NORTON ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL Nurturing Excellence & Motivating Success MISSION STATEMENT Committed to Excellence-Creating lifelong learners, one child at a time. Norton Elementary and Middle School recognizes that each child is an individual who can succeed with the support of their family, school, and community. We strive to promote a safe and caring atmosphere to enhance and create challenging learning programs in which to foster the development of social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth of its members. OUR STAFF BELIEVES . . . . . 1. All children are unique individuals who can learn and achieve. 2. Students learn in a variety of ways from developmentally appropriate activities which enhance learning at all levels. 3. All students deserve an equal opportunity to acquire knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed to become productive citizens. 4. Students learn best when they have a supportive family environment and a safe school environment. 5. Students, parents, paraprofessionals, teachers, administrators and the community share responsibility for educational success. ***** Norton Elementary & Middle School is accredited by the Virginia Department of Education. 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS School Board ..........................................................................................................................3 Superintendent ......................................................................................................................3 Norton Elementary School Staff ............................................................................................3 Attendance.............................................................................................................................5 Afternoon Dismissal ...............................................................................................................7 Assemblies .............................................................................................................................7 Bullying……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 Bus Riders...............................................................................................................................12 Cafeteria .................................................................................................................................12 Care of Property ....................................................................................................................13 Chewing Gum .........................................................................................................................13 Conduct ..................................................................................................................................13 Dress Code .............................................................................................................................13 Cell Phones .............................................................................................................................14 Drugs and Intoxicants ............................................................................................................14 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ............................................................................14 Fees ........................................................................................................................................18 Fire Drills ................................................................................................................................18 Gifted Education ....................................................................................................................18 Guidance and Counseling Program .......................................................................................20 Health and Medical Regulations ............................................................................................21 Health Regulations (Other) …………………………………………………………………..………………………… 21 Health Screening ....................................................................................................................21 Homework .............................................................................................................................22 Honor Roll .............................................................................................................................22 Immunizations ......................................................................................................................22 Library Guidelines .................................................................................................................22 Natural and Man-Made Disaster Plan ..................................................................................23 Nondiscrimination ................................................................................................................23 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability ........................................................................24 Physical Education Program ..................................................................................................24 Pictures ..................................................................................................................................25 Professional Qualifications of Staff .......................................................................................25 Progress Reports ....................................................................................................................25 Promotion/Retention ............................................................................................................25 Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) ....................................................................26 P.T.A. ......................................................................................................................................27 Religion ..................................................................................................................................27 School Board Policy Manual ..................................................................................................27 Smoking ..................................................................................................................................28 Snow Schedule .......................................................................................................................28 Special Services ......................................................................................................................28 Student Insurance ..................................................................................................................28 Student Records .....................................................................................................................28 Student Use of Phone ............................................................................................................30 2 Student Wellness ...................................................................................................................30 Title I Program........................................................................................................................32 Visitors to the School ............................................................................................................32 Acceptable Computer System Use .......................................................................................33 Acknowledgement of Receipt ................................................................................................36 SCHOOL BOARD Mrs. Sherry Adams, Chairperson Mr. Mark Leonard, Vice-Chair Mrs. Carol Caruso Mrs. April Fletcher Mr. Joseph Stallard SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Keith Perrigan NORTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STAFF Gina Wohlford, Principal Brad Hart, Assistant Principal Melissa Short, Guidance Caroll Addington, School Nurse/Family Life Coordinator Sue Wells, Secretary/Bookkeeper Nancy Stalnaker, Secretary Pre-School Paraprofessionals Donnie Culbertson Heather Williams Kindergarten Team Andrea Sturgill Katie Gibson Anne Newlun Tina Hammonds Melissa Dockery First Grade Team Norma Crowder Kelly Harvey Anita Ward 3 Second Grade Team Rebecca Massie Vanessa Mullins Cindy Moore Third Grade Team Jennifer Fisher Alyssa Phillips Brittany Wright Fourth Grade Team Kathy Gardner Ashley Mefford Meike Williams Fifth Grade Team Vanessa Cyphers Cheryl Duncan Amanda Lemley Sixth Grade Team Diane Kinser Sheena Lee Renee Robinson Samantha Robinson Seventh Grade Team Robert Bentley Kristina Bolling Sandi Roop Specialists Sundy Adams, Special Education Cassandra Butler, Band Lisa Bolling, Technology Gabby Caruso, Music Cassie Clack, Special Education Anu Godsey, Special Education Jennifer McCall, Librarian Patrick Fisher, Physical Education Cheryl Redman, Reading Specialist Virginia Roberts, Math Specialist 4 Elijah Roop, Physical Education/Safe Routes to School Coordinator Lisa Tackett, Special Education Neil Walker, Art Aceshia Wampler, Early Childhood Special Education Special Needs Paraprofessionals: Title I Paraprofessionals: Bobbie Hoyt Amy Ingle Theresa Talley Betty Brooks Jill Cooke Patty Hamm Tonya Jessee ATTENDANCE Every student has a right to educational opportunities that will enable the student to develop to his or her fullest potential. Regular school attendance is a critical factor for academic success. Consistent school attendance has a positive correlation with academic success and eventually graduating from high school. Since school is a partnership, parents are expected to make sure their children attend school on a regular basis. Parents are expected to contact the school if their child is going to be absent. Absences from School Time lost from class for any reason represents a significant loss of educational opportunity for all students. The primary objective of Norton City Schools’ attendance guidelines is to establish minimum attendance requirements to ensure the academic success of every student and adhere to the Code of Virginia. A. Excused Absences Excused absences include up to 10 of the following: Medical Excuses Court appointment Death in the family Parent note and phone call that the child was sick School Activity Documentation for all absences must be provided to the school within one week of the absence. After 10 unexcused, all absences will require proper documentation in written form to avoid truancy procedures. Examples include doctor’s note, note from court clerk, etc. School administration may excuse absences if there are any extenuating circumstances or emergencies that warrant such action and the student is considered in good standing with the school academically and has not been absent an excessive number of days. School administration may also excuse absences for family trips for a total of up to five (5) school days during the school year as long as the student is in good standing with the school and has not been absent from school an excessive number of days. Prior approval from the principal is required for a requested family trip to be an excused absence. 5 B. Unexcused Absences An absence is considered unexcused when it is avoidable and unnecessary, or if unsatisfactory documentation concerning the absences has been submitted to the school. If a student is suspended, the absences are considered unexcused. Unexcused absences include: No note or phone call from parent Suspensions from school Any absence(s) after ten (10) without proper documentation described above. Should a student accumulate five (5) unexcused absences, the principal or his/her designee will meet with the student and send a letter to the parent or guardian reminding them of the importance of good attendance. If the student continues to be absent, the sixth (6) unexcused absence from school will lead the principal or his/her designee scheduling a meeting with the student and parent/guardian to develop a written plan to resolve the student’s non-attendance and actions to be taken. Parents are required to cooperate and should a parent fail to attend this meeting or be uncooperative, the principal will move forward with truancy filings. After seven (7) unexcused absences, the parent or guardian will be required to meet with the school personnel for recommendations to avoid future absences and court involvement. C. Make-Up Work Students will make-up all class work missed due to being absent from class. Upon returning to class after an absence, students shall be responsible for completing work they have missed. Teachers will be responsible for assigning the make-up work and determining when the work shall be completed. Students who believe additional time is needed must make arrangements with their individual teacher(s) and/or principal. D. Arriving Late to School and Early Dismissals Academic success requires that all students are in school for the entire school day. Students arriving late to school and early dismissals will be excused only for: Medical note Court appointment Death in the family Once a student arrives on school property, he or she may leave only by following established dismissal procedures. Students are expected to arrive at school and attend classes on time every day. After a student is tardy to school or has early dismissals totaling ten (10) times unexcused, the principal or his/her designee will meet with the student and send a letter home concerning the importance of being in school on time and for the entire day. Should the student accumulate a total of fifteen (15) unexcused tardies or early dismissals, the principal or his/her designee will schedule a meeting with the student and parent and will develop a plan to reduce the offences. Perfect attendance certificates will be awarded to students only if they have been present each day of the school year. Students must not have missed more than one-half day of instructional time when they have been late arriving or when they have left early. The number of times tardy will be taken into consideration when determining perfect attendance, with no more than 5 times tardy/early dismissals being allowed. 6 Students transported by private vehicle in the mornings should be brought onto the school campus via the road that passes the Little League field. Traffic is then directed around the upper parking lot before proceeding to the traffic lane in front of the building. All traffic is asked to adhere to the requests of morning traffic staff to allow us to keep traffic moving efficiently. Adherence to this procedure will provide the safest setting for student arrival in the mornings. Students who leave the school earlier than 3:10 p.m. must be properly signed out in the school office by the parent or guardian. Students should not be checked out early except on an emergency basis. AFTERNOON DISMISSAL First load bus riders are dismissed at 3:10 p.m. The bell is again sounded at 3:13 p.m. for car riders. Students are allowed to board private vehicles at only two pick-up points: the primary entrance at the front of the building (for those who live in the direction of Wise) and the patio near the community center (for those who live in the direction of downtown Norton). Patrons should form two traffic lines in the upper parking lot. Use of the upper parking lot while waiting for student pick-up will alleviate traffic congestion. All students will be required to ride a bus or be a car rider due to safety regulations and concerns. Patrons will be given a car rider “permit” that will indicate a number assigned to your student that is being picked up. Without this permit, students will not be dismissed unless the office has been notified of alternative plans by a phone call or note. Please be courteous toward school personnel and other patrons for an orderly and safe dismissal. Students are not allowed to ride home with anyone other than their parents or on their designated bus unless they bring a permission note from home. No student will be allowed to walk home without a walking permit on file in the office. Parents should make plans before school for afternoon traveling. All changes in transportation plans must be made prior to 2:30 p.m. in order to allow appropriate time to relay instructions to the student. ASSEMBLIES Special programs will be presented to the students throughout the school year. Every effort will be made to maintain a balance of educational assemblies and the protection of instructional time. BULLYING Norton Elementary and Middle School follows the regulation set forth in the School Board Policy Manual for bullying. It is as follows: A. Standard of Conduct for Bullying Prevention 7 Norton City Public Schools students and staff members, either acting alone or as part of a group, shall not harass or bully others or demonstrate behaviors that a reasonable person would know to have the effects of: 1. Placing and individual in fear of harm to his or her physical or emotional wellbeing or damage to his or her property. 2. Creating a hostile, threatening or humiliating environment due to the repetition of action or due to an imbalance of power. 3. Perpetuating bullying by inciting, soliciting or coercing an individual or group to demean, embarrass or cause emotional, psychological or physical harm to another; 4. Materially and substantially disrupting the educational process or the orderly operation of school. B. Definition Bullying is defined as repeated negative behaviors with the intent to frighten or cause harm. Bullying typically, but not always, occurs within a relationship characterized by an imbalance of power. This intentional behavior includes any bullying based upon race, religion, ancestry, national origin, economic status, gender, sexual orientation (reported or perceived), gender identity, physical appearance, social interactions or disability. Bullying may take many forms, including the following: 1. Physical Bullying – physical acts of aggression including, but not limited to, hitting, kicking, tripping, blocking or pushing and physical intimidation by gesture 2. Verbal/Nonverbal Bullying – threats or gestures of physical aggression, name-calling or insults, mocking behaviors, obscene gestures, or graffiti reflecting bullying behavior on school property 3. Relational Bullying – spreading rumors with intent to harm, intentional exclusion or isolation or group actions unified toward threatening or humiliating another 4. Cyber-bullying – bullying by use of information and communication technologies that may include, but not be limited to, spreading information or pictures that would be defined as bullying, impersonation of a virtual identity or forwarding information intending to be private. Cyber-bullying would fall under the investigation of school staff when it materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of school 5. Sexual Bullying/Harassment – unwanted touching of a sexual nature, obscene gestures or comments made about a person’s sexuality or sexual activity. It is important to understand that peer conflict will involve disagreement and oppositional interactions, which are situational, immediate and developmentally typical. These types of conflicts are not considered bullying and reflect the realities that any individual may experience socially unkind behaviors. The natural experience of peer conflict, with adult guidance and modeling, will assist students in developing social competency and tolerance, learning personal boundaries and conflict resolution strategies. 8 C. Implementation of Evidence-Based Programs Norton City Public Schools endorses the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. However, Norton City Public Schools also recognized that educators must approach the problem systematically, building from universal strategies to skill development for bystanders and then individualized supports for students impacted by bullying behavior. Norton City Public Schools acknowledges that there are specific interventions that are not appropriate in instances of bullying. Conflict resolution or peer mediation programs will not be utilized to intervene in cases of bullying behavior. Bullying is a form of victimization and is not considered peer conflict where there is joint responsibility for resolution. Bullying is also characterized by an imbalance of power and forcing confrontation through mediation continues the negative impact to the victim. D. Staff Communication and Training School staff shall be provided instruction, at least annually, on the policies and administrative procedures regarding bullying and harassment. The instruction shall include evidence-based methods for preventing bullying and harassment as well as information about how to effectively identify and respond to bullying in schools. Norton City Public Schools shall provide notice to students and staff of this policy in the Code of Student Conduct and in employee handbooks. Classroom teachers and school staff are expected to enforce principles against bullying and harassment which would include appropriate supervision of students, especially in areas suggested as hot-spots for bullying activities. School staff should also ensure appropriate intervention when acts of bullying are discovered and address bystander involvement. E. Student Education Each principal shall implement a process for discussing, at least annually, the division’s policy on bullying and harassment with students. Reminders of the policy and bullying prevention messages will be displayed as appropriate at each school and division facility. Specific student education is provided in accordance with the division’s Character Education programs (§ 22.1-208.01 of the Code of Virginia). Individual schools may pursue any variety of student education activity, based upon the needs of the school, with options including: 1. Information on Bullying Prevention Policies will be provided to students annually in the Student Code of Conduct and/or Student Handbook 2. School wide assembly on bullying prevention and supports 3. School wide assembly on bullying prevention policy and Code of Conduct 4. Student education on the responsibilities and rights of a victim 9 5. 6. 7. Curriculum on bullying be taught to groups of students or target grade levels Holding classroom meetings to discuss topics of bullying or harassment Showing videos or completing on-line learning modules on the topics of bullying or harassment 8. Specific education in bystander behavior with guidance on how to constructively intervene and/or report to authorities F. Reporting, Investigation and Intervention with Victims A culture of openness is considered the most effective means to counter bullying or harassing behavior. Students and staff, who believe that they are a target of bullying, observe and act of bullying or who have reasonable grounds to believe these behaviors are taking place have a responsibility to report incidents to the principal or designee. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this policy to the principal or principals’ designee. Staff members are expected to immediately intervene when they determine a bullying incident is occurring. Complaints of bullying may be written or oral complaints. Complaints may be made anonymously but formal disciplinary action will not be based solely upon the basis of an anonymous report. Confidentiality shall be maintained to the extent consistent with obligations under law but reasonable effort shall be made to provide confidence that an individual reporting bullying or serving as a witness to the investigation will be protected. Neither the complainant not witnesses should be promised confidentiality at the onset of an investigation. In order to effectively distinguish complaints of bullying over social conflict, the investigator shall collect and evaluate the facts including, but not limited to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. The nature and severity of the behavior How often the conduct occurred and if other incidents involved the same students Identifying whether the alleged perpetrator was in a position of power over the complainant Identifying if any pattern of behavior associated with victimization has been communicated with School Nurse or School Counselor The number of alleged bullies/harassers Where the incident(s) occurred The context in which the alleged incidents occurred The physical location or time of access for a cyber-related incident does not exclude an incident from investigation initiated pursuant to this policy. Incidents of cyber-bullying will be investigated by school staff to the extent that administration determines the act materially and substantially disrupts the educational process or the orderly operation of school. The building principal or designee will investigate complaints of bullying promptly. In most cases, the investigation should be completed within five (5) school days from the 10 date of the report. The parents of the complainant and alleged perpetrator shall be contacted upon completion of the investigation and informed of the results, including whether the allegations were found to be factual, whether a violation of the policy was found and whether correction action was implemented. Norton City Public Schools will provide a referral to the school counselor for complainants to determine if any ongoing counseling or other support is required. Northing in the regulation prohibits any individual from reporting to appropriate authorities a crime committed by a student or other individual. G. Intervention and consequences for students who bully Norton City Public Schools has a Student Code of Conduct that outlines a range of leveled consequences and any disciplinary action shall be in accordance with division procedures. The following factors will be taken into consideration when determining appropriate consequences for an individual determined to have engaged in bullying behavior; age, development, degree of harm, surrounding circumstances, nature and severity of the behavior, past or continuing patterns of behavior, relationship of the individuals and context of the event. Since bystander behavior of harassment or bullying can incite the behavior, Norton City Public Schools prohibits active support for acts of bullying and such action will be subject to discipline under the Code of Conduct. In addition, but never as a replacement for disciplinary action, school administration shall consider assignment of formative activities that might include: 1. 2. 3. Individualized education about bullying behavior Completion of behavioral education materials Completion of a letter of acknowledgement of actions to a victim (only after staff review and never related to sexual bullying) 4. Recommendation of mandatory counseling with school counselor or school psychologist 5. Cooperation with a behavior management program 6. Completion of school-based service If the action is within the scope of discipline procedures for Norton City Public Schools, appropriate discipline action will be followed. If the action is outside the scope of the division or is believed to constitute a criminal act, the action shall be referred to law enforcement for investigation. H. Student Input 11 Each school will be encouraged to collect student input as related to bullying concerns on the campus. This may be pursued through a variety of appropriate methods, including student government/council reports, student representatives to school-based committees, student surveys or open discussion forums within classrooms. I. Feedback from School Staff, Students and Stakeholders Principals will monitor and review the effectiveness of the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Procedures and, by July of each year, provide a brief annual summary to the Superintendent or Designee. This review should include a statement of policy implementation along with recommendations for building-based enhancements. Disciplinary infractions coded as Bullying will continue to be reported in accordance with all state reporting requirements. BUS RIDERS School bus transportation is provided to and from various points throughout the City of Norton. Riding the bus is considered a privilege. Students who do not exhibit safe and orderly conduct at the bus stop or while being transported can have this privilege denied to them. For the interest of all concerned, parents are encouraged to have serious discussions with their children regarding: 1) Arriving at the bus stop five minutes early; 2) Not engaging in horseplay at the bus stop; 3) Remaining seated and quiet while aboard bus; 4) Being cautious when boarding/exiting bus; and 5) Cooperating with the bus driver and bus duty teachers 6) Bus drivers have the authority to assign student seats in promoting school bus safety and positive student behavior. CAFETERIA Breakfast is served in the cafeteria daily from 7:45 a.m. until 8:15 a.m. at a cost of $1.00 (full price) and $.30 (reduced price). Full price lunches cost $1.75; reduced price lunches cost $.40. Lunch may be paid for on a daily basis, or parents may deposit money into a student’s account that is managed by our food service program. Students may also buy milk at $.35 to drink with a lunch brought from home. Ice creams may be purchased after the lunch hour is over at a cost of $.50 or $1.00 depending upon selection. The cafeteria menu is posted monthly on our school division’s website, www.nortoncityschools.org. Note: For those who qualify, including Pre-school through grade 12, a free or reduced breakfast and lunch are available after an application is completed. 12 Each student will only be allowed to have lunch with a visitor one time per week. This visit may be any day of the week. All visitors must report directly to the office and receive a visitor’s pass, sign the visitor’s log, and request permission to go to designated area from office personnel. Seating will be designated for you and your child in the cafeteria. We also ask that all parents and visitors adhere to all the policies we currently have in place regarding the cafeteria. If you bring your child’s lunch to school, we ask that it be left in the office and the office personnel will ensure your child will receive their lunch. No soft drinks are allowed in the cafeteria during lunch, this includes energy drinks such as Vault. CARE OF PROPERTY Each student is expected to give proper care to the school building, furniture, and materials. Parents will be notified of any damage incurred by their children so that payment can be made to the school. CHEWING GUM Gum is not allowed in the school building, on the school grounds, or on school buses. CONDUCT The students at Norton Elementary School are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly, courteous, and respectful manner at all times. Positive Discipline plans will be utilized in all classrooms. Parents will receive copies of the plans at the beginning of each school year. The following techniques will be utilized in the discipline process: 1. counseling, 2. loss of outdoor play, 3. isolation or removal from class, 4. in-school suspension, and 5. after-school detention, 6. exclusion from extracurricular activities, 7. out-of-school suspension, and 8. work assignments. A student who feels that he/she has not been treated fairly may appeal through proper channels from teacher to assistant principal, to principal, to superintendent, and then to the school board. Please note that the superintendent’s decision is final for suspensions of ten days or less. A supportive parental attitude toward school personnel and their relationship with the student will produce a more positive and productive learning environment. DRESS CODE Students are to dress in a manner that reflects good taste and which will not detract attention from the instructional program. Due to allergy related concerns and the protection of instructional time, the application of makeup and strong perfume is discouraged for NEMS students during school hours. General guidelines for dress are as follows: Short shorts and skirts (must be fingertip length), pajamas (without approval for school related event), strapless tops, tank tops (straps must be three inches wide), tube tops, “fish-net” or mesh apparel, bare-back or bare-midriff clothing, exposed undergarments, pants hanging below the waist, and heavy outdoor clothing worn indoors are prohibited. Short shorts and skirts, shorts 13 or pants with holes in them, short dresses, etc. will not be allowed regardless of leggings being worn under them. Students need to wear appropriate clothing and groom themselves “in a manner which will not offend the common rules of decency or reflect negatively on or distract from any phase of the educational program.” Messages on clothing, jewelry, persons or belongings that relate to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, vulgarity, violence, or that offend based on race, color, creed, sex, ancestry or national origin are forbidden. Students and faculty are not permitted to wear flip flops for any reason! CELL PHONES Norton City School Board policy states: Possession of Beepers, Cellular Telephones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), or Similar Devices Students may possess a beeper, cellular telephone, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or other communications device on school property, including school buses, provided that the device must remain off and out of sight during instructional time. If a student possesses such a device other than as permitted in this policy, in addition to other disciplinary sanctions which may be imposed, the device may be confiscated from the student and returned only to the student’s parent. DRUGS AND INTOXICANTS The use, possession, or distribution of intoxicants and the illegal use of drugs including anabolic steroids on school property or in association with any school activity is prohibited. FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal or guidance counselor a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. (2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the school principal or guidance counselor, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by 14 the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent 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 School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Norton City Schools to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5901 The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law requires that Norton City Schools, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, Norton City Schools may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Norton City Schools to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include: A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production; The annual yearbook; Honor Roll or other recognition lists; Graduation program; and Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members. 15 Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEA’s) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their written consent. If you do not want Norton City Schools to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing within 15 days of enrollment. Norton City Schools has designated the following information as directory information: Student’s name Participation in officially recognized activities and sports Address Telephone listing Weight and height of members of athletic teams Electronic mail address Photograph Degrees, honors, and awards received Date and place of birth Major field of study Dates of attendance Grade level The most recent educational agency or institution attended. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 u.s.c.-123g; 34CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are “eligible students”. Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for 16 parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies. Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records that they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has a right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested information. Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to release any information from a student’s education record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR-99.31): School officials with legitimate education interest; Other schools to which a student is transferring; Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes; Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student; Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school; Accrediting organizations; To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena’ Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State law. Schools may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a P.T.A. bulletin, student handbook or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school. For additional information or technical assistance, you may call (202)260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339. Or you may contact the following: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202-4605 17 FEES Norton City Schools provides free textbooks. However if textbooks are lost or damaged beyond normal wear, damages will be assessed and students will be required to pay for the damages. FIRE DRILLS/EMERGENCY DRILLS A fire drill evacuation plan directing students to the nearest exit is posted in each classroom. Fire drills are held weekly during the first month of school and monthly thereafter. Other emergency drills (Emergency Weather Drills, Dangerous Intruder Drill, etc.) will be conducted as deemed appropriate by the school administration. EDUCATION OF THE GIFTED It is the philosophy of the Norton City School division to provide equal opportunity for every student to achieve maximum intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth, to insure that each individual be equipped to communicate effectively with other people, to be competent both in the work place and in higher education, and to feel confident of the ability to make creative and constructive decisions in his/her life. The screening/referral process solicits nominations through the school gifted coordinator. Referrals may be made by parents, legal guardians, school personnel, other professional personnel, persons in the community, or by the students (self or peers) and should be returned to the gifted coordinator. Nominations may be accepted at any time during the school year and forms are available upon request in each school office to encourage referrals. Criteria for inclusion in the Quest gifted program is listed below. Eligibility decisions are made within sixty (60) working days from the initiation of the referral. To be eligible for placement in the Gifted Program based upon General Intellectual Ability, a student must meet 4 of the 5 requirements: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Turner Scale Score of 92 for K-3. Turner Scale Score of 115 for 4-12. Intelligence Test Score of 135 or greater. Math SOL Score of 475 or higher. English SOL Score of 475 or higher. 3.5 GPA in CORE subjects (Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies). 18 To be placed in the program for Specific Academic Ability, the student must meet 3 of the following 4 requirements: 1. Turner Scale Score of 92 for K-3. Turner Scale Score of 115 for 4-12. 2. Intelligence Test Score of 130 or greater. 3. 3.8 grade point average in identified areas. 4. Successfully pass SOLs with score of 500 or better for appropriate grade level in any identified area. To be placed in the Quest Program for Visual and/or Performing Arts, the student must meet 4 of the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Recommendations of art or music teachers. Turner Scale Score of 38 or more by teacher. Portfolio of 3 work samples judged acceptable by qualified personnel. Grade point average of 3.8 or higher in designated area of giftedness. Turner Scale score of 38 or higher by parent(s). Video tape or audition judged acceptable by qualified personnel. *No single criteria either deny or guarantees access to gifted program services. *Most recent achievement test scores shall be used in determining program eligibility. To be eligible for the K-3 enrichment program, a student must meet 4 of the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Turner score of 92 from current teacher. Turner score of 92 from previous teacher. Teacher recommendation. Placement in highest reading group. Placement in highest math group. Parents/guardians will be notified when initial identification process is initiated. The parents will be asked to give permission for any necessary individual testing. Following determination of identification/placement by the Identification/Placement Committee, a letter shall be sent to the parents notifying them of the decision and soliciting parental permission for placement or informing them of the right to appeal the decision that the student was ineligible. Placement/commencement of services shall begin upon receipt of parental permission. 19 GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING PROGRAM The Norton City School Board affirms that parents are the student's first teachers and that the public schools should serve to strengthen family and parental support. No student will be required to participate in any counseling program to which the student's parents object. For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply: a) Academic Guidance - Guidance which assists students and their parents to acquire knowledge of the curricula choices available to students, to plan a program of studies, to arrange and interpret academic testing, and to seek post-secondary academic opportunities; b) Career Guidance - Guidance which helps students to acquire information and plan action about work, jobs, apprenticeships, and post-secondary educational and career opportunities; c) Personal/Social Counseling - Counseling which assists a student to develop an understanding of themselves, the rights and needs of others, how to resolve conflict and to define individual goals, reflecting their interests, abilities and aptitudes. Such counseling may be provided either (i) in groups in which generic issues of social development are addressed or (ii) through structured individual or small group multi-session counseling which focuses on the specific concerns of the participant(s). At least annually, parents shall be notified in writing about the academic and career guidance programs, and the personal/social counseling programs which are available to students within the school division. Parents will be advised concerning the purpose, general description of the programs, how parents may review materials to be used in the programs, and procedures by which parents may limit the students' participation in the program. Information and records of personal/social counseling will be kept confidential and separate and not disclosed to third parties without prior parental consent or as otherwise provided by law. It shall be the policy of the Norton City School Board with respect to personal/social counseling that parents will notify the school division in writing if the student is not to participate in the personal/social counseling program. (Opt-Out) Parental consent is not required for short duration personal/social counseling, where it is needed to maintain order, discipline, or a productive learning environment. Counseling techniques which are beyond the scope of the professional certification or training of counselors, including hypnosis, or other psychotherapeutic techniques that are normally employed in medical or clinical settings and focus on mental illness or psychopathology are prohibited. 20 HEALTH AND MEDICAL REGULATIONS If a child is to receive any medication during the school day, the parent or guardian must fill out a school "Registration of Medication by Parents" form. The medicine to be dispensed will be kept in the office and dispensed according to the doctor's instructions. Parents must always bring the medication to school in the original container and complete the authorization form. Never send medication with your child. Students should not bring cough drops or any over-the-counter medication to school. The school will not be able to administer aspirin or other pain tablets to students unless the "Registration of Medication by Parents" form is completed and the medication is brought to school by the parent. Parents will be called if their child becomes ill or is injured. An emergency telephone number is required. If neither the parent nor the designee can be reached in an emergency situation, school personnel will take whatever action is considered necessary. Serious injury or illness may necessitate transport to a local medical facility by school personnel or rescue squad. Students who have a fever or who are suspected of having a communicable disease will not be allowed to remain at school. HEALTH REGULATIONS- other If a student who has wet/soiled himself presents to the clinic, clinic staff will evaluate to determine if it is due to possible illness. If it is determined to be due to illness, the parent will be contacted to pick up the child. Students will be directed to clean up to the best of their ability with minimal assistance by the clinic staff. The clinic staff will be accompanied by another adult if clean up requires the student to undress. Students will be made as comfortable as possible until parent arrives to pick up. If it is determined that the wetting/soiling is not related to illness, the student will be directed to clean up to the best of their ability with minimal assistance by the teacher, assistant or clinic staff. The teacher, assistant or clinic staff will be accompanied by another adult if clean up requires the student to undress. If the child is highly soiled and /or has no clothes to change into, the clinic staff will contact the parent. The child may wait in the clinic until the parent arrives for pick up/change of clothes. The clinic is not responsible for finding a change of clothing for children. If a student has a recurring problem with wetting or soiling, the clinic staff and administration of the school will work with the parent and teacher to develop an individual Health Care Plan for managing the situation. HEALTH SCREENING A health screening is conducted annually at Norton Elementary School. Included are checks of height, weight, throat, teeth, pediculosis (grades PK-7), hearing and vision (grades PK, 1, 3, 5, and 7), speech/language (grades PK-1). Parents receive notification of and physical defect(s) found during the health screening. PK-3 students, within 60 days of initial enrollment, shall be screened in the following areas: speech, voice and language; vision and hearing; and fine and gross motor skills. 21 HOMEWORK Assume that mid/upper elementary students will have homework. Request a conference with the child's teacher(s) if it appears that assignments are not being brought home for attention. Parents should help the child establish a certain uninterrupted block of time to complete homework and provide a quiet place for study. Parental interest is an important part of this activity. HONOR ROLL In an effort to instill pride in academic achievement, Norton Elementary School has instituted a two-tiered honor roll for fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh grade students. To be eligible for the honor roll, a student must be instructed on grade level and have no grade lower than a B in each major academic subject. To be eligible for Principal’s Honor Roll, a student must be instructed on grade level and have an A average in each major academic subject. The honor rolls will be declared at the end of each six weeks grading period and will be published in The Coalfield Progress. Students will receive a certificate of achievement each time they are selected. A=94-100 B= 87-93 C= 86-77 D= 70-76 F= Below 70 IMMUNIZATIONS All students enrolled in Norton Elementary must have the following immunizations: - - 3 doses of DPT with one dose received after the fourth birthday (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus); Effective July 1, 2006, a booster dose of Tdap vaccine is required for all children entering the 6th grade, if at least five years have passed since the last dose of tetanus-containing vaccine. 3 doses of oral polio vaccine with one dose received after the fourth birthday; and 2 MMR vaccines received at 12 months of age or older and prior to enrollment in kindergarten. All students must have a second MMR vaccine before enrolling in grade 6. Hepatitis B immunization - 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine is required for all children. Chickenpox immunizations - All susceptible children born on and after January 1, 1997, shall be required to have one dose of chickenpox vaccine administered at age 12 months or older. Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) - Effective October 1, 2008, a complete series of 3 doses of HPV vaccine is required of all females. LIBRARY GUIDELINES Kindergarten students may check out books in the teacher's name only. Books checked out by kindergarten students will not go home with the student. When the student brings back one book, another may be checked out of the library. First grade students will be permitted to check out one book at a time. The student must return a book in order to check out another. Parents are asked to share responsibility for the library books by signing a letter of agreement with the librarian. 22 Students in second through seventh grades may check out two books at a time within a two-week period. A fine will be collected per day for overdue books. Students with overdue books will not be permitted to check out another book until the overdue book is returned and all fines are paid. Students will pay the cost of any lost/damaged books as directed by the librarian. NATURAL AND MAN-MADE DISASTER PLAN In the event of a bomb threat, the building will be evacuated, authorities contacted and no one will re-enter until the facility is checked thoroughly by the authorities. Norton Elementary students will be transported by bus to a location that would ensure greater student safety until arrangements can be made for student pick-up or bussing home. This would only occur under circumstances that would put students at a greater risk by remaining on their present campus. Parents may be informed of the location of student pickup by local radio (WNVA, WDXC, WDIC, WZQK, WAXM, WXBQ, WISE) and public television information channels 51, WCYB TV and WJHL TV. In addition, we will utilize the division website, social media and our Instant Alert Program to notify parents. In case of flooding or other community disasters, we will dismiss school as soon as possible and notify parents through the local media outlets and our Instant Alert Program. If students are unable to be sent home, they will be kept in the school building and school personnel will be on site to supervise as long as is necessary. NONDISCRIMINATION The School Board is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in relation to race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, or marital status. This attitude will prevail in all of its policies concerning staff, students, educational programs and services, and individuals with whom the Board does business. The School Board and staff shall promote good human relations by prohibiting discrimination in employment, and in personnel matters; in location and use of facilities; in educational offerings and instructional materials. It is the policy of the Norton City School Board to maintain a working and learning environment for all its employees and students that provides for fair and equitable treatment, including freedom from sexual harassment. It is prohibited for any employee or student, male or female, to harass another employee or student by making unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors, or engaging in other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when (1) submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment or academic decisions affecting the employee or student; (2) such conduct creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or learning environment; or (3) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of the individual's employment or participation in school programs. 23 The School Board and staff shall work with other institutions and agencies to develop improved human relations in the schools and to make channels available through which citizens can communicate their human relations concerns to the Board and its employees. Dr. Keith Perrigan is designated as the division's compliance officer under the provisions of Title IX, and of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. All students and employees will be notified annually of name(s), office address and telephone number of the designee(s). NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and its accompanying regulations apply to all school divisions receiving federal funds. Under the Act a school division: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. May not discriminate against qualified disabled persons in any aspect of school division employment solely on the basis of disability. Must provide facilities, programs, and activities that are accessible, usable, and available to qualified disabled persons. Must provide free appropriate education at elementary and secondary levels, including nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities, to qualified disabled persons. May not exclude any qualified disabled person solely on the basis of disability from participation in any preschool education or day care program or activity or any adult education or vocational program or activity. May not discriminate against qualified disabled persons in the provision of health, welfare, and other social services. The School Board has designated Dr. Keith Perrigan to act as the division's compliance officer under the provisions of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. All students and employees will be notified annually of the name, office address and telephone number of the designee. PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM All students are required to take physical education. Fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh graders are required to dress out on days physical education class is scheduled. Fourth grade students may dress out, but are not required to do so. All students should wear tennis shoes on gym day. In accordance with the state program, physical fitness testing is required for students in grades 4-7 in September and May. Students are excused from participating only with a doctor's request. A weekly exercise program and sound nutritional habits will promote good physical fitness for our students. Health class may be offered to students in sixth and seventh grade as part of the Physical Education program with a focus on life skills. 24 PICTURES Pictures will be taken of all students; purchase is optional. Alternative pictures may be submitted for the yearbook. Students will also have their pictures taken in the spring of the year. The commission that we receive from the sale of pictures will be used to supply additional instructional materials in the classrooms. Once determined, the dates of pictures will be posted on the marquee and throughout the building. PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS OF STAFF As a parent of a student at Norton Elementary School you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct your child. Federal law allows you to ask for certain information about your child’s classroom teachers, and requires us to give you this information in a timely manner if you ask for it. Specifically, you have the right to ask for the following information about each of your child’s classroom teachers: Whether the Virginia Department of Education has licensed or qualified the teacher for the grades and subjects he/she teaches. Whether the Virginia Department of Education has decided that the teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed or qualified under state regulations because of special circumstances. The teacher’s college major, whether the teacher has any advanced degrees and, if so, the subject of the degrees. Whether any teacher’s aides or similar paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if they do, their qualifications. If you would like to receive any of this information, please call the principal at Norton Elementary School at (276) 679-0971. PROGRESS REPORTS & REPORT CARDS A progress report will be issued at the end of each six-week period for a total of six times during the school year. Parents are urged to discuss the information therein with their child and to request a conference with the teacher periodically for a better understanding of their child's progress. Teachers will send home “take home” folders/planners to parents. Each grade level will choose a particular day for sending folders/planners and also establish procedures. Parents should review the folder/planner with the child. If for any reason one is not received, please contact your child's teacher. PROMOTION/RETENTION One of the prime indications of possible retention is the level on which the student is being instructed. Instructional levels are reflected on the report card. Please review the report for information concerning your child’s progress and instructional level. 25 Parental involvement in the instructional program is appreciated, but the final decision regarding grade placement for the following year will be made by school personnel. Under certain circumstances students can be placed in the next highest grade, even though they have not satisfactorily completed the requirements for their respective grade levels. PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA) PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to: •Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. •Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and 3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. •Inspect, upon request and before administration or use1. Protected information surveys of students; 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum. These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. Norton City Schools has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. Norton City Schools will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. Norton City Schools will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt 26 his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. Norton City Schools will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement: •Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution. •Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED. •Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above. Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-5901 PTA The Parent-Teacher Association meets during the school year, usually every other month. Yearly dues are $5.00 per parent. A special envelope will be sent home for PTA dues. Participation is encouraged. RELIGION In order that the right of every pupil to the free exercise of religion be guaranteed within the schools and that the freedom of each individual pupil be subject to the least possible pressure from the Commonwealth either to engage in, or to refrain from, religious observation on school grounds, the school board of each school division shall establish the daily observance of one minute of silence in each classroom of the division. SCHOOL BOARD POLICY MANUAL Copies of the Norton City School Policy manual are located in the principal's office, library and the Norton City School Board office. A digital copy is available on the Norton City School's website. 27 SMOKING Norton City Schools adopted a Tobacco-Free Campus Policy effective August 1, 2014. SNOW SCHEDULE All snow schedules for Norton City Schools will be a two-hour or three-hour delay when needed. Emergency closings will be determined as soon as possible and will be reported on radio stations WAXM, WNVA, WVSG, WDIC, WDXC, WXBQ, WQUT and television stations Channel 51, WCYB and WJHL. The school division will also post all schedule alterations on its website, www.nortoncityschools.org. We will also utilize our Instant Alert program and social media to contact everyone. If you suspect that an early dismissal due to inclement weather is possible, please listen to the above mentioned radio and television stations. The Instant Alert program, social media and websites will be utilized for notifications. Please discuss with your child ahead of time what transportation arrangements should be followed for early dismissal. SPECIAL SERVICES Parents are encouraged to be in contact with school personnel if their child is not making the academic progress expected or if special needs exist which should be addressed. Numerous special services are offered by the school including Title I, a variety of special education services, tutoring, a program for students who are identified as gifted, guidance services and an after-school program. The faculty at Norton Elementary is committed to providing the very best educational opportunities and invites parental input in this regard. STUDENT INSURANCE The Norton City School System does have an accident insurance policy for students. However, this is a secondary policy that should only be used after filing with the family insurance company. Insurance claim forms are available from the school office. STUDENT RECORDS In order to insure the sequential educational development of students in Norton City Schools, accurate and up-to-date student scholastic record data are maintained on students in their respective schools. Student’s records are maintained in accordance with local policy and State Department of Education regulations. Each year the school division by means of announcement and/or publication in the student handbook will make parents/guardians and students aware of student record policies and procedures. Data shall be collected and utilized by the principal and/or his designees for all students pursuant to the guidelines, as set forth by local school board policy. The content of the scholastic record shall be limited to data needed by the school in order to assist the student in his/her personal, social, educational and vocational development and/or placement. Records are divided into two categories: 28 Directory Information and Educational Records. Educational Records shall not be released to third parties without prior written consent of the eligible student, parent or legal guardian. This provision applies to the release of records to prospective employers, colleges, other schools, etc. Directory Information includes personally identifiable information such as 1) name of student in attendance; 2) address; 3) date and place of birth; 4) dates of attendance; 5) participation in officially recognized activities and sports; 6) height and weight, if member of athletic team; 7) major field of study; 8) awards and honors received. In compliance with federal regulations, personally identifiable information defined as Directory Information may be released throughout the year for good reasons by the school principal and/or other official school personnel. This personally identifiable information pertaining to students may be released after a legitimate request, unless the school is notified in writing that any part of such information about said student shall not be disclosed without prior consent. If parents desire to refuse the release of Directory Information, a letter of refusal must be in the hands of the appropriate school principal no later than fifteen (15) days following publication of this announcement or receipt of student handbook. Education Records include the student’s program of studies, grades and standardized test scores as well as confidential information such as psychological and sociological assessments, individualized education programs, reports from court or social welfare agencies and confidential interviews. Access to a student’s Education Record is limited to parents, eligible students (those 18 years of age or older), school officials and governmental agencies who have a legitimate educational interest and who are charged with providing educational and vocational assistance to students. The confidentiality of Student Records is protected by an access log and the storing of these records in a secured area. Only individuals with a right to access may see the contents of any student’s record. Parents have the right to inspect and review the scholastic records relating directly to their children or legal wards. Eligible students also may inspect and review their scholastic records. Upon request, within a reasonable time frame, parents, guardians, and/or eligible students may obtain a copy of the records policy or a copy of the record of an eligible student for a fee not to exceed the cost of reproduction. The parents or eligible student who believe that information contained in the scholastic record of the student is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy or other right of the student, may request that the records be amended by the school which maintains the records. Such request shall be submitted in writing to the school principal. The request may be resolved through informal meetings or discussion. If the request is not satisfactorily resolved, the parent or eligible student may appeal the decision of the school by filing a complaint with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office. Periodically, Education Records will be reviewed by professional personnel to permit removal of data no longer educationally useful. Certain records will be destroyed five (5) years after the student leaves or five (5) years after the records are no longer useful. Records of transferred students shall be sent directly to the school receiving the student upon request of the receiving school. Questions regarding the maintenance of records for students should be referred to the principal or guidance director of the school that is responsible for the maintenance of these records. 29 Effective July 1, 1993, any school record related to disciplinary action taken against a student for violating school board rules or policies on school property or at school sponsored events must be included in the student’s scholastic record. STUDENT USE OF PHONE The school phone is for business purposes. Students will be allowed to use the phone in emergencies only (illness, injury, etc.). STUDENT WELLNESS I. II. Policy Statement The Norton City School Board recognizes the link between student health and learning and desires to provide a comprehensive program promoting healthy eating and physical activity in division students. Goals The Norton City School Board has established the following goals to promote student wellness. A. Nutrition Education B. Students receive nutrition education that teaches the skills they need to adopt and maintain healthy eating behaviors. Nutrition education is offered in the school cafeteria as well as in the classroom, with coordination between the foodservice staff and other school personnel, including teachers. Students receive consistent nutrition messages from all aspects of the school program. Division health education curriculum standards and guidelines address both nutrition and physical education. Nutrition is integrated into the health education or core curricula (e.g., math, science, language arts). Schools link nutrition education activities with the coordinated school health program. Staff that provide nutrition education have appropriate training. The level of student participation in the school breakfast and school lunch programs is appropriate. Physical Activity Students are given opportunities for physical activity during the school day through physical education (PE) classes, daily recess periods for elementary school students, and the integration of physical activity into the academic curriculum where appropriate. Students are given opportunities for physical activity through a range of beforeand/or after-school programs including, but not limited to, intramurals, and interscholastic athletics. Schools work with the community to create ways for students to walk, bike, rollerblade or skateboard safely to and from school. 30 C. Other school-based activities D. An adequate amount of time is allowed for students to eat meals in adequate lunchroom facilities. All children who participate in subsidized food programs are able to obtain food in a non-stigmatizing manner. Environmentally-friendly practices such as the use of locally grown and seasonal foods, school gardens, and non-disposable tableware have been considered and implemented where appropriate. Physical activities and/or nutrition services or programs designed to benefit staff health have been considered and, to the extent practical, implemented. Nutrition Guidelines E. Schools encourage parents and guardians to support their children’s participation in physical activity, to be physically active role models, and to include physical activity in family events. Schools provide training to enable staff to promote enjoyable, lifelong physical activity among students. Nutrition guidelines have been selected by the division for all foods available on every school campus during the school day. The objectives of the guidelines are to promote student health and reduce childhood obesity. Nutritional standards for the school breakfast and school lunch programs that meet or exceed state and federal standards are in place. The nutritional content of foods and beverages donated for class parties or other school events is considered. School-based marketing of foods and beverages, such as through advertisements in students, and activities such as incentive programs, has been considered. Outreach strategies to encourage families to reinforce and support healthy eating and physical activity are in place. Bringing in or having “fast food” delivered to students during breakfast or lunch or at anytime during the day is discouraged. Exceptions may be made for classroom events. School-Based Activities A clean, safe, enjoyable meal environment will be provided for students. Enough space will be provided to ensure all students have access to school meals with minimum wait. Drinking fountains will be available in all schools, so that students can get water at meals and throughout the day (bottled water for purchase where available). Lunchtime scheduled as near the middle of the school day as possible. Ongoing opportunities for professional training and development provided for foodservice staff and teachers in the areas of nutrition and physical education. School- or district-owned physical activity facilities open for use by students outside school hours. 31 F. Opportunities encouraged and provided for students, teachers, and community volunteers to practice healthy eating and serve as role models in school dining areas. Measurement and Evaluation • Observation of dietary and physical activity patterns by administration. • Policy development committee will report implementation status to the Superintendent and/or school board. III. Implementation The Superintendent will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy and will develop procedures for evaluating the wellness policy, including indicators that will be used to measure its success. TITLE I PROGRAM Title I is a federally-funded program designed to give certain students in grades 1-6 additional assistance in reading and/or math. Some students receive this assistance from a Title I paraprofessional in their regular classroom while some students also attend the reading lab daily. The assistance that Title I students receive is supplemental to what they receive from the regular classroom teacher. Eligibility is based upon classroom performance, universal screening results, progress toward meeting the Virginia Standards of Learning and other factors assessed by the teacher and Reading and/or Math Specialist. Note: The Norton City Public Schools Title I Program does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, age, disability or national origin in employment or in its programs and activities. VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL The staff at Norton Elementary welcomes the visits of patrons. All visitors must report directly to the office and receive a visitor’s pass, sign the visitor’s log and request permission to go to designated area from office personnel. Teachers will be notified of visitor’s and will notify the office at the designated time for visitors to proceed to their classrooms. This policy is to preserve instructional time and meet safety guidelines for every child. Parking is permitted in the lower lot only when entering the building to conduct official business. 32 ACCEPTABLE COMPUTER SYSTEM USE The School Board provides a computer system, including the internet, to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. The term computer system includes hardware, software, data, communication lines and devices, terminals, printers, CD-ROM devices, tape drives, servers, mainframe and personal computers, the internet and other internal or external networks. All use of the Division’s computer system must be (1) in support of education and/or research, or (2) for legitimate school business. Use of the computer system is a privilege, not a right. Any communication or material used on the computer system, including electronic mail or other files deleted from a user’s account, may be monitored or read by school officials. The Division Superintendent shall establish administrative procedures, for the School Board’s approval, containing the appropriate uses, ethics and protocol for the computer system. The procedures shall include: (1) a prohibition against use by division employees and students of the division’s computer equipment and communications services for sending, receiving, viewing or downloading illegal material via the Internet; (2) provisions, including the selection and operation of a technology protection measure for the division’s computers having Internet access to filter or block Internet access through such computers, that seek to prevent access to (a) child pornography as set out in Va. Code § 18.2-374.1:1 or as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 2256; (b) obscenity as defined by Va. Code § 18.2-372 or 18 U.S.C. § 1460; and (c) material that the school division deems to be harmful to juveniles as defined in Va. Code § 18.2390, material that is harmful to minors as defined in 47 U.S.C. § 254(h) (7) (G), and material that is otherwise inappropriate for minors; (3) provisions establishing that the technology protection measure is enforced during any use of the Division’s computers by minors; (4) provisions establishing that the online activities of minors will be monitored; (5) provisions designed to educate students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyber bullying awareness and response; (6) provisions designed to prevent unauthorized online access by minors, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online; (7) provisions prohibiting the unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors; (8) a component on Internet safety for students that is integrated in the division’s instructional program. Use of the School Division’s computer system shall be consistent with the educational or instructional mission or administrative function of the Division as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities and developmental levels of students. The Division’s computer system is not a public forum. 33 Each teacher, administrator, student and parent/guardian of each student shall sign the Acceptable Computer System Use Agreement, GAB-E1/IIBEA-E2, before using the Division’s computer system. The failure of any student, teacher or administrator to follow the terms of the Agreement, this policy or accompanying regulation may result in loss of computer system privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action. The School Board is not responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged or unavailable when using the computer system or for any information retrieved via the Internet. Furthermore, the School Board will not be responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the computer system. The school board will review, amend if necessary, and approve this policy every two years. ACCEPTABLE COMPUTER SYSTEM USE All use of the Norton City School Division’s computer system shall be consistent with the School Board’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. The term computer system includes hardware, software, data, communication lines and devices, terminals, printers, CD-ROM devices, tape drives, servers, mainframe and personal computers, the internet and any other internal or external network. Computer System Use-Terms and Conditions: 1. Acceptable Use. Access to the Division’s computer system shall be (1) for the purposes of education or research and be consistent with the educational objectives of the Division or (2) for legitimate school business. 2. Privilege. The use of the Division’s computer system is a privilege, not a right. 3. Unacceptable Use. Each user is responsible for his or her actions on the computer system. Prohibited conduct includes but is not limited to: using the network for any illegal or unauthorized activity, including violation of copyright or contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any federal, state, or local law. sending, receiving, viewing or downloading illegal material via the computer system. unauthorized downloading of software. using the computer system for private financial or commercial purposes. wastefully using resources, such as file space. gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities. posting material created by another without his or her consent. submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any obscene, profane, threatening, illegal or other inappropriate material. using the computer system while access privileges are suspended or revoked. vandalizing the computer system, including destroying data by creating or spreading viruses or by other means. intimidating, harassing, or coercing others. threatening illegal or immoral acts. 34 4. Network Etiquette. Each user is expected to abide by generally accepted rules of etiquette, including the following: be polite. users shall not forge, intercept or interfere with electronic mail messages. use appropriate language. The use of obscene, lewd, profane, lascivious, threatening or disrespectful language is prohibited. users shall not post personal information other than directory information as defined in Policy JO Student Records about themselves or others. users shall respect the computer system’s resource limits. users shall not post chain letters or download large files. users shall not use the computer system to disrupt others. users shall not modify or delete data owned by others. 5. Liability. The School Board makes no warranties for the computer system it provides. The School Board shall not be responsible for any damages to the user from use of the computer system. 35 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT As a parent/guardian, I agree to cooperate with school officials in managing my child’s conduct while he/she is at school, on the school bus, or in attendance at a school sponsored activity. I understand that I may, through appropriate channels, express my disagreement with the manner in which the school’s code of conduct has been implemented. Further, I may exercise my right to appeal a suspension or expulsion as provided in §22.1-277 of the Code of Virginia. The school principal will enforce the school board’s policies consistently and fairly, and will make every effort, within the range of the school board’s policy, to work with each parent to address their concerns with the implementation of the school’s code of conduct. Further, the school principal will make every effort to ensure a safe and secure learning environment to foster the achievement of academic success for all students. “By signing this statement, I do not waive or abdicate any rights protected by the constitutions or laws of the United States or the Commonwealth of Virginia, including my primary parental right and responsibility for the education and upbringing of my child, and my rights to free speech, free exercise of religion, and due process of law.” We have received, reviewed, and understand the handbook, including the Code of Student Conduct, Attendance, and Acceptable Computer System Use policies for Norton City Schools that are found on Norton City Schools website. Additionally, the signature below affirms that I have reviewed the Norton Elementary & Middle School Student Handbook. Student signatures are required of students in grades six (6) through twelve (12). _________________________________________________________________ Print Student’s Name ______________________________________ Student’s Signature (Grades 6 through 12 only) ________________________ Date ______________________________________ Parent’s Signature _____________________ Date THIS PAGE MUST BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL BY EACH STUDENT. 36
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