Student and Parent Handbook*

Transcripción

1 Novato Unified School District San Ramon Elementary School Student and Parent Handbook* Principal: Andy Cline Office Manager: Pam Baker School Telephone: (415) School Fax: (415) Attendance/Mailboxes: (415) Website: Office Hours: 8:00 am 4:00 pm *Paginas 4 y tienen el mismo contenido en español.

2 August 2014 Dear Parents: Welcome to San Ramon Elementary School and the school year. We look forward to working with you as a team that will ensure academic success for each and every child in our school community. We believe it is everyone s responsibility to ensure that ALL students are proficient in their grade level standards. Please join with us in promoting high standards of academic and behavioral expectations for our children. We will prepare our children academically, socially, and emotionally to make positive choices in their lives and be productive citizens of the world. One of our top priorities is to maintain communication between home and school. This handbook includes a wide variety of important information but is not inclusive of all you will want and need to know. Watch for notes and information from the classroom teachers in your child s Friday Folder. Every Friday, the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) publishes the San Ramon Dolphin Splash (available online at or This weekly newsletter provides information about the many activities happening at school. Our school website is another source of information about San Ramon, including the Principal s Page that features announcements and links to online resources. The PTA, English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC), and Site Leadership Team (SLT) hold regular meetings, and we encourage everyone to attend and participate. Please take some time to review pertinent information from this book with your child and keep it for future reference. Last year, a section outlining the school policy for identifying and combating bullying was added on page 19. Thank you for reviewing it. We are looking forward to an exciting and wonderful year. Since the day San Ramon opened, in the fall of 1968, we have always provided children with a safe and respectful learning environment. Together we can make a difference in each and every child s life and continue to make San Ramon a warm and nurturing place where children love to learn and will be academically successful. Sincerely, Andy Cline Principal 2

3 Topics Table of Contents Page San Ramon Mission Statement 5 School Schedule 5 Academic Program 6 Library Gift Books Outdoor Education Attendance 7 Absence Tardy Policy Release of Students Independent Study Program Classroom Visitations 8 School Tours Communication 9 Friday Folders Parent-Teacher Conferences Report Cards Websites Health and Safety 10 Emergency Cards Medical Needs Dress Code Getting To and From School 12 Bus & Bicycle Safety Traffic & Parking Lunch/Food Services 14. Playground 15 Campus Care Lost & Found School Governance 16 Site Leadership Team Student Council Special Programs & Services 16 Student Success Team (SST) Special Education Services Telephone Use 19 Volunteer Program 19 PTA Questions, Compliments, or Concerns 20 Student Expectations for Learning 20 Solution Team Approach to Bullying 20 Standards for Behavior & Consequences Student Recognition Student Placement 3

4 Tópicos Contenido Página Declaración de la misión de San Ramón 27 Horario de la escuela 27 Programa Académico 28 Biblioteca Libros Regalados Actividades educativas fuera Asistencia 29 Ausencias Política para las tardanzas Despacho de estudiantes Programa de estudio independiente Visita al salón de clases 30 Visita a la escuela tours Comunicación 31 Sobre de los viernes Conferencia de los padres-maestros Calificaciones Salud y seguridad 32 Tarjetas de emergencia Preparación en caso de desastre Simulacro de desastre y incendios Necesidades médicas Ida y vuelta de la escuela 34 Seguridad en el bus y bicicleta Parqueo y trafico Almuerzo/Servicio de comidas 36 Patio 37 Cuidado del plantel Perdido & Encontrado Gobierno de la escuela 37 Equipo de liderazgo Concilio estudiantil Servicios de programas especiales 38 Equipo de estudiantes del éxito (SST) Servicios especiales de educación Uso del teléfono 41 Programa voluntario 41 PTA Preguntas, cumplidos, o inquietudes 41 Las expectaciones del estudiante 42 Equipo Solución para Intimidación 43 Estándares de la conducta & Consecuencias Reconocimiento del estudiante Colocación del estudiante 4

5 San Ramon Mission Statement All Children Can Learn ALL CHILDREN CAN LEARN Children, parents, and staff work cooperatively at San Ramon in a safe and caring environment. We believe that all children can learn, be successful, and prepare themselves to live in and contribute to a changing world. As a staff we will ensure that: Every child is provided with equal opportunities for excellence. Each child is empowered to contribute successfully in the 21 st century. Pride and enthusiasm will permeate the learning community. No limits are acceptable on the learning potential of any child. Students, parents, and the staff are held to the highest standards of performance. Every individual will treat others with courtesy and respect. Colleagues will collaborate regularly to learn and implement more effective strategies for helping each child achieve his or her academic potential. Every student will achieve or exceed grade level academic expectations no excuses. School Schedule Kindergarten & TK Grades 1, 2 Grades 3, 4, 5 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. 2:45 p.m. 8:30 a.m. 2:50 p.m. Curriculum Planning Days (Every Wednesday) Kindergarten & TK 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Grades 1-5 8:30 a.m. - 1:50 p.m. Parent Conference Schedule (November 17-21) All Grades 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Back-to-School 6 PM (8/26/14) Kindergarten 8:30a.m.-1:30 p.m. (8/28/14) Grades 1-5 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Open House 6 PM) All Grades 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Staff Development Days (no school for students) August 29, 2014 November 10, 2014 May 22, 2015 Minimum Days for Staff Development (8:30-12:30) September 22, 2014 October 20, 2014 January 28, 2015 Last day of School Thursday, June 11 All Students 8:30 a.m. 11:30 p.m. 5

6 Academic Program The San Ramon curriculum follows the California State frameworks, the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), the Novato Unified School District Board Policies, and the district-adopted instructional programs. Students in K-5 classrooms receive quality standards-based instruction in literacy, mathematics, science, and social science. Additional subjects that are taught include music, computers, physical education, and art. At San Ramon, we seek to build a sense of responsibility, confidence, pride in accomplishment, and a positive self-image within each child. Several highlights of our academic program are included in this handbook. Our Single School Plan for Student Achievement encompasses our short and long term SMART goals for program improvement. This school plan is available online at or is available in the office. It is updated annually by the staff and Site Leadership Team. Library The San Ramon Library plays a vital role in the total educational program of our school. From the beginning of kindergarten to the end of fifth grade, students have access to the library through weekly class visits and small group research time. The class visits include time to browse and check out books. Students also learn how to care for, and be responsible for borrowed books. Parents can assist students by finding a secure place at home to keep school library books and ensuring that all books checked out of the library are returned by the scheduled due date. Fees will be incurred to cover any replacement costs for lost or stolen books. Gift Books: Through the San Ramon Gift Book Program, parents may purchase a book for the San Ramon Library in honor of a child's special day. Books are chosen with the child's age and interests in mind. A bookplate with the child's name will be placed in the front of the book as a permanent "Thank you" from San Ramon. The child will be the first to check out the new book before it is placed in circulation to be shared by all the students. If you would prefer to dedicate a book as a family, rather than to an individual child, we welcome this contribution as well. A gift of reading and sharing is truly a special gift. Outdoor Education The Marin County Office of Education Outdoor Education Program provides environmental education for fifth grade students by utilizing naturalists, counselors, and classroom teachers in an outdoor setting. San Ramon students and teachers will attend Outdoor Education for one week, usually in late January and/or early February. The facility is located at Walker Creek Ranch in Marshall (approximately 30 minutes 6

7 from San Ramon). More information about this will be shared during a Parent Information Night. Attendance Absences Absences for any reason can affect a student s academic performance. While some absences are unavoidable (those due to illness), others are often a matter of choice. It is strongly recommended that parents avoid making appointments during school hours, and even more importantly, avoid scheduling vacations while school is in session. In addition to lost instruction, schools are funded by state revenues that are calculated based on each day students are present in school (average daily attendance). When students are absent, school revenues are reduced. We thank you in advance for keeping the school informed of your child s whereabouts at all times. It is essential to your child s safety. Please note that habitual absences will also result in receipt of a truancy letter, which may require a conference with the principal. If your child is ill: Parents/guardians must telephone the school before 8:45 a.m. at , including days following when a child has been sent home from school with a fever. If calling before or after office hours, please call our attendance hotline at It is the responsibility of the student to complete all class/homework missed during absences. Homework assignments may be requested from the office before noon and may be picked up at the end of the day. Per Board Policy 5113, a student who has 14 or more absences for illness verified by a parent note or phone call must bring a note from a physician for all further absences. Tardy Policy Tardiness interrupts the educational program. The tardy child misses out on instruction and causes an interruption for the rest of the class. Teachers are not obligated to repeat material missed due to tardiness; therefore, students need to arrive at school on time. The school tardy policy is as follows: 1. Students arriving after the designated starting time must register in the office before going to class. 2. Once the student registers in the office, a late pass will be given to the student to enter class. 7

8 3. Students with excessive tardies are referred to the School Attendance and Review Team (SART). Three tardies in a one month period is considered excessive and a tardy letter will be sent home. Release of Students When it is necessary for your child to leave school for any reason during the school day, a written request for early dismissal should be presented to the teacher or brought to the school office before school. A parent/guardian or authorized adult must come to the office to request the release of a student. Students will not be called to the office before the adult arrives. For the safety of all students, the school will not release children to adults other than those listed on the emergency card unless we receive prior notification from parents. We require the following procedures when picking up students before the school day is over: 1. Parent or designee report directly to the school office. 2. At that time (not before), students will be called from the classroom to meet parents in the office. 3. Please do NOT go to your child s classroom. 4. Parents or designee will be asked to sign for the student s release in the school office before leaving. Independent Study Program Our Commitment to Excellence requires that students be in attendance every day unless illness, medical appointment or bereavement requires absence. However, if your schedule necessitates an absence from school for five (5) days or more, please request an Independent Study Form from the office several weeks in advance. The completed independent study work must be given to the teacher upon the first day the child s returns to school. This program allows students to make up missed work in an efficient manner and also allows the school to collect a portion of state funding for student attendance. Classroom Visitations San Ramon welcomes parent volunteers and visitors. We ask that appointments be set up with teachers and staff in advance of classroom visits. State law requires schools to regulate visitors. Visitors must sign in at the office and wear a "Visitor" badge throughout the visit. This policy is in effect at all times. The regulation of visitors assures student and staff safety and ensures less disruption of the instructional program. If waiting outside a classroom or in the cluster, please be respectful about acting in a manner that will avoid interruptions to student learning. 8

9 Please avoid unscheduled visits. (BP 1250). The following recommendations will provide a meaningful visit with minimal distraction for students: Classroom: Remember that activities and children's behavior will vary from day to day. Shorter visits are informative, yet less disruptive. Do not bring younger children with you. Please note that concerns about a student s behavior other than one s own child during school hours should be referred to a staff member. Schedule teacher conferences before or after school hours. Teachers are available to discuss a child's progress and the classroom program with parents but not when class is in session. Please schedule an appointment to meet with teachers during non-instructional time. Playground Recess is a time for children to exercise and socialize with their peers. If you need to meet with your child during these times, please follow our guidelines for school safety and security: go to the office so you can sign in at the beginning of your visit, wear a visitor badge, and sign out at the end of your visit. It is important for the safety of our students that we know exactly who is on the playground at all times. Communication Friday Folders All school notices and student work are sent home in the weekly Friday Folder. It is very important to review the contents of your child's Friday Folder each week and return the folder on the following Monday with your signature. The school will make every effort to keep you informed of all school and classroom activities and calendar changes via the Friday Folder and website. General information about San Ramon programs can also be found on the website at Parent -Teacher Conferences The parent-teacher conference is an important time for parents and teachers to discuss student progress toward grade level standards and establish goals for improvement. Parents and teachers working together as a team enable us to meet the individual needs of the students. Regularly scheduled conferences will take place in November. Students attend school from 8:30-12:30. 9

10 Teachers may begin scheduling parent/teacher conferences at Back to School Night. As needed, parents, teachers, or the principal may initiate other opportunities for conferences throughout the year. Report Cards The general purpose of the Novato Unified School District reporting system is to keep students and parents well informed of social and academic progress. There are three formal reporting periods. Parent-teacher conferences take place at the end of the first trimester. Report cards are sent home at the end of the second trimester and at the end of the school year. Websites The school website ( is updated at least weekly during the school year with informative announcements, a calendar of school events, and links to online resources to further your child s learning. The district website ( is also a good resource for information.. Health and Safety Emergency Cards At the beginning of the school year each student is given two Emergency Cards to be completed by parents or guardians and returned to school. One card is kept on file in the office and the other is kept in the disaster container. Please provide us with accurate contact information to reach you during the school day. Should an accident occur or should your child become ill while at school, parents/guardians will be immediately contacted. If the parents/guardians cannot be reached, every effort is made to contact the designated person(s) named on the Emergency Card. In no case, will your child be sent home without prior notification. Unless we receive prior notification from you, your child will only be released to the person(s) listed on the Emergency Card. Please do not list the names of adults who will be unavailable to us during the school day or who will be unwilling to take responsibility for your child if you cannot be reached. Important: Make sure you let the school office know if you change phone numbers, change your address, or change your job during the school year. You can call or send a note to our Office Manager to have your child's Emergency Card updated. 10

11 Disaster Preparedness Our PTA, with the assistance of our Disaster Preparedness Committee, has provided our school with a fully equipped emergency preparedness container that includes food, water, first aid supplies, space blankets, and more. The school has a Safety Plan for emergency action, and each staff member knows his or her responsibility. In the event of a school evacuation, we will follow procedures in complete coordination with the school district and all emergency agencies. When releasing children, be sure to check in with school authorities at the evacuation site before taking any children home. Adults are asked to bring their photo identification to ensure proper student release. Fire and Disaster Drills: Fire drills are practiced monthly. In addition, earthquake drills and lock down drills take place during the school year. Classroom teachers explain what is expected of all students and what is to be done during a fire and/or disaster drill. Each teacher has a map of the school showing how students are to leave and where they are to line up. A school-wide disaster drill is held annually. Medical Needs Communicable Diseases: Please report all communicable diseases (measles, mumps, lice, strep throat, etc.) promptly to the school office. Proper notification will be sent home when it applies to your child's classroom. Medication: We must have an Authorization to Administer Medication form signed by both the parent and the child s doctor if a student needs to take a prescribed medication during school hours. We do not administer any medicine without specific directions from a parent and doctor. This release can be faxed directly to the office at Medications are kept in the office and are administered by qualified staff members. All medicines must be in their original container with the prescription showing the student's name and dosage. Please help us to ensure that children do not keep medicines in their backpacks or desks. Dress Code 11

12 Shoes must be worn at all times. Sandals must have heel straps and be suitable for physical activity. Flip-flops, backless shoes, or footwear that restricts normal mobility (unless worn for medical needs) are not allowed. Clothing, jewelry, and personal items (e.g. backpacks, binders, gym bags, water bottles, etc.) shall be free of writing, tagging, pictures, or any other insignia which are crude, vulgar, profane or sexually suggestive, which bear drug, alcohol, or tobacco advertising or likenesses, or which advocate violence, intimidation, gang affiliation, racial, ethnic, or religious prejudice. Jewelry may be worn in the ears only. All other piercings should be worn outside of school hours, unless exempted by the principal for religious purposes. Hats, caps, and other head coverings shall not be worn indoors, except for religious purposes. Headwear should be worn in the intended manner. Clothes shall be sufficient to conceal undergarments at all times. Sheer fabrics and revealing garments such as halter tops, spaghetti straps, off-the-shoulder or low-cut tops, bare midriffs, and shorts or skirts shorter than mid-thigh are prohibited. Pants shall be secured at the waist so that they do not sag. Students shall come to school clean and neatly groomed. Hair may not be sprayed by any coloring that would drip when wet. Extremes in dress, hair style, or jewelry that are distractions to the learning environment, such as pictures or words cut into one's hair, are prohibited. Getting To and From School Morning Drop-off Supervision of the yard begins 15 minutes before the start of school (8:15 a.m.). Please assure your child s safety by always dropping them off between 8:15 and 8:30 and not before. Early arrivals will be held in the office and parents or security officers will be contacted as necessary. Morning childcare is available at the Y.M.C.A. on campus. Call for information. Afternoon Pick-Up Students must be picked up, or go directly to their after school location, promptly after they are dismissed. Students who have not been picked up within ten minutes of their dismissal time are asked to wait in the office until an adult arrives. Students who are regularly picked up late may be referred to security officers. The office closes at 4:00. 12

13 Parents are strongly encouraged to call the office at when an emergency occurs that precludes a normal arrival at school. Please discuss with your child that they should go to the office if the person(s) who normally picks them up are late. In the event that a child is left at school, we make every effort to contact parents and/or the adults listed on a child's emergency card. When we cannot locate the parents/guardians or person(s) listed on the student s emergency card, we will contact the Novato Police Department to assist us. Bicycles Only students in grades 4 and 5 are allowed to ride bicycles to school. Younger students can only ride their bicycles when accompanied by a parent both to and from school. Riders must exercise good sense and safe riding habits at all times. We urge you to remind your children of the following guidelines and the State of California traffic laws: Bicycle helmets are required equipment for all bicycle riders. Students must park their bicycles and lock them in the bicycle racks. They should leave the rack area immediately. Bicycle racks are off limits during school hours. Students should avoid touching another student s bicycle unless the owner is present and permission has been given. Students must walk their bicycles onto and off of school grounds. When school is out, bicycle riders must go directly home. Skateboards, roller-blades, and scooters are prohibited at school at all time. Shoes with heelies should not be worn to school. If they are, the wheels must be removed during school. Buses and Day Care Vans If students miss the bus at dismissal, they should report to the school office immediately so parents and/or day care providers can be notified. Parents will be responsible for picking up their child if they miss the bus. Parking & Traffic Guidelines Thanks to a significant Safe Routes to School grant, many new traffic safety changes have taken place in the front of our school PLEASE ADHERE TO ALL SAFETY LAWS WHEN DROPPING OFF AND PICKING UP YOUR CHILDREN. Always use the white loading area in front of our school. Following state law, do 13

14 not leave your car unattended in the white zone. If you are parked across the street, please park your car and walk across the street to pick up your child(ren). Encourage your children to use the crosswalks the extra time it takes is worth the effort to ensure safety. Under NO circumstances should parents/guardians drive into the school parking lot to drop off and pick up children. Do not park in the red zones. Do not double park or stop in the middle of the street to load or unload passengers. Please abide by all traffic laws, including making full stops at the stop sign and not stopping in crosswalks. You are putting our children at risk when the above guidelines are ignored. Let s keep our students safe. The white zone in the front of the school is designated for passenger loading only. Please do not park or leave your car unattended in the white zone specifically between the following times: 8:00-8:30 am 1:15-2:00 pm 2:30-3:15 pm When waiting in the white zone, keep alert to drive forward as the vehicles ahead of you also move forward. Please make every effort to avoid cutting in front of vehicles moving forward. Never leave your vehicle unattended. Do not pass a school bus with red lights flashing. Follow the directions given by staff, crossing guards, or police officers assisting with traffic. Make a complete stop at the stop sign at the corner of San Ramon and San Benito. City traffic regulations will be enforced for double parking and for not making complete stops at stop signs. Traffic citations will be issued as necessary. Please do not block neighborhood driveways or park on the sidewalks. Lunch/Food Services Children expend a great deal of energy in a school day, and a good breakfast and lunch are vital to their well being. Nutritional snacks such as fruit, cheese, etc., are suggested for the morning snack recess time. Candy and hot-flavored snacks (with red seasoning, such as Flamin Hot Cheetos) are not to be brought to school. 14

15 Menus for hot lunches are sent home monthly in the Friday Folder and are posted at the NUSD website ( School lunches and breakfast can be purchased at school or online. See the FANS website for more pricing and menus, Breakfast is provided at no charge for all students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch. Breakfast must be purchased for the entire month. Free lunches are available for eligible students. Please refer to the N.U.S.D. Parent Handbook or website for an application or contact the school office. Parents can put money on their student s account by writing a check to NUSD FANS or going online. Students use their ID number when purchasing lunch. We encourage families who send a lunch to school with their children to pack substantial, wholesome, and well-balanced meals in a bagless manner whenever possible. Having a bagless lunch is a daily reminder that everyone has a responsibility to protect the environment. For students who have left their lunch (or any other items) at home, they may check the office to see if the item has been dropped off. Parents who wish to take their child off campus for lunch must report to the office and sign her/him out before leaving campus and sign them in upon their return. Please do NOT remove your child directly from the playground! Playground Campus Care All students, staff, families, and community members have a responsibility to keep the San Ramon campus clean. Personal garbage and recycling should always be thrown away in the appropriate containers. Students should not bring any toys or sports equipment from home to recess time. Parents or community members who observe vandalism or mistreatment of the school facility during non-school hours are encouraged to contact the Novato Police Department. Lost & Found Students are responsible to keep track of and take care of their own clothing. All clothing should be taken home each day. Lost and found items are stored on racks in the hallway. Please label your child s jacket, sweatshirt, etc., so that the item can be returned when it is misplaced. The school is not responsible for any clothing left at school. The lost and found will be cleared and all items donated to a nonprofit organization in January and June. 15

16 School Governance Site Leadership Team (SLT) The Site Leadership Team plays a vital role in San Ramon's site-based decision making process. The Leadership Team is comprised of an equal number of parent and staff representatives. As a team, SLT monitors the budgets and activities described in the school plan. The results of an annual survey which is conducted are tabulated and used as a guide for further program improvements. These improvements are highlighted in the Single School Plan for Student Achievement. Copies of this plan are available in the school office. Meetings are typically held on the final Tuesday of each month at 3:15 p.m. and are open to the public. Refer to the school website s calendar for specific dates. Agendas are posted in front of the office and online under the Principal s Page. English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) The English Learner Advisory Committee is comprised of parents whose students are learning English as a second language. Parents are provided with training on their roles and responsibilities. The mission of the committee is to help build strong programs that will support students who are learning English. Meetings are typically held on the second or third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 PM and are open to the public. Refer to the school website s calendar for specific dates. Agendas are posted in English and Spanish in front of the office and online under the Principal s Page. Student Council The Student Council program involves children in student government. It teaches responsibility, decision making, and promotes school spirit. Council members participate in a variety of activities to improve the school environment and contribute to special programs. Students in grades three through five are eligible to participate as classroom representatives. Officers are elected each fall. Special Programs and Services 16

17 Student Success Team Addresses individuals who are facing academic, social and emotional challenges that are hindering academic success. San Ramon's Student Success Team (SST) may include the principal, classroom teachers, Resource Specialist, district psychologist, speech and language therapist, and the parents of the referred student. Students are referred by teachers and/or parents. Staff and parents work together to develop a plan to meet the needs of individual children. If you have questions regarding the SST process, please call the principal. Resource Specialist Program (RSP) RSP support provides intensive assistance in skill development for students who meet the Special Education eligibility requirements of the State of California. Eligibility is determined through assessment. Parent consent for assessment is required. An individual educational plan (IEP) is developed for each child in the special education program. The resource and classroom teacher work closely to implement the written individual education plan. Speech and Language Program Students who qualify for articulation therapy or language development therapy receive individual or small group assistance from a trained speech and language specialist. Testing by the school's speech and language specialist determines eligibility for services. Psychologist As part of the special education assessment, a district psychologist provides individual consultation, testing, and diagnosis as referred by the teacher, principal, or parents. Parents must give written consent for assessment. The psychologist may also work with students who need behavioral support. Counseling San Ramon contracts with Novato Youth Center to provide counseling 1 day per week. Counseling is offered to students individually and in small groups by a counseling intern. The confidential sessions generally focus on anger management, life/social skills, and supporting self-esteem. 17

18 Student referrals to counseling are made by classroom teachers, SSTs, and/or parents/guardians. Students who participate must have a permission slip signed by a parent on file prior to receiving services. School Nurse The school nurse handles record keeping, state mandated testing (hearing & vision testing) and emergency situations involving accidents and illness. The school is equipped with first aid kits for emergency situations. First aid kits are always included on all field trips to ensure children s safety. Homework Club San Ramon sometimes provides a Homework Club for students in grades 3-5 who are referred to the program by the classroom teacher. Participating students have the opportunity to do their homework individually and in a small group, with teacher assistance made available to complete it successfully. Participation is first offered to students whose teachers believe they could benefit from doing homework at school with teacher assistance and is then open to remaining students in grades 3-5. Students and their parents must sign a written contract of understanding in order to participate. Transportation must be provided by parents. Reading Intervention/Literacy Support Program This program is designed to provide additional support to students who need assistance in reading. Children are referred by their teachers, assessed, and placed in groups of 2-4 students. For grades 1-3, the focus is primarily on reading/writing skills mastery. For grades 4-5, the program is designed to support students in math literacy and reading to learn. Literacy Volunteers The Literacy Volunteer program pairs trained parents and community volunteers with students who need additional reading support (grade 1-5). The adult volunteers receive training from a San Ramon teacher through the year. Students are identified for participation by teacher referral based upon their classroom reading/academic performance. 18

19 Literacy Volunteers work with students from one to four times each week for minutes per session outside the regular language arts instruction time. Children participate with parental consent. Extended-Day Enrichment Programs A variety of classes are offered before or after school each week for children who want to stretch their minds and interests beyond the classroom. Days of the week and times may vary. Rates charged for classes are determined by the program presenters. Fliers with further information will come home in Friday Folders. Telephone Use The telephones in the school office and in the classrooms are business phones designated for staff use only. Except for unexpected emergencies, classrooms will not be interrupted for phone calls. Students will not be excused from class instruction to call home for forgotten lunches or homework. However, teachers do send students to check in the office during recess/lunch time to retrieve any forgotten items dropped off by parents. If you need to contact a teacher during the school day, please leave a message in the office or on the teacher s voice mail. Teachers check their voice mail each day and will return calls promptly. California Ed. Code permits students to have cell phones at school, provided that they are turned off and stored in the student s backpack throughout the instructional day. If a cell phone must be confiscated, it will only be released to an adult who is responsible for the student. Volunteer Program San Ramon depends on our parent volunteers to enrich the educational opportunities for our students. A number of volunteer opportunities are available on a variety of levels, both in the classroom and around the school. More information on how parents can contribute their time will be available during the first weeks of school and at Back to School Night. Reminder: All volunteers must have proof of TB test results before working with children and must sign in at the School Office when volunteering. Any volunteers who work with children outside of the principal or teacher s direct supervision must have fingerprint clearance on file with Novato Unified School District. Fingerprint clearance through another agency unfortunately may not be substituted for NUSD clearance. 19

20 PTA - Parent Teacher Association The PTA is the link between parents and the school. Our PTA provides programs, activities, and events that enrich the quality of education for students at San Ramon. Parents are urged to join and participate in PTA. The best way to gain further information about the PTA is to attend a meeting. Everyone is encouraged to attend. For more information about San Ramon s PTA, please attend our monthly meetings. Questions, Compliments, or Concerns If you have a question, compliment, or concern, we would appreciate hearing from you. It is the teamwork between home and school that creates success for students. We want to work with you to find solutions to any concerns. If the teacher or the principal is not immediately available, your call will be returned as soon as possible. Please call for an appointment, if you would like to meet personally with any staff member. inquiries will be usually replied to by staff within three school days. Student Expectations for Learning Staff, students, and parents at San Ramon are committed to doing whatever it takes to learn and ensure that all students are academically proficient. We are dedicated to maintaining a positive school San Ramon is dedicated to maintaining a positive school climate and providing an orderly and caring environment in which students can strive for success. We will ensure that an appropriate atmosphere for learning is maintained. It is our goal to help children build strong character. To that end, San Ramon implements CHARACTER COUNTS! which supports six pillars of character. Trustworthiness Respect Responsibility Fairness Caring Citizenship It is upon these six pillars that we have built our behavior expectations. Students are taught conflict resolution, how to create a bully-free environment, and how to accept responsibility for the own actions. We want to join with families to help our students recognize problems, understand consequences, identify appropriate choices and accept responsibility for decisions. Solution Team Approach to Bullying The historical approach to combating bullying by punishing a student who engages in 20

21 intimidating behavior is shown to usually have more negative results than positive outcomes, such as causing the victim to be targeted again or reinforcing a negative self-image for the offending student. San Ramon partners with the No Bully program ( to find positive solutions which empower all involved students. Listed here are the steps most often followed when using this "Solution Team" model: 1. A student, parent, or staff member reports a suspected case of bullying to a yard supervisor, teacher, or the principal. 2. The trained Solution Coach (a yard supervisor, teacher, or principal) interviews the child(ren) who may have been targeted to determine if a bullying situation exists. If the situation meets the definition of bullying defined in the district's policy, the Solution Coach will inform the student(s) and his/her parent(s) of the Solution Team approach to determine if they wish to proceed in this manner. In cases that are identified as bullying, the complainant and offender are never placed in a conflict resolution situation, as research shows that this often exacerbates the problem. 3. If the family wishes to proceed, the Solution Coach interviews the complainant and mutually agrees what information may be shared with the Solution Team members, including the name of the complainant. 4. The Solution Team is comprised of: the student whom the complaint is about, a couple students with some knowledge of the situation, and 2-4 other age-group peers who all work together to brainstorm solutions to the situation. In a minute meeting, the Solution Coach describes the situation, only identifying the complainant by name and assuring all on the team that they are not in any trouble (this ensures a non-punitive approach and builds empathy and awareness in the offender). Solution Team members are given a thank-you note that they can show to parents if they participate in a team. 5. The Solution Team members try out the ideas that they brainstormed to support the complainant and the Solution Coach also reports to the him/her any pertinent feedback received from the team and asks for the complainant's perspective on how the week is progressing. 6. This cycle is played out again the following week, and the complainant is given the option to attend the third and final Solution Team meeting if s/he wishes to report out directly instead of having the Solution Coach do so. 7. Assuming that the problem has been extinguished, the Solution Coach checks back in with the complainant periodically over the next three months to ensure that the problem is not recurring. In rare cases, the offending student may continue acting in a bullying manner or the family may choose not to engage in the Solution Team process. When this happens, the school takes alternative steps to extinguish the problem behavior, such as separating students or restricting activity options. Families always have the opportunity to file a formal bullying complaint in writing as well. 21

22 San Ramon Elementary School CHARACTER COUNTS! in a RESPECTFUL ENVIRONMENT TRUSTWORTHINESS, RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, FAIRNESS, CARING, CITIZENSHIP (TRFCC) BE SAFE RESPECT OTHERS RESPECT SCHOOL RESPECT YOURSELF Walk at all times. Keep hands, feet and objects to self at all times Stay seated in eating area until dismissed by yard supervisor. Stay within assigned playground area. Use good judgment and stop before someone gets hurt. Arrive at school at appropriate time (not before 8:15 a.m.). Use all play equipment in a safe manner. Be aware of your personal space and the personal space of others. Treat others the way you want them to treat you. Report any bullying you witness Use kind words and actions. Take turns Follow adult directions. Include anyone. Respect words and feelings of others. Be kind to all living things. Use quiet voices in classrooms and clusters. Follow the rules established for games. Play fairly. Be honest. Find help for a fellow student in need. Follow all rules on the yard. If someone is being bullied, follow CARES Creative problem Solving; Adult help; Relate and join; Empathy; Stand up and speak out PROPERTY Treat books and classroom materials with care. Pick up after yourself and throw away your trash. Recycle whenever you can. Treat playground equipment with care. Always return all balls, jump ropes, etc. to the equipment carts. Clean up any trash you see and respect school grounds. Do not ride skateboards, bicycles, scooters on school property. Always try your best. Eat healthy food. Run, walk, and play hard at least 30 minutes a day. Get 9-10 hours of sleep every night. Tell an adult about serious problems. Arrive on time. Leave on time. If someone is bullying you: Get help Stand up for yourself Walk away Say good things to Yourself 22

23 San Ramon Elementary School Discipline Guidelines BEHAVIOR MILD (Severity Rating 1-2) Running in building or outside hallways Excessive noise level is cluster or classroom Disregard for property (self, others) Disregard for classroom rules and obligations (incomplete work or homework, calling out, interrupting. Not keeping hands to self, etc.) Consequence 1 st Occurrence Verbal Warning If incident occurs outside classroom, refer to teacher Consequence 2 nd Occurrence Verbal Warning Additional consequence (to be determined by teacher but may include loss of recess, loss or special activities, written essay, special assignments designed by the teacher) Consequence Repeated Parent contact (moves to Moderate Offense 2 nd occurrence) MODERATE (Severity Rating 3) Inappropriate language Disregard for appropriate behavior Excluding others Name calling SERIOUS (Severity Rating 4-5) Fighting* (5) Racial Slurs (5) Physical Injury to Others (5) Intimidation & Harassment (5) Verbal Abuse (5) Stealing (5) Cheating (4) Disrespect to adults (4-5) Destruction to property (4-5) Refusal to follow adult direction (4-5) Verbal Warning and Consequence determined by teacher (apology, time out, loss of recess) Parent Contact Disciplinary Referral to Principal (*5)Possible in-house suspension or out-ofschool suspension Documented Parent Contact Consequence determined by teacher Disciplinary Referral to Principal (4 & 5) Conference parent/student/principal (4 & 5) Possible Suspension (inhouse or out-of-school (4) Out-of-school suspension (5) Disciplinary Referral with copy to parent and office Possible in-house or out-of-school suspension All (4) move to level with in-house or out-ofschool suspension Parent/student/principal conference (4 &5) Out-of-school suspension/possible recommended expulsion (5) Progressive discipline will be assigned in a manner that best fits the offense. For 23

24 example, if a student is referred to the principal for recurrent mild or moderate misbehavior during recess, a typical progression of consequences may be: (1) a documented warning, (2) a minor consequence such as removal from a recess period, (3) removal from multiple recess periods, (4) a larger privilege loss, such as not attending an assembly or field trip, and (5) suspension. Referrals to the principal's office for misbehavior result in a phone call to notify parents of the concern. Student Recognition Students in grades K-5 will have the opportunity to be recognized throughout the year for demonstrating the six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Students are recognized for being outstanding citizens of character both inside and outside of the classroom. Additionally, all teachers at San Ramon have reward systems in place to recognize positive student behavior within the classroom. Student Placement Every effort is made to place students in a manner that achieves ideal balance for each instructional environment. It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to submit any student placement requests on the proper form prior to the spring submission deadline. Submission of a request does not guarantee that it will be honored. Requests for specific teachers should be avoided. Factors that are weighed when creating class rosters include: Demographic balance (gender, race, ethnicity, parents educational level, volunteerism, etc.) Academic balance of students scholastic achievement as well as students with special needs Balance of student interests, readiness, behavior, and motivation Requests to change a student's placement are rarely honored and will not be accepted before the fifth week of the school year to allow time for adjustment to classroom expectations and relationship development. The information in this section is a supplement to the information you will find in the district handbook. The school district has clear policies regulating positive school climate (BP 5137), sexual harassment (BP ), bullying-harassment (BP ), as well as a dress and grooming (BP 5132). These policies are implemented at San Ramon Elementary School. 24

25 DISTRITO ESCOLAR UNIFICADO DE NOVATO ESCUELA PRIMARIA DE SAN RAMÓN MANUAL DEL ESTUDIANTES Y PADRES Director: Andy Cline Oficina Administración: Pam Baker Teléfono de la escuela: (415) Fax de la escuela: (415) Asistencia/Mensajes: (415) Website: 25

26 Office Hours: 8:00 am 4:00 pm Agosto del 2014 Estimados padres: Bienvenidos a la escuela primaria de San Ramón y al año escolar del Estamos ansiosos de poder trabajar con ustedes como un equipo que asegura el triunfo académico de cada niño en nuestra comunidad de la escuela. En el trabajo con sus niños nosotros estamos comprometidos a proveer una alta calidad en la educación que los preparará a ellos académicamente, sociablemente y emocionalmente para tomar opciones en sus vidas. Como padres y/o encargados nosotros les cordialmente les damos la bienvenida como socios en este proceso educativo. Una de nuestras principales prioridades es mantener la comunicación entre la escuela y el hogar. Este manual incluye una gran variedad de información importante pero no es inclusivo de todo lo que quisieran saber y que necesita conocer. Estén atentos a las notas y información de los maestros del salón de clases en el sobre que se envían los viernes con sus niños (Friday folders). Cada viernes PTA publica el chapoteo de los delfines de San Ramón (the San Ramon Dolphin Splash) (disponible por internet en o Nuestro sitio del internet provee información, específicamente la página del director que se llama Principal s Page. Este noticiero semanal provee información acerca de muchas cosas que están pasando en la escuela. Nuestra página del internet es un medio de información acerca de San Ramón. El PTA, comité de ELAC, y el equipo de liderazgo sostienen reuniones y les animamos a asistir y participar. Por favor, lea la información en el manual con su niño/a y guarde por el futuro. Este año, hay una sección nueva con la política de la escuela para identificar y combatir la intimidación a página 20. Gracias para leerla. Estamos esperando un año emocionante y maravilloso. Desde que San Ramón abrió en el otoño de 1968 siempre hemos provisto a los niños con un ambiente saludable y un aprendizaje respetuoso. Juntos podremos hacer la diferencia en la vida de cada uno de los niños donde San Ramón continua siendo un lugar acogedor donde los niños aman el aprender. Sinceramente, Andy Cline Director 26

27 Declaración de la Misión de San Ramón All Children Can Learn Todos los niños pueden aprender Los niños, padres y personal de la escuela trabajan cooperativamente en San Ramón, en un ambiente seguro y sano. Nosotros creemos que todos los niños pueden aprender, tener éxito y prepararse ellos para vivir y contribuir al cambio en el mundo. Horario de la escuela Kindergarten & TK Grados 1, 2 Grados 3, 4, 5 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. 2:45 p.m. 8:30 a.m. 2:50 p.m. Planeamiento del plan de estudio (Cada miércoles) Kindergarten & TK 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Grados 1-5 8:30 a.m. - 1:50 p.m. Conferencias con los padres (Noviembre 17-21) Todos los grados 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Noche de Regreso a la 6 PM (8/26/14)Kindergarten 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (8/28/14) Grados 1-5 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Casa Abierta 6 PM) Todos los estudiantes 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Días de desarrollo de los maestros (no es un día de la escuela por alumnos) Agosto 29, 2014 Noviembre 10, 2014 Mayo 22, 2015 Días mínimos de desarrollo de los maestros (8:30-12:30) Agosto 29, 2014 Septiembre 22, 2014 January 28, 2015 Ultimo día de la escuela Todos los estudiantes Jueves, 11 de junio 8:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 27