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Valley Park Elementary School Handbook 2016-2017
ARRIVAL School begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. Students should arrive as close to 8:20 a.m. as possible. The school is unable to provide supervision to students prior to 8:10 a.m. **For your child’s safety please do not drop students off before 8:10 a.m.**
For students who must arrive earlier – before and after school childcare is available on site through the Y.M.C.A. (see page 10 for more information.)
REPORTING ABSENCES If your child will be absent from school, the parent
or guardian should call the VPSD Attendance Line at 636-923-3500 prior to 9 a.m. on the date of the absence. After dialing, please select Option #1 for Absence and Option #1 again for Elementary. Absences must be accompanied by a doctor’s note in order to be excused.
TARDIES Students arriving after 8:30 a.m. are marked tardy. Parents MUST bring the student to the office to sign-in. A student must be signed in to receive a pass to be admitted to his or her classroom. It is very important that students are on-time and ready to learn. Tardies are reported to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). In addition, students who are chronically tardy may be reported to the Department of Social Services.
EARLY RELEASE When it is necessary for a student to leave
school early the parent or guardian should come to
the office to sign the student “out.” The office personnel will call for the student.
The safety and security of our students are always our first concern. No child is released to ANYONE unless first cleared through the office. This rule is for the protection and safety of the child. Parents, guardians or an authorized substitute of the parent needing to take a child out of school first reports to the office to sign out the student. The secretary will verify identification before releasing the student. The office will then call the student’s teacher and ask for the student to be sent to the office for dismissal. Teachers have been instructed not to release any child without office approval. Parents unable to pick-up a child in person should contact the office to designate a substitute. Parents are encouraged to list authorized substitutes with the office ahead of time. VPES policy with regard to releasing students during school hours complies with Missouri Law and provides the greatest safeguard for children.
DISMISSAL Students will not be dismissed between 2:45 and 3:05 p.m. Should your student need to
be picked up prior to the end of the day, please make arrangements to
pick up prior to 2:45 p.m.
At 2:45 teachers begin preparing students to end the school day, organize homework assignments and get ready to be dismissed. In order to allow for a smooth transition, we do not want to interrupt this process. We appreciate your support. The school day ends at 3:05 p.m. Students will be dismissed by classroom and escorted to buses and the Pick-up and Drop-off Area.
For the safety of our students it is preferred to have a “one and done” method of getting home each day. In other words, please try to have the same routine from day to day, week to week.
Parents will be provided a form to fill out during the first week of school to let the district know how your child is to be transported home each afternoon. In emergency situations, should you need to change your child’s route home, you must notify the office by NOON on the day of the change. This includes Parent Pick-Up.
VISITING SCHOOL
Parents are welcome to visit school and are frequently invited to observe special programs. Requests to visit classrooms should be made in advance through the office. Teachers cannot discuss a child’s achievements or concerns during class time. Teachers will return telephone calls and arrange a special conference time. Remember: ALL visitors must sign in the office upon arrival, and wear a visitor’s badge at all times. While we understand there can be extraordinary situations, parents are requested not to escort children to their classrooms after the first week of school. Parents and guardians are welcome to visit classrooms, however, it is permitted by appointment only. Classroom visits are limited to one (1) hour in an effort to minimize distractions and maximize learning time for the students.
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BIRTHDAY TREATS Students are welcomed to bring birthday treats for their birthday or half birthday. Treats should be pre-packaged and purchased from a store or bakery. For the safety of all students, please check with your child’s teacher prior to purchasing treats to insure there are no food allergies in the classroom. Also, with respect to food allergies, treats will only be passed out within the grade level classroom/pod. Students will not be permitted to travel the building passing out extra treats.
WITHDRAWING A STUDENT Parents should inform the elementary school office at least one week prior to moving out of the district. The parent should return any library or textbooks, and pay any fees or fines that are due. When possible, a forwarding address is requested.
WALKING TO SCHOOL Students are encouraged to use school district transportation or parent transportation both to and from school. All students are discouraged from walking to school if it would require crossing or walking along streets with heavy traffic. Written permission from a parent or guardian is required before a student is allowed to walk to or from school.
BICYCLES
Riding a bicycle, scooter, skates or skateboard to school is discouraged. These methods of transportation present problems with safety, storage, and vandalism. Students riding bicycles and such to school must comply with the following requirements:
1. The student is in the fourth or fifth grade. 2. Written parent permission must be on file in
the school office.
3. The bicycle must be padlocked or chained to the bicycle rack upon arrival.
4. The student must wear a helmet.
CARPOOL POLICY For maximum safety of students, VPES
requires carpool identification tags for all families with permanent car riders for afternoon dismissals. Students will only be released to vehicles displaying a school-issued Carpool Tag. Cars without a Carpool Tag will be waved through the parent pick up line, the driver will have to park and be required to come into the building to sign students out. Please refer to the Car Rider Registration Packet for further information.
BUS TRANSPORTATION School bus transportation is provided for all students who live in the Valley Park School District and/or students in the voluntary inter-district transfer program (VICC). The Valley Park School District will abide by all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. In order to participate in this transportation service, students, as well as parents, must be willing to accept and comply with the regulations and responsibilities established by Valley Park School District.
BUS ROUTES Students are expected to ride on their assigned bus. For information on bus routes or if there is a change of address, parents of Valley Park residents should contact the VPES office, at 636.923.3632. Parents of voluntary transfer students should contact the VICC office at 314.721.8657. Bus drivers will only allow Kindergarten students off the bus if a parent or guardian is at the bus stop to pick up the child. Kindergarten students not met by a
parent or guardian will be brought back to the school. At the end of the school day if a child misses the
bus, he/she should report to the office and call home. Students are not to walk home unless prior arrangements have been made between the school and parent/guardian.
BUS RULES 1. Sit in assigned seat.
2. Obey the bus driver.
3. Remain seated on the bus at all times. Back to back and bottom to bottom.
4. Keep hands, arms, head and belongings inside the bus.
5. Speak in a quiet voice.
6. No fighting, bullying, spitting, or throwing objects.
7. No food/drink is allowed on the bus.
8. No talking when the bus is traveling on an interstate highway.
BUS REFERRALS AND
CONSEQUENCES Bus drivers have the responsibility to maintain a safe and orderly environment on the school bus. The drivers have the right to warn students, conference with students and assign specific seats. The driver will note on a Bus Safety Violation Report any behaviors that are deemed hazardous while riding the school bus. The building principal or a designee will handle behavior that results in a Violation Report. Parents having questions or concerns regarding bus behavior should contact the school administrator.
Students will receive a consequence for unsafe or inappropriate bus behavior:
This consequence may include: Change in seat assignment. Loss of bus riding privileges. In-school consequences. Meeting with a parent.
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In serious disciplinary cases, a student may be immediately suspended from riding the bus and/or a school suspension. Repeat offenders will lose the right to ride the bus.
BUS PASSES A bus pass is required of any student wishing to ride a bus that is not his or her regularly assigned bus. Bus pass requests should be in writing from the parent or guardian. In the event a student is riding home with a fellow student, a note is required from each student’s parent or guardian. All bus requests should be presented to the School Secretary with the following information included:
the requested bus the child is to ride
the date
the name and address of the individual who will be accepting them
Notes requesting a bus pass should be sent to the school office the first thing in the morning. Or, in EMERGENCY cases a request for a bus pass MUST be called into the school office by NOON on the day of the request. Requests after 12 p.m. will not be honored. Without a formal and on-time request a student will be placed on his/her regular bus route.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS When severe weather necessitates the closing of
school, the Superintendent will make the decision by 5:30 a.m. Parents will be contacted by the automated phone calling system. School closings are broadcast on most major television stations. All other school-related activities are canceled for that day.
BREAKFAST PROGRAM Breakfast for elementary students is available
from 8:00 a.m. to 8:25 a.m. and served in the Elementary School Cafeteria. Generally, breakfast includes milk, fruit or juice, bread or cereal. Breakfast is served at full price ($1.80), or, depending on family income, reduced breakfast price is free. Approval of a
Meals Benefit Form qualifies a student for reduced breakfast. Students may go to their classrooms after eating breakfast.
LUNCH PROGRAM Lunch will be available for all students at a cost of
$2.40 per day. There are typically three entrée choices for students each day. Money for purchasing lunch can be sent by the day, week, month, etc. Also, VPSD families have the option of depositing money in student accounts by using the online payment option in the Parent Portal on the district website. The school’s computerized accounting system allows money to be deposited in each student’s account and withdrawn as the student makes each meal purchase. A computer pin number is issued to every student, regardless of free, reduced or full price meals. Any money left over in a student’s account will carry over to next year. No “charges” are allowed the last four weeks of school.
The meal account is not a charge account for students. The Food Service Department allows students to deficit spend up to $10 for breakfast and/or lunch. If a student owes more than five cents ($ .05) a notice will be sent home with the student. When a student owes more than $10, and he/she has not brought a lunch from home, the student will receive a sandwich and milk– at no charge. Every attempt is made to insure a child will not go hungry.
Students may ask the cashier at any time for the balance on his/her account. Parents may check a child’s account balance by accessing the Parent Portal on the district website or by contacting the Food Service Department between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 636.923.3633.
All students are required to eat lunch in the cafeteria, whether they bring their lunch or buy their lunch, unless a teacher has made other arrangements. The lunch period should be used not only as a period to meet nutritional needs, but also as a time to develop desirable cultural habits. Therefore,
students are expected to stand orderly in line, to sit at assigned tables as soon as served, to use good table manners, to talk quietly while eating, and to leave the lunchroom when excused. Students are expected to clear their own tables.
CAFETERIA RULES While waiting in line, students are to be quiet and keep
their hands, feet and all other objects to themselves. Students are expected to sit at their assigned tables. Students needing assistance should raise their hands. Once seated, students are not allowed to get out of their
seats without permission. Good table manners, appropriate conversation and quiet
voices are to be used. Students are expected to pick up their trash from the
table and floor before being dismissed. Each table is dismissed individually. All food and drink must be consumed in the cafeteria.
Students are not permitted to bring soda for lunch.
MENUS Monthly menus for breakfast and lunch are sent home with all students. Weekly menus can be viewed on the district website. Please be advised that the menu is subject to change without prior written notice based on availability of listed items.
FREE/REDUCED MEALS Approval of an application for Meals Benefit Form qualifies a student for either a reduced-cost lunch or free lunch. Reduced-cost lunch price is $ .40. Contact the school office for a Meals Benefit application and/or additional information. Please be advised that once you are approved for meal benefits, an entire tray must be taken in the food service line in
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order to qualify on the program. Selecting extra entrees, only side items or just drinks will be at the student’s cost per the federal food program.
OASIS OASIS is a national nonprofit educational
organization designed to enhance the quality of life for mature adults. The OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring Program trains volunteers to work with young children to build reading skills and positive attitudes towards learning. VPES is fortunate to have OASIS volunteers working each week with designated students. If you know of someone interested in becoming an OASIS volunteer tutor have them contact the school office at 636-923-3632.
BOYS TOWN SOCIAL SKILLS VPES staff has implemented the Boys Town
Model of Social Skills for nearly 20 years. Our staff is committed to teaching and using these skills each and every school day. Our belief is children who are deficient in social skills are more likely to experience difficulties in many areas of their lives. Adults in our school are in a position to provide the powerful influence on children that will help them to achieve success in school and beyond through social skills training.
One social skill will be taught and emphasized each week. Ask your child to share these skills with you.
VPES staff members employ a low tolerance for misbehavior. When working with students, teachers will help them learn appropriate social skills. They will talk with students using a low, calm voice. Each of us desires and expects respect; we consider it important to treat students with respect.
In addition to Boys Town Social Skills, VPES has implemented the “7 Habits of Happy Kids” by Covey. An explanation of both of these initiatives follows:
Boys Town Social Skills Introducing Yourself:
Look at the Person Smile Use a nice voice and say your name Shake hands Say “it was nice to meet you.”
Asking for Help:
Look at the person.
Use a clear, pleasant voice
Ask the person if he or she has time to help you.
Clearly explain the kind of help that you need.
Thank the person for helping. Following Instructions:
Look at the person. Say “okay.” Do what you’ve been asked right away. Check back.
Making an Apology:
Look at the person. Use a serious, sincere voice. Say “I’m sorry for…” or “I want to apologize
for…” Say what you will do next time. Ask “Do you accept my apology?”
Accepting No:
Look at the person.
Say “okay.”
Stay cool – don’t argue.
Think about it – if your disagree….talk about it later.
Listening: Look at the person who is talking and remain
quiet.
Wait until the person is through. Staying Cool:
Take a deep breath.
Keep your hands and feet to yourself.
Tell yourself to calm down.
Go to a quiet place.
7 Habits of Happy Kids Habit 1: Be Proactive (You're in Charge) - I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking. Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind (Have a Plan) - I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen. Habit 3: Put First Things First (Work First, Then Play) - I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized. Habit 4: Think Win-Win (Everyone Can Win) - I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives. Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood (Listen Before You Talk) - I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am
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confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking. Habit 6: Synergize (Together Is Better) - I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than anyone of us can alone. I am humble. Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw (Balance Feels Best) - I take care of my body by eating right, exercising and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I find meaningful ways to help others.
Our goal is to teach our kids to do the right thing because it is the right thing to do, because it makes them feel better, and because doing the right thing is the cool thing to do.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT The intent of all rules and regulations is to protect
the health and welfare of students and staff of Valley Park Elementary School while maintaining an atmosphere that is conducive to learning.
Valley Park Students are expected to: Attend classes on a regular basis and participate in
class activities Make choices that demonstrate respect for self, others
and property Maintain appropriate behavior so as not to interfere
with the teacher’s teaching and other students’ learning
Our objective is to encourage and reinforce appropriate social skills and behavior to insure a positive learning environment for students and staff.
Teachers will use a variety of strategies to guide students to correct misbehavior and assign consequences according to classroom discipline plans.
Students will be referred to an administrator for serious or recurring misbehavior.
Parents will be notified about the disciplinary referral, the interventions used to correct the inappropriate behavior, and the consequences earned by the student.
Students may be assigned one or more of the following consequences for discipline referrals: Daily Behavior Plan Make an apology Loss of recess Restitution Loss of privileges Referral for behavior intervention In school suspension Out of school suspension
Other consequences as deemed appropriate
RULES School-wide rules apply to all students at all times: Keep hands, feet and all other objects to oneself
at all times no matter what Show respect to others Don’t run either in or near the school building Follow directions the first time they are given Students are not to bring iPods® or electronic
gaming devices to school without permission of the administration – these items, when discovered, will be confiscated by the teacher or sent to the office (loss or damage to any of these inappropriate portable devices or electronic items is not the responsibility of the school)
Cell phones are permitted in the building with parent/guardian permission. Cell phones are to be inside of backpacks and turned off at all times.
DRESS CODE Every student is expected to present a proper and
appropriate appearance. Students should dress in a manner that will not disrupt the educational process. Student clothing should be functional, safe, and reflect the attitude of the student toward his or her primary job – learning.
Shoes Due to the mulch playground, students are not to
wear sandals, ‘flip-flops’ or other open-footed shoes.
Shoes should not have an excessively high heel or platform.
Shoes with rollers are not permitted. Students must wear a tennis-type shoe to
physical education class and that is also recommended for recess.
Shoelaces are to be kept tied.
Clothing Tops that expose the midriff area as well as
halter-tops, or tops with thin straps are not to be worn at school
Shorts should be an appropriate length. “Sagging” pants are not allowed to be worn
Clothing promoting or displaying alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, profanity, violence, weapons, illegal drugs, or any design considered to be prejudicial to the good order and learning process within the school are prohibited.
Hats, baseball caps, bandannas, scarves, sunglasses, or coats are not to be worn in the building
Students’ health and safety are always a factor in establishing dress codes. An administrator or staff member may determine if a student’s attire is inappropriate for the school setting.
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HOMEWORK Homework is an assignment that a student
completes outside of the regular classroom time. We believe homework has a great influence on a child’s academic success. Homework is not busy work; it serves an important function in the education of a student. This work may include the following: written assignments, projects, oral drill for practice, independent reading, reading with an adult, or test preparation.
Homework is given to reinforce skills and material presented in class, prepare students for upcoming lessons, provide additional opportunities for working independently, teach student responsibility, and help develop positive study habits.
Properly designed homework helps a student develop responsibility, independence, and time-management skills. Homework is an integral part of the educational process because it encourages student learning after school hours. Homework also provides an important channel of communication between the school and home.
Parents are asked to participate in
homework assignments by: Setting aside a regular daily time for doing
homework Checking your child’s Student Planner everyday Discussing assignments with your child Providing a quiet, well-lighted place where your child
can complete homework assignments Checking to see that homework is completed and
done neatly Signing the Student Planner everyday Giving praise and support Contacting the teacher if you have questions or
concerns about homework
The amount of homework given and the amount of time needed to complete homework are determined by developmental abilities gained at each grade level.
Kindergarten Students can expect 3 to 5 homework assignments
each week. Assignments should take an average time of approximately ten minutes. Parents are asked to spend 20-30 minutes each day reading to their kindergarten student.
First Grade
Students can expect 3 to 5 homework assignments each week. Assignments should take an average time of ten minutes and could include Watch Me Read take-home books, math problems, or writing high-frequency words. Parents are asked to spend 20-30 minutes each day reading to their first grade student.
Second Grade Students can expect no more than 20 minutes of
work each evening. Homework could include experiences that involve parental participation. Having a child read to his or her parent and having a parent read
to a child everyday is an expectation.
Third Grade Students can expect no more than 30 minutes of
homework on Monday through Thursday evenings. An additional 20-30 minutes daily should be spent on independent reading.
Fourth and Fifth Grades Students can expect 40-60 minutes of homework on
Monday through Thursday evenings. An additional amount of time may be required to study for tests or to complete long-range projects. On evenings when students do not have specific written homework, students are expected to read independently for 20 minutes. Incomplete homework or homework not turned in on time can result in the student being assigned recess detention and a one-grade reduction for the assignment. Late assignments not turned in the day following will result in the student receiving no credit for
that assignment. Note: Recess detention is designed to allow the student to complete or begin work on late or missing assignments.
Generally, students are allowed additional time to complete assignments missed due to excused absences. Contact your child’s teacher if you have specific questions.
STUDENT PLANNERS Every student in the second through fifth grades is
issued a Student Planner. Student Planners are designed to assist students and parents in completing homework as well as providing a convenient way to manage daily “school-to-home-to-school” communication. Parents are expected to check and sign their child’s planner each day. It is very important that y our student keep track of his or her planner. There will be a charge of up to $5 to replace a lost planner.
REPORT CARDS AND
CONFERENCES Report cards will be sent home at the end of each
trimester. Valley Park Elementary School will be grading and reporting using Standards-Based Grading. The purpose is to accurately communicate what students know and are able to do in relationship to the end-of-year grade level standard in the subject areas. The marks will reflect student growth towards specific learning standards. These will be reported as: 1-Minimal, 2-Developing, 3-Meeting, and 4-Exceeding. Parents will have the opportunity to review their child's progress through parent-teacher conferences and written evaluations. Refer to the calendar in the back of this handbook for the specific dates of trimesters and conferences. Parents are encouraged to contact the school at anytime to discuss their child's progress. Informal conferences are also encouraged. Arrangements, however, need to be made between the parent and teacher for a mutually suitable time.
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M.A.P. M.A.P. stands for Missouri Assessment Program.
This state-mandated district-wide assessment is designed to monitor the progress of all students in meeting the Common Core Standards, as set forth by the Missouri State Board of Education. Students are tested at various grade levels for competency in the areas of communication arts, mathematics, and science. M.A.P. testing takes place during a three-to-four week period each spring.
GIFTED EDUCATION A gifted and talented program is offered to
qualifying students in grades first through fifth. The program, under the direction of a teacher certified in Gifted Education, extends student learning through a variety of activities, field trips, and performances.
COUNSELING Two certified school counselors are on staff for the
benefit of students, parents and teachers. The counselors work within each classroom to instruct students in skills that will enhance their learning. The counselor’s primary responsibility is to work with students who have demonstrated some problems in social behavior, personal behavior, or academic behavior. Counseling sessions are usually conducted on an individual basis while providing an outlet for the student to express his or her feelings. The counselors will talk with students at the request of students, parents or teachers. Families with academic/school issues, as well as concerns about personal well-being, can contact the school counselors, School Nurse or School Resource Officer. Our Community Response Team is available to assist families in crisis.
CUSTODY In the event that a child is living with only one parent, progress reports, grades and conferences will, upon
request, also be offered to the non-custodial parent. If the non-custodial parent is not to be involved with his/her children then THE CUSTODIAL PARENTS MUST PRESENT LEGAL DOCUMENTATION OF CUSTODIAL RIGHTS TO THE PRINCIPAL.
ENROLLMENT The enrollment of a new student requires:
1. Birth Certificate 2. Social Security card 3. Immunization Records - approved by Valley
Park District Nurse 4. Two Current Proofs of Residency
5. Safe Schools Act Compliance Form verified by a Notary Public
An enrollment form must be completed on each new student by one of his/her parents or legal guardians.
Children enrolled in Pre-School should re-enroll in Kindergarten prior to the end of the school year if at all possible. Students participating in the Pre-School program are not automatically enrolled in Kindergarten the following year.
NONDISCRIMINATION The Board of Education believes in the right of
every student to receive equal opportunities in all educational programs and activities conducted by the school district. The Board also believes in the right of every qualified individual to expect fair and equal treatment both as an applicant for employment and as an employee.
The Board of Education believes that discrimination against a qualified disabled person, solely on the basis of disability, is unfair. Furthermore, the Board believes that qualified disabled persons should be in the mainstream of life in the school community to the extent that is reasonably permissible and/or possible.
COMPLAINT PROCEDURES Specific guidelines for resolution of student
complaints and grievances are found in the Parent’s Manual of Policies and Procedures.
RIGHTS OF STUDENTS Specific guidelines for rights of students are found
in District Policy “Protection of Student Rights” reprinted in the Parent’s Manual of Policies and Procedures.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF
STUDENTS District policy regarding sexual harassment is
reprinted in the Parent’s Manual of Policies and Procedures.
SPECIAL EDUCATION The Valley Park School District is a component
district of the Special School District of St. Louis County. Students diagnosed with special educational needs receive their education in a cooperative effort between Special School District and Valley Park School District. Most services are offered on our campus, although some students may attend a Special School District facility. Valley Park and Special School Districts provide a complete range of services from Early Childhood through High School Transition programs.
For further information, you may contact the Special School District Liaison, Dr. Tad Savage, at 636.923.3614. If you prefer, you may contact Special School District directly at 314.989.8100 or contact Julie Schroeder, Area Coordinator at 636.923.3621. The address for Special School District Administrative and Diagnostic Clinic is 12110 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131.
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VICC (Voluntary Interdistrict Choice Corporation) Parents have the opportunity for their children to
participate in a voluntary transfer program between the Valley Park School District and the City of St. Louis School District. Eligible Valley Park students may apply to the VICC office in order to attend a school within the St. Louis School District with programs that may, for example, include: performing arts, math and science or ROTC. Eligible students living in the city of St. Louis may apply to the VICC office to attend school in the Valley Park School District. For more information contact Vickie Pardeck, Assistant Superintendent at 636.923.3614 or call the VICC office at 314.721.8422.
NURSE AND HEALTH ROOM The School Health Room is located in the
elementary building and is staffed from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each school day. The nurse may be reached at 636.923.3634 and voice mail is available for leaving messages. Preventative health care is a primary goal of VPES. In addition to providing emergency care in case of accidents or illness and distribution of prescription medication the school nurse provides immunization reviews, and regular hearing, vision, scoliosis, head lice screenings for all students. Referrals for follow-up care are made when indicated. Our school nurse serves as a resource in the classroom and for the staff as well as for parents and students with specific health concerns. The school nurse supervises the administering of all medications and/or medical treatments.
The school nurse asks for your
assistance by:
Keeping a child home from school until the child is fever and symptom free (including vomiting) for 24 hours without the aid of Tylenol or other
fever-reducing medicine. (Guidelines for keeping your child at home are reprinted in the Parent’s Manual of Policies and Procedures.)
Being responsible for having someone available to pick up your child if he/she is injured or sick at school. A sick or injured student should not have to remain at school for an indefinite period of time.
Being responsible in keeping all emergency data current. This includes a home and work telephone number, addresses, the names of other persons to which your child may be released. A yearly emergency form must be on file before a student may participate in field trips, sports activities and intramurals.
Calling or sending a note sharing any medical information that may affect your child’s performance at school in any way.
Sending a copy of all immunization boosters. Student records must remain current for the student to attend school. Missouri law does not allow for a grace period on immunizations.
Sending a copy of the results of physical examinations (required of all new students, pre-school, kindergarten, fourth, seventh, and tenth grade students.)
Sending all medications in the original container along with a note from the parent or guardian containing specific instructions (signed and dated) and a prescription from your child’s physician for all over-the-counter as well as prescription medications. (The district policy: Administering Medicines to Students is reprinted in the Parent’s Manual of Policies and Procedures.)
HEAD LICE
Students identified with head lice will be sent home immediately. A student may return once an acceptable treatment has been completed by the parent as well as
a successful assessment by the school nurse. Families with recurring infestations of head lice will be referred to the appropriate local health agency for assistance.
FIELD TRIPS
Throughout the school year classes and grade levels go on educational field trips. These field experiences are designed to enhance student learning. Field trips also serve to connect classroom learning with the “real world.” Parents must sign their approval for field trips on the Enrollment Form in order for a student to attend field trips. Students who have not demonstrated appropriate behavior during the school year may lose the privilege of attending field trips.
Some field trips have opportunities for parent chaperones. In the event that there are limitations of space, school staff will randomly select parents to attend. Parent chaperones are expected to assist the teacher and be important role models for the students in attendance. The school district asks that parents refrain from cell phone use for the duration of the field trip unless an emergency arises.
PLAYGROUND RULES Students are asked to follow the established rules for the playground areas:
1. Keep your hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
2. No running (or tag games) on woodchips. 3. No jumping off the slide. Slide down feet first. 4. Playground balls should be played with in
area near baskets and 4-Square or on the grass only.
5. Put equipment back in the red bin at the whistle.
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PRE-SCHOOL A pre-school program for 3 and 4-year-olds is
offered from two to five days a week on a tuition paid basis. Please contact the Director of Early Childhood, Amy Hopper at 636.923.3526 for information. Registration materials are available in the VPES Office.
Y.M.C.A.
A before and after-school program is offered by the Kirkwood YMCA. For specific information call 314.965.9622, extension 242.
SELLING Unless authorized by the administration, no selling
of any kind is allowed on the school grounds or in the classroom.
PARENTS AS TEACHERS Parents As Teachers, or PAT, is a nationally
recognized, free program offered to all families in Valley Park. It is a voluntary parent and child early education program. Parents with children from birth to age five are eligible. PAT educators work with families using developmental screening, home visits, groups meetings, family activities, and referral network. For more information call 636.923.3585.
LOST AND FOUND
The Lost and Found is located in the hall by the entrance to the Early Childhood Center. To help identify lost items, we beg parents to label all school clothing and items brought to school.
2016-2017
P.T.O. CONTACTS President
Melissa Mann
314-604-3714
Vice President
Wendi Bottoms
314-620-8656
Vice President
Leslie Wyatt
314-458-8503
Treasurer
Sara Facchin
636-225-9866
Secretary
Beth Lofton
636-346-4435
Volunteer Coordinator
Laura Picker
314-882-6167
Room Parent Coordinator
Krissy Martin
314-303-1666
2016-2017
PTO Monthly Meeting Schedule **Meetings held the 2nd Monday of each month**
September 2016 September 12th @ 7 pm
Room Parent Meeting @ 8 pm
October 2016 October 10th @ 7 pm
November 2016 November 14th @ 7 pm
December 2016 December 12th @ 7 pm
January 2017 January 9th @ 7 pm
February 2017 February 13th @ 7 pm
March 2017 March 13th @ 7 pm
April 2017 April 10th @ 7 pm
Field Day Planning Meeting @ 8 pm
May 2017 May 8th @ 7 pm
PTO Board Elections
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Math Fact Scholars Coordinators: Jeremy & Laura Picker
Math Fact Scholars (MFS) is a program that gives
students an opportunity to practice their math
skills in a fun and low stress environment. We are a
completely volunteer run program, and are always
looking for new volunteers to helps our kids excel
in math.
FAQ:
1) Is there a cost to MFS? Yes, medal levels are
$10 with the option to buy practice books for $12.
We highly recommend the practice books. Trophy
levels are $24 and include a practice book.
2) Is this a tutoring program? No, MFS
encourages practicing at home with family
members, and using our testing sessions for taking
tests.
3) Does MFS affect my student's math grade,
or involve his/her teacher? MFS is completely
separate from normal classroom curriculum. The
strategies taught in the MFS books can be great
tools for students to use in the classroom. Other
than occasionally updates to let the teachers know
how their students are doing, the program is run
completely by parents and volunteers.
4) Do I have to be awesome at math in order to
volunteer? No! Volunteering requires little to no
math skills at all! If you can work a timer, use an
answer key to grade, or instruct children where to
go, then we can use your help!
For more questions, please email
Jeremy or Laura Picker at
STUDENT TECHNOLOGY
ACCEPTABLE USAGE POLICY
For the purposes of this Acceptable Use Policy, the following terms are defined:
User -- any person who is permitted by the district to utilize any portion of the district’s technology resources, including but not limited to students, employees, School Board members and agents of the school district.
User Identification (ID) -- any identifier which would allow a user access to the district’s technology resources, or to any program, including but not limited to e-mail and Internet access.
Password -- a unique word, phrase or combination of alphabetic, numeric and non-alphanumeric characters used to authenticate a user ID as belonging to a user.
Student Users No student will be given access to the
district’s technology resources until the district receives a Student Technology Usage Agreement signed by the student and the student’s parent(s), guardian(s), or person(s) standing in the place of a parent. Students who are 18 or who are otherwise able to enter into an enforceable contract may sign the User Agreement without additional signatures. Students who do not have a User Agreement on file with the district may be granted permission to use district technology by the superintendent or designee in unusual situations.
Privacy A user does not have a legal expectation of
privacy in the user's electronic communications or other activities involving the district’s technology resources.
All district technology resources are considered school property. The district may maintain or improve
technology resources at any time. The district may remove, change or exchange hardware or other technology between buildings, classrooms, employees, students or any other user at any time, without prior notice. Authorized district personnel may load or delete new programs or information, install new equipment, upgrade any system or enter any system to correct problems at any time.
The district may examine all information stored on district technology resources at any time. The district may monitor employee and student technology usage. Electronic communications, all data stored on the district’s technology resources, and downloaded material, including files deleted from a user’s account, may be intercepted, accessed or searched by district administrators or designees at any time.
Violations of Technology Usage Policies
and Procedures Use of the district’s technology resources is a
privilege, not a right. A user’s privileges may be suspended pending an investigation concerning use of the district’s technology resources. Any violation of district policy, regulations or procedures regarding technology usage may result in temporary, long-term or permanent suspension of user privileges.
The administration may use disciplinary measures to enforce district policy, regulations and procedures. Students may be suspended or expelled for violating the district’s policies, regulations and procedures. Any attempted violation of district policy, regulations or procedures, regardless of the success or failure of the attempt, may result in the same discipline or suspension of privileges as that of an actual violation.
Content Filtering and Monitoring
The district will monitor the on-line activities of users and operate a technology protection measure (“filtering/blocking device”) on all computers with Internet access, as required by law. The
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filtering/blocking device will protect against access to pornography and visual depictions that are obscene and/or harmful to minors, as required by law. Filtering / Blocking devices are not foolproof, and the district cannot guarantee that users will never be able to access offensive materials using district equipment. Evasion or disabling, or attempting to evade or disable, a filtering/blocking device installed by the district is prohibited.
District staff will supervise student Internet use in order to provide additional monitoring. Students are not permitted to access content that is pornographic, obscene, harmful to minors, obscene to minors, libelous, pervasively indecent or vulgar. Students should report inappropriate or questionable material accessed through the use of technology to a teacher who in turn will report this to the technology administrator.
The superintendent or designee, or the district’s technology administrator may disable the district’s filtering/blocking device to enable an adult user access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. In making decisions to disable the district’s filtering/blocking device, the administrator shall consider whether the use will serve a legitimate educational purpose or otherwise benefit the district.
General Rules and Responsibilities
The following rules and responsibilities will be followed by all users of the district technology resources: a. Applying for a user ID under false pretenses is prohibited.
b. Using another person’s user ID and/or password is prohibited.
c. Sharing one’s user ID and/or password with any other person is prohibited.
d. A user will be responsible for actions taken by any person using the ID or password assigned to the user.
e. Deletion, examination, copying or modification of files and/or data belonging to other users without their prior consent is prohibited.
f. Mass consumption of technology resources that inhibits use by others is prohibited.
g. Unless authorized by the district, non-educational Internet usage is prohibited.
h. Use of district technology for soliciting, advertising, fund-raising, commercial purposes or for financial gain is prohibited, unless authorized by the district.
i. Accessing fee services without permission from an administrator is prohibited. A user who accesses such services without permission is solely responsible for all charges incurred.
j. Users are required to obey all laws, including criminal, copyright, privacy, defamation and obscenity laws. The school district will render all reasonable assistance to local, state or federal officials for the investigation and prosecution of persons using district technology in violation of any law.
k. Accessing, viewing or disseminating information using district resources, including e-mail or Internet access, that is pornographic, obscene, child pornography, harmful to minors, obscene to minors, libelous, pervasively indecent or vulgar, or advertising any product or service not permitted to minors is prohibited.
l. Accessing, viewing or disseminating information on any product or service not permitted to minors is prohibited unless under the direction and
supervision of district staff for curriculum-related purposes.
m. Accessing, viewing or disseminating information using district resources, including e-mail or Internet access, that constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g. threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person’s race, religion or ethnic origin); presents a clear and present likelihood that, because of its content or its manner of distribution, will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities; or will cause the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school regulations is prohibited.
n. Any use which has the purpose or effect of discriminating or harassing any person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, pregnancy, or use of leave protected by the Family and Medical Leave Act or the violation of any person’s rights under applicable laws is prohibited o. Any unauthorized, deliberate, or negligent action which damages or disrupts technology, alters its normal performance, or causes it to malfunction is prohibited, regardless of the location or the duration of the disruption.
p. Users may only install and use properly licensed software, audio or video media purchased by the district or approved for use by the district. All users will adhere to the limitations of the district’s technology licenses. Copying for home use is prohibited unless permitted by the district’s license, and approved by the district.
q. At no time will district technology or software be removed from the district premises, unless
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authorized by the district.
r. All users will use the district’s property as it was intended. Technology or technology hardware will not be lifted, moved or relocated without permission from an administrator. All users will be held accountable for any damage they cause to district technology resources.
s. All damages incurred due to the misuse of the district’s technology will be charged to the user. The district will hold all users accountable for the damage incurred and will seek both criminal and civil remedies, as necessary.
Technology Security and Unauthorized
Access All users shall immediately report any security
problems or misuse of the district’s technology resources to a teacher or administrator.
No person will be given access to district technology if he/she is considered a security risk by the superintendent or designee.
a. Use of district technology resources in attempting to gain or gaining unauthorized access to any technology system or the files of another is prohibited.
b. Use of district technology to connect to other systems, in evasion of the physical limitations of the remote system, is prohibited.
c. The unauthorized copying of system files is prohibited.
d. Intentional or negligent attempts, whether successful or unsuccessful, to interfere with the ability of others to utilize any district technology are prohibited.
e. Any attempts to secure a higher level of privilege on the technology resources without authorization are prohibited.
f. The introduction of computer “viruses,” “hacking” tools, or other disruptive/destructive programs into a school computer, the school network, or any external networks is prohibited.
On-Line Safety - Disclosure, Use, and
Dissemination of Personal Information
a. All students will be instructed on the dangers of sharing personal information about themselves or others over the Internet.
b. Student users are prohibited from sharing personal information about themselves or others over the Internet, unless authorized by the district.
c. Student users shall not agree to meet with someone they have met on-line without parental approval.
d. A student user shall promptly disclose to his/her teacher or another school employee any message the user receives that is inappropriate or makes the user feel uncomfortable.
e. Users shall receive or transmit communications using only district-approved and district-managed communication systems. For example, users may not use web-based e-mail, messaging, videoconferencing or chat services, except in special cases where arrangements have been made in advance and approved by the district.
f. No curricular or non-curricular publication distributed using district technology will include the address, phone number or e-mail address of any student without permission.
Electronic Mail A user is responsible for all electronic mail (“e-
mail”) originating from the user’s ID or password.
a. Forgery or attempted forgery of e-mail messages
is illegal and prohibited.
b. Unauthorized attempts to read, delete, copy or modify e-mail of other users are prohibited.
c. Users are prohibited from sending unsolicited electronic mail to more than ten (10) addresses per message, per day, unless the communication is a necessary, employment-related function, or an authorized publication.
d. All users must adhere to the same standards for communicating on-line that are expected in the classroom, and consistent with district policies, regulations and procedures.
Exceptions
Exceptions to district rules will be made for district employees or agents conducting an investigation of a use which potentially violates the law, district policy, regulations or procedures. Exceptions will also be made for technology administrators who need access to district technology resources to maintain the district’s resources or examine and delete data stored on district computers as allowed by the district’s retention policy.
Waiver Any user who believes he/she has a legitimate
reason for using the district’s technology in a manner which may violate any of the district’s adopted policies, regulations and procedures may request a waiver from the building principal, superintendent or their designees. In making the decision to grant a waiver to a student, the administrator shall consider the purpose, age, maturity, and level of supervision involved.
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No Warranty/No Endorsement The district makes no warranties of any kind,
whether expressed or implied, for the services, products or access it provides. The district’s technology resources are available on an “as is, as available” basis.
The district is not responsible for loss of data, delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries or service interruptions. The district does not guarantee the accuracy or quality of information obtained from the Internet, or use of its technology resources. Access does not include endorsement of content or the accuracy of the information obtained.
Recording by Students The Valley Park School District prohibits the use of video or audio recording equipment on district property or at district activities by students except:
1. If required by a school-sponsored class
activity. 2. At performances or activities to which the
general public is invited such as athletic competitions, concerts and plays.
3. At open meetings of the Board of Education or committees appointed by or at the discretion of the Board.
4. As otherwise permitted by the building principal.
Please note: Policy items and calendar items contained in this handbook may be revised without prior notice. Any revisions to policies or the calendar will be communicated via e-mail blast, school district website, or your child’s backpack. Please be sure to keep all family contact information up-to-date through the Parent Portal via the district website at www.vp.k12.mo.us.
