HAWTHORNE ELEMENTARY

2014-2015

STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Hawthorne Elementary School 8301 E. Rawles Ave.

Indianapolis, IN 46219

Home of the Hawks

“Together, We Can Make a Difference”

Principal: Philip L. Talbert Dean: Patrick Patterson Secretary: Pam Hearn

Treasurer: Kristal Mitchell Student Name: __________________________________ Teacher: _______________________________________ Room #: ___________ Bus#: ______________

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Welcome from the Principal, It gives me a great deal of pleasure to welcome all of our parents and guardians to the Hawthorne family. We are expecting another exciting and productive school year for 2014-2015. The strength of our school is the people working together to create a caring and productive atmosphere where everyone can be at his or her best. Students thrive in classrooms where challenge and support encourage growth. Teachers ensure that students are taught the Indiana Academic Standards as well as the Indiana College and Career Ready Standards in creative ways, using their strengths to make lessons appealing to their students. Parents helping at home and here at school provide the extra attention to meet many needs. The friendly and calm atmosphere created by the office staff sets the tone of helpfulness and cooperation that must permeate throughout the school and is reflected in all its members. You are encouraged to visit us and experience an excellent learning environment. Our motto at Hawthorne School is “Together, We Can Make a Difference”. Mr. Talbert Principal

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Hawthorne Elementary School Handbook MSD Warren Township

This handbook has been designed to assist both students and parents to become familiar with the expectations and services available at Hawthorne Elementary. All persons associated with our building should review the information contained in this handbook. If you have questions or concerns about the schooling process, we invite you to first gather all of the facts from your child and his/her teacher. We always hope you will discuss your concerns with the teacher. If you would like additional information or another viewpoint, please make an appointment to talk with the Principal or Dean of Students. Students benefit most when parents and school personnel work together for the good of the child. It is the administration’s intent to be available with a listening ear and a caring attitude in response to all of your concerns.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome Introduction Mission Statement Goals Beliefs Staff Directory Health Services Emergency Cards Medications Immunization Policy No Nit Policy Student Services Lost and Found Telephone Media Center Attendance Drop-off/Pick-up Late Arrival Tardy Policy Early Release/Appointments

State Attendance Information Reporting Absences Excused Absences Vacations Make-up Work Emergency School Closing School Regulations Student Conduct Report Hawthorne Expectations Core Values

Discipline Plan Due Process Building Responsible Citizens Standardized Wear Field Trips/Study Trips Electronic Equipment Toys Safety and Security Safe Schools Policy Student Security Release of Students Visitations Emergency Drills Communication/Parent Involvement School Communication Parent Involvement Deliveries/Messages Birthdays ISTEP+ Testing Change of Address Homework Report Card Cafeteria Cost Conduct

Transportation

Bus Conduct Procedures

I. MISSION STATEMENT

We, the staff of Hawthorne Elementary, in partnership with our community, are committed to providing a safe and caring environment in which each student feels valued while developing socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically. We are dedicated to offering a positive learning environment, which encourages each child to be a successful learner with high student achievement. We actively support the belief that a positive school and home environment will foster a love of lifelong learning.

II. GOALS

Hawthorne School Improvement Plan Goals for 2014-2015: Goal #1: The school’s annual student attendance rate for students at Hawthorne Elementary will be at or above 96%. Goal # 2: the school’s aggregate achievement percentage in Mathematics will be at or above 85% as measured by the third and fourth grade ISTEP+ results. Goal #3: The school’s aggregate achievement percentage in English/Language Arts will be at or above 85% as measured by the third and fourth grade ISTEP+ results. Goal #4: For the content area of Math, at least 44.9% of the school’s 25% lowest performing students will demonstrate high growth and/or at least 39.2% of the school’s 75% highest performing students will demonstrate high growth as measured by the 4th grade ISTEP+ results. Goal #5: For the content area of ELA at least 42.5% of school’s 25% lowest performing students will demonstrate high growth and/or at least 36.2% of the school’s 75% highest performing students will demonstrate high growth as measured by the 4th grade ISTEP+ results.

III. BELIEFS WE BELIEVE:

We believe that all students are learners, and we accept the responsibility of ensuring each child will be a successful learner.

We believe each child is entitled to a quality education free from disruption and interference.

We accept the responsibility to provide instruction that is appropriate for the development stages of each child.

We believe children learn best in an environment that promotes respect, responsibility, and self-control.

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We believe all children will succeed, regardless of home-based issues, problems facing a child, resource difficulties, or any other mitigating circumstances. We will accept no excuses for failure of any child.

We believe instructional strategies must support mastery of the Indiana Academic Standards and Indiana College and Career Readiness Standards.

HAWTHORNE ELEMENTARY STAFF DIRECTORY 2014-2015

E-Mail: “name”@warren.k12.in.us

GRADE STAFF ROOM # PHONE EMAIL ADDRESS

K Ron Bollier K1 4000 rbollier

K Kim Barnhart K2 4001 kbarnhar

K Erika Carmicheal K3 4002 ecarmich

K Sarah Ashley Clark K4 4003 sclark

1 Amanda Henry 2 3961 ahenry

1 Kristal Shakes 3 3968 kwilliam

1 Amanda Williams 4 3969 awilliam

1 Kristen Morgan 5 3992 kmorgan

2 Lacy Ogles 1 3967 logles

2 Amy Brown 6 3970 abrown4

2 Yolanda Gonzalez 7 3962 ysmith

3 Debbie Miller 18 3972 dmiller

3 Alicia Strong 19 3973 astrong

3 Amanda Bradshaw 20 3974 abradsha

3 Stephanie Via 21 3978 svia

Functional

Academics

Rosalie

Fidanze/Lindell Fleitz

23 3964 rfidanze

Sp. Ed. Deandra Elliott 22 3994 delliott

Sp. Ed. Faith Pedersen Resource 3965 fpederse

Inst. Spec. Ben Bunce 3996 bbunce

Interventionist Kathryn Warren 3966 kwarren

Art Chelsi Downard 3984 cdownard

Music Mary Wynn 3985 mwynn

P.E. Austin Barcome 3986 abarcome

Speech Luan Marshall 3983 lmarsha2

Principal Philip L. Talbert Office 3957 ptalbert

Dean Pat Patterson Office 3955 ppatters

Secretary Pam Hearn Office 3953 phearn

Treasurer Kristal Mitchell Office 3952 kmitche2

Librarian Christi McCasland Media Ctr 3959 amccasla

EL Teacher Laura Parker 8 3963 lparker3

EL Assistant Melissa Merelles 8 3963 mmerelle

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Nurse Marlene Wessling Clinic 3954 mwessin

Kafe Mgr. Linda Smith Cafeteria 3956 lsmith4

Cust. Pat Lee/Angie Stoker 3991 plee

Counselor Roberta Williams 10 3960 rwilliam

Inst. Asst Marci St. Laurent 11 3995 mstlaure

Inst. Asst. Gloria Moncel 11 3995 gmoncel

Inst. Asst. Patricia Reasoner 11 3995 preasone

Inst. Asst. Stephanie Ellington 11 3995 sellingt

Inst. Asst. Regina Dyke 11 3995 panderso

Fax Machine Office 3951

Wellness Ctr. 3999

HEALTH SERVICES

Emergency Cards Students are given emergency cards at the time of registration or during the first week of school to be completed by parent/guardian and returned to the school promptly. The cards are kept on file and used to keep permanent records up to date. If at any time during the school year the address or telephone number change (both home and business), please notify the school immediately.

Medication Contact the school nurse, Mrs. Wessling, for current Indiana State Laws regarding distribution of medication.

Immunization Policy At the time of enrollment in any grade, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian of a student to provide proof of proper immunization in accordance with current Indiana Code. On his/her first day of attendance, a

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student without proof of proper immunization is considered in violation of Indiana State law (unless a waiver has been granted). Indiana Code section 20-8.1-7-10.1 provides the only acceptable criteria for a waiver to be granted.

No Nit Policy Children who have been sent home with head lice must use the lice shampoo and also be “nit free” and checked by our school nurse or designated school personnel to re-enter school. Student absences are considered “homebound” for the first five days of each infestation. After five (5) consecutive days, a student will be reported under the Educational Neglect Law.

STUDENT SERVICES

Lost and Found The school cannot be responsible for money and other valuables brought to school. The child and parent should understand that the student is responsible for the care and safekeeping of all school materials provided for his/her use. Student will be required to pay (at current cost) for lost and/or damaged items issued by the school. Unclaimed clothing items will be placed in a lost and found container located in the corner of the cafeteria.

Telephone Students will be permitted to use a school telephone for emergency purposes only when they have a note from their teacher. If a child’s regular after school schedule is altered for any reason (i.e. staying for an after school activity, riding a different bus, etc.), a note is required from home. If they do not have a note, phone calls cannot be made; and they will have to follow their normal after school schedule.

Media Center Students make weekly visits to the Media Center, and books are due every week. Overdue books need to be returned before a student is allowed to check out additional items. Students must pay for lost and/or damaged books. The Hawthorne media center is a student-centered facility where we have fun while we learn!

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ATTENDANCE

Student Drop Off and Dismissal Procedures

8:25 Car Riders Released

8:35 Buses Unload

8:40 School Begins

3:40 Car Riders Dismissed

3:40 Students Dismissed

3:45 Buses Depart

Car Rider Procedures

Parents of students who are at Hawthorne on an alternate School Request, or who have made special transportation arrangements with Mr. Talbert or Mr. Patterson, must follow the car rider procedures. Drop Off Procedures

Parents will enter the parking lot on the west side of the school and proceed around the staff parking area to form a line. Car riders will enter the building beginning at 8:30 am as the buses unload. Monitors will open car doors, and students will enter the school through the front doors. Do not drop off your child early and drive away. Students arriving after 8:40 are tardy; therefor, the parents will need to park and bring the student(s) into the building to be signed in at the front desk. Pick Up Procedures

1. Parents/Guardians will pull their vehicle to the west side of the building.

2. Everyone is to remain in their vehicle at all times.

3. All vehicles are to have the nameplate with the child’s first and last name

(provided by the office) in the passenger side window on the dash.

4. Parents/Guardians will stay in line and move forward to the designated

area for pick up.

5. A staff member will announce over the radio the student to be picked up.

6. A staff member will escort the student out the west door and place the

child in the vehicle.

7. Vehicle will move north along the lane and exit onto Rawles Avenue.

8. If you do not have a nameplate or there is a question regarding the pick-

up, you will be asked to move to the front of the building. This may include

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checking for identification, photocopying your driver’s license,

authorization of individual to pick up student, etc.

9. All children are to be picked up no later than 3:45 pm.

Late Arrivals A student is considered late if he/she is not in the classroom when the bell rings at 8:40 a.m. Late arrival causes classroom disruption and delay. Learning the value of being on time is an important part of each student’s social and educational growth. Students who are late to school need to check in at the office and receive a pass to class. Late arrivals will be frequently monitored and addressed by our Hawthorne staff. Excessive late arrivals can be addressed under the compulsory Attendance and Education Neglect Laws. Students who are attending Hawthorne on an alternate school request will have it revoked if excessive tardies occur. They must then register at their home school.

Early Release / Appointments

If you find it necessary to have your child released early, please send a note to your child’s teacher. Parents are to come to the office and sign the child out; then the child will be called to the office. When possible, twenty-four hour notice is appreciated. Attendance Information: State laws require punctual and regular attendance of all children. MSD Warren Township requires students to be in attendance during the hours of 8:40-3:45 p.m. Excessive absences from school adversely affects a child’s academic and social progress. Indiana Law requires attendance to be taken twice each day. Attendance will be taken in the morning and in the afternoon. To be counted present for a full day, a student must be present in school for more than half the school day. If a student has a doctor/dental appointment in the morning and returns to school, the student will be counted as in attendance for the entire day. If the doctor/dental appointment is in the afternoon, and the student is present in the morning until 12:05 p.m., the student will be counted as in attendance for the entire day. The Indiana Compulsory Attendance Law states that the family or legal guardian has primary responsibility for ensuring attendance. Letters will be sent to parents after 5 days of absences without medical documentation and/or 5 days of being late after 8:40 am.

Compulsory Attendance Law The failure to Ensure Law – I.C. 20-8.1-3.33 (required attendance) states that it is unlawful for a parent to fail to ensure that his/her child attends school. At Hawthorne Elementary School, students with 5 or more days of unexcused

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absence during each semester will be subject to verbal and written notification and will require future medical excuses. Failure to comply could cause charges to be filed with the Juvenile Court Division.

Educational Neglect Law The Educational Neglect Law 35-46-1-4 (endangering, abandoning, or depriving a dependent child of support of an education) states that a parent / guardian who commits neglect of a dependent child commits a “Class D Felony”.

Reporting an Absence Telephone calls by the parent or legal guardian by 9:30 a.m., explaining the nature of the absence or late arrival is required. If absences are not called in by 9:30 a.m., we will be calling you at home or your place of employment to confirm your child’s absence. Only parents are to call-not students. Our attendance line is 532-3954 and is available 24 hours a day. When calling our absence hotline, please leave the following information: your child’s name, your child’s room number and teacher, the reason for the absence, and when you expect your child to return to school. If you wish to pick up homework for your child, please request it when you call in the absence. A written excuse regarding your child’s absence must be sent to your child’s teacher upon his/her return to school.

Excused Absences

According to the Warren Township School Board’s policy, the following are considered excused absences:

Student illness or injury (including medical and dental appointments)

Death in the immediate family

School initiated absences (including school suspensions, expulsions, attendance, and behavioral reasons, and homebound instruction)

Family emergencies

Religious Holidays

Juvenile incarceration

Special situations as approved in advance by the principal

Vacations

Vacations during school days are strongly discouraged. When a student is absent from school for vacations, the student often receives the message that school is not important or that attendance is not necessary. Quite the contrary is true. It is extremely difficult to make up for lost class time (such as class discussion, demonstrations, new material, and skills taught). Merely doing the “paperwork” cannot capture much of what goes on in the classroom. In cases where students are granted prearranged absences, course work will generally be made up when they return to school. Failure to complete assignments in

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the allotted time will result in loss of credit. After a student is absent over 10 days, the parents and school officials will have a conference to determine appropriate action.

Make-up Work The student is responsible for all work missed during an absence and will be given a reasonable amount of make-up time (usually one day for each day missed). Students who have been ill may have their homework picked up or sent home prior to their return to school. Make up work should be requested by 9:15 a.m. on the day it is to be picked up, preferably on the attendance line when you call in the absence. Teachers are not allowed to pre-plan assignments for any unexcused absences.

Emergency School Closing Procedures School closings or delays may be necessary due to emergency conditions. This information will be broadcast on local radio and television stations. We are unable to supervise children who arrive early when school has been delayed. Please make satisfactory child care arrangements should school be dismissed early and make sure your child is aware of those arrangements.

SCHOOL REGULATIONS

Student Conduct Code

In keeping with the MSD Warren Township, our community and our staff expectations, students are to conduct themselves in a way that reflects positively on themselves and on our school and community. Good conduct is a requirement in order for quality education to occur. We believe in encouraging consistent behavior rewarding positive student behavior. It is our goal that our students are able to accept the responsibility to behave in all areas of the school setting and to carry that over in other areas of their lives. We realize that there will be times when we need to guide students into making better choices with their behavior. Regardless of your personal views of “hitting back” or “finishing the fight”, please understand that if two children are fighting, both must be prepared to accept the consequences for their actions. We will always have NO tolerance for violent behavior.

Hawthorne Expectations Students will demonstrate self-discipline. Students will follow all oral and written directions given by the supervising

adult. Students will follow all Hawthorne Elementary procedures

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Students will demonstrate behaviors that allow for an educational climate that is safe, secure, and orderly.

Students will show respect for themselves and others. Students will use respectful verbal and written language, respectful body

language and a respectful tone of voice. Students will respect each other’s space (hands to yourself; stay in your place;

leave adequate space between yourself and others). Students will follow school dress code. Students will model C.O.R.E C Civility O Order R Respect E Excellence

Core Values People are responsible for their choices:

An environment of high expectations results in higher achievement.

Integrity is essential to creating and sustaining positive relationships.

Embracing diversity contributes to the strength of the community.

The pursuit of learning as a life-long endeavor is essential to individual and organizational success.

School-Wide Discipline Plan (C.O.R.E)

CR-PBIS

Culturally Responsive Positive Behavior Intervention System

Since lifelong success depends on self-discipline, we at Hawthorne have developed a discipline plan, which affords every student guidance in making good classroom decisions about his/her behavior and an opportunity to learn in a positive educational climate possible for his/her growth and together, we will make a difference in the process. CR-PBIS is a systems approach for establishing the social culture and individualized supports needed for all students to achieve both social and academic success by integrating issues of race, ethnicity, and culture. It’s the integration of culturally responsive practice within the evidence-based school-wide PBIS framework/

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Features of CR-PBIS

Explicit teaching of appropriate behaviors in all school settings (hallway,

restroom, bus, cafeteria, playground)

Explicit teaching of appropriate behaviors in all classroom settings (whole

group, small group, independent work time, morning routine, dismissal

routine)

Frequent re-teaching and practicing of appropriate behaviors in all

settings.

Frequent reinforcement for demonstration of appropriate behaviors.

Natural consequences for lack of demonstration of appropriate behaviors.

Administrative intervention and consequences as needed.

The plan provides students with consistent discipline documentation implemented by every classroom teacher.

Classroom reinforcements and consequences

Behavior documentation

Office Referrals

Hawthorne Elementary School Behavioral Expectations:

Civility In Warren, we show Civility by being courteous and kind to everyone. We value our similarities and differences.

Order In Warren, we show Order by following rules and procedures that keep everyone safe.

Respect In Warren, we show Respect by being a good example for others. Our actions show others that we care about their opinions, feelings, and well-being.

Excellence In Warren, we show Excellence by setting goals for ourselves that challenge us to achieve our personal best. We support each other to achieve our goals.

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Teacher & Staff Responsibilities: Teachers and staff will teach, model, and practice each of the behavioral expectations throughout the year. Teachers and staff will acknowledge student behaviors that meet the C.O.R.E behavioral expectations. Individual classroom management plans will incorporate the C.O.R.E components into their everyday language and behavior expectations.

Acknowledgment System The acknowledgement system is a feature of the C.O.R.E behavioral expectation system. The behavioral expectation system focuses on acknowledging students who demonstrate C.O.R.E. behavioral expectations. This program works in conjunction with school-wide CR-PBIS.

Specific verbal feedback When you observe students practicing respect, accepting responsibility, working together, and practicing safety first acknowledge them by giving specific positive verbal feedback such as:

o “That was so helpful that you held the door open for your classmates.”

o “Thank you for walking with your hands and feet to yourself.”

“Core Cash”

Each student has the ability to earn Core Cash daily if a student displays appropriate behavior in conjunction with the teacher’s classroom management plan.

Students can earn additional Core Cash by displaying C.OR.E behaviors. Students can be acknowledged by any adult staff members. (Teachers, Instructional Assistants, Secretaries, Janitors, Bus Drivers, Administrators etc…)

Rewards / Student Acknowledgement A. Immediate: Sticker/Treasure Box, Pencil, Certificate, CORE Cash B. Intermittent: Drawing for Banner Class of the Week, Gold Coin Certificate C. Long-Term Celebrations: High Honor Roll, Honor Roll, Perfect Attendance, 97% Attendance,

Super Reader Celebration, CORE Carnival

Please refer to the Student’s Rights and Responsibilities handbook for progressive levels of corrective responses and possible consequences for office discipline referrals. This can be found at http://www.warren.k12.in.us/student-rightsresp or a paper copy can be requested at the school’s main office.

Student Due Process

When a student has committed a disciplinary infraction, the school official will conduct a due process investigation. Guidelines for due process are as follows:

An oral or written statement of the charges.

If charges are denied, an oral summary of evidence.

Opportunities to explain his/her conduct. School personnel have the right to exercise the disciplinary options outlined in Warren Township’s Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. Authorized disciplinary actions may include detention, in school suspension, out of school

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suspension, expulsion, and/or parent guardian shadowing. Students receive this handbook in August of each school year.

Building Responsible Citizens

While teaching and learning is the most important activity we do, it is also critical that we have in place opportunities for our children to develop a sense of personal responsibility for themselves and for the community at large. As parents and staff, it is our responsibility to effectively provide meaningful opportunities for our young citizens to develop core values and to model them effectively. Below is a list of behavioral expectations for various aspects of the building in order to help build responsible citizens at Hawthorne. Convocations/Large Group Remain in your class area and be as quiet as possible. Focus undivided attention on the speaker. Hold your questions or remarks until the speaker requests them. Sit in an appropriate active listening position. Remain seated until directed by an adult. Be a true Hawk by following HAWK PRIDE. Computer Etiquette Touch your computer only Use both hands when carrying your Chromebook. Use a gentle touch on the keyboard Keep the mouse on the mouse pad. Use the assigned programs only. Save all work to your own folder on the Student Server. Check with the teacher before you print. Be sure you lonely hit the print key

ONE time. If your work does not print after one time, see your teacher. If there is a problem with your computer, stop and signal the teacher Put the headphones back on the computer when finished. Close all programs and log off before leaving the computer. Stay in your seat until dismissed by the teacher, then push in your chair. Be a true Hawthorne Hawk by following CORE. Clinic/Office Area:

Get a clinic pass from your teacher before coming to the clinic.

Upon entering the clinic (unless it is an emergency) find a seat and sit quietly until the nurse can give you attention.

Students coming to the clinic for daily medication should wait quietly until the nurse can help you.

Students are not to use the office/workroom as a short cut.

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Students are prohibited from teaching areas (dining room, teacher meetings, and workroom).

***Children should immediately report to the adult on duty when any suspicious stranger is on or near the playground area.

PLEASE REVIEW WITH YOUR CHILD PROPER USE OF PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT:

SLIDES: Use the ladder. Students are to be seated forward when sliding- other forms are prohibited.

Bathroom

Hallway

Cafeteria Playground Arrival/ Dismissal

Civility

Wash your hands with soap Flush and check

Hands to your side

Keep food on your plate

Take turns on equipment Report something out of place/broken

Walk in a single file line on the side your classroom is located

Order

Feet on floor

Eyes forward Walk on silver line when possible

Pockets on seat Eat first then talk

Walk on gravel, run on blacktop Up ladders, down slides

Walk on the silver line

Respect

Respect privacy Level 0 voices

Level 0 voices

Level 1 voice when talking

Play by the rules

Level 0 voices

Excellence

2 pumps of soap 3 second drink

Walk with a purpose

2 hands on tray

When whistle blows, go to assigned area quickly

Go straight to destination

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SWINGS: Stay seated while swinging. Stay a safe distance back from the swing area.

Chin Bars and Walking Bars: Students are not to sit on top or hang by the legs.

Monkey Bars: Students need to maintain their own position, not grabbing for other students. Objects should not be thrown at students while on the bars.

Please use “common sense” safety rules and regulations.

The adult on duty should handle minor violations. Serious problems or repeated violators should be reported to the principal with a referral.

Students who pick-up and/or throw rocks or other objects will have their recess taken away for three days.

Students may not jump or flip from any of the equipment

School Wide Dress Code Effective for the 2014-2015 School Year

* Students who enroll at Hawthorne are expected to wear standardized dress clothes the first day of school.

Standardized Wear Policy All dress must comply with the following colors:

1. Pants/Shorts: Khaki ,Navy, and Black (shorts must be walking short length)

2. Short Sleeved/Long Sleeved shirts with a collar: White, Blue, or Red

3. Turtlenecks (regular or mock): White, Blue, or Red

4. Button Down Shirts: White, Blue, or Red

5. Sweaters (including cardigan sweaters): White, Navy Blue, Red or Black

6. Sweater Vests: White, Navy Blue, Red or Black

7. Sweatshirts: White, Red, Blue, or Black Sweatshirts must be solid color

with no logos or stripes.* (Hawthorne Logo sweatshirts are encouraged.)

8. Skirts/Jumpers: Khaki ,Navy, and Black

9. Belts should be worn if slacks/shorts have belt loops.

10. Tights or leggings MUST be solid uniform colors (white, blue, black or red).

Please Note: Any sweaters, sweatshirts, or sweater vests MUST have a solid-

colored, collared shirt underneath. Also, all clothing is to be logo-free with the

exception of the Hawthorne logo. All uniform clothing must be solid colors only. All

shirts must be tucked in. If pants/shorts have a belt loop, a belt should be worn.

Field Trip/Study Trips Study trips are designed to complement and extend our children’s learning; however, our policy is that our students must learn the privilege of leaving school to enjoy this enriching activity. Teachers outline clear behavior and work expectations for their students.

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Students who choose not to behave or work during their class time may be denied the opportunity to attend the field trip. The parents are contacted, and the student is invited to be part of another class during the field trip. Students without signed permission slips will not be allowed to attend the field trip. Adult chaperones are required to have a background check completed and on file with the office prior to field trips. We appreciate the support of parents who chaperone our field trips. Background check forms may be picked up at the office.

Electronic Equipment

Students must not bring electronic equipment such as CD players, radios, palm pilots, cell phones, I-pods, mp3, laser pointers (including pen, key chain, and bullet types), or electronic games to school. Board policy prohibits digital pagers or cellular phones on school property. These items will be confiscated. If there is an emergency students may use the office telephone.

Toys Toys, trading cards, yo-yo’s, look-alike weapons, inappropriate magazines, and catalogues and other items intended for play and/or entertainment are not allowed at school. These are not necessary for learning; therefore, the school is not responsible for any lost, broken, or stolen items. These will be confiscated for parents to pick up. Items brought to school from home (games, toys, etc.) will be at the student’s risk. Therefore, we discourage students from bringing non-educational items to school.

SAFETY and SECURITY

Safe Schools Policy

The MSD of Warren Township believes that the safety and security of students and staff is a major priority. Safe schools require a collaborative effort of the Board of Education, administrators, teachers, students, parents, and the community. A variety of prevention and intervention strategies, programs and activities, must be in place to ensure student and staff welfare. A student who exhibits physical aggression, hostile behavior, imitating acts of harassment, extortion, violent behavior will be held accountable for his/her actions in accordance with the student handbooks, the Indiana Student Code, and civil and criminal law.

Student Security

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Student security will be primary concern for us. It is essential that office personnel and staff members know who is in the building at all times. All parents and visitors must use the front entrance, report to the office, sign in the visitor registry, and wear an identification badge. All entrance doors with the exception of the main entrance will be locked throughout the school day. Staff and students have been instructed to not open doors for anyone. It is important that everyone supports the Safe School Procedure. All doors will be locked at 4:00 p.m.

Release of Students

Students are to be released to the custodial parent only. In the case of joint custody, the student may be released to either parent. The school must have copy of the court documentation on file. The non-custodial parent may pick up the student per court documentation, or if the custodial parent has given permission. After the court or the custodial parent has granted permission, non-custodial parents may also schedule teacher conferences, receive communication from the school, or speak with the teacher and principal. Students will be released only to persons listed on the emergency card. A student will not be released to an individual not listed on the emergency card unless the parent or guardian grants written permission. Therefore, it is vital to keep the emergency cards current at all times.

Visitations

After the first two weeks of school, we welcome your visit to your child’s classroom. Arrangements are to be made with the teacher before the visit. All visitors should sign in at the office and wear a guest or volunteer badge. With broken homes and restraining orders, it is in the best interest of all that our school personnel are aware of who is in the building. It is not just a mere courtesy but for the children’s safety and education that we cannot allow parents to just walk into the classroom unexpectedly. Generally speaking, teachers, as well as the parents, appreciate knowing when they may expect visitors. Most teachers like to have the day well started before visitors arrive. Parents please understand that the first and last weeks of each semester, days prior to vacations, and scheduled testing times would preclude visitations. When visiting school we ask that parents not have their cell phones out once they enter the building. When visitors are using their cell phones in school it causes disruptions for our students. Also due to privacy issues we ask that cameras or video cameras on cell phones not be used.

Emergency Drills

Tornado, fire, and crisis drills are conducted periodically in the school. It is important that everyone has an understanding of the procedures to deal with

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emergency situations like fire, severe weather, and other potentially dangerous situations. Students are taught the first week of school what to do if an alarm goes off. These drills are very important and we will take them very seriously. We will always put the safety of students and staff as our highest priority. These drills may be inconvenient at times but are absolutely necessary. There may be times that we need to secure the building and control the access to the children and staff. We call this procedure a “lockdown”. In case of a lockdown, all children and staff are secured behind locked doors and will remain there until the lockdown is cancelled. Under no circumstance will children be released from school during a lockdown situation. We are continually working with the MSD of Warren Township Police Department officials to ensure our preparedness should a crisis situation develop during the school day.

COMMUNICATION / PARENT INVOLVEMENT

School Communication

In an effort to keep parents informed of their child’s progress in school, we will communicate to you in the following ways: Parents may access our school website at; www.warren.k12.in.us

Interim reports will be issued mid quarter to alert parents of possible problems, especially when achievement is considered below the level of expectation.

Quarterly report cards are issued every nine weeks.

Conferences

Notes and phone calls are made to confer about individual situations as the need arises.

Weekly newsletters will be distributed to students every Friday. They will include upcoming dates and school news. Please review these on a regular basis.

Parents also have access to a teacher’s voice mail and e-mail.

Parent Involvement

Hawthorne recognizes that a parent’s involvement is key in helping children achieve success in school. Each child’s education is the shared responsibility of the school, the parent, the student, and the community. Such a collaborative partnership can help to motivate, support, and encourage their helping making it possible for our schools to realize our vision for all children.

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Deliveries/Messages

The school is always ready to render necessary service of delivering important messages to teachers or students. We cannot, however, call either students or teachers to the phone during class periods as this disrupts instructional time. If you would like to speak to the teacher directly, parents are welcome to contact teachers before 8:30 a.m. and after 3:45 p.m. During school hours, parents are encouraged to access a teacher voicemail. If there is an emergency, please contact the office and contact will be made. All pick up or delivery of items for students must be cleared through the office.

Birthdays

Please make arrangements with your child’s teacher and office prior to bringing a treat to school. Please do not send party invitations to school unless each child in the class is to receive an invitation. Balloons and flowers are not permitted to be brought to school. All treats must be store bought and packaged.

ISTEP+ Testing and IREAD 3

ISTEP+ is a standardized test administered in the spring of the year and is based on the standards for the present academic year. ISTEP testing is scheduled to take place March 2 through March 11, 2015 for open-ended questions and April 27 through May 15, 2014 for the multiple choice portion. IREAD-3 will be given to all 3rd grade students March 16, 2015 through March 18, 2015. Parents are encouraged to make sure students get plenty of rest, eat a good breakfast, and have a positive attitude toward taking the test. Due to the importance of the ISTEP+ testing and IREAD-3, please try to avoid making appointments that would require student absences during this time.

Change of Address

It is imperative that you inform the office regarding any change of address. It will also be necessary for you to prove residency each time an address change is made.

Homework

Homework is an out-of-school assignment that contributes to the educational development of the student. It should be an extension of the class work and related to the objectives of the curriculum presently studied. Homework may include additional practice exercises, reading of material on a specific subject or unit, and/or in-depth project. Homework assignments are due on the specific date given by the teacher.

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Report Cards

Report cards are sent home at the end of each grading period. The first report card will be given to parents during the fall parent-teacher conference. Parents need to review the card with the student, sign it, and return it to school in the envelope provided. The final grade card will be sent home with your child on the last day of school.

CAFETERIA

Cost

Hawthorne participates in the breakfast and lunch program that is available to every student. All students are able to eat breakfast for no charge through our Universal breakfast program. For those students who are eligible, they pay either a reduced price or receive the meal free. Lunch assistance forms are to be completed and turned in the first week of school or upon enrollment. Free / Reduced meal applications and guidelines are available in the school office. A form must be completed each year. Students may purchase lunch on a weekly or daily basis.

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

REDUCED

No cost

$.45

REGULAR

No cost

$1.95

The prices listed above are for student meals only. An adult lunch may be purchased for $2.75. Milk may be purchased for $.50. **If parents cannot pay for student lunches on a daily or weekly basis, arrangements need to be made by calling the Foodservice Manager at 532-3956. Children who are delinquent in paying their breakfast/lunch fees will receive a reminder. Students may be allowed only one charge. If further charges occur, students will be given a peanut butter sandwich and milk for a charge.

Cafeteria Conduct Expectations for Lunch:

Enter the cafeteria by standing in a single-line.

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Raise your hand if have a question or need help.

Keep your hands and feet to yourself.

Pockets on seat

2 hands on tray

Eat first, then talk….level 1 at your table only

Sit in your designated area and do not leave your seat without permission.

Use respectful language and no put-downs.

Give attention to all cafeteria personnel

Soda and carbonated beverages are not allowed.

Listen for line-up instructions and line-up quietly while waiting for your teacher.

When students are finished eating, the adult on duty will dismiss you by tables to take your trays to the dish area.

Clean trash in your area

Leave the area neater than you found it.

TRANSPORTATION

Bus Conduct / Procedures

Please go over these rules with your children and stress the importance of obeying the rules. Riding the bus is a privilege and if a child does not follow the rules they can be suspended from riding the bus. If a student has repeated bus suspensions all riding privileges can be taken away. At the Bus Stop:

Be on time (ten minutes before bus arrival). Board only your assigned bus at your regularly assigned bus stop, unless special permission is received in advance.

Stay out of the street and away from the road.

Help protect surrounding property while waiting for the bus.

Wait to enter until the bus comes to a complete stop, and the driver has opened the door. Enter the bus one at a time, without pushing other students.

Parents are to supervise their child prior to the bus arriving. While on Bus:

Fighting is prohibited.

Smoking is prohibited.

Students may be requested to wear a seat belt.

Obey the driver promptly and respectfully.

Be seated facing forward and stay in assigned seat. No standing or sitting on knees while the bus is in motion.

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Keep all books and materials on your lap or contained in a backpack.

Be courteous and do not use profane language.

Speak in soft voices.

Pushing, shoving, scuffling, play-fighting, or tripping are forbidden.

Keep all belongings, including head, hair, hands, and feet inside the bus.

Throwing objects inside or outside the bus is not allowed.

Eating, drinking and gum chewing is prohibited.

Treat bus seats and equipment with care and respect.

Students are requested not to bring pets on the bus (hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.)

Leaving the Bus:

Leave the bus only at your regularly assigned stop, unless special permission is received in advance.

Wait to leave until the bus comes to a full stop, and the driver has opened the door.

Wait your turn, and do not push when leaving the bus.

Once off the bus, clear the area immediately. If crossing the street, wait for a signal from the bus driver before crossing in front of the bus, then walk quickly across the street.

Discipline Plan:

*Severe Clause: Habitual offender (three or more violations), fighting, smoking, unauthorized departure from bus, abusive language, carrying weapons, or vandalizing the bus may result in immediate bus suspension and/or suspension or expulsion from school.

o First Violation – Driver will complete the School Bus Conduct Violation Report, define the problem, warn student of consequences and contact the parents.

o First Referral – Driver will write first discipline referral form. Turn student over to the dean or administrative assistant.

The dean or administrative assistant’s options will be:

Council with parent, student, and bus driver. Warning of bus suspension

Bus suspensions

Other consequences o Second Referral – Parent contacted and bus suspension up

to 3 days from bus o Third Referral – Three (3) to five (5) day bus suspension and

conference with parents. o Fourth Referral – bus suspension for the remainder of the

school year.

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Failure to comply with bus rules or failure to follow instructions of the bus driver may result in a phone call home, a written notice, or loss of bus riding privileges. The administrative assistant will deal with extreme situations.

Riding the Bus is a Privilege!!

**Bus students will ride their assigned buses to and from school unless given permission from the administration to do otherwise. Students requesting permission to ride on a bus different than the one they have been assigned must present a note from their parent to the office and given a bus pass. Students are not to ride to school on another student’s bus unless prior arrangements have been made with the office. The safety and welfare of all Warren Township students are matters of great concern to all of us. Riding the school bus is a privilege, and we hope you will help us insure a safe transportation program. **Students from Hawthorne Elementary School are prohibited from walking or riding bicycles to and from school. YOUR CHILD AND EVERY CHILD DESERVES A SAFE PLEASANT RIDE

TO SCHOOL!!