Parent-Student Handbook

September 2008

Dear Families,

The Central School staff and I welcome you to join our community of learners. We look forward to an exciting and rewarding year spent with your children. We are very proud of the home/school relationship that has been established at Central School and we will continue to make every effort to keep you informed about and engaged in the education of your children. Our children benefit so much when we work together to ensure their success. We encourage and welcome your participation in our school's activities.

Central School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Our curriculum is aligned with the Maine Department of Education Learning Results and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Our belief in our Mission Statement: "Challenge, success, and love of learning for every one, every day. Together we learn." guides our decisions and actions. Our curriculum and staff development support the District's focus on literacy, anti-bullying and technology. Our Everyday Math program provides our students with a strong foundation in math. Social Studies and Science are thoughtfully integrated. Our students benefit from excellent special programs. Each week they participate in music, art, library and physical education. Our goal is to provide your children with top quality educational opportunities in a safe, stimulating and respectful environment. Our staff members participate on a variety of educational committees and benefit greatly from the professional staff development opportunities that the District provides throughout the year. This allows our staff to develop and implement innovative and educationally strong programs for our students.

Central School's relationship with our families and the community has always been essential to our success. We welcome volunteers who work both inside and outside of the classroom. Classroom teachers, Central School's PTO members and I will be happy to share the opportunities that are available. We look forward to seeing you often throughout the year as you attend classroom and the whole-school events. Central School students and staff members meet in the gym on alternating Friday mornings at 8:35 and afternoons at 2:30 to celebrate our accomplishments. We would love to have you join us during these brief assemblies.

We hope this handbook is a useful resource. We have included school guidelines and School Board policies. If there is an inconsistency between our handbook and School Board policy, the School Board policy will govern. We ask that you read this handbook and share the contents with your children. We welcome your suggestions to improve the handbook. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Vicki Stewart, Principal

Maine Learning Results Guiding Principles

Each Maine Student must leave school as:

I. A CLEAR AND EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR

A. uses oral, written, visual, artistic, and technological modes of expression;

B. reads, listens to and interprets messages from multiple sources; and

C. uses English and at least one other language.

II. A SELF-DIRECTED AND LIFE-LONG LEARNER

A. creates career and education plans that reflect personal goals, interest and

skills, and available resources:

B. demonstrates the capacity to undertake independent study; and

C. finds and uses information from libraries, electronic databases, and other

resources.

III. A CREATIVE AND PRACTICAL PROBLEM SOLVER

A. observes situations objectively to clearly and accurately define problems;

B. frames questions and designs data collection and analysis strategies from all

disciplines to answer those questions;

C. identifies patterns, trends, and relationships that apply to solutions to

problems; and

D. generates a variety of solutions, builds a case for the best response, and

critically evaluates its effectiveness of this response.

IV. A RESPONSIBLE AND INVOLVED CITIZEN

A. recognizes the power of personal participation to affect the community and

demonstrates participation skills;

B. understands the importance of accepting responsibility for personal

decisions and actions;

C. know the means of achieving personal and community health and well-being;

and

D. recognizes and understand the diverse nature of society.

V. A COLLABORATIVE AND QUALITY WORKER

A. knows the structure and functions of the labor market;

B. assesses individual interest, aptitudes, skills, and values in relation to

demands of the workplace; and

C. demonstrates reliability, flexibility, and concern for quality.

VI. AN INTEGRATIVE AND INFORMED THINKER

A. applies knowledge and skills in and across English language arts, visual and

performing arts, foreign languages, health and physical education,

mathematics, science, social studies, and career preparations; and

B. comprehends relationships among different modes of thought and methods

associated with the traditional disciplines.

WELCOME TO CENTRAL SCHOOL!

This handbook explains the rules and routines

of Central School in South Berwick. We are

very proud of our school and we want you to

be aware of and comfortable with

our way of doing things so you will

understand and share in our accomplishments.

Please read the handbook carefully,

and discuss it at home during the coming

year. We are counting on your partnership

to make Central School a great place to learn!

Central School has been accredited

by the New England Association of

Schools and Colleges, a national

accrediting association.

As part of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) teachers must

meet a specific, federal definition of "Highly Qualified" in

order to teach in schools that receive federal funding.

As you know, our school receives federal funds to support

the Title I Program. The Title I Program provides

early intervention for reading for grade 1 students and Early

Success for grade 2 students who are eligible.

Our teachers meet the federal definition of

"Highly Qualified".

Many of our staff members have advanced degrees.

Each teacher continues to learn through professional

development activities. Our teachers are evaluated each

year to make sure that their teaching skills remain

at the highest possible level.

KEEP THIS BOOK IN A CONVENIENT PLACE!!

Philosophy of Maine School Administrative District #35

The Board of Directors and staff of MSAD #35 are committed to the development of an outstanding school system which will provide the opportunity for students to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to become productive members of an ever changing society. We are committed to strive to prepare our students for a successful future by providing quality academic programs, social experiences and ethical guidance within our schools. Our foremost priority must be the welfare of the students in our system.

To meet these goals, we believe that MSAD #35 has the responsibility of establishing throughout the school system, a safe and wholesome learning environment in which intellectual, emotional, social, ethical and physical growth are nurtured, so that students will develop a sense of self-worth and responsibility and learn to respect the rights of others. We must help students acquire basic reading, writing, and computation skills, along with the critical and creative-thinking skills that are essential to respond to differing individual needs and learning styles. We must provide students with knowledge of human civilization, the American heritage, and the physical universe. We must endeavor to help students to develop positive attitudes toward learning and to become actively involved in their own education.

We must make our school system a stimulating environment in which to learn and to teach by encouraging high professional standards and continued staff growth. We must strive to promote mutual respect and cooperation among administrators, staff, students and community members.

SCHOOL HOURS

8:00 Students begin arriving at school

(Teachers are on duty on the hot top or gym)

8:25 Students enter the building

8:35 Announcements

(Students who arrive after 8:40 will be considered "tardy")

11:00 Pre-K & Kindergarten AM dismissal (hot top wing door)

11:10-11:40 First Grade Recess

11:40-12:10 First Grade Lunch

11:50-12:20 Second Grade Recess

12:20-12:50 Second Grade Lunch

12:25 Pre-K & Kindergarten PM begins

12:30-1:00 Third Grade Recess

1:00-1:30 Third Grade Lunch

2:50 Kindergarten and Pre-K Dismissal (hot top wing door)

2:55 End of Day Announcements

3:00 Begin dismissal for Grades 1-3

MISSION STATEMENT AND EXPECTATIONS FOR

THE CENTRAL SCHOOL COMMUNITY

MISSION STATEMENT:

CHALLENGE, SUCCESS, AND LOVE OF LEARNING FOR

EVERY ONE EVERY DAY.

MOTTO:

TOGETHER WE LEARN

OUR EXPECTATIONS:

TO LIVE BY THE GOLDEN RULE

TO PRACTICE INDEPENDENT AND COOPERATIVE THINKING SKILLS

TO APPRECIATE AND EXPERIENCE THE DIVERSITY OF CULTURAL

HERITAGE

TO USE CRITICAL LISTENING AND SPEAKING SKILLS

TO USE APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR IN ALL SCHOOL SETTINGS

TO ASSURE THAT THE CONTENT OF INSTRUCTION IS SIGNIFICANT,

SUBSTANTIAL, AND MEANINGFUL

TO PROVIDE A SAFE AND HEALTHY LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR

EVERYONE

TO MAKE TIME FOR DAILY SELF ASSESSMENT

TELEPHONE NUMBERS

CENTRAL SCHOOL

384-2333

384-2678 (FAX)

Student Absence 384-5226 (Automated Line For

Absences & General Mailbox)

www.msad35.net/central/index.htm

SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE 439-2438

Dr. Jeffrey Bearden, Superintendent

Gail Sullivan, Assistant Superintendent

Randall Stewart, Business Manager

MARSHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL 384-4500

MARSHWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL 439-1399

MARSHWOOD GREAT WORKS SCHOOL 384-4010

ELIOT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 439-9004

SPECIAL SERVICES OFFICE 439-9197

Dr. Carole Smith, Director

TRANSPORTATION DIRECTOR 384-4681

MSAD #35 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Helene Cass, Chairperson 439-4679

Thomas Flanigan 439-4475

Martha Leathe 439-5778

Ellen Breed 384-5938

Sue Pullar 676-9215

Ralph Stevens 384-5013

CENTRAL SCHOOL CALENDAR

Please go to http://www.msad35.net/calendar.htm to view the district school year calendar. Be sure to make note of NO SCHOOL days. (Last day of school is a HALF DAY.)

CENTRAL SCHOOL STAFF

PRE-KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS: Michelle Rider and

Susan Sullivan

KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS: Karen Ames, June Arbelo

and Deborah Dell Isola

GRADE 1 TEACHERS: Joan Bostock, Alanna Craffey, Lynn Dorr-Garrity,

Kristine Fontaine and Sandra Hoffman

GRADE 2 TEACHERS: Kathy Bousquet, Patsy Corriveau, Erin Darling,

Sally Gilbride, Laura Hofacker, Pam Mulcahey, and

Kathy O'Malley

GRADE 3 TEACHERS: Jenn Bogard, Kristin Eckhardt, Elizabeth Hoyt,

Kathleen McDonnell, and Rachel Wendell

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS: Gail Simone

SPECIAL EDUCATION TECHNICIANS: Laura Carey, Ellen Cronauer,

Susan Forsley, Kim Howe, Michelle Jones, Katie Leavitt,

Debra Patenaude, and Carla Swasey

TITLE I READING TEACHERS: Pamela Carnicelli and Deanna Mitchell

TITLE I EDUCATIONAL TECHNICIAN: Paula Williams

PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER: Kristan Tiede

ART TEACHER: Rhonda Mann

MUSIC TEACHER: Katherine Smith

SCHOOL NURSE: Veronica Whitney

GUIDANCE COUNSELOR: Nina D'Aran

SPEECH THERAPISTS: Rebecca Wieder

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST: Penny Gagnon

Physical Therapist: Keri Stoorza

LIBRARY: Tina Polichronopoulos

PRE-K EDUCATIONAL TECHNICIANS: Ellen Caruso and Julie Oakley

CAFETERIA: Donna MacPherson, Kimberly Clementi

and Samantha Fife

CUSTODIANS: Kevin Vancour, Claire Springer and Jan Vancour

SCHOOL SECRETARIES: Beth Pratt and Cathy Locke

PRINCIPAL: Vicki Stewart

BUS DRIVERS: Bob Bryan, Patty Flynn, Stacy Davis,

Jim King, Ginger Leman, Jim O'Brien, Heather Webster

and Dale Willis

STUDENT BILL OF RIGHTS

RIGHT RESPONSIBILITY

1. To come to school and I will treat others in

not be teased. the way I want to be

treated.

2. To come to school and I will say only kind

be respected. things to everyone.

3. To come to school and I will act responsibly

feel safe. on the playground,

cafeteria, and in

my classroom.

4. To come to school and I will ask others to

feel a sense of join in my activities.

belonging.

5. To hear the teacher I will listen during

and learn the lessons. lessons. I will do my

assignments faithfully.

6. To be successful Believe in yourself

and do your best! Ask

the teacher if you do

not understand

something.

TRAFFIC PATTERNS/ROUTINES

At Central School we make every effort to keep our students, families and staff members safe. During arrival and dismissal times it is very important to follow our traffic patterns. We have the following routines to keep our bus traffic separate from our students who walk or are driven in private vehicles to and from school.

During arrival times 8:00-9:00 and 12:15-1:00, we make every effort to keep this traffic separate. Buses arrive in the front circular driveway. Pre-K and Kindergarten students are dropped off at the mezzanine door. These students are met by staff members who lead them to the gym where they wait until 8:25. The buses continue down the driveway where our older students are dropped off on the sidewalk that leads to the hot top. These students are supervised on the hot top area until they enter the building at 8:25. On bad weather days, all students are dropped off at the mezzanine door and go to the gym. Students who walk to school should use the sidewalks to arrive at the hot top area or gym. All cars should use the back parking lot to drop off arriving students. Pre-K and Kindergarten students may be dropped off on the sidewalk near the back doors near the gym entrance. Older students should be dropped off on the sidewalk entrance to the hot top. Please do not allow any students to walk unsupervised in the parking lot at any time.

During dismissal, buses use the back parking lot. No cars are allowed in the front driveway. Kindergarten and Pre-K students are picked up by buses in the back parking lot at dismissal from morning sessions. Pre-K and Kindergarten students who walk or ride in private vehicles should be picked up at the wing doors on the hot top.

During dismissal at the end of the day (2:55) buses use the back parking lot and students riding buses are dismissed from the back gym doors. Kindergarten and Pre-K walkers are dismissed to the hot top area from the wing doors on the hot top beginning at 2:50. Older students are dismissed from the front door of the school. Students are dismissed in this order: third grade, second grade and first grade. Students remain on the steps until they are dismissed to the adults authorized to pick them up. When students are not picked up as planned, they come inside and remain there until their families are contacted.

Thank you so much for your cooperation with these arrival and dismissal plans. Please contact Principal Vicki Stewart at 384-2333 if you have any questions or concerns.

The STATE OF MAINE requires you to attend school

REGULARLY.

ATTENDANCE IS IMPORTANT!

PLEASE ARRIVE ON TIME!

School starts at 8:25. Students are considered tardy after 8:40 AM. Morning Pre-K and Kindergarten students are dismissed at 11:00. Afternoon Pre-K and Kindergarten sessions begin at 12:25 PM and are dismissed at 2:50 PM.

Please PROVIDE A NOTE if your child:

-has been absent from school;

-is late to school;

-must leave school early;

-will go home for lunch;

-must go somewhere other than usual after school;

-is going home in a different way than usual;

-is riding a bicycle to/from school.

Notes from home should be clearly written and signed by a parent or guardian. We hope the note pads we provide will make this easy. Any student with a communicable disease must also present a certificate of good health from a doctor or the school nurse prior to returning to the classroom. Students should deliver notes concerning attendance, tardiness and dismissal to their teachers the very first thing in the morning.

THE PHONE NUMBER: 384-5226 IS USED TO RECORD ABSENCE AND TARDINESS. PLEASE CALL THIS NUMBER IF YOU KNOW YOUR CHILD WILL BE ABSENT OR LATE ON ANY GIVEN DAY.

BICYCLES

Bicycle racks are on the hot top area and on the playground. STUDENTS WHO NORMALLY RIDE A BUS MUST BRING WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM HOME TO RIDE THEIR BIKES HOME. It is the responsibility of the bike rider to provide a bike lock. Bike riders are dismissed at 3:00 with walkers.

WALKERS (PreK-3)

Walkers in grades Pre-K &endash; 3 should arrive at school as close to 8:25 AM as possible. (During inclement weather, all students will proceed to the gym). Walkers in grades Pre-K and K will go to the gym. Walkers in grades 1-3 should go to the hot top area. When children arrive by car, they should be dropped off behind the school. Please drop your children either at the gate to the hot top or at the sidewalk entrance to the wing door.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION/DELAYED OPENING:

PLEASE CHECK YOUR RADIO AND TELEVISION.

PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL UNLESS

IT'S ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY.

**ConnectEd &endash; our automated phone system will be used

to contact Central School families.**

Please check the MSAD #35 website: www.msad35.net

SCHOOL CANCELLATION/DELAYED OPENING announcements can be heard on:

WOKQ/97.5 FM WHEB/100.3 FM WTSN/1270 AM

WMGX/93.1 FM WGAN/560 AM WPOR/101.9 FM WYNZ/100.9 FM

SCHOOL CANCELLATION/DELAYED OPENING announcements can be seen on:

WCSH Channel 6-AM local news / WGME Channel 13-AM local news /

WMTW Channel 8-AM local news / FOX Channel 51

DELAYED OPENING ONLY: There will be NO AM Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten on a delayed opening day. All other students will come to school at 10:30. Afternoon Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten will have a regular day.

Storm days will be made up at the end of the school year as required by State Law. Maine public school students have 175 full days of school each year.

EARLY RELEASE: Seven early release days have been included in this year's calendar. They are December 5, January 23, February 4, March 18, April 1, May 1, and June 12. Students will be dismissed at 12:00, including morning Pre-K and Kindergarten. Please be sure to fill out both sides of your child's emergency form as this information is followed for early release. There will be NO AFTERNOON PRE-K OR KINDERGARTEN ON EARLY RELEASE DAYS.

AM students in Pre-K and Kindergarten and Grades 1 &endash; 3 will come to school as usual but will be dismissed at 12 noon. The noontime dismissal will be just like our 3:00 dismissal. Notes are required if your child's usual way of getting home will be different. For example, if you sent in a note at the beginning of the year that your child will be taking the bus and you have since been picking him/her up on a regular basis, we will need a note for your child to take the bus home on early release days. Please be very clear with your instructions. If parents of AM Pre-K and Kindergarten students would like to pick their children up at the regular dismissal time, they are welcome to do so and may pick them up after 11:00.

UNSCHEDULED EMERGENCY DISMISSAL PLAN: It does not happen often, but on occasion, our students must be dismissed early from school. This could be a result of inclement weather, power/heating failure, or other emergencies that may arise.

We will make every effort to have a plan in place with families to ensure that every child gets safely to a designated location, whether it is home or an alternate "emergency" plan. It is now possible for our office to contact all parents to alert them of an early dismissal. We will use an automated telephone system, ConnectEd, to contact you.

What we would like from you are two phone numbers that we can call if the situation arises that we must close school early. These should be numbers that will give us direct contact with you on any given day. Please consider this as you list these numbers. If the automated telephone system does not get an answer on the first number, it will leave a message and proceed to call the second number. If no one answers the second number, it will leave a message. The system will provide a report listing all of the families where a message was left. We will dismiss your child according to the plan you have given us. In other words, we will attempt to call all families via this telephone system to alert you of an early dismissal, and will then follow your requested "Unscheduled Emergency Dismissal" plan already on file.

FACTS ABOUT SCHOOL MEALS

Free and reduced breakfast/lunch prices are available to qualified families. An eligibility form is sent home on the first day of school. You may request a form from the office at any time during the school year.

The purchase of lunch and milk is automated. Each student establishes a credit and lunch and milk are purchased with a swipe card system.

THE BREAKFAST PROGRAM begins each day at 8:00 and continues until 8:30. Please note breakfast is not served on a delayed opening day. Breakfast is $1.75, reduced price is $.00.

IF YOU WISH TO GO HOME FOR LUNCH: Bring a note from home stating which day or days you are to go home and your teacher will dismiss you to the office when the rest of the class goes to the cafeteria. You will be allowed to leave with the person designated in the note. Please return before recess ends.

PARENTS COMING FOR LUNCH: Parents and/or relatives are welcome to join their children for lunch. It's most helpful if you send a note so you can be included in the lunch count. Adult tickets are $3.75.

LUNCH AND MILK PRICES FOR STUDENTS: Full price is $2.25, reduced price is $.40, and milk is $.40.

NOTICE

We do not serve lunch on early dismissal days or the last day of school.

HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

We will make every effort to keep our children and their families well informed. Please contact us by telephone, by e-mail, by notes, or in person before or after school hours if you have questions or concerns.

CONFERENCES: Regular Parent/Teacher Conferences will follow the trimester format. You are however, encouraged to initiate a conference with any of your child's teachers at any time during the school year. Please call the teacher to schedule a conference. We are always willing to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. Teachers may also schedule a conference at any time the need arises. First trimester conferences for Pre-K &endash; Grade 3 will be held on the evenings of October 15th and 23rd, from 4 &endash; 7:30 PM. You will be asked to sign up for the October conference when you visit your child's classroom at Open House. Second trimester conferences will be held for Pre-K &endash; Grade 3 on March 25th and April 2nd, 4 &endash; 7:30 PM. Please plan to attend these very informative conferences.

PTO: Our Central School PTO welcomes the participation of families, staff members, and the administrator of Central School. Meetings begin at 6:30 PM. Our PTO members are an exceptional group of volunteers. We encourage you to join them in the many activities they coordinate and provide. Their efforts and expertise provide our students with a great variety of enrichment activities, opportunities to work with volunteers, and our safe inviting playground and school grounds! We hope to see you during our free family movie nights!

SCHOOL NEWSLETTER: Each month Central School sends home a newsletter called "Central Selections". We ask that not-for-profit organizations make every effort to include their information in this newsletter. Please provide information to be included by Monday of the last week of the month. We want to reduce the number of paper copies that are sent home. We send notices to the oldest and only students and will use e-mail whenever possible. Central Selections, parent letters, and most school communication will be sent by email or by paper copy to the oldest or only student at Central School when email access is not available.

SCHOOL FUNDRAISERS: Central School receives a percentage of the proceeds from school pictures, our School Book Fair, PTO fundraisers, and all of the proceeds from our Ice Cream Smorgasbord.

Any organization or school receiving funds for providing services to MSAD #35 students accepts these funds with the understanding that said organization or school does not discriminate on the basis of religion, gender, national origin or disability.

All fundraising events must be approved by the M.S.A.D. #35 Board of Directors. Application forms are available in the Central School office or online at msad35.net. (See appendix).

HERE'S TO YOUR HEALTH!

REQUIRED IMMUNIZATION: The State of Maine requires all students, Kindergarten on, to have five DPT, four Polio, two MMR and the varicella (chicken pox) vaccine. Religious or medical exemption forms must be filed with the nurse to be exempt from this state law. All students who are not in compliance must file a plan to do so with the nurse.

SCHOOL NURSE: Our school nurse is at school from 8:20 - 3:20 daily. She administers to children who become sick or injured at school. She performs various health screenings. Medication is also distributed through her office. The nurse is always available to discuss any health concerns you may have concerning your child. Please feel free to call at 384-2333.

COMMUNICABLE HEALTH ISSUES: The following is a list of the most common contagious illnesses among school children. Please report to the nurse if your child develops any of the following illnesses:

_ Strep Throat &endash; Strep is very contagious and can be serious if left untreated. Symptoms include sore throat, headache, bellyache and fever. Please consult your doctor for proper diagnosis. The child should stay at home until the results of the Strep test are received. If positive, your child needs to be on antibiotics for 24 hours before returning to school. A doctor's note must accompany your child. All children diagnosed with Strep must been seen by the nurse before admittance to school.

_ Fever &endash; A child running a temperature over 100 degrees should remain at home until the temperature is normal for 24 hours. A temperature can be the first sign of a more serious illness and illnesses are most contagious during the first 24 hours.

_ Head Lice &endash; If noted on your child, please keep he/she home for treatment. When the child is nit (egg) free, he/she must be checked by the nurse for re-admittance to school. The school nurse has information packets in her office regarding head lice and the treatment process.

_ Conjunctivitis &endash; Commonly know as "Pink Eye", conjunctivitis presents with the white of the eye appearing pink to red in color. A child diagnosed with conjunctivitis must be on antibiotic treatment for 24 hours before returning to school. A doctor's note must accompany the child and he/she must be seen by the nurse before re-admittance to school.

MEDICATION POLICY: In the event that medication must be given during school, the following criteria must be met:

Prescription Medication:

1. All medication shall be delivered to school in its original container by the student's parent/legal guardian. Please do not send medication to school with your child. The container must indicate student's name, date, medication dosage, dosage schedule, and health care provider's name. Your pharmacy will provide a container with the appropriate information if requested

2. A written request by parent/guardian must accompany all medication. This request will give permission to other school personnel to administer medication in the nurse's absence.

3. Only limited supply of medication can be kept at school. It shall be the parent's responsibility to notify the school of any changes in the medication dosage or scheduling.

4. All medication will be kept in the nurse's office and documentation of administration will be maintained.

5. For students who must take oral liquid antibiotics (prescription) and need a dose during school hours, ask the pharmacist to prepare a 2nd bottle with needed doses to be kept at school.

Non Prescription Medicines:

Occasionally, over the counter medication can be given at school. The following procedures must be followed:

1. Over the counter medication must be in the original container.

2. The nurse must have a note with the following: identifying the medication, the reason for taking it and permission to administer it while at school to your child. Telephone consent by a parent or guardian is also acceptable.

3. The medication must be labeled with the following: name, dosage and time of dosage.

4. The medication will be distributed through the nurse's office.

Due to safety reasons, students must not bring medication to school or bring it home. Medication can be dropped off at the main office at 8:00 or at the nurse's office at 8:20. Medication must also be picked up in the nurse's office when it must return home as well. Please notify the nurse if other arrangements must be made. Please see District policy for clarification of Administering Medication to Students.

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS: Every student must have a completed emergency form on file. These forms are sent home with the summer mailing and should be returned on the first day of school. It is very important that the school has this information available. If your address and/or phone number change anytime during the school year, please let the office know so we can reach you. If there is an extension number, please let us know that number as well. List local friends and relatives who can easily come to school, if we cannot reach you.

**PLEASE KEEP YOUR EMERGENCY NUMBERS UP-TO-DATE!! Call 384-2333 or send a note to update your contact information.

HEALTHY INFORMATION TO SHARE: Please notify the school nurse when your child receives booster shots, has a physical or a health need arises. Health records should be accurate and up to date. Health records at home, and ours at school, should have the same information.

Please remember that students should be fever free for 24 hours prior to returning to school.

FIELD TRIPS

Students at each grade level participate in an annual field trip.

FIELD TRIP PROTOCOL

CHAPERONES

We take the job of Chaperone very seriously and know that you do too. During field trips we ask that chaperones assist teachers to provide the students with the optimum learning experience the field trip has to offer while insuring that students are safe. We are providing families with an overview of Central School's expectations:

- Chaperones will be expected to assist the teacher by assuming the responsibility for a small group of students. This group may or may not include your child.

- Chaperones are expected to follow the guidelines established by the teacher. Each chaperone will be given advanced notice of these guidelines.

- Field trips have thoughtfully planned time schedules. Chaperones must adhere to the time schedule. We will ask all chaperones to be at school at a designated time to help students get ready to board the bus.

- Chaperones must adhere to strict confidentiality regarding students' actions during a trip.

- All chaperones must ride the bus with the group.

- Chaperones will not bring other adults and/or children on the field trip. Being a chaperone requires your attention and you must be prepared for that during the trip.

- A notice outlining the field trip and the responsibilities of the chaperones will be sent home prior to any field trip. If you believe that you can be of assistance as a chaperone, please sign and return the notice. The notice will have a return deadline.

- Most field trips limit the number of adults who may accompany the group. Chaperones will be chosen, randomly by drawing the returned slips on the deadline date. Parents will be contacted if their names are chosen.

- Field trip participants include the students, the teachers and the chosen chaperones.

FIELD TRIP BUS PROTOCOL

- In order to make the ride for the field trip safe and comfortable, we will ask all bus drivers not to turn on radios.

- All school rules and bus rules must be followed.

- No electronic devices will be allowed on the bus.

- We ask students to maintain a level of talking similar to that used in the cafeteria.

- We ask chaperones to sit in seats throughout the bus to assist with keeping students sitting in their seats and maintaining a voice level as suggested.

- Eating and drinking are not allowed on the bus.

- All students and chaperones must ride the bus to and from the field trip site.

- Bus drivers have two-way radios that keep them in constant communication with our office.

- First aid boxes and cell phones are taken on all field trips.

- Groups must return to the bus at the designated time in order to be on time for dismissal.

FIELD TRIP GUIDELINES

- On the day of the field trip, chaperones and their groups of students are expected to follow the directions of the classroom teacher or the site person at all times.

- If chaperones experience difficulty with any student in their group, they

ART, MUSIC, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, AND LIBRARY

A day of the week rotation is used to schedule Art, Music, Physical Education and Library for students in Pre-K through Grade 3. Your child's schedule will be provided by the classroom teacher.

Students may be excused from Physical Education by presenting a certificate FROM THE FAMILY PHYSICIAN.

SNEAKERS MUST BE WORN during all physical education classes.

LIBRARY: Our library is supervised by a full time Educational Technician and contains a large and ever-growing assortment of interesting books and other materials. All students are encouraged to use the library.

EXTRA HELP/SPECIAL SERVICES

Remedial help is available in reading for primary students (Grades 1 & 2). We offer both Intense Early Intervention and Early Success as part of our Title I program. This service is available through the Federally-funded Title I Program. Pamela Carnicelli leads the Title I Reading programs. She is available if you have any questions about these programs.

We have a Special Education classroom where students receive services according to their Individual Development Plan. Mrs. Simone is our Special Education teacher.

Services are also available for Speech and Language (Mrs. Wieder-Woodman), Occupational Therapy (Mrs. Gagnon) and Physical Therapy (Mrs. Stoorza).

A separate handbook is available to all parents to explain the Special Education services. Additional copies or further information may be obtained from the Director of Special Services, Dr. Carole Smith, located in the Superintendent's Office, 439-2438.

Please refer to the handbook section on Testing for more information.

SCHOOL COUNSELING SERVICES

School counseling services are available to all students at Central Elementary School. Services may include individual and group counseling, parent and teacher consultation, and classroom activities. Children may be referred for services by a teacher, administrator, or family. A child may request a visit with the counselor. The school counselor's role is to support students, faculty, and families with any issues that may affect children at Central School. Our counselor, Nina D'Aran, also acts as a liaison between the school and other agencies that provide student services. Families are encouraged to contact the school counselor with any questions or concerns at any time at 384-2333.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAM

Half-day sessions of both Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten are offered. Morning sessions begin at 8:25 and end at 11:30. Afternoon sessions run from 12:30 &endash; 2:55. Students will remain in the morning or afternoon session throughout the year. Pre-Kindergarten students must be four years old by October 15. Kindergarten students must be five years old by October 15.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

Children identified by the Pupil Evaluation Placement Team as having an educational disability will receive services according to the plan developed by the team. Families of new students with special educational needs should inform the principal upon transferring to the school. Special services are provided by a comprehensive group of specialists trained to work with children with special needs. A separate Special Services Handbook details these services. Please contact our office at 384-2333 to request a handbook.

ELEMENTARY TESTING

Traditional and holistic assessments are given in all content areas by teachers to assess progress.

Standardized tests are given at specified grade levels.

Grade Testing Program Dates Given

Pre-K Brigance Upon entering school

New Kindergartners Brigance Upon entering school

1 Stanford 10 Spring

1 & 2 DRA Reading Throughout the year

Everyday Math Assessments Throughout the year

1 & 2 Stanford 10 (Reading & Math) Spring

3 MEA Spring

Students may also be tested to determine eligibility for additional programs. Supplemental instruction in reading through the Title I Program and Special Education services (Pre-K-3) require specific testing. Should your child be referred for extra school services, you will be notified of the date and types of testing to be given.

Families are encouraged to review test results with their children's teacher or with the appropriate testing personnel. If you don't know who to contact, please check with the school principal. Parents of third grade students should check with Marshwood Great Works School for results of MEA testing.

REPORT CARDS

Report Cards inform you of your child's progress at the end of each academic term. Report cards will go home on December 12, March 20 and at the end of the school year. Although the report card is an important indicator of your child's achievement, it is only one of the ways that we can inform you about your child's progress. Please contact your child's teacher if you have questions or concerns about your child's report card.

CLASS ASSIGNMENTS

Students are grouped heterogeneously by sex, ability, talents and interests. Our administration and staff's goal is to create classes of students who will work cooperatively. Your input about your children is encouraged. We have developed an input sheet for this purpose. The sheet will be sent home with the second trimester report card.

Placement begins following April vacation. Please plan to return your input sheet prior to April 17th.

HOMEWORK POLICY

Purpose of Homework: The primary value of homework at the elementary level is to build good study habits. As with all worthwhile endeavors, the earlier we begin good habits, the easier it is to be successful. Each grade level will provide a more detailed checklist and suggested activities for your child. An indicator of time to spend on homework is 10 minutes per grade level each night.

Grades K-2: Children should be encouraged to review all written work with their parents and to discuss their school day at home. Parents are encouraged to provide enrichment activities such as visiting the local library.

Grade 1: Grade one students should engage in reading activities each evening. Homework should take 10 minutes to complete. Families are encouraged to sign off on homework after 10 minutes.

Grade 2: Grade two students should engage in reading activities each night. Homework should take 20 minutes to complete. Families are encouraged to sign off on homework after 20 minutes.

Grade 3: Third grade students should plan to spend an average of 30 minutes on homework each night. Examples of homework may include working on a project, studying a list of spelling words, memorizing math facts, reading library or textbooks or studying for a test. Students should engage in reading activities each night. Families are encouraged to sign off on homework after 30 minutes.

Homework for Absent Students: Students who are absent because of illness will be given two days for every day absent to make up missed work.

LOST AND FOUND

There is an area for Lost and Found articles located in the gym hallway. Due to health and safety reasons, all lost and found items will be disposed of at the end of each trimester. If you do lose something, report it to your child's teacher.

Valuables, large sums of money, electrical devices, game cards and dangerous items should NOT be brought to school.

Please label your child's clothing with his/her name. This will prevent permanent loss of personal items.

SCHOOL PICTURES

Lifetouch Studios takes school pictures in the fall on September 19th and in the spring. Discount family rates are available for families with more than two children in M.S.A.D. #35. Every student's picture is taken and one is placed in the student's cumulative folder for identification purposes. A percentage of the proceeds from school pictures is returned to the school.

VOLUNTEERS

As a volunteer you play an important role in your child's education. The education of our children is a community effort. We hope that you find your volunteering experience to be enjoyable and rewarding. Many volunteers say they have gained more than they have given. The following suggestions should help make your volunteering experience a positive one: please sign in at the office, be dependable, observe rules of confidentiality, and follow class discipline guidelines. If you think you would like to volunteer, please call for the phone number of the PTO Coordinator of Volunteers or speak with your child's teacher or the principal (384-2333). We welcome your involvement with our community of learners.

VISITORS

All families and MSAD #35 community members are welcome to visit Central School. In order that classrooms continue to operate with a positive atmosphere for learning for all students, the following considerations will apply to visits.

- A safe and orderly environment for staff and students will be maintained

- Visitors are limited to adults.

- Families and community members should contact the building principal to schedule a visit.

- The building principal will notify the staff member to establish an agreeable time for the visit.

- Visitors are asked to check in at the Office to obtain a visitor's pass and to return to the Office when leaving.

- Confidentiality is expected.

- Comments about visitations should be directed to the building principal.

STUDENT CONFIDENTIALITY

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING

FOR MSAD #35 SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS

As an adult who works with children in MSAD #35, I understand that my mission is to further enhance the educational, social and cultural experiences of the students within the school system.

I must, therefore, remain aware of the need for absolute confidentiality concerning all school/student-related information. I understand that the staff person to whom I am assigned in accordance with established school policies will direct activities and objectives and that cooperation and dependability on my part is essential for success.

I have read and understand this memorandum, and I agree to fulfill my obligations as an MSAD #35 School Volunteer.

____________________________________________ _____________________

(Signature) (Date)

____________________________________________

(Printed Name

DRESS CODE

At Central School we ask that clothing be appropriate for the educational setting of the school. We have set the following guidelines for specific clothing:

1. Hats should be removed upon entering the school.

2. Inappropriate dress for elementary school includes: short shorts, halter tops, extremely long or oversized T-shirts, cut-off T-shirts, and T-shirts as mentioned in the district policy.

3. During the snow season, students should wear warm coats, boots, snow pants, hats and mittens to go outside for recess. It is expected that children will play in areas of the playground that will keep them relatively free from mud and water. Students not dressed appropriately will remain on the sidewalk area during recess.

4. Students should not wear shorts to school for the period of time following Thanksgiving break until March 21st. We ask that girls wear pants and/or tights to cover their legs during the cold weather season and on days they have Physical Education. We encourage students to wear sneakers so they can safely participate in daily physical activities. Sneakers are required for participation in Physical Education class.

SCHOOL RULES

Central School uses the "Golden Rule" philosophy: "Do unto others as you would want done unto you." We encourage students to be accountable for their actions and to use self-control. Two common thoughts come from the rule:

BE KIND TO EACH OTHER AND TO YOURSELF

TAKE CARE OF OUR SCHOOL

SEVERE DISRUPTION: In the event of a severe disruption, a student will be immediately sent to the principal. Action deemed appropriate by the principal will be taken.

Criteria for Severe Disruption

• A student willfully inflicts harm to others.

• A student willfully destroys property.

• A student overtly and/or consistently refuses to follow rules and engages in behavior that is unsafe.

TRANSPORTATION

BUS: This is a special service for students who live beyond the walking distance from school. All bus students are assigned bus routes the first day of school. Students must be ready at the stop when the bus arrives. Please remind your child to be courteous and cautious whenever they are on or near the bus. Eating is not allowed on the bus at any time. Notes are required when a child wants to be dropped off at another stop.

CONDUCT FOR PUPILS TRANSPORTED BY SCHOOL BUS: Transportation is provided by M.S.A.D. #35 to better serve the students and families of South Berwick and Eliot. A pupil being transported shall be expected to observe the rules and regulations established for bus students. The privilege to ride the bus is dependent upon behavior and observation of the rules pertaining to conduct. Drivers are required to enforce these rules. Eating on buses is not allowed.

MEETING THE BUS:

Pupils shall:

1. Be on time

2. When walking to a bus stop, walk on the left, on the shoulder of the road facing traffic.

3. Walk across the road, not run.

4. Never run alongside the bus when it is moving.

Parents, please note &endash; if your child misses the bus, DO NOT chase, or flag down the bus in your vehicle. It is dangerous. Our busses are at or near capacity, please do not assume it is permissible for a student to ride another bus. Permission needs to be obtained IN ADVANCE through the school office. A note from the parent to the driver is not sufficient.

ON THE BUS:

Pupils shall:

1. Obey the driver

2. Go promptly to their seats, without crowding or pushing, sit properly and remain seated while the bus is in motion.

3. Not mar or deface the bus. The offender must pay for damage done to seats or other equipment.

4. Not smoke on the bus.

5. Not consume food or beverage

6. Not fight on the bus.

7. Not engage in "horseplay" or cause a disturbance.

8. Not tamper with the emergency door or any other part of the bus equipment.

9. Remain seated until the bus stops before leaving the bus.

10. Not extend arms, legs, head, and any object out of the bus.

11. Open windows only with the driver's permission.

12. Not shout to pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles.

13. Not throw objects inside or outside of the bus.

14. Not place objects in the aisle or emergency exits of the bus.

15. Leave the bus and cross the road only in front of the bus and at the driver's direction.

SAFETY IN THE SCHOOL

To ensure student safety, all doors except the door by the office will be locked during the school day. The Pre-K/Kindergarten door on the hot top will be opened for a short time to allow the morning students to leave and the afternoon students to arrive. Thank you for your continued cooperation regarding this safety plan.

NO SMOKING POLICY

SMOKING IS PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES IN THE SCHOOL AND ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS.

ITEMS NOT PERMITTED IN SCHOOL

In order to insure student safety and the protection of personal property (expensive jewelry and toys, large sums of money), families are encouraged to monitor closely those items that are brought or worn to school by students. The following items are specifically prohibited:

• Weapons (real or toy)

• Pocket knives, razor blades, or sharp objects

• Skateboards, roller skates and roller blades

• Radios, CD players, tape recorders, walkmans, video games, Gameboys, cell phones, ipods

• Baseball bats, hardballs, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks

• Matches, caps fireworks, paint balls

Please contact the principal if you have questions or concerns (384-2333).

PLAYGROUND RULES

These rules will be reviewed with students during the first week of school and periodically throughout the year as necessary.

1. Use equipment in a safe manner. Refer to rules the Physical Education teacher has developed for each piece of equipment.

2. Please play in a safe way with classmates.

3. Follow the Golden Rule. Use conflict resolution when needed.

4. Please leave all objects (stones, rocks, sticks, snow, etc.) on the ground.

5. Please do not run in the wood chips or on the hot top area. Run on the grassy areas only.

6. Line up quickly and quietly when the bell rings or as directed.

7. Trips inside are on an emergency basis with permission of the duty teacher.

8. Stay in sight of the duty teachers at all times.

INDOOR RECESS RULES

1. Please walk in classrooms at all times.

2. Plan to engage in a quiet indoor activity that does not disrupt others.

CLASSROOM RULES

Each teacher has specific classroom rules which will be explained to students on the first day of school. Teachers also post these rules in the classroom.

CONSEQUENCES

We like to catch students being good! Students are expected to follow the rules. Classes and individual students are recognized in a variety of ways for their good behavior.

Unfortunately, some students choose not to follow classroom rules or school rules. Consequences for students who repeatedly choose to break classroom or school rules may include:

1. Losing recess, time out, or being sent to the principal.

2. Phone call to family or Parent-Teacher conference, in-school

suspension or out-of-school suspension.

CAFETERIA RULES

We want every student to enjoy eating lunch in an atmosphere that is comfortable.

1. Please wait quietly in line when getting hot lunch or find a seat if you brought a cold lunch.

2. Quiet talking at seats, except when the lights are out. NO talking when lights are out.*

3. Please stay seated. Raise your hand to ask the duty teacher for permission to leave your seat.

4. Use the bathrooms before entering the cafeteria or during lunch with the permission of the duty teacher.

5. Please do not share food.

6. Students are responsible for recycling and picking up their own trash.

Consequences for not following directions may include: being moved to a different seat, a note sent to the classroom teacher, and/or a visit to the Principal's office.

* When the lights go out, there is no talking. Lights are turned out at the discretion of the duty teacher to: help move a long lunch line more quickly, to share information, to maintain a reasonable combination of talking and quiet time, and/or dismissal and transition back to the classroom.

RULES FOR ASSEMBLY BEHAVIOR

During the course of the school year, Central School provides concerts and enrichment programs. We believe it is appropriate to provide students with behavioral guidelines for assemblies.

Expectations for assembly behavior are as follows:

1. Students will sit in the designated areas.

2. Polite applause is appropriate. (Hooting, booing, whistling, foot stomping, and other types of "pep rally" behavior are NOT appropriate at this type of gathering).

3. Students should listen respectfully.

4. At the end of an assembly, students should listen for instructions for dismissal.

Each classroom teacher will review and discuss assembly conduct with their students at the beginning of the school year and as a reminder before each assembly.

Inappropriate assembly behavior will result in disciplinary action which may include: verbal warning, change of seat, and/or removal from assembly.

In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, MSAD #35 will provide interpretive services or other special considerations given notification of at least three working days prior to the day of the event.

OTHER BUSINESS

FIRE DRILLS AND CODE PURPLE DRILLS (CRISIS IN THE SCHOOL): Fire exits and procedure and Code Purple directions are posted in each room. For your child's safety, practice drills are held throughout the school year. For more information, please refer to the district policy.

VALUABLES: We encourage students not to bring valuables such as money, jewelry, cameras, radios, cell phones, Gameboys, etc. to school. The school cannot assume responsibility for the loss of or damage to these items.

LOST AND FOUND: Our lost and found table is usually overflowing! If your child is missing an article of clothing, he/she should check the area by the gym.

TELEPHONE:

Students may use the office phone when necessary. Arrangements for after school activities must be made before coming to school. A note explaining a change from normal procedure should be presented to the student's teacher the first thing in the morning.

CLASSROOM PARTIES: Classroom parties will be held for the winter holidays and Valentine's Day. If your family does not celebrate these holidays, please speak to your child's teacher about arrangements for your child during these parties.

DISTRIBUTION OF INVITATIONS: Parents are asked not to send invitations to birthday parties or similar events for distribution at school unless every child in the class receives an invitation.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: Central School offers an after school program W.O.W. (We Offer Wonders) to students. This program offers a variety of enrichment activities including visual performing arts, cooking and sports. This program is offered in the fall and spring.

STUDENT RECORDS

A student record is any information concerning a student that is permanently maintained, for use by authorized personnel. Student records are collected and maintained to assist in designing programs for, and recording the process of, a given child. The cumulative student records are the responsibility of the school principal.

Parents may request to meet with appropriate school personnel to review the contents of their child's school records. Parents may request that material be inserted into the cumulative school records, or request a hearing to present why they feel that something should be removed.

Request to review records must be made to the school principal and shall be granted within ten days.

Please see Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act

A school may only provide access to educational records or disclose educational records in accordance with the provisions of FERPA.

Educational records may not be shared with anyone unless the school has obtained a signed and dated written consent of a parent or eligible student.

The written consent must:

• Specify the records that may be disclosed

• Date and purpose of the disclosure

• Identify the party and class of parties to whom the disclosure may be made.

*** See Student Education Records Policy &endash; M.S.A.D. #35 Policies of the Board of Directors

Parents Right to Access Records

Parents or eligible students (students who are 18 years old or who are attending post-secondary school), have the right to inspect or review the educational records of the student within a reasonable period of time, but in no case later than 45 days after they have made a request. Schools must answer reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records,

including providing test protocols and test questions. Educational Records cannot be destroyed if there is an outstanding request to inspect or review

those records. Parents or eligible students may not review records that contain identifiable information about any other student.

*** See Notification of Rights Under FERPA Policy &endash; M.S.A.D. #35 Policies of the Board of Directors.

Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act

What is Section 504?

Section 504 is one part of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that bars discrimination against persons with disabilities in the services and programs that are administered by any entity that receives federal funds. It is brief and to the point.

POLICY APPENDIX

(Please refer to full policy on District Website)

www.msad35.net

Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action..................AC

Harassment and Sexual Harassment of Students...................ACAA-ACAA-R

Student Discrimination & Harassment Complaint Procedure........ACAA-ACAA-R

Tobacco Use and Possession.............................................ADC

Bomb Threats..........................................................EBCC

Pest Management Plan...................................................ECB

Pupil Evaluation Team..................................................IHB

LAU Plan..............................................................IGBI

Promotion, Retention & Acceleration of Students.......................IKE