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TEACHER'S HANDBOOK Prepared for Inwood Christian School 2016-2017
TEACHER'S HANDBOOK
Prepared for
Inwood Christian School
2016-2017
SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
Our school is a non-public parent-controlled school that offers quality Christian
education for children whose parents believe that God is the Lord of the universe and of
our lives. Inwood Christian offers education from a Christian perspective by Christian
teachers to students in grades Kindergarten through eighth grade.
Christian education presents a God-centered pattern for life. It is a wholehearted
commitment to the proposition that all things are of God, through God, and unto God.
From this basic declaration arises the existence of Christian education at the Inwood
Christian School. It colors and controls all the various factors that make up the education
process for preparing and educating the whole child. With this in mind, we present nine
statements which define the philosophy of education at Inwood Christian School.
1. The Word of God is the standard for directing our lives.
2. Our task is to prepare stewards for God over His creation.
3. We are sinful and need to be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ.
4. By faith in Jesus Christ we are restored to our place as rulers for God over
creation and witnesses of the gospel for all of life.
5. In renewed relationship as God's children endowed with talents and gifts, we
must develop these gifts and talents fully and responsibly.
6. Through a Christ-centered education, we learn how to live a Christian way of
life.
7. The truth about the creation of the universe is fully known to us in the light of
God's Word.
8. The truth about God's creation enables us to develop culture in a distinctive
Christian life.
9. Christian education cultivates in our hearts an obedient response to God by
Kingdom service in all of life.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Inwood Christian School is to provide an atmosphere in which each
unique child of God is challenged both academically and Biblically to live as a Christian,
serving Him in all areas of life.
STATEMENT OF FAITH AT INWOOD CHRISTIAN
We believe there is one true God who is holy and perfect. We believe that God
reveals himself to us as God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.
We believe that man was created in the image of God. We believe that man was
created perfect, but through choice, man sinned. We believe that it is only through the
grace of God through Jesus Christ that man is brought back into fellowship with God.
We believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God. It is our source for
instruction, the center of focus for our education, gives instruction for a godly lifestyle and
all that happens at Inwood Christian School. The Bible, the Word of God, provides the
final authority concerning truth, morality, and the proper conduct of mankind and of all
we believe. For purposes of Inwood Christian School’s faith, education, policy, discipline,
and use of its facilities, everything must be done in accordance with God’s Holy Word.
AFFIRMATIVE STATEMENT
The Inwood Christian School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic
origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities, generally accorded or made
available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies,
scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
ASBESTOS INFORMATION
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), passed in 1987, requires
all public and private schools to inventory and inspect all buildings for asbestos containing
materials. This inspection was completed at Inwood Christian School in 2004, and has
been updated (re-inspected) every third year (last re-inspection was conducted July 7,
2016). Any areas of known or assumed friable or nonfriable asbestos will continue to be
inspected on a regular basis (every six months) and procedures implemented to assure no
health hazards are present.
Our management plan has been filed with the State Department of Health and is on
file in the school office. The plan is available for public inspection during normal office
hours. Copies of the management plan will be provided to requesting parties for the cost of
reproduction. For further information, please contact Mr. Dale Kollis, the school’s
asbestos program manager, at 712-753-4541.
GENERAL (100)
110 The Office and You
120 The Staff and You
121 Staff Relationships
122 Faculty Committees
123 Staff Devotions
124 Chapel
110 THE OFFICE AND YOU
1) The office secretary is usually a busy person; therefore all work she is asked
to do must be assigned by the head teacher.
2) Ask administrative permission if you want to remove office records from the
office.
3) Make a habit of meeting office deadlines.
4) Seek the head teacher's help with any problems before they get out of hand.
5) Call your head teacher early if illness causes you to be absent.
6) Report defects and needed repairs immediately.
7) Submit equipment and supply needs in writing.
8) Keep conversations short when using the office telephone.
120 THE STAFF AND YOU
121 Staff Relationships
1) You are a member of a professional group; Christian ethics require that you do
your share of the group's work.
2) Personal habits of tact, neatness, good speech, and helpfulness are a part of your
professional responsibility.
3) Contribute what you can to good general school-wide morale and the main-
tenance of good order.
4) Share ideas and give the benefit of your experience to less experienced teachers.
5) Attend school functions; feel a responsibility for the success of all school-related
functions; help if you see a need.
6) Behind-the-back criticism of fellow staff members, head teacher, or students
is unethical.
7. Your faith in Christ must be seen as a shining light by fellow teachers and
students.
8) Be present and working when you have duty or committee assignments. If you
do not do your share, an unfair burden is added to other teachers.
122 Faculty Committees:
SIT/Long-Range Planning Advisory Committee: Elizabeth Lucas
Projects Committee: Sheri Vander Veen
Dawn Folkerts
Promotions Committee: Katie Bonnema, Chm.
Jayden Pieper
Heartland Christian Schools: Mr. Arlyn Schaap
Strategic Planning Committee: Elizabeth Lucas
Barb Johnson
Wellness Committee: Sheri Vander Veen
Brookstin Halma
123 Staff Devotions
Time: 7:45 A.M. every Wednesday morning
1) Head teacher leads the first meeting.
2) Teachers will lead subsequent meetings as shown on the devotions schedule
handed out at Inservice time
124 Chapel
1) Chapel is for all teachers as well as all pupils; please be present.
2) A suggested sequence for chapel:
a) Opening and/or closing prayer
b) Group singing
c) Scripture reading
d) Object lesson with application
3) Special speakers are welcome.
4) Chapel exercises will be held once a month, and you will be in charge of the
Chapel for the month that is assigned to you. You are encouraged to not wait
until the last week of the month to have your Chapel if possible.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT (200)
210 Compensation
211 Contracts
212 Employee Benefits
220 Obligations
221 Professional
222 Procedural
230 Duties
231 Discipline and School Order
232 Discipline Policy
233 Procedural
240 Privileges
210 COMPENSATION
211 Contracts
1) Determinations for possible vacancies for the following September term are
made in January by the school board and administrator by use of an Intention
Slip.
2) The existing professional staff will be presented contracts on March 1 to be
returned by March 15. Contracts will be written documents signed by the
President of the Board and Board Secretary, and will state all matters essential
and agreed upon.
3) Resignations will be accepted for reasons of health or in case of extenu-
ating circumstances. Adequate advanced notice of thirty (30) days should be
given, if possible.
4) Under certain circumstances, contracts may not be renewed or may be renewed
for a one-year probationary period.
5) Contracted pay is figured on a 12-month basis.
6) Salary is paid in twelve equal installments on the 20th of the month or the
last working day before the 20th if the 20th falls on a week-end/holiday.
7) Teachers are paid according to the salary schedule established each year by the
School Board. (See attached supplement sheet.)
212 Employee Benefits
1) Health insurance for full-time staff is paid at set premium rate determined
by the Board annually. Insurance rate for teachers will be $500 per month
or an individual plan premium, whichever is lower. If the teachers deny the
full benefit plan, they must take the limited plan. Dental is not included in
the package plan. If there is only one staff member taking full benefit plan,
the staff member will pay only what they would pay if they were on the group
plan.
2) Eight sick days per school year for full-time teachers and prorated for part-time
teachers, and two personal days for full-time teachers and prorated for part-
time teachers per school year. (Personal days recommended not taken prior to
or following holidays unless Board approved.) The teachers have the option of
being reimbursed for unused days or building them up to thirty days and
being paid out at 80% of average substitute pay if employment is terminated.
Once employee has opted for long term accumulated personal days, they can
not change back to short term pay. Accumulated personal days beyond thirty
days will be paid out annually.
3) Death leave or serious illness in the immediate family, in addition to the
sick leaves, will be given at Board discretion. Guideline: five days for
immediate family and one day for distant relative or close friend. These
leaves must receive approval by the Head Teacher or Principal and the Board
President.
4) Expenses for approved travel shall be reimbursed by the school at the current
state rate.
5) Teachers will be encouraged to advance their schooling by a reimburse-
ment from the general fund at the rate of $80 per credit hour at a
maximum of eight hours per year for full-time and two credit hours allowed
for part-time with additional credit hours considered at Board's discretion.
Tuition reimbursement will be applied to full-time teachers in a Master's
Degree program at a rate of $170 per credit hour. (The Board recommends
enrolling in a school with Christian emphasis.)
6) Retirement at age 65 allows the teacher to benefits under social security and
pension plans.
7) A Pension Plan will be provided for full-time employees. The Plan will
provide 4% of the employee's gross wages in the CSI Pension Plan. The
employee will match the Board contribution with a voluntary deduction
from their gross wages.
8) Professional days will only be allowed with written request and approval.
220 OBLIGATIONS
221 Professional
1) The board of directors encourages all certified and non-certified staff to con-
tinue professional growth through participation in formal course work, work-
shops, seminars, inservices, and professional conferences.
A) Certified Staff
1. Financial assistance shall be provided.
2. Each employee shall be required to earn no less than six hours in four
years and maintain their professional certification.
3. Each employee shall attend inservice and workshop activities as developed
by:
a) The school administrator
b) CSI District Six
1) Heartland Convention (Tri-State Christian Teachers Conference)
2) District 6 Inservice
c) School year AEA Workshop (one bi-annually)
4. Each employee is encouraged to participate in:
a) AEA workshops and courses
b) NW Iowa Reading Council
c) Christian School Teacher Seminars
d) Additional graduate credits
5. Administrator/Head Teacher shall be required to maintain active
membership in Minikota Principals' Club.
2) The teacher is expected to be in agreement with the Scriptures as interpreted by
the traditional creeds of the Christian church, to teach accordingly, and to sign
the Form of Subscription.
3) The teacher is expected to submit requested reports on time.
4) The teacher must be a recruiter of teachers for the Christian schools by repre-
senting the profession in such a way that young people will look forward to
becoming teachers.
5) Each teacher is expected to follow the chain of command.
a) Teachers should not bypass the head teacher to discuss matters with the
school board members.
b) Secretary, cook, and custodian are under the direction of the head teacher.
6) Purchasing of school supplies and equipment is done only by the head teacher
or with his or her approval.
7) The teacher must attend parent-teacher conferences, and conferences or
conventions of regional Christian teachers' associations.
8) The teacher is responsible to assist the administration in preparing a course
of study for the school.
9) The staff will dress in a manner that represents mature Christian commit-
ment, community standards, and will not restrict him or her from doing his or
her job.
222 Procedural
1) Each teacher is expected to be in good physical and mental health and to
report to the head teacher any illness which affects teaching performance.
2) A physical examination including a TB test will be taken at the time of
employment.
3) All incoming staff members are required to undergo a criminal history check,
an unprofessional conduct check, health screenings as required by law, and
all other legal procedures necessary for employment in a school in the province
or state.
4) Teachers are obligated to teach all students the basic concepts of courtesy
and respect.
5) Teachers may not leave the school building during the school day unless the
head teacher or her designee is informed and approves.
6) Each teacher will be issued a main entrance key, teacher-board room key,
library key, and their classroom key. These keys are NOT to be given out
to anyone who does not have any authorization in the school. Report lost keys
immediately to the office, and be prepared to pay the cost of a duplicate, and
perhaps new locks on the doors, if so directed by the school board.
7) If you are ill, notify the head teacher in the evening if possible, or at least by
6:30 A.M.
8) Lesson plans must be complete and Website page up-to-date. This should be
done by noon on Saturday. The Website can be updated from anywhere you
have access to the Internet.
9) An up-to-date seating chart must be available.
230 DUTIES
231 Discipline and School Order
1) Each teacher is responsible for his or her own pupils who remain in school after
school hours.
2) Each teacher is responsible for discipline when bad conduct by any pupil is
observed.
3) Pupils should not be allowed to disturb other classrooms.
4) Each teacher should be at the door or in the hall at entrance and dismissal time
for pupils.
5) Playground duty
232 Discipline Policy
1) Each teacher will resolve discipline with students under normal
circumstances. If problems persist, they will contact the parents and inform
the head teacher. If these avenues do not resolve the problem, a conference
will be arranged regarding solutions or other remedial measures.
2) Students will complete a disciplinary referral sheet when the student neglects
to obey school policies and rules. If a referral sheet is filled out two times in
one semester for the same offense, the student will serve a detention, and
parents will be contacted. Detention will be served from 7:30 – 8:15 in the
morning. A detention will be served, and parents contacted, for each referral
after two. (A fourth referral sheet, and each one after, may result in becoming
ineligible for one game during the current sport season or the upcoming one.
Further disciplinary action may be taken if needed.
3) The Board may deny the privilege of attendance at this Christian school or
take other disciplinary action against a student whose conduct does not
conform with Christian standards. This applies to conduct during school
hours, during any school function, and while riding the bus.
4) Due Process—When a serious infraction of school rules occurs, the following
steps shall be taken before the student is suspended or expelled from school:
(a) The teacher or responsible party shall inform the head teacher.
(b) The head teacher shall inform the parents and the Education
Committee.
(c) If the head teacher and the Education Committee feel it is serious
enough to suspend the student for a limited time, the parents shall be
informed of the decision and given an opportunity to appeal.
(d) If the infraction is considered serious enough to expel the student, a
Board Meeting shall be called to provide a hearing for the child and the
parents. All parties involved shall be notified of the meeting and be
given opportunity to present information.
(e) The decision of the Board shall be considered binding.
When parents disagree with a teacher’s discipline in the daily maintenance of
order, they must follow the principles based on Matthew 18. The parents
must first discuss their concerns with the teacher. If they cannot resolve it,
they should discuss it with the head teacher. If it is still not resolved, the
parents may request a hearing with the Board.
5) Corporal Punishment—In accordance with Iowa law, corporal punishment
may not be used to maintain discipline by any staff member of the school.
Physical contact may only be justified when:
(a) It is reasonable and necessary under conditions threatening others or
property.
(b) It is not excessive in view of the situation.
(c) It is not administered maliciously.
6) Substance Abuse—the use or possession of tobacco, nicotine, alcohol, and
prohibited drugs in any form shall be banned from the school building and
grounds and all school sponsored functions. The head teacher shall have the
right to search the students and their property if there is reasonable cause.
School district facilities and grounds, including school vehicles, are off limits
for tobacco use, including the use of nicotine products that are not FDA (Food
and Drug Administration) approved for tobacco cessation (i.e. not only
cigarettes; but not limited to products such as dissolvable, spitless, snus,
chewing, and electronic cigarettes.) This requirement extends to students,
employees, and visitors. This policy applies at all times, including school-
sponsored and non-school-sponsored events. Persons failing to abide by this
policy are required to extinguish their smoking material, dispose of the
tobacco/nicotine product, or leave the school district premises immediately. It
is the responsibility of the administration to enforce this policy.
7) Bathroom Policy—Students are expected to exercise responsible stewardship
in keeping the bathrooms/locker rooms picked up and in good repair. Any
damage sustained to these facilities will result in fines and disciplinary action
to those responsible. In the event of misconduct, a teacher may enter the
bathroom of the opposite sex, after verbally announcing his/her intent to
enter.
233 Procedural
1) Teachers are responsible for the appearance of their rooms.
a) Be alert to pupils writing or marking on desks or other equipment.
b) Care and maintenance of equipment assigned to your use is your respon-
sibility.
c) Teachers, or students who have permission, should adjust the shades or
windows.
d) Your environment should be neat and pleasant; it influences the attitudes
of your pupils.
e) Whiteboard should be kept free of tape or other damaging materials.
f) Whiteboard erasers are not to be cleaned on the walls of the building.
g) Be alert to proper temperature and light control.
h) Pupil absences must be noted, recorded, and accurately reported to the office
by 8:45 A.M. each morning.
i) Special academic deficiencies or failures should be brought to the attention
of the head teacher.
j) Check your mail box at least once a day (please keep it current).
k) A teacher should not send a pupil home without first getting the approval
of the head teacher and alerting parents.
l) All playground balls and equipment assigned to your room should be clearly
marked and cared for.
m) In the winter, snow should be removed from clothing and boots before a pupil
enters the building; in spring, mud should be removed.
240 PRIVILEGES
1) Your classroom is your domain.
a) The custodian should be allowed to come in and clean when your room
no longer has class in session.
b) The head teacher or administrator has the right and the responsibility to come
in and observe at anytime.
c) You have a right to arrange the room and to display materials according
to your taste as long as safety regulations are observed and the room and its
equipment are not damaged.
d) Your room should reflect your tastes, your interests; it also should reflect your
neatness, your interest in your work, and your approach to teaching.
2) A faculty room is provided for your use.
a) You should use the faculty room for periods of meditation, if desired.
b) You should use the faculty room to become better acquainted and to
exchange ideas with your fellow teachers.
c) You should use the faculty room for a coffee or tea break.
d) Do not use the faculty room to talk in a derogatory manner about pupils
or colleagues.
e) Do not use the faculty room as refuge or to escape other responsibilities.
f) You should clean what you make dirty, rearrange that which you disarrange.
g) Dirty dishes must be cleaned.
h) Teachers may borrow school equipment for personal use only when the
head teacher approves.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (300)
310 Teachers' Meetings and Inservice Training
320 Evaluation and Rating of Teachers
330 Use and Development of the Professional Library
340 Professional Ethics
310 TEACHERS' MEETINGS AND INSERVICE TRAINING
1) Periodic teachers' meetings are held throughout the year.
2) You may be requested to do some research and give a report on a topic of
professional interest.
3) You are expected to be present and to participate in all faculty meetings,
PTA or Home-School meetings, and other regional Christian teachers'
association meetings.
4) A school visiting day is provided so that you may visit another school and observe
other teachers.
5) You are encouraged to undertake additional course work (see 212).
6) The administration will keep you informed of workshops or other pertinent
training programs available locally.
7) If you are aware of a professional conference in your area of teaching, one which
you feel would be beneficial to your work, confer with the head teacher or board
president about your participation.
8) The goals of this school can best be reached if all of us express ideas and express
them in the Christian, democratic spirit.
9) The head teacher has a right to expect loyalty and cheerful, intelligent responses.
He or she also expects honest constructive criticism, directly communicated.
320 EVALUATION AND RATING OF TEACHERS
1) Self-evaluation is a valuable exercise. The CSI "Check List for Teacher
Appraisal" is a helpful tool to use.
2) The administrator's evaluation of your work is a continuing process. It is a
major part of his or her responsibility.
a) "Principal's Evaluation of the Teacher Report" will be made and reviewed
with the teacher.
b) An individual conference will be scheduled.
3) Evaluation is a composite of all information the administrator gathers from
room visits, from firsthand conversations, from colleague relationships,
from parent relationships, and from student relationships.
4) You are encouraged to notify the administrator of any activities in or
out of the classroom which reflect on your work for good or for bad. An
invitation to the administrator to observe student accomplishments is always
welcome.
330 USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY
1) If you feel the need for a professional book or magazine which is not now
available, request it in writing from the head teacher.
2) Professional books and magazines are available through AEA.
340 PROFESSIONAL ETHICS
1) An Obligation to God - to honor Him and cultivate the sanctified life.
2) An Obligation to Pupils - to train them to glorify God and mold their wills to
service of their Creator.
3) An Obligation to Parents - to recognize their God-given authority over the
pupil and to faithfully share their great responsibility.
4) An Obligation to the Profession - to recognize colleagues as members of the
body of Christ, and maintain an attitude of constructive cooperation with each
of them.
INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM (Series 400)
410 The Program
420 Administrative Aspects
430 Teaching Aspects
431 Lesson Plans
432 Lesson Procedures
433 Textbook Use
434 Homework
435 Classroom Management
435.1 Room Management
435.2 Pupil Management
440 Building Aspects
441 Care and Use of Building and Equipment
442 Supplies and Equipment
443 Pupil Library
444 Technology
410 THE PROGRAM
1) Our primary objective is to teach the student to view all of life and living in its
true, God-related perspective.
2) Program development is a continuous process. It is basically outlined in the
goals and objectives of the school, the textbooks, and other learning materials
we have selected, curriculum guides and materials, and the course of study
developed for this school.
3) The Education Committee regularly reviews the program in terms of the main
and lesser objectives in order to determine any changes which should be made.
4) The head teacher is charged with the responsibility to see that the program is
carried out.
5) Textbook selection is important since many areas of the course of study are
determined to a great degree by the textbook in use.
6) All teachers will be asked to serve on textbook selection committees.
7) A good course of study includes:
a) Ultimate aims - philosophy
b) Immediate aims - goals attainable during the course
c) Content - materials, facts, understandings
d) Presentation - methods
e) Testing - evaluation of accomplishments
8) Special Needs
a) Remedial - A remedial reading program is available to students in
grades 1-6. Screening will be done by the remedial reading teacher at
the end of the school year. Every effort will be made to schedule students
at times that will not hinder their regular classroom work. Classroom
teachers are encouraged to work cooperatively with the remedial teacher
to plan activities, areas of concentration, and other details.
b) At-Risk - Inwood Christian School recognizes that some students need
special assistance to complete our K-8 educational program. We pro-
vide the following program to encourage and provide opportunity for
At-Risk students to achieve their potential during their elementary years.
It shall be the responsibility of the head teacher and staff to develop a pro-
gram for students at risk, including regulations for identifying students
at risk and for program evaluation.
1) Identification
At-Risk students are identified by:
a) Standardized test scores
b) Psychological evaluations
c) Teacher referrals
d) Parent referrals
e) Guidance counselor referrals
2) Supplemental Instruction
Supplemental instruction is done through the following programs:
a) Title I - Remedial Reading
b) Programs developed by guidance counselor
c) Discovery (TAG) program
d) Skills for Adolescence - upper elementary grades
3) School personnel involvement
All school personnel who work with identified At-Risk students meet at
least quarterly to coordinate and correlate programs for individual students'
needs, including the teaching staff, supplemental programs staff, counseling
staff, and head teacher.
4) Inservice for staff
Initially all staff will be inserviced by head teacher regarding all aspects
of the At-Risk program. Yearly, thereafter, new staff will receive inservice
and continuing staff will be updated as program revisions occur.
5) Parental involvement
Parents are currently involved through conferences and permission signa-
tures regarding Title I, resource, or any special services.
6) Monitoring system
Progress in academic, social, behavioral, and career components will be
monitored through the following:
a) Standardized testing scores
b) Career strands in the curriculum
c) Staff meetings
d) Parent/staff conferences
e) Counselor/parents/student conferences
7) Counseling services
ICS does not have a counselor at the present time. If you feel a student
needs the services of a counselor, please discuss this with the head teacher.
8) Community coordination
Various local agencies will be used as program needs require, including:
a) AEA programs (Instructional and Special Ed Division)
b) Canton-Inwood Medical Clinic personnel
c) Area Plains Mental Health Counseling
d) Bethesada Christian Counseling
e) Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Center
f) Domestic Violence Aid Center
c) TAG
Talented and gifted children are those who by virtue of God-given out-
standing abilities are capable of high performance. These are children who
require extended and expanded educational programs in order for them to
realize their contributions to their Lord, to society, and to self.
Children capable of high performance include those with demonstrated
achievement and/or potential ability in any of the following areas, singly, or
in combination:
1. general intellectual ability
2. specific academic aptitude
3. creative or productive thinking
4. leadership ability
5. visual and performing arts
Our school provides for identified students with enrichment-type activities
in the classroom.
Students are identified by a selection process done in the spring of each year.
Results from the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills and teacher questionnaires assist
the selection committee.
420 ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS
1) The school calendar is provided in the supplements.
2) Each room will have room mothers assigned by the Hearts & Hands.
a) Room mothers help the teacher with class outings, projects, and other
room projects.
b) Room mothers supervise collection and purchase of gifts for the teacher.
3) Time allotment suggestion for elementary subject areas is shown. (See
supplement.)
430 TEACHING ASPECTS
431 Lesson Plans
1) Plan books must be used. They are an excellent means to devise and execute
a well-organized system of teaching.
2) At the end of each class period or subject presentation, an entry should be made
in your plan book as a reminder for the next day.
3) At the end of each day, enter your plans for the next day.
4) Any deviation from written plans should be noted in your plan book to aid your-
self and any substitute.
5) Your plan book should always be ready for a substitute teacher or the
head teacher's use. Keep an up-to-date seating chart available for your substitute
as well.
6) Approaching week's lesson plans should be ready no later than Saturday after-
noon of each week.
7) Classroom Webpage: Updating your webpage is considered part of your Lesson
Plans and must be updated weekly by all teachers. Suggested topics to include
are: topics of weekly plans, new units, memory verse, spelling words, test dates,
special events in your class, special supplies needed, etc. Keeping our parents
informed of what is happening is an important means of promoting student
success! The classroom webpages are also becoming a more significant means of
promoting our school!
432 Lesson Procedures
1) Assignments should be reasonable and clear.
2) Class recitations should be orderly and clearly spoken.
3) Written work should be graded by the teacher at least twice a week. Prompt
feed-back has proven to be more beneficial for students.
4) Classroom work should be regularly evaluated and a grade recorded.
5) Tests should be given to teach and evaluate.
6) Take time to teach pupils proper habits:
a) How to study
b) How to prepare assignments
c) How to take notes
d) How to review and prepare for tests
e) How to prepare consistently neat work
7) Assignment books should be carefully kept.
8) Students should be taught to keep a neat, well-organized notebook.
433 Textbook Use
1) Textbooks should be used as curriculum guides and as your primary reference
book.
2) Textbooks should not be viewed as your master in determining speed of progress
or intermixing the amount of material to be covered.
3) The teacher must follow the scope and sequence of the material to be covered,
emphasized, and mastered in the light of his or her goals. The textbook must not
be used to give uniform emphasis to all chapters or units regardless of their
relative importance in terms of the teacher's objectives.
4) To achieve their goals, teachers are encouraged to use methods other than the
single textbook approach.
434 Homework
1) Young children learn best under careful guidance by the teacher, and little, if
any, homework should be given in the lower grades.
2) Informal homework with individualized assignments based on the pupil's
interests and abilities may be given in the upper intermediate grades.
3) Formal homework finds its place at the middle school/junior high school
level, but it should be used wisely.
435 Classroom Management
435.1 Room Management
1) Each teacher is responsible for the control of his or her classroom.
This control includes pupil discipline, furniture and equipment ar-
rangement, the use of teaching aids, regulation of lighting, and the
control of ventilation.
2) Adjust the length of the instructional period to the age level of your
group, keeping in mind the attention span.
3) Pupil entrance and dismissal should be done in an orderly manner.
4) Distribution of supplies and materials should be planned to take as
little time and carried out with as little confusion as possible.
5) The attractive bulletin board is a teaching instrument and should be
used regularly and intelligently. A Christian theme is encouraged.
6) Be alert to pupil treatment of desks, books, and other school equipment.
7) Plan regular desk and locker inspections.
435.2 Pupil Management
1) A warm, friendly spirit should prevail to help each pupil do his or
her best.
2) Courtesy and respect should be stressed as proper Christian attitudes.
3) Discipline throughout the school is each teacher's responsibility.
4) Referral to the head teacher is permissible and encouraged in difficult
situations.
5) The best discipline is accomplished by good teaching. Be firm early;
be decisive always; never be unfair or unjust. Demand high academic
and moral standards, but be understanding, and readily resort to a
conference. Strive for professional objectivity; fight personal animosity.
6) Consistent concern by the teacher for observance of the rules of good
conduct is necessary to maintain discipline.
7) All pupils should be required to follow all rules.
a) In stubborn discipline cases, confer with head teacher.
b) Dismissal of students from class should not be done lightly or
excessively, and should be made in consultation with the head teacher.
c) Suspensions from class for more than one period, day, or from
school are made by the head teacher only.
8) Gum chewing is prohibited in grades PreK – 6th. Junior High students are
allowed to chew gum.
9) When a pupil is sent to the head teacher,
a) write a note to accompany the student concerning the misconduct
and take him or her to the office.
b) confer with the pupil, if possible, before he or she returns to his
or her seat.
440 BUILDING ASPECTS
441 Care and Use of Building and Facilities
1) Any misuse of school equipment should be reported to the head teacher.
2) Pupils are held liable for damage or destruction of school property.
3) Teachers are expected to erase whiteboards when they are finished using
them so that the custodian may wash them occasionally. If writing remains
on the board, it may not be washed at the end of each week.
4) Teachers should cooperate with the custodian by requiring pupils to help
keep the rooms and halls as neat and clean as possible.
5) Pupils may be in the office, kitchen, and conference rooms only when on
official business.
6) If you would like the floor scrubbed thoroughly with the autoscrubber at
the end of the week, desks and chairs should be moved to one side of the
classroom.
7) The ICS Board has established the ICS facility and grounds, including the school
vehicles, as off limits for tobacco use.
442 Supplies and Equipment
1) Pupils are required to return all personal possessions and school equipment
they use to assigned places.
2) Teachers may help themselves to needed materials in the supply room.
They may requisition any supplies needed. When you take the last supply
item, please inform the office in writing so that the item may be reordered.
3) Maps and globes are distributed throughout the building and may be bor-
rowed by any teacher who needs them.
4) The copying machine is available for your use. Please return machine and
supplies to their proper stored position. Report any difficulties or problems
to the head teacher or secretary.
443 Pupil Library
1) All teachers should familiarize themselves with the facilities of the library.
2) Encourage reading and the constant use of the library. Display attractive
books in the classroom.
3) Books may be kept for two weeks and then renewed if necessary. An over-
due fine must be paid on overdue books.
4) Lists of books you would like in the library should be submitted to the
librarian or to the head teacher.
444 Technology
The Inwood Christian School sees the need for the use of technology in the
classroom for both teachers and students. The Board will make available adequate
technology as the budget will allow and as the Board deems necessary in the school’s
curriculum. They will welcome gifts for this purpose from other sources. The Board will
also encourage and help the teachers to become trained in the use of the various selected
forms of technology found in the school. The Board will impress on the teachers the
necessity of not only the teachers using technology in their lesson planning but also the
necessity of the students learning to use various types of technology. The following is the
plan to carry out such philosophy.
A) The Board, in addition to the types of technology that they already have, will
acquire other types of technology as it becomes necessary in the school.
B) The Board will encourage and provide training for teachers in the operation and
use of such technology in the classroom.
C) The use and application of various available technologies will be infused into the
curriculum where appropriate.
D) The Board and the Head Teacher will determine if technology is being used
effectively in the classroom.
E) An Internet Policy agreement has been established, and it must be signed by the
student and his/her parent between the student may use the Internet.
1) Each classroom has a TV, VCR, DVD, and SMARTBoard to be used. Screens
are also available to use with overhead projection.
2) We encourage the wise use of educational films and videos to motivate and
create interest.
3) Catalogs listing available films and other teaching aids are available in the school
office.
4) NWAEA is the best source for educational videos.
5) iPads are available to use throughout the school year. Each classroom
should use the board at least one time per week. Sign out sheets are on the
wall in the office.
6) SMARTBoard Document Cameras are available for use. Please familiarize your-
self with them in order to incorporate them into your lesson plans.
7) The camera should be used frequently, and pictures should be posted on the web.
8) Hand held radios should be used to communicate emergencies.
9) Any video or photographic recordings made require the consent of the
participant. No photography or video is to be taken without consent. Any record-
ing done without the express permission of instructor or any student is not
permitted.
PUPIL PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION (Series 500)
510 Pupil Accounting
511 Records and Report on Pupils
512 Grading, Promotion, Reporting, and Credits
512.1 Grading
512.2 Promotion
512.3 Reporting
513 Testing Programs
514 Absence and Tardiness
520 Pupil Welfare
521 Pupil Conduct Policies
522 Pupil Guidance
523 Pupil Safety and Health
524 Rainy Day Procedures
525 Telephone Use
526 Playground Specifics
527 Lost and Found
528 Hot Lunch
529 Money Collections in School
530 Pupil Procedures
540 Anti-Harassment-Bullying
550 Wellness Policy
560 Anti-Plagiarism Policy
570 Internet Policy
580 LAU (Ell) Plan
510 PUPIL ACCOUNTING
511 Records and Report on Pupils
1) Each teacher must keep an accurate class record.
2) There are four marking periods for each school year.
3) A daily schedule should be worked out and turned in to the head teacher.
4) You should have a cumulative record file for each pupil. Please file all
pertinent anecdotal information on each child, and use this file to become
acquainted with him or her. Information in this file is confidential.
Files may not be taken out of school.
5) A written progress report of the student's performance will be submitted to
the parents mid-term of the first marking period.
6) Teachers should call the home of any pupil who is absent more than three
days.
7) A class list is available. It alphabetically lists all pupils, addresses, tele-
phone numbers, grades, and names of parents.
8) Cumulative record files are stored in the fireproof file in the office. At
the end of the school year a grade average must be entered for each sub-
ject; also record days absent and promotion or retention. At any time
during the year, other materials of interest or use may be placed in these
files by the teacher.
The Inwood Christian School will keep both a Permanent Record and a Cumulative
Record for each student. The Cumulative Record shall be kept on file until the student
leaves this school. The Permanent Record shall be kept on file in a fire-safe place.
These records will be kept confidential, open only to viewing by parents, legal
guardian, record custodian, school staff, school support personnel, and any other person
covered in the “Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974” and the Iowa Code
“Chapter 22.” Any other person who wishes to view these records must obtain written
parental permission.
The records of students will be available for viewing when a valid request is made to
the Board of Education. The Board will set up a viewing at a time that is convenient for
both those who request such a viewing and the school staff. If the staff desires, a member
of the Board will be present at the viewing.
Records to be transferred to another school will be done upon reception of a request
for transfer.
512 Grading, Promotion, Report, and Credits
512.1 Grading
100 - 99...A .............. 1
98 - 95...A- .............. 2
94 - 92...B+ ............. 3
91 - 90...B ............. 4
89 - 86...B- ............. 5
85 - 83...C+ ............. 6
82 - 80...C ............. 7
79 - 77...C- ............. 8
76 - 75...D+ ............. 9
74 - 73...D ............. 10
72 - 69...D- ............. 11
68 - 0...F ............. 12
Report cards are issued at the end of each nine weeks. For aiding grade average,
it is suggested that the subjects be listed in the grade book in the same order that
they appear on the report card. Recording the number equivalent of a grade in-
stead of the letter grade also facilitates preparing report cards.
It should be noted that percentage grades cannot be the sole determiner of re-
corded grades since any teacher can design a test which would be so difficult
that the majority of the class would have 70 percent or less correct answers.
512.2 Promotion
1) Promotion: Students are automatically promoted to the next grade. This is
indicated on the final report card issued.
2) Acceleration: Occasionally a student's general development is such that he/she
is advanced one grade level. This is done only after thorough study of all
pertinent information and in consultation with and consent from the parents.
3) Retention: If questions arise regarding a child's readiness for the next grade,
parents will be informed of these questions no later than spring Parent/Teacher
Conferences. If retention is not decided at that time, progress will be monitored
with further contact made with parents prior to the final decision.
512.3 Reporting
1) Report cards are given four times during the school year.
2) Report cards for grades 2-8 are printed off by using Easy Grade Pro. These
report cards should look as uniformed as possible.
3) Report cards are given out shortly after each marking period.
513 Testing Programs
1) The classroom teacher is expected to administer tests.
2) When standardized tests are used:
a) the classroom teacher administers the test.
b) return the results to the office for filing and entering on cumulative folder.
3) In preparing a test, make questions concise, clear, and fair. Test for
understanding.
4) Tests should never be too long. All but the very slowest pupil should finish
easily in time allotted.
5) Frequent quizzing and testing can be beneficial to the pupil by not allowing
work to pile up.
6) A quiz on the previous day's discussion and the assignment for the day may
be given at any time.
7) A "test" on any body of material exceeding that of a quiz must be announced
at least two days ahead of time.
8) As a general rule, no pupil should be required to take more than two tests
a day.
9) Eligibility Code:
a) Any student receiving an "F" average during any week from daily
grades, quizzes, tests, compositions, and major reports in any subject
will be placed on a "failing list." Also, any student receiving con-
secutive (two in a row) "F's" on tests or major reports in a given subject
will be placed on a "failing list."
b) During the following week, the student may participate in all activities,
but is on probation.
c) During the week of probation, grades earned in daily grades, quizzes,
tests, reports, and compositions must raise the "F" in that subject area
to a "D-" or above or the student will be disqualified from competition
until such time as the grade is passing.
10) Attendance at all school programs or final performances is mandatory (music
programs, Graduation, Choir Festival, Band Festival, Declam, Skit Night,
Science Fair, etc.) An unexcused absence from any performance will result in
the student receiving an incomplete for that quarter. This incomplete can be
cancelled by completing extra work agreed upon by Mrs. Vander Veen, the
teacher involved in the event missed, the student, and the student’s parents.
514 Absence and Tardiness
It is assumed that children will be present each normal class day since parents by
law are mandated to send their children to school. We recognize that absences will occur
and are basically of two types: 1) those beyond the student’s control and 2) those caused by
the student.
In both instances, parents should obtain books and assignments as soon as possible
and confer with the teacher(s), if possible, so you can better supervise the make-up work.
Regarding the first absence, teachers assume the obligation along with the parents
to help complete make up work as soon as possible. Parents should call the office to
request assignments as soon as the child is ready to resume schoolwork.
Regarding the second absence, please note the following:
(a) When such absences are preplanned, the parents should inform each child’s
teacher ahead of time, requesting whatever assignments can be given prior to the
absence so that the assignments are completed before being absent. Make up
work must be done within the same number of days as the absence—a day of
make-up time for each day of absence.
(b) Responsibility for assignments rests with the students and parents. Teachers are
not obligated to remind pupils of make-up work and need not give credit for
over-due work.
1) Teacher punctuality is essential and serves as an example to the pupil.
2) All requests for early dismissal should be referred to and approved by the
head teacher.
3) Teachers should call the home of any pupil who is absent more than three days.
4) Pupils who are habitually tardy should be referred to the head teacher.
520 PUPIL WELFARE
1) The first three weeks often set the classroom pattern for the year. Get off to a
businesslike start.
2) Every teacher is responsible for the supervision of all pupils at all times.
a) Supervision extends to all parts of the building.
b) Each teacher should know and enforce all school rules.
c) Coffee breaks and conversations must end on time so teachers will be on
hand to supervise pupils as they return to the classrooms.
d) Study time is a time of important supervision, a time for a helping hand, a
time to help develop good study habits.
3) Discipline is first of all the teacher's responsibility. The head teacher
stands ready to give advice or to take over troublesome cases.
Each teacher will resolve discipline with students under normal circumstances.
If problems persist, the teacher will contact the parents and inform the Head
teacher. If these avenues do not resolve the problem, a conference will be
arranged regarding solutions or other remedial measures.
Students will complete a disciplinary referral sheet when the student neglects to
obey school policies and rules. If a referral sheet is filled out two times in one
semester for the same offense, the student will serve a detention, and parents
will be contacted. Detention will be served from 7:30 – 8:15 in the morning. A
detention will be served, and parents contacted, for each referral after two. (A
fourth referral sheet, and each one after, may result in becoming ineligible for
one game during the current sport season or the upcoming one. Ineligibility
may be carried over to the following year.) Further disciplinary action may be
taken if needed.
The Board may deny the privilege of attendance at this Christian school or take
other disciplinary action against a student whose conduct does not conform
with Christian standards. This applies to conduct during school hours, during
any school function, and while riding the bus.
4) In accordance with Iowa law, corporal punishment may not be used to maintain
discipline by any staff member of the school. Physical contact may only be
justified when:
a) It is reasonable and necessary under conditions threatening others
or property.
b) It is not excessive in view of the situation.
c) It is not administered maliciously.
4) Pupils sent from a room must be given a task to do or a place to which
they should report. Each classroom has an extra desk to accommodate an
in-class timeout.
5) Pupils may not be sent home by the teacher without the approval of the
head teacher and without contacting parents first.
6) Running in the building is prohibited; it is dangerous. Excessive noise is to
be discouraged.
7) Contact with the home should always be the teacher's first step in dealing
with any pupil problem.
8) Detaining a pupil at recess time should be a rare event. If a pupil is
detained, the teacher should be present in the room with him or her. No
teacher may keep a pupil from another teacher's class as a disciplinary
measure.
9) All teachers must be sensitive to the conduct of pupils in the community.
Impolite, rude, or un-Christian-like conduct cannot be overlooked by any
responsible person.
10) Insist that pupils always show proper courtesy and respect to you as a
teacher. If one ill-spoken word is allowed to pass, others will use the same
approach.
11) It is difficult at times for a teacher to avoid the appearance of favoritism
towards well-liked pupils. Be alert to your audience's attitude when/if you
bestow favor and praise.
12) Lunches should not be eaten outside of the classroom/lunchroom except on
special occasions.
13) A well-kept school breeds respect from the pupil. See that marks and
defacements are immediately corrected.
14) Grade deductions are not to be made as a disciplinary measure.
15) Specific disciplinary actions will vary from teacher to teacher, depending
on past experience and personality.
16) Discipline is not something we do to the child, but something we do for
the child.
17) Take time to analyze each disciplinary problem to find underlying causes.
This will help to decide on effective procedures in handling the situation.
Don't forget to check yourself. Perhaps there is a better method of pre-
senting lessons and organizing work that would prevent trouble.
18) A private conference with a student may do a lot to remedy a problem.
19) Bear in mind that the parents of our students give a great responsibility
to the Christian school teacher. The parent has vowed to the Lord to
instruct his child in the way of the Lord to the utmost of his power. In the
academic sphere, the parent transfers a part of this responsibility to the
teacher. This is not to be taken lightly.
20) Be an example of Christian conduct both during school hours and after.
521 Pupil Conduct Policies
Dress code: The way we dress often reflects our feelings and attitudes. Dress
is also determined by the occasion. It should reflect our Christian witness and
distinctiveness. Note the following guidelines:
1) School clothing should be neat, clean, and in good taste, thus excluding
immodest attire, such as too short or too tight.
2) Styles and grooming change. Extremes in either are not appropriate be-
cause they seek or cause individual attention. Personal desires must often
be denied to avoid causing offense.
3) Examples of inappropriate clothing include short tops, cut-off tops, cut-off
shorts, short shorts, biker short, and tank tops.
4) Judgment regarding dress will be made by the staff, and parents will be
contacted if a child is judged to be inappropriately dressed.
522 Pupil Guidance
1) Christian guidance means leading Christian children "in the way they
should go." When questions of moral and spiritual values are being
considered, it is the counselor's responsibility to point the right way, as he
or she understands it, from God's absolute standards.
2) The best teacher plans and guides in such a way as to "lead out" or "lead
forth" rather than "show" his or her pupils. This can best be done if there
is a person-to-person learning relationship. Teachers often must answer an
emotional or spiritual need as well as an educational need.
3) Study periods are a good time for individual guidance and help; use them
for this purpose.
4) Pupils must be taught how to study. Making an assignment to study a
paragraph will not be sufficient without giving guidance about how to study
the paragraph for the purposes sought.
5) The individual teacher must give as much individual help as possible to
the pupil. It is a good procedure for a teacher to set aside at least one afternoon
after school to give help to pupils who need special help to make up or
catch up on work.
523 Pupil Safety and Health
1) The alarm system should be used by anyone noting a fire.
2) The law requires four fire drills a year.
a) All doors and windows should be closed.
b) A teacher must stay with his or her class and take the red emergency folder
and radio with him/her when leaving in order to take roll.
c) Pupils should walk rapidly, but not run.
d) Pupils should return to their rooms only upon signal from the head teacher.
3) Tornado drills will be held two times a semester. Instructions will be provided
to each teacher.
4) Every teacher should be familiar with the lock-down procedure located in
the Crisis Manual.
5) Radios should be used to communicate emergencies.
6) Running in the hallways or on stairs is strictly prohibited.
7) Accidents are cared for by any teacher available at the time. Serious
accidents are referred to the head teacher.
8) First aid equipment with emergency treatment instruction is available in the
office.
9) All teachers should be familiar with basic first aid procedures.
10) No medication, including aspirin, may be administered without express per-
mission of the parent.
11) All accidents at school which require first aid or which have otherwise come
to the teacher's attention must be reported to the office.
12) School will be dismissed in case of serious, severe weather. Students will
be instructed to go directly home.
13) School closings because of severe weather will be announced on radio
stations KSOU and KNWC from 6:30 A.M to 8:30 A.M., the ICS Website, and
Keloland Closeline The head teacher will call/text you at your home.
524 Rainy Day Procedures
1) On rainy days a special recess schedule is used.
2) Students may use the gym according to the arranged schedule.
3) The teacher on duty for a given day will decide if boots are necessary
on the sidewalk. Any time that moisture or mud can be tracked into the
building should be considered a boot day--on and off the sidewalk. If a
student does not have boots or rubbers, he/she must stay in a room and be
kept busy studying. A teacher on duty is also expected to have boots so
that the entire playground can be supervised.
525 Telephone Use
1) There are two phones in the school. Students should use only the phone in
the office after receiving permission from a teacher or the secretary unless given
permission by a teacher and accompanied by that teacher to the kitchen to use
that phone.
2) Teachers and students will not ordinarily be called out of class to answer calls
not of an urgent nature. A message will be taken, or the caller will be given
a specified time at which the teacher or student will be available.
3) Use your own discretion in deciding if a call is important. For consistency,
calls regarding forgotten materials, such as piano lesson books, are
important. Permission to go to a friend's house is trivial or a matter that
should have been taken care of in advance.
4) Cell phones: Cell phones are to be turned in to the classroom teacher upon
arrival at school each morning. The phones will be returned at the end of
the day. However, when traveling out of town after school for sporting events
or attending any after school activity, the students are considered on school time
and cell phones, ipods, etc. may not be used. Students waiting for their bus after
school are still on school time and are discouraged from using their phone for last
minute change of plans.
526 Playground Specifics
Playground duty can be a rewarding yet frustrating task. The following are
specific rules; however, each teacher may have the authority to implement
temporary rules if student conduct requires it. If a temporary rule is initiated,
all teachers must be informed. Common sense and sense of fair play may be
needed to determine unusual circumstances. If difficult situations do occur,
seek head teacher's advice.
1) No climbing or sitting on the backstops.
2) May not retrieve anything from the roof.
3) One down the slide at a time.
4) No climbing up the slide.
5) Half court basketball is standard rule, unless full court is allowed by
teacher or because of the absence of number of students.
6) Hard playground balls must not be played with by the school building.
Any type of ball playing must be played on appropriate field, not in the
Playground equipment area.
7) No playing tackle football.
8) Children are not to enter the building during recess without teacher permission.
9) No throwing stones.
10) Students must exit and enter appropriate door at recess.
11) Teacher on duty will determine whether or not to use boot sign. The first
recess duty teacher will determine use of boots before school.
12) No playing north or west of school.
13) After school, all bus students must be on the south side of school.
14) On boot days, there must be at least one booted person on each half of
the basketball court.
15) Personal property (such as balls, toys, etc.) brought from home for use
during recess is permissible, but damage acquired is not the responsibility of the
school.
16) No baseballs are allowed.
17) No playing on church ground.
18) No electronic devices may be brought to school for entertainment.
19) No climbing up swing poles and soccer goals.
20) No snowball fights.
527 Lost and Found
1) All pupils are encouraged to have names sewn or stamped on each item of outer
clothing.
2) All "found" articles are to be brought to the office.
3) Pupils who have lost articles should be sent to the office.
4) Articles which are not claimed by the close of school will be given to a
charitable organization.
528 Hot Lunch
Each student is encouraged to have hot lunch each day. Tickets are for a 20-
day period and are purchased from the cook before school time. Forms for
free or reduced meals are handed out at registration time and need not involve
the teacher.
Students file to the kitchen to receive their meal, and then they return to the
classroom where it is eaten. Seconds may be gotten after all students have
been served. The order for getting served will be decided during teachers'
workshop prior to the beginning of the school year.
529 Money Collections in School
Teachers are responsible for all monies collected. Never leave money in an
unlocked place or where it may prove to be a temptation to the students. Keep
accurate records of any incoming money.
1) Hot lunch money will be handled by the cook.
2) Book order money should be brought to the office when the order is
complete so that it can be exchanged for a school check.
3) Monies taken in by any fund raiser should be brought to the office.
530 PUPIL PROCEDURES
Teachers are required to be at school by 7:45 A.M. When students arrive, they may
bring their supplies to the classroom and return outdoors to play until the 8:15 A.M.
bell when school begins. All other daily scheduling will be regulated by the bells
and the teacher's discretion. Teachers must remain at school until 3:45 P.M. except
for designated duty days in which teachers remain until all students have gone
home. Teachers should arrive promptly on days when staff devotions are held.
Town students are required to leave the school ground by 3:35 P.M. and not allowed
to return to the school grounds until all buses have left. They may not arrive until
8:00 A.M.
540 ANTI-HARASSMENT/ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
Inwood Christian School intends to provide its employees, volunteers, and students an
environment that is free of offensive kinds of behavior. Conduct, whether intentional or
unintentional, that subjects another person to unwanted attention, comments, actions, or
robs the person of dignity, is unlawful and contrary to our religious beliefs, and therefore,
is not permitted.
Inwood Christian School does not condone or allow bullying or harassment of others,
whether by employees, supervisors, students, or other persons who may be present in our
facilities. All students, employees, and volunteers are expected to conduct themselves with
respect for the dignity of others on school property, or at any school function or school-
sponsored activity.
Harassment and bullying are defined as any electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or
conduct toward another person which is:
1) Based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics: age,
color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation,
gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability,
ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or
familial status; and
2) Creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the
following conditions:
a) Places the person in reasonable fear of harm to person or property.
b) Has a substantially detrimental effect on the person’s physical or mental
health.
c) Has the effect of substantially interfering with academic or job
performance.
d) Has the effect of substantially interfering with the person’s ability to
participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges
provided by this school.
The following activities, absent substantial aggravating factors, occurring inside or outside
the classroom, do not constitute harassment or bullying:
1) Instruction and participation in lessons and worship service.
2) Discussions and debate concerning issues important to Christian faith.
3) Electronic, written, verbal, and physical interpretation of Biblical scripture, and
religious texts, music, and opinion.
4) Witnessing and faith-sharing.
Any person who believes he or she has been subjected to bullying or harassment should
report it immediately to an appropriate superior. A student may report to a teacher,
counselor, administrator, or school board member as well as discussing the incident with
the student’s parent or guardian. An employee may report to the administrator or a school
board member. However, the Principal is responsible for receiving report and ensuring
this policy is implemented.
All suspected bullying or harassment will be promptly and thoroughly investigated by the
Principal or his/her designee. Subsequent investigations will be handled discreetly to avoid
embarrassment of the person making the report. Criminal charges will be handled by civil
authorities.
Any person who is determined to have violated this policy will be subject to corrective
action and discipline, including the possibility of termination (for employees), expulsion
(for students), or criminal charges if they are filed.
Sexual harassment, one of the forms of harassment prohibited by this policy, is defined as
follows:
1) Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical
conduct of a sexual nature, or otherwise creating an intimidating, uncom-
fortable, bothersome, hostile, or offensive working or learning environment.
2) Making submission to, or rejection of, such conduct the basis for employment or
educational decisions affecting any person.
This policy shall be published in the student handbook, the employee handbook, and the
parent/guardian handbook.
It is the policy of Inwood Christian School to provide equal education and employment
opportunities and not to illegally discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, age,
marital status, gender, or disability in its educational programs, activities, or its
employment and personnel policies. Students shall be integrated in all areas on the basis of
race, national origin, gender, and disability. As a Christian school, Inwood Christian
School reserves the right to discriminate or impose qualifications based on religion, gender
identity, or sexual orientation as allowed by the Iowa Civil Rights Act (Iowa Code, chapter
216, section 216.9). Nothing in this policy, or any other policies of the school, shall be
construed to limit, inhibit, or otherwise restrict the genuine expression of religious belief or
conviction, or the free exercise thereof, as expressed in the First Amendment to the
Constitution of the United States of America.
550 WELLNESS POLICY
Inwood Christian School promotes healthy students by supporting wellness, good
nutrition, and regular physical activity as part of the total learning environment. The
school supports a healthy environment where students learn and participate in positive
dietary and lifestyle practices. By facilitating learning through the support and promotion
of good nutrition and physical activity, schools contribute to the basic health stats of
students. Improved health optimizes student performance potential.
Inwood Christian School provides a learning environment for developing and practicing
lifelong wellness behaviors. The entire school environment, not just the classroom, shall
be aligned with healthy school district goals to positively influence a student’s
understanding, beliefs and habits as they relate to good nutrition and regular physical
activity.
Inwood Christian School supports and promotes proper dietary habits contributing to
students’ health status and academic performance. Healthy food alternatives will be
provided and promoted. Food should be served with consideration toward nutritional
integrity, variety, appeal, taste, safety, and packaging to ensure high-quality meals.
Inwood Christian School will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached
to, and prevent the overt identification of students who are eligible for free and reduced
priced meals. The school’s wellness committee is comprised of parents, cook, head
teacher, physical education teacher, nurse, community members, students and staff. The
committee will develop a plan to implement and measure the local wellness policy and
monitor the effectiveness of the policy. The head teacher will report annually to the
committee and also to the board regarding the effectiveness of this policy.
I. Nutrition Education and Promotion
Inwood Christian School will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition
promotion that:
1. Is offered at each grade level as part of a sequential, comprehensive program
designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote
and protect their health.
2. Promotes fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, low-fat and fat-free dairy
products, healthy food preparation methods, and health-enhancing nutrition
practices.
3. Emphasizes caloric balance between food intake and physical activity.
II. Physical Activity
A. Physical Education
Inwood Christian School will provide physical education that:
Is at least 2-3 times per week.
Is for all students in K-8 for the entire school year.
Includes students with disabilities.
Engages students in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50% of
physical education class.
B. Daily Recess
Inwood Christian School will provide recess for students that:
1. Is at least 45 minutes a day (K-4 70 minutes a day).
2. Is preferably outdoors (held in the gym if necessary due to weather).
3. Encourages moderate to vigorous physical activity through provision of space
and equipment to use.
4. Discourages extended periods of inactivity (i.e. periods of two or more hours).
C. Physical Activity and Punishment
Employees should not use physical activity (e.g. running laps, pushups) or
withhold opportunities for physical activity (e.g. recess, physical education) as a
form of punishment.
D. Other Physical Activity Opportunities
The school will provide students in grades 5-8 the opportunity to participate in
intramurals twice a week.
III. Other School-Based Activities That Promote Student Wellness
Integrating Physical Activity into Classroom settings
Inwood Christian will:
Offer health education that complements physical education and reinforces
self-management skills to maintain a physically active lifestyle.
Discourage sedentary activities, such as watching TV, playing computer
games, etc.
Provide opportunities for physical activity to be incorporated into other
subjects and lessons.
Encourage teachers to provide short physical activity breaks between lessons
or classes, as appropriate.
Promote physical activity beyond the physical education class, but help
students to see it as a personal behavior.
6. Encourage teachers to use special activities and other non-food items as
rewards in their classroom.
Communication with Parents
Inwood Christian School will support parents’ efforts to provide a healthy diet and
daily physical activity for their children. The school will:
1. Provide parents a list of foods that meet the school’s snack standards and ideas
for healthy celebrations/parties. (See copy in supplements)
2. Support parents’ efforts to provide their children with opportunities to be
physically active outside of school.
3. Include sharing information about physical activity and physical education
through the website or physical education homework.
IV. Nutrition Guidelines for All Foods Available at School
School Meals
Meals served through the National School Lunch Program will:
1. Be served in a clean and pleasant setting;
2. Meet, at a minimum, nutrition requirements established by local, state and
federal law;
3. Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables;
4. Serve only low-fat (1%) and fat-free milk.
Meal Times and Scheduling
Inwood Christian:
Will provide students access to hand washing or hand sanitizing before they
eat meals or snacks.
Will take reasonable steps to accommodate the tooth-brushing regimens of
students with special oral health needs (e.g., orthodontia)
Sharing of Foods
The school discourages students from sharing their food or beverage with one another
during meal or snack times given concerns about allergies and other restrictions on
some children’s diets.
V. Additional Aspects to Wellness
Inwood Christian will support the parents’ efforts in the wellness of their children
beyond their physical needs.
A. Spiritual Care – growth, purpose, joy
B. Social Care – relationships with peers, Accountability Groups, and adults
C. Emotional Care – mindfulness (prayer and devotions), stress-management,
relationships, joy, and creativeness
D. Home Care – less screen time, oral health, sleep, family time, healthy cook-
ing at home
VI. Implementing and Monitoring the Policy
Monitoring
1. The principal will insure compliance with those policies in the school and
will report on the school’s compliance with nutrition policies.
2. The food service staff will ensure compliance with nutrition policies with
food service areas and will report on this matter to the head teacher.
3. A report by the committee will be provided to the principal, school board,
wellness committee, parents/teacher organizations, and health service
personnel.
4. The principal will develop a summary report for the state as mandated by the
state.
Policy Review
1. To help with the initial development of the school’s wellness policies, a
baseline assessment will be conducted of the school’s existing nutrition and
physical activity environments and practices.
2. Assessments will be repeated every three (3) years to help review policy
compliance, assess progress, and determine areas in need of improvement.
The committee will revise the wellness policy and develop work plans to
facilitate their implementations.
H. Illness
If your child cannot attend classes, please call the office by 8:20 A.M. or send a note
with another student so that we know your child has not left your home.
If a student becomes ill during the school day, a child may rest in the office until such
time as someone can come for the child. It is important that we know where to call
when a child is ill if no one is at home during the day.
School personnel and students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend
school and perform their customary tasks as long as they are able to perform the
tasks assigned to them and as long as their presence does not create a substantial risk
of illness transmission to the students or other personnel. The term "communicable
disease" shall mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person-to-person
or animal-to-person or as defined by the State Department of Health.
A student will be excluded from school or school activities when the student's condi-
tion has been determined to be injurious of others or when the student is too ill to attend .
Inwood Christian School recognizes the importance of providing and maintaining a
school environment which minimizes the risk of the transmission of any significant
communicable diseases. It also recognizes the need to ensure that any student or
staff member with a communicable disease remain eligible for the benefits of its
educational services, as well as his or her rights and privileges provided by law. In
order to balance these rights with the school's obligation to protect the health of all
students and staff, the following policies and procedures have been developed regarding
any student who has a communicable disease.
The diseases to which this policy applies include, but are not limited to, the following
which have been declared by Lyon County Public Health to be contagious, infectious,
communicable, and dangerous to the public:
Class I: Measles, meningitis, meningococcemia, chicken pox, etc.
Class II: HIV infection, encephalitis, viral hepatitis, salmonellas, tuberculosis,
etc.
Inwood Christian School will work cooperatively with local, county, and state or
provincial agencies as appropriate to enforce and adhere to health codes for presen-
tation, control, and containment of communicable diseases in his or her school.
1. Immunization
The school adheres strictly to state or provincial public health laws that mandate
appropriate vaccinations for all school age children. This now includes lead testing
and dental screening. The Head Teacher will exclude any child from school who is out
of compliance with the required immunization schedule. One written warning will be
given prior to exclusion. School personnel will complete all immunization data
including the necessary Immunization Program forms.
The Head Teacher also has the authority to exclude from school a student who has a
communicable disease or infection normally associated with childhood that is
known to be spread by any form of casual contact and is considered a health
threat to the school population. The affected student shall be excluded only after
consultation with the parent/guardian and a review of opinion by a mutually
accepted physician.
2. Communicable Disease Panel
A multidisciplinary Communicable Disease Review Panel will be convened by the
Head Teacher as needed. The purpose of this panel is to serve as a resource and
advisory body to the school for specific communicable disease instruction, and for
input regarding issues of major concern with respect to epidemic control and any
communicable disease occurrence.
The panel will be comprised of the following: a) Head Teacher; b) One or more
physicians with expertise in the related area, selected by the school.
In addition, one or more of the following may be added to the panel: a School
Board member, parent/guardian of an affected student, student or staff member's
physician, local public health official, legal counsel for the student or staff member,
and legal counsel for the school.
If and when the need for a panel determination exists, the panel shall be convened
by the Head Teacher promptly and should make every effort to complete its review
and evaluation in a prompt and timely manner.
In addition to an initial evaluation, the panel shall re-review the student's condition
and situation on a periodic basis, as it deems appropriate, to make any modifications
to the original recommendation.
3. Confidentiality
The school recognizes the importance of confidentiality. Any student or staff mem-
ber's medical condition shall be disclosed only to the extent necessary to minimize
the health risks to the individual and others. The number of personnel aware of the
individual's identity or condition will be kept at the minimum necessary to assure
proper care of the individual and to detect situations in which the potential for trans-
mission of the disease may be increased.
The multidisciplinary Communicable Disease Panel responsible for making initial
evaluations and placement decisions will also determine which personnel need be
informed of the condition. Such determination will be in accordance with existing
state or provincial laws.
4. Medical Evaluation
If a student or staff member has a communicable disease, or if there is a reasonable
cause to believe that he or she does, the parent or guardian of the student or the af-
fected individual will provide to the school upon request documentation of an ap-
propriate medical evaluation. Refusal to provide such information will result in the
individual being excluded from school until the requirement is met. If a communi-
cable disease is present, the information in the medical evaluation will be made avail-
able to the Communicable Disease Review Panel.
5. Placement
The Head Teacher may exclude students and/or personnel from school who are
suspected of having a communicable disease, pending the completion of an appropriate
medical evaluation. If such a condition is confirmed, continued exclusion shall be
dependent on the nature of the condition and the decision, if applicable, of the
Communicable Disease Review Panel. In most instances, return to school will be
dependent on the written recommendation of the individual's own physician.
6. Education
On a periodic basis, the school may provide in-service training to all faculty and
staff regarding this Communicable Disease Policy. Similar sessions shall be made
available to parents, if requested or as appropriate.
560 ANTI-PLAGIARISM POLICY
With ever-increasing accessibility to written works found on the Internet, it is necessary
to add a policy for cases dealing with plagiarism. As stated by definitions.net, plagiarism is
“the unauthorized use of the language and thoughts of another and the representation
of them as one’s own.” At appropriate grade levels, the students of Inwood Christian
School are taught the proper times and format to give credit for the words and ideas of
authors by documenting their sources. When purposeful plagiarism has been committed, the
following steps will be taken:
1. The student will receive a “0” for that assignment.
2. The student will need to re-do that assignment.
3. The parents will be notified of what has happened.
4. The student will serve detention.
570 INTERNET POLICY
The Internet is a tool of God’s creation. It has greatly changed the process of
communication in our world and provides us with a vast resource tool. As with anything, it
has the potential of being used for good or evil. As Christians, our appropriate use must
witness to Christ’s Lordship.
The use of Internet is a privilege, and a privilege which can be lost through misuse or
damage. This privilege comes with responsibilities: moral responsibilities and legal respon-
sibilites. The following rules apply to the use of the Internet:
1. All rules in the Parent Handbook are applicable to Internet use.
2. An adult supervisor must be in the room when Internet is being used or Internet
privileges will be taken away.
3. Using inappropriate web sites will result in a one month suspension from Internet.
Second offenses will result in a meeting of parents, student, education committee, and
Head Teacher.
4. Each student has the responsibility to report offensive material to his/her supervisor.
The student should not draw attention of other students to the inappropriate material.
5. Each student must have a personal account with a password and use only that account.
6. Student may not use e-mail or Facebook at school.
7. Abusive, vulgar communication will not be tolerated.
8. No names, addresses, passwords, and phone numbers are to be given out.
9. Downloading or transmitting inappropriate images on files is prohibited.
10. All communication, photos, and graphics are the property of the author and may be
used only by their permission.
11. Students will not install any software or attempt to alter or modify software configura-
tion of the school’s computers.
Each student must sign the ICS Acceptable Use Agreement Form and each student’s
parent must sign the ICS Acceptable Use Agreement Form giving permission for their
student to use the Internet before the student will be allowed to use the Internet.
580 LAU (Ell) Plan
INWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
INWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
K-12 Lau (ELL) Plan for Serving English Learners (ELs)
Revised September, 2015
Lau (ELL) leadership team members:
Sheri Vander Veen – Lead Teacher
Arlyn Schaap – Principal
Bev Brouwer – Office Secretary
Kathy Perrot, ELL Consultant (NW AEA)
I. Language Instructional Educational Program (LIEP) Goals* Local Goals* A. To help students to become English proficient in the language skills of speaking, reading, writing, and listening B. To help students to successfully participate in classroom learning situations and other school activities C. To help students to develop and/or reinforce positive attitudes toward self, school, and community II. Identification and Placement of EL’s in a Language Instruction Education Program (LIEP) Home Language Survey* A. During registration, all families will complete the state mandated Home Language Survey. The Home Language Survey is found at www.transact.com in 28 different languages. Completed home language surveys are placed in the student’s cumulative folder. B. Inwood Christian School is prepared to conduct oral or native language interviews in the student’s home language with those adults who may not have sufficient English or literacy skills to complete a
survey written in English. Families registering children will be assisted in completing documents and registration materials on-site as needed. If home language assistance is necessary in order to secure accurate data, every reasonable attempt will be made to provide this support. C. The Principal, Lead Teacher, and Secretary reviews the HLS to verify if a language other than English is represented. Program Placement* Step #1 Entrance Screening Assessment of English Language Proficiency is required within the first thirty days of the student’s arrival. If the child enters after the beginning of the school year, it is required within two weeks. Additionally, an assessment of academic skills, in relation to the student’s grade or age level, is also required. To meet these requirements Inwood Christian School will work with NWAEA personnel who are trained to administer and score the assessment, and they will administer the Tennessee English Language Proficiency Assessment (TELPA) and review all available standardized test scores within the first 14/30 days of enrollment as required. Inwood Christian School will insure that the assessment is completed within mandated timelines. Completed assessments will be kept in the student’s cumulative folder. Step #2 Assessment of Academic Skills At Inwood Christian School, the Lead Teacher, working in collaboration with classroom teachers, will review student academic records in relation to student grade or age level and administer necessary formal and informal assessments of current academic ability. Step #3 Data Review The Lau Leadership team, lead by the Lead Teacher, will review data, including the results from the English language proficiency assessment. Inwood Christian School may also review prior student records, teacher interview information, parent information, teacher observations, referrals, student grades, or informal assessment information.
If the student is non-English proficient or limited English proficient in any of the English language development subtests (speaking, listening, reading and writing) or there is evidence that he/she will not be successful in the regular classroom because of language background, the student is identified for the LIEP. Step # 4 Preliminary LIEP Placement Based on assessment results, identified EL students will be assigned to mainstream classrooms with students the same chronological age, with no more than two years differential. LIEP services will begin upon identification. Step #5 Parental Notification When a student is identified for the LIEP: Parents must be notified every year. Parents are notified no later than 30 calendar days after the beginning of the school year. Within two weeks of a child being placed in a language instruction program (if a child enrolls after the beginning of the year) A. Parental Notification must include: 1. Reasons for identification 2. Child’s level of English language proficiency 3. Method of instruction 4. How the program will meet the educational strength and needs of the child 5. How the program will help the child learn English 6. The program’s specific exit requirements 7. How the program meets the objective of the IEP of a child with a disability B. Parental information must be provided in “an understandable and uniform format, and to the extent practicable,” in a language that the parents can understand.
At Inwood Christian School, the Lead Teacher insures that this work is completed. A copy of the parent notification letter is kept in the student’s cumulative folder. Parents do have the right to waive enrollment in the LIEP. If a parent wishes to decline services, a meeting is held to discuss recommendations, concerns, and potential outcomes with parents. To waive enrollment, parents must sign an enrollment waiver. The waiver is kept is the student’s cumulative folder. The school will provide support to students who have waived enrollment in the LIEP within the classroom to ensure mastery of English and academic achievement. Special Education Considerations The school will refer to the following resources: · Educating Iowa’s English Language Learners – A Handbook for Administrators and Teachers · IEP · AEA (Northwest) ESL consultants Talented and Gifted Considerations The school will refer to the following resources: · Educating Iowa’s English Language Learners – A Handbook for Administrators and Teachers · AEA (Northwest) ESL consultants III. Language Instruction Education Program (LIEP) LIEP services Inwood Christian School will utilize the English as a Second Language Program for LIEP services. The LIEP services will be given in a “pull out” setting. The LIEP services will be given in cooperation with the local public school, and the frequency and intensity of services will be determined in
collaboration with them as well. Staffing The Lead Teacher is responsible for staffing LIEP. The ELL teacher at Inwood Christian School is required to have an ESL endorsement as well as content-area certification if the staff serves as the teacher of record. Standards Inwood Christian School uses the TESOL English language proficiency standards. Curriculum and Supplemental Resources* The West Lyon Public School District (in meaningful consultation with Inwood Christian School) makes decisions regarding supplemental services that are appropriate to the needs of the learner and goals of instructional programs (Iowa Code 280—180.4). Instructional materials and supplemental resources are screened for content, organization, presentation and quality. All materials are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Inwood Christian School is currently utilizing the following curricular materials. Reading/English: K-6 Treasures, Macmillan/McGraw Hill @ 2009; 7th & 8th Enjoying Literature, Macmillan/McGraw Hill @1997; McDougal Litell Literature, McDougal Litell @2008 Math: K-5 Math-In Focus, Singapore Math, MHM @2013; 6-8 Glencoe Math Connects, Glencoe @2012 English: 7th & 8th Grammar & Composition, McGraw Hill @2012 Science: K-5 Fusion Science, HMH @2012, Grade 6-CSI Science,
Christian Schools International @2011; 7th & 8th Life & Physical Science, Christian Schools International,
@2001 & 2002 Social Studies: K-5 Macmillan/McGraw Hill Social Studies, Macmillan/McGraw Hill @2003; 6th Story of the Old World, CSI @1972; & Iowa History
7th & 8th - This American Nation, Prentice Hall @ 2005; World Geography, Prentice Hall @2005 Bible: Walking With God & His People, CSI @2009 Professional Development* In-service training is provided for all staff involved in the educational process of ELs (Iowa Code 281—12.5(8), 12.8(1), and 60.3(3)b5). All educational and appropriate school personnel receive in-service training regarding instructional techniques and modifications for EL students, with continuing training provided according to the school’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (Iowa Code 281—12.7(256) and 281—60.3(3)b5). A record of professional development activities will be maintained. Parental Participation* In compliance with NCLB, Sec. 3302[e][1][A and B]: A. Information on how parents can become involved in the education of their children will be disseminated in their native language through the weekly newsletter. B. Information about how parents can actively participate in helping their children learn English and achieve at high levels in the core academic subjects will be provided through an interpreter. C. Regular meetings for parents and notices of such meetings so that parents have the opportunity to provide suggestions and recommendations regarding their child’s education will be provided through an interpreter. Welcoming Environment Classroom teachers will exhibit multi-cultural information and displays of the student’s native culture in an effort to educate classmates and peers and provide a welcoming and inclusive environment. IV. Annual Language Development Assessment English Language Proficiency* English Learners will be evaluated annually with a standardized English
language instrument recommended by the State of Iowa. The state is currently using the Iowa-ELDA (Iowa English Language Development Assessment) to measure growth. An ELL teacher through NWAEA who is trained to score and administer the assessment, will administer the I-ELDA at Inwood Christian School between February 1 - April 30. All students that have been identified as English Learners, including those students whose parents have waived/refused services, will be assessed. Result data will be disseminated to the Lau leadership team and used in instructional and programmatic decision-making. Classroom Assessments* Mainstream teachers will report the student’s achievement and growth (60.3(1)b) through authentic assessments and content area tests (modified as necessary) in the regular classroom. Accommodations will be made to support students until the student is able to achieve academically in the classroom with age and grade level peers. ELL teachers will share accommodation information with pertinent staff. ELL teachers and classroom teachers will collaborate and share data to ensure achievement and growth. This will occur during problem solving time. School-Wide Assessments* ELs must be tested on the district-wide assessments with or without accommodations for reading and math and science (NCLB, Sec. 1111(b)(3)(c) (xi)I). All ELs, regardless of time in a language instructional program and level of proficiency in English, will be assessed annually in the areas of reading, mathematics, and science using the Iowa Assessments. One or more of the following accommodations may be made at the discretion of the classroom teacher in consultation with the student’s parents: · Allowing extra time to complete a test · Allowing the use of a translation (word-word) dictionary during testing · Reading parts or all of a test (This should not be done with tests of reading vocabulary or reading comprehension.) · Providing word pronunciations or word meanings when such help does not interfere with the subject matter or skills being tested · For further clarification, including allowable and appropriate accommodations, refer to Iowa Guidelines for K-12
English Language Learners Participation in District-wide Assessments.
Annual Measurable Achievement Objectives (AMAOs) Inwood Christian School will strive to reach the AMAO targets approved by the federal government. The objectives and targets are shown in the following table:
AMAO Targets: 2014 2015 #1 Progressing in English language acquisition (Iowa-ELDA) 62.1% TBD #2 Attaining or reaching English proficiency (Iowa-ELDA) 24.2% TBD #3 Making Adequate Yearly Progress (Iowa Assessment) School AYP Data
Parent Notification* If the school fails to make progress in meeting the state’s annual measurable achievement objectives, then the school must separately inform parents of an EL child about the school’s failure within 30 days. (NCLB, Sec. 3302[b]) V. Transition and Exit* ELs achieving proficiency in English speaking, listening, reading, and writing at a level commensurate with their grade and/or age peers will be transitioned into the mainstream classroom or exited from programs and services (60.3(3)b4). The following definitions will be used to classify the different levels of proficiency: Transitional – A student will be considered transitional when he/she receives minimal EL support, and sustained academic progress is evidenced for a period of up to 2 years. Transitional students must take the I-ELDA as part of a demonstration of English language proficiency. Proficient – A student will be considered proficient when he/she achieves a composite I-ELDA level of 5 or 6.
Exited – A student will be able to be exited after a) sufficient input from teachers, parents, and other staff, b) a level 6 on the IELDA, and c) meets 3 of the 4 following criteria: 1. Experiences success in the regular classroom 2. Does not require ELL support 3. Sustains success 4. Scores Proficient on district-wide assessments Transition Transition is defined as 2 years of monitoring prior to exiting the ESL program when the student appears proficient. During the transition period, teachers and the lead teacher will review the student’s progress by examining his or her grades for every grading period. If the student does not meet the minimum requirements to pass the course or make satisfactory progress in class due to the language difficulty, the student may need to re-enroll in LIEP in order to receive the necessary extra support. Exit Utilizing exit criteria defined above, the Lau leadership team will determine exit status for EL students on an annual basis or more frequently as deemed necessary. The decision will be documented in the student’s cumulative folder. Parents will be notified of this change in status via letter mailed home. VI. Monitoring Exited Students Once students have formally exited the EL program at Inwood Christian School, the state of Iowa, through the Student Reporting System, will continue to monitor the student for AYP purposes for two more years. Inwood Christian School will continue to monitor students who have formally exited the EL program for two more years (or time enrolled at Inwood Christian School, whichever is shorter). The Lau leadership team will document this review. VII. Program Evaluation*
The Lau Leadership team will evaluate the LIEP program on a regular basis. One way to gauge the program’s effectiveness at Inwood Christian School is through careful monitoring of students’ progress. Based on the questions below, English language development, achievement-test data, and exit criteria could be used as indicators of program effectiveness. 1. Is the program based on an educational theory recognized as sound by some experts in the field or is considered by experts as a legitimate experimental strategy? 2. Are the programs and practices, including resources and personnel, reasonably calculated to implement this theory effectively? 3. Does the school evaluate its programs and make adjustments where needed to ensure language barriers are actually being overcome? Result data will be used to design and implement LIEP improvement. Effectiveness of the program will be communicated to stakeholders in the school’s annual progress report.
CONSTITUENCY RELATIONS (Series 600)
610 Parent-Teacher/Home-School Relationships
620 School Publications
630 Visitor Policy
610 PARENT-TEACHER/HOME-SCHOOL RELATIONSHIPS
1) The child is a gift to the parent from God. This places a heavy
responsibility upon the parent. Therefore, the teacher should be
sympathetic and understanding when working with the parent. The
teacher should be frank, but polite and tactful at all times. If a
parent seems irate or overly concerned, refer him or her to the head teacher.
2) The main cause for contact with the parent usually revolves around
the report card. In addition to the regular marks, teachers should
make comments of encouragement or criticism when such are warranted.
3) Notes sent home by the teacher to parents should be tactfully and care-
fully written.
4) Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled twice a year.
5) Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled in November and March.
6) Teachers should report noteworthy home contacts to the office.
7) All teachers must be present at PTA/Home-School meetings.
8) Your room reflects you in many ways. Plan seasonal, creative, and
educational room decorations and bulletin boards.
620 SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS
1) The head teacher's newsletter is sent to all parents every week. Teachers
who have items for the parent newsletter should present them in writing to
the secretary.
2) A school board society newsletter is sent to the parents seven times
a year. News worthy items from your classroom can be shared in this publication.
3) For purposes of public relations and community awareness, articles con-
cerning school activities should occasionally be submitted to the editor at
the West Lyon Herald at [email protected] and the Larchwood Focus at
630 VISITOR POLICY
Encourage all parents and interested persons to visit classrooms during school
time. This provides them with first hand information about their child's class-
room performance. It also gives them a chance to see the teacher in action
and to get better acquainted.
Visitors should give advance notice to the classroom teacher and the head teacher.
If they plan to stay for hot lunch, the cook should be notified also.
SUPPLEMENTS
