District/School Operations

Elementary School Parent/Student Handbook

2013-2014

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida1

Howard Drive Elementary School7750 SW 136 Street

Miami, Florida 33176305-235-1412

Ms. Perla Tabares Hantman, ChairDr. Martin Karp, Vice Chair

Dr. Dorothy Bendross-MindingallMs. Susie V. CastilloMr. Carlos Curbelo

Dr. Lawrence S. FeldmanDr. Wilbert "Tee" Holloway

Dr. Marta Pérez, Ms. Raquel A. Regalado

Krisna Maddy, Student Advisor

M r . A l b e r t o M . C a r v a l h oSuperintendent of Schools

Ms. Valtena G. BrownChief Operating Officer, School Operations

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

District’s Vision/MissionMessage from PrincipalSchool InformationWebsite School’s Mission StatementFeeder Pattern SchoolsFlorida Kid CareDistrict/School CalendarImportant Dates

TestingInterim Progress ReportsReport Cards

ActivitiesClubsFieldtrips and Special ActivitiesParties in School

FundraisersAttendance Policy

Attendance Review CommitteeExcused Absences and TardiesUnexcused School Absence

Bringing Pets to SchoolArrival/Dismissal

School HoursBell ScheduleBefore and After School Care ProgramLate ArrivalEarly Sign OutEmergency DismissalRainy Day Dismissal

Comprehensive Reading PlanMessages and Use of TelephonesLost and FoundCafeteria

Food CostFree BreakfastFree/Reduced Lunch ProgramPAYPAMSCafeteria Rules

Registration ProceduresConfidential InformationParent-Teacher Association (PTA/PTSA)Emergency Contact InformationHalls/Hall PassesCode of Student ConductStudent Rights and Responsibilities

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Dress CodeUniform PolicyCell PhonesInternet Use PolicyHealth ScreeningImmunizationsInsuranceFlorida KidCareParent PortalFinancial ObligationsGrade Reporting

Academic GradesConductGrade Point AverageInterim Progress Report

Homework / Make-up AssignmentsOut of Area Student TransferPermanent RecordsEnd of Year Awards CriteriaPhysical EducationIllness/MedicationHead LiceTextbooksProcedures for Addressing ConcernsSchool Center for Special Instructions (SCSI)Transportation Eligibility

Bus ConductSupervision at the Bus Stop

Student BehaviorSuspension/ExpulsionSafety and Security

The Emergency Operations PlanAccident ReportsCode Yellow/Code RedClosing of SchoolFire DrillsTransporting Students to School

Traffic SafetyCar Pool LaneBus ZoneParking Lot

Bicycles/SkateboardsVisitorsMedia CenterSpecial EducationThe Parent AcademyVolunteer Program

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Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Vision StatementWe are committed to provide educational excellence for all.

Mission StatementWe provide the highest quality education so that all of our students are empowered to lead productive and fulfilling lives as lifelong learners and responsible citizens.

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August 19, 2013

Dear Parents:

Welcome to Howard Drive Elementary School.

This handbook has been developed to provide you with information that is commonly needed by parents of children in elementary school. This handbook will not contain answers to all questions, but you are encouraged to call the school at 305-235-1412 with any questions that are not answered here. Please read this handbook carefully and keep it for future reference. Additional communications will be sent from the school throughout the school year. We cordially invite you to visit our school, meet with your child's teachers, participate in the parent activities, and become an integral part of the Howard Drive Elementary family. I look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,

Deanna D. DalbyDeanna D. DalbyPrincipal

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Howard Drive Elementary School

Howard Drive Elementary is a pre-kindergarten through grade five school built in 1961 and located at 7750 SW 136 Street in Miami, Florida. Howard Drive Elementary School is in the Miami Palmetto Senior High School feeder pattern. Howard Drive Elementary has a family atmosphere with an active Parent Teacher Association. It has an array of programs available for students that meet criteria that include Gifted, Special Education and English Language Learn (ELL). Before school and afterschool are available. Selected students may participate in Art Club, Music Club, Running Club, Science Club, and Jump Rope Club. Additional extracurricular activities include, Student Council, Future Educators of America, and academic tutoring. Howard Drive has an active PTA and many community partners that assist the school in a variety of ways by rewarding students for outstanding achievements, donating time and service as well as providing snacks, programs, and awards for the school.

Vision StatementThe Howard Drive Elementary School staff, parents, and community are committed to providing a supportive environment for each student by promoting a firm academic and technological foundation, including multicultural experiences, and by fostering intellectual, emotional, and social development.

Mission StatementHoward Drive students will become contributing members of society by becoming effective communicators, creative problem solvers, critical reflective thinkers, and self-directed lifelong learners. They will develop an understanding of rights and responsibilities leading to good citizenship, as well as understanding and respecting individual differences and diversity among cultures.

Core ValuesHoward Drive Elementary School holds the following beliefs as the motivation for all endeavors undertaken by the school. We are dedicated to quality: quality of service, quality of relationships, and quality of communications. We believe that we should be, for

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all who are involved, a place of realized potential; and, we believe that our responsibility is to our students, to our employees, and to the community and the society that we serve.

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Visit our school website at: http://howarddrive.dadeschools.net

Palmetto Feeder Pattern Schools

Elementary Schools

Coral Reef ElementaryF.C. Martin ElementaryHoward Drive ElementaryPalmetto ElementaryPerrine ElementaryPinecrest ElementaryRobert Russa Moton ElementaryVineland K-8 Center

Middle Schools

Palmetto Middle SchoolSouthwood Middle School

Senior High School

Miami Palmetto Senior High School

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Important Dates - Tentative

Interim Report Distribution Report Card Distribution

September 20, 2013 November 15, 2013

December 3, 2013 February 07, 2014

February 19, 2014 April 17, 2014

May 1, 2014 June 27, 2014

Activities

ClubsMiami-Dade County Public Schools’ students may participate in a wide variety of activities, including student council, subject-area clubs, honor societies, service clubs, school publications and class activities. School-sponsored clubs may be curriculum-related or noncurriculum-related.

Curriculum-related clubs are student groups whose goals are an extension of the activities and objectives in a particular subject area within the school's curriculum. Conversely, noncurriculum-related clubs are student groups whose goals are special interest oriented and not directly related to the curriculum. Meetings of noncurriculum-related clubs may be scheduled only at times when instruction is not taking place, either before or after school.

Fieldtrips and Special ActivitiesParticipation in fieldtrips requires that the student present a fieldtrip form signed by the parent/guardian to his/her teacher(s) in advance. In addition, at times vendors who have a “no refund” policy will require schools to pay the full amount of the fieldtrip prior to the event. In this case, students/parents will be notified in advance of the vendor’s “no refund” policy.

Parties in School

Birthday parties are not allowed. Also, students must earn the right to attend special activities or receive treats by demonstrating good behavior in school.

Parties are under the supervision of the classroom teacher. Two school board approved parties are set up by the PTA room parents and the teachers each year. They are held before winter recess and the last day of the school year. Room parents will plan all activities with the classroom teacher.

Fundraisers – Board Policy 5830 Fundraising activities must be conducted during non-instructional class time, preferably before and after school. An Application for Fundraising Activity, M-DCPS Form 1018 must be completed. Regional Center approval is required for any fundraising activity where collections take place outside of school grounds. This approval can be obtained by completing M-DCPS Form 5656, Region Center Approval for Fundraising Activity (Community Sales).

Fundraising activities involving students working or providing services for community events or outside business organization for which compensation, monetary or otherwise, will be given, either to the students or the school, are not allowed to be conducted as school-sponsored /student fundraisers. Elementary school students are not allowed to participate in the sale of magazines.

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Attendance Policy – Board Policy 5200Student attendance is a means of improving student performance and critical in raising student achievement. Together, the staff of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, students, parents and the community must make every effort to lessen the loss of instructional time to students. ATTENDANCE DEFINED

A. School Attendance – Students are to be counted in attendance only if they are actually present for at least two (2) hours of the day or engaged in a school-approved educational activity which constitutes a part of the instructional program for the student.

B. Class Attendance – Students are to be counted in attendance if they are physically present in class for at least half of the class period, have been excused by the teacher on a class-related assignment, or have been requested by a member of the school support staff for an approved school activity.

C. Tardiness – A student is considered tardy if they are not present at the moment the school bell rings for the class assigned. NOTE: If a student is not present when attendance is taken but is present later in the school day, that student must be considered in attendance, but tardy , and the absence should be changed. A student who is tardy should never remain on record as being absent.

D. Early Sign-outs – No student shall be released within the final thirty (30) minutes of the school day unless authorized by the principal or principal’s designee (i.e., emergency, sickness).

Excused School and Class Absences and Tardies1. Student illness: Students missing 5 or more consecutive days of school due to illness or injury are

required to provide a written statement from a health care provider. The written statement must include all days the student has been absent from school. If a student is continually sick and repeatedly absent from school due to a specific medical condition, he or she must be under the supervision of a health care provider in order to receive excused absences from school.

2. Medical appointment: If a student is absent from school due to a medical appointment, a written statement from a health care provider indicating the date and time of the appointment, must be submitted to the principal.

3. Death in immediate family4. Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a faith that such a

holiday or service is observed.5. School-sponsored event or educational enrichment activity that is not a school-sponsored event, as

determined and approved by the principal or principal’s designee: The student must receive advance written permission from the principal or the principal’s designee. Examples of special events include: public functions, conferences, and region, state and national competitions.

6. Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance.7. Outdoor suspensions8. Other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent/guardian or student, as determined

and approved by the principal or the principal's designee. The principal shall require documentation related to the condition.

Unexcused School AbsenceAny absence that does not fall into one of the above excused absence categories is to be considered unexcused. Any student who has been absent from school will be marked unexcused until he/she submits required documentation as specified above. Failure to provide required documentation within three school days upon the return to school will result in an unexcused absence. Unexcused absences include:1. Absences due to vacations, personal services, local non-school event, program or sporting activity2. Absences due to older students providing day care services for siblings3. Absences due to illness of others4. Absences due to non-compliance with immunization requirements (unless lawfully exempted)

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Excused absences/ Tardies are:1. student illness2. medical appointment3. death in family4. observance of religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a

faith that such a holiday or service be observed; or school-sponsored event or activity previously approved.

5. other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent and student, as determined and approved by the principal.

THINGS TO LEAVE AT HOME

1. Pets - except by written invitation of the teacher and if the animal is secured.2. Any object considered a weapon, sharp objects, baseballs and footballs.3. Money in large amounts. Send only what your child needs for the day since the risk of lost money is

ever present.4. Cell phones, CD players, Game Boys and other electronic devices.5. Skateboards, trading cards and toys.

Bringing Pets to SchoolStudents are not allowed to bring pets to school.

Arrival/Dismissal

School Hours: Pre-Kindergarten - 8:20 A.M. - 11:30 A.M./ 8:20 – 1:50 P.M.Kindergarten, First - 8:20 A.M. - 1:50 P.M.Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth - 8:35 A.M. - 3:05 P.M.

All students are dismissed at 1:50 P.M. on Wednesdays

Students dismissed at 1:50 P.M. and who are not in the After School Care Program must leave school promptly. There is to be no waiting for other students who are dismissed at 3:05 P.M. Children are to return home promptly after dismissal unless they remain for special help or for disciplinary purposes. You will be notified in the event that your child is to remain after school. Parents are reminded that the School Board and the school staff shall not be held liable for injuries of students at the time when the school is not in operation.

Children should leave school, be picked up promptly at dismissal, or should be enrolled in the after-school care program.

Teachers for PreK-1st begin their work day at 8:05 A.M. and open the classrooms at 8:10 A.M. Teachers for 2nd -5th begin their work day at 8:20 A.M. and open the classrooms at 8:25 A.M Parents are advised not to drop students off at school prior to the time when this supervision is available unless the child is enrolled in the before-school care program. We are concerned for the safety of the children and seek your support in making sure that your child is not at school at an unsupervised time.

Students in grades PreK, K and 1 st must upon arrival report directly to their classrooms. Students in grades 2-5 must report to the Cafeteria nd wait for their teachers to pick them up at 8:25 A.M.

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Before and After School Care Program

A Before School Care Program is also offered from 7:00 A.M. to 8:15 A.M daily.

After School Care is offered from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. daily beginning August 20, 2007. Arts and crafts, dance, library, recreation, reading, outdoor play, and computers are offered. A daily snack and homework time are also provided. Some activities require an additional fee.

For more information, please call Ms. Nneka Miller, Manager or Ms. Patricia Cardinale, After School Care Clerk at 305-235-1412, ext. 124, between 10:30 A.M. and 6:00 P.M.

Late ArrivalStudents who are tardy to school must report to the Attendance Office to secure an admit. Excessive tardies may result in loss of privileges, detention, parent conference, and/or suspension. Late arrivals may be accrued and count towards unexcused absences.

Early Sign Out- Board Policy 5200The early release of students causes disruption to the academic performance of all students and may create safety and security concerns. No students shall be released within the final 30 minutes of the school day unless authorized by the principal or principal’s designee (i.e., emergency, sickness).

EMERGENCY DISMISSALS

There are various kinds of emergencies for which we must all be prepared. These include hurricanes, civil defense alerts, and tornadoes. Under extreme circumstances, when warnings provide sufficient time, children may be ordered to go directly home from school at a time other than the usual dismissal hours.

It is incumbent upon parents who are not usually home during the school day to make very clear to their children who to contact and where to report for safe supervision until parents can arrive home.

Please review your plan with the children from time to time throughout the year to help them remember.

Bus transported children would, of course, be kept at school until transportation could be made available to them.

SIGNIFICANT INCIDENTS, UNLAWFUL ACTIVITY

Parents are encouraged to notify the school of any significant school incidents, including knowledge of an unlawful act or the foreknowledge of any planned disruption or unlawful activity. Parents may report by calling the school office (305-235-1412) and leaving the message with one of the office staff.

Rainy Day Dismissal

If it is raining heavily at the time your child is to leave home and there are no means of transportation, please have him/her remain at home until the rain stops. In such cases, this would be an excused tardy.

Since the school cannot take care of all children when it is raining at dismissal time, and children are not permitted to use the office phone, except for extreme emergencies, please plan in advance with your child so that he/she knows what to do in the event of heavy rain at dismissal time. The telephone cannot be used for children to call home to find out what to do.

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Comprehensive Reading PlanElementary students are required to read at least five books or their equivalent during each nine-week grading period, including in-class independent reading and at-home reading. Students must also read for 30 minutes at home as part of their daily homework assignment. The length of the books and the complexity of the content may be taken into account when satisfying this requirement.

Messages and Use of Telephones Children are not permitted to use the office telephone at any time except for school business or extreme emergencies and must have permission from office staff. Please help your child understand before school each day where he/she is to report after school (Am I to come straight home or go elsewhere?).

Children are not permitted to utilize cell phones during school hours.Lost and Found Lost or found articles are to be turned in to the office. Lost articles may be claimed in the office when properly identified. Please make sure that your child's name is in his/her wallet, purse, coat, sweater, lunch box, etc. Such items are easily misplaced and labeling them will facilitate their return.

Cafeteria

Food Cost Breakfast LunchAll Students No Charge Elementary Students $2.25Adults $2.00 Secondary Students $2.50

Reduced Price, Student $ .40Adults and non-students $3.00

Free BreakfastThe National School Breakfast Program was enacted to ensure that school children are being served a nutritious breakfast daily. Miami-Dade County Public Schools offers breakfast at no charge to all M-DCPS Students. The breakfast at no charge is not dependent on the student qualifying for free/reduced meals at lunch.

Free/Reduced Lunch ProgramThe National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs as administered by Miami-Dade County Public Schools provide free and reduced priced meals for children unable to pay the full price. Applications must be filled out every school year; forms are sent to all homes with a letter to parents or guardians the first week of school. Meal benefits begin on the day the application is approved and continue throughout the school year in which the application is approved, the summer, and approximately the first twenty days of the next school year.

PAYPAMSMiami Dade County Public School’s Department of Food and Nutrition allows parents/guardians the convenience to pay on-line via the internet or by telephone for their child’s/children meals with a credit or debit card. The parent/guardians will create a lunch account on-line for the child and will be able to access the following:a. view the account balanceb. schedule automatic paymentsc. receive low-balance e-mail remindersd. view a report of daily spending and cafeteria purchases

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Cafeteria Rules Keep in a single line Always be courteous to the cafeteria workers Always use acceptable table manners Discard the trash appropriately

Registration Procedures

PUPIL ASSIGNMENTS

All classroom assignments are made by the school and for the benefit of each child. However, due to changes in enrollment, occasionally it is necessary to reorganize classes. We know we can rely on your cooperation and understanding if it becomes necessary to reassign children.

WITHDRAWALS, TRANSFERS If it is necessary to withdraw a child from school, the school should be notified at least two days in advance in order to complete required withdrawal procedures.

The school must have a written request, a telephone call, or the parent may come in person to request a transfer for a student. If a note is sent, please include the complete new address and, if possible, the name of the new school the child will be attending.

When transferring to another Miami-Dade County Public School, the parent must bring to the school written proof (utilities receipt, legal papers, etc.) of the new address. The transfer cannot take place without such written proof unless the parent makes such arrangements through the South Regional Office of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

CHANGE OF ADDRESSIf you change your address, phone number or work location , please notify the schoo l. It is urgent that the information on your child's emergency contact card is kept current so that a parent or guardian can be located at all times.

Confidential InformationParents, guardians and students are protected by The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Florida Statutes from individuals’ access to information in students’ educational records, and are provided the right to challenge the accuracy of these records. These laws provide that without the prior consent of the parent, guardian or eligible student, a student's records may not be released, except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws. The laws provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement to the release of student records, which include, but are not limited to, school officials with a legitimate educational interest and lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders.

Each school must provide to the parents, guardians or eligible students annual notice in writing of their right to inspect and review student records. Once a student reaches 18 years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the consent is required from the student only, unless the student qualifies as a dependent under the law.

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Parent-Teacher Association (PTA/PTSA)The Howard Drive Elementary Parent-Teacher Association works with state and national PTAs to support and speak in the schools, in the community and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting youngsters. We support the faculty and administration in their efforts to improve educational and extracurricular activities in the school. We work to encourage parent, student and public involvement at the school as a whole.

ACT FOR HOWARD DRIVE "A.C.T. For Howard Drive" is a not-for-profit organization that started in 1995 to help provide aides for classroom teachers.

Contributors to ACT support the concept that a smaller adult-student ratio makes a better educational environment for their children.

ACT is funded by the united efforts of parents to make voluntary donations in support of the program.

ACT is a beneficial and useful program for teachers and students.

ACT aides are to support the educational programs at Howard Drive Elementary.The teachers are grateful for the ACT Program and for the parents who volunteer their time and money.

Emergency Contact InformationStudent Data/Emergency Contact Cards are distributed during the first week of school. Students are expected to bring the cards home and present them to their parents or guardians. The card must be carefully completed and then returned. The information provided on the Student Data/Emergency Contact Card will enable school staff to contact the parent/guardian immediately in the case of an emergency. Students may only be released from school to the persons listed on the emergency contact card after presenting a picture identification. No persons, other than school staff, will have access to the information submitted.

Halls/Hall PassesStudents should be seated in their classroom when the tardy bell rings. With such a large number of students moving in such a limited time, it is incumbent on each person to move quickly and in an orderly manner observing normal traffic flow. Please do not push, run or loiter in the halls. Please cooperate with the Hall Monitors in the exercise of their duties and present a hall pass courteously when asked to do so.

At no time is a student to be out of the classroom during class without an official Yellow Pass. Teachers are not to give verbal permission for a student to exit the classroom.

Code of Student ConductMiami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is committed to providing a safe teaching and learning environment for students, staff, and members of the community. On March 12, 2008, the School Board approved a newly revised Code of Student Conduct (COSC). The revised COSC identifies, recognizes, and rewards model student behavior within a framework of clearly established and enforceable rules and policies. It advocates a holistic approach to promoting and maintaining a safe learning environment and requires active participation from students, parents/guardians, and school staff. Students and parents/guardians can access the English, Haitian/Creole and Spanish versions of the document on the M-DCPS Website located at: http://ehandbooks.dadeschools.net/policies/90/index.htm or you may request a copy from your child’s school. The Spanish version of this document will be forthcoming.

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Student Rights and ResponsibilitiesThe rights and responsibilities presented in the Code of Student Conduct reflect the need for providing students with greater opportunities to serve themselves and society, and allow students maximum freedom under law, commensurate with the schools' responsibility for student health, safety, and welfare.

Dress Code – Board Policy 5511Students are expected to come to school with proper attention having been given to personal cleanliness, grooming, and neatness of dress. Students whose personal attire or grooming distracts the attention of other students or teachers from their school work shall be required to make the necessary alterations to such attire or grooming before entering the classroom or be sent home by the principal to be properly prepared for school. Students who fail to meet the minimum acceptable standards of cleanliness and neatness as determined by the principal and as specified in this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures.

Uniform Policy Students are expected to come to school with proper attention having been given to personal cleanliness, grooming, and neatness of dress. Students whose personal attire or grooming distracts the attention of other students or teachers from their school work shall be required to make the necessary alterations to such attire or grooming before entering the classroom or be sent home by the principal to be properly prepared for school. Students who fail to meet the acceptable standards of cleanliness and neatness shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures including suspension.

At Howard Drive Elementary, students will be participating in a mandatory school uniform program. The school-selected uniform adopted by the school uniform committee includes the following:

Navy blue and khaki colors chosen for the bottom attire. This includes shorts, long pants, skirts, skorts and jumpers in a uniform-style cotton or cotton blend fabric. Nylon running gym shorts or anything similar is unacceptable. On cold days, students are permitted to wear long leg navy blue sweatpants.

Only shirts with collars are to be worn (polo type or oxfords are acceptable). The shirt colors include white, light pink, light blue, navy, red and hunter green. “Howard Drive Elementary” in simple script is to be embossed on all shirts. White script is to be put on red, navy and hunter green shirts and navy is to be put on the white and light blue.

In cold weather, uniforms must be worn, but any type of outerwear is acceptable. Students may wear sneakers or any type enclosed shoes with socks.

Casual Day (Fridays only): On Fridays students may wear their uniforms or they may wear their Howard Drive school related t-shirts. The bottom attire should be navy, khaki uniform or blue jeans. (Cut offs are unacceptable.)

Parents of students who are unable to comply with the uniform policy for reason of financial hardship should notify the principal of the school for assistance.

Exceptions to wearing the uniform are permitted when:

1. Uniforms of a nationally recognized youth organizations such as the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts are worn on regular meeting days.

2. A student wears a button, armband, or other accouterment to exercise the right to freedom of speech as guaranteed by the First Amendment and School Board Rule 6G-X13-1A-1.07, unless the button, armband or other accouterment signifies or is related to gangs, gang membership or gang activity.

3. The wearing of a school uniform violates a students’ sincerely held religious belief.

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4. The student’s parent or guardian has secured an exemption from the mandatory uniform program.

Parents who object to their child(ren) wearing a uniform at a mandatory uniform school must request an application for Exemption from the School Uniform Program.

The principal or another designated administrator will meet with the parent to discuss the uniform policy and the nature of the objections to the policy. If the outcome of the meeting is to continue the waiver request, the principal will grant the waiver for district approval.

Cell Phones Possession of a cellular telephone is not a violation of the Code of Student Conduct (COSC). However, the possession of a cellular telephone which disrupts the educational process; the use of the cellular telephone during school hours; and the possession or use of a cellular telephone which disrupts or interferes with the safety-to-life issue for students being transported on a M-DCPS school bus, would be a violation of the CSC.

I nternet Use Policy – Board Policy 7540.03Access and use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and its use must support the educational objectives of the District. Students must always get permission from their teachers prior to using the internet. In addition, the District prohibits the transmission of materials such as copyright material, threatening or obscene material or material protected by trade secret, which violate local, state, and federal law or regulation, as well as the use of the Internet for product advertisement, commercial activities, political campaigning or solicitation.

Health ScreeningTuberculosis Clinical Screening - Each student shall have proof of a tuberculosis clinical screening and appropriate follow-up prior to initial enrollment in any grade in a Miami-Dade County Public School. This screening is to be administered at the time of the Student Health Exam and within twelve (12) months prior to initial enrollment in any grade in a Miami-Dade County Public School. If the screening indicates that a follow-up skin test is needed, a student can be admitted but only with a health provider's statement that the student is free of communicable tuberculosis and can attend school.

Scoliosis Screening (6th grade students – applies to K-8 centers) The Florida Legislature Statute, 381.0056 mandates scoliosis screenings to be performed annually for students in grade six. Consequently, your school has been scheduled to participate in the Scoliosis Screening Program sponsored by Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Easter Seals Miami-Dade. A sample letter (FM-4382) notifying parents of the school’s scoliosis screenings to be performed should be reproduced and sent to parent(s)/guardian(s) of students as soon as possible. This screening will be performed by trained Easter Seals personnel on a specified date.

ImmunizationsRequirements for School Entry: 1. a complete Florida Certification of Immunization – Blue Card Form DH 680 - according to grade level2. State of Florida School Entry Health Exam – Yellow Form DH 3040 - no older than 12 months3. Tuberculosis Clinical Screening, PPD or Chest X-ray.

InsuranceThe Student Protection Plan is designed to cover students or injuries while traveling to and from school or when involved in accidents while engaged in supervised activities on the school premises. Participation in this program is voluntary. The school will forward the 2011-2012 enrollment application and additional information to the parents.

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Florida KidCareFlorida KidCare provides high quality, low cost health insurance for uninsured children aged birth to 18. KidCare includes MediKids, Healthy Kids, The Children's Medical Services Network (CMS) for children with special health care needs, and Medicaid. *Miami-Dade County Public Schools is a recipient of a Boots on the Ground School Partnership contract for marketing and outreach services.  In the coming weeks a variety of materials will be provided to schools to families to enroll their children in Florida KidCare. Go to www.floridakidcare.org for enrollment procedures.

Florida KidCare – Child Health Insurance You Can Afford!Getting health insurance for your children before they become sick is very important. Florida KidCare is comprehensive health insurance for children from birth to age 18 who are uninsured. Any family can apply; the amount you pay is based on income and family size. Most families pay $15 or $20 each month or nothing at all. Many non-citizen children may qualify.

Services Include:

Doctor Visits Mental HealthCheck-ups and Shots PrescriptionsHospital and Surgery Emergency ServicesVision/Hearing Dental

Florida KidCare accepts applications all year. No interview is required. You can apply online at www.floridakidCare.org and click “Apply Online Now.” If you would like assistance, please ask to speak with the school’s KidCare liaison.

For more assistance, please call The Parent Academy at 305-995-1207.

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Parent Portal

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Financial Obligations All financial obligations incurred, i.e. school fees, textbook loss or damage, overdue or lost library books, must be paid in the school treasurer’s office.

Grade ReportingAcademic GradesAcademic grades are to reflect the student’s academic progress based on the competencies/benchmarks for the grade level/course in which the student is enrolled. The grade must not be based upon student’s effort and/or conduct.

KINDERGARTENGRADES

NUMERICALVALUE VERBAL INTERPRETATION GRADE

POINT VALUEE 90-100% Outstanding progress 4G 80-89% Above average progress 3S 70-79% Average progress 2M 60-69% Lowest acceptable progress 1U 0-59% Failure 0

GRADES 1-12 NUMERICALVALUE VERBAL INTERPRETATION GRADE

POINT VALUEA 90-100% Outstanding progress 4B 80-89% Above average progress 3C 70-79% Average progress 2D 60-69% Lowest acceptable progress 1F 0-59% Failure 0I 0 Incomplete 0

ConductConduct grades are to be used to communicate to both students and their parents/guardians the teacher’s evaluation of a student’s behavior and citizenship development. These grades are independent of academic and effort grades.

Grade Point AverageWhen calculating the grade for a semester or an annual course, the following grade point averages are to be used:

A = 3.50 and aboveB = 2.50 – 3.49C = 1.50 – 2.49D = 1.00 – 1.49

Interim Progress ReportInterim progress reports must be sent home at any time the student is performing unsatisfactorily in academics, conduct, or effort, and are disseminated to all students at mid-grading period.

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Homework / Make-up Assignments

Homework is a vital part of learning. At the beginning of the school year, each teacher will send home a letter explaining the plans he or she has for assigning homework. Children are expected to work conscientiously on assignments, since these are a part of the total educational program. Homework assignments are meaningful and are never to be assigned as punishment.

The Miami-Dade County Public School’s homework policy suggests the frequency of homework and the time to be spent on homework. These guidelines are: Total Daily Average Grade Level Frequency of Assignments (All Subjects)

K - 1 Daily (5 days a week) 30 minutes2 - 3 Daily (5 days a week) 45 minutes4 - 5 Daily (5 days a week) 60 minutes

Additionally, there will be occasional projects or long-range assignments in subjects such as science and/or social studies, as well as book reports. The time required is based upon the teacher's best estimate of how long it should take to complete a project or assignment in an uninterrupted session, without distractions.

If you have questions regarding your child's homework, please contact the teacher for clarification.

Out of Area Student Transfer – Board Policy 5131 Students in the regular school program (K-12) are assigned to attend school on the basis of the actual residence of their parent or legal guardian and the attendance area of the school as approved by the Board. A student may request an out of area transfer if the student resides with parent or legal guardian, and a change of residence occurs. The Region Superintendent (or designated Region Director) may administratively assign or approve the reassignment or transfer of students when the Florida Inventory of School Houses (FISH) capacity of the receiving school is below 100 percent.

In the event a student with an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) requests to attend a school other than the school in which the student is enrolled, parent(s)/guardian(s) must meet with Region Center special education personnel to ensure that the programmatic needs of the student can be met at the requested school.

Permanent Records (FYI – from the Student Educational Records Manual)Miami-Dade County Public Schools maintains the records of students in PK-12 and adult/vocational students enrolled in high school completion programs or vocational programs of 450 hours or more. Permanent records consist of the following student information:a) pupil’s or student’s full legal nameb) authenticated birth date, place of birth, race, and sexc) last known address of pupil or studentd) names of pupil’s or student’s parent(s) or guardian(s)e) name and location of last school attendedf) number of days present and absent, date enrolled, date withdrawng)  courses taken and record of achievement, such as grades, credits, or certification of competenceh)  date of graduation or date of program completion, including a statement of diploma, that is, standard, special, certificate of completion, or General Equivalency Diplomai)  State and/or District standardized assessment/achievement test results, if required for graduationj)  written records of access to the student’s recordk)  Home Language Survey

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END OF THE YEAR AWARDS CRITERIA

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD:This is awarded to those students who have earned a 4.0 grade point average, 1’s in

effort, A’s in conduct.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:This is awarded to those students who have earned a grade point average of 3.5 or higher,

1’s or 2’s in effort and A’s or B’s in conduct.

CITIZENSHIP AWARD:This is awarded to those students who display outstanding citizenship in all areas regardless of their academic grade point average. These students have all 1’s in effort and all A’s in conduct.

ATTENDANCE AWARD:This is awarded to those students who have perfect attendance for the entire school year and 5 tardies or less.

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONPhysical education is required of all students unless a physician's statement is presented. Children will be excused from physical activities after they return from an illness only if the parent sends a note to the teacher. It is the student's responsibility to remind the instructor that he/she has a written excuse from the day's activities. This request should be for no more than two days and requests for longer periods must be accompanied by a doctor's statement.

ILLNESS, MEDICATIONIf a child becomes too ill at school to remain in class, the parent will be contacted by telephone. We have limited temporary facilities to help comfort a sick child while he/she is waiting for the parent to come. Transportation cannot be provided for sick children. If your child is ill, please do not take a chance by sending him/her to school.

School personnel are not permitted to dispense aspirin or medication to children unless the required forms are on file in the school. These forms require the signature of the physician prescribing the medicine and are available in the office.

When students take medicine at school, the medicine is kept in a locked cabinet in the school office/clinic. Students should not be sent to school with medicine (prescription or non-prescription) unless the proper documentation is on file.

HEAD LICEHead lice are a national problem and Miami Dade County is no exception. Head lice are not dangerous, but they require attention because they spread rapidly and are difficult to control. Head lice are small insects the size of a pinhead, usually light brown, highly communicable, and difficult to prevent.

Head lice live in the hair and scalp and lay their eggs (nits) on the shaft of the hair near the scalp. Lice themselves are often difficult to see but the nits are small whitish, tear shaped eggs which can be seen with the naked eye. Nits resemble dandruff, however, they do not brush off easily.

TRANSMISSION How do head lice get from one person to another?

1. Direct contact with an infected person's head/hair.2. Indirectly, by placing clothing of an infested child in contact with the clothing of an

uninfested child.3. Indirectly, by sharing such items as combs, brushes, hats, caps, scarves,

wigs, pillows and bedding.

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Teacher

Assistant Principal

Principal

Region Center

District

SYMPTOMS How can you tell if a person might have head lice?Most affected children have no symptoms, a few itch and scratch.

TREATMENTBefore one family member is treated all should be examined. Those showing infestation should be treated at one time. There are reliable products available that will kill lice. There are prescription medicated shampoos as well as over the counter shampoos that are effective. Remember to follow the instructions carefully! All nits must be removed from the hair before the treatment is completed; there are special combs that help with this process.

TREATMENT OF PERSONAL ARTICLES AND ENVIRONMENT

Wash in hot water and dry in hot dryers washable clothing and bed linens used by infested persons within the past few days. Non-washables can be dry cleaned, put in dryer for 20 minutes or sealed in a plastic bag for 14 days. Environmental cleaning: carefully vacuum rugs, upholstered furniture and mattresses. Lice live only a short time if they fall off the head. Insecticidal sprays are not recommended.

School personnel need your help to control head lice. Early detection of head lice is a shared responsibility of the school staff as well as parents who should always be alert to the possibility of head lice in their children. Early detection, effective treatment and the "no nit" policy for head lice will make this a better school year for all.

Textbooks

Our textbooks are provided by the State of Florida and are available free to children. However, students will be charged for lost or damaged textbooks. Please assist the school with instilling in your child a sense of responsibility toward taking care of the textbooks issued to him or her.

Students are encouraged to check out library books. They should return the books when due and will be charged for lost or damaged library books.

Procedures for Addressing ConcernsFor issues involving an individual teacher or class, parents address their concerns to the following individuals in the order below.

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School Center for Special Instructions (SCSI)

School administrators may elect to assign students to the School Center for Special Instruction (SCSI) as an alternative to suspension from school. The center is designed to provide tutorial and guidance services. When misconduct in a class results in an assignment to SCSI, the student should be removed from only the class in which the misconduct occurred. Continued misconduct can result in removal from all classes.

Transportation Eligibility

Miami-Dade County Public Schools will transport more than 60,000 students a day this school year, using a fleet of 1,300 buses on nearly 1100 school-bus routes. The service is for students who live more than two (2) miles from their assigned school and for special needs students.

Before school begins, parents of all students eligible for bus transportation will receive a post card from the school district identifying the student's bus stop and times of pickup and delivery. Information on student bus assignments will also be posted on the Parent Portal at www.dadeschools.net beginning on Monday, August 12, 2013. The information on bus assignments on the Parent Portal is updated every night, so parents are encouraged to check it throughout the school year so they can be confident they will always have the most current information on their children’s bus assignment.

Parents interested in determining their child's transportation eligibility should contact their child's school for information.

BUS TRANSPORTATION, CONDUCT

The Miami-Dade County School Board provides transportation to and from school for pupils who live two or more miles from the school they are required to attend.

Riding a bus is a privilege and requires certain responsibilities on the part of the children. Children are expected to remain in their seats, keep arms and heads inside the bus and generally conduct themselves in an orderly way. If a child does not comply with the rules, he or she will be suspended from the bus for a period of time. The same degree of responsibility and orderliness is expected while children are at the bus stops waiting for the bus.

SUPERVISION AT BUS STOPS

Parents are advised that supervision is not provided by the Dade County Public Schools for students who wait for school buses at scheduled stops. It is the parent's responsibility to provide supervision prior to arrival time of the bus.

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STUDENT BEHAVIOR

The primary objective of Miami-Dade County Public Schools is to ensure that students are given the opportunity to develop their potential for learning and to interact positively with other students in a safe environment free of disruptions. The Code of Student Conduct is provided to assist students, parents, teachers, and administrators in promoting and maintaining this positive teaching and learning environment. The Code of Student Conduct explains in detail the preventive measures teachers and administrators take to create a safe, positive environment, and the types of violations which disrupt the educational process.

The following behaviors are violations of the Code of Student Conduct that will result in disciplinary action which could include exclusion from class, suspension from school, or expulsion from school.

1. General disruptive conduct (unexcused tardies, truancy, or any other behavior which disrupts the orderly educational process).

2. Use of provocative language (obscene language, profanity, threats and/or inflammatory statements).

3. Theft or robbery. 4. Defiance of school personnel's authority (refusal to comply with a reasonable request from school

personnel). 5. Assault - an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another which creates a

well-founded fear in that person that such violence is imminent. 6. Vandalism - the willful or malicious destruction and/or damage school property or the property of

another. 7. Fighting. 8. Extortion - obtaining money or any thing of value from another by coercion or intimidation. 9. Possessing or using or selling mood modifiers.10. Possession and/or assault with a weapon. Vandalizing and/or tampering with school fire alarms systems is a violation of School Board policy and state law. Such action would result in the necessary disciplinary action to curtail this unacceptable behavior.

Children are not permitted to ride bicycles, use roller skates or any other such contrivance on the walkways or in the covered building areas of the school.

SUSPENSION, EXPULSION

As in preceding years, each school principal is directed by the Superintendent of Schools to inform our parents of the Miami-Dade County School Board's policies and regulations regarding suspension and expulsion.

Students who disrupt the orderly educational process are subject to disciplinary action. This disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to suspension, expulsion, and other school board-approved alternatives. Students subject to this disciplinary action are those who have committed a serious breach of conduct, including, but not limited to:

A. Willful disobedience;B. Open defiance of authority of a member of the staff;C. Violence against persons or property; orD. Any other act which substantially disrupts or has a detrimental effect on the orderly conduct of

the school.

Any student subject to the control of the school shall be subject to expulsion by the Miami-Dade County School Board upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools when the student has committed any of the following violations:

1. Arson: Any willful malicious igniting of a fire which causes damage or is intended to cause damage to school property or the property of another.

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2. Aggravated Assault and/or Battery: Assault and/or battery with weapon (including deadly weapons).

3. Possession and/or Concealment of Weapons: Weapons are defined as firearms, knives, explosives, inflammable material, or any other items that may cause bodily injury or death.

4. Sale or Distribution of Mood Modifiers or Drugs: The act of distributing a mood modifying substance, including alcohol, to others.

5. Continuous Disruptive Behavior: Committing a combination of any of the violations listed on a continuing basis so as to interfere with the rights of other students to receive an education.

Please discuss these items with your child/children. Suspension and expulsion from school are serious actions, especially in view of the increasing significance that society places upon education.

We know we will have your assistance as parents in creating and maintaining an atmosphere conducive to academic progress and good citizenship. Remember all visitors must report and request a pass from the office before going to the classroom.

Safety and Security

The Emergency Operations PlanStudent and employee safety is a primary concern of the Miami-Dade County Public School (M-DCPS) System. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) was created to provide school personnel with the necessary leadership skills and knowledge needed to respond to critical incidents or other related emergencies that may occur in our schools /community. All schools have a site specific plan to address all types of critical incidents. These plans address the individual needs of the school, and provide guidelines for devising methods for communicating with the staff, students, parents/guardians, and the media during a critical incident or an emergency. Some of the protective action procedures include the evacuation of students/staff from the building(s), evacuation of the disabled and if necessary the relocation of students/staff from the school campus, lockdown procedures and holding/dismissing students during school and community emergencies. Some important tips for parent/guardians to remember during a Critical Incident are as follows:

Remain calm; Monitor media outlets for updates and official messages from M-DCPS; Do not flood the school with telephone calls; and If the school is on lockdown, wait until the lockdown is lifted before going to the school.

All school administrators, Region Center Superintendents/Directors and all M-DCPS Police officers have been adequately trained in the school EOP and are prepared to respond immediately during a critical incident or emergency to provide safety for all children.

Accident ReportsAny student who witnesses an accident or is injured in school should report it immediately to the nearest staff member.

Code Yellow/Code RedIn the event of an emergency, the primary responsibility of all school personnel is to provide for the safety of all students. In the event a school administrator announces a possible threat to students and staff safety exists within the community (Code Yellow), or an imminent threat to students and staff safety exists within the school (Code Red) students, faculty and staff will comply with all the procedures outlined in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Critical Incident Response Plan and remain on lockdown until a school administrator makes an “All Clear” announcement.

Closing of SchoolThe emergency closing of a school for any cause, such as weather or in which the safety of individuals may be endangered, is only at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools.

Fire Drills33

Ten fire drills will take place according to the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Policy and Emergency Procedures. At the sound of the emergency bell, students must stop what they are doing and follow the teacher’s instructions. They must clear the building promptly by the prescribed route. Any student who is in the hallway or the restroom at the sound of the emergency bell must proceed to the nearest exit and locate the teacher. Students, teachers and staff must remain outside the building until permission is given to re-enter.

Transporting Students to School

SAFE ROUTE TO SCHOOLYou and your child should become familiar with the route to school by walking it together. When walking the route, the following procedures should be used:1. Use sidewalks or safety paths if available; cross at right angles; wait on the curb until the traffic clears

before crossing any street; walk - don't run across the street. If a crossing guard is available, wait for the crossing guard to help you cross the streets.

2. If there are any traffic signals along the route, explain the meaning of the signals; explain the proper time to cross the street and the proper use of pedestrian push-button if there are any.

3. Speak each decision aloud, reviewing each factor considered. Be sure your child understands why and not just what to do.

4. Time your trip in order to know how much time is necessary for your child to walk to school without hurrying.

5. Once you reach the school, let your child walk you home.6. Correct any mistakes your child makes as you proceed on the way home.7. At one corner, on the way home, have your child cross the street alone to demonstrate his or her

ability to follow your instructions.

SAFETY TO AND FROM SCHOOL, IN THE HOME

Periodic reminders should be given to children to alert them to the possible danger when approached by strangers. Children should be reminded: 1. Not to go into an automobile, a house, a public restroom or anywhere else without your permission. 2. Not to accept gifts from strangers. 3. Not to follow or lead a stranger anywhere e.g., public restroom, secluded areas. 4. That there is safety in numbers as they walk to and from school with friends. 5. To walk directly, using the safest route, to and from school, to walk in a group, using sidewalk if

possible. 6. Not to open the door to strangers when at home. 7. Not to give information to strangers on the telephone. Never tell someone on the phone that they are

home alone. 8. That no one has the right to touch them, or make them feel uncomfortable, that they have the right to

say "NO.” If someone does attempt to touch them, tell them to tell you. 9. To tell you if someone asks them to keep a "secret.”10. To tell you if someone offers them candy, money or a gift, or wants to take their picture.

TRAFFIC SAFETY, PARKINGParking is a problem at our school during the onset and dismissal of school. School officials have been working to find a reasonable solution though there is no single answer that will please everyone.

Limited Parking is available for parents who need to park and get out of their cars in the staff/visitor’s parking lot. Very limited parking is also available on the west side of SW 77 Avenue beyond the bus zone. There is no parking on the north side of SW 136 Street or on the east side of SW 77 Avenue. Please do not park on 78 th Court . Parents may not drop off or pick-up students in the Visitors Lot. Pulling in and out of the Teacher’s Lot to drop off or pick up students is also strictly prohibited. We are concerned for the safety of the children and ask that all rules are adhered to.

Car Pool Lane

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Since parking is limited at Howard Drive Elementary, we encourage parents to use the drop off and pick up zone (the Car Pool Lane) in front of the school. School staff will monitor arrival and dismissal of students.

Bus ZoneThe bus zone is located on S.W. 77 Avenue. There is no parking in the bus zone on school days from 7:00 - 9:00 A.M. and 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. Cars may park for short periods (5 to 10 minutes) in this area except during the restricted hours that are posted on the signs for the loading and unloading of students.

Parking LotThe parking lot is not to be used as an area to load or unload children. The Teachers parking lots are reserved for staff parking only.

Bicycles/Skateboards

In Florida bicyclists must follow the rules as motorists. This means that you must have your child observe the following regulations, if he/she rides a bicycle to school:

1. Ride on the sidewalk or bike path, if there is one; if not, on the right side of the street with traffic and use hand signals.

2. Only one child rides on a bicycle.3. Ride single file on bicycles. Stop for stop signs and red lights. Dismount when crossing the street to

enter the school grounds.4. Walk with bicycle on sidewalks adjacent to the school grounds and on school grounds.5. Park and lock bikes at the bike racks.

**Kindergarten, first and second year children are urged not to ride bicycles to school. Parents should evaluate carefully their child's capability on his/her bicycle before granting permission.

* In the state of Florida it is mandatory that bicyclists under the age of 16 years wear bicycle helmets.VisitorsDue to legal regulations, students are not permitted to have guests attend school with them at any time. Parents/guardians are always welcome and tours may be arranged to view the school. Classroom visits require a 24-hour notice. Visitors must first register with security at the main entrance, sign-in and produce photo identification, and then proceed to register in the main office. Anyone who fails to follow these procedures will be considered a trespasser and is subject to arrest.

Media Center The library is open from 8:45 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Each student in grades 2-5 is entitled and encouraged to use the library and to check out books at a time of the day when regular classroom assignments are completed, and with the consent of his/her teacher. Students in PreK-1 will visit the library with their class. Small groups or individual students may use the center to do independent reading, study or research.

Parents are also encouraged to come in and receive a library number which will enable them to check out books for their children.

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Special EducationThe School Board of Miami-Dade County ensures that all students suspected of having a disability are identified, evaluated, and provided appropriate, specially designed instruction and related services, if it is determined that the student meets the state's eligibility criteria and the parent consents to initial placement.

Prior to referral for evaluation, the student must have participated in the school's Progress Monitoring Plan (PMP) program and have been referred to the school's intervention team.

Students with disabilities who are eligible and require special education will have an Individual Educational Plan (IEP). The IEP describes the student's strengths and weaknesses and documents the services and supports the student needs in order to access a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).

The IEP is a working plan that must be developed by the IEP team at least once every 12 months and reviewed, when appropriate, to revise and address any lack of expected progress toward annual goals, or to consider any new information that has been provided through re-evaluation or by the parent/guardian.

Parent involvement in the special education process is very important. Parents will be asked to participate in the IEP process each year and to consider the need for their child's re-evaluation at least once every three years.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states that parents of a child with a disability have certain procedural safeguards. The Summary of Procedural Safeguards for Parents of Students with Disabilities documents all the information about the rights of parents/guardians. This notice of procedural safeguards is made available to the parent.

Rights that are presented in the procedural safeguard document include, but are not limited to, the right of prior written notice; informed consent; participation in meetings; records, independent educational evaluation, mediation, state complaint; local education agency complaint; due process hearings; resolution meetings; due process; attorney fees; discipline; and private school placement.

As the parent/guardian of a child with disabilities, you are a very important member of the team that plans your child's education. Be informed and get involved. If you have any questions, please contact your child's school. Staff from the special education department and your child's student service provider will help to answer your questions. Additional information may also be found at http://ese.dadeschools.net/.

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The Parent AcademyThe Parent Academy is a free, year-round, parent engagement and skill building program of Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS). The goals are to educate parents about the importance of their role; strengthen the family unit; unite families and schools; and inform parents of their rights, responsibilities and the educational opportunities available to their children and to them personally.

In addition, The Parent Academy provides classes and workshops for parents/guardians; organizes Family Learning Events; coordinates the availability of M-DCPS and community resources for parents/guardians.

Within this framework, The Parent Academy offers classes and workshops developed around the five subject area strands listed below: Help Your Child Learn (Example: PASSport to Success – 8 module series) Parenting Skills (Example: Positive Discipline) Arts & Culture (Example: Enrich Your Child through Arts and Culture in Miami) Health and Wellness (Example: Preventing Substance Abuse) Personal Growth (Example: Parent Portal)

The Parent Academy “campus” is spread throughout every corner of this community, and offers free classes and workshops at over 250 local sites such as public schools, libraries, parks, colleges, private businesses, and neighborhood centers. Monthly calendars are posted in the Course Directory section on The Parent Academy’s Web site at www.theparentacademy.net. The Parent Academy staff members are available to provide parents/guardians, students and school sites with guidance and assistance in scheduling workshops. Staff can be reached at (305) 995-2680.

Volunteer ProgramThe School Volunteer Program is responsible for electronic registration, background checks and trainings of volunteers. There are two different levels of volunteerism.

Level 1 - complete a database background check Level 2 - complete a fingerprint background checkDay chaperones for field tripsClassroom assistantsMath and/or reading tutors.

Certified Volunteers Mentors Listeners/Oyentes Athletic/Physical Education assistants Overnight chaperones.

Any individual interested in volunteering in Miami-Dade County Public Schools must: Show a current valid government-issued identification with picture. Show a social security card (check name and number). Complete a background check. Upon clearance, attend an orientation at the school.

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The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida adheres to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and educational programs/activities and strives affirmatively to provide equal opportunity for all as required by:

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 - prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended - prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, or national origin.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 - prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender.

Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) as amended - prohibits discrimination on the basis of age with respect to individuals who are at least 40.

The Equal Pay Act of 1963 as amended - prohibits gender discrimination in payment of wages to women and men performing substantially equal work in the same establishment.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - prohibits discrimination against the disabled.

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) - prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, public service, public accommodations and telecommunications.

The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) - requires covered employers to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave to "eligible" employees for certain family and medical reasons.

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 - prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Florida Educational Equity Act (FEEA) - prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, gender, national origin, marital status, or handicap against a student or employee.

Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992 - secures for all individuals within the state freedom from discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, or marital status.

Veterans are provided re-employment rights in accordance with P.L. 93-508 (Federal Law) and Section 295.07 (Florida Statutes), which stipulate categorical preferences for employment.

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