FAYETTE SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Student Handbook 2008-2009
Dear Parents,
I am pleased to reintroduce myself to you as your Superintendent/Principal. I hope that your child has some very good experiences attending school this year. Staff members and the parents group, the School and Home Association, will be creating learning activities for this year beyond the walls of the classroom. Fayette Central School is traditionally family-oriented and parent involvement is essential to us.
Learning is essential and our school’s vision statement describes the school climate we want to have. That climate is based upon mutual respect for each other. We hope that all of our students will develop a sense of confidence in their ability to learn new things. We hope the following student handbook will provide expectations and guidelines for fostering a safe and caring school environment.
Parent and staff communication should be continuous throughout the school year. Because there are many details to which the children, parents, and teachers will have to refer throughout the year, this handbook is designed to help you better understand and participate in your child’s school experience. I encourage you to call if you ever have questions or concerns, to volunteer at the school whenever you are available, and to participate in your child’s school life as much as possible. This handbook is quite comprehensive and I would not expect any parent to read all of it. The student handbook should be compared to your telephone book; keep it available for reference with easy access when you need it.
Sincerely,
Briane E. Coulthard
Superintendent/Principal
Table of Contents
FAYETTE CENTRAL SCHOOL STAFF |
Position |
Email address |
Ayer, Katharine |
Art Teacher |
|
Ballard, Michelle |
Grade 2 Teacher |
|
Breton, Kathy |
Bus Driver (#10) |
|
Bruen, Marjie |
Ed Tech II/Librarian |
mbruen@cs.fayette.k12.me.us |
Collins, Lew |
Special Education Director |
|
Corey, Kathy |
Title I/Ed Tech III |
|
Coulthard, Briane |
Superintendent |
|
Davis, Holly |
Nurse |
holly_davis@maranacook.org |
Fenstermacher, Mary |
Music Teacher |
|
Gray, Larry |
Custodian/Bus Driver (#3) |
|
Harrington, Teresa |
Administrative Assistant |
|
Hogan, Susan |
Grade 3 Teacher |
shogan@cs.fayette.k12.me.us |
Holinger, Sue |
School Psychologist |
|
Kolenda, Jan |
Technology Coordinator |
|
Lascko, Annette |
Part-time Custodian, substitute |
|
Martin, Nancy |
Physical Education Teacher |
nancy_martin@maranacook.org |
McKenney, Mary |
Food Service |
|
Morin, Susan |
Pre-K/K Teacher |
smorin@cs.fayette.k12.me.us |
Parker, Toni |
Special Education Teacher |
|
Ray, Barbara |
Grade 1 Teacher |
bray@cs.fayette.k12.me.u |
Robichaud, Norm |
Technology Support |
|
|
|
|
Rose, Crystal |
Bookkeeper |
crose@cs.fayette.k12.me.us |
Rose, Janet |
Grade 4/5 Teacher |
jrose@cs.fayette.k12.me.us |
Swimm, Elaine |
Ed. Tech. II |
|
Bornstein, Peggy |
Speech & Language Clinician |
|
Thompson, Carmela |
Guidance Counselor |
|
Sherrets, Teri |
Occupational Therapist |
|
True, Paul |
Bus Driver (#4) |
|
Vigue, Crystal |
Gr 4 Science/Ed. Tech. III |
|
Welch, Annette |
Bus Driver (#8) |
|
SCHOOL COMMITTEE |
Phone number |
Darling, Richard, Chair |
293-3847 |
Wright, Jim, Vice-Chair |
685-3368 |
Rogers, Karen |
293-9214 |
Ventrella, Mike |
897-2289 |
Wilcox, Elaine |
|
The agenda for the School Committee's regular monthly meetings are posted at the school, Town Office, Fayette Country Store, and Kents Hill Post Office one week in advance. They are held the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the school library. Special meetings are called when necessary. Everyone is welcome to attend.
FAYETTE CENTRAL SCHOOL HOURS
School begins at 8:30 and ends at 3:05 p.m. Pre-K students are released at 11:30. ALL students will be released at 12:00 noon on Early Release Days.
Students arriving at school by car should NOT arrive BEFORE 8:25 a.m.
Breakfast: served from 8:30 until 9:00 a.m.
Kindergarten/Pre-K recess: 11:15 - 11:30
Lunch: 12:00 - 12:25
Afternoon recess: 12:25 - 12:50
EVERYONE MUST REMEMBER: It is against State of Maine Law to pass a school bus with blinking red lights, even when the bus is in the schoolyard. We are obligated to report violations to the State Police Department. The fine is a minimum of $250 (up to $1,000) for a first offense.
FAYETTE SCHOOL DISTRICT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY STATEMENT
It is the policy of the Fayette School District to ensure equal employment and educational opportunities and affirmative action regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, handicap, or religion in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Maine Human Rights Act.
Inquiries or complaints may be made to:
Affirmative Action/Title IX Coordinator Superintendent Affirmative Action Coordinator
Fayette School Department Fayette School Department State Office Building, Room 214
2023 Main Street 2023 Main Street State House Station 4
Fayette, ME 04349 Fayette, ME 04349 Augusta ME 04333
Tel: 685-4770 Tel: 685-4770 Tel: (207) 287_4425 voice
(207) 287 4537 TDD
(For this school year, the superintendent is also serving as the Affirmative Action/Title IX Coordinator for the Fayette School Department)
PRIVACY RIGHTS
As a parent, you have the following student record access and confidentiality rights granted under the "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act". This right is provided through Policy JRA, Student Records, which is in compliance with PL 93-380.
To receive, upon request, a list of the types and locations of educational records being kept and to inspect and review the records. The building principal has this information.
To have a person of your choosing inspect and review or explain and interpret the records and to receive copies of requested records for a minimal duplication cost. Please make an appointment with the office to do this.
To ask for an amendment of any record on the grounds that it is inaccurate, misleading, or violates privacy rights and request an administrative review of the issue if the District refuses to make an amendment.
To refuse consent for the disclosure of personally identifiable information related to your child to anyone other than school officials or persons acting in an official capacity for the State Education Agency or the U.S. Department of Education.
PARENT ANNUAL NOTICE
Pupil records are collected and maintained to promote the instruction, guidance, and educational progress of the pupil and for legitimate educational research.
Parents or eligible students (age 18 years or older) are entitled to certain rights and protection under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. A complete copy of the Fayette School Department student record policy may be obtained by contacting the building principal. However, the following items outline your rights.
The parent or eligible student has a right to:
Inspect and review the student's education records;
Request the amendment of the student's educational records;
Consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent allowed in accordance with 34 CFR, Section 99;
File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education; and
Obtain a copy of the Fayette School Department student records policy by contacting the building principal.
The three types of student records maintained by the school include:
Academic information such as grades, progress reports, student work samples, achievement test data, etc.;
Statistical information including aptitude scores, mental ability, permanent school health records, etc.; and
Directory information on students, such as names, ages, addresses, telephone number, grade, field of study, participation in officially recognized activities, and sports and awards received.
All directory information may be made available to the public without notice, unless the school is notified in writing by July 1 for the upcoming school year or within 30 days after enrollment, whichever is later, that such information is to be withheld. Information from academic and statistical records will not be released to persons other than authorized school personnel without prior written consent.
The Fayette School Department forwards educational records to other agencies or institutions that have requested the records and in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.
See 34 CFR 99.6 (a) (1)
34 CFR 99.7
34 CFR 99.37
ATTENDANCE, ABSENCE, TARDINESS, DISMISSALS
State law requires regular attendance and punctuality. However, children who are ill or suffering from contagious diseases should not attend school. If your child will be tardy or absent from school, please call the school at 685-4770 and notify the office, or leave a message on the answering machine. For safety purposes, the school secretary will call home if we don't hear from you.
For your convenience, the state law as it relates to attendance is listed below: Title 20-A § 5001-A: 4. Excusable absence. A person’s absence is excused when the absence is for the following reasons: A. Personal illness; B. An appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day; C. Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day; D. A family emergency; or E. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose which has been approved.
Students will be dismissed only to the student's parent or to a duly authorized person. The student's safety and welfare will be protected at all times.
Students must report to the office when arriving late to school. Parents must report to the office when dismissing students early from school. Provisions are written into school policy for planned absences. Forms for requesting a planned absence are available in the office.
While at school, a child is expected to participate in all school activities (P.E. classes, outdoor recesses, etc.), unless the school receives a doctor's note explaining the reason for non-participation and the duration of this restriction.
DISCIPLINE
ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIORS AT FAYETTE CENTRAL SCHOOL
We will follow classroom rules to allow teachers to teach and students to learn.
We will speak to and treat one another with respect.
We will demonstrate appropriate physical behavior and appropriate language.
We will treat the property of Fayette Central School and the personal property of another person with respect.
BEHAVIOR CONSEQUENCES
A warning is given to every student at the time the rules and consequences are explained in the classroom. Every student and staff member is responsible for appropriate behavior following this presentation. No other warning needs to be given to students. Acceptable behavior guidelines are posted in classrooms.
2. There is a zero tolerance policy toward physical aggression in our school. If a child hurts another child intentionally, parents will be notified. An at home or in-school suspension is a consequence of deliberate aggressive behavior.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
An Emergency Information form is sent home with each student on the first day of school. The parents' names, addresses, place of work, and telephone numbers are requested, as are the name and telephone number of the child's doctor and daycare provider, and the name of a neighbor or relative that can be contacted in the event the parent cannot be reached. During the school year, any change in this information should be reported to the school secretary as soon as possible. We cannot stress strongly enough the importance of this information.
EVALUATION PROCESS
PROGRESS REPORTS: In addition to biannual parent/teacher conferences, pupil progress is reported through a regular report system. Progress reports will be sent home at the end of each ranking period. There are three trimester periods during the school year.
STANDARDIZED TESTS: Standardized tests and components of the state required local assessment system are given periodically throughout the year and the results are shared with parents during Parent-Teacher conferences. Students in grades three through five (3-5) are given the Maine Education Assessment Test.
BUS RULES
The driver of a school bus is charged with a heavy responsibility for the safety of the children in his or her care. The children’s safety and health cannot be foremost in the bus driver’s mind without the cooperation of pupils keeping order on the bus at all times.
The right of pupils to ride in the school bus is conditioned upon their behavior and observance of rules pertaining to proper conduct. Drivers are authorized to enforce these rules and to make suggestions in line with good citizenship. Some buses may be equipped with video cameras to monitor student behavior.
Meeting the Bus:
1. All pupils must be on time.
2. Pupils walking on the highway to a bus stop should always walk on the left, on the shoulder of the road, facing traffic.
3. Pupils, when crossing the highway, should walk, not run.
4. Pupils shall not run alongside the bus when it is moving.
5. Pupils should stand well away from the shoulder of the road and in an orderly group while waiting for their bus.
On the Bus:
1. Pupils shall obey the driver who has full charge of the bus.
2. Pupils shall not crowd or push while entering the bus and shall go to their seats immediately.
3. ALL PASSENGERS WILL REMAIN SEATED WHILE THE BUS IS IN MOTION.
4. There shall be NO SMOKING or tobacco chewing allowed on the bus.
5. Pupils shall refrain from talking with the driver except in an emergency, and shall never use profanity.
6. Pupils shall not tamper with the emergency door or any other part of the bus equipment.
7. Pupils shall not mar or deface the bus. The pupil must pay for damage done to seats or the equipment.
8. There will be no weapons such as guns, bullets, knives, etc., allowed on the bus.
9. No pets, wild animals, insects or reptile projects are allowed on the bus.
10. Pupils shall not open windows without first getting permission from the driver.
11. Pupils shall not throw anything out of the bus windows, nor shall they extend arms, legs, or head out of the windows.
12. Pupils must not shout or wave to pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles, nor may they throw any items out of the windows of the bus.
13. Pupils shall not fight or scuffle in the bus or create any disturbance to distract driver’s attention from driving.
14. Pupils shall not throw anything inside the bus.
15. There will be no gum chewing, eating of lunches, drinking sodas, etc. on the bus except on activity trips, and then only with the driver’s permission.
16. Pupils shall not place lunch boxes or other objects in the aisle of the bus.
17. Pupils shall remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.
18. Pupils, after leaving the bus (if they must cross the highway), shall go around to the front of the bus and wait until the bus driver directs them to cross the highway.
19. Glass containers of any sort are not allowed on the bus.
It is a privilege to ride a bus. Students are to keep the bus clean and to make their trip a safe one. Any pupils failing to obey these rules will be reported to the school principal for discipline. A “Misconduct Warning Report” will be mailed to the parent, which must be signed and returned to the school. Some violations are subject to immediate revocation of riding privileges.
The following protocol may be followed for students who cause unnecessary problems on the bus:
1. Issuance of a warning and placement on a five-day probationary status for the first violation. Parents will be notified.
2. Parent notification following a second violation and three-day suspension of bus privileges. The student will meet with the building principal.
3. Suspension of the bus privileges for five days following a third incident, with letter of notification from the principal advising parents that the student may lose bus privileges for the remainder of the year if a fourth incident occurs.
4. Subsequent to a fourth incident, the building principal may inform the parent/guardian that the student has lost all bus privileges for the remainder of the year. (The student is expected to attend school on days when bus privileges have been suspended. It is the parents’ responsibility to insure attendance at school.)
FIELD TRIPS
Students will be taken on field trips when there is a trip that coincides with units of the curriculum being taught. The parents are asked to sign the field trip form at the beginning of the year. This form gives permission for all field trips that will be offered throughout the year. Parents are asked to return this form to school along with the other required forms. Students will not be allowed to attend field trips unless this signed form is on file in the office. Teachers will send notices home prior to going on each field trip so that the parents are informed of what each field trip is and are notified of all the details involved in each trip. At that point, if there is a reason why the parent does not want the student to attend a particular field trip, the parent is to send a note to
the teacher explaining the reason why the child will not attend. The teacher will make alternative arrangements with the parent.
FIRE DRILLS
When the fire alarm rings, students are expected to quietly leave the building as directed by the teacher, in single file, and in an orderly fashion. Exit directions are posted in each room of the school. Students will assemble outdoors by class, in a designated area, until notified that the building is safe to re-enter. There are (10) fire drills each school year.
FOOD SERVICE
Maranacook Food Service staff provide good tasting, nutritious meals for students at Fayette Central School. In addition to the hot lunch menu distributed monthly, a salad bar is offered. The salad bar contains a variety of fruits, vegetables and pasta to supplement the meals. Hot lunches are available at a rate of $2.00 per meal, breakfast costs $.75 and milk or juice is $.50 again this year. Free or reduced rate lunches and breakfasts are available for those students whose families qualify. Menus will be printed monthly and will be sent home with every child. We ask that lunch, breakfast and milk money be brought in on the first day of the week in a sealed envelope with the child’s name, grade and amount enclosed written clearly on the envelope. Breakfast is served from 8:30 a.m.
until 9:00 a.m. daily in the cafeteria. Lunch is served at 12:00 p.m. If it is observed that a student does repeatedly not have the money to pay for a lunch, then a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (or reasonable substitute) will be provided. We encourage parents who think they may be eligible for reduced or free meals to fill out the application for school meals. The information on this form is confidential. These forms are available in the school office.
Regular Price Reduced Price
Lunch 5 @ $2.00 = $10.00 5 @ $.40 = $2.00
Breakfast 5 @ $ .75 = $3.75 5 @ $.30 = $1.50
Milk or Juice 5 @ $ .50 = $2.50 n/a
Adult Breakfast Price: $1.75 per day
Adult Lunch Price: $3.50 per day
SCHOOL & HOME ASSOCIATION
The Fayette School & Home Association is a group of parents and teachers that meet once a month. Its primary goal is fundraising in order to make possible for the children and the school various items and/or events that are not available through the school budget process. Notices are sent home with students announcing meeting times, and all parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.
HOMEWORK POLICY NEPN/NSBA Code: IKB
The Fayette School Committee believes that homework is an integral part of the learning process, and is a necessary and desirable extension of the instructional program within the school system. It helps students to practice and internalize concepts and skills taught in class. It reinforces and extends the understanding of the concepts. It lays the foundation for concepts to be taught in the near future.
Meaningful homework assigned by teachers and supported at home, provides opportunities for students to develop effective study habits, time management skills, and organizational skills, while learning the importance of setting personal goals, working to achieve them, and being responsible for task completion. The Fayette School Committee believes that homework provides an increased opportunity for parents to be involved with their student's education. When students see that their parents think the school's educational program is important, their performance improves. Homework may be written, project oriented, or task oriented assignments for students to complete or perform.
Responsibilities
It is expected that the faculty of Fayette Central School will follow the general guidelines of the homework policy, and provide regular, clear, and consistent communications with the students and parents relative to the expectations of homework assignments. Likewise, it is expected that the parents and students will accept their responsibilities as stated in these guidelines.
A. Teacher's Responsibilities:
1. Assign meaningful and clearly defined homework, with directions on how the assignment is to be completed.
2. State clearly to parents and students the expectations for homework assignments:
how work is to be completed (i.e. neatness)
the date due
consequences for tardiness
how to make up for missed work
optional, or "for fun" assignments should be labeled accordingly
3. Modify homework content and type, acknowledging range in student abilities, needs and interests.
4. Communicate with parents on a regular basis about:
the importance of supporting the homework policy
what acceptable levels of assistance are for a given assignment
what is going on in the classroom and how it connects to homework
when a student is consistently not meeting homework requirements
5. Collect students' homework, review and return promptly to students, with appropriate feedback and/or grade. (Routine or regular assignments, not written or collected, should be verifiable by the teacher.)
6. Periodically evaluate the school policy on homework to recommend changes needed.
B. Parent's Responsibilities:
1. Expect students to be responsible for the completion of their own homework assignments in a neat and timely manner.
2. Monitor and review student's daily homework assignments with them. Check for homework agendas or assignment books that accompany homework assignments.
3. Provide the student with an environment conducive to good study habits (a quiet room, minimal interruptions, proper lighting, a place to work, and a minimum of conflicts with study time).
4. Practice daily reading for pleasure or to gather information, independently or shared, and writing through practical applications.
5. Check for and review notices, newsletters and other communications coming home with students.
6. Guide students to build time management and organizational skills necessary for being a self-motivated learner.
7. Consult with teacher when there are issues, questions or concerns regarding homework assigned.
8. Discuss what is happening in school, as it pertains to homework, on a regular basis, complimenting good work and effort, and making constructive suggestions for improvements.
C. Student's Responsibilities:
1. Learn what good study habits are and practice them.
2. Keep track of daily assignments, complete them neatly and thoroughly, and return them in a timely manner.
3. Bring home papers, reports, and notes; show them to parents; return them to school when necessary.
4. Do assignments to the best of ability, according to the directions provided. Make sure that work is labeled with student's name and date, if required.
5. Make arrangements with the teachers if there are to be any conflicts with the homework schedule and extra-curricular activities, or to make up missed work following an absence.
7. Share teacher expectations for assignments accurately with parents.
8. Be aware of the impact of homework on student's grade.
Suggested Time Recommendations by Grade Levels
The type and amount of homework assigned should be appropriate to the age and ability of the students, and should gradually increase from grade to grade.
A. Kindergarten: No homework unless specified by the teacher. Teachers should work with students on developing responsible school behaviors.
B. Grade 1: 10-15 minutes, 2-4 times per week for all subjects combined. Students should be learning responsible school behaviors and ownership of their belongings.
C. Grade 2: 15-20 minutes, 2-4 times per week for all subjects combined. Students should begin to develop responsibility, organization and time management skills.
D. Grade 3: 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times per week, for all subjects combined, with allowances made for projects. Students are expected to establish an independent home study routine.
E. Grade 4: 30-40 minutes 3-5 times per week, for all subjects combined, with allowances made for projects. Students are responsible for recording their own daily assignments, and have an established routine of home study.
F. Grade 5: 40-50 minutes, 4-5 times per week, for all subjects combined, with allowances made for projects. Students should have complete ownership of their own home study program.
Legal Reference: ME. DEPT. OF ED. RULE CHAP. 125.23, A, 5, 1
Cross Reference:
Adopted: 11-16-95
Revised: 9-9-99
LIBRARY VISITS
UNDERWOOD MEMORIAL LIBRARY:
Any person is eligible for library privileges. Library Use Registration Forms are available at the library or school. A parent or guardian must complete and sign one in order for minor children (below age 18) to use the library.
The borrower, or parent/guardian of a minor child, is responsible for all library materials signed out. Library materials are signed out for a period of two weeks. Renewals may be made in person or by phone for an additional two-week period, unless another borrower has reserved the item.
Although no fines are charged for overdue library materials, a conscience box is available. The borrower will be notified of overdue items, after the due date, either by phone or written reminder. The borrower, or parent/guardian of a minor child, is responsible for the replacement of damaged or lost library materials. A bill will be sent for the replacement cost of the library materials. If overdue library materials or replacement costs are not received at the library, collection may be turned over to Town Office.
FAYETTE CENTRAL SCHOOL:
Our library is a quiet kind of place. Students are to enter quietly and work or read quietly. The materials in the library are to be used with care and should be returned to their proper place if they are not being checked out.
Every student is responsible for library/media materials checked out in his/her name. In the event of damage or loss, the following rules apply:
Total replacement cost is expected for library/media material not returned or destroyed beyond use. Current catalog or local bookstore price will determine replacement cost. In the event the exact item cannot be replaced (i.e. – it is out of print), it will be replaced it with another of similar content and price.
A fine will be charged to any student returning library/media material that is defaced, written in, marked in or torn, but still useable. Fine will be determined by the extent of the damage, and will not exceed replacement cost.
Students will not be allowed to take out more materials until the fines or replacement costs are paid.
All students may sign out two books a week. When a book is returned, another may be signed out. If books are needed for special projects, then arrangements may be made for additional books.
If books are not returned, then the privilege of borrowing will be taken away until those books are returned.
Library classes will be held in the afternoon. Your child’s teacher will advise you as to which day of the week.
STUDENT DRESS
Students should be properly dressed for the weather. During "hot" weather shorts are allowed. Students are required to go outside during recess time, weather permitting, unless there is a medical reason for them to remain inside. Requests to stay inside will require a note from a doctor. Students are expected to dress appropriately for daily activities; i.e., recesses, physical education, field trips, etc. If student clothing is inappropriate, dangerous or distracting, parents will be called. Spaghetti strap tank tops, short shorts/skirts, low-rider pants, and short tops are not appropriate dress for school. Attire that shows vulgar language, promotes violence, advertises alcohol or drugs, or is in other ways offensive, is not allowed. Students in such attire will be sent
home or given appropriate attire to wear for the day. Students and adults are not to wear hats in the building. For safety purposes, i.e., fire during the winter, students are to wear footwear conducive to weather conditions. Slippers are not allowed.
LOST & FOUND
Students' belongings are to be labeled— clothing, boots, lunch boxes and personal items. Lost and found articles are located outside the gym. Items not claimed by the close of each school year will be given to charity.
ART
The Art Program is part of the visual and performing arts content area of the state of Maine Learning Results. Enjoyment and appreciation of visual art evolves from knowledge, practice and understanding. All students in grades preK-5 are exposed to art education as part of the basic curriculum through instruction and participation in art activities. The visual arts program at Fayette Central School provides students with aesthetic awareness, creative expression, cultural diversity, and art technique. Through a sequential program, students are introduced to basic techniques of drawing, painting, printmaking, clay and 3-dimensional work. Students will develop an art vocabulary to enable them to talk about their own and others' artwork. Further, art is integrated and connected across other
subject areas (history, math, science and literature).
In addition, the visual art program at Fayette Central School aids in developing the life skills of teamwork, collaboration, flexibility and a respect for others' ideas and personal expressions.
Art classes will be held on Fridays unless unforeseen circumstances, such as a snow day, require it to be scheduled, if possible, on another day.
MUSIC
The Music Program is part of the Visual and Performing Arts content area of the State of Maine Learning Results. All students in grades preK-5 are exposed to music education as part of the basic curriculum through instruction and participation in musical activities.
Academic objectives in music are also introduced in the areas of Artistic Perception, Creative Expression, and the connections of music to history and culture.
Music classes will be held on Thursdays unless unforeseen circumstances, such as a snow day, require it to be scheduled, if possible, on another day.
PHOTOGRAPHS
For many reasons, including publication in school and community newspapers, or being placed on the school web page, we may be taking photographs of the children engaged in school activities. There is a form in the back of this book parents are to sign giving permission for their child(ren) to be photographed for possible publication through a variety of means. If parents do not wish to give this permission, there is a space on the form to inform the school of this intention.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The physical education program at Fayette Central School provides students with sound, life-long physical skills. The students are at first introduced to numerous gross and fine motor skills, which are refined through movement exploration. The students also experience sportsmanship, cooperation, teamwork, and the sensations of winning and losing through various competitive situations.
In addition, the physical education program introduces numerous lifetime physical activities, which students may continue to participate in long after the years they spend at Fayette Central School. Physical fitness is also addressed at all levels as students participate in the Presidential Fitness Challenge. Through this challenge, students' scores are recorded each year, which allows their progress to be charted.
Physical Education classes will be held on Tuesdays, unless unforeseen circumstances, such as a snow day, require it to be scheduled, if possible, on another day.
HEALTH POLICIES
General Guidelines:
Colds, stomach viruses and other illnesses may make it necessary for students to stay home from school. This enables the child to get the rest and recovery s/he needs, as well as protect other children from having germs spread. (As always, good hand washing is a key to staying healthy.) Students need to be back up to their regular energy level before returning to school — a persistent cough or constant runny nose are signs that they are still ill and need to stay home. Some general guidelines for parents:
Students must have a normal temperature for 24 hours before returning to school
Students must be back eating a regular diet with no diarrhea or vomiting for the past 24 hours before returning to school (students need to rest and regain energy after being ill, so that even if the vomiting has ended, we ask that they do remain home for the next 24 hours)
Medication:
Students needing occasional medications, such as penicillin, etc., for colds, earaches, and sore throats, are to take these medications at home if possible. Medication that is prescribed three (3) times a day can be given BEFORE the student comes to school, AFTER school, and again at bedtime. However, if medication MUST be given at school, it must be personally delivered by the parent in its original container and accompanied by a written authorization from a parent/guardian that includes the name of the medication and instructions for its administration (time and dosage). These forms are available in the school office.
Communicable Disease:
A parent should contact the school office (685-4770) if a child is absent because of a communicable disease (chicken pox, measles, strep throat, etc.)
Examinations:
It is recommended that all students in grades K, 1, 3, & 5 have a physical examination. The vision and hearing of all students are tested at the beginning of each school year. Parents are notified in writing if the school nurse feels a referral is needed.
Head Lice:
If a student is being treated for head lice, please inform the school. A parent may treat a case of head lice as recommended by a physician. A doctor’s note may be required before a student is allowed to re-enter school.
Illness at School:
If it seems apparent that a child should not remain in school due to illness, a school official will contact the parents. In the event that a parent cannot be reached, the emergency numbers listed for the child on the emergency form will be called.
Outdoor Recess:
All students will participate in outside recess and activities — if a student is healthy enough to be sent to school, s/he is healthy enough to go outside. Students will NOT be allowed to remain in the school building without a note from his/her doctor or a parent discussion with the principal. Recesses and outside activities are controlled by weather conditions. No one will go outside if weather conditions do not permit.
Immunizations:
Prior to entering kindergarten, it is required by law that all children be immunized against the following communicable illnesses:
Vaccine Minimum Number of Doses
Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT) 5
Measles } 2
Mumps } MMR 2
Rubella } 2
Poliomyelitis (OPV) 4
Effective for the start of school year 2003, 1 dose of varicella vaccine is required for children entering kindergarten and 1st grade, with implementation of additional grades to occur as follows:
Start of school year 2004 - K-2 and grade 9
Start of school year 2005 - K-3 and 6, 9 and 10
Start of school year 2006 - K-4 and 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11
Start of school year 2007 - K-12
Parents are to provide a list of immunizations received specifying the type, dosage, date and person administering, prior to or upon entry to school.
Maine School Asthma Plan
Every student with asthma must have a current Maine School Asthma Plan completed and signed by his or her physician and kept on file in the school nurse’s office. The parent or guardian must also sign the Asthma Plan. The plan must be updated each school year or when there are significant changes to the plan (i.e. medication changes). The physician’s office may fax the Maine School Asthma Plan to the school.
Asthma inhalers may be self-administered and carried by the student.
Food Allergies/Insect Bite Allergies
Food Allergy Action Plans must be completed by the student’s primary care physician and returned to the school nurse. Special dietary requirements are the responsibility of parent/guardian.
Students with insect sting allergies must provide the school with emergency information and Epipen. The student with signed parent/guardian permission may carry the Epipen, or it may be stored in the nurse’s office.
LUNCH ROOM PROCEDURES/ DISCIPLINE
Students will use the bathroom and wash their hands before coming to the lunchroom
All toys will remain in the boxes located in the hallway until lunch recess
NO running is allowed in the lunchroom
Students are to talk in a low voice with those directly at the same table.
Students are to use polite table manners such as:
Eating with mouth closed,
Not playing with food and keeping hands and feet to one’s self,
Using a fork or spoon, and a napkin,
Eating only from the food on one’s own tray,
Students are to stay seated.
Students are to raise their hands for permission to get up for:
Dumping their trays
Getting extra food
Getting forgotten items.
Consequences for inappropriate behavior are as follows:
Running in the gym = go back and walk
Improper table manners = warning, and then a write-up or sent to the office
Group of children making excessive noise = 1 warning, then delayed time before the group may or may not have recess
A student will receive an automatic write-up for the following behaviors:
Excessive Noise - if an individual child is shouting
Being out of his/her seat without asking (legs must be under the table)
Dumping his/her tray without asking for permission
Leaving the gym without asking
PARKING
Parents are requested to park either in the designated parking spaces in front of the school or to the side of the school. There is NO parking allowed in the playground area or beside the gym during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
VISITORS
Fayette Central School welcomes visitors to our school. When planning to visit, please follow these guidelines:
All visitors to the school or school grounds must use the front entrance and sign in at the office.
Students are not allowed to bring friends or relatives to spend a day at school unless previously arranged by the principal, teacher and parent or guardian. Generally, this practice is discouraged.
Parents or guardians are discouraged from bringing pre-school age children into the classrooms.
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are always welcome at Fayette Central School. Each classroom teacher appreciates having at least one Room Parent each year who will act as a liaison for organizing classroom parties, securing chaperones for field trips, and/or helping out as needed in the classroom. Any parents wishing to be a Room Parent should contact their child’s teacher. If any person would like to volunteer in any capacity within the school, he/she is encouraged to contact the office and let us know of your availability. Every effort will be made to utilize all individuals wishing to become involved in the school. Volunteers for the pre-kindergarten will be asked to serve starting October 1st.
PLAYGROUND DRESS
During the winter months, the playground is usually windy and cold. Parents are to insist that their children wear appropriate outside clothing including boots, hats, and mittens. Students will be restricted to the pavement area if they do not wear boots and ski pants. Extra shoes or dry socks may be kept in the classroom during winter months to provide them with a warm, dry change of footwear during the day.
PLAYGROUND GUIDELINES
Playground Boundaries:
The students are to play within the area of cut grass only, and on the pavement up to the cement walkway that leads into the side doorway.
Off-Limit Areas Are:
The parking lot beyond the cement walkway, including the wooden blockade
The sidewalk beyond the building side entrance
The area near the storage shed and the waste container
Designated Areas for games:
Pavement area (from the stockade to the fence) = dodge ball
Stockade to the cement walkway = sidewalk chalk and jump rope
Grassy knoll by the equipment = tag
Lower field = soccer, kick ball and passing a softball
Playground Rules:
Everyone at school is to treat fellow students and teachers with respect.
Rough play is not allowed.
If a student cannot solve a problem by him or herself, the child should ask the duty teacher for help.
Students are not to leave the playground or enter the building without the duty teacher’s permission.
Everyone is to use equipment safely. Jumping off equipment and flinging the swings are examples of unsafe actions.
Roller blades, skateboards, snowboards, walkmen, radios, CD players, game boys, trading cards, and giggapets are not allowed at school.
Inappropriate or unsafe use of toys at recess means the loss of that toy for the remainder of the day. You will be asked not to bring it back to school.
Consequences for Inappropriate Playground Behavior:
The immediate penalty is to stand by the multi-purpose area outside wall for a time designated by the duty teacher, determined according to the seriousness of the offense.
Repeat offenses will result in the loss of the next day's recess.
There is a zero tolerance policy toward physical aggression at Fayette Central School. If a student hurts another child intentionally, parents will be notified. An at home or in-school suspension is a consequence of deliberate aggressive behavior.
Lining Up:
All toys must be held securely. No bouncing, swinging, etc.
Once in line, students are to be quiet. When the teacher raises his/her hand, it means, that students are to be quiet.
Students are to walk down the hallway quietly and go directly to their classrooms. Teachers will give students a bathroom and drink break.
SCHOOL PROPERTY
The students are constantly instructed to respect school property and to give it the finest care. Respect for materials and property leads to respect for people, self and academic work. All school textbooks are to be covered with book covers. School textbooks are the students' responsibility. If damage or loss occurs to a textbook, the student assigned to that textbook is responsible for reimbursement to the school.
“NO SCHOOL” ANNOUNCEMENTS
“No School” announcements for Fayette students will be announced on the following television and radio stations:
TELEVISION RADIO
WCSH, Channel 6 WMME (92.3 FM) WKTJ (99.3FM)
WMTW, Channel 8 WGAN (560 AM) WYNZ (100.9FM)
WGME, Channel 13 WMGX (93.1FM) WABK (104.3FM)
STAR 101.3FM WTOS (105.1FM)
WHQO (107.9FM) WCTB (93.5FM)
WCME (96.7FM)
“No School” announcements will be announced for the Fayette School Department, which means that Fayette buses will not operate at that time. Delayed openings are possible if road conditions are forecast to improve significantly. If a delay is announced for Fayette School, this will pertain to middle and high school students only. Fayette Central School will run at the normal time. Pre-kindergarten through grade 12 will be picked up on the elementary run.
PERMISSION SLIPS
Many permission slips that will be used for the entire year are found at the back of this handbook. These are to be returned to the school during the first week of school. This will ensure that the children participate in only those extra activities for which parents have given permission. Students are expected to participate in those activities that are considered part of the basic regular curriculum.
Students leaving school on a bus different from the bus to which they are assigned, or leaving in any way other than by a school bus, MUST have a dated permission slip from home, signed by a parent or guardian. This should be received in the office on or before the day of the change.
Additionally, it is a good idea for parents to call the school in order to assure that the note has indeed been received in the office — students often forget to remove notes from their backpacks or they become lost on the bus in the morning. If it is more convenient, parents can make that call before school begins in the morning, or even the night before, and leave a message on the answering machine for the secretary. This "double-check" will help insure that parental instructions are carried out.
SNACKS
Students will be allowed a snack time during the school day. Healthy snacks should be brought from home. The teachers will each determine the exact time for snack for each classroom according to what fits the instructional objectives and schedule of the day.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Students should not be called from class for telephone calls except in an emergency. Parents, please feel free to call the school to leave messages or ask questions. The telephone number is 685-4770.
Students will be allowed to use the school telephone only in an emergency.
TOYS
Students may bring toys to school, providing the following is understood:
The school is not responsible for lost or broken toys.
If the toy is out at inappropriate times during the school day, the teacher reserves the right to take the toy for a class-determined length of time.
Toys may not be traded or sold at school or on the bus.
Radios, tape players, walkmans, game boys, trading cards, CD players, comic books, and roller blades are NOT allowed at school at any time.
The school is not responsible for personal items and books that are lost or stolen.
FAYETTE SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
2023 Main Street Fayette, Maine 04349 207-685-4770
“Quality Education Through Choice”
HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHER INFORMATION
Dear Parent/Guardian:
We at Fayette Central School are sending you this information as one way to fulfill our obligations under the "Parents' Right to Know" requirements of the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). Under these requirements, Title I teachers must meet general qualifications as well as the specific requirements of the subject they are teaching. This means we will be informing parents whenever a child is taught for four consecutive weeks by a Title I teacher who does not meet the new federal definition of "Highly Qualified".
Maine has some of the most qualified teachers in the country, and we are extremely proud of our teaching staff here at Fayette. We have worked hard to assure that every class has a teacher with the appropriate background, experience, and credentials for her current teaching assignment.
We believe that a caring, competent, and qualified teacher for every child is the most important ingredient in education reform, and we want to assure you that we consider all our teachers to be fully qualified for their positions. All of our teachers are currently entitled to teach under Maine's strict certification requirements. All of our teachers have college degrees and several staff members have advanced degrees. In addition, every teacher continues his or her own learning through professional development activities and our teachers are evaluated each year to make sure that their teaching skills remain at the highest possible level.
All of our teachers and educational technicians have met the federal definition of "Highly Qualified". Had that not been the case, those individuals would have had until the end of the 2005 – 2006 school year to do so.
Additional information on the NCLB Act, as well as on the qualifications of your child's teacher is available on request. Please contact Briane E. Coulthard at 685-4770 if you have questions or would like further information. Working with parents is an important aspect of our efforts to help students learn and we welcome your interest.
Sincerely,
Briane E. Coulthard
Superintendent
HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PAGE
Please remove this page after you have read this handbook with your child(ren), sign your name below and have your child sign where indicated.
This form is to be returned along with the field trip form on the next page and with the completed forms found in the emergency information form packet. Please return all of these materials, signed, no later than September 7, 2007.
If you have any questions about any of this information, please do not hesitate to call the office at 685-4770 or ask your child’s teacher. Thank you.
We have read and understand the Fayette Central School 2008-2009 Parent/Student Handbook. We understand the guidelines set therein and agree to cooperate with them.
_____________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
_____________________________________________
Student Signature
Teacher: ___________________________________________
Child’s Grade: ______________________________________
Date: ____________________________________________
FAYETTE SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Quality Education Through Choice
2023 Main Street Fayette, Maine 04349 207-685-4770
Dear Parent, Guardian, or Staff Member,
I am writing about three subjects that can affect children’s health in school: pests, pesticides and your right to know.
ANNUAL PESTICIDE NOTICE
Pest Control
Because pesticides pose risks, the school uses an alternative approach to merely applying pesticides. Control of insects, rodents, and weeds at our school focuses on making the school buildings and grounds an unfavorable place for pests to live and breed. Through maintenance and cleaning, we will reduce or eliminate available food and water sources and hiding places for the pests. We will also routinely monitor the school area to detect pest problems and prevent the pests from becoming established. Some techniques we will use include pest monitoring, sanitation, pest exclusion, proper food storage, pest removal and--as a last resort--pesticides. This holistic approach is often called Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
Pesticide Use
Sometimes pesticide use may be necessary to control a pest problem. When that happens, the school will use the lowest risk products available. If higher risk pesticides must be used, notices will be posted at application sites and parents, guardians and staff have a right to know.
Your Right to Know
Parents, legal guardians, and school staff will be notified of specific pesticide applications made at the school. Notification will be given at least five days before planned pesticide applications during the regular school year. In addition, for pesticides applied anytime during the year, notices will also be posted in teh school and on school grounds two working days before until 48 hours after the application. Notification need not be given for pesticide applications recognized by law to pose little or no risk of exposure to children or staff.
The school also keeps records of prior pesticide applications and information about the pesticides used. You may review these records, a copy of the School’s Integrated Pest Management Policy and the Pesticides in Schools regulation (CMR 01-026 Chapter 27) by contacting our IPM coordinator, Larry Gray, at 685-4770.
If you have any questions, please contact Larry Gray. For further information about pests, pesticides and your right to know, call the Board of Pesticides Control at 207-287-2731 or visit the Maine School IPM web site at www.thinkfirstspraylast.org/schoolipm.
Sincerely,
Briane E. Coulthard
Superintendent
FAYETTE SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Quality Education Through Choice
2023 Main Street Fayette, Maine 04349 207-685-4770
Request to be Notified of Planned Pesticide Applications Done During the Regular School Year
I am a parent, legal guardian, or staff member of this school and I want to be notified before specific pesticide applications are made at the school or on the school grounds except the following: 1) pesticides injected into cracks, crevices or wall voids; 2) bait blocks, gels, pastes, granular and pelletized materials placed in areas inaccessible to students; 3) paints, stains, and wood preservatives; 4) disinfectants used for routine cleaning; 5) non-powered applications of ready-to-use general use pesticides to control or repel stinging or biting insects where there is an urgent need to protect the health or safety of a student, staff member or other school occupant; 6) when applied during school vacation weeks or outside of the reguloar school year and, 7) indoor applications of a pesticide with no re-entry interval
specified on its label but entry to the treated area is restricted for at least 24 hours.
I would prefer to be contacted by (circle one):
U.S. Mail E-Mail Telephone
Date:
Name:
Address:
Daytime Phone:
Evening Phone:
E-Mail:
Return this form to:
Fayette Central School
2023 Main Street
Fayette, ME 04349
FIELD TRIP PERMISSION FORM FOR 2008-2009
Please remove this page after you have read this handbook with your child(ren), and sign your name below where indicated.
This form is to be returned along with the form on the previous page and with the completed forms found in the emergency information form packet. Please return all of these materials, signed, no later than September 7, 2007.
If you have any questions about any of this information, please do not hesitate to call the office or ask your child’s teacher. Thank you.
I do / do not give my permission for _____________________________________
(circle one) (first and last name of child)
to attend any and all school field trips during the 2008-2009school year. This permission covers all trips transported on buses. Teachers will contact the parents regarding any of the particulars pertinent to specific trips.
____________________________________________ ___________________
(Parent/Guardian Signature) (DATE)
Teacher: _________________________________ ____________________
(Child’s grade)
MEDIA PERMISSION FORM FOR 2008-2009
Please remove this page after you have read this handbook with your child(ren), and sign your name below where indicated.
This form is to be returned along with the forms on the previous pages and with the completed forms found in the emergency information form packet. Please return all of these materials, signed, no later than September 7, 2008.
If you have any questions about any of this information, please do not hesitate to call the office or ask your child’s teacher. Thank you.
I do / do not give my permission for _____________________________________
(circle one) (first and last name of child)
to be photographed for possible publication through a variety of means during the 2008-2009school year.
____________________________________________ ___________________
(Parent/Guardian Signature) (DATE)
Teacher: _________________________________ ____________________
(Child’s grade)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE: All directory information may be made available to the public without notice, unless the school is notified in writing by July 1 of the upcoming school year or within 30 days after enrollment, whichever is later, that such information is to be withheld. Director information on students includes: name, age, address, telephone number, grade, field of study, participation in officially recognized activities, and sports and awards received.
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