Broadmeadow School Handbook 2009-2010 120 Broadmeadow Rd. Needham, MA 02492 (781) 455-0448 (phone) (781) 455-0851 (fax) http://broadmeadow.needham.k12.ma.us !"#$%&'()$, (*+#,)-(. ( "/,("0 12"32$004 ELL 1" )-%-/"5& 781-455-0800, -(%, *$0 5&#-5 1-2-*"6 7)"3" 6"8&0-5)$ I C=F 9O AGI MHND> ELL L<5; B?E(781-455- 0800)< JPKD6 @:78. Por favor telefone para o escritório do programa ELL no número 781- 455-0800 se precisar deste documento traduzido. Si usted desea que este documento sea traducido, por favor llame a la oficina del Programa de aprender el idioma inglés al número 781- 455-0800. Please call the ELL program office at 781-455-0800 if you need this document translated.
Por favor telefone para o escritório do programa ELL no número 781-455-0800 se precisar deste documento traduzido. Si usted desea que este documento sea traducido, por favor llame a la oficina del Programa de aprender el idioma inglés al número 781-455-0800.
Please call the ELL program office at 781-455-0800 if you need this document translated.
Who’s Who: School Directory ............................................................................................................................. 2-3
Needham Public Schools Calendar .........................................................................................................................4
Our Educational Program ................................................................................................................................... 7-8
Special Studies and Programs ............................................................................................................................ 9-10 Student Support Services ......................................................................................................................................10
How We Operate ...................................................................................................................................................11 School Hours ..................................................................................................................................................11 Latenesses and Absences ................................................................................................................................11 Arrival/Dismissal Procedures ..........................................................................................................................12 School Attendance ...........................................................................................................................................13 Bicycles, Rollerblades, Heelies, Scooters and Skate Boards ..........................................................................13 Student Cell Phone Policy ...............................................................................................................................13 School Dress Guidelines .................................................................................................................................13 Early Release/Late Start .................................................................................................................................13 No School/Delay Announcements ..................................................................................................................13 Disability Access .............................................................................................................................................14 Parents and Visitors ........................................................................................................................................14 Pets ..................................................................................................................................................................14 School Bulletin ...............................................................................................................................................14 CORI Process for Volunteers ...........................................................................................................................14 Food Service ....................................................................................................................................................15 Health Policy in School ............................................................................................................................. 16-18 Safety ...............................................................................................................................................................19 School Snacks .................................................................................................................................................19 Water Bottles ...................................................................................................................................................19 Parent Resource Information .......................................................................................................................... 20-21
Code of Conduct .............................................................................................................................................. 23-26
Broadmeadow School Song ........................................................................................................Inside Back Cover
Appendices: Kindergarten Entrance Age District Meetings, Programs, and Activities Dangerous Weapons in School Student Harassment Staff Gifts
1
September 2009
Dear Broadmeadow Families,
Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year! We hope that you have had a restful and fun-filled summer and your children are ready to return to school with new energy and excitement, ready to work hard and learn a lot. We are eager to get started!
The students and faculty of the Broadmeadow School focus on creating a welcoming community which extends well beyond the school walls. Through our daily work and a variety of special events and activities we encourage our students to make connections with people of all ages and backgrounds. At the core of our work is the Broadmeadow PRIDE – values that are reinforced in everything we do. We believe a commitment to Peace, Respect, Inclusion, Diversity, and Encouragement is essential to success in school and in life as well.
The commitment and dedication of the faculty and staff at Broadmeadow is truly amazing and we look forward to our partnership with you this year. There are several ways you can contribute - as an interested parent, a PTC member, an active classroom volunteer, or a coordinator of a special event. Equally important to the time you spend at Broadmeadow is the time you spend with your child outside of school talking about what happened during the day, as well as reading and doing math together daily. We look forward to building our partnership with you in order to prepare our children to be thoughtful, curious, and caring members of the community at large.
As the principal, I encourage you to get involved. Join us in making Broadmeadow School the best we can be.
our school philosophy....values that are reinforced in
everything we do
2
2009-2010 BROADMEADOW SCHOOL DIRECTORY120 Broadmeadow Road
Phone 781-455-0448 Fax 781-455-0851
Principal Emily Gaberman Room 105 Ext. 305Assistant Principal Roberta (Robi) Richards Room 107 Ext. 307Senior Secretary Roberta Redpath Room 106 Ext. 306Accounting Secretary Jane Blomberg Ext. 303School Aides Sheila Henry, Karen Orloff Ext. 301 Anne St. Bernard Ext. 302
28 29 30 31 MARCH 24 25 26 27 289 Early Release- Prof. Development 3130 Delayed Opening- Prof. Development
APRIL2 Good Friday
M T W Th F 19 Patriots' Day M T W Th F1 20-23 April Recess 1 2 3 4
4 5 6 7 8 27 Early Release- Prof. Development 7 8 9 10 11
11 12 13 14 15 MAY 14 15 16 17 1818 19 20 21 22 11 Early Release- Prof. Development 21 22 23 24* 2525 26 27 28 29 31 Memorial Day 28 29 30
JUNE
1 Early Release- Prof. Development7 Graduation
24* Last Day of School
Holiday/Recess *This date includes 5 snow/emergency daysProfessional Day-No School
Early Release
Delayed Opening- 2 Hours
April (16 days)
May (20 days)
June ( 13 days)
A school and community partnership that •creates excited learners •inspires excellence •fosters integrity.
January (19 days)
December (17 days)
November (17 days)
12
26-29
18
Columbus Day
Thanksgiving Recess
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
February (15 days)September (19 days)
October (21 days) March (23 days)
General Staff Mtg/Prof. Day
SCHOOL CALENDAR 2009-2010
NEEDHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS
5
Broadmeadow School PTC2009-2010
PARENTS AS PARTNERSParent volunteers are a vital part of our school community. Parents provide classroom assistance: in fact, parents are central to the success of the media, computer, and math manipulative programs. They serve as room parents, assisting with special projects, planning field trips, enlisting other parent volunteers, and organizing celebrations.
Through the Parent Teacher Council (PTC), parents support many excellent programs, projects, and special events that directly benefit the children throughout the school year - activities that might not otherwise happen. An active PTC enhances the quality of life at Broadmeadow, further enriching the curriculum of all grades.
Both morning and evening PTC meetings are scheduled throughout the year. Look for PTC emails announcing dates and times. If you do not currently receive PTC emails, contact Lisa Duke at [email protected] to add your name to the PTC email distribution list.
Our PTC is proud of its many successful programs. If you are interested in learning more about our activities or the standing committees listed on the following page, feel free to call any of the PTC volunteers.
Curriculum Nights for Parents
Wednesday, September 16, 2009 (Grs. K, 1 & 2) 7-8:30pmThursday, September 17, 2009 (Grs. 3, 4 & 5) 7-8:30pm
Come to school for a preview of the school year and a chance to meet with your child’s teacher in the classroom setting.
You will hear a PTC presentation and volunteer opportunities will be discussed.
PTC EXECUTIVE BOARDPresident Deb Tormey Jennifer Kirby Maureen CallahanVice Pres Dale McCarthy Roz KlaymanRecording Sec Michelle Smith Caren GoldbergCorresponding Sec Donna Meyer Alanna BeberTreasurers Jennifer Connors Liv Nash
Beautification Sarah WinigCreative Arts S. Keselman Jodi Lockwood Jane BlauveltEnrichment Grants Jen Meyerhardt Bonnie BrodowskiMath Enrichment Andrea SheifferNEF Grants Liason Brooke Baker Erica Supple Janet PetronioParent/ChildBook Clubs Eileen Mullin
FAMILY & CHILDREN'S EVENTSCoordinator Melissa Meehan
Art In Alanna Beber Maura CuttingBack to School Picnic Mary Ellen Reidy Lara MeisnerBroadmeadowBingo Gina Bliss Kara PellicanoFamily Fun Night Emmanuelle Skala Lara MeisnerYear Book Janet Petronio Gina BlissBasketball Game Brian Farley Brian McKay John WalshFamily Dance Roz Klayman Colleen Beacham
Ice Skating Party Lynn Kelley Suzanne Popeo Sarah BerneyFamily BoardGame Night Penny GordonSpaghetti Dinner Janet Petronio Donna Meyer
OUTREACHCoordinator Heidi Reservitz
BroadmeadowCaring Susan BarovichDiversity Suzanne Lissy Alana Beber Linda HillHospitality Maureen Kirshy Maura WalshK coffees/Orientation& Mentors Lisa Karavolos Cathy Smith Mary HensleyMetco FamilyFriends Jane Smalley Erica HessionPare & Share Judy Burns Pam HumphriesService Jen SchroederStudent Service Tracy McKay Lise Elcock Jen SchroederGreen Committee Julie Cordonnier Nina Idelson
VOLUNTEERSCoordinator Tracy McKay
Cafeteria Volunteer Kara CollinDirectory Lisa Duke Karen Strauss Susan Barovich Keli Fitzgerald Pam Bonasia Sue Saunders Liz Coyle Lauren Kinghorn Sheila Cusack Sarah Winig Erica Supple Lynn Kelley Katie GeraghtySchool Toolbox Kathleen BernerWelcome Coffees Lisa Kane5th Grade DVDCommittee Brooke Baker Susan Barovich Stephanie Cooper5th Grade ClassDay Committee Meg Hughes Mo Jones
PTC Chairs
6
OUR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Broadmeadow strives to provide each child with a strong foundation in the arts and sciences. To that end, we stress oral and written communication, artistic expression, problem-solving, an understanding of mathematical concepts, and critical and creative thinking. Using a range of techniques and tools, we try to cultivate decision-making skills that students are able to apply successfully to situations both inside and outside of the classroom.
A rich language arts curriculum offers all students broad and varied experiences. A balanced literacy program provides shared, guided and independent reading. Many opportunities are offered for creative written expression – from personal journals to bound “published” works. A compilation of the children’s writing, The Broadmeadow Buzz, is published during the year.
The mathematics curriculum focuses on problem-solving and skill development. In kindergarten through grade 5, we have fully implemented the TERC: Math Investigations and Scott Foresman Programs.
The creative arts are an integral part of the Broadmeadow curriculum, deepening and enriching our children’s learning experiences in all areas of the curriculum. We not only take children to world class performances and educational attractions in Boston and beyond but also bring high calibre performing artists into the school for more intimate, often hands-on encounters. We do this to bring our students directly into the heart and soul of creative expression among the various cultural and ethnic groups who are members of our larger community. During the 2008-2009 school year, our children enjoyed the following creative arts programs:
Opera Presto
Poetry in Motion
Clap Your Hands
Origami
Dancy Nancy - Kindergarten
Chinese Ribbon Dancing - Grade 1
World Bazaar - Grade 2
Techsploration - Grade 3
Potato Hill Poetry - Grade 4
Abigail Adams - Grade 5
7
Integrated LearningStudents in the primary grades (K-2) were involved in many exciting educational integrated learning experiences. Of note this past academic year were:
• World Bazaar• Halfway Day and 100th Day Celebrations• Multi-Cultural studies, feasts & performances• Magnetism• Introducing Science Notebooks
Students in the intermediate grades (3-5) participated in an increasing number of integrated curriculum programs. Highlights of the 2008-2009 year included:
• State Fair• Insect Fair• "I" project• Measurement Fair• Immigration Experience and Fair
Staff DevelopmentProfessional Development at Broadmeadow supports the Needham Public Schools system-wide goals including implementation of the standards-based report cards, guided reading practices, and an inquiry-based science curriculum. Last year teachers were trained on using the Fountas & Pinnell Benchmark Reading Assessment, the 6+1 Traits Writing Rubric, as well as ongoing in-service training for science notebooks and new science curriculum at various grades. In 2009-2010 there will be continued support in these areas as we roll out the standards based report card in grade 4. In addition, Broadmeadow teachers will be working with consultants from Teachers 21 to further develop skills in collaborative processes and using data to inform our instruction. We will also be working on strengthening our math instruction as we examine open ended problem solving and student writing in math.
Conferences and Progress ReportsParent/teacher conferences are scheduled in November and April or whenever it would benefit your child. There are two reporting periods of approximately 90 school days each. Progress Reports are sent home with the children in January and on the last day of school. A written report of progress is discussed during the spring kindergarten conference. The Needham School Department reporting system reflects the competencies that children are developing: personal, social, knowledge/ applications, and related arts/physical education competencies. Standards-base report cards are in place for grade 3, and will be introduced in grade 4 this year.
8
Our Educational Program In Action
During the past year, system-wide school and curricular goals were advanced through many exciting initiatives. Among the school-wide programs undertaken during 2008-2009 at Broadmeadow were:
• All school meetings• Gr. 1-5 Reading Benchmark Assessments• Child Assault Prevention Program (CAP)
9
SPECIAL STUDIES AND PROGRAMS
Specialists in art, music, physical education, media and technology support our competent, experienced classroom teachers, enhancing the educational experience for Broadmeadow’s students.
ArtThe art program at Broadmeadow focuses on drawing, painting, construction, and 3-D projects using a wide range of materials and media. Each student is encouraged to explore his or her own artistic style within the designated projects. We integrate art with the academic core areas of study using visual interpretation. Students not only learn to problem-solve through art lessons but contribute to making our environment more visually attractive.
Health EducationThe overall goal of the health education program is to promote healthy behavior and a dedication to wellness. Its focus is on prevention rather than cure. A Health Education Specialist teaches a unit on Tobacco and a unit on Preparation for Adolescence to every fifth grade student. The balance of the curriculum is taught by the K-5 classroom teachers, the nurse, and the school counselor. Topics include safety and first aid, nutrition, drug education, dental health, personal hygiene, and emotional and environmental health.
K.A.S.E.The Kindergarten After-School Enrichment Program (K.A.S.E.) is a fun-filled opportunity for kindergartners enrolled in the Needham Public Schools. It is recreational, not academic, in nature and is offered in both the A.M. and P.M. kindergarten sessions to coincide with the school day and calendar. Contact Community Education at (781) 455-0400 x 235 for more information.
Physical EducationSkill development is stressed through a range of age-appropriate, fun activities: gymnastics and tumbling, organized activities (e.g. tag, relays, story play), movement experiences (e.g. ball and locomotor skills), outdoor and indoor adventure activities, rhythms, and sports and games. The program’s objective, however, is to give each child the opportunity to develop a wholesome self-concept and an appreciation of others - the feeling that “I CAN.”
Media InstructionBroadmeadow’s media specialist meets weekly with each class to expand the students’ literary horizons. She works with our teachers to supplement classroom instruction with literature, computer software, and other technology. The Media Center houses library books and audio-visual equipment. Each week, students visit the Media Center and are given the opportunity to select and borrow books for their reading pleasure at home. All borrowed books must be returned before others will be loaned. Parents volunteers are a vital part of the Media Program.
METCOThe Needham Public Schools participate in the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (METCO), enabling Boston residents to become students at the Broadmeadow School. Under authority of Massachusetts State Law, this program seeks to reduce racial isolation in the public schools. We welcome Boston students and their families to the Broadmeaow community.
MusicOur music classes focus on an exploration of musical concepts through singing, dancing, interpretive movement, drama, and instrument playing. Specialists seek to cultivate an appreciation of the different styles of music throughout the world. Older students are offered a range of opportunities to explore the performing arts within the school setting:
Chorus, part of the 4th and 5th grade music program, gives students the experience of performing in winter and spring concerts.
The string program, based on an Americanized Suzuki approach, is open to 3rd through 5th graders. All students perform in concert; those who read music are eligible to join an ensemble.
The band program is open to 4th and 5th graders. First year lessons are grouped by instrument (woodwinds, brass and percussion); the second year is devoted to band ensemble work. All students perform in concert.
10
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Counseling and Guidance Services attend to the feelings, sensitivities, thoughts, and viewpoints of the children. Issues vary from age-related concerns (e.g. peer relationships) to home-related issues that may be affecting academic performance or self esteem. Counseling and guidance services take place in individual, small group, and classroom settings; consultations with parents and teachers are also offered.
English Language Learners (ELL) specialists provide support for students who are not able to perform at grade level because English is not their first language. After the students are assessed, an individualized program is created for them, with one-to-one or one-to-two instruction on a regular basis.
Health Screening and Safety services are provided by the school nurse who assists in identifying students with special needs and in providing appropriate specialized care. This includes hearing and vision screening for each student every year, scoliosis screening for fifth graders, emergency care and medication administration.
Literacy Specialists facilitate better reading skills and strategies for all grades. Services are provided in small groups within and outside of the classroom.
Occupational Therapy (O.T.) helps children with learning, language, emotional, or physical difficulties function more independently and successfully in school. The occupational therapist offers sensory motor experiences through goal-directed activities to help fill in gaps or lags in the child’s total development.
Special Education Services provide specialized instruction to youngsters who have been identified, through testing, as having a disability, which prevents them from making effective progress in their classroom. Parents play a key role in the process by offering their insight and information and, thereby, helping the TEAM to understand their children. At a meeting with classroom teachers and parents, the TEAM develops an Individualized Education Program (I.E.P.) designed to support the student’s access to the general education curriculum.
Since this program is mandated, evaluation and services can only be provided with a parent’s permission. If you would like more information or believe that our child may have a disability, please contact your child’s teacher or the building principal.
Speech and Language provides diagnostic consultative and direct services to our students, including one-on-one and group work to improve speech and articulation.
The Teacher Support Team (TST) was established in 1997-98 to provide support for teachers who need assistance in developing, expanding, and implementing strategies in the regular classroom to meet the learning needs of students. The team uses a collaborative brainstorming and problem-solving approach to special challenges. The TST consists of the Asst. Principal, classroom teachers, specialists, literacy specialist, the guidance counselor and, of course, the teacher who requests assistance.
Science CenterOur approach to science emphasizes hands-on experiences for children. Needham’s nationally-recognized Science Center, located at the Newman School, is readily available to teachers for resource material, experiments, animals for the classroom, and demonstrations to supplement science curriculum concepts at each grade.
HOW WE OPERATE
School Hours Lunch/Recess 8:35 am - 2:35 pm 8:35 am - 11:05 am AM Kindergarten 12:05 pm - 2:35 pm PM Kindergarten
Contacting us via Email:Any employee (faculty, staff, administrator) of the Needham Public School System can be contacted via email using the following format:
Be sure to use the employee’s full first and last name, separated with an _, (no spaces), followed by @needham.k12.ma.us. Latenesses and AbsencesChildren are considered late if they enter their classrooms after 8:35 a.m. (or after 12:05 pm for Afternoon Kindergarten). Late arrivals should report to the office before proceeding to their classrooms.
The Safe Arrival System was established to ensure that all children arrive safely at Broadmeadow School. It is funded by the PTC. Please call this number any time before the start of school on the day your child will be absent and leave a message. Your child’s name will be recorded and checked against the absence list provided by the classroom teacher. The secretary will call the home of any child not accounted for.When your child returns to school, please provide the teacher with a written note of explanation.
11
IMPORTANT REMINDERS!• Please sign “in” and “out” at the front desk whenever you enter the school.
Don’t forget to wear a Broadmeadow School badge during your visit.
• During instructional time (8:35 am-2:35 pm), please leave any notes, lunches, supplies, and any other items you may need to get to your child in the designated
drop off box in the front lobby. Our office staff will deliver these items to your child. This procedure ensures that the learning process will not be disrupted.
Please do not go to your child’s classroom. The office staff will be happy to assist you.
BROADMEADOW SCHOOLSafe Arrival System
If your child will be absent or late for school, call the S.A.S. line any time of
day or night. 455-0448 ext. #1Leave your child's name, grade, teacher
• Parent Drop Off/Pick-Up is 8:20 - 8:35 am/2:35 pm.• After 8:35 am, please park in the lot, and accompany student to the Main Office.• Instruction begins promptly at 8:35 am.• Students not picked up by 2:50 pm will be brought to the Main Office.• Safety Patrol will assist with arrival.• At the Drop-Off/Pick-Up Zone, students exit cars on the passenger side only.• Between 8:35 am - 2:35 pm all students and visitors must enter and exit through the Main Entry only. All other doors are locked.
Entry/Exit Locations:• Walkers may enter/leave the building from: • Main Entry at the front of the building (Broadmeadow Road) (#1) • K/1 Breezeway Door (Broadmeadow Street) (#2) • Grade 2 Rear Door (access to Barbara Road and Enslin Road) (#3)• Bus/Day Care Vans - For Dismissal Students gather in Performance Center • Grade 2 Rear Door (connects to Barbara Road)• Mid-Day Kindergarten arrival and departure - Main Entry Only• Cars • Lower Parking Lot (#4)
Please make every effort to be considerate of the residents in our area. DO NOT BLOCK DRIVEWAYS, or park in RESTRICTED AREAS.
12
Barbara Rd.
(#3) Gr. 2 Rear Door
(#2) K/1 Breezeway Door (#1) Main Entry
Enslin Rd.
(#4) Lower Parking LotCar Drop Off/Pick Up
Bird St. Broadmeadow Rd.
13
PROCEDURES
School AttendanceSchool attendance is very important for a student’s success in school. Children who do not attend regularly have difficulty keeping up and also miss out on being part of the social fabric of the school. There may be times when your child is ill. If your child is too ill to attend school, you should contact the school first thing in the morning and keep the school informed if the absence continues. If your child is having difficulty attending school for any reason, please contact the school so that we can see if there is any way we can be of assistance to you.
Massachusetts General Laws are very explicit about the need for students to attend school and about the obligation of schools to account for the attendance of all children. Students who fail to attend school without parent or school permission are considered truant, and school districts are required to notify the attendance officer and court system whenever truancy is a problem. Students who miss more than seven days of school or fourteen partial days in a six-month period without documentation of a medical illness may be asked to provide medical documentation for any future absences. Again, undocumented absences must be reported.
Bicycles, Rollerblades, Heelies, Scooters, and Skate Boards Children in grades K-2 are NOT permitted to ride bicycles to school. Children in Grade 3 may ride bicycles to school after successfully completing the school sponsored Bicycle Rodeo in April. Children in Grades 4 & 5 may ride bicycles to school. Bicycles are to be locked in the bike racks and not used until dismissal. No bicycle riding is allowed on the playground. Bicycles should be walked from the bike rack to the crossing guard and while on school property. Bicycle helmets are required by law (12 and under). Students are not permitted to wear Heelies in the building. Students who roller blade must put on and take off their blades near the crossing guard. Students who scooter must fold up the scooter and carry it into the school. Helmets and pads must be worn for rollerblades, skate boards, and scooters. Students are not permitted to roller blade or skate board on school property during school hours.
Student Cell Phone PolicyCell phones are prohibited from use by students in school. If cell phones are at school they should be turned off and out of sight at all times. If students are seen using a cell phone, the cell phone will be confiscated. Any confiscated phones will need to be picked up at the end of the day in the office or picked up by a parent. Students are encouraged to use school phones if the need arises.
School Dress GuidelinesResponsibility for student dress rests with parents/guardians. Students are expected to dress for school in a manner which is appropriate and helpful to the general learning environment. Please NO: short shorts or skirts; clothes that expose the mid-torso or undergarments; clothes with inappropriate language or pictures; hats inside the classroom. We encourage students to be active, during all seasons and in all weather. Please check for appropriate INDOOR and OUTDOOR wear each day. No shorts in winter.
Early Release/Late StartThere are several planned early dismissal days during the year. Teachers use these afternoons to participate in professional development programs or to hold kindergarten parent-teacher conferences. On these days, children are dismissed at 12:05 pm (no lunch), and there is no PM kindergarten. In addition, there are two scheduled late start days where school begins at 10:35 AM. On these days, there is no AM Kindergarten or AM KASE. PM KASE begins at 11:05am and PM Kindergarten begins at 12:05pm.
If an early closing is necessary due to inclement weather or building malfunction, every effort will be made to contact parents or designated person(s). For your child’s safety, we suggest that you have an emergency plan in place in the event your child comes home unexpectedly to an empty house.
No School/Delay AnnouncementsOn days when weather conditions are severe, school will be closed. “NO SCHOOL” announcements will start at 6:30 a.m. on radio stations WRKO 68 AM, WHDH 950 AM, WBZ 1030 AM, television Channels 4, 5 and 7 and Needham cable TV.Occasionally, on stormy days, schools will have a delayed opening. On these days, school begins 2 hours later than usual, at 10:35 a.m. This announcement also will be carried on the above stations. There will be no AM kindergarten or AM KASE. PM KASE will begin at 11:05am, and PM Kindergarten will begin at 12:05pm.
Disability AccessAll meetings, conferences, programs, and activities in school department buildings are available, without discrimination, to individuals with disabilities. Whenever an individual with impaired vision seeks to obtain information, the information will be communicated as follows: A Braille copy of the posting, a tape-recording of the notice, or the use of reader, where necessary will be provided.
Whenever an individual with impaired hearing seeks to obtain information under this procedure, the information will be communicated as follows:
An interpreter will provide assistance upon request.
Parents and VisitorsParents and visitors are always welcome in our schools. For the safety of our children and to minimize disruption, visitors must report to the main office when they enter the building. Please sign in at the office if you are visiting, volunteering or helping out with a school activity. When leaving, please sign out.
Please do not go directly to your child’s classroom. The office staff will gladly assist you by calling your child to the office or dropping off items in the classroom.
PetsPets are not allowed on school grounds between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm.
School BulletinEvery other Friday, the Broadmeadow School Bulletin is sent via email. Paper copies are available for those without internet access. Please contact the office to request a paper copy of the bulletin. The Bulletin includes important information concerning events for the children in school, as well as information for parents from the Principal and Needham School System Superintendent.
CORI process for volunteersAll volunteers who may have direct and unmonitored contact with children will be required to participate in the Criminal Offender Record Information check prior to volunteering in the school. The school secretary will provide the Form to a volunteer for completion and then submit it to the Director of Personnel for processing with the Criminal History Systems Board. The CORI information will be reviewed by the Superintendent, or his designee will review the volunteer’s responsibilities and duties to determine if the volunteer may have unmonitored contact with children.
14
15
Needham School Food Service
2009-2010 School yearThe school cafeteria is open every school day (except early release days), serving many choices of nutritious hot and cold lunch, with a minimum of 4 fresh fruits, and at least 2 vegetable / salad options daily.
The school lunch menu is sent home with your child at the end of each month, for the following month.Allergy and ingredient information is available on the Food Service page of the Needham School District website.
Elementary Lunch Prices:Full lunch $2.00 (includes choice of milk)Milk only, 8 oz $0.50Bottled water, 8 oz $0.50Ice cream (Fridays only) $0.50Assorted healthful snacks $0.25 - 0.756 oz 100% juice pack $0.75
Free or reduced priced lunch are available upon completion of written application, and determination of need, each school year or at any time the financial situation in a home changes. Additional information and meal ap-plications are available from the principal.
How the automated cafeteria payment system works:1. Every enrolled student automatically has their own personal lunch account (whether they ever use it or not).2. Parents deposit money into the student’s account by check (preferred) or cash, in advance (see below). 3. Sales are automatically deducted from the student’s account. Details of account use are tracked in the system.4. Pre-payment into the account is strongly encouraged- as it is much faster, however paying with cash is an op-tion.5. Students who qualify for free or reduced price lunches are processed just as for all other students, avoiding any potentially uncomfortable situation for the student.6. All students access their accounts at the cash register by entering their 4-digit PIN number on the PIN pad located at the register. Each child’s unique PIN number stays the same from year to year, school to school, and should be memorized, but not shared. However, if they do not remember it, we are able to access it through the computer register by entering their name. 7. Older students will be notified at the cash register when their lunch account is getting low.8. A brightly colored “low balance notice” will be placed in the elementary child’s backpack on Tuesdays or Wednesdays if the child’s account goes below $15.00. This will ask you to send in another deposit.9. A “negative balance letter” (in an envelope) will be placed in the elementary child’s backpack on Fridays, when/ if the student’s account goes below $zero, with a request to replenish the account balance. . 10. Negative account balances will be allowed to go to a maximum limit of -$10.00 (for lunch purchase only. NO a la carte / snacks can be purchased “on credit”). If the students account balance goes below $-10.00, they will no longer be able to charge a regular lunch. Instead they will receive an “alternate” meal consisting of a cheese sand-wich, a serving of canned fruit, and a low fat white milk. There is no charge to the account for this alternate meal.
To deposit money into your child’s account:1. Please send or bring a check (payable to “Needham School Food Services”) to your school, in an envelope marked “Cafeteria”. Deposits are done at the school cafeteria register. A suggested minimum deposit is 75.00. 2. Record on the memo line of the check: Student’s full name, grade, and 4 digit PIN number, if you know it.
Call: Call the Food Service Office with any questions or comments. 455-0400 x219 for Fiorella Meoli, Food Services Secretary; or x216 for Ruth Griffin, Food Service Director.
**
HEALTH, SAFETy, AND NUTRITIONClothingSince some learning, especially in the younger grades, takes place seated on the floor, children should be dressed not only neatly but comfortably. In the winter, they should be outfitted with boots, gloves/mittens and hats since recess may take place outdoors if there is no ice or excessive snow. Please label all outside clothing.
A lost and found area is located in the back of the Performance Center. Please periodically check this area for personal items that may have been misplaced.
16
HEALTH SERVICES“School nursing today is a specialized practice of professional nursing that advances the well being, academic success, and life-long achievement of students. To that end, school nurses facilitate positive student responses to normal development; promote health and safety; intervene with actual and potential health problems; provide case management services; and actively collaborate with others to build student and family capacity for adaptation, self-management, self-advocacy and learning.” ~National Association of School Nurses~Health Services ProgramThe School Health Services program is provided on a full-time basis in every school and includes the following: • Individualized health care planning and case management for students with special health care needs • Illness assessment and care • Injury prevention, triage and care • Medication administration and monitoring • Health counseling and health promotion • Communicable disease prevention and control • Health screenings in compliance with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. • Hearing and vision • Postural • Height, weight and Body Mass Index
These annual screenings are initial health screenings. Parents/guardians are notified when a student does not meet the passing criteria, and are advised to seek further medical evaluation. • Environmental health and safety • Access to health care services and insurance • Management of student health record data • Emergency preparedness and response • Intercommunication between/among students, parents, the school community and health care providers • Selected health services are also provided for school staffCommunicationThe school nurse can be reached by telephone, email or via a dedicated fax line. She is also generally available in the Health Office fifteen minutes before the start of school and thirty minutes after dismissal. The nurse may also be reached by: Phone 781-455-0448, ext 2 Fax 781-453-2512
We encourage parents/guardians to call any time they have concerns and specifically for the following reasons: • A new medical diagnosis or a change in your child’s health status • A newly prescribed medication • A change in a current medication • A serious injury, illness or hospitalization • A fracture, sprain, stitches, or a cast • A contagious disease such as chicken pox, flu, strep throat, whooping cough • If a child is absent for an extended period of time • If there are any recent changes in your family that may affect your child, such as a birth, recent loss or sudden illness
To allow sufficient time to recover from an illness or injury, and to minimize the spread of an infectious illness, your child should be kept home from school if he/she has: • A communicable disease • Fever greater than 100 degrees F within the last 24 hours • Vomiting/diarrhea within the last 24 hours • Pain that requires the use of narcotic medications • An upper respiratory illness with significant coughing and/or nasal discharge
Physical Education exemption:When it is necessary to excuse your child from Physical Education, written documentation is required from your child’s physician. Written documentation is also required to resume participation in Physical Education.
Health Insurance CoverageMassachusetts offers free or low-cost health and dental insurance for school-age children. Every child in Massachusetts should have access to a primary care provider. If you have any questions or need any information about health insurance coverage, please speak with your child’s school nurse.
Health Data RequirementsThe Needham Public Schools, in accordance with the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, requires the following health information before a student enters school.
Required ImmunizationsMassachusetts Department of Public Health Regulation 105 CMR 220 requires students to be immunized before starting school. An immunization certificate/record that includes the month, day and year the immunizations were administered needs to be submitted to and reviewed by the school nurse before the student begins school.
ExemptionIf there are medical reasons why your child has not been immunized, a certificate must be obtained from your physician and forwarded to the school nurse. For religious exemption, please write a note to the school nurse.
Physical ExaminationThe Massachusetts Department of Public Health Regulation 105 CMR 200 requires a physical examination for all new students within six months of entrance to school or during the first year after entrance. A current physical examination is required at intervals of three or four years after school entrance.
Medication PolicyThe Needham Public Schools Medication Policy complies with state guidelines. The following statements highlight the main points of the policy. The entire medication policy is available for review in each Health Office.
• The Health Services policy encourages that medication be administered before and after school hours, if possible • All medications, prescriptions or over-the-counter medications require a physician’s order, completed parental permission form, and parent-signed administration plan. Medication will not be administered until all three documents are complete and received by the School Nurse. These required forms are available in the health office or may be downloaded from the health services website: http://district.needham.k12.ma.us/ss_health_service.htm • After consultation with the school nurse and the development of a medication--administration plan, students who fall into the following exceptions may self-administer medication: - Students with asthma or other respiratory diseases may possess and administer prescription inhalers - Students with life-threatening allergies may possess and administer epinephrine via an auto-injector - Students with cystic fibrosis may possess and administer prescription enzyme supplements - Students with diabetes may possess and administer a glucose monitoring test and insulin delivery system • Medications must be delivered to the School Nurse in a correctly labeled pharmacy or manufacturer’s medication container by the parent, guardian, or responsible adult. (Medications are not accepted in containers such as plastic bags.) Students are not permitted to bring medication to school. • All medication orders expire at the end of each school year. New medication orders are required at the start of the school year. • All medications must be picked up by a parent/guardian before the close of the school year. Any medications that are not picked up by the close of school will be destroyed.
Guidelines for Management of Life-Threatening Allergies in the SchoolsIn compliance with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Education, the Needham Public School’s have developed the “Guidelines for the Management of Life-Threatening Allergies in School.” These Guidelines are available in the Health Office and on the Health Services website. The following statements reflect the important highlights of these guidelines.
1. Parents should notify the School Nurse and the classroom teacher of their child’s allergy and schedule an appointment with the nurse to discuss the specifics of their child’s allergy. 2. The School Nurse will develop an Individual Health Care Plan and an Allergy Action Plan/ Emergency plan for each student with life-threatening allergy to ensure his/her safety at school. 3. Room Parents must check with the teacher when planning classroom parties and activities. Parents must also check with teachers before sending any food into the classroom.
The Health Services section of the Needham Public School’s website is also a good source of information. Many of the frequently requested health forms are available for downloading and the site provides links to a number of health reference websites.http://district.needham.k12.ma.us/ss_health_service.htm
18
19
Safety* Stranger AwarenessThe Broadmeadow School teaches a personal safety program through: Child Assault Prevention Program (CAP). Through specially designed activities, games, songs and skill rehearsals, the children learn how to protect themselves from dangerous or threatening situations. These programs empower children with information, skills and the support they need to be safe.
The program has five parts: 1) Getting help in an emergency; 2) Checking first and using the buddy system when away from adults; 3) Distinguishing between appropriate and inappropriate touch; 4) How to recognize and respond to inner warning feeling and how to use assertive self-protection; and 5) Safety in familiar and unfamiliar situations.
* Playground SafetyOur playground and playing fields are a wonderful resource for our students and for sport teams around Needham. We take great pride in keeping the school grounds clean and safe for our children. If you have a dog and walk the dog on school property, please remember: It is the law to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up after it. Please help us keep our outdoor environment healthy for kids. No animals are allowed on school grounds during the school day (8:35am - 2:35pm).
School SnacksChildren have smaller stomachs than adults, so they may not be able to meet their nutritional needs with just three meals a day. Snacks account for about 20 percent of a child’s daily energy intake and can provide nutrients and food energy that are missing from their meals. Try to avoid sweets and high fat or “junk food” choices as snacks between meals. Children tend to eat larger portions of these items with their stomach are empty. Here are some suggestion for snacks from different food groups in the food guide pyramid.
Bread, Cereals, Rice and Pasta. Animals crackers, cereal, bagel, English muffin, graham cracker, pita bread, rice cake, toast, tortilla, air-popped popcorn, pretzels, “cut-out” sandwiches (pieces of sandwiches cut with a cookie cutter).Milk, Yogurt and Cheese. Cheese (slices or cubes or cut with cookie cutters), pudding, string cheese, yogurt or cottage cheese.Vegetables. Any raw vegetable (in strips or fun shapes). Try sending a dip like low fat ranch dressing or "ants on a log" (celery with cream cheese or peanut butter topped with raisins)Fruits. Any fresh or canned fruit, applesauce (natural style contains no added sugar), dried fruit.Meat, Poultry, Fish, Beans Eggs and Nuts. Peanut butter spread on crackers, bread, pita or bagel, yogurt, hard-cooked eggs, rolled-up turkey or ham slices, hummus (with pita), dried fruit and nut mix.
Water BottlesPlease encourage your children to remain well hydrated while in school. Remind your children to drink all beverages purchased or brought to school, including water. Drinking water is especially important during warm weather, in the winter when the heat is on and causing a dry environment, and when children are expending a lot of energy on the playground or in gym.
Please provide your child with a water bottle with fresh water daily. To prevent the multiplication of germs in standing water and on the mouthpiece, encourage your child to bring the water bottle home daily for a hot, soapy cleaning. If your child forgets to bring home the bottle, then send in disposable bottles of spring water. Label the bottle with your child’s name and grade. Discourage the sharing of water bottles.
20
PARENT RESOURCE INFORMATIONA Partial Listing
Needham Public SchoolsCentral Administration Offices
1330 Highland AveNeedham, MA 02492
781-455-0400
Superintendent of Schools Daniel E. Gutekanst x203Director of Personnel Resources Thomas Campbell x209Director of Program Development Theresa Duggan x226& ImplementationDirector of Student Development Chris Brumbach x213& Program Evaluation Director of Financial Operations Anne Gulati x206Director of Special Education Mary Lammi x215Preschool – ElementaryDirector of Food Services Ruth Griffin x216Director of Transportation Sheila Hamwey x234METCO Director Joanne Allen-Willoughby 781-455-0800 x2554KASE Coordinator Connie Leonard 781-559-3384Preschool Coordinator Diane Dunham 781-455-0416
Needham School Committee Meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the Broadmeadow School. The public is welcome to attend.
Recreational and Extracurricular ActivitiesNeedham offers a rich variety of activities for youngsters which are announced in the local Needham newspapers and in the Broadmeadow weekly Bulletin. These include, but are not limited to:
NEEDHAM PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION, Town Hall (781-455-7521) – Primary leisure agency for Needham, offering active and passive activities year-round for citizens ages 3+. Three registration periods with on-going registration for some programs. Sells Rosemary Pool passes (summer only) and tennis badges for town-operated facilities. Facility guide – with map of town playgrounds, ice skating areas, Fit Trail at Ridge Hill Reservation, etc. – available from the office (open 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays). Program Line (781-444-7212) provides recorded messages of program and facility use status 24 hours a day.
CHARLES RIVER YMCA, 860 Great Plain Ave. (781-444-6400). Non-members welcome.
BOY SCOUTS, Boston Minuteman Council (617-522-4000).CUB SCOUTS, Boston Minuteman Council. Broadmeadow Contact: Brett Dorney (781-449-7018).
continued on page 21
21
GIRL SCOUTS, Patriots’ Trail Girl Scout Council (781-893-6113).
INDIAN GUIDES AND INDIAN PRINCESSES, Grades K-4. Sponsored by the Charles River YMCA. Separate father/son and father/daughter programs involving tribal meetings, special projects, trips and campouts.
BASEBALLCHARLES RIVER YMCA T-BALL (fall & spring) ages 4-6 (781-444-6400)
NEEDHAM FARM LEAGUE AND ROOKIE LEAGUE (spring) ages 6 & 7.
NEEDHAM LITTLE LEAGUE (spring) ages 8-15. Contact Chuck Matthews
NEEDHAM SUMMER BASEBALL AGES 8-18.
BASKETBALLNEEDHAM BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION (NBA) (winter) grades 1-4. Contact Don McGee (781-444-5247) or Chris Considine (781-444-8036).
SAINT JOSEPH’S (winter) grades 5-8. Contact Greg Sees (781-444-4469).
CHARLES RIVER YMCA (fall & winter) ages 4 - adult. (781-444-6400).
FOOTBALLPOP WARNER (Aug. 1 - early Nov.) ages 7-14. Contact Leo Richards (781-449-2836) or Bob Nelson (781-444-8504).
HOCKEYNEEDHAM YOUTH HOCKEY ASSOCIATION (fall, winter, spring) ages 5-17. Contact Jeanette Duval (781-444-6055).
SOCCERCHARLES RIVER YMCA (spring & fall) ages 4-6 (781-444-6400).
ST. BARTHOLOMEW’S SOCCER PROGRAM (fall and spring) grades 1 & 2 (781-444-6559).
NEEDHAM SOCCER CLUB (fall and spring) ages 8-19. (781-444-3444).
SWIMMINGNEEDHAM SUMMER SWIM TEAM ages 6-18. Contact Sandy Hughes (781-449-6402).
TRACKNEEDHAM TRACK CLUB (summer) ages 4-14. Contact John Hrones (781-449-4954) or Dave Johnson (781-444-3383).
TENNISNEEDHAM PARK & RECREATION (spring, summer, fall) youth (781-455-7521).
22
Non-Discrimination Notice
The Needham School System offers all programs, activities, and employment opportunities without regard to age, race, status, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and disability. (Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, MGL 76 Section 5)
Non Harassment Notice
Harassment is in direct contradiction to the philosophy and policy of the Needham Public Schools. The Needham Schools expects all adults and students to treat one another with dignity and respect. Harassment also violates state and federal laws including Title VII, Title IX, MGL 119, 151, and 214.
Any person may bring to the attention of the compliance coordinator any concern or incident, which appears to be in violation of the discrimination or harassment policies. All grievances will be processed as rapidly as possible. The Non-Discrimination Coordinators are:
For Staff For Parents or StudentsThomas Campbell Thomas DentonDirector of Personnel Resources Director of Guidance ServicesNeedham Public Schools Needham Public Schools1330 Highland Avenue 609 Webster StreetNeedham, MA 02492 Needham, MA 02492Tel: 781-455-0400 x208 781-455-0800 x1130TTY: 781-455-0424 TTY: 781-455-0424Fax: 781-455-0417 Fax: 781-455-0408
These individuals have responsibility for accepting, investigating, and resolving complaints of discrimination or harassment. They shall also be responsible for ensuring that all staff and students are trained and/or notified annually about these requirements and procedures. Violations of the discrimination and harassment policies will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension.
The parent, guardian or custodians of a child refused admission to or excluded from the public schools or from the advantages, privileges, and courses of study of such public schools shall on application be furnished with a written statement of the reasons. The parent has the right to appeal any decisions by the School System to the Bureau of Special Education Appeals, the Office for Civil Rights, or the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.
23
Needham Elementary SchoolsCode of Conduct
Section I - Principles of Good Practice at the Elementary Level:The goal of the Needham Public Schools is to help students develop self-responsible behavior. While in the regular classroom, teachers have complete charge of student behavior and may establish classroom rules for behavior to complement those set by the school.
All students shall have a simple set of rules governing behavior. Students are expected to demonstrate behavior appropriate to specific settings. Teachers are asked to communicate clearly the rules of the school and classroom to the students.
Primary school children need appropriate adult models both at school and at home to develop acceptable social behavior. School rules should be simple and few and emphasize a spirit of cooperation and contribution. They shall be stated in the affirmative wherever possible.
Behavior expectations shall be in keeping with each child’s developmental readiness. Children shall be guided to:1. Develop sound decision making skills2. Exhibit self-responsible behavior3. Cooperate with teachers and peer group
Inappropriate (but not physically dangerous) behavior shall be pointed out and, if repeated, will bring about a consequence. Teachers are urged to contact parents early in the process of solving behavior problems to create a strong home/school partnership.
Strategies to Help Children Modify Behavior:
1. Parent conference - At the first sign of repeated infractions or a serious incident.2. Behavior planning and contracting for improvement.3. Involvement of the principal, behavior resource teacher and/or counselor resulting in incident report being filed.4. Application to the Teacher Support Team5. Referral for Ch. 766 evaluation - to be made for a student who exhibits dangerously assaultive or self-abusive behaviors or if the principal suspects there is a disability.
When a child does not respond to the direction of the classroom teacher, or an incident is considered serious, referral to the principal is both appropriate and necessary. All members of the school community have the responsibility to conduct themselves with respect for all individuals, their rights and their property in school and during all school-sponsored activities, including those times when they are riding school buses. Students are expected to behave in accordance with these rules and regulations and to remove themselves from situations which involve inappropriate activity. Every effort will be made by school personnel to help students solve problems or correct behavior without interrupting the daily program of studies. Whenever appropriate, school personnel will also modify environments to help prevent the likelihood of misbehavior.
Section II - Rules of Behavior - Level of the Principal:The following behaviors may serve as grounds for suspension or other disciplinary action including loss of student privileges.
1. Use of obscene, abusive or profane language or gestures2. Possession of a dangerous weapon* or object
24
3. Harassment or intimidation of another student especially on the basis of race, sex, national origin, religion, handicap or sexual orientation4. Behavior which endangers persons or property or disrupts the educational process or school activity5. Fighting or any assault or act of violence committed against another student or school personnel
The Needham Public Schools shall suspend a student for the following behavior:
1. Use or threatened use of a weapon.* 2. Possession of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages
*The term ‘dangerous weapon’ shall include, but not be limited to, any type of firearm, knife or martial arts equipment, explosive devices or a realistic replica of a dangerous weapon. Any dangerous weapon in the possession of a student shall be removed from the student’s custody, and any illegal weapon shall be turned over to the Needham Police Department. Any student who brings a firearm to school must be expelled for a minimum of one school year, with exceptions granted only by the superintendent.
Due ProcessSuspensions of 10 Days or LessThe procedural rights to which all students in the Needham Public Schools are entitled as part of “due process” are as follows:
For the violation of any school rule or regulation which is grounds for suspension, the following shall occur:
1. Any student faced with suspension must be given an informal hearing in the form of a conference between the student, the student’s parent(s) if available, and the principal. At this conference, that student shall be informed of the reason for the conference, shall be given the opportunity to present his or her side of the story and shall be given a decision within a reasonable amount of time.2. Prior to putting a suspension into effect, the principal or his or her designee shall make a reasonable effort to telephone and inform the student’s parent or guardian of the impending suspension; this shall include attempts to contact the parent at home and at work. All attempts should be documented. Parents may contact the principal or his or her designee for additional information regarding the suspension prior to a readmittal conference.3. Within 24 hours of the informal hearing referred to above, the principal shall mail a notice to the parent or guardian of the suspended student and shall send copies of the notice to the Superintendent of Schools. The notice shall contain:a) the reason for the suspensionb) the school rule violated by the studentc) a statement of the effective date and duration of the suspension4. The parent or guardian shall be asked to attend a student readmittal conference with the principal as soon as possible after the date of the suspension. At the principal’s discretion, the readmittal conference may be held by telephone. 5. For suspension longer than ten days or expulsion, the student will receive written notices of the charges; the right to be represented by a lawyer or other representative; and the opportunity for a formal hearing.
Suspension of Bus PrivilegesA student’s bus privileges may be suspended or revoked if the behavior violation occurs on a school bus or while waiting to board, boarding or exiting the school bus. A student may also be suspended or expelled from school for inappropriate conduct which occurs while riding, boarding, or exiting the school bus. Such discipline shall be handled in the following manner:
25
1. For the first and second violations, a written warning shall be issued from the student’s principal to the student and parent that a violation has occurred, stating the violation, and that school bus privileges will be suspended if any further violation occurs. 2. For the third violation, school bus privileges may be suspended for a defined period of time as determined by the principal by written notice to the parent(s).
Discipline of Special Needs StudentsThe Individuals with Disabilities Education Act at 20 U.S.C., §1400, et. seq. and related regulations and 34 C.F.R., §300 et.seq., (“IDEA”) provide eligible students (“students”) with certain procedural rights and protections in the context of student discipline, as follows:
Short term removals. Students who violate school rules are subject to removal from their current placement for up to ten (10) consecutive school days to the extent that such a removal would be applied to students without disabilities, without a prior determination of whether the conduct is a manifestation of the student’s disability. Students may be removed for additional periods of up to ten (10) consecutive school days in the same school year for separate incidents of misconduct without a manifestation determination, so long as the removal does not constitutes a “change of placement” as described below. However, during such additional removals the district must provide the student with services to the extent necessary for progress in the general curriculum and the student’s IEP goals, as determined by the Principal in consultation with at least one teacher. In addition, if appropriate, the district must conduct a functional behavioral assessment and develop or revise an existing behavioral plan for the student.
Change of Placement. A suspension of longer than 10 consecutive days or a series of shorter term suspensions that constitute a pattern are considered to represent a “change in placement.” Prior to a suspension that constitutes a change in placement, the student’s Team, including the student’s parents, must convene to determine whether the behavior is a manifestation of the student’s disability. In making this determination, the Team must review all relevant information in the student’s file, including the IEP, teacher observations, and any relevant information provided by the parents, to determine if the conduct was caused by, or had a direct and substantial relationship to the student’s disability, or was the direct result of any failure by the school to implement the IEP.
Results of the Manifestation Determination. If the Team determines that the behavior is not a manifestation of the disability, then the school may suspend or expel the student consistent with the policies applied to students without disabilities, except that the district must still provide an appropriate educational program to the student, as determined by the Team, which program may be in a different setting. If the Team determines that the behavior is a manifestation of a disability, the Team must conduct a functional behavioral assessment and develop a behavioral intervention plan or where a behavioral intervention plan was previously developed, must review the plan and, if necessary, modify it to address the behavior. Except in circumstances involving drugs, weapons, or serious bodily injury as described below, the student will be returned to the placement from which the student was removed unless the placement is changed by agreement or through the Team process.
Exception for Drugs, Weapons and Serious Injury. Regardless of the Team’s decisions regarding the manifestation determination, school personnel may order a change in the placement of a student to an interim alternative educational setting, such setting to be determined by the Team, for not more than forty-five (45) school days if the student (1) carries a weapon to school or to a school function; (2) knowingly possesses, uses illegal drugs, or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school, on school premises, or at a school function; or has inflicted serious bodily injury upon another person at school, on school premises, or at a school function. Additionally, a Massachusetts Department of Education Hearing Officer, under certain circumstances, may order a change in the placement of a student with a disability to an interim alternative education setting for up to forty-five (45) days if the hearing officer determines that maintaining the current placement is substantially likely to result in
injury to the child or others.
When a parent(s)/guardian(s) disagrees with the Team’s decision on the “manifestation determination” or with a decision regarding placement, the parent(s)/guardian(s) has a right to request an expedited due process hearing from the Bureau of Special Education Appeals.
Additional information regarding the procedural protections for special education students eligible for services under laws providing for services for students with disabilities can be obtained from Christine Brumbach who can be reached at 781-455-0400 x 213.
Discipline of Students Whose Eligibility for Special Education is SuspectedThe IDEA protections summarized above also apply to a child who has not yet been found eligible for services under the statute if the district is “deemed to have knowledge” that the child was eligible for such services before the conduct that precipitated the disciplinary action occurred. The IDEA provides that a school district is “deemed to have knowledge” if: (1) the child’s parent had expressed concern in writing to district supervisory or administrative personnel or the child’s teacher that the child needs special education and related services; (2) the child’s parent had requested an evaluation of the child to determine eligibility for special education services; or (3) the teacher of the child or other school district personnel had expressed specific concerns about a pattern of behavior by the child directly to the district’s director of special education or to other supervisory personnel. However, a school district is not “deemed to have knowledge” if the district evaluated the student and determined that the child was not eligible for special education services or the child’s parent refused an evaluation of the child or IDEA services.
If the school district has no knowledge that a student is an eligible student under the IDEA before taking disciplinary measures against the student, the student may be disciplined just as any other student may be. If, however, a request is made for an evaluation to determine eligibility while the student is subject to disciplinary measures, the district must conduct the evaluation in an expedited manner. Pending the results of the evaluation, the student must remain in the educational placement determined by school authorities, which may include suspension or expulsion without services. If the student is determined eligible for an IEP as a result of the evaluation, the school district must provide the student with special education and related services in accordance with the IDEA.
26
Broadmeadow School HandbookLayout and Printing by the Needham High School
Graphic Communications Department
BROADMEADOW SCHOOL SONG
Stand up and cheer forBroadmeadow School,
and lift your voices high.
Cheer and cheer like rolling thunder,rising to the sky.
Our boys and girls will all stand together,proudly our voices raise.
