Student Handbook

Absence	Compact	Internet	Registration	Tardiness & Dismissal
Address	Conferences	Lost & Found	Report Cards	Telephone Numbers
Admissions	Discipline	Lost Books	Retention	Terms
After School	Dismissal	Lunch	Safety	Testing
Arrival	Dress	Notices	Schedule	Title IX
Assemblies	Field Trips	Personal Property	School Cancellation	Title One
Awards	Fire Drills	Pets	School Hours	Transfer
Bicycle	Gifts	Philosophy	School Pictures	Transportation
Bus	Health	Placement	School Visitation	Volunteer Program
CASA	Homework	Principal’s Message	Sexual Harassment

ADMINISTRATION

Superintendent of Schools: Dr. Gordon Noseworthy
Assistant Superintendent: Ms. Elizabeth Sorrell
Principal: Mr. Philip Holt

TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Administration Building 781-585-4313
Dennett Elementary 781-585-3659
Silver Lake Regional Middle School 781-293-9511
Silver Lake Regional High School 781-585-3844

SCHOOL COMMITTEE

Ms. Susan Ossoff - Chairman
Mrs. Lisa Hart - Vice Chairman
Mrs. Patricia Killeen - Secretary
Mrs. Maureen Springer
Mr. Scott Merrill

The School Committee is the governing body of the school. It is made up of five (5) members who are each elected to three (3) year terms. The main responsibilities of the School Committee are setting policy, overseeing budget and curriculum, and contract negotiations.

School Committee Meetings are held at the school on the third Monday of each month at 4:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

PHILOSOPHY

The primary goal for all educators in the Dennett Elementary School is to assist each student in the attainment of their full social, cognitive, physical, and cultural potential. We believe that a three way partnership among school, parents, and community is essential in order for a student to develop self-confidence and self-respect, as well as respect for others. We recognize that every student is an individual, with his or her own range of potential. The school strives to develop that potential, to promote emotional growth, to instill an understanding of values and to reinforce an individuals responsibility in meeting these challenges.

We seek to provide a challenging curriculum with the flexibility to meet the needs of each students. We place a strong emphasis on reading and the mastery of basic skills without restricting scientific exploration, artistic expression, creativity or physical activity. Teachers and administrators must support each other as role models who use innovative approaches to learning and who are instructional risk takers. The instructional methods and materials used to provide these opportunities will vary considerably based on the needs of the children. We believe that in order to prepare our children to function effectively in a technological environment, equal opportunity for access to technology will continue to be available at the Dennett School.

We are dedicated to the belief that each child is a unique person, and we emphasize the acceptance of individual differences. We strive to promote emotional growth and to instill an understanding of values that can help each child embrace learning throughout his or her life. We support each student in reaching his/her potential. We emphasize cooperation and concern for others; we encourage a sense of commitment toward the larger community.

In this small community, the school plays an important role in the development of the town's children. Research indicates that academic success is enhanced when the learning environment is a positive one. Children are entitled to support, protection, and challenge in an environment where individual differences and capabilities are celebrated. Through the cooperation and collaboration of the home, school, and the community, we believe that our vision of a comprehensive nurturing environment will be realized.

Goals:

1. To develop a three way partnership among school, parents and the community
2. To meet individual needs
3. To teach the child
4. To provide equal opportunity for access to technology
5. To promote and develop emotional growth
6. To provide a supportive, protected and challenging environment

PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

Dear Parents,

As stated in our Philosophy, we recognize that every student is an individual, with his or her own range of potential. Because we emphasize cooperation, respect and concern for each other, it is imperative that teachers, parents and the Principal communicate openly, and whenever necessary, with each other about academic, social, and/or other concerns.

Our goal is to create and promote a positive communication between the home and the school. The School Compact, newsletters, conferences and direct contact with parents are part of these efforts. Please feel welcome to contact the school about any concerns you may have about your children.

The Dennett Elementary School has a strong tradition of academic excellence. We encourage children to actively learn not only the basics, but how to solve problems, make independent decisions, learn collaboratively, help their community and be creative. Together we will continue this proud tradition which is built upon respect, cooperation and kindness. Thank you for your support.

1. Send my child on time each day and encourage positive academic and social behavior.

2. Encourage my child to discuss the day and talk with teachers or others involved with my child.

4. Maintain an awareness of my child's progress by reading with them and monitoring homework assignments.

1. Come to school on time, with a positive attitude and open mind to new ideas and concepts.

2. Communicate regularly with the students, staff members, and parents to provide feedback in academic and social areas.

3. Encourage children to work hard and develop their talents, by setting high expectations for each child, offering support, patience, and listening where it is needed.

4. Give homework assignments that are clear and precise, of reasonable length, and supportive of work done in class.

SCHOOL HOURS

Kindergarten

Morning Session 8:20-11:00 a.m.
Afternoon Session 12:20-2:40 p.m.

Note: There is no afternoon session of kindergarten on early release days; the morning session is still dismissed at 11:00 a.m.

Grades 1- 6 8:20 a.m. - 2:40 p.m.

Students being dropped off or riding bicycles may arrive no earlier than 8:05 a.m.

Students may enter the building at 8:15 a.m.

School begins at 8:20 a.m.

School day ends, except on early release days, at 2:40 p.m.

School day ends on early release/inservice days at 12:35 p.m.

Dismissal the day before Thanksgiving and the last day of school is at 12:00 noon.

DAILY OPERATING SCHEDULE

8:00 Teachers arrive
8:10 Teachers in classrooms
8:15 Students enter building
8:20 School Begins
8:30 Morning announcements
8:35 Instructional time begins
11:00-11:25 Lunch – gr. 4 & 6
11:30-11:55 Recess – gr. 4 & 6
11:30-11:55 Lunch – gr. 3 & 5
12:00-12:25 Recess – gr. 3 & 5
12:00-12:25 Lunch – gr. 1 & 2
12:30-12:55 Recess – gr. 1 & 2
2:35 Dismissal

ADMISSIONS

New kindergarten students must be 5 years old before September 1 of the school year in which they are enrolling. New first grade students must be 6 years old before September 1. A physical examination is required when a student enters school for the first time. Ages must be verified by an original birth certificate. Immunization records must be complete. See "Registration".

AFTER SCHOOL

A student who is absent from school shall not participate in any activities at the school that day and/or evening.

Activities: If not school-related, please contact your child's coach or leader if you have any questions.

School visits: If you need to pick up homework and/or books, etc. after school, please remember to check in at the office. A parent should accompany the student to his/her classroom. The school is open until 4:00 p.m.

Invitations: Invitations to non-school sponsored events (birthday parties, etc.) may not be distributed at the school.

ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL

Students should not arrive at school before 8:05 a.m. At 8:15, with the arrival of the first bus, children report promptly and directly to assigned classrooms.

ASSEMBLIES

Assemblies are planned periodically as special events on the school calendar. Some typical assembly themes include nutrition, conflict management strategies, cultural presentations, and presentations of an academic nature. Parents are always invited and encouraged to attend.

AWARDS

Students receive special recognition at the school through a variety of awards, given at awards assemblies throughout the year. These awards are intended to promote and recognize academic achievement, good citizenship and achievement in art, music, and physical education. Teachers and parents are expected to promote these awards as an encouragement and an incentive towards special effort and achievement by the students. Students are encouraged to wear ribbons, etc., with pride for their outstanding achievement.

Students who ride their bicycles to school must wear a safety helmet, and put their bikes in the bike stand as soon as they arrive at school. A permission slip must be submitted and signed by the parent. These are available at the school. At the discretion of the Principal, bicycle privileges may be revoked for any safety violations while riding to or from school.

COMMUNITY AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION (CASA)

CASA is the recognized Parent/Teacher organization for the Dennett School. The Community and School Association was formed by a group of interested parents and serves as a liaison between the school and community. CASA fosters communication between the school and the community, encourages excellence in education, and provides financial support to special school projects. For further information about CASA, please contact the school at 781-585-3659.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS, JOB, TELEPHONE NUMBER

If a family moves within the town, or if there is a change of telephone number or work number, please notify the school office immediately. It is imperative that we have this accurate information in case of an emergency.

DISCIPLINE

Each student is responsible for his/her own behavior. A safe, constructive, and positive learning environment is the right of all members of the Dennett School Community. Teachers have the authority and responsibility to maintain discipline in the classroom. School discipline policies will be established and consistently enforced. When a student is having a problem, the teacher may do one or more of the following: conference with the student, conference with the parent, use classroom disciplinary procedures, or refer the situation directly to the building Principal.

School Behavior

Poor behavior, which will result in action being taken, includes: fighting, profanity, unsafe or rough play, damaging property, rudeness or talking back, and disobeying teachers and other adults at school.

If children present problems, teachers usually take steps within the classroom -- removal of recess privileges or detention, for example. If these are ineffective, parents will be notified by the teacher(s) or the Principal.

Children who have received an after- school detention will remain in a supervised area until 3:30 p.m. Parents will be notified by the Principal and will be responsible for providing transportation home for their child.

Most poor behavior is handled without teachers having to report the case to the Principal. This process allows a child to make some errors which could be caused by emotions or confusion. Penalties are not severe until children have repeated poor behavior a number of times.

In the case of extremely poor or dangerous behavior, school authorities may suspend the student from school immediately with parents being notified.

Students will receive zeros for class work and homework during a suspension. Cases of very poor behavior may cause a child to be denied privileges of some future special event on which student supervision can be more difficult. Some of these events may include field trips, camping and field days.

All rules apply to activities held at the Dennett Elementary School during and after school hours. Rules are subject to change throughout the school year as necessary. Students will always be made aware of any changes

Discrimination

We have stated in our Dennett Elementary School Philosophy that, as a school, we strive to instill an understanding of values. We value diversity and respect for human differences. Our students are expected to be respectful of all people regardless of race, gender or religion. Inappropriate remarks, discriminatory language, harassing comments and inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated and will be dealt with sternly.

Guns, Weapons, etc.

No gun, type of weapon or parts of any type of weapon of any kind is allowed at school or on a school bus. Teachers or bus drivers shall take any found in a child's possession. Such items will never be returned to the child. Possible suspension from school may result from violation of this rule. Police may also be notified. A dangerous weapon includes, but is not limited to, a gun or a knife. The term dangerous weapon depends on the circumstances: if used in an assault on another person, a baseball bat, a pair of scissors, a pencil or a shod foot, could be considered a dangerous weapon. The Principal will review the circumstances of each case and make the determination. In cases involving dangerous weapons, a weapons report must be filed with the local Chief of Police, D.S.S. and the Director of Special Education. In addition, arrangements will be made for a psychological assessment, counseling services and a follow-up psychological assessment.

Expulsions

New provisions of Sec. 37H of Ch. 71 of the Gen. Laws give Principals authority to expel any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored events in possession of a dangerous weapon or a controlled substance or any student who assaults school personnel on school premises or school-sponsored events. Expulsion is discretionary within the province of the Principal. The Principal may use suspension rather than expulsion.

DISMISSAL

If there is any change in the normal dismissal of a student, it must be verified by a note to that effect. In order to minimize the interruption to the classroom, all children must be picked up at the main office if picked up before 2:30, or will be dismissed to a waiting car if written arrangements have been made. Without a note from home, a student will be put on his/her regular bus.

DISTRIBUTION OF NOTICES

At times, school volunteer groups may wish to distribute notices to school children. The following procedure has been established:
1. Submit original to Principal at least two days prior to desired distribution date.
2. After Principal approves, you will be notified to pick up and make copies of the notice.
3. Submit stacks of twenty (20) to office personnel the day before delivery day, or before 10:00 a.m. on delivery day.

DRESS

There is no formal dress code at the school. However, students are expected to dress appropriately and tastefully. Hats will not be worn during school hours. Students should always be dressed warmly enough for the cold weather and wear appropriate footwear during wet weather. On physical education days, children should bring or wear white-soled sneakers. Shoes or sneakers with black soles cause excessive scuffing and sneakers with all black soles are not allowed in the gym.

FIELD TRIPS

The Dennett School will continue to strive to provide worthwhile off campus learning experiences relevant to the curriculum for all students. Expenses to students will be kept at a minimum.

FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills are held periodically during the year under the supervision of the Plympton Fire Department.

GIFTS

School policy does not allow for any request of students or parents to contribute money towards items/gifts for the staff or their classrooms. NO collection of money in the classroom for gifts will be allowed.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral part of the learning process and should be regarded as an extension of the school day. Part of the homework process is the teaching of self-discipline, time management and responsibility. Development of good work habits in and out of school is an essential part of a child's educational growth.

Daily reading is the most important of all. Take time every day with your child to have him/her read or be read to!

Grade K - children may be expected to bring in items to use in the class (e.g., books, records, toys). The teachers may also request that parents reinforce some concepts taught in class.

Home study depends on many variables such as the nature of the assignment, the type of child, and the work needed to be done. It is also understood that students may be given long-term assignments and should divide the time spent on that assignment into equal amounts each day. If students wait until the last minute, they may have to spend more than the time allotted per night.

Usually, regular homework is not assigned on Fridays. However, some long-term projects may extend over weekends and holidays.

No formal homework will be given in kindergarten and grade 1. However, the children may be expected to bring in items to use in the class (e.g., books, records, toys). The teachers may also request that parents reinforce some concepts taught in class. Daily reading is the most important of all. Take time every day with your child to have her/him read or be read to! This applies to all grade levels.

3. Check each assignment to see that it is complete and done to the best of your child's ability.

5. Should you perceive that your child is having a stressful situation, offer positive encouragement and contact your child's teacher for assistance.

6. Recognize that each child is an individual and may develop her/his own effective approach to homework.

Hot lunch, milk included, is available daily for $1.00. Milk may be purchased separately at a cost of $.30 for students bringing their lunch from home. Children may also purchase dessert for $.25-$.40. Children who forget their lunch or lunch money will be provided with a hot lunch. Payment for this is expected the following day. If payment not received, reminders are sent home periodically. Repeated daily lunch charges will not be tolerated. Charges must be paid before dessert is purchased. Cola of any kind is not permitted in school. Other soft drinks are not encouraged.

Lunches are provided free or at a reduced rate for children in needy families. Application forms are provided to all children early in the school year. If income conditions change during the year, a family may apply or reapply at any time by requesting a form from the office.

Kindergartners will not be eating lunch at school, but will have an opportunity to purchase milk at snack time.

LOST AND FOUND

A lost and found cart is located in the gym. The lost and found articles are also displayed at parent/teacher conferences.

LOST BOOK POLICY

Any student enrolled in the Dennett Elementary School who damages, mutilates, or loses school textbooks, materials, and/or equipment will be responsible for replacement of such items and charged the replacement value.

PETS

Pets are allowed in the school only with the permission of your child's teacher and are not to be taken to or from school on the school bus. Any animals brought to the school should have educational value and must be on a leash or in a secure container or cage and must be removed from school on weekends and vacations.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Parents are requested to keep the number of items brought in to a minimum in order to reduce the potential for distractions to the learning process. Electronic equipment, i.e., CD players, radios, electronic games, should be left at home. All personal property will be the responsibility of the student.

REGISTRATION

When registering a child who has previously attended school, the only items necessary are a transfer card from the previous school and an immunization record. Parents will be requested to complete a registration form, emergency card, and record release form at the time of registration.

REGISTRATION - KINDERGARTEN

The kindergarten registration date is set each spring for students residing in Plympton. The appropriate forms are mailed to parents prior to this date so that all forms may be completed by registration day. Other requirements before a child may enter school are a birth certificate, physical examination, and immunization certificate for 5 doses of DPT, 4 doses of Polio, 2 doses of MMR, 3 doses of Hepatitis B, 1 dose of Varicella if no history of chicken pox, as required by law. Children must be five years of age before September 1 of the year entering kindergarten.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued three times a year in December, March and at the end of the school year. Parents are encouraged to attend the parent/teacher conferences which are held in conjunction with the issuance of report cards in Dec. and March. Parents will be notified of the dates and asked to request a conference time. It is an important opportunity for you to get to know your child's teachers, learn more about the school and curriculum, and to discuss how your child is doing. Conferences are not restricted to these formally scheduled times. Final report cards will be held until damaged book charges, lost books, and/or lunch charges are paid.

PLACEMENT

In the spring, a series of intensive meetings is held with the principal and teachers at each grade level to place each student with the next year's teacher. Others involved in the process include subject area specialists and special needs personnel. The objective of the placement process is to match each child's learning style with an appropriate

teacher and group of students. Great care is taken to ensure the heterogeneous character of each classroom.

RETENTION

Students are retained only if it is the considered opinion of the teacher, parents, and administration that an additional year at the present grade level would be beneficial to the student.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION

If school is canceled due to the weather, it will be announced on radio stations WATD (95.9), WBET (1460), WPLM (1390) and on television stations WCVB (channel 5), WHDH (channel 7), and WBZ (channel 4). Announcements will be made from approximately 6:00 a.m.

Emergency School Closing - If it becomes necessary to close school during the day (a very, very rare occasion), please be sure your child knows beforehand where (s)he is to go and that there will be someone there to care for her/him. Even though we have an emergency phone chain, it may be impossible to contact all working and at home parents, so please make arrangements beforehand.

SCHOOL PICTURES

School pictures are taken of individuals during the fall, and of classes during the spring. Notices are sent home before the picture date. Pictures may be purchased only if ordered and paid for in advance.

SCHOOL VISITATION

To ensure the safety of students and staff in the school, it is imperative that ALL visitors and volunteers sign in and out at the main office stating their purpose and destination in the school.

It is required to let a teacher know you are coming so that you may be assured that the teacher and class to be visited are present and that the chosen time is mutually convenient.

STANDARDIZED AND STATE TESTING

Grades 1, 2, and 3 will complete the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) each spring. Grades 3, 4, 5 and 6 will complete the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) in the spring. Kindergartners will take the California Achievement Test (CAT) in the spring.

TRANSFER

When moving from the town of Plympton, please call the school office and secure a transfer card, a health record, and sign a record release form. Your child's new school will request this information when you register there.

TRANSPORTATION

Bus transportation is provided by First Student Transportation Company of Hanson.

BUS SAFETY

*Everyone is to remain seated while the bus
is in motion.
*Aisles are to be kept clear of feet and materials at all times.
*Bus windows are to be adjusted by the drivers only.
*Nothing is to be thrown or extended out the bus windows.
*Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
*The bus driver is the authority on the bus and must be regarded with courtesy and respect.
*No weapons, tobacco, alcohol or other drugs on the bus at any time.
*No medication, prescription or over-the-counter, should be on the bus.

*Bus drivers will not pick up or discharge students except at their designated stops without written permission from their parent/legal guardian and signed at the school office. Therefore, if it becomes necessary for a student to get off his own bus at a different stop, he should bring a note from home to the school. After approval at school, the note will be returned to the student to give to the bus driver.

*Students are to ride their assigned bus only, except for child care with approved note.
*No one other than Dennett School students and the bus driver should ride the bus during transport to and from the school.
*No food allowed on the bus.
*Soccer balls, baseballs, etc. should be kept inside schoolbags while on the bus.
*Loose keys, chains, trinkets hanging on the outside of schoolbags are a potential danger and are not allowed.
*Please keep very small toys at home.
*No glass containers on the bus.
*No live animals on the bus.

Thank you for your cooperation in these issues. As always, the safety of your children is of the utmost concern to all school personnel. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Principal at the school.

BUS DISCIPLINE

First Report - Warning notice signed by parent.
Second Report - Bus privileges suspended for one day.
Third Report - Bus privileges suspended for three days.
Fourth Report - Bus privileges suspended for five school days.
Fifth Report - Bus privileges suspended for twenty school days.
Sixth Report - Bus privileges suspended for the remainder of the school year.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

The Dennett School encourages parents to volunteer their services to the school. The Volunteer Handbook must be read and signed. A Volunteer Orientation will be held at the beginning of the school year.

TITLE IX

Title IX rules and regulations require educational institutions receiving federal financial assistance to adopt a notification policy concerning Title IX. The notification policy adopted by the Plympton School Committee states:
The Plympton School Department does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the educational programs or activities which it operates, and is required by Title IX not to discriminate in such a manner. The school department policy not to discriminate on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities extends to employment in the admission to such programs and activities. The Plympton School Department also is subject to the rules and regulations of Chapter 622. Chapter 622 specifies that: No person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town, or in obtaining the advantages, privileges and courses of study in such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, or national origin.

STUDENT ABSENCE POLICY

Full day attendance at school is essential to the learning process. When a student is unable to attend school, a parent should call in between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. with the following information: student's name, teacher, and reason for the absence.

A student who does not attend school shall not participate in any school-related activities that day and/or evening.

Every child returning to school after any absence should present a note from the parent indicating the reason for the absence. After an illness of five consecutive days, a doctor's certificate is needed.

On the second day of consecutive absence the school nurse or a designee of the Principal calls the home.

On the fifth day of consecutive absence or tardiness, the school nurse or a designee of the Principal calls the home.

Following the tenth day of non-consecutive absence, the Principal sends a letter to the parents indicating the importance of school attendance and need for the parents to assure improved attendance and fulfillment of instructional requirements.

Following fifteen non-consecutive absences, the Principal will discuss the matter with the parents on the telephone. In more serious cases, the Principal will request that the parents come to the school for a conference with the Principal and additional professional staff who may be helpful in the resolution of health, emotional, or family problems that contribute to the student's absence.

Following twenty days of questionable absence, the Principal may request the services of the truant officer.

Following thirty days of absence, the Principal will initiate assessment procedures to determine the advisability of retaining the student. The student must demonstrate a passing average on teacher devised assignments and tests used by the classroom teacher in evaluating student mastery of instructional material that the absentee student would have been expected to learn for that grade.

This procedure outlined above will be implemented and varied according to the professional judgment of the Principal and the law regulating school attendance.

Some excess absenteeism occurs because families take vacations during school time. This is strongly discouraged by school authorities. Teachers are not expected to provide assignments prior to vacation taken during school time. After students return they should be aware of missed assignments, making them up as soon as possible.

TARDIES AND DISMISSALS

A student who arrives at school after 11:20 a.m. will be considered absent for the full day. A student who is dismissed before 11:20 a.m. will be considered absent for the full day. Tardiness and dismissals are strongly discouraged. Five or more tardies will result in a telephone call from the Principal (or designee) to the student's home.

HEALTH OFFICE POLICIES

Immunizations - Children enrolled in the public school system must be fully immunized according to current laws. Unless there are medical or religious contradictions, sixth grade immunizations must be completed

during the school year. The first two Hepatitis B doses are one month apart and the third six months later. MMR#2 and varivax (if no history of chicken pox) are necessary for entrance into seventh grade. Certification of these immunizations must be in nurse's office by June 1. TD immunization is necessary if more than five years since last dose.

Physical Exams - Massachusetts state law requires every child to have a complete physical exam prior to entering kindergarten and every 3-4 years thereafter.

Communicable or Contagious Diseases - Children who have indications of a communicable or contagious disease should be kept at home until fully recovered. A doctor's certificate is needed in order to return to school. To help prevent the spread of diseases, children should not come to school if they display one or more of the following symptoms: nausea or vomiting, sore throat, ear ache, severe cold, enlarged glands, red or discharging eyes, skin eruptions, pain, headache, fever or chills.

A student returning to school after an absence should present a note from the parent indicating the reason for the absence. After an illness of five consecutive days, a doctor's certificate is needed.

Allergies - If your child has an allergy, please notify the school nurse so that it may be noted on his or her health record and the teaching staff may be notified.

Responsibility of Parents - It is essential that parents provide for their children's care when it is necessary for them to be sent home during the day. An emergency card is provided for this purpose. The school should have on file the telephone number of both parents' workplaces and the telephone number of two people to be responsible for their child's care when neither parent can be reached. The parent must notify the school when the phone numbers change or of any other pertinent information. Be sure to fill in your doctor's name and phone number, and hospital-of-choice on the back of the emergency card.

Medications - All medications must be delivered to the school in a pharmacy or manufacturer's labeled container by the parent or another responsible adult. No medication is to be carried by your child. A note written by the parents must accompany all medication. Please ask your pharmacy to provide separate bottles for school and home with the label stating the doctor's order. This is a state law--there are no exceptions.

Psychotropic Medication, i.e., Ritalin - In order for this medication to be given at the school, state-provided forms are sent to you by the school nurse and must be completed by yourself and your child's doctor, then returned to the school.

Other Medications - If your child takes any medication at home on a regular basis, please notify the school nurse. Also, notification of any existing physical conditions, whether or not they require special treatment, should be brought to the nurse's attention.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Our school goal is to create a positive learning environment for every student and faculty member. For this reason, sexual harassment will not be condoned or permitted under any circumstances. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual behavior which creates a hostile or offensive environment. It may include name calling, verbal or written comments of a sexual nature, unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature, or other unwelcome behavior which is sexual in nature. Anyone who feels that s/he has been the victim of sexual harassment should report this immediately to the principal, school psychologist, adjustment counselor, nurse or classroom teacher for investigation. Corrective action will be promptly taken where it is necessary.

GLOSSARY OF EDUCATIONAL TERMS

Heterogeneous Grouping - Children of mixed abilities grouped together in a classroom.

Homogeneous Grouping - Children of similar abilities grouped together in a classroom.

Inclusion - Educating special needs children with their same age peers within the regular education programs and classrooms in their neighborhood schools.

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) - An educational plan for special needs students developed at a meeting which is attended by the child's team. Team members may include one or both parents and a representative of the school system of the child's teacher who is qualified to provide or supervise the Individualized Educational Plan.

Learning Specialist - A teacher who provides services to children who have been diagnosed as having specific learning disabilities. A partial team evaluation is required for placement with the learning specialist.

Reading Specialist - A teacher who is certified in reading. This individual expedites the best use of all reading materials and serves as a resource person for teachers in improving reading instruction in the regular classroom.

School Committee - The governing body of the school. It is made up of five (5) members who are each elected to three (3) year terms. The main responsibilities of the School Committee are setting policy, overseeing budget and curriculum, and contract negotiations. The School Committee meets the third Monday of every month at 4:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

School Council - The Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993 called for an establishment of school councils. The school council is a representative school building-based committee composed of the principal, parents, teachers and community members. The council functions in an advisory capacity to the school principal. The council has a role in shaping the policies and programs of the school. The primary responsibility of the council is to assist the principal in the development of the School Improvement Plan.

School Improvement Plan - A yearly plan developed by the school principal in consultation with the School Council, to advance goals, address said needs, and improve student performance consistent with the goals and standards set by the Mass. Board of Education and any policies set by the School Committee of Dennett Elementary School.

School Psychologist - A trained psychologist who carries out team evaluation processes, counsels children and serves as a resource for

Speech Therapist - A trained professional who provides services to children needing corrective instruction in speech and language development skills. An educational plan through a partial core evaluation is required.

*Team Evaluation - An evaluation process to determine if special needs services are to be provided at school for a student. Participants may include: classroom teacher, moderate special needs teacher, reading specialist, school psychologist, school nurse, adjustment counselor and an administrator.

TITLE ONE

Title One is a federally funded program which is designed to provide assistance in reading/language arts to needful students in Grades 1-3. Students are selected for Title One service based on their Stanford IX Standardized test scores, teacher recommendation and parental input. Special assistance in reading and writing is provided daily to students in their regular classroom setting by Title One tutors who work directly with each youngster individually or in small groups. In addition, Title One offers a summer program which is designed to help youngsters sustain their reading and writing skills over the vacation period so that they can return to school with confidence as readers and writers. Title One students are invited to participate in the spring, and the program operates for the month of July on a half day schedule. If you believe your child needs additional assistance in reading or writing, you should contact the principal or your child's teacher to request an evaluation for possible placement in the Title One program. In addition, if you have questions about the Title One program or concerns regarding your child's services through Title One, you should contact the building administration or the Title One parent representative who serves on the School Improvement Council to represent Title One parents and students.

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

Introduction - The Plympton Dennett Elementary School has established an Internet connection for use by students, teachers and administrators. The purpose of this Internet access is to promote and enhance our educational program in the following ways:
*Students and faculty can use the Internet for research.
*Individuals and classes can communicate locally and around the world using electronic mail.
*The school can establish a presence on the World Wide Web.
*Students will be prepared to more effectively use the Internet throughout their educational careers and in later life.
The Internet is an important resource for education and communication. It enables the user to connect with computers all over the world and millions of individual subscribers. As a result of our Internet connection, students and faculty will have access to the following:
*world-wide electronic mail connections
*public domain software and shareware
*information and news from agencies such as NASA
*local and university libraries; the Library of Congress; state, local and national governmental agencies; ERIC; cultural resources and museums; data bases and web sites focused on specific topics; and local and national organizations.
*discussion groups on countless subjects such as the environment, music, health, or politics.

For the above reasons we believe that the Internet is a valuable tool that will enrich a student's instructional program. However, while it is our intention to use the Internet to further the educational goals of the school, students may find ways to access other materials as well. Since the variety of materials and points of access to the Internet are so numerous, families should be aware that some of the material may be inappropriate for use in the school, illegal, inaccurate, controversial or potentially offensive to some people. Because we believe the benefits and opportunities outweigh the concerns, we plan to monitor student use closely and may utilize a filter program where appropriate and possible to screen potentially objectionable material. At the same time, we will be educating students about the responsible use of Internet resources.

School Internet Use Rules - Access to the Internet is a privilege and users are responsible for their behavior and communications on the World Wide Web just as they are in any school setting or situation. The network is provided for users to conduct research and communicate with others in a manner which is consistent with the educational goals of this school. It is understood that teachers may provide an entire class or groups of students with live or simulated access to the World Wide Web as part of their instructional program, and this will not require individually signed agreements. However, individual access to the Internet will only be given to those who have signed the user agreement. As a result, all students must have signed parental permission to work individually on the Internet. Those students will be guided toward appropriate use and supervised by faculty during school hours on school related assignments. Outside of school, families bear this same responsibility for guidance just as they would for television, movie, print media, etc. Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. However, the following are not permitted:
*providing personal or family information without prior approval such as home addresses, telephone numbers, family names, pictures, etc.
*sending or displaying offensive or threatening messages or pictures
*using obscene language
*harassing, insulting or attacking others
*damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks
*violating copyright laws or plagiarism
*using another person's password
*trespassing in another's folders, work or files
*intentionally wasting limited resources
*employing the network for non-curriculum related private or commercial purposes
*utilization of the Internet for purposes without direct correlation to the educational purposes of the school

VIOLATIONS MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF ACCESS AS WELL AS OTHER DISCIPLINARY OR LEGAL ACTION.

SCHOOL SAFETY

Dennett Elementary School is committed to creating a school environment which is safe and responsive to all children. Toward that end our goal is to promote school safety and socially appropriate behavior to ensure student learning. We believe that school safety and order are directly related to children's social and emotional well-being and their academic learning. We recognize that safe school environment is achieved through a multi-faceted approach which includes three elements: education, prevention and intervention. Furthermore, we believe that through meaningful parental involvement a mutually cooperative effort between the home, the community and the school we can better achieve the goal of school safety. We recognize that school communities can do a great deal to foster safety. Our efforts include the following:
Promotion of good citizenship and character.
Discussion of safety issues openly.
Welcoming meaningful family involvement.
Promoting academic success for all children.
Development of links to the community.
Emphasizing positive relationships between students and staff.
Identification and referral of problems for solutions.
Helping children to identify and express feelings safely.
Treating students with respect.
Behavior which undermines student safety and well-being in school is outlined on pages 3 and 7 of this handbook. The school discipline policy identifies expectations for behavior and consequences for violation of the school disciplinary code. Those negative behaviors which impact school safety include for example: fighting; verbal, physical or emotional harassment; vandalism; disrespectful and disruptive conduct; possession of weapons; bullying; possession of controlled substances, and other negative behaviors which undermine an orderly and safe school environment. To assist us in ensuring that our school is a safe place for learning, all suspected violations of the school discipline code should be brought to the attention of a school adult or parent. In addition, all suspected incidents of child abuse should be reported to a school adult. An investigation of these reports will be conducted and further action will be taken as needed.

Contact and Resource People

Principal
School Psychologist
Classroom Teachers
Parent

To further ensure school safety for students and school employees, we require that all parents, volunteers and non-school personnel sign in at the main office immediately upon arrival at the school. An identification badge will be issued where appropriate to individuals who need to visit classrooms or other areas of the school. Teachers and students are asked to report any visitor to the school who is without proper identification to any of the contact people listed above. Finally, we wish to emphasize that the well-being of our students and staff is the most important priority in our school. For this reason, we will treat all violations of our safety procedures most seriously. Together with the mutual cooperation of our staff, our students, and our community members, we are confident that our school will remain a healthy and safe learning environment for everyone. Your assistance in this important matter is appreciated.

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