ELEMENTARY STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK

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.

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

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.  

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE

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

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

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:

	A.M. Session	P.M. Session	Time
Regular Day	9:00-11:40	12:50-3:30	2:40
One-Hour Delay	10:00-12:15	1:15:-3:30	2:15
Two-Hour Delay	11:00-12:45	1:45-3:30	1:45

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.

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

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.

   

Return to top of page

 

 

 

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

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

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.

Return to top of page

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.

 

Grade one reports individual progress as well as group progress.  The individual progress portion tells parents whether their child is making satisfactory progress toward successful achievement of the end-of-grade level goals.  An "S" indicates satisfactory progress while an "N" communicates more support is needed at home and school if the end-of-grade level goals are to be realized.

 

A numerical rating is also given to indicate the child's progress as compared with other first grade children.  A score of three (3) indicates the child is progressing as expected for a first grader at that particular point in the year.  Scores below three communicate that the child is working below the current expectation while scores above three indicate the child is exceeding expectations.

 

Grade two employs the following symbols to communicate progress

in Reading Development, Writing Process, Spelling, Penmanship, Mathematics and Social Sciences:

 

O	Outstanding
S	Satisfactory
SP	Satisfactory, but capable of greater progress
N	Needs support
*	Curriculum goals have been adapted to the child's unique learning needs

The Norwin School District employs the following grading system in grades three through five:

 

A   -  Excellent	O  -   Outstanding
B   -  Above Average	S  -   Satisfactory
C   -  Average	N  -   Needs Improvement
D   -  Below Average	U  -   Unsatisfactory
F   -  Not Passing	*   -   Adapted Curriculum

The following percentage scale is used as a guide to determine letter grades beginning in grade three:

92   -   100.0%             A

82   -     91.9%             B

70   -     81.9%             C

60   -     69.9%             D

       -     59.9%             F

Return to top of page

FIELD TRIPS/ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

Activities to support the elementary curriculum may become available through district funds or with the generous support of the local PTA.  These activities may be held within the school or off-site.  The decision as to the specific activity is the responsibility of the classroom teacher(s) based on curriculum needs.

In order to provide a safe and orderly environment for these learning experiences, the following guidelines will be followed:  

• Each child will be required to provide a permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian.

• Students may be denied these opportunities for health reasons or uncooperative behavior; the building principal may make participation of such students contingent upon a parent or legal guardian accompanying the student.

• Grades K-5 must have a minimum of one adult chaperone for every twelve students.  The teacher(s) may, based on the activity, reduce the adult-child ratio.  The adult chaperones will be selected by the teacher(s).  For PTA-funded events, preference will be given to PTA members  who demonstrate reliability, cooperation and trust.  Every effort should be made to provide both male and female chaperones for each activity.

• Parents are urged not to travel independently to the activity.  Those who do are not permitted to join the school group or remove their child from the school group.  All children participating in a school-approved field trip must ride the school bus to and from the event.

• Parents are prohibited from using tobacco products or consuming alcoholic beverages while chaperoning student activities.

• Parents are not permitted to purchase souvenirs, food items, clothing, etc., unless this option is made available to all children on the field trip.

Questions or concerns about any enrichment activity should be referred to the school principal.

Return to top of page

FIGHTING

The Norwin School District will not condone fighting under any circumstance.  Please refer to the Students Rights, Responsibilities and Discipline code for more information.

Return to top of page

GUIDANCE COUNSELORS

Each elementary school has the availability of a trained counselor to assist parent(s)/guardians(s) and students with educational, social and emotional concerns.  An appointment may be arranged through the elementary school office.

Return to top of page

GUM CHEWING

Gum chewing is not permitted.  This includes lunch periods,  play periods, and on school vehicles.  

Return to top of page

HEALTH SERVICES

The school nurse is available during the school day to care for the health needs of the students.  Students should not be sent to school ill, expecting the nurse to treat them.

Students who feel they have an illness or injury should report to their teacher who will send the student to the Health Room. If the nurse is not available, the teacher will send the student to the main office.

Medication to be administered at school:

1. Prescribed medication should be scheduled to be taken at home unless the frequency does not allow.

2. Medication prescribed during school MUST be sent in your child's labeled prescription bottle and include doctor's name, medication name, dosage and frequency.  The pharmacy will type an extra   label and give an extra container for school medicine.

3. A signed and dated note from the parent/guardian must accompany the prescribed medication requesting that the school administer the medication.  This note must include the dosage amount, time, and duration.

4. If medication is liquid, please send a measuring device.

5. All medication is to be stored and administered in the Health Room.

6. Please do not send your child with cough drops or throat lozenges.  We are concerned about the choking hazard they present to children.

7. The child is responsible for reporting to the Health Room for his/her medication at the designated time.

Schedule of Examinations: State law requires a physical examination for all students in grades kindergarten, six  and eleven.  This exam may be done by your private physician or the school doctor.  The school provides a special form to be completed by your private physician.  Private physician physical exams are acceptable only if completed within four (4) months prior to the onset of the school year in which the physical is due.  This form should be returned by October 1st, or your child will be scheduled to see the school doctor.

State law requires a dental examination for all students in kindergarten, third and seventh grades.  This exam may be done by your private dentist or the school dentist.  The school provides a special form to be completed by your private dentist.  Private dental exams are acceptable only if completed within four (4) months prior to the onset of the school year in which the physical is due.  This form should be returned by October 1st, or your child will be scheduled to see the school dentist.

Every third year the state requires tuberculin tine  testing for kindergarten and ninth grade students.  The test can be done by your private physician or by the school nurse.  You will be notified by the school nurse when this testing is to take place.

Vision screening will be done on every student every year according to the State School Health Code.

Hearing screening will be done on students in grades kindergarten through third, seventh and eleventh according to the State School Health Code.  Students with hearing problems and those in special education will be tested yearly. 

Regulations for the Control of Communicable and Infectious Diseases:  The following diseases are classified as communicable. 

Any child suffering from any one of these shall be restricted to his/her own premises during the interval below:

Disease	Restriction Period
Chicken Pox	Readmitted to school at least five school days after first eruption appears or until vesicles become dry.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)	Readmitted to school after 24 hours of medication has been administered and absence of eye drainage.
Streptococcal Diseases Impetigo Strep Throat Scarlet Fever Scarlatina	Readmitted to school after 24-48 hours of medication has been administered and absence of fever

Other Conditions: Persons absent or excused from school due to head lice, body lice, scabies or ringworm may be readmitted after initial treatment with the approval of the school nurse.

Parents who suspect any of the above conditions should contact the school nurse so that surveillance of other children can be initiated.

Emergencies at School:  Beyond temporary care, an Emergency Care Card is used as an immediate referral.   If a child becomes ill or suffers an accident during the school day, the parent or other emergency contact will be notified.  It is the parents= responsibility to update emergency phone numbers.

In the event of a serious illness or injury and emergency contacts are not available, the school will exercise reasonable discretion in regard to taking the child to a hospital emergency care facility.

Immunization Requirements: See Entrance Requirements.

Special Health Problems: It is the parent(s)/guardian(s) responsibility to notify the school nurse and staff when a child has special health needs, i.e., epilepsy, diabetes, etc. Such notification should include special directions, precautions, etc., for school personnel.

Return to top of page

HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION

Homebound instruction may be provided for any child who is unable to attend school for a period to exceed two weeks because of his/her physical condition.  A request for instruction should be made  through the building principal.  A doctor's statement specifying the nature of the illness and the anticipated duration of absence must accompany this request.

Return to top of page

HOMEWORK

Homework within the Norwin School District is to be regarded as a continuation of the learning process started in school.  Without it, many of the concepts presented at school would be lost.  Here are some ways to help your child:

• Provide a place for children to study, work and read.

• Eliminate as many distractions as possible.

• Be a facilitator in the learning process by guiding, not taking   over, and by encouraging children to realistically evaluate their own work.

• Help your child learn to schedule time: Do you want to study    before dinner and then play afterwards?  

• Ask about your child's assignments each day.  Discussion reinforces learning knowing that parents are interested fosters success in children.

• Encourage daily review as a habit, not just when it is assigned.  This is an invaluable tool in increasing and maintaining achievement.

• Encourage independent reading.

• Set an example by continuing to read, study and learn yourself.  Read or do your "homework" during your child's homework time.

Daily assignment guidelines:

 

Primary Grades (1-2)	30 minutes
Middle Grades   (3-4)	45 minutes
Intermediate Grades(5-6)	60 minutes

 

Return to top of page

INSURANCE

The Norwin School District does not provide insurance coverage for accidents that may occur.  Parents may choose to purchase accident insurance from an independent insurance carrier.  Information regarding student insurance will be sent home with students the first week of each school year.  Applications may be obtained at any time by contacting the school office.

Return to top of page

KNIVES AND OTHER DANGEROUS IMPLEMENTS

Students are not permitted to bring knives or other dangerous implements to school.  If a dangerous implement is brought to school, it will be confiscated.  Disciplinary action will take place according to the procedure within the District's Student Rights, Responsibilities and Discipline code.

Return to top of page

LIBRARY POLICY

All students in grades K-3 are permitted to borrow one book; grades 4-5 are permitted to borrow two books.  Books are considered overdue after two weeks.  Students who have overdue or damaged library books are not permitted to sign out any additional books until overdue or damaged books are paid for or returned to the library.  If the students have not met these requirements by the end of the school year, their report cards will not be released.  The cost of a lost or destroyed library book reflects the current price of its replacement.

Return to top of page

LOST AND FOUND

Many quality items are left at school each year.  If your child is missing an article of clothing or other item(s), the lost and found box should be the first place to be checked.

Return to top of page

MEDICINES

Refer to Health Services

Return to top of page

MONEY

The Norwin School District is not responsible for money or other valuables lost, misplaced or stolen.  If money needs to be sent to school, parents are encouraged to place it in a sealed envelope with the child's name, the amount within the envelope and the intended purpose of payment clearly printed on the envelope.

Return to top of page

MUSIC LESSONS - INSTRUMENTAL

Instrumental lessons are available to all students beginning in fourth grade (third grade for stringed instruments).  A letter will be sent home with each third, fourth, fifth and sixth grade student in the fall explaining the instrumental music program.  Should you decide to have your child learn to play a musical instrument, simply fill out the form and return it to school.  You will be advised by the instrumental music teacher as to when lessons will begin.

Return to top of page

PARTIES/CELEBRATIONS

Invitations for birthday or other parties are not to be delivered at school unless the entire class is invited.

Several celebrations are planned throughout the course of the school year in cooperation with PTA to provide a break in the academic routine and reward students for their efforts.

Currently the following celebrations take place in Norwin elementary schools: Halloween (K-5), Christmas (K-5), Valentine's Day (K-5), and Easter (K-3).  These celebrations are limited to the last hour of the school day as determined by the elementary administration.

Return to top of page

PERSONAL APPEARANCE

A student is expected to dress neatly and appropriately.  Parents are requested to use good judgment in selecting clothing to be worn at school.  The principal will reserve final judgment regarding a student's clothing.  The School District Discipline Code includes what is considered appropriate attire for school.

Return to top of page

PETS

Pets are not permitted in school without the permission of the building principal.

Return to top of page

PTA

The Parent-Teacher Association is active and supportive in all elementary schools.  All family members are encouraged to become members of this worthwhile organization.  Contact the school for further information regarding membership and dates of meetings.  

Return to top of page

RECESS

Recess provides an opportunity for regular, supplemental physical activity for all students.  Proper behavior is expected from all students while going to the playground, on the playground, and returning from the playground.  Improper behavior may result in loss of recess privileges or other disciplinary measures.

During winter months, recess may be conducted indoors.  Students should find some activity that can be done safely in the classroom.  When outdoor recess is conducted, only those students properly dressed for the weather conditions will be permitted outside.

The following rules shall apply during recess:

1. Respect the school's property while at play.   Proper areas have been provided; there is no excuse for the misuse of school property.

2. Dangerous games or activities such as camel fighting, climbing trees, tackle football, or any activity the supervising teacher may decide to be dangerous are not permitted.    

3. Baseballs are not permitted to be used either at recess or in school.

4. Parked school buses and automobiles are out-of-bounds for all pupils.

5. With the arrival of winter, students are reminded that snowballing is not permitted.  Slides on cement walks, banks, or driveways are also prohibited.

6. Clothing and boots/shoes should be free of snow/water before entering the building.

7. Go to/from the play area quietly.

Return to top of page

RETENTION

Whether or not a child should repeat a grade level is a major decision in a child's education sequence.  Parents and school personnel must consider the child's physical, mental, social, and emotional development, as well as academic achievement.  For this intervention to be successful the indicators must be positive and the child needs to understand the extra year is to help, not to punish.

Return to top of page

SAFEGUARD PROGRAM

All Norwin Elementary Schools participate in a before and after school child care program operated by Creative Adventures Learning Center, titled Safeguard Program.  Operated by paid staff who design a daily program plan which includes indoor and outdoor activities, homework supervision and afternoon snacks, the program runs from 7:00 a.m. until 8:45 a.m. before school and 3:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. after school for students.  Unless enrolled in the Safeguard Program, no students will be permitted in any Norwin elementary building before 8:45 a.m.  (Note: Children may enter the building at 8:30 a.m. to participate in the breakfast program.)

Pre-registered students may use the service daily or occasionally as needed.

Additional information concerning the program can be obtained from Creative Adventures at 724-864-1004.

Return to top of page

SCHOOL PROPERTY

All textbooks and ordinary supplies are furnished by the Norwin School District.  A child is expected to take reasonable care of all books and is held responsible for any loss or damage.  Charges for lost or damaged books will be billed to the child's parents.

Replacement costs:

                Year 1 - 100% of purchase price

                Year 2 -   86% of purchase price

                Year 3 -   71% of purchase price

                Year 4 -   57% of purchase price  

                Year 5 -   43% of purchase price

                Year 6 -   29% of purchase price

                Year 7 -   14% of purchase price  

Return to top of page

SCHOOL VISITATION

For the protection and safety of all our students, only those visitors who wish to attend to school business are permitted in a school building.  All guests and visitors must first report to the office and will receive a visitor's badge.  Students are not permitted to bring guests to school unless by consent of the school principal.  Parents who must bring lunches, coats, umbrellas, etc. for their child(ren) are to report to the office.  Under no circumstances should a parent visit, interrupt, or disturb a classroom without a visitor's badge.

Return to top of page

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

A complete array of special education services are available to exceptional students in the Norwin School District.   These services include academic support classes including learning support, gifted support, life skills support, and emotional support.  Additionally, services are available for students with hearing or vision impairments, speech and language impairments, physical handicaps, autism, and multiple handicaps.

 

On-going comprehensive screening is done within all of Norwin's elementary and secondary buildings to locate children who have a specific need for special education programs.  If parents feel their child is in need of special programming, they should discuss the child's needs with the classroom teacher, guidance counselor, or building principal.  All interaction will be confidential and comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.

 

The Norwin School District provides a full range of special education services made available to all students who are eligible under the Pennsylvania School Code Chapter 14.  These revised standards and regulations, which became effective on July 1, 1990, may apply to your child.  Interested parents should feel free to contact special education staff through Norwin's School Psychologist.

Return to top of page

 

 

SUPPORT SERVICES

The following support services are available for children in the Norwin School District:

 

Adaptive Physical Education:   Developmental physical   education activities, games, sports, etc. for students with physical limitations and/or disabilities.

 

Reading Resources:  Supplemental reading services (corrective, remedial).

 

School Nurse:  Pupil general health and welfare.

 

Guidance Counselor:  Responsible for the testing program, coordinating services from Westmoreland Intermediate Unit, and counseling individual students.

 

Instructional Support:  A team approach to identify  interventions to address academic, social or emotional concerns.

 

Learning Support Program:   Special education service   for children with educable mental retardation, learning disability, social/emotional concerns, or physical handicaps.

 

Hearing Therapy:  Instruction for children whose receptive and/or expressive oral language skills deviate from accepted norms.

 

Vision Therapy:  Instruction for partially sighted and blind children.

 

Life Support Program:   Special education classroom for severely and profoundly mentally retarded children and moderately mentally retarded children.

 

Physically Handicapped:  Program for children with significant physical handicap and/or limited mobility.

 

Mentally Gifted:  Instruction for mentally gifted children. (SEAL)

 

School Psychologist:  Individual psychological testing, parent-teacher consultation, etc.

Return to top of page

TELEPHONE

The telephone in the main office may be used by students only if permission is granted by the principal or secretary. Students are permitted to make calls only if absolutely necessary.

Return to top of page

VOLUNTEER AIDES

Volunteers can free the teacher from routine duties which reduce the actual teaching and planning time.  Talented and happy volunteers make for a productive classroom climate.

Volunteers are expected to participate in an informational training session prior to any volunteer activities within the school.  Contact the building principal for additional information.

Return to top of page

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE

When a student transfers from the Norwin School District to another school the following procedures must be followed:

A.       Notify the school office two days before transferring as to the date you will leave,  the name of the new school you will attend and the new home address.

B.       On the last day of attendance, return all books to the classroom teachers and the completed release form to the school office.  A transcript of the student's grades and health records will be mailed to the new school district upon request.  Parents have the right to request a copy of all records sent.

Return to top of page

ASSURANCE OF CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLIANCE

The School Food Authority hereby agrees that it will comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000D et.seq.), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 794), Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.); all provisions required by the implementing regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture; U.S. Department of Justice Enforcement Guidelines; and USDA Good and Nutrition Service (FNS directives and guidelines to the effect that, no person shall, on the ground of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or handicap, be excluded from participation, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected for discrimination under any program or activity for which the School Food Authority receives Federal Financial assistance from FNS: and hereby gives assurance that it will immediately take measures necessary to effectuate this Agreement.

 

By providing this assurance, the School Food Authority agrees to compile data, maintain records, and submit reports as required, to permit effective enforcement of the nondiscrimination laws and permit Department and/or USDA personnel during normal working hours to review such records, books, and accounts as needed to ascertain compliance with the nondiscrimination laws.  If there are any violations of this assurance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture shall have the right to seek judicial enforcement of this assurance.

 

This assurance is binding on the School Food Authority, its successors, transferee, and assignees as long as it receives assistance of retains possession of any assistance from USDA.

 

Return to top of page

TITLE IX COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

The Norwin School District 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 district policy, not to discriminate on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities, extends to employment in and admission to such programs and activities.

 

Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX may be referred to the Title IX coordinator for the Norwin School District, whose office is located at 281 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon, PA  15642; telephone number 724-861-3000 or to the Director of the Civil Rights of the Dept. of Health, Education, and Welfare, Washington, D.C.

 

Return to top of page

USDA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability.  Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of all program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).

 

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14^th and Independence Avenue, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD).  USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

   

Return to top of page

NORWIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

HARTFORD HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 15020 Ardara Road North Huntingdon, PA  15642	412-823-1433
HILLCREST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 11091 Mockingbird Drive North Huntingdon, PA  15642	724-863-2660
PENNSYLVANIA AVE. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL      1015 Pennsylvania Avenue and Green Street Irwin, PA  15642	724-863-8410
SCULL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 780 Brush Hill Road North Huntingdon, PA  15642	724-863-6688
SHAW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1219 Morris Avenue North Huntingdon, PA  15642	724-864-0670
STEWARTSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 101 Carpenter Lane North Huntingdon, PA  15642	724-864-0320

Return to top of page