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PARENT HANDBOOK

Highland Elementary School 1301 Edge Hill Road Abington, PA 19001

(215) 884-1048

SAFETY TEAMWORK A POSITIVE ATTITUDE RESPECT SUCCESS

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Dear Parents and Guardians, Welcome to Highland Elementary School in the Abington School District. Our faculty and staff are excited to welcome you to a dynamic learning community where students can grow and learn together. Highland Elementary is nestled in a culturally rich and diverse community and serves over 500 students, in grades kindergarten through sixth. The administrators, teachers, and support personnel at Highland Elementary are committed to providing an enriching educational experience for all our students, while meeting the unique and individual needs of each child. We embrace serving a diverse community with many different cultures and varying academic levels. Our goal is to develop successful, life-long learners, and for every child to reach his or her full potential. We believe that our school provides students with the opportunity to learn in a safe and respectful environment using a rigorous, standards-based curriculum. To help meet the diverse needs of our students, Highland utilizes a multi-tiered system of support (Response to Intervention and Instruction or RtII), to continuously monitor student progress and deliver support when necessary. To encourage positive and appropriate behavior, Highland Elementary leverages a school-wide approach (SWPBIS) called Husky S.T.A.R.S. (Safety, Teamwork, A positive Attitude, Respect, and Success) and the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. As we begin the 2019-2020 school year, we embark on a new chapter of our school’s storied history. We encourage our families to be involved with our school in any way they can. Family engagement helps to provide students with the critical support and resources needed for their success. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available at Highland, including our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), and we encourage all our families to join.

Once again, welcome back, and if you and your children are new to the Highland Community, welcome! I am looking forward to another wonderful and successful school year. Sincerely, James S. Etlen III, Ed. D. Principal

“Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” ~ John C. Maxwell

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Table of Contents

Staffing Assignments 2

Arrival and Dismissal 4

Before Care and After Care 6

Attendance 6

Before/After School Activities 9

Birthdays 10

Cafeteria 10

Calendar of School Days & Activities 11

Change of Address 12

Child Abuse and Neglect 12

Curriculum 12

Evaluating Student Progress 14

Home and School Communication 15

Cell Phone Policy 17

Discipline Policy 17

Dress Code 19

Emergency Cards 19

Field Trips 19

Homework 20

Lost and Found 20

Nondiscrimination Policy 20

Olweus Bullying Prevention 20

Programs and Services 21

Recess 23

Safety Drills 23

School Property 24

Skyward Family Access 24

Student Accident Medical Insurance 24

Student Personal Items 24

Student Photo Release 25

Visiting the School 25

Volunteers 25

Weather Emergency Procedures 25

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2019 - 2020 STAFFING ASSIGNMENTS (Subject to change) POSITION NAME ROOM Principal Dr. James Etlen Office Elementary Curriculum Specialist Ms. Bonnie Howe 206 Administrative Assistant Ms. Kathie Lu Smith Office Clerk Ms. Deborah Henry Office Psychologist Ms. Nada Damjanac 205 Reading Specialist Ms. Kathryn Allen 218 Reading Specialist (Title I) Ms. Maureen Foley 119/120 Nurse TBD 202 Health Assistant Ms. Laura Kress 202 Kindergarten Ms. Lauren Neary 208 Ms. Kabrene Pittman 209 Ms. Brooke Arnold 210 Grade 1 Ms. Angela Reed 213 Ms. Jaime Eberly 214 Ms. Donna Cehelsky 215 Grade 2 Ms. Denise Young 219 Mr. Joseph Przasnyski 220 Ms. Pamela Tuffy 221 Grade 3 Mr. Joseph Garcia 225 Ms. Ellen Park 226 Ms. Lynn Campana 227 Grade 4 Ms. Rebecca Coutts 106 Mr. Kevin Macnamara 107 Ms. Kimberly Rush 108 Grade 5 Ms. Theresa Crouthamel 113 Mr. George Kaufmann 114 Ms. Jessica Ambrose 115 Grade 6 Mr. Jeffrey Chou 121 Ms. Lisa Heuer 122 Ms. Lisa Hierholzer 123

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POSITION NAME ROOM LS – Primary Ms. Danielle Luber 212 AS/ES – Primary Ms. Kelly Peterson 218 LS – Intermediate Ms. Meghan McKinnon 109 AS/ES – Intermediate Ms. Heather Fisher 116

Librarian Ms. Caitlin Esmond 211 Physical Education Mr. Francis Kotkoskie 217 ESL Ms. Mary Ryan 224 Art Ms. Patricia Forrest 101 Music Ms. Lori Wolf 102 Instrumental Music Mr. George Frueh Instrumental Music Mr. Kevin Longwill Instrumental Music Ms. Stephanie Coppola Instrumental Music Mr. Seth Shirk Speech Ms. Danni McGinty 203 Instructional Aide Ms. H. Gail Allen Instructional Aide Ms. Margaret Bean Instructional Aide TBD Instructional Aide Ms. Nancy Lyons Instructional Aide Ms. Bernadette Shillington Instructional Aide Ms. Cindy Rice Instructional Aide Ms. Patricia Walker Instructional Aide (Title I) Ms. Lina Capone Cafeteria/Playground Aide Ms. Teresa Caristo Cafeteria/Playground Aide Ms. Cindy Castillo Cafeteria/Playground Aide Ms. Connie Whiting Cafeteria/Playground Aide TBD Head Custodian Mr. Andrew Bell Night Custodians Mr. Michael Cillio Ms. Sharron Lowry Cafeteria Manager/Cook Ms. JoAnn High Cafeteria Ms. Barbara Frost Mr. Ronald Cordero Mr. Dave Popeck

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL INFORMATION

Our priority in developing these procedures is to protect the safety of each and every child.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES: • Student absences should be reported via Skyward or the Child Check system. Contact:

215-884-1048 and press option 2 • Students should not be dropped off to school prior to 8:30 AM (unless attending the

YMCA Morning Care) • Changes to dismissal procedures should be made in writing to your child’s teacher or in

emergency instances by calling the main office. • Children are not permitted to ride bicycles, skate boards, roller blades, or roller shoes to

school. • Children may only ride the bus to which they are assigned. Walkers are not permitted to

go home on a classmate’s bus. • Pets are not permitted on school property when walking children to and from school, or

during any school events such as picnics, Spring Fling and field day. • Students will not be permitted back to the classroom after dismissal unless the teacher is

present in the room.

ARRIVAL PROCEDURES 8:30 – 8:50 AM • Children may arrive to school between 8:30 AM and 8:50 AM. There is no supervision

prior to 8:30 AM. The school day begins at 8:50 AM and the instructional day begins at 9:00 AM.

• Kindergarten students gather in their classroom common area near the Keith Road entrance.

• Students who ride the bus to school will exit the bus in our bus lane at the front of our school and walk around the building to their arrival locations on the blacktop.

• Students in grades 1 - 6 line up on the blacktop behind the school according to their classroom numbers. During inclement weather, students in grades 1 - 6 will line up in the gymnasium.

• Students who are dropped off via our car line (Keith Rd. driveway) should exit the vehicle on the passenger side of the car and walk to their arrival locations. Parents and guardians are asked not to park or exit their vehicles in the car line.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES 3:20 PM • BUS RIDERS gather in the gymnasium to wait for their bus, according to their bus

number. Students must ride their assigned bus.

• WALKERS o Edge Hill Road Walkers will exit the front door of the school. Students remain

on the sidewalk until they come to the corner of Edge Hill Rd. and Keith Rd. where there is a crossing guard.

o Keith Road and Woodland Road Walkers will exit via the doors adjacent to the Art Patio behind the school.

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• YMCA After-Care children will report to the cafeteria.

• CARLINE o The Keith Road driveway is the ONLY parent drop-off and pick-up area. o Drivers must pull completely into the driveway, remain in their cars, and allow

the children to enter the passenger side of the cars o Please do not double park or have your car idle on Keith Rd. waiting to enter the

driveway for the car line. It is strongly recommended that you drive around the block until you are able to pull completely into the driveway. You may be ticketed by the police.

o Our staff will communicate with you and escort your child to the car.

• Students are not permitted to remain on school grounds after dismissal without a parent or guardian present.

The following areas are not to be used for drop-off and pick-up:

• FRONT DRIVEWAY: This is reserved for bus traffic, child care vans, and YMCA before and after school access only.

• COMMUNITY DRIVEWAY (behind the school): This is not a public road, through street, or parking area.

• STAFF PARKING LOT on Woodland Road: cars are backing up and moving in and out. This is a very dangerous area for children.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL FORMS

• Parents should complete a student dismissal form for each child • These forms can be completed online • Students will be directed to the dismissal area you indicate • Requests to change your child’s dismissal procedure must be in writing to the teacher • For emergency changes to your child’s dismissal arrangement please call the main office

IMPORTANT: Do not e-mail the teacher or secretary to report an absence, late arrival or dismissal changes. E-mail is not a reliable method of communicating time-sensitive information.

Please notify the principal’s office immediately concerning arrival and/or dismissal procedures that may be unsafe. Parents who have a court specified custody arrangement must have current and appropriate court orders on file in the school office.

DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY

Parents should make every effort to schedule appointments for their children outside of the school day. In the rare event when students must be excused during the school day, parents need to send a note to their child’s teacher indicating who they will be released to and the time of the dismissal. If the note does not indicate a designee, the student will only be released to the parents/guardians. Students will only be dismissed from the front office. When a parent or designee comes to pick up a child, the person may be asked to show proper identification and must sign the child out in the log located in the office. If the child later returns to school, please sign the student in at the office and be sure to make school officials aware of the student’s return. This procedure is designed for the safety of our students and will be strictly enforced.

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BEFORE CARE/AFTER CARE For parents requiring childcare before 8:30 AM and after 3:20 PM, child care is made available at Highland School through the Abington YMCA. This program is independently managed by the Abington YMCA. Parents who are interested should contact the YMCA directly at (215) 884-9622 for details, fees, and enrollment information. There are other before/after care options available in the community. Please check in with the school office for a list of options.

ATTENDANCE

All students are required by Pennsylvania law to attend school regularly. There are occasions that may necessitate an excused absence from school. Excused Absences are granted for the following reasons:

• Specific illness • Family Emergency • Death in the immediate family • Bona Fide Religious holiday • Required court appearance • Medical or Dental appointment • Religious instruction – at the written request of a parent, students may be excused

for up to 36 hours of religious instruction per school year. • Obtaining professional health care or therapy

(For the complete list, please see the district’s Attendance policy at: http://www.abington.k12.pa.us/policies/media/sites/policies/STUDENTS/Absences-and-Lateness-Superintendents-Administrative-Procedure.pdf)

All absences will be treated as Unexcused until the school receives a written note from a parent/guardian explaining the reason for the absence.

Parents are now encouraged to notify the school of absences and the reason through Family Access on Skyward. The following pages are directions that parents will follow to report their child’s absence and submit an excuse note for the absence via Skyward.

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Submitting an absence online through Skyward Family Access After logging into your Skyward Family Access account you should see a screen that looks similar to the one below. From here, click on the Attendance option on the left. An attendance screen similar to the one below will be displayed. This screen shows this year’s attendance for your students.

To submit an absence for your student(s), click the “Enter Absent Request” link in the right hand corner of the screen. That link will open the following window.

Click “Add Request” to submit an absence.

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Enter the start and end date for the absence. Use the same date for both values if the absence is one day or part of a day. If the absence is all day, leave the default start and end times as is.

Use the “Reason” drop down and comments box to explain the absence. If there is not an adequate reason, please select “Other” and use the comment box to explain. Once you are finished, click Save. You will receive a confirmation email shortly after clicking Save. *If your child is ill, please enter a comment describing the illness. This data helps the school determine if any particular illness is predominant in a school as well as the county.* If an extended absence will span over the weekend (for example, a student is out Friday and the following Monday), two separate absences will need to be entered. To cancel a pending absence if student will not be absent: Click the Enter Absence Request button to see a pending absence for a student that has yet to be processed. Use the Delete button to the left of the listed absence.

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Parents may also report a student absence by calling our Child Check system. When reporting your child’s absence, please call (215) 884-1048, prompt #2 before 9:00 AM and leave the following information: your name, child’s name, teacher’s name, date(s) of absence, and the reason for the absence. If you do not report your child’s absence, a member of our staff will use the telephone numbers you provide on the emergency card to verify your child’s absence. According to the school district, family trips are considered an Unexcused Absence. Upon notifying the school that a family trip is planned, the principal will send a notice informing parents/guardians of the district’s policy. Unexcused Absences- are absences for any reason not listed above. For example, overslept, missed the bus, visiting relatives, etc. would be considered an unexcused absence. All absences are recorded “unexcused” until an absence note with a legal reason is received by the office. If notification has not been received by the school within seven (7) days of the return to school, the absence will remain recorded as “unexcused” and may be deemed “unlawful”. After 3 accrued Unexcused Absences, parents will be sent an Official Notice of Child’s Illegal Absence from the district’s attendance officer and the school will schedule a meeting to develop a mutually agreed upon School Attendance Improvement Plan. At Highland, we believe that there is a correlation between consistent attendance and student achievement. Consistent attendance in school influences a child’s social and emotional development as well. Much of what is learned in school involves direct instruction, peer discussion, and hands-on activities. This is difficult and often impossible to replicate if your child is not in school.

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Throughout the school year, Highland may offer a variety of before and after school activities for students. These activities may include, but are not limited to:

• Academic Club • VIBE • Intramural Sports (intermediate grade students only) • IMAGINE • STEM Club • Garden/Mosaic Club • Science Club • Reading Olympics • Safety Patrol • Chess Club

Children must have a parent’s or guardian’s permission to participate and attend all before/after school activities. It is expected that students who are participating in these activities will be dropped off and picked up at the appropriate times. Failure to adhere to this may jeopardize your child’s participation in these activities.

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BIRTHDAYS

We understand and recognize the importance of celebrating birthdays and know our students look forward to celebrating with their classmates and friends. Our teachers will designate an appropriate time of the day for recognizing birthdays to avoid disrupting their instructional schedules. Parents may send in a small, preferably healthy, treat with their child to share with his/her classmates. No sheet cakes, ice cream, balloons, treat bags, candles, or flowers are to be delivered or brought to school. We request that items be dropped off to the office before 8:40 AM to avoid disruption to the educational program. If you plan to send a small treat, please arrange a specific date and time with your child’s teacher. Additionally, it is critical that parents check with their child’s teacher about specific food allergies (peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, etc.) prior to sending any treats to school. Class time/Instructional time will not be used for birthday celebrations. Birthday invitations are not to be distributed during school time. Student addresses are available in the Highland Elementary School Directory, available through the PTO, for those who wish to invite individual children to parties outside of school. Please be advised that your child’s teacher may prefer non-edible treats.

CAFETERIA

The Abington School District has partnered with Chartwells to provide a nutritious breakfast and lunch in our cafeteria. Menus are planned by the district’s Food Services Manager to fulfill nutritional requirements as specified by federal regulations. Each month, a menu which lists the offerings for the month, is available on the district’s website.

Highland Elementary has a breakfast program where students can purchase breakfast each morning from 8:30 AM – 8:50 AM. The cost of breakfast is $1.30, which includes milk. The price of a complete lunch, which includes milk, is $2.80. Other items such as pretzel rods, cookies, ice cream, etc. are available at an additional cost. The cost of milk only is: $0.55. You may pay for breakfast or lunch either by cash, checks (may be made payable to Abington School District), or prepaid on-line (https://www.myschoolbucks.com). When sending breakfast/lunch money in with your child, please send the money in an envelope and clearly label the envelope with your child’s name and what the money is to be used for. Eligibility forms for free/reduced lunch are available in the school office. Free and reduced rates also apply to breakfast. Recess teachers supervise students in the cafeteria and direct students when to clean-up, dispose of trash, and monitor behavior. Children are expected to conduct themselves in the same manner as they would be expected to in the dining room of their home. Failure to observe these rules will result in the loss of cafeteria privileges. The rules related to student behavior in the cafeteria are included in the School-Wide Positive Behavior System-Husky STARS Handbook. It is important for parents to take the time to review this handbook with their children.

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CALENDAR OF SCHOOL DAYS AND ACTIVITIES Each family in Abington School District should receive a school district calendar. In addition to the school district calendar, please observe the Husky Happenings and other correspondence from the school for additional dates, events, and highlighted announcements. Although every effort was made to ensure that the dates and times for district and Highland Elementary School activities are accurate, there may be some errors in printing.

CALENDAR 2019-2020

2019 July 4 Thursday Schools & Offices Closed August 28, 29 & 30 Wednesday, Thursday & Friday Inservice Days September 2 Monday Schools & Offices Closed September 3 Tuesday First Day of Student Attendance September 30 Monday Schools Closed and Offices Open October 1 Tuesday Schools Closed and Offices Open October 9 Wednesday Schools Closed and Offices Open November 5 Tuesday Inservice Day-Schools Closed November 28 & 29 Thursday & Friday Schools & Offices Closed December 23 Monday Schools Closed and Offices Open December 24, 25 & 26 Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday Schools & Offices Closed December 27 & 30 Friday & Monday Schools Closed and Offices Open December 31 Tuesday Schools & Offices Closed 2020 January 1 Wednesday Schools & Offices Closed January 20 Monday Schools & Offices Closed February 14 Friday Inservice Day – Schools Closed February 17 Monday Schools & Offices Closed April 9 Thursday Schools Closed and Offices Open April 10 Friday Schools & Offices Closed April 13 Monday Schools Closed and Offices Open April 28 Tuesday Inservice Day – Schools Closed May 25 Monday Schools & Offices Closed June 16 Tuesday Last Day of Student Attendance June 17 Wednesday Teacher Records Day June 17-23 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Auxiliary Instructional Days in

Monday & Tuesday the event of School Closings

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the school office of any change in address or telephone numbers. In the event a child is moving out of the community, a note must be submitted to the office stating the reason for the withdrawal and when the anticipated move will transpire. When a family moves out of the district, the child is considered a nonresident and is no longer eligible to attend schools in the Abington School District.

CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT The health, safety, and welfare of all of our students are very important. All school district employees are mandated reporters by law. Any school district employee will report suspected non-accidental injuries or signs of neglect to the appropriate authorities.

CURRICULUM

COMMUNICATION ARTS Our reading/communication arts program for students in grades K – 5 is the Journeys program by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Students in grade 6 utilize the Treasures Program, as well as high interest novels for their reading instruction. Reading and writing skills are developed as part of an integrated approach to communication arts.

• Response to Instruction and Intervention or RtII (Tiered Reading Instruction or Tier Time) - In addition to receiving core reading instruction, students in Kindergarten through grade 3 also receive targeted reading instruction several times per week. This instruction is based on reading assessment data and is designed to provide students with additional instruction targeted towards their needs. This may be specific remedial instruction or additional exposure to more challenging literature.

• Reading support services may be provided by our school’s reading specialist to promote student success in reading and writing. For students who qualify, additional support may be provided by our Title I Reading Specialist.

MATHEMATICS Students at Highland Elementary use McGraw-Hill Education’s Everyday Mathematics program for math instruction in grades kindergarten through six. This comprehensive program was developed by the University of Chicago School of Mathematics Project and is designed to help students develop an understanding and proficiency with numbers and number operations, geometry and measuring concepts, develop an understanding of algebraic concepts, probability and statistics, and develop problem solving skills. Math homework, called Home Links and Study Links, are typically assigned nightly.

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As our students learn mathematic skills and concepts, teachers will vary instruction to meet individual student needs. This may be done via the use of math games and center activities.

• Math support services are provided by the elementary curriculum specialist, the math assistance person (MAP), or the Title I Paraprofessional (for students that qualify for this service).

SCIENCE The Science and Technology for Children Program (STC), developed by the National Science Resource Center at the Smithsonian with the support of the National Science Foundation, is used in grades first through fifth. Our kindergarten students use the FOSS program. Students in grade 6 utilize Science Fusion, by Houghton Mifflin. This program is now aligned with the program implemented at the junior high level. SOCIAL STUDIES The Macmillian-McGraw Hill social studies program is a textbook based program that offers instruction in civics, economics, geography, and history. This program is used by our students in grades K – 3, 5, and 6. Students also learn about people and places from across the United States and the Western hemisphere. Students in grade 4 focus on the study of Pennsylvania using the Gibbs Smith Education social studies program. HEALTH Health education is taught in all elementary grades and addresses a variety of topics using the Health Wave Promotions program. It also includes age appropriate instruction on the consequences of tobacco, and drug and alcohol abuse. The DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program and AIDS instruction is offered to students in grade six. SPECIAL AREA CLASSES Instruction in Art, General Music, Library and Physical Education is provided on a weekly basis by instructional specialists certified in their particular discipline. Each special class is 45-minutes long. A choral music program is provided for students in grades five and six. Instrumental music is offered to students beginning with strings in grade 3. Instrumental music instruction with brass, percussion, and woodwind instruments begins in grade 4.

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EEVVAALLUUAATTIINNGG SSTTUUDDEENNTT PPRROOGGRREESSSS

Students are evaluated by teachers across various subject areas. Teachers establish their expectations for the lessons that are taught and determine how students will be evaluated. Students are usually graded on competency, productivity, and demonstrated performance of newly acquired skills. Improving the academic achievement for all children is an essential part of Pennsylvania’s educational system. The State of Pennsylvania reports progress in and mastery of academic standards using the following descriptors: Advanced, Proficient, Basic, and Below Basic. In keeping with the vision established by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Abington School District has established a reporting system that reflects the Pennsylvania Academic Standards and the performance levels used for the Pennsylvania State System of Assessment. The state descriptors are defined as follows:

Level Description of Academic Performance for this Level

Advanced

The Advanced Level reflects superior academic performance. Advanced work indicates an in-depth understanding and exemplary display of the skills included in the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards. Students working at the advanced level have the ability to apply and extend learning and explore topics independently (93 – 100% mastery on assessment items).

Proficient

The Proficient Level indicates a solid understanding and adequate display of the skills with respect to Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards. Students who are working at a proficient level have the ability to apply and extend learning with support. (80 – 92% mastery on assessment items)

Basic

The Basic Level indicates a partial understanding of the skills and strategies included in the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards. This work is approaching proficient performance, but the student demonstrates a need to begin applying and extending learning. When scored numerically, students performing on a Basic Level would have scored between 60 – 79% on assessments.

Below Basic

Students working at a Below Basic Level are demonstrating little understanding and display minimal mastery of concepts and skills with respect to the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards. There is a significant need for additional and focused instructional opportunities. Students working at a below basic level score below 60% on assessments scored numerically.

N/A Not assessed during the present marking period.

Report cards are issued three (3) times per year: December, March, and June (June report cards are available through Skyward Family Access only). Report Card Conferences Report card conferences are an important means of communicating your child’s progress. Although these conferences should not be your only communication with your child’s teacher, they do provide an opportunity for parents/guardians and teachers to meet and discuss academic progress, social concerns, set goals, and share ideas and suggestions for continued

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growth. Report card conferences are held in December and in March. Specific dates are listed on the Abington School District calendar. Report card conference days are early dismissal days. Your child’s teacher will communicate with you to schedule a conference time.

HOME AND SCHOOL COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION Effective communication between home and school is essential to the success of each child. The faculty and staff at Highland Elementary utilize a variety of means to communicate with our families. Information is communicated to our families via the PTO created Husky Happenings and Thursday packets. You may also receive periodic handouts, emails, and automated phone calls from the school to keep you apprised of important information. Our teachers may communicate with families in a variety of ways such as: class newsletters, class websites, emails, and phone calls. Your child’s teacher will inform you of their preferred means of communication. Talking with your child’s teacher is essential: Our teachers are always happy to speak with you. Our teachers are available to talk with you either by phone, email, or to schedule an appointment to meet with them personally. The best times to contact teachers are before and after school. Please feel free to leave a voice mail message.

During the school day our teachers have the responsibility of focusing their attention on their students. If calls are made during the school day, please understand that our teachers will not be able to take the call. If there is something that cannot wait, please send a note with your child or visit the office. We will ensure that the teacher receives your message or request.

Communicating with the Staff:

You may communicate with your child’s teacher using any of the methods listed in this section. These types of messages typically involve transportation (non-emergency changes), homework completion, questions related to classroom events, touching base, or just a “heads up” on family matters.

• Notes – Sending a brief note is a good way to communicate with your child’s teacher. Teachers usually ask the children at the beginning of the day for any “notes to the teacher”.

• Email – Teachers will typically check their email either before or after school. Please

recognize that teachers have been directed not to check or respond to email during instructional time! Teachers will make every effort to respond within 24 hours of receiving an email.

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• Phone calls – When calling Highland Elementary you will have the option of leaving a message directly on your child’s teacher’s voice mail by entering their extension. You may also dial the main office and the administrative assistant will gladly connect you with the teacher’s voice mail. Please note: Administrative assistants will not interrupt a teacher during instructional time. Your child’s teacher will typically return a phone call within 24 hours (providing he/she is in school). If your message to the teacher requests a call back prior to the end of the school day, please inform the administrative assistant of the urgency. If you have not heard from the teacher after 24 hours, please contact the office.

• Voice mail – If you dial your child’s teacher’s extension during instructional time, you will be directed to his/her voice mail. The teacher will respond within 24 hours of your message.

Communicating Concerns to the Staff:

Get the details! Take a few minutes to discuss the situation with your child before calling the school. Ask such questions as:

❖ Who was involved in the situation? ❖ Where and when did it occur? ❖ Who was the closest adult to the situation? ❖ Were there any witnesses? Who are they? ❖ What happened prior to the situation? ❖ Is there something you could have done to prevent the situation? ❖ Did you tell an adult? If so, whom? ❖ Did you visit the nurse?

Once you have the details, call the school. If it is a problem that occurred in the classroom, contact your child’s teacher. Usually they are in the best position to respond to classroom related concerns. If it is a problem that is outside the realm of your child’s teacher, they can usually direct you to the appropriate person who will assist you. Contacting the Principal: Parents are welcome to contact the principal if there are questions, concerns, or issues pertaining to the school program. You may contact the main office and leave a message with the Administrative Assistant to the Principal at (215) 884-1048. Communication from the School: Husky Happenings– Highland’s PTO publishes a comprehensive newsletter that highlights upcoming events, information on our activities, fundraisers, and includes community flyers. Skyward Messages– Parents will receive periodic “Skyward Messages” from the school with reminders, information on upcoming events, etc. In an attempt to reduce the amount of paper sent home, most communications will be sent this way. Please be sure you are updating your email and phone contact information on the school district’s Skyward system.

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Emails from Teachers – Some of our teachers will send emailed updates to parents keeping them up-to-date with what is happening in their child’s classroom.

CELL PHONE POLICY

We understand that an increasing number of families find it necessary to provide a cell phone for their children to use in case of emergencies. For this reason students are permitted to have cell phones on school property. All cell phones, however, must be turned off and stored in your child’s back pack. Students are not permitted to carry or use cell phones during the school day. Students who do not observe this policy are subject to disciplinary actions. Additionally, smart watches (Apple Watch, VTech Kidizoom, Gizmopal, etc.) are not permitted to be worn during the school day.

DISCIPLINE POLICY (SCHOOL-WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORT)

Providing a safe and respectful learning environment for all students is a priority for all of us here at Highland Elementary. In addition to the discipline policy established by the Abington School District, Highland Elementary has developed a school-wide approach to promoting positive and appropriate behavior. Students at Highland are taught to recognize five important behavior attributes that we believe will help students as they grow and learn. Students are taught to demonstrate: Safety, Teamwork, A positive Attitude, Respect, and Success. We refer to this as “Husky S.T.A.R.S Behavior”. In teaching children to demonstrate socially appropriate behavior, there may be times when students make choices that are not consistent with Highland’s code of conduct. At times these choices will need to be examined and consequences for inappropriate behavior are necessary. These consequences are designed to help children reflect upon the choice they made, understand the consequences of their actions and who may have been affected, and how they could make a better choice in the future. These consequences may include: a time-out to reflect on the inappropriate behavior, time spent with the teacher or other professional to discuss and reflect on their behavior, a disciplinary notice sent home, loss of recess or another preferred activity, loss of privilege, parent contact, and/or a conference with the principal. There are times, however, when a child’s behavior requires a more severe consequence and an exclusion from the school setting. These behavioral infractions are outlined in the Abington School Board Policies and include:

• Buying, selling, giving, receiving, transferring, possessing, using, or being under the influence of unauthorized drugs or other substances in school, on school property, or at any school-sponsored activity – Referral to Abington Police Department.

• Use, possession, or being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage in school, on school property, or at any school-sponsored activity – Referral to Abington Police Department.

• Bullying, as defined by Abington Board Policy.

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• Possession of a weapon in school, on school property, at any school-sponsored activity. Referral to Abington Police Department and may constitute a one-year expulsion.

• Fighting • Stealing • Disrespectful speech or actions. • Obscene conduct or language • Forgery • Vandalism of any nature, including defacing, damaging, or destroying school property or

the property of any school employee, student, or visitor on school grounds. • Unauthorized entry into a school building or other school district property. • Leaving school or school property without permission. • Refusal to leave school or school property upon direction. • Possession of tobacco, smoking of tobacco, and any use of tobacco by a student is

prohibited in school buildings, on school buses, and on school property owned by, leased by, or under control of the Abington School District.

• Setting off a false fire alarm. Student will also be referred to the fire marshal’s office. • Possession of electronic devices such as laser pointers, telephone pagers, or cellular

telephones in school or on school grounds as defined by Abington School Board Policy. • The use of any slur based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender

expression. • Conduct adversely affecting the school • Any action which is deemed to have been a threat or to be a threat, to the health, safety,

or welfare of other students or school employees – May constitute a referral to Abington Police Department and mental health services.

• Chronic insubordination If a situation arises where a child has committed one of these offenses, it will be investigated by an administrator and the child’s parent or guardian will be notified and asked to pick their child up from school. Please note this occurs only on the rarest of circumstances. Our goal is to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for all our students. Please see our Husky STARS Handbook for our complete disciplinary policy.

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DRESS CODE

Although there is no specific dress code for students, we ask that parents adhere to clothing that is appropriate for the educational setting and with consideration to safety and weather conditions. We ask that:

• Students refrain from wearing clothing depicting violence, alcohol, or drugs • Students refrain from wearing halter tops or clothing that exposes midriffs/torsos • Students refrain from wearing flip-flops or loose sandals • Students wear shorts and skirts that are a respectable length • Students wear clothing with arm holes snug to the body and not cut too low • Students refrain from wearing tops with spaghetti straps • Students refrain from wearing hats or caps indoors

Physical Education During days when your child has gym class they should remember to wear appropriate clothing for gym. It is especially important for your child to wear sneakers that are in good repair. Also, students should leave jewelry and valuables at home. Recess We encourage all students, who are able, to spend time outdoors and enjoy their recess as much as possible. With this in mind, it is important that students come to school with the appropriate attire for recess (including a warm coat, hats, gloves, scarves, etc. in the winter months). As a reminder, parents should encourage their children to leave valuables and toys at home as we cannot be responsible for loss or theft. Electronic devices, including cell phones, are not permitted.

EMERGENCY CARDS

Emergency cards are kept on file for each child providing information to assist in locating parents, family physician, emergency contacts, and dismissal arrangements for students in the event of an unexpected early dismissal. Please be sure that you provided a local number to reliable contact (i.e. a friend, a nearby relative or neighbor, etc.). Also, it is critical that this information be kept up-to-date with the school.

FIELD TRIPS

Teachers may schedule field trips during the school day from October through May when such a trip enhances the instructional program. Students must have a signed permission slip in order to participate in the activity. In the event a child does not go on the trip, he/she is required to attend school. Provisions will be made for the child to be placed in another class for the length of the trip.

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HOMEWORK

Homework is designed to extend, reinforce, and practice what was learned in the classroom that day. Homework is typically assigned nightly, Monday through Thursday. Homework assignments may vary by subject and gradually increase in the time necessary for completion as students move from grade to grade. Below is a chart that delineates the approximate time it should take students at each grade level to complete their homework:

Kindergarten 5 – 10 minutes First Grade 15 – 20 minutes

Second Grade 20 – 25 minutes Third Grade 30 – 45 minutes

Fourth Grade 45 – 60 minutes Fifth Grade 60 – 75 minutes Sixth Grade 60 – 75 minutes

LOST & FOUND

Highland Elementary has a lost and found for items that have been left on the playground, etc. The lost and found is located in the school cafeteria. Please remind your child to check the lost and found periodically during their lunch time if they have lost an item. We strongly recommend you label your child’s belongings, such as: lunch boxes, book bags, jackets, etc. to help with the return of lost items.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

It is the policy of this District to provide an equal opportunity for all students to achieve their maximum potential through the programs offered in the schools regardless of race, color, national origin/ethnicity, ancestry, veteran status, gender, age, disability or handicap, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or religion. Abington School District is committed to complying fully with all federal and state laws regarding discrimination. If you believe that you or your child is a victim of discrimination by the school district, you should refer the matter to the attention of the building principal or area supervisor. If the matter is not resolved satisfactorily, it should be brought to the attention of the Superintendent of Schools. Questions or concerns may also be directed to the Director of Student Services who is the district’s Compliance Coordinator (215) 881-2505.

OLWEUS BULLYING PREVENTION

The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program (OBPP) is utilized in addition to our school-wide positive behavior support program. This program addresses bullying through a preventive and responsive approach and focuses on changing norms. Teachers conduct class meetings on a regular basis that are designed to identify issues and promote healthy and positive school

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environment. For more information about the Olweus program please contact your child’s teacher or our school psychologist at (215) 884-1048, select prompt #4.

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

There are a variety of programs and services that are offered here at Highland Elementary designed to enrich your child’s educational experience. The following is a brief description of some of the programs and services offered here at Highland. Core Team & Comprehensive Student Support Program (C.S.S.P) The core team is comprised of the elementary curriculum specialist, the reading specialists, the school psychologist, and the building principal. The core team continuously monitors student academic progress and school performance. Classroom teachers will apprise the core team of student issues related to attendance, behavior, and any concerns that families may have about the progress of their child. When it is determined that a student would benefit from additional interventions or services, a plan is developed in collaboration with the teacher/parent/guardian and monitored for its effectiveness. Additional interventions or referrals may be made considering the effectiveness of the interventions. If you have any questions about the CSSP process please contact Ms. Bonnie Howe, Elementary Curriculum Specialist (215) 884-1048 ext. 1206 Math Support In monitoring student performance in the Everyday Math program the elementary curriculum specialist, in collaboration with the classroom teacher, may provide math support to students who are struggling with concepts and skills that are being presented in the curriculum. This math support does not take the place of the ongoing remediation that is provided by your child’s teacher, but serves as an additional opportunity for review and re-teaching. Our Elementary Curriculum Specialist also utilizes the support of our Math Assistance Paraprofessional (MAP) to meet with small groups of children or to provide in class support. Math Enrichment Grades 1 & 2 Math enrichment is provided to students in grades 1 and 2 by the Math Assistance Paraprofessional. Students are selected for participation in math enrichment based on teacher recommendation and exceptional performance during math lessons and on math unit tests. A variety of enriching materials are used to stimulate students’ love of mathematics. Students also participate in the Pennsylvania Statistical Poster Contest. Additional information regarding the Pennsylvania Statistics Poster Contest is available at: www.francis.edu/pa-statistics-poster-competition.

Grade 3 Students in grade 3 who are selected to participate in math enrichment participate in a contest called MathFax. The MathFax contest is a national contest where students take a series of tests

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throughout the year and compete as a school team and individually for the top scores. The top three students on the team receive an award. Awards are also given for the top scorer in each division and the top school in each division. In addition, students learn skills and strategies in between each test date to develop and enhance their mathematical abilities. Additional information regarding the MathFax contest is available at: www.Educontest.com. Grade 4 – 6 Students in grades 4 – 6 who are selected to participate in math enrichment participate in a contest called Math Olympiad. Math Olympiad is a worldwide competition where students learn creative problem-solving and take 5 tests throughout the year to compete for top scores. This program is designed to teach students to think mathematically, introduce them to important mathematical concepts, and teach students strategies for problem solving. Additional information regarding the Math Olympiad contest is available at: http://www.moems.org/program.htm.

Grade 6 Students in grade 6 also participate in the Pennsylvania Math League contest. This contest provides top mathematics students an opportunity to compete for the highest scores in a 30-minute test that measures their ability in topics such as: basic facts, exponents, fractions, basic roots, patterns, integers, etc. Additional information regarding the Pennsylvania Math League contest is available at: http://www.mathleague.com/. Math enrichment in grades 3 – 6 is facilitated by the Elementary Curriculum Specialist. Health Services Highland’s health suite is operated by a Certified School Nurse, and a Health Assistant. Our health suite is available to serve students who get occasional cuts and abrasions, bumps, dispense medication, conduct mandated health screenings, and respond to health emergencies. The school nurse cannot diagnose any illness or medical condition. If your child is sick or is showing signs of an illness, he or she should remain home. Students with an elevated temperature should remain home for at least 24 hours.

• Medicines o The administration of medicine to students by the nurse may be authorized only

in emergency cases and only upon the completion and filing of the forms giving permission to administer the medication, as noted by the physician’s and parent’s instructions.

o All medicines must come to school in the original container and be kept in the nurse’s office.

o Medications may be sent to school if the following conditions are met:

▪ A note from a doctor stating the name of the medication and how it is to be given (dosage, time to be given, reason for medication, length of time

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medication is to be administered). The medication must have the prescription label on the container.

▪ A note from the parent or guardian giving approval for the medication to be administered at the school.

If you have any questions or concerns you may reach the health suite by calling (215) 884-1048, select prompt #3. School Psychologist Our School Psychologist, Ms. Nada Damjanac, is here to assist students with a variety of social, emotional, and mental health concerns as it relates to their school experience. The psychologist also provides classroom guidance and conducts some counseling and social skills groups to help children with issues such as friendship problems, school adjustment, changes in family situation, etc. In addition, the school psychologist conducts evaluations for students that may qualify for gifted education (APEX Program) or for students that may be experiencing difficulties and makes recommendations for additional programs and services based on need. For more information, please contact Ms. Damjanac at (215) 884-1048, select prompt #4.

RECESS

Recess is a privilege students have daily prior to lunch. During recess students have the opportunity to engage in supervised recreational activities with their classmates. As a matter of safety and privacy, parents are not to join students on the recess yard. Students are reminded to conduct themselves appropriately and demonstrate Husky STARS behavior. Students are not permitted to bring electronic devices for use during recess. Students are discouraged from bringing balls and toys from home. A copy of the playground rules is located in the Husky STARS parent handbook.

SAFETY DRILLS

Ensuring student safety is a priority for all of the faculty and staff at Highland. To ensure our students are aware of safety procedures during an emergency situation, we practice several types of drills throughout the year to familiarize students and staff with these procedures.

• Fire Drills are practiced monthly and are designed to familiarize students with evacuating the building in the event of fire.

• Weather Emergency Drills are practiced to familiarize students with the procedures that would be implemented in the event of a weather emergency.

• Lockdown Drills are practiced to familiarize students and staff with securing themselves safely inside of the classroom or other areas of the building.

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SCHOOL PROPERTY We are very proud of our school and believe we have a state-of-the-art facility where students can grow and learn. All students are expected to treat the school with respect and care, helping in any way to keep our building looking its best. Students should report any incidence of vandalism to their teacher as soon as possible. Students are provided with books and instructional materials which we work very hard to keep in good working condition for future students. If a textbook or an instructional item is lost or broken, you will be informed of the cost and will be expected to replace the item. The same holds true for library books.

SKYWARD FAMILY ACCESS Abington School District utilizes a data management system called Skyward that stores important information such as attendance and student grades. In addition, important messages are sent to parents using this system. This information is accessible to parents by logging into the Skyward Family Access portal. Parents new to the Skyward system will receive information regarding signing into the system. For those who used the system in the past, you can access Skyward using your information from last school year. If you have difficulty getting into the Skyward system, please contact the principal’s office.

STUDENT ACCIDENT MEDICAL INSURANCE

Parents and guardians have the option to purchase private Student Accident Medical Insurance. This opportunity for student accident medical insurance is available to all Abington School District students. Please inquire with the Business Office at 215-881-2541 to obtain a brochure regarding the available coverage and enrollment/purchase information.

STUDENT PERSONAL ITEMS

Parents are urged to help their children understand that they are encouraged NOT to bring items of value (either monetary or sentimental) to school. This includes electronic devices, toys, etc. The district cannot be responsible for ensuring the safety of these items. Although cell phones are permitted on school grounds, school administration has the right to regulate the use of all electronic devices including cell phones and smart watches. Cell phones must be turned off and stored in the student’s school bag at all times while in school. Smart watches should not be worn during the school day.

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STUDENT PHOTO RELEASE The Abington School District is sincere in its commitment to keep the public informed of the programs, activities, and events that are taking place in our schools. The District typically offers descriptive accounts and photographs in releases intended for publication and distribution. Publications such as school calendars, newsletters, electronic media, newspapers, yearbooks, school programs, websites, etc. may contain student information and/or pictures or videos related to participation in an activity. To that end, please be sure to complete the form indicating whether or not you choose to have your child photographed and return it to your child’s teacher as soon as possible.

VISITING THE SCHOOL

We welcome parents and guardians to visit Highland Elementary during Back-to-School Night, American Education Week, Parent/Teacher Conferences, special events, and informal visits throughout the year. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact the principal. For the safety and protection of our students and staff, visitors are required to:

• Use the main entrance to enter and exit the building. • Sign In and Out using our Visitor’s Log located on the front counter in the main office. • Wear a visitor’s badge that is visible at all times while in the building. • Only visit the area where permission was granted.

Unnecessary interruptions disturb the learning process for everyone. If your child has forgotten an item at home you may bring it to the office. The office staff is not permitted to interrupt instructional time for forgotten items.

VOLUNTEERS

Parents are encouraged to volunteer in our library, cafeteria, and during specific classroom activities such as field trips. Your child’s teacher will communicate with you how he/she utilizes volunteers in the classroom. Parents who wish to volunteer must have appropriate clearances submitted and on file in advance of these opportunities. For additional volunteer opportunities, please contact the Highland PTO.

WEATHER EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Weather conditions such as: heavy snowfall, icy roads, or other adverse weather-related conditions may necessitate the closure of school or delay the opening of school. These decisions are made by the superintendent of schools in consultation with the transportation department, and are based on the health and safety of our students. Announcements regarding school cancellations or delayed openings are made on KYW-AM Newsradio (1060 on the AM dial)

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beginning as early as 6:00 AM. The school closing number for Abington School District is #301. School closing information is also provided to local television stations, Comcast cable channel 43 and 968, and Verizon FiOS channel 34. School closure or late arrival notifications will also be send out using our Skyward email message system and an automated phone call to the phone numbers that are listed in the Skyward system. Please note: it is very important that parents ensure their home and cell phone numbers are accurate and updated in the system. School closing information will also be available on the Abington School District website. Sometimes weather conditions become increasingly inclement during the school day and it may be necessary to dismiss school early. Early dismissal information will be communicated using the same systems to communicate school closings (KYW radio 1060 AM, local television stations, Comcast channel 43 and 968, & Verizon FiOS channel 34). E-Mail alerts will be sent to parents using the district’s Skyward Message system. Automated phone calls will also be sent to inform parents of the early closing. Early dismissal information will also be posted on the district’s website. It is imperative that parents monitor these information sources on days that weather may become inclement. In addition, parents should be sure to make arrangements and communicate these plans to their children so they are aware of what to do in the event of an early school closing. Students will be dismissed according to the dismissal arrangements you set forth on the weather emergency card. Bus schedules will operate in accordance with either school delays or early dismissals. For example, during a two-hour late arrival buses will arrive two-hours later than their normally scheduled time.