Arthur C. Butler
Elementary School
2016-2017
Student Handbook
Christine Baeta, Principal
Susan Schultz, Ed. D., Vice Principal
9180 Brown Road
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Ph: 916-681-7595
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Table of Contents
Elk Grove Unified School District Mission and Goals 3
Message from the Principal 5
Arthur C. Butler Elementary School Vision and Mission 6
Staff Members 7
Schedules 8
School Activities, Policies, and Procedures
Attendance 9
Student Safety and Traffic Information 10
Medical Information 11
Breakfast/Lunch Program 12
Parent Participation 13
Curriculum 14
Academic Supports 16
Discipline Policy 20
EGUSD Suspension/Expulsion Reference Chart 24
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Elk Grove Unified School District
Mission Statement:
Elk Grove Unified School District will provide a learning community that challenges ALL
students to realize their greatest potential.
Core Values: Outcomes for students
Achievement of core academic skills
Confident, effective thinkers and problem solvers Ethical participants in society
Commitments about how we operate as an organization
Supporting continuous improvement of instruction
Building strong relationships Finding solutions
High expectations for learning for all students and staff
Instructional excellence
Safe, peaceful, and healthy environment
Enriched learning atmosphere
Collaboration with diverse communities and families
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District Administrators
Christopher R.
Hoffman
Superintendent
Mark Cerruti Associate
Superintendent,
Education Services
David Reilly Associate
Superintendent,
Human Resources
Christina Penna Associate
Superintendent,
Secondary Education
Donna Cherry
Dr. Fawzia Keval
Bob Roe
Jenifer Avey
Associate
Superintendent PreK-6
Education
Director,
PreK-6 Education
Director,
PreK-6 Education
Director,
PreK-6 Education
Sonjhia Lowery Director,
Learning Support
Services
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Bobbie Sing-Allen, President
Beth Albiani
Nancy Chaires Espinoza
Carmine S. Forcina
Chet Madison, Sr.
Dr. Crystal Martinez-Alire
Anthony “Tony” Perez
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July, 2016
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Welcome to Arthur C. Butler Elementary School! I am so pleased that you’ll be part of our
educational community. I hope you will find your child’s experience at our school to be
successful as well as challenging.
The teachers are eager to get the 2016 - 2017 school year started. This is our eighteenth
year in existence and we continue to work together with our parent community to
strengthen the partnership between home and school. Please welcome seven new staff
members to our campus including an instructional coach! Our teachers and support staff
are listed on page 7 of our Student Handbook.
During our 2016-2017 school year, we are excited to continue with our implementation of
the Common Core State Standards, or CCSS. Throughout EGUSD, all K-6 classes will
implement English Language Arts using our newly adopted Wonders program and
mathematics through Go Math. Teachers have been attending professional training and
are prepared to ensure your child has an exceptional school year.
Our teachers have also been working hard to make everything ready in their classrooms.
Research tells us that Direct Instruction is the most effective way to convey new
information to students. Teachers will provide Direct Instruction throughout the school
day and during “Workshop” time, when they can spend time with individual students or with
small groups of students working at their ability levels. Our teachers remain committed to
using innovative instructional strategies that help ALL students reach their greatest
potential. Our most recent training included strategies for implementing the most
effective instructional practices.
We look forward to a great 2016 - 2017 school year and welcome your participation and
support.
Sincerely,
Christine Baeta Principal
Arthur C. Butler Elementary School
Home of the Butler Bulldogs
LEARNERS today unleashing the LEADERS of tomorrow!
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Arthur C. Butler Elementary School
Mission Statement:
We provide a very focused and highly academic educational experience designed
to meet the individual learning needs of all students so they may attain grade level
standards and beyond. Our mission is to provide the best possible education in the
safest possible environment.
Vision Statement:
We are committed to delivering access to quality curriculum and engaging,
effective instruction delivered in a safe and nurturing environment that embraces
individuality.
2016-2017 goals:
1. ENVIRONMENT: Supporting students with site-wide PBIS Our shared commitments are…
a. Help to teach all students the rules in our matrix
b. Use positive language to support all students and to coach
c. Reteach the monthly site focus area
2. EXCELLENCE: Improving our CCSS aligned instruction with our new
Wonders and Go Math curriculum. Our shared commitments are…
a. Use our PLC EO Thursdays to determine learning goals and to discuss student
learning
b. Have clarity with learning goals rather than lesson number being taught
c. Post learning goals for ELA, Writing, and Math
d. Teach children the learning goal as you introduce each lesson
3. EQUITY: Improving our ability to deliver differentiated instruction based on
data. Our shared commitments are…
a. Understand the needs of my students
b. Give common assessments
c. Use our PLC EO Thursdays to discuss student learning
d. Use data (formative, interim, summative) to differentiate for my students
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A TRACK B TRACK C TRACK D TRACK
TK Michal Dallas-AM K Pamela Beckner-AM K Adrienne Wong-AM K Shannon Lillegard-PM
K Debra Rutsch-PM (Brittany Kissinger)
1 Joyce Koyama 1 Sara Wong 1 Sue McCarthy 1 Audra Orth
2 Rita Heisinger 2 Diana Lagousis 2 Amy Marshall 2 Mark Owyang
2 Rebecca Amaya
3 Jane Montoya 3 Jeff Wilson 3 Lisa Ignoffo 3 Debi Siefert
3 Erika Ray
4 Ron DaSilva 4 Sabrina Nand 4 Laura Smith 4 Brandi Hartman
4 Amy Young 4/5 Kristan Huscher
5 Janine Mourguet 5 Jennifer Ilejay 5 Mary Carbrey 5 Diana Cervantes
5 Crystal TuckerLisa Brody
6 Lisa Brody 6 William Utile 6 Amy Smrekar 6 Pamela Lawson6 Stacey Reese
13 classes 7 classes 7 classes 8 classes
Special Day Classes
SDCPK Lisa Nizzoli ASD Christie Mccrae Yokely ASD Krista King
Terri Jones Secretary Renee Armstrong Cross RSP Gr. K-3
Nikki Khang School Office Assistant II Kathy Dodds Cross RSP Gr. 4-6
Silvia Quintero School Office Assistant II Theresa Gannon Cross Psychologist
Tara McCartney Cross Inst. Coach
Angela Graham Lead Custodian Day Don McConnell Cross Computer Rsc. Tchr.
Steven Blanco Night Custodian Olivia Moreno-Hansen Cross Inclusion Spc.
Xavier Moss-Davis Night Custodian Jennifer Spring Cross Speech Gr. K-6
Kim Rawson Cross MHT
Heather Utile Library Technician Michael Tozi Cross SMT
Gladys Saavedra-Leonard Lead Food Service
Hung To Food Service
A Yvette Arreola Silva Para
D Autumn Bicker Para Bilingual Associates Adapted P.E.
C Grace Hunke Para
A Antoinette Jimenez Para
C Jennifer Livingston Para
A Stacie Mitchell Para Jackie Lee
A Michelle Storey Para
X Anne Tiemeyer Learning Center
A Jennifer Williams Para
A Lori Withrow Para
Kelly Lotz District Nurse
April Lopez LVN Nurse's Office
Tammy Goff Jerry Turner III
John McConnell Kristal Fitzpatrick
Nestor Parejo Vanessa Gomez
Paraeducators
CERTIFICATED STAFF
Physical Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Foster Youth Associate
CLASSIFIED STAFF CERTIFICATED SUPPORT STAFF
Yard Supervisors
Health Assistant
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Arthur C. Butler Elementary
DAILY SCHEDULE
2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR
SCHOOL DAY BY GRADE
School Office Hours 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Teacher Workday 7:45 AM – 3:15 PM
Teacher Planning Early Out Thursday 2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Breakfast Program 7:25 AM – 7:50 AM
Supervision/Gates Open 7:45 AM – 8:00 AM
AM Kindergarten & Transitional Kinder 8:00 AM – 11:31 AM Monday-
Friday
PM Kindergarten 10:48 AM – 2:30 PM M,T,W,F
PM Kindergarten Early Out 10:48 AM – 1:40 PM Thursdays
AM/PM Kindergarten/TK Minimum Day/Track Change 8:00 AM – 11:31 AM
Grades 1-6 Schedule 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM M, T,W, F
Grades 1-6 Early Out 8:00 AM – 1:40 PM Thursdays
Grades 1-6 Minimum Day/Track Change 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
REGULAR DAY SCHEDULE
GRADE RECESS LUNCH YARD
FIRST 9:30-9:45 11:00-11:20 11:20-11:40
SECOND 9:30-9:45 11:20-11:40 11:40-12:00
THIRD 10:00-10:15 11:40-12:00 12:00-12:20
FOURTH 10:00-10:15 12:00-12:20 12:20-12:40
FIFTH 9:45-10:00 12:20-12:40 12:40-1:00
SIXTH 9:45-10:00 12:40-1:00 1:00-1:20
MINIMUM DAY SCHEDULE
GRADE RECESS LUNCH
FIRST 9:30-9:45 10:30-10:50
SECOND 9:30-9:45 10:50-11:10
THIRD 10:00-10:15 11:10-11:30
FOURTH 10:00-10:15 11:30-11:50
FIFTH 9:45-10:00 11:50-12:10
SIXTH 9:45-10:00 12:10-12:30
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SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, POLICIES, AND PROCEDURES
ATTENDANCE One of the most important elements of successful learning is regular, on-time attendance at school. If an
absence is necessary, it is essential to CALL THE SCHOOL OFFICE at 916-681-7595; email
[email protected] and [email protected] the morning of the absence; leave a telephone message; or
send a note upon return. The note should include the date(s) and the reason for the absence.
State law permits the excuse of an absence for the following reasons:
Due to his or her illness
Due to quarantine, as directed by the Health Department
For the purpose of having medical, dental, or eye appointments
For the purpose of observing religious holidays
For the purpose of attending a funeral service of a member of his or her immediate family,
so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California, and
not more than three days if the service is conducted outside of California.
When students are frequently absent or arrive late, the School Attendance Review Board (SARB) process
begins. When a child’s attendance shows three or more truancies or several tardies, a letter will be sent to
you from the district. Absences without valid excuse are considered truant. You need to write the reasons
for the absences on the letter and return it to the school office. If there is no improvement to your child’s
attendance, the School Attendance Review Board process will continue with a second letter. With the
issuance of the third SARB letter the District will contact you. You can avoid these letters by making sure
your child comes to school on time EVERYDAY.
Tardies can also interfere with success in school. Students are expected to be at school before the tardy
bell rings at 8:00 AM.
Early Dismissal: Early dismissal from school disrupts your child’s instructional day, so we encourage you to make
appointments for afterschool hours whenever possible.
Any adult picking up a child early must first come to the school office. A parent, guardian, or someone on
the student’s emergency form, will need to sign the student out before the student can leave the campus.
The person taking the child is to give his/her name and relationship to the child. Identification may be
required. Only adults who are listed on a student’s information card will be permitted to take a child from
school, unless the custodial parent or guardian provides specific permission. This guideline is for the
protection of your child. Students will remain in class until the person requesting their dismissal arrives.
Three “early unexcused dismissals” more than 30 minutes before school ends will be part of the SARB
process, and this may prevent a student from earning a “Perfect Attendance” award.
Transfer Out Process:
When you need to transfer your child out of Butler Elementary to another school, please come into the
school office and complete a “Disenrollment or Drop” form. We also ask that all textbooks and library
books be returned to your child’s teacher before his/her last day of school.
Before and After School Day Care:
Child Development (CDI) and Kids Central operate after-school programs on our campus. If you are
interested, please call CDI 687-1330 or Kids Central 405-5300 for more information.
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Parent – Teacher Communication:
We value parents and want to communicate with you as much as necessary. Our first priority, however, is
to see that the students’ learning is not interrupted during the day. Typically, messages will not be
delivered to students except in cases of an emergency. Please make all arrangements with your child
before he/she comes to school.
We also ask that you use these guidelines:
If you wish to speak to the teacher, please email, call or make an appointment at least 24 hours in
advance to see him/her before or after school. Telephone calls into the classroom during the day
will be limited to emergency messages only. Messages can be left on the teacher’s email.
If you would like homework for an absent child or for a child who becomes ill at school, please
call the office. Homework is usually available to pick up after 3:00.
If you need to pick up your child during the school day for a medical appointment, please send a
note with your child to inform the teacher of dismissal time. When you come into the office to
sign your child out, your child will be called from the classroom at that time.
STUDENT SAFETY AND TRAFFIC INFORMATION
Arrival Information: We have one lane entering and exiting our school’s parking lot. Please use the drop-off in front of the
Multi-Purpose room and the yellow curb area only for dropping off students. For safety reasons, do not
drop off students along the red curb. If you need to get out of your vehicle for any reason, move into one
of our parking spots.
Dismissal Information: Parents/guardians driving onto campus to pick up their child have 2 options:
1. Staying in your vehicle, and using the pick-up lane in front of the multi-purpose room to pull
up next to the yellow curb. However, you MUST remain in your vehicle.
2. Using the outside lane, you may drive around and park in a spot in our parking lot. Then, you
may leave your vehicle to walk onto campus and pick up your child.
Please, DO NOT pull up in the outside lane, stop and beckon for your child to cross in front of the
inside lane of vehicles to enter your vehicle. This is extremely unsafe for your child!
Leaving our Campus: During the school day, we require that all exiting vehicles make a right-hand turn onto Brown Road.
There are no exceptions to this policy.
Walking onto Campus: All students and adults who walk onto campus are asked to use only the crosswalks that are designated for
moving onto campus. We place supervising adults/teachers with stop signs at crosswalks to ensure that
students and adults are kept safe as they arrive or leave our campus. We ask that all adults model safe
behavior for our children by complying with this request, and using the crosswalks. We request that you
NOT jaywalk or cross from the parking lot into our school campus by walking through both lanes of
moving traffic.
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Bicycles, Scooters, Skates, & Skateboards: A bicycle storage area is furnished for students who want to ride bicycles to school. IT IS THE
RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT TO LOCK HIS/HER BICYCLE IN THE STORAGE AREA
AT SCHOOL. We do not have sufficient personnel available to monitor this area, and the school cannot
assume responsibility for bikes. Please walk all bikes, scooters, skates and skateboards at all times while
on the school grounds. Students who ride on campus may have the privileges revoked.
Helmets are required for students riding skates, scooters and bikes. It is the law! Students not wearing a
helmet are subject to be ticketed by the police.
Pet Policy: No pets on the interior of the campus: blacktop and playground area, quad area, office. Children who
are not used to pets are sometimes alarmed or don’t know how to act safely around them. Pets can get
alarmed by sudden movements and can react in ways that are not ordinary when placed in unfamiliar
situations or around large groups. The school cannot take responsibility and liability for controlling and
monitoring pets and the possible risk of their presence on campus with students. Please stop across the
street or at the line of the school if you have a dog with you when dropping off or picking up your child.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES:
The Elk Grove Unified School District has an emergency plan that specifies action for any emergency
situation. Students will learn and practice these procedures routinely throughout the year. Drills are
scheduled monthly.
EGUSD will provide information about possible school closures due to inclement weather or dangerous
situations by informing Radio Station KFBK (1530 AM) and Television Station KCRA Channel 3.
During an emergency that requires the children to go home, children will be dismissed only by the
Superintendent. They will be dismissed ONLY if there is time to return students safely to their homes and
parents can be notified. Students of parents who are not contacted will remain the responsibility of school
personnel. If evacuation of the school is necessary, students will be transported to a predetermined
location. Parents will be advised of the evacuation site by radio announcements and/or a note posted on
the front of the school.
MEDICAL INFORMATION Illness and Attendance:
Children should not come to school with a fever or a rash. Children with a fever should remain at
home for 24 hours before returning to school.
Injuries: Any injury occurring at school is checked by the office or the nurse on the days she is at Arthur C. Butler
Elementary School. If a student has hit his/her head, a “Bumps and Blows” form will be completed and
sent home with the student. If the injury is considered a serious one, a parent/guardian will be contacted
immediately for advice and to inform him/her of the injury. If a parent cannot be reached, then the
emergency person is called. If the emergency person is not available, the principal will make a decision
as to how the situation should be resolved. This may include calling 911. Sick or injured children are
never sent home without parental knowledge and permission.
PARENTS SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT ALL “EMERGENCY” INFORMATION IS
ACCURATE AND CURRENT.
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Allergic Reactions: If your child has an identified allergy or reacts violently to bee stings, you should send a note to the office
staff and to the teacher to inform them. DO THIS IMMEDIATELY IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY
DONE SO. All information should be filed at the beginning of each new school year. If medication for this allergy is
necessary, a “medication authorization assistance” form must be completed.
Prescription and Non-Prescription Medication: Any pupil who is required to take, , medication (either prescription or non-prescription) during the regular
school day must have an updated “Administration of Medication by School Personnel” form on file at
school. No medication (prescription or non-prescription) will be dispensed to students or allowed on the
school site without this form completed or updated and on file at school. These forms are available in our
school office.
All student medication must be in the original container, clearly labeled with the student’s name and will
be kept securely locked in the school office. Students may not carry medication on their person, although
exception may be made for students who need medication for potentially life threatening conditions.
Such exceptions require physician, parent and principal authorization.
Head Lice: A suspected case of head lice will be individually screened. If students are identified with live lice by the
presence of a live louse or lice, the student’s parent will be called to come and pick up the student from
school. No classroom checks will be done. A notification letter will be sent home with the student. When
a student is sent home, families will be provided with instructions for treatment. Pharmacists and
physicians can assist in recommending over-the-counter medication. Directions from the treatment labels
should be followed exactly regarding application and any repeat treatments. Readmission occurs if and
when the student is free if live lice. Students that have nits (eggs) present in their hair are not excluded
from school. Our head lice policy/procedure is in line with evidence based practice and is based on the
recommendation from the Center for Disease Control, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the
Sacramento County Public Health Department, and the National Association of School Nurses.
Pesticides and Herbicides: The District uses common pesticides and herbicides, as necessary to control weeds and pests at schools.
Signs are posted at schools describing the pesticides or herbicides, with the active ingredients listed at
least 24 hours prior to application. If you would prefer to be notified by mail at least 72 hours prior to
application at your child’s school, please call the District’s maintenance and Operations Department at
(916) 686-7745 to be placed on a notification list.
BREAKFAST/LUNCH PROGRAM Our cafeteria is open from 7:25 – 7:50 AM each morning for breakfast. Breakfast is served for $1.75.
The lunch price is $2.75 at elementary schools.
Families may qualify for free or reduced price breakfast/lunch. Students eligible for free or reduced price
meals can eat both breakfast and lunch at no charge. To be eligible for free or reduced price meals, an
application must be completed each school year. Once the application is processed, the family will
receive notification by mail regarding their eligibility for that school year. Students who are verified as
homeless are immediately eligible for free breakfast/lunch.
Your family must have a new application on file to qualify for free and reduced meals for the new school
year. During the school year, the charge for reduced price meals will be waived and there will be no cost
to eligible students.
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Families are encouraged to purchase meals in advance using the prepayment system,
www.myschoolbucks.com. Parents can use myschoolbucks.com to check balances, and view student’s
spending history and place restrictions on their purchases, if desired.
Food substitution accommodations will be considered for students with disabilities or medically
documented food allergies.
For additional information about meal applications, eligibility, breakfast/lunch menus and Nutrition
Education, please contact Food and Nutrition Services at 686-7735 or refer to the website at:
www.egusd.net/nutrition/ .
Lunch Time: Each grade level has an established 20 – minute period for eating lunch (please see page 8 for exact
times). If your child has forgotten his/her lunch or lunch money, you can drop it off in our front office.
We will ensure that it is delivered to the MP room in time for your child’s lunch. If you would like to
visit the MP room, we ask that you sign in as a “Visitor” in our office and put on a Visitor badge first.
Birthday Celebrations: We recognize that class parties are a tradition in public education. However, parents and staff are
encouraged to provide party snack items that are consistent with the goals of the policy and schedule
celebrations after the lunch hour whenever possible. If you would like to bring a treat, please bring
healthy and nutritious snacks or non-food items.
Helium balloons or balloon bouquets can be a distraction in the classroom, therefore we will hold any
balloon items in the office until dismissal time.
Candy, Gum, Soda, Seeds: We ask that you not send your child to school with these items as a part of his/her daily packed lunch.
Our students have a full day of academics and learning, and a nutritious snack and lunch will help them to
stay focused and to give their very best efforts through to the end of the school day.
PARENT PARTICIPATION: Classroom and School Visitation: Parents may visit our school at any time except during testing periods, and when the teacher is on duty,
etc. We ask that all parents and volunteers arrange for visits at least 24 hours ahead of time with your
child’s teacher. All visitors must sign in and sign out in the office. Visitors are given a “Visitor’s Pass” to
wear.
If you are visiting your child during his/her recess time, we ask that you allow our Yard Supervisors (who
are EGUSD employees) to handle all disciplinary actions. If you see or hear something that requires an
adult’s attention, please go to the Yard Supervisor, rather than approach another child and attempt to deal
with the issue yourself.
Older students who want to visit for “Community Service” must complete the “Middle/High School
Volunteer Agreement” form before visiting.
Back to School Night: Back to School Night is an important way for parents to learn about school programs. Administration and
teachers make presentations about the academic and behavioral expectations as well as special events
scheduled during the year. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend.
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School Site Council (SSC): The primary role of the Arthur C. Butler Elementary School Site Council, SSC, is to assist in the
planning, implementation, and evaluation of our school’s Local Control Accountability Plan, LCAP.
This focuses on enhancing target areas of our curriculum and other key aspects of our school
environment. This is done through collaborative decision making.
The School Site Council is an elected committee which includes the Principal, Staff and Parents. The
Council meets regularly to plan, implement, and evaluate school programs. Teachers, support staff, and
parents serve for two years. The SSC meeting agendas are posted in our office 72 hours in advance of
each meeting and are open to the public.
English Language Advisory Committee (ELAC): The English Language Advisory Committee, ELAC, is a group of parents of English Language Learners,
which meets during the year to gain information about school programs and their child’s learning, provide
feedback to the school, and address state and federal requirements. One or more ELAC representatives
attend district advisory meetings and serve as a link between the school site and the district. Chairpersons
are elected at the fall meetings and serve for two years.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO): The PTO is a vital part of the school community and is comprised of parents, school personnel, and other
community members. Through the PTO, parents, teachers, administrators, and others work for quality
education and a true partnership between home and school. Our PTO works to provide funding for
programs including Scholastic Reader, school assemblies, and more.
We hope that you support our PTO by joining the PTO, volunteering to help with activities, attending
PTO meetings, and by supporting the fund-raisers that give money to school programs.
Watch Dog Dads: Dads or father figures are encouraged to get involved by volunteering time on campus. We have a variety
of activities we need help with on a daily basis. Dads/father figures, 18-years and over, may sign up in
advance to volunteer any day they have time available by coming to the school office. Father figures will
be connected with a staff member when they arrive who will give some brief directions and a sticker for
them to wear identifying them as a Watch Dog volunteer.
CURRICULUM:
Textbooks: Each student in grades 4-6 is issued a specific copy of the textbooks for his/her grade at the beginning of
the school year. He/she is individually responsible for these books during the year. We request that
students cover their books to protect them, but do not cover with any sticky covers. It is important that
your child and you discuss his/her responsibility for these textbooks, as parents will be asked to pay for
the replacement cost for damaged or lost textbooks. Students in grades K-3 will have textbooks issued to
the classroom.
Language Arts (Reading): WONDERS is the new Language Arts program in the Elk Grove Unified School District. The Pre-K-6
literature and meaning-based program integrates reading, writing, spelling, listening and speaking based
on the Common Core State Standards. Classroom teachers also use social studies and science textbooks,
short stories, poetry, plays, essays, biographies and novels to help all students achieve grade level
standards.
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Mathematics:
In K-6 classrooms, throughout EGUSD, teachers will implement the Common Core State Standards using
a math program called “Go Math”. The “Go Math” materials are “teacher and parent friendly” which
means that communication about skills and assignments can be easily communicated between home and
school. The materials have excellent support for students to reinforce instruction. The website that
supports “Go Math” is https://www-k6.thinkcentral.com/ePC/start.do and is helpful to parents and
students.
Science: Our adopted science curriculum is California Science (in grades K-5) and Earth Science (grade 6). These
materials will be an integral piece of ELA The Science program is a comprehensive California Science
Content Standards-based program. The programs will help students to develop their inquiry thinking
skills and will provide the context for students to learn to read informational text. The California Science
program for grades K-5 includes instruction in Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Earth Sciences. The
6th grade program, Earth Science, provides instruction in Earth Sciences, with Life Sciences, and Physical
Sciences to be taught in the 7th and 8
th grades.
History/Social Studies: The History/Social Science program in the Elk Grove Unified School District is standards-based with an
emphasis on both subject content and historical and social science analysis skills. Both the Grade K-5
(Harcourt Publishing Co.) and the Grade 6-8 (Holt Publishers) programs contain strategies for writing,
note-taking, critical thinking, vocabulary development, and building success in comprehending expository
text. These materials will also be used for instruction in the CCSS for ELA. The text is available on CD
and online for the convenience of students accessing information at home.
Physical Education: Arthur C. Butler Elementary School offers standards-based instruction in PE. Students in grades 1-6 will
receive 100 minutes per week of Physical Education. For grade level specifics, please speak to your
child’s teacher. This year 4-6 grade students will receive PE instruction by a PE Teacher for two 40
minutes periods per week.
Technology: EGUSD has adopted an Elementary School Technology Literacy Curriculum. This curriculum is
supported by instruction in our Computer Labs as well as by the classroom teacher. The intent of the
curriculum is to establish a minimum level of computer competency that every student will attain by the
time of his or her sixth grade promotion. The knowledge is defined as keyboarding, word processing, and
critical problem solving. Technology supports classroom instruction. In addition, 6 carts containing 30
Chromebooks each have been added to our campus. These will be used to support classroom learning and
for the annual CAASP/SBAC standardized testing.
ACADEMIC SUPPORTS: Field Trips: Field trips are planned to coordinate with and enhance our basic curriculum while providing students with
an exciting opportunity to visit interesting locations. Only district-approved transportation will be used
for trips. If behavior problems develop with a child, the parent will be asked to accompany their child on
a trip. Otherwise the student may have to remain at school. EGUSD requires the use of chaperones on all
field trips.
If, for any reason, a scheduled field trip does not have the sufficient number of chaperones, the field trip
may be canceled. In order to attend a field trip, students must return a correctly completed field trip
permission form to their classroom teacher or the teacher sponsor by the deadline stated on the form. Elk
Grove Unified School District policy does not allow parents to give verbal permission over the
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phone for a student to attend a field trip. School attendance is required on field trip days. Classroom
instruction will be provided for students who are not permitted to attend the field trip. While on school
field trips, students are required to behave in a safe and responsible manner and follow adult directions at
all times. The same rules that apply at school also apply on field trips. Students choosing to behave
inappropriately may lose other field trip privileges and may be returned to school by a teacher or
administrator. The classroom teacher and/or administrator will notify parents if this should occur.
Grading Criteria/Progress/Report Cards: Student progress is reported to parents at the end of each 12 week (or trimester) grading period. Teachers
will also send home a “Progress Report” at the end of 6 weeks. Grades provide parents with information
about how your child is progressing toward mastering his/her grade level standards.
Grade Key: A----(90-100%) 4.0 = Outstanding Achievement
B----(80-89%) 3.0-3.9= Above Average Achievement
C----(70-79%) 2.0-2.9= Average Achievement
D--- (60-69%) 1.0-1.9= Below Average Achievement
F----(0-59%) 0= Little to No Achievement
When calculating grades for EGUSD Honor Roll purposes, only whole numbers are used for the GPA.
So regardless if the grades is a A+ or A or A- , it is all the same 4.
Standard Key
+ Above grade level standards
Meets grade level standards
- Does not meet grade level standards
NA Indicates not introduced and / or not formally assessed
Progress Reports: At mid-trimester, at the end of every 6-weeks, teachers send official reports to parents about the progress
of students. “Deficiency Reports” are sent home if the student is not making appropriate progress.
However, teachers also send reports home on all students. Check with your child’s teacher as to his/her
policy. If parents receive a Deficiency Report because their child is falling below expected goals (earning
a D or F), then a follow-up conference is encouraged.
Homework: Homework is an important means of improving learning. It is an opportunity for students to practice
independently and to enrich what they have learned. Every grade level, K-6, has a HOMEWORK
POLICY.
EACH INDIVIDUAL TEACHER sends home his/her policy with all the other information at the
beginning of the year. Teachers must clearly outline with parents the grading policy as it relates to
homework. Teachers should share with parents the portion of the child’s grade for homework in relation
to the student’s overall grade for the subject area. If a child does not bring home information that you are
expecting, please contact your child’s teacher.
1. Homework is assigned as determined by teacher. 2. Homework should be able to be finished in a reasonable amount of time. The length of time will
vary from 20 – 75 minutes, depending on the grade. The higher the grade, the more time is
required to complete it. Students’ own pace will determine the time for completion. 3. Homework is REINFORCEMENT of skills or material already taught in class and will only
require use of resources that are available to all students. 4. Homework relates to lesson objectives and classroom instruction, prepares, reinforces, enriches
and extends classroom learning.
17
5. Homework is generally not assigned on weekends. If a student has been assigned a large project
or report, students may indeed use a weekend to complete their tasks. 6. All teachers assign independent reading. Generally no less than 15 minutes per night is required. 7. In the event of an absence, please speak with your child’s teacher to make arrangements to pick
up homework 8. For every day out ill, (with an illness note submitted by the parent or a telephone call into the
office), the student has the same number of days to make up the missed work.
Minimum Daily Amount of Homework Minutes per Grade Level: Kindergarten: 20 minutes, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
1st Grade: 20 minutes, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
2nd
Grade: 30 minutes, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
3rd
Grade: 30 minutes, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
4th Grade: 45 minutes, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
5th Grade: 1 hour, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
6th Grade: 1 hour 15 minutes, which includes reading to or with parent, or by themselves
Projects may be used as a replacement for homework assigned on a weekly basis (i.e. a project assigned
in social studies may reduce the amount of daily homework during the week to allow for completion of
the project).
Packet-type homework that gives students a number of days to complete (i.e. several assignments given to
students on Monday are due on Thursday) is acceptable to reach guidelines.
Scholastic Reading Counts (SRC): Scholastic Reading Counts is software used by students to help monitor reading comprehension. Students
in 1st through 6
th grades may take quizzes after reading books (with an SRC quiz available) and earn
points toward incentives. Only on-site computers may be used to take SRC quizzes. Students may take
quizzes during their time in the computer lab, during class time with teacher permission, as well as, before
and after school. While off track, students can test in the lab from 9:00-1:00 every day if they are
accompanied by a parent.
Independent Study (Traveling Student): When students need to be away from school during the instructional year for ten or more days, an
Independent Study Program can be worked out with the teacher and the district. Parents/guardians must
meet with Mrs. Baeta at least two weeks prior to travel before “Traveling Student” status can be
approved.
Learning Center: Arthur C. Butler Elementary School’s Learning Center supports the classroom teachers and provides
special education services for students on campus when appropriate. We focus on meeting children’s
specific learning needs while supporting social and academic participation in the regular classroom. Our
program allows us to provide extra support to struggling students before they fall too far behind.
Library: Butler Elementary has a beautiful library containing hundreds of fiction, nonfiction and reference books.
Students will be required to have signed permission from parents/guardians before checking out library
books. Students are responsible for the safe return of any books they check out of the library. It is
important that your child and you discuss his/her responsibility for library books, as parents will be asked
to pay for the replacement cost for damaged or lost books.
18
School/District-Wide Tests Tests are an important part of our on-going assessment program. Students are taught test-taking skills.
Parents can help in this important effort by providing encouragement (without pressure) to their child to
do their best.
Certain tests are administered to the students throughout the school year.
*California English Language Development Test (CELDT) is given to English Learners.
*Kindergarten/1st Grade “Benchmark Assessments” will be given 3 times yearly, with dates to be shared
through each teacher.
CAASPP/ SBAC/ PFT Testing: *The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) Smarter Balanced
Assessment Consortium (SBAC) test is given to students in grades 3-6. The test is administered via
computer. Results of the SBAC will be communicated to students, schools, and the district in summer.
*Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is given to 5th graders.
*Students in grade 5 will take the science portion of the CST assessment.
A track SBAC/NGSS grades 3-6 5/8 –5/19
B-track SBAC/NGSS grades 3-6 5/22 –6/6
C-track SBAC/NGSS grades 3-6 4/10 –4/21
D-track SBAC/NGSS grades 3-6 4/24 –5/5
Physical Fitness testing 5th
grade 2/1 –5/31
School Psychologist: The school psychologist is primarily responsible for identifying students with learning disabilities or
special educational needs and determining eligibility for Special Education programs. Additional
psychological services include student groups, individual counseling, parent education, crisis intervention
and teacher consultation. The school psychologist is available by appointment. Referrals to appropriate
district and community resources are made as needed.
Speech Therapist: This specialist teacher provides individual or small group instruction to students who have identified
needs in these areas:
· Articulation (the ability to formulate sounds and words correctly)
· Fluency (smooth flow of speech)
· Voice (pitch, loudness, hoarseness)
· Delayed language
· Aphasia (difficulty speaking or remembering words)
· Auditory functioning (difficulty understanding others’ speaking)
Student Study Team: The Student Study Team (SST) is an effective way to bring together many resources to support students.
The team, which meets at the request of the parent/guardian or classroom teacher, is composed of the
parents/guardians, regular education teachers, special education teachers, school psychologist,
speech/language specialist, and site administrator(s) who meet to study, discuss, and decide about
appropriate programs for:
· Students who are accelerated and beyond their grade level standards
· Students in need of behavior supports
· Students with possible learning difficulties
· Students who have been recommended for retention or accelerated
Parents are first notified of a student’s needs, then invited to attend the SST meeting where they
participate in the discussion along with the SST members.
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Student Recognition
We love to celebrate our students’ achievements with our families and our community! Students are
recognized for demonstrating qualities taught in our school-wide PBIS program, academic achievement,
and special recognition:
1. Student of the Month:
Students are recognized monthly for exemplifying Safe, Respectful, and Responsible behavior.
Student of the Month Awards will be given at monthly awards assemblies. The principal will call
each family to invite them to the ceremony. At the awards ceremony, children will receive a
photo certificate, a special pencil, and a paragraph written by their teacher!
2. SRC Awards:
Each week, the class earning the most SRC points for AT HOME reading will earn an extra
recess! Each month, the top class, and top student in each grade level will be recognized.
Students will also be recognized monthly for hitting the 25, 75, 150, 250, 750, and 1,000 point
milestones. Teachers will call to invite families to our celebration!
3. Special Recognition:
2-3 students each month will receive a special recognition award. These awards are chosen by
teachers for a variety of achievements. Teachers will call to invite families to our celebration!
4. Attendance:
Each student who earns perfect attendance by coming to school every day, on time, and has no
early dismissals will earn a raffle ticket! Monthly, two raffle tickets will earn prizes to be
announced during Friday announcements. At the end of the year, the raffle is for a bike!
5. Academic Achievement:
Students in grades 4-6, earning a 3.5 or higher earn the District Honor Roll Award. Teachers will
call parents to invite them to our ceremony!
6. President’s Award for Educational Excellence:
To be eligible for this award, 6th grade students must earn a 3.5 or higher every trimester
beginning in 4th grade. This prestigious award is presented to eligible students during their 6
th
grade promotion ceremony.
Academic Competitions: Students are invited to participate in academic competitions and events including Science Fair, Spelling
Bee, writing contests, art contests and other events which pertain to their grade level. We encourage
parents to get involved in these educational opportunities.
Clubs and After-School Activities Several programs are offered at Arthur C. Butler before- and after-school. Before-school or after-school
programs require parent permission, and parents must agree to provide timely transportation and to
assume all costs associated with the activities.
Honor Society: Qualifying students are recognized each year for academic excellence and community service by
induction into the Butler Charter of the National Elementary School Honor Society. A special ceremony
is held each spring. Parents, family and friends are invited.
20
Sports Programs: After-school sports programs are offered based on volunteer participation. These programs require parent
volunteers to assist and to coach. Please contact the school if interested.
Student Leadership: Butler’s Student Leadership helps develop an understanding of leadership, and school spirit. The student
group plans and supports activities that promote school spirit on our campus.
DISCIPLINE POLICY
Butler will be implementing school-wide expectations of behavior as a part of Positive Behavioral
Intervention and Supports (PBIS). Student will be taught school-wide expectations of positive behavior
throughout our campus. The 2016-2017 PBIS focuses on being...
Safe - Responsible - Respectful
Our Bulldog Pledge is: I pledge to be safe, responsible and respectful.
Every day in every way.
Go bulldogs!
Administrative Consequences: When a student is referred to the office, parents will be notified via a phone call. Our goal is always to
help a student to learn from her or his behavior, and to successfully return to the classroom and to
learning.
Dress Code and Guidelines: Students at Arthur C. Butler Elementary School are expected to wear appropriate clothing at all times.
Students need to wear clothing and footwear, which are safe, conducive to physical education or recess
activities and are not distracting to instruction.
Dress Code includes:
1. Shoes must be worn at all times. No open-toe shoes are allowed.
2. Clothing and jewelry must be free of writing, pictures, or any insignia which are offensive to any
race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or which advocates the use of drugs or alcohol.
3. No sagging pants are permitted. Students should use a belt.
4. See-through or fishnet fabrics, halter tops, off the shoulder or low cut tops, spaghetti straps, short/crop
tops, tube tops, muscle shirts, or tank tops are not permitted.
5. Shorts and skirts must be mid-thigh or longer.
6. Hats shall be worn with bill forward and will not be worn inside buildings. Sunglasses are not
allowed at school except for medical reasons.
7. Parents/guardians will be notified to bring a change of clothing if the child is dressed inappropriately.
Personal Items: Materials or objects that distract from instruction must be left at home. Toys, cameras, iPods, video games
or any objects, which are not requested by the teacher or school personnel, are not permitted on the school
grounds. These items can create problems of distraction, loss and damage. School personnel have the
right to confiscate inappropriate items that have been brought to school. Staff will secure such items until
parents claim them. The school and staff do not take responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged personal
property brought to school.
21
Cell Phones: Students’ cell phones must be turned off as soon as the student arrives to school. They should be placed in
a secured section of their backpack and not taken out in class or on the playground, or in the MP room.
Cell phones may be turned on once students have exited the front gates and have left the school grounds.
Cell phone use is limited to calling or texting with a parent to coordinate pick-up information. If there is
misuse of a cell phone, the phone will be taken and given to the teacher or administrator. Parents will be
notified of the misuse of the phone and asked to come pick up the phone.
Lost and Found To help avoid a loss, please mark children’s possessions, such as clothing and lunch containers, with their
name.
Bullying Bullying is strictly prohibited. All incidents of bullying will be investigated and dealt with
promptly.
Bullying definition
Four Markers of Bullying
1. Imbalance of power – using size, age, strength, verbal skills, social position, race, or
gender to establish dominance.
2. Intent to harm – intentional acts intended to hurt emotionally or physically with pleasure
taken in the act.
3. Threat of further aggression – repetitive, ongoing acts
4. Terror – not impulsive or one-time, but systematic and repeated acts intended to instill
fear in another.
Types of Bullying
Verbal – name calling, taunting, belittling, cruel criticism, personal defamation, racist slurs,
gender biased remarks, extortion of money or possessions, abusive phone calls, intimidation,
anonymous notes, threats of violence, untruthful accusations, false and malicious rumors, gossip.
Physical – slapping, hitting, choking, poking, punching, kicking, biting, scratching, twisting,
spitting, damaging clothes or property.
Relational – ignoring, isolating, excluding, shunning.
22
The chart below defines what safe, responsible, and respectful behavior looks like in different settings
around the campus.
Arthur C. Butler Elementary School Matrix of Expected School Behavior for Butler Bulldogs
School Location
Be Safe Be Responsible Be Respectful
Outside Hallways &
Quad
Walk in a line with safety hands
Listen to adult directions
Face forward
Go directly to your
destination
Carry a pass
Walk on paved areas
Hold the door for others
Use a quiet voice
Hands free
Bathroom Feet stay on the floor
Walk
Stay in own stall
Keep water in sink
Return to class promptly
Flush toilet
Wash hands
Carry a pass
Use for its intended
purpose
Respect others’
privacy
”Rule of 2” o 2 squirts of soap o 2 paper towels o 2 points in the
basket
Cafeteria/ MP Room
Walk in & out with safety hands
Eat only your own food
Hands free
Use inside voices
Use good manners
Raise hand or use
signal for help
Stay seated until
dismissed
Wait your turn
Clean up your area
and throw away all trash
LIghts off, voices off
Assemblies/ Special Events
Enter quietly
Walk in & out with safety hands
Voice quiet
Use appropriate
applause
Sit criss-cross
Eyes watching
Ears listening
Use kind words
Recess/ Playground
Use school approved equipment
Play school approved games and activities
Walk unless in a game
Hands free
Use good
sportsmanship
Eat snacks at tables
& throw trash away
Use equipment
properly
Follow rules
Include others
Use kind words
Computer Lab Enter quietly
Hands free
Walk in & out with safety hands
Be aware of voice
level
Stay on task
Stay seated/raise
hand for help
Log out
Store headsets
Push in chairs
Use kind words
Library Walk
Ask an adult for help when reaching
Wait your turn
Push in your chair
before leaving
Return books to shelf
Use shelf-markers
Return books on time
Use a quiet voice
Treat books with
respect
Be patient
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Office/Nurse Be patient and wait your turn
Hands free
Walk in & out with safety hands
Carry a pass
Pause at the paws
Know why you’re
here
Know your phone
number
Use a quiet voice
Say “please” and
“thank you”
Classroom
Walk in & out with safety hands
Hands free
Use materials appropriately
Be prepared
Participate
Only bring learning
materials
Use kind words
Eyes watching
Ears listening
Wear hats & hoodies
outside
Stay in own space
Arrival Walk with safety hands
Exit car in “cone zone”
Cross in crosswalk
Go directly to
destination
Come prepared with
learning materials
Stay in supervised
area
Line up on your room
number
Use kind words
Dismissal Walk with safety hands
Cross in crosswalk
Walk bikes and scooters
Wear a helmet
Wait behind letters
Go directly to your
destination
Use kinds words
Bus Stop Line up with safety hands
Hands free
Follow bus rules Keep your belongings
with you at all times
Wait in designated
area
Use kinds words
24
ELK GROVE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
SCHOOL HANDBOOKS
for 2016-2017
Item 1: Suspension/Expulsion/Reference Chart
Instructions: Place insert in its entirety and without modification under a section entitled Student Discipline or
Education Codes Related to Discipline.
If you have additional charts designed to state specific minimum & maximum consequences for offences that refer
to Exclusionary Discipline Education Codes, remove these in all sections of your handbook.* Examples:
Swearing/Foul Language - Minimum 1-3 days Suspension (48900k); Playing Cards - Minimum 1 day Suspension
(48900k).
*Optional: Should you feel the need to place a supportive chart to supplement this required language relative to
using exclusionary discipline, use the chart that is provided below entitled Reference Chart: Education Codes
Related to Discipline & Required or Potential Disciplinary Consequences. This chart also is contained in the
EGUSD District Parent & Student Handbook provided to all parents.
SUSPENSION If a student's behavior is a threat to the safety, health or emotional well-being of others, and previous methods of
prevention and intervention have not been successful, that student may be suspended in accordance with state law
and district policy. Suspension may be imposed upon a first offense if the Superintendent, principal or designee
determines the student violated Education Code 48900(a)-(e) or if the student’s presence causes a danger to persons.
[E.C. 48900.5]
Reasons for Suspension*
State law allows for the suspension of a student if a student commits or engages in any of the acts listed below,
where such conduct or acts relate to school activities or attendance, such as, but not limited to when such acts or
conduct take place: while on school grounds, going to or from school, during lunch period (on or off campus),
during, or while going to or from, a school-sponsored activity, or for certain conduct which occurs after school hours
and off District property, but which is reasonably likely to cause or causes a substantial disruption of a school activity
or attendance:
Assault/Battery [E.C. 48900(a)] Causing, attempting to cause, or threatening to cause physical injury to another person. Exceptions may be made in
a situation where witnesses and evidence support a case of self-defense.
Weapons [E C. 48900(b)] Possessing, selling or otherwise providing any weapon--including firearms, knives, explosives, or other dangerous
object.
Alcohol/Intoxicants/Controlled Substances [E.C. 48900(c)]
Unlawfully possessing, using, selling or otherwise providing alcohol, intoxicants or controlled substance, including
prescribed medications. Also applies to being under the influence of alcohol, intoxicants or controlled substances.
Substance in Lieu of Alcohol/Intoxicants/Controlled Substances [E.C. 48900(d)] Delivering, providing or selling items which are claimed to be alcohol, intoxicants or controlled substances but were
not such items.
Robbery or Extortion [E.C. 48900(e)]
Committing or attempting to commit robbery or extortion. Extortion occurs when threats are made with the intent to
obtain money or something of value.
Property Damage** [E.C. 48900(f)]
25
Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property or private property.
Property Theft** [E.C. 48900(g)] Stealing or attempting to steal school or private property.
Tobacco or Nicotine Products [E.C. 48900(h)] Possessing, providing or using tobacco, or any item containing tobacco or nicotine products, including but not
limited to cigarettes, cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets and betel.
Obscenity [E.C. 48900(i)]
Committing an obscene act or engaging in regular profanity, swearing or vulgarity.
Drug Paraphernalia [E.C. 48900(j)] Unlawfully possessing, offering, arranging for, or negotiating to sell any drug items.
Disruption or Defiance [E.C. 48900(k)(1)] Disrupting school activities or otherwise refusing to follow the valid authority of school personnel, including
supervisors, teachers, school officials or other school staff performing their duties.
“Disruption of school activities” is defined as follows: when a student’s conduct, presence or actions disrupts or
threatens to disrupt normal district or school operations, threatens the health or safety of anyone on district or school
property, or causes or threatens to cause damage to district property or to any property on school grounds.
Examples of disruption of school activities under Education Code 48900(k)(1), as defined above, which may subject
a student to discipline, include but are not limited to:
Classroom behavior that impedes a teacher’s ability to teach and other students’ ability to learn,
such as a student talking loudly or making other distracting noises or gestures while a teacher is
speaking to and instructing the class and when students are expected to be silent and attentive; or
The intentional activation of the fire alarm causing the temporary evacuation of the school and/or
causing emergency personnel to respond.
“Willful defiance of valid authority” is defined as follows: when a student defies the valid authority of a district or
school official or district or school staff in a manner that has an impact on the effective or safe functioning of district
or school operations, such as continuing to remain at the scene of a fight or to instigate a disturbance after being told
to stop the subject behavior; repeated disobedience to or defiance of school personnel when other interventions have
not been successful in modifying the misbehavior; or in the proper instance one-time or first-time disobedience to or
defiance of school personnel that has an impact on the effective or safe functioning of district or school operations.
Examples of willful defiance of valid authority under Education Code 48900(k)(1), as defined above, which may
subject a student to discipline, include but are not limited to:
Continuing to remain at the scene of a fight or other violent disturbance despite specific directions to leave
the area by administrators or other school staff attempting to break up the fight or mitigate the disturbance
caused by the fight; or
Repeated episodes of misbehavior, despite multiple efforts and/or directives by a classroom teacher or other
district staff intended to change and correct the student’s misbehavior.
Note: With the exception of classroom suspensions imposed by a teacher under Education Code 48910, no student
enrolled in kindergarten through grade three may be suspended for violation of Education Code 48900(k)(1).
Additionally, no student enrolled in kindergarten through grade twelve, regardless of age, may be recommended for
expulsion for violation of Education Code 48900(k)(1). [E.C. 48900(k)(2)]
Receiving Stolen Property** [E.C. 48900(l)] Receiving stolen school or personal property.
Possessing Imitation Firearm [E.C. 48900(m)] Possessing an imitation firearm or simulated firearm that is substantially similar in physical properties to an existing
firearm.
Sexual Harassment [E.C. 48900(n)] Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery.
Threats and Intimidation [E.C. 48900(o)] Harassing, intimidating or threatening a student who is a witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose
of either preventing that student from being a witness or retaliating against that student for being a witness, or both.
Prescription Drug Soma [E.C. 48900(p)]
26
Offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell or sold the prescription drug Soma.
Hazing [E.C. 48900(q)] Engaging in, or attempting to engage in any activities used for initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization,
or student body or related activities, which causes or is likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal
degradation or disgrace, resulting in physical or mental harm.
Bullying [E.C. 48900(r)]
Bullying means any severe or pervasive or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by
means of an electronic act, directed toward one or more students that has or can reasonably be predicted to have the
effect of placing a reasonable student in fear of harm to himself/herself or his/her property; cause the student to
experience a substantially detrimental effect on his/her physical or mental health; or cause the student to experience
substantial interferences with his/her academic performance or ability to participate in or benefit from services,
activities, or privileges provided by a school. [E.C. 48900(r)] Bullying shall include any act of sexual harassment,
hate violence, or harassment, threat, or intimidation, as defined in Education Code 48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4 that
has any of the effects described above on a reasonable student. [E.C. 48900(r)]
Aided or Abetted to Inflict Physical Injury [E.C. 48900(t)] Aiding or abetting in the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury to another student. However, the District
cannot seek to expel a student for violation of Education Code 48900(t) until juvenile court proceedings are completed
and the juvenile has been convicted of being an aider or abettor of a crime of physical violence in which the victim
suffered great bodily injury or serious bodily injury.
Sexual Harassment (Grades 4-12) [E.C. 48900.2]
Engaging in prohibited sexual harassment that includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests
for sexual favors, or other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Hate Violence (Grades 4-12) [E.C. 48900.3] Hate violence means any act punishable under Penal Code 422.6, 422.7, or 422.75. Such acts include injuring or
intimidating a victim, interfering with the exercise of a victim's civil rights, or damaging a victim's property because
of the victim's race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual
orientation; a perception of the presence of any of those characteristics in the victim; or the victim's association with
a person or group with one or more of those actual or perceived characteristics. (E.C. 233; Penal Code 422.55)
Other Harassment (Grades 4-12) [E.C. 48900.4]
Harassing, intimidating, or threatening a student or group of students, or school personnel, with the actual or
expected effect of disrupting class work or creating substantial disorder, or creating a hostile educational
environment.
Terrorist Threats [E.C. 48900.7]
Making terrorist threats against school officials and/or property, or both.
* The superintendent or principal may use his or her discretion to provide alternatives to suspension or expulsion to
address student misconduct. [E.C. 48900(v), 48900.5] [EGUSD AR 5144]
**School property includes, but is not limited to, electronic files. [E.C. 48900(u)]
EXPULSION Expulsion, as ordered by the Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Education, is the removal of a student from
all schools in the district for violating the California Education Code at school or at a school activity off school
grounds. The expulsion is for a defined period of time, but an application for re-admission must be considered
within a specified time period. State law provides for full due process and rights to appeal any order of expulsion.
A student shall be recommended for expulsion for violation of any of the acts set forth in Education Code
48915(a)(1)(A)-(E), unless the Superintendent, Superintendent’s designee, principal or principal’s designee
determines that expulsion should not be recommended under the circumstances or that an alternative means of
correction would address the conduct:
Serious Physical Injury [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(A)]
Causing serious physical injury to another person, except in self-defense.
Possession of Knife or Dangerous Object [E.C. 48915(a)(1)B)]
Possessing a knife or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the student.
Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(C)]
27
Unlawful possession of any drug except for (1) the first time offense of possession of not more than one ounce of
marijuana, or (2) for the student's possession of over-the-counter medication for his/her use or other medication
prescribed for him/her by a physician.
Robbery or Extortion [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(D)]
Assault or Battery on a School Employee [E.C. 48915(a)(1)(E)]
State law requires a school administrator to recommend expulsion if a student commits certain violations of the
Education Code. A student shall immediately be recommended for expulsion for violation of any of the acts set
forth in Education Code 48915(c)(1)-(5):
Possession, Selling or Furnishing a Firearm [E.C. 48915(c)(1)]
Possessing, selling or otherwise furnishing a firearm (verified by an employee of the school district). However,
possession of an imitation firearm, as defined in Education Code 48900(m), shall not be regarded as an offense
requiring a mandatory recommendation for expulsion and mandatory expulsion.
Brandishing a Knife [E.C. 48915(c)(2)]
Brandishing a knife at another person.
Selling a Controlled Substance [E.C. 48915(c)(3)]
Unlawfully selling a controlled substance.
Sexual Assault or Battery [E.C. 48915(c)(4)]
Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery, as defined in Education Code
48900(n).
Possession of an Explosive [E.C. 48915(c)(5)]
For all other acts and conduct for which a student is subject to discipline under Education Code 48900 through
48900.7 and which are not specifically listed or addressed under Education Code 48915(a) or 48915(c), a student
may be recommended for expulsion where other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to
bring about proper conduct, or where due to the nature of the student’s conduct violation, the presence of the student
causes a continuing danger to the physical safety of the student or others. [E.C. 48915(b) and (e)]
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1. Mandatory Expulsion {E.C. 48915(c)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Possession, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm. However,
possession of an imitation firearm, as defined in Education Code
48900(m), shall not be regarded as an offense requiring a mandatory
recommendation for expulsion and mandatory expulsion.
(2) Brandishing a knife.
(3) Unlawfully selling a controlled substance.
(4) Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or battery.
(5) Possession of an explosive.
2. Mandatory Recommendation for Expulsion {E.C.
48915(a)(1)}
Unless the Superintendent, Superintendent’s designee, principal or
principal’s designee determines that expulsion should not be
recommended under the circumstances or that an alternative means of
correction would address the conduct.
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Causing serious physical injury to another person except in self-
defense.
(2) Possession of any knife, or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the
pupil.
(3) Unlawful possession of any drug except for (1) the first offense of
possession of not more than one ounce of marijuana, or (2) for the
student's possession of over-the-counter medication for his/her use or
other medication prescribed for him/her by a physician.
(4) Robbery or extortion.
(5) Assault or battery upon a school employee.
REFERENCE CHART:
EDUCATION CODES RELATED TO DISCIPLINE
& REQUIRED OR POTENTIAL DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES
29
3. Acts of Violence {E.C. 48900(a)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another
person.
(2) Willfully used force or violence upon another person.
4. Weapons and Dangerous Objects {E.C. 48900(b)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Possession, sale, or furnishing of weapons (knife, gun, sharp object,
club, or an object that could inflict injury) or explosive.
(2) Explosives, use or possession.
5. Drugs and Alcohol {E.C. 48900(c)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Possession, use, sale, or furnishing, or otherwise being under the
influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or an intoxicant.
6. Sale of “Look-Alike” Controlled Substance or and
Alcohol {E.C. 48900(d)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Offering, arranging, or negotiating to sell drugs, alcohol or any intoxicant
and then substituting a look-alike substance intended to represent drugs,
alcohol, or an intoxicant.
7. Robbery or Extortion {E.C. 48900(e)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.
30
8. Damage to Property {E.C. 48900(f)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Caused, or attempted to cause damage to school or private property.
9. Theft or Stealing {E.C. 48900(g)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Stealing, or attempting to steal school or private property.
10. Tobacco {E.C. 48900(h)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Possessed or used tobacco or nicotine products.
11. Profanity, Obscene Acts, Vulgarity {E.C. 48900(i)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Directed at peers.
(2) Directed at school personnel.
12. Drug Paraphernalia {E.C. 48900(j)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Possessed, offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia.
13. Willful Defiance or Disruption of School Activities {E.C.
48900(k)(1)}
Note: With the exception of classroom suspensions imposed by a
teacher under Education Code 48910, no student enrolled in
kindergarten through grade three may be suspended for violation of
Education Code 48900(k)(1). Additionally, no student enrolled in
kindergarten through grade twelve, regardless of age, may be
recommended for expulsion for violation of Education Code
48900(k)(1). [E.C. 48900(k)(2)]
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
(1) Disrupting school activities.
31
(2) Refusing to follow the valid authority of school personnel, including
supervisors, teachers, school officials or other school staff performing
their duties.
(3) Failure to follow school rules.
(4) Failure to follow directive or instruction of staff or teachers.
(5) Failure to follow conduct code for school bus passengers.
14. Possession of Stolen Property {E.C. 48900(l)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Knowingly received stolen school property or private property.
15. Imitation Firearm {E.C. 48900(m)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Possession of an imitation firearm that is substantially similar in physical
properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude
the replica is a firearm.
16. Sexual Assault or Sexual Battery {E.C. 48900(n)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault or battery.
17. Harassment of a Student Witness {E.C. 48900(o)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a witness in a school
disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of intimidation or retaliation.
18. Prescription Drug Soma {E.C. 48900(p)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the
prescription drug Soma.
19. Hazing {E.C. 48900(q)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
32
Engaged or attempted to engage in hazing.
20. Bullying and Bullying by Electronic Act {E.C.
48900(r)}
Alternative to
Suspension Suspension Expulsion
Engaged in an act of bullying, including, but not limited to, bullying committed by
means of an electronic act, directed specifically toward a pupil.
21. Aided or Abetted to Inflict Physical Injury {E.C.
48900(t)}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Aided or abetted in the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury
to another student.
22. Sexual Harassment {E.C. 48900.2}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Prohibited sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome
sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or
physical conduct of a sexual nature. Applies to grades 4-12.
23. Acts of Hate Violence {E.C. 48900.3}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Students in grades 4-12 may be suspended or recommended for expulsion
for causing, threatening, or attempting to cause, or participating in an act
of hate violence defined as willfully interfering with or threatening
another person’s person or property rights because of race, ethnicity,
national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. Speech that
threatens violence, when the perpetrator has the apparent ability to carry
out the threat, may be considered an act of hate violence.
24. Other Harassment {E.C. 48900.4}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Students in grades 4-12 may be suspended or recommended for expulsion
for intentionally engaging in harassment, threats, or intimidation against a
student or group of students when the harassment is severe and pervasive
and disrupts classes or creates disorder or an intimidating or hostile
educational environment.
33
25. Terrorist Threats {E.C. 48900.7}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Making terrorist threats against school officials and/or property.
26a. Attendance – Truant {E.C. 48260}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Absent from school without a valid excuse.
26b. Attendance – Repeat Truant {E.C. 48261}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Absent from school more than one day without a valid excuse.
26c. Attendance – Habitual Truant {E.C. 48262}
Alternative to
Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
Any student truant three or more times per school year. Students who are
habitually truant may be referred to the School Attendance Review Board.
Prohibition on Possession and Use of Tobacco and Nicotine Products District policy and the Education Code prohibit the possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or dispensing of
tobacco and nicotine products at school or during school related activities. The District defines “tobacco and
nicotine products” as a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other smoking product or material, smokeless
tobacco in any form, and electronic cigarettes. “Electronic cigarettes” are defined as battery-operated or other
electronic products designed to deliver nicotine, flavor, and other chemicals by turning the substance into a vapor
that is inhaled by the user, including, but not limited to electronic vaping devices, personal vaporizers, digital vapor
devices, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and hookah pens.
Students determined to have used or to be in possession of tobacco or nicotine products at school or school related
activities may be subject to discipline under District policy, Education Code 48900(h), and/or other applicable laws.
Students determined to have used or to be in possession of products at school or school related activities that can be
used to consume and/or use tobacco or nicotine products, including but not limited to “electronic cigarettes” as
defined above, but which do not contain tobacco, nicotine, or any other controlled substance, may be subject to
discipline under District policy, Education Code 48900(k)(1), and/or other applicable laws. [E.C. 48901]
34
Item 2: Prohibition of Discrimination or Harassment and Related Complaint
Procedures
Instructions: Add or replace in your School Handbook using the exact title. Place insert in its entirety and without
modification. If you currently have no section with this title or only a section that is entitled “Sexual Harassment,”
the following is to be used.
PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND
BULLYING, AND RELATED COMPLAINT PROCEDURES District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination, including harassment, intimidation and bullying
based on a student’s actual or perceived disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race,
ethnicity, color, ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital or parental status, or association with a person or
group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. The district has a policy of nondiscrimination in
accordance with federal law and Title IX, and also prohibits sexual harassment of or by any student or by anyone in
or from the district. More detailed information regarding the district’s prohibition of discrimination, harassment,
intimidation, and bullying or the prohibition against sexual harassment is contained in the district’s Parent & Student
Handbook and is also available on the district’s website.
Parents, students and staff should immediately report incidents of alleged discrimination, harassment, intimidation
and bullying or sexual harassment to the Principal or designee. Students, parents, guardians or any other individuals
having questions or concerns or who may wish to file a complaint are urged to first contact the Principal or designee,
but if your concerns are not resolved, you may also contact the Associate Superintendent for Human Resources, at
(916) 686-7795, for matters involving a potential complaint or concern regarding a district employee. You may
contact the Associate Superintendent for Pre-K-6 Education, at (916) 686-7704 regarding a potential complaint or
concern related to a PreK-6 student (or students); and you may contact the Associate Superintendent for Secondary
Education, at (916) 686-7706, regarding a potential complaint or concern related to a student (or students) in grades
7-12. No one shall be retaliated against for reporting any incident of alleged discrimination or harassment, and
complainants’ identities will be kept confidential to the extent practical in the course of investigating the incidents of
alleged discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying or sexual harassment.
Pursuant to California Education Code 221.5, a pupil shall be permitted to participate in sex-segregated school
programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions, and use facilities consistent with his or her
gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records. Questions regarding the foregoing rights
shall be directed to your Principal or Vice Principal.
35
Item 3: Uniform Complaint Procedures
Instructions: Replace the section of your handbook entitled Uniform Complaint Procedures with the following
language. If your School Handbook currently does not have this section, it must be added.
UNIFORM COMPLAINT PROCEDURES The Elk Grove Unified School District has the primary responsibility to insure compliance with applicable state and
federal laws and regulations and has established procedures to address allegations of unlawful discrimination,
harassment, intimidation, and bullying, complaints alleging violation of state or federal laws governing educational
programs, and complaints alleging the district’s failure to comply with the prohibition against requiring students to
pay fees, deposits, or other charges for participation in educational activities.
The district shall use the uniform complaint procedures to resolve any complaint alleging unlawful discrimination,
harassment, intimidation, or bullying in district programs and activities based on actual or perceived characteristics
of race or ethnicity, color, ancestry, nationality, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or
parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or
genetic information, or any other characteristic identified in Education Code 200 or 220, Penal Code 422.55, or
Government Code 11135, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or
perceived characteristics.
Uniform complaint procedures shall also be used to address any complaint alleging the district's failure to comply
with the prohibition against requiring students to pay fees, deposits, or other charges for participation in educational
activities, the requirements for the development and adoption of a school safety plan, and state and/or federal laws in
adult education programs, consolidated categorical aid programs, migrant education, career technical and technical
education and training programs, child care and development programs, child nutrition programs, special education
programs, homeless education, foster youth services, reasonable accommodation for a lactating student on a school
campus, assignment of a student to a course without educational content for more than a week in one semester or to
a course the student has previously completed, noncompliance with the physical education instructional minutes for
students in elementary school, alleged retaliation against a complainant or other participant in the complaint process
or anyone who has acted to uncover or report a violation subject to this policy, and noncompliance with the Local
Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP).
More detailed information regarding the Uniform Complaint Procedures, including the timeline for resolving
complaints and the complaint appeal process, is contained in the district’s Parent & Student Handbook. If you have
questions regarding the Uniform Complaint Procedures, you can contact the district’s Legal Compliance Specialist
in Human Resources at (916) 686-7795.