Table of Contents. Special Thanks. Ignite Graffix Graphic Designer. Amy Biener Diane Goodfriend. CLEF Award Winner of the Tag Art Contest

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2 Table of Contents Jenna Davids Myakka River Elementary CLEF Award Winner of the Tag Art Contest Special Thanks Thank you to our sponsors Ignite Graffix Graphic Designer Amy Biener Diane Goodfriend Special Thanks... This Page Superintendent s Message Board Members... 1 Charlotte County Schools...4 Charlotte County Schools Map...6 Charlotte County School Directory...7 Parent Self Assessment Checklist...8 CCPS Enrollment...10 Attendance Policies Report Cards...14 Health Services...16 Special Services Make A Difference...20 Qualification of Teachers Curriculum...22 How to Help Your Child With School...24 Curriculum and Promotion...26 Education Options...28 Dual Enrollment Stay Informed Terms You Need To Know Immunization Requirements Charlotte Local Education Foundation (CLEF)...37 Grade K - 5 Report Cards Middle and High School Report Cards...39 School Calendars Ways To Show You Care...41 Take Stock In Children...42 Parental Involvement Federal Programs in Charlotte County...44 Lista de Control Para Auto Evaluacion de Padres...45 Matriculacion Del Estudiante Reglas de Asistencia...47 Participacion de los Padres...48 Mantenerse Informado...52

3 District Vision Student Success! District Mission We will provide an innovative educational environment that allows and inspires success for everyone. A Message from the Superintendent and the Board Chair Charlotte County Public Schools Values Communication with clarity and civility Diversity and individual differences Effective leadership Employees Ethical behavior Innovation and productivity Safe and healthy environments Strong connections among the home, school, and community Strong partnerships Ian Vincent Chairman District 4 Lee Swift Vice Chairman District 1 Alleen Miller Member District 2 Barbara Rendell Member District 5 Bob Segur Member District 3 1

4 EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE OF TV To speak to a registered nurse any time of the day or night, call Consult-a-nurse at Test-drive in store: Port Charlotte SW Corner of SR 776 and U.S. 41 or online at SeePrismTV.com Call WOTITZKY, WOTITZKY, ROSS k McKINLEY attorneys at law 223 Taylor Street Punta Gorda, Florida office (941) fax (941)

5 Platinum Sponsors SUNCOAST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION 6801 E Hillsborough Avenue Tampa, FL Gold Sponsors CENTURYLINK 1020 El Jobean Road Port Charlotte, FL MOSAIC FERTILIZER, LLC GOLDSTEIN, BUCKLEY, CECHMAN, RICE & PURTZ, P.A Tamiami Trail, Suite 1 Port Charlotte, FL BB&T Cochran Blvd Port Charlotte, FL LITTLE CAESARS PIZZA 4200 Tamiami Trail #P Port Charlotte. FL Silver Sponsors PANTHER HOLLOW DENTAL LODGE Quesada Avenue Port Charlotte, FL Bronze Sponsors FAWCETT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Olean Boulevard Port Charlotte, FL MOES SOUTHWEST GRILL Via Villagio #125 Estero. FL CHARLOTTE COUNTY FAMILY YMCA 750 W. Retta Esplanade Punta Gorda, FL Wotitzky, Wotitzky, Ross & McKinley attorneys at law 223 Taylor Street Punta Gorda, FL GOODFRIEND FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS A Murdock Circle, Murdock, Fl We are grateful to have such wonderful sponsors! 3

6 Port Charlotte High school Charlotte High school Lemon Bay High School Port Charlotte middle school Punta gorda middle school Murdock middle school L.A. Ainger Middle School The academy Charlotte Technical Center Charlotte Harbor school baker center pre-k 4

7 Kingsway elementary school deep creek elementary school Liberty elementary school Sallie Jones elementary school East elementary school Peace River elementary school Myakka River elementary school Neil Armstrong elementary school Vineland elementary school Meadow Park elementary school 5

8 Charlotte County Schools: Elementary, Middle, High & Technical 6

9 Charlotte County Schools 1 School & Community Relations Mike Riley, Officer 1441 Tamiami Trail Suite 365 Port Charlotte, FL Fax Kingsway Elementary Ronald Rogala, Principal Quasar Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Fax Peace River Elementary Jody Poulakis, Principal 4070 Beaver Lane Port Charlotte, FL Fax Baker Pre-K Center Maureen Watts, Coordinator 311 E. Charlotte Avenue Punta Gorda, FL Fax L.A. Ainger Middle School Marcia Louden, Principal 245 Cougar Way Rotonda West, FL Fax Port Charlotte High School Steve Dionisio, Principal Cochran Blade Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Fax Charlotte Harbor Center Herb Bennett, Principal Hancock Avenue Port Charlotte, FL Fax Lemon Bay High School Bob Bedford, Principal 2201 Placida Road Englewood, FL Fax Port Charlotte Middle School Maria Gifford, Principal Midway Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Fax A 4 Charlotte High School Cathy Corsaletti, Principal 1250 Cooper Street Punta Gorda, FL Fax Liberty Elementary Tom Gifford, Principal 370 Atwater Street Port Charlotte, FL Fax Punta Gorda Middle School Justina Dionisio, Principal 825 Carmalita Street Punta Gorda, FL Fax B 5 Charlotte Technical Center (CTC) Bernard Duffy, Director Murdock Circle Port Charlotte, FL Fax Meadow Park Elementary Asena Mott, Principal 750 Essex Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Fax The Academy at CTC Charlotte Virtual School (CVS) Karen LaPorte, Principal Cochran Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Fax Deep Creek Elementary Adrienne McElroy, Principal Harborview Road Punta Gorda, FL Fax Myakka River Elementary Deborah Carney, Principal Wilmington Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Fax E 7 East Elementary Lori Carr, Principal Fairway Drive Punta Gorda, FL Fax Murdock Middle School Demetrius Revelas, Principal Mariner Way Port Charlotte, FL Fax Neil Armstrong Elementary Angie Taillon, Principal Breezeswept Ave. Port Charlotte, FL Fax Sallie Jones Elementary Jennie Hoke, Principal 1230 Narranja Street Punta Gorda, FL Fax Vineland Elementary Laura C. Blunier, Principal 467 Boundary Blvd. Rotonda West, FL Fax C D District Support Services 1016 Education Avenue Punta Gorda, FL Educational Support Services Murdock Center 1445 Education Way Port Charlotte, FL Englewood Transportation 255 Cougar Way Rotonda, FL Children & Families First Nursing Services Chantal Phillips/Gail Buck 3131 Lakeview Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL Transportation Services Richard Duckworth, Director 1026 Carmalita St. Punta Gorda, FL Murdock Transportation Abbot Avenue Port Charlotte, FL / Dave Gayler Professional Development Center Mary Leonard, Director Hancock Ave. Port Charlotte, FL

10 Charlotte County Schools Parent Self-Assessment Checklist Focus On Attitude I stress the importance of education and doing one s best in school to my child. I express my belief in my child s ability to be successful. I help my child set short and long term educational goals. I celebrate my child s academic accomplishments. Focus On Academics I support reading with age appropriate home activities. I assure that our home has a consistent time and place to do homework. I ensure that my child has access to materials needed to complete assignments. I regularly discuss and ask to see work that my child is doing in school. I attend workshops on helping my children at home. Focus On Behavior I monitor the Internet, , chat sites and computer games used by my child. I monitor the television programs and videos viewed by my child. I teach and reinforce positive behaviors such as respect for self and others, hard work and responsibility. I am aware of enforced school behavioral expectations. Focus On Responsibility I ensure that my child has a regular routine. I encourage my child to accept responsibility for his/her actions. I ensure that my child is in attendance and on time to school each day. I monitor and promote my child s participation in extracurricular and after-school activities Focus On School/Home Activities I communicate regularly with my child s teacher in person, on the phone, by or through writing. I prepare for and attend teacher conferences; Individualized Educational Plans, Academic Improvement Plans, I attend open house, science fairs, plays, musical events, class trips, sporting events, curriculum nights,. I volunteer in the school setting when possible. This Self-Assessment is for your use and is not to be returned to your child s school. Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes This Parent Self-Assessment is provided to help parents determine how involved they are in promoting a positive education for their child and is required annually by state law. 8

11 Parental Participation As a parent your highest priority is your family. Families can provide children with a firm foundation for learning by participating in their child s education as well as enhancing their own. The following opportunities are available to the families of Charlotte County school students and are strongly encouraged by the school district: Charlotte County Public Schools encourages all families to volunteer in any area they feel comfortable. Below is a variety of opportunities for families to assist the schools. School Advisory Council (SAC): This is a team of people representing various segments of the community-parents, teacher, students, administrators, support staff, and interested business people and community members. Each school is required to have a SAC. These stakeholders are responsible for the strategic planning for the school improvement plan for their school. School Volunteers: Through volunteering parents can have an active role in their child s education, as well as the operation of the school. Everyone s talents are needed. You can get involved and volunteer for as little as an hour a week. Some opportunities: tutors, mentors, classroom assistants, office/clerical assistants, computer aides, field trip chaperones, library helpers, adult literacy tutors, ESOL tutors, classroom partners, school partners. Contact your child s school to see their specific volunteering opportunities. TransParenting: This class is mandatory in the twentieth Judicial Circuit in all dissolutions cases in which minor children are involved. TransParenting is an educational program designed to teach effective parenting during the transitions of divorce or parental separation. It impresses upon parents the critical role they play in their child s ability to changes surrounding divorce. Topics Include: Parent Volunteers Parent Education yfeelings associated with divorce y Ways that children of different ages react during transitions ya parenting approach that will benefit children y Suggested ways for talking to children about divorce and other adjustments they will need to make TransParenting is offered one time per month from August through June. The fee to attend is $ In conjunction with the adult class, a group is available for school-aged children. This is a group experience providing children with an opportunity to begin dealing with their reaction to their parent s separation and divorce. When children meet other children who face similar changes it immediately alleviates the intense isolation children of divorce often experience. It is an excellent start in resolving children s issues with the divorce and helps to bring parents and children together. There is no charge for the children to attend this group. Please call (941) for additional information or to register for any of the above classes. School Support Services School Social Work Services School social workers provide a variety of intervention services for students, families and school staff. They all have a Masters Degree and several are licensed clinical social workers. They provide school-based mental health services that help keep our schools safe and provide the support and assistance needed for academic success: Attendance and truancy interventions Classroom support services and character education Short term individual and group counseling Individualized support services for at risk students served in alternative programs Community agency collaboration and referrals Staff Consultations Dropout prevention and retrieval activities Crisis intervention, including suicide risk assessments, bona fide threat assessments, and crisis response to traumatic events Pre-disposition reports for students recommended for expulsion Parent support and economic assistance Training and consultation in child abuse awareness and reporting, suicide prevention and crisis response For more information call the Families First Office at Homeless Education Project (HEP) Title X, McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act Students from PK through 12th grade who lack a regular permanent nighttime residence are eligible for services. A Homeless Education Liaison ensures all students have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education by eliminating barriers to school success. Some of the services include but are not limited to: Identification of homeless children and unaccompanied youth Assistance in obtaining documents required for school enrollment Assistance with transportation to and from school, including special transportation to the school of origin whenever feasible Referrals for medical, dental and mental health services Referrals for tutoring, and before and after school programs Referrals for housing, food and economic assis- tance Assistance to parents in obtaining education resources and to facilitate parent involvement Assistance with enrollment in the free and reduced meals program Assistance with payment of school activities and program fees Training for school personnel and community members to increase awareness of the needs of homeless children For information call the Homeless Education Liaison at Families First Program The Families First Program is a full service school project offering the following services and programs to children and families in Charlotte County. On site services include: y Early Steps provides service coordination staff and conducts bi-monthly Zone Team Meetings to discuss strategies and suggestions to assist families and providers serving children y Early Steps transiontal meetings to inform and prepare a parent for possible transition to another program when the child reaches the age of three y Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System (FDLRS/Child Find) assists in locating, identifying and obtaining services for children who have disabilities or have special needs y Parent Education Programs: TransParenting, and Sandcastles (please call for more information on parent programs) y Substance abuse counseling for CCPS students at the FF/LBH site ydelinquency Case ymanagement at the FF/LBH site yparent Education Program at FF/LBH site y Alateen support groups at FF/LBH site Families First sites are located at: Meadow Park lemon Bay High School Elementary School 2201 Placida Road 3131 Lakeview Boulevard Englewood Port Charlotte Phone: (941) Phone: (941)

12 CCPS Enrollment Student Registration Students entering kindergarten must be five (5) years old on or before September 1st. Call the school for a registration appointment. A parent or guardian must accompany a student under eighteen (18) years of age to register at a school. Florida law requires the following: Written proof of current residence, address (e.g. recent utility bill, water, electric, mortgage or lease agreement) Proof of date of birth. Need one of the following: Certified copy of birth certificate Baptismal certificate showing date of birth and place of baptism, with parent s sworn affidavit Insurance policy on child which has been in force at least two (2) years Bible record of child s birth with parent s sworn affidavit Passport or certificate of arrival in U.S. School record, at least four (4) years prior, showing date of birth Parent s sworn affidavit accompanied by a certificate of examination from a health officer showing date of birth Proof of immunization from the Department of Health, Form 680. This form is available from a private physician or the Department of Health. Charlotte County Health Departments Englewood Address: 688 San Casa Road Englewood, FL Port Charlotte Address: 1100 Loveland Blvd Port Charlotte, FL School Choice School Choice permits parents to enroll their children in a school other than the one to which they have been assigned. The choice must be made during the month of February and will become effective at the start of the next school year. Parents or guardians requesting a student reassignment at any time other than in February must complete a Student Reassignment Form for submittal to the District Hardship Committee. For more information call Charlotte County Public Schools February Enrollment During February Open Enrollment; any child of school age who resides in Charlotte County may apply to attend a school out of his/her assigned district. The appropriate reassignment form to be completed for February Open Enrollment is the Student Reassignment Form. Parents may obtain this form from any public school within the district or on the Charlotte County Public Schools website net. The Student Reassignment Form must be submitted to obtain a student reassignment and is accepted only during the month of February. This is the only time that reassignment requests are guaranteed, unless school boundaries are closed due to an increase in student enrollment or availability of special programs. In addition to February Open Enrollment; parents of kindergarten students have the option of open enrollment by completing a Student Reassignment Form during Kindergarten Round Up. If a high school student is reassigned, it must be in accordance with the Florida High School Activity Association (FHSAA) rules. Students requesting a reassignment, who wish to participate in athletics at their new school, will be required to have the receiving athletic director sign the reassignment form. This signature notifies the receiving athletic director of your application and gives them the opportunity to review your child s athletic eligibility. An approved reassignment is not a guarantee of athletic eligibility. Upon recommendation of the principals and the review and approval of the Hardship Committee, a student may be returned to the assigned school in his/her attendance area at the beginning of the next grading period for the following reasons: discipline and/or attendance problems; other changes in circumstances. (School Board Rule 5120) Enrollment for Months Other Than February School Choice permits parents to enroll their children in a school other than the one to which they have been assigned. The choice must be made during the month of February and will become effective at the start of the next school year. Parents or guardians requesting a student reassignment at any time other than in February must complete a Student Reassignment Form for submittal to the District Hardship Committee. Parents who missed the February enrollment period may apply. Parents new to the county who missed the February enrollment period and choose an out-of-district school for the next school may apply. Parents must always start the reassignment process at the school of residence. child will be reassigned to a school with boundaries that are closed due to an increase in student enrollment. Parents may obtain a Student Reassignment Form from any school or on the Charlotte County Public Schools website The Student Reassignment Form must be submitted to the office of the Director of Student Services for review by the Hardship Committee. The principal of your child s assigned school must sign the Student Reassignment Form in the space referred to as Sending Principal. After obtaining the Sending Principal s signature, parents must obtain the signature of the principal of the school which is being requested, referred to as Receiving Principal. Students will be able to change schools after the Hardship Committee s approval at the start of the next grading period. For Your Information School buses are equipped with video cameras, which are activated while students are riding the bus. School Starting Times Elementary Schools: Deep Creek, Liberty, Sallie Jones, Meadow Park, Myakka River 8:35 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Elementary Schools: East, Kingsway, Peace River, Neil Armstrong, Vineland, Baker Center, 8:55 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. Middle Schools 9:25 a.m. to 3:55 p.m. High Schools/Charlotte Harbor Center 7:25 a.m. to 1:55 p.m. Academy/Charlotte Technical Center 7:55 a.m. to 2:25 p.m. Sha Breece Bartley Liberty Elementary 10

13 School YRS School Make sure kids time at home is meaningful. Set aside at least one evening a week as family time. August Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Back to school means back to saving! What's your plan to save? To speak to a registered nurse any time of the day or night, call Consult-a-nurse at First Day for Students 18 First Day for Teachers Professional Development Day YRS School YRS School 11

14 Attendance Policies School Attendance School Attendance is required of all students, kindergarten, through age 16. Students who have excessive excused or unexcused absences will be referred to the Child Study Team for appropriate interventions. For more information, see the CCPS Code of Student Conduct. The School Board maintains that daily school attendance is essential to the educational success of each student. Students are expected to be in school and the class on time in order to receive full benefit from the instructional programs of the Charlotte County Public Schools. Parents are expected to notify the school when their child is absent. For purposes of gathering statistical data, all absences will be recorded in the office as excused, unexcused, or absence due to an out-of-school suspension. What Happens If Your Child Falls Behind? Each student must participate in the statewide assessment tests. A student who does not score at Level 3 or above in reading and mathematics, or a 4.0 in writing, must be provided with additional diagnostic assessments to determine the nature of the student s difficulty and areas of academic need. If your child is struggling to perform at his grade level in reading or math, as indicated by scoring at Level 1 or 2 on the FCAT 2.0 reading or Math, or less than a 4.0 on the FCAT 2.0 writing, you will receive a letter asking you to come in for a conference. At that time, a Progress Monitoring Plan (PMP) will be developed that will outline what type of extra help your child needs and how she/he will get it. The plan also includes what your child will need to be able to do academically in order to be on par with his/her grade level. Excused Absence Illness of student Serious illness or death in student s immediate family, including significant other Students excused from school for head lice or nits will be allowed up to three (3) school days to remove the lice or nits. After three (3) school days for a single occurrence, the absences will be considered unexcused unless the principal or designee extends the excused classification for special circumstances Doctor or dental appointments. Parents are encouraged to schedule appointments after school hours Health issues as they relate to pregnant teens, teen- age mothers and/or their children. Appointments after school are encouraged Legal matters Religious holidays/training of the student s specific faith or religious instruction. Students shall be excused from any examination, study, or work assignment for observance of a religious holiday or because the tenets of his/her religion forbid secular activity at such time Special honors and/or awards. te: Trips with parents are considered unexcused unless they have the principal s permission three (3) school days in advance School sponsored trips, extracurricular activities, assemblies, and internal suspension are not considered absences Unexcused Absence Absent from school or class without the knowledge and permission of his/her parents or guardian of school authorities At the secondary level, Absence beyond nine (9) school days per semester are considered excessive and will be counted as unexcused unless official documentation is provided Excessive excused or chronic absences Students accumulating more than fifteen(15) chronic/excessive excused absences or absences, which occur in patterns week by week at any time during the school year, may be required to provide documentation per the request of the principal. Failure to provide adequate documentation may result in absences being considered unexcused with a referral for truancy Students accumulating as few as five (5) unexcused absences in a calendar month may be referred to Truancy court Students accumulating more than fifteen (15) unexcused absences in a 90 day period are subject to Drivers License revocation Homework Homework is an extension of learning and is important for improved student achievement. Each school is expected to have homework guidelines tailored to its student population, including a system for reviewing which promotes learning Homework is designed as an extension of school class work for the purpose of learning, practice, and reinforcement Homework is purposeful and meaningful, and enhances the school learning experience Homework assignments are with the capabilities of the individual student There is a system for reviewing homework assignments that promotes learning Parents shall be fully informed of the school s homework policy It is expected that parents instill in their children the responsibility to see that homework is completed and returned ( School Board Rule 4.16) Check on your school's website Focus Portal link and click "focus" to be sure your child is turning in all assignments Nayla Blaich Deep Creek Elementary Homework is part of school and you can help your child do it well. Homework is given for a variety of reasons: practice, review, prepare for upcoming lessons, or teach them how to work on their own. Here are some tips for homework: Set up a regular time and quiet place for your child to work. Try to avoid television, radio, and other noise Have your child s materials (pencil, paper, pens, erasers, calculator, computer) located in one area Ask your child s teacher if a homework calendar is available so that you can keep track of the assignments. If no calendar is available, make one with your child If your child is having trouble with homework, talk to the teacher about the homework Have your child work on homework, take a break, and then return to the work and check it over For more information on homework help check 12

15 School Ask a young person to teach you a new skill. September YRS School Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Labor Day Don't fall into debt! Get your free credit report today!

16 Academic Reporting Report Cards Report cards are issued as follows: Grades K-12 four (4) times per year; and Year Round School Grades K-5 three (3) times per year. All schools use a standard report card as the primary means of reporting student progress. Selected programs utilize a standardized reporting insert in combination with the regular report card. Report cards give an annual report of student progress towards achieving state and district expectations for mastery of standards in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies based on results of district and statewide testing. Report cards indicate to parents whether a student is working at a level below that expected for his/her assigned grade placement. For students with disabilities, the report card will include progress toward achievement of Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives. For ELL students, progress should be communicated in a language that the parents understand, whenever feasible. te: A standards-based report card is being piloted in four schools. Please contact CCPS for more information. Student Progression Good communication concerning student progress is informative, purposeful and ongoing. Student progress will be reported to parents in the following ways: Teacher/parent conferences Periodic informal written or oral communication Interim reporting at least once per marking period for all students and on a daily, weekly, or as needed basis for students experiencing difficulty Student progress reporting will include proficiency data in reading, writing, mathematics, and science as gathered through: Classroom work Observations Portfolios Classroom assessments District assessments, where appropriate State assessments, where appropriate Each student s progression from one grade to another is determined in part by grade level proficiency in reading, writing, mathematics, and science as assessed by classroom work, portfolios, teacher/staff observation, teacher assessments, and data from district and state assessments. For more details see CCPS Student Progression Plan at Courses Earning Weighted Grade Point Value Courses Earning Weighted Grade Point Value 1.0 Additional Point Value for Core courses (Math, English, Science, Social Studies) at the Advanced Placement or Dual Credit level.5 Additional Point Value for Core courses (Math, English, Science, Social Studies) at the Honors level; Adult courses taken as dual credit at Charlotte Technical Center (CTC); Foreign language at level III and above. Retention-Grades K-12 Any child being considered for retention should be referred to the Child Study Team who will analyze the contents of the cumulative record prior to a recommendation for retention. This team will also gather input from related classroom teachers and other appropriate school personnel. When retention is the recommendation, parents/ guardians must be advised immediately, through a parent conference, at which time future program modifications will be discussed. When students are retained, they must be enrolled in an intensive program that is different from the previous year s program and that takes into account the student s learning style. student can be assigned to a grade level based solely on age or other factors that constitute social promotion. Grades K-2 Student Performance Indicators are as follows: O: Outstanding; S: Satisfactory; I: Some progress made, but improvement is needed at this time; and U: Unsatisfactory. Rated Areas of Performance Language and Literacy; Mathematics; Science; and Social Studies. Personal and Social; Other basics such as art, music, computer, career education, Spanish, and physical education are rated on the same scale. Grades 3-12 Report Cards Letter grades for reading, language, mathematics, science/ health and social studies are based on the following numerical scale: A: ; B: 80-89; C: 70-79; D: 60-69; and F: Grading Scale Grades 3-12 other basics such as art, music, computer, physical education, and areas of personal development are rated as follows: O: Outstanding; S: Satisfactory; I: Some progress made, but improvement is needed at this time; and U: Unsatisfactory. The principal has the final authority to determine the placement of students except for good cause promotions at grade three (3) which must be reviewed by the superintendent. 14

17 School YRS School Send cards or greetings to children you know to mark holidays, birthdays, and other important milestones in their lives. October Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Happy International Credit Union Day! Come see how we're celebrating FTE Count/Window facebook.com/suncoastcreditunion 12 FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE OF TV FTE Count/Window Columbus Day FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window FTE Count/Window End of 1st Trimester End of Quarter Test-drive in store: Port Charlotte SW Corner of SR 776 and U.S. 41 or online at SeePrismTV.com Call Teacher Work Day NO SCHOOL? Go to YMCA Camp! YRS Fall Intercession Begins YRS Fall Intercession Ends Happy Halloween! 15

18 Health Services School Nurse Charlotte County Public Schools employs a full-time Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse at each school. School nurses provide a variety of services, which include: administration of medication providing skilled nursing treatments health screenings such as vision, hearing, body mass indexing and scoliosis health care management during school hours for those students with health challenges or chronic diseases treatment of illnesses and injuries occurring during the school day Health Screenings Florida law mandates students enrolled in KG, 1st grade, 3rd grade and 6th grade receive health screenings. The screenings are usually completed during the first semester of school. If a discrepancy is noted during the screening process, a letter will be sent to the parent requesting a follow up with a physician or optometrist. When notified by the parent of financial difficulties, the school nurse will contact the Families First Program in an attempt to connect with an appropriate community agency to meet a student s needs. Confidentiality will be maintained at all times. It is the parent or guardian s responsibility to follow through on the referral process. Other health screenings, which can occur at any school include, pediculosis, scabies, impetigo, ringworm, and immunization review. If a discrepancy or concern is noted by the school nurse, parents will be notified by telephone and a letter requesting treatment or follow up will be sent home. Questions and/or concerns should be directed to the Supervisor of District Health Services at (941) Medication Policy Charlotte County Public Schools recognize a student may have an illness that does not prevent him/her from attending school but does require a FDA approved medication by a licensed medical physician for relief or cure. Parents should be giving medications and/or treatments at home except, when in a physician s opinion, it is deemed vital that it is given during school hours. The following guidelines are an extraction from the Nursing Procedure Manual. Please refer to this manual for the complete policies and procedures. The following rules must be observed: the school until the parent/guardian can pick up the student. The readmission of a student who has had a communicable disease shall be in accordance with instructions provided by An adult must transport all medications to and from school. It the Charlotte County Health Department. A written statement must be in the original container, labeled with the student s from the student s licensed health care provider that the student is free from communicable disease is required for readmis- name, name of drug, directions concerning dosage, time of day to be taken, physician s name and date of prescription. sion to school. Upon receipt, the nurse/designee will count and record (in the student s Medication Administration Record) the number of tablets received in the bottle. Meningococcal disease, commonly known as meningococcal meningitis, is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that can cause severe swelling of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) Students are not permitted to carry prescription or non-prescription medication on his/her person unless prior special ar- or a serious blood infection (meningococcemia). Teenagers and college students can help reduce their risk of contracting rangements have been made. meningococcal disease by being vaccinated. Contact your The parent/guardian must supply a completed Physician and Parent Medication Authorization Form for each prescribed medication to be administered at school. healthcare provider for further information. What you can do to prevent the flu! Education, personal preparedness and prevention are essential to containment when a pandemic event occurs. A Physician (MD), Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), or Physician Assistant (PA) must prescribe all over the counter medications including Tylenol and herbal remedies. Don t spread your germs: Cover you nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose. If All medications will be stored in a designated, locked storage tissues are unavailable then cover your sneeze by sneezing area. Those medications requiring refrigeration will be kept in a into the bend of your arm lock box in the health center s refrigerator. The student is responsible for coming to the School Health Discard used tissues immediately into the trash Center at the appropriate time for medication, but the nurse/ designee is responsible for monitoring compliance. Always wash your hands after sneezing, blowing your nose, or coughing or after touching used tissues or handkerchiefs It is the parents responsibility to notify the school nurse of changes in medication schedules and complete the appropriate forms. Wash hands with warm water and soap. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer may be used if soap and water are not available Questions or concerns should be directed to the Supervisor of Wash hands often if you are sick District Health Services at (941) Stay at home if you are sick, especially if you have a fever and cough Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you can Communicable if you have a fever and cough, and follow their instructions. Take medications as prescribed and get plenty of rest Disease Don t pick up germs from others In order to protect the health and safety of the students, school Wash your hands before eating or touching your eyes, personnel, and the community at large, the Board shall follow nose or mouth all State statutes and Health Department regulations which pertain to immunization and other means for controlling communicable Wash you hands after touching anyone else who is sneezing, coughing, blowing their nose or whose nose is running disease spread through normal interaction in the school setting. Don t share things like towels, lipstick, toys, cigarettes or anything else that might be contaminated with respiratory Communicable diseases are those diseases that are transmitted germs from person to person through direct/indirect contact with sources of infection; droplet spread by coughing or sneezing; Don t share food, utensils or beverage containers with others airborne dust, particle, or moisture in the air; or by contaminated food, water or blood. When available, the professional judgment of licensed health Education, personal preparedness and prevention are essential to containment when a pandemic event occurs personnel shall be used to determine the temporary exclusion and readmission to school, based on established protocols, Questions and/or concerns should be directed to the Supervisor of District Health Services (941) professional assessments, and/or contact with other health care providers, in accordance with standard medical practice. The Principal, or designee, may exclude that student from the school building or isolate the student with supervision within 16

19 School Vow to say one encouraging thing to a young person each day. vember YRS School Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Need a savings check up? Daylight Savings Time 9 Teacher Work Day 10 Professional Development Day You and your family are eligible for membership. Stop in today! Veterans Day Hurricane Makeup Day Hurricane Makeup Day Happy Thanksgiving 17

20 Special Services Special Accomodations & Modifications Parents are a part of the process of planning and delivering services to their child. You will want to work with the school by giving information, asking questions, making suggestions and helping to make decisions. Once a child is determined eligible for special services, an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) is developed. The plan outlines for you, the teachers and other school staff which special services will be provided to your child. Your child may need changes in teaching or testing in order to make progress and demonstrate acquired learning. Accommodations are assistive changes in how a child is taught or tested such as audio books paired with print, extra time for tests or having a behavioral contract. Modifications are changes in what a child is expected to learn, such as working in an alternate curriculum or, taking alternate tests. The IEP must include a statement about any accommodations that will be made for your child in the administration of state or district assessment, for example The Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT 2.0). The IEP team determines the accommodations necessary for your child to demonstrate what he knows, however, accommodations must adhere to the test publishers requirements. Accommodations must also be those that are routinely utilized in the classroom. Please note, some routine accommodations are not allowed during the FCAT 2.0 and other assessments. Accommodations may include differences such as: y Test presentation- large print, Braille, signed or oral y Student responses- responding writing in test booklet, separate paper, Braille or verbally answering questions y Scheduling- use of extended time, taking the test over several brief sessions y Setting- in small groups, individually or in a specialized classroom to accommodate special lighting or equipment y Assistive devices- calculators, technology devices, or visual, auditory magnification devices y Other unique accommodations may be approved as long as they have been regularly used by the student for classroom instruction and must not alter the content of the test Exceptional Student Education Services Here is what you must do to refer your child for possible exceptional student education services, including placement in a gifted program: y Discuss an evaluation with school staff y Be an active participant in meetings at your child s school y Give the school any reports you may have from your child s doctor to assist the evaluations y After the evaluation has been completed and it has been determined that your child needs special services, you will be asked to participate in a meeting. y At that meeting the test will be explained to you and the team, you included, will work together to develop an individual educational plan ( I.E.P.) The IEP has two purposes: To write goals for one year of your child s learning and behavior that are reasonable and can be measured; and To explain what services your child needs. y Your input is very important. If the time they set for the meeting is not appropriate, call and ask them to reschedule y There are other people involved in this meeting who work with your child including the regular and special education teachers, evaluators, and Local Education Agency representatives. Other staff may be invited as necessary y Everyone is there to help your child receive a good education with all the services he/she needs. The IEP is reviewed at least annually, but if it s not working, any member of the team may request that it be reviewed sooner. Promotion for Exceptional Education Students ESE students receiving instruction with ESE support will have the following considered for promotion: y Individual Education Plan (IEP) including how the student s disability affects the student s participation in the general curriculum y Classroom performance English Language Learners Students who are Limited English Proficient (LEP) are served in their own schools by teachers and other professional educators who have been trained in strategies to help them learn English along with their academic subjects, and to modify the curriculum to meet their needs. The students are assessed for proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing each year with the Comprehensive English Language Learning Assessment, or CELLA. The students in grades 3 through 10 also take the State Assessment each year. Limited English proficient students in Charlotte County come from as many as 30 different countries and speak over 20 different languages. Parent's Top 12 As a parent, here are 12 things you should know about and expect from your schools...and yourself: Be there, your involvement matters. Research shows that students with involved parents are more likely to earn higher grades and test scores, enroll in higher-level programs, be promoted and earn credits, attend school regularly, have better social skills, and graduate and go to college. You can be involved in many ways. Watch the ordinary become extraordinary every day! By creating strong connections between home and school, you can establish a learning environment at home for the whole family. Teachable moments are everywhere! Be their favorite teacher! You are your child s first and most important teacher. Make learning a natural part of your day. Schools need you. Parent involvement is the key challenge facing schools. Teachers and principals are desperate for parents like you to be involved. Each and every school in Charlotte County shares the same vision...student Success! Understand what the learning standards are in each grade. Parents and students need to know at the start of the school year what is being taught in English, math, science, social studies, and other subjects in each grade. Become familiar with the school s behavior standards. You should be informed of how your child s school is performing. Middle and high school parents should be aware of what is required for your child to apply to college. Middle school is not too early to begin learning what kind of courses your child should be taking to choose their future careers. Know your child s educational options. Your important questions should get answers. Is your child safe? What is expected of your child? How is learning measured? Whether on the phone, in person, or on the internet, your school should be willing to share the answers to these and other important questions. Reading and conversation lead to student success. READ! READ! READ! Have vocabulary rich conversations with your child throughout each and every day. Your Charlotte Schools and You! In order to be successful, parents and teachers need a team effort. That s why you are invited to Be There. 18