Sprout State University

“A University for Creative Learning and Performing Arts”

PRESCHOOL – 8th GRADE

PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

2014-2015PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

1

Dear Parents/Guardians and Students:

Please carefully read the 2014-2015 Sprout State University PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK. After discussing the contents as a family unit, and realizing the need to abide by rules and regulations in order to establish a smooth communication between home and school, complete the form below and return this full page to the classroom of the oldest student no later than September 5, 2014. Your signed copy will be kept in the office during the current school year and referred to if necessary in the course of the year. If there are any changes in rules and regulations, that material will be added to the handbook prior to the new school year. Consequently, to just sign this page without reading, you may be overlooking information that could prevent misunderstandings.

Thank you,

Danielle Winrow

Dean

I (We) have reviewed the 2014-2015 Parent/Student Handbook with my child(children) enrolled at Sprout State University, and I/we agree to abide by the policies and procedures set forth.

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ______________

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ______________

Welcome Students and Parents!

2

This school year promises to be an exciting one! We’re a school where our teachers and staff are educators who are focused on helping every student learn in a caring and challenging environment. We want to bring out the best in each student, helping each one to be all they are capable of being.

This Parent/Student Handbook has been compiled to provide parents of our students with basic information about the policies, practices and procedures of Sprout State University. We hope that you will find this booklet useful in providing answers to some of the questions you may have about our school. This handbook is designed to serve as your one source of information to explain our different school policies. It is important that parents understand the expectations our school has for each student.

Student success is made possible by the combined efforts of the home and the school partnering together. We enjoy good communication with the parent/guardians of our students. It’s obvious by our student’s achievements that our parents are involved in the lives of their children, help them with their homework, keep the lines of communication open with teachers and positively support the school.

We believe our school runs smoothly when our parents are involved in their child’s education. It is our hope that we can work together to provide the best learning environment for your child. Our goal at Sprout State University is to give your child a positive and creative school experience through performing arts and continuous improvements in teaching and learning. Thanks for your support as we learn together.

We extend our best wishes to our parents and students for another successful school year. Whenever questions or concerns arise, please don’t hesitate to call or stop in the front office. I believe in an open door policy with the students, staff and parents of Sprout State University, and look forward to the opportunity to meet or talk with each of you in person!

Sincerely,

Danielle Miller Winrow

Dean

3

Sprout State UniversityCONTACT INFORMATION

1650 Pennington Road

Trenton, NJ 08618

Office – (609) 882-1854

Fax – (609) 882-1855

Emergency, School closing

Fox 29 News

6abc News

Sproutstateuniversity.com

TELEPHONE

In the event of an emergency, please contact the office number.

STAFF EMAIL ADDRESSES

Every staff member at Sprout State University has their own personal email address, which can be used to communicate with parents and students in a professional manner. If you wish to contact a staff member via email, please refer to the faculty page on the Sprout State University website at sproutstateuniversity.com.

Administration

4

Danielle Miller Winrow, Head of School

Dionne Worthy, Director of Marketing, Development and Special Events

Diane Dash, Business Director

Lower School

Miriam Diaz, Early Freshman

Ermelinda Ramos, Early Freshman

Phyllis McCallum, Freshman

Chandler A. Miller, Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten Head Professor

Tania Rivera, Junior Kindergarten Professor’s Assistant

Cameron A. Miller, Kindergarten and Junior Kindergarten Professor’s Assistant

Upper School

Craig Graves, Teacher & Upper School Head Professor English/Reading Comprehension/Spelling

Brian Edge, Teacher & Upper School Head Professor Social Studies/Math/Science

Danielle Miller Winrow, Professor Writers Workshop/Phonics/Language Arts/Drama

Specialists

Ermelinda Ramos, Spanish Megan Dell’Arena, Guidance Couselor

Teaira Tucker, Art Lower School Megan Dell’Arena, Music

Vance Holland, Tae Kwon Do Tesira Slaughter, Dance Upper & Lower School

Allan Harmon, Dance Choreographer Chandler A. Miller, ASL Instructor

Danielle Miller Winrow, Drama Jessica Cardona, Art Upper School

5

ACCOUNTING

Discounts

Discounts off the annual tuition payments are available under the following circumstances.

Sibling Discount If two or more children from the same immediate family are enrolled in the program during the same school year, a discount off the total amount is available. Please see the Dean for more information.

Fees

All fees are due immediately upon receipt of an invoice from the Front Office. Fees may be paid by cash, or money order. Registration fees are due at time of enrollment, and these fees, once paid, are non-refundable and non-transferable from child to child. All tuition rates are not subject to prorating therefore payment is expected in full no exceptions.

Receipts

The front office remits a receipt upon payment for tuition. A late fee of $25.00 will be assessed on tuition if it is not paid after the billing date. If there are ever any questions on a receipt received, they can be directed to Ms. Danielle, Dean of SSU 609/882/1854 or by email sprouts tate@gmail.com .

Payments

Biweekly or Weekly payments are due Friday morning. Tuition payments must be remitted the day before an early dismissal or school closing. Any payments received after this day will be charged a late fee of $25.00 per day. If tuition should be more than 7 days late, the credit bureau will be notified of the late account and the student will be unable to attend class until the tuition account is paid in full.

Admission Policy

Sprout State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, nationality and ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, athletic and other school administered programs.

The administration has the right to determine whether current students may re-register. This decision will be determined after careful review of a student academic and behavioral progress (or lack of) during the course of the academic year.

Education is a partnership. The parent is the primary educator, the school supports the parent in this endeavor. However, if in the view of the administration, if there is a breakdown in the partnership, parents may be asked to remove the child from the school.

Parents interested in enrolling their child (ren) at Sprout State University must first complete an Application of Admission. Once all relevant documents have been received by the Admissions Office, the application is submitted to the Application Committee for consideration. Accepted applicants will be

6

notified during the interview process or by phone or email within 5 days of receipt of the completed Admissions packet. Existing, registered students are always given priority registration consideration from one year to the next during the designated early registration period time. A registration fee is due at the time of enrollment, and these fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. New students must also provide a copy of their birth certificate, and a completed Emergency/Immunization form must be filled out before the student will be allowed to attend class.

Animals

No animals are allowed on campus.

Attendance

Regular attendance is a key to academic success and is the responsibility of both the parents and students. Since much of the schoolwork completed in the classroom (i.e.; discussions, participation, in-class projects, etc.) cannot be made up, students should remain out of school only when absolutely necessary. Every attempt should be made to schedule appointments and vacations around the school schedule to minimize the impact on your child’s academic experience. Refer to the absence policy regarding makeup work.

If your child should ever resist going to school, acknowledge his/her feelings. Encourage your child to talk about it. Proceed to school. Talk with the classroom teachers about the problem, preferably outside of normal school hours. Share as much information as possible. Together, we should be able to identify the basis for your child’s loss of confidence in school. Allowing your child to stay home will not solve the problem or address the issue.

Absences

If your child is not going to be at school for any reason, it is necessary to call the main office (609)882-1854, and report the child’s name, and nature of the absenteeism.

A child who arrives after 12:00pm or is picked up for the remainder of the day prior to 12:00pm will be considered absent for one full day. This absence will be counted in the cumulative total number of absences for that student for the academic school year.

Early Release

If a situation arises where you need to retrieve your child (ren) before their regularly scheduled dismissal time, you must stop in the front office first and sign the Early Release Dismissal Log. Only at that time will your child (ren) be called from the classroom. Please DO NOT call the front office while in route to the campus to try to expedite the process. This places an unnecessary burden on the administrative staff members, who are attending to many other duties.

7

A child who leaves after 12:00pm for any reason will be considered absent for one half (1/2) day. This absence will be counted towards the cumulative total number of absences for that student for the academic school year.

Emergency Response Plan

Sprout State University has an ‘Emergency Response Plan’ to handle a wide variety of potentially dangerous and/or threatening situations, on campus, locally and abroad. Regardless of the type of situation that occurs, your child’s safety is our utmost concern. Depending on the specifics of the situation, all persons on campus will either be evacuated to a safe location (evacuation) or kept on campus while securing the facility to prevent outside intrusion (lockdown). In the event of either occurrence, parents will be notified by telephone or other electronic communication so as to be completely informed of their child’s status in the event of an emergency.

Field Trips

Sprout State University schedules field trips throughout the school year. The trips enrich our curriculum and the students are able to have hands on experiences. Preschool students’ field trips are minimal so we offer on- site programs and special interest visitors during the school year.

Notification and permission slips will be sent to parents prior to each field trip. A completed, signed permission slip must be received prior to departure. All students going on field trips MUST wear the Sprout State University uniform (unless state otherwise on the Field Trip Permission Form). If a student does not wear his/her shirt on the day of a field trip, one will be provided for them and the cost will be charged to your tuition.

Transportation for most field trips will be provided utilizing a chartered bus the fee will be included with admission fee. The bus is equipped with 3 point seat belts for every passenger. From time to time, it may be necessary to ask for parent volunteers to chauffer students, and a request will be made prior to the trip to ask for volunteers.

Kindergarten is a time of introduction to many skills, special classes and elementary activities. Because field trips are also introduced at this age, parent chaperones are needed and not limited in number; however, all parents must supply the cost of their own tickets and depending upon the number of students attending the trip, transportation to and from the sites. All other rules regarding elementary field trips apply to kindergarten students as well.

Overnight field trips are offered to second through eighth grade students. Deposits are required at the time of notification and are nonrefundable. Once the field trip cost is paid in full, the student is obligated to attend if the student does not attend after the fee has been paid in full, the money will be forfeited.

Only students in the classroom may attend the field trip. Siblings may not attend field trips.

8

Fire Drills

Fire drills are held at irregular monthly intervals throughout the school year. These drills are held so that students, parents, and staff will be familiar with procedures in the event of a real emergency. Students will become familiar with the closest emergency exit from every classroom they attend. Should a student be in any location other than his/her classroom (i.e.: restroom, office), that student should locate the nearest staff member, and remain with that staff member until the student can be safely returned to their teacher.

When the fire bell sounds, all classes will leave the premises and proceed to the location designated on the Multi-Use Field. Children should walk quickly and quietly. There should be no talking and no hesitancy in leaving the premises during these drills.

Food

Treasured Memories Catering is responsible for distribution of the hot lunch program.

Lunches

Our campus offers a hot lunch program, provided by a third party caterer. Lunches are ordered and paid directly through the caterer. Ordering information and pricing can be found on the correspondence distributed to each student during the month of July, 2014. Refunds will not be given for missed lunches or breakfasts for absenteeism, or cancellations of any kind. The hot lunch meals are prepared in accordance with all State and Health Department regulations, and provide a well-balanced meal with all food groups represented. A standardized form is sent out with Student packets, delivered the start of the school year.

If a student forgets his/her lunch and a hot lunch has not been ordered, one will be provided to your child and the fee will be added to your tuition.

Late Arrival/Tardy

A little late is too late! Children who arrive after the scheduled start time for their classroom are required to first stop by the front office and fill out a tardy slip. These slips are then sent with the student into the classroom. When a student is tardy, it not only affects them, everyone else around them is disrupted. The number of times your child is tardy each quarter will appear on the Progress Report. Since tardiness interferes with a student’s progress and is a distraction to the class, it should be avoided. Six tardies in a quarter will result in a meeting with the Dean, the parents and teacher to discuss this problem.

Missed Assignments/Tests

When the student arrives back a t school after an absence, it is the student’s responsibility to check with the teacher(s) concerning school work missed during this time. This policy will only adhere to excused absences. A student will have one day for each day absent, up to a total of five days, to turn in missed

9

assignments and class work. Missed quizzes and test must be scheduled with teacher(s) and taken within the same time frame. Some assignments and tests cannot be made up due to the nature of the work. Assignments, class work and quizzes not made up in the allotted time will result in the student receiving a zero for the missed work. Class work and homework will not be given out in advance of any planned or unplanned absence.

Perfect Attendance

A student will be considered for the Perfect Attendance Award only if they have attended every school day and have received three tardies or less.

BACKPACKS/BOOK BAGS

All students from 2 year olds to third grade are required to bring a backpack/book bag to school every day. Preschool children should have full-sized, non-franchised backpacks. Wheeled backpacks are only allowed for students in k – 1st grade. A plain backpack is preferred in the school colors of navy blue or gray.

Birthday/Celebrations

Birthdays are special! Children are invited to celebrate their birthdays by bringing treats to share with their classmates.

Birthday Parties/Invitations

Private birthday parties can be held on school days, but you must request the day in advance. All birthday supplies must be arrive on or before 11:00am, all visitors must check in the front office for a visitors pass. The parent or guardian will be responsible for cleanup and all birthday related supplies. Please do not schedule a private party immediately following school unless every child in the class has been invited. Birthday party invitations or thank you notes may not be distributed in the classroom. We ask that you distribute invitations outside of the school to prevent any hurt feelings. Individual invitations may be mailed directly to the families using the Student Directory, which is distributed to every family at the beginning of the school year. We also ask that any gift exchange be done privately.

Special Celebrations

In addition to birthdays, we learn and discuss about a variety of holidays throughout the year. Special attention is usually given to Halloween, Thanksgiving, Columbus Day, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, MLK Day, Valentine’s Day, President’s Day and Mother’s and Father’s Day. Preschool and kindergarten children may celebrate some holidays with classroom parties to commemorate the occasion. Siblings are not allowed at the classroom parties. Only students enrolled in that classroom may attend. Elementary school students may host parties and/or learn more about the traditions of these special days. Please check with your child’s classroom teacher(s) to find out more information about party days and volunteering time in the classroom to assist with such an occasion. In order to minimize disruption

10

to the academic schedule, kindergarten, and elementary school students may only celebrate these occasions at the end of the school day, starting no earlier than 1:30pm.

Dean’s Office/Front Office

The Dean’s office houses Admissions, Health & Records and Accounting. Any comments, questions or concerns should always be directed to the front office and the Dean.

Parking

Parking is exclusive to Sprout State University only. The parking lot is conveniently located next to our facility; it is illegal for anyone to park in the fire lane (next to the school) or block the driveway of the parking lot. Remember safety is a priority not a liability. The early freshman class (infants) has priority for parking in the parking lot. Anyone coming to our facility must use the parking lot if space is available, off street parking is accessible as well. Do not block the exit or the entry to do so may result in a penalty from the Ewing Township Police Department. Do not leave your vehicle running or unattended, Sprout State University will not be responsible for items stolen or lost during your visit.

Class Placement

A child’s final placement in the classroom is the determination of Sprout State University. If you are new to Sprout State University, your child’s initial class placement will be based on age and academics. Class placement for continuing students is based on teacher recommendations.

Final placement of children entering our Kindergarten and Elementary School programs is decided by both the teachers (current and upcoming grade level) and the Dean of Students. Many factors are considered when placing a student, including but not limited to academic ability, social skills, teacher/student personalities and classroom dynamics as a whole. Please remember that our interests as an educational institution are to provide the best experience for your student, academically, artistically and socially.

Classroom Observation

Sprout State University has an open door policy. However, all parents and visitors need to sign in and receive a Parent or Visitor’s Pass from the front office. This is for the safety of all students on our campus as well as for the safety of visitors in the event of a campus emergency. This allows us to account for all people present on our campus at that time. A parent arriving at a classroom without a visitor’s/parent tag will be referred to the office to sign in and acquire one.

School Entry

Please note that the entry (back) will be locked between the hours of 8:45 am and 3:30 pm. All visitors will have to ring the bell and enter the front office during these times to get through to any part of the campus. All visitors are required to sign in and put on a Visitor’s Badge. All parents on campus after 9:00am need to come to the office and get a Parent Volunteer Badge. This policy is implemented to

11

ensure the safety of all those on campus and allows us to determine who is on campus in the event of an emergency.

Health/Immunization Records

New Jersey state laws dictate necessary immunizations for children prior to entering an academic facility. These immunizations differ based on the age of your student, and most current information can be found in the front office. Students who are not properly immunized, or have a pending doctor’s appointment to receive the necessary immunizations, will not be allowed into the classroom. This is for the safety of “Emergency Information and Immunization Record Card” must be completed in its entirety and signed by parents and/or guardians. In addition to immunization information, this card also requires parent contact information, at least two alternate contacts in the event of an emergency, and child allergy information. Students without a completed card on file prior to the start of school will not be admitted into the classroom.

Homework

Sprout State University recognizes the need for practice at home to improve academic skills. As such students in all grade levels including our early freshman class will be required to do homework.

The homework assignments vary in length and the content may vary from student to student based on academic ability and teacher discretion. Please refer to the Attendance section for homework policies when a student is absent.

The purposes for homework are:

To reinforce the skills taught in the classroom To encourage the growth of student responsibility and initiative for their own progress To provide parents an opportunity to participate in the child’s scholastic growth To develop awareness that studying (review for a test, reading assignment) is a valid for

assignment as written homework

Responsibility is an important skill that is required for a successful school year. Notices will be sent home to inform you that your student has failed to turn in on time one or more of his/her homework assignments. Beginning pre-k, any missing or late homework will count as an infraction and loss of recess if the homework is not completed at the beginning of the school that day. The parent will need to sign and return the notice to confirm that he/she is aware of the situation. This will be kept in the student’s file. After three of these notices, a parent/teacher conference will be requested.

Homework for the elementary grades must be turned in to the teacher at the beginning of the day in which it is due. Homework not turned in at the beginning of the day will be considered late resulting in an infraction and the lowering of one letter grade. Students will attend a lunch study hall to aid in the completion of the assignment. To receive any credit, late homework completed in

12

lunch study hall must be turned in at the end of this period. If it is not completed, it cannot be turned in the next day, no credit will be given.

Illnesses

To preserve the health of all children and staff members, we ask that you not send a sick child to school. Small children are especially prone to infection because their immune systems are not fully developed. Just one sick student in the classroom places all other students at risk.

If your student is absent due to illness, please call the main office at (609)882-1854 and leave your child’s name, classroom, date and reason for absence. This will enable us to inform necessary staff of your student’s absence.

Any student who has a fever should not be sent to school under any circumstances! A child who is listless or shows active signs of illness should also be kept at home. If your student has any of the following symptoms please keep them at home until investigated further by a medical professional:

Persistent stomach ache Diarrhea Vomiting Deep or hacking cough, even if a fever is not present Continuous runny nose Yellowish or greenish mucus An undiagnosed rash Pink, swollen, matted and/or runny eyes that have not been treated by a physician

A child may return to school after an illness with a note of clearance from a medical professional under these conditions

Fever and/or vomiting is gone and temperature has been normal for at least 24 consecutive hours without medication

Energy level has returned to normal for at least 24 consecutive hours no symptoms or signs of diarrhea for at least 24 consecutive hours without medication Active signs of illness are no longer present

Students do not have to stay at home until all secondary symptoms of an illness disappear. As an example, some forms of nasal and bronchial congestion may linger for several weeks following a cold or flu, but the student is no longer contagious. Consult your student’s pediatrician if you ever question whether or not your student should return to school. If one the classroom teachers observes signs of illness, he/she may suggest that your child be seen by our school nurse (if she’s available) before being admitted to the classroom.

If your child has been exposed, or is ill from a contagious disease, we require that you contact the front office and the school nurse so that all students and parents in your student’s classroom can be put on alert. We notify students and parents in a classroom if the following conditions are present:

13

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) Chicken pox Croup Fifth disease Mononucleosis Strep throat Staph Infection

Upon confirmation from a medical professional that your student has one of the above diseases, please contact the front office at (609)882-1854 and leave a voicemail message with your student’s name, classroom, and type of disease.

If your child develops symptoms of an illness while at school, he/she will be sent to the front office and a parent or guardian will be called. If a parent has not responded within 30 minutes after the first contact attempt, an office staff member will then try and reach an alternate emergency contact person as listed on the “Emergency Information and Immunization Record Card”. When called to pick up your student due to illness, please respond as promptly as possible. Sick students are more comfortable in their own home surroundings. In addition, it is imperative that we do not inadvertently spread any infectious diseases. Any student that has been sent home ill by the Office personnel will not be permitted to attend school the entire following day including any activities before or after school.

Lost and Found

Many student items become misplaced while at school. We cannot assume responsibility for losses. We have a Lost and Found in the front office area for items that have been turned into the office. Valuable items turned into the office will be kept there. Any items left at the end of each quarter will be donated to Sprout State University. Please check the Lost and Found regularly. Please mark clothing backpacks and all belongings with your student’s name.\

Medication

Sprout State University does not have a registered nurse on the premises, she is on an on call basis. Our staff is certified in CPR and first aid. Minor medical situations will be handled by the designated school office staff. When a student becomes ill or is injured in school, he/she will be evaluated and/or treated by a designated staff member. If it is necessary for the student to be sent home or to a doctor, parents will be contacted and requested to pick up the student. No student will be released from campus without an adult to accompany them.

In case of an emergency, the paramedics and the parent will be called. Should a life threatening situation exist, the child will be taken to the nearest emergency facility.

In order for medication to be dispensed, a parent or guardian must first complete a medication form provided by the front office. Prescription and over-the-counter medications cannot be dispensed

14

without written parent permission. The school will only dispense prescribed medication that is in the original labeled container and displays the student’s full name, attending physician, etc. Over-the-counter medication must be received in the original sealed container or it cannot be dispensed. Students needing Epi-Pen must provide two for school use. One Epi-Pen will be kept in the front office and the other will be locked in a medication box in the student’s classroom. Students may NOT keep their own medication, regardless of type (i.e.: inhalers, Tylenol, aspirin, cough drops, etc.). All medications must be kept in the front office and be dispensed by the front office personnel or a designated staff member.

Morning Arrival

When arriving on campus for any reason, please make sure you park your vehicle in designated parking only. Parent vehicle parking is not permitted in any crosswalk, curb, or exit/entrance to the parking lot. Parking in either of these locations at ANY time could result in a parking ticket from the Ewing Police Department and/or your vehicle being towed.

All students dropped off before 8:30 am will be directed to the lobby or a designated classroom. The gated areas are not supervised prior to this time, and students are prohibited from entering this area without proper Sprout State University staff supervision. Children in kindergarten through 8 th

grades are allowed to walk to their classroom unsupervised when they arrive on time.

Parent Involvement Committee

The Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) is made up exclusively of Sprout State University parents who volunteer their time, talents and materials for the benefit of Sprout State University and its students. PIC organizes many activities and fundraisers throughout the year to foster community and help fund initiatives to add to the strength of Sprout State’s University academic program.

If you have any questions, require additional information or would like to volunteer to help with PIC activities please send an email to sproutstateuniversity.com.

Outside Play Areas

Children are not allowed access to either play area unless proper teacher supervision is provided. AT NO TIME IS A PARENT ALLOWED TO SUPERVISE CHILDREN IN THE OUTSIDE PLAY AREAS WITHOUT THE PRESENCE OF A STAFF MEMBER. Please do not engage in conversation with teachers while they are on duty in the play areas for the safety of all students.

Prohibited Items

The following items are prohibited on school grounds at any time. Possession of these items on school property will result in immediate expulsion:

Tobacco

15

Intoxicating liquor Drugs (dangerous or narcotic) Weapons (of any kind; this includes play items) Explosives Fireworks Any illegal or dangerous items

Bicycles, scooters, rollerblades, skateboards, radios, Walkman’s, iPods, electronic games and gum are prohibited on school grounds without express permission from the school administration.

Rainy Day/Heat Advisory Dispersal

In the event of rain during dispersal time or an issued heat advisory by the National Weather Service, parents are required to PARK their cars and PICK their student up and leave the campus quickly as possible to allow all parents to find nearby parking in the inclement weather. In order to help with some of the congestion, students may be picked up early on these days (with advance notification) without being recorded as a half day absence.

School Hours

The campus is open 7:00am – 5:30 every day school is in session. School hours are as follows:

Elementary (Grades 1 -8)

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Kindergarten

8:45 am – 3:30 pm

Preschool

8:45 am – 5:30 pm

Extended before care 7:00 am – 8:30 am

Extended after care – 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

In the event of an emergency a student will be retrieved after 5:30 pm a late fee will be waived. For all late pickups a fee of a $1.00 per minute will be assessed and collected at the time of the retrieval. Also, the parent or guardian will be required to sign out the student via the main office.

School’s Right to Amend

The administration of Sprout State University retains the right to amend the handbook. Parents will be notified in writing if changes are made during the school year.

Student Directory

16

Information provided within the Sprout State University Directory is for personal use only! Under no circumstances is the directory to be used for telephone or postal mail solicitations. Information in the directory was collected from student directory authorization forms with parental consent and is considered strictly confidential. Reproduction of any kind, in any form, is absolutely prohibited!

Student Records

It is extremely important that all student records be kept current and up to date. Any changes to a student or parent information, including home address, contact phone numbers, emergency contact information, and special instructions should be delivered to the front office, as soon as possible. In the unlikely event of an emergency, it is absolutely imperative that we have correct contact information.

Student Records are kept in the front office. If you child is transferring to another school, a request for transfer records must be delivered to our campus from that institution, and all necessary information will be mailed directly to the inquiring school when all books are returned and accounts are paid in full. At no time will records be released to parents or guardians.

Telephone/Cell Phone Use

Office and classroom telephones are not to be used by students, except in an emergency. Students are not permitted to call home for forgotten book assignments or after school activities with their friends. If a student must use a telephone to contact their parent/guardian, they must get permission from administration to use a phone in the front office. Students may not use a classroom telephone.

Students are prohibited from bringing and/or using cell phones while on campus unless the student has a medical condition and permission has been given by the Sprout State University Administration. Cell phones seen on campus during school hours will be confiscated and placed in the front office for pick-up by parents only at the end of the school day.

Transportation

Sprout State University does not provide transportation to and/or from school for the academic day. Transportation is for school related functions during and after school hours, a fee may be assessed.

Uniforms/Dress Code

Sprout State University recognizes that student dress and grooming are generally a matter of personal choice; however, there is documented relationship between student dress and success, school pride, the safety and general welfare of the students and staff, and the accomplishment of the curriculum goals and educational objectives. School uniforms are mandatory for all Sprout State Students with the exception of the early freshman (infants), but following school colors is helpful and appreciated.

Uniform Requirements

Students who are wearing school uniform must adhere to the following dress standards:

17

The school uniforms must adhere to the following, standards:

With the exception of the SSU logo, other logos, emblems, insignias, etc. ARE not

permitted on any item of clothing Outerwear (sweaters, jackets, sweatshirts, etc.) must

be in plain school colors of dark gray, navy blue, white or canary-yellow. The SSU logo is

mandatory.

Girl Uniforms

• Blouses/Shirts: canary yellow, white, or navy collared school shirts with SSU logo. With the exception of the SSU logo, other logos, emblems, insignia’s etc. are not permitted on any item of clothing.

• Bottoms: solid color navy blue or dark gray (no blue jeans or cargo) pants, Capri pant, skirts, skorts, and mid-thigh shorts. Only k-8th grade girls wear plaid jumpers or skirts, please purchase through Donnelly's Clothing. School code:

SPROUTRENNJ web code: N - ROSR-916544.

• Outerwear (sweaters, jackets, sweatshirts, etc.) must be in school colors of dark gray, navy blue, or white. The SSU logo must be on @ least 2 of the cardigan or pullover sweater which can be purchase via Donnelly's Clothing.

• Leggings and socks must be plain (no patterns or embellishments) in the school

Colors of white, navy blue.

• All hair accessories must be in school colors of white, navy blue or dark gray. Hair

Beads are. not permitted in the early freshman, freshman, or junior kindergarten classes, for the safety of the student. All hair: should be freshly combed and maintained throughout the school year.

• Shoes must be safe for P.E, .recess, and using the stairs. They should not have the type of black soles that mark the floor. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel this means no sandals, clogs, "Crocs", or other types of backless slip-ons. Shoes must also provide adequate support and sturdiness - Boots can-be worn but removed before class. Shoes should not have flashing lights. Shoelaces must be tied. All shoes, boots or sneakers must be in school colors of navy blue', black, dark gray or white.

Boys Uniforms

• Shirts: white, navy blue or dark gray collared school shirts with SSU logo. Grades pre k through 8. Please purchase @ least one short sleeved oxford button down and long sleeved oxford button down from Donnelly's Clothing. Shirts must be tucked in at all times.

18

• With the exception of the SSU logo, other logos, Emblems, insignias, etc. are not permitted on any item of clothing.

• Bottoms: solid colored dark gray or navy blue (no blue jeans or cargo) pants or shorts. Pants may not be low riding or sagging, and a black or navy blue belt must be worn at all times. Students should look neat even on a .casual day.

• All hats/caps (no logos) must be in the school colors of navy blue, white, or gray.

• Outwear (sweaters, jackets, sweatshirts etc.) must be in school colors of navy blue, or dark gray. The SSU logo must be on @ least 2 of V-neck Pullover sweater, please purchase through 'Donnelly's Clothing. School code: SPROUTTRENNJ web code: N - DJSN-394128

• A Ready Made Tie must be purchased for boys in the freshman class (toddlers) through 8 th grade. Please purchase via Donnelly’s Clothing.

• Hair must be freshly cut and maintained throughout the school year, designs are also prohibited.

• Shoes must be safe for P.E., recess, and using the stairs. They should not have the type of black soles that mark the floor. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel; this means no sandals, clogs, “Crocs”, or other types of backless slip-ons. Shoes must also provide adequate support and sturdiness - Boots can be worn but removed before class. Shoes should not have flashing lights. Shoelaces must be tied. All shoes, boots or sneakers must be in school colors of navy blue, black, dark gray or white.

Noncompliance

Students who choose not to comply with the uniform policy will receive a warning and will be sent to the office. Parents will be called to bring a change of clothes each time. They will stay at the office until a uniform is brought. If appropriate clothing is available at school, student will change into it and parents must return it immediately. Students are expected to be in uniform the first day of school and everyday unless otherwise noted.

1st Infraction: Reminder and copy of uniform policy sent home 2nd Infraction': Pink Warning Letter sent home. Loss of recess ?r privilege may be Applied. 3rd Infraction: Telephone call home to parents from the Principal to discuss policy and

determine family needs in meeting policy. loss of recess or privilege 4th Infraction: Further student consequences may be applied.

Dress Code (Non-Uniform)

All students must adhere to the following standards when a uniform is not required:

No tops that expose the chest or abdomen are to be worn (no midriffs).

19

No backless apparel or tube tops. Tank tops are permitted but must be fitted. Low rise shorts and/or capris must be worn with a belt. Inappropriate lettering or designs will not be permitted on clothing. Athletic shoes must be worn during P.E. classes. For safety reasons, students wearing shoes that

are deemed to be unsafe for certain activities, will be asked not to participate. Hats are not to be worn indoors. Current fashions are permitted as long as decency is maintained. Student’s hair should be styled in such a way as that it appears natural. It should not interfere

with a student’s ability to learn. Sweatpants are not allowed except on special days (i.e. Health Week, Field Day). Pants may not be oversized or baggy. Torn or cut garments are prohibited. No superhero clothing, shoes, backpacks, lunchboxes, Show ‘N Tell items will be allowed if the

character(s) may be construed to participate in violence.

Students who violate these dress standards will be asked to do any of the following:

Change into clothing that is provided by the school. Have other clothing brought to school by an adult. Asked to leave school and return in proper attire.

Dress Code for Extracurricular Activities

For certain field trips, teachers may recommend a certain type of apparel to be worn or may allow the trip to be “uniform optional”. In all other instances, Sprout State University students will be expected to wear their uniforms, even if the trip falls on a Spirit Wear Day.

Valuables

School administrators and staff are not responsible for valuables students bring to school. It is recommended that students leave all valuables at home. Common sense and consideration is the best guide in determining whether or not to bring personal possessions to school. In general, students should not bring toys or unusual items to school unless intended for a specific purpose in the classroom and have been requested by the teacher. If a student brings one of these items to school, it will be placed in the front office for the parent to pick up.

Withdrawal

If you need to withdraw your child from school, a written notification needs to be presented to the front office. Tuition will not be refunded. However, prorated tuition (less a cancellation fee equal to one month’s tuition) will be granted by Sprout State University if the withdrawal from the school is result of

20

extended illness or moving more than a 50 mile radius from the campus and documentation of enrollment at a new school. In accordance with the Tuition Payment Agreement, all students enrolled as June 1st, 2014 are obligated to pay that academic year’s full tuition and fees. The written notification will release Sprout State University of all obligations of educating your student.

Sprout State University offers a personalized learning environment to its

students, infants through eighth grade. This is accomplished through the

instructional program being geared to the individual child’s learning ability, e.g.,

allowing students to “cross” grades for academic skill instruction, as needed, for

advancement or improvement in specific subjects. It is therefore, Sprout State

University’s policy that students are advance promoted.

Children are placed according to developmental progress and may continue

in a placement if their developmental needs warrant such a decision, without that

continued placement being considered retention

DISCIPLINE AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

21

Sprout State University's, discipline is approached with a positive attitude and is based on the

premise that children, parents and staff respect and care for themselves, respect and care for others,

and respect the school and others’ property. The goal is to solve behavior concerns by using modeling,

redirecting behavior, and positive reinforcement through attention, praise and reasonable outcomes for

desired behaviors. Positive classroom rules/structure/reinforcement allows children to know what is

expected of them. Circle time and other appropriate group meetings are used as a time for children to

experience praise for themselves and others, to plan activities together, and to discuss class concerns

and goals for desired behavior.

For younger children, teachers focus on modeling behavior and redirecting the child to a more

appropriate behavior. For older children, a discussion of reasonable outcomes is used individually with

children before “think time” is used. That is, first, the behavior of concern is discussed with the child,

second, a plan of action is set, and third, and an in-class “think time” is employed. The purpose of “think

time” is to give the child an opportunity away from the group to think about his/her behavior and to

plan with the teacher how to regain control of his/her behavior.

Biting

We recognize that biting is a developmentally appropriate behavior for children in the infant

through beginner classrooms. Parents with children in these classrooms should expect that their

children may be bit, or will bite another child. The staff understands that parents are concerned and can

be upset when their child is involved in a biting incident. We ask that you remember this is a

developmentally appropriate behavior, and that the staff is working to identify situations, which

provoke or elicit this behavior so it can be prevented in the future. The staff will redirect the children to

different activities within the classroom to minimize the opportunity for reoccurrence. Parents are

expected to work with staff to implement strategies to curb this behavior. As always, we must all

respect and abide by the rules of confidentiality.

A procedure for difficult behaviors is used when appropriate, and, when necessary, a plan is

designed to work with parents in reaching a resolution. Parents are kept informed as to the behavior

concern. If the behavior concern cannot be resolved, we reserve the right to dismiss a child for

unsatisfactory behavior to ensure the health and safety of all children.

22