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Joseph Sims Elementary School

Parent and Student Handbook2017-2018

Milly Schrader, Interim PrincipalPeter Lew, Vice Principal

3033 Buckminster DriveElk Grove, CA 95758

Phone: 683-7445Fax: 683-6313

Mission Statement of the Elk Grove Unified School District (Adopted by the Board of Education on June 18, 2001)

Provide a learning community that challenges ALL students to realize their greatest potential.

Our Core Values: Outcomes for students Achievement of core academic skills Confident, effective thinkers and problem solvers Ethical participants in society Commitments about how we operate as an organization Supporting continuous improvement of instruction Building strong relationships Findings solutions High expectations for learning for ALL students and staff Instructional excellence Safe, peaceful, and healthy environment Enriched learning environments Collaboration with diverse communities and families

Board of Education/DistrictBeth Albiani Dr. Crystal Martinez-Alire Christopher Hoffman, SuperintendentNancy Chaires Espinoza Anthony “Tony Perez Donna Cherry, Associate SuperintendentCarmine S. Forcina Bobbie Singh-Allen Bob Roe, Director, Pre-K-6 EducationChet Madison, Sr. Fawzia Keval, Ed.D, Director, Pre-K-6 Education

Jenifer Avey, Director, PreK-6 Education

School Site Administration School OfficeMilly Schrader, Interim Principal Susan Clark, School SecretaryPeter Lew, Vice Principal Dawn Wirick, Office Assistant II

Brandy Pennington, Office Assistant II

Office HoursSchool office hours are 7:30 - 4:00. The telephones are answered between the hours of 7:30 - 3:30.

Answering Machine To accommodate parents and their needs, an answering machine operates before and after school hours. When calling the school number (683-7445) before 7:30 a.m. and after 3:30 p.m., a machine will take your messages. The machine will be used during the day when there are emergencies or fire drills or we are busy at the counter.

Mission Statement of Joseph Sims Elementary SchoolJoseph SIMS Elementary is a community dedicated to providing a well-rounded education in a safe environment that academically challenging and nurturing to all students.

School Vision

Shine and delight in learning through expert instruction in Common Core, the consistent utilization of best practices and academic achievement.

Thoughtfully engage in 21st century learning everyday by communicating, collaborating, being creative, and thinking critically; including the use of technology.

Applaud artistic accomplishments through the fine arts, including music, theater, visual arts, and dance.

Raise future leaders who are problem solvers in an ever-changing world.

Students respect themselves, each other, staff, and other adults and are held accountable through the consistent implementation of positive behavior strategies.

Principal’s MessageDear Parents/Guardians and Students:

Welcome to Joseph Sims Elementary School, Home of the Shining Stars! We are excited to embark on a fun-filled journey with you and your child. At Joseph Sims Elementary School every child will have opportunities to SHINE and reach their potential. Not only will your child have access to rich and rigorous classroom instruction, they will also have opportunities to develop leadership ability, become involved in the region’s top-notch visual and performing arts program, excel in sports and competitions, and participate in extended day opportunities such as intersession, after school clubs, and our project-based GATE program called Genius Hour.

Joseph Sims Elementary School supports student behavior with school-wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) .Through a non-punitive approach, students are rewarded for positive behavior and re-directed in a positive way for negative behaviors. The focus is primarily on the explicit instruction of the school –wide expectations that ALL Shining Stars are RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE, and PERSEVERE.

The following pages will highlight important information regarding school policy and procedures. We encourage parents and students to review the contents together. If you have questions, please contact the school office at 683-7445. We look forward to open and clear communication between school and home to work together for to the success of your child and our educational program.

The Joseph Sims Student Planner was designed to assist your child in organizing his/her assignments. In addition, we feel that the handbook pages will be a helpful reference for parents as they seek to provide academic support at home.

We are proud to be a part of this community and take pride in our work and the accomplishments of our students. We look forward to a great 2017-2018school year and welcome your participation and support.

Sincerely, Milly Schrader, Interim Principal

July 13, 2017 First Day Of School Tracks B, C, DAugust 10, 2017 First Day Of School Track AMay 22, 2018 Last Day Of School Track DJune 22, 2018 Last Day Of School Tracks A, B, C

Regular School Day

A.M. Kindergarten 8:00 - 11:31P.M. Kindergarten 10:59 - 2:30Grades 1 - 6 MTTHF 8:00 - 2:30Wednesdays 8:00 – 1:40Minimum School DayGrades 1 - 6 8:00 – 12:30 p.m.

Instructional/Support StaffTrack AKindergarten Gina Bishop [email protected] AdministrationGrade 1 Deanna Keskeys [email protected] Milly Schrader Interim Principal [email protected]

Grade 2 Cynthia Wood-Kilmer [email protected] Peter Lew Vice Principal [email protected] 3 Barbara Roth [email protected] 4 Mary Landy [email protected] Resource

Grade 4/5 Brandy Prather-Payne [email protected] Computer/Cross Dave Ogden [email protected]

Grade 5 Elaine Stralen [email protected] PE/Cross Katy Papalardo [email protected] 6 Erika Yee [email protected]

Learning CenterTrack B Teacher Susmita Roy [email protected] Pam Smith [email protected] Teacher Ryan Burke [email protected] 1 Allyson Munsey [email protected] Teacher Josh Wilson [email protected]

Grade 2 Kathy Rebhan [email protected] 3 Lauretta Larbig [email protected] Intersession Tori Greer [email protected] 4 Krista Puett [email protected] 5 Malcolm Andrews [email protected] 6 Michael Yount [email protected] Speech and Language Rachelle Jaggers [email protected]

School Psychologist Kirsten Banks [email protected] CKindergarten Michele Peterson

Brittney [email protected]@egusd.net

School Secretary Susan Clark [email protected]

Grade 1 Dina Uldall [email protected] 2 John D. Watson

Karen [email protected]@egusd.net

Office Assistant II Dawn Wirick [email protected]

Grade3 Heather Carda [email protected] Brandy Pennington [email protected]

Grade 4 Karl Mansfield [email protected]

Grade 5 Anna Vellanoweth [email protected] Food ServicesGrade 6 Katie Feickert-Miles [email protected] Lead Food Service Stacey McDuffie [email protected]

Custodians

Track D Lead John Montgomery

Kindergarten Erin Arnoldy [email protected] Evening Penglin Chen

Grade 1 Natalie Knyff [email protected] Evening Peter Lui

Grade 2 Sandy Wasson [email protected]

Grade 3 Shelly Stoller [email protected] School Nurse Janet Mazur

Grade 4 Maria Leones [email protected]

Grade 5 Kathie Morgester [email protected]

Grade 6 Debi Zavada [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]












































Joseph Sims Elementary School2017-2018

Master Bell Schedule

Teacher Work Day 7:45 – 3:15

Kindergarten A.M. 8:00 – 11:31

Kindergarten P.M. 10:59 – 2:30

Grades 1-6 8:00 – 2:30

Regular Day Schedule Early-Out Wednesday Schedule 8:00 – 2:30 8:00 – 1:40

Grades 1&2 Grades 3&4 Grades 5&6 Grades 1&2 Grades 3&4 Grades 5&68:00-10:00 8:00-10:20 8:00-10:40 8:00-10:00 8:00-10:20 8:00-10:40

10:00-10:15 (R) 10:20-10:35 (R) 10:40-10:55 (R) 10:00-10:15 (R) 10:20-10:35 (R) 10:40-10:55 (R)

10:15-11:00 10:35-11:40 10:55-12:20 10:15-11:00 10:35-11:40 10:55-12:20

11:00-11:23 (L) 11:40-12:03 (L) 12:20-12:43 (L) 11:00-11:23 (L) 11:40-12:03 (L) 12:20-12:43 (L)

11:23-11:40 (R) 12:03 – 12:20 (R) 12:43 – 1:00 (R) 11:23-11:40 (R) 12:03 – 12:20 (R) 12:43 – 1:00 (R)

11:40-2:30 12:20-2:30 1:00-2:30 11:40-1:40 12:20-1:40 1:00-1:40

335 Instructional Minutes






**(R) = Recess**(L) = Lunch

Rainy Day Lunch Schedule

1st & 2nd Grade 11:00 – 11:403rd & 4th Grade 11:45 – 12:255th & 6th Grade 12:30 – 1:10

Minimum Day Schedule (1st-6th) ASD follows a Traditional Schedule8:00 – 12:30

Grades 1&3 Grades 4&6 ASD Pre School 7:50-12:508:00-10:00 8:00-10:40 ASD K 7:50-12:50

10:00-10:30 (L/R) 10:40-11:10 (L/R) ASD 1-3 7:50-1:50

10:30-12:30 11:10-12:30 Minimum Day for ASDASD Pre School 7:50-10:50


240 Instructional Minutes ASD K 7:50-10:50

ASD 1-3 7:50-11:50

Nutrition Snack and Morning Recess All children have a mid-morning recess/nutrition break. Children are allowed to bring a nutritious snack from home to eat at this time. Please do not send candy, gum, soft drinks, or a snack that is high in sugar.

School AttendanceOne of the most important elements of successful learning is regular, on-time attendance at school. If an absence is necessary, please call the office between 7:30 a.m. – 10:00a.m (before the auto-dialer goes out at 10:30). Before 7:30 a.m. an answering machine will pick up all calls. STATE LAW permits the excuse of an absence for the following reasons:

Illness Quarantine, as directed by the Health Department Medical, dental, or eye services rendered Attendance at funeral of immediate family member to extent of ONLY ONE DAY in California, and NO MORE THAN THREE DAYS outside

of California.

The school office Assistants and other designated office staff have been directed to contact the home on a daily basis if necessary to follow-up when students are shown to be absent on the attendance roster. These calls will confirm your notes to the teachers or make you aware of any absence that has occurred without your knowledge.

Tardiness can also interfere with success in school. Students are expected to be at school before the tardy bell rings. Students must report to the office for a tardy slip when late, in order to be admitted to class. Please do not send or take your child to class without stopping by the office. The teacher cannot admit any student without an entrance slip.

Leaving early is sometimes necessary. Students can be released from school early with a note from the parent indicating the reason for early dismissal. However, this is permitted on a “need basis” only and should not occur on a regular basis. Parent(s) or a person identified by the parent must sign the student out in the office before the student can leave the campus. Students cannot sign themselves out. This guideline is for the protection of your child. The office can require identification of a person other than a parent or guardian picking a student up for an early dismissal.

PLEASE NOTE: A student will not be permitted to leave school with a person other than his/her own parent or guardian unless we receive a note signed by the parent or guardian. A student cannot ride another bus or go home with another student without written permission from the parent. Students who are bus riders may not walk home without written permission from his/her parent.

Home-School Communications GuidelinesEach classroom is equipped with a telephone for emergency calls to parents and to the office. As a part of the behavior management system, teachers may elect to have a student call her/his parent at any time during the day at the parents’ home or at her/his place of work. Parents need to reinforce with students that if a behavior call is received from the school at any time, it is considered serious. If a child is ill, she/he will be sent to the office for the call to be made by the office staff and should have no negative impact on the student.

Teachers welcome your emails, notes and calls. Conferences can be arranged through your child’s teacher. The office staff will take messages anytime, and the teacher will return the call as soon as possible.

If You Are Concerned About Something:1. Talk to the Teacher First. Besides you, the teacher has the most direct contact with your child.2. Talk to the Principal or Vice Principal3. If the concern is still not resolved, the Principal/Vice Principal will facilitate a meeting between the teacher and the parent.

Registration of Students

Transitional KindergartenA child must be 5 between September 2nd and December 2nd.

KindergartenKindergarten registration for the 2018-19 school year has yet to be determined. A child must be at least 5 on or before September 1.

Physical ExaminationAt first grade entry, all students must provide the district with written evidence of a physical examination (by licensed physician, surgeon, or clinic), completed no sooner than 18 months prior to first grade entry.

Dental ScreeningAs of January 1, 2007, California law, Education Code Section 49452.8, requires that your kindergarten child have a dental screening by May 31. Dental screenings that were completed within the 12 months before your child entered school also meet this requirement. The law specifies that the assessment must be done by a licensed dentist or other licensed or registered dental health professional. California law requires schools to maintain the privacy of student’s health information. Your child’s identity will not be associated with any report produced as a result of this requirement.

New Students From Within EGUSDParents are required to register children who have been attending other Elk Grove schools. Registration occurs in the school office. At the time of registration, the Office Staff will request all documents from the previously attended school. Two Proof of residence (within our school zone) must be presented at the time of registration.

Parent Teacher OrganizationThe PTO is a vital part of the community and is comprised of parents, school personnel, and other community members. It sponsors activities for our school community in correlation with goals of the school. We would love to have your support. Ways to support PTO:

$10.00 Family Membership Dues Volunteering to help with activities Attending monthly PTO meetings Supporting fundraisers that give monies to school programs

We look forward to and encourage all parents to become involved in the PTO. Check out our new website : www.josephsimspto.yolasite.com or call the school at 683-7445 if you have questions.

2017-2018 PTO OfficersCo - Presidents Lisa Foggiato & Dennis KearrneyVice Presidents Ryan/Heather Burke & Jarime WilhelmTreasurer Kimi ChowCo-Secretaries Brandy Prather-Payne & Suzanne Stenberg

School Site CouncilThe primary responsibility of the SSC is to:

Monitor the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) a multi - school year plan. (2017-18, 2018-19, & 2019-20) Assure that resources and budgets are aligned to the LCAP

The School Site Council works in parity with the teachers and principal in an advisory manner. Our School Site Council parent members are, Lisa LeVasseur, Peter Foggiato, Alison Stein plus two parents yet to be determined. Staff members include Milly Schrader Interim Principal , Peter Lew Vice Principal, plus three staff members yet to be determined.

Should you have questions or input for the Site Council, please feel free to contact any of our parent representatives, our School Site Chairman, or the administration at 683-7445.

Reporting Pupil Progress to Parents1st Trimester 2nd Trimester

Deficiencies sent by Report Cards Deficiencies sent by Report Cards

D 8/18/17 9/29/17 D 11/17/17 2/2/18C 8/18/17 10/24/17 C 11/17/17 3/2/18A 9/8/17 10/24/17 A 1/12/18 3/2/18B 9/29/17 11/17/17 B 1/19/18 3/9/18T 9/22/17 11/17/17 T 12/15/17 3/9/18

3rd TrimesterDeficiencies sent by Report Cards

D 3/30/18 5/22/18C 3/30/18 6/22/18A 4/27/18 6/22/18B 5/4/18 6/22/18T 4/6/18 5/25/18

IMPORTANT POLICIESSupervision of StudentsBefore School: The campus is open to students beginning at 7:50 a.m. Please do not bring or send students before 7:50. Afternoon kindergarten students cannot arrive before 10:45 a.m. There is no supervision for them until this time.

During School: Yard supervisors are on the playground during recesses and lunches. Teachers are responsible for all other supervision during the school day. After School: No supervision is available after students are dismissed. All students dismissed at 2:30 p.m. must leave campus at that time unless they are in a special program. Please do not ask students to wait for you any amount of time after their dismissal. We have no supervision available. If you have an emergency, please notify the office.

Field Trips: Teachers are responsible for requesting assistance from parents for field trips. We are very happy to accept volunteers any time parents are willing and available. See your child’s teacher to volunteer!

Phone Messages/Use of PhoneStudent Use: We are unable to provide messages to students except when there is an emergency. All students should leave home with the understanding of what they are to do during or after school. We do our best to conserve as much instructional time as possible.

CELL PHONES/CD/PLAYERS/DIGITAL MUSIC PLAYERS/RADIOS/ELECTRONICDEVICES/CELL PHONES

http://www.josephsimspto.yolasite.com/

Cell phones, digital music players, radios, pagers, games (including cards), toys or any other electronic devices are not permitted at school. These items disrupt classes and are often stolen or lost. Cell phones and other electronic communication devices must be turned off, kept in the student’s backpack, and may not be used during the school day or on the school campus. When cell phones or any other prohibited items are found on campus, they will be confiscated and turned into the office. Parents/guardians must recover the items from the front office. These confiscated items will not be released to students. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Any student determined to have conducted any unauthorized audio and/or video recording may face consequences aligned with California Education Code and EGUSD Board Policy.

Calling Teachers: Teachers cannot be called to the phone during school hours to discuss student concerns. They cannot leave students unattended for this purpose. However, teachers will be given messages on breaks, and they will return all calls as soon as possible.

VisitorsWe welcome visitors to our campus. In order to ensure a safe school, all visitors must sign in at the office before entering any place on campus...even if only for a few minutes.

A pass will be given to any visitor who is picking up or delivering items, regardless of the amount of time spent at school. All parent volunteers must sign in daily.

Parents are invited and encouraged to visit classrooms at any time. However, as a courtesy to teachers who may be testing, on duty, etc., we ask that all parents arrange a time for visits.

District Complaint ProcedureThe Elk Grove Unified School District has a district complaint policy. Ask the administrator for this procedure.

Nondiscriminatory PracticeThe Elk Grove Unified School District has a nondiscriminatory practice in all district programs and activities for students.

Homework PoliciesHomework is part of our school and home partnership. The optimum amount of homework also varies with grade level. Homework research conducted over many years indicates, that for primary students, no amount of homework-large or small-affects achievement. For intermediate and junior high school students, achievement continues to improve with more homework until assignments last between one and two hours a night. For high school students, the more homework the better achievement – within reason, of course. We believe these specific details, which apply school-wide, will help you and your children know what is expected from then across the school. If you have any questions, please feel free to discuss them with your children’s teacher or the administration.

Homework is assigned for the following purposes: To reinforce, enrich, or extend in-class instruction To practice basic skills needed for immediate recall (math facts, sight words, etc.) To develop effective study skills for now and later in life.

The following daily “minute” requirements include reading with, reading to, or having the children read by themselves.Whenever homework crowds out social experience, outdoor recreation, family time, and creative activities and whenever it usurps time devoted to sleep, it is not meeting the basic needs of children and adolescents.

Kindergarten – no requirement, however, reading to children every day, playing with children, talking to children, doing activities with children have many benefits.

First – 10 minutes Second – 20 minutes Third – 30 minutes Fourth – 40 minutes Fifth – 50 minutes Sixth – 60 minutes

Additional reading time is encouraged for all children!

Student Illness Procedures:For every day out ill (with an illness note submitted by the parent or a telephone call into the office) , the student has the same number of days to make up the missed work. (For example, if a child is ill one day, then they have one day to make up their work, after they return to school, and so on.)

Traveling Student/Independent StudyWhen students need to be away from school during the instructional year for at least ten school days, an independent study program can be worked out with the teacher and the district. The parent initiates the process by contacting the site at least two weeks before their travel plans to allow for adequate preparation of materials. The Approval will be determined by the site administrator, who encourages vacation and travel be taken during off track time. Parents will be notified of student acceptance within 24 hours. Your child’s education and classroom time is very important, please try and schedule your trips during the off track time.

Library BooksChildren are given the wonderful privilege of checking out books from our library. Talk with your child about how important it is to take care of that book and return it on time. Books should be protected from food and liquids. When not reading their books, children should place them out of the reach of animals and toddlers. Parents are asked to pay for any books lost or damaged by the student.

TextbooksEach student is issued a numbered copy of the textbooks for his/her grade at the beginning of the school year. If a book is damaged or lost, the student will have to pay the full or partial price, depending on the original condition of the book when issued to the student.

It is very important that you discuss with your child his/her responsibility for these textbooks. We recommend that you tell your child to check at the end of each day for his/her textbooks. If a book is missing at that time, the class and the teacher can assist with looking for the book. If a student waits until several weeks later, the chances for finding the book are slim. Remember, each student is responsible for his/her books. We suggest that students cover their books to protect them.

Parties at SchoolParties are kept to a minimum. Teacher notes are sent to parents to inform families of planned events.

We do not celebrate student or teacher birthdays during instructional time. If a student has a birthday, a parent may choose to send a healthy snack (no cookies, cupcakes, etc.) to be served during recess or lunch breaks with teacher approval. We encourage parents to donate a book to their child’s classroom library instead of sending treats on his or her birthday.

Helium balloons, flowers etc., should not be delivered or brought to school. Although they are fun and exciting for children, they are a safety hazard on buses and can cause hurt feelings if they are damaged at school. Balloons are not allowed on buses.

TransportationThe Elk Grove Unified School District changed its transportation service beginning in the 2005-06 school year. With this change, the district will no longer provide transportation service in designated “non-service” areas. Transportation will be available for a fee for students who live in designated “service” areas, which are primarily rural.

How much does it cost for a pass?Transportation fees are reviewed annually and are revised as needed based on costs to provide services. The costs for bus passes for the 2017/2018 school year are:

Annual Service, Round Trip$250 for single child ($225 with early bird discount)$430 for two children ($405 with early bird discount)$610 for three or more children ($585 with early birddiscount)

Annual Service, One Way (AM or PM)$150 for single child ($125 with early bird discount)$250 for two children ($225 with early bird discount)$350 for three or more children ($325 with early bird discount)

Transportation is not provided to students who attend school on a grand-parenting provision or intra-district transfer agreement. To determine if your child lives is a service or non-service area, call the District Transportation Office at 686-7733.

Bus safety includes the time the student goes to the bus stop and returns home from the bus stop after school (within a reasonable time). The rules on the bus citation apply at the bus stop. If a fight occurs at the bus stop, a student can be suspended from school in addition to suspension from the bus. FIGHTING IS A SERIOUS INFRACTION and will not be tolerated, even at the bus stop!

Bus RulesTo insure the safe and efficient transportation of all students, the Elk Grove Unified School District has adopted a policy for student conduct on buses. The Rules and Regulations will be strictly enforced. Please read the following Rules and Regulation with your child.

Students are required to:1. Arrive at the bus stop five (5) minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.2. Use only his/her assigned bus stop.3. Arrange for the transport of live animals, insects, reptiles, to or from school, by other means than on the bus.4. Hazardous or destructive objects of any kind such as firearms, weapons, glass objects or containers, explosives, sharp or pointed objects,

skateboards or ball bats are not allowed at anytime.5. Respect the rights and property of others on the bus and at the bus stop.6. Avoid all fighting and rough play while at the bus stop, on the bus, or when getting on or off the bus.7. Always enter and leave the bus through the entrance door, except in emergencies.8. Remain seated, facing forward with feet, legs and other objects clear of the aisle while the bus is in motion.9. Keep all parts of the body inside the bus.10. Keep windows closed unless otherwise instructed by the bus operator.11. Remain quiet at railroad crossings.12. Do not use profane language, obscene gestures, create excessive or unnecessary noise. Do not damage or deface any part of the bus, tamper

with the radio, controls, emergency exits or other equipment, shoot or throw any objects inside/outside or at the bus or in any way endanger the safety of others.

13. Help keep the bus safe and free from litter by not eating, drinking, or smoking on the bus.14. Be courteous and respectful to the bus operator.15. Obey the request of the bus operator, give proper identification when requested.16. Give the bus operator a written request when leaving the bus stop. The request must be signed by the parent/guardian and approved by the

site administrator and/or his/her designee.

17. Always cross in front of the bus when it is necessary to cross the street.

Foggy Day PolicyUnder current law, the California Highway Patrol will not allow a school bus to pick up students when visibility is limited and the bus cannot pull completely off the road.

To comply with this law, the EGUSD Board of Education adopted the following policy, which may result in the delay, or in rare cases, the cancellation of school buses.

1. On foggy mornings, parents are advised to listen to the following radio stations for bulletins regarding bus delays: KRAK 1470; KSFM 102.5, KFBK 1530, KXOA 93.7, KYMX 96.1, KRXQ 98.5, KNCI 105.1.

2. These stations have agreed to broadcast bulletins whenever heavy fog affects all or most of the district’s bus routes. If only part of the district is affected, however, the stations will not broadcast the information.

3. If information is not broadcast prior to the student leaving home, he/she should not stand at the bus stop longer than 30 minutes beyond the usual bus arrival time. After 30 minutes, the student should return home and listen to one of the radio stations listed above.

4. If information is not available on the radio, call the school district’s Transportation Department at 686-7733. The department has a limited number of phone lines, so it may be necessary to call more than once.

Walking to School/Riding BicyclesNo riding bikes on school campus. A bicycle storage area is furnished for students who want to ride bicycles to school. It is the responsibility of the student to lock his/her bicycle in the storage area at school. There are not sufficient personnel available to monitor this area, and the school cannot assume responsibility for bikes. Please send a note to the teacher to confirm that bicycle riding is permitted. Helmets are required by law.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIESBack-to-School Night (Fall)Back to School Night is a very important and special evening for you to become acquainted with your child’s classroom teacher. Each teacher will discuss the goals and objectives for their grade level, curriculum expectations, classroom management plan and school procedures. At the conclusion of the presentation there will be a time to ask questions.

If you miss the Back-to-School Night, please be sure to obtain a packet of information from your child’s classroom teacher.

Open House (spring)Open House occurs in the spring and is a time of celebration. This is a time when parents and students come together to visit the classrooms to view work and visit with the teachers. This is not conference time. Conferences should be scheduled individually with teachers at other times.

Field TripsField trips are planned to coordinate with the regular instructional program except for one. At the end of the year, many of the classes plan a fun trip together to celebrate the end-of-the -year.

The parents/students, and/or fund-raisers pay for field trips. Bus fare and entrance fees are included in the charge for each student. Permission forms are essential for any student to participate. These must be returned by a deadline or students will not be permitted to go and will have to remain at school in an assigned classroom.

If behavior problems develop with a child, the parent will be asked to accompany their child on a trip; otherwise they may have to remain at school.

Food Banks/Clothing Drives/FundraisersWe feel it is important to teach children to care about the needs of others. The school participates in food and clothing drives. These drives assist people in need. We also have other drives for special circumstances, which may arise. These various activities help raise funds/awareness for cases important to our community.Holiday CelebrationsSome holidays are incorporated into the regular school curriculum. (Thanksgiving, certain national leader birthdays, etc.); are included as a multi-cultural activity, not as a religious holiday. Music and art are often tied to these holidays. Sometimes teachers invite parents to visit the classroom on these celebration days.

All-School Behavior Management PlanThe goal of this management plan is to ensure that all students have a safe environment, which promotes academic and social growth. In order for this to occur, all students are expected to:

1. Be respectful of all people and property.2. Be under direct supervision.3. Follow adult’s directions immediately.

SUSPENSIONIf a student's behavior is a threat to the safety, health or emotional well-being of others, and previous methods of prevention and intervention have not been successful, that student may be suspended in accordance with state law and district policy. Suspension

may be imposed upon a first offense if the Superintendent, principal or designee determines the student violated Education Code 48900(a)-(e) or if the student’s presence causes a danger to persons. [E.C. 48900.5]

Reasons for Suspension*State law allows for the suspension of a student if a student commits or engages in any of the acts listed below, where such conduct or acts relate to school activities or attendance, such as, but not limited to when such acts or conduct take place: while on school grounds, going to or from school, during lunch period (on or off campus), during, or while going to or from, a school-sponsored activity, or for certain conduct which occurs after school hours and off District property, but which is reasonably likely to cause or causes a substantial disruption of a school activity or attendance: Assault/Battery [E.C. 48900(a)]Causing, attempting to cause, or threatening to cause physical injury to another person. Exceptions may be made in a situation where witnesses and evidence support a case of self-defense. Weapons [E C. 48900(b)]Possessing, selling or otherwise providing any weapon--including firearms, knives, explosives, or other dangerous object. Alcohol/Intoxicants/Controlled Substances [E.C. 48900(c)]Unlawfully possessing, using, selling or otherwise providing alcohol, intoxicants or controlled substance, including prescribed medications. Also applies to being under the influence of alcohol, intoxicants or controlled substances. Substance in Lieu of Alcohol/Intoxicants/Controlled Substances [E.C. 48900(d)]Delivering, providing or selling items which are claimed to be alcohol, intoxicants or controlled substances but were not such items. Robbery or Extortion [E.C. 48900(e)]Committing or attempting to commit robbery or extortion. Extortion occurs when threats are made with the intent to obtain money or something of value. Property Damage** [E.C. 48900(f)]Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property or private property. Property Theft** [E.C. 48900(g)]Stealing or attempting to steal school or private property. Tobacco or Nicotine Products [E.C. 48900(h)]Possessing, providing or using tobacco, or any item containing tobacco or nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets and betel. Obscenity [E.C. 48900(i)]Committing an obscene act or engaging in regular profanity, swearing or vulgarity. Drug Paraphernalia [E.C. 48900(j)]Unlawfully possessing, offering, arranging for, or negotiating to sell any drug items. Disruption or Defiance [E.C. 48900(k)(1)]Disrupting school activities or otherwise refusing to follow the valid authority of school personnel, including supervisors, teachers, school officials or other school staff performing their duties.

“Disruption of school activities” is defined as follows: when a student’s conduct, presence or actions disrupts or threatens to disrupt normal district or school operations, threatens the health or safety of anyone on district or school property, or causes or threatens to cause damage to district property or to any property on school grounds.

Examples of disruption of school activities under Education Code 48900(k)(1), as defined above, which may subject a student to discipline, include but are not limited to:

Classroom behavior that impedes a teacher’s ability to teach and other students’ ability to learn, such as a student talking loudly or making other distracting noises or gestures while a teacher is speaking to and instructing the class and when students are expected to be silent and attentive; or

The intentional activation of the fire alarm causing the temporary evacuation of the school and/or causing emergency personnel to respond.

“Willful defiance of valid authority” is defined as follows: when a student defies the valid authority of a district or school official or district or school staff in a manner that has an impact on the effective or safe functioning of district or school operations, such as continuing to remain at the scene of a fight or to instigate a disturbance after being told to stop the subject behavior; repeated disobedience to or defiance of school personnel when other interventions have not been successful in modifying the misbehavior; or in the proper instance one-time or first-time disobedience to or defiance of school personnel that has an impact on the effective or safe functioning of district or school operations.

Examples of willful defiance of valid authority under Education Code 48900(k)(1), as defined above, which may subject a student to discipline, include but are not limited to:

Continuing to remain at the scene of a fight or other violent disturbance despite specific directions to leave the area by administrators or other school staff attempting to break up the fight or mitigate the disturbance caused by the fight; or

Repeated episodes of misbehavior, despite multiple efforts and/or directives by a classroom teacher or other district staff intended to change and correct the student’s misbehavior.

Note: With the exception of classroom suspensions imposed by a teacher under Education Code 48910, no student enrolled in kindergarten through grade three may be suspended for violation of Education Code 48900(k)(1). Additionally, no student enrolled in kindergarten through grade twelve, regardless of age, may be recommended for expulsion for violation of Education Code 48900(k)(1). [E.C. 48900(k)(2)]

Receiving Stolen Property** [E.C. 48900(l)]Receiving stolen school or personal property. Possessing Imitation Firearm [E.C. 48900(m)]Possessing an imitation firearm or simulated firearm that is substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm. Sexual Harassment [E.C. 48900(n)]Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery. Threats and Intimidation [E.C. 48900(o)]Harassing, intimidating or threatening a student who is a witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either preventing that student from being a witness or retaliating against that student for being a witness, or both. Prescription Drug Soma [E.C. 48900(p)]Offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell or sold the prescription drug Soma. Hazing [E.C. 48900(q)]Engaging in, or attempting to engage in any activities used for initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization, or student body or related activities, which causes or is likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace, resulting in physical or mental harm. Bullying [E.C. 48900(r)]Bullying means any severe or pervasive or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, directed toward one or more students that has or can reasonably be predicted to have the effect of placing a reasonable student in fear of harm to himself/herself or his/her property; cause the student to experience a substantially detrimental effect on his/her physical or mental health; or cause the student to experience substantial interferences with his/her academic performance or ability to participate in or benefit from services, activities, or privileges provided by a school. [E.C. 48900(r)] Bullying shall include any act of sexual harassment, hate violence, or harassment, threat, or intimidation, as defined in Education Code 48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4 that has any of the effects described above on a reasonable student. [E.C. 48900(r)] Aided or Abetted to Inflict Physical Injury [E.C. 48900(t)]Aiding or abetting in the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury to another student. However, the District cannot seek to expel a student for violation of Education Code 48900(t) until juvenile court proceedings are completed and the juvenile has been convicted of being an aider or abettor of a crime of physical violence in which the victim suffered great bodily injury or serious bodily injury. Sexual Harassment (Grades 4-12) [E.C. 48900.2]Engaging in prohibited sexual harassment that includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Hate Violence (Grades 4-12) [E.C. 48900.3]Hate violence means any act punishable under Penal Code 422.6, 422.7, or 422.75. Such acts include injuring or intimidating a victim, interfering with the exercise of a victim's civil rights, or damaging a victim's property because of the victim's race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation; a perception of the presence of any of those characteristics in the victim; or the victim's association with a person or group with one or more of those actual or perceived characteristics. (E.C. 233; Penal Code 422.55) Other Harassment (Grades 4-12) [E.C. 48900.4]Harassing, intimidating, or threatening a student or group of students, or school personnel, with the actual or expected effect of disrupting class work or creating substantial disorder, or creating a hostile educational environment. Terrorist Threats [E.C. 48900.7]Making terrorist threats against school officials and/or property, or both.

* The superintendent or principal may use his or her discretion to provide alternatives to suspension or expulsion to address student misconduct. [E.C. 48900(v), 48900.5] [EGUSD AR 5144]

**School property includes, but is not limited to, electronic files. [E.C. 48900(u)]

EXPULSIONExpulsion, as ordered by the Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Education, is the removal of a student from all schools in the district for violating the California Education Code at school or at a school activity off school grounds. The expulsion is for a defined period of time, but an application for re-admission must be considered within a specified time period. State law provides for full due process and rights to appeal any order of expulsion.

A student shall be recommended for expulsion for violation of any of the acts set forth in Education Code 48915(a)(1)(A)-(E), unless the Superintendent, Superintendent’s designee, principal or principal’s designee determines that expulsion should not be recommended under the circumstances or that an alternative means of correction would address the conduct: Serious Physical Injury [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(A)]Causing serious physical injury to another person, except in self-defense. Possession of Knife or Dangerous Object [E.C. 48915(a)(1)B)]Possessing a knife or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the student. Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(C)]Unlawful possession of any drug except for (1) the first time offense of possession of not more than one ounce of marijuana, or (2) for the student's possession of over-the-counter medication for his/her use or other medication prescribed for him/her by a physician. Robbery or Extortion [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(D)] Assault or Battery on a School Employee [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(E)]

State law requires a school administrator to recommend expulsion if a student commits certain violations of the Education Code. A student shall immediately be recommended for expulsion for violation of any of the acts set forth in Education Code 48915(c)(1)-(5): Possession, Selling or Furnishing a Firearm [E.C. 48915(c)(1)]Possessing, selling or otherwise furnishing a firearm (verified by an employee of the school district). However, possession of an imitation firearm, as defined in Education Code 48900(m), shall not be regarded as an offense requiring a mandatory recommendation for expulsion and mandatory expulsion. Brandishing a Knife [E.C. 48915(c)(2)]Brandishing a knife at another person. Selling a Controlled Substance [E.C. 48915(c)(3)]Unlawfully selling a controlled substance. Sexual Assault or Battery [E.C. 48915(c)(4)]Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery, as defined in Education Code 48900(n). Possession of an Explosive [E.C. 48915(c)(5)]

For all other acts and conduct for which a student is subject to discipline under Education Code 48900 through 48900.7 and which are not specifically listed or addressed under Education Code 48915(a) or 48915(c), a student may be recommended for expulsion where other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to bring about proper conduct, or where due to the nature of the student’s conduct violation, the presence of the student causes a continuing danger to the physical safety of the student or others. [E.C. 48915(b) and (e)]

REFERENCE CHART: EDUCATION CODES RELATED TO DISCIPLINE & REQUIRED OR POTENTIAL DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES

1. Mandatory Expulsion {E.C. 48915(c)} Alternative to Suspension

Suspension Expulsion

(1) Possession, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm. However, possession of an imitation firearm, as defined in Education Code 48900(m), shall not be regarded as an offense requiring a mandatory recommendation for expulsion and mandatory expulsion.

(2) Brandishing a knife. (3) Unlawfully selling a controlled substance.

(4) Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or battery. (5) Possession of an explosive.

2. Mandatory Recommendation for Expulsion {E.C. 48915(a)(1)}Unless the Superintendent, Superintendent’s designee, principal or principal’s designee determines that expulsion should not be

Alternative to Suspension


(1) Causing serious physical injury to another person except in self- (2) Possession of any knife, or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the

(3) Unlawful possession of any drug except for (1) the first offense of possession of not more than one ounce of marijuana, or (2) for the student's possession of over-the-counter medication for his/her use or other medication prescribed for him/her by a physician.

(4) Robbery or extortion. (5) Assault or battery upon a school employee.

3. Acts of Violence {E.C. 48900(a)} Alternative to Suspension


(1) Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another

(2) Willfully used force or violence upon another person.

4. Weapons and Dangerous Objects {E.C. 48900(b)} Alternative to Suspension


(1) Possession, sale, or furnishing of weapons (knife, gun, sharp object, club, or an object that could inflict injury) or explosive.

(2) Explosives, use or possession.

5. Drugs and Alcohol {E.C. 48900(c)} Alternative to Suspension


(1) Possession, use, sale, or furnishing, or otherwise being under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or an intoxicant.

6. Sale of “Look-Alike” Controlled Substance or and Alcohol {E.C. 48900(d)}



Offering, arranging, or negotiating to sell drugs, alcohol or any intoxicant and then substituting a look-alike substance intended to represent drugs, alcohol, or an intoxicant.

7. Robbery or Extortion {E.C. 48900(e)} Alternative to Suspension


Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.

8. Damage to Property {E.C. 48900(f)} Alternative to Suspension


Caused, or attempted to cause damage to school or private property.

9. Theft or Stealing {E.C. 48900(g)} Alternative to Suspension


Stealing, or attempting to steal school or private property.

10. Tobacco {E.C. 48900(h)} Alternative to Suspension


Possessed or used tobacco or nicotine products.

11. Profanity, Obscene Acts, Vulgarity {E.C. 48900(i)} Alternative to Suspension


(1) Directed at peers. (2) Directed at school personnel.

12. Drug Paraphernalia {E.C. 48900(j)} Alternative to Suspension


Possessed, offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia. 13. Willful Defiance or Disruption of School Activities {E.C. 48900(k)(1)}Note: With the exception of classroom suspensions imposed by a teacher under Education Code 48910, no student enrolled in kindergarten through grade three may be suspended for violation of Education Code 48900(k)(1). Additionally, no student enrolled in kindergarten through grade twelve, regardless of age, may be recommended for expulsion for violation of Education Code 48900(k)(1). [E.C. 48900(k)(2)]



(1) Disrupting school activities.

(2) Refusing to follow the valid authority of school personnel, including supervisors, teachers, school officials or other school staff performing their duties.

(3) Failure to follow school rules.

(4) Failure to follow directive or instruction of staff or teachers.

(5) Failure to follow conduct code for school bus passengers.

14. Possession of Stolen Property {E.C. 48900(l)} Alternative to Suspension


Knowingly received stolen school property or private property.

15. Imitation Firearm {E.C. 48900(m)} Alternative to Suspension


Possession of an imitation firearm that is substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude the replica is a firearm.

16. Sexual Assault or Sexual Battery {E.C. 48900(n)} Alternative to Suspension


Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault or battery.

17. Harassment of a Student Witness {E.C. 48900(o)} Alternative to Suspension


Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of intimidation or retaliation.

18. Prescription Drug Soma {E.C. 48900(p)} Alternative to Suspension


Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the prescription drug Soma.

19. Hazing {E.C. 48900(q)} Alternative to Suspension


Engaged or attempted to engage in hazing.

20. Bullying and Bullying by Electronic Act {E.C. 48900(r)}



Engaged in an act of bullying, including, but not limited to, bullying committed by means of an electronic act, directed specifically toward a pupil.

21. Aided or Abetted to Inflict Physical Injury {E.C. 48900(t)}



Aided or abetted in the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury to another student.

22. Sexual Harassment {E.C. 48900.2} Alternative to Suspension


Prohibited sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Applies to grades 4-12.

23. Acts of Hate Violence {E.C. 48900.3} Alternative to Suspension


Students in grades 4-12 may be suspended or recommended for expulsion for causing, threatening, or attempting to cause, or participating in an act of hate violence defined as willfully interfering with or threatening another person’s person or property rights because of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. Speech that threatens violence, when the perpetrator has the apparent ability to carry out the threat, may be considered an act of hate violence.

24. Other Harassment {E.C. 48900.4} Alternative to Suspension


Students in grades 4-12 may be suspended or recommended for expulsion for intentionally engaging in harassment, threats, or intimidation against a student or group of students when the harassment is severe and pervasive and disrupts classes or creates disorder or an intimidating or hostile educational environment.

25. Terrorist Threats {E.C. 48900.7} Alternative to Suspension


Making terrorist threats against school officials and/or property.

26a. Attendance – Truant {E.C. 48260} Alternative to Suspension


Absent from school without a valid excuse.

26b. Attendance – Repeat Truant {E.C. 48261} Alternative to Suspension


Absent from school more than one day without a valid excuse.

26c. Attendance – Habitual Truant {E.C. 48262} Alternative to Suspension


Any student truant three or more times per school year. Students who are habitually truant may be referred to the School Attendance Review Board.

Prohibition on Possession and Use of Tobacco and Nicotine ProductsDistrict policy and the Education Code prohibit the possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or dispensing of tobacco and nicotine products at school or during school related activities. The District defines “tobacco and nicotine products” as a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other smoking product or material, smokeless tobacco in any form, and electronic cigarettes. “Electronic cigarettes” are defined as battery-operated or other electronic products designed to deliver nicotine, flavor, and other chemicals by turning the substance into a vapor that is inhaled by the user, including, but not limited to electronic vaping devices, personal vaporizers, digital vapor devices, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and hookah pens.

Students determined to have used or to be in possession of tobacco or nicotine products at school or school related activities may be subject to discipline under District policy, Education Code 48900(h), and/or other applicable laws. Students determined to have used or to be in possession of products at school or school related activities that can be used to consume and/or use tobacco or nicotine products, including but not limited to “electronic cigarettes” as defined above, but which do not contain tobacco, nicotine, or any other controlled substance, may be subject to discipline under District policy, Education Code 48900(k)(1), and/or other applicable laws. [E.C. 48901]

PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING, AND RELATED COMPLAINT PROCEDURESDistrict programs and activities shall be free from discrimination, including harassment, intimidation and bullying based on a student’s actual or perceived disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race, ethnicity, color, ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital or parental status, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. The district has a policy of nondiscrimination in accordance with federal law and Title IX, and also prohibits sexual harassment of or by any student or by anyone in or from the district. More detailed information regarding the district’s prohibition of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying or the prohibition against sexual harassment is contained in the district’s Parent & Student Handbook and is also available on the district’s website.

Parents, students and staff should immediately report incidents of alleged discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying or sexual harassment to the Principal or designee. Students, parents, guardians or any other individuals having questions or concerns or who may wish to file a complaint are urged to first contact the Principal or designee, but if your concerns are not resolved, you may also contact the Associate Superintendent for Human Resources, at (916) 686-7795, for matters involving a potential complaint or concern regarding a district employee. You may contact the Associate Superintendent for Pre-K-6 Education, at (916) 686-7704 regarding a potential complaint or concern related to a PreK-6 student (or students); and you may contact the Associate Superintendent for Secondary Education, at (916) 686-7706, regarding a potential complaint or concern related to a student (or students) in grades 7-12. No one shall be retaliated against for reporting any incident of alleged discrimination or harassment, and complainants’ identities will be kept confidential to the extent practical in the course of investigating the incidents of alleged discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying or sexual harassment.

Pursuant to California Education Code 221.5, a pupil shall be permitted to participate in sex-segregated school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions, and use facilities consistent with his or her gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records. Questions regarding the foregoing rights shall be directed to your Principal or Vice Principal.

UNIFORM COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

The Elk Grove Unified School District has the primary responsibility to insure compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations and has established procedures to address allegations of unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying, complaints alleging violation of state or federal laws governing educational programs, and complaints alleging the district’s failure to comply with the prohibition against requiring students to pay fees, deposits, or other charges for participation in educational activities.

The district shall use the uniform complaint procedures to resolve any complaint alleging unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying in district programs and activities based on actual or perceived characteristics of race or ethnicity, color, ancestry, nationality, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or genetic information, or any other characteristic identified in Education Code 200 or 220, Penal Code 422.55, or Government Code 11135, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

The UCP shall also be used when addressing complaints alleging failure to comply with state and/or federal laws in:

Adult Education After School Education and Safety Agricultural Vocational Education American Indian Education Centers and Early Childhood Education Program Assessments Bilingual Education California Peer Assistance and Review Programs for Teachers Career Technical and Technical Education and Career Technical and Technical Training Career Technical Education Child Care and Development Child Nutrition Compensatory Education Consolidated Categorical Aid Course Periods without Educational Content Economic Impact Aid Education of Pupils in Foster Care and Pupils who are Homeless Every Student Succeeds Act / No Child Left Behind Local Control Accountability Plans (including Charter Schools as described in EC §§ 47606.5 and 47607.3); Migrant EducationPhysical Education Instructional Minutes Pupil Fees Reasonable Accommodations to a Lactating Pupil Regional Occupational Centers and Programs Annual Notification of the Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP)2017 - 2018 School Year (continued)

Rights of certain juvenile court school transfer studentsSchool Safety PlansSpecial Education State Preschool Tobacco-Use Prevention Education

Uniform complaint procedures shall also be used to address any complaint alleging the district's failure to comply with the prohibition against requiring students to pay fees, deposits, or other charges for participation in educational activities, the requirements for the development and adoption of a school safety plan, and state and/or federal laws in adult education programs, consolidated categorical aid programs, migrant education, career technical and technical education and training programs, child care and development programs, child nutrition programs, special education programs, homeless education, foster youth services, rights of certain juvenile court school transfer students, reasonable accommodation for a lactating student on a school campus, assignment of a student to a course without educational content for more than a week in one semester or to a course the student has previously completed, noncompliance with the physical education instructional minutes for students in elementary school, alleged retaliation against a complainant or other participant in the complaint process or anyone who has acted to uncover or report a violation subject to this policy, and noncompliance with the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP).

More detailed information regarding the Uniform Complaint Procedures, including the timeline for resolving complaints and the complaint appeal process, is contained in the district’s Parent & Student Handbook. A copy of our UCP complaint policies and procedures is available free of charge and is available on the District’s website at the following link: http://www.egusd.net/about/district/policiesproceduresnotices/

SCHOOL PROGRAMS

PsychologistThe school psychologist is assigned to schools based on enrollment. The three main functions of the Psychologist are:

http://www.egusd.net/about/district/policiesproceduresnotices/

1. Assess students for special programs;2. Serve on the Student Study Team to assist with program planning;3. Counsel students/parents who need assistance.

The Psychologist can be contacted through the school office during regular school hours.

Student Study TeamA Student Study Team (SST) is composed of regular education teachers, special education teachers, psychologist, speech/language specialist, and site administrator who meet regularly to study, discuss, and decide about appropriate programs for:

Students who are accelerated. Students with behavior problems. Students with possible learning difficulties. Students who have been recommended for retention or acceleration.

Parents are first notified of their student’s needs and are then invited to attend the SST meeting where they participate in the discussion along with the SST members.

Learning Center for Resource ProgramA Learning Center model will be used for meeting specific learning needs of students. Any student, who has an active Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and receives resource program services, or any student with an active IEP will be served through this new model.

All students are in regular education classrooms with students receiving their services in two ways:1. In the classroom with the special teacher coming into their class.2. At times that will not disturb the core subjects, students will be pulled into the learning center to receive special instruction to meet the goals of

the IEP.

Resource Specialist ProgramStudents who have minor learning problems can be recommended for assistance in the Resource Specialist Program. After review and approval by the site Student Study Team, a student with a mild problem may be placed in this program. Sometimes, the assistance may occur within the classroom while at other times it may occur during some pullout time within the center designed for this purpose. It is a part of the Learning Center Model.

P.E. equipment Students are not allowed to bring P.E. equipment to school, as we will supply all equipment. Students must wear lace-up type shoes, preferably rubber-soled, to provide for a more safe participation in the physical education program.

Star Student AwardsEvery month we honor kindergarten through sixth grade students at an assembly for demonstrating an action or deed that highlights our monthly Character Theme. We call these wonderful students “Star Students”. For example, if “Upstanding” is the theme for the month, then the teacher chooses students that exemplify “Upstanding” for the month. Parents are encouraged to attend to hear a special message about their child and celebrate this honor.

Grading Criteria/Report CardsThe school is implementing the district standard criteria for grading. Plus (+) and Minus (-) signs may be used at the option of the teacher. This criterion is the basis for report card grades also. The report cards are a standard format across the district.

Grades K-2 StandardsA Exceeds Grade-Level StandardsB Good/ Above AverageC Meets Grade-Level StandardsN Needs ImprovementN/A Not Applicable at this time

Grades 3-6 StandardsA (90-100%) (4.0 points) Outstanding AchievementB (80-89%) (3.0 points) Above Average AchievementC (70-79%) (2.0 points) Average AchievementD (60-69%) (1.0 points) Below Average AchievementF (0-59%) (0 points) Little to No AchievementI (0 points) Incomplete

Honor Roll/Perfect AttendanceGrade 3 Honor Roll: To qualify for the Honor Roll, a student must receive no current grade below a C and have a grade point average of 3.5 or better.”

Grades 4-6 District Honor Roll: Current Board Policy states: “Each school shall post an Honor Roll. To qualify for the Honor Roll, a student must receive no current grade below a C and have a grade point average of 3.5 or better.”

Perfect AttendanceTo achieve perfect attendance, a child must be present every single day and can have up to 3 excused tardies or early dismissals (for dental or doctor appointments only) per trimester. Car trouble, overslept, running late, etc., are not excused tardies.

If a student is suspended, this suspension counts as an absence and will disqualify a student for perfect attendance. An official in-school suspension is considered the same thing as out-of-school suspension and counts as days absent from the regular program.

Progress ReportsAt our site, progress reports are sent home throughout the year. This report shows parents how students are doing for that specific time. The grades are CUMULATIVE to the end of the trimester. Parents are asked to sign and return the bottom half of the progress report so that staff will know that a parent has read the report. If a conference is needed to discuss the report, a parent/guardian should call the school and leave a message for the teacher.

School/District-Wide TestsCertain tests are administered to the students throughout the school year. In grades 3-6 the SBAC ( Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium) will be administered in the spring to assess Common Core State Standards. Tests are an important part of our on-going assessment program. Students need to learn test-taking skills. Parents can help in this important effort by providing encouragement (without pressure) to their child to do their best.

SCHOOL CURRICULUMReading/Language Arts

The reading series adopted by the District is California Reading Wonders for grades TK-6. It includes a strong phonics program along with good literature. Writing is also a strong component of our language arts program. Students will be involved in required writing activities throughout the year. Children are encouraged to spell words the best they can, and as children develop fluency in writing we begin to emphasize correct spelling. All final copies will be required to have correct spellings

Mathematics Students in the Elk Grove Unified School District will be using math materials from the district adopted math program published by

Houghton Mifflin for K-6, called GO California!. The materials offer a balance in the areas of computational skills, critical thinking, applications and problem solving. These materials offer content in math curriculum outlined in the district’s standards and benchmarks and the California grade level frameworks.

History/Social Science: The History /Social Science program in the Elk Grove Unified School District is standards-based with an emphasis on both subject content

and historical and social science analysis skills. Both the Grade K-5 (Harcourt Publishing Co.) and the Grade 6-8 (Holt Publishers) programs contain strategies for writing, note-taking, critical thinking, vocabulary development, and building success in comprehending expository text. Primary source materials, both written and through media, are included to enhance student engagement in learning about events of the past. The text is available on CD and online for the convenience of students accessing information at home. The online interactive text supports student reading comprehension.

Science Science is integrated into the curriculum and taught by each individual teacher. A district-required curriculum is the basis for science

instruction. Text books are as follows: California Science by Macmillan/McGraw-Hill (K-5) and Holt California Earth Science by Holt, Rinehart and Winston (6th Grade)

Computers The technology program at Joseph Sims is designed to implement the best practices possible in computer education and instruction. Our

goals are: 1. To meet literacy standards while increasing the relevance of learning for students.2. To integrate the use of technology to support learning throughout the curriculum.3. To use technology tools effectively, connect students to the world of careers and develop classroom practices that enable students to show

that they know how to use the world of technology. The computer lab has 40 computers to allow each student to have the use of a computer for direct instructional setting on a weekly basis. There are also 9 Chrome Cart/Lockers. Students access technology on a daily basis.

Visual and Performing Arts Students are involved in music and art in two ways.

1. Throughout the year students will participate in a Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) program onsite where they will study visual and performing arts based on the adopted VAPA state standards. Young Rembrandts is a program that gives our students a chance to continue lessons in art after school paid by parents.

2. Our site enhances our music programs with choir and band both offered after school. The Art Docent Program is still a strong component of the visual arts curriculum. Trained parent volunteers work with individual classrooms

using art portfolios furnished by the District. The District provides free training in the Fall of every year to parents interested in Art Docent. Contact the Office of Instructional Support at 686-7748

School Agenda Program The SCHOOL AGENDA PROGRAM will assist in the following ways:1. Learning how to become more organized.2. Students will become more accountable due to recording daily homework assignments.3. Parents in seeing what their children are doing at school and communicating with teachers by writing brief notes in the AGENDA.4. We are asking for a $6 donation to cover the cost of the agendas this year.

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CAASP (California Assessment) Certain tests are administered to the students throughout the school year. In grades 3-6 the SBAC (Smarter Balanced Assessment

Consortium) will be administered in the spring to assess Common Core State Standards. Tests are an important part of our on-going assessment program. Students need to learn test-taking skills. Parents can help in this important effort by providing encouragement (without pressure) to their child to do their best.

National Honor Society National Honor Society recognizes the accomplishments of students, as a whole child, specifically the full range of a student’s academic

achievements and the ability to be a responsible student at school, at home, and in the community. National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) also involves all students through leadership development and service activities, enhancing the ‘culture of achievement’ at Joseph Sims Elementary.

MEDICAL INFORMATIONMedication: Medicine cannot be administered to students unless there is a serious medical problem. A DISTRICT MEDICAL FORM is required from the parent and the family physician. This form can be obtained from the school office, and it must be refilled each new school year.

Illness and Attendance: Children should not come to school with a fever or a rash. In fact, children should stay home one or more days after the fever subsides to decrease the risk of a recurrence of an illness (check with your doctor).

Injuries: Any injury occurring at school is checked by the office or the nurse on the days she/he is at the school site. An injury report is always filed with the District Office if the injury requires “more than a bandage.”

If the injury is considered a serious one, the parent(s) is contacted immediately for advice or to inform him/her of the injury. If a parent cannot be reached, then the emergency person is called. If the emergency person is not available, the principal will make a decision as to how the situation should be resolved. This can include calling an ambulance or taking them to the Emergency Room. However, medical treatment will not be given without parent permission to the doctor.

Allergic Reactions: If your child has an identified allergy or reacts violently to insect bites, you should send a note to the office and to the teacher to inform them IMMEDIATELY! The office and the teacher can react wisely only when this information is available.

All information should be filed at the beginning of each new school year. If medication for this allergy is necessary, a medical form must be completed as stated under “Medication” above.

Aspirin or other non-prescription medicines - We cannot administer non-prescription medicine to your children without a medical form from you and your doctor. Children should NOT BRING MEDICINE to school, not even aspirin. We need to be very careful that children do not share medicines with each other!

Cafeteria Services

BreakfastBreakfast will be served at 7:30 AM each morning.Student price for breakfast is $1.75

LunchesHot lunches are available to students in three (3) ways:1. Full purchase paid entirely by the parent(s) $2.75 per lunch2. Full assistance from the federal government (free)3. Partial assistance from government

If you feel that you need assistance, please contact the office. During the first few days of school, a form will be sent home to ALL PARENTS, which must be completed and returned by any parent who wishes assistance. A new form must be filled out at the beginning of each school year.

Lunch Prices for 2017-2018 School YearLunch $2.75 Chocolate & Strawberry Milk (1%) .3520 prepaid lunches $55.00 Juicy Juice (100% fruit juice) .50Milk (1%) .35 Bottled Water (when available) (a la cart) .75

Computerized Lunch ProgramJoseph Sims uses a computer assisted lunch system. All students are given a four-digit pin number, which they punch into the keypad at the end of the lunch service line. Newly registered students are assigned a pin number their first day of school, before lunch. All students must use their number whether they purchase a full meal or an a la carte item. Any cash amounts left in the system at the end of the year is available for use the following year or refunded if the student has transferred.After two IOU charges the computer will not allow a third charge and a basic lunch will be served (cheese on wheat bread, fruit, and milk). The computer system will not allow any new charges until prior charges are paid. The system will deduct any charges first, before the day’s meal is paid for. The pin number is used only for the purpose of student identification when purchasing a lunch. When a check or money is sent in IOU’s outstanding will be deducted first. The remainder will go on an account for future meals.

All money for prepaid lunches must be placed in an envelope with the number of days being purchased, the student’s name, teacher’s name, the amount of money enclosed, and the 4 digit ID pin number. Payments can be made through https://www.myschoolbucks.com.



https://www.myschoolbucks.com/

Cafeteria Behavioral ExpectationsLunch is a time for students to eat a balanced lunch, relax, and enjoy being with friends. Because approximately 250 students are gathered in one place at one time, certain behaviors are expected.

All students will enter the cafeteria in an orderly manner using the office side door. Students purchasing a lunch will proceed through the food service area using their walking feet to their assigned table.

Students bringing a lunch from home may go directly to their assigned table using their walking feet... Due to the large number of students bringing lunch; a microwave will not be available for student use. In order to maintain a safe, clean campus, no food is to leave the cafeteria, throwing of any objects is prohibited and students are to remain

seated (with feet under the table) at all times. Students are welcome to use the restroom or return to the food service area after they receive permission from the cafeteria supervisors. Students will be given the opportunity during the last five minutes of lunch (Quiet Time) to finish eating and are expected to collect all trash

they have accumulated, prior to being dismissed by the cafeteria supervisors. If students fail to comply with these reasonable expectations, there are consequences.

Removal of student to a vacant table or stage area Removal of student to a sideline area during recess Office referral Removal to Principal’s office

Candy, Gum, SodasIn order to support our district and school goals for teaching and encouraging our children to eat nutritious lunch and snacks, we have established the following guidelines:

We do not sell the following items at school, and we ask that parents NOT put these items in a child’s home-packed lunch. No Candy: Students are tempted to eat candy during class; throw wrappers on the floor and on the playground; or eat candy first then not eat

their lunches. No Gum: Students are tempted to put chewed gum on furniture, floors, or other inappropriate areas. No Sodas: Single-serving sodas are housed in either glass or cans. Both packages are safety hazards. Pop-top cans and broken glass can

cause serious cuts on fingers.

Choose items such as granola bars, breakfast bars, juices, etc., instead of candy, sodas, and gum.

Pesticide/Herbicide UseThe District uses common pesticides and herbicides, as necessary, to control weeds and pests at schools. Signs are posted at schools describing the pesticides or herbicides, with the active ingredients listed at least 24 hours prior to application. If you would prefer to be notified by mail at least 72 hours prior to application at your child’s school, please call the District’s Maintenance and Operations Department at (916) 686-7745 to be placed on a notification list.

Donations to SchoolsThe Elk Grove Unified School District recognizes that community organizations, especially parent clubs associated with our schools, often wish to support school programs through privately raised funds. Such clubs and groups are encouraged to work with the school’s administration to discuss the needs that the school may have. These support organizations may donate money to the school. Reasonable efforts will be made to provide the services, equipment, or materials that meet the intent of the donor however, the donations from private groups become a part of the school’s general fund.

Dress CodeA committee of parents, teachers, and the principal met to discuss and formulate a sensible dress code that would provide the most positive and safe learning environment possible. The District provides support for the school’s adoption of a dress policy through State and local policies. Based on CAC, Title 5, Section 302; EGUSD Policy #5132; and Education Code 35291.5.Uniform Dress Code Students must be in uniform every day except during designated spirit days All clothing must fit properly. Students may not wear any clothing that is considered too small or too large. All clothing must stay fastened and in its

proper place.

General Guidelines for Designated Non-Uniform DaysAll clothing must be neat, clean, and appropriate for a regular instructional day at school. It must be of such design that it invites only positive comments from class-mates and promotes self-esteem. Clothing must be safe and worn in a safe manner.

Clothing Acceptable Unacceptable

Pants/ShortsMid-thigh or longer (finger-tip length), loose fitting and neat looking. Blue denim

Cut-offs, jogging or gym type shorts, skin-tight work-outs (unless covered with shorts or skirts), purposely cut or ripped into strips, pants/shorts worn below the waist/purposely sagging, overalls

TopsAppropriate tops must cover the upper body so that no underwear or body parts are exposed on boys and girls. All shirts /tops MUST have : Long sleeves, short sleeves or cap sleeves

Fish-net tops, halters, midriff or half-shirts, tube or tank tops, Shirts with offensive messages, drug messages, violent messages, profane language, or degrading statements

Hats & Head Covering

Hats or head-coverings are acceptable when outdoors and for special reasons on special occasions.

Hats or head coverings must be removed before entering any building. Hats and head covering may not be warn backwards or sideways. They cannot be marked with unacceptable signs or messages.

Footwear Safe shoes are necessary at all times. Lace-up or tennis shoes are best for the daily program or during P.E. time.

Sandals, flip flops or slides of all kinds, unsafe styles such as unlaced, platforms, or high-heels.

Violation Action/Consequence1st The teacher will notify the parent(s) the same day of the violation and discuss future follow-through and support. All distracting or offensive

clothing/accessories will be removed from the students and held until the end of the school day.

2nd The teacher will call the parent(s) to immediately bring or send appropriate clothing so that the student can remain in class. All distracting or offensive clothing/accessories will be removed from the students and only a parent can retrieve these items.

3rdStudent will be issued a referral and a parent/student conference will be held with the school’s administration to discuss future expectations. Unacceptable clothing will be exchanged for appropriate clothing. Only the parent will be able to pick-up unacceptable clothing (distracting or offensive) items.

4th Student will be issued a referral by the classroom teacher and sent to the office. Unacceptable clothing will be exchanged for appropriate clothing, parents will be called, and student will be assigned in school consequence (recess, lunch, and/or classroom detention).

Distracting Materials or Items:Materials or objects that distract from instruction must be left at home. Teacher permission can be given for special occasions.

Unacceptable:1. Make-up, pictures, trading cards, comic books (clear or light color nail polish is accepted)2. Artificial nails (safety concern)3. Sunglasses and hats inside any building4. Any electronic device such as headphones, pagers, IPODS and MP35. Sports equip. (school furnishes all equip.)6. Spray cans or spray containers of any type7. Toys of any type (Nintendo, squirt guns, etc.)8. No distracting hair dyes or hair colors.9. No Silly Bands or I love Boobie Bands

Distracting items will be taken from the students by staff members and sent home at the end of the day or retained for pick-up by the parent. The staff member will determine this decision. Some items may not be returned at all.

Joseph Sims Elementary SchoolUniform Plan (Adopted by Joseph Sims Parent Community)

The purpose of a uniform plan for our site continues (1) to focus on school as a workplace for students (2) to develop a sense of school pride within the school. Red, white, and blue are our school spirit colors.

Tops for boys and girls: Solid white, navy blue, or red**Please remember shirts are to be plain except those with the school emblem or spirit wear. ** Appropriate tops must cover the upper body so that no underwear or body parts are exposed on boys and girls.

Polo type shirts or blouses with collar, short or long sleeves; Shirts or blouses with collar, buttons down the front, short or long

sleeves; Crew Neck, Turtle-necks or mock turtle-necks All shirts /tops MUST have : Long sleeves, short sleeves or cap

sleevesBottoms for boys and girls: Blue denim, Solid navy blue, khaki (tan)** No “Sagging” or “Baggies” – This means that all pants must stay up on the waist if a belt were removed.

Pants - Walking shorts - fingertip length; with or without cuffs, pleated, or plain. Mid-thigh or longer (finger-tip length), loose fitting and neat looking

Bottoms for girls: Solid navy blue, khaki, or plaid:*Plaid is navy blue and red

Skorts (shorts with front flap) - finger-tip length Skirts - finger-tip length (at least); pleated, gathered, or straight

Jumpers for girls: Solid navy blue, khaki, or plaid *Plaid is navy blue and red

Jumper - pleated, gathered, or straight

Boys and Girls Sweat pants: Solid navy blue - -Sweat shirt type material

Sweat shirt type material No sport/team identified with emblem or trim No sagging

Shoes for boys and girls:Safe shoes are necessary at all times. Lace-up or tennis shoes are best for the daily program or during P.E. time.

High or low-top; basic, laced sneakers, oxfords, or short ankle-length boots** Heavy athletic, high-tops with excessive colors and lights are not appropriate. No Skate Shoes.** High heels, platforms, sandals, or thongs are not acceptable.

Sweaters/Sweatshirts (outerwear) for boys and girls: Sweater - cardigan, v-neck, or crew neck pullover; long-sleeve style pullover; ribbed or plain bottom edge;

Sweatshirt - crew neck pullover;Coats for boys and girls No specific requirement is designated due to the fact that coats sometimes

are worn for 2-3 seasons. Solid colors are preferred.

Gently used school uniforms are available to assist parents who may need uniforms. Parents who desire information or assistance should contact the office at 683-7445. (Limited quantities)Please label all students clothing before wearing and also lunch bags. Use a permanent marker and label with child’s first and last name. This will help to identify students lost clothing for their safe return.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should call the office immediately at 683-7445.

School Song

Joseph Sims Shining Starby Mrs. Wasson

Tune to Yankee Doodle Dandy

I’m a Joseph Sims Shining StarI wear the red, white and the blue,A real example of a shining starProud to stand up for my school

I’ve got the power and the know howTo rise above and do my best

Joseph Sims Shining StarsWill be tomorrow’s leaders

We’ll always rise above the rest!

GO SHINING STARS!

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