Luther Vaughan Elementary School

Parent/Student Handbook

2016-2017

Reaching for the Stars and Beyond

OFFICE: 206-6054

192 Vaughn Road,

Gaffney, SC 29341

Welcome to Luther Vaughan Elementary School

We are beginning an exciting year at Luther Vaughan Elementary School and we especially want to welcome those families who are new to our school. We are glad you are a part of the Luther Vaughan Lion family. This handbook has been prepared to help you understand the procedures and regulations of our school and district.

You will find our faculty and staff to be friendly, welcoming, and truly passionate in helping each child do his or her best. Teamwork is the key to that success. On the following pages you will find information that will help make this a memorable and successful school year. Please contact the office or your childs teacher whenever you have questions, concerns, or suggestions.

Sincerely,

Janice M. Keller, Principal

Luther L. Vaughan Elementary School Mission Statement

Our mission, in partnership with family and community, is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to become

responsible, productive citizens in 21st century society by

providing a variety of learning experiences that address the diverse needs of every student.

School Colors

Blue and Yellow

School Mascot

Lions

School Slogan

LLV Lions Love to Learn!

School PRIDE

Respectful

Responsible

Ready to Learn

School Theme for 2016/2107 School Year

Reaching for the Stars and Beyond

Learning at Luther Vaughan is Out of this World

ACADEMICS

Honors Choir Spelling Bee Academic STAR Testing Peer Tutoring Study Binders Parent Communications Logs Book Fairs Science Fair Project Goal Academic Skills Classes Veterans Day Celebration Fine Arts Celebration Lieutenant Governors Writing Contest Too Good For Drugs Highly Qualified Educators Red Ribbon Week Rigorous SCCCRS Recognition Programs Virtual Classroom Opportunities United Streaming Career Fair Computer Lab Writers Gala Robotics Literacy Room School Musicals Diversity Projects Curriculum Carousel Yearbooks Field Day Sing-a-Longs Integrated Technology Summer Reading Program Tutoring Opportunities Response to Interventions Interventionists Artist/Authors Daily Reflections Project Based Learning Reading Coach After School Program Early Bird Program

CITIZENSHIP

School Wide Behavior Plan PBIS Time to Teach School Motto Weekly Incentives Recycling Club Character Education Uniform Discipline Code Affirmations Full Time Guidance Student Council BETA Club Flag Barriers Lunchroom Monitors Birthday Recognitions Community Service Projects Business Partners Food Drives UNICEF Leadership Scholarships Beautification Team Safety Monitors Bus Monitors Anti Bullying Campaign Nine Week Incentive Programs Behavior Awards Student Workers

PARENTING

School Improvement Council Parent Volunteers Parent Compacts Parent Conferences Interims Communication Logs School Wide Planning Team Classroom Helpers Doughnuts for Dads Muffins for Moms Grandparents to Lunch School Newsletters Report to the Parents School Summary Report Home School Parenting Coordinator Alert Now Title One Newsletter-PATHS Family Nights Open House Meet and Greet School-wide Cook-out Field Day Box Tops for Education Community Mentors Do Dads Marvelous Moms Daily Reflections Bus Hot Line School Programs Diversity Celebration Parenting Coordinator

Table of Contents

Page 1 Mission Statement, School Colors, School Mascot, School Slogan,

School PRIDE, School Theme, School Office Number, School

Address

Pages 2-18 Policies and Procedures

* Luther Vaughan operates under the authority of the Cherokee County School Board Policy Manual. You may access the School Board Policy Manual under School Board on the Cherokee County School District Website.

Learning at LLV is Out of this World

Luther Vaughan Elementary Handbook

2016-2017

Accidents and Emergencies

Every effort is made to prevent accidents. If, however, an accident occurs, the procedure will be as follows: First aid is administered by the school nurse or other authorized personnel. No treatment other than first aid is administered by school personnel. If the accident or illness is considered serious or if the child is uncomfortable, a parent will be called. If we are unsuccessful at reaching the parents, the school follows parents directions on the nurses form to secure an individual to pick up the child, or to secure emergency medical treatment if needed.

Please keep parent/guardian contact information current and include alternative persons and numbers in the event parents cannot be reached.

Academically Gifted/Talented Students

Students identified as academically gifted/talented in grades 3-5 are served through the Project GOAL program. Classes meet daily for forty minutes. Students qualify for the program based on South Carolina Department of Education guidelines. Qualifications for the program are based on aptitude scores and achievement scores.

Activity Fee - $5.00

This fee is due the first week of school.

Admission Requirements

1. A child entering kindergarten must be five years of age on or before September 1, and a child entering first grade must be six years of age on or before September 1 of the year he/she enters school.

2. The parent must present the following:

a. An official birth certificate from the Health Department (Hospital certificates are not accepted as proof of birth),

b. An official certificate of immunization from the Health Department,

c. Proof of Residence (such as power/water bill, rental agreement)

A.M. Arrival Time Morning Arrival Early Bird Activities

Students may be dropped off at school beginning at 7:00 a.m. Upon arrival, students report to the cafeteria for breakfast. Early-arriving students go to Early Bird Activities from 7:15-7:45 a.m. Early bird activities include sports, exercising, instructional videos, and sing-a-longs.

Car riders are dropped off at the front of the building. Parents are reminded to be alert and respectful of other parents who are dropping off their children. *For safety reasons, please use only the right lane of traffic when dropping off students.

Late-Arriving Students

South Carolina State Law (SECTION 59-65-10) and Cherokee County Policy (JBD) requires that students be in attendance for 180 days each school year. Students must not only attend school each day, they must also be on time and remain in their class until the end of the instructional day.

Regular school begins promptly at 8:00 a.m., so students need to be ready for class at this time. Students arriving to school after 8:00 a.m. report to the attendance secretary in the front office. The attendance secretary will document arrival time and lunch choice of the student, and give the student an admission pass to class.

Late arriving students may be excused if the parent accompanies the student to the office and offers acceptable reasons such as sickness of child, sickness of parent or family member, or death in immediate family (father, mother, brother, sister, grandfather, grandmother, or resident of the same household). Also, chronic illness, recognized religious holiday, or medical/dental appointments are honored. A note from a parent/guardian is required to excuse late arrival. Students who are habitually late to school are referred to the Director of Attendance.

Afternoon Dismissal Time

2:25 p.m.

*Parents are reminded to be alert and respectful of other parents who are picking up their children by having the childs name placard displayed on the dash of the car on the driver side at all times during pick-up. The visibility of the student placard is to ensure the safety of your child. You may be asked to come inside for identity verification without the student placard on display.

Parents arriving after 2:40 will come to the cafeteria for students.

Leaving School

No student will be allowed to go home a different way from his regular travel unless permission is requested and verified by a parent/guardian either by telephone or in writing. No student will be permitted to leave the campus unless a parent/guardian or designee comes to the office to sign the student out. The person signing out the student will need a picture identification card for verification.

Leaving School Early

Students are expected to remain in their class until the end of the instructional day (2:25

p.m.) Parents are encouraged to make all appointments after school hours. Early dismissal from school is considered excused only if a parent provides acceptable reasons such as sickness of child, death in the family, or medical appointments. A note from a parent/guardian is required to excuse early dismissal. Students who are habitually leaving early are referred to the Attendance Director.

Attendance Information Absences and Excuses Policy Reference JBD

Students enrolled in the schools of Cherokee County are expected to attend school each day of the 180-day school year. Any student who is absent from school must present documentation in compliance with the criteria established by this policy if the absence is to be considered lawful.

A. Lawful Absences

Students will be considered lawfully absent when:

1. They are ill and their attendance in school would endanger their health or the health of others.

2. There is a death or serious illness in their immediate family (lawful absences limited to three days per occurrence). Immediate family includes father, mother, brother, sister, grandfather, grandmother and in-laws of the same degree or resident of the same household.

3. They have a chronic illness, certified upon diagnosis and at the beginning of every year thereafter by a physician, which causes them to be absent in excess of the number of lawful absences allowed. Students must submit a chronic illness form or statement, completed and signed by the physician who diagnoses or is treating the condition. Periodic updates, at least every three months, of the chronic illness statements are required.

4. There is a recognized religious holiday of their faith. Notification to the principal prior to the absence on the holiday is required.

5. They are out for periods of time for hospitalization or extended medical care by a physician, which are not of sufficient duration to warrant homebound instruction, as approved by the principal.

6. They are absent due to health-related conditions: (i.e., medical, dental clinic appointments). Appointments must be verified by the physician or clinic personnel.

7. The principal must approve other absences not covered above.

B. Unlawful Absences

Students will be considered unlawfully absent when:

1. They are absent without acceptable cause with or without the knowledge of their parents/guardian.

2. They are suspended from school for violations of the school discipline policy.

3. Any absences not considered as lawful in the preceding section are judged to be unlawful and unexcused for purposes of implementation of this policy.

C. Lawful Excuses

1. An excuse written and signed by the parent/guardian is required for all absences. The excuse must include the reason for absences and the dates of the absences. A parent/guardians note will be accepted without physician confirmation for five absences in a school year.

2. A physicians verification of absences due to illness is required for any absences above five days in a school year.

3. A physician or clinic staff verification of absences due to medical, dental or clinic appointment is required in all instances.

4. All excuses must be presented within three days of the absence from school. The principal may make an exception to the three-day time limit for cause.

D. Review of Absences

The principal is appointed as the boards designee to review all absences after a student has been absent five days per semester or 10 days per year. The principal must review each absence to determine whether it is lawful or unlawful.

E. Truancy Prevention

When a student is unlawfully absent for three consecutive days or a cumulative total of five days, the building administration will take steps to intervene in order to prevent truant behavior and to improve future attendance. Days absent due to suspension are not part of the total for a truancy referral.

When a student is unlawfully absent for four consecutive days or six cumulative days, the attendance supervisor will be notified and will contact the parent/guardian.

Attendance Policy Reference JB/JBA

It is the policy of the Cherokee County School District to assure that all children between the ages of 5 and 17 are in attendance at a public, private school, or kindergarten or in an approved home schooling program in accordance with state compulsory attendance law and regulations. A parent or guardian whose child is not six years old on or before the first day of September of the school year may waive kindergarten attendance for their child.

For the purposes of this policy, students may be counted in attendance or present under the following conditions. They are:

1. at school when they have reported to their classroom, homeroom or the first

class of the day.

2. on homebound instruction,

3. engaged in a school sponsored activity approved by the principal, and

4. assigned to in-school suspension.

5. must remain in school for approximately half of the school day.

Perfect Attendance

Students who have perfect attendance for the year receive recognition. To receive perfect attendance for the year, a student must attend school for 180 days.

Birthday Invitations, ETC.

If a parent wishes to send invitations to give out at school, please make sure that all students in the childs classroom receive an invitation. If this is not possible, please take care of distributing invitations outside of school. Parents may contact their childs teacher if they wish to bring cake, cupcakes, etc. to celebrate their childs birthday at school. Again, we ask that there be enough for all students in the classroom, and we prefer this be handled at lunch in the cafeteria for grades 1-5 or during snack time for kindergarten.

If flower deliveries are made to school please be mindful that balloons and glass containers may not be on the school bus.

Bus Discipline

Most discipline problems during the school year occur while students are on the school bus. Please impress upon your child the importance of good bus behavior. The bus driver has the responsibility for supervision of students on the bus. The driver reports misbehavior to the Director of Transportation, and appropriate actions are taken to ensure the safety of all students. School transportation is a privilege and a service that must not be taken for granted. Students must accept the responsibility for their actions while riding the bus.

BUS DISPLINE

All students are expected to:

Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.

Talk quietly; yelling is not permitted.

Sit with arms, feet, and personal belongings in the appropriate place (avoiding the aisle, as this could cause a trip/fall hazard).

Refrain from eating and drinking on the bus.

To ensure the safety of your student as well as others, if it is deemed necessary for the bus driver to write a disciplinary referral for bus infractions, the following consequences will occur:

First Incident:Warning.

Second IncidentParent contact with (1) days loss of bus privileges.

Third Incident:Parent contact with up to (3) days loss of bus privileges.

Fourth Incident:Parent conference with up to (5) days loss of bus privileges.

Fifth Incident:Parent conference with up to (5) days loss of bus privileges.

Sixth Incident:Parent conference with (5) to (10) days loss of bus privileges.

Seventh Incident:Loss of bus privileges for the remainder of the school year.

BUS RULES

1. Book bags and other items must be held in your lap.

2. Eating or drinking is not allowed.

3. Keep all body parts inside the bus at all times.

4. Use of obscene language or profanity is not allowed.

5. Maintaining proper behavior is important for the driver to stay focused on driving.

6. Remain seated, unless you are loading or unloading the bus.

7. Each rider must have a bus pass or note signed by the school staff to ride a different bus or to a different stop.

8. The driver or monitor may assign seats.

9. Sprays of any kind cannot be sprayed while on the bus.

10. Vandalism (cut seats, graffiti, etc.) will not be tolerated, and consequences will include restitution of the damages assessed.

(Rules provided by CCSD Office of Transportation.)

Bus Notes

Because student safety is a priority, students will only be allowed to ride their regularly scheduled bus unless they have written permission from the parent/guardian. This permission must be approved by the principal who will notify the bus driver. When possible, parents should give advance notice in writing to make arrangements. Changes in transportation should be made before 2:00 p.m.

Character Education

We want our children to have good values and strong character. Each month students focus on identified character traits. These traits are core essentials to becoming a responsible citizen. When school staff and parents work together to teach right from wrong and to provide positive role models, children build a strong foundation for character development. These traits will be highlighted and emphasized each month and throughout the year.

Class Parties Students have three scheduled celebrations throughout the school year.

Halloween Celebration-Monday, October 31 at 1:15 p.m.Christmas Celebration Thursday, December 15 at 1:15 p.m.Valentine Celebration Tuesday, February 14 at 1:15 p.m.

Communication to Parents & Parent Involvement as a Title One School

Parent Involvement Policy LLV recognizes the special importance of parental involvement to the success of its Title 1 and Limited English Proficiency programs. Pursuant to federal law, the school and parents jointly develop and agree upon a written parental involvement policy that distributed to parents. The annual planning meeting for the 2016/2017 School Year is scheduled for Thursday, September 22.

Activities for Parents It is the intent of LLV to cultivate and support active parental involvement. The school provides activities to educate parents regarding the intellectual and developmental needs of our children at all age levels. This includes promoting cooperation between the school and other agencies or school/community groups to furnish learning opportunities and disseminate information regarding parenting skills and child/adolescent development. Parents will receive notification of opportunities and activities throughout the school year.

Newsletters A school newsletter is published bi-monthly. It includes important dates to remember, student recognition, tips for good parenting, and the menu. In addition to the school newsletter, teachers send home a weekly newsletter with homework, important dates to remember, and classroom news in the parent communication folder.

Handbook The handbook contains basic information about all of our school programs.

Web Page The school districts website is www.cherokee1.k12.sc.us. Luther L. Vaughans webpage is accessed by going to the district website; click on schools; click on Luther L. Vaughan Elementary School.

Power School Parents can use Power School to access students grades from the teachers grade book. Your personal ID and Password will be given to you in the office.

Parent/Teacher Communication Folder Teachers send Communication Folders home with students each week. Included in the folder are such things as class newsletters, graded work samples, behavior updates, etc. Look for the yellow communication Folder on the first day of each week.

Report Cards and Interim Reports Report Cards are sent home each quarter on October 28, January 23, March 31, and the last day of school. Interim Reports are sent midway of each grading quarter so students will know how they are doing regarding report card grades. Interim Reports are distributed on September 15, November 21, February 13, and April 27.

Recorded Phone Messages Parents receive a recorded telephone message from the principal to remind you of important dates, school closings due to weather, and other information. Please be sure we have your correct phone numbers.

Parent/Teacher Conference Days October 27-28 and March 30-31 are designated days for conferences. However, you may request a conference at any time during the school year. Conferences with teachers are scheduled from 2:45 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays. (Weekly teachers meetings are held on Wednesdays.)

Parent Volunteers We welcome parents help as volunteers and will assist parents in choosing an area in which to participate. Interested parents should contact the school office at 206-6054. All parent volunteers must be approved by the CCSD Human Resources Department.

School Marquee Upcoming events are posted on our school marquee located at the front of the building.

Daily Schedule

7:00 a.m. School building opens

7:00-7:50 a.m. Breakfast

7:25-7:50 a.m. Early Bird

7:50 a.m. Students report to classrooms

8:00 a.m. Instructional day begins

2:00-2:25 p.m. Classrooms are receiving instructions for the end-of-the day. LV prefers students to be in class from 2:00-2:25 without interruptions as students prepare to end the school day.

2:25 p.m. Dismissal

*2:40 p.m. Parents are asked to pick up students from the office or cafeteria after this time. You may be asked for a picture identification.

Data Notebooks

Data notebooks are used in each classroom to help the students take responsibility for their learning. They use the information that is tracked to help set goals for learning. Students will also use the data notebooks to explain progress.

Discipline

Philosophy:

The faculty and staff at Luther Vaughan Elementary School are dedicated to ensuring a safe, positive, education-centered atmosphere that prepares students to become productive citizens of society.

Two programs implemented at Luther Vaughan to comply with the philosophy are as follows:

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS):

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a proactive, systematic, individualized approach to preventing and correcting problem behaviors, in order to help students achieve social and learning outcomes. Problem behaviors are decreased through immediately reinforcing desired behaviors and correcting disruptive behaviors. There are three main instructional focuses of PBIS. These include teaching behavioral expectations, teaching social expectations, and maximizing academic engagement. Luther Vaughan implements a school-wide PBIS program for all students.

Time to Teach

Time to Teach is a positive program to handle student behavior based on student choice. The guidelines allow for time to teach the students the expectations of the school and classroom and also provides a systematic approach to the consequences for misbehavior. Students are given a choice and their choice is honored. Students are given time to refocus on their decision and are able to rejoin the classroom instruction with a brief loss of instructional time. Time to Teach is a school wide model that includes opportunities to grow and reflect on behavior and allows for consistency among infraction consequences.

PBIS 2016-2017

Year Seven

Luther Vaughan Elementary School

Learning Safari

Students will have the opportunity to earn Shining Stars each day by following the expectations set forth in the Luther Vaughan Time to Teach Expectations. When students choose to follow the expectations they will be ready for school, have respect for their school, others and themselves, and they will be responsible for their actions in academics and in their behavior.

Each day a student can earn up to five Shining Stars to use towards the eligibility to participate in the Space Jam which is held each nine weeks for students earning the required number of stars for the nine weeks.

Students will earn Shining Stars daily as follows:

1. On Time- A student would earn one Shining Star for being at school on time before the tardy bell rings. If a child receives a tardy slip they would not earn the star for that day.

2. Ready- A student would earn one Shining Star if needed items are brought to school when they are due. Examples: homework completed, signed papers, etc. If a student brings a free homework pass the student would get credit for having the homework. On days without homework, if there are no other item scheduled to be returned, the student would earn one Space Jam.

3. Classroom Behavior-A student would earn a Shining Star if they show respect for their classmates, teacher, and themselves by following directions and the expectations set forth in the classroom rules and consequences. If a student chooses not to follow the expectations, he/she would not earn a star for classroom behavior that day.

4. School Wide Manners-A student would earn a Shining Star by being respectful throughout the school building and following the expectations set forth in the Luther Vaughans Time to Teach Expectations. This would include behavior in special areas, in the hall, during lunch, assemblies, recess and dismissal.

5. Responsible Learner-A student would receive a Shining Star for the day for being studious, completing the assignments, participating and listening during instruction, and giving 100%. Students who choose to refuse to do their assignments, turn in incomplete work and who do not try their best would not earn a star for the day.

At the end of a school day if a student has been on time, ready, and respectful in the classroom, shown good manners throughout the school and has been a responsible learner, he/she would earn five (5) Shining Stars for the day.

Incentives

1. Shining Stars are counted and recorded. Students earning the designated amount during a nine weeks period will have the opportunity to attend a Space Jam at the end of the nine week period.

2. Celebration of student accomplishments will be done in various ways. Praise, tangible items, recognition, good grades, notes and positive phone calls and the building of intrinsic pride are a few examples.

Consequences

1. Earning less than the designated amount of Shining Stars that are needed to attend the Space Jam for the nine weeks would result in not participating in the Space Jam.

2. Classroom and school consequences include warnings, refocusing, calls home, loss of privileges such as recess, lunch detention, time out, office referral, parent shadowing, parent conference, lower grades, ISS, or OSS

Communication

1. Daily Reflection Notes- Students will complete daily reflections on the success they have had during the day. The reflection will include a summary of what was taught that day and a report on the number of Shining Stars earned for the day. There will be space for a parent signature.

2. Student and class data will be monitored for success by the student, teacher and administration.

3. Parent contacts will be made for successes and for concerns.

SPACE JAMS

First Nine Weeks-Fall Jam-Park Place-200 Shining Stars

Second Nine Weeks-Winter Jam-Movie/Popcorn-200 Shining Stars

Third Nine Weeks-Spring Jam-Boys and Girls Club-200 Shining Stars

Fourth Nine Weeks-Summer Jam-Inflatables -200 Shining Stars

Discipline Procedure

Consequences

Office Referrals

Staff members will follow the Time-to-Teach flow chart for student behavior. Once a students choices have ended with an office referral, the following procedures will be followed. Only in cases of a behavior plan, IEP modifications, or extreme circumstances would these procedures be altered by the administration.

Nine Week Periods

1. First Office Referral

Principal conference

Parent contact by phone. If a parent or guardian cannot be reached a letter will be sent home.

ISS-up to 3 hours- Reflection sheet, work packet, one behavior video and response sheet to complete, If lunch, recess, or special area are during that time, the student forfeits their opportunity to go. Lunch will be held with the ISS teacher and there would be no special area or recess. Students with IEPs are to go to their schedule resource, speech, ESOL class. Once they finish they should return to ISS.

Does not earn Behavior Shining Star for the day of the referral.

2. Second Office Referral

Principal Conference

Parent contact by phone. If parent or guardian cannot be reached a letter will be sent home.

ISS for one day-Reflection Sheet, work packet, two behavior videos with a response sheet for each, isolated lunch period, no recess, and no special area. Students with IEPs are to follow their resource, speech, or ESOL schedule; however, once they are served, the student will return to ISS.

Does not earn Behavior Shining Star for the day of the referral.

3. Third Office Referral

Principal Conference

Parent contact by phone.

Face to Face conference with the parents or guardian, classroom teacher, administration, RtI chair and/or guidance.

ISS for one day-Reflection Sheet, work packet, two behavior videos and response sheet for each, isolated lunch period, no recess and no special area. Students with IEPs are to follow their resource, speech, or ESOL schedule; however, once they are served, the student will return to ISS.

Does not earn Behavior Shining Star for the day of the referral.

Loss of the behavior incentive for the nine weeks (Space Jam)

4. Fourth Office Referral

Principal Conference

Parent contact by phone.

Face to Face conference with the parents.

One day OSS.

Upon the return of the student, he/she will begin their day in ISS to have a post conference, and complete a reflection refocus assignment before returning to the regular classroom.

Does not earn Behavior Shining Star for the day of the referral.

Forfeits Shining Stars for the day of suspension.

5. Fifth Office Referral

Principal conference.

Referral to RtI team.

OSS 2-days.

Parent contact by phone.

Face to face conference with parents.

Upon students return to school, he/she will begin their morning in ISS to complete a reflection refocus assignment before returning to their classroom.

Forfeits Shining Stars for the days of suspension.

Loss of upcoming field trip.

Minor Infractions:To be addressed through the T2T process and may include but are not limited to: Off task behaviors, unauthorized use of materials, inappropriate hallway behavior, minimal disruptions, minimal disobedience, minimal defiance or disrespect, annoyance or rudeness to others, minimal teasing or taunting, throwing objects in the classroom, sleeping, horseplay, non-specific verbal threat, lack of preparedness, cheating, gum or food in class without permission, leaving seat, out of seat without permission, minimal failure to follow directions, possession of unauthorized electronic device.

Major Infractions

Inappropriate obscene language or gestures, behaviors endangering the safety of others, destruction of school property, defiance, fighting, intimidating, threatening physical harm, possession of weapons, or other unauthorized materials, or sexual harassment will result in an automatic office referral and possibly OSS or other consequences based on Cherokee County Discipline Code of Conduct.

Do-Dads

Throughout the school year there are projects we invited our fathers, grandfathers, uncles, etc. to help us with. These projects are usually, landscaping, repairs, and cleaning. Projects are advertised in the school newsletters. Interested helpers would need to call to sign up for the specific project.

Dress Code Policy Reference JCDB

The school recognizes that there are fads and styles, which affect student dress.

Students should come to school dressed in a manner not hazardous to their health or safety or disruptive to classroom routine. We ask both parent and student cooperation in maintaining a standard of dress appropriate for school.

The following, while not an exhaustive list, are examples of inappropriate dress:

Tight fitting and/or revealing clothing, includes clothing usually worn in aerobic workouts.

Tank tops with straps less than the width of the childs three fingers.

Clothing which reveals the midriff or undergarments.

Clothing with obscene or suggestive language: any clothing or jewelry with advertisements or symbols of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, sex or violence.

See through clothing.

Dark glasses.

Hats, bandanas, head bands, or any garments which cover the head.

Pants, shorts or trousers worn below the students natural waistline.

Shorts that are less than the finger-tip length.

Pajamas/nightwear/bedroom/house slippers

Spikes or chains

Shoes with rollers

*Teachers refer students to the office when appropriate dress is in question.

Electronic Devices Policy (CCSD policy JICJ)

Luther Vaughan Elementary School abides by school board policy in regards to communication devices. The following information pertains to any electronic device.

Electronic devices are a common means of communication and information access in todays society. However, these devices include, but are not limited to, existing and emerging mobile communication systems and smart

technologies (cell phones, smart phones, walkie-talkies, pagers, etc.)

portable internet devices (mobile managers, mobile messengers, Blackberry handset, etc.), handheld entertainment systems (video games, CD players, DVD players, MP3 players, iPods, etc.) and any other convergent communication technologies that do any number of the previously mentioned functions. Electronic Devices also include any current or emerging wireless handheld technologies or portable information technology systems that can be used for word processing, wireless Internet access, image capture/recording, sound recording and information transmitting/receiving/storing, etc.

Students may possess and use ONLY these electronic devices at school under the following conditions:

Cell phones are not needed during the school day. Students may come to the office to use the phone. If there is a need for your child to carry a cell phone to be used after school, the phone must remain turned off and out of sight. They may not be left on in vibrating mode.

At no time may cell phones be used in restrooms or on the playground.

IPads, IPods and Cassette Players that belong to the school can be used to listen to books read aloud with the permission of the classroom teacher.

Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of a cell phone and other electronic devices brought to school. The school shall not assume responsibility for theft, loss, damage, or unauthorized calls made with or on the cell phone. If devices are loaned to or borrowed and misused by non-owners, device owners are jointly responsible for the misuse or policy violation(s).

Electronic devices including cell phones shall not be used in a way that threatens, humiliates, harasses, or intimidates school-related individuals, including students, employees, and visitors, or violates local, state, or federal law.

If a student violates this policy, his/her cell phone or electronic device may be confiscated. When an employee confiscates any electronic device under this policy, he/she takes measures to label and secure the device and turn the device over to the office. The electronic device is returned to the student to be taken home at the end of the school day if this is the first violation. If it is the second violation, the cell phone or electronic device may not be returned to the parent until the end of the school year.

Camera or audio recording functions of electronic devices may pose threats to the personal privacy of individuals, used to exploit personal information, and or compromise the integrity of educational programs. Accordingly, student use of the audio recording or camera functions of electronic devices for the purpose of video/audio recording is strictly prohibited on school premises at all times.

Emergency Drills

In accordance to state law, drills including but not limited to fire, weather, natural disaster, bus evacuation are conducted regularly. These are held without warning with teachers responsible for instructing students in the manner and route of exit during each drill. There rehearsals are necessary for helping children react quickly and responsibly in instances of emergency.

Gum and beverages

Chewing gum is prohibited on school grounds or inside the school building. Only clear, non-carbonated beverages are allowed.

Harassment (CCSD policy JICFAA)

Harassment is defined by policy as a gesture, electronic communication, or a written, verbal, physical or sexual act reasonably perceived to have the effect of either of the following:

harming a student physically or emotionally or damaging a students property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of personal harm or property damage.

insulting or demeaning a student or group of students causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

School administration takes reports of bullying seriously and investigates all reports according to board policy.

Health and Medication (CCSD policy JGCD; JGCD-R)

School Nurse: LLVES has a full-time registered nurse (RN). She properly assesses students conditions and follows appropriate procedures based on her experienced and expert knowledge. Every effort is made to keep your child at school in the classroom if you have sent him/her to school. However, it may be necessary for you to come to school to pick up a sick child. Please keep your phone numbers up-to-date so school contact can be made if your child is too sick to remain in school.

Children with temperatures of 100 degrees or higher should stay home. They should not return to school until they have had a normal temperature for 24 hours without the help of medication.

Prescribed antibiotics should be taken for 24 hours before your child returns to school.

Children with vomiting or diarrhea should not return to school until they have been free of symptoms for at least 24 hours.

Children complaining, but without any symptoms, should be sent to school. They will be sent home if they become sick during the day.

Parents are encouraged to dispense medicines at home before or after school hours.

However, medicines may be given at school following board policy. (Refer Board Policy Section JGCD; JGCD-R.)

The prescription states that the medication must be taken (4) or more times each day or at a specific time during the school day.

The childs name and dosage must appear on the prescription and it must be in the prescribed container.

The parent has completed required documentation. (You must visit the school to do this.)

Non-prescription medication will not be given without a doctors note.

Homework

Each day students are required to read 20 minutes. Not including these 20 minutes, your child may have homework in other areas. School days are very busy and the students will be working hard each day. Homework is a practice time. Work should be familiar and not have to be taught at home. It is not for the purpose of punishment. If you find that your child is taking more than the approximate time to complete his work. It is our belief that homework is the responsibility of the student, and parents/guardians assist children when necessary. Please inform us when your child has difficulty with assignments that appear to be difficult and/or inappropriate. We will be glad to meet with you to find solutions.

Contact the classroom teacher and begin working on a plan to help with your issue. Studying is important to the success your child will see. It is the responsibility of the parent to help teach study habits that will contribute to his success. Information is available about good study habits and successful homework procedures on our website and in the parenting center at school. Students are expected to have a book with them each day as they leave the school. Homework is given each day except on a few occasions. Part of the daily assignments for the students is their reflection sheets. Please sign this each day and return it to school.

Library Books and Textbooks

Library Books: Students are encouraged to check out books from the library to enjoy at home reading. However, it is the responsibility of the student to properly care for borrowed books. As in any library, parents are responsible for books lost or damaged by students.

Textbooks: Students are issued textbooks in accordance to state law. Students are expected to use the books at home for homework assignments. However, it is the responsibility of the student to properly care for state-owned text books, and parents are responsible for books lost or damaged by students.

Lost and Found

Student items such as coats, gloves, hats, book bags, and lunch containers should be marked with your childs name. Lost items are placed in the Lost and Found box located in the back of the cafeteria. Please check the box periodically if any item is lost. Items not claimed are donated to charity.

Lunch and Breakfast Programs

LLV cafeteria serves hot lunch and breakfast daily. There is no charge, at this time, for any student eating breakfast or lunch.

Visitors for Lunch: Family members may come to school and eat lunch with their child(ren). Please contact the school cafeteria (206-6090) if you are planning a visit. There is a fee for visitors breakfast and lunch.

Marvelous Moms

Throughout the school year we may have various projects we will ask our moms to help with. These projects will be advertised in our school newsletters. When a project is advertised, interested helpers would need to call the school and sign up.

National Junior Beta Club

Junior Beta Club is a club recognizing students in grades 5-9 who demonstrate leadership abilities in academic achievement, character, and service. LLV extends invitations to qualifying 5th grade students after the completion of the 1st semester. Students are honored by a special recognition service and reception. Students must maintain high academic status and a clean discipline record to transfer membership to Gaffney Middle School as a sixth grade student.

Parents Right to Know

According to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, any parent can request information about any teacher of their child. Under federal law, parents have the right to know:

Whether a teacher has met state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;

Whether a teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived;

The baccalaureate degree major of a teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.

If you would like information about your childs teacher, please make the request in writing.

Parent Visitation

School Administration practices an open-door policy and encourages you to come by the school office to talk about ideas, ask questions, or discuss concerns.

Parents are also encouraged to attend parenting educational opportunities when these are planned by the school. Parents are also encouraged to schedule a conference with teachers or principal if there are any concerns about instructional practices.

Personal Belongings

Students should leave toys, tape recorders, radios, Gameboys, and other electronic devices at home. This procedure eliminates theft, classroom distractions, and arguments. Items of this nature will be taken if the student takes the items out of their book bags and has it out in class, at lunch, or recess. A parent may come for the item once notified. Cell phones that are needed for after school purposes must be approved by the administration. Phones will be taken if they are out in the classrooms, lunch, or at recess. Also, phones are to be off and stored in book bags. A phone that rings will be taken and turned into the office. Coats and extra clothing that have been placed in lost and found will stay for a period of time. If the article is not claimed, it will be donated to charity. Parents are urged to write their childs name on their belongings.

Children should not bring money to school except for special purposes. Any money brought to school should be placed in an envelope, labeled with the students name, and the purpose for which the money is to be used. Students are cautioned never to leave money or other possessions in the classroom unprotected.

Promotion-Retention Policy Reference IHE-R

Student Progress Student progress is recorded using a computerized program called Power School. Parents can access Power School using a private password to view students grades. Parental Reports are printed each nine weeks quarter for grade distribution. Kindergarten and First Grade students receive a non-traditional folder-type report card resembling a check list. Other reports concerning individual student progress may also be issued. Teachers are encouraged to report excellent as well as unsatisfactory work using unscheduled reports. Parents are encouraged to initiate conferences any time by writing a note or calling the teacher. Teachers may request parents to attend special conferences.

The Uniform Grading Scale is:

A=90-100 B=80-89 C=70-79 D=60-69 F=0-59

Promotion/Retention The teacher(s) and principal of a school should know by the end of the first semester those students who are not making satisfactory progress. Generally speaking, a student is in danger of repeating a grade if grades are below 69 in two or more core subjects including math, Language Arts, science, and social studies. In cases when students are not progressing satisfactorily, the procedures below will be followed:

1. At the end of the first semester, the teacher will indicate in a letter or progress report all subjects a child is in danger of failing at this time.

2. A conference with the parent(s) must be scheduled by the teacher at this time to discuss the students program and progress.

3. During the conference, the following areas should be included in the discussion:

a. the students present level of attainment.

b. the level of attainment required for promotion.

c. specific problems the student is encountering.

d. suggestions to the parent(s) of ways in which they can assist the student.

4. Final retention conferences, when needed, will be held during the fourth nine weeks grading quarter.

Recognition and Awards Programs

Opportunities are provided for students to be recognized for academic success, perfect attendance, positive character traits, and making improvement. Students receive a special certificate with their report card each nine weeks. There are two special recognition programs during the year. The Academic Banquet is held at the end of April to honor students in grades 2-5 who have had grades on their report cards of 85 or higher all year, had 95% attendance including tardies, and who have shown good citizenship by having received 200 or more stars each nine weeks. The second program is at the end of the year. 5K-5th grade will have scheduled Awards Day programs where all students are recognized for their achievements.

Safety Drills

Drills are practiced monthly to ensure your childs and the staffs safety in case of true emergencies. Drills in fire safety, severe weather and intruder safety will be practiced. A guide to the procedures may be viewed in the office. It is important for you to speak with your child concerning the importance of following the rules and expectations during drills. As always, LLV faculty and staff strive to provide the safest and most secure building for the education.

School Choice (School Board Policy JBCC)

The Cherokee County School District offers school choice for families. Families interested in applying for school choice must do so during the month of February by going to your childs home school and requesting assistance in making a school choice request.

School Closing Due to Weather or Unforeseen Causes

The closing of school will be announced by authority of the superintendent over local radio, TV stations, and the use of recorded phone messages. Please be sure our school has current phone numbers for you and two emergency contact numbers, so recorded phone messages are received.

School Improvement Council

The School Improvement Council is vital to Luther L. Vaughan Elementary School Administration. The Council is comprised of elected representation from all stakeholders including parents, teachers, and community members. Elections are held and appointments are made in late-September or early-October. School Improvement members serve for 2 years. The School Improvement Council works for the betterment of the school. It is responsible for reporting school improvement to the community in April.

School Pictures

School pictures will be made on August 26. These photos are made by Life Touch Photography. Every effort is made to identify the most reasonably priced package so fall pictures are affordable for everyone. Spring pictures are made for students usually in March or April. Spring pictures are a fundraising event for our school.

School Supplies

Each grade level has selected supplies for use by students in that grade. If you have questions about these items, teachers will have examples of these supplies in their classrooms. Students needing supplies throughout the year may contact the office. Many organizations have provided supplies for the school Supplies will be provided to students who need them as long as they are available.

Note: The school district prefers students to not use rolling book bags unless a student has a medical condition. A note from the doctor should verify the need, and these are updated annually.

School Telephone

The school telephone number is 206-6054 and the fax number is 487-1253. These phone lines are for school business. Students will not be called from class for incoming calls unless it is an emergency. Students wishing to call home may use the office phone if permission is given.

School-Wide Service Projects

As part of the Character Education Program, the entire student body is invited to participate in school-wide service projects supporting worthy causes. (Teachers and Club Sponsors may also participate in smaller projects for their individual classrooms and/or clubs during the year.)

Searches

The district provides items such as lockers, desks, and other such school property to students for their use during the academic year. Because the district retains ownership of the aforementioned property, school officials may conduct random, unannounced searches of such property. Students shall be notified at the beginning of each school year that such property may be searched at any time.

Snacks

Students may bring a snack from home. The teacher will determine when students may eat their snacks. No carbonated sodas, colored drinks, tea, or juices may be brought to drink inside the classrooms.

Special Services

Services are available for children with special needs. Itinerant teachers provide help in the areas of speech therapy, visually impaired, and hearing impaired. Special Education teachers provide services for students who are emotionally handicapped, learning disabled, educable mentally handicapped, and trainable mentally handicapped. The school level intervention team is available for teachers and parents concerned about the progress of their child. Parents who have questions concerning these programs may call the school office.

Spirit T-Shirts

Each grade level will have an opportunity to purchase class t-shirts. Orders for t-shirts are done in September. Information will be distributed at the end of August.

Statement of Discrimination

The Cherokee County School District No. 1 does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or disability in admission to, treatment in or employment in its programs or activities. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to:

Human Resources Dept.

Cherokee County School District No. 1

PO Box 460

Gaffney, SC 29342

Transfers/Withdrawals

If you are moving to a new location and it is necessary for your child to attend a different school other than Luther Vaughan, please notify the office by phone, 206-6045, or visit our office as soon as possible. Completion of a Withdrawal Form is required.

Visitors

We always welcome visitors and parents to our school. However, when visiting the school, everyone must report to the office upon entering the building to receive a visitors pass. The visitors pass must be displayed while visiting. Visitors/parents are not authorized to visit a classroom during school hours without prior approval and proper identification. Conferences with teachers may be scheduled by calling the school office or by sending a note to the teacher. Parents are invited to participate in various activities at the school, such as parent meetings, field day, Open House, student programs, and recognition assemblies.

Volunteers

We welcome parents, grandparents, and other members of the community to help as volunteers and become an active participant in the learning process of students. We will assist you in choosing an area in which to participate. A volunteer may assist in the media center, help duplicate materials, help the teacher by serving as room mother, read to or listen to students read, help with beautification of the grounds, or help with activities and various programs. All persons wishing to volunteer are required to have a background check before volunteering.

Please note that this is a fluid document and may be updated throughout the school year.