Arlington Public Schools

Teacher Assistant Handbook

Updated 10/13/10

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Table of Contents

Page Letter from the Superintendent 2 Sign-off Sheet . 3 Children Learn What They Live 4 APS Mission Statement 5 Map of Arlington Public Schools 6 APS Policies 7-15 Statement of Non-Discrimination 7 Freedom from Harassment 8 Discrimination 9 CORI 9 Child Abuse and Neglect 10 E-Mail 11 Acceptable Use of Technology 11-12 Health Policies 13-15 Smoking on School Premises 15 Professional Behaviors and Expectations 16 Curriculum and Classroom Environment 18-20 Student Support Services 20-22 Teacher Assistant Resources 23 Contractual Requirements and Benefits 24-26 Kindergarten Information 27

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After reading the handbook and the notice printed below, please sign this form and return it to the Superintendent’s office by Sept 18th.

Employee Review of

Teacher Assistant Handbook I have read the Teacher Assistant Handbook. I understand that as an Arlington Public School employee, I am obligated to represent the highest standards and values of the community in a manner characterized by trust, morality, and ethical principles. If I have questions regarding specific behaviors, circumstances or policies that may arise, I will seek clarification or direction from my direct supervisor. _______________________________________ Employee Name (Please Print) _______________________________________ Employee Signature Job Title/School Date

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CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE

If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn. If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.

If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive. If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.

If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy. If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy. If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.

If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence. If children live with tolerance, they learn patience. If children live with praise, they learn appreciation. If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.

If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves. If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.

If children live with sharing, they learn generosity. If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.

If children live with fairness, they learn justice. If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.

If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.

If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.

By Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D. Copyright 1972 by Dorothy Law Nolte

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Arlington Public Schools Mission Statement

The mission of the Arlington Public Schools is to educate students by promoting academic excellence, by empowering students to achieve their

maximum potential, and by preparing students for responsible participation in an ever-changing world.

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Important APS Policies

Nondiscrimination Statement “Arlington Public Schools does not discriminate in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its services, programs and activities, on the basis of race, color or national origin, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI); on the basis or sex, in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; on the basis of disability, in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA); or on the basis of age, in accordance with the Age Discrimination Act of 1974 (Age Discrimination Act), or on the basis of sexual orientation or religion in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71B and 151B.” Title I: Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

Prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits on the basis of disability in the areas of employment.

Title VI: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits on the based on race, color and national origin.

Title IX: Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972

Prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits in educational programs based on sex.

Section 504: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits based on disability.

504 Coordinator, Cindy Bouvier cbouvier@arlington.k12.ma.usArlington High School - 781-316-3570

MGL, Ch. 76, Section 5: Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 76, Section 5 Prohibits discrimination in all public schools on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion and sexual orientation.

The Coordinators of the above statutes are as follows: Arlington Public Schools Individual School Principals Kathleen Bodie, Superintendent

Title II: Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

Prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits on the basis of disability in the areas of educational programming and activities.

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Freedom from Harassment The Arlington Public Schools is committed to providing a safe educational environment that promotes equal access to educational and occupational opportunities for all adults and children regardless of race, gender, color, national origin, sexual orientation, qualifying disability or religion. Consistent with its pledge of equity for all students and staff, discrimination or harassment based on any of the above mentioned characteristics will not be tolerated. It is the goal of the Arlington Public Schools to prevent harassment through on-going and appropriate means of staff and student awareness, staff training, and policy dissemination. However, should an incident of harassment occur, the school system shall provide for swift action to eliminate such harassment or discrimination among or between students and staff. Harassment includes unwelcome verbal or physical conduct that may or does offend, denigrate or belittle any individual because of, or due to, any of the characteristics described above. Such conduct includes pictures, jokes, comments, innuendoes or any other behavior, which creates an environment, which is offensive, intimidating, or hostile to anyone. By law, what constitutes harassment is determined from the perspective of a reasonable person with the characteristic on which the harassment is based. What one person may consider as acceptable behavior, another person may reasonably view as harassment. Therefore, individuals should consider how other individuals might reasonably view their words and actions. It is also important for individuals to make it clear to others when a particular behavior or communications is unwelcome, intimidating, hostile or offensive. Freedom from sexual harassment is protected by state and federal law Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act defines Sexual Harassment as “Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal and physical conduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment.” Where to File A Complaint Any student or employee who believes that Arlington Public Schools has discriminated against or harassed her/him because of her/his race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its services, programs, and activities may discuss the complaint with the school principal. School principals shall refer all complaints to the Assistant Superintendent of Schools, or in the alternative, the student employee may file the complaint directly with the Assistant Superintendent. The individual listed below is hereinafter referred to as a "Grievance Administrator." Wallis Raemer Interim Assistant Superintendent 1-781-316-3523 Arlington Public Schools 869 Massachusetts Avenue Arlington, MA 02476

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Complaints of Discrimination Based Upon Disability: A person who alleges discrimination on the basis of disability relative to the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a person, who because of a disability needs or is believed to need special instruction or related services, pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Chapter 766, and/or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, must use the procedure outlined in the Massachusetts Department of Education's Parents' Rights Brochure rather than this Grievance Procedure. A copy of the brochure is available from the following individual: Mark Ryder, Administrator of Special Education (1-781-316-3531) Arlington Public Schools 869 Massachusetts Avenue Arlington, MA 02476 A person with a complaint involving discrimination on the basis of a disability other than that described above may either use this Grievance Procedure or file the complaint with the U.S. Department of Education at the address provided at the end of this Grievance Procedure. Contents of Complaints and Time Lines for Filing Complaints under this Grievance Procedure must be filed within 30 school days of the alleged discrimination. The complaint must be in writing. The Grievance Administrator or any person of the grievant's choosing may assist the grievant with filing the complaint. The written complaint must include the following information. 1. The name and school (or address and telephone number, if not a student or employee) of the grievant.

2. The name (and address and telephone number, if not a student or employee) of the grievant's representative, if any.

C.O.R.I. Requirements It is the policy of the Arlington Public Schools to obtain all available Criminal Offender Record Information (C.O.R.I.) from the criminal history systems board of prospective employee(s) or volunteer(s) of the school department including any individual who regularly provides school related transportation to children, who may have direct and unmonitored contact with children, prior to hiring the employee(s) or to accepting any person as a volunteer. Refer to School Committee Policy ADDA concerning C.O.R.I. Requirements

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Child Abuse/Neglect Reporting Policy And Procedures

School personnel are mandated to report suspected child abuse pursuant to M.G.L. c . 199 section 51A. The Principal/designee will:

• Communicate child abuse/neglect procedures to the school staff annually • Ensure that all professionals understand that they must notify Department

of Children and Families (DCF) immediately if they suspect that a child has been or is at risk of being abused or neglected.

If abuse is suspected at home: The reporting person (all teachers/administrators are mandated reporters by law) will:

• Report the suspected child abuse/neglect to the Department of Children and Families immediately by oral communication and by making a written report (Form 51A) within forty-eight hours after such oral communication.

• Notify the Principal, School Nurse and Counselor and in some cases the parents that a report has been or will be made to the Department of Children and Families.

• Principal will notify the Superintendent (781-316-3501) that a report has been made to the Department of Children and Families.

• Honor the regulation that all follow-up and interviewing will be handled by the Police Department or the Department of Children and Families.

If abuse is suspected at school (employee accused, whether by parent or staff member-or child accusations are to be reported to Principal or designee): The Principal/designee will:

• Report the suspected child abuse/neglect to the Department of Children and Families immediately by oral communication and by making a written report (51A) within forty-eight hours after such oral communication.

• Notify the Office of the Superintendent (781-316-3501), Principal (if report filed by designee), School Nurse and Counselor and parent/guardian that a report has been or will be made to the Department of Children and Families.

• Honor the regulation that all follow-up and interviewing will be handled by the Police Department or the Department of Children and Families.

The Superintendent shall develop appropriate procedures and protocols to invoke when a staff member is accused. They will be designed both to protect children and to address issues the accused staff member is experiencing.

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Teacher Assistants E-mail Access

E-mail is used as an integral form of communication within the Arlington Public School network. As a teacher assistant in the Arlington Public Schools, you are entitled to have your own personal school email address.

• Teacher assistants are encouraged to use the email system and to check it regularly to facilitate communication between you and your school community and to keep current with school news.

• Remember that all e-mail communications are public documents. • Faculty e-mail names will be first initial last name@arlington.k12.ma.us.

(for example : Janice Doe) : jdoe@arlington.k12.ma.us To register for an APS email account, go to the Arlington Public Schools website (http://www.arlington.k12.ma.us) and click on the “New Staff Account Requests” link, which is located on the bottom, right side. The APS Staff Acceptable Use of Technology and the Internet Policy Agreement below is a sample of the agreement and the online process for registering. If you have any questions, contact Tracy Buck at Arlington High School, by email at tbuck@arlington.k12.ma.us or by phone at 781-316-3389. The Technology Help Desk is also accessible on the APS web site home page and is another resource if you need help.

Acceptable Use of Technology and the Internet Agreement for Arlington Public School Staff

The Technology Mission of the Arlington Public School system is to ensure access to appropriate technology in our educational community to support and enhance student learning, staff instruction, school communication, and data management. The APS fulfills this mission by offering an institutional network for staff and students that promotes educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. In order to make these resources available to everyone, we expect that students and staff using district equipment will do so in a responsible way consistent with our educational goals. We expect Arlington staff to abide by the following rules per the APS district Acceptable Use Policy at www.arlington.k12.ma.us/asc/policies/ijndb-1.pdf:

• Do not share or give out personal information about or belonging to other people such as addresses, telephone numbers, passwords, or credit card information. Be careful when giving out your own information online.

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• Do not store, download, distribute and/or transfer files of confidential student

information. All such information should remain on the secure APS Network. • Follow the copyright rules for the distribution and use of software and

information both on the APS Network and Internet. • Do not transmit obscene or threatening material through the APS Network. • Do not use the APS Network for commercial purposes, including offering,

providing or purchasing products or services and conducting political action through the APS Network.

• Do not misuse or disrupt the APS computer system, destroy data, or breach

the security of the district network in any way. • Do not waste the schools technology resources by among other things,

sending mass mailings, chain letters, downloading large files, excessive printing, or spending excessive amounts of time on the Internet or otherwise creating unnecessary network traffic. "Excessive amounts of time" refers to time that interferes with a staff member's official duties and responsibilities.

• Release the APS from liability or damages that may result from use of the

computer system and/or the Internet connection. • Inform Tech services in a timely manner when equipment is damaged and in

need of repair. Please remember to assume no personal privacy when using the district's email system or computer equipment. The district maintains the ability to monitor computer, web, and email usage and may do so either during routine maintenance or when requested to by an investigating authority. All email is considered public record.

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Health Policies and Procedures Student Medication Medication, including aspirin, is stored and dispensed in the Health Office. (See the nurse about exceptions to this policy.) All students taking prescribed medicine during school must see the nurse so that proper medication is dispensed. The nurse can dispense Tylenol with parent or guardian signed permission. Classroom teachers and assistant teachers are not allowed to dispense medication to students. Accident Procedure for Students When a student is injured on school property during the school day, he/she must report to, or be taken to, the Health Office immediately. Accident Procedure for Staff All accidents or injuries that occur in the school building or on the school grounds must be reported to the Health Office and the Main Office immediately. An accident report must be completed by the injured staff member and sent to the Superintendent via the Main Office within 24 hours. Epi-Pen and Defibrillator Epi-pen and defibrillator trainings will be available through the school nurse. *Kindergarten Pediatric First Aid Training All Kindergarten teachers and teacher assistants must complete a Pediatric First Aid training as required by NAEYC. This training will be offered annually for teachers and assistants who are not certified or who need to be re-certified. Sunscreen Staff should not apply sunscreen to students. Parents will be asked to apply sunscreen to their children especially when students will be outdoors for extended periods of time.

Guidelines For Students With Life-Threatening Allergies Allergic reactions can span a wide range of severity of symptoms. The most severe and potentially life threatening reaction is anaphylaxis. The Arlington Public Schools cannot guarantee to provide an allergen-free environment for all students with life threatening allergies, or prevent any harm to students in emergencies. The goal is to minimize the risk of exposure to food allergens that pose a threat to those students, educate the community, and maintain and regularly update a system-wide protocol for responding to their needs. A system-wide effort requires the cooperation of all groups of people within the system. The goal of the Arlington Public Schools regarding Life Threatening Allergies is to engage in a system-wide effort to:

• Prevent any occurrence of life threatening allergic reactions • Prepare for any allergic reactions • Respond appropriately to any allergy emergencies that arise

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School nurses, in conjunction with the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and the primary care provider/allergist will prepare an Allergy Action Plan/Individual Health Care Plan for any student with a life threatening allergy. The plans will be reviewed by the school nurse, the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and primary care provider and/or the student’s allergist, and signed off by the child’s physician to indicating that he/she deems it to be adequate. The Allergy Action Plan/Individual Health Care Plan will be available in the nurse’s office and homeroom in the student’s homeroom at the elementary level. Epi-pens will be available in the nurse’s office and those prescribed for individual students will be kept in that child’s homeroom and in other clearly designated locations as specified in the AAP/IHCP. Staff will be trained to identify and respond to reactions from LTA’s, including the use of EpiPens. Any staff involved with students who have LTA’s will be informed and provided information from the AAP/HCP of each of these students. School staff will take steps to ensure that these classrooms and instructional areas are as allergen free as possible. Schools will provide and maintain LTA free tables in each elementary school cafeteria as needed by the Individual Health Care Plan. These tables will be designated by a universal symbol. These tables will be cleaned and sanitized. Elementary schools encourage “NO FOOD TRADING” and “NO UTENSIL SHARING” policies to minimize accidental exposure to allergens. It is requested that each parent of a student with an LTA inform the school nurse of your child’s allergies prior to the opening of school (or as soon as possible after a diagnosis). Parent(s) must arrange to meet with the school nurse to develop an Allergy Action Plan/Individual Health Care. Plan (AAP/IHCP) for the student and provide medical information from the child’s treating physician as needed to write the Plans. Parents should provide the school a list of foods and ingredients to be avoided, and provide a list of safe or acceptable foods that can be served to your child. In addition parents should do the following: Provide the school nurse with enough up-to-date emergency medications

(including EpiPens) so they can be placed in all required locations for the current school year.

Complete and submit all required medication forms.

Provide a Medic ALERT ID for your child.

Notify nurse of upcoming field trip as soon as possible and provide Epi-pen to

be taken on field trips as stated in the field trip policy. Encourage students to wash hands before and after handling food.

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Teach your child to recognize the first symptoms of an allergic/anaphylactic reaction and to communicate clearly as soon as s/he feels a reaction is starting.

Not share snacks, lunches or drinks.

Take as much responsibility as possible for his/her own safety.

For more information on the LTA policy, refer to: http://www.arlington.k12.ma.us/departments/Nursing/allergypolicy.pdf Wellness Policy The Arlington Public School System supports health lifestyles, nutrition and physical activity for everyone. Health and wellness for children relies on the collective efforts of families, the school community, the health system, food industry, and the wider community. The APS recognizes its role in this important community endeavor through the implementation of a district Wellness Policy and the promotion of good nutrition and physical activity. For more information on the district wellness policy, refer to the APS website. http://www.arlington.k12.ma.us/asc/policies/jlce-e.pdf Smoking on School Premises Use of any tobacco products within the school buildings, school facilities, or on school grounds or school buses by any individual, including school personnel and students, is prohibited at all times. A staff member determined to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action. A student determined to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to the student discipline code and shall receive education on the hazards of smoking.

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PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIORS/EXPECTATIONS

CONFIDENTIALITY

As a professional, it is expected that you maintain a sense of confidentiality when dealing with colleagues, students, and parents. All conversations between parents, teachers, and students are always confidential and should not be shared with anyone. Children’s behavior and progress should not be discussed outside of the classroom. Discuss first with the teacher any concerns about a child and determine with the teacher how a situation will be handled. Any questions asked by parents regarding their child’s progress or behavior should be directed to the teacher.

PUNCTUALITY By contract, all teacher assistants are expected to arrive at their school on time. It is a professional courtesy to arrive at faculty and other scheduled meetings on time. Teacher Assistants are required to sign in every morning in the main office of the school to which they are assigned.

DRESS

Although the Arlington Public Schools does not have a formal dress code, it is important to remember that as an educator you are a leader and role model for children. You should make appropriate decisions in your attire.

ABSENCE If you have to be out for any reason, you must call the Substitute Call in Line (781) 646-8285. You must call this line whether a substitute is required or not for your absence. This line is available 24 hours a day. When you know that you will be absent, please call as soon as possible. (Please see substitute section of this handbook for additional information.) Whenever possible please let your classroom teacher know in advance when you will be absent.

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS Please be considerate of students/staff celebrating religious holidays. The list of religious observances is on the APS calendar issued by the Office of the Superintendent at the beginning of the school year.

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SNOW CHAIN

School closings and delayed openings are announced on local television and radio stations. Most schools also have a telephone snow chain, which is activated to notify staff of school closing/delayed opening situations. Remember to review your copy of the phone chain in September. Keep it in a safe, readily available space. You must call the person(s) under your name and notify them of the no school/delayed opening. Make sure you have the correct telephone number(s), so the chain is not broken. If you cannot reach someone or there is just a recording, leave a message and call the next person on the list.

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Curriculum and Classroom Environment

Teacher Assistant Job Description

The following job description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. These are suggestions to help you plan and develop your job effectively. As the working relationship between teachers and assistants develops and the assistant’s abilities and interests become known, tasks other than those listed below may become a part of the assistant’s responsibilities.

Teacher assistants play a vital role within the classroom and are an integral part of the classroom learning environment. They provide instruction and/or clerical support for the classroom teacher, along with providing invaluable encouragement and emotional support for the students.

Nevertheless, it should be kept in mind that this is not a teaching position but the position of an assistant to the teacher/s. When working with an assistant, the teacher must plan and supervise the work carried out by the assistant. The teacher is ultimately responsible for planning and implementing the curriculum. Classroom Procedures The following is a list of responsibilities that may vary depending on specific classroom and grade level. Instructional

Teacher Assistants will: • Be left alone in the classroom and will be asked to supervise the students

for short periods of time while the teacher is called away for meetings, conferences, etc.

• Supervise students in the hallway, cafeteria, and playground. • Facilitate whole group instruction, including routine/daily activities. • Reinforce learning in small groups or with individual students, while the

teacher works with other students. • Reinforce social and personal skills to ensure the successful inclusion of

students with special needs. • Assist in the observation and assessment of students as requested by the

teacher. • Engage students in read-alouds, or monitor silent reading/study periods. • Escort students to/from specials (assistants may be asked to remain with

specialists). • Attend district/school professional development programs that are offered

during contractual work hours. • Perform other related duties as the need arises.

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Behavior Management

Teacher Assistants will: • Treat all students with respect and kindness. • Assist the classroom teacher by following the routines of effective

behavior management strategies. • Assist the teacher in observing, recording, and charting behavior when

requested, with guidance. • Using Open Circle language, assist the teacher in dealing with emotional

or social difficulties that may arise with students. In addition, Ta’s will also use Open Circle language and strategies when facilitating problem solving among students.

• Report to Classroom teacher any problem/concern that may occur with students/staff/parents.

• Other tasks as requested. Classroom Environment

Teacher assistants will: • Assist in organizing and preparing materials for instruction. • Relieve teacher of some clerical duties such as laminating, collating,

copying materials, etc. • Prepare classroom displays and bulletin boards. • Assist in setting up learning centers or activities, and preparing needed

materials and supplies. • Assist in keeping the classroom organized and clean, such as washing

tables, cleaning up after activities. • Assist in the distribution of school notices, etc. • Assist teacher in taking the daily attendance and entering data into

computerized program, PowerGrade. • Perform other related duties as the need arises.

Field Trips Field Trips are not required in the elementary schools, middle school, or the high school. They are a fun extension to the educational experience. The high school field trips must be curriculum related and there are more specific procedures for planning a field trip at the high school. You will find that field trip destinations, as well as the number of field trips taken, vary from school to school. Each school has its own culture and customs for field trips. Please check with your classroom teacher for specific questions pertaining to your classroom and school. Classroom teachers are responsible for planning field trips and transportation. Teacher Assistants work with the classroom teachers to establish the trip expectations and to manage student participation, as well as enforcing the rules specific to each trip.

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Teacher Absences In the event that a classroom teacher is absent, the teacher assistant will be asked to work with the substitute teacher to implement the curriculum, supervise and oversee the safety of the students, and ensure that classroom routines and procedures are followed. Teacher Assistants should discuss how this should work in their individual classrooms with their classroom teachers.

Student Support Services You may be involved in or observe a number of student support services through your work in regular education classrooms. Some of them are described below: Teacher Assistance Teams (TAT) Students experiencing learning difficulties can be helped through a wide array of instructional supports. Once a problem has been identified, teachers meet with the principal and other teacher/specialists to explore classroom or school-based accommodations to help support the student. This instructional support can include, but is not limited to, reading intervention, accommodations to curricula, behavioral contracts, social work services, after school help, and teacher/parent/guardian conferences. State law requires schools to meet the needs of students within the regular education program using instructional supports before considering a Special Education Evaluation. Each of Arlington’s schools has a TAT made up of teachers and specialists that serves as an important resource. The TAT often develops additional instructional support activities to help the student better access the general curriculum. Typically, TAT members review student data, documents, and interventions used within regular education. If the documentation shows that the instructional support services are producing positive results, and the student is making effective progress in the regular education setting, no further intervention is necessary. If, however, the documentation shows that the instructional support services are not providing the intended results, a referral may be made for a Special Education Evaluation. Parents or guardians always have the right to refer a student for a special education evaluation at any time. Often instructional support and Team Evaluation activities occur at the same time. Special Education If a student is found eligible for special education services through district evaluation, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be developed by the IEP team to address the individual instructional needs of the student. Special Education in Arlington is provided as one aspect of a continuum of supportive services and programs. It is Arlington’s philosophy that ALL students can learn and should be full participants in the life of the school.

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For more information on the Referral Process, please contact the building principal, building team chairperson, or Mark Ryder, Director of Special Education Services. English Language Learners (ELL) The ELL Department is responsible for providing English language instruction to ELL students. The current laws in the United States and in the state of Massachusetts require that ELL students receive special English instruction until they are proficient in English. School districts are required to identify children who can benefit from ELL services as they come into the district so they are first screened to assess their English proficiency.

Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (METCO) The Arlington Public Schools participates in one of the country’s largest and longest running desegregation programs, know as METCO. The METCO program provides the opportunity for an integrated public school education for children of color from racially imbalanced schools in Boston by placing them in suburban schools. METCO also provides a new learning experience for suburban children and provides a closer understanding and cooperation between urban and suburban parents. There are no income requirements for participating urban families. Reading Intervention in Regular Education K-5 The Three-Tier Model The Three Tier Model is a research based service delivery model designed to deliver reading services to K-3 students. It utilizes the skills and training of classroom teachers, reading teachers, reading coaches, and SPED staff for reading instruction. The classroom reading program will remain the core reading program for all students. Tier I reading instruction is the comprehensive literacy program which student receives in the regular classroom setting. In addition, the classroom teachers will give supplemental, targeted support to students who are struggling to master the reading skills and concepts taught at that grade level. Tier II is an intervention level of service for the students who have been identified as needing reading support based on district and state criteria. These students will receive an additional 30 minutes of support five times a week provided by the classroom teacher, the reading teacher, reading coaches, or SPED staff. Tier II.5 is a more intensive level of support provided to students who have participated in at least one year of comprehensive intervention, such as Tier II, and have failed to close the gap in their reading achievement. This generally will

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entail a program on five times a week for 30 minutes with a targeted group of students with similar needs. The services include an appropriate mix of phonics, fluency, and comprehension based on student need. It may also involve additional weekly sessions of intervention beyond the five times a week for 30 minutes, depending on individual needs and student progress. Tier III is the most intensive level of intervention for students who are performing at least one grade level below expectations AND have already received Tier II/II.5 or another similar level of comprehensive instruction and intervention without showing sufficient progress in reading achievement. This level of intervention occurs 5x60 minutes in addition to classroom reading instruction. Students will receive daily instruction in Wilson/OG/Fundations. Part of each session will also be devoted to fluency and reading comprehension. For more information, contact one of the District Elementary Reading Coaches: Linda Hanson (lhanson@arlington.k12.ma.us), or Evelyn DeRosa (ederosa@arlington.k12.ma.us) or visit the Reading website: http://www.arlington.k12.ma.us/tl/curr/ela/k-5/reading/. Questions can also be submitted via the “Ask a Reading Coach” link on the district reading page.

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Teacher Assistant Resources

Below are resources that will provide you with more detailed information related to Arlington, education, and teaching. www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/current This site contains the Massachusetts Frameworks for the various curriculum areas. www.naeyc.org This site is from the National Association Education of Young Children. The Arlington Kindergarten program has received accreditation through this organization. www.arlington.k12.ma.us This site is for the Arlington Public Schools. www.tltree.com This site is for the Learning Tree Store, which offers professional development and teacher supplies. www.lakeshorelearning.com This site is for Lakeshore Learning Store which offers teacher supplies and free clip art.

www.open-circle.org

This site provides information about the Open Circle curriculum.

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Contractual Requirements and Benefits

Hours Full Time Teacher Assistants are required to work Monday through Friday for a total of 32 hours per week, which includes a half hour paid break per day. Hours may be arranged according to the needs of the classroom and at the discretion of your program’s supervisor. Part-Time Teacher Assistants are required to work 3.25 hours per day (or a total of 16 hours per week). Sick Days Full time Teacher Assistants are provided with 7 sick days per year. They may be carried over to the next year but do not have any cash value. Bereavement Days Full time Teacher Assistants are provided two (2) bereavement days in the event of the death of an immediate family member (i.e., spouse, parent. child, mother-in-law or father-in-law). Personal Day Full time Teacher Assistants are provided with 1 personal day per year. (may not be carried over to the next year) Health Insurance Teacher Assistants who work a minimum of 20 (.60) or more hours per week will be eligible for health insurance benefits.

Part time Teacher Assistants are eligible for all benefits (sick days, bereavement days, personal days), which will be pro rated according to FTE. Retirement Funds Teacher Assistants will participate in the Town of Arlington Retirement System. An enrollment form must be completed at the Retirement Office, which is located on the first floor, Fusco Building, at Arlington High School. You are required to bring an official birth certificate with you at the time of enrollment as well as your letter of hire. Insurance Health Insurance Options Blue Choice, Harvard Pilgrim, HMO Blue

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Basic Group Life Insurance A $5,000 Basic Group Life Insurance policy is available. The Town of Arlington pays 0ne-half of the premiums and the remaining half is deducted from your paycheck each month. Voluntary Group Life Insurance An additional $5,00 to $100,000 in life insurance is offered to active, eligible employees. In order to enroll, one must be enrolled in the Basic plan. You may also elect coverage for your spouse and children in this plan. The Town of Arlington does not pay any portion of the premium for this insurance. Dental Insurance Non-union may opt for Dental Blue through the Town of Arlington. For more information or to enroll in any of the above programs, please contact the Benefits Coordinator (781-316-3505) ** ALL INSURANCE CHOICES MUST BE MADE WITHIN THE FIRST 30 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

ANNUITIES Open enrollment for all annuities is from September to October 15th each year. All transactions are done with your annuity company. This is the only time in which you can:

• Start an annuity from our current list of participating companies • Change your current annuity company • Increase your annuity amount

You can, at any time, decrease the deduction amount of your annuity or stop your annuity by submitting the request in writing to the Payroll Department. Payroll needs to have a signed, “Salary Reduction Form” with your annuity company’s name and address and your contribution listed, by October 15th. Please send all written information to the Arlington Public Schools, Payroll Department, 6th floor, 869 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA 02476. CREDIT UNION The credit union is located in the Annex of the Arlington Town Hall, 730 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA 02476. Forms can be obtained at the Credit Union or the Arlington Public Payroll Office, 6th floor, at Arlington High School. Credit Union Phone 781-316-3144, (or 3142, 3143)

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SAVINGS BONDS Forms are available in the Arlington Public School Department Payroll Office, 6th floor, at Arlington High School. TAX FLEX SECTION 125 If you choose to be a participant you can choose to utilize part 1 or part 2, or both. Part 1: You will have your health/life insurance, etc. premiums deducted before taxes. There is no charge for this service. Contact the Arlington Public Payroll Office and sign a Pre-Tax Election form. Part 2: Qualified Healthcare FSA and Dependent Care FSA expenses can be paid for with before-tax dollars. There is a seventy-five cent ($.75) per week service charge, from Sentinel Benefits, for the administration of this plan. Sentinel Benefits Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts maximum is set at $1,650.0 and the Sentinel Benefits Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account maximum is set at $5000 Direct Deposit Direct Deposit is available for all employees through the Arlington Public School Payroll Office. To obtain the necessary form go online at www.arlington.k12.ma.us, or contact the Payroll Department (781-316-3515). IMPORTANT INFORMATION Please notify the Payroll Department in writing of all information changes.

• Name change (Must fill out new W4, state tax forms, and new insurance forms)

• Address change (please include all nine digits of zip code) • Phone number change • Bank change (direct deposit) including bank mergers

Request For Temporary Absence Temporary absences must be approved at least 48 hours before the date of the absence. The request form should be filled out, signed by your supervisor and SENT to the Superintendent’s office for approval. Time will be taken from sick accruals until paper work is received in the Payroll Office.

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Welcome To Kindergarten!

Kindergarten Philosophy Statement Kindergarten is the child and family's first introduction to the elementary schools. Partnerships are developed between schools and families that provide a strong community of support. Parents are invited to share in their child’s schooling in a variety of ways. Each child brings a wealth of educational and cultural experiences to kindergarten. Children have encountered many teachers (parents, siblings, extended family, friends, neighbors and preschool) before they meet their kindergarten teacher. Kindergarten teachers promote self-discovery and self-awareness. They foster independence and help children to gain and use skills necessary for working in small groups as well as the class as a whole. Children learn how to function well as group members, how to ask for help and to be helpful, how to complete a task and put things away. Each child is encouraged to move beyond his/her current level of understanding. Kindergarten curriculum is designed to address all areas of development (social, emotional, physical and intellectual) and to meet needs of a diverse group of learners. Children are active learners: touching, trying, moving, talking, writing, drawing, questioning. Throughout the kindergarten day, children have opportunities to explore, investigate, and predict. The kindergarten classroom is a safe, supportive and welcoming environment. It provides children with a variety of opportunities to try out new ideas and be challenged with new experiences that engage budding readers, writers, scientists, mathematicians and artists. Teachers help children to be empowered, to feel valued, to be listened to, to be competent and successful in school. Kindergarten Accreditation (NAEYC) All Kindergarten classrooms in the Arlington Public School System are Accredited through the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Classroom teachers will provide information to Assistant Teachers on accreditation and how it influences kindergarten programs. Teacher assistants are:

• Expected to comply with all requirements of NAEYC standards. • Invited and encouraged to attend all related Professional

Development programs related to accreditation. • Required to either have an Associates Degree (or beyond) in Early

childhood Education OR participate in courses leading to a CDA (alternative certification).

• Become certified in Pediatric First Aid APS will provide First Aid Training and course work towards the CDA, For more information, please see kindergarten teachers.