Lower School

Parent Handbook2012-2013

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Sayre School

Welcome to Sayre Lower School! This handbook is designed to help you better understand our school. Even if you think you already know the Lower School, we urge you to review the contents of this handbook.

Handbooks, by their very nature, are summaries containing only the highlights of a particular subject. It is not possible to portray the true personality of Sayre’s Lower School within the pages of this book. The strength of the academic program, the nurturing school environment, the dedication of the faculty or the enthusiasm of the students cannot be reduced to the printed word. We urge you to come and spend some time within our classrooms and experience our school first hand.

The policies, rules and regulations summarized here have been conceived so that the total school community may live in harmony and safety and thereby take full advantage of the educational process. It is in this spirit that this handbook has been written.

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LOWER SCHOOL TEACHER CALENDAR 2012-2013

August 20 Lower School Open House - 10:00-Noon 21 School Opens 30 Lower School Grades K-5 Back-to-School Night - 7:00 p.m.

September 3 Labor Day Holiday – School Closed 20 Picture Day (Lower School)

October 5 Lower School Tour & Information Day 9:30-11:00 11 Fall Break – School Closed, Extended Day Open 12 Fall Break – School Closed, Extended Day Open 18 Lower School Evening Conferences (noon dismissal) 19 Lower School Conference Day/8:00-12:00 26 Halloween in Lower School & Fall Festival

November 20 Grandparents’/Special Persons’ Day (11:30 dismissal) 21-23 Thanksgiving Vacation – School & Extended Day closed

December 6 Holiday Event sponsored by the Parents Association 19 Last Day of School before Holiday Vacation 3:00 p.m. Dismissal 20-2 Holiday Vacation – NO SCHOOL, Extended Day Closed

January 3 Classes Resume 21 M.L.K.’s Birthday - NO SCHOOL – Extended Day Closed

February 11-15 Mid-Winter Break – School Closed

March 8 Sayre Spectacular 15 Lower School Tour & Information Day 9:30-11:00 15 Lower School ½ Day Records Day – (noon dismissal) 21 Lower School Evening Conferences (noon dismissal) 22 Lower School Conference Day/8:00-12:00 noon

April 1-5 Spring Vacation – School Closed

May 10 Lower School Field Day – Grades 1-5 17 Fifth Grade Music Production – 7:00 p.m. 22 Preschool Field Day – Grades PK3-K 23 Last day of Preschool - Regular dismissal times 24 Last day of Lower School - 11:30 dismissal Fifth Grade Recognition Ceremony – 8:30

For the Lower School calendar and information visit www.sayreschool.org.

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HISTORY OF SAYRE SCHOOL

David Austin Sayre, a man of humble origin who received most of his education by hard work and experience rather than by formal education, founded Sayre School. David Sayre was born on March 12, 1793, near Madison, New Jersey, and was apprenticed as a youth to a silversmith. In 1811, Sayre left his home traveling west to Lexington in pursuit of his trade. Within a short time, he became his own master and eventually expanded into banking where he accumulated a large fortune. During the course of his life, and with the counsel of his wife, Abby, he donated a large portion of his wealth to the Presbyterian Church and to numerous local charities. In 1854, convinced of the need for female education, he founded a school for girls located on the corner of Mill and Church Streets. The school proved to be highly successful and within a year outgrew its original location. As a result, in 1856, Mr. Sayre purchased a five-acre tract on Limestone Street (Johnson’s Grove) and the school moved to its present location.

Since 1856, the school has continued to grow and expand despite periods of crisis - most notably during the American Civil War and the late 1940s. In 1876, boys were admitted to the Primary Department and the school established the first kindergarten program in the state. For a short time, the school became a junior college granting a two-year degree (1908-1922) along with a regular high school diploma. The college was discontinued in 1922 and in 1947, due to declining enrollment; the school closed the high school.

In 1961, the Board of Trustees believing in Lexington’s need for a co-educational, college preparatory school began a campaign to renovate and expand the campus. By 1963, the C.V. Whitney Gymnasium (renovated in 2000) and the Headley-de Waal (renovated in 2002) buildings had been constructed, and in 1965 the first high school class of the “New Era” graduated. Further additions to the campus include the Marie Louise Whitney Lower School Building (1971), the Edward F. Simms Library (1973), the Johnson-McCoy Building (1980), the Violet Milton Price Combs Garden (1980), the Field Oldham Playground (1984 and renovated in 1998), the Edith A. Whitaker Fine Arts Center (1987), the Parker House (2000), and the Buttery (2001). A technology center (1996) occupies part of the library, and a wireless, state-of-the-art Upper School was opened in January 2003. Since the first graduating class of the “New Era” in 1965, the school has graduated over 1,500 young men and women. Now in the Twenty-first Century, the school continues to expand its campus, its enrollment, and its progressive curriculum fulfilling its founder’s dream.

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SAYRE SCHOOL MISSION

In 1854, David A. Sayre established Sayre School to provide an “education of the widest range and highest order.” Today, our school community upholds that mission by fostering an enthusiasm for learning, respecting the unique contributions of its members, cultivating personal integrity, and equipping students for further education and fruitful lives.

PHILOSOPHY

Founded in 1854 in Lexington, Kentucky, Sayre School is an independent co-educational college preparatory day school, serving students from pre-school through twelfth grade. Sayre promotes intellectual, emotional, physical, social and aesthetic growth in each of its students and fosters enthusiasm for learning and discovery. The school strives to help each student realize his or her intrinsic worth, develop critical thinking, acquire self-discipline, and establish a moral framework.

Students participate in a wide range of courses and extracurricular activities in a community that appreciates individual interests, talents and skills. The rigorous curriculum stretches the intellect and promotes creativity, building the proper foundation for higher education. Sayre teachers provide innovative and differentiated instruction and supportive interaction with students; students develop independent and analytical thinking skills and learn to communicate effectively with adults and each other.

Woven through all of Sayre’s endeavors is the objective of developing character. We help students understand the meaning of honorable behavior, the importance of accountability, the mandate of citizenship. Our downtown location extends the boundaries of the classroom, providing us with a rich array of resources for learning and service in our community.

Sayre students, teachers, administrators, staff, parents, trustees, and alumni share a spirit of mutual respect and kindness and a commitment to lifelong learning. We value equity, social justice and the diverse perspectives of a multicultural world. Our community honors tradition and embraces the future.

ratified by the Board of TrusteesMarch 18, 2004

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Lower School Faculty and Staff

Roberta Wykoff Lower School/Preschool DirectorLuanne Stiles Assistant to the Lower School Director

Prekindergarten KindergartenAnna Brewster – PK-3 Barbara AsburyMeghan Brady – Assistant Beth King – AssistantBeth Pitman – PK-4 Kaye Kaplan – Assistant MontessoriMichelle Simpson – PK-4 Emily WebbAlana Stuart - Assistant Kimberly Moynahan – Assistant 1st Grade Community MattersPam Brown Jason Nahra

2nd Grade Special TeachersEve Greathouse Amy Allen – Art Grade 5 & Middle SchoolCarol Miller Tiffany Conley – Spanish Preschool - 2, 6 & 8 Georgia Henkel – Art Preschool - 43rd Grade Jennifer Hurst – Music/Band/Chorus 4 & 5Anne Gross Sarah Kuchera – Music Preschool - 3Patty Ryan Deborah Melear – Science 2 - 5 Ola Samadi – French 3 - 54th Grade Joan Skees - ComputerSusan Keegan Michele O’Rourke Math Specialist Amy Sheehan 5th Grade Martha Heil Reading Specialist Lower School Glenda Kesling Colleen Cornelius School Counselor Academic Services Blythe Jamieson Alison Brown

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DAILY OPERATION

ABSENTEESParents are asked to call the Lower School office by 10:00 a.m. when their child will be absent. Upon request, assignments for absent children will be collected on a daily basis and sent to the office. If a student misses school due to a family vacation, daily assignments are collected during the period and given to the student when he/she returns. When possible please arrange for personal vacations only during scheduled school vacation times. Pre-arranged absences - Absences due to medical appointments or religious holidays should be arranged with the classroom teacher in advance. The student should bring a note to his/her teacher indicating: 1. the time the student will leave school 2. the estimated time he/she will return 3. the nature of the absence

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIESThere are a variety of activities offered to Lower School students throughout the year such as scouts, chess, chorus, music lessons and art programs. Please read our weekly Lower School Notes to learn about each year’s offerings.

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMSayre offers an Extended Day Program to its families that allow students to remain on campus until 5:45 p.m. This program operates from the Johnson-McCoy Building and is open to all Preschool and Lower School students. This is not a drop-in day care situation, thus students must be enrolled in advance with the Extended Day Director. Parents may opt to send their child from one day to five days per week. There is an additional fee for this service.

ARRIVALChildren may begin arriving in the Lower School at 7:30 a.m. but do not go into their classrooms until 7:50 a.m. Preschoolers and Lower Schoolers are supervised in two different locations by a duty teacher until they are dismissed to their rooms at 7:50 a.m. Preschoolers & Kindergarteners come into the Lower School and go to one designated classroom from 7:30-7:50. Lower Schoolers grades 1-5 go directly to the gym from 7:30-7:50. The school day begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. (M, W, Th. & F) and ends at 2:15 p.m. (Tues.) for full-day kindergarten, grades one through five and older Montessori students. Student will gather outside for dismissal at 3:00 p.m. (M, W, Th. & F) and 2:10 (Tues.) Students who are tardy in the morning must report to the office before going to their classrooms. Students still at school 15 minutes after dismissal will be taken to the Extended Day Program. Parents will be charged an appropriate late fee for this service.

Morning drop-off takes place on the blacktop driveway in front of the Lower School. There are two lanes of traffic that stop at the crosswalk to let out children. Parents should not leave their car once they have entered these lanes. If parents need to park to accompany children into the Lower School, they must do so in the front circle, blacktop behind gym or visitor parking. FOR SAFETY REASONS CELL PHONES SHOULD NOT BE USED DURING DROP-OFF & PICK-UP.

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MARIE LOUISE WHITNEY LOWER SCHOOL

First Floor(Basement)

Second Floor(Middle)

Third Floor(Top)

MARIE LOUISE WHITNEY LOWER SCHOOL

First Floor(Basement)

Second Floor(Middle)

Third Floor(Top)

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ATTENDANCEDaily attendance is taken each morning after announcements and sent to the office. Children are considered tardy if they arrive after morning announcements which occur at approximately 8:05. The Lower School office keeps a record of attendance as well as the classroom teacher. Children are not counted absent for religious holidays.

BIRTH CERTIFICATESAll students enrolled in Sayre Lower School must have a birth certificate on file in the Lower School office.

BULLYING/HARASSMENT PHILOSOPHY AND PROCEDURESIt is the mission of Sayre School to foster and provide an environment that encourages, supports, and values the individual, her/his person, and property. Therefore, we do not endorse or condone, accept or abide any form of bullying/harassment, be it emotional, physical, psychological, or sexual, and we encourage bystanders to bullying/harassment to speak up against the behavior and to report the aggressor.

Bullying/harassment includes, but is not limited to:Punching, shoving, and other acts that hurt people physicallyBehaviors or actions that cause emotional painSpreading bad rumors about peopleKeeping certain people out of a “group,” or other means of exclusionTeasing people in a mean wayGetting certain people to “gang up” on othersSending mean text, email, instant messages, pictures or videosPosting inappropriate pictures or messages about others in blogs or on websitesImpersonating someone online to spread rumors or lies about someone

Simply put, bullying/harassing is the act of hurting one person or a group of people repeatedly as a way for the bully to feel superior, and we realize that recognizing acts of bullying/harassment is a complex and personal social issue. As an independent school, we know that a one-size-fits-all, zero tolerance disciplinary policy is ineffectual and often counterproductive to our mission. Therefore, our approach is both programmatic and disciplinary. We work with the victim and his/her parents to provide them with both emotional support and strategies; we encourage spectators of bullying/harassment to report the aggressor, and we discipline the aggressor with appropriate consequences, from punitive to therapeutic. Reported incidents will be handled as sensitively as possible. However, as part of the school’s response, victims, bullies, and by-standers will be addressed about specific issues.

Standards of Practice: • Clearlydefinedexpectations • Clarificationofterms • School-wideandage-appropriateprogramsincluding:LSclassmeetingsusing the Responsive Classroom model; Kindergarten and fifth grade buddies; Community Matters (life skills classes) and grade level meetings in Lower and Middle Schools; advisory groups in Middle and Upper Schools; student clubs such as the Gay Straight Alliance, Anti-Harassment Committee, Community Matters Club in US; and Kids to Kids program • Escalating consequences for incidents of bullying/harassment

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• Parentcontactforrepeatedoregregiousbehaviors • Documentationofbullying/harassmentincidentskeptinindividualstudent division files • Structuredopportunitiesforaggressivestudentstothinkabouttheiractions and make amends • Workwithbulliedstudentsandtheirparentstofacilitatestrategiesfor positive interactions

Tips For Parents: • Talktoyourchildaboutthedefinitionsofbullying/harassmentsharedbytheschool • Encourageyourchildtotalktoyouabouthis/hersociallife,butavoid questioning too directly and too often to draw attention to everyday interactions • Sharestrategiestostopbullying/harassmentthataredevelopmentallyappropriate • Watchforparenteducationsessionsofferedbytheschoolonthetopic • Ifanincidentoccursoutsideofschool,weencourageparentstospeaktoeach other directly • Incidentsthattakeplaceoutsideofschoolsometimesimpactthesocial climate at school. The school will intervene appropriately as needed • Contactteachers,administrators,and/orthecounselorifyouhave questions or concerns

BUTTERYAll children in grades Preschool – 5th eat lunch in the Buttery on Sayre’s campus. This lunch is included in the tuition. Students may also bring packed lunches from home. Outside food from restaurants is not allowed.

CELLPHONES (See Electronics)

COMMUNICATIONEach Wednesday, the Lower School office issues a weekly newsletter entitled “Lower School Notes” that is posted on the Sayre website. You will be sent a weekly email with a link to this website and the Wednesday Notes. Faculty in grades one through five write course overviews each quarter and narrative comments on report cards for the 2nd and 4th quarters in addition to monthly classroom newsletters.

Parents will be notified if a student is not progressing or if behavior is not what is expected. Parents are advised to speak to the Division Head about any unusual behavior or family situation that might affect the child’s performance at school.

CONDUCTAn important factor in a student’s academic success is a safe and nurturing environment. One of the main components of our curriculum is the social and emotional dimension as it pertains to one’s behavior. Students are encouraged to reflect upon the choices they make and the consequences a specific choice carries, realizing that one’s behavior not only affects the person responsible but those around him/her. Expectations are as follows: 1. Whether inside or outside the classroom, students must fully respect in action and word their classmates, teachers and other adults, recognizing that each is a unique individual.

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2. Students must recognize the right of every individual to learn. 3. Students must take responsibility for their own behavior. 4. Students must be honest in all dealings with their peers, teachers and other adults.

Sayre believes that when dealing with an infraction of these rules it is our responsibility to help it become a learning opportunity for those involved. We want students to understand what acceptable behavior is and work towards exhibiting that behavior. If a student makes a poor choice, reflection and understanding the effects of their behavior are very important. They must also be able to look at other ways in which they could have handled the situation. Students must accept the consequences of their behavior and work to rectify the situation in a positive fashion.

Behavior issues will mostly be handled by teachers so that the situation may be resolved as quickly as possible. In situations where a behavior becomes habitual or is not able to be resolved in a successful manner the child will then be referred to the Director. The following offenses require immediate referral to the Director where parents may be asked to attend a conference at school. Also, a summary of the incident and resolution is written up with a copy mailed home to parents and one placed on file in the Lower School. 1. Physical altercations with any student or adult. 2. Damage to another’s property. 3. Overt disrespect or abusive language to another person. 4. Conduct detrimental to the standards of the school. 5. Physical or emotional harassment. (See Bullying/Harassment Philosophy and Procedures)Sayre reserves the right to suspend a student for a set period of time or demand withdrawal when conduct is detrimental to the school and its members.

DISMISSAL – end of school dayPreschoolers dismiss at 12:00. The five-year-old Montessori students and full day kindergarten students will gather out front at 3:00 (M, W, & F) for dismissal and 2:10 (Tues.) for the 2:15 p.m. dismissal along with grades 1-5. Dismissal takes place in front of the Lower School Building. Two lanes of traffic are formed in the driveway in front of the Lower School. Indoor dismissal will be held during inclement weather. You will be provided with name cards for car windows to be used at dismissal. This will facilitate the pick-up process and help the faculty to properly identify family cars during dismissal. Please put these name cards in the front window of your car preferably behind the sun visor facing outward. When parents wish that their child’s normal dismissal pattern be changed, a note to the office is required. We cannot allow children to go home with another child or to be picked up by a stranger without parents’ written consent. For safety reasons cell phones should not be used during pick-up.

EARLY DISMISSALAll divisions of Sayre School will dismiss early on Tuesdays. The Lower School will go out front at 2:10 for the 2:15 dismissal. The Middle and Upper Schools will follow at 2:35. This early dismissal is designed to provide faculty with additional after school time for professional development.

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DRESS CODEWe believe that standards of neatness and appropriateness in clothing encourage an atmosphere more conducive to learning. Appearance reflects respect for School and Self. The purpose for the student dress code is to contribute in a positive way to the daily school learning environment. Modifications will be made as the activity warrants.

The following applies to all students Pre-K 3 through 5th grade unless otherwise noted. In addition to the following, the school reserves the right to address any dress issue that is deemed distracting to the learning environment.

Note: No denim clothing of any type is permitted (Except for PK-3, PK- 4, and Montessori).

Females: Clothing that IS permitted includes:•dressshorts(duringthemonthsofAugust,September,October,AprilandMayonly),•skirtsordresses(nomorethan4inchesabovetheknee),•slacks,•buttoned-down shirts (all shirts with long tails must be tucked in),•turtlenecks,•collaredknitshirts,•shirtswithajewelneckorabandedcollarthatispartofshort/pantmatchingsetor worn under a jumper,•sweaters,•Sayret-shirts(theyaretheonlyt-shirtthatmaybewornandmustbesolidincolor),•Sayresweatshirtswithorwithoutahood(theyaretheonlysweatshirtsthatmaybeworn),•leggingsifwornwithaskirtorlongtunictopthatcoversthechild’sentirebottom(no shorter than 4” above the knee),•tennisshoes(mustbeclean),•anywell-keptcasualshoeordressshoes(nohighheel),Please note:•beltsarewornwithallpantshavingbeltloops;•itisexpectedthatallshirtswilltotallycoverthemidriff;•itisexpectedthatallleggingsbelongandwornwithaskirtortunictopthattotally covers the bottom;•allshorts,dresses,andskirtsmustbeofanappropriatelength(noshorterthan4inches above the knee or at the discretion of the Lower School Office);•alltopsmustbeappropriatelymodestforschool(nothinstraps).Clothing that is NOT permitted includes:•anyclothingwithwordsorlettering(otherthanSayreSchool),•oversizedslacksorshorts,•shortshorts(anyshortthatisshorterthan4”abovetheknee),•denim/jeans(whetheritbeblue,black,white,red,etc.),•sweatshirtsthatdonotsaySayre,•clogs,flipflopsofanykind,croc-styleshoesorshoeswithwheeledinserts,•t-shirts(otherthanSayrelogo),•spaghetti-strappedshirts,straplesstopsorlowcutshirts,•hats,•tornclothing,•athleticapparelorsweatpants,•spandex,skintightshorts,orcargo-stylepantsorshortsthatdonothavepocketsthatlieflat.

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Males: Clothing that IS permitted includes:•dressshorts(duringthemonthsofAugust,September,October,AprilandMayonly),•slacks,•buttoned-downshirts(allshirtswithlongtailstuckedin),•turtlenecks,•collaredknitshirts(allshirtswithlongtailsmustbetuckedin),•sweaters,•Sayret-shirts(theyaretheonlyt-shirtthatcanbewornandmustbesolidincolor),•Sayresweatshirtswithorwithoutahood(theyaretheonlysweatshirtthatcanbeworn),•tennisshoes(mustbeclean),•anywell-keptcasualordressshoe,Please note:•beltsarewornwithallpantshavingbeltloops;•itisexpectedthatallshortsbeofanappropriatelengthandthatnooversizedslacksor shorts will be worn.•shirtswithabandedcollarmaybewornbyboysinpreschoolthrough3rdgradeifthey are a part of short/pant matching set.Clothing that is NOT permitted includes:•anyclothingwithwordsorlettering(otherthanSayreSchool),•oversizedslacksorshorts,•denim/jeans(whetheritbeblue,black,white,red,etc.),•sweatshirtsthatdonotsaySayre,•t-shirtsthatdonotsaySayre,•sweatpants,camouflage,orcargo-stylepantsorshortsthatdonothavepocketsthatlieflat,•hats,•tornclothing,•athleticapparel,•clogs,flipflopsofanykind,orcroc-styleshoesorshoeswithwheeledinserts.

Special Program Dress: Beginning in Kindergarten, girls must wear dresses, skirts and blouses or dressy pants outfits of any color or pattern on Special Program days. Dress shoes are required. Boys must wear jackets or dress sweater with dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes. Jacket or sweater is optional during September and May. (Please note: If this is a PE day for your child he/she must also bring PE clothes and sneakers and/or appropriate shoes for recess.)

Dress Down/Spirit Days: A Dress Down/Spirit Day will be scheduled at least one time during each month. On these days and the many others that warrant a more casual dress, the dress code is relaxed and students may wear jeans. Sayre logo t-shirts and sweatshirts are preferred to show Sayre spirit, cargo pants/shorts, and jeans are permitted on these days. To dress down children must bring in a dollar donation for our ongoing classroom/school service projects.

Dress Code Infractions: On a regular school day students will be given one warning for a dress code infraction with a dress code infraction slip sent home to parents. If a second infraction occurs, parents will be asked to bring a change of clothes for their child. The child will not be permitted to return to the classroom until properly dressed. On a special program day students will be sent to the office and a call home will be made for proper clothing. If

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the parent is unable to bring dress clothes the student will be given a warning but may be required to sit out of the special program. If a second infraction occurs, a call home for dress clothes will be made, the student will sit out of the special program and a parent conference will be scheduled with the Director.

ELECTRONICSBecause of possible disruption and the expense of personal electronic devices, cell phones, iPods, Game Boys and other electronic entertainment equipment are not allowed at school. On special days when electronic equipment would be allowed the teacher will notify parents in advance.

EXTENDED DAY(See After-School Program).

HOMEWORK CLINIC/STUDY BUDDIES(See Support Services).

IMMUNIZATION & EYE EXAM REQUIREMENTSSayre School is required by the state of Kentucky to have on file a copy of each enrolled student’s immunization records. This information must be on a Commonwealth of Kentucky Immunization Certificate. These records must be valid through the current school year. These medical records must be sent to the registrar (attn: Luanne Stiles) before your child enters school in August or within 30 days from entering. a) State law as of 1/1/98 requires that all students, within 30 days of their fourth birthday have the following shots: 5th DPT, 4th Polio Vaccine and 2nd MMR. b) All students entering Kindergarten, or born October 1, 1992, or later are required to have three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine. c) State law as of 7/31/01 requires that all students entering preschool, or born August 1, 1995, or later are required to have the Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine before entering school. This vaccine is required unless a parent or physician states that the child has already had chickenpox disease. d) State law mandates that all students entering preschool through kindergarten or any new student entering school have an eye exam from an ophthalmologist or optometrist. This is mandatory.

LUNCH (See Buttery).

MEDICATIONFamilies should let the office know if their child begins or changes a medication. This is necessary in order for the school to provide appropriate support and follow-up. All medical information is confidential and given out on a need to know basis.

Prescription drugs may not be sent to school with a student for self administration. The Lower School office will dispense prescription medication to students upon written instructions from parents. Non-prescription medication (Tylenol, etc.) will be administered after phone approval from parents.

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MESSAGES & PHONESArrangements for after-school activities should be made before students come to school in the morning. Students will not be called from class to take or make phone calls. Messages will be given to students when class time will not be interrupted.

NEWSLETTEREach Wednesday, our weekly newsletter called “Lower School Notes” will be posted on the Sayre website. You will receive a weekly email with a link to the Wednesday Notes. This newsletter is also available to non-custodial parents.

PARTIESParties are very important social times in the lives of our children. Every attempt should be made to be inclusive and respectful of children’s feelings. Invitations to parties may be distributed at school only when all students in a class are invited or when all members of the same sex are included.

RECESSAll Preschool and Lower School students have a daily outdoor recess. Children should be careful to dress for the weather, as outdoor playtime will occur daily unless it is raining or lightning.

ROOM PARENTSEach Preschool and Lower School teacher will ask for parent volunteers to serve as room mothers/fathers. The responsibilities vary according to the needs of the individual teacher; however, most room mothers/fathers assist with class parties, fall festival and organizing volunteers for field trips, etc.

SCHOOL CLOSINGAll determinations as to whether school will be canceled or delayed will be made in the morning of a given day. Only in emergency situations will decisions be made earlier. Student safety will be the prime concern in any decision, yet since our school community comes from several counties, parents should determine for themselves the advisability of attending classes. Sayre has instituted a telephone broadcast system that will enable school personnel to notify all households by phone within minutes of an emergency or unplanned event that causes early dismissal, school cancellation, or a late start. Sayre will continue to report school closings on local television and radio stations. Additionally, information about closings and delays will be available on the Sayre School website home page (www.sayreschool.org).

One-hour delay - Sayre may choose to delay morning classes one hour rather than cancel school entirely. This delay will be announced via the same channels as stated above. When school is on a one-hour delay, dismissal takes place at the regular time.

SECURITY SYSTEMDuring the school day, parents/visitors may access the Lower School by coming to the main entrance and ringing the bell. This entrance is monitored by a video camera which alerts the Lower School’s administrative assistant, Mrs. Stiles, to visitors. All parents/visitors must then come to the Lower School office, sign-in and receive a visitor’s pass. Students who leave early for appointments or due to illness must be signed out by their parents or guardian.

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SNACKSWe cannot over stress the importance of parents working with us to help children make healthy food choices. Research shows that children function better throughout a school day when snacks are healthy and not filled with sugar and empty calories. With the high level of allergies, food that is low in additives and sugar is a better choice. Due to peanut allergies the Lower School has decided to become nut free. IMPORTANT: Due to continual changes in manufacturer packaging, please read the ingredient label of all snacks, including those on this list, to ensure that it does not contain any of the following: peanuts/nuts, peanut/nut butter, peanut oil, peanut/nut flour, peanut/nut meal, or any variety of the statements, “Contains peanuts,” “May contain traces of peanuts/nuts,” or “Manufactured in a facility or on equipment that also processes peanuts (and/or other nuts).” Information will be sent home at the beginning of the year on healthy/nut free snack selections. Please read this information very carefully.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS DAYBeginning in Kindergarten, girls must wear dresses, skirts and blouses or dressy pants outfits of any color or pattern on Special Program days. Dress shoes are required (Uggs, and sneakers are not considered dress shoes.) Boys must wear jackets or dress sweater with dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes. Jacket or sweater is optional during September and May. (Please note: If this is a PE day for your child he/she must also bring PE clothes and sneakers and/or appropriate shoes for recess.) Please be sure to look at each Wednesday’s Lower School Notes to determine if Friday Dress clothes will be worn that week.

STRUCTURE OF THE LOWER SCHOOLThere are two divisions within the Lower School. The Preschool division includes Montessori, the pre-kindergarten three-year old class, and pre- kindergarten four-year old class. The other division which we refer to as Lower School encompasses the elementary grades kindergarten through five. These two divisions come together for many school activities, but at times throughout the year may have different schedules.

TOYSBecause of possible disruption, toy items such as dolls, trucks, cards, or games are not allowed at school. On special days when items like these would be allowed such as reports being given or special events the office will notify parents in advance. VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERINGSayre is a family-oriented school that warmly welcomes parents to participate in school life. Parents are invited to hear speakers, attend special programs, and visit classes. Parents are also encouraged to become active volunteers and to share their time and talents with the school community. Parental involvement gives vitality and strength to the school and gives the volunteer a clearer understanding and appreciation of Sayre. For security purposes all visitors including parents must report to the Lower School office to sign-in and receive a visitor’s pass before going into classrooms.

The Head of School, Division Heads, and faculty welcome conferences, by appointment. If parents wish to visit classes, kindly make an appointment two days in advance. This will help us avoid visits during field trips or tests. Please do not call on teachers unannounced before the start of the school day. This is a time when faculty members are assembling materials for the day’s activities.

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ACADEMIC POLICIES

CLASS PLACEMENTThe Lower School’s student placement process is a team effort orchestrated with great care. The Lower School teachers and Director work together, following a set criteria to insure an appropriate class placement for each student. If parents would like to share in this process, they may write a letter to the Lower School Director. This letter may not contain requests for individual teachers, but rather give the school additional information that will help us in selecting the right classroom for their child. Parents should be assured that with or without a letter, the Lower School Director and staff will review each child’s needs individually and select the classroom in which we believe he/she will meet with success.

CONFERENCESThe school calendar includes two scheduled Parent/Teacher Conference Days. Parents will receive a postcard in the mail informing them of their scheduled time. Conferences are arranged at 30 minute intervals. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend these regularly scheduled conferences which take place at the end of the first and third quarters. Special teachers are also available during these times. If you would like to see a specialist on conference days, please contact that teacher directly to set up an appointment. On these days, Preschool and Lower School students are not in attendance. It is never necessary to wait for scheduled conferences to meet with teachers. Parents are encouraged to call or meet with teachers whenever they have questions or concerns. It is particularly helpful for parents to keep the School informed of significant events in the family that might have an impact on the child’s performance at school. Family illnesses, death, divorce or separation are all examples of events that can affect children dramatically.

HOMEWORK (See Homework Clinic/Study Buddies also)Homework is designed and applied in a manner that is consistent with the school philosophy that all children can and want to learn and have varied learning styles. Knowing that children learn in different ways, homework can be a powerful and positive learning tool. It shouldn’t be busy work, but an undertaking that engages the student in a meaningful fashion. Taking into account the needs of the family and their personal time, assigning homework in the Lower School is not based upon a certain amount of time per grade level, but rather the rationale behind the assignment. The Lower School faculty considers the following criteria when assigning homework: • Practice that reinforces newly acquired skills. • Individualized skills that build upon the strengths and learning styles of each student. • Foundation building that prepares students for upcoming work in a class. • Extension that transfers skills or concepts to new situations. • Creativity that promotes higher level thinking, demonstrates a new level of understanding, or integrates information to produce original responses.

SPECIALIST TEACHERSStudents in the Preschool and Lower School receive instruction from specialists in these areas: computer, art, music, French or Spanish, library, and physical education. Students in grades two, three, four and five receive instruction in science lab.

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STANDARDIZED TESTINGStandardized testing is given during the spring of grades three and five. The Stanford Achievement Test and Otis Lennon School Ability Test are used. Results are mailed to parents when they are received, usually in late May. The School encourages parents to remember that test scores are only a small part of a student’s total profile. Teacher recommendations, progress reports and the student’s work must also be considered.

REPORT CARDSReport cards are posted on-line for students in grades one through five at the end of each 9-week quarter. Preschool parents’ reports are posted on-line at the end of each semester. At the midpoint of the nine-week grading period, midterm progress reports will be sent home to children working below average in any subject. Midterm progress reports may also be used to make note of improvements. All new students receive midterm progress reports at the midpoint of the first nine-week quarter.

SUPPORT SERVICES

ACADEMIC SERVICESSayre offers an Academic Services Program (AS) for students who may be experiencing learning difficulty. AS staff are trained and experienced in helping children with learning differences.

AS offers an array of services, one of which includes direct, individualized instruction. This instruction is provided by one of the AS staff and is coordinated with the student’s regular classroom teacher. The staff provides appropriate intervention for students with identified learning issues, reinforce content covered in the classroom and teach compensatory learning strategies. There is a fee, above tuition, for this service, and the parents of participating students will be billed. For some students, continued enrollment at Sayre may be contingent upon participation in AS. Written parent permission for student placement in AS, for observations of specific students referred by teachers or parents, and for extensive modifications in classroom learning will be secured. Specific questions about this program policies and procedures should be referred to the AS director or the administration.

COUNSELING SERVICESBlythe Jamieson, MSW, is the Sayre School Counselor. Her office is located on the second floor of the Library. She works with students, parents, and faculty in all three divisions. Sayre School counseling services include student education and counseling, parent and teacher education and training, parent and teacher consultation regarding students (which may involve observations), and referral to resources in the community as needed. Students who require intensive, long-term support for mental health issues are referred to necessary services outside of school. The counselor serves as an advocate for students in their academic, social, personal, and emotional development. Confidentiality is integral to a successful counseling program. The Sayre School policy is based on the American School Counselor Association ethical guidelines regarding confidentiality. Counseling sessions with students are confidential. Counseling records

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are also confidential and are not part of the student’s educational record. The following are situations in which confidentiality may be broken: • Thestudentpresentsathreatofdangertoselforothers. • Thestudentrequestsorgivespermissionforthesharingofinformation with specified others. • Courtorder. • Suspectedneglectorabuse(physical,sexual,oremotional)willbereportedto the appropriate authorities. • Inagroupsituation,confidentialityisstressed,butdifficulttoguarantee.

Students may request to see the counselor or be referred by teachers and/or parents. Open communication among students and parents is encouraged and may be facilitated as part of the counseling process. Parents with any questions or concerns about counseling should contact Blythe Jamieson. Sayre School is committed to providing a safe, supportive environment for students and their families.

HOMEWORK CLINIC/STUDY BUDDIESHomework Clinic is an after school program and is open to students in grades 4-5 and meets weekly Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:15-5:15 and 2:15-4:15 on Tuesdays. It is designed to help students with organization and study skills as well as assist with specific homework assignments. Study Buddies is an after school program for Grades 1-3 and meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:15 to 4:15. It is designed to help students in completing their homework as well as provide assistance as needed. Learning activities such as spelling and math games and independent reading will also be provided. The is an additional fee for this service.

SPEECH PATHOLOGYAll students, referred by parents or teachers, are screened by a licensed Speech and Language Pathologist whose office is located in the Lower School. This initial screening is provided by the School. Parents are then charged a fee for any additional services provided by the Speech and Language Pathologist.

SPECIAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHTShortly after the opening of school, parents are invited to an evening informational program about the Lower School and their child’s class in particular.

BIRTHDAYSStudents in the Lower School may celebrate their birthdays by providing a special snack for their classmates. This should be pre-arranged with the classroom teacher. Please remember our nut-free policy when sending in birthday treats. Birthday invitations may be distributed at school only when all students in a class are invited or when all members of one sex are included.

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BIRTHDAY BOOK CLUBThis program is sponsored by the Sayre Library. The Birthday Book Club allows students to make a gift to the Library in honor of their birthday. Please be sure to look for information about this special program in the fall of the year.

BOOK FAIRS Book Fairs are fundraisers for the Library. Parents and students are encouraged to buy books with the proceeds benefiting the Library. The fall Book Fair usually coincides with the Fall Festival. A second Book Fair occurs in the spring.

CLASS PARTIESClass parties are held to celebrate the following holidays: Halloween, Christmas/Hanukkah, and Valentine’s Day. Most classroom teachers will arrange parties via the Room Parent. Please be alert to information coming from school at these special times.

COMMUNITY MATTERSThe Community Matters Coordinator meets with children in grades one through five on a regular basis. The program uses a variety of modalities to deal with topics such as self-awareness, self-esteem, communication skills, good decision making skills, creating and maintaining healthy relationships and community building. Community Matters philosophy ties nicely with Responsive Classroom.

FALL FESTIVALThe Sayre Parents’ Association converts the gym and surrounding areas on campus into a carnival-like atmosphere. The Fall Festival is usually held on a Friday afternoon in October.

FIELD DAYSDuring the last month of School, all Preschoolers and Lower Schoolers enjoy a day of planned outdoor events. Specific information will be sent home well in advance of these special days.

FIELD TRIPSTeachers plan field trips to various places during the course of the year to enhance the academic program. All Preschool and Lower School students take field trips throughout the year. Please be sure to read all notes/letters sent home which will alert families to the specific details of these special events.

FIFTH GRADE RECOGNITION PROGRAMOn the last day of school, fifth grade students are recognized with a special program in their honor. Academic awards as well as the prestigious Amos Lawrence & Karen M. Ulack Awards are given.

GRANDPARENTS’/SPECIAL PERSONS’ DAYEach year Grandparents of Preschool and Lower School students are invited to campus for a morning of special events. Please check this year’s calendar for the exact date.

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LOWER SCHOOL SERVICE LEARNING PROJECTSOur Lower School service project is a program where on dress down/spirit days each student in grades Preschool-5 is asked to bring in a dollar of his or her earned money in order to help local charities in the Lexington area. We stress that the money be earned by the giver because it will make the effort more personal and meaningful. At the end of the school year all collected money is donated to select organizations that impact the lives of children in a positive way. The Lower School also sponsors other service learning projects, such as can drives or clothing drives.

LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSEOn the day before opening day, Lower School students are invited to “drop-in” and briefly meet their new teachers. The goal of this short visit is to make the first day of school a more comfortable experience for children.

PARENT ADVISORY COUNCIL (PAC)An advisory group of parents, selected by the director of the Lower School, meets on a monthly basis to discuss and give input regarding programming and activities.

SAYRE SPECTACULARThe Sayre Spectacular, usually held in the early spring, is Sayre’s major fundraising event and is organized by a special parent committee. The Spectacular raises money for special school projects.

NOTES

Sayre School194 North Limestone StreetLexington, Kentucky 40507-1121859-254-1361 Telephone859-231-0508 Facsimilewww.sayreschool.orgClayton G. Chambliss, Headmaster

Students and parents are responsible for all the information found in this handbook.