighbors yard)
• No twisting or flipping
• No underdogs
Trees and Bushes
• No climbing or breaking branches
• No picking leaves, berries, or fruit
Water Puddles
• Stay out of puddles
• Woodchips may be used to dig
drainage canals, etc.
Tether Ball, Four Square, Hopscotch
• Use good sportsmanship
• Disagreements can be solved
using rock, paper, scissors
• Don’t kick stray balls that come
into area
• Stand in a safe area while waiting
for turn
North Playground Expectations
Revised 8/4/10
Field Area
• Games are open to everyone
• Good sportsmanship is expected.
• Games/activities NOT allowed:
• Tackling, Red Rover, Wrestling,
Rough play, Pretend fighting, Pretend
weapons
Ice-Slides
• Can be made in safe areas
• Use sitting on bottoms or on knees –
no standing
• Must be wearing snow pants, or sitting
on their coats
Ball Wall/Green Board
• No hanging on basketball rims
– this breaks it
• No closed games
• Those in line stand behind red
line
• No dodge ball
Choosing Teams
• All students who want to play
line up along the side
• Captains alternate choosing
• Captains choose one
teammate at a time
• All students must be chosen
• If there are mixed grades,
younger students are chosen
first
Snow
• Snow may be thrown ONLY at target
• Snowmen, snow forts, etc. cannot be
saved once recess is over
Kindergarten Area
• This area is for kindergarten only
Jump Rope
• Only used on sidewalks and blacktop
Balls in the Street
• Only adults retrieve balls from the
street, alley, or parking lot.
Bike Racks
• Off limits during recess
When the Bell Rings
• Return playground equipment
• Line up quickly and quietly
• Teachers will pick you up promptly at
second bell
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Jump Rope
• Only used on
sidewalks and
blacktop
Balls in the Street
• Only adults
retrieve balls
from the
street, alley,
or parking lot.
Bars
• Climbing is OK
• Standing on top of the bars if
they have side support poles is
OK
• No lifting kids up to bars
• No penny drops
Woodchip Area
• Woodchips stay on the ground,
not in grass or sandbox
• No throwing woodchips
• No balls in this area
Field Area
• Games are open to everyone
• Good sportsmanship is expected.
• Games/activities NOT allowed:
• Tackling, Red Rover, Wrestling, Rough
play, Pretend fighting, Pretend weapons
Ice-Slides
• Can be made in safe areas
• Use sitting on bottoms or on knees – no
standing
• Must be wearing snow pants, or sitting on
their coats
Ball Wall/Green Board
• No hanging on
basketball rims – this
breaks it
• No closed games
• Those in line stand
behind red line
• No dodge ball
Snow
• Snow may be thrown ONLY at target
• Snowmen, snow forts, etc. cannot be
saved once recess is over
South Playground Expectations
Revised 8/4/10
Choosing Teams
• All students who want to
play line up along the
side
• Captains alternate
choosing
• Captains choose one
teammate at a time
• All students must be
chosen
• If there are mixed
grades, younger
students are chosen first
Fort
•
•
•
Slide
•
•
•
•
Tether Ball, Four Square,
Hopscotch
• Use good
sportsmanship
• Disagreements can
be solved using rock,
paper, scissors
• Don’t kick stray balls
that come into area
• Stand in a safe area
while waiting for turn
Walk when on the fort
No balls on the fort
Gentle play under the fort
Slide in the sitting position only
No climbing up
No blocking the bottom
No sliding toys down the slide
or throwing toys up the slide.
23
Bars
• Climbing is OK
• Standing on top of the bars if they
have side support poles is OK
• No lifting kids up to bars
• No penny drops
TOYS
No electronic games or electronic toys are to be brought to school. School personnel are
not responsible for children’s toys that are brought to school. Students will not be
allowed to miss instructional time to search for lost or misplaced toys. If toys become a
problem within a classroom or at recess, an individual teacher, supervisory aide or the
principal may place additional limitations on the use of toys at school.
HOT LUNCH PROGRAM
Hot lunch is served daily at Longfellow. The menus are printed monthly and sent home
in advance. The cost of lunch will be determined each summer and announced in the fall.
Applications for free or reduced price lunch are sent home with each child at the
beginning of the school year. Additional copies are available in the school office. A
computer debit system is used. Parents deposit money in the child's account. It is
recommended that children buy their meals or milk on a weekly or monthly basis. Your
child will receive a reminder when their account is getting low. Students who have
insufficient funds in their account for more than 3 consecutive days will receive a
cheese sandwich and milk for lunch until the account balance returns to the
positive. Please, keep your child’s lunch account current. Monthly menus can be found
on the district website at www.bsd7.org
BIRTHDAY TREATS AND INVITATIONS
For those parents wishing to send birthday treats, please try to:
(1) Check with your child’s classroom teacher to make sure there are no children with
food allergies.
(2) Send individual, healthy treats that can be eaten with little mess and without the need
for sending students down to the kitchen or office to borrow utensils.
(3) Notify the teacher at least a day in advance so that he/she can coordinate the number
of treats brought on any one school day. For ideas and tips, please feel free to check out
the suggestions on the Student Wellness link on the District webpage.
To prevent hurt feelings and other awkward situations, we ask that you please mail
invitations from home to children your child wishes to invite rather than sending them to
school for passing out. Your sensitivity and cooperation in finding other avenues for
delivery of invitations will be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to use the LPA
sponsored school directory to obtain student address/phone numbers. Addresses not
listed in our school directory cannot be given out.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
Bus service is provided for those who wish to ride under the terms established by law and
district policy. ANY TIME BUSES ARE CANCELED IN THE MORNING BECAUSE
OF STORMY WEATHER THEY WILL NOT BE RUNNING IN THE AFTERNOON
REGARDLESS OF WEATHER CONDITIONS. This is true even if the weather clears
up. For further information about bus service, questions, or concerns, please call the
district transportation office at 522-6041. After 4:30 p.m. you may call First Student Bus
Company at 556-8039.
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GRADING AND PROGRESS REPORTS
Longfellow believes that the cooperation of school and home is vital in the educational
success of each student and recognizes its responsibility to keep parents/guardian
informed of student welfare and progress in school. The issuance of regular progress
reports is the basis for continuous evaluation of the student's performance and for
determining changes that should be made to effect improvement. These reports shall be
designed to provide information that will be helpful to the student, teacher, counselor and
parent/guardian.
Assessment of students comes in a variety of forms and assessment results are always
available for parents. Please contact individual classroom teachers who will inform you
of specific assessment results.
Parent/Teacher conferences will be held November 22. There will be no school on
this day to accommodate these conferences. Longfellow's trimester grading calendar for
2013-2014 is as follows:
10/16/13
11/22/13
1/31/14
3/21/14
5/2/14
6/12/14
first mid-trimester progress notices sent home
end of first trimester – Parent/Teacher Conferences
second mid-trimester progress notices sent home
end of second trimester - report cards sent home
third mid-trimester progress notices sent home
end of third trimester - report cards sent home
WEAPONS POLICY
We ask that you make sure your children do not bring weapons of any kind to school. In
the event that a weapon is brought to school, the student's parent will need to come to
school on the last day to reclaim the item. Depending of the severity of the incident,
additional consequences may be enforced, up to and including expulsion.
NUTRITION BREAKS, GUM AND CANDY
Gum is allowed on school property for special classroom events only. Candy may be
eaten at school as part of a sack lunch or otherwise approved by a teacher. On such
occasions, the candy should not leave the lunchroom or classroom. Morning “nutrition
breaks” are provided each day. Please be sure your child brings healthy snacks when
they need a midmorning nutrition boost.
STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE
The school does not provide any kind of accident insurance. If you do not have insurance
through your place of work, etc., you may wish to subscribe to student accident
insurance. Some private insurance companies supply application forms to the school,
which may be picked up from the office. The parent liaison may also help you acquire
insurance.
25
CLOTHING, LABELS, LOST AND FOUND
All clothing, equipment and backpacks should be plainly marked inside with the
student’s name. Unclaimed clothing and articles are put in the lost and found at the
southwest corner of the bottom floor of the building. Prior to taking the lost and found
items to charity, unclaimed clothing is displayed in the gym or outside (weather
permitting) and students are given the opportunity to reclaim their things. Notices of
these “reunification efforts” will be placed on the school calendar/website as well.
Parents are encouraged to check the Lost and Found periodically for their children’s
possessions.
STUDENTS MOVING FROM THE DISTRICT
When you are leaving the district, please let us know ahead of time so that we may get
records and personal materials ready. All library books and textbooks must be returned
to school. A child’s lunch account balance will be refunded. All materials must be
returned and account balances must be paid before checkout can be completed.
PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS
(a) Inspection of instructional materials by parents and guardians.
All instructional materials, including teacher's manuals, films, tapes or other
supplementary material, which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis, or
evaluation as part of any applicable program, shall be available for inspection by the
parents or guardians of the children.
(b) Limits on survey, analysis, or evaluation.
No students will be required, as part of any applicable program, to submit to a survey,
analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning:
1. political affiliations;
2. mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the
student or family;
3. sex behavior and attitudes;
4. illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;
5. critical appraisals of other individuals with who respondents have
close family relationships;
6. legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those
of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
7. income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for
participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance
under such program) without the prior consent of the student (if
the student is an adult or emancipated minor) or in the case of an
unemancipated minor, without the prior written consent of the
parent.
26
RIGHTS PERTAINING TO ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION
Any student of the district who believes he/she has been discriminated against, denied a
benefit, or excluded from participation in any district education program or activity on an
illegal basis may seek resolution by:
a) informal discussions with the responsible teacher, supervisor or with the school
principal;
b) filing a written complaint with the Superintendent (forms available at his/her office,
404 West Main, Bozeman);
c) filing a written complaint with the Regional Director, Office of Civil Rights, 19th and
Stout Streets, Denver, CO 80202.
MCKINNEY-VENTO ACT – EDUCATION OF HOMELESS CHILDREN
Every child of a homeless individual and every homeless child are entitled to equal
access to the same free, appropriate public education as provided to other students. The
District must assign and admit a child who is homeless to a District school regardless of
residence and irrespective of whether the homeless child is able to produce records
normally required for enrollment. The District may not require an out-of-District
attendance agreement and tuition for a homeless child. More information can be found in
Board Policy #3116 thru the following link:
www.bsd7.org/district/departments/curriculum_instruction/homeless/
TOBACCO FREE POLICY
In the interest of having healthy employees and positive health models for students, the
Bozeman Public School District maintains tobacco free buildings and grounds. The
following stipulations constitute the tobacco policy for the Bozeman Public Schools.
a) All school buildings are hereby declared as tobacco free schools. No use of
tobacco will be permitted on Bozeman School District grounds or facilities.
b) Since July 1, 1991 use of tobacco has not be allowed on any school property
nor have employees been allowed to use tobacco while on duty in the presence of
students.
c) New employees of the district will be hired with the understanding that they
will be directed not to use tobacco at their place of work.
d) Limitations or prohibitions on tobacco use are applicable to all hours.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
According to the Video Surveillance Policy #3235, the district shall notify staff, students,
and parents that video cameras may be used by the district to protect students, staff,
visitors and property for authorized purposes.
CANINE DETECTION
To further safety and deter drugs and other illegal contraband in the schools, the Board of
Trustees authorizes the use of specially trained, non-aggressive dogs to detect the
presence of substances prohibited by law or district policy. Drug-detection dogs may be
used periodically to monitor school premises as determined by the administration,
including but not limited to, lockers, gym areas, common areas, vehicles, vacated
classrooms (and items left in classrooms including book bags, gym bags, coats, jackets,
27
purses, etc.), and perimeters of school property. Our policy and the procedure associated
with canine-assisted searches are in line with legal precedent. The Searches and Seizure
Policy governs the District’s authority to search students and their property and the
student’s responsibility to submit to searches. Under Board Policy 3231, school officials
have authority to conduct reasonable searches of school property and equipment, as well
as of students and their personal effects, to maintain order and security in the schools.
Canine detection dogs seek out and alert on illegal drugs including marijuana, cocaine,
heroin, ecstasy, and methamphetamines. They also find gunpowder related items such as
ammunition and firearms. They also alert on a wide variety of alcoholic beverages as
well as often abused over-the-counter and prescription medications. They do not alert on
tobacco products or inhalers.
If a dog alerts on an item it will simply sit next to the item containing the odor, this
establishes reasonable suspicion to conduct a search. The owner of the item is then
escorted to the scene by a school administrator. The student is briefed on the dog's
capabilities and given an opportunity to offer an explanation as to the nature of the dog's
interest. The location and/or item is then inspected by the handler and contraband items
discovered are sealed in an evidence bag and turned over to the school administrator.
Parents are contacted and disciplinary action is taken based on Board policy.
If a vehicle is to be opened, the person owning, operating, or responsible for that vehicle
shall also be present unless a school administrator deems the situation to be an emergency
where public safety could be in jeopardy. Should a person refuse to allow their vehicle to
be searched, law enforcement shall be notified.
This detection system sends a message to students, parents and the community that our
school has initiated a proactive position regarding the presence of prohibited items. If
you are a parent of a middle or high school student, please direct any questions to your
building principal.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Bozeman Public School District #7 is an equal opportunity institution. It is the policy of
the district not to discriminate in its educational programs and activities or in
employment on the basis of race, color, veteran status, national origin, age, sex,
handicapping status or religion. Inquiries concerning any of these matters may be
referred to Pat Strauss, Title IX Coordinator. He may be contacted at Willson School,
404 West Main, Bozeman, MT 59715 or by calling (406) 522-6006. Inquiries may also
be addressed to the United States Department of Civil Rights, 1961 Stout Street, Denver,
CO 80294. (Title IX grievance procedures are available in the teachers' workroom and
the principal's office, District Policy #3210P).
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NONDISCRIMINATION OF THE HANDICAPPED
In compliance with Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, Bozeman School District
#7 does not discriminate against any person on the basis of handicap, in the educational
programs or activities which it operates, in accordance with the requirements of Section
504 of the United States Rehabilitation Act of 1973. To contact the coordinator for
information or to file a grievance, please go to the Special Services Office, 404 West
Main, Bozeman, MT or call (406) 522-6054.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT/SEXUAL INTIMIDATION
Bozeman Public School District #7 is committed to a positive and productive working
and learning environment free of discrimination. Discrimination adversely affects morale
and interferes with employee and student ability to work and learn. The District prohibits
sexual harassment or sexual intimidation of its employees or students, whether committed
by a worker, coworker, supervisor, subordinate, contractor, volunteer or students, and
finds such behavior cause for disciplinary action. This policy applies to employees,
students and volunteers on or off District property as they carry out their responsibilities.
Persons wishing further information may contact the Director of Human Resources at
522-6006. (Ref. Board Policy #5012).
PREVENTION EDUCATION
Parents and Students
Federal law states that parents and students must be told about alcohol and drug laws,
health risks, school rules, and helping resources. The Bozeman School District is
committed to keeping its schools alcohol and drug free. Student use of alcohol or drugs
at school and/or school activities is illegal and harmful. Students will be suspended,
expelled, or referred to law enforcement agencies. Students may also be required to see a
counselor or attend a drug treatment program. The district does not pay for drug
treatment or private counseling.
Alcohol and Drug Laws
It is against the law for people under 21 years of age to drink or possess alcoholic
beverages. As of October 1, 1995 it became illegal for those under 18 to use or possess
tobacco in the state of Montana. Parents will be notified if their son or daughter is in
violation and a citation will be issued and counseling may be required. Contributing
alcohol to minors is illegal. Illegal drug use is wrong and many career opportunities may
be forfeited. Penalties for dangerous drug use or sale can be harsh. Juveniles may be
tried as adults. A conviction for selling drugs within the "Drug Free School Zone"
(within 1,000 feet of school property) carries additional penalties and fines. Property can
be seized.
Health Risks
Alcohol and drug use can be very harmful to good health. Tobacco use is Montana’s
leading cause of preventable death and 400,000 people die each year in our country due
to tobacco related illnesses. Alcohol abuse can cause alcoholism, liver disease, and nerve
damage, as well as problems with friends, family, employment, money and depression.
Most car crashes, suicides, homicides and violent crimes are alcohol or drug related.
29
Abuse of medications or illegal drugs can cause dependency, confusion, memory
problems, stupor, coma, psychosis, or death.
School Rules
Alcohol and illegal drug use, possession, or distribution is prohibited on school property
and at school activities. Compliance with this standard is mandatory. If a student is
caught in a violation the parent will be notified. The police will be notified. The student
may be suspended, expelled, and/or referred to counseling. Violations concerning drugs
other than tobacco and alcohol may lead to expulsion. An alcohol and drug evaluation
may be required. Students will be encouraged to seek help regarding their alcohol or
drug issues. All Bozeman schools are tobacco free.
Helping Resources
All school counselors are willing to talk with students and parents. Bozeman Public
Schools has a Chemical Dependency Prevention program; for more information call
522-6020. Other helping resources include:
AA Answering Service
586-2909
Cocaine Abuse Hotline
1-800-COCAINE
NAIAD Information/Treatment
1-800-662-HELP
Bozeman Schools
522-6013
Help Center
586-3333
Alcohol & Drug Services of Gallatin County
586-5493
Tobacco Cessation Information
1-800-LUNG-USA
ASBESTOS NOTICE
The Bozeman School District, in accordance with recent federal law, has extensively
inspected all of its facilities and located all forms of asbestos used as a building material
in your child’s school. Based on the findings of that inspection, a plan has been written
for the management and control of the asbestos in your school. That plan shows the
location of all the asbestos found. It also details what the school district is going to do
with the asbestos and a timetable for that activity. This plan is available for you to
inspect in the office of the principal during school hours. You may also obtain a copy
from the Maintenance and Operations office at 404 W. Main. Please direct all questions
to the principal or the Maintenance and Operations office.
MEDICATION POLICY
The Bozeman School District strongly recommends that all medications be given at home
by the parent or guardian whenever possible. All medications, prescription and over the
counter that are to be taken at school are required to have an order written by a health
care provider. In addition, most medications to be taken at school will also need a
school health care plan. Health care plans for diabetes, seizures, asthma and allergies are
available at http//;www.bsd7.org/district/departments/healthservices. For other health
conditions, a specific health care plan will be written. Students that require emergency
medication must fill out the MT authorization to possess or self-administer asthma severe
allergy or anaphylaxis mediation form. Please contact the school administrator and
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Rebecca Spear, the Bozeman School District nurse (522-6057) for more information.
The medication rules and policies also apply for those students that will be attending
overnight field trips with the school. Please see BSD policy 3416 for detailed
information about the medication policy.
31
2013- 2014
Bozeman Public Schools
Board of Trustees
Wendy Tage, Chair
Sue McGrath, Vice Chair
Heidi Arneson
Denise Hayman
Dan Swanson
Gary Lusin
Andy Willett
Elizabeth Williamson
email: [email protected]
Upon the subject of education,
Not presuming to dictate any plan or system respecting it,
I can only say that I view it as the most important subject
Which we as a people may be engaged in.
Abraham Lincoln
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3310P1
Bozeman School District
K-5 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS - BEHAVIOR & DISCIPLINE
REPORTING
The purpose of the Bozeman Public Schools Behavior and Discipline Reporting Plan is
to provide students and parents with clear and consistent guidelines for discipline that
reflect good practice developmentally and at the same time meet the need to maintain
fairness, uniformity, and consistency.
The recently reauthorized federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA),
also known as the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, requires additional data collection
and reporting by both state and local education agencies. As a result, the OPI and local
school districts must collect and maintain more accountability data. Therefore, serious
behavior incidences (i.e., Level III infractions; see definitions below) are recorded in our
school records system. Our discipline codes apply to all students K-12, but the
elementary plan is designed to meet the needs of younger students. Young children
need to be taught and, if necessary, re-taught behavioral expectations. Our
consequences are designed to facilitate this developmental process and to provide a
safe and orderly environment in which our students can learn. The Bozeman District
Schools have adopted and trained staff in the Foundations Program (Sprick, Garrison, &
Howard, 2002) which promotes positive K-12 school climate through the use of clear,
consistent behavior expectations for children. It focuses on teaching, guidance,
correction, and meeting the needs of all students to create safe, civil, and academically
productive schools. The Foundations beliefs include: all students must be treated with
dignity and respect; students should be taught the skills and behaviors necessary for
success; motivation and responsibility should be encouraged through positive
interactions and building relationships with students; and student misbehavior represents
a teaching opportunity. The District has also adopted the Olweus Bullying Prevention
Program which includes the following four rules: (1) We will not bully others; (2) We will
try to help students who are bullied; (3) We will try to include students who are left out;
(4) If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult
at home.
The District's goal is to maintain uniformity in reporting behavioral infractions for
students in grades K-12. We recognize that the consequences need to be adapted
for elementary students in response to their ages and unique developmental
needs. Young children need to be taught and, if necessary, retaught behavioral
expectations. Consequences are designed to facilitate this process. Misbehaviors
in the elementary grades are categorized as Level I, Level II, or Level III. These
infraction levels are defined below.
Level I
Minor misbehaviors that can be adequately corrected at the time they occur, and which
do not require documentation.
Level II
Misbehaviors that, while not requiring immediate administrative involvement, do require
documentation because:
1. The reporting staff member wants/needs administrative input on the incident (e.g., a
teasing incident that may be harassment).
2. The reporting staff member feels the administrator should be aware and/or have a
record of the situation (e.g., a Level I misbehavior is becoming chronic).
33
Level III
Serious misbehaviors that require administrative involvement, written documentation and
parent contact. Level III incidents include behaviors that are illegal, physically
dangerous, or demonstrate gross insubordination.
Consequences and Corrective Measures
A choice of consequences is listed below Level III – Entered in to PowerSchool
and may be used at the discretion of the
principal. Level III infractions will be
entered into the school district's database
and become part of the school district's
annual behavior report.Level II
Re-teach
Apology
Meaningful Work
Time-Out
Processing Activity/Form
Loss of Recess
Referral to Principal
Parent Contact
Detention
Restricted Privileges
Re-teach
Meaningful Work
Time-Out
Processing Activity/Form
Loss of Recess
Parent Conference
Restricted Privileges
Suspension (ISS/OSS)
Referral to School Resource Officer
Recommendation for Expulsion
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BOZEMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS 3600F1
STUDENTS
Student Records
Notification to Parents and Students of Rights Concerning a Student’s School Records
This notification may be distributed by any means likely to reach the parent(s)/guardian(s).
The District will maintain two (2) sets of school records for each student: a permanent record and a
cumulative record. The permanent record will include:
Basic identifying information
Academic work completed (transcripts)
Level of achievement (grades, standardized achievement tests)
Immunization records (per § 20-5-506, MCA)
Attendance record
Record of any disciplinary action taken against the student, which is educationally related
The cumulative record may include:
Intelligence and aptitude scores
Psychological reports
Participation in extracurricular activities
Honors and awards
Teacher anecdotal records
Verified reports or information from non-educational persons
Verified information of clear relevance to the student’s education
Information pertaining to release of this record
Disciplinary information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents/guardians and students over
eighteen (18) years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education
records. They are:
1. The right to inspect and copy the student’s education records, within a reasonable time from the day
the District receives a request for access.
“Eligible” students, who are eighteen (18) years of age or older, have the right to inspect and copy their
permanent record. Parents/guardians or “eligible” students should submit to the school principal (or
appropriate school official) a written request identifying the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal
will make, within forty-five (45) days, arrangements for access and notify the parent(s)/ guardian(s) or
eligible student of the time and place the records may be inspected. The District charges a nominal fee
for copying, but no one will be denied their right to copies of their records for inability to pay this
cost.3600F1 (cont’d)
35
The rights contained in this section are denied to any person against whom an order of protection has
been entered concerning a student.
2. The right to request amendment of the student’s education records which the parent(s)/guardian(s)
or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, irrelevant, or improper.
Parents/guardians or eligible students may ask the District to amend a record they believe is
inaccurate, misleading, irrelevant, or improper. They should write the school principal or records
custodian, clearly identifying the part of the record they want changed, and specify the reason.
If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible
student, the District will notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible student of the decision and advise
him or her of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information
regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible student when
notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to permit disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s
education records, except to the extent that FERPA or state law authorizes disclosure without consent.
Disclosure is permitted without consent to school officials with legitimate educational or administrative
interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor,
instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit
personnel); a person serving on the Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted
to perform a special task (such as contractors, attorneys, auditors, consultants, or therapists);
volunteers; other outside parties to whom an educational agency or institution has outsourced
institutional services or functions that it would otherwise use employees to perform; or a
parent(s)/guardian(s) or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance
committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest, if the official needs to review an education record
in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, the District discloses education records, without consent, to officials of another school
district in which a student has enrolled or intends to enroll, as well as to any person as specifically
required by state or federal law. Before information is
released to individuals described in this paragraph, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive written notice
of the nature and substance of the information and an opportunity to inspect, copy, and challenge such
records. The right to challenge school student records does not apply to: (1) academic grades of their
child, and (2) references to expulsions or out-of-school suspensions, if the challenge is made at the
time the student’s school student records are forwarded to another school to which the student is
transferring.
Disclosure is also permitted without consent to: any person for research, statistical reporting, or
planning, provided that no student or parent(s)/guardian(s) can be identified; any person named in a
court order; and appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect
3600F1 (cont’d)
36
the health or safety of the student or other persons.
4. The right to a copy of any school student record proposed to be destroyed or deleted.
5. The right to prohibit the release of directory information concerning the parent’s/ guardian’s child.
Throughout the school year, the District may release directory information regarding students, limited
to:
Student’s name
Address
Telephone listing
Electronic mail address
Photograph (including electronic version)
Date and place of birth
Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Grade level
Enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate; full-time or part-time)
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Degrees
Honors and awards received
Most recent educational agency or institution attended
Any parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible student may prohibit the release of all of the above information by
delivering written objection to the building principal within ten (10) days of the date of this notice. No
directory information will be released within this time period, unless the parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible
student are specifically informed otherwise. When a student transfers, leaves the District, or graduates,
the school must continue to honor a decision to opt-out, unless the parent or student rescinds the
decision.
A parent or student 18 years of age or an emancipated student, may not opt out of directory information
to prevent the district from disclosing or requiring a student to disclose their name [identifier,
institutional email address in a class in which the student is enrolled] or from requiring a student to
disclose a student ID card or badge that exhibits information that has been properly designated
directory information by the district in this policy.
6. The right to request that information not be released to military recruiters and/or institutions of higher
education.
Pursuant to federal law, the District is required to release the names, addresses, and telephone
numbers of all high school students to military recruiters and institutions of higher education upon
request.
Parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible students may request that the District not release this information, and
the District will comply with the request.3600F1 (cont’d)
37
7. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, concerning alleged failures by
the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
Adopted: 07-11-05 Rev.: 4-27-09; 6-1-09; 8-1-11; 7-12
38
Student Technology Acceptable Use Agreement
Bozeman School District #7
Policy 8422P
Kindergarten to Grade 5
Bozeman School District #7 provides access to voice, data and video electronic
communication systems for educational purposes. Our goal in providing this
service is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing,
innovation and communication.
To comply with the Childrenʼs Internet Protection Act and to the extent practical,
technology protection measures shall be used to block or filter as defined by law.
Filtering is by no means meant to supersede the guidelines and requirements
described in this document. Filtered access to some sites may still violate the
Technology Acceptable Use Agreement. If users find themselves in an area on
the network that is inappropriate they should leave immediately. If students
receive electronic information that is inappropriate they should report it to the
adult supervisor of the classroom.
Communication over district networks is not private. Any files, Internet access or
communications on Bozeman School District computers or networks may be
reviewed or monitored for maintenance and supervision purposes.
Students will not be permitted to access electronic mail through our network
unless it is directly supervised and used for educational purposes. Staff will
ensure that students abide by the Bozeman School District Technology
Acceptable Use Agreement, will not leave students unattended while they are
using the Internet, and will have educationally relevant objectives for each
Internet activity. Parents and guardians have a responsibility to read this policy
and convey its meaning and standards to their children when they are using
media and technology sources during the school day.
Bozeman School District Terms and Conditions for Responsible
Network Use
• I will practice Internet safety.
• I will not use a computer to harm other people or their work, or to do anything
unlawful.
• I will not damage the computer or the network in any way.
• I will be polite, respectful and honest when using the computer network.
• I will not give anyone my name, phone number, address or any personal
information or of my friends or family members when using the Internet.
• I will promptly report any problems to my teacher.
• If I access an area of the Internet that is offensive, obscene or uses bad
language, I will immediately back out of the area or quit the Internet application I
am using and report it to my teacher.
• I will not view, send, or display offensive messages or pictures.
• I will not trespass in another person’s folders, work or files.
39
• I will not use electronic mail or chat rooms or other forms of electronic
communication while on the Bozeman Schools computer network unless it is
used directly with a teachers supervision for educational purposes.
• I understand that any files, Internet access or communications on Bozeman
Public Schools computers or networks may be reviewed or monitored. All Internet
access is filtered.
Student Technology Acceptable Use Agreement
Bozeman School District #7
Policy 8422P
Kindergarten to Grade 5
• I will not eat or drink at any school computer.
• I will not share my password with another person, or use another person’s
password.
• I will not be a cyber-bully (A good rule to follow is never view, send, or access
materials that you would not want your teachers and parents to see.)
The above lists do not cover every possible situation. If you have any questions,
please ask your teacher or librarian.
It is understood that a guardian signature is not required for this procedure to be
effective. Computer access has become an integral part of the curriculum, and
the inability to use this resource may impact your student’s educational
opportunities. Please fill out the form provided by your school that you
understand this document and the student will abide by the rules. Written
notice must be sent by the parent/guardian to the school principal if you do
not want your student to use computers in the school. If we receive no
response within 10 days of the first day of attendance, we will consider
that to be an "opt-in" and will allow your student to have computer access.
Students will be held liable for violations of this agreement. It is understood that
the Bozeman School District’s computer systems and technology resources are
intended for educational purposes. The Bozeman School District staff will
exercise reasonable oversight to ensure that the communication and technology
resources and facilities are used in an appropriate manner. Bozeman School
District makes no guarantee that the functions or the services provided by or
through the district system will be error-free or without defect.
The Bozeman School District will not be held responsible for materials acquired
on the network. The District will not be responsible for any damage a user may
suffer including, but not limited to, loss of data or interruptions of service. The
District is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of the information attained
through or stored on the system. The District will not be responsible for financial
obligations arising from unauthorized use of the system.
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BOZEMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS 3600F2
STUDENTS
Student Directory Information Notification
Please sign and return this form to the school within ten (10) days of the receipt of this form
ONLY if you do not want directory information about your child disclosed to third parties in
accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). If we receive no
response by that date, we will disclose all student directory information at our discretion and/or
in compliance with law.
_______________________
Date
Dear Parent/Eligible Student:
This document informs you of your right to direct the District to withhold the release of student
directory information for _______________________________________________. (Student’s
Name)
Following is a list of items this District considers student directory information:
-Student’s name -Enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or
-Address graduate; full-time or part-time)
-Telephone listing -Participation in officially recognized activities
-Electronic mail address and sports
-Photograph (including electronic version) -Weight and height of members of athletic teams
-Date and place of birth -Degrees
-Major field of study -Honors and awards received
-Dates of attendance -Most recent educational agency or institution
-Grade level attended
If you do NOT want directory information provided to the following, please check the
appropriate box.
o Institutions of Higher Education,
o Potential Employers,
o Armed Forces Recruiters,
o Other
NOTE: If a student’s name, grade level, or photograph is to be withheld, the student will not
be included in the school’s yearbook, program events, or other such publications.
_________________________________________________ __________________
Parent/Eligible Student’s Signature Date
Rev.: 7/12
41
2013-14 Bozeman Public Schools Parent Permission Form
K-5 Elementary Students
Student Name:___________________________________________ Grade:_____
Teacher Name:__________________
This form will remain in force for the 2013-14 school year. If at any time you would like to make
changes, please contact your child’s school. Please read the Handbook information related to the
topics below before completing this form. Once you have read the information provided please
initial your choices, sign the form, and return to the school. Please complete separate forms for
each child you have in school.
____Yes ____No
I give permission for my child to attend all walking field trips during the
2013-14 school year. I understand that I will be notified in writing in
advance of these walking field trips. I authorize Bozeman School
District #7 employees or volunteers in charge of my student while on a
field trip to obtain all necessary emergency medical care and authorize
any licensed physician and/or medical personnel to render necessary
emergency medical treatment to the student. (Pg. 13)
____Yes ____No
I give permission for my child’s work/and or first name to be published
on the District and/or School web site. (Pg. 34-37)
____Yes ____No
I give permission for the release of “directory information” about my
child. “Directory information” is a term used by the U.S. Department of
Education to describe general information about a student. Directory
information includes: student’s name, address, telephone number, date
and place of birth, dates of attendance, major field of study, photograph,
weight and height (if a member of an athletic team), information about
the student’s participation in officially recognized activities and sports,
grade level, gender, ethnicity, enrollment status, and most recent
educational institution attended by the student. This information is not
released for commercial purposes. It can be released to provide
educational, scholarship, vocational/occupational and or information to
the news media or law enforcement. It may also be used for school
purposes, including class or school directories, class pictures, and
yearbooks. NOTE: If a student’s name, grade level, and
photograph are to be withheld, the student will not be
i ncluded in the school’s yearbook, program events, class
picture, class directory, or other such publications. (Pg. 34-37)
____Yes ____No
I have read Student and Family Privacy Rights – Bozeman Public
Schools Policy 3202, and know that I may ask questions of my principal
at any time (Pg. 25-30)
____Yes ____No
I have read and understand the Student/Parent Handbook.
Parent Signature:_____________________________________Date:______________
*Please make sure to also sign and return the Technology Responsible Use/Internet Access Conduct
Agreement
42
Technology Responsible Use/Internet Access Conduct Agreement
I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the terms of the Bozeman School District’s policy
regarding District-Provided Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks (Policy No.
3612). Should I commit any violation or in any way misuse my access to the District’s computer
network and/or the Internet, I understand and agree that my access privilege may be revoked and
school disciplinary action may be taken against me.
User’s Name (Print): _________________________ Home Phone: _______________________
User’s Signature: ___________________________ Date: ______________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
If I am signing this policy when I am under 18, I understand that when I turn 18, this policy will
continue to be in full force and effect and agree to abide by this policy.
Parent or Legal Guardian. (If applicant is under 18 years of age, a parent/legal guardian must
also read and sign this agreement.) As the parent or legal guardian of the above-named student, I
have read, understand, and agree that my child shall comply with the terms of the District’s policy
regarding District-Provided Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks for the
student’s access to the District’s computer network and/or the Internet. I understand that access is
being provided to the students for educational purposes only. However, I also understand that it is
impossible for the school to restrict access to all offensive and controversial materials and
understand my child’s responsibility for abiding by the policy. I am, therefore, signing this
Agreement and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the District, the Trustees, Administrators,
teachers, and other staff against all claims, damages, losses, and costs, of whatever kind, that may
result from my child’s use of or access to such networks or his/her violation of the District’s policy.
Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision of my child’s use of his/her access account if and
when such access is not in the school setting. I hereby give my child permission to use the
building-approved account to access the District’s computer network and the Internet.
Parent/Legal Guardian (Print): _____________________________________________________
Signature: _____________________________________________________________________
Home Phone: ___________________ Address: ______________________________________
Date: __________________________
This Agreement is valid for the 2013-2014 school year only.
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