parent/student handbook 2009-2010 - atlanta public schools · 2009-08-08 · cmyk 22 0 100 8...

Springdale Park Elementary School logo

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Parent/Student Handbook 2009-2010

1246 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30306www.springdaleparkelementary.org

School Phone (404) 802-6050 School Fax (404) 377-3179

Publication Date: August 7, 2009(This document will be updated throughout the school year as more information becomes available.

Get the most up to date version on the school’s website: www.springdaleparkelementary.org).

http://srt3.atlantapublicschools.us/springdale/




Table of Contents A Note from Our Principal! 4

Welcome to Springdale Park! 5

Vision 5

Mission 5

Core Beliefs 5

What Does It Mean To Be Green? 6

What is LEED®? 6

A Note From Our PTO President! 7

Springdale Park Parent/Teacher Organization! 8

PTO Structure 8

Membership: Join Your Parent/Teacher Organization Today! 10

Fundraising 10

Springdale Park PTO Calendar 10

Springdale Park Policies & Procedures ! 12

Communication 12

Directory of Springdale Park Elementary School Families 12

Communication: Between Atlanta Public Schools and Parents 12

Communication: Between Parents and Teachers 14

Communication: Resources and Tools 14

Attendance and Related Expectations 14

School Day 15

Arrival to Campus 15

Late Arrivals 16


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Springdale Park Parent/Student Handbook 1 of 36 Revision Date: 8/6/2009

Student Absence Procedures 16

Make-up Work 17

Partial Day Attendance 17

Inclement Weather, Emergency School Closings and Delayed Openings 18

School Dismissal 18

Early Dismissal 18

After-School Program 19

Withdrawal/Transfer of Student 19

Instruction 19

Curriculum Resources 19

Textbooks 20

Media Center 20

Homework 20

Homework Hotline 20

Field Trips 21

Special Programs 22

Gifted and Talented: The Challenge Program 22

Program for Exceptional Children 22

Grades & Records 23

Grading 23

Report Cards 23

Standardized Testing 23

Student Expectations 24

Student Behavior Expectations 24

Academic Honor Code 25

Dress Code 25

Items Not Allowed In School 26

Fighting 26


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Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying 26

Affirmative Action 27

When Parents Have a Concern 27

Medical Policy 27

Medication 27

Immunizations 28

School Nurse 28

Meals 29

Federal Eligibility Application (FEA) Free and Reduced Meal Program 29

Cost of Meals 29

Paying for Meals 30

Snacks 30

Birthday Parties 30

Calendar 31

Atlanta Public Schools: 2009-2010 Traditional Calendar 31

Floor Maps 32


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A Note from Our PrincipalAugust 6, 2009!

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the inaugural year at Springdale Park Elementary School! The opening of our new and

innovative school brings excitement for our students, staff, parents and community. Since the

inception of plans for our new school, we have been working as a collaborative community to

ensure the success of every student at Springdale Park. We look forward to having you be an

integral part of the school by bringing all of your energy and talents toward helping us achieve our

goals.

At Springdale Park, we believe a strong home and school partnership, ongoing communication, a

rigorous and creative curriculum and an outstanding faculty and staff, will help our students

achieve at the highest levels in a safe, challenging and nurturing environment. As we begin our

journey toward excellence, please know we value you as partners in your child’s educational

experience and look forward to a great school year.

This Parent/Student handbook has been prepared so you will be familiar with the school’s

organization, policies, and procedures. Please keep this handbook for easy reference throughout

the school year. As the school year progresses, updates to the handbook may be published and

distributed to all parents. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Springdale Park

Administrative Office at (404) 802-6050.

Sincerely,

Yolonda C. Brown

Principal


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Welcome to Springdale ParkOur teachers, school leaders, parents and community partners are already making a difference in

the lives of our students. Springdale Park Elementary School (SPARK) is set to be an exceptional

place. From day one, we have energy from our high quality staff (principal, teachers &

administration), the commitment of involved parents, and the benefits of a ‘green’ facility.

Vision

To be a high-performing community of learners where teaching and learning is connected to the

global world and every child is nurtured and challenged to reach their highest potential.

Mission

We are cultivating a community of innovative thinkers with a commitment to personal and social

responsibility where a love for learning is inspired by passionate student-focused teaching, based

on the highest standards for academic excellence and creativity.

Core Beliefs

• All children can learn and must be provided with high-quality instruction that is differentiated to meet their individual needs. Students’ educational experiences are enhanced when the community and school collaborate.

• Students will become global citizens when provided with experiences that foster an awareness and understanding of diversity and social responsibility.


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SPARK flames light the way to:

• Be Responsible

• Be Respectful

• Be a Good Citizen•Be Green

• Students will become more successful learners when teachers work collaboratively to inspire them by implementing innovative teaching methods to make learning fun.

• Students will become “environmental leaders” when they engage in eco-friendly practices that protect and sustain the environment for themselves and future generations.

• Learning is a lifelong process.

What Does It Mean To Be Green?

Green school: a school building or facility that creates a healthy environment that is conducive to

learning while saving energy, resources and money.

The proven benefits of green schools include:

• A healthy, productive learning environment• Improved teacher retention• Financial savings• Hands-on learning• Environmentally friendly

Besides being “green,” Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is proud to boast Springdale Park as its first

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) school in all of APS. The Springdale

Park community will be applying for LEED Silver Certification.

What is LEED®?

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™

encourages and accelerates global adoption of sustainable green building and development

practices through the creation and implementation of universally understood and accepted tools

and performance criteria. Learn more: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?

CMSPageID=1988.


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http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1988




A Note From Our PTO PresidentAugust 6, 2009!

Dear Parents,

Our children are at Springdale Park Elementary School! Getting to this point has been a team

effort between Principal Brown, the Parent/Teacher Organization, Atlanta Public Schools and our

many community partners. Together we:

•Convened community stakeholders to develop transportation and safety policies and

procedures

•Met our initial fundraising goal

•Provided input and guidance on Springdale Park’s technology footprint

•Launched our website

•Secured an onsite aftercare provider and more!

THANK YOU ALL!

As the 2009-2010 school year starts, we now begin another chapter in our history. Our future

includes getting to know our wonderful teachers and staff, starting clubs and activities, finding new

opportunities to make our school and grounds a welcoming environment for our children,

developing SPARK traditions, and more. The team effort continues and needs you. I encourage all

of you to join the PTO and discover a fulfilling volunteer opportunity that will benefit our children

and strengthen our community.

Go SPARK!

Clare Richie

SPARK PTO President


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Springdale ParkParent/Teacher OrganizationPTO Structure

The Springdale Park Elementary School Parent/Teacher Organization exists to support the

principal, administration and school while helping to create an enriching experience for students

through a variety of programs and activities. The PTO consists of an elected volunteer board of

directors, volunteer committee heads and committee members. The positions and roles for the

2009-2010 school-year are as follows:

Board of Directors

•Officers•Officers

•President

•Vice President

•Treasurer

•Secretary

•At-Large Directors •At-Large Directors

•Four at-large directors also serve as liaisons to the PTO Committees

•School Representatives•School Representatives

•Principal

•Teacher Representative

The PTO Executive Committee includes the Officers and School Representatives.


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Committees

Campus (Programs & Operations)

Communications Enrichment Fundraising

Transportation & Safety Communications Clubs – Parent Run Book Fair

Bus Route Newsletter/Memo Chess Club Grants

Carpool Website Girls on the Run Community/Business

Partnerships

Pedestrian Yearbook Math Club Dine Outs

Cycling Bulletin Boards Earth Friends Club Incentive Programs –

Publix, Kroger, etc.

School Zone Calendar Yoga Box Tops

Technology Directory Triathlon Club Spirit Gear

Grounds/Playground First Day Packet Girl Scouts Special Events

Media Center Public Relations Boy Scouts Mother Earth

Health & Wellness Room Parent Coordinator Jump Rope Club Original Artworks

Nutrition and Physical Activity Debate Club May Day Festival

Green Team Cooking Club Other Events (TBD)

Garden Robotics Club Membership

Farm to School Roots and Shoots

Teacher/Staff Appreciation Ultimate Club

Hospitality/Food/Catering Golf Club

Volunteer Coordinator Ball Sports

Welcome Desk Enrichment

Special Needs Book Swap

Church/Neighborhood

Liaison

Cultural Arts

Family Science Night

Book Club/Visiting

Authors/Summer Reading

Productions/Talent Show


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Membership: Join Your Parent/Teacher Organization Today!

Springdale Park Elementary School has tremendous potential because of our involved and

supportive parents, teachers, and administration. As Springdale Park opens its doors for the

inaugural year the PTO is working hard to provide support for academics and enrichment through

extracurricular activities. Your involvement and support is critical to this success for our children

and our school.

By joining the Springdale Park PTO for $5 you are joining a community of parents, teachers and

administrators dedicated to providing the best education possible for our children. Please

complete a membership form today: http://www.springdaleparkelementary.org/.

Fundraising

Fundraising at Springdale Park has been in full swing since the spring of 2009. Our parents,

teachers and community came together to raise money before school began and we are proud to

have reached the initial goals we set for ourselves. As we move through the school year, we will be

working diligently to establish community partnerships and money-back initiatives to benefit our

school. We will also have several fundraising events including those for the whole family, and those

for adults only, as well as traditional sales drives that generate money for the school.

With your generous support, the Springdale Park Elementary School PTO will invest in:

• Programmatic needs (e.g., teacher classroom materials, Renzulli labs)

• Transportation and safety needs

• High quality parent-directed enrichment activities and clubs

• Other special opportunities that arise during the 2009-2010 school year

Please be on the lookout for fundraising information we will send home from school with your

student(s) soon. Of course, you, our parents are our greatest resource – if you would like to help

with fundraising at Springdale Park please contact any PTO Board member.

Springdale Park PTO Calendar

The Springdale Park Parent/Teacher Organization will have regular general and board meetings

that members are encouraged to attend. The best place to retrieve a calendar of planned activities is

by visiting the website at: www.springdaleparkelementary.org.


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http://www.springdaleparkelementary.org




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Springdale Park Policies & ProceduresCOMMUNICATION

Directory of Springdale Park Elementary School Families

A directory of family phone numbers, addresses and e-mail addresses is compiled after the start of

the school year. It is created from the list of registered families. You may also chose to ‘Opt-Out’ of

the directory by completing the related form. The directory will be distributed in your child’s

backpack when published in the fall.

Communication: Between Atlanta Public Schools and Parents

Atlanta Public Schools wants parents to have easy access to information about the district. Our

websites, publications and social networking tools provide student success stories, teacher profiles

and updates on how APS is making a difference in the lives of each student. Stay connected by

bookmarking the district website and school sites, then look for the latest issue of The Atlanta

Educator and Family Matters. Information is just a click away.

Here are a few ways to stay connected:

APS Website: http://www.atlantapublicschools.us/

The district's redesigned website makes it even easier for you to find out what is going on

in the schools. The site includes:

• School events and photo galleries

• The latest news

• A video channel

• Athletic schedules

• Meal pay options


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http://www.atlantapublicschools.us/


• Digital copies of APS publications

• Bus route locations

• Employment information

• Board of Education news

The Atlanta Educator

This publication highlights students, teachers, administrators and parents who are part of

the APS journey to excellence. Elementary students receive copies at school. PDF versions

of the paper also are available in English and Spanish on the district website.

Talk Up APS

TALK UP APS - The district's bimonthly digital newsletter highlights news about Atlanta

Public Schools. You can also find this under the "Keeping You Informed" section on the

district website's homepage.

Family Matters

This quarterly, four-page publication offers study tips, reading lists and other useful

information to keeps students engaged and focused on succeeding in the classroom.

Community Fireside Chats

Get district updates and submit questions about your child’s school during Fireside Chats

hosted by APS Superintendent Dr. Beverly L. Hall. The community forums occur

throughout the year.

Social Networking

Facebook - Become a friend of Atlanta Public Schools. Visit www.facebook.com to create

your own account, and stay connected with the APS community.

Twitter - Get the latest APS news and tips by following us on Twitter. Visit

www.twitter.com, create your own account, then search for “APSupdate” and click

“Follow.”


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http://www.facebook.com/

http://www.facebook.com/

http://www.twitter.com/


Television & Radio

APS Cable Channel 22 broadcasts educational and informational programs daily, around

the clock. During school hours, the programs specifically target pre-K to 12th grade

students and educators. After school, the programs target parents and other members of

the general public.

90.1 FM WABE, Georgia’s first Public Radio Station, is funded by The Atlanta Board of

Education and the Fulton County Board of Education. The Atlanta Board of Education

(ABE) holds the license for the station, hence the station’s call letters - WABE. As

Atlanta's National Public Radio (NPR) affiliate, it offers 24-hours of news, music and

community-affairs. Weekday programming includes NPR's “Morning Edition”, “All

Things Considered”, “Youth Radio,” “Boombox Classroom” and “Focus on Education.”

Communication: Between Parents and Teachers

We encourage parents to ask for a conference whenever needed. Conference requests by parents

or teachers may be made by note or by telephone. To minimize disruption of the instructional day,

we ask that you arrange conferences for after school or set a specific time before school.

Communication: Resources and Tools

- Transportation & Safety Policies and Procedures Manual - This manual provides a

comprehensive view of the transportation program for Springdale Park Elementary School. It

includes information about the bus schedules, carpool, walking paths, bicycle riding, parking,

safety, and expected conduct. Operating a successful transportation management program may

only be achieved through combined efforts of the school, bus company, students, and parents.

- School Website - The Springdale Park School website is: www.springdaleparkelementary.org.

The website seeks to promote the mission of Atlanta Public Schools while serving as an

interactive resource and communications tool, a source of current information about the school

for parents, students, and staff, and an outreach medium to the Community and beyond.

ATTENDANCE AND RELATED EXPECTATIONSAttendance is an APS policy. Students are expected to be present at school and arrive and depart

on time according to the provisions of the Georgia Compulsory Attendance Law. Students who are


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absent or tardy miss valuable instruction time and other important school activities. Chronic

tardiness and absence from school result in a student being less likely to master skills, concepts,

and principles needed to achieve on his or her respective grade level. Also, absenteeism and

tardiness are disruptive to the “teaching-learning” process. After five (5) absences or tardies,

parents will be contacted by school officials to provide assistance with resolving student

absenteeism or tardiness.

School Day

The instructional school day begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM.

We work to make each school day full of learning. We need your help in promoting a learning

environment free of distractions. Please observe the following procedures to minimize classroom

interruptions:

• Students should be in their classrooms by 7:50 AM so that instruction can begin promptly

at 8:00 AM

• If a child forgets his or her lunch, the teacher will provide them with lunch money to buy a

cafeteria lunch. The teacher should be reimbursed for this money the next day.

• Parents or other persons who wish to visit classrooms or volunteer should arrange with the

classroom teacher or principal before the visit.

• Parents and other persons who visit the building during school hours must sign in at the

Rutland House/Administrative Building and secure a visitor’s pass. When visiting the

building please refrain from disrupting classroom instructional time.

One way to allow your child to develop responsibility and independence is to NOT accompany

your child to the classroom door.

Arrival to Campus

School begins at 8:00 AM. Students may arrive as early as 7:35 AM depending on their mode of

transportation (See Transportation & Safety Policies and Procedures Manual). Students who enter

the building before 7:45 AM should report to the school cafeteria located on the first floor of

Olmsted Hall/Main Building. Students arriving between 7:45 AM - 8:00 AM will report directly to

their classroom. At 8:00 AM, the announcements will request that parents, guardians and friends


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exit the school building so the school day can begin. Students should not wait in hallways,

stairwells or entrances.

Late Arrivals

APS requires students who arrive after 8:00 AM to be escorted into the building to receive a tardy

slip. From 8:00AM - 8: 15AM, a Springdale Park staff member will be located at the front entrance

of the Olmsted Hall/Main Building to issue tardy slips. After receiving the tardy slip, students can

then walk to class on their own. If students arrive after 8:15 AM, their parent or guardian must

escort them into the Rutland House/Administrative Building to check in and receive a tardy slip

from the school secretary. After receiving a tardy slip, parents will need to escort students into the

Olmsted Hall/Main Building. Once safely inside the building, students may walk to class on their

own.

Student Absence Procedures

If students are absent from school, they must bring a written note signed by the legal parent or

guardian explaining the absence. Please e-mail the student’s teacher or call the school office

morning of the absence. Upon return to school, the student should deliver the note to his or her

teacher. Failure to submit such notes within three (3) days after returning to school will result in an

unexcused absence being recorded.

Parents/Guardians are asked to call the school office immediately when extended unanticipated

absences are to occur.

Excused Absences• Illness when attendance would endanger the health of the student or the health of

others.

• Quarantine

• Death in immediate family

• Medical/Dental Appointments

• Court Proceedings

• Religious Proceedings and or holidays observed by the faith of the student


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Unexcused Absences

Unexcused absences are defined as the students’ willful absences from school without the

knowledge of parents or guardians, or the students’ absences from the school without

justifiable causes with the knowledge of parents or guardians.

Unexcused Tardy

An unlawful tardy is defined as arrival at school at any time after the official start-time of the

school day for that school site.

Excused Tardy

An excused tardy is defined as a tardy that occurs as a result of extenuating circumstances

such as inclement weather, documented transportation delays, health related emergencies,

etc.

Homebound Placements

Homebound placements are based on medical recommendations. Students are credited as

being in attendance when pre-approved by the Student Support Team and other

appropriate officials of the Atlanta Public Schools.

Make-up Work

Students are responsible for completing all work missed when absent from school. Immediately

upon returning to school, the student or parent must arrange with the classroom teacher to secure

the student make up work. Students must complete all work missed in a timeframe that is equal to

the number of days absent from school. Make up work may include, but is not limited to

assignments, tasks, tests, and projects. Some in class work is impossible to make up. To ensure

that daily instruction is not interrupted, we respectfully ask that make up work be obtained at the

end of the school day.

Partial Day Attendance

To be counted present, students must attend the required number of hours each day. Therefore,

students who are tardy or leave before the end of the day must be present for at least one half of the

instructional day, excluding lunch to be counted for the instructional day.


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Inclement Weather, Emergency School Closings and Delayed Openings

While very infrequent, there may be times when our schools may have to close to protect our

students and be reopened as emergency shelters for the community. The Superintendent, in

consultation with her staff, makes decisions regarding the closing of public schools. Atlanta Public

Schools works closely with our local television and radio media outlets to inform the public when

school closings occur.

The following media outlets will provide up-to-date information to the public if there is a school

closing or if the student day must be shortened due to emergency conditions: WSB radio and local

television WSB (ABC), WGCL (CBS), WAGA (FOX), WXIA (NBC) are the official stations for

APS announcements of school closure. Should schools close during the day when students are

already in attendance, information will be provided through our local media outlets to parents, and

bus transportation will be provided in the same manner as during the regular close of the school

day.

Sign up to follow APS on Twitter for emergency announcements and other breaking information.

Create an account at www.twitter.com, search for “APSupdate” and click on "Follow." Also visit

the district Website at www.atlantapublicschools.us for updated information.

School Dismissal

All students are dismissed at 3:00 PM. The only students allowed to remain on the school campus

after dismissal are those who are participating in after-school programs, school sponsored clubs

and activities, tutorial sessions or other activities under the prearranged direct supervision of a

teacher. See the Springdale Park Transportation & Safety Policies and Procedures Manual for

additional school dismissal information.

Early Dismissal

To ensure the safety of all students, APS requires that all students who receive an early dismissal be

signed out in the Rutland House/Administrative Building main office by their parent or guardian.

At the beginning of every school year, all parents are required to submit a clinic/emergency card

for each student. The clinic card contains valuable information including name, address, phone

number, parent or guardian information, medical information, etc. The clinic card is kept on file by

the school nurse for the entire school year. All changes must be submitted to the office.


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No one other than the parent or guardian may sign out a student unless they are listed on the clinic

card or the parent or guardian submits a signed note to the office stating the person’s name, as well

as, the date and time the student is authorized to leave with the person.

All persons signing a student out of school may be asked to furnish photo identification.

After-School Program

Springdale Park has adopted a district approved after school program. The After School Classe’

Program is provided for parents of students registered at the school. The program is available

everyday that school is in session. Homework, Study Time, Enrichment Activities and snacks are

provided. Students in the program are supervised by approved personnel. Anytime school is not in

session, the after-school program will not operate. For more information regarding the After

School Classe’ Program, please contact Jan Maycock-Cooks, Executive Director at Classe’,

[email protected].

Withdrawal/Transfer of Student

If it becomes necessary to withdraw or transfer your child, please contact the school office for

information on the process.

INSTRUCTION

Curriculum Resources

As required by the State of Georgia and Atlanta Public Schools, curriculum lessons are focused on

the Georgia Performance Standards. To provide high quality instruction focused on implementing

the standards, Springdale Park will use the following curriculum resources:

• Reading/English Language Arts: Mc Millan/Mc Graw-Hill Georgia Treasures

• Mathematics: Houghton Mifflin Georgia Math/Math Expressions

• Science: Harcourt Brace Georgia Science

• Social Studies: Houghton Mifflin Social Studies

• Spanish: A variety of resources are used to provide high quality Spanish instruction

• Art: Harcourt Brace Art Everywhere

• Health/PE: Georgia Book Company Totally Awesome Health

• Music: Mc Millan/Mc Graw-Hill K-5 Music Kits and Spot Light on Music


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mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

In addition, teachers may use additional resources to support the implementation of the

curriculum (e.g. CRCT Coach, Measuring Up, etc).

Textbooks

Textbooks for the students are provided through county and state funds. Students are responsible

for proper care of books and must pay for lost or damaged books. Each student shall return all

textbooks and library books issued to them when leaving the school or at the end of the school year.

Media Center

The Springdale Park Media Center is located on the second floor of the Rutland House/

Administrative Building. The Media Center is available for all students, staff and parents. Students

are responsible for all books or materials that are checked out. Media Center hours will be posted

and distributed at the beginning of the school year.

Homework

Homework is assigned to benefit the student through skills practice, review, reference work, and

special projects or reports. It also trains a child in good work habits, promotes responsibility, and

allows for an increase in self-direction. Homework is differentiated based on the needs of students.

Please ensure that your child completes their homework each day. If you have any questions

regarding homework, please speak directly with your child’s teacher.

Homework Hotline

HOMEWORK HOTLINE - (678) 553-3029

The Homework Hotline is a joint effort between APS and Public Broadcasting Atlanta's (PBA) E-

Learning/Cyber Center.

Call and ask questions!

Students are encouraged to call and ask questions about your homework problems.

Homework Hotline teachers give one-on-one assistance and easy-to-understand

explanations. These teachers have access to current textbooks and school curricula when


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helping students understand and solve homework problems. They won't do your work, but

they will guide you through a learning process.

Available on most school nights

Homework Hotline is available Monday through Thursday, 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., except

during holiday and semester breaks. The Hotline telephone number is 678 553-3029

There is no charge!

The Homework Hotline is FREE. Support for the Homework Hotline has been made

possible by local school districts and corporate and foundation contributions.

Before you call...

Before calling, you should have the following items:

Information you'll need...

You will be asked to give your first name, grade level and name of school. Also give the

textbook title, and description of homework problem or assignment.

Field Trips

Throughout the school year, all Springdale Park students will have the opportunity to participate in

field trips and other educational experiences. Many field trips may require specific admission and

or other fees. While no child is denied these experiences, failure to receive sufficient funding can

result in cancellation of the trip. Official field trip permission forms must be completed, signed and

returned to the child’s teacher before the date of the trip. Written notes and or phone calls cannot

be accepted as a form of permission to attend an off campus activity. In many instances, parents

may be asked to chaperone field trips, however due to space limitations, this must be arranged

before the field trip.

• Textbook (if available)

• Homework assignment

• Paper

• Pen or pencil

• Calculator (if needed)


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SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Gifted and Talented: The Challenge Program

The Georgia Department of Education defines a gifted student as a student who demonstrates a

high degree of intellectual or creative ability, exhibits an exceptionally high degree of motivation,

or excels in specific academic fields, and who needs special instruction or special ancillary services

to achieve at levels commensurate with his or her abilities.

Atlanta Public Schools provides services for identified gifted students. The APS Program for the

Gifted and Talented (The Challenge Program) is designed to satisfy and extend competencies in

the areas of cognitive skills, learning skills, research, communicative skills, etc., beyond the

experience of the regular classroom.

Students will participate in high-level units of study and projects to extend and challenge their

learning. Eligibility requirements and the recommendation process for the Challenge Program will

be shared at the beginning of the school year.

Program for Exceptional Children

Springdale Park Elementary offers a broad continuum of services for students in Kindergarten

through fifth Grade. Following a comprehensive assessment that may include a psychological

evaluation, educational testing, speech-language assessment, audiological testing and other

assessments, a student may be eligible to receive services in one or more of the following

categories:

• Autism

• Emotional/Behavioral Disorders

• Hearing Impaired

• Orthopedically Impaired

• Other Health Impaired

• Preschool Special Education

• Related Services

• Specific Learning Disabilities

• Speech-Language Impaired

• Traumatic Brain Injury

• Visually Impaired

• Intellectual Disabilities (Mild,

Moderate, Severe/Profound)


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GRADES & RECORDS

Grading

According to the Atlanta Public School policies, all classroom teachers will issue student grades as

follows:

Kindergarten

S Satisfactory Student is applying concept or skill independently

G Growth Student is in process of developing skill and concept

P Problem Student is experiencing difficulties

Grades 1 - 5

A - 90-100 ! B - 80-89

C - 70-79! F - 0-69! NE - Not Examined

Report Cards

All students will receive the Atlanta Public Schools student report cards at the completion of each

four nine week period. Report Cards inform parents of students’ progress and mastery of the

Georgia Performance Standards for each grade level. Along with report cards, progress reports will

be sent home indicating student progress and specifically how parents can assist at home.

Standardized Testing

The following is a summary of the Districtwide Assessment Program for the 2009-2010 school

year.

Grade Assessment(s) Dates

Kindergarten GKIDS On-going

First CRCT April 2010

Second CRCT April 2010


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Grade Assessment(s) Dates

Third Iowa Test of Basic

Skills (ITBS)/3rd

Grade Writing

Assessment

Evaluation

March 2010

Third CRCT April 2010

Fourth CRCT April 2010

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Maintaining a positive learning environment is essential to student success. Appropriate student

behavior is required by Policy JCDA-E of the Board of Education Policy for student conduct. This

policy is included in the Atlanta Public Schools Discipline Handbook and is given out at the

beginning of the school year. A school-wide discipline plan will be shared with parents and

students.

Student Behavior Expectations

A student must not behave in a way that may adversely affect the educational environment, cause

disruption of the educational process, or threaten the safety and security of other students or

school personnel. Such conduct may result in discipline, up to and including, long-term

suspension or expulsion.

Springdale Park students are expected to adhere to all school rules and regulations, follow

directions, and interact respectfully with fellow students and school personnel. All teachers,

administrators, and other support personnel are responsible for ensuring compliance with the

Student Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places:

• At school or on school property at any time;

• Off school grounds at any activity, function or event and while traveling to and from such

events;


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• On vehicles provided for student transportation by the school system.

Academic Honor Code

Springdale Park recognizes that academic integrity is the foundation of academic excellence and

student success. It is the responsibility of every student and employee to always exhibit honesty,

trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility in academic work to support a positive learning

environment in the school.

Academic dishonesty is the failure to maintain academic integrity. Academic dishonesty includes

but is not limited to: cheating (using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or

study aids in any academic exercise); fabrication (falsification or invention of any information or

citation in an academic exercise); bribery offered for grades, transcripts, or diplomas; obtaining or

giving aid on an examination; having unauthorized prior knowledge of an examination; doing work

for another student, presenting another student’s work as one’s own; and plagiarism. More details

are available at: http://www.atlantapublicschools.us.

Dress Code

The guidelines for dress for students are based on safety and respect. Students should wear

clothing that is safe and appropriate for school and weather. Provocative clothing (excessively short

shorts, revealing tank tops, tops that reveal mid-drifts) or clothing that depicts violence or profane

language is not appropriate for school. In addition, hats, caps and bandanas, sunglasses, should not

be worn in the building. However, the administration reserves the right to designate days to wear

these items as apart of a spirit day. Revisions of the dress code will be distributed as they are made.


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http://www.atlanta.k12.ga.us


Items Not Allowed In School

To best promote the school’s safe and orderly school environment, any item that causes the

interruption to the instructional environment or is a safety hazard are not allowed on the

Springdale Park campus. If students bring these items to school, the item will be taken and

returned only after a parent conference is held with the administrator and/or teacher. If a student

continues to bring prohibited items to school, disciplinary action may be necessary.

Examples of these items include but are not limited to:

• Electronic games (i.e.

hand held games, etc.)

• Aerosol Sprays (i.e.,

hair sprays, perfume,

etc.)

• Tobacco products,

alcohol, drugs, etc.

• Cell Phones • Skateboards, roller

skates, roller blades

• Nail Polish

• Radios, CD players,

headphones, etc.

• Toy or imitation or real

knives or weapons

• Trading Cards

• Toys • Chewing Gum/Candy

Fighting

To maintain a safe and positive school environment, fighting will not be tolerated. Parents can

assist the school by advising students to report all incidents of bullying, and or harassment to a

teacher or school administrator.

Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying

Atlanta Public Schools Policy states, “Bullying and other forms of intimidations will not be

tolerated in any form and are strictly prohibited.” This prohibitation against bullying and other

forms of intimidation (i.e. name calling, threatening, etc.) are included in the APS Student Code of

Conduct for students. The school counselor, classroom teachers and administration will discuss

bullying and harassment with students throughout the school year.


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Affirmative Action

According to the provisions of applicable law, neither students nor staff shall be excluded from

participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination on the basis of race,

color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability in any

educational programs, activities, or employment policies under the jurisdiction of Springdale Park

Elementary School.

Any student who believes that they have been subjected to any form of discrimination and or

harassment should immediately report the act to:

Director of the Office of Internal Resolution/Employee Relations (OIR)

Office of Internal Resolution/Employee Relations

130 Trinity Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Phone number: (404) 802-2362

Fax number:(404) 802-1305

When Parents Have a Concern

At Springdale Park, we welcome the opportunity to assist you and your child if there is a problem at

school. Contacting the right person and discussing your concerns generally leads to a quick

solution. In most instances, the best person to speak to first is your child’s classroom teacher.

Additionally, the school counselor can serve as a resource. Please call the school to set up an

appointment with your child’s teacher and/or send an email to set up a meeting time. Teachers are

not able to conference with parents during instructional time. If you are unable to resolve the issue

after meeting with the teacher, please contact the Principal.

MEDICAL POLICY

Medication

Parents and/or Guardians are required to bring any medicine to school that the school is expected

to administer to students. No prescribed or non-prescribed medicine can been dispensed without

an official Administration of Medication Form. This form is available in the main office and must be

signed by the parent, physician, and principal. The form must be brought to school along with the

medicine in its original container. The medicine must be completely labeled with the student’s


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name, the name of the medication and directions for administering the medicine. To take the

medicine, the student will go to the school clinic where the medicine will be kept in its original

container. Under no circumstances are medicines kept in classrooms.

Clinic Cards/Emergency Cards

See Early Dismissal Policy.

Immunizations

Students must present the following documents at the time of school enrollment:

• Georgia Certificate of Immunization (Form 3231) or Affidavit affirming that immunization

requirements conflict with parents' religious beliefs

- Children entering grades K-12 for the first time must show proof of vaccination or

immunity to varicella

• Hepatitis B vaccine is now required for all new students enrolling in school at any ag

• Eye, Ear and Dental Certificate Requirements All new students must have a completed

certificate of ear, eye and dental examination (Form 3300) at the time of enrollment.

• A 30-day waiver may be granted for new students from out-of-state to obtain this

information.

School Nurse

The primary role of the Springdale Park Elementary School Nurse is to support student learning.

The nurse accomplishes this by implementing strategies that promote student and staff health and

safety. The nurse takes a leadership role in serving as the coordinator of all school health programs.

Also, as the health services expert, the school nurse serves as the health professional for the school

community. Some of the services provided include: illness and injury assessments and

interventions; health assessments and participation in development of Individualized Education

Plan for students with special needs; and serving as a health care provider liaison between the

school and community.


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MEALS

The primary goal of the School Nutrition Department is to provide all students, regardless of

income level, healthy school meals that meet their nutritional needs and support optimal academic

performance at school.

Federal Eligibility Application (FEA) Free and Reduced Meal Program

Families within the Atlanta Public Schools may be eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Meal

Program and other benefits. Eligible students are able to receive:

• Free or reduced meals with snacks

• Fee Waivers for summer school and summer camps, as well as, qualify for certain summer

jobs.

During the first week of school, all students will be given an application for free or reduced price

meals. You will need to complete one application for your entire household, listing all children

attending Atlanta Public Schools on one application. All students should return the lunch form to

their classroom teacher.

Cost of Meals

The 2009-2010 meal prices are as follows:

BreakfastBreakfast LunchLunch

Full Price Reduced Price Full Price Reduced Price

Elementary

Adult

$0.75 $0.30 $1.75 $0.40

$1.50$1.50 $3.00$3.00

A La Carte Prices:A La Carte Prices:

2nd Entrée Serving (student) $1.25

2nd Entrée Serving (adult) $1.50

Side Item $1.00

Beverages (milk & juice) $0.60


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Paying for Meals

There are two convenient payment methods for meals:

1. Mealpay Online Prepayment System: Log on to www.mealpay.com and register your child. You

will need your child’s student ID number, which can be obtained from the main office at your

child’s school. Log on and use a credit card or check to fund your child’s meal account.

2. Cash or Money Order: Send cash or money order to the cafeteria manager at Springdale Park.

Your family may be eligible for free and reduced priced meals. Contact the school office for more

information on how to apply for free and reduced priced meals.

Snacks

Each grade level has a snack time. The parents may provide snacks as a group or individually. This

is decided between the room parents and the teacher. Please notify the teacher if your child has

food allergies or is vegetarian.

Birthday Parties

Individual student birthday parties may be recognized by providing the class with simple

refreshments (i.e. smoothies, muffins, etc.) No candles are allowed. Distribution of these

refreshments will be determined by the classroom teacher. Coordination of this event must be

made with the approval of the classroom teacher at least (3) days before the event. Please be

mindful that students in the class may have food allergies. Invitations to private parties or other

personal correspondence should not be distributed at school.


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http://www.mealpay.com

http://www.mealpay.com

CALENDAR

Atlanta Public Schools: 2009-2010 Traditional Calendar

Source: www.atlanta.k12.ga.us/

Atlanta Public Schools Traditional Calendar 2009-2010First Day of School – August 10, 2009 / Last Day of School – May 25, 2010

JULY 2009S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

AUGUST 2009S M T W T F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

SEPTEMBER 2009S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

OCTOBER 2009S M T W T F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

NOVEMBER 2009S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30

DECEMBER 2009S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

JANUARY 2010S M T W T F S

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

31

FEBRUARY 2010S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28

MARCH 2010S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

APRIL 2010S M T W T F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30

MAY 2010S M T W T F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

JUNE 2010S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

LEGENDEarly Release Day for Professional Learning

Holiday, Schools ClosedProfessional Learning Day, Schools Closed; All Teachers Report Begin/Midpoint/End Semester

(01

-09

-18

8)


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FLOOR MAPS

Olmsted Hall/Main Building - First Floor Plan


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Olmsted Hall/Main Building - Second Floor Plan


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Olmsted Hall/Main Building - Third Floor Plan


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parent/student handbook 2009-2010 - atlanta public schools · 2009-08-08 · cmyk 22 0 100 8...

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