Ballenger Creek Elementary School

Parent/Student Handbook

5250 Kingsbrook Drive

Frederick, Maryland 21702

School Phone: 240-236-2500

School Fax: 240-236-2501

School Website: http://bces.sites.fcps.org

“Building a Better Tomorrow

by Creating an Environment for Success Today.”

2

You may visit our website on the internet at http://bces.sites.fcps.org and keep up-to-date with what is happening at BCES! The website is periodically updated.

FINDOUTFIRST

Frederick County Public Schools and Ballenger Creek Elementary offer most of its school news via FindOutFirst e-mail. In addition to emergency notices, you can receive information that is pertinent to you and our community. Our parent newsletter, Bobcat Bulletin, will also be published two times each month.

DIRECTIONS TO SIGN UP FOR FINDOUTFIRST

1. Go to: www.fcps.org/fof/bces (or use the update link at the bottom of any

FindOutFirst message you get). 2. LOG IN with your email address and password. If you do not know your password: FIRST, before you enter your e-mail address, select and click on I cannot log in. A box will open for you to type your e-mail address so

FindOutFirst can send you your password. Check your e-mail for a message from EZCommunicator.com that gives you your password. 3. Now you can LOG IN and UPDATE your User Information! Remember to

click the SAVE button to save your changes. (Here's where you may also choose a new username and password if you like.) 4. UPDATE your school relationships by selecting Ballenger Creek ES and

your relationship to the school. The default choice was Community Member/Other. If you have not done this previously please REMOVE

Community Member/Other if one of the other options better defines your relationship and ADD the correct relationship(s) such as Parent/Guardian.

5. Choose all the types of FCPS news you want such as Emergency Notices.

6. Choose the Ballenger Creek Elementary School news you want. Make

sure you select your grade level(s) of interest. After updating, you will receive your Bobcat Bulletin and e-mails with Ballenger Creek Elementary FOF messages based on your choices. Thank you!

NOTE: If you subscribed to FindOutFirst last school year, you may need to update the type of information that you wish to receive, including your child’s enrolled grade for the new school year.

3

Table of Contents

BCES Mission & Vision ................................................................. 4

Welcome Letter ............................................................................... 5 Daily School Schedules .................................................................. 6 Communications from School ........................................................ 6 Visitor’s Guidelines ........................................................................ 7

Student Safety and Security ........... Error! Bookmark not defined. Arrival and Dismissal Procedures ................................................... 9

Pre-kindergarten Arrival and Dismissal........................................ 10 In the Event of An Emergency...................................................... 11

Procedures for Student Release ................................................ 11

Release Gate Map for Parents ................................................... 12 Emergency School Procedures for Closings & Delays............. 13

Attendance Policy and Procedures ................................................ 13 BCES Attendance Procedures................................................... 14 Written Excuses ........................................................................ 14

Tardiness ................................................................................... 15 Early Dismissal ......................................................................... 15

School-wide Behavior Plan (PBIS) .............................................. 15

Health Care and Services .............................................................. 17

My child does not feel well, should he/she attend school? ........... 18 General Information for Parents ................................................... 19

Food Service ............................................................................. 19 Food Service Information ......................................................... 19 Transfers / Withdrawals ............................................................ 20 Birthdays ................................................................................... 20

Medical Alert ............................................................................ 21

Community Liaison .................................................................. 21 General Information for Students and Parents .............................. 22

Ballenger Creek Elementary PTA ................................................ 24 2014-2015 PTA Executive Board OFFICERS ......................... 24 PTA Meetings for 2014-2015 ................................................... 25 We Could Use Your Help! ........................................................ 25 Volunteer Program .................................................................... 26

BCES Traditions ........................................................................... 27

4

Mission

“Building a Better Tomorrow by Creating

an Environment for Success Today.”

BCES Mission & Vision

Vision

The Ballenger Creek Elementary community is dedicated to

working cooperatively to ensure an environment where

students will gain the necessary skills needed to face the

many challenges in their future. We will create a safe,

nurturing community of support. All students will be

actively engaged in authentic tasks and problem solving that

have real-world connections and encourage academic,

social and personal success. An appreciation of diverse

cultures will be fostered. BCES staff will have access to

professional development based on their needs, the needs of

students, and the current best practices for instruction.

Most importantly, by creating a successful collaboration

among staff, students, parents, and community, we will

create a program that achieves our mission.

5

Welcome Letter

Dear Ballenger Creek Elementary Families and Friends, We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you and your family to the 2014-2015 school year. The Ballenger Creek faculty and staff are committed to “Building a Better Tomorrow by Creating an Environment for Success Today.” We encourage you to join us as partners so that together we can provide a quality education for your child. To achieve our vision, it is important for all adults to have a shared understanding and open communications. This handbook is prepared to assist our school community endeavors to prepare our students to be college and career ready. It is published as a quick reference to information about the day to day operations of our school. Please review the information provided in order for your child to reach his or her full potential at school and home to ensure academic and social success. A monthly calendar of events and a bi-weekly Bobcat Bulletin will be distributed through FindOutFirst (FOF) or in your child’s Bobcat folder. Read and post your home school communications so that you will be informed and involved in your child’s learning. If you have not registered for FOF, we strongly encourage you to register so we can continue to improve our efforts to be “green.”

We encourage you to work with us in creating a successful educational environment for your child in school and at home. Visit your child’s classroom, chaperone a field trip, join your child for breakfast or lunch and sign your child’s agenda daily. Communicate with your child’s teacher regarding your child’s education, join us as a BCES PTA member and volunteer to use your time and talents to build a better tomorrow for our school community. Thanks in advance for working with your child on homework and school projects. Your support and involvement are keys to your child’s school success. We are looking forward to seeing you and your family at our Back-to-School Night, parent conferences and the various PTA activities planned throughout the school year. Please feel free to ask questions and to seek clarification to enhance understanding and forge collaboration. Thank you for your cooperation, support and involvement at BCES to achieve our vision.

Your partners in education, Stephanie A. Brown, Principal Debra O’Donnell, Assistant Principal

6

Daily School Schedules 7:45 - 8:30 BEST – Bobcats Extended Skills Teaching 8:30 – 8:50 Student Arrival/Breakfast in the Classroom Homeroom 8:50 - 9:00 Morning Announcements 9:00 - 3:25 Instructional Time/Lunch and Recess 3:25 - 3:30 Afternoon Announcements 3:30 - 4:00 Homework Club/Student Dismissal 4:00 – 4:45 BEST – Bobcats Extended Skills Teaching PAWS – Positive Achievement With Support

PRE-KINDERGARTEN DAILY SCHEDULE Morning (AM) Session

8:30 - 8:50 Student Arrival/Breakfast/Homeroom 8:50 - 9:00 Morning Announcements 9:00 - 11:20 Instructional Time 11:20 -11:30 Student Dismissal

Afternoon (PM) Session 12:45 - 1:00 Student Arrival 1:00 - 3:25 Instructional Time

3:25 - 3:30 Afternoon Announcements 3:30 - 4:00 Student Dismissal

*Please note that this schedule is altered on 2-hour early dismissal days and late

arrival days. There is no school for PK during Nov. conferences.

Communications from School

1. Each student in grades 1-5 will receive a free Premier Agenda. Teachers will be using the agenda to maintain open, frequent communications with you.

2. Each student will receive a free Ballenger Creek Elementary Bobcat Folder.

The folder will be used to distribute school wide communications on Thursdays including the following:

Bi-weekly publication of the Bobcat Bulletin, if requested Student Progress, Field Trip information, etc. PTA Communications

3. Email us at bces@fcps.org. 4. Sign up for FindOutFirst (FOF) communications. See Directions for Signing

Up for FindOutFirst on page 2. 5. Student Premier Agendas and Bobcat Folders provided by the BCES PTA.

7

Please check your child’s agenda each night and his/her book bag on Thursdays for school communications.

We are committed to maintaining open lines of communication. Families are encouraged to contact teachers and staff to discuss any items or concerns by phone or email. Teachers are on duty from 8:30 am until 4:00 pm each day, and are actively engaged in instruction throughout the day and supervision during arrival and dismissal times. However, they are available during their planning times to respond to emails, call parents and meet with you if requested. Please use these times to communicate with your child’s teacher(s). You are also welcome to send notes in your child’s agenda as well, so teachers can address

any and all concerns or questions in a timely manner. Teachers are available to

meet with you during regular conference times or upon request.

Visitor’s Guidelines

1. All visitors must use the front entrance buzzer entry system, report to

the Front Office and sign in using the School Check-in System. Visitors will be asked to state who they are and the reason for their visit. Identification may be required.

2. Each visitor must wear a “Visitor’s Identification Badge” at all times.

3. Visitors will be asked for proper identification during any emergency or crisis situation or when the visitor’s pass is not visible. See Student Safety.

4. Visitors are responsible for the supervision of their younger children while in the building.

5. Visitors are to adhere to school rules and exit the building during fire drills or other emergencies.

6. Visitors who fail to follow these guidelines or the directions of staff will be asked to leave school property. County and school officials will be notified and appropriate actions may be taken to support student safety and security.

NOTE: Please do not take younger children to the classroom at any

time during the instructional day, even during special events. Since

school is about learning, it is necessary that we eliminate any

unnecessary distractions and this provides time for you to focus on your

school-aged child(ren).

8

Student Safety and Security

1. Our school building is equipped with a security camera and vestibule and card swipes, with all exterior doors locked each day.

2. The front doors will be open from 8:30 am to 9:00 am daily for school arrival. Staff supervision will be provided during this time.

3. Parents and visitors will enter the front door by pushing the buzzer located to the right of the door. All visitors will report to the Front Office to sign in and get a visitor’s identification badge. See Visitor Guidelines.

4. The school building will be monitored during arrival, dismissal and throughout the school day to provide a safe and secure environment for our students.

5. Students will be supervised by all adults in the building throughout the day. Students will not be allowed to leave the school building without adult supervision.

6. In an emergency, students will return to their homeroom classes under the care and responsibility of their homeroom teacher.

7. Students will participate in regular monthly fire drills according to county policies. Other emergency drills will be scheduled and may be announced.

8. Students will participate in two bus evacuation drills according to county policy; one in the fall and one in the spring.

9. If there is an emergency that affects our building only, students will be evacuated to Ballenger Creek Middle where students may be released to parents or legal guardians only. Proper identification will be required.

10. If local emergency services or the county declares a partial or a total lockdown, students will remain in school until the school is reopened or until dismissal. Students will be released to the parents or legal guardians only. Proper identification will be required. See In the Event of an Emergency and Procedures for Student Release.

11. Each student must have a current student information sheet with at least one emergency contact number in the event that a parent or guardian cannot be reached in case of an emergency.

NOTE: Any changes to student information or emergency

information should be shared with the office immediately.

9

Arrival and Dismissal Procedures 1. Students are not allowed on school property before 8:30 am and after 4:00

pm without written permission. Teachers are not on duty and supervision is not provided.

2. Students may only ride their assigned bus to and from school. Except in an emergency or special circumstance, students are expected to ride their assigned school bus. In these cases, students must bring a note to the office for approval prior to 3:00 pm.

3. Students who ride buses will be dropped off and picked up on the black top area outside of the gymnasium and will enter and exit through the back door.

4. Students who walk to school will use the Castle Court crosswalk to cross Kingsbrook Drive and will enter through the Front Office entrance. They will exit the school through the cafeteria doors at the direction of staff. Parents are responsible for establishing a safe route for students who walk to and from school using designated crosswalks where appropriate.

5. Students who ride their bike or scooters to school are considered walkers and will be required to walk with their equipment on school property. They will use the main entrance for arrival and dismissal.

6. Students who are transported to school by their parents are considered “car riders.” Car riders will use the main entrance for arrival and the cafeteria for dismissal.

Kiss ‘n Ride parents will form a single line in the front drive way and have their children ready to exit the car on the right side when a staff

member approaches to open the door. Parents will remain in their cars and students will be directed by staff members to enter through the Front Office entrance. Only car riders who are identified on the Kiss ‘n Ride pass will be released to parents or other designated adults.

Park ‘n’ Ride parents will park in the front parking lot and use the pedestrian crosswalk and sidewalks to enter the area designated outside of the loading dock. At dismissal, parents will meet their children outside the school and must escort them back to the parking lot.

7. Car riders must have notes from parents. Notes may be sent in at the beginning of the year or on a daily basis prior to 3:00 pm. Students will not be dismissed as car riders unless a parent note is on file in the office or received that day.

8. Car riders will be dismissed following the afternoon announcements. Students will report directly to the cafeteria and follow the directions of the assigned staff members.

9. The front drive is strictly for dropping off (8:30 – 9:00 am) and picking up (3:20-4:00 pm) children. Parking is prohibited in this area at all times.

10. All vehicles on school property during arrival and dismissal must follow arrival and dismissal procedures to provide a safe environment for all our students.

11. Pets are not allowed on school grounds.

10

Pre-kindergarten Arrival and Dismissal

1. Pre-kindergarten students who arrive in the morning will follow the arrival procedures listed above. Students who arrive at 12:45 pm will enter the pre-kindergarten classroom door at the direction of the pre-kindergarten teachers.

2. Morning pre-kindergarten students will be dismissed at 11:30 am from the Pre-k classroom door. Parents will meet their children at the door. Students will be released to the parents, legal guardians or designated adult only.

3. Students riding the bus in the afternoon will be dropped off in front of the pre-kindergarten classroom door and will be greeted by the teachers.

4. Afternoon pre-kindergarten students will be dismissed at 3:30 pm from the Pre-k classroom door.

5. Afternoon pre-kindergarten students who ride the bus will be escorted to the cafeteria for dismissal with other students to get on their buses.

6. Pre-kindergarten teachers will supervise student arrival and dismissal. Remember this is their time to greet and welcome the children. If you need to speak with the teachers, please let them know by requesting a conference, phoning, or emailing.

Student arrival/dismissal is a critical time at BCES and requires everyone’s close attention and cooperation. Your support of established routines and procedures is essential to ensure the safety and security of your children.

NOTE: If there is a change in the way your child(ren) travels

home from school, please send a note to school in the morning informing the office of the change. If the office does not receive this information from a guardian, the child will be sent home according to his/her normal dismissal routine. If your child is to go home with another child resulting in a change in routine, both students must bring a note stating this change. Students will not be allowed to ride another bus home unless it is an emergency and it is approved by administration. If a person other than the parent/guardian is picking up a student, the office must receive written permission from the parent/guardian. The individual with whom the child leaves must

be prepared to show ID and sign the student out at the office.

11

In the Event of an Emergency In the event of an emergency during the school day that will impact student safety and security, the school administration will receive information from the school system’s central office under the direction of law enforcement and emergency agencies that are responsible for coordinating the county’s response. Local media will be used to make announcements to the community, as appropriate. Depending on the nature of the emergency, our school may be directed to:

Dismiss students early

Shelter in place (partial lockdown or lockdown)

Evacuate students to an alternative location (Ballenger Creek Middle School)

Establish an emergency shelter for the community. If Administration is instructed to protect students by keeping them inside (shelter-in-place, partial lockdown, or lockdown), family members may not be permitted to pick up their child until it is safe to do so. This security will last no longer than necessary for safety purposes, as we communicate with appropriate authorities. Please note that not every lockdown is an emergency. Most lockdowns are precautionary and brief. During a partial lockdown, activities inside the school may proceed as normal for students. However, in a lockdown, student activities may be limited and students may not be released to parents until the lockdown has been lifted by county officials or released using the procedures listed below. Following the return to a normal schedule, explanatory letters and information may be provided to the community.

Procedures for Student Release

Please do NOT call the school. We will need our phones

available for emergency and county communications.

1. Use the following media sources to access information about what is happening in Frederick County: Channel 18, local radio stations such as WFMD 930 AM, WAFY 103.1 FM, WFRE 99.9 FM, WARX 106.9 FM and WTHU 1450 AM, area TV stations including Channel 4 in Washington, DC and Channel 2 in Baltimore. The announcements will be printed for the hearing-impaired via the local ITT. Information will also be found on the website at www.fcps.org and through FindOutFirst.

2. Bring your proof of identification (driver’s license, government or picture employee badge) to present to staff assigned to the Request Gate.

3. Enter the school at the location identified. See Student Release Map. Look for the signs. Go directly to the Request Gate. Parents and guardians will not be allowed beyond the Request Gate and the Parent Waiting Area.

4. Complete the FCPS Emergency Sign-out Form. Wait in the designated area for your child to be released directly to you. Students will be escorted to the Parent Waiting Area by a staff member.

12

5. When your child arrives at the Parent Waiting Area, complete the appropriate section of the check-out form.

6. Take your child; exit the building and school grounds immediately to facilitate the orderly release of other students.

Remember: Students will be released only to parents or guardians

listed on their student information sheet with proper identification.

Our thanks and gratitude in advance!

Release Gate Map for Parents

Insert release gate map here

13

Emergency School Procedures for

Closings & Delays Weather related school closings and delays will be announced and broadcasted on FindOutFirst (see FindOutFirst section for additional details). Announcements are usually made by 6:00 AM. Children should be informed what to do and where to go when schools close unexpectedly and parents/guardians are not at home. It is also extremely important that the school be able to contact you in these types of situations, so please make sure we have accurate contact information. Changes can be made to your child’s student information sheet at any time by notifying our office staff.

Our school has specific plans in place that provide us directions for a variety of situations. These plans are available in the Front Office for your review.

Attendance Policy and Procedures Attendance plays a major role in every student’s ability to be successful throughout his/her school career. When a student misses a day of school he/she loses six hours of valuable instructional time. In order for all of our students to be prepared for the future, they must have a solid academic foundation, which is developed starting in the elementary years. School-wide attendance and the attendance of student groups are monitored and rated by the Maryland State Department of Education. Our goal is to achieve 96% attendance for the school year, an “excellent” rating!

What Can Parents/Guardians Do to Help?

Encourage your child to be regular in school attendance

Be aware and follow our attendance procedures listed (See p. 14-15)

Review these procedures with your child

Establish regular schedules of rest and nutrition

Keep the school informed and communicate with us about your child’s attendance

Schedule appointments before or after school when possible

Schedule vacations and trips around holidays and school breaks

Notify the school in writing if your family will be taking a vacation during the regular school year. Vacation during the regular school year must be approved by the administration according to county policy.

Call the school counselor (x62507), if you feel your child is avoiding coming to school because of stress or anxiety issues.

14

BCES Attendance Procedures

1. Contact the school office (240-238-2503) if your child will not be present in

school. You may leave the information on voice mail if you are calling prior to 8:30 am.

2. When your child returns to school, send a note to the classroom teacher indicating the date(s) and explaining the reason your child was absent from school.

3. Student absences will be reported according to County policy (see The Calendar Handbook).

4. Student attendance will be monitored monthly and quarterly by administration and school staff such as the community liaison, school support, school counselor and pupil personnel worker to ensure students attend school regularly. Parents will be contacted appropriately.

5. Students are responsible for making up any school work missed due to absences.

6. Vacation must be approved according to county policy. Send a note and contact the principal for approval prior to vacations scheduled on regular attendance days. Students who take a trip with their parents will be excused no more than twice a year for a combined maximum of five days (FCPS Reg. 400-70). When the vacation has been approved by administration, please provide advance notice to teachers if you are requesting student work to be completed during the vacation.

7. If you have questions regarding your child’s attendance, please contact the school office.

8. Students arriving after 9:00 am are tardy to school. Please bring your child to the office to sign-in. Since adult supervision will not be available, do not send your child into the building by him/herself. See Tardiness section for more information.

Written Excuses

In the event your child is ill or injured and is not able to participate in physical education class and recess for one to two days, a written excuse from the parent/guardian is required. A written excuse from a physician is required when a child is not able to participate in physical education class for more than 2 days.

NOTE: The law requires a written excuse when a child is absent. The written

excuse must be received by the school within two days of the absence and contain

the child’s full name, date(s) of absence, the reason and the signature of the

parent/guardian. Absences are recorded as either lawful or unlawful. Without

appropriate documentation noted above, the absence is coded “unlawful”. Please

refer to FCPS Regulation 500-25 for more information.

15

Tardiness

Arriving to school on time is very important. The instructional day begins promptly at 9 AM and when a student is late it is disruptive to the instructional program. Students who arrive after 9:00 am miss out on breakfast, as well as, important instructional directions and the opportunity to get organized for the day. Students who arrive after 9:00 am must be escorted by parents and report first to the Front Office to sign-in and to receive a late pass to enter the classroom. Student tardiness will be monitored monthly in conjunction with

student attendance.

Early Dismissal (During the School Day)

Early dismissals are discouraged as they interrupt instruction not only for your child, but for all children in the classroom.

Schedule non-emergency doctor and dental appointments before or after school or on a day that school is closed for students.

If your child needs to be excused for an appointment prior to 3:20 pm, a note must be send to the office stating the time and reason for dismissal.

Report to the Front Office to sign out your child.

Students will remain in class until the parent/guardian arrives in the Front Office.

Students will be called to the office to meet their parents.

School-wide Behavior Plan (PBIS)

Ballenger Creek Elementary School is a “Gold” PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports) school recognized by the state. We believe all students can be academically and behaviorally successful in school. We acknowledge the importance of having clear and consistent behavior expectations. We understand the necessity of teaching and supporting desired behaviors, providing positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior and implementing consistent consequences for inappropriate behavior. In accordance with our beliefs, we have established four school-wide rules and a code of conduct for student compliance. Our school rules are:

Be respectful Be responsible

Be ready to learn Be safe

16

Students will be taught the following code of conduct in order to be in compliance with school rules:

Hallways Cafeteria Bathrooms Assemblies

Be

Respectful

Be quiet.

Greet others

with a smile.

Listen to all

adults.

Walk quietly in

line.

Use good table

manners.

Listen to all

adults.

Clean up

after

yourself.

Use a quiet

voice.

Always flush.

Wait patiently.

Use appropriate

applause and

voice.

Listen to all

adults.

Be

Responsible

Stay in a

double line.

Bring

everything you

need.

Accept

consequences

without

arguing.

Throw all of

your trash away.

Follow

directions the

first time.

Accept

consequences

without arguing.

Ask

permission.

Tell an adult

about any

problem.

Accept

consequences

without

arguing.

Follow the

directions the

first time.

Stay seated.

Accept

consequences

without arguing.

Be

Ready to

Learn

Follow

directions.

Look,

don’t touch!

Know your ID.

Have your

money and/or

lunch ready.

Return

quickly to

class.

Participate as

asked.

Be

Safe

Walk!

Be alert.

Tie your shoes.

Walk!

Keep your

hands, feet, and

belongings to

yourself.

Wash your

hands.

Keep your hands

and feet to

yourself.

Additional conduct codes will be taught by classroom teachers according to grade level expectations and developmental needs. Students will receive positive incentives such as “Positive Paws” and “Top Cat” awards from staff members which may be redeemed for a classroom or school-wide incentive as well as appropriate consequences including verbal redirections, warnings, time outs, loss of privileges and suspensions. Parents will be notified and will receive written documentation through office referral forms and letters of suspension, as appropriate to the situation. The administration will maintain a discipline folder on each student who receives a behavior documentation or office referral form. Incidents will also be recorded in our SWISS data system and eSchool as directed by the county. In addition, we will continue to implement the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. This information will be used by our PBIS team to create a positive school climate. Our goal is to create and maintain a productive, safe learning environment in which all school community members work together:

To teach expected behaviors

To reinforce positive behaviors

To problem solve with student (s) and families

To build supportive relationships.

17

Health Care and Services

Health Room Hours: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm 240.236.2504

1. Dispensing Medications: To dispense prescription medications at school,

we must have a completed medication and treatment authorization forms on file in the School Health Room and the appropriate prescription bottle with the original labels. Forms are available at www.fcps.org/forms.

• Any dosage changes must have written notification from the attending health care provider. The first full day’s dosage of any new prescription medication will not be given in school. • Medications are not to be transported to school by students.

Non-prescription medications will not be dispensed unless a health care provider has completed the Authorization Form for that purpose.

• Classroom teachers are prohibited from dispensing any medications.

2. Childhood Immunizations: The School Nurse and Health Technician are

responsible for ensuring all students are properly immunized and will contact parents to verify immunization records if necessary. Note: The Frederick County Health Department provides immunization.

3. Vision and Hearing Screenings: The School Health staff will conduct

vision and hearing screenings for all students in pre- kindergarten, new students in kindergarten, all 1

st graders, and all students who are new to

FCPS in any grade. 4. Pediculosis (Head Lice)

• Check your child’s hair regularly for nits and lice. • Contact the School Health Room if nits or lice are found. • School personnel will check other students according to county policy. • Any student found with nits or lice will be sent home. Students will not be allowed to return to class or to ride the bus home. • A letter with instructions for treatment will be sent home with the student. • An information letter will be given to all students. • Your child may return to school when the treatment has been given and proof is submitted to the Health Room. Your child will be rechecked.

5. Health Room Visits

• Your child will be allowed to visit the Health Room during the school day for the following reasons:

– to take prescribed medications, – to determine if he or she has a temperature or is not feeling well, – to receive medical attention for an injury/accident that occurs during the school day.

• Your child will be excused by his/her teacher and will be escorted to the Health Room by another peer.

18

• Your child will receive a Health Room Visit Form to present to you following a visit to the Health Room. • If you have questions regarding health care, please contact the School Nurse or an administrator. • In the event of a medical emergency, your child will be transported to the appropriate setting and you will be notified immediately. Please be sure to update your child’s Student Information Card as needed throughout the school year. Note: Health room visits will be monitored to ensure students are not losing

valuable instructional time and are accessing the health services provided appropriately.

6. A physician’s note is required in order for your child to be excused from

physical education class for more than two (2) days. 7. A note is also required when your child can not go outside during recess

and must stay inside due to health reasons.

My child does not feel well, should he/she attend school?

When your child becomes ill, please use the following guidelines to determine when to keep your child home from school: 1. A temperature of 100 degrees or above anytime in the past 24 hours 2. Vomiting or diarrhea anytime in the past 24 hours 3. Pink Eye: The child may not return to school until he/she has been seen by a

doctor and on medication. A doctor’s note is also needed stating the child is no longer contagious.

4. Strep Throat: The child may not return to school until he/she has been on an antibiotic for at least 24 hours and no longer running a fever.

5. Ringworm: The child may not return to school until he/she has been on medication for at least 24 hours. Also, a doctor’s note is needed stating the child may return to school.

6. A rash on any area of the body that has not been looked at by a physician.

Fewer illnesses/communicable diseases will be “shared” between classmates if the guidelines above are followed. For more information on specific diseases, school health care and services; please contact your school nurse or health room technician.

19

General Information for Parents

Food Service BCES Food Service Office

240.236.2513

Breakfast – 8:30 am – 9:00 am Breakfast will be served daily,

including delayed opening days, in the classrooms. Note: Breakfast will not be served on the November conference day

when school starts 4 hours late.

Lunch – 11:00 am – 1:25 pm Lunch will be served daily. See your child’s daily schedule.

Note: Lunch will be served on early dismissal days.

Food Service Information

1. Breakfast and lunch will be served daily including milk. Monthly menus can

be found on www.fcps.org under the Meals tab. Meal prices are noted below.

Lunch $2.05, $.40(Reduced)

Adult Lunch $3.75 2. At BCES we offer a School Breakfast Program available to all students,

without charge. There is a fruit, juice and grain component to every breakfast meal along with milk. Students have the option to eat or not, but they will not be allowed to bring their own breakfast into the classroom.

3. A la carte items are available for purchase during lunch. FCPS Food Service Personnel is consulting www.smartsnacking.com to consider healthy choices for a la carte items. Prices of these items will vary depending on the snacks available. However, milk is always available for $.50 and bottled water for $1.00.

4. Meal cards may be purchased through an online payment site where individual student accounts are managed and payment can be made using a credit card. To set up a student account, you can visit www.myschoolbucks.com. Your child's ID number is required, which can be found on the report card or by calling the front office. This system allows parents to place money in their child’s account for the purchase of meals and/or other food items. The student’s name and picture are identifiers that prevent unauthorized use of the student’s account. Students in elementary grades will receive a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to access their food account. This account remains active as long as the student is enrolled in Frederick County Public Schools. Student account information may be emailed to parents, upon request by contacting the BCES Food Services Manager at 240-236-2513.

20

5. Charging meals is strongly discouraged. Students will be allowed to charge

one time. Charges must be paid by parents as soon as possible. Students who fail to pay charges will receive a complimentary sandwich and drink. In the event of an emergency when pre-kindergarten students are required to remain at school, students will be charged for meals with the expectation that parents will reimburse Food Service for the cost of the meals. A la carte items may not be charged.

6. Lunch will be available for students on field trips. Information about lunch provisions will be provided to parents on the field trip permission slip.

7. Families may be eligible for Free and Reduced Price Meals (FARMS) based on Government income requirements and eligibility for food stamps, or temporary cash assistance (TCA) or determination for foster care. Meal Benefit forms will be distributed to all families at the beginning of the school

year and are also available through our Community Liaison. You may apply anytime throughout the school year. If you have additional questions, please contact Food Service at 301-644-5061.

Completed forms must be submitted to Food Service for approval.

Food Service will notify parents of their eligibility and status e.g., free, reduced or denied.

Students who received free and reduced meals in the previous year will continue to be eligible until October 1 of the current school year.

Information will be used to determine eligibility for additional school services including designation as Title I school, assignments of 11 month positions and for school improvement performance efforts.

8. Students will NOT be allowed to eat snacks during the instructional day except for pre-kindergarten students. Snacks may be provided for students participating in extended learning opportunities beyond the school day.

Transfers / Withdrawals Please follow these procedures when you are transferring or withdrawing your child from BCES:

Notify the school office in writing of the EXACT date you will be withdrawing your child.

Include the name and address of your child’s new school. Permanent records will be sent directly to the new school upon the written request from that school. Please note that your child will be marked absent from school until his or her new school has requested school records.

Birthdays

Student health and safety related to both known and unknown potentially life threatening food allergies are a concern for all of us in our school community. Parents will not be allowed to bring food of any kind, homemade or pre-packed, to school to celebrate birthdays. Goodie bags with nonedible items

such as pencils, erasers or items students use in the school setting may be distributed at the end of the school day by the classroom teacher. We know that

21

birthdays are very exciting and special; therefore, we will announce individual birthdays each day on the morning announcements. Children will be invited to receive a special birthday surprise provided by the administrative staff.

Medical Alert

Please be aware that we have several students at our school with serious food allergies, particularly to nuts/products containing nuts. If one of these students is in your child’s class, we ask that you provide a birthday treat or party item only from the list provided by the classroom teacher. We need to be cautious of not only the actual food item (i.e. nuts, etc.), but that it may have been produced in a setting with oils or items that had the substance in them. Your cooperation is appreciated by all!

Community Liaison 240.236.2508

The community liaison serves as a link between the home and school. The liaison assists families in understanding and utilizing various school programs available to our students. You may request the assistance of the community liaison to help with:

Home/school communications

Health immunizations

School supplies

Emergency food needs

Meetings with your child’s teacher

Linking you to available support services

Lending of educational materials

Emergency transportation

Attendance concern

NOTE: In order to reduce the loss of instructional time and to

prevent hurt feelings, students will not be permitted to distribute

invitations to private parties at school.

22

General Information for

Students and Parents 1. Dress Code: Our school is a learning community. We believe students

should wear appropriate clothing that contributes to a positive, safe learning

environment. As you and your child prepare for school each day, we would

like to thank you for using the following dress standards:

• Shirts and blouses should cover the student’s stomach, chest, back

and shoulders.

• Pants and shorts should cover the student’s under clothing.

• Skirts and shorts should be an appropriate length.

• Proper shoes should be worn for physical education and recess.

• Coats and outer clothing gear should not be worn during class.

The following items are prohibited in school:

– hats, visors or headgear, except on announced special days

– clothing worn as under garments such as muscle shirts

– clothing with offensive or obscene language

– clothing with pictures or words depicting sex, drugs, alcohol

or weapons, offensive groups, or offensive comments

If students wear inappropriate clothing to school, they may be asked to turn their

clothing inside out or to wear alternative clothing provided by the school. All

visitors should serve as models for appropriate dress when visiting our school.

2. Office telephones are for school business and student use and will be

allowed only in cases of emergencies. Students will not be allowed to call

home from the office for homework, musical instruments or permission slips.

Teachers may allow students to use classroom phones in an emergency.

3. The Lost and Found is located in the cafeteria.

• Label all clothing and school equipment e.g. lunch boxes and book

bags with your child’s name.

• Check the Lost and Found to reclaim missing items.

• Unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable organization

periodically and at the end of the school year.

4. Toys, electronic games, CD players, cards, laser pointers, playground

equipment, large sums of money and any technological device that is not

approved (BYOD) are prohibited in school unless requested in writing by a

teacher. The school will not be held responsible for any approved item that is

lost, stolen or broken. If these items are brought to school and are taken

from your child by an adult, the items will be returned directly to a parent or

guardian.

23

5. Cell phones will be permitted on school property in accordance with county

policy. The cell phone must be switched off and in the student’s book bag

during the school day. If the cell phone rings or vibrates and is visible during

the day, it will be confiscated and returned directly to a parent or guardian

from the office.

6. Tobacco products, matches, lighters, firearms, weapons both real or look

alike and anything that can be used as a weapon e.g., pocket knives,

explosive devices and alcohol are prohibited on school property or on the

school bus. Students found to be in possession of any of these items will be

disciplined as outlined in the FCPS Calendar Handbook.

7. Students are responsible for the use and care of school property including

any textbooks or library books assigned or checked out to them. Fees will be

accessed for damages and losses as appropriate.

8. Students are not allowed to give gifts and/or invitations in school or on the

school bus.

9. Students are not allowed to sell items for personal gain or profit on school

property. This does not include school sponsored or PTA fundraisers.

Students may solicit staff participation in community activities or projects.

10. Students are required to participate in all curriculum-related field trips.

Permission slips will be sent home prior to each field trip and should be

signed and returned immediately. If parental permission is not granted for a

student to participate in a school based field trip, alternative arrangements

will be made through the principal’s office.

11. Students in attendance must eat a meal during the school day unless for

religious reasons. Snacks will not be provided during the instructional day.

See Food Service Information.

12. Younger siblings or relatives of students will not be allowed to attend school.

13. Students must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian to be

at school beyond the regular school day. Verbal permission will be accepted

in emergency situations only. Permission will be secured for school related

programs and activities such as Bobcat Extended Skills Teaching (BEST)

and the Positive Achievement With Support (PAWS) Programs, Chorus and

Runner’s Club. Students are not allowed to arrive before the scheduled

event and must leave the school immediately following the planned activity.

14. Students are not allowed to ride another bus home to stay overnight or to

visit. Exceptions to this county transportation policy will be made in

emergency situations only. Approval will be given by the administration only.

15. Students are required to obey the bus rules and to ride the bus safely to and

from school. Failure to adhere to the bus rules may result in a bus

suspension.

16. Students are expected to follow the directions of all adults at BCES. In the

event of a conflict or concern, the student should report the incident to the

office or to his or her parents who may then contact the administration.

24

17. Two classroom parties will be held each year. Classroom teachers will be

responsible for planning and coordinating food and activities to ensure

student safety and health.

18. The BCES School Store will be open 3 days a week to allow students to

purchase supplies such as pencils, erasers, paper, and recorders. Students

may use cash or Positive Paws to purchase items.

19. Information about parent conferences and report cards is available in the

FCPS Calendar Handbook.

20. Before and after school care is provided at BCES through the Frederick

County YMCA at 301.663.5131.

21. We appreciate the opportunity to answer your questions and to address your

concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us. Our doors are always open

and we are available to meet with you, email you or contact you by phone.

We are here to serve you, our partners in educating your child!

Ballenger Creek Elementary PTA

We have a very active PTA and offer many opportunities for our students and families. Parent involvement is the heart of our PTA. Please join us for our monthly meetings on the 1

st Wednesday of each month in the Media Center. We

welcome volunteers to assist us with planning and implementing PTA activities and events. Please feel free to contact a board member if you are interested in becoming a member of the BCES PTA. We provide support to our school community in many ways including:

Advocacy on behalf of the students

Purchase of Agendas and Bobcat Folders

Back-to-School Night Ice Cream Social

Funding of Field Trips

Cultural Events

Scholastic Book Fair support

Fall Festival

Silent Auction and Bingo Night

Holiday Shoppe

Family Fun Movie Nights

Spring Carnival

Fifth Grade Awards and Reception

Funding of the Fifth Grade Picnic

Teacher Appreciation Week

Parent Volunteer

25

2014-2015 PTA Executive Board OFFICERS President –Dawn Kopp

301.758.8359 Koppdm@comcast.net 1

st Vice President–Beth Pazos

240.626.9958 bethpazos@gmail.com 2

nd Vice President–Kristie Guyton

301.606.5475 kguyton318@gmail.com

Secretary – Beth Cangemi

240.720.6665 elenox12@hotmail.com Treasurer – Tara Flores

240.925.8324 taraflores@hotmail.com

PTA Meetings for 2014-2015

PTA meetings are held in the Media Center from 7 – 8 pm on the first Wednesday of each month. A consent agenda will be used to facilitate meetings. All are invited to attend.

Wednesday, September 3

Wednesday, October 1

Wednesday, November 5

Wednesday, December 3

Wednesday, January 7

Wednesday, February 4

Wednesday, March 4

Wednesday, April 8

Wednesday, May 1

Wednesday, June 3

We Could Use Your Help! Do you have some time to spare? We could use your help in a variety of ways. Volunteers are needed to support our students and staff throughout the school year. Shortly after school opens, a request for volunteers will be distributed to all students. Please consider if there is a way that you can support your child’s education by volunteering your time. Our goal is two hours per student! Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Lori Barrick, to share how you’d like to volunteer your services at 240.236.2521.

26

Volunteer Program

Our children are our most important resources. We share a common purpose, educating each and every student to be the best he/she can be. Many students need individualized attention. Your varied experiences may provide just what a child needs to help him/her flourish. We need volunteers to assist our teachers so that they can provide more individualized attention to those children who may need additional or different instruction.

A volunteer is someone who is willing to donate his/her time on a regular basis to work with our students in the instructional program at school. Volunteers can provide excellent supplementary help to students and teachers. Volunteers may work directly with one or more children in some aspect of the instructional program, or they may work directly with the teachers, thus freeing the teacher for additional instructional activities. A volunteer works closely under the teacher’s guidance and supervision. The personal interest and attention a volunteer provides contributes to student success.

Suggested qualifications for the volunteer:

- A genuine interest in children - Time to give on a regular basis - An attitude of warmth and friendliness - An ability to work within the school system - An acceptance of individual differences in children - An understanding of diverse cultures - The ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student

information

For further information on the volunteer program or to sign up to work at school, please contact your child’s teacher or our Volunteer Coordinator, Lori Barrick, at 240.236.2521.

“Someone can’t do everything, but everyone can do something.”

For safety and liability reasons, volunteers are not permitted

to bring siblings to school during volunteer work times

(including school parties) or while chaperoning students on

field trips, etc.

27

BCES Traditions

Ballenger Creek Elementary School Song

(to the tune of the Marine’s Hymn)

From the halls of Ballenger Creek School,

We will cheer and sing our song [hooray!].

We will always try our very best

And with that we can’t go wrong.

With the help of staff and families,

We will learn and have fun, too.

We are proud to be Bobcats of

Ballenger Creek Elementary School.

We all move and speak with courtesy,

Respecting others and their needs [you bet!].

Always try to help each other out,

So that everyone succeeds.

And we laugh and joke and have good times,

While obeying all the rules.

We are proud to be the Bobcats of

Ballenger Creek Elementary School.

Mascot School Colors

Ballenger Bobcats Blue, Pink, and White

School Mission

“Building a Better Tomorrow

by Creating an Environment for Success Today”