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DELTON SCHOOL HANDBOOK 2016-2017

12126 – 89 STREET EDMONTON, ALBERTA

T5B 3W4PHONE: (780) 477-8742

FAX: (780) 479-7553

/ epsb

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Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to Delton School and the 2016-2017 school year. Delton School is a place where there is an excellent learning environment and welcoming school atmosphere made possible by dedicated staff, committed parents and great students.

This handbook has been developed to inform you of the policies, procedures and philosophies that are in place at Delton School.

As the principal, I am looking forward to getting to know all staff, students and parents. There are so many great things happening at Delton that I know it will be an exciting year. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. The better I know you and your child, the better I will be able to assist with concerns and help create the best learning environment possible for your child.

Let’s work together to continue to focus on a strong academic and citizenship program for all students.

Yours sincerely, Errol JohnsonPrincipal, Delton School

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SCHOOL STAFF LIST...................................................................4CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS..................................5EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT… 6Edmonton Public Schools District Priorities………………….. 6Delton’s Philosophies…………………………………………… 6Parent Advisory Group…………………………………………. 7THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM AT DELTON SCHOOL. 7Parent Support for Your Child’s Learning…………………….. 7Registration Information………………………………………… 8Students Transferring Out……………………………………… 8Special Education Program……………………………………. 9Progress Reports……………………………………………….. 9Student Planners……………………………………………….. 9Bus Transportation……………………………………………… 10Change in Address and/or Phone Number…………………… 10Attendance-Phoning……………………………………………. 10Student Attendance Expectations/Absence Reasons………. 11School Act Interpretation of Absences……………………….. 11Late Policy……………………………………………………….. 11Accidents/Illness………………………………………………… 12Safety and Security Around the School………………………. 12Giving Medication……………………………………………….. 12-13Family or Student Concerns…………………………………… 13Field Trips……………………………………………………….. 13Skateboard/Bicycle/Scooter/Rollerblade Policy…………….. 13Electronic Devices/Toy Policy…………………………………. 13Student Dress……………………………………………………. 13Indoor/Outdoor Shoes…………………………………………... 13Children’s Possessions…………………………………………. 14School Supplies…………………………………………………. 14Extra-Curricular Activities………………………………………. 14School Pictures…………………………………………………. 14Lost and Found…………………............................................. 14Capital Health Services…………………………………………. 14Family Therapist…………………………………………………. 15Snack and Lunch Program……………………………………... 15Awards and Grade Six “Farewell” Awards……………………. 16Supervision……………………………………………………….. 16

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SCHOOL STAFF LIST

MR. E. JOHNSON, PRINCIPALMRS. D. HADDAD, ASSISTANT PRINCIPALMRS. S. PEDERSON, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

TEACHING STAFF: SUPPORT STAFF:MISS A. MAXWELL MS. N. DINCOGLU MS. J. YEWCHUKMS. P. MCINTYRE MRS. M. BOE MRS. L. JOHNSONMRS. S. PRASAD MS. C. ROSHKO MRS. P. POTTERMS. T. FREUND MS. J. BARTLETT MRS. J. HARVEYMRS. K. BAKKER MRS. H. KUHSE MR. M. DAVIDSONMRS. A. BRADLEY MRS. A. KELLERT MRS. C. THOMPSONMISS G. MCKNIGHTMRS. N. WIEBEMS. DONNA GRAHAM CUSTODIAL STAFF:MR. P. ALLAN MR. T. CASTRO – HEAD CUSTODIANMRS. K. CHAPMAN MR. A. DUALE - CUSTODIANMR. R. BARTON MS. L. JONES - CUSTODIANMS. C. RODYCHMRS. E. WALKINSHAW ALL IN FOR YOUTH:MR. B. BAKER FAMILY THERAPIST: MRS. A. THRALLMS. C. HERDER ROOTS AND WINGS: MS. K. WANGMR. R. STEPANIUK BBBS MENTORING – MS. N. STEFFLMISS M. MEYER BBBS OUT OF SCHOOL TIME – MR. E. DOTINGAMS. K. TAYLOR NUTRITION SUPPORT – MRS. N. MARTINMRS. S. BENNETT NUTRITION SUPPORT – MRS. L. HAUSSLER MS. K. BECKLEY SUCCESS COACH – MS. T. MITCHELLMRS. E. VIRANIMRS. S. CARLINMS. A. MERKLEY SCHOOL NURSE: MR. A. BERUBEMRS. K. OSTERBRASSMRS. M. STONEHAM SCHOOL NUTRIONIST: MRS. S. HALTON

Alberta Health Services works together with parents, schools and community agencies to provide a range of coordinated community health services for school-age children and their families. Our common goal is to improve student’s health and learning outcomes. Various health services are provided by nursing, dental, rehabilitation and speech and language staff. If you would like to contact someone from the School Health Team, please call The East Edmonton Health Centre at 780-342-4719

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS FOR THE 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR.

First day of instruction September 1Labor Day September 5Meet the Staff BBQ September 15Terry Fox Run September 16Thanksgiving October 10Goal Setting Conferences October 19/20Picture Day October 14Book Fair October 17-21PD DAY NO SCHOOL October 21Progress Reports November 9Remembrance Day November 11NO SCHOOL November 14-15Remembrance Day Assembly November 17Winter Celebration December 21/22Christmas Recess December 26-January 6School Resumes January 9PD DAY NO SCHOOL February 6Family Day February 20Teachers Convention March 2/3PD DAY March 7Progress Reports March 18Celebration of Learning March 22-23Spring Recess March 28-April 1Good Friday Holiday March 25Easter Monday March 28PD DAY NO SCHOOL April 18HLAT May 1-7PD DAY NO SCHOOL May 6Teacher Day in Lieu May 19Teacher Day in Lieu May 20Victoria Day May 23PAT LA Grade 6 Part A May 12

LA Grade 6 Part B June 15Math Grade 6 June 16Science Grade 6 June 17Social Studies Grade 6 June

20 Cultural Day May 27Volunteer Tea June 15Grade 6 Farewell June 22Fun Day June 27Final Progress Report June 28Last day of instruction June 28Last day of operation June 29

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EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT

We inspire student success through high quality learning opportunities, supported by meaningfully engaged students, parents, staff and community.

EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS VISION

Transforming the learners of today into the leaders of tomorrow.

Edmonton Public Schools District Priorities 2014-2018

1. Foster growth and success for every student by supporting their journey from early learning through high school completion and beyond.

2. Provide welcoming, high quality learning and working environments.3. Enhance public education through communication, engagement

and partnerships.

Delton’s Philosophy

At Delton, we believe that individuals in our school community should feel safe, confident, and be committed to excellence. As an educational team of parents, community and staff we endeavor to foster a caring, supportive and creative learning environment encouraging responsible citizenship and academic achievement.

The Delton Way

I believe I am an important part of the Delton Community.I believe I am responsible for my own learning, and will respect the learning of others.

I believe in being kind, caring and respectful to everyone.I believe I have the power to make a difference.

I believe that it’s okay to take a chance, and learn from it.I believe I will be successful

I believe in us.

The Delton Mission Statement

Delton Elementary is a school that provides meaningful learning experiences that will enable all students to attain their highest possible levels and all staff members to grow professionally and personally in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. The staff, students, their families and the community will work collaboratively as we pursue the mission of excellent results from each member of our school family.

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Parent Advisory Group

The Delton Parent Advisory Group meets monthly. This group represents an opportunity for parents to become involved in their child’s education. Information on times and dates will be available in the school newsletter. All parents are welcome to attend.

THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMMING AT DELTON SCHOOL

At Delton, staff endeavor to engage all students in their learning. Student engagement refers to student’s willingness, need, desire and compulsion to participate in and be successful in the learning process.

Our focus on literacy involves students in problem solving and critical thinking skills. Through a variety of text, students are given an opportunity to collaborate and communicate as they make sense of the world and develop their own perspective. Literacy is “the ability to acquire, create, connect and communicate meaning by interacting with texts in a wide variety of formats and in a wide variety of contexts”.

Parent Support for Your Child’s Learning

When parents or guardians are involved in their child’s education, achievement levels tend to rise. Here are some of the ways you can support your child’s learning:

Make sure your child gets the most out of the school day by helping him or her to arrive to school on time, healthy and well rested

Encourage your child to take part in school activities and to take pride in the school community, including its building and grounds

Be supportive of your school Encourage your child by talking about and showing your appreciation for his or

her efforts. For example, display their school work on the refrigerator or on a bulletin board

Keep up to date on what your child is learning – i.e., monitor student daily reading and sign the Student Planner daily. Check for information on SchoolZone

Attend school events such as Meet the Staff; parent-teacher conferences and concerts, Pancake Breakfast, Family Literacy Night, and more.

Read your school newsletter Reinforce self-esteem by listening to and praising your child Have your child teach you something he or she has learned Get to know your child’s teacher.

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Registration Information

All parents registering students must provide a proof of address to the school.

ELE: Students registering for Early Learning must be 4 years old on or before March 1 of this school year. A birth certificate is required by Alberta Education to register.Registration may still take place without a birth certificate but it must be provided within a three month period of time.

Kindergarten: Students registering for kindergarten must be 5 years old on or before March 1 of this school year. A birth certificate is required by Alberta Education to register. Registration may still take place without a birth certificate but it must be provided within a three month period of time.

General: Edmonton Public Schools has an open boundary policy, which permits a student to attend any school within the system. Any students from kindergarten to grade 6 may attend Delton School. First priority at any school is given to those students living within a specific attendance area and then, if facilities and enrollment permit, other students may be accommodated.

Students Transferring OutWe hope that our school meets all your needs and we want to continually improve the services that we offer. In the event that you transfer your child to another school at any time during the year, we ask that you inform us so that we may make the necessary preparations. Prior to your last day of attendance, students will be required to return all school property and pay all fees owed to the school.

Special Education Programs

These classes enroll fewer students and provide additional educational assistant support. Special Education programming at Delton is provided for students identified as Opportunity and Behavioral & Learning Assistance.

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Progress Reports

Progress Reports will be issued three times during the school year, November, March and June. Goal Setting Conferences will occur on October. After the first progress report, time will be set aside for parents/guardians to come to the school and meet with the teacher(s) to discuss their child’s progress. These conferences are an essential component of the reporting process.

We will be involving students in conferences again this year. Students will have teacher assistance in preparation for Student Led Conference for the second term. When used successfully these conferences are great confidence builders for students and motivating for all participants. Students will be encouraged to set realistic goals for themselves.

Parents can help this process by being positive and accepting of their child’s efforts and recognizing the importance of encouragement. We are seeking the support of parents to help their child attain the academic/social goals they set for themselves. Parents are encouraged to communicate with their child’s teacher throughout the year.

Student Planners

All students from grades 1 to 6 will be supplied with student planners. The purpose of this book is to help parents and students keep track of homework, special events and assignments. We are asking parents to initial or sign this book on weekdays. Staff will review the agenda book and will also initial or sign it on a daily basis.

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Bus Transportation

Edmonton Public School Board approves a user fee for all special needs students using yellow bus service on a yearly basis. The fee of $30.00 per month will be due at the beginning of each month, payable to the school. The first payment will be due September 1, 2016.

Edmonton Transit monthly bus passes are sold to any student who attends Delton School outside of the walking distance area. The 2016-17 cost for a restricted use pass is $55.00 for elementary students.

Students residing in the HA Gray area (west of 97th Street and north of 118 Avenue to the Yellowhead Trail, Eastwood area and Parkdale East area are provided with Fixed Route Transportation at no cost to the student. ETS bus passes are available for $30.00 per month for students in these areas where schools are closed. Students are only allowed to access one subsidy therefore if they are taking the ETS they are not able to use the Fixed Route bus which is free of charge.

Change in Address or Phone Number

It is necessary for the school to have accurate and up-to-date records. If you have moved, please provide the office with your current address or phone number as soon as possible.

Attendance – Phoning

The school should be notified in writing or by telephone of any absences prior to the morning (8:45 a.m.) or afternoon (12:45 p.m.) bell. Parents are requested to keep children with any illness at home or make other arrangements for their care. In the case of long-term absence, the teacher should be informed and allowed a few days to prepare learning materials for the child while he or she is away from school. We have a 24 hour answering service for calls before and after school – 780-477-8742 and press 1. You may leave a message with the information and it will be retrieved in the morning.

Parents/Guardians of children who are absent will be contacted by an automated system. At 9:30 am and again at 1:15 pm all students who are not accounted for will receive a call from this system.

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Student Attendance Expectations and Absence Reasons for 2016-2017

Edmonton Public Schools strongly encourages students to attend school regularly and punctually in order to enhance the likelihood of successful learning. The School Act provides the provincial expectations related to student attendance at school and defines what reasons may legitimately keep students away from school. Section 13(5) of this act excuses a student from attending school only if due to sickness, religious holidays, suspension/expulsion, permission from the Board, or other unavoidable circumstances. You may access a copy of this section of the School Act from the Edmonton Public Schools website (www.epsb.ca).Please note that family holidays, extension of school vacation periods, student work schedules, or parental permission given to a student to stay away from school are not considered to be excused absences. If a student is chronically absent from school for “unexcused” reasons, the school may be required to refer the student to the Attendance Board.For the 2016-2017 school year, all schools in Edmonton Public Schools will use the following set of district-wide student absence reasons that align with the School Act:

Absence Reason Example of Use School Act InterpretationAbsent No reason given UnexcusedConfirmed Absent School notified with reason not conforming to School

Act excusedUnexcused

Illness Student is sick ExcusedOther Medical Any medical/dental other than illness ExcusedReligious Holiday Day is holiday in student’s religion ExcusedBereavement Death in family ExcusedTransportation Issue Bus not running or late ExcusedOut of School Suspension Student is suspended from school ExcusedUnavoidable Circumstances Examples are legal or safety issues – school will make a

note of reasonExcused

In School – Not in Class Examples are testing out of class, call to office, etc. Not Absent from SchoolField Trip/School Activity Student is absent from classes due to participation in a

school-recognized field trip or other school activityNot Absent from School

In-School Suspension Student serves suspension at the school Not Absent from SchoolLate No reason given or reason not conforming to School Act

excusedUnexcused Late

Excused Late Late for reason conforming to School Act excused Excused Late

We encourage parents to continue to contact schools whenever their child is away. If you have questions related to these absence reasons, please contact your school principal for further clarification.

Late Policy

It is expected that all students arrive at the school on time for both morning and afternoon classes. . Students must come to the general office to get a late slip from the administrative assistant before being admitted into class. Chronic lates will result in contact with the parents. If lates and absences continue a referral will be made to The Attendance Board.

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Accidents/Illness

In the case of a serious accident or illness of a child the school will endeavor to contact the parents or guardians. Parents or guardians are required to accompany the child home. If the parents cannot be reached, appropriate action will be taken. It is very important that we have current work, home and emergency phone numbers. The emergency number should be a number other than the home phone number.

For safety reasons, parents/guardians who are requesting their children leave school early for an appointment are asked to pick up their child at the school office and sign them out. Prior notice of appointments should be given to teachers in a written note.

Normally, children who are too ill to go outside for recess are too ill to be at school. This is particularly true in the case of severe colds. Children coming to school with severe colds are unable to function well at school. They are a source of infection for other children, and would probably recuperate faster at home.

Safety and Security around the School

Delton School is committed to making the school a safe environment for all that use the facility. We have installed a doorbell for the daycare and for the school. The daycare bell is located at the daycare entrance and the school bell is located at the front middle entrance doors on 89th Street.All school entrance doors will be locked shortly after 4:00 p.m. unless a school activity is planned. The door in the main entrance will be kept open during the day for parents and late arriving students. Please use the bell for school access after hours and a staff member will assist you.

With the help of our parents, students, staff and neighbors, we will do everything we can to make the school and grounds safe.

Giving Medication

There have been requests from parents to administer medication to their children during the time they are in school. The school board has an extensive policy regarding student medication. Medication MUST be brought to school appropriately labeled by the pharmacy and in the original prescription bottle. No medication may be administered if the date has expired, if the container label is missing or cannot be clearly read, or if more than one type of medication is in the bottle. Bubble packs are preferred and should be labeled and provide the same information as above. Medication must be brought to the school by the parent, not the student. Children with epipens must carry them in a fanny pack on field trips. Any prescription medication will not be given to any student without the written instruction of the prescribing doctor. (Forms are available from the office.)

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These forms must be filled out each year or if any change in dosage or different medication is prescribed. No one at the school is allowed to administer over the counter medication.

Family or Student Concerns

The school would appreciate being notified through a note, personal visit or a telephone message of any event or family matter that may cause stress to your child.

Field Trips

Field trips that enhance student programs will be organized throughout the year. Letters explaining each field trip, its objective, and cost will be sent home one week in advance. Students must have written permission in order to participate in the activity. Permission slips are to be signed by a parent or guardian. Verbal consent will not be accepted.

Skateboard/Bicycles/Scooters/Roller blade Policy

Skateboards, roller blades, scooters and bicycles must not be ridden on school grounds during school hours. Bicycles and scooters must be locked to the bicycle rack. Locking of bikes together is not permitted. The school takes no responsibility for the loss of bicycles. Failure to comply with these rules may result in a child losing the privilege of riding the item to school. Please be reminded that it is law that students wear a helmet. There is no place to safely and securely store skateboards or scooters so we ask students to refrain from bringing them to school.

Electronic Devices/Toy Policy

Students are encouraged to leave all electronic devices and toys at home. The school will not be responsible for their loss.If a parent requests that a child have a cell phone at school, it must not be a distraction

during school hours.

Student Dress

Board Policy requires all students to meet acceptable standards of dress and grooming. Students should be neat, clean and appropriately dressed for school activities for which they are scheduled. Suitable indoor footwear is required. Hats/caps are not appropriate for the classroom.

Indoor/Outdoor Shoes

All students MUST have a pair of gym shoes. For health and cleanliness reasons, any footwear worn outside will not be permitted in the gymnasium. We ask that students help keep the school tidy by removing their outside footwear when entering the school.

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Children’s Possessions

All possessions of students such as running shoes, boots, mitts, etc. are to be marked with their name. Students are encouraged to leave toys at home.

School Supplies

It is customary for City Centre Education Partnership Schools (CCEP) to provide school supplies for our students.

Extra-Curricular/Intramurals/Activities

Delton offers extra-curricular activities for students. They are often held before school begins, noon hour, during recess and after school. In addition to various intramural sports, there are many student clubs at Delton. Extra-curricular activities are organized primarily for student enjoyment and vary from year to year. Any student that has signed up for any clubs or any after-school activity is expected to attend unless they have a written note from their parent/guardian excusing them.

School Pictures

An individual student picture and a class group picture will be taken on October 14, 2016. A variety of packages are available through the photography studio.

Lost and Found

Should an item go missing, please check the lost and found box just outside the library.

Alberta Health Services

Alberta Health Services works together with schools and community agencies to provide a range of coordinated community health and support services for school age children and their families. Our common goal is to build on the health and education potential of students by providing nursing and, rehabilitation services, speech and language therapy and dental inspections in targeted schools.

If you have concerns about your child’s health, please talk to your school nurse at the East Edmonton Health Centre by phoning (780) 413-5645.

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Family Therapist

The Family Centre provides a family therapist onsite at Delton School. The family therapist works with families on a variety of issues such as dealing with loss, anxiety or behavioral issues. Developing programs to encourage positive self-concept and social skills in children is an important aspect of the role of the family therapist. The family therapist also makes referrals to outside agencies as necessary.

Delton has formed partnerships with some very special agencies/organizations who together are working for the benefit of your child and family. These agencies include: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Child and Family Services, The Family Centre, Rotary, Start 2 Finish, Lions Club, E4C, and the United Way. We also have other volunteer groups who are involved in a variety of ways.

They will provide mentors, coaching, therapy, counseling, recreation, family and cultural support as needed, and will be working together to ensure that your family has the most positive school experience.

Snack and Lunch Program

All students are eligible to receive a daily mid morning snack and lunch providing the parental permission form has been returned. Parents are required to complete a permission slip and indicate if their child has any allergies.

Food will not be given to a student without proper signed documentation. This program is not to replace breakfast at home.

Lunch Program:

Delton School has a lunch program provided by E4C. This is not a hot lunch. Children are provided with a nutritious lunch consisting of sandwiches, wraps, fruit, salads, milk and juice, etc. There is a monthly fee. Fees are paid anonymously, and they request$20.00 per month, or whatever your family can afford. If your child is a big eater and would like something more for lunch, please send supplemental snacks with your child.

Food will not be given to a student without proper signed documentation.

Students are certainly welcome to bring their own lunch.

Delton School does NOT provide microwaves; therefore we are unable to heat up student lunches.

Students who live in the Delton area are encouraged to go home for lunch.

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AWARDS

Delton School holds monthly assemblies usually on the last day of the month to recognize some outstanding students from each homeroom class. While a letter to these assemblies invites parents of the award recipients, all parents are invited to celebrate students’ achievements.

Grade Six “Farewell” Awards

At the Grade 6 Farewell, held at the end of the school year, grade 6 students are eligible for these other special awards:

Achievement Awards – Separate awards are given to students with honors in the following areas:

o Excellence in Social Studieso Excellence in Language Artso Excellence in Scienceo Excellence in Mathematics

There are also awards to the top student in each core subject. Additional awards consist of:

The John Kulak Scholarship – Presented annually to a grade 6 student who best meets the criteria of scholastic excellence and is an example to all of good citizenship. The scholarship consists of a plaque and cash award from the John Kulak Scholarship Trust Fund. Mr. Samuel Biemberg established the trust fund in recognition of the contributions made to Delton School by John Kulak, principal of the school from 1947 – 1965.The Darren Williams Award – Recognizes a grade 6 student for excellence in and participation in sports. The award is a memorial tribute to Darren Williams, a former student at Delton School from 1983 – 1986.The E.G. Pope Award – Presented to the grade 6 student who has contributed the most towards the smooth functioning of our school community. It was established as a tribute to Elizabeth Gilroy Pope upon her retirement as a teacher at Delton School from 1947 – 1968.The Delton Way Award – In recognition of a grade 6 student who best exemplifies excellence in academics, community service and citizenship.

Delton School provides supervision 15 minutes before school starts. Please do not send your children to school prior to 8:25 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Students are required to go home immediately after school. Only students whose parents are supervising them are allowed to stay and play in the park.