GREECE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT2014 - 2015 School Calendar

SeptemberTuesday 2 All Staff Report – Teacher DayWednesday 3 All Staff Report – Professional Development DayThursday 4 School Opens – Full Day Session PreK-12

OctoberFriday 10 Superintendent’s Conference Day – No School PreK-12Monday 13 Columbus Day – No School PreK-12

NovemberTuesday 11 Veteran’s Day – No School PreK-12Wed - Fri 26-28 Thanksgiving Recess – No School PreK-12 DecemberThursday 4 Parent-Teacher Conference Day – No School PreK-8 (PM only)Friday 5 Parent-Teacher Conference Day – No School PreK-8 Mon - Fri 22-26 Winter Recess – No School PreK-12Monday - Wed 29-31 Winter Recess – No School PreK-12

JanuaryThursday -Friday 1-2 Winder Recess – No School PreK-12Monday 5 Classes Resume – PreK-12Monday 19 Martin Luther King Day – No School PreK-12

FebruaryMon - Fri 16-20 Presidents’ Week Recess – No School PreK-12Monday 23 Classes Resume – PreK-12

MarchMon 30 -18 Spring Recess – No School PreK-12

AprilTuesday - Friday 1 - 4 Spring Recess – No School PreK-12Monday 6 Classes Resume – PreK-12Monday 27 Scoring/Professional Development Day – No School PreK-8

MayMonday 25 Memorial Day Recess – No School PreK-12

JuneThursday 25 Last Day of Classes – K-8Friday 26 Last Day for Teachers

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A Message From Our Principal, Dr. Mark Balsamo…………………………………………………………..3

West Ridge Commitments……………………………………………………………………………….…….…4

West Ridge School Staff…………………………………………………………………………………..…….5-6

Parents as Partners in Education, West Ridge PTA………………………………………………………….7-8

Committee Organizational Structure.…………………………………………………………….………..……..9

NYS Testing, Conferences, Report Cards……………………………………………………….….…….…...10

Telephone Numbers, School Hours, Arrival and Dismissal Procedures……………………….……………11

Before/After School Activity Buses, School Entrances ,Visitors………………………………………………12

Attendance Policy, Health Services……………………………………………………………………………...12

Medication.…………………………………………………………………………….……………………..……..13

Recess, Lunch Program…….……………………………………………………………………………………..13

Cafeteria Rules/Expectations……………………………….…………………………………………………….13

Weapons………………………….…………………………………………………….………………...…………14

Electronic Paraphernalia…………………………………………………………………….…….………..……..14

Dogs on School Property…………………………………………………………………………………….…….14

West Ridge Events/Celebration Practice………………………………………….………………..….…….…..15

Code of Conduct, Dress Code……………………………………………….…………………………….………15

Transportation, Bus Behavior, Safetiy Patrol………………………………………………………………….16-17

PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support)………………………………………………………….17

Emergency School Closing Procedures…………………………………………………………….…………….18

West Ridge Behavioral Expections………………………………………………………………………………..19

Response to Intervention (RtI), Support Services………………………………………………..………….20-21

Safety Drills, Volunteers…………………………………………………………………………………………….22

Greece Central Strategic Goals…………………………………………………………………………………….23

School Map………………………………………………………….…………………………………..…Back Cover

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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL

August, 2014Dear West Ridge Families:

On behalf of the school staff, I am pleased to distribute the West Ridge Handbook for the 2014-2015 school year. The intent of the handbook is to inform you about our programs, routines and activities. Most importantly, it is to encourage your involvement as a valued member of the West Ridge community.

There are additions and changes to our West Ridge handbook every year. We have made revisions to reflect the current school year, including important dates and website links. Please review the handbook thoroughly so you are well informed. If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the handbook, please feel free to contact the school.

The West Ridge Staff truly believes that our school, our programs, and our outcomes will be improved by combining the talents of students, parents, staff and community. As we work together to ensure student success, our decisions and actions should reflect the Envision Greece 2017 Strategic Plan, West Ridge School Improvement Plan, as well as district and school vision statements. We look forward to partnering with you in support of student success.

Please look for our West Ridge newsletters (“Whale Watch”) which will continue to provide valuable information. I’m looking forward to a great year!

Sincerely,

Mark BalsamoPrincipal

The Greece Central School District does not discriminate in employment or in its educational programs and activities against qualified individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, disability, veteran status or age and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Jamie Warren, Assistant Superintendent, Department of Human ResourcesCompliance OfficerP.O. Box 300 (585)-966-2323North Greece, New York 14515 jamie.warren@greece.k12.ny.us

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At West Ridge we are committed to:

The Power of Learning Communities Our school is structured in K-2, 3-5 family groups to provide multi-grade learning environments

across curricular areas. Our families create a sense of community reflecting real world situations in which students learn and

develop together. Our families foster a community that values everyone and supports a culture of mutual respect.

Academic Excellence for All

Our staff is committed to participating in student centered, research based professional development. Our staff strives to help all students meet their academic potential through challenging curriculum,

while accommodating each child’s learning style and developmental needs.

Professional Collaboration & Shared Decision Making

Shared Decision Making ensures that all voices of our school community are heard: teachers, staff, administrators, parents, and students.

Staff collaboration and collegiality allow the opportunity to meet diverse student needs while providing positive role models.

Inclusion Students with special needs are included in general education as much as possible with necessary

supports, thus reflecting real-world relationships. We embrace students with diverse backgrounds and needs with an open mind.

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WEST RIDGE SCHOOL STAFF

Principal Dr. Mark Balsamo

Assistant Principal Jamie Naple

Secretary Nancy HenchenChris Whiting

Clerk Typist Linda Beaver

Nurse Cindy Stewart

Psychologist Erin Wright

Counselor Carolyn Raus\

Custodians Jerzy Jurkowski - Head Custodian Collin Houghton - Night Custodian

Room #

Sunshine Family 1 Katie Hibbard (PK)2 Jillayne Lessord (K)4 Carol Henchen (1)6 Erica Gould (2)

Lyn Walker (Inclusive Education Teacher)

All Star Family 3 Patricia Ozuna (3)Colleen Frawley (Inclusive Education Teacher)

5 Julie Fulkerson (4)Cindy Ingham (Inclusive Education Teacher

9 Sarah Wright (Inclusive Education Teacher)

Rainbow Family 17 Jami Encina (K)18 Katie Bleier (1)19 Nicolle Day (2)

Purple Pizzazz 15 Kate Carroll (3)7 Kim DiCataldo (4)

Blue Dream Team B Angela Horvath (K)12 Polly Finnegan (1)13 Janet McLean (2)

Red Dream Team14 Cortney Sanfilippo (3)11 Heather Falcone (4)

Fifth Grade Force20 Michelle Walker (5th Math)21 David Capizzi (5th grade reading)22 Pat Billone (5th grade writing/science)

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Reading Specialist/Instructional Support 8 Andrea Kuckol8 Emily Pfeiffer8 Laura Lee Sullivan8 NEW

(MICT) Math Intervention 10 Kristen Phelan

Art A Amanda Kirkebye

Library D3 Stephanie Voorheis

Physical Education 30 Rich HealeySheryl Rimore

Instrumental Music 33 Aubrey DiNormaStrings 33 Kim Fink

Vocal Music 29 Susan Langmann (primary)

Speech/Language 32 Eileen Eller

ESL 16 Pamela Pruitt 16 Libby Day

OT 34 Patti CallanPT 34 Susan Griffen

Psychologist Aide 24 Lisa Troiano

Teaching Assistants 17 Janet Azzolina 2 Nora Coco 10 Barb Johnson

Eileen Lalonde11 Diana McCollough9 Bonnie Weidenkeller 1 Ellen White

CCA’s 5 Michelle Bonacci

Cafeteria Staff Joanne Cook

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PARENTS AS PARTNERS IN EDUCATION

West Ridge School of Learning Communities has a strong commitment to parents and teachers working together as partners in each child’s education. Working with the staff, parents have many opportunities for meaningful and active involvement in the education of their children.

KEEPING IN TOUCH:

Communication between the home and the school is vital for this partnership to work. You will receive many class and school newsletters, notices, and notes. Please take time to read and respond to these. There are many special family activities during the year when you can visit school with your child. There are also many opportunities for parents to come into the school to help. Volunteers are often needed for field trips, special events, daily classroom activities, and lunchroom activities. When you spend time in school, you will get a better understanding and appreciation for the wonderful learning experiences that are going on in our school. You will also be showing your child how important school is to your family, supporting the learning that goes on in the classroom.

THE WEST RIDGE PTA:

The West Ridge PTA fills the role of encouraging and facilitating the partnership between the school and the home. It joins the interests and energy of staff and parents to support children and their families. Volunteers in this organization support communication and parent education by publishing a monthly parent newsletter, sponsoring parent programs, and holding periodic meetings. The PTA helps to organize volunteers for our school and sponsors many family events during the year. Its volunteers also help enrich student life by funding and staffing special events for students.

The first PTA meeting will be in September in the school auditeria. The date for this meeting will be sent home at the beginning of the school year. The meeting will focus on plans for the coming year. We will also outline the specific parent involvement opportunities available to you and answer your questions.

Parent involvement takes many forms at West Ridge. You are qualified to do all of them just because you are a parent. You will be receiving various requests for volunteers and all your contributions are welcomed by the West Ridge School community. Become an active partner in the education of your child as he or she starts this year of learning at West Ridge!

If you have any questions regarding the PTA or any activities at West Ridge, please feel free to contact any of the PTA officers.

Presidents Janine Horn 466-4676Vice PresidentCommunications SecretaryRecording SecretaryTreasurer

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The PTA directs a membership drive each year and the goal is for 100% family and staff membership. They also direct a fall fundraiser to support numerous activities at West Ridge. The PTA is always looking for volunteers to work on committees and to be involved in our many events. Each year the PTA organizes and supports after school clubs for students. These include:Chess ClubScrabble ClubStudent LeadershipStaff AppreciationGarden Club.

Each year the PTA also sponsors and organizes many evening family events. These include:Book FairWest Ridge T-Shirt SalesFamily Game NightHalloween PartyValentine’s Sweat-heart DanceFamily Movie NightJune End of Year Picnic

PTA needs and encourages parents to volunteer and support each of these clubs and activities.

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West Ridge Elementary SchoolCommittee Organizational Structure

2014-15The West Ridge Plan/organizational structure is the means for turning the school’s commitments into actions that provide quality educational experiences for our children. Within the context of shared decision making, this plan reflects the school community’s desire to create an environment that is guided by decisions of those who are directly affected by those decisions. The West Ridge school community believes that a school guided by the decisions of staff, parents, and community members can better meet the needs of children and improve student success. Our decision making is enhanced when all stakeholders are involved in setting expectations and assessing our progress in meeting them. Communication during this process and when a decision is reached is shared responsibility. It is a desired expectation that each family group, extended or immediate, is represented. Because each voice is important, consensus is the primary means of decision making.

PIE (Partners in Education) Meetings (ALL, meet every Tuesday)These meetings will be used for: 1) turn-keying District professional development and information and focusing on work connected to Envision Greece 2017 (e.g. Family Friendly Schools, PBIS); 2) building based professional development and decisions, and 3) grade level meetings (PLT) focused on individual PLT School Improvement Plan work.

C3 (Communication/Coordination Committee) (representatives from each grade level, meeting every other Wednesday). The committee is facilitated by the Principal, with input from staff on agenda development. This committee will function as a building management team. Principal will bring management related issuesbefore this committee to: share information, seek input (from grade levels), and determine next steps (includingdirecting issues to the appropriate committee or decision-making framework). Items from committees will beshared through C3. C3 will work on schedule (logistics), the school budget and finance, inventory, technology,school safety issues, etc….

School Improvement Team (grade level representatives, meeting every other Wednesday). The committee is facilitated by the Principal with input from staff on agenda development. This committee will have responsibility for the oversight of our School Improvement Planning process. This includes drafting our School Improvement Plan for full staff to review, reviewing and analyzing data, planning and delivering professional development related to the SIP, and reflecting and analyzing the effectiveness of our work on the SIP. This committee will also serve as a conduit of information from District instructional standards area committees (e.g. Elementary Literacy Committee, Math committees, Science committees, etc…) and develop the parameters for the instructional schedule.

CommitteesThere will be three school-wide committees that meet once every five weeks during PIE time (Tuesdays, 3:15 – 4:05). Each staff member will sit on one of the three committees.

PBIS/Universal Tier I: Oversees our implementation of the PBIS framework. This includes development of common language and the plans for conveying our schoolwide expectations to staff, students and parents. Responsible for monitoring student behaviors, analyzing monthly data, etc… The committee will oversee our implementation of Olweus. The committee will review data from SWISS on behavioral referrals.The committee is also responsible for coordinating events and programs for students and coordinating with our PTA facilitated Student Leadership group. This includes theme days, our local and national fundraising efforts to support others in need, Moving Up Day ceremony, 5th grade fun night, coordination with PTA of our student clubs (Garden Club, Chess, Scrabble), Read Across America celebration, Red Ribbon Week, etc…. This committee meets monthly and consists of teacher, parent and student representatives. The committee is co-chaired by our school counselor and several staff members. The committee will work to decrease referrals and suspensions.

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Family Friendly Schools – responsible for creating and monitoring the implementation of the elements of a family friendly school, in particularly, working to improve communication and family/community engagement. The work of this team will include coordinating partnerships with families and outside organizations. Charges of this committee include: assessing and monitoring our family friendly school areas and developing plans for improvement. The committee will also oversee school events include: the Spring picnic, Read Across America, Hazard House, Senior reading buddies, connecting to the PTA, Fire/Safety, Fine Arts, etc… The committee is co-chaired by our Teacher Leader and several staff members. The committee will liaison with the District Title I committee and a member of the committee will serve as our liaison to the Title One committee (dates: October 3, January 15, and April 30, 2015 from 4:00-5:00). The committee will determine appropriate utilization of these Title 1 funds. (funding to increase parent involvement)

Attendance Committee responsible for the review of attendance school wide every five weeks; development and implementation of school wide attendance systems (attendance tickets, reward and recognition systems, visibility of goal, etc...); working on tracking and developing plans for individual students. The charge of this committee will be to increase to % of our students here 95% of the time and decrease students who with severe (>20%) and chronic (>10%) attendance concerns. The committee will be facilitated by the school Assistant Principal and school nurse.

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NYS TESTING

Students in intermediate grades will participate in the following NYS assessments:

NYS Assessments

New York State English Language Arts Test - Grade 3-5Administration dates: April 14 - 16

New York State Math Test - Grade 3-5Administration dates: April 22 - 24

New York State Elementary Science Test - Grade 4 ONLYAdministration dates: One day TBD during 5/21-5/30/14 testing window and June 1

When the results of the testing become available to school staff, theywill be shared with parents.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Designated conference days are scheduled during the fall semester (12/4/14 (PM only) and 12/5/14 for the current school year). These conferences provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to exchange information, and to communicate strengths and/or concerns about each child in relation to the instructional program. As a parent, you are encouraged to share successes, concerns or suggestions regarding your child’s experiences in school or at home. Teachers will also share information about your child's daily work habits, attitudes and behavior. Together parents, students, and teachers can provide an effective learning plan for each child.

You are invited to meet with the teachers as questions arise throughout the school year. You may arrange a meeting by writing a note, sending an email or making a phone call to the teacher.

PUPIL PROGRESS REPORT CARDS

The Greece Central School District provides a consistent, standards-based reporting system for all elementary buildings. Students in grades Kindergarten through five receive pupil progress reports in the form of written report cards three times a year as noted in the District calendar.

Student progress with work habits/personal growth, and content understanding within each standards area are noted using a scale of 1-4. Each report card will include narrative comments as well. You are encouraged to send written comments to the teacher(s) in response to the report card. Greece will be implementing a revised progress report in 2014-15 and shifting to three reporting periods from four.

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STUDENT GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES

SCHOOL PHONE: 966-3600 NURSE’S PHONE: 966-3672SCHOOL FAX: 966-3639 NURSE’S ANSWERING MACHINE: 966-3616

SCHOOL HOURS: 8:35 a.m. – 3:05 p.m.

ACTIVITY PERIOD: 7:45 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Several activities are scheduled for students during this time period. The only students who should be in school during this period are 4th and 5th graders who have been formally registered for these activities. Younger siblings are not allowed to come to school during activity period. Students should not arrive for activity period before 7:40 a.m. Students and parents will be notified regarding participation. Transportation will be provided by the District.

GREECE SCHOOL DISTRICT HOTLINE: 966-4636

The Greece School District maintains a recorded message service 24 hours a day. It contains current school news and up-to-the-minute reports on school closings and/or emergencies.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES:

Arrival: The safety of each child at West Ridge School is a concern for everyone. Unless a child is scheduled to participate in one of the organized morning activities, he/she should not arrive at school until 8:25 a.m. Children who are not registered for morning activities should not accompany siblings who are registered. Students cannot be appropriately supervised before 8:25 a.m. To alleviate this concern, we ask all parents to:

1. Schedule your walker so that he/she arrives no earlier than 8:25 a.m.

2. When driving your child to school, bring him/her no earlier than 8:25 a.m. There is a posted drop-off point at the side entrance by the parking lot. This drop-off point has been carefully chosen to ensure student safety and to avoid traffic congestion with cars and buses. Please use this drop-off point (not the bus loop) and instruct your child on the appropriate path into the school.

3. No Adults are allowed into the building at arrival unless a visit has been pre-arranged with the student’s teacher. If such a visit has been pre-arranged you should report to the main office upon entering the building, provide a government issued form of identification and wear a visitor’s badge.

Please note that our doors are LOCKED until 8:20 and students and adults without an appointment will NOT have access to the building prior to this time (the exception if for students participating in our morning activity period).

Late arrival: If a child arrives at school after 8:40 a.m. the child’s parents or another adult must accompany him/her to the Main Office to sign in.

Dismissal: Student dismissal begins at 2:50 p.m. Students being picked up and walkers are released before bus riders are called. NO CARS ARE ALLOWED IN THE BUS LOOP AT ANY TIME .

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End of School Day Dismissal: On the occasions when a child needs to be picked up at school rather than ride the bus home, the following precautionary procedures will be followed to ensure that each child is released only to the parent or designated adult:

1. Parent or designated adult needs to report to the LIBRARY to sign out the child. Parents should remain in the LIBRARY while waiting for their child. The side library door will be opened beginning at 2:45. We will begin calling students whose parents are picking them up at 2:55.

2. Parents or other designated adults picking up a student should park in our front parking lot. 3. All children will be dismissed from the LIBRARY only. 4. Adults will be required to show photo identification until/unless known by school staff.5. Prior written permission must be provided to the office staff if someone other than the legal guardian or

person listed on the Student Information Form is to pick up the child.6. Parents and students should leave the building through the library. 7. Do not arrive before 2:45 p.m. to pick up your child.

Early Dismissal: If a student is being picked up during the day, parents should report to the main office.

Before and After School Activity Buses: Transportation will be provided for scheduled activities before and after school. Before school activity buses will be available Monday through Friday. Buses will arrive at West Ridge at 4:05 p.m. for organized after school activities and take students to their home address.

SCHOOL ENTRANCES:

In order to ensure the safety of our children, all of our school doors are locked at times other than arrival and dismissal. Anyone entering West Ridge during the day is asked ring the buzzer at the main entrance. Once inside, please report to the main office immediately. If you have an appointment you will be asked for a copy of your driver’s license or other government issues identification. These will be scanned into our new Visitor Management system. When you prepare to leave the building you will be asked to sign out and your identification will be returned.

VISITORS:

We encourage you to visit our school. However, for security reasons and to minimize disruptions to instruction, such visits and volunteering must be pre-arranged with your child’s teacher for mutual convenience. Whenever you come to school, stop at the office to sign in and provide a government issued identification (e.g. driver’s license) which will be scanned into our Visitor Management System. You will be issued a visitor’s badge when you sign in. You must return this and sign out when you leave the building.

CURRICULUMGreece Central School District curriculum has been constructed to reflect the New York State learning standards. Our goal is to increase student achievement through standards-based curricula, professional development, and educational support. Curriculum information by subject area is available athttp://www.greece.k12.ny.us/academics.cfm?subpage=38309.

The New York State Common Core Learning Standards (CCLS) are internationally-benchmarked and evidence-based standards. These standards are a consistent set of expectations for what students should learn and be able to do to ensure that every student across New York State is on track for college and career readiness. The Common Core State Standards are important because they create clear expectations for what students should know and be able to do in key areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening, language and mathematics. 

ATTENDANCE POLICY:

Regular attendance is essential to your child’s academic progress. However, when an absence is unavoidable, call the nurse at 966-3616 each day for the length of your child’s illness. If the nurse has not been notified by the parent or guardian she will contact parents of children who are absent or tardy. This helps to ensure the child’s

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safety. PLEASE NOTE: If a child is absent with a fever, he/she must be fever free and off all fever reducing medication for a full 24 hours before he/she may return to school. When a child returns to school he/she must have a written excuse citing the date of and the reason for the absence; the excuse should be signed by a parent or legal guardian. Otherwise the absence will be recorded as an illegal absence.

HEALTH SERVICES;

A child’s ability to learn is influenced by his/her health status. School nurses address the health related needs of the student by providing health assessment intervention, health education, and counseling. As a result of these services, the quality of education as well as the quality of life for the student is enhanced.

Mrs. Cindy Stewart is our school nurse and is assigned full time to West Ridge School. Mrs. Stewart will assess first aid needs and notify parents, when necessary, of health office visits. Yearly screenings are completed on each student, as required by New York State law: vision, hearing, scoliosis, and color vision. Whenever possible, she is available to staff and parents for consultation. Please keep Mrs. Stewart updated on medical problems your child(ren) may encounter as well as any changes in emergency numbers.

State law requires physical examinations to be completed on all children entering kindergarten, second, and fourth grade. An appropriate form should be completed and returned to the health office. Any child who has not had a physical during those grades will be seen by District medical personnel.

Before any child can register at a school in New York State, they must meet immunization requirements. They must be fully immunized against polio, diphtheria, rubeola, rubella, mumps, varicella and hepatitis. A copy of all immunizations needs to be on file for every child.

MEDICATION:

Any medication in the possession of a child, including aspirin, ointments/creams, and cough drops, is a potential source of danger to the entire school population. Whenever possible, administer medicine at home. When this is not possible, please provide the nurse with:

1. Your physician’s written request that a prescription/over the counter medicine be given at stated times and in specific dosages. This medication must be in its original bottle.

2. A written note signed by the parent or guardian, requesting that prescription and/or over the counter (i.e. Tylenol) medication be administered according to the directions.

3. Please include two small pictures of your child with each medication. The pictures are used for identification purposes.

4. The medication must be hand delivered to the nurse by an adult. Children may not carry any medication to school at any time for any reason.

RECESS:

Each teacher provides recess periods for students, based on classroom schedules. Please be sure your child is dressed for the weather in the event that the recess is outdoors.

LUNCH PROGRAM:

Hot lunches are available on a daily basis. District lunch menus are sent home with the children. Soup and toasted cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches may be substituted for the main entrée on any day. Milk is available for students not buying the hot lunch. Free or reduced cost lunch programs for qualified families are provided upon request. Forms for this service are included in this mailing and are also available in the main office.

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Each kindergarten through fifth grade homeroom group has a specific daily 30-minute lunch period. All children eat in the cafeteria, except when a special activity requires the use of this space.

Up to 30 lunches can be pre-paid per child. We encourage you to use this program. Checks can be made out to “West Ridge School” for $10.00 or more. If you have more than one child, they may be included in one check. Be sure to list their names on the front of the check. No child will go hungry because of lost or forgotten lunch money. A lunch loan ticket will be provided on such occasions. We request your cooperation by repaying the lunch loan the following day to the cafeteria.

Lunchroom aides are always present during the lunch period to assist children. We encourage parent volunteers to support our lunchroom program so that we will be able to provide additional activities for students, both indoor and outdoor. Please be sure students are dressed appropriately for the weather.

PLEASE BE SURE TO LABEL ALL LUNCH BOXES. Each day several lost boxes cannot be returned because they are not labeled.

CAFETERIA RULES/EXPECTATIONS (see full PBIS matrix on page 17)

Be Respectful:-Wait your turn-Be polite-Follow directions-Eat and touch ONLY your food

Be Responsible:-Quiet voice-Use food and utensils correctly-Clean up after yourself

Be Ready to Learn:-Raise your hand-Stay in your space-Eat healthy

Positive reinforcement is an integral part of PBIS. Each day, each classroom is “rated” on several criteria by their cafeteria monitor. These ratings (both positive and those requiring improvement) are used by classroom teachers to follow-up in reinforcing lunchroom expectations. Classes that demonstrate positive behaviors at lunch will be recognized by through our classroom of the week recognition process.Parents are always welcome (and encouraged) to enjoy lunch with their children in the cafeteria.

WEAPONS:

Possession of weapons on school property (including school buses) or at school-sponsored activities will not be tolerated and will result in suspension, referral to police, and notification to the superintendent of schools. At the elementary level we rely heavily on parents to help with the communication about the importance of this rule and support for strict adherence to it. Children should be reminded not to bring to school any weapon or object that could be construed as a weapon. This includes toys that you believe may be appropriate for a school project; be sure to check on these with your child’s teacher ahead of time.

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ELECTRONIC PARAPHERNALIA:

Electronic games (such as Gameboy or other handheld game), radios, ipods, laser pointers, cell phones and other similar items may not be used at West Ridge School during school hours.

DOGS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

To help ensure the safety of our students, dogs should not be in school without prior approval from the principal. Dogs should not be in the front bus loop area while students are arriving and during dismissal. Any dog that is on school property should always be under the control of a leash. Training service/therapy dogs do have access to public facilities. Please let the principal know if this pertains to you.

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WEST RIDGE EVENTS/CELEBRATIONS PRACTICE:

There are many traditional, cultural, international, patriotic, and seasonal events that are recognized at West Ridge. In most cases individual teachers and family groups make decisions about the best way to address these holidays and special days. When doing this planning, every effort is made to be inclusive. Teaching and learning about religious holidays is permissible, celebrating them is not permissible. The resources that guide our decisions are the Greece Central School District instructional objectives; the Greece Central School District Human Diversity Mission Statement; and available federal, state, and local mandates/guidelines.

West Ridge School also promotes school-wide celebrations. These celebrations are the result of recommendations by the Student Support key committee and are based on the same criteria. If you have any questions regarding this area please contact your child’s teacher or Dr. Balsamo.

CODE OF CONDUCT

An abridged version of the District Code of Conduct is included in the August mailing and will also be sent home with each child on the first day of school. Please familiarize yourself with the full length Code of Conduct which can be accessed on the District website at www.greece.k12.ny.us by clicking on “Parents” and then “Code of Conduct.” We specifically want to reinforce the fact that electronic devices such as iPods/MP3 cannot be out during the instructional hours of the day. Exceptions may be authorized by the building principal or classroom teacher for instructional purposes. The best way to ensure the safety of your electronic devices is to keep them at home. Cell phones must be off and out of sight during school hours. Also, also please be aware that inappropriate/negative messages on t-shirts have no place in our school, where we stress Asset development for everyone.

STUDENT DRESS CODEAt West Ridge School, we take pride in the way we dress. We feel that an individual’s grooming and the way he/she dresses does have a bearing on how others react to him/her and therefore affects behavior and learning.

Information regarding the student dress code is included in the Greece Central School District Code of Conduct and includes:

No tube tops, net tops, halter tops, muscle shirts No spaghetti straps (less than 1 inch wide) or plunging necklines (front or back, including dresses with

open backs) Shirts must cover cleavage and the midriff Dresses, skirts and shorts must be of a length at or below the fingertips when arms are fully extended at

the side. No outerwear such as hats, head coverings, coats are to be worn during the school day (except hats/head

coverings for medical or religious purposes). Hats should be removed by “Call to Colors.” Hats may be worn outside.

Clothing, jewelry, or clothing accessories may not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous, or denigrate others.

Clothing may not promote the use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco or sends a message in opposition to drug-free lifestyle

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TRANSPORTATION;

The transportation Department will notify you of your child’s bus assignments in late August.

All bus riders will be dismissed to their assigned buses at the end of each school day unless a written note is received from the parent instructing the school otherwise. No child will be allowed to go home with a walker or with another adult without written parent permission. ONLY children who are assigned to a particular bus may ride that bus. After school social arrangements must be handled by parents using private transportation. The Transportation Department cannot accommodate children switching buses for after school social activities. Bus riders are to ride the bus for the entire school year. Any bus rider who chooses to walk will forfeit his/her bus ride for the remainder of the school year. Problems or questions concerning transportation should be directed to the Transportation Office at 966-2550.

The safe transportation of children is the major objective of the school bus service. At the primary level, during the first few weeks of school, you can help get your child safely to and from school by placing a name tag on him/her (include the bus number, teacher, room number), reviewing the appropriate bus number (s), and getting to the bus stop early. Building staff meet every bus at the beginning of the year to ensure that all students easily find their appropriate classrooms. At the end of the school day, staff also assist in getting the children onto the proper buses.

To help get all personal items to school and home safely be sure your child has a tote bag or backpack labeled with his/her name. It is helpful to have the child’s name written inside coats in order to return them if they are lost at school. Children may only carry items onto the bus that will fit on their laps. To prevent injuries, sharp objects and glass are prohibited.

BUS BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

Riding the bus is a privilege and requires the cooperation of parent and child. Your child is expected to adhere to the posted rules and be courteous to all. Please review these rules with your child. You will be notified immediately if your child is involved in any action that endangers the welfare and/or safety of others.

Safety Rules:

1. Follow driver/attendant’s directions the first time they are given.

2. Stay in your seat.

3. Use polite language and actions at all times.

4. Keep head, hands and feet inside bus and to yourself.         

5. No drinking or eating on the bus.

6. Use a quiet voice and appropriate language only.

7. Be at bus stop on time.

Rewards: PraiseA pleasant and safe bus ride to and from school

Consequences:

Each driver/attendant reinforces behavior expectations. However, should this prove unsuccessful, the driver will complete a bus referral form that will be delivered electronically to the school principal and/or assistant principal for action. Depending on the severity of the inappropriate behavior/infraction, suspension of the student's bus riding privileges may be warranted. Parents will be responsible for transporting their child during this time.

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SAFETY PATROL/ Citizenship Corp

Each year, incoming 5th graders provide assistance with the buses, to Kindergarten students, in the hallways, with recycling, etc… . Those who want to serve as members of our Safety Patrol (hall monitors, bus support) and Citizenship Corp (classroom helpers and school helpers) will be asked to complete an application. Selection of afternoon bus safeties occurs during the month of September, based on application, teacher recommendation and 4th grade work habits and effort ratings. Following completion of Safety Patrol responsibilities, these 5th graders will follow their normal afternoon dismissal routine.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS)

Based on the PBIS framework, the Greece Central School District has adopted the following expectations across all schools:

Be RespectfulBe ResponsibleBe SafeBe Ready to Learn

PBIS is a framework that guides implementation of the best evidence-based academic and behavioral practices for improving important academic and behavior outcomes for all students. This framework looks at student behavior through a positive lens, providing instruction, praise, encouragement, reinforcement and intervention regarding behavior in a timely fashion in order to encourage student engagement and success. During the school year, West Ridge’s PBIS Committee, comprised of teachers, support staff, parents and community members, supports classroom teachers in defining what these expectations look like in different settings across the school day (e.g. classroom, hallway, dismissal, cafeteria, etc..). Individual classroom management plans are built around our common PBIS language and philosophy. All behavioral expectations will be directly taught, modeled and reinforced throughout the school year.

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EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING PROCEDURES:

PARENTS WILL RECEIVE A PHONE CALL VIA CONNECT ED NOTIFYING THEM THAT SCHOOL IS BEING CLOSED, OR CLOSED EARLY. Announcements will also be made over the local radio and TV stations.

Since emergency situations cannot be predicted, it is essential to establish alternative plans, use good judgment, and avoid panic during the crisis. The school personnel will do everything possible to see that your child gets home safely. During an emergency situation, do not call the school about closing unless it is absolutely critical. This ties up the phone lines and hampers communication for emergency service. Local stations will broadcast all relevant information.

In helping you to prepare alternative arrangements for your child’s supervision and safety, the following steps are offered:

1. Make arrangements with a neighbor to take care of your child if you will not be at home.2. Discuss and practice these procedures with your child to ensure he/she knows where to go if an

emergency school closing is required.3. Fill out and return the enclosed Emergency Closing Procedures form(s).

In the event the Superintendent of Schools makes a decision to close schools early, walkers will be released immediately and bus riders will be called as their buses arrive, unless weather conditions are so severe that it would be unsafe to do so.

If you are picking up a child and wish to pick up the child of a friend or relative, you must bring written permission from the other child’s parent to the office before he/she will be released to you.

Decisions to close school prior to morning bus runs are usually made by 5:30 a.m. by the Superintendent of Schools. Announcements are made by local radio and television stations beginning about 6:00 a.m.

Please remember – our primary consideration is getting the children home safely!

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West Ridge is Ready to Learn

3 B’sBe

RespectfulTreat others the

way you want to be treated

Be Responsibl

eMake good choices

Be your best

Be SafeTake care of

yourself and others

We will try to include students who are left outWe will try to help students who are bullied

If we know someone is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home

We will not bully others

Classroom(Specials)

Cooperate Be helpful Use kind words

Follow directions Be prepared and

ready to learn Make good

choices

Keep hands, feet and body to yourself

Use materials appropriately

Cafeteria Use good manners

Quiet voices Use kind words Clean up your

food and space

Follow adult directions

Raise hand and ask permission to leave your seat

Line up calmly and quietly

Sitting position Eat your own

food, do not share food

Keep hands and feet to yourself

Hallway Walk silently Keep hallways

neat and clean Keep hands and

feet off walls and displays

Follow directions Make good

choices Eyes forward

and watching out for other people

Walk facing forward in a straight line

Keep hands, feet and body to yourself

Assemblies Look at the speaker

Zero voices Use appropriate

applause

Follow adult directions

Participate Listen

Keep hands, feet and body to yourself

Sit criss-cross

Bathroom Quiet voices Leave the

bathroom stall prepared for the next student

Go quickly Wash your

hands Go directly back

to class Put your paper

towel in the garbage can

Keep hands, feet and body to yourself

Bus Listen to adults Talk quietly Use kind words

Follow adult directions

Follow bus

Sitting flat. Feet under own seat

Stay in seat

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Keep hands, feet, and belongings in your own space

safety rules Keep your

belongings in your own seat and space

Keep hands, feet, and body to yourself

Playground Share Take turns Include others

Respect equipment

Line up quickly and quietly when called

Play safely Be aware of your

surroundings

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RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION (RTI)

Response to Intervention (RTI) is an approach that enables schools to provide support for all students in general education. The core curriculum serves as the basis for RTI. The RTI model is a three-tiered system. The first Tier (primary level of prevention) requires universal screening of all students to determine the best educational strategies and to identify students who may need more targeted interventions. The second Tier (secondary level of prevention) calls for targeted assessment and explicit instruction for students who have shown to be at risk for behavior or learning problems. The third Tier (tertiary level of prevention) defines intensive interventions for students who need the most assistance to succeed with the core curriculum. The model is typically presented as a triangle (below).

RTI Includes:

Ongoing assessment of student performance

Use of evidence-based instructional practices to provide quality instruction targeted to meet individual student needs

Data-based decision making

SUPPORT SERVICES

As teachers consult with parents and other teachers/specialists, they document the concerns and actions they have implemented to remediate specific educational and/or behavioral difficulties. In some cases a building referral to the Instructional Support Team (IST) is needed. Typically referrals are generated through the student's teacher following communication with parents. The IST consists of classroom teachers and various specialists in the building including the principal, reading specialist, school counselor, school psychologist, speech therapist and others. Our IST is a “problem solving team” and its work is typically focused on students require intensive, “tier 3” level supports. Academic Intervention Services (AIS)

AIS are interventions to support student needs as determined through RTI (Response to Intervention) and/or IST (Instructional Support Team). AIS may be provided by any of the following, depending on student need: classroom teacher, reading specialist, special education teacher, speech therapist, occupational therapist (OT), physical therapist (PT), counselor, or teaching assistant. Social/emotional issues impacting a student's ability to learn can also be addressed through AIS.

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Strategic/Intensive Interventions for Individuals (typically 1-5% of students)

Effective Core Instruction for All (typically 80-90% of Students achieve success with Tier I instruction)

Supplemental Interventions for Some (typically 5-10% of students) students)

Psychological Services

A part-time school psychologist is assigned to West Ridge to provide formal and informal assessment of individual students, and consultation with school staff, parents and students. The purpose of these services is to enable schools to design appropriate support systems, instructional options and other interventions to meet student's learning needs. Parental consent will be obtained prior to any testing by the psychologist.

Speech and Language Services

Speech and Language Services are provided by a Speech/Language Therapist to those children whose delayed or impaired language/articulation development significantly affects a student's educational or social-emotional progress. Service recommendations are made through IST (Instructional Support Team) or CSE (Committee on Special Education) Committees. Articulation therapy involves the remediation of errors in speech sound production which impacts a child's intelligibility, written language, or social skills. This does not include sounds which are developmental in nature. Language therapy might include any of the following: development of skills and strategies, work with listening to and processing information, work with development of vocabulary and concepts, activities that focus on improvement of written language and grammar or syntax, development of higher level thinking skills, development of memory skills, development of social language skills/strategies, and/or work with developing expressive language skills. Service delivery may include any of the following based on the student's need: push-in (team teaching, small group within the classroom), pull-out in groups or individually, and consultation/monitor.

Counseling Services

There is a full-time counselor assigned to West Ridge. The counselor works with individuals, small groups, large groups (classes), and families. Referrals may be through RTI, parents, students or faculty members. The counselor also assists the students and families with crisis situations. Prior to any regular scheduled counseling, parental consent will be obtained.

English As A Second Or Other Language (ESOL)

ESOL Services are provided to students with Limited English Proficiency. The LAB-R (Language Assessment Battery) is used to determine the students' initial level of proficiency (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, or Proficient). Students are provided ESOL services commensurate with their respective proficiency level. The New York State English for Speakers of Other Languages Assessment Test (NYSESLAT) is administered annually to all English Language Learners until they reach proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

At West Ridge, we are very pleased to “house” the District’s New Comer program. This program provides services and supports to students who are “new” to our country (e.g. students have entered the United States within the past year). This program provides more intensive support to students than the typical ESL student (who has likely been born in or lived in the U.S. for several years and already speaks English).

Special Education

All students with special education services have Individualized Education Plans (IEP's) that were developed based on eligibility at a Committee on Special Education (CSE) meeting. Parents will be informed of student progress toward identified goals on a quarterly basis. IEP's will be reviewed and updated with parents annually. In 2014-15 West Ridge special educational services will included consultant or integrative co-teach services at the 2nd – 5th grade level, and a 12:1:1 program at 4th grade.

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ROUTINE SAFETY DRILLS

Throughout the year, routine safety drills are conducted. These include fire, drills, building evacuation drills, and building lock-down drills. Do not be alarmed if your child comes home and tells you about an evacuation; these are only drills. You will be notified of any and all actual emergencies.

VOLUNTEERSVolunteers are a vital part of student success in the Greece Central School District. We thank those of you who already volunteer your time and encourage interested parents and community members to join us in our mission to provide every student with a high quality education. 

You can help by becoming a volunteer today. Our classroom teachers, library and other areas of the school are always in need of volunteer support. Depending on your interest and comfort level, volunteer opportunities include: supporting (or even running) centers during our GRAIR (Guided Reading and Independent Reading Time) at the K-2 level, reading 1:1 with students during GRAIR (K-2) or Re-Teach and Enrich time (3-5), support during Extra Math time, clerical support, or any other types of support that individual classroom teachers need.

Simply complete the Greece Central volunteer form (located on the Greece Central website at www.greece.k12.ny.us under “Community,” then “Volunteer Opportunities.”) Volunteer forms are also available at our reception desk or by calling 966-4600. Completed applications can be returned to West Ridge or directly to the Greece Central Human Resources Department address included on the form.

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GREECE CENTRAL STRATEGIC GOALS(Envision Greece 2017- a strategic plan of action for the Greece Central School District)

GOAL 1: ACCELERATE ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Provide for all students by ensuring equitable access to rigorous K-12 curriculum, aligned instructional materials and assessments.

GOAL 2: DEVELOPING HUMAN CAPITAL AND PROFESSIONAL CAPACITY

Recruit, support and retain high quality teachers and leaders.

GOAL 3: IMPROVE COMMUNICATION AND DEEPEN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Build effective communications through meaningful family and community engagement.

GOAL 4: ENSURE SAFETY AND WELLNESS

Strengthen the foundation of a District culture based on high expectations for respect and good citizenship.

GOAL 5: CREATE QUALITY PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Develop and align instructional support infrastructure, leveraging technology, operations and business services to build a culture of alignment and continuous improvement.

The complete Envision Greece 2017 Strategic Plan is available online at http://www.greece.k12.ny.us/stategicPlan.cfm?subpage=42966

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