Abbotts Hill Elementary School Faculty Handbookschool.fultonschools.org/es/abbottshill/Documents/2013-2014 Faculty... · Abbotts Hill Elementary School Faculty Handbook ... students

Abbotts Hill

Elementary School

Faculty Handbook

2013 - 2014

Staff – Please note that all changes to the handbook this year are in red font as

can be seen on your PC screen.

2013-2014 Faculty Handbook

Terms and Definitions

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Abbotts Hill Elementary School

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Table of Contents

Accidents/Medical Emergency ........................................................................................... 7 Adult Dining Area............................................................................................................... 7 Announcements................................................................................................................... 7

Approval ............................................................................................................................. 7 Arrival ................................................................................................................................. 8

Art Room ............................................................................................................................ 8 Attendance/Staff (See CASE Brochure) ............................................................................. 8 Attendance/Students ........................................................................................................... 9 Attire – (Also see Dress Code Section for Students and Staff) ........................................ 12

Birthdays ........................................................................................................................... 13 Board Policy Manuals ....................................................................................................... 13

Body Fluids ....................................................................................................................... 13 Book Rooms...................................................................................................................... 13 Brain Gym ......................................................................................................................... 13

Bulletin Boards ................................................................................................................. 14

Bullying (See Discipline Section) ..................................................................................... 14 Calendar ............................................................................................................................ 14 Cafeteria Guidelines......................................................................................................... 14

Cell Phones ....................................................................................................................... 16 Chewing Gum ................................................................................................................... 17

Child Abuse ...................................................................................................................... 17 Class Schedule .................................................................................................................. 17 Clinic ................................................................................................................................. 17

Code of Ethics ................................................................................................................... 18 Coffee/Snacks ................................................................................................................... 18

Committee Assignments (See Committees Section in this handbook) ............................ 18

Common Core ................................................................................................................... 18 Communication/Conferences with Parents ....................................................................... 18 Complaints ........................................................................................................................ 20

Computers ......................................................................................................................... 20 Conduct – See Code of Ethics in this Hanbook ................................................................ 21 Confidentiality .................................................................................................................. 21 Conservation of Energy .................................................................................................... 21 Continuous Achievement .................................................................................................. 21

Cooking Activities ............................................................................................................ 22 Copier ................................................................................................................................ 22 Crisis Intervention ............................................................................................................. 22

Curriculum/Minimum Standards of Service/Guidelines .................................................. 23 Custodial Requests ............................................................................................................ 24 Data Meeting and Celebrations ......................................................................................... 24



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Discipline .......................................................................................................................... 24 Dismissal ........................................................................................................................... 26 Dress Code for Students.................................................................................................... 27 Drug Free (See Other Sections of this Handbook) ........................................................... 28

Duties and Responsibilities ............................................................................................... 28 Duty Free Lunch ............................................................................................................... 29 Ear, Eye, and Dental Screening ........................................................................................ 29 Election Day...................................................................................................................... 29 Email, Facebook ............................................................................................................... 29

Emergency Drills, Evacuations and School Closing ........................................................ 30 Expectations ...................................................................................................................... 31

Facility Use ....................................................................................................................... 31 Field Trips ......................................................................................................................... 31 Fights/Student ................................................................................................................... 32 Film and Video Tapes ....................................................................................................... 32

F.T.E. Numbers ................................................................................................................. 32 Fund Collections ............................................................................................................... 32

Grade Books...................................................................................................................... 33 Grading ............................................................................................................................. 34 Hall Passes ........................................................................................................................ 36

Head Lice .......................................................................................................................... 36

Holidays ............................................................................................................................ 36 Homework......................................................................................................................... 37 Hospitality Fund/Morale ................................................................................................... 37

Immunization .................................................................................................................... 37 Instructional Time/Non Instructional Time ...................................................................... 38

Intercom ............................................................................................................................ 38 Lamination ........................................................................................................................ 38 Leadership Team ............................................................................................................... 38

Lesson Plans...................................................................................................................... 39 Lost Textbooks.................................................................................................................. 39

Make Up Work (See Absences) ........................................................................................ 39

Masking Tape, Duct Tape, etc. ......................................................................................... 39 Media Center ..................................................................................................................... 40 Medication ........................................................................................................................ 40

Meetings ............................................................................................................................ 40 Messages ........................................................................................................................... 41 Morning Exercises ............................................................................................................ 42 Name Tags ........................................................................................................................ 42 New Students .................................................................................................................... 42

Parent Volunteers .............................................................................................................. 43 Parties ................................................................................................................................ 43 Permanent Records ........................................................................................................... 43

Personal Leave .................................................................................................................. 43 Pets .................................................................................................................................... 44 Physical Education Break/Policies ................................................................................... 44



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Policies and Procedures .................................................................................................... 45 Promotion and Retention .................................................................................................. 45 Purchases Using Local School Funds ............................................................................... 45 PTA Meeting and Special Events ..................................................................................... 45

PTA Mini Grants............................................................................................................... 46 Required Reports .............................................................................................................. 46 School Hours ..................................................................................................................... 46 Separation of Church and State......................................................................................... 46 Sexual Harassment ............................................................................................................ 47

Sign In and Sign Out ......................................................................................................... 47 Snacks ............................................................................................................................... 47

Staff Children .................................................................................................................... 48 Student Crisis Response Plan............................................................................................ 48 Student of the Month (Jaguar of the Month) .................................................................... 48 Student Supplies................................................................................................................ 48

Substitute Teacher Folder Requirements .......................................................................... 48 Supervision of Students .................................................................................................... 49

Teacher Evaluation ........................................................................................................... 49 Teacher Supplies ............................................................................................................... 49 Team Coaches ................................................................................................................... 50

Telephone .......................................................................................................................... 50

Testing Programs .............................................................................................................. 50 Testing Results .................................................................................................................. 51 Tobacco Free Environment ............................................................................................... 51

Transcripts/Letters of Recommendation ........................................................................... 51 Transportation Notes ......................................................................................................... 51

VIP Folders ....................................................................................................................... 52 Social Worker ................................................................................................................... 52 Visitors .............................................................................................................................. 52

Where to Go For Help (See Job Responsibilities Section) ............................................. 53 Withdrawal Procedures ..................................................................................................... 53

Work Days/Conference Days ........................................................................................... 54

Work Portfolios ................................................................................................................. 54



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Accidents/Medical Emergency

Students – If a student under your supervision has an accident or a medical

emergency, which may require medical care, it must be reported

immediately to the office. An Accident Report must be completed and given

to the principal’s secretary. Accident Forms are located in the school office.

The supervising teacher must make contact with the student’s parent.

Faculty – Staff injuries on the job must be reported to the office immediately,

regardless of severity. Staff Accident Report Forms, which are located in the

school office, must be completed and returned to the principal’s secretary,

immediately.

Adult Dining Area

Students, including staff member’s children, are not permitted in the adult dining

area for any reason. Vending machines, microwaves, and refrigerators are for the use of

faculty and staff only. Students may not purchase or have someone else purchase items

for them, before, after or during school hours.

Announcements

AM – A bell will ring at 7:40 a.m. signaling the beginning of the school day. All

students and teachers are asked to stand for the morning pledge as it is recited

over the TV. Following the pledge, morning announcements will be made. If

you have any information that needs to be announced, please place it in the

Abbotts Hill box (located in the mailroom) 24 hours in advance. Adults and

students are expected to listen to the morning announcements and to

participate in Brain Gym.

PM – Afternoon announcements should be given to the front office secretary by

8:15 a.m. If there are any afternoon announcements, then they will be made

between 2:15 p.m. – 2:20 p.m. daily, prior to the first dismissal bell.

Approval

ALL papers, newsletters, flyers, etc. that are sent home must be initialed and

dated by Roytunda Stabler or the Assistant Principal. Ample time must be

provided for approval. Plan ahead and allow 2 weeks for approval.



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You must receive a verbal or written approval for all e-mail requests from Dr.

Stabler or Mrs. Hutchens. Do not assume that because you emailed either of them

that the message was received.

Arrival

All teachers and assistants are required to be in their assigned classrooms and

duty positions by 7:10 a.m. Teachers should greet the students as they enter the

classroom. Buses will unload at that time. Those students who do not wish to eat

breakfast will walk directly to their classrooms. Students who wish to eat breakfast will

proceed directly to the cafeteria. Upon completion of their breakfast, students will be

sent directly to their classrooms. Staff must enter through the front door or the cafeteria

doors from the side parking area. All Staff must sign in and out in the mornings and

afternoons. Do not let anyone in the side doors or cafeteria doors at any time during the

school day.

Art Room

Individual teacher and grade level supplies will be housed within each classroom.

If anyone wishes to use the kiln in the art room, arrangements should be made directly

with the art teacher.

Attendance/Staff (See CASE Brochure)

Advance notice is necessary to arrange for a substitute for your absence. If your

absence is a pre-planned sick or personal day, you must enter a leave request in ESS.

You will receive an email indicating approval or denial for your leave within three days.

After receiving approval call your absence into CASE at 404-346-7850 or log onto

CASE from the web at https://caseweb.fultonschools.org. If it is an unplanned sick day

(you are sick, sick child, etc), please call CASE right away to secure a substitute. In tis

event, the absence is not entered into ESS. CASE is a 24-hour service; call it in

immediately to secure a substitute.

If the absence is not planned, please call (770-667-2860, ext. 125) the assistant

principal by 7:00 a.m. or speak with a front office secretary to notify the assistant

principal of the job number, reason, and number of days to be absent. If you are placing

your call between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., during school hours, DO NOT leave a voice

mail message, you MUST speak with someone directly (ex: assistant principal, front

office secretary, etc.) It is the responsibility of the absent individual to make

arrangements for a substitute through CASE. An updated/current substitute folder must

be kept in the office at all times (see substitute teacher folder). A daily schedule of



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students who leave the class for speech, IRR, etc. should be kept inside the substitute

folder. As also stated in the lessons plan section, lesson plans must be on the top of the

desk throughout the day.

Staff members requesting personal or professional (duty) leave are required by

Board Policy to do so 3 days in advance. All professional (duty) days must be submitted

on the “green form” in the front office. However, this form does not need to be

completed for internal duty leave days that are coordinated by the Mrs. Parrish,

Curriculum Specialist. Mrs. Parrish will provide written instructions, usually via e-mail

pertaining to internal duty leave training days.

Board policy states that no personal leave may be taken on the following days:

Working day immediately preceding or following a holiday.

The first day of the school year and the following five working days thereof.

The last day of the school year and the preceding five working days thereof.

Pre-planning days, work days, registration days, and post-planning days.

Other critical days identified by the principal or department head.

Please see the Policies and Procedures section for Bereavement Leave, Personal

Leave, Professional Leave, and Sick Leave or visit Fulton County Policies/Procedures at

www.fulton.k12.ga.us. Please refer to the Policies and Procedures section of this

handbook for policy.

It is the responsibility of all staff members to verify his/her leave request

information in the ESS system. This includes the person id number assigned by county,

correct day(s) of absence, reason for absence, etc. If any of the information is not

completed correctly, it may affect the staff member’s pay, personal or sick leave days, or

the pay of the substitute.

Staff members requesting to leave early are required to notify the principal

assistant principal in writing. Requests to leave before 2:00 p.m. or arrive after 8:00 a.m.

are considered ½ day absences and should be entered in CASE and requested in advance.

Custodial and cafeteria staff members are asked to call their supervisor/manager

to report any absence. Secretaries and teacher assistants are asked to contact the assistant

principal directly.

Attendance/Students

Attendance Reporting - It is the responsibility of each classroom teacher to

maintain accurate and complete records of student attendance in accordance with

state guidelines. Using eSchoolsPlus in the computer, teachers must report

student attendance, absences and tardies. State laws are in effect regarding

student attendance.

Compulsary Education OCGA 20-2-690.1:

http://www.fulton.k12.ga.us/



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Every parent, guardian or other person who has control of any child between the

ages of 6 and 16 must enroll and sent their child to school. Any parent, guardian

or other person having control of a child who misses more than 5 unexcused

absences*, after being notified by school personnel, will be guilty of a

misdemeanor and subject to the following penalties.

Fine – not less than $25.00 and not greater than $100.00

Imprisonment – not to exceed 30 days

Community Service – or any combination of such penalties at the

discretion of the courts

Each day absent after 5 unexcused absences will constitute a

separate offense.

eSchoolsPlus – Classroom teacher’s responsibilities:

1. Ensure confidentiality and security of all student and staff information

maintained in eSchoolsPlus. Report any breach of security to the Student

Information Coordinator. Do not divulge user ID or password to anyone.

You will be held accountable for any data changes occurring in

eSchoolsPlus under your password.

2. Enter student attendance by 8:00 a.m. Teachers must “Take Attendance”,

even if all students are present, to indicate that the attendance process has

been completed. Attendance data and changes in Excuse Codes should be

amended within ten (10) days.

3. Verify the accuracy of daily and monthly attendance reports as

implemented by school administrators.

4. Notify the data clerk of changes of student information.

Additional responsibilities by level:

1. On a daily basis, make changes to attendance as excuse and tardy notes are

received for absences and tardies.

2. Participate in eSchoolsPlus training conducted by your school core team.

Consult your eSchoolsPlus guidelines for specific instructions on other functions

and responsibilities. In the event of a teacher’s absence, it is the teacher’s responsibility

to leave directions for the substitute on completing the required eSchoolsPlus Daily

Attendance Form. This form is also used when computers are down. Send it to the office

immediately upon completion.

eSchoolsPlus student summaries will be requested periodically during the year

and retained as permanent attendance records in the office. For this reason, it is

important that eSchoolsPlus attendance is always up to date and accurate.



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Absence or Tardy Excuse

After three (3) consecutive absences, or a pattern of irregular attendance,

the teacher must contact the student’s family to ascertain the reason for the

absence and express the school’s concern. If the teacher is unable to make

contact, an administrator should be provided with documentation of

attempted contacts, including dates and times. The administrator will

determine the next steps, which may include administrative contact and

referral to the school social worker.

If the absence is excused, remind the parent/guardian that a written excuse

is required to record the absence as excused within three days of the

student’s returning to school. An absence will be recorded as unexcused,

even though verbal/e-mail contact was made. As stated above, a signed

note must be received from parent or guardian. Any parent of a student

who misses 5 unexcused days throughout the year will be contacted by an

administrator and monitored.

Teachers are required to retain these in a file until the beginning of the

subsequent school year. The excuse needs to be dated, if not by parent,

then by the teacher.

All absences are recorded as unexcused unless a note is received and the absence

is determined to be excusable according to state guidelines. The Fulton County School

Board supports vigorous enforcement of Georgia’s Compulsory School Attendance Law,

which makes school attendance the responsibility of the parent and the student. The

Georgia Board of Education lawfully excuses students for the following reasons:

a. Personal illness of the student or when attendance in school would

endanger the health of the student or the health of others. Upon the

student’s return to school appropriate medical documentation may

be required within three (3) days of the absence.

b. Serious illness or death in the student’s immediate family

necessitating the absence. In the case or serious illness, students

are required to present medical documentation to validate the

absences as an excused absence within three (3) days of the

student’s return to school.

c. Court order by a governmental agency mandating the student’s

absence from school.

d. Special or recognized religious holidays observed by the faith of

the student.

e. Weather or environmental conditions rendering attendance

impossible or hazardous to the student’s health or safety.

f. Other absences to be determined by, and at the discretion of, the

local school.



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Tardies

Prompt teacher/school contact with the family is recommended when a student is

tardy to school. The guidelines listed below should be used when students are tardy.

A tardy is defined as the following:

A student is tardy when he/she arrives to school after the beginning of the official school

day or is not in the assigned class at the official beginning of the class period. However,

there are two types of tardy excuses as listed below:

Excused: Late arrival to school or class as a result of reasons defined herein as

excused absences or as a result of events physically out of one’s control such as

inclement weather, documented transportation delays, health related

emergencies power outage, compliance with a court order, etc.

Unexcused: Arriving late to school or class with or without the knowledge of

parent/guardian, as a result of oversleeping, parent errands, etc., unless it is an

excused tardy as defined above.

When students are tardy, the following guidelines should be used:

1. At the fifth (5th

) unexcused tardy, the student’s teacher will contact the

family offering suggestions to remedy the problem and identifying

instructional information the student is missing when tardy.

2. After ten (10) unexcused tardies, the school will send a letter from the

Principal/Assistant Principal.

3. Fifteen (15) unexcused tardies will result in a referral to the school social

worker.

A student must be present one-half of the instructional time of the school day

(11:15 a.m.) in order to be counted present. Students are tardy if they arrive in the

classroom after the 7:40 a.m. bell. If a student arrives in the classroom without a tardy

note, he/she is to be sent back to the office to get one. Exceptions: students are not

counted tardy if they ride the bus and the bus is late.

Attire – (Also see Dress Code Section for Students and Staff)

All members of the faculty and staff are required to dress in a professional manner

at all times, unless otherwise indicated (such as spirit days). Professional dress does not

include shorts of any length (except when designated by the principal), jeans of any color,

warm-up suits, halter-tops, tank tops, see-through shirts, skorts of any type material.

When wearing leggings, skirts, or dresses no more than 1/3 of thigh directly above the

knee should be exposed. Tennis shoes (except on dress down days or days designated by

the principal), flip flop shoes, or beach shoes are not considered to be professional dress.



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Sun dresses are appropriate; however they should not have spaghetti straps. Knee

length pants to ankle length are considered appropriate dress. Hat day is the last

Friday of every month, the hat must be a school spirit hat which displays the colors teal,

khaki, white, gold or black.

Birthdays

Birthdays are important. We do not celebrate with parties but parents are

welcome to send in pre-packaged treats for their child’s birthday. Parents should drop

them off at the front office or send in with student if possible. However, parents should

check with the teacher prior to sending in a treat. Party invitations are not to be sent

home with students. Parents may use the student directory to mail invitations. Summer

birthdays will be celebrated in late spring. Birthday treats will be shared during pre-

determined snack times and should not be distributed or shared in the cafeteria and may

not interfere with instructional time. Treat bags, flowers or balloons are not to be

distributed under any circumstances. When celebrating staff birthdays with your class,

please adhere to the same rules, except for flowers and balloons.

Board Policy Manuals

Manuals stating the official policy of the Fulton County Board of Education are

available via the internet at www.fulton.k12.ga.us. Teachers are required and are

responsible for consulting Board Policy for information regarding county policies and

procedures.

Body Fluids

Staff members are expected to follow and be thoroughly familiar with guidelines

for appropriate cleanup and handling of any body fluids or matter.

Book Rooms

Teachers may not get their own textbooks from the book room. Please notify the

curriculum support teacher.

Brain Gym

Brain gym activities will be performed on the morning announcements daily. It is

expected that each child will stand up and participate daily.




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Bulletin Boards

Classroom bulletin boards and cork strips are to be changed regularly to enhance

and support the curriculum. Bulletin boards should be changed to reflect current

instruction. Each grade level is responsible for the bulletin boards in the main hallway,

as well as their designated hallway strips. Assignments will be provided for these areas.

Bullying (See Discipline Section)

The Board of Education prohibits bullying at any location or activity under

jurisdiction of the school system. Any student who engages in bullying may be subject to

disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

The Board of Education also expects students and/or staff to immediately report

incidents of bullying to the principal or designee. Each complaint of bullying should be

promptly investigated. If the complainant or the parent of the student feels that

appropriate resolution of the investigation or complaint has not been reached, the student

or the parent of the student should contact the principal or the Office of Student

Discipline. The school system prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complainant or

any participant in the complaint process.

Each teacher should discuss this policy with their students in age appropriate

ways and assure them that they need not endure any form of bullying.

Calendar

A master calendar for the school will be posted on Outlook. In an effort to plan

well and avoid conflicts, it is imperative that you keep the administration informed. All

meetings, locations and dates are to be approved by office by the principal. After

approval, this information will be posted on the master school calendar. This does

include all field trips, everyday meetings, special one time events, every day meetings or

ad hoc meetings by grade level chairs.

If your request requires a specific type of set up, please refer to “Facility Use

Form” section.

Cafeteria Guidelines

The goal of the cafeteria program is to provide nutritional meals in a pleasant

environment in which proper table manners and courtesies will be exercised. Teachers



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should spend time the first few days of school, and periodically, thereafter, reviewing

guidelines with students. At any time during the year (weather permitting) teachers

may take their students outside for lunch – if utilizing the picnic tables, please use

the sign up sheet in the front office. Teachers are required to stay with their class

and supervise them if not eating in the cafeteria, unless other arrangements have

been made through the administration.

Students should enter the cafeteria through the door by the stage. The classes are

escorted to and through the lunch line by the classroom teachers. Do not drop your

class off at the cafeteria door and leave. All students need to get all utensils,

condiments and extras when they go through the line. Students will not be permitted to

go through the line a second time. If a student is in need of something, he/she should

raise his/her hand. Each student must either bring a lunch from home or purchase a

school lunch, unless arrangements have been made with the principal. If a student forgets

his lunch money, the student is required to charge their lunch.

Students should use the restroom prior to entering the cafeteria. However, if an

emergency should occur, he/she is to notify the assistant and use a pass. During lunch,

students should talk quietly and refrain from sitting on their feet or knees. I-pods, radios,

headphones, game boys, toys or games, and string toys, and are not permitted. Scissors

and glue are not permitted.

When one side of a table is signaled to stand, the students should leave their trays

on the table, stand and put the chair under the table, then retrieve the tray from the table

for proper disposal. Remember there should only be three chairs on each side of the

table. Also, there should be no talking at this time. The assistant will dismiss one side of

the table at a time. Teachers are to pick up their students at their lunch table and exit the

cafeteria quietly. Classes must be picked up from the cafeteria ON TIME.

Guidelines for Students

Treat fellow students, cafeteria workers, and assistants, as you would like

to be treated.

Pick up and/or purchase all items while in line (extra food, utensils,

condiments, etc.)

Raise your hand if you need assistance.

Practice good table manners,

Talk quietly with your neighbor when seated.

Work together to clean your area.

Glass containers should not be sent in lunch boxes.



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Discard waste appropriately.

Enter and exit cafeteria quietly.

Guidelines for Teachers and Assistants

Classes are to arrive/leave at assigned times.

Strollers are not allowed on the main cafeteria floor.

Students should be given their lunch cards prior to going through the lunch

line.

Students are not allowed to run at anytime or to get up from their table

without permission.

Students are to move quietly through the line, sit at assigned table, leave

their space clean, and carry their trays to the window when dismissed.

Repeated or major infractions will be reported to the assistant principal.

A visitor’s table will be set-aside for parents who wish to have lunch with

their child. Only the parents or visitor of that child may sit at the

visitor’s table. Parents or visitors of that child may also sit with the

classroom students if room is available at the table. Parents and or

visitors are not allowed to buy treats for other children. Outside food

(i.e. Burger King, McDonald’s) is not allowed.

After five (5) cafeteria conduct reports, a student will receive a conduct

referral, and eat lunch in the Opportunity Room. Teachers are required to

notify parents. Please reference the Policies and Procedures/Appendix

Section for more information.

Cell Phones

The use of cell phones is not permitted during instructional times. Should you

need to respond to an emergency call, the front office or an administrator must be notified

and coverage for your class MUST be provided. Elementary students are allowed to

carry cell phones in their book bags. The phone must be in the off position and cannot be

used during the school day. Should the phone ring during the school day, the phone

should be confiscated and sent to the front office. An administrator will contact the

parent/guardian to pick up the phone.



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Chewing Gum

Chewing gum on school premises by students or staff members is not permitted.

Child Abuse

School employees are mandated under Georgia Law (Code Section 74-111 and

Code 19-7-5) to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect of children under the

age of eighteen.

If a staff member suspects child abuse, DFCS should be notified immediately. A

Child Abuse Reporting Form must be completed. Staff members should follow the

instructions listed on the form. The forms are in the forms box in the mailroom. Staff

members must be thoroughly knowledgeable regarding physical and behavioral

indicators of child abuse and neglect.

Class Schedule

An electronic copy of a dated daily schedule must be given to the front office

secretary. Copies will be distributed to the principal, assistant principal, curriculum

support teacher, counselor, and front office secretary. A copy of the schedule is to be

posted inside the classroom door. Teachers and assistants are to provide updates if the

schedule changes, and submit new dated copies to the front office secretary. The front

office must be able to locate you or your class at any time.

Clinic

Teachers may treat minor scrapes in the classroom using basic first aid treatment.

A note should be sent to parents regarding any injuries.

A clinic assistant will care for students who need to take medication or who

become injured or ill at school. Send a clinic referral form with each student sent to the

clinic. In the case of emergencies, a teacher or assistant must accompany the students.

Parents will be called when the student is ill or injured. No assumptions are to be made

regarding broken bones or any injuries to the head. Parents must be contacted if either of

these injuries occurs.

Care kits will be provided to each classroom. Any staff member who is abusing

services of the clinic will be contacted by an administrator. The number of clinic visits



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are collected, monitored and posted. If a student must take medication (i.e. inhalers)

during the school day, the medication is to be left in the clinic and not in the classroom,

unless the student has an Authorization to Carry Medication form. Parents must provide

a completed parental permission form and return the physician’s statement, signed.

Blank Authorization forms are available in the clinic. A log of medications dispensed is

maintained in the clinic. Non-prescription medications need to be delivered to the clinic

by the parent. Before any medication (prescription or non-prescription) can be

administered, the authorization form needs to be completed. Teachers may not distribute

any medication (pain relievers, cough drops, etc.).

Each student must have a completed, current blue card on file. Teachers are

asked to check for complete emergency information and signatures on each child’s card.

These cards will be kept on file in the clinic at all times. In addition, an Emergency

Transportation/Treatment Approval card must be on file for each student.

Code of Ethics

See the below referenced web site:

http://www.gapsc.com

Coffee/Snacks

Coffee and soft drinks should only be consumed in covered containers similar to a

travel mug. Coffee pots are not permitted in the classrooms.

Committee Assignments (See Committees Section in this handbook)

All staff members are to serve on a minimum of 1 school committee.

Common Core

More information will be available at the beginning of the school year

approaches.

Communication/Conferences with Parents

In order to develop better communication and positive self-esteem, it is requested

that each teacher write each student in the class sometime during the year telling him/her

something positive or telling him/her about outstanding improvements, academically,

socially, etc. You are encouraged to let parents know the good things about their

children. These notes may be given to the child to take home.

http://www.gapsc.com/



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It is important to develop and maintain positive and on-going communication

with parents. Communication should focus on useful information regarding the student’s

academic and behavioral progress. Please follow the guidelines listed below:

All telephone calls from parents should be returned within 24 hours.

If you are unable to reach parents within 24 hours, document this call and

send a written note.

All written notes from parents should be answered with a phone call or a note

within 24 hours.

Get e-mail addresses from parents and utilize e-mail as frequently as possible.

Voice mail should be checked at least twice per day. All calls should be

returned within 24 hours.

In order to promote and foster a strong relationship between the school and home,

each classroom teacher should send home a curriculum newsletter monthly or bi-weekly

containing the following information:

Flashback: A review of some of the prior month’s activities and events.

Coming Attractions: Gentle reminders to parents about upcoming events.

Personal Profile: Information about what’s new in the lives of students, new

students in the class, highlights, etc.

All newsletters/parent correspondence is to be previewed by the grade level chair

before being submitted to the assistant principal or principal for approval. After review,

the assistant principal or principal will place newsletters back in the teacher’s mailbox for

correction, copying and distribution. All papers that are sent home must be initialed and

dated by the principal or assistant principal. The front office secretary is to be given final

copies the day they are sent home.

Class sets of papers are to be gathered throughout the week and sent home bi-

weekly on Friday’s, to keep parents informed of student progress. These are to be signed

and returned on the following Monday.

Behavior reports are to be sent home on Fridays with signed papers. These

progress notes are to provide parents with positive feedback, or information regarding

student behavior and/or behavioral concerns.



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Conferences – Parent

It is suggested that teachers are asked to telephone all parents early in the school

year and as new students enroll to introduce themselves. Please discuss with parents the

importance of their input and involvement. Teachers should use their own discretion in

giving out their home telephone number.

Teachers are required to have a conference with the parents of each child in their

classroom during September and October. A teacher workday is set aside to facilitate

this process. Conferences may be scheduled before or after school, at a mutually

convenient time. Teachers are asked to please maintain a log of all conferences held and

or attempted. Additionally, a conference should be initiated any time a student is

experiencing academic or behavioral problems.

Special conference forms and letters to parents are available in the office

workroom. These may be used for required conferences or other conferences during the

year.

Complaints

All complaints are expected to be resolved at the lowest level. Professional

courtesy is respect of all staff members. If there is a complaint with another person, then

the following steps should be completed:

1. Talk with the person of concern, use “I” statements. (Example: I don’t like

when…….)

2. Consult your grade level chairperson, supervisor (Cafeteria Manager, Head

Custodian, etc)

3. Consult an administrator and file a formal complaint. Concerns that need an

administrator response must be submitted in writing.

A formal complaint form is available under the Human Resources portion of the

Employee Portal of the Fulton County website. Fulton County School Policy will be

strictly adhered to.

Computers

Computers are a vital part of the instructional program. It is the teacher’s

responsibility to ensure that all students utilize the computers on a regular basis and that

when their class leaves the computer lab, that all software, equipment, etc. is returned to

the proper place in the computer lab. A sign up sheet will be posted for using the

computer lab.



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Conduct – See Code of Ethics in this Hanbook

Confidentiality

A student’s progress and behavior is a matter between teacher and parent and

should always be kept that way. A student should NEVER be discussed openly in

hallways, workrooms, adult dining room, parking lots, or in any open area. A student

should NEVER be discussed with a parent other than his/her own, or with any school

personnel not having direct interest and/or contact with the student. If it is necessary to

discuss a student with someone other than a staff member or parent (i.e., doctor,

psychologist, tutor), a third party release must be completed and signed by the parent. A

copy should be kept in the classroom and in the Data Clerk’s office.

Conservation of Energy

Contact the head custodian if you experience heating/cooling problems. Please

remember to turn off lights if you will be gone for an extended period of time.

Continuous Achievement

Continuous achievement is a design for curriculum delivery in Fulton County

elementary schools, which accommodates pace, subject content, and levels of

achievement, allowing each student to progress at his/her own rate.

All students are assessed to determine their appropriate placement. Students may

receive instruction on, advanced or accelerated grade placement. All students will be

placed at appropriate instructional levels in language arts and math regardless of their

grade level placement. Continuous Achievement respects individual differences and

provides guidance to support positive progress for all students.

If a teacher feels a student or group of students are not appropriately placed,

he/she should conference with the CST first. Any changes in language arts and/or math

should be communicated to the parents in writing.

Assessments:

Language Arts – Students will be assessed with an 18 week and 36 week county

assessment. They will also be assessed at the 9th

and 27th

week with a common

assessment developed by each grade level.

Math – Pre and post assessments will be given for each unit.



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Writing Prompts – Students will be assessed with an 18 week and 36 week county

assessment for each genre: narrative, informational, persuasive and expository,

scored on a state or Write From the Beginning (WFTB) rubric.

Cooking Activities

Cooking activities, as part of the regular instruction program and nutrition

education, are encouraged. If the cooking activity will require the use of the kitchen/or

kitchen equipment, it must first be coordinated through the cafeteria manager. Ample

notice for scheduling will be appreciated.

Microwave ovens can only be utilized in classrooms or areas for cooking

activities and science projects. They should not be accessible to children due to safety

concerns. A form must be completed and signed by staff members opting to have a

microwave oven in the classroom. Forms are available in the front office in the forms

box.

Copier

Teachers will be issued copy numbers to be logged in for copying tasks. Teachers

(or those doing copying for them) may use the high-speed copier and make a maximum

of six (6) copies per student per day. A minimum of thirty-five (35) copies per master is

required for use of the Gestetners (these copiers are more cost effective). Please contact

the principal’s secretary for any copier problems.

Crisis Intervention

A crisis can occur at any time. The typical crisis situation faced at school

involves sudden death of a student or faculty member through accident or suicide. Other

crises may result from explosions, fires, school bus accidents or other natural disasters.

During the early days of a crisis there is typically a great deal of confusion. Because a

crisis at a school involves students, employees and community members, it will usually

receive media attention.

In the event of a crisis at school, the following plan will be in effect:

Notification of facts to staff members. If school is not in session, you will be

called.

Be prepared for the possibility of any early morning or after school meeting.



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If a crisis should occur during school, the crisis intervention team (leadership

team) will be called immediately. This team will develop a plan of action to meet the

situation.

The only spokesperson to the media is the principal or his/her designee. Staff

members should not under any circumstances speak or e-mail to the media

representatives, press or parents about the situation at hand.

In the event of the absence of the principal, the designated chain of command for

responsibility is assistant principal, curriculum support teacher, or counselor.

Curriculum/Minimum Standards of Service/Guidelines

Teachers should use state and county curriculum guides, teacher’s editions of

textbooks, and resource materials in planning instruction. If a teacher finds it necessary

to modify curriculum to a great extent for a particular student, the CST should be

consulted and parents subsequently informed.

The weekly schedule of average instruction hours establishes a framework of

flexible scheduling in which a balanced competency based program of studies could be

provided.

Reading 725 minutes per week

Handwriting

Spelling

Language Arts

Mathematics 300 minutes per week

Science 175 minutes per week

Health 50 minutes per week

Social Studies 105 minutes per week

*Physical Education 90 minutes per week

*Art 45 minutes per week

*Music 45 minutes per week

Opening/Evaluation Activity 150 minutes per week

**Related Instruction Time 150 minutes per week

1800 minutes per week

* Classes to be under the direction of specialists.

** Related instruction time with each elementary school’s day may be utilized by extending

subject area time (including unstructured physical activity) to accommodate the individual

needs of students and schools.



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Custodial Requests

All requests for custodial work or maintenance should be written on the Custodial

Maintenance Request Form. The forms should be placed in the head custodian’s

mailbox. Your requests will be addressed in a timely manner, prioritizing emergencies.

Please avoid direct requests to custodian.

Requests for specific set-up for scheduled meetings must be filled out on a

Special Events Set-Up Request Form and reviewed by the assistant principal. Every

effort will be made to minimize the amount of additional work that will be required of the

custodial staff.

Data Meeting and Celebrations

All data meetings must be scheduled on a day that all or a majority of grade levels

members have specials or on Tuesday afternoon during grade level meetings. The Grade

Level Chair must contact Mrs. Parrish in ample time to schedule the meeting prior to the

date. Jeans day celebrations will take place on Mondays and Thursdays only. Each

grade level will be provided a Jeans Day for meeting grade level goals in Reading,

Writing and Mathematics.

Discipline

Our discipline philosophy allows students to take responsibility for their behavior.

They are encouraged to make good choices and learn from the logical consequences of

their choices while maintaining their dignity. Classroom procedures must be in place

within each classroom to teach students problem solving strategies (cooperatively

designed class rules, class meetings, peace tables, conflict resolution strategies, etc.).

Each grade level will have a consistent discipline plan submitted to the assistant principal

at the beginning of the year.

Teachers should expect to handle discipline problems arising in their classrooms.

If it is necessary to refer a child to the front office, please send the written referral and we

will get the child from the classroom. However, if the child is fighting or causing such a

distraction or disturbance to other students, then he or she must be brought to the front

office immediately. If necessary, please contact the front office for assistance. No

corporal punishment is permitted. Communication with parents is required, and close

contact with parents is recommended (using notes, telephone calls and personal

conference) for students with ongoing behavioral concerns.) Students are not to be sent

to the front office for not completing homework or seatwork.



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For minor and chronic disciplinary issues, teachers are expected to follow the

Grade Level Discipline Cycle and document the infraction, the dates for each step,

including consequences and parental involvement. If all of the steps have been followed

and documented, but the desired behavioral changes have not occurred, a discipline

report should then be made to administration using the behavior report form. More

serious disciplinary issues will be dealt with following Fulton County Guidelines.

If the administrator sends a misconduct report to the parents, the administrator

will keep a copy. The administrator may additionally request that the teacher make

contact with the parent to communicate the most recent infractions(s). Send the referral

to the front office BEFORE you send the child unless the situation is severe.

Consistency across school setting is a key ingredient in helping students become

responsible citizens. The following basic rules should be posted and incorporated within

each classroom:

P A W S

Practice good manners

Always listen carefully

Watch your space

Stop and think

If student fights occur, teachers should take reasonable action. Become familiar

with the guidelines for handling student fights.

Uninterrupted Instructional Time

In accordance with Georgia Law 20-2-287 and Georgia Board of Education

Policy (AF), school must provide 177 days of instructional time per year. Principals may

use up to three (3) days per year to schedule non-instructional activities, such as picture

day, book fair, etc. Students may be allowed to be absent from class five (5) days per

year for school-sponsored and non-instructional activities.

Instructional activity is defined as time spent on instruction provided or

coordinated by a regular certified teacher or a substitute teacher which relates directly to

course content as defined in the local system curriculum guides or locally adopted state

guides. Testing, counseling, parent-teacher conferences and health screenings are

deemed part of the instructional activity.



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Dismissal

Prior to students leaving their classroom, papers should be picked up from the

floor, desks left in an orderly fashion and chairs stacked (six (6) to a stack). It is the

responsibility of each teacher to see that his/her class leaves the room in an orderly

fashion.

Classroom teachers should follow dismissal procedures established by their grade

level. Teachers should walk students to their designated area in a quiet, single file line.

Teachers and assistants on bus duty are asked to stand outside the buses or

designated area to supervise the loading of students. Teachers and assistants should place

themselves in a position where they can see each student walk up the steps of the bus.

There should be no running by students. If needed, teachers should assist bus

drivers to obtain and maintain orderly bus conduct until departure.

If it is necessary for a student to leave school early, parents are required to send a

note to his/her child’s teacher. Any student leaving before regular dismissal time must be

signed out through the office prior to 2:00 p.m. Parents or guardians are not to go to the

classroom to check out a student. If a parent should come to the room, direct them to the

office to complete the check out procedure. Teachers are not to release any students to

a parent at the classroom door/cafeteria unless the parent has an office dismissal

form.

In the event that a student misses the bus, he/she will be sent to the office. The

student’s teacher is to supervise telephone calls to their parents and wait until the parent

arrives.

All teachers are to remain in their classroom until the last child has departed.

Also, when buses are late, students are to remain in their classroom or cafeteria until the

bus arrives.

Transportation changes must be in writing. If a transportation change is received

via e-mail, it should be sent to the front office for verification. All parent notes in

reference to attendance are to be kept for 1 year.

Teachers are asked to record all bus numbers on a master list in their classroom.

This list will also identify transportation means for all other students, i.e., walker, car

rider, day care van, after school care, etc. Keep all parent notes regarding attendance on

file for one year.



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Dress Code for Students

Students are expected to groom themselves in such a way as to reflect neatness,

cleanliness, and good taste. All students shall be modestly groomed so as not to distract

the attention of others or to cause disruption or interference with the educational program

or the orderly operation of the school. Extremes in dress will not be permitted. The

principal or other duly authorized school official shall determine whether any particular

mode of dress or grooming results in violation of the spirit and intent of this rule. Refer to

the below listed web-site for additional information.

Abbotts Hill School Dress Code

(As per FCBOE Policy)

www.fulton.k12.ga.us

Appropriate shoes must be worn. Examples of appropriate shoes are:

clogs, slide sandals, shoes with the heel and toes enclosed. Flip flops,

beach shoes and tennis shoes, (except on dress down days or on special

designated days by the principal), “heelies,” (or any type of shoe with

wheels) are not allowed. “Crocs” or croc type shoes are not

recommended, due to accidents.

No short-shorts, mini-skirts or skorts are to be worn.

Pants that fall just below the knee to mid-calf or ankle are considered

appropriate dress.

No leggings, bicycle shorts, athletic shorts, or cut-offs are allowed.

No hats, curlers, bandanas, sweatbands, sunglasses, gloves or feathers

or any other articles that may cause a distraction from learning are to

be worn during school hours. This applies to male/female students.

No bare midriffs, tank tops or spaghetti straps, fishnet shirts, sweat

suits or see-through clothing is to be worn.

All t-shirts must be in good taste. No suggestive wording/illustrations

or advertisements for alcoholic beverages will be allowed.

Pants at any length between the knee and ankle are acceptable.

Fridays are Spirit Days!




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Students are expected to honor the dress code so that valuable school time is not

spent examining attire to determine appropriateness. Students will be notified of any

exceptions to the dress code (Field Day, Spirit Days, etc.) and any other changes or

additional requests. Teachers will be accountable for the dress code standard being

followed by the students and will report any infractions to the administrator.

Drug Free (See Other Sections of this Handbook)

Duties and Responsibilities

I. Teacher Duties and Responsibilities

A. Follows professional practices consistent with school and system

policies in working with students, students’ records, parents and

colleagues.

1. Interacts in a professional manner with students and parents

2. Is available to students and parents for conferences

according to system policies

3. Facilitates home-school communication by such means as

holding conferences, telephoning and sending written

communications

4. Maintains confidentiality of students and students’ records

5. Works cooperatively with school administrators, special

support personnel, colleagues and parents.

B. Complies with school, system, and state administrative regulations

and board of education policies

1. Conducts assigned classes at the times scheduled

2. Enforces regulations concerning student conduct and

discipline

3. Attends regularly and is punctual

4. Provides adequate information, plans and materials for

substitute teacher

5. Maintains accurate, complete and appropriate records and

files reports promptly

6. Attends and participates in faculty meetings and other

assigned meetings and activities according to school policy

7. Complies with conditions as stated in contract

C. Demonstrates professional practices in teaching

1. Models correct use of language, oral and written



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2. Demonstrates accurate and up-to-date knowledge of content

3. Implements designed curriculum

4. Maintains lesson plans as required by school policy

5. Assigns reasonable tasks and homework to students

D. Acts in a professional manner and assumes responsibility for the

total school program, its safety and good order

1. Takes precautions to protect records, equipment a, materials

and facilities

2. Assumes responsibility for supervising students in out-of-

class settings

Duty Free Lunch

All teachers will have a duty free lunch period after the first week of school. This

procedure is necessary to establish routines, practice good table manners and provide role

models for the children. Occasionally teachers may be asked to have lunch with their

students (example: during inclement weather when cafeteria cannot be used).

Ear, Eye, and Dental Screening

All students entering a Georgia school for the first time and all students in grades

K and 1 should have a completed Certificate of Eye, Ear, and Dental Screening on file. If

a student does not have a certificate at the time of initial enrollment, these examinations

must be completed within two months. If there has not been satisfactory response, please

notify the assistant principal in writing.

Election Day

Abbotts Hill is an official polling place for citizens.

Email, Facebook

Email, facebook, etc are quick and easy tools. However, with so many people

having access, and the capability to forward information, PLEASE be very careful about

what you write and how it is written. It is not appropriate for pictures of Abbotts Hill

students to be posted on Facebook pages or any other “Private” postings. In addition, be

very careful with any pictures that you post. Your pages are not private and can be

viewed by parents and the community. The permission forms that parents sign are for

school publicity, NOT PRIVATE POSTINGS. If you have any Abbotts Hill information

posted on Facebook or any similar tool, remove it immediately. Please do not log onto

your personal Facebook during school hours/instructional time. Also, remember that

your laptop is Fulton County Property and should be used for school business.



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Emergency Drills, Evacuations and School Closing

Be familiar with all the color codes (green, blue, red and yellow) and all

procedures that go with each color code. In the event of an emergency (gas leak, bomb,

explosion, etc.), which necessitates immediate emergency evacuation of the building,

students will walk with their teachers to the school bus area and congregate away from

the building. The Administration will designate the specific area during the evacuation.

They will stand in lines with the teacher who should check attendance. Any missing

student should be reported immediately to an administrator.

If the decision is made to close school due to inclement weather, local television

and radio stations will broadcast this information. Radio station WSB (750 AM) will

broadcast emergency closing or early school closings.

When the alarm sounds, students should line up quietly. There should be NO

talking in line inside or outside of the building for the duration of the drill. Teachers

must take emergency bag located by the door. Roll should be taken while the class waits

to return to the classroom. Notify administration immediately if anyone is missing.

If an alarm sounds while the teacher is having lunch, the teacher should

immediately report to the cafeteria to supervise his/her class during the drill. If a drill

occurs while students are at specials, the special area teacher will exit the building with

the class, and the classroom teacher will locate and stay with the class.

Check substitute folders to make sure that all Emergency Information is available

for the substitute and the substitute know where to find your Emergency Kit in the class

room.

Intruder Alert

If an intruder enters the building or an extreme emergency occurs that affects the

entire school, the principal will make an announcement on the intercom. After hearing

the message, teachers are to immediately take action as described in the Intruder Alert

Procedures.

Each grade level chair has a copy of the school’s Emergency Plan. Each staff

member is responsible for reading and being familiar with the procedure. Refer to Quick

Reference Guide in emergency kit for specifics pertaining to drills. Should any alert

sound/occur (false or intentional), everyone should take the appropriate actions and

follow documented procedures



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Expectations

All Staff members must adhere to Abbotts Hill Elementary Expectations or

Letters of Concern will be provided.

Facility Use

Pursuant to our open school philosophy, many people within the school and

community will use the school. It is, therefore, necessary to schedule use of the cafeteria,

office conference room, etc. If you wish to schedule any of these areas, please contact a

front office secretary and put this information on the central calendar and, Outlook

calendar and any calendar which may or may not be posted in the area to be used.

Field Trips

Field trips are an extension of the instructional program and must be pre-approved

by the principal. Discuss field trips with the grade level team in order to coordinate at

each grade level. All paperwork, must be completed and submitted to Bonnie Roles

in a timely manner (no less than 4 weeks in advance). Once approval has been

granted, follow the steps outlined on the Field Trip Procedures Form. Note that no

student can be excluded from a field trip due to the inability to pay.

Please note that the number of field trips to be taken each year is subject to

change, based on budgetary constraints. However, if there are no changes made by the

county, classes may take a maximum of two trips in addition to county provided trips in

3rd

, 4th

and/or 5th

grades.

Secure parental permission for students to attend the field trip. No student will be

allowed to go on a field trip off school property without a completed and signed

permission form on file. Teachers are responsible for ensuring that all permission slips

are received. Students not attending a field trip are expected to attend school on the day

of the trip. Alternate plans for the day of the field trip will be made for students who will

not be attending. Provide the office of names of any students who will not be attending

the field trip and who they are assigned to during the trip.

Carefully review school bus procedures with all students prior to field trips.

Drivers will give emergency bus evacuation and safety instructions to students prior to

making the trip.



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The first day and last day that classes will be allowed to take field trips for the

school year will be determined by Fulton County. Please check with the front office for

these dates.

Fights/Student

For guidelines in handling student fights, please see the Policies And

Procedures/Appendix section of this handbook.

Film and Video Tapes

Please show films and tapes that support the core curriculum and objectives.

These should be shown as an outgrowth of the instructional program. The school day

does not permit viewing of films for entertainment or reward purposes. Use of videos

must be approved by the principal on the form available in the Media Center. Allow a

minimum of two (2) weeks for the form to be approved and returned to you.

F.T.E. Numbers

All students in Fulton County Schools will receive a F.T.E. (Full Time

Equivalent) number. This number is usually the student’s social security number (SSN).

Students whose parent’s object to the use of the SSN are automatically assigned a number

from student services. F.T.E. numbers should be recorded on the permanent record

folder in the upper right hand corner for each student.

Fund Collections

Teachers are not permitted to collect AND HOLD lunch money, book money, or

any other funds from students. Money should never be left in a teacher’s desk. Under no

circumstances should money be left in the classroom overnight. All school money should

be given to the office before 9:00 am to be accounted for and deposited. An internal

deposit slip must be completed for all funds to be deposited. Each student who has paid

money should be listed on the deposit slip. When submitting a deposit, please use the

provided internal deposit bag that will be provided to each teacher at the beginning of the

school year. As a time saving measure, it is appropriate to attach a class roster and mark

the only students who have paid. This form is found in the office workroom and an

electronic copy is also available upon request. A receipt will be provided for all money

collected. Staff members that do not adhere to these guidelines will be responsible

for replacing any or all lost stolen monies.



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Grade Books

Teachers are expected to maintain grade books throughout the year as a means of

accountability for grading. Grade books are collected at the end of the school year and

must be retained in the permanent office files.

This space intentionally left blank.



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Grading

The purpose of grade reporting is to communicate useful information about a

child’s academic and developmental progress to the child and the parents. A positive

tone and approach to communication is suggested. Please note that all graded work

going home should reflect the same grading system used on the report.

Report cards are distributed at the end of each 18-week semester. The minimum

number of grades used to determine the final grade should be at least nine per grading

period, per subject area. Students in grades K-5 receive a progress report every nine

weeks. Students in art, music, and physical education classes that meet less than five

times per week may receive a no grade (NG) for the first six weeks progress report.

Report cards should be given to the CST for approval before distribution to students.

Grading Scale for Grades K-1

This space intentionally left blank.

Academic Symbols Indicator Key S Satisfactory 1 Not Introduced

N Needs to Improve 2 Developing

U Unsatisfactory 3 Improvement Needed

4 Demonstrates Consistently

Non-Academic Symbols S Satisfactory

N Needs to Improve

U Unsatisfactory



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Grading Scale for Grades 2-5

Letter grades A,B,C and F* will be used on progress reports,

report cards, and transcripts.

Grade Book Requirements

1. Teachers are expected to maintain a record of grades throughout the year

as a means of accountability for grading. Grades are collected at the end

of the school year and must be retained in the permanent office files.

These must be kept on file for five (5) years.

2. Grades must be directly correlated to objectives. This must be achieved

by writing the objective number of objective skill at the top of the column

(see Appendix for examples).

3. The fewer grades recorded, the less valid the average is. There must be a

minimum of nine (9) grades per subject for each nine (9) week grading

period.

4. Teachers must indicate in the grade records, what the grade was for,

examples: tests, daily work, homework, projects, assessments, etc.

A key should be stated in grade book to explain individual recording systems.

Academic Symbols Indicator Key

A Excellent (90-100) 1 Not Introduced

B Good (80-89) 2 Developing

C Average (70-79) 3 Improvement Needed

F Failing (70 or below) 4 Demonstrates Consistently

NG No Grade

*By state rule, any grade below 70 is failing.

Non-Academic Symbols

S Satisfactory

N Needs to Improve

U Unsatisfactory



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Suggested Guidelines for Computing Equitable Grades

Take into consideration individual differences and rates of learning.

You are grading students based on continuous achievement guidelines.

If students are being taught on their level, students should achieve.

Grades should be based on performance of the learning objective and

should be recorded accordingly. Teacher observations cannot be the

only assessment measure, although it may be one, if specific criteria is

established to be observed.

Inform parents through informal and formal communication when a

student’s work and performance becomes unsatisfactory or shows

marked or sudden decline. Also, communicate to parents when a

student is doing well.

Provide students with the opportunity to make-up work that was not

mastered or was missed due to excused absences within a reasonable

amount of time.

Grades should include multiple factors such as effort, class

participation, exams, quizzes, homework, supplemental work, projects

and reports.

Grades will be posted in a timely manner in Home Access Center.

Parents must sign for Home Access Codes and must show a valid form

of ID (ex: Driver’s License or Identity Card.). No exceptions.

Hall Passes

Teachers must provide students with passes whenever they leave the classroom

for use of restrooms, media center, clinic, etc.

Head Lice

To prevent the spread of head lice, please encourage students to store their coats

and hats in their book bags. Students should only use their own combs and brushes. If

you suspect a case of lice, contact the clinic immediately. All personal rugs, bean bags,

pillows, must be treated by the owner.

Holidays

Holiday materials and activities should be based only as provided in the

appropriate Fulton County Curriculum Guides. When recognizing a holiday, no

student traditions should be excluded. If in doubt, consult the CST or an administrator.



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Witches, ghosts, and other characters, which might be viewed as “Satanical,” are

prohibited.

Homework

Home study is a necessary part of each student’s educational program to reinforce

skills taught in the classroom and enrich classroom experiences, increase student success,

develop student responsibility, and provide opportunity for parent involvement. Planned

study eliminates spending an excessive amount of time completing assignments in one

sitting.

Primary (Grades K-2)

Homework lasting approximately 15-30 minutes is assigned Monday – Thursday

nights.

Intermediate (Grades 3, 4, 5)

Homework lasting approximately 30-60 minutes is assigned Monday – Thursday

nights. Assignments are varied according to the nature of the concepts that are to be

reinforced.

Hospitality Fund/Morale

Teachers are asked to contribute to the Hospitality Fund. This is not mandatory.

Monies collected will be placed in a special fund for the following circumstances:

hospital illness of employee, death of employee’s immediate family, weddings, birth, or

employee retirees. The Hospitality Committee will be responsible for all disbursements

and will also coordinate faculty social events. Staff is asked to participate in special

social events.

Immunization

Georgia requires students to be immunized against measles, mumps, polio,

rubella, whooping cough, tetanus, rubeola, diphtheria and chicken pox. Effective with

the 2007-08 school year, sixth grade students must have an additional MMR (mumps,

measles, and rubella) vaccine.

Georgia law now requires that children entering kindergarten show proof of two

(2) doses of MMR vaccine after the first birthday. In addition, children entering

kindergarten are required to have two (2) Chicken Pox vaccine (also known as Varicella)

or proof of immunity.



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Immunization information must be on the proper Georgia Department of Human

Resources form. These are available through the Fulton County Health Department or

local physicians.

Instructional Time/Non Instructional Time

In accordance with Georgia Law 20-2-287 and Georgia Board of Education

Policy (AF), school must provide 177 days of instructional time per year. Principals may

use up to three (3) days per year to schedule non-instructional activities. Students may be

allowed to be absent from class five (5) days per year for school-sponsored and non-

instructional activities.

Instructional activity is defined as time spent on instruction provided or

coordinated by a regular certified teacher or a substitute teacher which relates directly to

course content as defined in the local system curriculum guides or locally adopted state

guides. Testing, counseling, parent-teacher conferences and health screenings are

deemed part of the instructional activity. All activities must conclude 4 weeks prior to

ITBS/CRCT testing.

Intercom

The intercom will be used from 7:40 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.

on a daily basis. It will only be used to contact teachers for emergencies, other important

administrative concerns, and afternoon announcements. All other times will be on an

emergency basis as needed.

Lamination

Teachers are asked to selectively consider items to be laminated. Materials

laminated should have a permanent use in your program or should be items that are

handled frequently by students such as bulletin board materials, teacher prepared or

purposed games, centers, and posters. Items of short-term usage such as student work,

seating charts, class lists, Mother’s Day cards, etc., should not be laminated.

Remember to exercise good professional judgment in utilizing the laminator.

Also, to prevent wrap-around, pull the laminating film from the backside with a buddy.

All laminating should be given to the media para-professional.

Leadership Team

The school leadership team will consist of the principal, assistant principal, CST,

counselor, grade level chairs, and a representative of special area teachers. They are

charged with planning and coordinating curriculum/instructional issues. The leadership



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team meets every other Monday beginning at 2:30 p.m. Grade level chairs terms will be

re-evaluated after the 2013-2014 school year.

Lesson Plans

Lesson plans must be written in the FCS 7 Step Format and be available on the

teacher’s desk throughout the day. Your plans should address the Fulton County

curriculum and the student academic levels in your room. A clear, concise plan for each

week must be available Monday morning of each week. Administrators will check lesson

plans periodically. All lesson plans must be kept for 4 years. Save all lessons plans on

the X Drive in the AHS shared folders for the appropriate grade level. If you need

assistance with this, please contact the Technology Specialist, Beth Sakoutis.

Lost Textbooks

Please notify the CST in writing, via note or email, if a student has lost a book.

List the name of the book and the copyright date. The CST will notify the parents.

Students will be required to pay damages for lost or damaged textbooks. Students will be

issued a second book to replace the lost one but may not remove it from the building until

payment has been received. The staff is responsible for any lost or misplaced teacher

editions.

Make Up Work (See Absences)

Parents may request make up work for a student before, during, or after an

absence.

Requests for make up work before or during an absence must be requested at the

office by 9:30 am each morning. Teachers should gather material during the day and

send it to the office for pick up by 2:30 pm.

Upon returning from an absence, students are to be provided with a work folder

containing missing assignments. Make up work is to be completed within the time

specified by the teacher. Teachers should not give work prior to the absence.

Elementary students are to receive the actual grade earned on any make up work

submitted on time, regardless of whether the absence is “excused” or “unexcused”.

Masking Tape, Duct Tape, etc.

Please do not adhere tape to the walls, floors, chalkboard, etc. Please affix

bulletin board paper onto tack strips; glue, scotch tape or ticky tack can be used to attach

papers (i.e. art work, writings, etc.) to the large bulletin board paper. Staff members are

responsible for damages that occur when using incorrect tapes or attachment materials.



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Media Center

The Media Center, which operates on an open library concept, is equipped with a

carefully selected collection of books, magazines, kits, videos, cassettes, computer discs,

and pictures. A trained, certified media specialist and media assistant will work with

students on an individual, small group, or whole class basis to instruct students in the use

of the library media center materials and equipment available. Activities are planned

with the classroom teachers so that students can meet curriculum objectives and develop

an appreciation for media resources. Throughout the school year, the Media Center

coordinates book fairs, plays, puppet shows, guest speakers, storytellers, authors, and

other reading incentive programs. Classes must visit the media center every 2 weeks.

Kindergarten students may check out 1 book.

Grades 1-5 may check out 2 books.

Students should keep track of their library books and return them undamaged and

on time.

Refer to the Media Center manual for more specific information.

Medication

If a child must take medication (i.e. inhalers, pain relievers) during the school

day, the medication is to be left in the clinic and not in the classroom. However, inhalers

may be carried by a student if a physician’s statement is received. Parents must provide a

completed parental permission form and return the physician’s statement signed. Blank

forms are available in the clinic. A log of medications dispensed is maintained in the

clinic.

Non-prescription medication needs to be sent to the clinic and a completed

parental permission form signed. Teachers may not distribute any medication (pain

relievers, cough drops, etc.).

Meetings

Teachers will receive a monthly calendar of school activities. These are to be

used for planning purposes. Grade level meetings will be scheduled through the CST.

Do not make after-school appointments that will conflict with regularly scheduled

meetings. A meeting calendar will be provided at the beginning of each school year.

Also, do not plan personal commitments prior to the end of your work day (3:15 pm).

One example would be tutoring. This is a conflict of interest and violates FCS policy.



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Staff Development Meetings

Unless notified in advance, all faculty meetings are scheduled for the last Tuesday

of each month, beginning promptly at 3:00 p.m. Teachers should not schedule any

appointments that will prevent them from remaining at school until 4:30 p.m. on

Tuesdays.

Grade Level Meetings

Each grade level and special area will have a leader selected by the principal to

serve on the Leadership Team. Grade level meetings are scheduled weekly. Grade levels

please advise administration of weekly scheduled times.

Grade levels are encouraged to plan the implementation of curriculum

cooperatively as a team effort. Meetings will take place weekly. Minutes of meetings are

to be turned into the principal, assistant principal, curriculum support teacher, and front

office, following each meeting. Grade level representatives are responsible for

updating each of their grade level team on any events, dates, policies, etc. discussed

in the Leadership Meetings.

Monthly Grade Level Meeting – An additional grade level meeting will be

held on the 2nd

Tuesday of each month from 3:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Leadership Team Meeting

These meetings are held every other Monday, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

New Teacher Meeting

Meetings for first year teachers are generally held once a month on the second

Thursday from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.. Please see the principal if you are unable

to attend.

Team Coach Meeting

These meetings are held every other Monday when there is not a Leadership

Team Meeting. Meetings are held from 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Vertical Team Meeting

Meeting dates for the upcoming school year will be announced at the beginning of

the year.

Messages

Voicemail is available for staff members who request it. Messages taken by front

office personnel will be placed in mailboxes or emailed to recipients throughout the day.



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It is the responsibility of each staff member to check their e-mail upon arrival, at

lunchtime or during specials and before leaving for the day. If using voicemail check at

least twice daily. Students are not allowed to check a teacher’s mailbox. If calls of an

urgent/emergency nature are received, the staff member will be contacted immediately.

Personal message/calls are not permitted.

Morning Exercises

All teachers are expected to be in their rooms by the designated time of 7:10 a.m.

It is suggested that some type of work activity be on the board or available in the

classroom for those students who arrive at that time so that their day can begin in an

orderly fashion. Teachers are expected to stand near the door to greet each student as

he/she enters and monitor the hall.

Name Tags

All staff members must wear identification name tags at all times. The photo ID

nametags, which are now required by Fulton County are to be worn on the lapel with the

photo facing forward. A plastic sleeve with a magnet will be provided for every staff

member. A tag will be provided to each staff member. All guests, visitors, and

volunteers will be provided with a nametag when they sign in. If any faculty member

sees someone without a name tag, it is that person’s responsibility to ask the visitor to

return to the office to receive a name tag. Please notify an administrator if necessary.

This is a school policy. Any staff member who forgets or looses their name tag, must

wear a paper tag on a temporary basis until another is purchased from Fulton County

Schools.

New Students

When students enroll during the school year, a registration card is completed in

the office and records from the previous school are requested. Teachers are to contact

parents of new students during the student’s first two weeks of school. Keep extras of

all forms, folders, planners, etc. for new students who may be added later in the

year.

The permanent record folder of students previously enrolled in Fulton County

Schools will be requested from the Student Services Department. When the Records

arrive the data clerk will notify the child’s teacher and the folder will be put in the

teacher’s permanent record file. The teacher is responsible for keeping the permanent

record folder current at all times.



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Parent Volunteers

All teachers are encouraged to use parent volunteers in a variety of ways in their

classrooms. Parents are asked to sign in at the designated location when they come to

school. Teachers are encouraged to express their appreciation for parent assistance in

writing or verbally whenever possible. A list of volunteers should be kept for use at the

Volunteer Tea. All staff members should extend a personal invitation to the Volunteer

Tea out of courtesy.

Parties

Two class parties may be held during the year: a winter holiday party and an end-

of-the-year party. There will be no parties for Valentine’s Day, Halloween, birthdays,

etc. No personal party invitations may be distributed at school. Teachers are responsible

for classroom activities during parties. Room parents will help, but the teachers are

responsible for party activities. Teachers are also responsible for any goody-bag

items that are distributed at party times. Teachers should be prepared to intervene

(have a plan in place) in the event that intervention is needed.

Permanent Records

Permanent record folders must be placed in the vault files at the end of the day.

Please use the sign out folder/notebook on top of the cabinet when removing records

from the vault. Permanent records should be kept up to date at all times.

Registration cards, clinic cards, and permanent record cards must never be taken

home. These documents must remain secured in the building at all times. Permanent

record must be placed in the vault at the end of each day. Report cards must be signed

out from the vault files and returned when they are completed.

Personal Leave

Personnel employed on a ten month basis (the regular school year) with less than

ten years service shall be allowed three days of leave for personal reasons. Beginning

with the eleventh year of service in Fulton County, ten month personnel shall be allowed

five days leave for personal reasons. This is a benefit to personnel without loss of pay.

For each day’s absence due to personal reasons in excess of these days,

deductions shall be made for 1/187th

of the annual salary for each day absent. The good

judgment of the employee should be used in taking sick leave and personal leave. These



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are part of the excellent fringe benefits provided by the Board of Education, and the

Board has confidence in its employees that these benefits will not be abused.

Board policy states the following in reference to Personal Leave.

Except in extreme emergencies and with the prior written approval of the employee’s

immediate supervisor, personal leave is not allowed at the following times:

a. The work day immediately prior to or after a holiday or vacation;

b. The first day of the school year and the following five working days thereof;

c. The last work day of the school year and the preceding five working days

thereof;

d. Pre-planning, conferences, staff development, registration and post-planning

days;

e. Other critical days identified by the principal or department head;

All personnel must turn in requests for personal leave in ESS and enter the absence in

CASE. Please do not plan a personal day if your class will be out of the building on a

scheduled field trip.

Pets

Classroom pets need approval from an administrator. Caution should be taken to

ensure no students are allergic to the pet.

Visiting pets must be curriculum related and approved by the CST. If approval is

granted, the parent should bring the pet for the designated time period. The pet should be

on a leash or in a cage.

Physical Education Break/Policies

Each class will receive two periods of physical education per week with the

specialist. It is required that on the three remaining days students have 15

minutes(weather permitting) of P.E(recess). If the outside temperature is below 32

degrees, then the children are to remain inside. The wind chill factor will be monitored

by an administrator. The P.E. teacher may suggest activities for teachers to use. All

breaks must be concluded by 2:00 pm. Classes are not permitted outside after 2:00 pm.



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Policies and Procedures

All staff members are required to adhere to all Fulton County and Abbotts Hill

Elementary Policies and Procedures. Also, all staff must consult with the Fulton County

Schools and Abbotts Hill Elementary School’s Policies and Procedures before consulting

with an administrator

Promotion and Retention

Criteria:

Successfully met instructional-level standards from CC and GPS, Fulton

County Curriculum Guides, and standardized test data

Student cumulative work folder

Overall classroom performance and participation

Previous interventions, including retentions

Age and level of social and emotional maturity

Regular school attendance

Retention/Placement Process:

Notify parents informally that there may be a possibility of retention.

Document instructional strategies/modifications for students experiencing

difficulty and keep parents informed. (CST)

A meeting should be scheduled through SST by the end of the first semester

to inform parents of the possibility of retention or placement for the next

school year. You also need to ask for the Request for Assistance form and

have it filled out before the meeting. Intervention strategies to be used shall

be discussed at this time. Form to be signed by parent. (Counselors)

An SST meeting will be held in March, to see how interventions are working

or to gather intervention strategies. (Counselors)

Purchases Using Local School Funds

All requests must be submitted and approved two (2) weeks in advance by the

principal. Otherwise, the expenditures will NOT be reimbursed!!! PLEASE DO NOT

GIVE YOUR RECEIPTS TO THE PRINCIPAL’S SECRETARY WITHOUT AN

APPROVED FORM. ALL REQUESTS MUST HAVE WRITTEN APPROVAL (NOT

VERBAL) BY THE PRINCIPAL. This also includes field trip requests, hospitality, etc.

PTA Meeting and Special Events

All members of the staff are expected to join the PTA. All certified home-based

personnel should attend special events during the year. Special events include PTA

curriculum nights, PTA meetings, Saturday PTA events, special night meetings, family

fun nights, open house at night, evening musical performances, evening math/reading



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activities or special days, etc. Certified personnel are expected to attend 3 PTA events

per school year and classified personnel are expected to attend 2 PTA events. Please note

that this does not include Curriculum Nights, Concerts or Arts Night Programs.

Each time you attend a special event, please put the event and date with your

initials next to your name in the “Special Events” notebook.

PTA Mini Grants

All PTA mini grants are to be in compliance with Strategic Plan and be approved

by the PTA mini grant committee prior to purchasing. All purchases are the property of

Abbotts Hill Elementary.

Required Reports

If you suspect any type of child abuse, you are required by law to report your

concerns directly to DFACS. A form can be obtained from the forms box in the

mailroom. It must be completed and faxed to DFACS right away. Provide a copy of the

form to the Principal and School Social Worker.

School Hours

State Standards require teachers to work a minimum of 8 hours per day.

Schedules and plan books should reflect duties that count towards fulfillment of the

minimum work day. (See Appendix for policy).

All staff members need to sign in by 7:10 a.m. each morning. Teachers should be

in their assigned classes at 7:10 a.m. to receive students. Teachers may leave after

dismissal if all students are gone. Counselors will be available until 3:30 pm. If an

emergency arises and a staff member must leave early, the request should be made in

writing to an administrator (see absences). The school building will be open from 6:30

am until 7:00 pm daily. Staff members are permitted to work in the building during these

hours.

Separation of Church and State

Any religious topics should be discussed only in context of the approved Fulton

County Curriculum. (See Separation of Church and State, Board Procedure IKJ).



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Sexual Harassment

The Board of Education prohibits sexual harassment at any location or activity

under the jurisdiction of the school system. Any student who engages in the sexual

harassment of anyone may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including

expulsion.

The Board of Education expects students/or staff to immediately report incidents

of sexual harassment to the principal or designee. Each complaint of sexual harassment

shall be promptly investigated in a way that respects the privacy of all parties. If the

complainant or the parent of the student feels that appropriate resolution of the

investigation or complaint has not been reached, the student or the parent of the student

should contact the principal or the Office of Student Discipline.

A video must be viewed by all employees. The Board policy must also be

reviewed.

Sign In and Sign Out

All staff must sign in, when arriving in the morning and must sign out when

leaving for the day. This process must be followed daily. No exceptions.

Snacks

A nutritious snack is recommended and may be eaten for five (5) or ten (10)

minutes during regularly scheduled break time. Snack breaks may be scheduled during

the day for all grades. Healthy snacks are encouraged.

Spirit Day

Every Friday will be a school spirit day. Staff members and students may wear

jeans, tennis shoes/sneakers, school t-shirt, sweatshirts, or school colors on this day. At

all other times, staff attire should be professional. The last Friday of each month is hat

day. Only spirit hats are permitted.



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Staff Children

Staff children may not roam or play in the hallways before or after school. If this

becomes a concern, you will be directed to provide after school care for your child or

children.

Student Crisis Response Plan

If a school employee has reason to believe that a student is at risk for harm to self

or others, the employee should immediately refer the student to the School Counselor and

a School Administrator. The School Counselor/School Administrator should use the 4

Action Steps listed on the form as a helpful reference and guide for students who are in

crisis.

Student of the Month (Jaguar of the Month)

Please see the Student Handbook for an explanation.

Student Supplies

Fulton County will provide students with all materials and supplies that they need

for school use. A suggested list of supplies by grade level will be available for parents to

use as a guideline should they wish to make personal purchases.

Substitute Teacher Folder Requirements

Tell the substitute where the teacher’s handbook is located. Handbook should be

updated regularly. Do not e-mail your plans to front office staff. If assistance is needed

on this policy, please see personnel in front office. The substitute teacher folder must

contain the information listed below:

1. eSchoolsPlus Daily Attendance Form for Substitute Teacher.

2. Map of the school.

3. Directions for emergency evacuation of students.

4. School rules and classroom plan (specifically the fact that corporal punishment is

not used.

5. The names of persons to contact concerning discipline and/or instructional

problems/questions.

6. Class roll.

7. Assigned seating charts.

8. List of reading math groups.



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9. List of students receiving special services (remedial, resource room, speech, etc.)

10. Names of children with special problems.

11. Class schedules.

12. Schedules for all special classes (art, music, etc.).

13. Three (3) days of lesson plans to be used if lesson plans are not readily available

(include worksheets and page numbers).

14. Media center instructions.

15. Special instructions relating to arrival, discipline procedures, dismissal, lunch, etc.

16. Feed back form for the substitute to leave the regular teacher.

Supervision of Students

According to the State Board of Education, teachers are responsible for the

supervision of their students from the time the school day starts until it ends (or until all

students have gone home).

Supervision in the halls, on the playground, during assemblies, etc., is a

responsibility we all share. If a staff member witnesses misbehavior by students, not in

his/her class, it is that person’s responsibility to recognize it. Likewise, if a teacher

witnesses extraordinary good behavior, it is the teacher’s responsibility to recognize it. A

teacher or teacher assistant must supervise students if they are allowed to leave the

classroom and work in another location.

If, for some urgent reason, you must leave your students for a brief amount of

time:

1. Notify the teacher next door.

2. Tell the students that you are leaving.

3. Tell the students what they are expected to do in your absence.

4. Tell the students which teacher you have notified to check on them.

If you are the notified teacher, check on the students periodically.

Teacher Evaluations

Teacher evaluations will be completed using the evaluation system selected by

The Fulton County Board of Education.

Teacher Supplies

Make sure to order enough supplies and materials to begin the next school year.



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Team Coaches

The team coaches consist of the Principal, Assistant Principal, CST, Counselor,

grade level representative and a representative from classified employees. They are

charged with planning and coordinating school activities, discussing school issues, and

serving as communication liaisons between the administration and staff.

Telephone

Faculty Use

Telephones are available for teacher use in designated areas. Telephones assigned

to other areas (such as counselors, administrators, etc.) should not be used except in an

emergency situation or with prior approval. As a courtesy to each other, phone calls

should be limited to three (3) to five (5) minutes. Administration must pre-approve long

distance phone calls. Cellular phones should never be used during instructional time and

cell phones should never be used while students are present in the classroom. Please

notify physicians, hairdressers, etc. not to call school to confirm appointments. Staff

members will be called to the phone only in an emergency.

Student Use

As a general rule, students are not permitted to use the telephone. However, in

extenuating circumstances and with just cause, the teacher may provide a written note

with the student and send the child to the office. Students may not call home to get

forgotten homework, lunch money, and lunches, to obtain forgotten library books,

instruments or to make after-school arrangements. Teachers should maintain a list of

home and work numbers for each child’s parent(s) in the classroom and at home. It is the

responsibility of the teacher to send the phone number on the note with a child.

Testing Programs

The assistant principal is the test coordinator for the school. Specific testing

schedules, procedures, and materials will be distributed to teachers early in the school

year. In-service sessions will prepare teachers for curriculum coordination, test

administration, and interpretation of results. Teachers are asked not to plan distracting

classroom activities or field trips during the testing period.



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Testing Results

If a parent provides a self-addressed stamped envelope, standardized tests results

will be mailed with a letter from the counselor. Otherwise, the parents may pick up the

test results up at Sneak-a-Peek in August of the following school year. Parents may

conference with the teacher, counselor, or administrator to discuss test results. Grade

level teams utilize test scores in planning for instruction throughout the year.

Tobacco Free Environment

As stated in the Board Policy, the use of tobacco products is prohibited by

employees and the public in all Board of Education buildings. Employees will not use

tobacco products in the presence of students on Fulton County School property or at

school related activities.

Transcripts/Letters of Recommendation

Sometimes, parents request that teachers write letters of recommendation or

complete questionnaires. These should be completed promptly, and submitted to an

administrator for review and mailing. These items are not returned to the parents; rather

they are U.S. mailed to the doctor or institution. Letters of Recommendation should

include factual information and attendance only. Do not state opinion.

Transportation Notes

All requests by parents for changes in a student’s regular method of transportation

to and from school must be turned in to the office by 8:30am for approval. Copies will

be returned to you during the school day. It is the teacher’s responsibility to know when

a child’s method of transportation changes. Students must ride on assigned buses and

debark at their assigned stop. Teachers are responsible for contacting the parents if a

student misses the bus or if not picked up.

Videos

Videos may be shown, however, the guidelines listed in the Policies and

Procedures/Appendix section of this handbook should be followed.



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VIP Folders

Teachers will receive a folder for each child’s weekly work samples, reports, and

notes to be sent home. The VIP Folder (Friday Folder) containing items of interest to

parents will be sent home each Friday. Work samples and newsletters will be sent bi-

monthly. Papers should be signed by papers and returned in the Friday folder on the

following Monday. These should be routinely sent home each Friday and returned with

signature on Monday.

Social Worker

The school has the services of a social worker. He/she visits the school weekly or

as needed on an emergency basis. Referral forms may be obtained from the assistant

principal. Each form requires the signature of an administrator. Please complete the

form and submit it to the assistant principal.

Visitors

Visitors are welcome at the school any time. They must, however, check in

through the office and obtain an identification badge. Visitations in classroom are for a

period of time not to exceed 1 class period. Classroom observations are pre-arranged

through the office. Each classroom visitor will receive the following guidelines:

1. All visitations need to be scheduled through the office. Visitors are encouraged to

make plans in advance with the principal or assistant principal.

2. Upon arrival, please inform the secretary that you have arrived.

3. Sign-in please. The secretary will provide you with an identification badge to

wear.

4. The principal, assistant principal, curriculum support teacher, counselor, or

secretary will take you directly to the classroom.

5. There will be an adult size chair in the room set aside for the observation.

6. As instructional time is very valuable, we ask that observers not interact with

students or the teacher during the observation.

7. Please limit the classroom visits to a maximum of thirty minutes.

8. Please maintain confidentiality regarding the performance level and placement of

individual students in the classroom.



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9. At the end of the observation, please return to the front office to sign-out and

return the identification badge.

10. If you have any specific questions after your observation, please schedule a

conference with the teacher or principal through the office.

Where to Go For Help (See Job Responsibilities Section)

Curriculum – Talk with CST, grade level chairperson, or an administrator.

Discipline Problems – Communicate with the child’s parents. Consult with your

grade level, the counselors, or assistant principal.

SASI – Consult the data clerk, grade level chair, or assistant principal.

F.T.E. – Consult the assistant principal.

Custodial Problems – See the head custodian. Leave a note in the head

custodian’s mailbox.

Supplies – See secretary or the grade level chair.

Withdrawal Procedures

As soon as you become aware that a student will be withdrawing, please

immediately notify the data clerk, once you know a student is leaving.

A withdrawal form and a media center/cafeteria clearance form are sent to the

teacher when the data clerk is notified of an impending withdrawal. It is the

responsibility of the teacher to return these completed forms and the student’s reading

record to the data clerk as soon as possible. The teacher should complete the withdrawal

date, reason and attendance information. If the student was enrolled for twenty (20) or

more days, grades should be recorded.

The form asks teachers to indicate reading and math levels. This means grade

level performance on, below, or advanced and their continuous achievement levels (ex.

Level 2.1).

In addition, the following actions need to be completed:

1. Student turns in all textbooks and library books.

2. Student clears accounts in library and cafeteria.



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3. Teachers update in permanent record:

a. Attendance.

b. Date withdrawn and date entered.

c. Grades NE if attended less than twenty (20) days: letter grade in pencil if

twenty (20) days or more and the student is transferring to another Fulton

County School: letter grade in pen if twenty (20) days or more and

transferring out of Fulton County.

4. Academic withdrawal form needs to be completed and submitted to the office.

Work Days/Conference Days

One conference/work day is scheduled annually. School hours on these days are

8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Workshops and in service will be scheduled on work days. Please

do not plan events on these days.

Work Portfolios

Teachers should maintain a Work Portfolio on each student. This folder will remain

in your classroom and will follow the student for one year.

The portfolio should include:

o Integrated theme tests

o Cumulative math tests

o Writing samples – at least three for the school year (these can be copies.

o Data Collections

o Samples of work that shows area(s) of concern (these can be copies)

The Work Portfolio will travel with the student to the next grade. The portfolio should be

kept for one year. If a student transfers, the student should take the work folder/portfolio.