September 2010 Dear Parents and Students, Welcome to a new school year at Elk Plain School of Choice! Just like you, we want your child to be happy and successful at school. We believe that family plays a major role in your child’s education. Your continual interest and participation in your child’s progress is vital to his/her success. Please take time to review this handbook and become familiar with our expectations, procedures and activities. Elk Plain School of Choice is an exciting and special place for students, parents, and staff. Our staff is committed to providing all students with the very best opportunities possible, emphasizing Learning Through the Multiple Intelligences. We ask your help in maintaining a pleasant and safe atmosphere conducive to positive attitudes and actions. We have four rules for life-long success:

Be prepared

Be on time

Be respectful

Do your best Our rules and expectations are explained in this handbook. As you read and discuss them with your child, please convey the expectation that they are to maintain Sky Warrior behavior at all times. This means they will always be courteous, respectful, and behave in a manner that shows good citizenship. After reading/reviewing, please sign and return the

acknowledgement form to your child’s classroom teacher.

I sincerely hope you enjoy attending Elk Plain School of Choice. I am sure you will have many positive experiences here. I encourage you to be involved in all aspects of the programs offered at our school. We look forward to making this a great year! Michael Merrin Principal

Elk Plain School of Choice is a community of learners, collaborating and communicating to improve student achievement through the arts and sciences.

Together We Can Find Better Ways

To Help All Children Learn ELK PLAIN SCHOOL OF CHOICE 22015 22nd Avenue East • Spanaway, WA 98387-7511 • (253) 683-7900 Michael Merrin, Principal

Table of Contents Principal’s Welcome Letter Table of Contents Elk Plain School of Choice PTA Bethel School Board Elk Plain School of Choice Bell Schedule Meet the Elk Plain School of Choice Staff Sky Warrior Code Policies and Procedures Discipline Plan Kelso’s Choices Expected Behaviors Elk Plain School of Choice Building Map Bethel School District Calendar Snow/Ice/Emergency Bulletin

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and validity of the

information contained in this handbook. Please understand that changes are

inevitable and clarification is available in the Elk Plain School of Choice

office.

Elk Plain PTA Our PTA works for the betterment of the Elk Plain School of Choice community. Membership is open to parents, guardians, grandparents, staff members, friends and community members. Dues paying members have a voice and a vote in the direction and activities of Elk Plain PTA. PTA membership also supports the State and National PTA in lobbying for legislation that positively affects our children and our school. We hope you decide to become involved in your child’s PTA. Membership dues are $10.00 for individual, $18.00 for a family, and $20.00 to $100.00 for a non-voting business membership. See the PTA board members or Elk Plain office staff for membership information.

Our 2010 - 2011 PTA Board

Tami Booth, Co-President

Kendra Williamson, Co-President

Ann Clark, Co - Vice President

Brenda Romero – Co Vice President

Melissa Pate, Secretary

Becky Ortega, Treasurer

Watch for the PTA’s monthly newsletter.

Bethel School Board

John Manning, President

Brenda Rogers, Vice-President

Joy Cook, Director

Susan Smith, Director

Ronald Morehouse, Director

Five local citizens serve a four-year term as elected officials on the Bethel School Board. Each member represents a district in the 202-square mile district. School board members, also called school directors, are the “governors” of the school district who work in partnership with their administrative team to set the district’s direction. School board members have four major areas of responsibility:

!"#"$%&The board focuses the work of the district and community on student achievement through a comprehensive strategic planning process.

'()*+(*),&The board governs the district through prudent financial planning and oversight, and diligent and innovative policymaking.

-++$*%(./"0"(1&The board infuses all programs and crucial policies with specific goals and a process for evaluation, reporting and recommending improvements.

-23$+.+1&The board champions public education in the local community and before state and federal policymakers. The school board regularly meets twice a month on Tuesday nights. Meetings alternate between the district office (516 E. 176th St., Spanaway) and local schools. The public is always welcome to attend. Call 683-6000 for specific information.

Elk Plain Bell Schedule

2010 - 2011

7:00 AM Teacher Day Begins

7:15 AM 1st Bell - Breakfast/Playground

7:30 AM Classroom routines begin

7:40 AM Tardy Bell – Students need a tardy slip

7:40 AM Morning Announcements/Instruction begins

10:30 AM K/1 Lunch

11:00 AM K/1 Recess, 2/3 Lunch

11:30 AM 2/3 Recess, 4,5,6 Lunch

12:00 PM 4,5,6 Recess

12:30 PM End of Recess for 4,5,6

1:43 PM K/1 Dismissal

1:45 PM 2 – 6 Dismissal

2:30 PM Teacher Day Ends

• Late Arrival Days 2 hours later - Classroom routines begin at 9:30 AM

• Early Dismissal Days End at 9:55 AM

•

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

When students arrive late to school or leave early they are missing an

important part of the learning process. Please help your student by ensuring

they arrive on time and limit early pick-ups at the end of the school day.

Students may arrive no earlier than 7:15 AM. At this time they can go to

breakfast, to the library for silent reading or to the supervised playground until

the 7:30 AM bell rings.

As per the agreement signed during the application process, families shall

attend school regularly and arrive to school on time. Repeated tardy arrivals

adversely affect academic progress and will accumulate towards the students’

attendance record. Every 4 unexcused tardies (late arrival or early pick-up)

accumulate to the equivalent of 1 unexcused absence. Every effort will be made

to work with families to rectify chronic attendance issues up to transferring

your child to their neighborhood school.

Meet the Elk Plain School of Choice Staff

Office and Administrative

Michael Merrin Principal Jennifer Harrison Secretary Karla Moriarty Office Clerk Bonnie Stickle Attendance and Health Clerk Carolyn Heacock Volunteer Coordinator

Custodial and Kitchen Kathy Beaudoin Head Custodian Philip Romaro Night Custodian MaryLou Yeomans Cook Missy Freeman Point of service

Classroom Teachers Mona Coleman Kindergarten Room 14 Tanya Scott Kindergarten Room 12 Marilyn Fangman First Grade Room 3 Gina Epperson First Grade Room 2 Erin Shook First Grade Room 1 Jaime Christianson 2/3 Multi-age Room 23 Frances Cierley 2/3 Multi-age Room 9 & 11 Marjorie Colyer 2/3 Multi-age Room 9 & 11 Brenda Pattee 2/3 Multi-age Room 21 Kimberley Milnor-Taylor 2/3 Multi-age Room 24 Georgina Park Fourth Grade Room 15 James Warnke Fourth Grade Room 13 Bryan Case Fifth Grade Room 18 Lori Littlefield Fifth Grade Room 19 Jesse Jones Sixth Grade Room 22 Staci Sherrod Sixth Grade Room 20

Meet the Elk Plain School of Choice Staff

Specialists

Carla Barragan Drama/Theatre Gym Ron Elliff Science Room 5 Krissa Englebright Dance Room 7 Jerilynn Harris Orchestra Room 17 Monica Hemenway Music/Band Rooms 10 & 17 Corie Jones Librarian/Computers LRC Ame Lee Art LRC

Learning Support Teachers Bev Hance LAP Program Room 16 Binnie Peterson-Bruso Instructional Coach Office Patty Lee Special Education Room 4 Dawn Johnson Social Worker Office Monica Forman-Mason SLP Historic Bldg. Maria Merino District School Nurse Office Robyn Rix Psychologist Room 4

Para-Educators Lauren Austin SPED Room 4 Tammy Green SPED/Playground Room 4 Linda Vann LAP Room 16 Carolyn Heacock Kindergarten/Playground Room 12 Rochelle Nordgren Library Clerk/Kdg. Budget LRC Deanna Ferris Kindergarten/Playground Room 14 Open Playground

Sky Warrior Code:

• Behave in a safe manner • Contribute to the learning and teaching environment • Respect yourself, others, and the school property

Behave in a safe manner This means:

• Walk – inside the building and on all outside hardtops. • Be aware of your personal space and respect the space of others. • Keep hands and feet to self. • Keep your voice, hands, feet, body and movements to yourself.

Contribute to the learning and teaching environment

This means:

• Raise your hand before speaking.

• Listen to the speaker. • Respect adult direction. • Speak courteously. • Ask questions. • Help your classmates. • Participate in all subjects and specialty areas and do your best. • Attend school regularly and be on time. • No toys, electronic games, gum or candy. • Cell phones turned off (powered down) in backpacks only.

Respect yourself, others, and the school facility

This means: • Take pride in yourself and your schoolwork. • Be courteous (no put-downs). • Share. • Take turns. • Follow adult direction. • Use care with school property. • Clean up after yourself. • Take care of school property and nature outside the building.

o Keep hands and feet off the walls o Stay off and out of the trees, do not pick flowers.

Elk Plain School of Choice

Parent and Student Policies and Procedures And Code of Conduct I will…

Persevere in all I do

Follow all school expectations

Accept responsibility

Show respect in words and actions

Accidents If a child is injured at school, he or she will be given emergency first aid by an adult and parents will be notified. If the parent or member of the family is not available, the emergency number listed on the student registration card will be called. Please notify the school if there

are changes to your emergency contact information.

Arrival and Dismissal Students may arrive no earlier than 7:15 AM. If they have breakfast at school, they must go directly to the kitchen. Students who don’t eat breakfast at school may go to the supervised playground or the library for silent reading until the 7:30 AM bell rings. Dismissal for K/1 students is 1:43 PM and for 2nd through 6th grade students is 1:45 PM. On early dismissal days, students are dismissed at 9:55 AM.

Assemblies On the way to assemblies, students will follow hallway behavior expectations and enter the gym quietly through the designated doors. Keeping feet and hands to themselves, students will sit where directed by their teacher. During the assembly, students will listen quietly and respond appropriately to the speaker or performers. If someone nearby is talking, students may politely signal with a finger to the lips to stop talking. When the assembly is over, students should remain seated until directed by their teacher, and should exit the gym quietly. They will follow hallway behavior expectations back to their classrooms.

Attendance Regular and punctual attendance is necessary to limit classroom interruptions and do the best job possible educating our students. We recognize that students do get ill and family emergencies do arise. In the event that your child is unable to attend school please call the attendance office at 683-7993 by 8:30 AM. For your convenience you may call any time - even in the middle of the night. Washington State Law (Compulsory School Attendance Act-RCW 28A 225) requires that all children between the ages of 8 and 18 attend school every day. Excused reasons for a child to be absent or tardy are: illness, injury, quarantine, death in the family, professional appointments, family emergencies and prearranged opportunities of educational value. Unexcused reasons for absences or tardies are: missed bus, overslept, up late the night before, etc. Law requires that parents send a note with their child when they

return to school following an absence or tardy. Please include an explanation, the date of the absence or tardy and the parent/guardian signature. Doctor’s notes must specify when the child was unable to attend and why. Students arriving in the classroom after 7:40 AM must check in at the attendance window. Unexcused tardies count as one fourth of an unexcused absence. This means that four unexcused tardies equal one unexcused absence. (Tardies on Late Arrival and Early Dismissal days will be adjusted to their start/end times.) For the purpose of state reporting, Elk Plain School of Choice uses the following times: 7:40—8:20 a.m. – AM tardy 8:20—10:50 a.m. –AM absence 10:50—11:45 PM absence (leaving two hours prior to the end of school.) 11:45 – 1:45 PM – PM tardy In accordance with State Law, children with 2 or more unexcused absences will

conference with the principal or social worker. If a child has 5 or more unexcused

absences in a month or ten in a year, a petition will be filed with the Pierce County

Juvenile court system.

Band, Choir, Orchestra, and Dance Ensemble Orchestra is available to students beginning in grade 4, band is available to students beginning in grade 6, and choir is available to students in grades 5 and 6 who successfully audition. Students will proceed to rehearsals using hallway behavior expectations. Band, choir and orchestra students should come to rehearsals at the scheduled time, not early or late. Dance Ensemble is an after-school program for students in grades 4, 5, and 6. Students must successfully audition and be selected to participate.

Bathrooms Students may request a pass from the teacher to use the bathroom. Hallway behavior is expected when going to and from the nearest bathroom. If a student notices a problem in the bathroom, he or she should report it to the teacher. When out on recess, the student must get a bathroom pass from the playground supervisor to enter the building. Students are not allowed to use the adult bathrooms.

Buddy Room Sometimes a student might be sent to a buddy room to do work quietly when he or she cannot behave in the classroom. Students must have a pass, signed by the teacher, and will walk quietly in the hallway to reach the buddy room. If the door is locked, the student will stand quietly at the door to wait for the buddy teacher to arrive. Each teacher will arrange for one or two buddy rooms and will notify the office of those choices.

Bus Passes/Parent Pickup changes All students are required to get on their assigned bus unless they have a note from a parent or guardian. This note must be given to the classroom teacher upon arrival at school. Parent/guardian notes that indicate changes in afternoon transportation will generate a bus pass for the student who will be riding on a bus that is not their normal bus. Parents may call to make a change-of-ride request, however, students may not initiate a phone call home for a change of plans. If a student is to be picked up by a different adult than usual the student must have a note signed by the parent. This adult must be prepared to present valid identification. Also, because of the tight transportation schedule, once students are on the buses, we will not hold the buses from leaving or stop the buses so a parent can pick up a student at the last minute. See Parent Pickup

Bus Rules for Elk Plain Students Students must obey the bus driver and their assistant. Students should speak quietly, using appropriate language. For safety reasons, students must remain seated and facing forward at all times, keeping their hands and feet to themselves. Open containers of food and drink, sharp objects, weapons, skateboards, breakable and aerosol containers, and live animals (except guide dogs) are not allowed on the bus. Athletic equipment must be stored in a closed bag. One balloon is permitted in a closed bag. The driver has the right to assign seats if necessary. Loading and Unloading Procedures:

o Always cross the road in front of the bus, never behind the bus. o Pushing, shoving or crowding while loading is not safe and is not allowed. o Be on time—the bus will not wait for tardy students. o Leave the bus only at school or your regular stop. Follow authorized procedures for

exceptions. Parents and guardians are responsible for behavior at the bus stop. Students need to stand and wait at the bus stop in a safe manner, without engaging in dangerous behavior such as rock-throwing, pushing, shoving or chasing. Please board the bus safely. If your bus does not come, appears to be very late, or you have other bus related problems, please call transportation at 683-5900. Students and parents are encouraged to share concerns regarding bus behavior or bus related issues with their drivers. Please, with the exception of emergencies, do not call the office after 1:15 PM requesting last minute changes to your child’s transportation. We will not hold the buses to search for

students at the last minute. This makes all students arrive home late and disrupts the

rest of the transportation schedule for the district.

Bus Rules and Regulations (WAC 392-145-035)

1. The driver is in full charge of the bus and pupils. Pupils must obey the driver promptly and willingly.

2. Each pupil may be assigned a seat in which they will be seated at all times unless the permission to change is given by the school principal and/or the Transportation Supervisor.

3. Outside of ordinary conversation, classroom conduct must be observed. Students should face the front and observe the driving situation and be prepared to react accordingly if necessary.

4. Pupils are to assist in trying to keep the bus clean and also refrain from throwing refuse out the windows. Eating and/or drinking on the bus is not allowed.

5. Pupils shall not open windows on the school bus without first getting permission from the school bus driver. Windows are not to be lowered below the third latching position.

6. No pupil at anytime shall extend his or her head or arms out the school bus windows. Students will not tamper with any emergency doors or windows unless emergency conditions exist or while emergency drills are being conducted.

7. Pupils are to remain seated while bus is in motion and are not to get on or off bus until the bus comes to a full stop. No animal, reptile, fish or fowl is permitted on the bus, except for seeing-eye dogs.

8. Students should refrain from rushing to the bus to load, and must be cautious and watchful for the motorist who attempts to pass during loading or unloading operations.

9. Pupils must cross the highway only in front of the school bus and never behind it, and at the driver’s direction.

10. Pupils who have to walk for some distance along the roadway to the bus loading must walk on the left-hand side of the road facing the oncoming traffic. This will also apply to pupils leaving the bus loading area.

11. Pupils are not permitted to sit in the driver’s seat at anytime. Tampering with any emergency equipment such as first aid kit, fire extinguishers, or highway warning kits is not allowed. Tampering with bus controls and equipment is prohibited.

12. Students should never play or scuffle while waiting for the bus. Pupils should not harass the motoring or walking public or private property owners.

13. Pupils should never throw articles of any kind that can litter or damage public or private property.

14. Student misconduct on the bus will be sufficient reason to suspend riding privileges to those students involved.

15. Any damage to the bus or equipment must be paid for by those responsible. Willful damage is also cause to deny any student the right to ride the school bus. SMOKING, LIGHING MATCHES, VULGARITY AND FIGHTING MAY ALSO BE SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF BUS RIDING PRIVILEGES.

16. In the event of an actual emergency, emergency exit procedures, as established by the emergency exit drills, Chapter 391-145-045 WAC, will be followed.

17. The foregoing procedures apply to all students transported to and from school, and those students transported to other facilities including extra-curricular activities.

18. NOTICE: The school board wishes to provide safety and efficient transportation. We ask your cooperation with the bus drivers in carrying out the procedures outlined herein.

MISCONDUCT REPORTS ARE FILED WITH BUILDING PRINCIPAL AND KEPT WITH STUDENT RECORDS. Chapter 392-145-045 WAC All procedures as outlined by WACS 180-40-230/392-145-015 have been adopted by the Board of Directors, Bethel School District No. 403.

Cell Phones

Cell phones may not be used by students at school. Parents: Please turn your cell phone off when volunteering at school. Student cell phones must be turned off (powered down) and be kept in backpacks only. Student cell phones being used at Elk Plain School of Choice will be confiscated and a phone call will be made to the parents to pick it up.

Change of Personal Information We work hard to maintain current information in our school records for each student. Should your child become ill at school or if there is an emergency, accurate information is essential. Please help us by informing the office of any changes in your address, home, work and cell phone numbers, as well as your emergency contact information.

Clothing/Dress Code We recommend that all students dress in clean, neat and comfortable school clothes according to the prevailing weather conditions. Consideration should be given to safety on the playground and the impact the attire could have on others. Attire that distracts students from their class work should be avoided. For safety, students are not permitted to wear flip-flops, or shoes with heels high enough to prevent them from being active on the playground. Clothing that advertises drugs, alcohol or tobacco, or bear messages that are inappropriate for school are not acceptable. Hats, head-scarves, and bandanas are not allowed during the school day. During cold weather, stocking hats (not baseball) are allowed during recess. Tank tops, halter tops, half shirts or torn or ripped clothing of any kind are not acceptable. Shorts or skirts may be no shorter than one inch below the fingertips when the arms are hanging down at the sides. Sleeveless tops must have shoulder straps at least three fingers wide. No lycra shorts, sagging pants or hipsters (below the navel) are allowed. Underwear and bare midriffs must be covered. Dress and appearance are the shared responsibility of parents and students. Elk Plain School of Choice administration reserves the right to define what is acceptable, as allowed by the Supreme Court of the United States. Should it be determined that your child is not dressed in proper attire, the student will be sent to the Health Room and be given an appropriate item of clothing and be sent back to class. If there is no available substitute clothing (including shoe wear), the parent/guardian will be called and asked to bring that item to school.

Communicable Health Conditions Please notify us if your child contracts a communicable disease or condition (i.e. head lice). This will allow us to take the proper precautions and notify other families when appropriate. If notice is given, the name of your child will remain CONFIDENTIAL.

Custody Documents Washington State Law and district policy require that current custody papers for children of divorced parents be on confidential file in the office. Documents must be issued in Washington State as those from other states are not honored. Questions regarding custody issues and disputes should be referred to your attorney. The legal name as indicated on the student’s birth certificate will be used on all school records.

Drinking Fountain Student should have the appropriate hall pass. If there is a line of students each will wait for their turn. No touching the water spout, spitting into the fountain, or bumping the person drinking. Students in line may count to “three” to indicate that the student should stop drinking and let the next person in line have his or her turn.

Early Release Days Early dismissal occurs during conference weeks and report card preparation days. The morning schedule is the same except the students are dismissed at 9:55 AM. Our transportation department changes the routing of some buses for early dismissal, which impacts our regular busing schedule at Elk Plain School of Choice. Student transportation information for early dismissal days will be requested about two weeks before to ensure students are being delivered to the correct destination. Breakfast will be available on early release days.

Early Student Pick-Up Request Parents picking up their child prior to dismissal at 1:45 PM are required to sign their child out from the attendance office and present a picture I.D. The child will meet the parent or designated adult in the office area only. If someone other than the parent is to pick up the

child you must send a signed note to school with your child. In addition, make sure that

person is prepared to present valid picture I.D. FOR SAFETY REASONS, THE

OFFICE WILL NOT RELEASE ANY STUDENT TO AN UNAUTHORIZED

INDIVIDUAL. Afternoon tardies will accumulate at a rate of 4 unexcused tardies

equal 1 full-day unexcused absence (see Attendance).

Emergencies Families are encouraged to have an emergency plan for their children in case regular routines are interrupted. Please discuss the following points with your children:

o What should your child do if the bus does not arrive in the morning at the stop?

o What transportation will be provided to a different bus stop or to school when routes are curtailed due to road conditions (weather or traffic accidents)?

o What should your child do if someone offers him/her a ride? o What should your child do if he/she arrives home and no one is there? o Where should your child go or whom should he/she call if help is needed?

Email Communication We welcome and encourage communication from parents. Staff will make every effort to respond to you within (1) school day. All staff can be reached via email by using the first letter of the first name followed by the last name then add @bethelsd.org. Suggestions when emailing your student’s teacher, principal or any school staff:

• Please remember that email is not confidential. • Be concise. • Make a simple request for information. • If the concern is lengthy or involved, please request a conference instead of using

email. • The need to repeat emails over an extended period of time is a signal that a

conference should be scheduled.

Emergency Drills Fire and other emergency drills are scheduled on a regular basis. Students are instructed in what to do in a variety of emergency situations.

Entering School Students should enter the building through the doors closest to their classroom. At 7:15 AM students may go to the playground or to read silently in the library until the 7:30 AM start bell rings. If a student eats breakfast at school, he or she should report directly to the kitchen to pick up his or her breakfast. They may NOT go play on the playground first and then pick up their breakfast when the start bell rings. All students should take the shortest route to their classroom. Students who arrive in the classroom after the 7:40 AM tardy bell must present a tardy slip to their teacher. These are available at the attendance window.

Field Trips Educational field trips are encouraged at Elk Plain School of Choice. Teachers plan the trips well in advance and provide for the safety of the students. Parental permission (by way of a field trip permission form) is required. It is the responsibility of both the parent and the student to make sure the field trip permission form is turned in. If you or your child loses the slip, please contact your teacher so a replacement can be sent.

Fines Students are responsible for textbooks assigned to them and for library books they check out. Fines to cover replacement costs will be levied if the textbooks or library books are lost or

damaged. Grades will be held at the end of the school year for students who have outstanding fines. These fines will follow the student through high school until they are paid. Students who move outside Bethel School District will not have their cumulative files forwarded until all outstanding fines are paid.

Guest Substitute Teachers Occasionally our staff members have to be away from school and guest substitute teachers will conduct the class. Students are expected to behave and study as if their regular teacher is present. Students are expected to be respectful, kind and tolerant.

Hallway Behavior and Transitions Students need to keep in mind that other classes are in session when they are moving through the hallways. They should keep to the right and keep quiet talking to a minimum. If alone, the student should have a hall pass from the teacher. In line, students need to keep their hands to themselves and walk slowly, facing forward. Students must not loiter in the bathrooms to visit with friends. (See Hallway under Expected Behaviors)

Health Room

Students may not self medicate at school. Medications may be administered to a student only if the child is under the care of a physician who completes an “Authorization for

Medication” form that deems it necessary for the child to receive medication during school hours. Parents who wish to arrange for the administration of medications at school

should contact the school for a form and procedural directions. This includes all medications, even over-the-counter cold remedies, cough drops, pain relievers and chapsticks. The phone number to the Health Room is 683-7993 or you can email our health clerk, Mrs. Stickle at

bstickle@bethelsd.org. Our school nurse visits the school once a week to maintain medical and emergency procedures and student health screenings. Serious medical conditions are referred back to the parents by a phone call or to 911 in the case of a severe emergency. Students with a runny nose, fever, cough, who have vomited in the past 24 hours, or have an unexplained rash should be kept home. A student should remain at home for 24 hours after a fever has broken. This protects other students and staff from being exposed to the illness.

Late Arrival Days There are 8 scheduled Late Arrival Days for the 2010/2011 school year. Please refer to the Bethel School District calendar for the dates. Elk Plain School of Choice will begin two hours late on these days with our first bell at 9:15 AM.

LID and In-Service Days

State LID (Learning Improvement Day) and In-Service Days are opportunities for teachers to receive training in specific curriculum areas and instructional practices. Students do not attend school on these days. Please refer to the Bethel School District calendar for the appropriate dates for the 2010/2011 school year.

Lost and Found

Labeling your child’s clothing, backpack and other belongings will help prevent lost items. If items are misplaced or left on the playground, they are put in the “Lost and Found” container in the hallway just outside the office. Small items and glasses are kept in the office. Periodically throughout the year, the lost and found is emptied and unclaimed items are donated to charity. If your child has lost an article of clothing, you are welcome to check the lost and found anytime during school hours.

Lunch Students need to follow the same procedures as all other times for moving in the hallway. They should stand quietly in line until it is their turn to get milk and their tray. After getting these, they should punch their account number in the machine, then walk carefully back to their classroom to eat. Student helpers from each classroom return the trays to the kitchen. Tables and desks should be cleared off before the student leaves for recess.

2010 - 2011 Regular Lunch $2.25 Reduced Lunch (Grades K-3) No Cost Reduced Lunch (Grades 4-6) .40 Regular Breakfast 1.35 Reduced Breakfast No Cost Adult Lunch w/milk 3.50 Adult Breakfast w/milk 2.25 Milk/Small Juice .50

Free and reduced lunch applications are available in the school office. Students who qualified for free or reduced lunch last year must reapply each year. If a student forgets a lunch, he/she is allowed to charge up to two lunches. These must be paid back at the earliest opportunity.

Office Hours The Elk Plain School of Choice office is open from 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Messages may be left on our voice mail system before or after hours. You may also contact us by email at jharrison@bethelsd.org or by fax at (253)683-7998.

Parent Pick up Several teachers can be found in front of the school with a clipboard at dismissal time. If you are picking up your child after school, please make sure you notify one of these teachers for check-off. Please remember to send a note with your child if someone else is picking up them up. Or, in case of an emergency, please call the office at 683-7900. Valid picture ID will be required.

Parking Lot We ask that all students and parents enter the parking lot from the sidewalk by using the marked crosswalk which are guided by the school patrol. We are trying to teach the children to be safe in traffic and we appreciate you helping us to set a good example. There is a lot of traffic in the parking lot before and after school. With so many cars and trucks waiting in line, we ask that you drop of your child quickly and move carefully out of the lot so the following families can drop of their children. Courtesy and patience are necessary! If you need to come into the school or have a discussion with your child in the car, we ask that you first park in a designated parking spot. Please do not park in a handicapped space unless you have the required permits. Please do not park along the curb

as this blocks moving traffic. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping the flow of traffic moving!

Performances The Elk Plain School of Choice performing arts program has a clear scope and sequence in relation to student performance experiences. We utilize the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements and Grade Level Expectations for the arts, which place equal emphasis on Creating, Performing, and Responding.

*Kindergarten has an informal and informative Evening in the Arts to share with parents what arts instruction and experience includes. This is not a full production. There is no afternoon showing for kindergarten students. *First grade has an informal school-day performance for fellow students, and parents are welcome to come. There is no evening showing. *Second, Third and Fourth grade students create and perform full productions. *Fifth grade does not produce an evening show but presents their work in various venues throughout the school year. These venues may include site-specific dances; Chocolate, Chimes, and Cheer; our Volunteer Tea; the fifth grade Arts Celebration Week; or Lunch Jam; and include participating in each of the Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art Classroom Based Performance Assessments. *Sixth grade presents a final, culminating stage production for the student body and parents in both school-day and evening performances.

Personal Property From Home Personal items such as toys, electronic games and devices, cell phones, cameras, radios, I-pods, collector cards, etc. should not be brought to school. These items being used at Elk Plain School of Choice may be confiscated and a phone call will be made to the parents to pick it up. Elk Plain does not accept responsibility for items from home that are lost, stolen or damaged. Playground equipment from home should not be brought to school.

Phone Calls If you have an emergency, and you need to get a message to your child, please call the office at 683-7900 as early in the day as possible. We will need time to make sure your child receives the message. Please avoid having your child leave class to take a phone call in the office. Students may use the phone only with the permission of an adult, and then it is for confirming family arrangements or to request a forgotten item.

Playground Rules and Expectations

School and playground safety rules meet requirements set forth by State and Federal Codes. Students are required to be in control of their behavior at all times, to walk on the sidewalk and blacktop areas and to refrain from dangerous play or activities, especially on the playground structures. Good sportsmanship is a must when playing games with others. If a student needs to go in to use the bathroom, they need a pass from the playground supervisors. If a student cannot follow the rules, the supervisors will ask the student to stand by the wall for a short period of time. If the behavior continues, further consequences will result. Loss of recess time could occur. (See Detailed EPSOC Discipline Plan)

Prearranged Absences Prearranged opportunities of educational value (vacations) MUST be approved before you leave. Prearranged absence forms are available in the office and must be turned in at least two weeks in advance. If your prearranged absence is not approved or you fail to turn in a form, all absences will be unexcused and a petition may be filed with Pierce County Juvenile Court System.

Rainy Day Recess Due to wet weather conditions and for student’s safety, it is occasionally necessary that we have “Rainy Day Recess”. Announcements will be made prior to recess, regarding where students will spend recess in case of very inclement weather. This may be under the covered play shed or in the classrooms for quiet activities. Students are expected to use appropriate behavior based on where they are spending their recess. If the class is going outside it is the students’ responsibility to have a coat with hood or a hat that is water repellant if they wish to be outside of the shed area when it is raining. The activities will be limited to blacktop only. If students are not dressed appropriately, they must stay under the play shed area. In-classroom recess is very different than that taking place under the covered areas! Students must still get a pass to use the bathroom in either situation. It is nice to see all students working together and being considerate of each other in making the best of the weather conditions so that they can still enjoy recess.

Report Cards and Conferences Report cards are issued three times each year at the end of every trimester. Parent teacher conferences are arranged in the fall and in the spring. During those two weeks, there is early dismissal all week. Specific dates for 2010/2011 will be October 18th to 22th and March 28th to April 1st. However, parents may contact the teacher to make arrangements to meet at any time during the school year.

Residency Elk Plain is a School of Choice within the Bethel School District. Attendance at Elk Plain School of Choice requires residency within the BSD boundaries. The EPSOC office may request verification of residency as per the BSD guidelines.

Sign In/Sign Out Procedures If you are volunteering in your child’s classroom, we ask that you sign in at the office volunteer counter and wear a sticker that identifies you as a visiting volunteer. When you are ready to leave the school, you must remember to sign out. This list helps us identify who is in the building at any given time should we have an emergency. Please remember to turn off your cell phone while volunteering in the classroom and that all adults are role models to our students. Please follow the EPSOC dress code and behavior guidelines.

If you are taking your child in or out of school during the school day you will need to sign them out at the attendance window. See Attendance

Student Insurance It is extremely important that parents understand that the district does not insure students. Parent medical insurance is the primary coverage for injuries to students. This includes fees charged for 911 transport initiated by school personnel. Student insurance enrollment forms are sent home with students at the beginning of each year. Additional forms are available in the office.

Weapons Restrictions Possession of firearms and other dangerous weapons is prohibited on school property. No one but law enforcement officers are allowed to bring any type of weapon onto school grounds. This includes firearms, knives, metal knuckles, nun-chu-ka sticks, etc. We also require that “toy weapons” be left at home. Under Washington State regulations, bringing a weapon (as defined by BSD policy 3249) to school is considered unlawful and will result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Students who bring “replica” weapons will also be subject to disciplinary action up to and including the possibility of suspension or expulsion.

Elk Plain School of Choice

Elk Plain School of Choice Vision Elk Plain School of Choice is a community of learners working together to improve student achievement through the arts and sciences.

Elk Plain School of Choice Mission We, the staff of Elk Plain School of Choice, are committed to providing students with the behavioral and academic skills required to reason, communicate and live with dignity in a literate society. Our staff seeks to provide instruction that allows all students to reach their fullest potential. We will assist students in gaining the academic competence and the responsibility required to find success through their school years and into the world of work.

Guidelines for Success All staff and students at Elk Plain School of Choice will work together to help each other reach their fullest potential. Everyone will be treated with respect and dignity. Any behavior or action that helps someone grow and mature will be encouraged. Staff will keep students focused on our school guidelines.

1. Be prepared.

2. Be on time.

3. Be respectful.

4. Do your best.

These efforts will make Elk Plain School of Choice a warm and exciting place where new learning occurs every day.

Teaching Students Responsibility and Discipline All staff contributes to the Elk Plain School of Choice friendly and inviting environment. We recognize that we set the tone through our actions and attitudes. Teacher support and encouragement will be demonstrated through four important procedures:

1. We will teach students expectations for responsible behavior in every school environment by relating student actions to the importance of being responsible, trying one’s best, cooperating and treating everyone with respect.

2. We will provide positive feedback to students when they are meeting expectations and following the guidelines for success.

3. When minor misbehaviors do occur, staff will view the misbehavior as a teaching opportunity, responding with calm, consistent corrections or consequences.

4. We will work collaboratively to solve problems that are chronic or severe in nature.

Correcting Irresponsible Behavior

1. Helping Students with Chronic Misbehavior

As we implement our basic classroom management procedures, we know that the great majority of our students will strive to meet our expectations for responsibility and self-discipline. However, we also know that no single set of procedures will work to help every student develop the behavioral skills and attitudes needed to be successful in school. Therefore, we will design a series of interventions for any students who have not been motivated by our school-wide procedures. As we adapt our procedures, the focus will remain positive, while recognizing a continuing need for calm and consistent consequences. We also recognize that some students will present an extreme challenge. Our teachers always keep the following concepts in mind:

• No one is expected to have all the answers.

• We live in a culture where an adequate education is critical to success. Therefore, we will make every effort to teach students to be successful in the school environment.

• The Elk Plain staff works collaboratively. Teachers seek assistance from other

teachers, specialists, their principal, and/or the Elk Plain School of Choice School Wide Assistance Team.

2. Buddy Room

Teachers will set up “Buddy Rooms” to provide a place where a student may be sent to cool off and get back in control (for mild disruptive behavior only, to finish work during recess, or to stay in from recess). Students may return earlier at the discretion of the teacher. The Buddy Room concept is designed to help a student make responsible choices to get back to learning in his/her own room. 3. Behavior Communication Slips

In order to encourage students to make responsible choices, “Behavior Communication Slips” will be issued to students violating rules. Infractions and details will be listed and students will conference with the Principal, social worker, or staff designee. Progressive discipline will be used including verbal or written warning, community service, loss of privileges including recess, one-hour detention (two days lunch recess detention) or other consequence deemed appropriate. During this time the student will not be permitted to talk or study. Students in detention more than one time per month will be subject to the following:

• First detention: one hour, no talking or studying and a letter will be sent home.

• Second detention: five days, one half hour each, plus a conference with the teacher, parent, principal or social worker.

• Third detention: student is suspended from school as determined by principal.

Behavior Communication Slips will be sent home with the student and must be returned signed by the parent the next morning. Please view these slips as a communication tool. Students will continue to lose recess until the signed slip is returned. Behavior Communication Slips are kept in the Elk Plain School of Choice discipline files and will be cleared at the end of each year. Our goal is for students to choose appropriate behaviors. Although we will give students a fresh start, students who consistently accumulate similar offenses will be addressed in student, parent, teacher, social worker or principal conference.

Guidelines for Discipline:

When students do not choose to follow the Sky Warrior Code, the supervising adult, most often the classroom teacher, will handle the situation and the student will be encouraged to problem solve. When serious infractions of the school rules occur, students may be referred to the office. The principal or designated staff will work with the student to problem solve and may impose consequences for such behavior. Age, developmental ability, handicapping condition, previous history, as well as district guidelines will be considered when imposing consequences for students. Behaviors such as (but not limited to) theft, vandalism, insubordination, disruptive conduct, bullying, fighting or threats, may result in a parent-child-teacher-principal conference and consequence decided at that time. Behaviors which are illegal, or pose a serious threat to self or others which include but are not limited to: assault, arson, robbery, firearm or weapons possession, possession of illegal drugs including tobacco or alcohol, bomb threats, bullying, gang activity, possession of explosives and any kind of sexual harassment are cause for disciplinary action which may include suspension or expulsion. Remember, actual firearms, weapons, or anything that may be construed as a weapon including toys are all considered weapons. See Weapons

Restrictions

Our goal is for students to follow the Sky Warrior Code and behave accordingly. Repeated minor unexpected behaviors will lead to consequences determined by the staff.

Responsibility in Common Areas Common school areas include such places as the playground, halls, restrooms, and lunch serving area. With different staff members supervising these areas, it is important to share consistent expectations for responsible behavior. Because each common area is unique, EPSOC Expected Behaviors have been developed so that students have a clear understanding of appropriate behavior in each area. Each classroom teacher will teach students what constitutes responsible behavior during assemblies, in the hallways, in the lunch serving area, on the playground, and in the restrooms. Expectations will be taught and re-taught. The younger the student, the more time teachers will spend discussing, modeling, practicing and role-playing. All students will receive the positive instruction and information on how to behave responsibly in different settings.

Elk Plain School of Choice follows

Kelso’s Choices to Solve Conflicts

When minor conflicts arise students are asked to try at least two different conflict resolution choices before consulting a teacher or playground supervisor. Below are possible choices students may try as suggested by Kelso’s Choices. Walk away Go to another game Talk it out Wait and cool off Tell them to stop Apologize Share/take turns Make a deal Ignore it If a serious conflict occurs, where a child is hurt or may be hurt, students should find a staff member immediately. Students are expected to follow the behavior expectations at all times. This promotes a safe and positive learning environment for all students.

STEPS TO RESPECT Children and adults sometimes find it difficult to recognize exactly what bullying is. Conflicts and disagreements between friends are not always bullying. We will use the Steps

To Respect program at Elk Plain School of Choice. Steps to Respect defines bullying as: Bullying is unfair and one-sided. It happens when someone keeps

hurting, frightening, or leaving someone out on purpose. Many children believe that the best way to deal with a bully is to act tough or to hit back. Research shows that when children do this, the bullying lasts longer or gets worse. When children assertively stand up for themselves and involve an adult when necessary, bullying ends sooner. Steps to Respect teaches children to judge their own safety first, then to assertively refuse bullying when possible. You can help your child practice these skills by:

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EPSOC Expected Behavior – Building-Wide

Expected Behavior – Assemblies

On the way to Assemblies

! Students will use a level “0” voice.

! Classes will enter gym through designated doors. ! After the entire class has entered the gym and is sitting with legs folded, students may

use a level “1” voice until the assembly begins. Starting the Assembly

An adult will give the building-wide attention signal, “May I have your attention please.” All students will:

! Instantly shift to a level 0 voice. ! Place eyes on the speaker. ! Maintain attention for the duration of the assembly.

Pledge of Allegiance Expectation Sequence

! When directed to do so, all students silently stand and wait. ! Students will keep their pacing in alignment with the speaker at the microphone. ! Upon completing the pledge, students will stand silently and wait for the speaker at

the microphone to say, “You may be seated.” ! Students will immediately and silently sit down and give full attention to the adult at

the microphone (The speaker at the microphone will not need to give the building-wide attention signal).

When the assembly is over

! Classes nearest the exits will stand to exit first. ! Until directed by the teacher to stand and exit, students will stay seated and maintain

a level 0 voice.

! Upon being directed to stand, students will rise, maintain a level 0 voice, keep hands and feet to self, and exit the gym in an appropriate line.

Expected Behavior – Hallway Behavior

Whole Class

! Face forward, keeping hands and feet to self while maintaining a level 0 voice. ! Walk in a straight line, avoid gaps, and stay to the right of hallways. ! Stop at all intersections and wait for teacher before proceeding. ! Silently wave if you wish to acknowledge someone in the hall.

Individual Students

! Have appropriate hall pass in hand and sign out if necessary. ! Take most direct route to your destination. ! Maintain a level 0 voice.

Lunchline Behavior:

Entering the Kitchen Area

! Students will use Expected Hallway Behavior. ! Students will use a Level 0 Voice. ! Students will keep hands and feet to self.

Getting Food:

! Students will ask adults for food items using polite language: Please, Thank You

and

No Thank You.

Leaving the Lunch Area:

! Students will maintain a Level 0 Voice ! Students will return to class in an orderly line.

Expected Behavior – Playground

Student Expectations

! Keep hands and feet to self. ! Stay within designated boundaries. ! Get a pass to use the restroom. ! Students may only use the restroom by the Dance Studio. ! Follow all adult directions the first time given. ! Use only polite or neutral comments. ! Finish all food in the classroom. ! Stop playing and line up immediately when the bell rings. ! Wait quietly in line for your teacher on the blacktop. ! Leave personal playground toys at home. ! Follow all playground rules. ! Students who wish to assist staff members during recess must make prior written

arrangements. Teachers

! Teachers will be at their designated pick-up point at the sounding of the bell.

Expected Behavior – Using the Restroom ! Have appropriate hall pass. ! Go to the nearest restroom and follow “Hallway Behavior.” ! Leave any school materials or food outside of the bathroom. ! Wait quietly and patiently for your turn. ! Maintain a level 0 voice. ! Promptly return to class. ! Report any bathroom related problems to your teacher.

Questions and Concerns If you have any questions or concerns about your child, or about Elk Plain, please call. Your child’s success and safety are our priorities. Most concerns are best addressed with the teacher. Appointments with teachers may be made by calling 683-7900 from 7:00 AM until 2:30 PM.

Notes:

Important Phone Numbers: