STUDENT HANDBOOK
2009-2010
GREETINGS FROM THE
PRINCIPAL
Dear Parents/Guardians
and Students,
It is a pleasure to welcome you to another school year at
This Parent/Student Handbook is intended to provide you with an
overview of our school’s practices, routines and procedures, and references
School Board Policy. New information
for the 2009-2010 school year will be underlined. The insert accompanying
this handbook is a verification of your receipt and review of this handbook. We
ask that you sign and return this form to your child’s teacher.
No form of communication replaces the personal interaction between
a child’s parents and
those entrusted with his/her education. In order to accomplish this, we rely on
mutually respectful and timely dialogue. Together we can ensure your child’s
academic and social success.
I welcome all of you back for the 2009-2010 school year! I
am looking forward to seeing the students, and I hope you have a wonderful year
with us!
Sincerely yours,
Mrs. Mary A. Wolf
Principal
The
-The
Clarion-Limestone Mission Statement
CHAIN OF COMMAND
This step-by-step method is
to be followed when there is a problem or a potential problem.
In all cases the Chain of
Command must be followed. You will be asked this question: Did you follow the
Chain of Command? If not, you will be directed to do so.
VISITORS
Remember to always sign in at the office and receive a visitor’s
tag. This is for the safety of the students and security of the building.
Special note to parents during hunting season, please make sure you do not have
weapons on your person while entering the building.
Students are expected to
exercise prudent judgment in the selection of appropriate attire for school.
FOR SAFETY REASONS:
1. Appropriate footwear must be worn and provide for
safe and sanitary conditions. Examples of unacceptable footwear include
slippers and loose fitting footwear that cannot safely and securely remain on
the student’s feet. Flip flops, beach shoes/shower thongs, Heelys, and
bare feet are not permitted in the building.
2. Spiked jewelry, chains, or any jewelry that may
cause injury or constitute a hazard are not permitted.
3. No wallet chains.
4. Length of pants must not go beyond the sole of the
shoe and the bottom of pant leg is a maximum of 26 inches in circumference.
5. Baggy or excessively layered clothing that can
conceal items and/or poses a safety hazard is not permitted.
6. Long hair and loose clothing needs to be secured
while working near machinery and lab situations.
7. Anything else that can be deemed a safety hazard.
OTHER GUIDELINES FOR
ATTIRE:
1. Common courtesy dictates that hats, head coverings,
bandanas, sweatbands, and sunglasses not be worn inside the building.
2. Shirts and tops must have high enough necklines to
cover all cleavage. Sleeveless shirts which completely cover the area from the
base of the neck to the top of the arm, do not have oversized armholes or open
sides and which do not expose undergarments or skin under the arm are
acceptable.
3. Lower garments are to be worn at the appropriate
level and cannot drag on the floor.
4. No skin should be visible between a student’s top
and bottom garment when the student sits, stands, raises his/her hand or bends
over.
5. Torn or tattered clothing is not to be worn.
6. Patches, insignias, buttons, jewelry, clothing, or
other items that include obscene, violent, gang, tobacco, drug or alcohol
related writing or images are not acceptable. Items of clothing that belittle
others may not be worn (i.e., race, religion, gender, etc).
7. Coats, jackets or garments designed for protection
from the weather are not to be worn in school.
8. The top of the slit in all shorts, skirts, and
skorts must touch the bottom of the fingertips with arms fully extended.
9. Book bags are permissible to carry to school but
shall be stored at the coat racks during the school day. Book bags are not
permitted to be taken from class to class, cafeteria, or any other areas of the
school building during the school day.
10. Body piercing other than ears is not permitted to be
worn in school.
11. Any apparel that is judged to be unhealthy or
unsanitary (e.g. clothing that is dirty and / or gives off a foul odor) is not
permitted.
12. Each student is to maintain good personal hygiene.
13. No mesh / see-through tops unless a shirt is worn
underneath.
14. All shirts must cover the shoulder. This pertains to
male and female. No halter-tops, spaghetti straps, muscle shirts, tube tops, or
other skimpy attire is permitted. No midriffs are to be exposed in the standing
or sitting position. Sleeveless shirts and dresses are permitted if shoulders
are covered by clothing of at least 3 inches in width (at its narrowest point).
Bra straps should be covered at all times. No body suits, spandex or skin-tight
outfits of any kind unless covered with another layer of non-forming fitting
clothing.
Any District personnel can
address the dress code with the student and will send the student to the office
if a final judgment is to be made by the principal.
However complete these
rules may be, they can never cover all possible situations that may arise. If a
matter cannot be resolved by interpreting the rules above to the letter, then
the solution to be adopted by those responsible shall lie in a principle which
follows as nearly as possible to the spirit of the rules.
Attendance
in school is a good example of the connections of time and learning. Just as
homework exemplifies learning, regular attendance exposes students to a greater
amount of academic content and instruction. Research shows that poor school
attendance usually reflects poor job attendance in the future. Studies have
shown that too many missed days of school result in too many missed
opportunities to learn, and can result in failure, dropping out, or both.
Excuse
cards may be printed from the school’s web site.
A student has 3 days to
bring in an excuse card signed by their parent/guardian. Yellow excuse cards
are provided by the school homeroom teacher or office and each excuse is evaluated
and a decision is made as to it being excused or unexcused. Excused reasons
include: personal illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, impassable
roads, or death in the immediate family.
Arriving
after
Leaving before
Absent during school day
for more than 2 hours
IF YOUR ABSENCE INDICATED A
PATTERN/EXCESSIVE ABSENCES:
Over 8
days – a warning letter will be sent home.
After 12 days – you will be
required to submit a doctor’s excuse for each absence. Each day of absence
without a doctor’s excuse is determined to be unexcused.
Each
student is allowed 3 unexcused/personal days per year. These are for reasons
not judged to be excused. These 3 days of absence will have no effect on grade
or homework.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU GET MORE THAN 3 DAYS OF
UNEXCUSED/ILLEGAL ABSENCE?
1.
A
warning letter will be mailed to your parents/guardian advising them that the
next unexcused (illegal) absence can result in notice to the magistrate.
2.
Notice
which will result in an appearance before the magistrate with the accompanying
fine.
3.
Referral
will be made to Children and Youth.
Parents who drive students
to school or pick them up at dismissal time are asked to refrain from parking
in the traffic lanes. Do not park near the sidewalk in front of the building.
This area is reserved for the buses. Parking in front of the high school from
the hours of
Elementary pupils should not arrive before
AFTER SCHOOL HOURS
Students
that forget an assignment or book at school will only be allowed back in the
building until
TARDINESS
If a
student arrives to school after
Students leaving after
We are very proud of our
project-based educational programs. These programs are so successful that the
parents continue to ask for more. We enjoy having parents and grandparents come
into the school for our special projects, however, a problem has developed
dealing with wanting to take the student and the older/younger siblings home
after the program. It is imperative that siblings stay and complete the entire
school day. It is also the law. Therefore, unless notified by the teacher or
principal in advance, no student or their younger or older siblings will be
excused from school after the program. The teacher will be including this note
on the handout that is sent home.
Students
must present a note from parents/guardian in the morning requesting dismissal,
giving time of departure and reason. Students are not permitted to leave school
without gaining permission from the nurse or office. Doing so would be considered as leaving
school without permission. When a student is leaving early the parent/guardian
must first come to the office for security purposes. The office staff will then
call the classroom and instruct the student to report to the office for
dismissal with the parent/guardian.
Students
going to a siblings home junior high basketball games may go to the high school
gym with a teacher at the end of the school day if the student has a note from
the parent.
When a student returns to the school from an appointment,
he/she must report to the office to notify of his/her return with their
parent/guardian.
SNOW DAYS OR DELAYS
Cancellation of school or delaying the start of school may
happen due to inclement weather or an emergency situation. Parents/Guardians, please refrain from
calling the school during these kinds of situations. The information you need
is available on your local radio and television stations. With a one-hour delay
school starts at
HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION
Homebound instruction will
be provided to a child whose absence exceeds twenty (20) successive days or to
a child who, because of the nature of the injury or illness, is expected to be
absent from school for a period in excess of twenty (20) days.
Instruction shall begin as
soon as a doctor provides a diagnosis, which meets the requirements of the
Department of Education pertaining to acceptable reasons for providing
homebound instruction.
Regular instructional
employees of the district or any person, certified to teach in the
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
FOR HOME USE
If a parent/guardian requests a book or
support materials for working with a student at home, the office will notify
the parent/guardian of the price of the materials. A check must be made payable to the school
for the quoted amount before the book is sent home. When the materials are returned,
the check will be given back. If the materials are not returned by the end of
the school year in which it was requested, the check will be given to the
business office.
OUTSIDE SOURCES
All outside information or handouts to be
distributed to students must be approved by the principal. The school will not
copy any handouts. Although the school is a partner with the community, we will
not endorse any business for the reason of increasing the business. If the
information supports the educational program at the school, in most cases the
request will be granted.
ELECTRONIC
DEVICES-CELL PHONES
As stated in the policy #237, there are
medical issues that will be approved. Students shall not use electronic
communication devices while on school property without permission. The building
principal may impose additional restrictions on cell phone use and/or
availability to insure that the educational process is not impeded.
HOME-SCHOOLED
STUDENTS
Home-schooled students may elect to
participate in the interscholastic athletic and extra-curricular programs of
Clarion-Limestone District according to the following procedures.
1.
Home-schooled students electing to
participate in athletic and/or extra-curricular programs grades K-12 (including
intramurals, after school programs, clubs, etc.) are required to abide by all
guidelines and regulations as public school students. Eligibility requirements
may differ between the elementary and secondary extra-curricular programs. The
guidelines and regulations will include, but not be limited to the following
requirements for home-schooled students.
a. Where
applicable, regular academic eligibility determinations are similar to that
required of the students within the
b. Compliance
with disciplinary policy and any regulations or instructions of administrators,
professional employees, coaches or advisors of the district is required.
Failure to do so may lead to termination of the home schooled student’s
participation in activities.
c. Transportation
to and from the school for home-schoolers is the sole responsibility and
expense of parent/guardian.
d. Home-schooled
students are subject to the same eligibility and try-out criteria as other
students who compete for positions on teams, squads, casts, or membership.
e. It
is the parent/guardian/student’s responsibility to keep abreast of available
activities, schedules and/or schedule changes. The district assumes no
responsibility to inform parent/guardians of the home-schooled student
regarding the availability of extracurricular activities or changes in
schedules.
f.
Some extra-curricular activities require
all participating students to provide proof of personal injury medical
insurance coverage and medical certification of fitness.
g. The
home-schooled student is also subject to pay any cost or fee associated with
the extra-curricular activity as is paid by the non-home-schooled student.
Home schooled students
who transfer in from another school district shall have the same residency
rules apply to them as does the public school student enrollee.
HOME-SCHOOLED
STUDENT TESTING
Home-school children
taking the end of the year assessment will be taking the test on the week of
make-ups. This will insure that the teacher can answer any questions that the
child may have during the exam. Parents will need to call the principal and set
an appointment for the testing to be completed.
Students
are permitted up to 2 educational trips per year. The number of days is not to
exceed 7 per year.
Educational trips are
granted by the principal. A letter with the dates of absence must be addressed
to the principal and delivered to the office prior to taking the days for vacation. If a parent/student
applies for an educational leave after the fact, their days will be considered
as unexcused/illegal. Please do not schedule educational trips during the
week of PSSA state assessments (see PSSA calendar).
Students will be permitted
to make up any missed work/tests, if the trip was approved, up to 3 days
upon return.
All students
in grades K-6 take a field trip. These trips are educational and are based on
curriculum for that grade level. If a student exceeds five (5) days of absence
(excused or unexcused) immediately prior to a field trip, they may be denied
leaving school for a field trip. Permission slips must be signed by
parent/guardian before a student is permitted to leave for a field trip.
Tickets for field trips are purchased months ahead of time; therefore there
will be no refunds. Parents are reminded to be on time when picking students up
after school hours. If a student requires medication on a daily basis, the
student and parent are responsible for the medication the day of the field
trip.
1. Upon return, a student shall be released from the
school only to their parents or to persons authorized by their parents.
2. In case of illness it shall be determined that the
parent or reliable adult is at home before the student is sent home.
3. The parent should be notified before any student is
released to a police or court official during school hours.
BEING A CHAPERONE
Parents/guardians
may be asked to be a chaperone for a field trip. Chaperone selection procedures
vary from grade to grade. As a
chaperone, you may be asked to pay for your own admission. Chaperones are
required to ride the bus. Under no circumstances should a parent/guardian drive
to meet their child at the field trip destination.
INCENTIVE TRIP
The
incentive trip is to recognize two students in each homeroom first through
sixth that are often overlooked in the classroom. These children strive to
improve personal and academic achievement. They may or may not be honor
students. Every effort will be made to see that a student only participates
once in their elementary career.
Under no
circumstances will a parent “pick” their child’s homeroom teacher for the
following year. A balanced class is essential and great care is taken when the
staff analyzes the classes to determine the students going into them. The
school must abide by laws that deal with special teachers, special education
and related services. Special circumstances may arise at times. Then and only
then will the principal take into consideration the situation to see that the
student is properly placed.
PRINCIPAL LIST AND HONOR ROLL
Students must have A’s in all subjects to be named to the
principal list. To be named on the honor roll the student may have A’s and B’s.
If a child receives a (U), (N) or an (I) in Art, Library, Music, Physical
Education and/or including behavior, the student is automatically disqualified
for honor roll and principal list. Grades must be maintained to be eligible to
be in extra curricular activities but not limited to intramurals, water or bat
person, and Elementary Edition.
GRADING SCALE
A 93% - 100%
B 85%
- 92%
C 77%
- 84%
D 70%
- 76%
E 69% and Below
4 Advanced
3 Proficient
2 Basic
1 Below
Basic
NA Not
Assessed
INSURANCE COVERAGE
All students must have insurance to participate in extra
curricular activities. Insurance form and permission for medical treatment is
located in the back of this handbook. Please submit the correct information by
the second week of school to your child’s teacher. If you need more permission
forms for specific medical treatment, they are available in the office. Group
student accident insurance forms will also be available by Bollinger Insurance
Company to families that are interested.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
INTRAMURALS
Intramural activities are available for students in grades
4-6. This program runs after dismissal to activity bus time. A schedule is
given to students so arrangements can be made. Activities vary from basketball,
soccer, bowling, volleyball, ice-skating, to biking 13 miles. This is a great
way for students to get involved and meet other students. Students who exhibit
continuous disciplinary problems could loose their intramural privileges.
Students will pay a one time fee of $5.00 to participate for the entire school
year in addition to any other entrance fees.
ELEMENTARY EDITION
This is a select choir of 5th and 6th
grade students chosen through auditions. Students will rehearse with the high
school choral director to learn the music and movements to perform several
times each year. There will be required evening performances.
ELEMENTARY CHOIR
All 5th and 6th grade students participate
in elementary choir. Rehearsals begin at the start of the second nine weeks and
should culminate with a performance in the spring.
SONGFEST
Through auditions, 6th grade students are chosen
each year to participate in the PMEA District III Elementary songfest. These
students will work to prepare the selected music on their own and with the
elementary music teacher to perform in a concert with over two hundred other
students from approximately 25 elementary schools in a 6-county area.
BEGINNING BAND
Beginning Band is comprised of all first year
instrumentalists. They meet weekly for a band lesson and for a full band
rehearsal. They perform for the spring concert in May.
ADVANCED BAND
Advanced Band is comprised of all students who have
successfully completed one or two years of the elementary band program.
Students receive a group lesson once a week. The full band rehearses once a
week during the school year. Students perform for a winter concert and a spring
concert.
STUDENT COUNCIL
These elected officials meet with the principal on a
monthly basis. The president is elected from the six grade classrooms. The
vice-president is elected from the fifth grade classrooms. The
secretary/treasurer is elected from the sixth grade classrooms. The fifth grade
and fourth grade both have representatives elected from their grades.
GUIDANCE COUNSELOR
The
counselor is experienced in many aspects of group and individual counseling and
provides direct services to students. Aspects of an overall guidance program
such as collaboration with other staff and parents, referrals to outside
agencies, and supportive interventions are provided as a team or individually
by the counselor, school psychologist, instructional support teacher and the
school nurse.
SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
The
school psychologist serves to advise personnel and performs many activities
including the following:
1. Measuring and interpreting the
intellectual, social and emotional development of children.
2. Identifying exceptional children
and collaborating in the planning of appropriate educational and social
placements and programs including collaborating with outside agencies.
3. Developing ways to facilitate the
learning and adjustment of children.
4. Encouraging and initiating research
and utilizing research findings for the solution of school problems.
5. Diagnosing educational and personal
disabilities, and collaborating in the planning of re-educational programs.
The
above functions are carried out and may lead to more formal assessment. Problem
solving in collaboration with parents and other professionals is the main
thrust of the psychologist’s work in assuring that students receive the best
possible education in the least restrictive environment.
TESTING PROGRAM
In
accordance with the recommendations of the superintendent of the school, the
principals and the guidance counselor, the Clarion-Limestone Area Board of
School Directors has approved a district-wide testing program designed to
provide information concerning the proficiency of all children in the district
on standardized tests.
ASSESSMENT
Kindergarten
pre-screening is conducted in April. We use the Phelps Screening as a tool to
measure the academic, social, and emotional development of the student. We are
able to tell if the student is in need of any services at this point or if the
student would benefit from starting school at a later date.
The
Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) measures achievement in
reading, writing, science and mathematics.
Your
child’s scores on these tests will be examined and maintained in the school
record as long as your child attends school in this system. A copy will be sent
home to the parent/guardian.
Should
you wish to examine your child’s record file, you may arrange to do so by
making an appointment with the principal or guidance counselor’s office. Please
note the annual review of privacy rights.
PSSA SCHEDULE 2009-2010
The
Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has issued the following mandatory
schedule for the administration of the PSSA.
Starting in the 2009-2010 school year, the testing schedule follows a
new format. All make-up assessments are
conducted during the same week. It is extremely helpful when parents make every
effort to encourage perfect attendance and positive testing attitudes.
|
Assessment |
Dates |
Grade(s) |
|
PSSA Reading & Math and PSSA-Modified Reading & Math |
April 12 - 16, 2010 |
3 through 8, 11 |
|
PSSA Writing |
April 19 - 23, 2010 |
5, 8, 11 |
|
PSSA Science and PSSA-Modified Science |
April 26 - 30, 2010 |
4, 8, 11 |
|
PSSA and PSSA-Modified Make-Ups for All Subjects |
May 3 - 7, 2010 |
3 through 8, 11 |
CLASS SIZE
Class
size shall be determined by the Board upon the recommendation of the
Superintendent. The Superintendent shall prepare guidelines for class size,
which shall take into account:
1. Subject matter
2. Type of
instruction
3. Ability of
students
4. Age group of
students
5. Use of aides
6. Use of special
facilities and equipment
TITLE I
Title I
is the largest federal aid program for our nation’s schools. The goal of Title
I is a high-quality education for every child, so the program provides
extra help to students who need it most. These are children who are the
furthest from meeting the standards the state has set for all children. Title I
resources are directed to schools with high poverty levels. Title I services
are provided using in-class or pull-out programs. If your child is eligible
to receive Title I services, you will be notified.
TITLE I PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY
1. During a fall PTO meeting, district parents will be
given information about the school’s participation in the Title I program, the
criteria used to identify those students who are eligible to participate, and their
right to be involved.
2. Parents will be notified in a timely manner of their
child’s eligibility for Title I services.
Parents may also request Title I services for their child if it is
believed that he/she would benefit from the extra help in reading or math.
Additionally, parents who feel that their child is not benefiting from
placement in the Title I program may request, in writing, to have their child
withdrawn from a Title I class.
3. Parents of students in Title I classes will be kept
informed of their child’s progress through report cards and/or parent
conferences.
4. Parents will be given information concerning parent
training and support materials (books, videos, audio tapes and pamphlets),
which are available through the Title I Parent Library, housed outside the
reading room in the primary hallway.
5. With prior notification, arrangements may be
provided, using Title I funds, to enable parents to participate in Title I
meetings and activities.
6. Parent meetings and/or conferences will be scheduled
at different times during the day.
7. Parents will be invited to attend two meetings
annually held by Title I personnel. One of the meetings will provide
opportunities for parental involvement in the planning, review, and improvement
of the Title I program. Information concerning local assessment results and how
to monitor a child’s progress and how to work with teachers to improve student
achievement will also be discussed.
8. Parents will be given an opportunity to review and
help revise an ongoing Parent/School Compact (Learning Promise) and Parent
Involvement Policy which outlines how parents, school staff, and students share
the responsibility to improve student achievement.
9. The Title I Parent Involvement Policy and a Learning
Promise along with the No Child Left Behind requirements regarding teacher
qualifications, will be printed in the student handbook, which is sent home to
each student at the beginning of the year and as students enter the district
throughout the school year.
10. Through a Title I Parent-Teacher Committee, all
Title I parents will be surveyed to provide data that can be used to plan,
review, and improve the Title I program.
11. In keeping with board policy concerning curriculum
review by parents/guardians and students, parents of participating students
have, upon request, the right to request the district to make available
existing information about curriculum, including standards to be achieved,
instructional materials, and assessment techniques.
RIGHT TO REQUEST TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
As a parent of a student at
Clarion-Limestone Area School District, 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:
If you would like to
receive any of this information, please call the principal at 764-6006.
INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT TEACHER (IST)
The Instructional
Support Teacher helps coordinate, collaborate, assess, train, and assist the
school staff in meeting the specific instructional needs of students who
struggle within the regular classroom. The support teacher facilitates
intervention techniques in the classroom. As a student shows success, the
support teacher’s direct involvement is phased out in favor of the classroom
teacher or other educational personnel. If there is no progress, the student is
referred for a multidisciplinary evaluation (MDE) which may recommend special
education services.
CHILD STUDY TEAM (CST)
The team follows a child study process
when you have concerns about your child’s education, which may lead to a
referral for special education services or gifted programming.
First, please contact the
child’s teacher(s) to discuss your concerns. If your child is having difficulty,
they may be referred to the Child Study Team (CST) at the elementary level.
This team works together to provide interventions, adaptations, and assistance
to enable the student to make adequate academic progress. The Child study Team
reviews these interventions to determine whether additional information and /or
an evaluation is needed. The Child Study Team process ensures that each student
is educated in the least restricted environment.
The information collected
and reviewed consists of work samples, standardized exam results, curriculum
based assessment, performance based assessment, Accelerated Reader, current
grades, and a description of adaptations made by the teacher or teachers. For
gifted referrals, a teacher “input form” and a description of gifted
characteristics observed is also reviewed. After reviewing the information, the
Child Study Team meets to determine whether further assessment is warranted.
It is imperative to
remember that prior to an evaluation for special education services, the
Pennsylvania State Board of Education (22.PA Code Chapters 14 and 432)
Standards and Regulations for Special Education Programs and Services mandates
that interventions or adaptations be provided and the results documented prior
to conducting a formal evaluation for special education services.
For gifted education
services, the Pennsylvania State Board of Education (22.PA Code Chapter 16)
Standards and Regulations require that a child have an IQ score of 130 or
higher on a standardized intelligence test, and/ or multiple criteria. This
includes: achievement and test scores, acquisition and retention rates,
demonstrated achievement, performance or expertise in one or more academic
areas and higher level thinking skills. Academic creativity, leadership skills,
academic interest areas, communication skills, and expertise in technology can
be evaluated. The student must also demonstrate the need for individualized
instruction. If you have any questions about the referral process, please
contact the principal.
LEARNING SUPPORT
Learning
Support is for students who have been identified as exceptional, and in need of
special services for a learning difference. In some instances, the student will
go to the Learning Support classroom for support, while in other cases, support
will be given through consultation or through inclusion in the regular
classroom, and or curriculum.
GIFTED SUPPORT (ACTION)
Action
is for students who have the potential to function at a superior level of
performance. Students are grouped with other gifted students in a small group
setting two and one half- hours per week.
SPEECH THERAPY
Speech
therapy services are provided for students at
VISUAL ARTS
The elementary
visual arts program is available to all students, kindergarten through sixth
grade. Our goal is to develop the highest creative spirit of every individual
and to facilitate a wide range of experiences in art based on the elements and
principles of design. The art program teaches skills unique to itself and also
skills, which may be applied to all areas of life and overlapped with other
subjects. Students will learn to express their emotions and ideas not only in
visual form, but also in written and verbal as they learn to critique their
work and discover art appreciation through history. Artwork is displayed
through out the school during the year and occasionally in public areas outside
of the school, which helps to build self-confidence and self-esteem.
MUSIC
By
singing, playing instruments, moving to music, and creating music, our students
develop their enjoyment of music. By listening, learning to read, notate music
and learning about their historical and cultural heritage in music our students
develop a greater appreciation of the music of others. No gum chewing is
permitted in the music room.
TALENT SHOW
Each
year a spring talent show is held in April.
Students wishing to participate may sign up and will be scheduled for an
after-school audition. Any talented
student K-6 may audition. Students may
be asked to audition in a recall performance.
All auditions will be judged by faculty and staff present at the
audition performance. Practices are
after school hours. An afternoon
performance is given for the student body and an evening performance is given
for family and friends.
LIBRARY
Students
may select a book according to their interest and reading level. Starting in
third grade each student receives a new library card at the beginning of each
school year. If a student loses their card and does not have a card from the
previous year, the student must pay one dollar to receive a new card. No card,
no book, no exception rule is strictly enforced. No gum chewing is permitted in
the library.
PHYSCIAL EDUCATION
All
elementary students will participate in a regular program of physical
education. The role of physical education will be to develop health-related
fitness, physical competence, and cognitive understanding about physical
activity for all students so that they can adopt healthy and physically active
life styles. Students in grades 4-6 are required to be dressed in clothing
appropriate for active participation.
PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
Clarion-Limestone
Elementary PTO is a highly active PTO. The purpose of PTO is enhancing each
child’s school experience by providing programs, experiences, materials,
equipment or manpower that would not be funded in the school budget. It is not
the intent, nor does PTO have any authority to make school policy changes. Matters
of this nature are best pursued through your child’s teacher and the process
identified in the chain of command. Anyone concerned about the students at
C-L are always welcome at any or all meetings. This is a great way of being
more familiar with what’s going on at school and being able to make an impact
on your child’s school experience. Meetings are held the second Monday of the
month at
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES
It is extremely important for parents/guardians to attend
their children’s conferences. Please make every effort to attend at the
scheduled time. Conference times are during the afternoon with every effort to
accommodate the parents. Conference times will not exceed
HOMEWORK
Homework assignments shall be a part of the instructional
experiences of each student and should complement classroom instruction.
Assignments should develop student responsibility, good study habits and
organizational skill, and shall be a continuation or extension of the
instructional program to be accomplished outside the classroom. Homework is to
be completed by the student. Homework that is handed-in MUST be completed in
the STUDENT’S own handwriting.
Students who do not complete homework will face
disciplinary consequences. On the 5th day of a missed assignment,
the student will receive an after-school detention. For every 5th
day of a missed assignment thereafter, a detention will be assigned.
Accumulated missed assignments will result in punishment as per administrative
discretion.
PARENT-TEACHER PARTNERSHIP
One of the school’s strengths is the strong relationship we
have with parents. The following are some important reminders.
·
The key to helping your CHILD is to have a good
relationship with your CHILD’S teachers.
Begin at the initial meeting with the school staff. Meet the teachers
and tell them any special needs or concerns. Seek their advice on how all can
work together to best meet your CHILD’S needs.
·
Communicate regularly with your CHILD’S teachers. This
helps you know what is going on during your CHILD’S home life to show them that
you trust them and believe in this partnership.
·
Ask for help. Ask the teachers they have to notice your
concerns. Work together to best address your CHILD’S needs.
·
Show your appreciation for your CHILD’S teacher through
compliments for a job well done. Everyone appreciates a compliment.
·
Be active in the elementary. Join the PTO and attend school
events. Volunteer to help. Use parent-teacher conferences as an opportunity to
show the staff how much you care. Helping your CHILD is often a simple matter
of helping your CHILD’S teacher.
·
Be a guest teacher. Have grandparents and important family
members come in and tell their life stories or read. Keep the lines of
communication open at all times.
·
The parent-teacher partnership is a crucial link for the
well being of your CHILD. Nurture this partnership to ensure a successful
experience for your CHILD.
·
Remember . . . it is very important that WE meet the
CHILD’S needs.
LOST/DAMAGED BOOKS AND SCHOOL PROPERTY
If a student looses or
damages borrowed school property items, such as books, wheelchairs, etc., the
student is responsible for restitution.
An invoice will be sent to the parent indicating the amount that must be
paid to repair or replace the item. Uncollected bills will be submitted to the
district magistrate.
ELEMENTARY PLAYGROUND RULES
The elementary playground
is well-designed and maintained. The following rules will help the children
play in a safe manner. Teachers will review these rules with their students
during the first week of school.
1.
Children will
not run while on or under the playground equipment.
2.
Children will
not play “tag” while on or under the playground equipment.
3.
Children will
not jump off the playground equipment.
4.
Children will
take turns while using the playground.
5.
Children should
not stand or walk on top of the playground equipment that is not designed for
this activity.
6.
Children will
not throw wood chips.
7.
Children will
not play with toys while on or under the playground equipment.
8.
Children will
not climb the slide from the bottom to the top.
9.
Children will
not mark, scratch, or destroy the playground equipment in any manner.
10.
The playground
area will remain litter free at all times.
11.
Extra care will
be taken if the playground is damp.
12.
Older children
should be especially careful if younger children are sharing the playground.
13.
The classroom
teachers may add their own rules to this list. The playground supervisor
decisions are final.
14.
Teachers and/or
children will report any unsafe conditions to the elementary office.
15.
Only
handicapped students may use the red swing.
16.
All injuries
must be reported to the office. Children should not be moved if their injury is
of a possible serious nature.
Registration for incoming kindergarten students is held in
April with the exact date to be announced by a flier and newspaper article.
Parents/guardians must submit both documents as proof of age: the child’s birth
certificate, and social security number.
Children shall be admitted to kindergarten if they will
have attained the age of five (5) years prior to July 1 of the school
year in which they plan to enroll, unless special circumstances warrant
considerations/exceptions.
*Children shall have immunization as
mandated according to law.
*Applicants for transfer-in during
kindergarten shall be required to qualify under this policy, unless special
circumstances warrant consideration as exceptions.
*Attendance in kindergarten shall not be
compulsory nor a prerequisite for admission to the first grade.
VERIFICATION FOR FIRST GRADE
Children shall be admitted to first
grade if they will have attained the age of six (6) years before the first day
of the school term.
Children shall have immunization as
mandated according to law.
Applicants for transfer-in during first
grade shall be required to qualify under this policy, unless special
circumstances warrant consideration as exceptions.
Registration of students who have recently moved into the
school district can be accomplished by reporting to the elementary school
office to complete the necessary forms.
SCHOOL NURSE
The services of the school nurse are an important part of
the total educational program in our schools. The district employs one
full-time nurse at the elementary building. Many types of examinations are
conducted as prescribed by law. First aid services are an important part of the
nurse’s work, and are necessary because of minor injuries which occur, and
because of unexpected illnesses which affect our pupils. The school nurse
should not be used to diagnose your child’s illnesses.
The nurse’s office is for students who become ill at
school. A student is sent to the nurse’s office by his/her teacher to be
evaluated. A student who is assessed by the school nurse as being too ill to
attend class is sent home. Parents are expected to provide a local phone number
where someone can be reached to provide transportation for an ill child. A
child will not be excused to go home because of illness unless the parent or
designated person is contacted.
Screenings: The following state-mandated services are
provided to each student each year.
Dental – Grades 1, 2, 4-6 BMI
(Body Mass Index) Grades K-8
Vision – Grades
1-6 T.B. tine testing –
Grade K every 3rd year
Hearing – Grades K-3
Scoliosis – Grade 6
Physicals – Grades K, 6
The school employs a physician to complete the school
required physicals along with all sport physicals.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Revisions in the School Immunization Regulations state that
a student originally entering school has 3 doses of Hepatitis B Vaccine (Hep.B)
and 4 doses of Tetanus, Pertussis and Diphtheria (DPT) with the 4th
dose on or after the child’s 4th birthday and 2 doses of Measles
containing vaccine (MMR). Beginning in the 2002-2003 school year, new school
vaccination requirement will now include an Varicella (chicken pox) immunity,
either from vaccination, history of disease or laboratory testing for new
school entries (Kindergarten or first grade) and for students entering seventh
grade. Three doses of hepatitis B vaccine is required for students entering
seventh grade.
If the immunization is against your religious beliefs or
you have a strong moral or ethical
conviction similar to a religious belief, please come to
the Principal’s office at the school. You will then need to sign the
“Certificate of Immunization” which is provided for you stating your reason for
not having your child immunized.
If the immunization is not medically advisable at this
time, please inform the nurse and a “Certificate of Immunization” will be
provided. Your physician must sign it in the space provided. When your
physician determines that immunization is no longer detrimental to the health
of your child, the child will have to comply with the above immunization
requirement.
PRESCRIPTION / NON-PRESCRIPTION
MEDICATIONS
On occasion, the nurse is asked to administer
over-the-counter non-prescription medication such as Pepto-bismol, Tylenol, or
Caladryl. Generally, if a parent or guardian wants his/her child to receive
over-the-counter drugs, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to make
such drugs available to the child. You must send with the child, the
appropriate quantity and directions of the medication to be used as needed. The
nurse and other school employees cannot be responsible for the storage and
administration of non-prescription drugs sent from home.
The school nurse does keep on hand a limited supply of
non-prescription medications that she may administer in accordance with
district Policy #210.
Prescription drugs, which you want the nurse to administer,
should be given to the nurse in the original container with the dosage and time
of administration clearly marked.
The nurse can then accurately follow the directions of the
attending physician. Please do not send prescription drugs in containers other
than the original containers. The nurse may not administer medications from an
improperly marked or an unmarked container. All prescribed medication will be
administered in accordance with District Policy #4202.
The non-prescription medications listed below may be
administered by the school nurse:
Tylenol – 325mg 1 or 2 tablets may be given by mouth at the
discretion of the R.N.
Pepto-bismol –or antacid – 1 or 2 tablespoons may be given
by mouth.
Ibuprofin – 200 mg 1 or 2 tablets may be given for pain.
Kaopectate – per directions on the bottle, may be given for
simple diarrhea.
Chloraseptic, Cepacol or Sucrets – may be given for throat
irritation.
Benadryl Elixir – 3 to 5 tsp. Every 4 hours “prn” may be
given for allergic reactions.
Adrenalin – ˝ cc to 1 cc may be given by injection for
severe allergic reactions by the
R.N. at her discretion, then the family and school doctor will be
notified.
Campho – phenique – may be used for cold sores.
Anbesol – may be used for toothache.
Caladryl – may be used for insect bites and minor skin
irritations.
Hydrogen Peroxide or Zephiran Chloride – aqueous 1:750 may
be used to cleanse
wounds.
Bacitracin, neomycin, or polymyxin ointment – may be used
for minor burns or irritations.
Dacirose or saline solution – may be used for eye
irritation.
Ben- gay or analgesic balm – may be used for relief of
minor muscle aches.
Cough Drop – may be used for mild sore throat.
Only those non-prescription
medications which have been approved by the school physician shall be
administered to students.
A school district consent
form for the administration of non-prescription medication shall be completed
and signed by the parent, guardian, or person in loco parentis before any
non-prescription medication may be administered. A properly executed consent
form shall authorize the administration of non-prescription medication and
shall relieve the Board and its employees of all liability for administration
of non-prescription medication.
The only school employee
authorized to administer non-prescription medication to students shall be the
school nurse.
The
administration of prescribed medication to a student will be permitted only
according to this policy.
A school district consent
form for the administration of prescribed medication shall be completed and
signed by the parent, guardian, or person in loco parentis before any
prescribed medication may be administered. A properly executed consent form
shall authorize the administration of prescribed medication and shall relieve
the Board and its employees of all liability for administration of prescribed
medications.
No medications shall be
administered except in accordance with the physician’s written request for
administration of a specific dosage. The written request shall include: 1)
date; 2) student’s name; 3) name of medication, dosage, how administered, time
schedule and length of time to be administered in school; 4) possible side
effects or contraindications; 5) any curtailment of specific school activity;
6) a list of any other medication which have been prescribed by the physician;
and 7) physician’s signature and telephone number.
Prescribed medication
delivered to the school by the parent, guardian, or person in loco parentis, or
student shall be recorded in a log, with date and name and amount of medication
delivered being noted.
Prescribed medication
delivered to the school must be in a properly labeled container with 1)
student’s name; 2) name of physician; 3) date of prescription; 4) name of
medication, dosage and frequency of administration; and 5) name and telephone
of pharmacy.
Prescribed medication shall
be administered by the school nurse; except in his/her absence, prescribed
medication may be administered by other school district personnel designated by
the administration to perform this function.
REGULATIONS CONCERNING COMMUNICABLE
DISEASES
Parents should have any suspected communicable disease
confirmed by a doctor and should notify the school-nurse if a child has a
communicable disease. If the disease is to be reported to the
The following diseases require isolation and exclusion from
school until a doctor certifies that the child may return to school: Diphtheria,
Scarlet Fever, Polio, Meningitis, Hepatitis, and Typhoid Fever.
Any child excluded from school with pediculosis capitis
(Head lice infestation) must be treated by parent/guardian or doctor with an
approved lice-killing shampoo. Students are not permitted to ride the bus to or
from school until they are cleared by the school nurse. The student must be nit
free in order to be reinstated to school. Any absence after three days will be
considered an unexcused absence unless a longer absence is specified by the
doctor.
Any child excluded from school with an infectious skin
condition such as Impetigo, Scabies, Ringworm or Acute contagious
conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) shall be re-admitted to school with a permit from the
students family doctor.
Students shall be excluded from school who have been
diagnosed by a physician or are suspected of having the disease by the school
nurse for the indicated period of time for the following diseases
Measles – four days from the onset of rash.
Incubation period: 7-14 days
Rubella – (German Measles) (3 day measles) four days from
the onset of rash.
Incubation period: 14-21 days
Pertussis – (Whooping Cough) four weeks from the onset or
seven days from appropriate
antimicrobial therapy. Incubation
period: 7-14 days
Chicken Pox – six days from the last crop of vesicles.
Incubation period 14-21 days
Mumps – nine days from the onset or until subsidence of
swelling.
Incubation period: 14-21 days
Respiratory Streptococcal infections including Scarlet
Fever – not less than 7 days from the onset
if no physician is in attendance or 24
hours from appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Acute contagious Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) – 24 hours from
appropriate antibiotic therapy
Ringworm – all types- until judged by the child’s physician
Scabies – until judged by the child’s physician
Impetigo – Contagiosa – until judged by the child’s
physician
Pediculosis capitis (lice- scalp) – until judged
non-infective by the child’s physician
Pediculosis corpora (lice – body) – until judged non-infective
by the child’s physician
PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REGULATIONS contains the
following requirements:
Exclusion of pupils showing symptoms: The school nurse
shall exclude immediately a person showing an unusual skin eruption, having
soreness of the throat or having signs or symptoms of whooping cough or
diseases of the eyes. The exclusion and the reasons prompting it shall be
reported to the health authority of the municipality or county in which the
school is situated, together with the name and address of the person excluded.
Readmission of pupils showing symptoms: A person may not be
readmitted until the nurse in the school is satisfied that the condition for
which the child was excluded is not communicable or until the child presents a
certificate of recovery or non-infectiousness from the physician.
Admission of exposed or isolated pupils: No person who has
been absent from school by reason of having had or because of residing on
premises where there has been a disease for which isolation is required may be
readmitted to school without the permission of the health authorities. The
person shall be required to secure permission whether or not there has been a
physician in attendance or whether or not isolation has been established in the
household.
The
stage will be utilized for lunches. The three-strike rule will be enforced.
*First strike = you’re getting to
loud
*Second strike = warning
*Third strike = complete silence no talking
STUDENT MEALS-CASH CHARGES
The
district will provide for the nutritional needs of students while operating an
efficient and economical food service program. In order to establish a uniform
practice concerning cash charges for meals, the following practices will be
followed:
A notice
of the cash meal charges policy will be sent to the parent(s)/ guardian(s).
A
maximum of three cash meal charges will be permitted prior to providing
students with the meal alternative ( Peanut-butter and jelly sandwich).
A
written and / or verbal notice will be given to the student and parent(s)
guardian(s) prior to refusal to provide additional charged cash meals. The
warning will indicate the number of charged cash meals the student has received
during the current year and the dollar amount owed for previous cash meals.
Upon
written/verbal notice, the student may not charge additional regular lunches.
The meal alternative will be a peanut-butter jelly sandwich. This practice is
to remain in effect until the student’s account is paid in full.
The
district reserves the right to institute additional regulations in cases
involving continual, flagrant, misuse of cash charges.
The
district will provide meals to those students identified by law or regulation
who do not fall under this policy.
The
district reserves the right to institute additional regulations in cases
involving continual, flagrant, misuse of cash charges.
The
district will provide meals to those students identified by law or regulation
who do not fall under this policy.
To receive free or reduced price meals/snacks for your
child(ren), you must complete and sign a meal benefit application and return it
to the school at the beginning of each school year. We cannot approve a
meal benefit application that is not complete.
Just a reminder that water bottles are permitted but no
glass containers of any kind are permitted.
When turning in charge
money to the cafeteria through the elementary office where the cafeteria mail
box is, please be sure to include your child’s name and homeroom on the
envelope.
STUDENT WELLNESS
VENDING MACHINES
Vending machines will not
be available for student use during regular school hours.
LION PRIDE
Lions:
Practice good manners
Respect the rules
Include others
Demonstrate responsibility
Excel in all we do
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
It is our desire to insure
the safety and welfare of all students while creating an environment that is
conducive to learning. At
Clarion-Limestone Elementary, we have an instructional program that has a
wholesome and orderly school environment.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of each staff member to maintain
student discipline and control in the school, on school grounds, during the
time spent traveling to and from school, as well as attendance at all school
sponsored activities.
DISRUPTIVE STUDENT-
Definition: A student who possesses a
clear threat to the safety and welfare of other students or the school staff,
who creates an unsafe school environment or whose behavior materially
interferes with the learning of other students or disrupts the overall
educational process. The disruptive
student exhibits to a marked degree any or all of the following conditions:
1. Disregard for school authority, including persistent
violation of school policy and rules.
2. Display or use of controlled substances on school
property or during school-affiliated activities.
3. Violent or threatening behavior on school property
or during school-affiliated activities.
4. Possession of a weapon on school property, as
defined by State and Federal law and in our School Board Policy.
5. Commission of a criminal act on school property or
during school affiliated activities.
6. Misconduct that would merit suspension or expulsion
under school policy.
7. Habitual truancy.
8. Verbal abuse (sexual and non-sexual).
9. Sleeping in class.
10. Stealing valuable educational time from other
students and teachers.
* Note: No student who is eligible for special
education services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(Public Law 91-230,20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq.) shall be deemed a disruptive
student for the purposes of this act, except as provided for in 22 PA. Code
sec. 14.35 (relating to discipline).
DISCIPLINARY REFERRAL SYSTEM
The Clarion-Limestone
Elementary will have a “disciplinary referral” system. A copy of this referral
is enclosed in this packet. Disciplinary
referral forms are completed by the supervising adult when a Level II or
greater infraction occurs. The referral form is sent to the office for further
investigation.
Please Note: The school is responsible for your child from
the bus stop to your doorstep. The
school will enforce this code to include misbehavior at the bus stops.
AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION
Students will be assigned
after-school detention when necessary.
Detention is held in a classroom from
It is mandatory that the
student be on their best behavior while in detention. Misbehavior at detention
will result in an additional day of detention. Failure to stay for an assigned
detention could result in an out-of-school suspension. Dates and information
will be given prior to the detention. If the student is absent from school on
the assigned detention day, the detention will be automatically reassigned for
the following detention day.
Detention is a disciplinary
measure. The students assigned will not be permitted to participate in any
extracurricular activities on the day of detention.
The following are detention
rules:
1) Student must bring work
2) Complete all work assigned
3) Be on time
4) Remain seated
5) No talking
6) No sleeping
When a student chooses not
to follow school rules and policy, he/she will be subject to the consequences
described in the elementary discipline code.
Students who exhibit
continuous disciplinary infractions could result in non-participation with
intramurals, assemblies, field trips, etc.
Note: The Administration retains the right to
assign appropriate punishment and use its discretion in all disciplinary matters.
Definition
Student behaviors impede orderly classroom procedures or
interfere with the orderly operations of the school. The professional staff
member can usually handle these behaviors.
Examples of Level-I
offenses include but are not limited to the following:
The
staff member experiencing or noting the problem takes intervention. Repeated behavior will require a
parent/teacher conference. Document
using referral form as needed.
Verbal
reprimand
Documented
warning
Time
out
Loss
of recess or classroom privileges
Individual
student or classroom management plans
Parent
notification
Confiscation
of non-instructional items
Eat
lunch in a restricted area
Definition:
Student’s behaviors are frequent or serious enough that
they tend to disrupt the learning climate of the school. These infractions may and will require the
intervention of the administration personnel because Level I interventions have
failed to correct the situation.
Examples of Level II
offenses include but are not limited to the following:
Level
II behaviors require a parent contact by the professional staff member
involved. An immediate written referral is to be submitted to the administrator
with an account of interventions already taken place. Consequences will be
assigned. Disciplinary record is kept on file in the office.
Definition:
Student
behavior is directed against persons or property in the elementary school. The consequences of the behaviors put the
health or safety of others in the school at risk. Level III infractions require the
intervention of administrative personnel.
Examples of Level III
offenses include but are not limited to the following:
The
administrator initiates the disciplinary action by investigating the
infraction. The Principal will meet with
the teacher and/or student and the parent/guardian of the student will be
notified. The behavior will be recorded and disciplinary action will take
place. Consequences will be assigned.
The discipline record is kept on file in the office.
Definition:
Student
behaviors result in violence to another person or property or which pose a
direct threat to the safety of others in the school. Level IV infractions are so serious that it
requires immediate removal of the student from the school. It requires intervention of administration
personnel and may require intervention of law enforcement authorities or action
by the School Board. The Pennsylvania State Police will be notified.
Examples of Level IV
offenses include but are not limited to the following:
The administrator initiates disciplinary action by
investigating the infraction.
Parents/guardian are notified and asked to take their child into custody
as soon as can be arranged. A disciplinary record is kept in the office. If
appropriate, the following actions may need to be taken:
1. Contact law enforcement agency.
2. Submit report to the superintendent for possible
board action.
Parent/guardian
notification
Student
restitution for damage, repairs or theft
Temporary
removal with supervision from the classroom situation
Referral
to Guidance
Referral
to an outside agency
Confiscation
of inappropriate objects
Exclusion
from Extracurricular Activities
Law
Enforcement Referral
Out
of School Suspension
Community
Service/School Service
Expulsion
or action by the School Board
After
School Detention
WEAPONS
The Board recognizes the
importance of a safe school environment relative to the educational process.
Possession of weapons in the school setting is a threat to the safety of
students and staff and is prohibited by law.
Weapon- the term shall include
but not be limited to an knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, ice pick,
explosives, machete, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, air gun, replica of a
weapon, irritating or poisonous gases, poisons, and/or any other tool, instrument
or implement fashioned with the intent to use, sell, harm, threaten , or harass
students, staff, parents/guardians or patrons.
The Board prohibits students from
possessing and bringing weapons and replicas of weapons or facsimiles into any
school district buildings, onto school property, to any school-sponsored
activity, and onto any public vehicle providing transportation to school or a
school-sponsored activity, before, during, or after school hours.
The school district shall expel
for a period of not less than one (1) year any student who violates this
weapons policy. Such expulsion shall be given in conformance with formal due
process proceedings required by law. The Superintendent may recommend
modifications of such expulsion requirement on a case-by case basis.
In the case of an exceptional
student, the Superintendent shall take all necessary steps to comply with the
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act.
The Superintendent or designee
shall report the discovery of any weapon prohibited by this policy to the
student’s parents/guardians and to local law enforcement officials.
Students, staff and
parent/guardians shall be informed at least annually concerning this policy.
SUSPENSION
AND EXPULSION
The Board recognizes that
exclusion from the educational program of the schools, whether by suspension or
expulsion, is the most severe sanction that can be imposed on a student and one
that cannot be imposed without due process.
The principal or designee of the
school may suspend any student for disobedience or misconduct for a period of
one (1) to ten (10) consecutive school days and shall report the suspension to
the Superintendent as soon as possible.
No student may be suspended
without notice of the reasons for which s/he is suspended and an opportunity to
be heard on his/her own behalf before the school official who holds the
authority to reinstate the student. The parents/guardians shall be notified
immediately in writing when a student is suspended.
When the suspension exceeds three
(3) school days, the student and parent/guardian will be given the opportunity
for an informal hearing with the designated school official. Such hearing shall
take place within the first five (5) days of the suspension. When extraordinary
circumstances involving the health and safety of the student or others in the
school require immediate exclusion, the hearing may be delayed to such time as
circumstances permit.
CORPORAL
PUNISHMENT
Corporal punishment is defined as
physically punishing a student for an infraction of the discipline policy. Use
of corporal punishment is prohibited.
Teachers and school authorities may use reasonable force under the
following circumstances:
a.
To quell a disturbance
b.
To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects
c.
For the purpose of self-defense
d.
For the protection of persons or property
TRANSPORTATION
Bus
transportation is provided for all students who do not live within walking
distance of the school. Students must be on time at the bus stop locations at
home and at school. They should leave home in time to reach the bus stop five
minutes before the scheduled pick up.
Proper
conduct of students is expected at all times while students are waiting for or
riding a bus to and from school. This conduct also applies to school related
activities and field trips away from the school. A student that rides a bus to
an away activity must also ride the bus home unless the student’s
parents/guardian and the Principal or the Superintendent has granted written
permission. On bus trips, the bus driver, in consultation with the teacher, is
in charge of student discipline.
In the
event of continual and persistent misconduct, students will be excluded from
riding the bus. Parent/Guardian will be required to furnish transportation when
students are excluded from riding the bus.
NOTE:
Anyone who enters a school bus without prior authorization of the driver or a
school official and/or who refuses to leave when ordered to do so by the driver
commits a misdemeanor of the third degree!
The
following are examples of inappropriate behavior on buses or at the bus stop.
1. Not following
directions
2. Not in assigned
seat
3. Not riding
assigned bus
4. Getting out of
the seat when the bus is moving
5. Throwing things
out the window
6. Placing items in
the aisle
7. Eating, drinking,
and littering
8. Distracting the
driver (i.e. loud noise, throwing objects, objects out of the book-bag, etc).
9. Using profanity
or the discussion of sex education or any explicit material by any student
10. Being disrespectful/rude/discourteous/talking back to
others
11. Harassing others
12. Fighting/pushing/tripping/kicking
13. Possessing tobacco products
14. Vandalizing
15. Leaning out windows
16. Destruction of property
17. Spitting/throwing of body fluids
18. Throwing snowballs/stones/rocks at the bus, inside the
bus, or at the bus stop.
19. Any infraction that is listed in the code handbook
Note: Each bus driver will have
their own set of rules for their bus. These rules will be posted and enforced.
We want your son/daughter to be safe at all times. Please remember that
riding the bus is a privilege not a right!
When misbehavior takes place on a
bus the consequences fall under the “Discipline Code” for the elementary.
Due to insurance liability and bus overloading
concerns, your child must be picked up and discharged at the same loading zone
everyday. The child may be picked up at one location and dropped off at a
different location but this must be done on an everyday basis.
A note must be sent to school if your
child is being picked up at the end of the day by someone other than
parent/guardian.
SCHOOL BOARD
TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
Transportation issues
dealing with busing will need to be addressed by the Clarion-Limestone School
Board Transportation committee. This includes but is not limited to:
* Bus Stops
* Time issues on a bus
* Unsafe issues dealing with
traffic direction
* Unloading and loading
* Violations dealing with a
driver
The committee can be
reached by the business office 814-764-5111 ext. 312
Discipline issues will be
handled by the office personnel. The discipline code will be followed
considering the level of the infraction.
The Board recognizes that
tobacco use by students presents a health and safety hazard that can have
serious consequences for both users and nonusers and the safety and environment
of the schools.
For purposes of this
policy, tobacco use shall be defined as use and/or possession of a lighted or
unlighted cigarette, cigar and pipe: other lighted smoking product; and
smokeless tobacco in any form.
The Board prohibits tobacco
use and possession by students at any time in a school building and on any
property, buses, vans, and vehicles that are owned, leased or controlled by the
school district.
The Board prohibits tobacco
use and possession by students at school-sponsored activities that are held off
school property.
The school district may
initiate prosecution of a student who possesses or uses tobacco in violation of
this policy.
A student convicted of
possessing or using tobacco in violation of this policy may be fined up to
$50.00 plus court costs or admitted to alternative adjudication in lieu of
imposition of a fine.
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
For
purposes of this policy, controlled substances shall mean all dangerous
controlled substances prohibited by law, look-alike drugs, alcoholic or malt
beverages, anabolic steroids, drug paraphernalia, any substance intended to
alter mood, mental, and/or physical functions, any volatile solvents or
inhalants, such as but not limited to glue and aerosol products, and any
medication for which a prescription is required, except those for which
permission for use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy.
The
Board prohibits students from using, possessing distributing, and being under
the influence of any controlled substances during school hours, on school
property, at any time, and at any school-sponsored event.
It shall be the policy of
the Board that all lockers are and shall remain the property of the school
district. As such, students shall have no expectations of privacy in their
lockers.
The Board reserves the
right to authorize its employees to inspect a student’s locker at any time,
based on reasonable suspicion, for the purpose of determining whether the
locker is being used improperly for the storage of contraband, a substance or
object the possession of which is illegal, or any material that poses a hazard
to the safety and order of the schools.
The
board declares it to be the policy of this district to provide an equal
opportunity for all students to achieve their maximum potential through the
programs offered in the schools regardless of race, color, creed, religion,
gender, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin or handicap/disability.
The
district shall provide to all students, without discrimination, course
offerings, counseling, assistance, employment, athletics and extracurricular
activities.
UNLAWFUL HARASSMENT
The
Board strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the
schools. Therefore, it shall be the policy of the district to maintain an
educational environment in which harassment in any form is not tolerated.
The
Board prohibits all forms of unlawful harassment of students by all district
students and staff members, contracted individuals and vendors, and volunteers
in the school.
For
purposes of this policy, harassment of a student consists of verbal, written,
graphic or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race color, national
origin/ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
ANNUAL NOTICE
Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20
U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of
student educationrecords. The law applies to all schools that receive funds
under anapplicable program of the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA gives
parents certain rights with respect to their children'seducation 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 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 which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school
decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the
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 educational 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
PTA 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 us at the following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920
A copy
of this policy can be obtained at the District Superintendent’s Office at
According to federal law,
no student shall be required, as a part of any applicable program, to submit to
a survey, analysis, or evaluation without the prior written consent of the
parent, that reveals information concerning:
1. Political affiliations.
2. Mental and psychological problems potentially
embarrassing to student or his/her family.
3. Sex behavior and attitude.
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incrimination and
demeaning behavior.
5. Critical appraisals or other individuals with whom
respondents have close family relationships.
6. Legally recognized privileged and 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).
However, such surveys,
analysis, or evaluations may be conducted on a wholly voluntary basis, provided
that the student and parents have been notified of their rights. Parents have
the right to inspect all materials related to the survey, analysis, or
evaluation.
Clarion-Limestone
Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age
or limited English proficiency in its activities, programs or employment
practices as required by Title VI, Title IX and Section 504. For information
regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Mrs. Wendy Young, Title
IX Coordinator, (814-764-5111) or Mr. John Johnson, Section 504 Coordinator, at
4091 C-L School Road, Strattanville, PA 16258 (814-764-5111). For information
regarding services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and usable
by persons with disabilities contact the Superintendent (814-764-5111)
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY FOR INTERNET AND
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
All students must have a signed permission form on
file in which parents/guardians grant permission for internet access and to
publish images and names through the district’s website or media sources.
Permission forms for all students who attended Clarion-Limestone Elementary
School during the prior school year are on file. New students must complete the permission
form. An overview of the policy is below. The written board policy #815 and #911 are available through the school
office. If you wish to change this status at any time,
please submit a written statement to the school.
The computer and electronic network is a
limited educational forum and is provided for students and staff to conduct
research and communicate with others on school-related projects. Independent access to network services is
provided to persons who agree to act in a responsible and considerate manner.
Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility. Individuals
are responsible for their behavior and communication over the network. The
following guidelines will govern the use of the Internet, computer equipment,
and computer software:
1.
Statements made on the network are not interpreted to be
private. In order to maintain system integrity and prevent inappropriate use,
the district reserves the right to monitor usage of the Internet and related
computer technology including, but not limited to, electronic mail.
2.
All use of the Internet, computer equipment and computer
software must be in support of the educational program. It is not to be used
for personal use including, but not limited to:
·
profit purposes
·
non-school related activities
·
harassing others
·
sending, receiving, or displaying offensive messages or
pictures including sexually-oriented pornographic materials
·
using obscene language, hate mail or discriminatory remarks
·
unauthorized use of chat lines
·
lobbying
·
advertising
3.
Use of the Internet, computer equipment or software for
fraudulent or illegal copying, communication, taking material or modifying
material in violation of the law is prohibited and will be referred to the
appropriate authorities.
4.
Loading and/or using unauthorized games, programs, files or
other electronic media is prohibited.
5.
The illegal use of copyrighted software is prohibited.
6.
The network shall not be used to disrupt the work of others:
hardware or software shall not be destroyed, modified, or abused in any way.
7.
The individual user shall be responsible for any damages to
the equipment system and software resulting from deliberate, vandalistic or
willful acts.
8.
Only software purchased by Clarion-Limestone may be
installed unless verified for legitimate ownership and scanned for viruses by
Clarion-Limestone computer personnel.
9.
Established computer lab procedures should be adhered to and
enforced at all times.
Failure to follow the policies listed can
result in disciplinary actions including, but not limited to, cancellation of
all computer privileges, suspension, and legal prosecution.
Specific guidelines for Internet and
computer technology usage can be found in the Library and computer labs. These
guidelines will cover student personal safety, illegal activities, systems
security, inappropriate language, respect for privacy, computer resources
limits, plagiarism and copyright infringement, inappropriate access to material
and district limitation of liability.
GUIDELINES FOR INTERNET AND COMPUTER
TECHNOLOGY USAGE
The following activities on the district
network system are considered unacceptable:
I.
Student Personal Safety:
·
Students will not post personal contact information about
themselves or other people. Personal contact includes address, telephone, etc.
·
Students will not agree to meet with someone they contact
on-line without parent’s approval and participation.
·
Students will promptly describe to their teacher or other
school employee any message they receive that is inappropriate or makes them
feel uncomfortable.
II. Illegal Activities:
·
Users will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to the
school’s system or to any other computer system through the school’s system, or
go beyond their authorized process. This includes attempting to log on through
another person’s account or access another person’s file.
·
Users will not make deliberate attempts to disrupt the
computer system performance or destroy data by spreading computer viruses or by
any other means.
·
Users will not use the school system to engage in other
illegal acts such as arranging for the purchase or selling of drugs or alcohol,
engaging in criminal activity, or threatening the safety of person, etc.
III. Systems Security:
·
All users are
responsible for the use of their individual account and should take all
reasonable precaution to prevent others from using their account.
·
All users will notify the computer administrator immediately
if they have identified a possible security problem. Students will not go
looking for security problems because this may be construed as an illegal
attempt to gain access.
·
All users will avoid the inadvertent spread of computer
viruses by following the school’s virus protection procedures if they download
software.
IV. Inappropriate
Language:
·
All users will refrain from using obscene, profane, lewd,
rude, vulgar, inflammatory, threatening, or disrespectful language.
·
All users will avoid posting information that, if acted
upon, could cause damage or danger of disruption.
·
All users will abstain from engaging in personal attacks,
including prejudicial or discriminatory remarks.
·
All users will avoid harassing another person.
·
All users will not knowingly or recklessly post false or
defamatory information about a person or organization.
V.
Respect for Privacy:
·
All users will not re-post a message that was sent to them
privately without permission of the person who sent the message.
·
All users will not post private information about another
person.
VI. Computer Resource Limits:
·
Students will limit system use for educational, career
development activities and limited, teacher-approved high quality
self-discovery activities.
·
All users will avoid downloading large files unless
absolutely necessary and will only do so if necessary during a time the system
is not being heavily used.
·
All users will refrain from posting chain letters or sending
annoying or unnecessary messages to large numbers of people.
VII.
Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement:
·
All users will refrain from plagiarizing work found on the
Internet.
·
All users will respect the rights of copyright owners.
VIII. Inappropriate Access to Material:
·
All users will refrain from using the school system to
access material that is obscene (pornography) or profane, advocated illegal
acts, violence, or uses discrimination toward other people.
·
If a user inadvertently accesses such information, they
should immediately disclose the inadvertent access in a manner specified by the
school. This will protect users against allegations that they have
intentionally violated the acceptable use policy.
IX.
District Limitation of Liability:
The