Livingston Union School District
YAMATO COLONY
Home of the Dragons
2016-17 Parent and Student
Handbook
800 N. Main Street
Livingston, California 95334
Office (209) 394-5470, Fax (209) 394-5471
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School Mission
Yamato Colony Elementary School has developed and provides its students
with a comprehensive, standards aligned, quality educational program that is
sustained with parent and community support.
School Vision
It is our commitment to provide a systematic educational program in all
academic areas. Curriculum will be standards based and differentiated to
meet the individual needs of all our students. We will provide a learning
environment that promotes positive self-esteem and stimulates academic
achievement and enthusiasm for learning. Instruction and activities will be
provided to help students understand and respect cultural diversity and
individual differences.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Yamato Colony Parents and Community,
As the new principal of Yamato Colony Elementary School, it is my pleasure to welcome everyone back
to an amazing 2016/17 school year.
I am honored to serve as the principal of Yamato Colony Elementary School. Being part of the Yamato
community is truly a privilege where students, teachers, and parents care for each other and strive to
create positive relationships that support academic and social growth.
We at Yamato Colony are committed to building a strong partnership with our parents. As partner, we
can foster healthy and positive relationships as well as provide a rigorous curriculum that prepares our
students to become critical thinkers, to possess strong communication skills, to become innovative, and
to collaboratively work with diverse students. Yamato Colony offers numerous opportunities for parents
to become active members of their child’s education. We encourage you to join us in our school
committees and school events.
The Yamato Colony 2016/17 Parent-Student Handbook is a resource booklet that contains valuable
information to help understand the policy and procedures of our school. We have organized the
handbook by categories to provide a quick reference to the information. Please read the handbook with
your child and keep it in a convenient place to reference throughout the school year. A separate packet
will be provided on the first day of school. The forms in the packet will need to be signed and return to
your child’s teacher by the first week of school.
Once again, welcome back to school! Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at
(209) 394-5470.
Best Regards,
Alma De Luna, Principal
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
School Personnel 3
2016-2017 School Calendar 4
Daily Schedule 5
ATTENDANCE
Registration, Tardy and Early Release, Dismissal Time, Absences, Change of Phone
Number or Address, Leaving School Grounds, Intra-District Open Enrollment, Visitors on
Campus
6-8
HEALTH
Immunization Requirements, Use of Medication at School, Head Lice, Student Accidental
Insurance for Participation in Sports
8-9
NUTRITION
Breakfast and Lunch Program, Other Food Sales 9-10
INSTRUCTION AND PROGRAM SERVICES
Dual Language Academy (DLA), Special Education Services, Counseling Services, School
Psychologists, Assets After School Program, School Field Trips
10-11
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
District Standard Dress Code & School Uniform, Student Conduct, Student Discipline,
Positive Consequences, Negative Consequences, Items that Do Not Belong at School,
Suspension and Expulsion, Bullying/Cyber Bullying, Electronic Devices, Electronic
Information Resources
11-17
TRANSPORTATION
Bus Conduct, Additional Bus Conduct Expectations, Bus Surveillance System, Foggy Day
Schedule
16-19
SAFETY
Playground Safety Expectations, Pesticide Usage 19-20
PARENT INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
School Activities and Parent Involvement, Parent Concerns 21
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2016-2017 YAMATO COLONY SCHOOL PERSONNEL
Transitional Kindergarten
Melanie Ballard – P10
Kindergarten Kindergarten Dual Language Academ (DLA)
Lucy Carbajal – P11 Adela Fuentes – A4
Stephanie Dickie – A6 Elizabeth Mendonca – A5
First Grade First Grade Dual Language Academy (DLA)
Nancy Brasil- A8 María Jerónimo – A2
Leslie Cardoso – A-3 Lupe Perez – A7
Second Grade Second Grade Dual Language Academy (DLA)
Estela Yniquez – C1 Caritina Vásquez – C3
Rosa Jarero – C4
Third Grade Third Grade Dual Language Academy
Alfredo Gonzalez – D1 Jeannie Duran – D3
Michelle Lopez– D4 Alicia Villa- D2
Fourth Grade Fourth Grade Dual Language Academy
Emma Gonzalez – P7 Angelica Tejeda – C2
Filiberto Fuentes – P6
Fifth Grade Fifth Grade Dual Language Academy
Tricia Bencich – P1 Teresa Razo – P2
Celeste Pomicpic– P4
Special Education
Dana Bates, RSP – P12
Janet Johnson SDC- P13
Instructional Aides
Monica Gomez, Ana Berta Pulido, Norma Correa, Sarita Dhanota, Himani Saini, Maria Velasquez, Cindy
Bueno, and Lucy Koehn
Principal and Support Staff ______________________________________________________ Alma De Luna, Principal Barbara Blazzard, Instructional Resource Teacher/Library
Susanna Flores, Administrative Secretary Maria Reyes, Library/Resource Clerk
Ruth Villarreal, Attendance Clerk Damien Ramirez, Technology Lab Clerk
Alma Lopez, Counselor Nina Peña, Day Custodian
Jorge Belmonte, Psychologist Derek Knight, Night Custodian
Melissa Mejia, Literacy Tutor Maribel Herrera, Night Custodian
Estela Chacon-Carlos-Academic Clinician Hortencia Castro, Cafeteria Manager
Lori Morgan, Nurse Kristi Gong, Health Clerk
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2016-2017 SCHOOL CALENDAR
Month Date Event Month Date Event
August 16 First Day of School January 26 DLA Parent Meeting 5:30 p.m.
24 Yamato Colony Back To School
Night - 6:00 p.m.
February 09-10 Kinder Round Up
September 05 Labor Day Holiday 13 Lincoln’s Birthday Observed – No
School
15 DLA Parent Meeting 5:30 p.m. 20 Washington’s Birthday Observed –
No School
October 3-7 Parent Conference Week
Minimum Days -Release Time is
1:15 p.m.
March 01 Spring Pictures
07 Fall Picture Day 03 End of 2nd Trimester
24-28 Red Ribbon Week 06-10 Parent Conference Week Minimum
Days- Release Time is 1:15 p.m.
12 Daylight Savings Time Starts
November 06 Daylight Savings Time Ends 21-25 District Wide Parent Request Week
08 Fall Picture Retake Day 24 Minimum Day – Release Time is 1:15
p.m.
04 End of First Trimester
11 Veterans’ Day Holiday – No
School
April 14 Minimum Day- Release Time is 1:15
p.m.
18 Minimum Day – Release Time is
1:15 p.m.
17-21 Spring Break Recess
21-25 Thanksgiving Holiday – No
School
27 DLA Parent Meeting at 5:30 p.m.
December 16 Minimum Day – Release Time is
1:15 p.m.
May 10 Open House
19 -
Jan 6
Winter Break 26 Yamato Family Picnic Day 11:00 a.m.-
12:15 p.m.
29 Memorial Day Holiday- No School
January 09 School Resumes
16 Martin Luther King’s Birthday –
Holiday, No School
June 06 Last Day of School Minimum Day
Dismissal at 1:15 p.m. /End of 3rd
Trimester
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2016-17 YAMATO COLONY SCHOOL
DAILY SCHEDULE
Opening of School
7:30 a.m. School Office and Cafeteria Opens
7:45 a.m. Teachers Arrive on Campus
7:50 a.m. Students Released from Cafeteria to the Playground
7:55 a.m. Warning Bell
7:57 a.m. Classes Begin
All students should be on campus each day by 7:50 a.m. to prevent being tardy. Students
eating breakfast at school should arrive by 7:40 a.m.
Morning Recess
10:00 a.m. K – 5 Morning Recess
10:20 a.m. K – 5 Classes Resume
Lunch
11:00 - 11:45 a.m. Kindergarten and First Grade Lunch
11:16 - 12:00 p.m. Second and Third Grade Lunch
11:30 - 12:15 p.m. Fourth and Fifth Grade Lunch
Regular Dismissal
2:15 p.m. Kindergarten through Fifth Grade Dismissal
Please make every effort to keep your child in school during the entire instructional day.
Closing of School
3:30 p.m. Teachers Leave Campus
4:30 p.m. Office Closes
Minimum Day Dismissal
1:15 p.m. Kindergarten through Fifth Grade Early Dismissal
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ATTENDANCE
REGISTRATION
Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten – The following records are required for TK and
Kindergarten registration: Birth certificate, immunization records, oral examination,
and emergency phone numbers, proof of residency and health and academic screening.
Grades 1st through 5th – Immunization records, birth certificate and proof of residency are required.
Physical examination within 18 months is necessary for first grade. Students must be accompanied by a
parent or guardian to sign the school forms.
TARDY AND EARLY RELEASE
Tardiness interferes with learning and disrupts the teacher and class. All students should be in school
every day on time. Instruction begins promptly at 7:57 each morning. Please make sure your child
arrives at school by 7:50 a.m. Students may not be dropped off at school earlier than 7:30 a.m. Students
must report to the office before going to class when tardy.
Students leaving school early will miss out on critical instruction. Please make every effort to schedule
appointments after school and during school vacations. Parents who need to take a child out of school
before the end of the school day must first sign in at the office. This, of course, is strictly for the safety
of your child. Students will not be released from class early if the request is made within 15 minutes
(2:00 p.m. or 1:00 pm if we are on early release) of release time unless it is an emergency. Students
needing to be picked up early from school will be called out of class only after the authorized adult has
arrived at the school office. Telephone request to dismiss students from class will not be accepted. A
student who accumulates more than 6 tardies and/or early releases will not be considered for Perfect
Attendance Awards.
DISMISSAL TIME
Dismissal time is 2:15 on regular school days and 1:15 on minimum days. If your child is picked up after
school, please be sure you are on time. There is no supervision after school for your child. Teachers
have meetings and the office staff has important school business to conduct after school. If you have an
emergency situation and are going to be late, please call and inform the school office, and/or make
arrangements for someone else to pick up your child. If you pick up your child after school, please park
your car in the parking lot adjacent to the school then walk to the front of the school and pick up your
child on the sidewalk in front of the school office. For your convenience, you may also utilize the drop-
off and pick-up zones located directly in front of the school. You must wait behind the buses then pull
forward once the buses leave. Students will only be allowed to get into cars in the pick-up zone directly
in front of the cafeteria.
PARKING OR LEAVING YOUR CAR UNATTENDED IN THE DROP-OFF OR PICK-UP ZONES IS
NOT ALLOWED AT ANY TIME. Always pull forward in the drop-off and pick-up zones. The parking
lot should never be used as a drop-off or pick-up zone and remember that traffic always flows in one
direction in both of the parking lots.
ABSENCES
When a student is absent, a signed excuse note from the parent/guardian explaining the absence or a
phone call to the school informing the office of the absence is mandatory. Legally, children are required
to be in school unless ill, under quarantine by a county or city health officer, having a medical, dental or
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optometric appointment, or attending funeral services for a member of the immediate family. If your
child is absent for any other reason, he/she is unexcused.
If your child is absent:
1. The teacher will talk to the child about why he/she was absent.
2. If the child is absent for three consecutive days, the teacher will call home to verify the
reason for the extended absences.
3. If the child is absent for more than three consecutive unexcused days, he/she will be
declared truant.
4. If the child is frequently absent or tardy, either excused or unexcused, the parent will be
asked to have a conference with the teacher.
5. If the child continues to be absent or tardy, the parent(s) will be asked to meet with the
principal.
6. Should the above procedures not be effective, your child will be declared habitually truant
and you, the parent(s), will be referred to the Livingston School Attendance Review Board
(SARB) for subsequent action.
7. After five consecutive unexcused absences, a student will be dropped from the class
roster. It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school when going out of town or any
other reason causing an extending absence.
8. If your child continues to have unexcused absences, he/she may have to repeat the grade
he/she is currently attending.
CHANGE OF PHONE NUMBER OR ADDRESS
It is critical for the health and safety of your child that you keep the school informed if you change your
phone number. Please send a note to your child’s teacher or call the school office at 394-5470 anytime a
phone number listed on your child’s Emergency Information form changes. This includes phone
numbers for home, cell, work, babysitters, and people you have listed as emergency contacts. If you are
moving from Livingston, please notify the office as far in advance as possible. The necessary forms will
be filled out for the next school your child will attend. This will help prevent any disruption in your
child’s education.
LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS
Students must remain at school during the school day. We highly encourage parents to schedule
appointments outside of the school instructional day to avoid losing precious instructional learning.
However, we under that there are certain circumstances out of our control and students need to leave the
school before the end of the school day. If your child needs to leave the school grounds, he/she MUST
notify the office staff and provide a written parental permission.
INTRA-DISTRICT OPEN ENROLLMENT
Procedures for the selection and transfer of students among district school have been established and
approved by the Governing Board in accordance with the law. Parents/guardians of any student who
resides within the district boundaries may apply to enroll their child in any district school regardless of
the location of residence within the district.
VISITORS ON CAMPUS
We believe that it is important for parents/guardians and community members to take an active interest in
the issues affecting district schools and students. We encourage interested parents/guardians and
community members to visit the schools and participate in the educational program. At the same time, a
school’s most fundamental duty is to protect the safety and welfare of its students and staff.
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To ensure the safety of students and staff and minimize interruption of the instructional program, the school
district has established procedures which facilitate visits during regular school days. Visits during school
hours need to be arranged with the principal. When a visit involves a conference with a teacher or the
principal, an appointment should be scheduled during non-instructional time, when possible.
A visitor is a person entering school premises for a purpose other than leaving or collecting children at the
beginning or end of the school day. Any person who is not a student or staff member shall register
immediately upon entering any school building or grounds when school is in session.
Registration Procedures
1. Visitors are required to report directly to the school office upon entering school grounds: (Penal Code
627.3)
a. Each visitor shall enter his or her name, the purpose of his or her visit, and the time of entrance
into the visitor’s logbook.
b. Visitors will be issued an identification badge (dated) that must be worn and visible during the
visit.
2. Permission to proceed to a classroom or any area of the school must be cleared by office personnel.
3. Should the intended visit interfere with the planned instructional program, the principal/designee will so
advise the visitor and suggest another time for the visit.
a. Requests to observe a classroom, the visitor must make arrangements with the teacher and state
the purpose of observation. This should be made at least two days in advance of the intended
visit.
b. Visitors must verbalize their intended destination to school office personnel. Office personnel will
then contact the classroom teacher or supervisor on duty.
4. Visitors will wait in the front office until permission is given to proceed to the classroom.
5. Visitors will report back to the main office, sign-out, return identification badge, and proceed directly off
school grounds.
Volunteers are required to submit the volunteer application and be cleared by school office personnel prior
to volunteering. This process could take up to one week to be completed.
HEALTH
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
No person shall be admitted as a pupil to the school or program unless he/she has been fully immunized.
Students entering school must provide a written immunization record of each vaccine dose (or of an
exception to the immunization requirements). This record must show the month, day and year of receipt
of each required dose. (H & S.C. 120375)
USE OF MEDICATION AT SCHOOL
If your child is on medication of any kind, please notify the school nurse. The school CAN NOT
administer any medication of ANY TYPE without written parent AND doctor permission. Please pick
up the medication consent form from the school office. THIS FORM MUST BE FILLED OUT BY YOUR
CHILD’S DOCTOR. Only medication in a prescription bottle with student’s name and dosage will be
administered. We will not administer over-the-counter medications.
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HEAD LICE
The district’s head lice policy encourages early detection and treatment in a manner that minimizes
disruption to the educational program and reduces student absences. School staff shall report all suspected
cases of head lice to the school nurse as soon as possible. The school nurse or designee shall examine the
student and other students who are siblings of the affected student.
If a student is found with active head lice, he/she shall be excluded from attendance. The parent/guardian
of the affected student shall be given information about the recommended treatment for head lice and
encouraged to begin treatment of the student immediately and to check all members of the family. The
student shall be allowed to return to school the next day and shall be checked by the nurse or designee
before returning to class and allowed to remain in school if no active head lice are detected. Once he/she is
determined to be free of lice, the student shall be rechecked weekly for up to six weeks. Three school days
of excused absence will be allowed for the communicable condition to be resolved. Staff will maintain the
privacy of students identified as having head lice.
STUDENT ACCIDENTAL INSURANCE FOR PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS
Under state law, school districts are required to ensure that all members of school athletic teams have
accidental injury insurance that covers medical and hospital expenses. The District does not provide
medical and hospital services for students injured while participating in athletic activities, however the
district does provide optional coverage for students at a reasonable price through a private insurance
carrier. Some students may also qualify to enroll in no-cost or low-cost local, state, or federally sponsored
health insurance programs. Information about these programs may be obtained by calling
1-800-880-5305. (Ed. Code, §§ 32221.5, 49471)
NUTRITION
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! A healthy breakfast each day is necessary for students’
success in school. The cafeteria opens for breakfast daily at 7:30 a.m. and closes immediately after the last
bus arrives or at 7:55 a.m. We encourage our students to eat breakfast at school before the start of the
school day. Parents of students who are consistently late to school and are having breakfast after school
begins will be contacted by the Principal. Breakfast and lunch is served daily to all students free of
charge. You are, of course, invited to send a lunch from home with your child if you desire.
This year Yamato Colony will offer the Second Chance Breakfast Program. We will offer breakfast before
school as usual, but in addition, we will offer breakfast during recess for those students who due to
family schedules or transportation issues are not able to eat in the morning before school begins. Second
Change Breakfast is intended for students who are not hungry first thing in the morning, but do get
hungry before lunch. If a student has breakfast before school, they cannot have another breakfast at
recess, but they may have a piece of fruit and water from the dispenser if they are still hungry or thirsty.
Students will need to eat their breakfast or fruit in the cafeteria. Food is not allowed outside.
OTHER FOOD SALES
Board Policy 3554 requires food sales conducted outside the district’s food service program shall meet
nutritional standards specified in law. At an elementary school, the sale of foods or beverages that do
not comply with the standards in Ed. Code 49431 and 49431.5 may be permitted, as part of a fundraising
event, only when items are sold by students of the school and sale meets either of the following
conditions:
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1. It takes place off and away from the school premises.
2. It takes place at least one-half hour after the end of the school day.
Schools participating in the National School Lunch and/or Breakfast Program shall not permit the sale of
foods by student organizations except when all of the following conditions are met: (CA Code of
Regulations, Title 5, 15500)
1. The specific nutritious food item is preapproved.
2. The food item meets specific nutrition requirements as set forth in EC 49431 and 49431.5,
which include low-fat and low-sugar requirements.
3. No more than four such sales per year per school and only one food item per sale.
4. Sale can only occur after the regular lunch period.
5. Food item is not prepared on school premises or in private homes (must be commercially
prepared).
6. Food item sold is not the same as that in the district’s food service program served that day.
7.
INSTRUCTION AND PROGRAM SERVICES
DUAL LANGUAGE ACADEMY (DLA)
Yamato Colony Elementary School offers the Dual Language Academy (also known as a Two-Way
Immersion Program) which allows English proficient students and English learner students to receive
instruction in English and Spanish in the same classroom to develop academic proficiency in both
languages starting in kindergarten- 5th grade.
Research shows that students who participate in dual language immersion programs perform at or above
grade level on district and state tests as well as achieve advanced levels of proficiency in two languages.
Dual language immersion programs have been proven among the most effective in the United States,
graduating students with both grade level academic ability and proficiency in two languages.
SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
The parents and the school work together in a partnership to provide a free, individually appropriate
education for the student. We have a team of specially trained staff members known as the Student
Study Team. During the course of the school year, your child may be referred to the Student Study Team
if he/she is observed to be having learning, behavior, attendance or other difficulties that may require
some form of assistance in the regular classroom. The Student Study Team may carry out informal
assessment activities (e.g. observing your child in the classroom, assessing reading, math or other
academic skills, screening for speech, vision or hearing problems, etc.) to assist in making appropriate
recommendations. The teacher will keep you informed regarding any unusual difficulties your child is
having at school as well as any extra steps taken to provide assistance. No assessment for determining
Special Education eligibility will be conducted without your written consent.
COUNSELING SERVICES
The School Counseling Program at the elementary level addresses the personal, social, emotional and
academic needs of all students in grades K-5. The role of the elementary school counselor is to counsel,
consult and collaborate with students, parents, staff and administration. All subjects discussed are kept
confidential unless the student requests or consents to the inclusion of another interested person or as
required by mandating reporting laws. A counseling referral may be initiated by the student, a student’s
parent/guardian or a school staff member by discussing your concerns with your child’s teacher or the
school principal. A signed parental consent form must be received before on-going services can begin.
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SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS
School psychologists work closely with teachers, parents and other mental health professional to ensure
that every child learns in a safe, healthy and supportive environment. By being proactive, school
psychologists can help prevent further challenges and struggles in school and home. School psychologist
use many different approaches, but the core of their services include consultation, assessments,
intervention and prevention, education, research and planning, and health care provision. They can be
trusted to deal in confidence with sensitive personal and family matters.
ASSETS AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
Currently, the school offers an after school care program called ASSETS for up to 100 students in K-5th
grade. The program is run by Merced County Office of Education with qualified and well trained staff.
It operates each school day from the time of student dismissal until 6:00 p.m. The free program takes
students on a first come first serve basis and registration begins each spring. Once the program reaches
capacity of 100, students will be placed on a waiting list to be enrolled. For more information call the
ASSETS Coordinator, Martin Hernandez at (209) 631-4716.
SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS
Any parent who wishes to attend a field trip with his/her child must first fill out an “Authorization to
Release Information” form 2 weeks prior to the field trip. The “Authorization to Release Information” is
used by school staff to conduct a records check of a prospective volunteer in order to ascertain whether
the perspective volunteer has been convicted of any sex offense as defined in Section 44010. This form
must be filled out in the school’s office. Please allow five working days from the time all required
documents are submitted to receive a clearance. Filling out the “Authorization to Release Information”
form is the responsibility of the parent and not the school. Please understand that this procedure is for
your child’s safety and welfare. No siblings or other minors may accompany parent chaperones on any
field trip.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
DISTRICT STANDARD DRESS CODE & SCHOOL UNIFORM (Please note “college” attire is now
acceptable)
School staff and students are to dress in a manner that is age appropriate and acceptable. Since styles are
constantly changing, it is impossible to list all of the appropriate and inappropriate forms of clothing.
Standards include but are not limited to the following:
1. No professional sports team clothing will be worn, including hats, shirts, or jackets.
2. Attire identified with gangs, such as bandannas, gloves, jackets, work fatigues, knit caps and
over-display of known gang colors, must not be worn.
3. No clothing or hats advertising alcohol, drugs, tobacco or clothing with crude, profane or
sexually explicit language may be worn.
4. Pants must fit at the waist, no sagging or bagging.
5. Low necklines, low backs, bare midriffs and inappropriate tank tops may not be worn. All
undergarments must be covered.
6. Hats, caps and other non-religious head coverings shall not be worn indoors.
7. Shoes must be appropriate for school activities.
8. School clothing must be clean and in good repair.
9. Belts must be worn inside belt loops at all times. Belt ends may not hang.
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10. Skirts and shorts must be at least mid-thigh in length.
11. Clothing must fit appropriately and may only be one or two sizes too large (to accommodate
growth).
In February of 1999 the LUSD Board of Trustees approved a school uniform policy for Yamato Colony
School. The uniform policy is reviewed annually for its effectiveness in helping to establish and maintain
a productive learning environment. It is expected that all students dress according to our policy.
Families who need assistance should contact the Principal. Students new to Yamato Colony School have
two weeks to comply with the Uniform Policy.
In January of 1994 the California State Legislature passed Senate Bill 1269 which allows the Board of
Education of a school district to adopt a policy that allows students to wear school uniforms. The
uniform policy permits any family choosing not to participate in the uniform program at Yamato Colony
School to request a waiver. The process for doing so is to request a meeting with the Principal. The
Principal will explain why the school and parents decided to have a school uniform program and the
benefits of students wearing uniforms. After the meeting, if the parents still desire a uniform waiver the
Principal will approve the exemption permitting the family not to participate in the school uniform
program.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
Tops: Shirts, Blouses, Sweatshirts, Sweaters - Navy Blue, Dark Green, White, School
Shirt, or School Sweatshirt.
Bottoms: Pants, Skirts, Shorts, Sweatpants, Jumpers, Dresses - Navy Blue, Khaki, or Blue
Denim.
Jackets: Any jacket except those with professional team logos.
Wednesdays: Wednesdays are special days designated for alternate “free” dress. Students may
wear school clothing that meets the District Standard Dress Code as outlined in
this handbook.
Shoes: No flip-flops, strapless sandals, high heels, or platform shoes. Shoes designed for
active play are safest and best.
All clothes must be of solid colors. No stripes, print, picture or designs.
Thank you for your cooperation!
STUDENT CONDUCT
We believe all students have the right to be educated in a positive learning environment free from
disruptions. Students shall be expected to exhibit appropriate conduct that does not infringe upon the rights
of others or interfere with the school program while on school grounds, while going to or coming from
school, while at school activities, and while on district transportation. In accordance with Education Code
and district policies, the staff has developed standards of conduct. Prohibited student conduct includes, but
is not limited to:
1. Conduct that endangers students, staff, or others.
2. Conduct that disrupts the orderly classroom or school environment.
3. Harassment or bullying of students or staff, including, but not limited to, cyber bullying,
intimidation, hazing or initiation activity, extortion, or any other verbal, written, or physical conduct
that causes or threatens to cause violence, bodily harm, or substantial disruption, in accordance with
the section below titled "Bullying/Cyber bullying".
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4. Damage to or theft of property belonging to students, staff, or the district.
5. Possession or use of a laser pointer, unless used for a valid instructional or other school- related
purpose with prior approval from the principal or designee. (Penal Code 417.27)
6. Use of profane, vulgar, or abusive language.
7. Plagiarism or dishonesty on school work or tests.
8. Inappropriate attire.
9. Tardiness or unexcused absence from school.
10. Failure to remain on school premises in accordance with school rules.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
We believe that high expectations for student behavior, use of effective school and classroom management
strategies, and parent involvement can minimize the need for discipline. School staff shall use preventative
measures, age-appropriate strategies and positive conflict resolution techniques whenever possible to correct
student behavior to keep students in school and participating in the instructional program. Disciplinary
strategies may include, but are not limited to:
1. Discussion or conference between school staff and the student and his/her parents/guardians
2. Referral of the student to the school counselor or other school support service personnel for case
management and counseling
3. Convening of a study, guidance, resource panel, or other intervention-related team to assess the behavior
and develop and implement an individual plan to address the behavior in partnership with the student and
his/her parents/guardians
4. When applicable, referral for a comprehensive psychosocial or psychoeducational assessment, including
for purposes of creating an individualized education program or a Section 504 plan
5. Enrollment in a program for teaching prosocial behavior or anger management
6. Participation in a restorative justice program
7. A positive behavior support approach with tiered interventions that occur during the school day on
campus
8. After-school programs that address specific behavioral issues or expose students to positive activities
and behaviors, including, but not limited to, those operated in collaboration with local parent and
community groups
9. Recess restriction
10. Detention
11. Community service
12. In accordance with Board policy and administrative regulation, restriction or disqualification from
participation in extracurricular activities
13. Reassignment to an alternative educational environment
14. Suspension and expulsion in accordance with law and Board policy
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Make good decisions
2. Solve problems
3. Show respect
4. Come to school on time and in uniform
5. Come to school prepared to learn and complete all assignments
6. Take care of school property
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STUDENT RIGHTS
A “Right” is something that belongs to an individual and cannot be taken away by anyone.
RESPECT Students have the right to be respected and treated with kindness at school.
LEARNING Students have the right to learn at school.
SAFETY Students have the right to be safe at school.
FAIRNESS Students have the right to tell their side of a problem before anything happens.
SCHOOL RULES
1. Walk indoors and on sidewalks
2. Use equipment and facilities appropriately
3. Play in designated areas
4. Be kind – Do not fight, play rough, or defy authority
5. Be responsible – Show Respect to others and their property
POSITIVE CONSEQUENCES – When you follow the rules, school will be a happy and safe place to be.
You/your class will be rewarded for good behavior.
1. Special reward activities are scheduled throughout the year for students who have no yellow
tickets or referrals to the principal.
2. Students who are “Caught Doing A Good Deed” will receive a “Braggin’ Dragon” at Yamato
Colony School. The “Braggin’ Dragons” may be exchanged for prizes at the Student Store at a
regularly scheduled time each month.
3. “Tidy Slips” are awarded to students who help keep the school campus neat and tidy.
Teachers will hold a weekly classroom drawing and each Tidy Slip winner may redeem their
winning Tidy Slip in the office for a prize.
NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES – When you choose not to follow the school rules, you will receive the
following consequences:
1st Offense - Verbal Warning;
2nd Offense - Five-Ten minutes time out;
3rd Offense - Loss of remainder of recess; The teacher is notified and will follow through
in accordance with his/her class management program;
4th Offense - Loss of next two recesses OR Referred to teacher for appropriate consequence.
The teacher will follow through in accordance with his/her class
management program and the parents are notified,
Immediate - Student is referred to the Principal immediately. The principal will follow
Referral through with appropriate discipline consequences and inform the student’s
teacher of action(s) taken to improve the situation. The student’s parents
will be contacted when appropriate.
Severe- Depending on the severity of the offense by the student the above
Clause mentioned steps may be bypassed.
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ITEMS THAT DO NOT BELONG AT SCHOOL
1. Knives, guns, chains, matches, explosives, tobacco products, drugs, alcohol, and other potentially
dangerous objects will be taken away, parents will be notified, and student may be suspended.
2. Skateboards, roller blades, scooters are not allowed on campus.
3. Hardballs, nail clippers, make-up, and toy or water guns will be taken away and returned at a
later date. The second time these items are at school, they will be taken away and returned only to
the parent/guardian.
4. Gum, sunflower seeds, and candy are not allowed on campus at any time without prior school
approval.
SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
Maintaining an environment, which promotes learning and protects the health, safety, and welfare of all
students, may require the suspension or expulsion of a student from regular classroom instruction.
District policies and school site rules shall clearly identify district behavior standards and the
disciplinary procedures for addressing violations of those standards, including suspension and/or
expulsion.
Students facing suspension or expulsion shall be provided with fair and equitable treatment by affording
them their due process rights under the law. The administration and staff shall comply with procedures for
notices, hearings and appeals as specified in law and administrative regulation.
Except for single acts of a grave nature or offenses for which suspension or expulsion is required by law,
suspension or expulsion shall be used only when other means of correction have failed to bring about proper
conduct or the student's presence causes a continuing danger to himself/herself or others. The grounds for
suspension and expulsion and the procedures for considering, recommending and/or implementing
suspension and expulsion shall be specified in the district’s administrative regulation.
Notification to Law Enforcement Authorities
In accordance to Education Code 48902, the principal or designee shall notify appropriate city or county law
enforcement authorities of any student acts which may violate law.
Removal from Class by a Teacher and Parental Attendance
A teacher may remove any student from his/her class for the remainder of the day and the following day for
committing an obscene act, engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity, disrupted school activities or
otherwise defied valid staff authority, or any other act listed in the district’s administrative regulation. When
removing a student from his/her class, the teacher shall report this action to the principal or designee and
send the student to the principal or designee for appropriate action.
The teacher of the classroom may require the student’s parent/guardian to attend a portion of a school day in
his/her child's classroom. When a teacher makes this request, the principal shall notify the parent/guardian
that the parent/guardian's attendance is requested pursuant to law (Education Code 48900.1). The
parent/guardian’s attendance may be on either the date the student is scheduled to return to class or within
one week thereafter and may request the parent/guardian to meet with the principal after the visit and
before leaving school.
BULLYING/CYBER BULLYING
The School Board desires to prevent bullying by establishing a positive, collaborative school climate and
clear rules for student conduct.
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Cyber bullying includes the transmission of communications, posting of harassing messages, direct
threats, or other harmful texts, sounds, or images on the Internet, social networking sites, or other digital
technologies using a telephone, computer, or any wireless communication device. Cyber bullying also
includes breaking into another person's electronic account and assuming that person's identity in order
to damage that person's reputation.
Bullying is defined as hurtful or aggressive acts that are carried out repeatedly over time that are
unprovoked. These acts involve a real or perceived imbalance of power, with the more powerful individual
or group attacking or intimidating those who are considered less powerful and who may have difficulty
defending or protecting themselves. The perpetrators usually feel empowered and receive enjoyment when
demonstrating hurtful or aggressive behavior and the victim(s) have a sense of being oppressed by the
perpetrator(s). Bullying may be physical (hitting, kicking, spitting, pushing), verbal (taunting, malicious
teasing, name calling, threatening), or psychological (spreading rumors via verbal, written, and electronic
communication, manipulating social relationships, or promoting social exclusion, extortion, or intimidation).
Students shall be encouraged to save and print any messages sent to them that they feel constitute cyber
bullying and to notify a teacher, the principal, or other employee so that the matter may be investigated.
Students may submit a verbal or written complaint of conduct they consider to be bullying to a teacher or
administrator. Complaints of bullying shall be investigated and resolved in accordance with site-level
grievance procedures.
Any student who engages in cyber bullying on school premises, or off campus in a manner that causes or is
likely to cause a substantial disruption of a school activity or school attendance, shall be subject to discipline
in accordance with district policies and regulations. If the student is using a social networking site or service
that has terms of use that prohibit posting of harmful material, the Superintendent or designee also may file
a complaint with the Internet site or service to have the material removed.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students may possess or use on school campus personal electronic signaling devices at designated times
(determined by school sites) including, but not limited to, pagers and cellular/digital telephones, as well
as other mobile communications devices including, but not limited to, personal digital assistants (PDAs),
cameras, and laptop computers, provided that such devices do not disrupt the educational program or
school activity and are not used for illegal or unethical activities such as cheating on assignments or tests.
If a disruption occurs or a student uses any mobile communications device for improper activities, a
school employee shall direct the student to turn off the device and/or shall confiscate it. If the school
employee finds it necessary to confiscate the device, it will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to
make arrangements to retrieve the device from the school.
The Livingston Union School District staff and administration is not responsible for lost, broken,
damaged, or stolen electronic devices. In accordance with search and seizure procedures, a school
official may search a student's mobile communications device, including, but not limited to, reviewing
messages or viewing pictures. A student who violates this policy may be prohibited from possessing
mobile communications devices or electronic equipment at school or school-related events and/or may be
subject to further discipline in accordance with Board policy and administrative regulation.
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ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES
The district intends that technological resources provided by the district be used in a safe, responsible,
and proper manner in support of the instructional program and for the advancement of student learning.
The district shall ensure that all district computers with Internet access have a technology protection
measure that blocks or filters Internet access to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or
harmful to minors and that the operation of such measures is enforced.
Before a student is authorized to use the district's technological resources, the student and his/her
parent/guardian shall annually sign and return the Acceptable Use Agreement specifying user
obligations and responsibilities. In that agreement, the student and his/her parent/guardian shall agree
not to hold the district or any district staff responsible for the failure of any technology protection
measures, violations of copyright restrictions, or user mistakes or negligence. They shall also agree to
indemnify and hold harmless the district and district personnel for any damages or costs incurred.
The district also reserves the right to monitor use of the district's systems for improper use without
advance notice or consent.
TRANSPORTATION
BUS CONDUCT
In order to help ensure the safety and well-being of students, bus drivers, and others, students are
expected to exhibit appropriate and orderly conduct at all times when using school transportation,
including while preparing to ride, riding, or leaving the bus. Students found to be in violation of the
district’s bus conduct rules shall be subject to discipline including, but not limited to suspension,
expulsion and/or denying a student the privilege of using school transportation.
The following rules apply at all times when students are riding a school bus, including when on school
activity trips:
1. Riders shall follow the instructions and directions of the bus driver at all times.
2. Riders should arrive at their designated bus stop 5 minutes before the scheduled time and stand
in a safe place at the stop to wait quietly for the bus.
3. Riders shall enter the bus in an orderly manner and go directly to their seats.
4. Riders shall sit down and fasten any passenger restraint systems. Rider shall remain seated while
the bus is in motion.
5. Riders shall not block their aisle or emergency exits with their body or personal belongings.
Riders may bring large or bulky items, such as class projects or musical instruments, on the bus
only if the item does not displace any other rider or obstruct the driver’s vision.
6. Riders should be courteous to the driver and to fellow passengers. Vulgarity, rude, or abusive
behavior is prohibited.
7. Any noise or behavior that could distract the driver, such as loud talking, scuffling or fighting,
throwing objects, or standing or changing seats, is prohibited and may lead to suspension of
riding privileges.
8. Riders shall not use tobacco products, eat, or drink while riding the bus.
9. Riders may bring electronic devices onto the bus only if such devices are permitted at school. If
the use of cellular telephones or similar devices disrupts the safe operation of the school bus, the
bus driver may direct the student to no longer use the device on the bus.
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10. Riders shall not put any part of the body out of the window nor throw any item from the bus.
11. Riders shall help keep the bus and the area around the bus stop clean. Riders shall not damage or
deface the bus or tamper with bus equipment.
12. Service animals are permitted on the school transportation service; all other animals are
prohibited.
13. Upon reaching their destination, riders shall remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop
and upon the signal from the driver, unfasten any restraint system, enter the aisle, and go directly
to the exit.
14. Riders should be alert for traffic when leaving the bus and shall follow the district’s
transportation safety plan when crossing the road and exiting the bus.
ADDITIONAL BUS CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS
1. Students shall respect the property of others while walking to and from the designated bus
stop. Students should walk only on sidewalks, and/or public right of way, and not on lawns
or properties not belonging to them.
2. Students shall stand quietly and orderly while waiting for the school bus.
3. Students shall walk directly from home to the designated bus stop in the morning and
directly home from the designated bus stop in the afternoon. Students should not stop at
friend’s homes, nor stop at stores to or from the designated bus stop.
4. Students shall NOT cross the street behind the bus. Students shall inform the bus driver if
they need to cross the street. Students shall stay clear of the
“Danger Zone” of the bus. See diagram.
CONSEQUENCES
1st Violation Verbal warning by driver.
2nd Violation Student assigned designated seat - preliminary
referral.
3rd Violation Driver issues a citation* - first citation;
Student meets with principal and/or teacher.
4th Violation Driver issues a citation* - second citation; parent conference with principal and
transportation director.
5th Violation Driver issues a citation* - third citation;
1 to 5 days of suspension from bus services.
6th Violation Driver issues a citation* - fourth citation; four or more citations will result in long-
term bus service suspension and/or school suspension.
IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL AND/OR BUS SERVICE SUSPENSION
FOR THREATENED OR ACTUAL BODILY HARM.
* Citations are written by bus drivers but issued to students by site principal.
Please be sure to call or send a note to the office with your child when there is a change in his or her
“going home procedure”. Without a note or phone call we cannot allow children to change their going
home procedure.
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BUS SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM
The use of surveillance systems on school buses will help to deter misconduct and improve discipline,
ensure the safety of students and bus drivers, and prevent vandalism. Therefore, surveillance systems are
installed and used on school buses to monitor student behavior while traveling to and from school and
school activities. The contents of a recording may be a student record and may be used in student
disciplinary proceedings or referred to local law enforcement, as appropriate.
Rules and regulations have been adopted to assist your child in understanding their responsibilities
while riding the bus. These rules will assure safe and proper travel to and from school. The rules are to
be observed while riding the bus and waiting at school bus stops.
FOGGY DAY SCHEDULE
In the event of a designated Foggy Day, a delayed bus schedule is necessary. The information will be
broadcast between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. on the following radio and TV stations:
RADIO TELEVISION
AM: KYOS – 1480 KSEE 24
FM: KUBB – 96.3 KJEO 47
FM: KABX – 97.5 KFSN 30
FM: KHTN – 104.7
SAFETY
PLAYGROUND SAFETY EXPECTATIONS
1. Regular softballs and bats are only to be used under teacher supervision.
2. Playground equipment should be carried to and from the playground.
3. All balls will be used in the open field away from windows, trees, fences and roofs.
4. Hard baseballs are not allowed on the playground. Jump ropes will be used for jumping
and tetherballs are to be hit with your hands and not to be sat on or kicked.
5. Do not throw sand or dirt.
6. Go one direction and one at a time on the rings and ladder bars.
7. Stop play immediately when the bell rings.
8. Use the restroom and water fountain during recess and not after the bell rings.
9. Marbles - When you play marbles, you must agree on the rules. If you cannot solve
your disagreements, you will forfeit the marble(s) in question.
9. All students must go home immediately after their dismissal time. Students who
are waiting to be picked up must wait in front of the school.
PESTICIDE USAGE
Governor Davis signed into law the Healthy Schools Act of 2000 (Assembly Bill 2260). This law requires
schools to notify parents, guardians and school employees about pesticides used in their schools and
requires the Department of Pesticide Regulation to promote the voluntary adoption of integrated pest
management (IPM) practices in California schools. Most provisions of the law took effect January 1,
2001. Each school district is to implement the following requirement by law:
Notification of all pesticide products the school district expects to use on school grounds must be
sent annually to parents or guardian of all students. These products include over-the-counter
pesticides available at retail outlets, but do not include certain products exempted under the law.
The notifications must list the active ingredients in each pesticide product and the Internet
address for the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) to access additional information. Visit
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DPR’s Web site at http://www.cdpr.ca.gov and click on School IPM Program.
Each school will establish a list of parents or guardians who want to be notified before individual
pesticide applications are made. Parents or Guardians that wish to be notified of each pesticide
application shall submit request in writing with name and address to the school. Those
requesting notifications will be placed on a registry and will be notified at least 72 hours before
pesticides are applied
Each school District will ensure that warning notices are posted in areas where pesticides will be
applied. These signs will be posted 24 hours in advance and remain posted 72 hours after
application of pesticides, and will contain information as specified in the law.
Each school will maintain records of all pesticide use at the school for four years and the records
will be available to the public upon request. The Department of Pesticide Regulation’s school IPM
program aims to promote and facilitate the voluntary adoption of IPM programs.
DPR will develop a model IPM program guidebook that reflects conditions in
California.
DPR will establish and maintain an Internet Web site that functions as a comprehensive directory
of IPM resources.
DPR will assist school districts to establish IMP policies and programs.
DPR will establish and IPM training program for individuals designated by the district to be in
charge of pest management.
The following pesticides may be used in or at your school this year.
Pesticide Name US EPA ID
Number
Active Ingredient
Tempo 20 WP
(Ext)
3125-396 ß-Cyfluthrin, cyano(4-fluoro-3- phenoxyphenyl)methyl 3-
(2,2-dichloroethenyl)- 2,2-dimethylcyclo-propanecarboxylate
Suspend SC 432-763 Deltamethrin
Tempo 20 WP
(Int)
3125-380 ß-Cyfluthrin, cyano(4-fluoro-3- phenoxyphenyl)methyl 3-
(2,2-dichloroethenyl)- 2,2-dimethylcyclo-propanecarboxylate
PT 565 Plus 499-310 Pyrethrins, Pyperonil Butoxide, n-Octyl bicycloheptene
dicarboximide
ULD BP 100 11540-9 Pyrethrins
Delta Dust 432-772 Deltamethrin
Delta Guard
Granulars
432-836 Deltamethrin
Roundup Pro 524-475 Glyphosate
Surflan 62179-112 Oryzalin: 3,5-dinitro-N-N-dipropylsulfanilamide
ECO-Exempt Exempt Exempt
Dragnet SFR 279-3062 Permethrin
CY-Kicks CS 499-304 Cyfluthrin
Phantom 241-392 Chlorfenapyr
Termidor 432-901 Fipronil
For more information, go to http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/ and click on School IPM Program, or e-mail DPR at
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PARENT INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND PARENT INVOLVEMENT
It is very important that parents be involved in their children’s education. Research shows that students
who have parents that are active and involved in their child’s school and education are far more
successful than students whose parents are not involved. The most important way you can be actively
involved in your child’s learning and help the school and the teachers to provide the best education
possible for your child is to ensure that both you and your child are meeting your responsibilities
outlined in the Family-School Compact. Your child’s teacher will be discussing the Family-School
Compact in class and then the teacher and your child will sign the compact, which will then be sent
home for you to read and sign also. The Family-School Compacts are kept on file in the school office.
When everyone – your child’s teacher, your child, and you, the parents – do everything contained in
the Family-School Compact your child will achieve academic and social success. In addition to
supporting the Family-School Compact, there are many school programs and classroom activities that
allow you the opportunity to be involved in your child’s education. We encourage you to participate in
the following:
Parent Teacher Club – Back to School Night – Read-A-thon – Parent Conferences – Red Ribbon
Parade – Class Presentations – Reading Is Fundamental (R.I.F.) Program – Open House – School
Site Council – English Learner Advisory Committee – Student Performances –Volunteering in the
Classroom – Field Trips – Multi-Cultural Activities – Poetry Festival – Special Education Services
– Speech and Language Program – English as a Second Language Classes – Family Learning
Night – Family Picnic – Dance Festival– Dual Language Academy Parent Nights – and many
others.
PARENT CONCERNS
Occasionally a parent has a concern about something that is happening at school. We encourage parents
to keep good communication channels open with the school. We need your input.
If you have a concern, the established procedure to be followed is:
1. First, conference with your child’s teacher.
2. If you feel that your concern has not been dealt with properly, please contact the school
principal.
3. If you cannot resolve it at the school, please contact the District Office at 394-5400.
4. Lastly, if you are still not satisfied, you may request to be put on the agenda of the next
school board meeting to discuss your concern.
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YAMATO COLONY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
2016/17 SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT
The success of every student is greatly enhanced when the whole school
community works collectively to improve the academic achievement of all
students. To provide the best opportunities for student success, we need to
commit to the following responsibilities:
The Student Pledge:
As a student, I recognize the importance of my education and I am the one responsible for my own
success and behavior. Therefore, as a student I will:
Arrive at school on time every day unless I am ill.
Believe that I can and will learn by actively participating in the learning process.
Take responsibility for completing assignments and projects to the best of my ability whether in
the classroom or as homework.
Ask my teacher for help when I don’t understand something.
Be a person of good character and respect my school, classmates, teachers, and the school staff.
Be organized and prepared for my school by bringing the necessary supplies.
Communicate daily with my parents and teachers about my school experiences, so that they may
help me be successful in school.
The Parent/Guardian Pledge:
As a parent/guardian, I recognize the importance of my child’s education and that my involvement in
their education will influence his/her achievement. Therefore I will:
Make sure my child attends school every day, on time.
Provide a quiet time and place for homework and daily reading.
Monitor my child’s progress in school and communicate with his/her teacher.
Ensure that my child gets adequate sleep, regular medical attention, and proper nutrition.
Support and follow the school’s discipline policy and dress code requirements.
Make every effort to volunteer, attend and/or participate in school events and meetings.
The Teacher/Staff Pledge:
As a teacher, I recognize the importance of the school experience for every student and I am responsible
for creating an environment where students can achieve to their potential and experience academic
success. Therefore, as a teacher I will:
Believe that each student can learn and have high expectations for each student.
Provide a safe learning environment that is motivating and challenging.
Maintain regular communication with parents/guardians about their child’s progress and support
their effort to help their child.
Provide meaningful independent practice assignments to reinforce learning.
Enforce school and classroom rules equitably.
Make school a welcoming place for students, parents, families, and the community.
Please sign and return this Parent/Student Compact to your child’s teacher. Thank you!
__________________________ _________________________ _____________________
Student Signature Parent/Guardian Signature Teacher Signature
