Beachwood Elementary SchoolBEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STAFF LIST 2013/2014 Mr. Ricotta, Principal...

Beachwood Elementary

School

2013-2014

Student/Parent

Handbook

WELCOME TO

BEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL “HOME OF THE BEACHWOOD BEARS”

ADMINISTRATION

Mr. Ricotta Principal

Mrs. Josberger Supervisor of Instruction

SECRETARIES

Mrs. Santos Head Secretary

Mrs. Yhlen Secretary

Mrs. Boris Media Secretary

Mrs. Capoano C.S.T Secretary

TELEPHONE NUMBERS

School Main Number: 505-5820

School Nurse:

Mrs. Fitzgerald 505-5823 Fax: (732) 240-3879

Child Study Team: 505-5584/5585

Cafeteria: 505-5827

Website - www.trschools.com

Fax # - (732) 341-1659

This handbook will be presented to each student and family at Beachwood Elementary School. The purpose of the booklet is to provide general information about the school and an outline of basic rules, regulations and policies that will benefit our students and their parents.

BEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

STAFF LIST

2013/2014

Mr. Ricotta, Principal Mrs. Santos, Head Secretary Mrs. Josberger, Supervisor Ms. Yhlen, Secretary Ms. Boris, Media Secretary

Mrs. Capoano, CST Secretary

RM. NO.

KINDERGARTEN Miss DiGiore K1

Ms. Allikmaa K2

GRADE ONE Mrs. Clayton 27

Mrs. Gonzalez 5

Mrs. Torre 33

Mrs. O’Donnell 30

Mrs. Salkewicz 32

GRADE TWO Ms. Lupacz 31

Mrs. Mabie 26

Mrs. O’Sullivan 34

Mrs. Wiest 28

Ms. Ireland 32

GRADE THREE Mrs. Elmo 7

Mrs. Krean 8

Mrs. Lundy 4

Mrs. Liston 6

Ms. Staffieri 16

GRADE FOUR Mrs. Sullivan 21

Mrs. Gelnaw 22

Mrs. Nylander 23

Mrs. Huhn 24

GRADE FIVE Mrs. Citta 15

Mrs. Mayer 13

Mrs. LaRoche 20 Mrs. Meola 12


STAFF LIST

2013/2014

RM. NO.

SPECIAL ED. DEPT. Mrs. Kramer 20 Mrs. Castor 12/13 Mrs. Jones 21/23 Mrs. Wallace 9 Mrs. Gillespie 35 Mrs. Tardibuono 37 Ms. Jemison 38 Mrs. Cameron 18 PARAPROPROFESSIONAL Mrs. Tusi 20 Mrs. Zisa 38 NURSE Mrs. Fitzgerald Nurse’s Office MEDIA/TECH Mrs. Johnston Media Center ART Mrs. Tagliaferro 29 MUSIC Mrs. DeMarsico 25 INSTRUMENTAL Mr. Burbank MusicRoom Mrs. Luppino MusicRoom PHYS ED./HEALTH Mr. Brush Gym Ms. Dilts GUIDANCE Mrs. Sorrentino C.S.T Office SPEECH Mrs. McCaffery 1 Ms. Cookson 38 G/T Ms. Ackermann 11 WORLD LANGUAGE Ms. Camporeale Media Center CUSTODIANS Mr. Bradley Head Custodian Mrs. Dethlefs Day Custodian CAFETERIA Mrs. Wnorowski Cafe Manager CHILD STUDY TEAM Mr. Ruch Psychologist Mrs. Simpson Social Worker Mrs. Burdge LDTC

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

OFFICERS Mrs. Josberger, Supervisor of Instruction Mr. Brush, Teacher

HANDBOOK CONTENTS

The areas listed below are those areas in which parents and students have the most questions or concerns. Please review carefully before the start of school. PAGE 5 - General Information PAGE 6 - Parent Conferences PAGE 6 - Health, Safety & Security PAGE 8 - Attendance Policy PAGE 8 - Walking or Driving to School PAGE 9 - Emergency School Closings PAGE 10 - Cafeteria Rules & Regulations/Playground Rules & Procedures PAGE 12 - NJ Ask Testing Dates PAGE 14 - District Calendar PAGE 15 - Bell Schedule & Guidance PAGE 17 - Anti-Bullying Policy

ABOUT OUR SCHOOL

Beachwood Elementary School is the eleventh of the district's 13 elementary schools that comprise the Toms River Regional School District. Beachwood Elementary opened its doors in September, 1988 and is a 39 classroom school that is made up of grades K-5. The school is located on a 14 acre tract of land. The administration consists of a Principal and one Supervisor. The teaching staff consists of approximately 55 full and part time teachers.

BEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL COLORS ARE

ROYAL BLUE AND WHITE

BEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MASCOT IS THE

BEACHWOOD BEAR

GENERAL INFORMATION

CHILD STUDY TEAM The Toms River Regional School District provides Child Study Team Services to every school in our district. The purpose of a referral to the team is to obtain the best educational setting and resources for your child. The CST consists of a school psychologist, social worker, and a learning disability teacher/consultant. Please call (732) 505-5584 for additional information.

CURRICULUM The general curriculum of the Beachwood School follows the course proficiency outline of the Toms River School District. Copies of the outlines are available at www.trschools.com, by clicking on curriculum. This curriculum allows for the sequential concept and skill development in all areas based on the needs and abilities of the individual student. All curriculum is driven by New Jersey Core Curriculum standards and/or Common Core State Standards.

GIFTED AND TALENTED Programs exist for children in K-5 who meet the identification criteria established by the district and are designed to meet the needs of gifted and talented children. The Discovery Program addresses the needs of children in grades K-3. The Omni Program addresses the needs of children in grades 4-5. A gifted and talented school level committee exists that deals with recommendations, gifted and talented issues, and monitoring of services.

GUIDANCE Beachwood Elementary school is assigned a Guidance Counselor, who is available Monday through Friday. The counselor works with students to provide them with support and appropriate coping strategies. The parent/guardian, the classroom teacher and/or the student may request services. Ongoing counseling services require a second permission slip. The Guidance Counselor also provides small group sessions and classroom lessons. The KESLO and Lion's Quest Programs support good decision-making strategies and anti-bullying behaviors. Contact the Guidance Department at Beachwood by dialing (732) 818-8573.

I & RSC (Intervention and Referral Service Committee) The Intervention and Referral Services Committee's (I & RSC) mission is to "leave no child behind by providing assistance, strategies and support to staff members, parents and the child. The committee consists of professional staff members and meets several times each year. The committee meets with the current classroom teacher to obtain an overview of the educational, social and emotional needs of the student. Suggestions are discussed and a course of action is developed to ascertain the student's strengths and weaknesses, as well as provide instructional and behavioral strategies that might increase the child's productivity. Parents/Guardians are advised of a student's referral prior to the I & RSC meeting. MEDIA CENTER The Beachwood Elementary School Media Center (MC) is a fully computerized service available to all of our students. In addition to reference and reading materials, the MC offers audio-visual materials for classroom use. The MC is open for book exchange on a daily basis. Housed in the MC is the Technology Learning Center (TLC). Both the MC and the TLC are designed to support and enhance the classroom experience.

SPEECH Beachwood Elementary has the services of a full time speech therapist. Referrals are accepted from teachers, parents or other qualified agents. A student must be classified as "Eligible for Speech Services" through a evaluation process as designed by state guidelines.

SPECIAL SUBJECTS Students are scheduled, according to grade level directives, for classes in Art, Vocal Music, Physical Education, Technology / Media, Health, World Language and Instrumental Music. Academic grades are given in Art, Vocal Music, Physical Education and Health. Students enrolled in Instrumental Music, as an optional program, do receive a grade.

PARENT CONFERENCES

Parents are encouraged to communicate with our staff over their child's progress. In consideration for your valuable time and ours we ask that you make an appointment.

TEXTBOOKS AND OTHER MATERIALS Part of the school experience is learning to care for books and materials that are public property. It is with this in mind that we request that all textbooks be covered at all times. Appropriate fines will be assessed in cases of damage to or loss of schoolbooks and other property. The cost of instructional materials continues to increase yearly. It is to the benefit of all taxpayers that these items be maintained for maximum use.

LOST AND FOUND Lost and found articles are stored in the gym. Certain articles such as eyeglasses, wallets, keys and jewelry will be stored in the Main Office. Unclaimed articles will be removed during the year and donated to charity.

FIELD TRIPS 1. Various school activities such as field trips require the signature of a parent on a permission slip. If a signed slip is

not returned to the school, the school cannot allow the child to participate in the class field trip. Occasionally, an additional permission slip may be required by the place to which the children are going. This too must be signed in order to allow a child to attend the field trip. Please cooperate with this procedure.

2. In some cases, a student may be excluded from a trip if his/her behavior presents a potential disruption for the remainder of the children involved in the activity.

HEALTH, SAFETY & SECURITY

NURSE The full-time nurse is responsible for many varied health related duties. Any questions pertaining to health, such as immunization, kindergarten requirements, contagion, medication, etc., should be directed to the nurse. The Nurse's Office number is 505-5823. We ask you to consider the following: 1. Please fill-out two of the yellow emergency cards in September. 2. No medication, prescription or non-prescription (e.g.) cough drops, Tylenol, etc. will be given to a student by the nurse unless it is received in the original container and accompanied by a written physician AND parental/guardian request. 3. All medications are to be held in the nurse's office, with the parent/guardian assuming the responsibility for delivering such and picking up unused amounts when no longer needed. 4. If a student needs to self-medicate him/herself with an inhaler or Epipen during school hours, please contact the school nurse for a special medical form. 5. Actively ill children do not belong in school. If your child has an elevated temperature or active symptoms such as recent vomiting or diarrhea, please keep them home. 6. A physician's certificate to return to school is required if your child has strep throat, mono, impetigo, scabies, 5th disease or any other communicable disease. 7. Injuries incurred at home should be treated at home.

MEDICAL EXCUSES To be excused from participating in P.E., students must present a doctor's note to our school nurse. A doctor's note of approval is also required to resume physical activities. Any students who are excused from P.E. will also be excused from intramurals and recess.

VANDALISM Respect for others and school property is taken very seriously at Beachwood. Any destruction, defacing or damage to school property will result with police intervention of incident and formal complaints will be issued.

PROOF OF PARENTAL CUSTODY All parents are required to provide the school with copies of any legal Domestic Violence orders, Divorce Orders, or Divorce Custody Orders or Decrees which affect any school student. These orders will be placed in your child's cumulative folder. A letter from you to the school requesting a specific concern in these areas is not legally binding and cannot be accepted. Please update you child's emergency card and if you must send a neighbor, etc. to pick up your child in an emergency, please call the office and let us know. Inform the person picking the child up that they must show ID, in the form of a picture.

USE OF PLAYGROUND AFTER SCHOOL HOURS The rules with regards to the use of the playground and school campus after school hours are easy and twofold. Because of obvious insurance liabilities and concerns, skateboarding and rollerblading will be prohibited AT ALL TIMES regardless of the time of day or day of the week. ALL individuals must leave the school campus at dusk. The Beachwood Police Dept. has the legal auspices on our school property.

ADULT VISITORS AND SECURITY District policy requires that ALL VISITORS, PARENTS INCLUDED, be required to report to the Main Office upon first entering the building in order to obtain a Visitor's Pass. ALL ADULTS VISITING THE SCHOOL MUST ENTER THE BUILDING THROUGH THE MAIN LOBBY DOORS ONLY. Located to the right of the Main Lobby doors, our visitors will find a security system buzzer. Since all doors to our building will be locked, adult visitors will need to buzz the Main Office, in order for the doors to be opened. Adults who are picking up children must be prepared to show a picture ID and be listed on the emergency yellow card as an authorized adult for pick up. The Main Office will, from a remote system, inquire as to your identity, view your presence on a closed circuit TV

system, then unlock the front door, next to the buzzer, for the visitor to enter. The visitor must then proceed directly to the Main Office. Any adult without a Visitor's Pass will be asked to report to the Main Office to obtain one. Please know that a pass is not necessary when attending concerts, assemblies, school plays and school-wide programs. At all other times we require all adults to wear a Hall Pass. DISTRICT POLICY STATES THAT ADULTS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE SCHOOL BUILDING DURING THE SCHOOL DAY WITHOUT A PASS. PLEASE NOTE THIS ALSO APPLIES TO ADULTS IN THE CLASSROOMS. ADULTS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE HALLS OR IN THE CLASSROOMS BEFORE, DURING OR AFTER SCHOOL HOURS, WITHOUT A PASS. ALL THIS IS TO HELP INSURE THE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF YOUR CHILD. YOU WILL BE ASKED TO SIGN A VISITORS LOG WITH TIME AND DESTINATION STATED.

ANIMALS IN SCHOOL In our continuing attempts to promote a healthy and safe school environment, we must ask that animals not be sent to school. Also, animals should NEVER be transported to or from school on the school bus. LASTLY, IT IS THE POLICY OF THE DISTRICT THAT DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON SCHOOL PROPERTY AT ANY TIME.

VALUABLES, MONEY AND TOYS Unless specifically requested by a teacher, all toys, such as water guns, yo-yo’s, video or electronic items of any kind do not belong in school. CHILDREN ARE NOT, AT ANY TIME, ALLOWED to bring large sums of money, or personal articles of value such as expensive jewelry, radios, ipods, laptops, sports equipment, electronic devices of any kind or toys to school. We also urge you to label anything that does have value, which would include coats, hats and backpacks with your child’s name. THE SCHOOL CANNOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR STOLEN DAMAGED OR LOST

PROPERTY.

DRESS GUIDELINES Safety, neatness and cleanliness should be the major consideration in what is appropriate school dress. ANY OPEN-

TOED SHOES, SUCH AS SANDALS OR FLIP-FLOPS OR EXTREMELY HIGH-HEELED OR ELEVATED

SHOES CAN CAUSE A POTENTIAL SAFETY OR HEALTH HAZARD AND WE ASK THAT CHILDREN NOT WEAR THESE TO SCHOOL. SHOE SKATES ARE ALSO PROHIBITED. For obvious safety reasons, shoes and sneakers requiring laces must be laced and tied at all times. The Board of Education recognizes that each pupil's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board of Education will not interfere with the right of pupils and their parents/guardians to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their clothes affect the educational program of the schools.

ATTENDANCE

Absences & Tardiness State law requires regular attendance by all children to insure success in school. A written excuse with a valid parent’s signature or a doctor's note must be presented each time a child returns to school. If no written excuse is submitted, the child will be considered unexcused. Attendance laws are strictly enforced and the court system will be used. Excessive tardiness and absences will be addressed on a case-by-case basis through written and/or administrative conference with the parent or guardian. Call Back System Students who are listed as absent are included on our computerized call list. Please provide the school with a number at which you can be reached to report this absence. Our computer will activate the message as soon as the phone is answered. If you are unaware of the absence please telephone the main office at 505-5820 immediately. DISMISSAL

Early Dismissal All requests for early dismissal should be submitted in writing to the school office the morning early dismissal is desired. Children need to be picked up and signed out, in the main office. Adults should be prepared to show identification. Please keep in mind that pursuant to New Jersey law, students must attend classes for four (4) hours to be counted

as present. HOMEWORK AND MISSED SCHOOL WORK All students in grades 2-5 should expect to have some study responsibility each school evening. If your child is absent from school and you would like the homework assignment for that day, please contact the school up to 10 a.m. and we will have the make up work on the front counter after 3:00 p.m. that day. This will allow the teachers adequate time to prepare the homework without any interruption in classroom instruction. Regular attendance is vital for school success. Please try to plan vacations during school vacations. When students return to school, the missed schoolwork will be given to them at that time. As a rule of thumb, a child will be given the same amount of time missed in order to make up school assignments. For instance, a child absent from school for three days will be given three days to make up the missed work.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT Our P.T.O is a volunteer organization made up of parents, teachers and administrators who have a special interest in children, families and school. The P.T.O works for children. Our members meet together every other month to organize fund-raising activities, plan events, openly share concerns, and become informed on issues regarding children and the school. Being a member of the P.T.O provides you the opportunity to serve, volunteer and be an important part of your children's education team. It's a great personal satisfaction to know you are working along with teachers and administrators to shape and mold your children's future. Parental involvement can take many forms. Some parents and families may have the time to get involved in many ways using their talents and resources. Others may only have time for one particular activity. You set your own limit! We are looking forward to having you on board. P.T.O. events are for parents and children together. Never drop your child off alone to a P.T.O. event.

ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL

WALKING OR DRIVING TO AND FROM SCHOOL The vast majority of our students will walk to and from school each day. Our school staff, in conjunction with the

Beachwood Police Dept. and their crossing guards, will instruct the students on proper walking procedures. The Borough

of Beachwood will provide crossing guards at selected crossings. Children will be urged to cross at those crossings.

Students are not allowed to arrive at school sooner than five minutes before the start of the school day. A SPECIAL

NOTE TO PARENTS: IF YOU DRIVE YOUR CHILD TO OR FROM SCHOOL, you must use the auxiliary

parking lot at the West Side of the building. The service road in front of the school is for buses only. PLEASE

NOTE: UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL PARENTS BE ALLOWED TO DOUBLE PARK THEIR

VEHICLES. The Beachwood Police Dept. has recommended that BIRCH ST. be utilized to funnel automotive and bus

traffic to and from school. Children, WILL NOT be permitted to walk or ride their bicycles on this street for safety

reasons. All students living north of Birch St. will walk to Maple St. They should follow Maple St. and cross Berkeley

Ave. where a crossing guard is stationed. Use the walkway to get to or from the school. All students living south of Birch

St. will walk to Elm St. They should follow Elm St. and cross Berkeley Ave. where a crossing guard is stationed. NO

CHILD will be permitted to cross Berkeley Ave. in front of the school or at any other location except at the

prescribed crossing locations. We ask for parents' support by not walking on Birch St. to pick up their child. This

is a traffic hazard. The lot in front of the school is for emergency pick ups and those attending meetings at the

school. The only lot for pick up and drop off at the beginning and end of the day is the West lot. The East lot is for

faculty and staff and handicapped only. Proper ID tags must be requested for handicap parking.

ALL CHILDREN WILL BE DROPPED OFF AND PICKED UP IN OUR WEST PARKING LOT. PARENTS,

PLEASE EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN PULLING IN AND OUT OF THAT PARKING LOT.

If you have an emergency, please notify the office.

All children in grades 2-5 who are walkers may ride bicycles, scooters or skateboards to and from school. They are

not permitted to ride them on school property and they must be left at the bicycle rack.

The school is NOT LIABLE for the damage to or the theft of bicycles or bicycle parts.

Helmets must be worn AT ALL TIMES.

If you are having an emergency and will be unable to pick up your child at dismissal time, please notify the office.

SCHOOL BUS Safety is again the prime concern during this part of daily school life. Each bus driver has the immense responsibility of safely transporting as many as 52 students to and from school daily. Any distraction could have serious consequences. Therefore, we ask you to support our request that all students behave properly while riding the school bus. Children should remain seated, relatively quiet, and obey the driver’s instructions. Children must ride their assigned bus and get

on and off only at their assigned stop. Exceptions will be granted ONLY for family emergencies and with

ADVANCE written permission requested by the parent, that must be approved by the principal for special purposes. Children who do not observe the rules of safe riding conduct can lose bus-riding privileges for a fixed period of time and will be expected to attend school via transportation supplied by their parents. Repeated violations of school bus regulations will result in the permanent loss of any bus riding privileges. If such becomes the case, the parents will be responsible for the transportation of their child to and from school. All buses will arrive and depart in the front of the school.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

IMPORTANT: We urgently remind all parents to please review with your child(ren) the procedures with respect to Delayed Openings and Early Dismissals. It is extremely important that you formulate a plan with them on what to do beforehand, and review it with them. Please be diligent in updating phone numbers and emergency contacts that you

give the school.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS, DELAYED OPENING AND EARLY DISMISSAL PROCEDURES Emergency Automated phone calls will be generated to notify you of emergency, delayed or early dismissal closing. Additionally, there will be announcements on local radio stations, Channel 21 and on our website at www.trschools.com.

DELAYED OPENING The Delayed Opening Procedure for the school day begins 90 minutes later than normal. Due to this delay, buses will pick up children approximately 90 minutes later than normal. The morning Kindergarten classes and the morning Y-Kids

program will be cancelled. Lunch and dismissal procedures remain the same as usual. EARLY DISMISSAL When the Early Dismissal Procedure is implemented, the school day will end at 1:10 PM. On these early dismissal days, the afternoon Kindergarten classes, and the afternoon Y-Kids program are cancelled. A computer generated district phone call will be generated to your home for notification. If however you have a phone block on numbers it will not go through.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN FOR EVACUATION

All parents should be aware that in the event of an ordered evacuation from the school, the children would be transported to Intermediate North. Parents should proceed to Intermediate North to sign out their children from that location. IT

IS IMPORTANT FOR PARENTS TO REALIZE THAT THIS EVACUATION PROCEDURE IS DIFFERENT

FROM ANY OTHER EARLY DISMISSAL PROCEDURE. DUE TO UNFORESEEN EMERGENCIES, ETC.

THIS IS AN EMERGENCY PROCEDURE THAT WOULD BECOME NECESSARY IN THE EVENT THE

STATE OR THE COUNTY DECLARES AN EMERGENCY THAT WOULD REQUIRE AN EVACUATION OF

THE SCHOOL BUILDING. ALL CHILDREN WILL RECEIVE K1 POTASSIUM IODINE PILLS UNLESS

OTHERWISE DIRECTED BY PARENTS. PICTURE ID WILL BE REQUIRED FOR AUTHORIZED PICK-

UP.

EARLY DISMISSAL SCHEDULE: DELAYED OPENING SCHEDULE:

8:40 a.m.-1:10 p.m. 10:05 a.m.-2:50 p.m.

8:40 a.m.-11:10 a.m. Kindergarten AM Cancelled Kindergarten AM

Cancelled Kindergarten PM 12:05 p.m.-2:50 p.m. Kindergarten PM

CAFETERIA/RECESS GUIDELINES

FEDERAL LUNCH - If you think you are eligible for free and reduced lunch, please submit a completed lunch form to the office. BREAKFAST - There is a breakfast program that begins at 8:35 AM. The cost is $1.25. In order for students to have enough time to eat and go to their classrooms, they must arrive no later than 8:40 AM. LUNCH - Students are scheduled for a 35 minute lunch period. Children may pay for lunch with cash. It is recommended that parents place money in their student's accounts on a regular basis. This reduces the possibility of lost money. This should be done early in the school day. After a minimum of 15 minutes, they are dismissed to a supervised play area for 20 minutes. Slow eaters are dismissed when they have finished eating. CAFETERIA MENU/PRICES: The menu will be sent home monthly and will also be presented on Channel 21 and on our district website. Children may bring lunch from home. Children may purchase lunch with cash. Parents wishing to place money on account using a credit card are asked to follow the "Pay for It" directions on page 14.

Lunch: $2.25 Whole Grain Pop Tart: $.75

Juice: $.60 Soup & Crackers: $1.25

Milk: $.60 Cheese Sticks: $.25

Ice Cream: $.75 Honey Wheat Bar: $.75

Pretzels: $.75 Entrée Salad: $1.75

Water: $.50 Pizza Slice: $1.50

Yogurt: $.60

Uncrustables: $1.00

Cookies: $.50

Kindergarten Snack:$.60 CAFETERIA RULES: Students are required to sit at their assigned tables with their classmates. They must remain seated and talk quietly to their classmates. If a student needs assistance, they must raise their hand and speak to one of the cafeteria aides. They must exercise good table manners and clean up after themselves. In general, the cafeteria is a place to eat, relax and active play occurs at recess.

PLAYGROUND / LUNCH RECESS: If weather permits, all students will go to either the play area or to the black top area after lunch for recess. We encourage all students who are physically able and healthy to go outside for recess.

Playground Rules: l. ANY physical contact such as wrestling, tackling, pushing, hitting, kicking and general roughhousing is

STRICTLY FORBIDDEN. Appropriate consequences will be administered by an administrator. 2. Equipment and fields are shared. Equipment is to be used appropriately and not used for anything other than its

original and intended use. 3. Do not climb fences. No child is allowed to enter the wooded area behind the school for any reason. 4. Do not throw stones or any other objects. 5. No tumbling, cartwheels, flips or other gymnastics. 6. No “pegging” with balls. 7. Problems should be reported to the playground aides, the adult supervisor, and/or the classroom teacher.

BEHAVIOR/CONSEQUENCES

The safety and well being of each person connected with Beachwood Elementary is a very basic, and strong, concern. Every precaution must be taken to avoid accidents and create a safe environment for all students. Students can best contribute to a safe school by following basic rules such as: l. Walk-Do Not Run. 2. Avoid any and all physical contact, by keeping hands off of others. 3. Many accidents are caused by “just kidding around” which is a most dangerous practice. 4. Follow our Beachwood Code of Conduct at all times. (Page 14 ) 5. All weapons, or any instrument that could be construed as a weapon , such as a knife are not permitted on school

premises THIS IS A SUSPENDABLE OFFENSE AND WILL WARRANT THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE BEACHWOOD POLICE.

6. All children grades 2-5 who are walkers may ride bicycles, scooters or skateboards to and from school. Bicycles, scooters and skateboards should not be ridden on school grounds. Bicycles and scooters should be walked and skateboards carried, once on school grounds.

7. All children have the right to an education in a safe and nurturing environment. Any form of bullying will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will be taken.

There will be consequences for those students who do not follow the rules at Beachwood Elementary. Staff members will fill-out a discipline slip. The students will be sent to the office and the situation will be addressed. The parents will be contacted and one of the following will be assigned, based on the severity of the situation: Time-Out, Recess Detention, Lunch Detention, In-School Suspension, or Out-of-School Detention/Suspension.

BASIC SKILLS

PROJECT EXCEL Beachwood Elementary School exists to serve the individual needs of our students. In order to help strengthen children’s academic skills in language arts and mathematics, Project Excel has been created. This program will be offered to any child who has fallen below the minimum level of proficiency as determined by the State of New Jersey. Certificated teachers will service the child at least once a week for each area of identified academic area. Project Excel is offered after the school day for Grades 1-5. PROJECT PRIDE This is a district funded program which serves to meet the academic needs of children who are experiencing temporary difficulty with their academic program and have not qualified for the Excel program. Admission to the program is based on teacher recommendation and administrative approval.

Y-KIDS (School Age Care) The Y-Kids program is offered to working parents of Beachwood Elementary School both before and after the school day. It is conducted in the school building. Beachwood Elementary School does not operate the program, nor is it a function of the school building. For information regarding the program and the related costs involved with it, please contact the Supervisor at 341-9622, extension 2215.


CODE OF CONDUCT We want every student to have success in school and to have a sense of belonging to the school community, so that no child is left behind. Our code of conduct states:

I am fair.

I am kind.

I treat others the way I want to be treated.

I am honest.

I am prepared.

I am respectful of the faculty, classmates, school and environment.

I practice safety.

I am responsible.

I do not keep teachers from teaching or students from learning.

I do not bully.

I help others who are targets of bullies. Official District School Board Policy on Student Code of Conduct can be found online at www.trschools.com.

Basic "Pay for It" Set Up

• Click on the link or go to www.payforit.net • Click on "Sign up for Account" • Fill in information under "Create New Guardian Account". Click next! • Enter Master Card or Debit card information. Click next! • Fill in information under "Create Account" (sent to your e-mail address) At that point you should see a box that states "Your account has been created" Click on continue to enter confirmation code under "Activate Guardian" (Sent to your e-mail) You can then clock on login at top of page to log into your account! YOU WILL NEED TO CONTACT THE SCHOOL TO RECEIVE THE STUDENT ID NUMBER! Across the top you will see drop down boxes for additional options!!!!

NJ ASK Test Dates

Grade 5 May 5 - 8 Grade 4 May 12 - 16 Grade 3 May 12 - 15

TOMS RIVER REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

NONDISCRIMINATION/SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Federal law prohibits educational program and employment discrimination on the basis of gender (Title IX of the 1972 Educational

Amendments); handicap (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973); age (Age Discrimination In Employment Act of 1967); and race,

color, religion, gender, or national origin (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964). New Jersey Title 6 prohibits educational program and

employment practices discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, and social/economic status. Federal law prohibits educational program and employment discrimination on the basis of gender (Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments); handicap (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973); age (Age Discrimination In Employment Act of 1967); and race, color, religion, gender, or national origin (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964). New Jersey Title 6 prohibits educational program and employment practices discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, and social/economic status. The Toms River Regional School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin,

social/economic status, age, affectional or sexual orientation (real or perceived), or handicap in its educational programs or employment practices in accordance with the applicable statutes. The Toms River Regional School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, social/economic status, age, or handicap in its educational programs or employment practices in accordance with the applicable statutes. In addition, the Board of Education is committed to maintaining an instructional and working environment that is free from harassment of

any kind. It shall be a violation of this policy for students to harass other students, or for students to harass staff members, or for staff

members to harass students through conduct or communications of a sexual nature. In addition, the Board of Education is committed to maintaining an instructional and working environment that is free from harassment of any kind. It shall be a violation of this policy for students to harass other students, or for students to harass staff members, or for staff members to harass students through conduct or communications of a sexual nature.

Sexual harassment is a violation of State and Federal law. It has been defined under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as unwelcome and sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is a violation of state and federal law. It has been defined under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as unwelcome and sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Findings of sexual harassment will result in disciplinary action which may include parental conference, suspension (either in- or out-of-

school), and a report with the Beachwood Police Department and any other disciplinary action deemed necessary and appropriate by the Superintendent of Schools/Board of Education. Findings of a sexual harassment will result in disciplinary action which may include parental conference, suspension (either In- or Out-of-School), and a report with the Dover Twp. Police Department and any other disciplinary action deemed necessary and appropriate by the Superintendent of Schools/Board of Education. The Toms River Regional Board of Education has non-discrimination/affirmative action policies and a grievance procedure whereby any

student, parent, teacher, administrator, or member of the community who has a grievance (a complaint of discrimination or harassment)

may present such grievance for consideration. These policies and grievance procedures are available in the Office of the Superintendent of

Schools, in the Principal’s Office at each school, and in the district Affirmative Action Office. The Toms River Regional Board of Education has Nondiscrimination/Affirmative Action policy (#2224) and a Grievance Procedure whereby any student, parent, teacher, administrator, or member of the community who has a grievance (a complaint of discrimination or harassment) may present such grievance for consideration. This policy and grievance procedures are available in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, in the Principal’s Office at each school, and in the district Affirmative Action Office.

Inquiries regarding compliance with nondiscrimination laws may be directed to:

Ms. Wendy Rozwadowski Dravis

District Affirmative Action Officer

50 Blue Jay Drive

Toms River, NJ 08755

(732) 505-5920

Ms. Kelly Kernasovic

District Affirmative Action Officer

60 Walnut Street


(732) 505-5900

Mr. John Coleman

504 Coordinator

1144 Hooper Avenue


(732) 505-5561

U.S. Department of Education

for Civil Rights, Region II (for federal laws)

32 Old Slip, 26th Floor

New York, NY 10005-2500

(646) 428-3900

N.J. Division of Civil Rights

140 E. Front Street, 6th Floor

PO Box 090

Trenton, NJ 08625-0090

(609) 292-4605


BELL SCHEDULE

TIME ACTIVITY

8:40 a.m. School Begins

8:50-9:30 a.m. Period 1

9:35-10:15 a.m. Period 2

10:20-11:00 a.m. Period 3

11:05-11:45 a.m. Period 4

11:50-12:30 p.m. Period 5

12:35-1:15 p.m. Period 6

1:20-2:00 p.m. Period 7 2:05-2:45 p.m. Period 8

11:00 - 11:35 a.m. First Lunch Grades 4 & 5

11:20 - 11:55 a.m. Second Lunch Grade 2

11:40 - 12:15 p.m. Third Lunch Grade 1 12:00 - 12:35 p.m. Fourth Lunch Grade 3 2:50 p.m. Dismissal

When to Make a Guidance Referral

Please contact your counselor and/or refer a child if... ... you suspect child abuse or neglect. ... you notice a severe change in the child's behavior. ... the child is having a difficult time dealing with family changes. ... the child's self-concept is low. ... an illness or death in the family is upsetting the child. ... you suspect extreme financial hardship in the home and the child needs supplies, shoes, etc. ... a behavior modification plan needs to be drawn up between the teacher, counselor, and child. ... the child is dwelling in a home in which there is violence, substance abuse, addiction, or recovery from these. ... the child daydreams or seems preoccupied a major portion of the day. ... the child's grades are declining. ... a child has been absent excessively. ... the child seems to concentrate on his/her home-life to the point that it interferes with school performance. ... something seems to be bothering the child.

BEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY

SCHOOL SONG

"I LOVE BEACHWOOD"

(Sung to: “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy”)

I LOVE BEACHWOOD, IT’S MY HOMETOWN,

I LIVE IN BEACHWOOD, USA.

I PLAY AND LEARN IN THE BEACHWOOD SCHOOL,

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY.

I LEARN A LOT ABOUT THE PEOPLE,

AND THE GOLDEN RULE.

BEACHWOOD, BEACHWOOD, YOU’RE THE BEST,

YOU STAND OUT FROM ALL THE REST.

I’M PROUD TO BE A BEACHWOOD BEAR!

THE TEACHERS ARE SO CHEERFUL,

THEY HELP EXPLAIN ALL OUR TASKS.

THEY ALWAYS ANSWER THE QUESTIONS,

THAT WE MAY HAPPEN TO ASK.

WE ARE SO GLAD WE CAN COME HERE,

WE LOVE OUR SCHOOL IN EVERY WAY.

BEACHWOOD, BEACHWOOD YOU’RE THE BEST,

YOU STAND OUT FROM ALL THE REST.

I’M PROUD TO BE A BEACHWOOD BEAR!

B E A C H W O O D E L E M E N T A R Y S C H O O L

TOMS RIVER SCHOOLS

BULLYING HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION POLICY

A. Policy Statement - The Board of Education prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a pupil. A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for pupils to learn and achieve high academic standards. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its pupils in a safe and disciplined environment. Since pupils learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff and volunteers should be commended for demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

For the purposes of this Policy, the term "parent," pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.3, means the natural parent(s) or adoptive parent(s), legal guardian(s), foster parent(s), or parent surrogate(s) of a pupil. Where parents are separated or divorced, "parent" means the person or agency which has legal custody of the pupil, as well as the natural or adoptive parent(s) of the pupil, provided such parental rights have not been terminated by a court of appropriate jurisdiction.

B. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Definition - “Harassment, intimidation, or bullying” means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents that:

1. Is reasonably perceived as being motivated by either any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability; or

2. By any other distinguishing characteristic; and that

3. Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off school grounds, as provided for in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.3, that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other pupils; and that

4. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or

5. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils; or

6. Creates a hostile educational environment for the pupil by interfering with a pupil’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the pupil.

“Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to: a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager.

C. Pupil Expectations - The Board expects pupils to conduct themselves in keeping with their levels of development, maturity and demonstrated capabilities with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other pupils and school staff, the educational purpose underlying all school activities and the care of school facilities and equipment consistent with the Code of Pupil Conduct.

The Board believes that standards for pupil behavior must be set cooperatively through interaction among the pupils, parents, school employees, school administrators, school volunteers, and community representatives, producing an atmosphere that encourages pupils to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect for self and others, as well as for school district and community property on the part of pupils, staff, and community members.

Pupils are expected to behave in a way that creates a supportive learning environment. The Board believes the best discipline is self-imposed, and it is the responsibility of staff to use instances of violations of the Code of Pupil Conduct as opportunities to help pupils learn to assume and accept responsibility for their behavior and the consequences of their behavior. Staff members who interact with pupils shall apply best practices designed to prevent pupil conduct problems and foster pupils’ abilities to grow in self-discipline.

The Board expects that pupils will act in accordance with the pupil behavioral expectations and standards regarding harassment, intimidation, and bullying, including:

1. Pupil responsibilities (e.g., requirements for pupils to conform to reasonable standards of socially accepted behavior; respect the person, property and rights of others; obey constituted authority; and respond to those who hold that authority);

2. Appropriate recognition for positive reinforcement for good conduct, self-discipline, and good citizenship;

3. Pupil rights; and

4. Sanctions and due process for violations of the Code of Pupil Conduct. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15(a) and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)1, the district has involved a broad-base of school and community members, including parents, pupils, instructional staff, pupil support services staff, school administrators, and school volunteers, as well as community organizations, such as faith-based, health and human service, business and law enforcement, in the development of this Policy. Based on locally determined and accepted core ethical values adopted by the Board, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)2, the Board must develop guidelines for pupil conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1. These guidelines for pupil conduct will take into consideration the developmental ages of pupils, the severity of the offenses and pupils’ histories of inappropriate behaviors, and the mission and physical facilities of the individual school(s) in the district. This Policy requires all pupils in the district to adhere to the rules established by the school district and to submit to the remedial and consequential measures that are appropriately assigned for infractions of these rules. Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1, the Superintendent must annually provide to pupils and their parents or guardians the rules of the district regarding pupil conduct. Provisions shall be made for informing parents or guardians whose primary language is other than English.

The district prohibits active or passive support for acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Pupils are encouraged to support other pupils who:

1. Walk away from acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying when they see them;

2. Constructively attempt to stop acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;

3. Provide support to pupils who have been subjected to harassment, intimidation, or bullying; and

4. Report acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying to the designated school staff member.

D. Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions - The Board of Education requires its school administrators to implement procedures that ensure both the appropriate consequences and remedial responses for pupils who commit one or more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, consistent with the Code of Pupil Conduct, and the consequences and remedial responses for staff members who commit one or more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The following factors, at a minimum, shall be given full consideration by school administrators in the implementation of appropriate consequences and remedial measures for each act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying by pupils. Appropriate consequences and remedial actions are those that are graded according to the severity of the offense(s), consider the developmental ages of the pupil offenders and pupils’ histories of inappropriate behaviors, per the Code of Pupil Conduct and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.

Factors for Determining Consequences

1. Age, developmental and maturity levels of the parties involved and their relationship to the school district;

2. Degrees of harm;

3. Surrounding circumstances;

4. Nature and severity of the behavior(s);

5. Incidences of past or continuing patterns of behavior;

6. Relationships between the parties involved; and

7. Context in which the alleged incidents occurred.

Factors for Determining Remedial Measures

Personal

1. Life skill deficiencies;

2. Social relationships;

3. Strengths;

4. Talents;

5. Traits;

6. Interests;

7. Hobbies;

8. Extra-curricular activities;

9. Classroom participation;

10. Academic performance; and

11. Relationship to pupils and the school district.

Environmental

1. School culture;

2. School climate;

3. Pupil-staff relationships and staff behavior toward the pupil;

4. General staff management of classrooms or other educational environments;

5. Staff ability to prevent and manage difficult or inflammatory situations;

6. Social-emotional and behavioral supports;

7. Social relationships;

8. Community activities;

9. Neighborhood situation; and

10. Family situation.

Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a pupil or staff member who commits one or more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion of pupils, as set forth in the Board’s approved Code of Pupil Conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1. Consequences for a pupil who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be varied and graded according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the pupil and the pupil’s history of problem behaviors and performance, and must be consistent with the Board’s approved Code of Pupil Conduct and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7, Student Conduct.

Remedial measures shall be designed to correct the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of the problem, protect and provide support for the victim of the act, and take corrective action for documented systemic problems related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The consequences and remedial measures may include, but are not limited to, the examples listed below:

Examples of Consequences

1. Admonishment;

2. Temporary removal from the classroom;

3. Deprivation of privileges;

4. Classroom or administrative detention;

5. Referral to disciplinarian;

6. In-school suspension during the school week or the weekend;

7. After-school programs;

8. Out-of-school suspension (short-term or long-term);

9. Reports to law enforcement or other legal action;

10. Expulsion; and

11. Bans from providing services, participating in school-district-sponsored programs, or being in school buildings or on school grounds.

Examples of Remedial Measures – Personal

1. Restitution and restoration;

2. Peer support group;

3. Recommendations of a pupil behavior or ethics council;

4. Corrective instruction or other relevant learning or service experience;

5. Supportive pupil interventions, including participation of the Intervention and Referral Services Team, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8;

6. Behavioral assessment or evaluation, including, but not limited to, a referral to the Child Study Team, as appropriate;

7. Behavioral management plan, with benchmarks that are closely monitored;

8. Assignment of leadership responsibilities (e.g., hallway or bus monitor);

9. Involvement of school disciplinarian;

10. Pupil counseling;

11. Parent conferences;

12. Alternative placements (e.g., alternative education programs);

13. Pupil treatment; or

14. Pupil therapy.

Examples of Remedial Measures – Environmental (Classroom, School Building or School District)

1. School and community surveys or other strategies for determining the conditions contributing to harassment, intimidation, or bullying;

2. School culture change;

3. School climate improvement;

4. Adoption of research-based, systemic bullying prevention programs;

5. School policy and procedures revisions;

6. Modifications of schedules;

7. Adjustments in hallway traffic;

8. Modifications in pupil routes or patterns traveling to and from school;

9. Supervision of pupil before and after school, including school transportation;

10. Targeted use of monitors (e.g., hallway, cafeteria, locker room, playground, school perimeter, bus);

11. Teacher aides;

12. Small or large group presentations for fully addressing the behaviors and the responses to the behaviors;

13. General professional development programs for certificated and non-certificated staff;

14. Professional development plans for involved staff;

15. Disciplinary action for school staff who contributed to the problem;

16. Supportive institutional interventions, including participation of the Intervention and Referral Services Team, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8;

17. Parent conferences;

18. Family counseling;

19. Involvement of parent-teacher organizations;

20. Involvement of community-based organizations;

21. Development of a general bullying response plan;

22. Recommendations of a pupil behavior or ethics council;

23. Peer support groups;

24. Alternative placements (e.g., alternative education programs);

25. School transfers; and

26. Law enforcement (e.g., safe schools resource officer, juvenile officer) involvement or other legal action.

The district will also impose appropriate consequences and remedial actions to a person who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a pupil. The consequences may include, but not be limited to: verbal or written reprimand, increment withholding, legal action, disciplinary action, termination, and/or bans from providing services, participating in school district-sponsored programs, or being in school buildings or on school grounds. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in or out-of-school counseling, professional development programs, and work environment modifications.

E. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Off School Grounds - This Policy and the Code of Pupil Conduct shall apply to instances when a school employee is made aware of alleged harassment, intimidation, or bullying occurring off school grounds when:

1. The alleged harassment, intimidation, or bullying has substantially disrupted or interfered with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other pupils; and either

2. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the alleged behavior will have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or

3. The alleged behavior has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils; or

4. The alleged behavior creates a hostile educational environment for the pupil by interfering with a pupil’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the pupil.

F. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Reporting Procedure - The Board of Education requires the Principal at each school to be responsible for receiving complaints alleging violations of this Policy. All Board members, school employees, and volunteers and contracted service providers who have contact with pupils are required to verbally report alleged violations of this Policy to the Principal or the Principal’s designee on the same day when the individual witnessed or received reliable information regarding any such incident. All Board members, school employees, and volunteers and contracted service providers who have contact with pupils, also shall submit a report in writing to the Principal within two school days of the verbal report. The Principal will inform the parents of all pupils involved in alleged incidents, and, as appropriate, may discuss the availability of counseling and other intervention services. The Principal, upon receiving a verbal or written report, may take interim measures to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of all parties pending the findings of the investigation.

Pupils, parents, and visitors are encouraged to report alleged violations of this Policy to the Principal on the same day when the individual witnessed or received reliable information regarding any such incident. Pupils, parents, and visitors may report an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying anonymously. Formal action for violations of the Code of Pupil Conduct may not be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

A Board member or school employee who promptly reports an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and who makes this report in compliance with the procedures set forth in this Policy, is immune from a cause of action for damages arising from any failure to remedy the reported incident.

In accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-18, the harassment, intimidation, and bullying law does not prevent a victim from seeking redress under any other available law, either civil or criminal, nor does it create or alter any tort liability.

The district may consider every mechanism available to simplify reporting, including standard reporting forms and/or web-based reporting mechanisms. For anonymous reporting, the district may consider locked boxes located in areas of a school where reports can be submitted without fear of being observed.

A school administrator who receives a report of harassment, intimidation, and bullying from a district employee, and fails to initiate or conduct an investigation, or who should have known of an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and fails to take sufficient action to minimize or

G. Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Anti-Bullying Specialist and School Safety Team(s)

1. The Superintendent shall appoint a district Anti-Bullying Coordinator. The Superintendent shall make every effort to appoint an employee of the school district to this position.

The district Anti-Bullying Coordinator shall:

a. Be responsible for coordinating and strengthening the school district's policies to prevent, identify, and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;

b. Collaborate with school Anti-Bullying Specialists in the district, the Board of Education, and the Superintendent to prevent, identify, and respond to harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils in the district;

c. Provide data, in collaboration with the Superintendent, to the Department of Education regarding harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;

d. Execute such other duties related to school harassment, intimidation, or bullying as requested by the Superintendent; and

e. Meet at least twice a school year with the school Anti-Bullying Specialist(s) to discuss and strengthen procedures and policies to prevent, identify, and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying in the district.

2. The Principal in each school shall appoint a school Anti-Bullying Specialist. When a school guidance counselor, school psychologist, or another individual similarly trained is currently employed in the school, the Principal shall appoint that individual to be the school Anti-Bullying Specialist. If no individual meeting this criteria is currently employed in the school, the Principal shall appoint a school Anti-Bullying Specialist from currently employed school personnel.

The school Anti-Bullying Specialist shall:

a. Chair the School Safety Team as provided in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21;

b. Lead the investigation of incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in the school; and

c. Act as the primary school official responsible for preventing, identifying, and addressing incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in the school.

3. A School Safety Team shall be formed in each school in the district to develop, foster, and maintain a positive school climate by focusing on the on-going, systemic process and practices in the school, and to address school climate issues such as harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Each School Safety Team shall meet at least two times per school year. The School Safety Team shall consist of the Principal or the Principal’s designee who, if possible, shall be a senior administrator in the school and the following appointees of the Principal: a teacher in the school; a school Anti-Bullying Specialist; a parent of a pupil in the school; and other members to be determined by the Principal. The school Anti-Bullying Specialist shall serve as the chair of the School Safety Team.

The School Safety Team shall:

a. Receive any complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils that have been reported to the Principal;

b. Receive copies of any report prepared after an investigation of an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;

c. Identify and address patterns of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils in the school;

d. Review and strengthen school climate and the policies of the school in order to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;

e. Educate the community, including pupils, teachers, administrative staff, and parents, to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;

f. Participate in the training required pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 et seq. and other training which the Principal or the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator may request;

g. Collaborate with the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator in the collection of district-wide data and in the development of district policies to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils; and

h. Execute such other duties related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying as requested by the Principal or district Anti-Bullying Coordinator. The members of a School Safety Team shall be provided professional development opportunities that address effective practices of successful school climate programs or approaches. Notwithstanding any provision of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21 to the contrary, a parent who is a member of the School Safety Team shall not participate in the activities of the team set forth in 3. a., b., or c. above or any other activities of the team which may compromise the confidentiality of a pupil.

H. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Investigation - The Board requires a thorough and complete investigation to be conducted for each report of an alleged incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The investigation shall be initiated by the Principal or the Principal’s designee within one school day of the verbal report of the incident. The investigation shall be conducted by the school Anti-Bullying Specialist. The Principal may appoint additional personnel who are not school Anti-Bullying Specialists to assist the school Anti-Bullying Specialist in the investigation.

The investigation shall be completed and the written findings submitted to the Principal as soon as possible, but not later than ten school days from the date of the written report of the alleged incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Should information regarding the reported incident and the investigation be received after the end of the ten-day period, the school Anti-Bullying Specialist or the Principal shall amend the original report of the results of the investigation to ensure there is an accurate and current record of the facts and activities concerning the reported incident.

The Principal shall proceed in accordance with the Code of Pupil Conduct, as appropriate, based on the investigation findings. The Principal shall submit the report to the Superintendent within two school days of the completion of the investigation and in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act (N.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.). As appropriate to the findings from the investigation, the Superintendent shall ensure the Code of Pupil Conduct has been implemented and provide intervention services, order counseling, establish training programs to reduce harassment, intimidation, or bullying and enhance school climate, or take or recommend other appropriate action, as necessary.

The Superintendent shall report the results of each investigation to the Board of Education no later than the date of the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting following the completion of the investigation. The Superintendent’s report also shall include information on any consequences imposed under the Code of Pupil Conduct, intervention services provided, counseling ordered, training established or other action taken or recommended by the Superintendent.

Parents of the pupils who are parties to the investigation shall be provided with information about the investigation, in accordance with Federal and State law and regulation. The information to be provided to parents or guardians shall include the nature of the investigation, whether the district found evidence of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, or whether consequences were imposed or services provided to address the incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. This information shall be provided in writing within five school days after the results of the investigation are reported to the Board of Education.

A parent or guardian may request a hearing before the Board of Education after receiving the information. When a request for a hearing is granted, the hearing shall be held within ten school days of the request. The Board of Education shall conduct the hearing in executive session, pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A. 10:4-1 et seq.), to protect the confidentiality of the pupils. At the hearing, the Board may hear testimony from and consider information provided by the school Anti-Bullying Specialist and others, as appropriate, regarding the alleged incident, the findings from the investigation of the alleged incident, recommendations for consequences or services, and any programs instituted to reduce such incidents, prior to rendering a determination.

At the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting following its receipt of the report or following a hearing in executive session, the Board shall issue a decision, in writing, to affirm, reject, or modify the Superintendent’s decision. The Board’s decision may be appealed to the Commissioner of Education, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:3, Controversies and Disputes, no later than ninety days after issuance of the Board of Education’s decision.

A parent, pupil, legal guardian, or organization may file a complaint with the Division on Civil Rights within one hundred eighty days of the occurrence of any incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying based on membership in a protected group as enumerated in the "Law Against Discrimination," P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-1 et seq.).

I. Range of Responses to an Incident of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying - The Board authorizes the Principal of each school, in conjunction with the Anti-Bullying Specialist, to define the range of ways in which school staff will respond once an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying is confirmed, and the Superintendent shall respond to confirmed harassment, intimidation, and bullying, according to the parameters described in this Policy. The range of ways in which school staff will respond shall include an appropriate combination of counseling, support services, intervention services, and other programs. The Board recognizes that some acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may be isolated incidents requiring the school officials respond appropriately to the individual(s) committing the acts. Other acts may be so serious or parts of a larger pattern of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that they require a response either at the classroom, school building, or school district level or by law enforcement officials.

Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a pupil who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1, Discipline of Pupils and as set forth in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2, Short-term Suspensions, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.3, Long-term Suspensions and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.5, Expulsions.

In considering whether a response beyond the individual level is appropriate, school officials shall consider the nature and circumstances of the act, the degree of harm, the nature and severity of the behavior, past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, and the context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred. Institutional (i.e., classroom, school building, school district) responses can range from school and community surveys, to mailings, to focus groups, to adoption of research-based harassment, intimidation, or bullying prevention program models, to training for certificated and non-certificated staff, to participation of parents and other community members and organizations, to small or large group presentations for fully addressing the actions and the school’s response to the actions, in the context of

the acceptable pupil and staff member behavior and the consequences of such actions, and to the involvement of law enforcement officers, including safe schools resource officers.

For every incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the school officials must respond appropriately to the individual who committed the act. The Board is encouraged to set the parameters for the range of responses to be established by the Principal, in conjunction with the Anti-Bullying Specialist, and for the Superintendent to follow. The range of responses to confirmed harassment, intimidation, or bullying acts should include individual, classroom, school, or district responses, as appropriate to the findings from each incident. Examples of responses that apply to each of these categories are provided below:

1. Individual responses can include positive behavioral interventions (e.g., peer mentoring, short-term counseling, life skills groups) and punitive actions (e.g., detention, in-school or out-of-school suspension, expulsion, law enforcement report, or other legal action).

2. Classroom responses can include class discussions about an incident of harassment, intimidation or bullying, role plays, research projects, observing and discussing audio-visual materials on these subjects, and skill-building lessons in courtesy, tolerance, assertiveness, and conflict management.

3. School responses can include theme days, learning station programs, parent programs, and information disseminated to pupils and parents or guardians, such as fact sheets or newsletters explaining acceptable uses of electronic and wireless communication devices or strategies for fostering expected pupil behavior.

4. District-wide responses can include community involvement in policy review and development, professional development programs, adoption of curricula and school-wide programs, coordination with community-based organizations (e.g., mental health, health services, health facilities, law enforcement officials, faith-based organizations), and disseminating information on the core ethical values adopted by the district Board of Education’s Code of Pupil Conduct, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)2.

The district will identify a range of strategies and resources, which could include, but not be limited to, the following actions for individual victims: counseling; teacher aides; hallway and playground monitors; schedule changes; before and after school supervision; school transportation supervision; school transfers; and therapy.

J. Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited - The Board prohibits a Board member, school employee, contracted service provider who has contact with pupils, school volunteer, or pupil from engaging in reprisal, retaliation, or false accusation against a victim, witness, one with reliable information, or any other person who has reliable information about an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or who reports an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The consequence and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the administrator after consideration of the nature, severity and circumstances of the act, in accordance with case law, Federal and State statutes and regulations and district policies and procedures.

All suspected acts of reprisal or retaliation will be taken seriously and appropriate responses will be made in accordance with the totality of the circumstances. Examples of consequences and remedial measures for pupils who engage in reprisal or retaliation are listed and described in the Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions section of this Policy.

Examples of consequences for a school employee or a contracted service provider who has contact with pupils that engages in reprisal or retaliation may include, but not be limited to: verbal or written reprimand, increment withholding, legal action, disciplinary action, termination, and/or bans from providing services, participating in school district-sponsored programs, or being in school buildings or on school grounds. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in or out-of-school counseling, professional development programs, and work environment modifications.

Examples of consequences for a Board member who engages in reprisal or retaliation may include, but not be limited to: reprimand, legal action, and other action authorized by statute or administrative code. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: counseling and professional development.

K. Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Action for False Accusation - The Board prohibits any person from falsely accusing another as a means of retaliation or as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

1. Pupils - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a pupil found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a means of retaliation may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq., Discipline of Pupils and as set forth in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2, Short-term Suspensions, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7, Long-term Suspensions and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.5, Expulsions and those listed and described in the Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions section of this Policy.

2. School Employees - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee or contracted service provider who has contact with pupils found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a means of retaliation could entail discipline in accordance with district policies, procedures, and agreements which may include, but not be limited to: reprimand, suspension, increment withholding, termination, and/or bans from providing services, participating in school district-sponsored programs, or being in school buildings or on school grounds. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in or out-of-school counseling, professional development programs, and work environment modifications.

3. Visitors or Volunteers - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a visitor or volunteer found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a means of retaliation could be determined by the school administrator after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act, including law enforcement reports or other legal actions, removal of buildings or grounds privileges, or prohibiting contact with pupils or the provision of pupil services. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in or out-of-school counseling, professional development programs, and work environment modifications.

L. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Publication and Dissemination - This Policy will be disseminated annually by the Superintendent to all school employees, contracted service providers who have contact with pupils, school volunteers, pupils, and parents who have children enrolled in a school in the district, along with a statement explaining the Policy applies to all acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 that occur on school property, at school-sponsored functions, or on a school bus and, as appropriate, acts that occur off school grounds.

The Superintendent shall ensure that notice of this Policy appears in the pupil handbook and all other publications of the school district that set forth the comprehensive rules, procedures, and standards for schools within the school district.

The Superintendent shall post a link to the district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy that is prominently displayed on the homepage of the school district’s website. The district will notify pupils and parents this Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy is available on the school district’s website.

The Superintendent shall post the name, school phone number, school address, and school email address of the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator on the home page of the school district’s website. Each Principal shall post the name, school phone number, address, and school email address of both the Anti-Bullying Specialist and the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator on the home page of each school’s website.

M. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Training and Prevention Programs - The Superintendent and Principal(s) shall provide training on the school district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy to current and new school employees, contracted service providers, and volunteers who have significant contact with pupils. The training shall include instruction on preventing bullying on the basis of the protected categories enumerated in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 and other distinguishing characteristics that may incite incidents of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The school district’s employee training program shall include information regarding the school district’s Policy against harassment, intimidation, or bullying, which shall be provided to full-time and part-time staff members, contracted service providers, and school volunteers who have significant contact with pupils.

Each public school teacher shall be required to complete at least two hours of instruction in harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention in each professional development period as part of the professional development requirement pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18:37-22.d.

The required two hours of suicide prevention instruction for teaching staff members shall include information on the relationship between the risk of suicide and incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:6-112.

Board members shall be required to complete a training program on harassment, intimidation, and bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:12-33.

The school district shall provide time during the usual school schedule for the Anti-Bullying Coordinator and each school Anti-Bullying Specialist to participate in harassment, intimidation, and bullying training programs.

A school leader shall complete school leader training that shall include information on the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying as required in N.J.S.A. 18A:26-8.2.

The school district shall annually observe a “Week of Respect” beginning with the first Monday in October. In order to recognize the importance of character education, the school district will observe the week by providing age-appropriate instruction focusing on the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14. Throughout the school year the district will provide ongoing age-appropriate instruction on preventing harassment, intimidation, or bullying, in accordance with the Core Curriculum Content Standards, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-29.

The school district and each school in the district will annually establish, implement, document, and assess harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention programs or approaches, and other initiatives in consultation with school staff, pupils, administrators, volunteers, parents or guardians, law enforcement, and community members. The programs or approaches and other initiatives shall be designed to create school-wide conditions to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-17 et seq.

N. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Reevaluation, Reassessment and Review - The Superintendent shall develop and implement a process for annually discussing the school district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy with pupils.

The Superintendent and the Principal(s) shall annually conduct a reevaluation, reassessment, and review of the Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy, with input from the schools’ Anti-Bullying Specialists, and recommend revisions and additions to the Policy as well as to harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention programs and approaches based on the findings from the evaluation, reassessment, and review.

O. Reports to Board of Education and New Jersey Department of Education - The Superintendent shall report two times each school year, between September 1 and January 1 and between January 1 and June 30 at a public hearing all acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. The information shall also be reported to the New Jersey Department of Education in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. The information reported shall be used to grade each school and each district in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. The grade received by a school and the district shall be posted on the homepage of the school’s website and the district’s website in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. A link to the report that was submitted by the Superintendent to the Department of Education shall also be available on the school district’s website. This information shall be posted on the websites within ten days of receipt of the grade for each school and the district.

P. Reports to Law Enforcement - Some acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying may be bias-related acts and potentially bias crimes and school officials must report to law enforcement officials either serious acts or those which may be part of a larger pattern in accordance with the provisions of the Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law Enforcement Officials.

Q. Collective Bargaining Agreements and Individual Contracts - Nothing in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13.1 et seq. may be construed as affecting the provisions of any collective bargaining agreement or individual contract of employment in effect on the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act’s effective date (January 5, 2011). N.J.S.A. 18A:37-30.

The Board of Education prohibits the employment of or contracting for school staff positions with individuals whose criminal history record check reveals a record of conviction for a crime of bias intimidation or conspiracy to commit or attempt to commit a crime of bias intimidation.

R. Pupils with Disabilities - Nothing contained in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13.1 et seq. may alter or reduce the rights of a pupil with a disability with regard to disciplinary actions or to general or special education services and supports. N.J.S.A. 18A:37-32.

The school district shall submit all subsequent amended Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policies to the appropriate Executive County Superintendent of Schools within thirty days of Board adoption.

Adopted: August 23, 2011

Date post:	22-Aug-2020
Category:	Documents
Upload:	others
View:	2 times
Download:	0 times

Beachwood Elementary SchoolBEACHWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STAFF LIST 2013/2014 Mr. Ricotta, Principal...

Documents