Eleanor Rush Intermediate School

Student Handbook 2018 - 2019

Deborah Banecker, M. Ed. Principal

1200 Wynwood Drive Cinnaminson, NJ 08077

Phone: (856) 829-7778 Fax: (856) 303-0218

Website: www.cinnaminson.com/ers

Eleanor Rush Intermediate School Staff 2018-2019

Principal Mrs. Deborah Banecker

Assistant Principal/Test Coordinator Mrs. Jeannie Abt

Reading Specialists Mrs. Hanna/Mrs. Helman/Mrs. Porter

Coordinator of Student Services Mr. Constantino

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Teacher Room Numbers

Mrs. Abt, 102

Mr. Adams, 101

Mr. Agin, 108

Mr. Angelone, 135

Mrs. Barker, 129

Mrs. Bongiovanni, 124

Ms. Bradian, 139

Mrs. Brown, 111

Mr. Carroll, 100

Ms. Catlett, 123

Mr. Constantino, 121

Mrs. Cook 114

Mrs. Davis 122

Mrs. Dobos, 138

Ms. Dougherty, 141

Mrs. Engle, 115

Mr. Fries, 112

Ms. Gatton, 130

Mrs. Hanna, 145

Mr. Harding, 109

Mrs. Helman, 145

Mr. Hercock, 101

Mrs. Hockenbrock, 144

Mrs. Kaffenberg, 145

Mrs. Kaliamouris, 120

Mrs. Kelly, 110

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Tentative Dates 2018-2019 Trimesters

Marking Period Ends 1st November 20 2nd March 7 3rd June 18

PARCC TESTING DATES Grades Three, Four & Five

The Partnership for Assessment of Readiness of College and Career (PARCC) testing will occur at Rush School for a few days from April 30, 2019 - May 17, 2019. Students will be assessed in English Language Arts (ELA)/Literacy and Mathematics. These assessments are computer-based.

Science Assessment Grade Five The New Jersey Student Learning Science Assessment for Fifth Grade Students will occur in May, 2019.

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Cinnaminson Schools Phone List

CENTRAL OFFICE HIGH SCHOOL Menu Options: Menu Options: 1. Staff Directory 1. Attendance Office 2. Administration 2. Main Offices 3. Child Study Team 3. Guidance 4. Student Activity Center (SAC) 4. Athletics and Activities 5. Computer Technology 5. Staff Directory 6. Project Challenge 6. Transportation Dept. 7. Telephone number for other schools 7. Maintenance Dept.

MIDDLE SCHOOL RUSH INTERMEDIATE NEW ALBANY Menu Options: Menu Options: Menu Options: 1. Attendance Office 1. School Closing Info. 1. School Closing Info. 2. Main Office 2. Attendance Office 2. Attendance Office 3. Nurse 3. Main Office 3. Main Office 4. Guidance Office 5. Guidance Office 5. Guidance Office 5. Media Center 6. Nurse 6. Nurse 6. Athletic Director 7. Library 7. Library

8. Cafeteria 8. Cafeteria

Emergency closing number - 652

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MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Cinnaminson School district is to educate our students and to assist their development into self-motivated, multi-faceted, happy and physically fit individuals who are productive, responsible citizens. With national and state program standards as a basis, Cinnaminson students will gain an appreciation of knowledge, a desire to learn, and a respect for themselves and others. In partnership with the family and the community, we will foster achievement and we will model excellence and responsible behavior.

PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION We believe that education requires the combined commitment of the School Board, administrators, teachers, parents, and the students as well as the residents of the community. We believe children learn best with qualified personnel, clean and safe facilities, and when a variety of challenging programs are the foundation of the school curricula. We believe the above criteria work together, creating a continuous, challenging program for all Cinnaminson students. We believe administrators provide support, leadership, and guidance to teachers, staff, and students. They encourage and promote opportunities that enhance educational programs. We believe teachers provide initiative, resourcefulness, and creativity while creating a positive learning environment. We believe students, with the support of their parents, are active participants in their education. Their participation is accomplished by doing their best and taking advantage of the wide range of curricular and co-curricular opportunities presented to them. Students are provided with the opportunity to exercise responsible decision making and are partners in their learning. We believe that educating Cinnaminson students is the shared concern of all parents, staff, teachers, students, Board members, and residents. Effective communication and cooperation among these groups is essential to establish a cohesive network that will achieve the level of excellence in education, they desire.

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September, 2018 Dear Parents and Students, Welcome to Eleanor Rush Intermediate School and the beginning of a new school year. I am honored to be your principal and thoroughly enjoy working with a dedicated staff, interacting with supportive families, and most of all watching the students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Please read this handbook thoroughly. This handbook explains the rules, policies, and procedures of the school, the services offered and the expectations for the education of the students. Parent participation as an active volunteer and member of the Home and School Association is encouraged. Home and school working together as a team will lead to a successful school year. I know you will find this information useful and that all students will have a memorable and exciting year. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of further assistance. Sincerely,

Deborah J. Banecker, M. Ed. Principal baneckerd@cinnaminson.com (856) 829-7778 ext. 5894

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Absences Eleanor Rush Intermediate School has a policy of calling your home if your child is absent from school. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to keep the main office informed of any changes in the home, work, and emergency phone numbers throughout the school year.

This procedure for checking absences is designed to protect the children. Our main concern is that a child leaves home and arrives safely at school. We have developed a system whereby both you, as parents, and the school will know for sure whether a child has arrived safely or is at home due to illness. In the event your child will be absent from school, we are requesting that you do the following: Send an email to your child’s teacher and to the office staff at ersmainoffice@cinnaminson.com. or send a note to the school office with another child.. The email or note should indicate your child’s name, teacher’s name, and the date(s) the child will be absent. You may also call the office at 829-7778, extension 5865, by 9 A.M. A note must still be sent in with your child when he or she returns to school after any absence, in addition to the above notification. This note must state the reason for the absence. Scheduling of family vacations during the school year is discouraged. Each absence from school can adversely affect the student’s academic and social development. Please make every attempt to schedule vacations and trips when students are on vacations from school. Planned absences of a non-emergency nature require the completion of an Educational Request Trip Form. These forms are available through the Main Office and must be filled out and returned to the office at least one week in advance of the student’s absence. Students will be held accountable for schoolwork missed during their absence. Additional Support Rush School offers additional support programs designed to help improve the basic skills of students who have fallen below State or District minimum standards in the areas of literacy and mathematics. Affirmative Action Statement All members of the student body, staff and community are reminded that, according to Title IX and N.J.A.C. 6A:7, the Cinnaminson Township Public Schools shall recognize and value the diversity of persons and groups within society and promote the acceptance of persons of diverse backgrounds regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion, disability, or socioeconomic status in the policies, programs, and practices of the district. Cinnaminson is an equal opportunity employer. Mr. Frank Goulburn, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, is the district Affirmative Action Officer. If you have a question or concern, you may call him at (856) 829-7600, ext. 2106, or write to him at the Cinnaminson Memorial School, 2195 Riverton Road, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077, or the Director of the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights, Trenton Regional Office, Office of the Attorney General, 140 East Front Street - 6th Floor, Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0090, (609) 292-4605. Mrs. Barbara Scola, Director of Special Services, is the 504 Coordinator. Section 504 is the Rehabilitation Act which prohibits discrimination on the basis of physical or mental handicap. If you have a question or concern, you may call her at (856) 829-7600, ext. 2117, or write to her at the Cinnaminson Memorial School, 2195 Riverton Road, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077. Attendance Absence from school seriously affects the opportunity for students to learn all that is prescribed in our courses of study. In addition, the laws of the State of New Jersey require regular school attendance. (NJSA 18A-38: 25-26) Cinnaminson Township Board of Education Policy 5410 states that “School attendance shall be a factor in the determination of a pupil’s promotion…” Furthermore, BOE R5410 stipulates that “a pupil with fewer than 150 days attendance in grades K-8 will not be promoted to the next grade level.” Absence from school for family vacation is discouraged. Days accrued while on the vacation will

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count toward the total number of missed days per year. Extenuating circumstances, as determined by the building principal, can waive the 150 day attendance requirements for grades K-8. The administration recognizes, however, there may be times when absence is unavoidable. In the event your child will be absent from school:

● Upon return to school, the student must bring a written note to the Main Office stating the student’s name, grade level, dates of absence, and reason for absence.

● The note must be signed by the student’s parent/guardian. ● Students are responsible for work missed during short-term absences. ● Absences due to family vacations or other travel of a non-emergency nature are discouraged and are unexcused absences.

Such absences do, however, require the completion of a Trip Notification Form. These forms are available through the main office and must be filed one week before the student’s absence.

● An illness exceeding two weeks may render a student eligible for Home Instruction. For additional information, please call the Coordinator of Student Services (Guidance Counselor).

A student must be in school for a minimum of four hours to be credited for a full day of attendance. The following constitute excused absences:

● Personal illness provided a doctor’s note is submitted within ten (10) days of student’s return to school. Notes may be verified.

● Participation in school sponsored activities and out-of-school suspensions. ● Religious holiday observances as permitted by statute. ● Death in the immediate family. ● Legal obligations verified in writing by the appropriate court official.

All other absences are unexcused. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5200) Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Rush School has two Automatic External Defibrillators (AED). One is located on the wall next to the main office. Another is located in the third grade wing next to room 140. Only district employees that are currently certified in CPR/AED are permitted to use this device in an emergency situation. Please see the school nurse if you have any questions or wish to view the protocol for this device. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5300) Bicycle Riders Students are permitted to ride bicycles to school only if written notification is given to the principal by a parent or guardian. Book Fair The Rush School library sponsors a fall book fair, where students may purchase books and other items. Child Study Team The Cinnaminson Child Study Team evaluates students to determine eligibility for special education services. If you believe your child may have a disability which adversely affects his or her educational performance, and you think your child is in need of special education services, please contact the Coordinator of Student Services (Guidance Counselor) at Rush School regarding the referral process for special education.

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Clubs The students have an opportunity to join the following after school activities:

● Art Club (grade 5 only) ● Unity Club ● Creative Arts Club ● Student Council ● Ecology Club ● Music Makers (audition required) ● Advanced Band ● Advanced Choir (audition required) ● Rush Fiddlers ● Rush Runners (pending BOE approval) ● Yoga and Mindfulness (before school club)

A student may be excluded from participating in one of the above clubs due to inappropriate behavior and/or has received a discipline referral. Coordinator of Student Services (Guidance Counselor) The Coordinator of Student Services is available for all students who wish to talk over any problems that may arise. In addition, class visitations are scheduled by the Coordinator of Student Services during the course of the year. On occasion, the Coordinator of Student Services will initiate individual sessions by contacting the classroom teacher and/or parents. Parents wishing to meet with the Coordinator of Student Services, Mr. Robert Constantino, may call 829-7778 ext. 5890 to schedule an appointment. Discipline The staff at Rush Intermediate School has the goal of maintaining an atmosphere throughout the school in which children are socially and emotionally secure and academically stimulated. In order to achieve a positive school environment, the students are expected to attend school regularly, dress appropriately, and exhibit self-control in all school related activities. In an effort to accomplish this goal, a Discipline Code has been developed. The Discipline Code is based on an infraction system that is designed to motivate students to exercise good conduct. The Code specifies various types of inappropriate behavior, as well as the consequences associated with those behaviors. The following information is intended as a guide for students, parents, and staff; it is not all encompassing. Other behavior problems and lunchroom and/or recess expectations, not precisely defined, that compromise the safety and order in our school will be handled by the staff and Administration or may require a police referral. This referral may involve a police officer going to the school to counsel, mediate, and resolve the situation. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5600)

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SCHOOL RULES

Take care of yourself.

Take care of each other. Take care of Eleanor Rush Intermediate School.

Expectations/Consequences During Lunch and Recess Lunchroom Expectations Student will:

1. Follow directions the first time given 2. Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves at all times 3. Walk 4. Use an indoor voice 5. Dispose of trash properly and at the appropriate time

Consequences Student will:

First Offense: Receive a verbal warning Second Offense: Remain 1 minute after table has been excused Third Offense: Remain 2 minutes after table has been excused Fourth Offense: Be removed to time-out table in the front of the cafeteria Fifth Offense: Receive an administrative referral

Rewards Students will:

1. Receive stickers on class chart, extended recess, or special treat 2. Work towards “Friendly Friday” (students may sit wherever they want)

Playground Expectations Student will:

1. Follow directions the first time given 2. Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves at all times 3. Properly use ONLY school approved equipment 4. NOT tease, use put downs, bully, or use foul language 5. Allow everyone to play

Consequences Student will:

First Offense: Receive a verbal reminder Second Offense: Sit out of recess for 5 minutes Third Offense: Sit out the remainder of recess on bench Fourth Offense: Lose recess Fifth Offense: Receive an administrative referral

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Dismissal / Early Dismissal For the safety of our students, any time a student will not be using his or her regular means of transportation home or to SAC, a written note or an email must be sent in to the child’s teacher and the office staff at ersmainoffice@cinnaminson.com that day. Any change in the normal dismissal for a child must be in an email or writing so that the teacher/office has confirmation of these plans. Please mention in the email if there is a change in dismissal for an after school club or intramural. Also, students cannot be called out of class for any dismissal changes once the afternoon announcements begin at 3:00 P.M. Therefore, if you want to have your child called for an early dismissal, please send an email or written note that morning and come to the office before 3:00 P.M.

A parent must come to the office to pick up a child for early dismissal. While your child is being called from the classroom, you must sign out your child on the yellow dismissal form on table in the secure vestibule.. At no time are you to take your child out of a line or off the bus without first signing him or her out.

❖ A STUDENT WILL NOT BE RELEASED TO ANYONE OTHER THAN A PARENT UNLESS THE OFFICE HAS AN EMAIL OR WRITTEN NOTE STATING WHICH INDIVIDUAL WILL BE PICKING UP YOUR CHILD. THE PERSON PICKING UP YOUR CHILD MUST BE PREPARED TO SHOW PHOTO IDENTIFICATION.

Parents/guardians who wish to pick up their child for an early dismissal should arrive and depart before 3 P.M. on a regular school day and before 12:40 P.M. on a single session day. To be credited with a full day of attendance, a student must be in school for a minimum of four hours. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5230) Drugs and Alcohol Any student found in possession or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, or has used or consumed the same, will be suspended from school. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5530) Emergency School Closing In order to ensure the safety of your child, he or she must be given an alternate place to go in case of any emergency dismissal in the event that no one is at home. This includes snow closings, or any other emergency school dismissals that may occur throughout the year. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5530)

EMERGENCY SNOW SCHOOL CLOSING NUMBER: 652 Grading The following grades will be given at the end of each marking period:

● A grade of 90 or above indicates superior performance. ● A grade of 80-89 indicates above average performance. ● A grade of 70-79 indicates average performance. ● A grade of 60-69 indicates below average performance. ● A grade below 60 indicates failing performance. ● Process writing will be graded holistically according to the state standards and will be recorded on a scale of 1 - 5.

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Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying The Cinnaminson Township Board of Education prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a pupil. A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for pupils to learn and achieve high academic standards. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its pupils in a safe and disciplined environment. “Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying” means any gesture, any written, verbal, or physical act, or electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents that:

1. Is reasonably perceived as being motivated by either any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability; or

2. By any other distinguishing characteristic; and that 3. Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off school grounds, as provided for in

N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.3, that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other pupils; and that

4. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or

5. Has the effect or insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils; or 6. Creates a hostile educational environment for the pupil by interfering with a pupil’s education or by severely or pervasively

causing physical or emotional harm to the pupil.

Individuals who believe they have been harassed should file a complaint with the building principal who will investigate the complaint with the Building Anti-Bullying Specialist, Mr. Robert Constantino. The District Affirmative Action Officer and Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Mr. Frank Goulburn, shall also be informed immediately of all such complaints. All HIB complaints will be investigated in accordance with Board policy 5512. All investigations will be private and remain confidential. To find further information on either the “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act” or the Cinnaminson Township Schools Board of Education Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy, please visit the district’s website at www.cinnaminson.com. Homework Homework is defined as out-of-class tasks assigned to students as an extension or elaboration of classroom work, and is an integral part of a child’s learning experience. There are three types of homework: practice, preparation, and extension. Practice assignments reinforce newly acquired skills. For example, students who have just learned a new method of solving a mathematical problem should be given sample problems to complete on their own. Preparation assignments help students get ready for activities that will occur in the classroom. Students may, for example, be required to do background research on a topic to be discussed later in class. Extension assignments are frequently long-term continuing projects that parallel class work. Students must apply previous learning to complete these assignments, which may include science and social studies projects and reports. Assigning homework serves various educational needs. It serves as an intellectual discipline, establishes study habits, and supplements and reinforces work done in school. In addition, it fosters student initiative, independence, and responsibility and brings home and school closer together. Failure to complete or turn in assignments on time will be reflected in your child’s final marking period average. Homework will be counted as a grade for each marking period. The Rush School homework formula will be as follows:

❖ All students will start out with 100 points for homework in each subject area. If a student misses a homework assignment, 6 points will be deducted. If the assignment is turned in late, 4 points will be deducted. The weight of the homework grade for

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the marking period will be left to the discretion of the teacher. A homework assignment is considered incomplete when it is not turned in to the teacher completed on its due date. Although board policy does not recognize vacations as excused absences, if there is an assignment due when you are going on vacation, then it must be handed in prior to leaving unless other arrangements have been made with the teacher. Students are required to make up any work missed due to absences. It is encouraged that you make arrangements with a sibling or neighbor’s child to bring home any missed work. In the event that this is not possible, students will be given their make up work upon returning to school. Students have two (2) days to complete any missed work for each one (1) day absent. For example, if a student is absent from school on a Monday and returns to school on Tuesday, the student has until Thursday to return the make-up work to school. As stated above, we discourage any time that a student is out of school for an extended period other than for illness or medical reasons. If your child must be absent from school for a planned extended period of time, he or she will receive any make-up work upon returning to school. The only make-up work that will be provided in advance will be general reading or review assignments (i.e. reading a chapter in the social studies book, reviewing notes). Specific written assignments will be compiled by the homeroom teacher and given to the student when he or she returns to school. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #2330) Helpful Homework Hints for Parents ✓ Check your child’s book bag, assignment book, and folders each evening to ensure you see what your child’s tasks are and when

they are due. ✓ Initialing or signing the assignment book nightly helps teachers to see if homework has been checked. The assignment books also

provide an effective way to communicate short messages or questions to and from the teacher. ✓ Keep a ready supply of homework materials on hand for your child to use. A plastic container or box holding pencils, erasers,

sharpeners, crayons, glue, a dictionary, tape, etc. is necessary. ✓ Try to encourage a regular homework routine. Set a time suitable to both you and your child for the completion of homework

tasks. Structure the study time so that he/she knows how much study time you expect. Help older children to develop a regular study schedule.

✓ Choose a quiet, well-lit place for your child to work. To help foster concentration, avoid working near the television, telephone,

stereo, video games, etc. ✓ Don’t take over your child’s tasks. Oversee assignments, ask questions, offer suggestions, but avoid doing the research, writing

the solutions, or telling your child what to do. Building independence and responsibility is crucial to a child’s academic growth. Let your child know that homework is his/her job. Tell him/her you can help, but you won’t do the work!

✓ Be positive about the task at hand. Avoid negative comments that may affect your child’s attitude towards school or homework

tasks. Talk to your child’s teacher if you have any questions or concerns. ✓ If your child has a good reason for not completing a homework task, send a short note to the teacher to explain. ✓ Limit after-school activities to allow time for both homework and family activities. ✓ Praise your child’s efforts. If questions arise about the assignments, and your child asks for help, ask him or her questions or work

through an example rather than simply providing the answer. ✓ Younger children need more parental assistance with homework than older children. Go over homework assignments with your

child. Do several problems or questions together, and then observe your child doing the next one or two.

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Illness The school nurse is available to those students who require medical attention during the school day. If an illness is serious, parents will be contacted. The school requires emergency phone numbers at the opening of the school year in case parents cannot be reached. Please be certain that persons designated to be notified in an emergency live within a few minutes of the school, have a means of transportation, and are willing to accept your child if you cannot be contacted when your child is ill. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to keep the main office informed of any changes in home, cell, work, and emergency phone numbers throughout the school year.

If your child has been ill and needs to be excused from gym activities or outside recess, a note must be received from the physician indicating the number of days he/she should remain indoors or be excused from physical education classes. Please call the school nurse if your child must take medication while in school (see Medication Policy). Health problems do arise with school age children. The school nurse would appreciate any information you might have regarding the health of your child. If you have informed us of your child’s health problem, we would appreciate any update of his/her progress or status. If your child has received immunizations or boosters this past year, please contact the school nurse (829-7778, ext. 5803). In order to ensure that school remains a safe and healthful environment, the following health protocol has been developed by the Cinnaminson Schools Nursing Department. We cannot risk the possibility of infection to the other students when a sick child is sent to school or becomes ill at school. If your child has developed any of the following symptoms during the previous 24 hours, he/she should remain at home the next school day:

● Fever of 100˚ F or higher. The temperature should be normal for 24 hours without the aid of fever reducing medicine before returning to school

● Congestive cough ● Vomiting ● Diarrhea ● Discharge that is other than clear from nose, eyes, mouth, ears, or any other areas ● Skin rash

If a student arrives at school or develops any of the previously listed symptoms, the parent will be notified and expected to take their child home. If the parent cannot be reached, the emergency contact will be called. Students sometimes are not able to specify what is wrong or how they feel. Thus, staff must use their own judgment to determine if the student can benefit from an educational setting at that time. When, in the judgment of the student’s teacher, principal, and/or school nurse, a student shows signs of being in ill health or of suffering from infections or a contagious disease, the parent will be notified and the student will be sent home from school. A student should not be in school and will be sent home if any of the following condition(s) are present:

● Fever of 100˚ F or higher. The temperature should be normal for 24 hours without the aid of fever reducing medicine before returning to school.

● The student is unable to function/participate in the school activities due to observed health status. ● The student wants to sleep during the day and appears listless. ● The student has a discharge which is other than clear from the nose, mouth, eyes, ears, or any other areas. ● The student is vomiting. ● The student has diarrhea. ● The student has a congestive cough which prevents him or her from a meaningful involvement in the educational process. ● The student has an open, draining sore to which the bandage will not adhere. ● The student had a previously controllable medical condition and that condition has become unmanageable (e.g. asthma,

seizures). ● The student exhibits unusual pallor or a flushed face. ● The student has an unknown rash. ● The student has a strong, offensive body odor suggestive of urine/fecal concerns or hygiene concerns.

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When in doubt, always call your doctor if you have any questions about your child’s condition. Instrumental Program Third, Fourth, and Fifth grade students have the opportunity to learn to play a band or string instrument and share in the excitement of eventually performing for family and friends. Interested students should contact Mr. Adams or Mr. Hercock (829-7778, ext. 5940) early in September to enroll in the program. Another part of our music program, the Chimes Choir, provides the opportunity for selected students to learn a unique musical instrument. The choir performs at the Winter and Spring concerts. Interested students should contact Mrs. Sigmund (829-7778, ext. 5909) early in September. Intramural Sports Program The students have an opportunity to participate in after school intramural sports programs that are held during the Fall, Winter and Spring. Enrollment is limited for the safety of the students. A student participating in one of the intramural programs may be excluded from the activity due to inappropriate behavior and/or has received a discipline referral. Library Your child will have the opportunity to borrow a book or books from the library. Children will be encouraged to locate their books using our computerized card catalogue system. Books must be returned on the due date assigned. Students who lose text or library books, and/or equipment shall be charged according to Administration Regulation #5513. Lunch and Recess

Grade 3 12:34-1:19 Grade 4 11:47-12:32 Grade 5 11:00-11:45

Lunch Price: $2.60 Each month, a lunch menu will e-mailed to all families. The menu will also be available to view on our web-site: www.cinnaminson.com/ers. A student may charge his/her lunch if money has been forgotten, but the charge must be paid the next day.

❖ In an effort to provide a safe environment for our students with severe food allergies, sharing of food is NOT

PERMITTED at lunchtime. In addition, NO foods containing peanuts or peanut products are to be brought into school to be shared with the class for any occasion.

We also urge you to allow your child an opportunity during the lunch/recess period to socialize with his/her peers and gain some independence. Not all parents have a schedule that permits them to go to school to have lunch with their child. To that end, our school food service will inform you when you will be provided an opportunity to join your child for lunch. In the meantime, allow the students to have their lunch without parents. Please keep in mind federal and state guidelines that have been adopted by our School Board stating that empty calorie foods such as soda, water ices, chewing gum, and candy are not sold or distributed during the school day. Therefore, if you elect to bring in a lunch for your child, please adhere to the guidelines indicated and, as always, we look forward to your cooperation in promoting healthy eating habits for your child.

Students will only be permitted to charge a maximum of three (3) lunches. After the 3rd lunch charge, students will receive only an alternate lunch, such as a bagel and cream cheese, until all lunch charges are paid.

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Medication The administration of oral medication should be avoided if at all possible, and is forbidden by the Board of Education, except under the following circumstances: ♦ The medication must be prescribed by the student’s family physician. ♦ The medication must be brought to the school by the parent or guardian in the original container, appropriately labeled by the

physician or pharmacy. Do not send medication in with your child. ♦ The family physician must provide written orders indicating the type of medication to be given, time of administration, and for

what period of time the medication is to be given. This applies to over the counter medication as well as prescription medication. ♦ The parents or guardian of the students shall, in writing, release all Board personnel and the Board from any and all liability

arising from the administration of, faculty administration of, or failure to administer the medication. ♦ Students are not permitted to carry emergency medications during field trips or after school activities unless appropriate forms are

completed in advance. Please contact the school nurse for further information. ♦ New medication orders from the doctor are needed for each school year. Please notify the school if your child gets booster shots, takes any medication on a regular basis, or has any medical condition or allergies. The nurse should be prepared to treat the allergic effects of bee stings or the side effects of medications, etc. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5330) Memory Book Similar to the more familiar yearbook, Rush School will offer a memory book. It will be an overview of the activities of the year and will include photographs of all the children and faculty. Sales for the memory book will take place in late January. This is an optional student activity. Nutritional Guidelines In an effort to promote good health among all students, the New Jersey School Nutrition Policy, which has been adopted by the Board of Education, states the following may not be served, sold, or distributed anywhere on school property at any time before the end of the school day:

● No item listing sugar in any form as the first ingredient ● No candy ● No more than eight grams of total fat per serving ● No more than two grams of saturated fat per serving

Please be advised, when sending food in to be shared by your child’s class, we ask for your cooperation in providing healthy snacks. Also, due to increasing numbers of students with life-threatening allergies, no peanuts or peanut products are permitted to be sent into school for shared classroom treats. Food and beverages served during special school celebrations or during curriculum-related activities may be exempt from this policy. Outdoor Education Program Our one-day Fourth Grade and three-day Fifth Grade outdoor education programs take place at Camp Ockanickon in Medford. These programs offer students the opportunity to gain greater knowledge and appreciation for the outdoors. A student may be excluded from participating in this activity due to inappropriate behavior during the school year.

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Parent-Teacher Conferences The following dates have been established for parent/teacher conferences for the 2018-2019 school year: December: 3, 4*, 5, 6*, 7 March: 19, 20*, 21 * Evening Conferences will be held from 5:30-7:30 PM. Afternoon Conferences are held from 1:30-3:30 PM. These days, as indicated on the school calendar, are single session (half-days). You may call any time during the school year to make an appointment to speak with teachers. Teachers must have advance notice, as they have obligations beyond the school day. Every effort will be made to accommodate requests. Parking Lot Rules A parking space has been reserved for disabled visitors. This space is marked and located in the front of the building. PLEASE DO NOT PARK IN THE HANDICAPPED PARKING AREA. As visitors approach the school, they are to park in the parking area to their right. Upon entering the parking lot, stay to your right and proceed in a counterclockwise movement to find a parking spot. Due to the limited number of parking spaces, when chaperoning school trips, please park on one of the streets adjacent to the school. Be sure to abide by the signs that are posted. The playground area to your left as you approach the Eleanor Rush Intermediate School is closed to any vehicular traffic while school is in session. Party Invitations In order to avoid hurting a child’s feelings, we are requesting that invitations to parties be mailed home and not given to students in class unless the entire class is invited. Personal Property/ Items Students should refrain from bringing personal property which is not required for our instructional program into school or on school buses. This includes toys, sports equipment, games, electronic devices, valuables, excess money, jewelry, etc. If it becomes necessary to bring such items to school, they should be brought to the office where the items will be secured safely. Teachers will confiscate these unauthorized items and parents will be required to retrieve them at school. The loss of property or restitution of any lost items is not the responsibility of the school district. Phone Usage In order to promote self-responsibility, as well as avoid unnecessary disruptions during instructional time, we are requiring students to come to school prepared with homework, assignment books, appropriate clothing for recess/physical education class, instruments, etc. Permission to call home will be granted for the following situations: Dismissal

● The student is unsure of his/her dismissal procedure. Please note that students are not permitted to change buses. Lunch

● The student requires a special diet and cannot charge lunch.

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Medication ● The student will see Mrs. Palma, our school nurse, to determine if medication is necessary.

We thank you for your cooperation in promoting self-responsibility for your child. Physical Education Policy Participation: All students are required to take physical education. Any student who wishes to be excused from physical education class should present a parent note to their classroom teacher which will in turn be taken to the nurse prior to PE class. The nurse will then notify the PE teacher of this excuse. We would ask that the note specify if your student should be partially excused or totally excused from class. If a student requests to be excused from class without a note, we will send that student to the nurse for an evaluation and honor the nurse’s decision. If a student is excused from Physical Education class two or more times, the Physical Education teacher may call home to discuss this situation and a parent-teacher conference may be requested. Recess: To assure the safety of students, we will apply the same restrictions as the excuse note specifies. If a student is totally excused from PE class, then the student will not participate in recess. If a student is partially excused from class, we will notify the recess supervisor to limit the student’s activity. Proper dress: On the day of Physical Education class, the students are asked to wear loose fitting clothing which permits movement. Sneakers are required. Prohibited Items The use or possession of any electronic devices, including i-pads, i-pods, CD players, and hand-held games as well as unauthorized use of cellphones during the school day is prohibited. Students who bring these items to school and/or use them inappropriately will have them confiscated by the staff and risk disciplinary action. No weapons of any type are permitted on school grounds or on the bus. This rule includes all types of firearms, explosives, knives (including penknives), martial arts equipment, and any other item that could be classified as a weapon, including any toy replicas. Furthermore, no object may be used to intimidate or threaten other students. Students who violate this rule will be subject to disciplinary action and possible suspension. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #8467) Project Challenge (PC) Project Challenge has been developed to help meet the needs of students who have special academic abilities or who have displayed the potential to be creative and to think productively. Children meet with the Project Challenge teacher, in small groups and at scheduled intervals, throughout the year. Selection is based upon an evaluation process that includes standardized testing scores, report card grades, specific inventories, and teacher and parent input. (Cinnaminson School Board #2464) Pupil Records Access to pupil records will be available only to the pupil’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s), the adult pupil, appropriate school personnel acting in the educational interest of the pupil, and such others as may be permitted access by the rules of the State Board of Education. An authorized person must make the request for records access in writing using a district approved form. The nurse should be contacted for medical records review. The Coordinator of Student Services will schedule academic records review. Discipline records may be accessed by contacting the Principal’s secretary. Every parent, except as prohibited by state and federal law, shall have access to school records and information pertaining to his/her unemancipated child, whether or not the child resides with the parent, unless that access is found by the court to be not in the best interest of the child or the access is found by the court to be sought

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for the purpose of causing detriment to the other parent. An authorized person may request a photocopy of all or a portion of that part of the pupil’s record to which the reviewer has been granted access. Copies will be made by the district personnel for a fee equal to that charged for copies of the public records of this district, except that the fee may be waived for a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or adult pupil who, in the judgment of the custodian of the record, might otherwise be prevented from exercising his/her rights of access and appeal under rules governing access to pupil records and the due process rights of disabled pupils. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #8330) Pupil Supervision/After-School Dismissal Students who are not eligible for district-provided transportation after dismissal or are eligible and elect not to use district-provided transportation after dismissal must have a student dismissal request form completed. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #8601) School Hours FULL DAY SCHEDULE: Grades 3, 4, 5 8:36 AM – 3:04 PM SINGLE SESSION: Grades 3, 4, 5 8:36 AM – 12:53 PM

DELAYED OPENING Grades 3, 4, 5 10:06-3:04 PM Teachers are on duty when the first bell sounds at 8:24. When the second bell sounds at 8:25, the students may enter the school building. Students are not marked late until 8:40 AM. Students are not permitted in the building before 8:25 AM unless arrangements have been made with a staff member who will supervise and take responsibility for them. Children are not to be dropped off in the morning before 8:25 AM and are not to remain on the school grounds after dismissal at 3:04 PM. The parent must accept responsibility for any occurrence. If your child is to remain after school to assist a teacher, written notification must be given by the parents and the teacher. Please advise your children to go home immediately after school. They must NOT go to another child’s home unless the parents of both children have made previous arrangements. If your child does not return home from school at the normal time and it is before 4:00 PM, please call the Rush School office at 829-7778. After 4 PM, call the Transportation Coordinator at 829-8812 ext. 2878 or 2883. Please be informed that for the safety and security of students and staff, Rush School will be closed at 4:00 PM each day. Therefore, no one will be permitted to enter the building to retrieve forgotten books or schoolwork. Even if you and your child are here for an evening community activity, such as PAL Basketball, cheerleading, etc., the custodians have been directed to not unlock any classroom door. The Cinnaminson Library has a set of textbooks for each grade level that your child may use if a book is forgotten. It is important that students learn responsibility and that we as educators and parents make rules for their safety. Sexual Harassment The Cinnaminson Township School District has made a commitment to provide a learning and working environment free from sexual harassment of any nature whether verbal, written, or physical. Such conduct on the part of any student or employee will be subject to disciplinary action and possible suspension. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5751)

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Smoking Cigarettes, cigars, and any other form of tobacco are not permitted on school grounds. Anyone who violates this rule will be subject to disciplinary action. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5533) Student Activity Center (SAC) The SAC program provides before-and after-school care for the school-age child. For details please contact the SAC office in the Memorial School (856-786-5310, ext. 2141 or 2127). Student Dress ● All school attire should be neat, clean, and reflect an appearance of modesty. ● Apparel should not be so tight fitting, sheer, brief, low-cut or revealing above or below the waist as to be embarrassing or

indecent. Extremely short shorts are not acceptable. Clothing should not be distracting or provocative. ● Personal grooming should be done at home or in the appropriate areas. Students should maintain a neat, clean, and well-groomed

appearance at all times. ● Graphics that are suggestively obscene or offensive are prohibited on any garment. ● At no time will any clothing that is soiled, torn, worn, defaced, or ripped be permitted. This rule will apply regardless of clothing

or style. ● Student dress must not present a threat to safety or physical well-being. Students must have footwear. Footwear without heel

straps is not permitted. ● Any student attending a school function will not be permitted to attend unless properly attired. Proper attire would be considered

the school dress code unless otherwise noted. (Cinnaminson School Board Policy #5511) Student Photographs Throughout the school year, students may be videotaped or photographed during certain activities and articles may be written about the students participating in these activities. The video, pictures and/or articles may be broadcast on television and/or published in the newspaper. Parents/guardians are required to complete a “Video/Photograph Release Form” in September. Student Safety In the event that a student poses a threat to him/herself or others, he/she will be referred to a psychiatrist for evaluation. The student will be considered for re-entry by the administration only when a full report is received from the psychiatrist. The administration may consult the Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) Team regarding its decision. In addition, students who pose a threat to others will also be subject to the discipline code. Swim Program for Third Grade For one week in June, as part of the Physical Education Health & Safety program, Third Grade students are instructed in the basics of swimming. An indoor swimming facility is used to conduct this program. Traffic Pattern Please note, when school buses begin to line up prior to the beginning of the school day (approximately 8:15 AM) and at the beginning of dismissal (approximately 2:45 PM) only authorized vehicles are permitted beyond the intersection of Buttonwood and Wynwood Drives.

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● If you elect to drive your child to and from school, you may choose to park your vehicle close to school and walk to and from the school with your child. This will help eliminate any additional traffic and keep the area at the school safe for students.

● You may also choose to park on the northside of Wynwood Drive and wait until all of the buses leave the school area. The

crossing guard will remove the traffic barricade and vehicles may enter. As you enter the school grounds, be sure to drive around the flag circle to drop off your child safely on the school’s sidewalk. Do not stop before the flag circle and have your child exit from your vehicle and walk between vehicles to get to the sidewalk.

● Once around the flag circle, please proceed beyond the canopy if there are other vehicles behind you. This will maximize the

number of vehicles along the sidewalk in front of the school.

● To avoid delaying vehicles behind you, be sure your child is ready to promptly exit the vehicle. If for any reason you need to assist your child, please park in the parking lot and escort your child across the walkway to the school.

● After your child exits your vehicle, please wait in the drop off line for the vehicles ahead of you to move forward. Do not

pass the vehicles ahead of you. Doing so risks driving into the lane of oncoming vehicles.

● As always, use extreme caution at all times, and please drive slowly when entering and leaving the school grounds. Your cooperation in assisting us in the safety of the students and following the aforementioned procedures is sincerely appreciated. Transportation The Transportation Department guidelines require students to only ride on their assigned buses. The bus drivers will have a list of eligible students who are scheduled to ride on their buses. Parents must make alternate transportation arrangements if their child plans to visit a friend’s house after the school day.

“Walkers” are not permitted to ride the school bus for any reason. Following the suggestions below will help your child have a successful year on the school bus: ✓ Arrive at the bus stop about 5 minutes before the scheduled time. ✓ Wait on the sidewalk until the bus comes to a full stop. ✓ Board the bus without pushing or shoving. ✓ Take the assigned seat and buckle your seat belt. ✓ Keep books, lunch, book bags, and your hands on your lap. ✓ Sit at all times. ✓ Keep hands and head inside the bus. ✓ Be courteous; use proper language at all times. ✓ Speak softly. Do not shout or whistle. ✓ Do not eat food or drink while riding the bus. ✓ Wait until the bus stops before getting out of your seat. ✓ Leave the bus without pushing or crowding. ✓ Carry any waste paper or debris to the front of the bus and deposit it in the waste container. ✓ Help keep the bus clean. ✓ Cooperate with the bus driver at all times. A student may be suspended from the bus for disciplinary reasons and his/her parents will provide for his/her transportation to and from school during the period of the suspension.

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Visitor Pass Procedure The staff at Eleanor Rush Intermediate School pride ourselves with the open lines of communication that we have between parents and teachers. All parents and guardians are welcome to visit our school. For for the safety of all children at Eleanor Rush Intermediate School, we ask for your cooperation in following the Visitor Pass Procedures listed below: 1. Our school office is open from 8 AM to 4 PM. During these hours, you should go to the entrance at the front of the building

under the canopy and press the buzzer for entrance into the school. Once inside the security vestibule, go to the window on your left to show ID and to be buzzed into the office. You must sign-in and receive a visitor’s pass before walking through the building.

2. When you choose to visit with your child’s teacher, you are reminded to make an appointment to be sure the teacher is available

and has no other school obligations. Teachers are not to be interrupted during instructional time. 3. Unless other arrangements have been made, parents who accompany classes on field trips are required to sign in at the office

prior to the trip. This provides the school with information regarding your whereabouts in the event you need to be contacted. 4. During a class party or function, you will report directly to your child’s classroom where a sign-in sheet and a visitor’s pass will

be available for you. 5. Parents of walkers who choose to come in the building at dismissal time may wait for their child in the main office only. This

allows for a swift, safe flow of traffic as the children leave for their buses. 6. When delivering lunches, treats, forgotten books, large projects, etc., please bring them to the office. Your child will be called to

the office to pick up the delivered items. Please refrain from dropping off items before 9:00 AM and after 2:45 PM.

❖ All District School Board Policies are on the District web-site for your review.

Please contact the main office if you would like a copy of a policy. ❖ PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO THE PRINT DEADLINE REQUIRED FOR PUBLICATION

OF THIS HANDBOOK, ALL DATES , TIMES , PRICES, AND POLICIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

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