“Building a S.T.R.O.N.G. Foundation”

Roberto Clemente

Elementary School 257 Summer Avenue, Newark, NJ 07104

Parent/Student Handbook

2019-2020

Dr. Claudio Barbarán, Principal

Mrs. Adalis Alvarez, Vice Principal

Ms. Liana Rodriguez, Vice Principal

Disclaimer: This is the Roberto Clemente Elementary School Parent/Student Handbook for 2019-2020 school year. Any revisions and additions

to the handbook will be distributed to all parents and students during the course of the school year.

Table of Contents

Pg.

Purpose and Use of Handbook……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 1

Amendments to Handbook…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 1

Non-Discrimination Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1

Communication Index…………………….………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2

Vision, Mission, and Goals………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………… 3

STRONG Core Values and Expectations……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4

General Discipline Policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6

Dress Code…………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7

School Hours and Registration Procedures…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8

Lunch Application, Attendance & Absence Policy

Lunch Applications……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9

Attendance and Absence Policies……….………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Participation in School Activities…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Absence Other than Illness…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Lateness/ Tardiness……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10

School Supervision……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10

School Dismissal & Closings

Early Dismissal/ Vacations…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10

Emergency Closing……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11

Staff Development……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11

Teacher-Parent Communication

Appointments with School Personnel and Communications ……………………………………………………………………. 11

Bringing Money to School…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12

School Staff & PTO

Parent Teacher Organization ..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12

Custodial/Non-Custodial Policies………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 13

Pick Up from School……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13

Entrance/Exit during Inclement Weather …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 13

Emergency SafetyProcedures…………………………………………………………………....................................................... 17

Table of Contents (continued)

Pg.

Academic Policies

Subject Classification………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17

Marking Periods………………………………………………………………………………………………………………............................. 17

Progress Report …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18

Report Cards ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18

Parent Conferences………………………………………….……………………………………………………………………………………….. 18

Field Trips…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 19

Birthday Celebrations Policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19

Electronic Devices………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 20

NJ State/ School Interim Assessments………….…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 21

Homework………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 21

Lost & Found………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 22

Physical Requirements………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 22

Physical Education Requirements…………………………..………………………………………………………………………………….. 23

Grades…………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….. 24

Technology/ Internet Access………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 24

Visitors……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 25

SST..……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 25

Child Study Team………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26

Purpose and Use of Handbook

This handbook exists to foster the efficient operation of Roberto Clemente Elementary School.

To meet this objective, the school is given flexibility and the ability to exercise discretion. In

appropriate circumstances, the Principal has the freedom to take actions other than those

specified in this handbook. This handbook is not intended and should not be considered to create

any additional rights for students or parents/guardians.

Amendments to Handbook

This handbook is subject to change at any time when determined by the school administration.

If changes are made to the handbook, parents/guardians will be notified promptly.

Non-Discriminatory Policy

Roberto Clemente Elementary School enrolls students of any race, color, national and ethnic

origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to

students at Roberto Clemente Elementary School. The school does not discriminate on the basis

of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies

admissions policies, athletic and other school-administered programs.

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Communication Index

Main Office 973-268-5290/5291

Fax 973-483-5524

School Website www.nps.k12.nj.us/roc

Name Position E-Mail Phone

Number Dr. Claudio Barbarán

Principal CBarbarán@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5290

Mrs. Adalis Alvarez-

Craft

Vice principal

ACraft@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5290

Ms. Liana Rodriguez Vice Principal

L2Rodriguez@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5290

Ms. Sabrina Greene Clerk 3 SOnibudo@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5290

Ms. David Lema-Ochoa Clerk 3 dochoa @nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5291

Mr. Michael Garcia Parent Liaison

CRPerez@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5297

Ms. Dawnett Daniel, RN

School Nurse Ddaniel @nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5294

Mrs. Leida Martinez Guidance

Counselor

L2Martinez@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5271

Ms. Ruth Perez Attendance

Counselor

crperez@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5328

Ms. Lorena F. Valencia Social Worker FValencia@nps,k12.njj.us 973-230-6588

Mrs. Maritsa Soto CST Social Worker msoto@nps.k12.nj.us 973-268-5007 Teacher’s Information: Your child’s teacher will provide you their e-mail address or other forms of communication.

Teachers will also give you their schedule when they are available for meetings. You are also welcome to visit the

school’s website, where you can find teachers’ information and current school news.

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Vision

Building a S.T.R.O.N.G. Foundation for Tomorrow’s Leaders, Workers and Productive Citizens.

Mission Statement

Collaboration = Success for All!

RCES Goals

Increase attendance in all grade levels. Support scholars’ social and emotional needs.

Increase reading proficiency in all grade levels. Increase critical thinking and problem solving in all

subject areas.

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I am going to be Successful.

I am going to be a Team Player.

I am going to be Respectful.

I am going to be Optimistic.

I am going to be Nice to others.

I am going to be Great!

We are going to be S.T.R.O.N.G.!

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Morning S.T.R.O.N.G. Sessions to Build a S.T.R.O.N.G. Class Community

Successful Team Player Respectful Optimistic Nice Great Morning gatherings with students will be called Morning S.T.R.O.N.G. Sessions. These daily sessions are part of this school’s plan for implementing a universal or school-wide positive behavioral intervention and support (PBIS) system. In our PBIS system holding Morning S.T.R.O.N.G. Sessions will be one of the classroom practices being implemented school-wide with all students for “primary prevention”. Primary prevention refers to Tier 1 Support in a system of School Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) and is aimed at preventing behavior problems from developing. Regularly implementing Morning STRONG Sessions is an engaging way to start each day, build a strong sense of community, and set children up for success socially and academically.

S.T.R.O.N.G. Global Expectations in Common Areas and Classroom Rules

A S.T.R.O.N.G. matrix that details expected S.T.R.O.N.G. behaviors in common areas will be taught to the students and displayed throughout the school building (Matrix can be found at the end of this Document Appendix C). The students will be rewarded with S.T.R.O.N.G. tickets for abiding by the expectations. In order to be consistent, teachers are encouraged to align their classroom rules to the S.T.R.O.N.G. matrix.

S.T.R.O.N.G. Expectations:

Be courteous, considerate and cooperative to EVERYONE. Wear school uniform every day. Be a good listener. Follow directions and complete work on time. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself. Use appropriate language and tone of voice. Walk down the halls in an orderly manner. Use appropriate manners and gestures at all times. No running or playing in the restrooms/bathrooms. Respect other’s privacy (no peeking

in or under the stalls). Wash hands with soap and water after using the restroom/bathroom. No chewing gum

Playground S.T.R.O.N.G. Expectations:

Respect and obey the adults on duty Respect each other by not fighting and playing rough Enjoy the snow but do not throw snowballs Be responsible for personal property brought to school (label property with the child’s

name)

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Dress appropriately for the weather Line up quickly when the bell rings/whistle blows Help keep the playground clean

Bus S.T.R.O.N.G. Expectations:

Keep hands, feet and objects to self at all times Make good choices when speaking to others/use positive language Remain seated in assigned seat at all times Respect the bus and all property on it Follow the bus driver and assistant’s directions

General Discipline Policy

Students are expected to act with courtesy and respect towards one another and toward all

members of the staff. They must take seriously their obligation to develop lifetime habits of self-

control and concern for well-being of others. Home and school will work together to help

students to learn and live qualities of responsible behavior and the elements of good citizenship.

A student who chooses to disrupt the good order of the school or to violate a policy or regulation

will have to accept the consequences of those irresponsible choices. Appropriate discipline is

within the discretion of the principal. Accountability for uncooperative, disruptive or unsafe

behavior and bullying may take any of the following forms: misconduct referrals, or warnings,

punishment assignments, denial of privileges, lunch detention, in-school suspension, out-of-

school suspension, or expulsion.

Actions which violate the law, threaten or cause harm to other students or staff members (i.e.

bullying), disrupt or impede the welfare and progress of the school community, or bring discredit

to the school will not be tolerated. This includes any and all computer, Internet, e-mail, and cyber

bullying activities in or out of school. Such actions or other severe violations of school rules may

result in immediate expulsion. Roberto Clemente follows the districts Zero Tolerance rule and

has anti-bullying education throughout the school year. If a student persists in violating basic

obligations of courtesy, consideration, respect, cooperation or safety, a Principal/Parent/Student

conference will be scheduled. All subsequent discipline, counseling, consultation and corrective

action plans will be viewed as positive home-school efforts to help the student improve behavior.

If these cooperative efforts of parents and school staff prove ineffective, the student will be

subject to expulsion.

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Dress Code

Newark Public Schools has implemented a dress code as of August 14, 2009. The school colors

at Roberto Clemente School are:

Yellow or black- shirts/blouses

Khaki or black- pants/skirts (for girls)

If students do not wear uniforms, there are discipline actions that may be taken, as per the district

discipline code the Newark Public Schools adopted of the school uniform laws on August 14,

2009.

* •Verbal Reprimand •Contact Parent

•Peer Mediation •Conference

•Withdrawal of Privileges

Uniform Company

The official vendor for the school uniform is Kids Place. Kids Place has two convenient locations:

Locations: 311 Ferry St (Pathmark Shopping Center), Newark, NJ 126 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ

Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:30am – 7pm Sunday 11am – 6pm 908-355-0600

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School Hours

Grades PreK-5………………………………8:25 a.m. – 2:55 p.m.

The school’s responsibility for supervision of students begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:05 p.m. For students properly enrolled in the schools’ extended day programs, supervisory begins at 2:55 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (depending on the program enrolled in). Children should not arrive prior to 8:00 AM and should be picked up no later than 2:55PM.

Breakfast

Please note that the school will offer breakfast for all students in the classroom. We encourage

you to send your child to school on time so they can eat breakfast and start class on time.

Registration Procedure

You can visit the main office to register your child. Below is a list of items you must bring to the

school:

Proof of address- any THREE of the following: driver’s license, utility bill, telephone bill,

voters registration card or the rental/lease agreement (rent receipt not accepted)

Proof of age- ONE of the following: (ORIGINALS ONLY) Birth Certificate, Baptismal

Certificate or Passport.

If Guardian (not parent), you must bring legal documentation stating legal

custody/guardianship.

Immunization Records must include:

DPT 4 doses one on or after the fourth birthday POLIO 3 doses one on or after the fourth birthday MMR 2 doses after 1 year of age HIB 1 dose PPD 1 dose Hepatitis B 3 doses Varivax 1 dose on or after 1st birthday (K only) Influenza Required for Pre K students between October- December

For Pre-K 3 – Child must be 3 years old on or before October 1st of the Current school

year.

For Pre-K 4 – Child must be 4 years old on or before October 1st of the Current school

year.

For Kindergarten - Child must be 5 years old on or before October 1st of the current school

year.

The child must be present during the registration process. We will not preregister

without the child being present.

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Lunch Applications

Every family is required to complete a lunch application per child enrolled at Roberto Clemente

Elementary School. You can complete the lunch application online at

www.schoollunchapp.com. You may also visit the school for assistance completing the lunch

application. The deadline to complete the lunch application is Friday, September 13, 2019. Our

goal is to have 100% of applications completed, as this affects our schoolwide funding and

lunch programs.

Attendance and Absence Policy

Student attendance is mandatory every day by state law unless there is a medical emergency. If

your child will be absent due to illness, court appearances, death in the family, or an approved

religious holiday YOU MUST:

Call the main office at 973-350-5290/5291 or call the nurse, Ms. Dawnett Daniel at 973-

268-5294 no later than 9:00 a.m.

Your child should return to school with the appropriate documentation which is to be

submitted to the attendance counselor to notify us concerning your child’s status.

If your child does not attend regularly, is late regularly or is removed from school early on a

regular basis, a Legal Notice will be issued by the attendance counselor and Legal Action May Be

Taken Against You.

Absence from School and Participation in School Activities

If a student is absent from school because of illness or disciplinary action, he/she will not be

permitted to take part in extracurricular activities that afternoon or evening. If a student is absent

from school for reasons other than illness or disciplinary action the school reserves the right to

make an individual judgment regarding same-day extracurricular participation.

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Lateness and Tardiness

Breakfast is served at 8:00am and classes begin at 8:25am. A student is considered late if he/she

is not in their classroom by 8:30 a.m. The district policy states that if a child is excessively absent,

tardy, or leaves early excessively, he/she is at risk of being retained and can also be required to

attend mandatory summer school. Please remember this is District Policy.

Supervision

The school’s responsibility for supervision of students begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:55 p.m.

For students properly enrolled in the schools’ extended day programs, supervisory begins at 2:55

p.m. to 5:00 pm (depending on the program in which they are enrolled). Children should not arrive

prior to 8:00 AM and should be picked up no later than 2:55PM.

Early Dismissal/ Change in Pick-Up/Vacations

All requests for early dismissal must be in writing and should include the reason for the request.

For the safety and protections of your child, parents are requested to report to the school office

to pick up the student. No child will be excused from school unless this procedure is followed.

If you are changing the method by which a child will be going home and with whom, please

make sure to send a note to the teacher who will then inform the office as well. If your child

takes a bus home, you must also inform the teacher and the office so that we can be aware of

the change. If both the office and teacher are not aware in writing or if a call has not been

made, we will proceed with the normal arrangements.

Parents must complete the “Walk Home Permission Form”, for any student that is allowed to

walk home.

Please schedule regular medical and dental appointments after school hours or on school

holidays.

Family vacations should be scheduled during school holidays. We discourage parent’s request to

have students excused for vacation while school is in session. The student is responsible for

completing all missed work during any absence. Also note, that this vacation is not an excused

absence and as a result of excessive absences, a Legal Notice will be issued by the attendance

officer and Legal Action May Be Taken Against You. Long vacations can affect your child’s

enrollment by losing its seat at current school.

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Emergency Closing

In the event of severe weather conditions or other emergencies, you will be notified via our

automated ALERT SYSTEM. If your telephone number has changed, or if you do not receive a call

on a closing, please notify the office. Please be aware that additional days might be imposed at

the end of the school year.

Up to date information can be found on Newark Public Schools website www.nps.k12.nj.us.

Staff Development Days

Staff Development days are scheduled periodically throughout the year. Some of these dates are

noted on the school calendar. All dates are subject to change by the district. Parents/Guardian(s)

will be notified of all changes.

Home to School Communication

Appointment with School Personnel/Communication with Teachers Please make sure you are aware of your teacher’s preparation schedule. This is the time they are

available to speak to you. There are 3 days of the week that teachers are available for parent

conferences. If your teacher has not provided you with this information, please ask them for it or

ask in the main office (973)268-5290/5291.

Also please make sure to avail yourself to their email. It is VERY important to stay in constant

contact with your teacher. Please also utilize the Daily Communicator and Student journals to

communicate with your child’s teacher. This year, all teachers will be using Class Dojo for

teacher/parent communication.

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Bringing Money to School

No money collections will take place in the classrooms without the permission of the principal.

Once permission has been received, money should be sent to school in a clearly addressed and

identified envelopes with name, grade, room number, item to be purchased and the amount of

money enclosed indicated on the outside of the sealed envelope.

PTO Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

Mission

The Roberto Clemente Elementary Parent Teacher Organization will be a nonprofit parent

teacher organization (PTO) whose mission is to institute and sustain a close relationship

between the parents, teachers, and students by evolving opportunities within the home,

school, and community. The PTO provides assistance to teachers within the classroom settings,

raises funds for educational materials and experiences, advocates school and family social

interaction, and provides an unbiased forum for sharing information on issues that impact our

children. It is our belief that the team effort of a parent teacher organization offers the best

possible learning environment for our children.

Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives of the Roberto Clemente Elementary Parent Teacher Organization will

be as follows

· Promote communication between students, faculty, and parents.

· Foster and enhance the educational environment.

· Recruit volunteers and coordinate volunteer efforts for programs and projects that support

and enrich the curriculum and educational goals for Roberto clemente Elementary.

· Create and cultivate a sense of community amongst all stakeholders.

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Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents

School Records

Roberto Clemente abides by the provisions of applicable law with respect to the rights of non-

custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary and upon request, the school

will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the student’s essential academic records.

Court Orders Affecting Parents

If there is a court order specifying the rights and responsibilities of individual parents, it is the

responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.

The custodial parent may wish to supply the principal with the “custody section” of the divorce

decree if it contains information which may be useful to the school in fulfilling its obligations.

Entrance/Pick-Up from School

The school will permit only the custodial parent, or her/his designee, to pick up the child during

or at the end of the school day. The parent designee must be 18 years old. The non- custodial

parent will not be permitted to remove the child from school during or at the end of the school

day, unless there is written authorization from the custodial parent. All of this information is to

be placed on the child’s emergency form. If there are any changes, please update the forms

immediately and submit to the office.

ENTRY & EXIT PROCEDURES

The entrance and dismissal for students will take place via the Van Wagenen Street gate

(playground). The gate will open at 8am for all students. All students will have breakfast

in their classrooms, therefore can remain on line in their designated area until the

arrival of their teacher. All PreK and K students will have assigned seating in the

auditorium during arrival and dismissal.

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Students who arrive to school via district/county transportation will use the Summer

Avenue, 2nd entrance to be checked in by school personnel. PK and K will transportation

students will report to the auditorium to ensure safety. 1st-5th students will go to the

playground to their classroom’s assigned location.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURES

At 8:25am, teachers must meet their class at their assigned location. They will enter the

building through their respective doors.

During inclement weather, the students will enter the auditorium through the

playground. Each classroom has assigned rows in which the students will sit in until their

teacher arrives at 8:25am. 5th grade students will report to the cafeteria which also

have assigned seating during inclement weather.

EXIT PROCEDURES

At 2:50pm, teachers will begin exiting the building with their class to the assigned

location in the playground. PK and K students will be dismissed from the auditorium.

At 2:55pm when the bell rings, the Security Guards will open the Van Wagenen Street

gate.

At 2:55pm, teachers must be at their assigned station for dismissal ensuring a safe hand-

over to parents, an authorized person from the parent written in the student’s file,

administrator, and/or security guards.

Students who walk home must have signed Parent Consent Form.

Any remaining students after the dismissal time should be escorted by the teacher to

the auditorium. Remaining students will be supervised by administrators and/or security

guards. Calls will be made to the parents to secure a person to pick up the child.

At 3:05pm, security guards will close the Van Wagenen Street gate.

Students who depart school via district/county transportation and/or an external

afterschool program, will meet at their assigned location by the cafeteria at 2:50pm to

be checked in by school personnel. Once the bus representative arrives, they will be

signed out and will exit the building via Summer Avenue.

During inclement weather, PreK-2nd grades will dismiss from the auditorium from their

assigned rows. 3rd, 4th & 5th grades will dismiss from their assigned locations in the

playground.

We ask you that you NOT hover by the exit doors during Pick-Up especially during inclement

weather. Please find the designated areas for your child’s class. The teachers will walk and

dismiss the children there. This will ensure a speedy and safe end of the school day. We ask

that you be on time especially during inclement weather. Students whose parents are late are

then brought back to the auditorium.

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** Please note: Parents arriving after 2:55 are considered late.

Chronic lateness is being recorded and should not be

ongoing. Consistent tardiness and late pick-ups are

considered negligence and will be handled appropriately as

per district policy. **

Entrance & Exit During Inclement Weather Procedures

AM Procedures remain the same, with the exception:

During inclement weather, the students will enter the auditorium through the

playground. Each classroom has assigned rows in which the students will sit in until their

teacher arrives at 8:25am. 5th grade students will report to the cafeteria which also have

assigned seating during inclement weather.

o Ms. Rego– Middle of the Auditorium

o Ms. De Almeida– Middle of the Auditorium

o Ms. D’Andrea – Middle of the Auditorium

o Ms. Abrantes – Middle of the Auditorium

o Mrs. Matamoros – Rodriguez – Middle of the Auditorium

o Ms. Edwards –Left side of the Auditorium

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o Ms. Huertas – Left side of the Auditorium

o Ms. Pacheco- Left side of the Auditorium

RCES Auditorium Inclement Weather Setup

PM Procedures remain the same, with the exception:

During inclement weather, PreK-2nd grades will dismiss from the auditorium from their

assigned rows. 3rd, 4th & 5th grades will dismiss from their assigned locations in the

playground.

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Emergency Safety Procedures

During a fire safety drill, students are escorted out of the building immediately. Under no

circumstances will anyone be allowed to pick up any personal belongings. Students are to follow

teachers to their pre assigned designated area. After the building has been cleared students will

return to their classrooms.

During a Security Drill, students will be required to gather in a designated area which has been

deemed the safest area in the classroom. The security guards and other safety officers will check

to make sure that each classroom door is locked and that the lights are out. Classroom doors will

be locked, lights will be shut off, and students will wait in that area until the lockdown is

complete.

Academic Policies

Major Subjects

All students must successfully complete all major subjects in order to be promoted to the next

grade.

Major Subjects Special Subjects Language Arts/ Reading Mathematics Science Social Studies

Art Physical Education & Health Music Dance/Drama Technology Literacy Education

All students are expected to achieve a passing grade in all subject areas or make up the work missed.

Marking Periods, Progress Reports, Report Cards

Marking Periods

1st Marking Period Dates Sept. 3 - Nov. 5, 2019

2nd Marking Period Dates Nov. 6, 2019 – Jan. 30, 2020

3rd Marking Period Dates Jan. 31 - April 7, 2020

4th Marking Period Dates April 8 - June 22, 2019

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Progress Report

Each marking period is approximately 45 days in length. Midway through the marking period an

interim report will be developed by the teacher for each pupil. These reports will be distributed

on:

1st Progress Report Oct. 2, 2019

2nd Progress Report Dec. 13, 2019

3rd Progress Report March 6, 2020

4th Progress Report May 20, 2020

If you receive a recommendation for your child, you can help by:

Checking frequently with the teacher regarding the daily progress of the student.

Supervising your child’s work and study habits at home.

Showing interest in your child in all aspects of his/her school responsibility.

If you feel there is a reason to question your child’s academic or disciplinary standing, please do

not wait. Follow the above procedure so that your child does not lose valuable time.

** If you have met with your child’s teacher and feel that you require additional support, please

make an appointment to see Mrs. Martinez, Guidance Counselor or Ms. Valencia, Social Worker

(973-268-5271 or 973-230-6588).

Report Cards

1st Marking Period Nov. 21, 2019

2nd Marking Period Feb. 20, 2020

3rd Marking Period April 29, 2020

4th Marking Period June 22, 2020

Parent Conferences

A successful school experience is a result of the school and home working together. Conferences

are scheduled for teachers to discuss each child’s progress with parents or guardians.

November 21, 2019 February 20, 2020

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Field Trips Policy

On occasion Roberto Clemente will sponsor and conduct field trips for the educational

enrichment of the students. Although participation in field trips is an extension of the academic

program, they are a privilege. School administration reserves the right to take a teacher’s

recommendation to not allow a student to participate based on conduct, poor behavior that

places the child or others at risk or a lack of academic effort. The teacher will provide notification

to the parent ahead of time, unless there is an egregious incident that merits a last minute

decision. If a student is not allowed to participate in a field trip, alternative educational

experience will be provided in the school on that day.

No student may participate in a field trip unless a signed parent/guardian permission slip for the

specific event is submitted to the school. The permission slip is provided by the school.

Celebrations Policy

In order to minimize classroom disruption and limit the amount of lost instructional time, if you

wish to celebrate a birthday at school you must follow these guidelines:

Inform the teacher at least 1 WEEK in advance – parties can only be held on Friday’s at

2:00PM.

Parents will be allowed to attend the celebration only if proper and advanced notification

is given (a minimum of 1 week, or at the discretion of the teacher).

Visitors/parents are limited to 2 guests per celebration. Parents must provide all items

for the celebrations. If parents/ guests cannot attend, items should be delivered to the

main office in the morning and a staff member will make sure the student’s teacher

receives all items

Parents are not allowed to bring any sugary or high calorie items, such as cupcakes,

munchkins, donuts, small juices, cakes, and goodie bags. balloons, decorations, matches,

knives, and goodie bags of food items.

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Due to the “Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value” (https://www.fns.usda.gov/school-

meals/foods-minimal-nutritional-value) policy form from the USDA, there are some items

that shall not be served anywhere on school property at any time before the end of the

school day: Soda, Water Ices, Chewing Gums & Hard Candy, Jellies and Gums,

Marshmallow Candies, Fondant, Licorice, Candy Coated Popcorn. If a student comes to

school with an inappropriate snack, it must be sent back home. The consumption of food

or beverages is restricted to the students’ cafeteria and teachers’ lounges.

We invite families to bring in goodie bags of non-food items if they would like to

celebrate birthdays with their child’s classmates. These goodie bags can include pencils,

erasers, markers, small bouncing balls, small plastic toys, etc.

Electronic Devices

Cell phones, iTouch, mp3, IPADs or any other such electronic device that a student brings to

school needs to be turned off and stored in the backpack. If a cell phone, iTouch, mp3 or any

other such electronic device is on and/or used during school time (including field trips), it will be

confiscated by the adult in charge and turned in to the office. Devices may be searched for IM’s,

emails, texts or websites that may have been accessed during school time. Gaming devices such

as DS, PSP or those alike are not to be brought to school and will be confiscated. The

parent/guardian will have to make an appointment to come to the office to retrieve the device.

** Remember that the school policy on cell phones is clear: Cell phones are to be turned off

during the school day. If they are turned on or used, they will be confiscated and the parent

will be required to come and pick them up. ** There are other consequences for repeated

offenders.

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NJ State/School Interim Assessments

Testing helps assess the progress and success of individual students and the school as a whole,

and to identify specific problems. Some tests are mandated by the state of New Jersey such as

the New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA) will be administered to all our students.

Other district and school assessments will be administered throughout the year.

Homework

All students will have homework. It is intended to create good independent study habits. We ask

that you please work with your child to provide proper study conditions at home. They should

be working in a well-lighted area that is free from distractions. It is recommended that the time

you set aside for homework should be the same time each day. This develops consistency for

the child. Teachers will further inform you on how you can assist your child at home.

If your child is absent and you want the teacher to prepare the homework, please notify the

school as soon as possible. This will allow the teachers the time to prepare the homework during

the day, rather than interrupting class time. Your cooperation is appreciated.

When requests for homework are made due to a planned absence, teachers will honor those

requests as best they can. However, lesson plans can change daily and it may be difficult to

provide all the work prior to the absence. Students may need to complete missed work upon

their return if they are not given prior assignments.

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Lost and Found

Please notify the security personnel immediately if any items are lost at school. We will maintain

items in lost and found for one month and then they will be taken to the Salvation Army on the

last Friday of the month.

Physical Requirement

Annual Testing

Blood Pressure, Height, Weight, Vision Screening, Hearing Screening & Dental Screening

Health Insurance reporting (Medicaid) NJIIS consent form

Medication Administration Requirements

Allergy reporting and Epipen administration

Contagious diseases exclusion from School: Lice, Rashes, Conjunctivitis, Fever, Vomiting

Nurse – Ms. Dawnett Daniel, RN (973) 268-5294 Health Office Daily Schedule

8:20 am-9:00 am Medical Notes, phone calls from parents

9:00 am- 11:00 am Physicals and screenings

11:00 am- 1:15 pm First Aid, sick calls

1:15 pm- 1:45 pm Nurse’s Lunch

1:45 pm- 2:55 Sick calls, documentation

Referrals to Health Clinic/ Dental Clinic

Health Teaching

Puberty (tread lightly), Hygiene, Safety (uniform footwear, clothing appropriate for the

weather)

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Physical Education Requirements

Dress Code: Students are to wear appropriate clothing for the activities, ex. Black Sweatpants,

Yellow or Black T-shirt, Yellow or Black Long Sleeve Shirt. Sneakers are required and must be

laced properly and tied correctly. Any jewelry or hazardous objects should be removed before

participation. Attire may vary depending on the activity and will be deemed appropriate

according to teacher discretion. Medical Limitations: Students may have their class activity

modified by presenting a parental note to the instructor for a maximum of 1 week. Students

whose activities are limited for more than 1 week are required to present a written doctors note

of limitation. The doctor’s note must clearly state the student’s limitations. An appropriate

modified physical education program will be provided for all students with a limitation.

Accidents: Accidents occurring during Physical education class or intramurals should immediately

be brought to the attention of the physical education instructor.

Dance/Drama Class Uniform/Attire

On days that Dance/Drama class is scheduled, students are to wear the following:

Girls: Black tights/leotards / White Shirts

Boys: Black Sweat Pants / White Shirts

They must wear sneakers with socks. If they are not in the above attire, they run the risk of not

being able to participate in the class.

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Grades

Grading: Letter grades are distributed in the area of effort and conduct depending on grade level.

Kindergarten

through second

3rd, 4th, 5th Grade

S-Secure

DV-Developing

E-Emerging

NE-Not Evident

A+ , A, A-

B+, B, B-

C

D, F

Technology/ Internet Access

The District is committed to the use of telecommunication networks in a responsible, efficient,

courteous and legal manner. Internet access and other on-line services, provided to students and

teachers, offer a multitude of global resources. Our goal in providing these services is to enhance

the educational development of our students. Acceptable uses of telecommunications are

devoted to activities that support teaching and learning. The use of the Newark Public Schools

(NPS) computer network is limited to the exchange of academic information, research, career

and professional development activities consistent with the mission of the District. In support of

NPS district’s goal, users must agree to this policy as a condition of receiving Internet access.

Usage is a privilege, not a right.

Go to the website address to see the full policy for using the Technology/Internet access in the

Newark Public schools.

http://www.nps.k12.nj.us/blog/mdocs-posts/nps-acceptableusepolicy/

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Visitors

For the safety of the children, everyone visiting the school must first check-in at the security desk

and proceed to the main office. Please note that all visitors will be asked for a form of

identification at the security desk. When the office has ascertained if you are to proceed to

another location in the school, you will then be provided with a tag with the location printed on

it. Please note, that appointments with teachers are preferred and that we attempt to not

interrupt instruction if at all possible unless there is an emergency.

Student Support Team (SST)

The Student Support Team (SST) is an adult-centered program. By design, the SST team invites requests for assistance from school staff or parents, rather than referrals to the team. Welcoming requests for assistance clearly communicates that the team exists to assist staff or parents with educational problems they are experiencing with students or their children, rather than assume total responsibility for identified problems. The learning, behavior and health issues presented to the team must in some way be related to the educational process. These issues, however, need not have an individual student as the focus for the problem to be reviewed by the team. For example, a teacher might be experiencing general classroom management problems (e.g., difficulty getting students settled to begin instructional lessons, students regularly talking out of turn and making inappropriate comments, students repeatedly leaving their seats without permission, significant numbers of students being inattentive during class instruction), and could use the I&RS team as a forum for problem solving and remediating these educational problems. The program is not limited to providing assistance to classroom teachers. For example, school counselors, school social workers or substance awareness coordinators might experience difficulty working with a student and/or the student’s family, and could benefit from reviewing the problem through the collaborative team process. School support staff (e.g., clerical, custodial, food preparation, transportation) are in positions to observe and interact with students and can be valuable sources of information, as well as benefit from participating in the SST team process.

Per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2(a)6, parents must be actively involved in the development and

implementation of SST action plans. Parents may also initiate a request for assistance of the

school team in addressing issues and concerns they have with their children.

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The Roles of the Child Study Team

The School Psychologist determines a child's intellectual and social/emotional functioning and works with students individually and in a group setting. The School Psychologist develops programs to work with teachers and parents regarding effective teaching and learning strategies at home and in school.

The Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant (LDTC) assesses a child's academic levels, learning needs and strengths and transfers specific instructional techniques to classroom teachers through consultation and collaboration.

The CST School Social Worker evaluates a child's developmental history, home environment and acts as a liaison between the home, school, community and outside service agencies. The School Social Worker works closely with parents in providing parent advisory committee meetings.

The Speech and Language Specialist screens and evaluates children in order to determine their current speech and language development. For those children who are eligible, the Speech and Language Specialist provides services, prepares written diagnostic reports and is a resource person to parents, teachers and administrators.

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If you have an opportunity to make things better & you don’t, then you are wasting your

time on earth. — Roberto Clemente

I want to be remembered as a ballplayer who gave all he had to give. — Roberto

Clemente

When I put on my uniform, I feel I am the proudest man on earth. — Roberto Clemente

At Roberto Clemente Elementary School, we

are committed to serve all students become

the future leaders of our society.

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