COLUMBIA COUNTY SCHOOL CALENDAR2019-2020

July 25-30……....…….………..………...………………………….Principals’ConferenceJuly 31, August 1-2, 5-6.........................................................…...Pre-PlanningAugust 7....…..........................................................................First Day of SchoolAugust 30….. ……………………………….....Early Release/Professional LearningSeptember 2…………………………..……………………....….………..Labor Day HolidaySeptember 6……………………………………………...…………………..Progress ReportsSeptember 20……………………....................Early Release/Parent ConferencesOctober 9.………………………………………………...……… End of First Nine WeeksOctober 14………………………....……………....…..…. Teacher & Student Fall Break October 15.………………………………………...Teacher Professional Learning DayOctober 16…………………...……...........................................................Report CardsNovember 8…………………………………...Early Release/ Professional LearningNovember 12………………………….………………………………....……Progress Reports November 25-29…………….………….…………………….… Thanksgiving HolidaysDecember 17-20….………...…………….………………...……………… Semester ExamsDecember 20………………………………….... Early Release/Last day of SemesterDecember 23 - Jan.3….....................................Student and Teacher Holidays January 6………………………….……………... Student Holiday/Teacher Work DayJanuary 7…………………..………….……………...….... First Day of Second SemesterJanuary 10………………………………………………………..…………………....Report CardsJanuary 20……………………….…….……………..…Martin Luther King, Jr. HolidayFebruary 6…………………………..……………………………....………...Progress ReportsFebruary 14,17…………………………………………..………...... Student Winter Break February 14…………………………………..…..Teacher Professional Learning Day February 17………………………………………………..……….…..Teacher Winter BreakMarch 12………………………………………………………….… End of Third Nine WeeksMarch 13…………………………………………..... Early Release/Parent ConferencesMarch 18……………….…………………………...………………………………... Report CardsApril 6-10……………………...……………………………..…………………...….Spring BreakApril 13………………………………………………………………..………………...Spring BreakApril 21…………………………………………………………….…………..….Progress ReportsMay 19-22……………………….……………………………………….………Semester ExamsMay 22..………………………………. Early Release Day//End of Second SemesterMay 25……………………………………………………….……………Memorial Day HolidayMay 26-27………………………………………………….………………………..Post PlanningMay 27……………...………………………………………..………………………….Report Cards

Dear Parents,

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you and your family to Evans Elementary School! We are looking forward to meeting you, and working with your child this year.

We hope that you will take the opportunity to partner with the Evans Elementary school family to make this a year to remember! There are many ways to partner with us, such as volunteering in your child’s classroom, volunteering in the cafe, or learning commons, assisting with planning, and attending our school events. The best team is the team where all players work together towards a common goal!

Our Parent Teacher Organization, or PTO is a vital part of our school. Did you know that the revenue generated by the fundraisers planned and organized by the PTO last year allowed us to purchase the needed shade canopies on both of our playgrounds? Perhaps you were a parent who purchased a Yankee Candle, or sponsored a student in the Fun Run. If so, “THANK YOU!!” The saying, “Many hands make light work” is certainly true in the case of our EES PTO, and we need YOUR hands to help us be just as SUCCESSFUL this year! Please consider volunteering with us. The generous time you donate will certainly allow your children to enjoy many extras in his/her classroom, playground, learning commons, and various other places around our school. Of course, we understand if you are unable to volunteer, but we would like you to consider joining the EES PTO. We have set a goal to try to have 100% participation in PTO this year at Evans Elementary. We hope you will help us meet our goal. Please don’t delay, sign up today!

Our teachers and staff are dedicated to providing your child with quality instruction. With high expectations and hard work, we will achieve our goal.

Once again, we look forward to working with you and your family throughout the 2019-20 school year. Working together, we can provide the very best opportunities and experiences for your child’s education and growth.

Respectfully,Dr. Naesha Parks, Principal

Office Staff

Naesha Parks, Ed. D., Principal Robin Tapani, Principal’s SecretaryJennifer Stafford, Ed. S., Asst. Principal Jean Shearer, School Secretary

School Address: 618 Gibbs Road Evans, Georgia 30809 School Phone: 706-863-1201

FACTS ABOUT OUR SCHOOLEvans Elementary is one of the elementary schools serving the community of Evans. We house kindergarten through fifth grade students and serve nearly 800 students.

Evans Elementary Direction Statement

Knowing what is expectedNever giving upInspiring each otherGiving our allHelping one anotherThinking outside of the boxStanding together

Be a Knight, Do it Right!

Evans Elementary School 2019-2020 Teachers and Paraprofessionals

Name Grade Level Position Kindergarten

Amanda Johnson (Frances Snyder) K Teacher (Paraprofessional)Erin Rosenthal (Audrey Dent) K Teacher (Paraprofessional)Kheri Cash (Michelle Moskal) K Teacher (Paraprofessional)Cynthia Parker (Sharnea Daniels) K Teacher (Paraprofessional)Ashley Beale (Ashley Rivero) K Teacher (Paraprofessional)Libby Barnett (Carol Harrell) K Teacher (Paraprofessional)

First GradeKarrie Stout 1 TeacherKathryn Goff 1 Teacher Shelby Geist 1 TeacherSydney Onate 1 Teacher Hannah Grandin 1 Teacher Jennifer Cerrillo 1 Teacher Joy Hoover 1 TeacherLindsey Pittman 1 &2 Paraprofessional

Second Grade2 Teacher

Sharnea Daniels 2 TeacherChloe Fisher 2 TeacherLindsey McGuire 2 TeacherElizabeth Hanson 2 Teacher Sara Dixon 2 Teacher Glynda Gracey K-2 TeacherJim Mock K-2 Paraprofessional Gabe Robinson K-5 Paraprofessional

Third GradePaula Hildebrand 3 TeacherVivian Rodgers 3 TeacherTara Tredore 3 TeacherUriah Fedak 3 Teacher Joanna Miller 3 Teacher Wendi Davis 3 Teacher Catherine Wenner 3 TeacherMarilyn Walker 3 Clerical Aide and ParaprofessionalKristie Davis 3-5 Teacher Adrian McCladdie 3-5 Paraprofessional

Fourth GradeMeghan Wedereit 4 Teacher Jill Coleman 4 TeacherMonica Lewis 4 TeacherSasha Willis 4 Teacher Kevin McQuillan 4 Teacher

Fifth GradeChannon Crewe 5 TeacherKristie Herndon 5 TeacherKarsten Gregg 5 TeacherNecole Thomas-Mole 5 TeacherKaren Angelucci 5 Teacher

Terri Exum 4 & 5 Paraprofessional

Name PositionTarynn Josey Gifted TeacherMichelle Lee PE TeacherKerry Carver PE Teacher

Brandy Pitcher STEM Class Instructor Ashley Ball Music Teacher

Caitlyn McFadden Art TeacherPatrick Jones Guidance Counselor

Sharon Corbin Guidance CounselorPat Goolsby Media Specialist

Gina Hankins Fixed Assets personnel and office clerk

Lauren Fackler EIP Teacher Ashlee Odom .5 EIP Teacher

Amy Boulineau SPED Teacher Lindsey Brantley SPED Teacher Sarah Maloney SPED Teacher

Stephanie Yoder Speech and Language Pathologist

Ashlee Odom .5 Reading Specialist Suzy Thigpen Instructional Specialist Anna Wright School Psychologist Jan Scarbary School Social Worker

Jesse Bowman Security Resource Officer Robin Tapani Principal’s Secretary and

Bookkeeper Renita Webb Special Education Specialist Jean Shearer School Secretary

Bobbie Sue Schiffhauer School NurseMarilyn Walker Clerical Aide

Kim Davis Technology Support SpecialistBarbara Bateman Cafeteria ManagerStartrance Cherry Cafeteria Worker

Heather Genoe Cafeteria WorkerMarcy Williford Cafeteria WorkerSamantha Olson Cafeteria WorkerLesa Mettenburg Cafeteria WorkerShirley Jenkins Lead Custodian

open CustodianDaisy Broadwater Custodian Donnell Fleming CustodianJames McCladdie Custodian

Naesha Parks Principal Jennifer Stafford Assistant Principal

The Instructional Day

ATTENDANCE BOARD PROCEDURE Descriptive Code: JBD

ABSENCES AND EXCUSES Date: July 10, 2019

Student absences from school may be excused for one of the following reasons, as indicated in the Columbia County Board of Education Policy JBD.

Excused Absences

1. Personal illness

2. Serious illness or death of an immediate family (immediate family includes parents/legal guardians, grandparents, siblings, and stepfamily)

3. Special and recognized religious holidays recognized by their faith

4. Mandated order of government agencies

5. Registration to vote (limited to one day)

6. Emergencies which reasonably necessitate absences from school

7. Special events which reasonably necessitate absences from school as listed below:

○ Post-secondary education visits to colleges or universities beyond 50 miles○ Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership events○ Participation in events or programs sponsored by national organizations,

colleges, or universities○ Any other special event approved by the school principal.

8. Days missed from school to visit with a parent or legal guardian prior to his or her deployment to or during leave from an overseas assignment to a combat zone or combat support posting, up to a maximum of 5 school days per school year.

Permission to be excused for an absence due to a special event listed above must be submitted in writing to and approved by the school’s administration prior to the student’s absence. Requests to be absent for special events not listed above require written notification to and approval by the school’s principal prior to the absence. See Attachment 5. Appeals may be made to the office of the Assistant Superintendent of Student Support.

A health care plan should be developed for any student with a health condition that may cause excessive absences during a school year. This plan, developed by school officials in concert

with the student’s health care provider, will assist the school administrator in making decisions concerning excessive absences. A health care plan does not excuse absences.

Upon a student’s 5th excused absence in a semester for illness as verified by a parent note, the school will notify the student’s parent/guardian in writing of the consequences and penalties associated with school absences in accordance with Policy JBD. All absences for medical reasons, beyond the 5th excused absence in a semester, require an original medical excuse signed by a healthcare professional.

Upon a student’s 5th unexcused absence in a school calendar year, the school will notify the parent or guardian in writing when a student is in jeopardy of becoming truant as defined by Policy JBD.

For any student 14 years of age or older, upon the student’s 5th unexcused absence in a school calendar year, the school will give notification in writing to the student and parent or guardian that the student is in jeopardy of violating the state’s attendance requirements pursuant to O.C.G.A. 40-5-2 regarding the denial of a driver’s permit or license.

Upon the student’s 8th unexcused absence, the school administration will convene a meeting with the parent or guardian and a school social worker to determine whether to begin the process of compiling an official truancy complaint to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

Upon the student’s 10th unexcused absence, the school will submit an official complaint to the Department of Juvenile Justice for truancy.

For elementary students, upon the 10th unexcused late check-in to school and/or early checkout from school in a school calendar year, the school will give written notification to the parent or guardian that, upon the child’s 13th late check-in to school and/or early checkout from school , a report may be made to the Department of Juvenile Justice and the Department of Family and Children Services for its review of the matter.

By September 1 or within 30 days of a student’s enrollment, the Acknowledgement Form of the Columbia County School District Student Code of Conduct must be signed by the student and parent and on file with the school.

ADOPTED: 1/12/88

REVISED: 7/11/89, 5/1/91, 12/18/96, 7/14/98, 9/12/00, 8/13/03, 8/25/03, 10/9/03, 7/27/04, 7/26/05, 12/12/05, 6/28/06, 2/5/07, 11/19/07, 2/26/08, 9/9/08, 10/20/08, 2/23/09, 10/15/12, 9/29/14, 10/6/14, 6/8/15, 7/24/17, 7/23/18, 7/10/19

Copied and pasted from the Columbia County Board of Education website and may be directly referenced at https://ccboe.edlioschool.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1197232&type=d&pREC_ID=1438925

BOARD PROCEDURE Descriptive Code: JBD

Daily Schedule and TransportationStudents may begin arriving at 8:10 a.m. The school day begins at 8:40 a.m. Dismissal begins at 3:40 p.m. Please keep in mind that students must attend at least 3 and a half hours to be considered present for the school day. Students who leave school before 12:10 and do not return will be counted absent for the day.

Child care is available before and after school program. Contact the office for more details.8:10 Teacher Arrival8:40-3:40 Instructional Day3:40 Student Dismissal4:10 Teacher Dismissal

Transportation ChangesNo student will be permitted to ride in a private vehicle, a bus other than their normal bus, or walk home from school without prior handwritten consent by the student’s parent or guardian. NO VERBAL PERMISSION, OR ELECTRONICALLY DELIVERED MESSAGE CAN BE ACCEPTED OR APPROVED. Please do not call the school or email the school and ask to change your student’s transportation. We cannot change a student’s transportation over the phone, through text, or through email. A change of transportation must be accompanied by a handwritten note signed by the parent or guardian. This is not to create an inconvenience for you, but for the safety of our students.

COLUMBIA COUNTY SCHOOLS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS

School transportation is a privilege furnished by the Columbia County Board of Education to all eligible pupils. The following rules are published for the safety, health, and welfare of all children who ride school buses.

SCHOOL BUS RULES AND PUPILS’ RESPONSIBILITIES1. Students will follow the directions of the driver.2. Students should be at the bus stop 5 minutes before the bus arrives, waiting in a safe place, clear of traffic and ten feet from where the bus stops.3. Students must be at the stop in inclement weather as well as fair weather.4. Students will wait in an orderly line and avoid playing.5. Students will cross the roadway in front of the bus after the bus has stopped, they have looked at the driver for a hand signal, and they have looked in both directions for traffic; left, right, left.6. Students will signal the driver with a waving motion if something is dropped and wait for the driver to give a signal before picking up the object.7. Students will go directly to their assigned seat when entering the bus. Keep aisles and exits clear.8. Students will remain properly seated, back against the back of the seat, bottom against the bottom of the seat and keep hands to themselves.9. Students will not eat, drink, chew gum, or bring tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or any controlled substances on the bus.10. Students will not carry animals, glass objects, nuisance items, hazardous materials, or weapons on the bus. Students may carry only objects that can be held on their laps (no large items such as plants, trees, balloons, flowers, and posters may be carried on the bus.)

11. Students will refrain from using loud voices, profanity, vulgarity, and obscene gestures, and respect the rights and safety of others.12. Insolence, disobedience, fighting, and pushing will not be tolerated on the bus.13. Students will not extend head, arms, or objects out of the bus windows.14. Band instruments must be held in the student's lap or placed under the seat. No instruments may be placed in front of the exit door or a seat needed for students. Buses cannot transport instruments larger than a trombone.15. Students will be silent at railroad crossings.16. Students will stay seated until time to get off of the bus. The open door is the signal to get up from the bus seat.17. Students shall be prohibited from using any electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, not expressly permitted by the school administration.18. Students shall be prohibited from using mirrors, lasers, flash cameras, or any other lights or reflective devices in a manner that might interfere with the school bus driver’s operation of the school bus.19. Students shall be prohibited from acts of physical violence, bullying, physical assault or battery, verbal assault, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver, or other unruly behavior.20. Students must provide a written note, signed by a parent or guardian and school official giving permission to ride a different bus or get on or off the bus at a different bus stop location.21. Students will keep their bus clean and in good, safe condition. Students will be charged for any damage to the bus.

The Columbia County Board of Education shall require, upon finding that a student has engaged in unruly behavior on a school bus/school bus stop, the parent or guardian of the student and the appropriate school officials to meet to form a school bus behavior contract for the student. Such contract shall provide for assigned seating on a bus, ongoing parent involvement, and progressive age appropriate discipline for student misconduct on the bus, including possible suspension from riding the bus. These provisions are not to be construed to limit the instances when a school code of conduct or local board of education may require the use of a student bus behavior contract.

Arrival / Dismissal Traffic Routes and Procedures There is no student check out or entrance to the building between 3:20- 3:50. If your child

has an afternoon appointment, be sure to pick him or her up before 3:20.

All cars should turn in the entrance on the right when facing the school. This is the entrance closest to the old EES building. All cars will remain on the right side in a single lane around the front parking lot forming an "S" pattern. Once your vehicle reaches the last curve or turns on to the front of the school, we will use a single line car arrival. Students will enter using main front doors. All drivers will look and wait for the traffic directors to exit this area and leave school grounds.

All cars should turn in the entrance on the right when facing the school. This is the entrance closest to the old EES building. All cars will remain on the right side in a single lane around the front parking lot forming an "S" pattern. Once your vehicle reaches the last curve or turns on to

the front of the school, we will use a double line car dismissal. (7 Cones = 14 vehicles)We will be calling students by the last name. Students will wait in with their grade level teachers. Students will need to listen for their names as they are called. All drivers will look and wait for the traffic directors to exit this area and leave school grounds.

*Car riders who are picked up after 4:10 will be placed in the Knight Time after school program and a $10.00 per child convenience fee will apply.

All daycare buses and regular buses will use the entrance on the left of the school and proceed down and across to the covering awning for drop off and pick up. Daycare buses and regular buses should pull up to the end of the sidewalk. All bus and day care students will be dropped off and loaded at this location. All daycare and regular bus drivers will look and wait for the traffic directors to exit this area and leave school grounds.

You may not park in any of the school parking lots to pick up students that are considered walkers. Walkers are students who live within walking distance of the school according to BOE policy. If students are walkers, they must walk off the school grounds using the sidewalk. All walkers will exit the right side of the building near the side playground. Students that live in neighborhoods on the opposite side of Gibbs Road and in neighborhoods to the right of the building (when facing the building), must cross with parent or guardian the area in front of the locked gated, to the sidewalk, then forward toward Gibbs Road still on the sidewalk. Next, the student and parent (or guardian) shall wait on the crossing guard to cross Gibbs Road, finally proceed home. EES students that live on the same side of the road as the school, and in neighborhoods to the left of the school (when facing the school) should leave the pick up place (near side playground, as described above) with his/her parent or guardian (preferred, not required) and walk on the sidewalk next to where students are picked up and dropped off (in car-line). The parent (or guardian) and student will walk to the top of the hill on the left side of the building (when facing the building) proceeding on the sidewalk, off campus. If this procedure is not clear to you, please stop by the front office and an EES staff member will be glad to help you.

Georgia State law specifies that transportation must be provided for students who live more than 1 1/2 miles from their home school. Any students who reside within the 1 1/2 miles are required to walk or provide their own transportation to school, unless the 1 1/2 mile area is considered unsafe or dangerous.

Immunization, Four Point Screening, and Social Security NumberStudents entering Georgia public schools for the first time must have a Certified Birth Certificate, a four point screening as prescribed by state law, and a social security card. The four point screening includes a hearing,

vision, dental examination,and nutritional screening which may be obtained through the Health Department or a private physician. The appropriate DHR Form 3300 (6-75) must be presented as proof of these examinations. Students may be admitted to school without the eye, ear, and dental certificate but must present it within 90 days following entrance.

All students, regardless of grade level, must have the DHR immunization certificate (Form 3231) on file before the first day of school for Georgia Residents and are required to be on file within the first 30 calendar days of the first day of attendance for all out of state transfer students.

All children born on or after January 1, 1992, are required to have three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine at age appropriate intervals for initial entrance into schools. New students are required to have the Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine.MedicineIf it is necessary to send medicine to school with your child, it must be in the original container with the child’s name on it, and directions for administration. Written parental approval is required before the school administration will dispense medication. Please see medication form on the county website. All medicine will be kept in the nurse’s office and administered by a teacher, paraprofessional or office personnel.

Guidance and Counseling ProgramThe guidance counselor is available to students to help them develop their educational, social, career and personal strengths and become responsible and productive citizens. Intervention may be provided through:

Classroom Guidance: large group instruction in the classroom focusing on the general needs, interests, concerns, and behavior of all students.Small Group Counseling: two or more students working with a counselor discussing a specific area of concern to develop positive relationships, solve problems, and work toward goals. Parental permission is required.Individual Counseling: Personal and private interaction between a counselor and a student in which they work together on a personal or academic concerns. Parents will be notified if the concern affects the safety of the student or others.

A student can make a self-referral for counseling by completing a Student Referral Form or indicating to a teacher, administrator, or counselor a desire for individual counseling. A parent has the right to elect, by signing a waiver form stating that the child will not participate in guidance and counseling activities.

Gifted Education Services The Columbia County School System is committed to the belief that children have the right to an educational program based on individual needs. According to the state definition, “a gifted student is one who demonstrates a high degree of intellectual and creative ability, or excels in specific academic fields and who needs special instruction and special ancillary services to achieve at levels commensurate with his or her abilities." Therefore, competencies in the areas of cognitive skills, learning skills, research and reference skills, communication skills and meta-cognitive skills are extended through gifted education programs beyond what is experienced in the regular classroom. The Columbia County Gifted Education Program was developed under the standards and guidelines provided by the state of Georgia. Approximately five percent of Georgia’s school population including over five percent of the Columbia County school population receives gifted services. If you have any questions, contact your child's teacher of the school counselor.

Statewide Testing Calendar for Columbia County 2019-2020

October 1st - 4th 2nd Grade CogAT

April 29th - May 1st 3rd Grade GMAS May 4th - 8th 5th Grade GMAS 11th - 13th 4th Grade GMAS

School Nutrition ProgramStudents have access to a nutrition program that includes breakfast and lunch each day and is encouraged to participate in the school nutrition program. Students may bring their lunch and may buy milk.

A child’s school breakfast costs $ 1.50, reduced breakfast cost is $0.30, lunch costs $2.85, and reduced lunch is $0.40. Adult breakfast is $2.00, and adult lunch is $3.75. Parents may send in lunch money to cover a length of time, cash for a one day meal, or place money on the student’s account through EZschoolpay.com. Students will not be allowed to charge more than five meals.

No canned or bottled soft drinks or fast food items are allowed in the cafeteria. ALL outside food from fast food establishments must be placed in bags or packaging that does not display the establishment's name and advertisements.

Checks

When paying for items at school, please write separate checks to each of your children’s teachers. Also, separate checks should be written if paying for lunch, field trips, t-shirts, etc. This is necessary for bookkeeping purposes. We realize that it is easier to write one check to cover everything but each teacher is responsible for her classroom, and it is difficult to keep track when money goes to another teacher. If this procedure is not followed, the check will be returned. All money should be placed in an envelope marked accordingly.

School PicturesIndividual student pictures will be taken during the first and second semester. Class pictures will be taken during the second semester.

Honor Roll (3rd, 4th, and 5th Grades Only) The A Honor Roll (90-100 in each subject), and A and B Honor Roll (80-100) in each subject with at least one A) are recognized quarterly. Each student receives a letter, ribbon, and public recognition by the principal after each grading period. Yearly A / A and B honor roll is not determined by yearly averages. The A Honor Roll is for students that have an A in each core subject area during each nine weeks grading period. Yearly A and B Honor Roll is granted when a student receives at least one A and any combination of A’s and B’s in the core areas during each nine week grading period.

Student of the MonthEach month students from each homeroom are recognized for their citizenship, positive attitude, cooperation, good conduct, and use of appropriate manners. These students should be a role model for others. Each student is recognized by the principal with a letter, a ribbon, and each name is announced on the morning broadcast for public recognition. The student’s picture is also placed in a frame on the Hall of Fame for the month following the student’s’ selection.

Safety DrillsThe following drills are required by the state of Georgia to be held during the school year:

● A monthly fire drill, with 2 during the month of August.

● Two tornado drills held during Severe Weather Awareness Months one in the first semester and one during the second semester of the year.

● Two lockdown drills will be held during the school year. There will be one during the first semester and one drill during the second semester.

Handicap ComplianceIn compliance with Section 302 (b) (1) (A) (i) of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Columbia County Schools will assure that individuals with disabilities are given “opportunity to participate in or benefit from the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or Accommodations” of all schools. Individuals with disabilities should seek assistance from the office when access is needed to any location at Evans Elementary.

BirthdaysEach student is honored on his/her birthday by the office staff, with recognition on the morning broadcast. Birthday treats brought to the school to share with classmates may only be enjoyed during your child’s lunch period. Birthday treats cannot be distributed or enjoyed in the classrooms. Party invitations may be given out at school only if every child in the class is invited.

Birthday recognition on the marque in front of the school will be available soon. The cost is $10.00. There will be a link available

through RevTrak.

School Rules and Expectations

Protection of Instructional TimeOur primary responsibility is to keep your safe and to teach our children. In order to meet this responsibility, we must use every available resource to see that our time is used for instruction. To allow us to teach and to allow your child to learn, we have several rules which must be observed.

Classroom VisitationVisitors must report to the office upon entering the building. No one is permitted to visit the classrooms without permission from the office. You will need to obtain a visitor’s badge from the front office before visiting within the building. Messages, keys, books, lunches, etc. can be left in the office and the office staff will be sure that your child receives them. Please help us by taking care of these matters before school to prevent loss of instructional time. Parents and/or others will not be allowed to go to the classroom to speak to or conference with the teacher while students are present. The best way to reach the teacher during the day is through email. He or she will likely respond during planning or during a transition, however, please note that for emails that require a longer response, we do allow the teachers a 24-hour window.

Tardiness and Early DismissalStudents entering late and leaving early lose instructional time. These students also disturb others in their class when coming and going. Please keep these interruptions to a minimum. The first bell of the day will ring at 8:35 AM; the tardy bell will ring at 8:40 AM. All students should be in their classrooms by 8:40 AM. If your child is tardy, you will need to park and walk him or her into the front office and sign your child in before they can go to their homeroom class. Excessive tardiness will be reported to the County Social Worker. The instructional day ends at 3:40 PM. If you are picking your child up before the instructional day ends, you must do so before 3:20. Student check out, and entrance to the building is not allowed between 3:20 – 3:50. Please plan all appointments with this in mind. Bus students will be released from their classrooms when their bus arrives. Students must be present 3 and a half hours of the school day to be counted present for the day. If a child leaves school before 12:10 and does not return, he or she will be considered absent for the day.

Please send in a written excuse when you child is absent Students cannot learn if they are not in school. For this reason, absences must be kept to a minimum. If it is necessary to keep your child at home, be sure to send a written note explaining the absence on the first day your child returns to school. If your child is out for several days due to illness, please inform the school or your child’s teacher of this absence. Email is suffice. Our goal at EES is ALL DAY, EVERY DAY!

Reminder… Student absences from school may be excused for one of the following reasons, as indicated in the Columbia County

Board of Education Policy JBD.

Excused Absences:1. Personal illness2. Serious illness or death of an immediate family (immediate family

includes parents/legal guardians, grandparents, siblings, and stepfamily)

3. Special and recognized religious holidays recognized by their faith4. Mandated order of government agencies5. Registration to vote (limited to one day)6. Emergencies which reasonably necessitate absences from school7. Special events which reasonably necessitate absences from school as

listed below:

● Post-secondary education visits to colleges or universities beyond 50 miles

● Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership events (in general this applies to HIgh school)

● Participation in events or programs sponsored by national organizations, colleges, or universities

● Any other special event approved by the school principal. 8. Days missed from school to visit with a parent or legal guardian before

his or her deployment to or during leave from an overseas assignment to a combat zone or combat support posting, up to a maximum of 5 school days per school year.

Permission to be excused for an absence due to a special event listed above must be submitted in writing to and approved by the school's administration PRIOR to the student's absence. Requests to be absent for special events not listed above require written notification to and approval by the school's principal PRIOR to the absence. See Attachment 5. Appeals may be to the office of the Assistant Superintendent of Student Support.

Healthcare PlansA health care plan should be developed for any student with a health condition that may cause excessive absences during a school year. This plan, developed by school officials student’s health care provider, will assist the school administrator in making decisions concerning excessive absences.

A health care plan alone does not excuse absences.

Hospital/Homebound ProgramA hospital/homebound program is available, should it be necessary for your

child to be out for anextended period or intermittent period. A doctor's permission is necessary,

and the absence mustextend for ten or more school days. A teacher may work with the student for a

maximum of threehours per week, and the student receives full-time attendance credit.

HomeworkHomework is an extension of school work, completed outside of the regular

classroom that is directly related to the course.In grades K-5, homework should offer follow-up practice activities with explicit

directions given.

Homework for some primary grades is not the traditional book assignment type. It is recommended

that students spend 15-30 minutes a day doing one or more of the following reinforcement activities:

● reviewing and or correcting daily work

● reviewing vocabulary cards or word lists

● doing take-home reading assignments

● studying spelling words

● practicing math, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division facts, etc.

Homework reinforces, enriches, and expands the student's understanding of concepts taught in the course. It also provides opportunities for the student to improve study skills, to assume responsibility, and to follow instructions. Often a natural outcome is increased parental involvement as a member of the educational team.

● The duration of assignments for the average student should not exceed the following:

Kindergarten- 15 minutes1st- 30 minutes2nd and 3rd - 45 minutes4th and 5th- 60 minutes

● Students should be accountable for homework in three ways. It should be completed on time, neat, and completed in the manner assigned by the teacher.

● Teachers should be accountable for homework assigned. Homework will be collected or checked systematically or accounted for suitably, and feedback is given as soon as possible. Teachers will assign homework that is directly related to the unit under study or a part of a course objective (i.e. daily news notes for social studies or a composition to gain writing skills in a language arts class). Homework will not be assigned as a means of punishment.

● The principal, as head of the individual school, will be accountable for implementation of the homework policy. The principal will discuss fully with the teachers at the beginning of the school year the school’s homework policies, the students’ responsibilities, and the teachers’ responsibilities.

Promotion and Retention

Progress reports will be sent home to the parents by the teacher at the midpoint of every nine weeks grading period. Parents are encouraged to conference with teachers concerning their child’s academic achievement.

Students and parents will be notified by the school in writing, of the impending failures for the year, no later than the third nine weeks of the school year, and a record kept of this notification.

Minimum standards shall be met for promotion from one level to the succeeding level. The

classroom teacher has the responsibility of determining whether a student meets these standards. For

students who are failing or in danger of failing, the teacher shall refer the case to the principal and

the Student Support Team.

Students may be retained at least an additional year at any grade level if promotion standards are not

met. The detailed information regarding specific promotion and retention of students can be found in

policy IHE.For students in Columbia County Schools to be promoted, the following criteria

must be met:Kindergarten:Teachers use a variety of sources of information in making placement and

instructional decisionsabout students.Grades 1 and 2:Must achieve at the level of Progressing Toward the Standard (P), Meets the

Standard (M), orExceeds the Standard (E) in Language Arts and Math by the end of the 4th

quarter.Grade 3:Must pass three of the four core subjects of Language Arts, Math,

Science/Health, and Social Studiesand meet grade level standards in Reading on the state assigned assessment.Grade 4:Must pass three of the four core subjects of Language Arts, Math,

Science/Health, and SocialStudies.Grade 5: Must pass three of the four core subjects of Language Arts, Math,

Science/Health, andSocial Studies, and meet grade level standards in Reading and Math on the

state assignedassessment.

Report Card GradesKindergarten: Standards Based Report Card1st Grade Standards Based Report Card2nd Grade: Standards Based Report Card3rd Grade, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade: Numerical Grades

Discipline

A positive climate is essential when teaching and learning. Good behavior is expected of all students and will allow for the maximum achievement of all. We know that PBIS is effective, and that success is evident on a daily basis at Evans Elementary. Students who behave will be recognized.

Be a Knight, Do it Right! Cafeteria Expectations

● Be Respectful-Stand quietly in the serving line. ● Be Ready-Get your napkin and utensils as you exit the line. Keep your

table and floor area neat.● Be Responsible-Talk quietly when you have permission. Put all trash

in the proper placeCar Rider Rules

● Be Respectful-Stand quietly in the serving line. ● Be Ready-Get your napkin and utensils as you exit the line. Keep your

table and floor area neat.● Be Responsible-Talk quietly when you have permission. Put all trash

in the proper placeCommons/Playground Expectations

● Be Respectful-Use good sportsmanship. Be a good friend.

● Be Ready-Watch your teacher for Signals.

● Be Responsible-Use the playground equipment correctly.Hallway Expectations

● Be Respectful-Remain quiet in the hall.

● Be Ready-Walk on right side of the hallway. Keep your hands to yourself.

● Be Responsible-Go directly to your destination.Stairwell Expectations

● Be Respectful-Move carefully one step at a time while holding on to the hand rail.

● Be Ready-Face forward, always watching where you are going.

● Be Responsible-Go directly to your destination quietly.Restroom Expectations

● Be Respectful- Use appropriate language at all times. Respect the privacy of others.

● Be Ready-Wait your turn. Keep your feet on the floor.

● Be Responsible-Be neat and clean up after yourself.Bus Area Expectations

● Be Respectful-Show respect. Follow the directions of the driver.

● Be Ready-Wait quietly for your bus. Remain seated on the bus.

● Be Responsible-Keep your hands, feet, and objects to yourself. Enter and exit the bus quietly.

Classroom Expectations● Be Respectful-Treat others kindly.

● Be Ready-Have all materials.

● Be Responsible-Follow all school rules and work hard.

Electronic devices, radios, tape recorders, cameras, tapes, trading cards, toys, and collector's items may not be brought to school without special permission granted through the office. Animals of any kind are not to be brought to school.

Of course, we prefer to ACCENTUATE the positive at EES, but in times when expectations are not followed we will provide the following consequences….

● Warning

● Lose privilege, call a parent.

● Reteach room, call a parent.

● Send to principal/assistant principal, call parents.

● Severe Case: Child is taken directly to the Principal/Assistant Principal. (Examples: fighting, destruction of property, bringing weapons to school, inappropriate literature, etc.)

In-school suspension is a method whereby students are punished for rule infractions throughisolation from their classmates, usually in the office or another classroom. These students areclosely monitored with regular assignments, and receive credit for attendance. Any regularclassroom assignments missed or incomplete will be given to the student the following day. In allcases, parents are informed as quickly as possible.

We believe all of our students can behave appropriately at school. All teachers work withstudents to maintain discipline. If you are contacted about misconduct, we need your activeparticipation. Experience has taught us that students seldom continue to misbehave when parentsand teachers work together.

Dress Code for StudentsTo facilitate a safe educational environment conducive to learning, the Board of Education has determined the following:

A student shall not dress, wear or use emblems, insignias, oversized chains, badges or symbols, to include excessive body piercings, or tattooing, which are likely to distract the attention of other students in the classroom, cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school, or violate health and safety standards of the school. No clothing shall be worn which is excessive or extreme in appearance, displays messages that are profane, vulgar, lewd, indecent or sexually suggestive, contains alcohol, tobacco or drug advertisements, or advocates criminal activity.

Students shall abide by the following guidelines at all times:• Clothes and shoes that show good taste, avoiding extreme designs and

styles which may pose a safety problem, are expected. Headdresses, hats, sweatbands, and scarves, which are meant to be worn outside, are not to be worn inside the school building unless a pass has been issued by the teacher or school. Undergarments are not to be exposed.

• Shirts and Blouses – Unacceptable attire includes clothing that exposes the torso such as see-through garments, halters, spaghetti straps, backless dresses, tube tops, tank tops or muscle shirts, bare

midriff outfits, or shirts or blouses that are tied at or may rise above the waist.

• Skirts, Shorts, and Dresses – Skirts and shorts must be fitted at the waist and should be of appropriate length. As a general rule, the appropriate length would be at fingertips, provided this measurement is mid-thigh and below. Mini-skirts are deemed to be disruptive and are not allowed. This expectation includes skirts and dresses with any opening that exposes the leg above the appropriate designation.

• Pants and Shorts – Pants and shorts must be fitted at the waist. They must not be too baggy. Torn, tattered, and ripped pants must be an acceptable length –see appropriate length, as mentioned above. Pants must not drag the floor. Unacceptable shorts include, but are not limited to, athletic shorts, spandex style ‘bicycle’ shorts, cut-off jeans, cut-off sweatpants, short-shorts, running shorts, and see-through boxer-type shorts. Leggings of any type may only be worn with a sweater or dress of an appropriate length as described elsewhere in this code.

• Belts and Straps – Belts, if worn, must be secured at the waist and buckled. All straps should be fastened, and sashes must be tied.

• Hats – No hats or head covers may be worn in the school building unless worn for religious reasons.

• Bandannas – No bandannas of any type will be allowed.• Fraternity and sorority insignias on clothing are forbidden.• Sunshades and dark glasses will not be worn inside the school

building unless prescribed by a physician or another person who is professionally qualified to make such recommendations.

• Students shall not wear clothing (shirts, caps, etc.), that will in any way promote or advertise the use of narcotics, alcoholic beverages, tobacco or stimulant drugs which are illegal for any such student to use.

• Suggestive, vulgar, or obscene pictures and language on clothing or body are forbidden.

• Cheerleading uniforms – During school hours, cheerleading uniforms can be worn only during pep rallies. Cheerleaders must comply with the dress code all other periods of the school day.

• Extreme out-of-season dress may be questioned by the school administration.

Disposition - Violators will be subject to the following disciplinary actions:Principal’s discretion, which may include short-term suspension

Students inappropriately dressed will not be allowed to remain at school unless proper clothing is brought to them.

Care of School Property

Students are responsible for the care of textbooks and other school property issued during the school year. Textbooks should be covered and remain covered throughout the year. DO NOT COVER TEXTBOOKS WITH CONTACT PAPER OR CLEAR STICKY PAPER OR ADHERE TAPE TO THE BOOKS. The library is an important part of the instructional program. All students will participate in library activities on a regular basis. Students will be charged a fee for lost or damaged library or textbooks. Students who fail or refuse to pay for lost, damaged, or abused school property will not be issued any additional school system property, grade cards, diplomas, certificates of progress, transcripts, and school records until restitution is made. NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURECOLUMBIA COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY GAAA-EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND EMPLOYMENT

Equal Opportunity AssuranceIt is the policy of the Columbia County Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of sex, age, race, handicap, religion, or national origin in the educational programs and the activities, or admissions to facilities operated by the Columbia County School System, or in the employment practices of the Columbia County Board of Education. The Columbia County School System shall comply with all aspects of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Amended, 1974), Title XXIX of the Age Discrimination Act of 1967 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. To ensure compliance with this equal opportunity policy, the Superintendent of Schools shall designate staff members to:

a. Coordinate efforts of the Department to comply with this policyb. Develop and ensure the maintenance of a filing system to keep all

records required under this policy;c. Investigate any complaints of violations of this policy;d. Administer a grievance procedure for employees, students and

parents of students enrolled in the Columbia County School System, or community members who reside in Columbia County.

The Superintendent of Schools has appointed the following staff members to coordinate all aspects of compliance with the indicated acts:

Dr. Jeff Carney Title VI of the Civil Associate Superintendent Rights Act of 1964 Columbia County Board of Education (Amended 1974)4781 Hereford Dr.

Evans, Georgia 30802(706) 541-2723

Mr. Tony Wright Title IX of the EducationChief Human Resources Officer Amendments of 1972Columbia County Board of Education Title XXIX of the Age Discrimination 4781 Hereford Dr. Act of 1967Evans, Georgia 30809(706) 541-2723

Please read and discuss this handbook with your child. By signing and returning it to your child’s teacher, you are indicating your support of our

goals.

My child and I have read and discussed the 2019-2020 Evans Elementary School Handbook and the Columbia County Code of Conduct.

Parent’s Signature

Child’s Signature