High Plains Elementary School

Student-Parent Planner Handbook

2014-2015

Home of the Timberwolves! 2248 Vintage Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 Phone: (719) 234-470 Fax: (719) 234-4799

“HOWLS” Learner Mindset:

Honor – Respect self and others. Invest in self and future by valuing educational experiences and

seeking understanding. Take pride in who you are!

Ownership – Own your words and actions, and take ownership in learning both behaviorally and

academically. Be a brave learner!

Work Hard – Learning takes effort to see through challenges. “Productive struggle” is to be

celebrated. Be determined!

Lead – We are all in this together; collaborate actively and listen sincerely. Value other voices. Do the

right thing!

Safety – Care for self, others, and our school. Think before acting.

Principal: Mr. Tom Andrew Assistant Principal: Mrs. Jan Schneider

High Plains Elementary Mission Statement: High Plains Elementary, a diverse neighborhood school, is dedicated to meeting the unique academic needs of the individual child in a safe and nurturing environment. In partnership with our community we develop compassionate and responsible citizens who are effective critical thinkers, innovators, and communicators.

Vision:

Our core purpose is to cause learning by building learning capacity, collaborating, making meaning, and

breaking through to apply understanding.

Building Learning Capacity – All members of High Plains Elementary develop learning capacity through

goal setting, applying their “HOWLS” learner mindset, personal growth, and academic achievement.

Collaborating – All members of High Plains Elementary develop collaborative skills and values to

enable them to actively engage others and contribute as effective members of any community.

Making Meaning – That all members of High Plains Elementary problem solve, question, investigate,

and make decisions using a learning process, thinking tools, and a range of learning strategies to

deepen their understandings of concepts.

Break Through – That all members of High Plains Elementary discover and build on strengths and

interests to experience further fulfillment in learning.

2014-15 Site Plan Objectives

Objectives: I. Each student will demonstrate at least one year’s growth in academic achievement as measured

by a body of evidence.

II. Each student will demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and character necessary to be responsible

21st century learners and citizens.

III. Each student will be provided a positive, supportive, and cohesive learning environment.

Our school mascot is Timber, a wolf.

Blue and white are our school colors.

ATTENTION: This document is provided as a resource to Academy School District 20’s parents and students. Readers should be aware that much of this information is in summary form. Current policies in their entirety, including revisions which may have occurred after publication of this document, are available on the district website at http://www.boarddocs.com/co/asd20/Board.nsf/Public. Policies may also be reviewed at the Education and Administration Center of Academy School District 20 located at 1110 Chapel Hills Drive. A printed copy of the Notification of Rights and Responsibilities of Students and Parents & Student Code of Conduct may be requested at no cost in the administrative office of any school or by calling the Director for Legal Relations at 234-1200. Policies are subject to change as necessary at any time during the school year. Students are expected to be knowledgeable about and comply with district and school policies, including ones which may not be included in this publication but are on the website.

ATTENDANCE NUMBER 234-4700

School Hours

Kindergarten: Full Day 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Morning Kindergarten 8:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

Grades 1-5: 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Preschool: CPCD Preschool 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Head Start Preschool 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Children should not arrive before 8:05 a.m. unless they are scheduled for a special activity or having breakfast. Supervision is not provided before that time. In inclement weather, children may enter at 7:55 a.m. As a general rule, “inclement weather” means a temperature of 20° or below or severe weather as determined by the school administrators. Parents/guardians are required to check students in and out at the office if arriving after 8:15 or leaving before 3:15. If your child will be late or absent, it is important for you to notify our Attendance Office at 719-234-4700. You may let your child’s teacher know. However, we ask that the Attendance Office be notified as well. Parents/guardians are required to sign students in at the Office after 8:15 a.m. All late arrivals are considered unexcused unless the student is signed in by a parent/guardian or approved by an administrator. If a student needs to leave school early for an appointment, the parent/guardian should notify the office prior to pick-up. Parents/guardians must sign students out at the office before the student may leave the campus.

Daily attendance at school is a critical factor in school success. Students are expected to arrive at school each day on time, ready to learn. It is difficult to replace the learning that occurs in the classroom through the exchange of ideas with study outside the classroom. Excessive absences and/or tardies, whether excused or unexcused, may have a negative effect on a student's learning and grades. Colorado law requires every student who is age 6 by August 1 and under 17 to attend school a certain number of hours [C.R.S. §22-33-104(1)(a)]. Parents have a legal obligation to ensure that every child under their care and supervision receives adequate education and training [C.R.S. §22-33-104(5)(a)]. Per district policy JE and state law, excused absences are as follows:

1. Absences approved by the principal or designee. 2. Absences due to temporary illness or injury. 3. Absences for an extended period of time due to physical, mental or emotional disabilities. 4. Absences due to being in the custody of the court or law enforcement authorities.

If an absence does not fall into one of the above categories, it will be considered unexcused. Medical notes may be requested if a student has excessive absences. State statute defines any student who has four unexcused absences in a month or ten unexcused absences in a school year as habitually truant [administrative policy JE and C.R.S §22-33-107(3)(a)]. Be aware that the district will first take steps to work with families to reduce truancy, but that we partner with local juvenile courts to intervene and address “habitual truancy.” Legal action may be taken by school administrators if students fail to follow compulsory attendance laws.

Inclement Weather Please be sure to send your child to school with appropriate clothing for our frequent and sometimes drastic weather changes. The children will go out every day for recess unless the temperature drops to 20° or below, or if we have severe weather. Our bias is always in favor of fresh air, exercise, and the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Colorado outdoors. Thank you for helping children enjoy those things too!

EMERGENCY CLOSURE PROCEDURE

Snow Day District 20 uses every available resource to help us with the decision to cancel or delay school because of inclement weather or unsafe road conditions. We sincerely ask and urge parents to help with the decision as far as their own children are concerned. If a parent’s judgment is that it is too hazardous to send his/her child to school-- please keep him/her at home. The child will not be penalized for the absence and will be given ample opportunity to make up missed assignments. In the case of bad weather, please listen to local radio or television stations, 20 Alert or check the District 20 web site. They will broadcast information about the delayed start of school, canceled school or early dismissal of school due to bad weather. This decision will be made by 6:00 AM.

When school is canceled, only a storm response team reports to school and these team members will NOT be answering office phones or supervising students. If school is cancelled during the day, all evening events will also be cancelled. The personnel reporting to schools will be preparing the school for opening the next day if weather permits. Two-hour Delayed Start If adverse weather conditions appear to be developing, during the 5:30am decision time frame, the Superintendent may delay the start of schools for two hours. The procedure will be as follows:

1. Local stations will be informed by 6:00 a.m. that the starting time for District 20 schools will be delayed by two hours.

2. The decision relative to whether schools will be open or closed will be made prior to 8:00 a.m. 3. If the decision is to hold school, the two-hour delayed start will be honored and no additional radio

announcements will be made. School will start at 10:15 a.m. All before school activities and breakfast will be cancelled for that day. Adult supervision will start at 10:05 AM. Children may not be dropped off prior to 10:05 a.m.

4. There will still be morning kindergarten class when High Plains has a two-hour delayed start. Class will be held from 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

5. If the decision is to cancel school, local radio stations will be informed by 8:00 AM.

Early Release If school is in session and a storm develops during the day, a decision may be made to send students home early. The procedure will be as follows:

1. On days when the weather at 6:00 a.m. may not be bad enough to cancel school, but weather reports and other indications are that a storm may develop during the school hours, bus drivers will be notified that it is a “storm alert” day. Each driver will have this information by the time he or she completes the morning bus run.

2. Between 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., if the decision is to release early, each bus driver will be notified.

School will be dismissed approximately two hours early, and bus drivers will make their regular runs in the usual sequence.

3. Local TV and radio stations will be asked to announce between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. that Academy

School District 20 is on “storm alert.” If there is an early release, local radio stations will be asked to announce that District 20 is releasing early.

4. PARENTS SHOULD MAKE PREVIOUS ARRANGEMENTS SO THAT THEIR CHILD WILL HAVE A PLACE TO GO IF THERE IS NO ONE AT HOME ON EARLY RELEASE DAYS AND SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH YOUR CHILD. PLEASE COMPLETE THE EMERGENCY FORM IN THE BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT FOLDER AND RETURN IT TO THE SCHOOL.

Severe Weather and Lightening In the event of a thunderstorm with lightening in the near vicinity, children will be held in the building until their transportation home has arrived and an authorized person comes to sign them out in their classrooms. Should the lightening and/or heavy rain subside, students will be released. If children are delayed more than a few minutes, they will be permitted to call home.

COMMUNICATION

Friday Folders All students will be sent home every Friday with communication from their teacher in the Friday Folder. Please read and address all issues in the Friday Folder. This is the main avenue that our teachers will use to communicate with you. Please return the folder to the classroom teacher every Monday. Newsletters A school newsletter is posted on the High Plains website the last Friday of each month and includes important information as well as dates of upcoming events. We encourage you to read this to further enhance your awareness of school events and activities. Please refer to your child’s particular teacher for information on class newsletters. Student Planners High Plains uses a school-wide planner to increase communication with families and convey homework assignments. Grade levels determine the homework subject for each night. Homework is given nightly, Monday through Thursday, and reading is expected on the weekend. Teachers will check planners daily and look for parent signatures. Student planners will be available at no cost to each student either at the beginning of the school year or when a child registers at High Plains. Progress Reporting Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held for all pupils at the end of the first and third quarters. Other conferences may be held as requested by parents or teachers. Report cards are issued at the end of every quarter.

* ALL library fines must be paid before report cards are issued.

Visits from Parents Parents are encouraged to visit their children at school. For security reasons, all visitors must check in at the office and pick up a nametag. Our staff is committed to delivering instruction with minimal interruptions, so parents will be asked to drop off lunches, backpacks, etc. in the office and we will see that your child receives his/her items in a timely manner. If you want to talk to your child’s teacher, please leave a message at the office for them to arrange a call or meeting.

Visitors Visitors are always welcome at High Plains. We encourage parents/guardians and community members to visit our school. For security reasons, all visitors must check in at the office and pick up a nametag. All visitors will be required to wear appropriate identification that will be issued by the office. School events are open to the public but you may still be required to wear identification. Children who accompany adults must be properly supervised. (They may not walk around the building or use the restrooms without parental supervision.) Volunteers Volunteer services are valued and vital to the successful operation of our school program. High Plains' volunteers give countless valuable hours helping children. Parents will have many opportunities to volunteer during the school year. All parent volunteers working directly with students on a regular basis must first pass a CBI background check prior to volunteering in any classroom, volunteering for field trips, or volunteering to help over time. Your Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) background check is good for your tenure at High Plains. Please see Jan Schneider, Assistant Principal, or call her at 234-4700 for more information. A major component of our school is strong parent involvement. There are many areas in which parent volunteers are needed. Volunteer opportunities include: High Plains Accountability Committee (HPAC), Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), library, as well as classrooms. Each time you visit, we ask that you please sign in at the office, put on a name tag above the waist, and remember to sign out when you leave. All volunteers are required to attend a volunteer training session prior to volunteering. These sessions cover confidentiality and other tips to strengthen our volunteer program. Parent –Teacher Organization (PTO) The High Plains PTO’s purpose is to enrich the lives of our families by working together to provide great community involvement and fun activities. The PTO provides opportunities for family members to volunteer and share in the joy of learning with our students. The PTO also provides grant money to Staff to assist with new equipment, furnishings, field trips, and awards. Our grant money is raised by fundraisers and community donations. We encourage all families to come to PTO meetings. Dates and times of the meetings can be found on the school website under PTO, in the school newsletter, and on the marquee. High Plains Accountability Committee (HPAC) The High Plains Accountability Committee is where parents and patrons work with High Plains administration and teachers in such areas as goal setting, accreditation, and budget issues. HPAC provides information to parents on current events in the district. It is an opportunity for parents and community members to get involved to learn what is happening with our school and D-20. Please join HPAC for their monthly meetings which are posted on the school website, in the school newsletter, and on the marquee. Whether your commitment is for individual activities, special projects, or regularly scheduled times, you are a valuable asset in meeting the educational needs of our students.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS Our core purpose is to cause learning by building learning capacity, collaborating, making meaning, and breaking

through to apply understanding.

Building Learning Capacity – All members of High Plains Elementary develop learning capacity through goal

setting, applying their “HOWLS” learner mindset, personal growth, and academic achievement.

Collaborating – All members of High Plains Elementary develop collaborative skills and values to enable them to

actively engage others and contribute as effective members of any community.

Making Meaning – That all members of High Plains Elementary problem solve, question, investigate, and make

decisions using a learning process, thinking tools, and a range of learning strategies to deepen their understandings of

concepts.

Break Through – That all members of High Plains Elementary discover and build on strengths and interests to

experience further fulfillment in learning.

Student Assessments At our school, we use a body of evidence to measure student achievement and progress. We believe that assessments are a critical part of targeting instruction and lesson planning. It is our expectation that each child will advance at least one full year every year in each core content area. This Body of Evidence includes both formal and informal measures:

Two of the most valuable indicators of your child’s growth is his or her teacher’s observations and assessments on a daily basis.

AIMSweb math benchmark assessments are given to every High Plains student in the fall, winter, and spring. This test is individually administered and is an excellent tool to help us measure reading components so teachers can target instruction.

DIBELS is given to every K- 3 child at High Plains. The Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice test that is administered to third

graders in October. It evaluates reasoning and problem-solving in verbal, nonverbal, and quantitative areas.

Third, fourth and fifth graders will be tested on the STAR math and reading test three times a year to indicate growth and areas of need. Additionally, first and second grade students will take the Math STAR test in January.

The Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) and the new English Language Arts and Mathematics (PARCC) measures students’ proficiency in learning the content of state standards in grades 3, 4, and 5 and is administered in the spring.

Homework Policy Homework at High Plains is an extension of classroom instruction. Homework assignments will be differentiated to meet the needs of the student. Homework is a vital practice that, although not part of a particular subject’s grade, impacts the success of the student. The time frame for homework could be up to 10 minutes per grade level each day; nightly reading may be additional. Concepts practiced for homework must have been introduced in the regular classroom, prior to being sent home. Resource teachers (Special Education, TAG, ESL) will communicate and coordinate with the classroom teacher regarding homework from their area, but will not be in addition to the regular classroom homework assignments. Homework should include:

reading math facts

skill practice from the classroom incomplete classroom work

Response to Intervention

"Response to Intervention" refers to a process that emphasizes how well students respond to changes in

instruction. The essential elements of an RTI approach are: providing scientific, research-based instruction

and interventions in general education; monitoring and measuring student progress in response to the

instruction and interventions; and using these measures of student progress to shape instruction and make

educational decisions. Parent participation in the decision making process is vital to supporting all students to

be the best they can be and maximize their individual potential.

Special Education It is the policy of the District 20 Board of Education to ensure that all children with disabilities between the ages of three and twenty-one, residing within the District’s jurisdiction, shall be provided a free, appropriate public education and shall not, by reason of their disabilities, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under a District-sponsored activity or program. To this end, High Plains will:

Seek to identify children with disabilities residing within its jurisdiction Ensure all diagnostic, assessment, and instructional procedures are accomplished by properly

certified/licensed and trained staff Provide each child with a disability in the least restrictive environment Establish procedural safeguards in compliance with federal and state law to protect the rights of

children with disabilities and their parents/guardians as established by law Ensure that all legal requirements under state and federal law are met

Counseling The most formative school years are during the elementary grades. Children build a foundation for

lifelong learning, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills. As children progress through elementary school,

they move from childhood to preteen stages, changing from being self-focused to developing an awareness of

others. They begin learning how to cooperate, solve problems, develop responsibility, and form

friendships. The school counselor is trained in understanding child development and in offering

comprehensive programs to enhance success at school.

Elementary programs include student observations, assessments, intervention plans, parenting education,

teacher and parent consultations, and crisis management and follow-up. School counseling is not therapeutic.

Counseling services are delivered through collaboration among students, parents, teachers, and

administrators. School counselors are advocates for children. The goal is for every student to reach his or her

educational, personal and social potential. Counselors may also refer families to outside resources.

The Responsive Classroom The Responsive Classroom is a widely used, research-backed approach to elementary education that increases academic achievement, decreases problem behaviors, improves social skills, and leads to more high-quality instruction. It is based upon “our best knowledge of how children learn, our understanding of the importance of knowing our students developmentally, individually and culturally, our understanding that social and academic learning go hand in hand and our firm belief that all children want to learn and can learn.” Character Education Plan High Plains Elementary has the “HOWLS” Learner Mindframe to support Character Education. All staff work together to reinforce the District 20 Core Principles of Behavior. Bully Prevention Plan High Plains Elementary promotes a non-violent school climate that does not tolerate bullying. We have a comprehensive school-wide Bully Prevention Plan that is systematically implemented through daily reinforcement and teachable moments. The counselor is available to address student concerns before problems escalate. Students may be referred by staff, parents, peers or they may self-refer. MEDICAL INFORMATION IF YOUR CHILD HAS A SPECIFIC HEALTH PROBLEM, PLEASE INFORM THE OFFICE AS WELL AS THE TEACHER Illness Guidelines for Academy School District 20 Students with one or more of the following symptoms will be excluded from school until symptoms have resolved. 1. Temperature of 100.5 Fahrenheit or higher. Temperature must be normal for 24 hours without the aid

of anti-febrile medications before returning to school. Flu-like symptoms- should be free of symptoms for 24 hours before returning to school.

2. Constant runny nose.

3. Abnormal color or consistency of nasal or eye discharge. 4. Uncontrolled cough or unusual cough.

5. Frequent sneezing other than allergy related.

6. Lung or nasal discharge.

7. Vomiting or diarrhea in the last 24 hours. Symptoms must be resolved for 24 hours before

returning to school. 8. If antibiotics are prescribed, student must receive the antibiotics 24 hours before returning to school.

9. Undiagnosed skin rashes and/or open lesions.

10. Infectious Diseases in School Setting- Guidelines for School nurses and Personnel (Revised

Dec. 2004) per Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Students should be allowed to return to school once the exclusion period is met, or a health care provider clears the student. Generally, if any of the following conditions apply, exclusion from school should be considered:

• If the student does not feel well enough to participate comfortably in usual activities. • If the student requires more care than school personnel are able to provide. • If the student has a high fever, behavior changes, persistent crying, difficulty breathing, lack of

energy, uncontrolled coughing, or other signs suggesting a severe illness.

• If the student is ill with a potentially contagious illness and exclusion is recommended by a health care provider, the state or local public health agency, or these guidelines.

Injuries and Emergencies Injured students are referred to the office for first aid care. A staff member trained to work in the health room, is available during the school day. Every attempt will be made to report serious injuries and illnesses to parents/guardian. The school nurse spends approximately one day per week in the building but can be reached at any time if necessary. *PLEASE HELP US TO PROVIDE THE PROPER CARE FOR YOUR CHILD BY KEEPING ALL EMERGENCY INFORMATION, INCLUDING ALL CELL PHONE NUMBERS CURRENT. Parents are responsible to maintain current contact and address information via the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. Health Room Procedures District 20 school nurses are responsible for several different school buildings and spend only 5-7 hours in each building per week. When your child comes to the health room, he/she sees a secretary or health room aid. These staff members have basic first aid and medication distribution training. They are under the supervision of the school nurse and the principal. The health room personnel assess each child when they come to the health room. Temperatures are taken if children don’t feel well. Injuries are cleaned and band aids applied as needed. Ice is given as deemed necessary. Calls are made to parents if a child has vomited, has a temperature over 101 degrees, or has gotten a bump on his/her head.

Please remember, the health room is not an infirmary but a first-aid station. There are guidelines that our Physician Advisory Board has approved concerning illness in school. Children with one or more of the following symptoms will be excluded from school until symptoms have cleared: Temperature of 101 or above. Temperature must be normal for 24 hours before returning to school. Constant runny nose. Abnormal color or consistency of nasal discharge. Uncontrolled cough or unusual cough. Frequent sneezing other than allergy-related. Lung and nasal congestion. Vomiting or diarrhea in last 24 hours. Undiagnosed skin rashes and/or open lesions. Suspected or confirmed communicable diseases Suspected strep until 24 hours after treatment has been started; Red, inflamed or discharging eyes; Scabies, lice, weeping cold sores or other lesions like impetigo; If in doubt as to whether symptoms or signs are communicable, please contact the school office. If antibiotics are prescribed, student must receive the antibiotic for 24 hours before returning to school. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT THE SCHOOL HAS CURRENT HOME, WORK AND EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS. THE HEALTH ROOM PERSONNEL RELY ON THESE NUMBERS TO REACH YOU. Parents are responsible to maintain current contact and address information via the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS REGARDING MEDICATIONS ADMINISTERED AT ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS: Board Policy JLCD-R [7435.1] Procedure for Transporting and Administering Medication - Elementary and Middle School Students Medication administration is a responsibility that, by statute, can be delegated only by the school nurse. The

school nurse is responsible for training and supervising school personnel who are authorized to administer medications. The school nurse also has the sole authority to withdraw the delegation of medication administration.

Medication will be administered to students at elementary and middle school only upon the specific written request of the student's parent or guardian and written permission from the student's physician or dentist. The parental request shall include a release of claims against the District arising out of the administration of the medication. Medication shall be provided in the original or pharmacy-labeled container.

For prescription medication, the label shall state the student's name, name of the medication, when and/or how often it is to be given, the dosage, the name of the prescribing physician, and the date of the prescription.

School personnel shall maintain a written record of all medications administered to students. The record will include the student's name, medication, dosage, date and time taken, and the name of the school person assisting the student.

All medications in elementary and middle schools shall be stored in a secure, locked, clean container or cabinet. Allergies Parents will be notified of a severely allergic child in your student’s classroom. Please follow the school’s guidance as to what foods, if any, may be sent to school for consumption in the classroom. Cafeteria Accommodations for Allergies

Appropriate accommodations will be made in the cafeteria for students with severe food allergies. Please check with the school administration and school nurse to establish and identify plans for individual student’s needs.

Breakfast & Lunch

Monthly Breakfast $22.00 Monthly Lunch $42.00 Monthly Milk $13.00 Weekly Breakfast $5.50 Weekly Lunch $10.50 Weekly Milk $3.25 Daily Breakfast $1.10 Daily Lunch $2.10 Daily Milk $ .65

(Prices subject to change) Hot lunch (which includes a drink) is available to all students, or children may bring lunch from home, purchasing a drink at school such as milk or a juice drink if desired. Students may not purchase pop from the teacher’s lounge. Menus are published and sent home each month. Student accounts may be paid by credit card through the District 20 website (Pay For It) or the High Plains website (Click on Logins and Pay For It under Parents) and / or checks should be made payable to Academy District 20. No change will be returned to the student. Students may deposit money into their lunch accounts between 8:00 and 8:15 AM each school day in the Tri-space. No refunds from lunch accounts will be made at the end of the school year. Funds that remain in an account will be available for use the next school year at any District 20 school. If your student will be late for school, please call the school before 9:00 AM to order a lunch. When all of the funds in your child’s lunch account are used, the monitor will stamp his/her hand to indicate that more money is needed. The hot lunch program is contracted through Sodexo Food Services. Sodexo has a no charge policy. Students are permitted to call home if they have forgotten their lunch.

Applications for free/reduced lunches must be renewed yearly and are available from the school office. Children who receive free/reduced lunches are not identified, and all information provided is confidential. If you think you may qualify, please request the form from the school office. School Rules and ProceduresSCHOOL RULES AND PROCEUDRES After School Help (ASH) Students in grades 3 through 5 may attend ASH Monday through Thursday from 3:15 to 4:15. Students must have a signed permission slip in order to attend. There will NOT be an activity bus available for those who normally ride the bus to and from school. Bicycles/Skateboards/Rollerblades/Scooters Bicycles may be ridden to school by students and parked in the racks provided in the front of the school. Bicycles should be walked while on school grounds. Each student is responsible for locking his/her bike. Helmets are strongly encouraged for safety. Parents/guardians should discuss proper bicycle and traffic safety procedures. Skateboards, scooters, and rollerblades may not be used on school grounds or in the crosswalks. Each student is responsible for the safety of their scooter. Scooters may be locked up on the bike racks for safety reasons. Birthday Treats If you choose to send a treat to celebrate your child’s birthday, please consider a non-food treat such as pencils, stickers, or trinkets. If you decide to send in food, you may want to check with your child’s teacher regarding any food allergies present in the classroom community. Any deliveries of flowers, balloons, etc. will be held in the office for your child to pick up after school. If your child rides the bus, these items may be not be allowed on the bus. Cell Phones Cell phones are not to be left on or used during school hours. Students may choose to turn their cell phones

over to the care of the teacher during the school day. The district shall not be responsible for loss, theft or

destruction of electronic communication devices brought onto school property.

Dress Code Parents and students have the primary responsibility in appropriate dress. Students are expected to dress in a way that is neat, clean, well-groomed and shows pride in them and their school. In addition, clothing should be suitable for the changing Colorado weather with health and safety in mind. The Student Dress Code, Policy JICA, defines certain clothing or appearance as disruptive if it advocates drug use, violence, or unlawful activity. If clothes are inappropriately revealing or tattered or torn, the student will be in violation of the dress code as well. The building administrator has authority to enforce this policy. School clothing should be functional and reflect the age and attitude of the student toward his or her job of learning. Students should not dress in a way that could be distracting or offensive.

The following will not be allowed at High Plains:

Hats, bandanas, scarves, head coverings, hoodies worn with the hood up inside school Pajamas (tops and/or bottoms) or slippers, sagging pants, chains, shoes with rollers in the sole Skirts, dresses, form-fitting stretch pants, shorts that are immodest and/or too short for

appropriate coverage or disruptive to the learning environment Halter tops, tube tops, backless tops, bare midriffs, spaghetti straps or tops with less than one-

inch wide shoulder straps (undergarments may not be visible)

Clothing with obscene slogans or pictures, torn or cut clothing or see through clothing Jewelry or clothing glorifying drugs/alcohol or violence Make-up except for special events or productions Any item not listed but deemed by the administration to fall into the category of inappropriate for

school. Students arriving at school wearing any of these items will be provided with a change of clothing or allowed to call home for a change of clothes.

Sunglasses may be worn only if medically necessary. Hats/caps may be worn outside but must be kept in the backpack when inside. A t-shirt must be worn under fish net, muscle shirts, or any see-through type of fabric.

Field Trips Parent/guardian permission slips are required for all field trips. If your child’s class is planning a field trip, you will receive detailed information including date, time, special requirement, and any necessary fees for admission/transportation. Any parent volunteer for a field trip must have a background check done. Any non- parent volunteer going on the field trip must have a more extensive background and fingerprint check completed. Fire and Emergency Drills SAFETY is our first priority! Fire and emergency drills are completed periodically so that students are well aware of what to do in an emergency. Emergency routes and information are posted in every room in the building. Teachers review the emergency route and designated safety areas for their class with the students. Students are expected to follow the teacher’s instructions quickly and quietly during an emergency drill. Forbidden items The following items but not limited to are forbidden at High Plains: knives, weapons of any kind or facsimiles, tobacco, drugs, toy guns, lighters, matches, baseballs (hardballs), and/or electronic games. These items, plus anything else deemed a distraction to learning, will be confiscated and parents/guardians will be contacted. Possession of forbidden items can result in suspension or expulsion. Toys are permitted only with teacher invitation such as “show and tell”. Lost and Found Lost and found items are located in the Timber Lost and Found bin in the main school hallway. Smaller items may be located in the office. Students may inquire about personal missing items before and after school. Unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable organization at the end of each quarter. Personal Property Problems often arise when personal articles are brought to school that interfere with school procedures. We ask that your child secure the permission of their teacher before bringing such items as toys or personal electronics to school. High Plains is not responsible for the loss or damage to personal items. Money and other valuables should only be sent to school when there is a definite need for them.

Pets

Pets coming with parents on a leash must be off school property (sidewalk area). Under special circumstances, arrangements may be made with the classroom teacher to bring a pet to school for Show and Tell. A parent will be expected to stay with the pet at all times and the pet must be on a leash or in a cage. Playground Rules High Plains Elementary has rules for safety and student conduct on our playground. These are reviewed in every classroom by teachers and playground monitors.

TRAFFIC The following guidelines have been established to provide a safe arrival/departure for all students.

The morning drop zone is located between the school driveways. Parents/Guardians are allowed to drop their child off in the drop zone and keep moving. Staff is in attendance at this drop zone from 8:00 to 8:15 and 3:15 to 3:30. Please be patient with the car in front of you. Do not go around a car because of the narrow roadway and the cars moving down Vintage Drive.

There are areas on Vintage designated “No Parking-Loading Zone-10 minutes.” The areas marked in YELLOW with the posted “No Parking” signs are necessary to allow unobstructed

vision for the crossing guard and turning space for the buses, which are turning left onto Vintage. “No Parking” zones also mean “No Waiting/No Stopping,” even if you are in your car. PLEASE OBSERVE THESE NO PARKING ZONES. This is especially important during rainy or snowy weather when visibility is poor.

The pick-up zone is located in the same area at the end of the day. Please be considerate of those in

line. As soon as your child is in your car and buckled up, please move forward down the street. Please do not park in this zone and walk to pick up your child. We are also asking you to be aware of our crossing area if you park on the opposite side of the street. Do not walk your child between the cars or across the street. Use our crossing guard to assist you in crossing Vintage safely.

We ask that all children (except those who live on the east side of the school on Vintage and those who

use the sidewalk behind the school) cross at the crosswalk with the crossing guard. PLEASE DO NOT CALL TO YOUR CHILD FROM ACROSS THE STREET TO CROSS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BLOCK!

It is advisable to not park by the east driveway entrance as this causes the flow of traffic to be impeded.

Cars must move around your car and this may cause confusion with the drop and pick-up zone. Only school buses, daycare vans, and handicapped designated cars may enter the parking lot during

drop off and pick-up times. Please consider using the drop off and pick-up zone for easy in and out. Adhere to our crossing personnel and their safety rules.

If you are parking in the parking lot, please do not exit when buses are present. Do not walk between the buses to get to your car with your child. Please use our parking lot crossing area. Vehicles with handicap identification must park in a designated handicap parking space.

Please direct your child to use the school crosswalk at the beginning of the day and when leaving at the

end of the day. The best way to connect with your child would be at our curb drop off and pick-up zone. The service/delivery driveway on the north side of the building is NOT to be used. The areas of the parking lot driveway where the curb is painted yellow indicate a fire lane.

Please DO NOT park in these yellow-painted areas, even during the “off” hours.

After school clubs: student pick-up is at the drop off and pick-up zone on Vintage.

Safety is key! As adults, we should model the appropriate behavior for our children.

DISTRICT 20 BUS RULES Each school district has the responsibility to formulate procedures for conduct of pupils as bus passengers. Procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the rules set down by the State of Colorado. The procedures of School District 20 include the following: Before Boarding the Bus:

1. Students shall be at their assigned stops five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. 2. Stay off the road! 3. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to enter the bus. 4. In keeping with the Tobacco Free Schools policy, use of tobacco products is prohibited at bus stops.

While on the bus:

1. OUTSIDE OF ORDINARY CONVERSATION, CLASSROOM CONDUCT IS TO BE OBSERVED BY STUDENTS.

ANY PUPIL WHO IS GUILTY OF UNBECOMING CONDUCT, USING INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE, OR ABUSING THE DRIVER OR OTHER PUPILS, FORFEITS THE PRIVILEGE TO RIDE THE BUS.

2. Students are not permitted to stand or to leave their seats while the bus is in motion. 3. Keep hands and head inside the bus at all times. HORSEPLAY IS NOT PERMITTED AROUND OR ON

THE SCHOOL BUS. 4. Pupils must not touch, trip, push or engage in physical play with other children. 5. Items not allowed on the bus: animals, skateboards, balloons, laser pointers, firearms or

explosive items, any tobacco products, matches, lighters or any item that is a health or safety hazard. No sharp instruments such as knives, pencils, etc. shall be carried where they might cause damage to the bus or injury to others.

6. Nothing is to be thrown from the bus windows. Pupils shall keep the bus clean and free of waste paper. 7. The property of other students is to be left alone. The aisles are to be kept free of books, coats,

and other objects. 8. Pupils must not tamper with the bus or any of its equipment. THE INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBLE FOR

CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE BUS MUST BE RESONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF REPAIR. 9. Students are required to maintain absolute silence when approaching a railroad crossing and while

stopped for same. 10. In case of a road emergency, children are to remain in the bus until otherwise instructed by the driver. 11. LOADING AT SCHOOLS--ALL students must be on their bus by departure time. Once the driver has

closed the door, and the buses have started to roll, students will NOT be allowed to get on the bus. 12. Be alert to traffic when leaving the bus. Cross ten feet in front of bus.

Willing violation of these rules by any pupil could be sufficient cause for the pupil to be deprived of the privilege of being transported.

Student Records Policy JRA/JRC gives your parents or guardians access to your educational records with reasonable advance notice to the school. Parents/guardians and students over 18 have the right to challenge any educational record on the grounds that it is inaccurate or misleading. School officials may obtain access to your records for educational purposes. All individually identifiable educational information is confidential except for “directory” information [name, date of birth, place of birth, participation in officially recognized sports and activities, height and weight (for athletic teams), dates of attendance, degrees and other honors awarded.] One important exception: military recruiters can obtain the names, addresses and home telephone numbers of all students in grade 9-12, unless the student requests otherwise in writing.

Tobacco-Free Schools District policy and state law forbid possession, smoking, chewing or other use of any tobacco product on school property or at school activities at any time. See Policy ADC. Hazardous Materials Providing an environment reasonably secure from known hazards is a reasonable expectation for each employee of the School District as well as the parents/guardians of each student. Hazardous materials include any substance or mixture of substances that pose a fire, explosive, reactive or health hazard as more fully defined by law. The district has procedures that address the purchase, storage, handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials including asbestos, for all school facilities and operations including instructional areas. Emergency response actions and evacuation plans are also coordinated with the procedures. Weapons at School Policy JICI and state law require expulsion of any student who carries, brings, uses or possesses any dangerous or deadly weapon in any school building, on school grounds or at any school sponsored event. The following are dangerous weapons: firearms (including air guns and pellet guns – loaded or unloaded, operable or inoperable), firearm facsimiles, fixed blade knife with a blade length of greater than 3 ½ inches, spring- loaded or pocket knife with a blade of more than 3 inches, any knife used to threaten harm to others, brass knuckles, bludgeons or any other device or substance intended to be used to inflict serious bodily injury or death. Students who inadvertently bring in a dangerous or deadly weapon will not be punished if he or she immediately, and voluntarily, notifies an adult at school and gives up the weapon.

The staff of High Plains Elementary School is eager to work and learn with all members of our community to ensure we provide an engaging educational experience for our children! Best wishes for a fun and productive year of growing together!