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ELEMENTARY STUDENT/PARENT

HANDBOOK

Revised July 2001  

ASSEMBLY PROGRAMS

Entertaining and educational programs are scheduled throughout the year to enrich the school curriculum.  These programs are made possible through the generous support of your PTA and community organizations.

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ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

Regular attendance in school is extremely important and should be reinforced early.  Children achieve better and feel better about themselves when instruction is continuous and when a sense of belonging is established within the classroom.  Those who learn the importance of regular attendance as young children tend to stay more actively involved and do better throughout their school years.

Parents are urged to restrict travel which would result in missed class time. Every effort should be taken to schedule medical and dental appointments at times other than during school hours.  Lack of continuity disrupts instruction for the individual and the class.

Excuse of Absence:  Students should bring a written excuse the day they return to school stating the specific reason for the absence.  The school laws of Pennsylvania permit an excused absence for the following reasons:

1.    Illness

2.    Death in the immediate family

3.    Quarantine

4.    Impassable roads

5.    Exceptionally urgent reasons 

6.    Approved religious holiday/events

Upon the 10^th day of absence, the building principal will send a letter to the student's parent(s)/guardian(s) indicating that a physician's excuse may be required if the absences continue.  Upon the 20^th day of absence, the building principal will send a letter to the student's parent(s)/guardian(s) stating that all future absences will only be deemed legal when a doctor's excuse is presented upon the student's return.

Failure or refusal to supply a valid excuse within three (3)  days upon return to school will result in an unexcused absence.

Other examples of an unexcused absence include:

1.    Hunting, fishing, skiing

2.    Oversleeping

3.    Missing the school bus

4.    Truancy

5.    Illegal employment

It is the duty of the principal to contact the Home and School Visitor who will file charges before a magistrate against any parent or guardian whose child has more than the equivalent of three illegal days of absence.

Approved trips, absences accompanied by a doctor's excuse, absences resulting from childhood diseases, and suspensions will not count toward the 10 day and 20 day notices.

Tardiness: Any child who arrives after the scheduled beginning time for any session is required to present a note of explanation from a parent/guardian.

Early Dismissal:  If a child is to be dismissed early, a note must be sent with the child on the day he/she is to be excused (or the day prior to the early excusal, if possible).  The note should include the date and time the child is to be excused and the reason for the excusal. Parent(s)/guardian(s) must pick up the student from the main office of the building.

In case of an emergency, parent(s)/guardian(s) should phone the school office and provide the necessary information.  This will allow time to verify the call with the information on the student's registration card.

Educational Vacations:  Pupils may be excused from school attendance to participate in an educational trip provided that:

• A written request is presented to the principal prior to the trip stating the expected dates of absence and the educational nature of the trip.  

• Approval is granted by the principal.  (The principal will evaluate the educational value of the trip, the attendance record of the child(ren) and other information as deemed appropriate.)

NOTES: The student is responsible for securing and completing all assignments assigned during the period of absence.

Students who do not attend school during the day cannot participate in after-school activities.

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BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS

Due to the possibilities of accidents and tampering, bicycles are not to be ridden to/from school.  Skateboards are not permitted to be used on school property at any time.

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BUS SAFETY

Any student of the Norwin School District who is transported by bus is to load and unload at the designated stop, and ride the bus or buses which have been assigned.  The school bus should not be used as student transportation for visits, parties, etc.  Parents must make other arrangements for transportation.  If a child must ride another bus due to an emergency, the parent(s)/guardian(s) must contact the school by telephone or note explaining the nature of the emergency. If approved, the child will be issued a bus pass.

Points to Remember

1. Students should be at the assigned bus stop approximately 10 minutes ahead of the scheduled time, keeping a safe distance from the highway.  There is to be no running, shoving, tripping, fighting, snowballing, etc. while waiting for the bus.

2. Students are not to tamper with or damage bus equipment.

3. Eating or drinking on the bus is not permitted.

4. Throwing or shooting of any object is not permitted on the bus or at the bus stop. (Examples:  pea shooter, rubber band, straw, ball, water gun, etc.)

5. Students must remain seated while the bus is in motion.  Windows should only be opened with the permission of the driver.  If the driver desires to assign seats, students will occupy the seats assigned.

6. Loud or inappropriate language on the bus or at the bus stop is not permitted.

7. The emergency door is to be opened only on the orders of the bus driver or in case of an accident.

8. Upon arriving at school, students must exit the bus in an orderly manner and walk to their rooms.

The driver of a school bus is in charge of maintaining discipline on the bus and has the right to verbally reprimand any student who misbehaves in order to maintain peaceful conduct.

Many Norwin buses are equipped to videotape for safety concerns and/or compliance with school regulations.  Buses are selected for videotaping on a random basis or upon request of the Director of Transportation, principal, or driver.

The driver shall notify the principal, in writing, of any serious or continuous misconduct and the names of the student(s) involved.  The principal will then take appropriate action which may include a verbal warning, suspension, or some other form of punishment, as outlined in the District's Student Discipline Code.

Suspension of bus privileges does not excuse the student from school attendance.  During the period of suspension, it will be the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s) to provide transportation for the child to and from school.  

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CAFETERIA

The Norwin School District offers wholesome well- planned meals for breakfast and lunch at a nominal cost. The same meals are provided free or at a reduced cost for families meeting income guidelines.  Application forms are sent home at the beginning of each school year; however, families may apply at any time or if there is a change in income status.

Title I programs are affected by the number of children approved for free/reduced meals.  If you fall within the income guidelines, you are encouraged to apply even if you choose not to use the benefit.

Questions about cafeteria services should be directed to the Food Service Manager (724-861-3010) or the building principal.

Breakfast:  A hot or cold meal is available in the cafeteria for all children who arrive in time to complete the meal prior to the start of the school day.  Children are not permitted to bring a breakfast from home to eat at school.

Lunch:  Parents are encouraged to allow their child(ren) to purchase the school lunch.  Milk is encouraged for all children and can be purchased on a daily basis by those who bring a lunch from home.  Parents can reduce the cost of school lunches by purchasing a monthly meal ticket.  Details concerning this program are sent home on the reverse side of the September menu.

Expected Behavior:  Breakfast and lunch provide a time for students to relax, enjoy a nourishing meal, and socialize with friends.  In order to maintain an orderly atmosphere, it is expected that students follow these rules.

1. Be polite to the cafeteria staff.

2. Use proper table manners.

3. Talk quietly.

4. Walk at all times.

5. Clean up after eating.

6. Do not loan or borrow money.

7. Do not trade or sell food.

Student misuse of lunch time may result in the following consequences:

1. Verbal reprimand by cafeteria personnel.

2. Change in seating assignment.

3. Referral to principal.

4. Parent contact and/or conference.

5. Loss of cafeteria privileges.

6. Other consequence as determined by the principal.

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE

Any change of information should be reported to the principal's office as soon as possible after the change occurs.  

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CHEATING

The Norwin School District will not condone cheating in any form.  Please refer to the Student Rights, Responsibilities and  Discipline code for more information.

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CLOSING OF SCHOOL

Prior to Beginning of School Day:  When weather conditions make traveling dangerous or when emergencies arise, our schools may be delayed in starting or they may be closed.  Parents are requested not to call school buildings.  Listen to radio station KDKA (1020), WHJB (620), WWSW (970) or WTAE (1250) for the latest information.  A one-hour delay may become a two-hour delay, or the weather may worsen and result in school being canceled.

Parents who transport their children to school on days when there are delays should adhere to postponed starting times.  Depending on the road conditions in the area of residence, parents  may decide not to send their children after a school delay.  The district will respect this decision and record the absence as legal.

Kindergarten on Delayed Openings:   

During the School Day:  Parents should make prior arrangements for a place for their child to stay if an emergency causes an early dismissal of school.  These arrangements should be shared with your child(ren) and recorded on the Emergency Care Card.

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COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

When a parent/guardian has a complaint, it is district procedure that it be resolved at the lowest possible level.  The process typically would follow these steps when there is a classroom concern:

first, classroom teacher

second, building administrator

third, district office administrator

finally, School Board

Following this procedure will insure that the process is not delayed.  All complaints must be filed in writing within ninety (90) calendar days from the alleged incident.

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CURRICULUM

The Norwin Elementary Schools provide an educational program designed to develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Kindergarten prepares children emotionally, socially, and mentally for the years ahead.  This includes attitudes, habits, skills and interests necessary for success in school.  Specific emphasis is placed on readiness skills for reading and mathematics.

The early elementary grades emphasize reading, language and mathematics.  While the majority of the school day focuses on these areas, children also receive instruction in social studies, science, health and spelling.

As children advance to the upper elementary grades, the content areas  are given a greater portion of the school day.  Reading and writing are applied across the curriculum in addition to the language arts curriculum requirements.

All Norwin elementary students receive instruction in art, music, physical education, computer use, and library science on a regular, scheduled basis.

Since children develop at different rates, programs are available for children who may need additional support.  Parents should contact their child's teacher should there be a concern in this area.

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DISCIPLINE

Discipline within the Norwin School District is regarded as a process which strengthens and corrects students through a program of teaching, supervision and, when necessary, just and constructive punishment.  Consequences for misbehavior may include verbal reprimand, loss of privileges and/or extra activities, detention, suspension or other intervention determined necessary by school personnel.

Students are provided a copy of Norwin's Board-approved Student Rights, Responsibilities and Discipline Code and instructed to review the code with their parents.  Compliance with these policies is mandatory for both students and parents.

At the elementary level, a progressive approach utilizing levels of discipline with students who violate school rules is in effect.  These levels are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be an exhaustive list.

A Level I infraction is defined as a minor or initial misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes with the orderly operation of the school.  Examples of Level I infractions include:

Disruptive behavior

Classroom tardiness

Cheating or lying

Intimidation; agitating others

Non-defiant failure to complete assignments or carry out directions

Eating in unauthorized areas

Gambling

Wearing inappropriate clothing

Inappropriate behavior

Level I infractions will be handled by teachers or administrators who will use one or more of the following responses/options:

Verbal reprimand

Personal talk

Isolation within classroom

Special assignment (i.e. letter of apology/explanation)

Withdrawal of privileges

Detention

Parental contact

Guidance referral (requires parent/guardian approval)

Time out

A Level II infraction is defined as misbehavior whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school.   These infractions, which usually result from the continuation of Level I misbehavior, require the intervention of personnel at the administrative level because the implementation of Level I disciplinary options failed to correct the situation.  Also, included in this level are misbehaviors which do not represent a direct threat to the health and safety of others but whose educational consequences are serious enough to require corrective action on the part of administrative personnel.  Examples of Level II infractions include:

Continuation of unmodified Level I misbehavior

Acting in an insubordinate manner

Showing flagrant disrespect to school personnel in word and/or gesture

Failure to attend assigned detention

Bus discipline referral

Using forged notes or excuses

Leaving school grounds without permission

Misbehavior at school-sponsored activity

Possession of obscene material

Attempting to gain advantages from another student

Level II infractions will be handled by administrators using one or more of the following responses/options:

Warning/Reprimand

Schedule change

Modified day

Withdrawal from extra activities

In-school suspension

Parental conference

             Detention

Parent observation

Level III infractions are defined as acts directed against persons or property but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school.  Corrective measures which the school should undertake are dependent upon the extent of the schools resources for remediating the situation in the best interest of all students.  Examples of Level III infractions include:

Continuation of unmodified Level I and/or Level II behavior(s)

Fighting/Bullying

Vandalism (minor)

Harassment

Petty theft (stealing)

Possession of tobacco products

Threats to others

Indecent exposure

Level III infractions will be handled by administrators using one or more of the following responses/options:

Temporary removal from class

Parental conference

Withdrawal from extra-curricular activities

In-school suspension

Restitution of property damages

Clean and/or repair damaged property

Charges filed with local magistrate

Level IV infractions are defined as acts which could result in danger to persons or property or pose a threat to the safety of others in the school.  These acts are serious in nature and will always require direct intervention by administration.  Examples of  Level IV infractions include:

Continuation of unmodified Level I,   Level II, and/or Level III behavior(s)

Possession/use/transfer of dangerous  weapons/objects

Assault/battery

Vandalism (school or staff property)

Theft/possession/sale of stolen property

Arson, bomb threat, false fire alarm

Furnishing/selling/using/possession of  illegal drugs (includes alcoholic  beverages)

Use of tobacco products

Possession of lighted match, cigarette lighter or other incendiary device

Level IV infractions will be handled by administrators using one or more of the following responses/options:

Informal hearing with building administrator

In-school suspension

Exclusion from school

Referral to appropriate law enforcement agencies

Referral to appropriate support service/agency

Restitution for property/personal damages

Formal hearing with district administration

Formal hearing with Board of School  Directors

Charges filed with local magistrate

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EMERGENCY DRILLS

Approximately once each month, each school will conduct a fire drill in compliance with state law.  During the drill, all persons must leave the building and remain outside until given permission to return.  Parents are encouraged to support the school in emphasizing the importance of these drills and the need for cooperation and compliance.

In addition, bus evacuation drills are conducted twice each school year and each spring our schools participate in a weather emergency drill.

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ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

Admission of Beginners: To enter kindergarten or first grade a child must meet the following age requirement:

• Be five years old before September 1 of the school year in which he/she enters kindergarten.

• Be six years old before September 1 of the  school year in which he/she enters first grade. 

Documentation of Age:  The law requires that a parent or guardian show duly certified evidence of age for all children entering school for the first time.

Documentation of age may be satisfied by:

• Birth Certificate

• Baptismal Certificate

• Notarized statement from the parent indicating date of birth.

• Certified transcript of birth which appears satisfactory to the local school - if none of the above proofs are available.

Birth Certificate replacements may be obtained through the Department of Health/Dept. of Vital Statistics, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA  16103 for a fee.

Verification of Immunization:  The law requires that a parent or guardian show duly certified evidence of specific immunizations for all children entering school.

Children starting school in Pennsylvania need these immunizations:

• 4 doses of Tetanus and Diphtheria (1 dose after age 4)

• 3 doses of Polio

• 2 doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella

• 3 doses of Hepatitis B

• varicella (chicken pox) [effective 2002-2003]

Keep a record of your child's immunizations.  Keep this record in a safe place.  Call your doctor or local state health center for immunizations or call 1-800-986-KIDS for a clinic near you.

If your child has not received the proper immunizations please make arrangements with your  family physician or Health Department at 724-832-5315.  Your child may be excluded from school if immunizations are not completed by September 1.  If there is a medical reason why your child should not be fully immunized, the state requires a certificate from your physician.  If you object to immunizations for moral or religious reasons, the state requires that you sign a form to this effect at school.

Early Admission Policy:  Children may be considered for early admission to school if they meet the age requirement by January 31 of the school year of requested attendance, achieve an I.Q. score of 125 or higher on a psychological evaluation administered by a certified school psychologist (at parent expense), demonstrate the perceptual, academic, social and physical development appropriate to the entry level, and are approved by the District review team.

Additional details may be obtained by contacting the Director of Elementary Education or the School Psychologists' office.

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EVALUATION PROCEDURES

A report card indicates a child's progress during each grading period as well as a final assessment.  The report card is to be taken home, signed by a parent/guardian, and returned to school the following school day.  Kindergarten teachers issue a progress report on the 60th, 120th and 180th day of the school year.  Grades one through  five  provide a progress  report at  the following  intervals:

9 weeks, 6 weeks, 6 weeks, 6 weeks, 9 weeks.

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