Table of Contents

FROM THE PRINCIPAL
ATTENDANCE/ABSENCES
ANIMALS IN THE CLASSROOM
2007 - 2008 SCHOOL HOURS    8:45 a.m. – 3:35 p.m.
PARENTS PICKING UP CHILDREN AFTER SCHOOL
BAD WEATHER PROCEDURES
CANCELLATION
EARLY DISMISSAL
COLD WEATHER POLICY
BIKES, SKATEBOARDS AND ROLLER BLADES:
BOOK AND MATERIALS FEE
CANDY, GUM
CD PLAYERS, RADIOS, TOYS AND GAMES
CITIZENSHIP
CLOTHING
DISCIPLINARY PLAN
DISMISSAL DAYS
HARASSMENT
HOWE SCHOOL HOMEWORK POLICY
HOWE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS
HOT LUNCH AND BREAKFAST
LUNCHROOM SCHEDULE – 2007-2008
MEAL PRICES
HOWE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STORE
MEDICATION
SAFETY RULES /EXPECTATIONS
STUDENT GIFTS
VISITORS IN THE CLASSROOM
VISITORS TO HOWE SCHOOL-CHILD
VEHICLE PARKING
WELLNESS POLICY
DISTRICT POLICIES
PARENT RIGHT TO RESTRICT SCHOOL IN RELEASE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION
"NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND"
ANNUAL ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION
441 CHILD SURVEYS

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Welcome to Howe Elementary School! I trust you will find this a warm, special place for your child to learn. I desire for all parents to become actively involved in and supportive of your child’s education both in school and at home. I am committed to the goal of providing the most effective and appropriate instructional programs possible for your child. By working together, I believe that your child will have the opportunity to experience school success.

On a personal note – I am very excited about the opportunity to serve the Howe Elementary School “Learning Community.” Please stop by to visit and discuss our partnership. Together we can make exciting things happen for our children.

_____________________________________
Scott Kellogg
Principal
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HOWE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

ATTENDANCE/ABSENCES

We believe your child needs to be present the maximum number of school days to receive optimum instructional benefit from educational opportunities and grow socially and developmentally from the school experience.  Your child is expected to be in school every day unless he/she is ill or has other justifiable reasons for absence.  Therefore, we enlist your understanding of and cooperation with our attendance procedures.

When your child is going to be absent from school we ask that the parent/guardian notify the school office before 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence unless the classroom teacher has been notified prior. This may be done by calling the school office at 422-6166. We do have voice mail for your convenience from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m.

A. Upon returning to school after an absence or tardy, your child is expected to bring a note from you (parent) unless you provided us with a “called-in” excuse prior to the absence. Parental excuses must contain the reason for absence or tardiness (it is the child’s responsibility to make up work that is missed during the absence.)

B. Absences are reported to teachers who maintain formal attendance records.

C. A child will not leave school without permission from the parent and school office officials.  For safety reasons, students leaving school during the day must be ‘signed out’ in the office by an adult.

D. Your child is expected to arrive at school between 8:15 a.m. and 8:45 a.m.  A tardy bell will ring at 8:45 a.m. On certain occasions, a pupil may be tardy (arrive after 8:45 a.m.) for a legitimate reason. A note from the parents must accompany the child explaining the circumstances.  Any child who is tardy must report to the office for an admit slip before going to the classroom. A tardy child will not be admitted to the classroom without an admit slip from the office.  Chronic tardy cases will be dealt with through the truancy process and the principal.

E. Your child is discouraged from leaving school early. When it is absolutely necessary to leave early, your child must report to the office with a dismissal slip from the classroom teacher before leaving the building.
Note: Whenever possible, appointments for doctors and dentists should be outside the regular school day. Parents are strongly encouraged to make appointments that are necessary after 3:45 p.m. OR to make the appointments on RELEASE DAYS  (listed on the school calendar).  *Any child returning to school during the day must obtain an admit slip from the office.

F. Truancy

1. A child is required to attend school from age 6 through 18.
2. While it is understandable that a child may miss school on occasion, being absent or tardy 5 or more times in any one semester is cause for concern.
3. If a child is absent or tardy five or more times in any one semester, a parent contact will be made.  This contact can be in person, via the phone, an e-mail or a letter.
4. If attendance fails to improve, the parent will receive another notice.  A copy of this contact along with a truancy referral may be sent to Social Services.
5. Examples of unexcused absences include but are not limited to: missing the bus oversleeping, staying home to watch siblings, walking too slow, taking care of pets, unable to find clothing, home work, vehicle didn’t start, traffic, etc.

G. If deemed necessary, a conference with school personnel will be called by the principal.

1. At the conference school personnel may include the principal, classroom teacher, social worker, school counselor, etc.
2. Some possible school recommendations could include academic modifications, M-team evaluation, supportive school counseling, home/school communication systems.
3. A written record of the conference will be kept.
4. Progress checks will be made at six-week intervals.

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ANIMALS IN THE CLASSROOM

With requests for pets in our classrooms for show and tell, the potential for transmission of disease and injury to children is very real.  Therefore, animals are not to be allowed in the building without the building administrator’s permission.

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2007 - 2008 SCHOOL HOURS    8:45 a.m. – 3:35 p.m.

Arrival
Since there is no supervision on the playground before school, children are expected to enter the front center entrance and go to the multipurpose room (cafeteria) when they arrive. Students are encouraged not to arrive at school before 8:15 a.m.  When students arrive before 8:15 a.m. they must wait in the cafeteria. Only under unique circumstances will students be able to go to the lockers or classroom. Any child not following school expectations will lose the privilege of entering the building until 8:30 a.m.  When entering the building after 8:30 a.m. students are expected to follow the school rules and go to their lockers and classrooms.  There is no loitering in the hallways or lavatories. Classes BEGIN at 8:45 a.m.

NOTE:  If there is a unique circumstance that requires a child to come earlier then 8:15 a.m. on a particular day, he/she should enter the center front door and remain in the entrance until dismissed to the cafeteria.

All outside doors, except the front main doors, will be locked from 8:45 a.m. until 3:25 p.m.  Visitors to the school must enter through the front main doors and report to the office for a visitor’s pass before going to the classroom.  We do not expect that this will be an inconvenience and will provide added protection for all.

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PARENTS PICKING UP CHILDREN AFTER SCHOOL

Parents picking up a child between 3:30 and 3:40 p.m. are encouraged to use the southwest corner of Immanuel Lutheran Church’s parking lot or may wait in their cars in loading zones marked for cars in the front of the building.

So instruction is not disrupted, we request that parents picking up their child wait in areas designated “waiting area” i.e. the lobby immediately in front of the school office, lobby outside of the library and, for parents of kindergartners, cafeteria.  After the dismissal bell, parents may pick up their child in the lobby or hallway of the child’s classroom. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

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BAD WEATHER PROCEDURES

If bad weather during the night makes it impossible for buses to run in the morning, the following procedure will be used.

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CANCELLATION

Announcements will be made on WWRW (103 FM), WRHR (1320 AM),
WSPT (97.9 FM),WSPO (1010 AM), WAXX (104 FM), WAYY (1150 AM)
WYTE (96 FM), WDLB (1450 AM), WLJY (106 FM) and WIZD (99.9 FM)
as early as possible, but in no case later than 6:30 a.m.

      “ All schools in the Wisconsin Rapids District, both Parochial and
                Public, will be closed today; no buses will run”

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EARLY DISMISSAL

If bad weather develops during the morning while school is in session, the following procedure will be used:
Lunches will be served before anyone is dismissed.
 Buses will begin running at 12:00 noon.
  Students who do not ride a bus will be dismissed after bus pick-ups are made.

Announcements of early dismissal will be made on the radio by 11:00 a.m. advising parents to expect their children to come home early.

        Please do not call school – Listen to your radio for closing information!

IMPORTANT: Discuss with your child the procedure to follow if no one is home upon arrival. A child needs to know what to do or where to go if school is closed early.

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COLD WEATHER POLICY

This policy is based upon wind-chill factor and not actual degrees.  To the best of our knowledge this policy is followed at all elementary schools in our district.

Should parents call to complain, we have no grounds to defend deviations from this policy.

1. If the temperature and wind-chill factor is above zero, then recess as usual.
2. If the temperature and/or wind-chill factor is between 0 and –10, then no child should be outside for more than 10 minutes.
3. If the temperature and/or wind-chill factor is –10 or below, then there will be no outdoor recess for anyone.

When in doubt . . .
You are able to get information on the Internet.  This info is updated every couple of hours.
1. Solarus home page
2. Click on ‘local’ at the side of the page
3. Click on ‘Wisconsin Rapids’
4. Move the cursor to area listing Temperature, Humidity, Barometer etc.
      and click.
5. Call the office.

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BIKES, SKATEBOARDS AND ROLLER BLADES:

Your child should stay away from the bicycle racks during recesses.

For the safety of all: bikes, skateboards, and roller blades may not be ridden on the school property between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.  Any child who chooses to disregard this rule may lose the privilege of riding bikes, skateboards or roller blades to school.

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BOOK AND MATERIALS FEE

The Board of Education approved a book and materials fee to take effect at the beginning of the 2005-2006 school year.  The established fee is $20.00 per elementary student and $45.00 per secondary student.  This fee includes one student planner, which you may have been charged for in past years.

You may submit the fee along with the return of your child’s registration materials.  Please make checks payable to Howe School.  If you wish to pay for two or more students, you may write one check.

If you are unable to pay at this time, or have questions about the fee, please contact the principal.

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CANDY, GUM

Due to the expense involved in removing gum from furniture, carpeting, etc., gum will not be allowed in the building at any time. When candy or popcorn is allowed it should be eaten in the lunchroom or as part of classroom parties. Your child may not eat candy in the building except on special occasions, with the permission of the teacher. Although not encouraged, candy may be eaten with lunch if the wrappers are properly disposed of before leaving the lunchroom.  No food is to be taken from the lunchroom unless under the supervision of an adult.

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CD PLAYERS, RADIOS, TOYS AND GAMES

Any item that may distract from instruction such as toys, electronic devices, radios, CD players, cell phones, etc. are to be kept in the lockers.  We encourage that these items are not brought to school.  The school does not take responsibility for any lost or damaged items particularly electronic devices. If the items are not kept in the lockers, they will be taken away and parents will be contacted.  Repeat offenders will have additional consequences.

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CITIZENSHIP

 “Good School Citizenship”
Your child will show respect to others at all times.

Littering:
No child will litter in the building or on the school grounds.

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CLOTHING

Students may not at any time take items out of the lost and found to use unless the items belong to them.  Students are also not allowed to borrow other students’ winter clothing out of the lockers in the hall.

“Short” shorts, skirts and dresses, spaghetti straps, tank tops, halters (which reveal undergarments or exposed midriffs), cutoffs, and clothing with inappropriate messages are not acceptable. 

This includes clothing that contains comments, pictures, slogans, or designs that are obscene, profane, lewd, or vulgar.  Any clothing that promotes alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, illegal drugs, or illegal activities is inappropriate for school. Hats and hoods are not allowed to be worn in school.  Hats and jackets are to be kept in the child’s locker along with back packs during the school day.

Over sized clothing is not appropriate school wear. The hem of tops must reach the top of pants in such a manner that they can hang over or be tucked in. Sleeves should not extend beyond the wrist; pants and trousers should fit at the waist or be secured by a belt.  In addition, “shorts” should reach midway to the knees of the person wearing them.

If such clothing is worn to school, students will be required to change or cover said clothing or will be sent home to do so.  Refusal to change or cover said clothing will result in the students not being allowed to attend class until they have complied.

For safety reasons your child is expected to have gym type shoes at school.  We find that it is much safer in the classroom, during gym and on the playground.  Loose fitting slip on shoes, flip-flops, sandals or high platform shoes, for safety reasons, can cause injuries when worn to school.

From the first accumulated snowfall until Spring Break
All children must wear appropriate winter clothing (mittens or gloves, boots, caps, coats, snow pants etc.) to be allowed to play outside during recess and the lunch break.    Classroom teachers will be expected to supervise students who are not dressed appropriately to go outdoors.

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DISCIPLINARY PLAN

We at Howe Elementary School believe that all children can behave, and have a responsibility to behave, in a manner that allows teachers to teach and children to learn. A child also has the responsibility to behave in a manner which does not violate the best interest of any person in the school community.

The following are general school expectations that have been established for all at Howe Elementary School. In addition, each teacher will develop his/her own expectations to meet specific needs of that classroom.

The following information should give you, the parents, a better understanding of the school wide expectations staff members at Howe School have developed.

The first expectation Respect Other People has several behaviors all will be expected to follow. These behaviors include:

1. Listen to the speaker.
A child will pay attention, looking at the speaker. While paying attention, the child will be quiet. The speaker could be talking to an individual, small group or a large group.

2. Following directions promptly.
The child will do what is asked. If unsure of the directions, the child should politely ask to have them repeated.

3. Respect opinions of others.
During discussions or conversations, the child will respond with positive comments or appropriate questions. He/she may also give signals such as a nod of the head, thumbs up or down, or a shrug. Under no circumstances should a person vocalize a ‘put down’ type of statement.

4. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
The child needs to remember to stay in his/her own space. Feet should be on the floor when sitting at a desk or table. When passing from one place to another, hands should be by their own bodies or at their sides. Pencils, scissors, rulers, etc. need to be used in an appropriate manner.

5. “Give me 5” or “Show me 5” 
All staff will use a “Give/Show me 5” signal.  “Give/show me 5” means eyes on speaker, mouth quiet, be still, hands free, and listen.
  

The second expectation Respect Property and the Learning Environment has several behaviors all will be expected to follow.  These behaviors include:

1. Use quiet voice and appropriate language.
When a child is working with a partner or a small group, he/she will use a soft voice. The voice cannot be heard by anyone else in the room except those who are working together.

Under no circumstances or in any place on the school grounds will swearing be allowed.

2. Walk in the school building.
When a child is passing from one classroom to another, coming in from recess, or leaving the school building, he/she will walk.  Footsteps should not be heard by others.

3. Respect school property.
Your child will not write on the walls of the school, any bathroom stall, nor damage in any way school materials including books, computers, art tools or furniture.

CONSEQUENCES FOR DEFACING SCHOOL PROPERTY:

To discourage vandalism and continue to promote pride in our school building, the following policy has been established:

-FIRST OFFENSE   - $10.00 fine and/or after school detention.

-SECOND OFFENSE  -  $15.00 fine and a 3 day in-school office detention.

-THIRD OFFENSE  -  $25.00 fine, 3 day in-school office detention and referral to the School Board.

The third expectation Be Responsible has several behaviors all will be expected to follow.  These behaviors include:

1. Be courteous, kind and helpful.
The child will use good manners by using “please” and “thank you”. He/she should use the statements, “You’re welcome, Hello, Good morning, Good bye,” when appropriate. He/she will help another person when necessary by picking up dropped items, holding the door, etc. 

When two people, adults or children, are talking, others should walk around, not between them.  The child will help in the clean-up process by pushing in chairs, stacking chairs, picking up the area, etc.

2. Be on time.
Your child should be in his/her room and at his/her desk when the last (8:45) bell rings each morning. Sitting quietly or doing morning tasks will let adults know he/she is ready.
NOTE: If a child is in the hallway, at the locker, or just entering the classroom when the 8:45 bell rings, he/she is tardy and needs to go to the office for an admit slip.
At recess, the child needs to be aware of signals that tell him/her it is time to line up and do so promptly. Once in line, he/she will remain quiet and listen for further directions.

3. Be prepared.
The child will be ready to learn by having the needed materials in the desk/tote. He/she will return and hand in all homework assignments on time. Each will hand in any note that parents have written at the beginning of the day.  Each will wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Good modeling of these expectations by staff and parents, as well as other children, will make Howe School a better place for learning.

INFRACTIONS OF THE DISCIPLINARY PLAN

Major infractions of the Disciplinary Plan include fighting, disrespect to staff and guest teachers, failure to follow reasonable directions, continuous disruption, swearing at others, intimidation, harassment, assault, drugs/alcohol use/distribution/possession, and bringing a weapon to school.  As defined by state statute 939.22 a “dangerous weapon” means any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded, any device designed as a weapon of producing bodily harm, any electric weapon or any other device or instrumentality which, in the manner it is used or intended to be used, is calculated or likely to produce death or bodily harm.  Due to the serious nature of these inappropriate behaviors, the consequences will involve time spent after school, parent conferences, removal from class, in-school and out-of-school suspension, a police referral and possible expulsion proceedings.  Students who are given out of classroom suspensions may be prevented from participating in extra activities including field trips.  The primary focus is on protecting all of the people in the school and providing a safe and orderly environment where they can work and learn.

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DISMISSAL DAYS

Throughout the school year there may be times that your child will need to visit the dentist or doctor, etc. for checkups. Please record the following dates on your calendar. We ask that you try to schedule appointments for whatever reason on these dates:

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HARASSMENT

It is the policy to maintain a work environment that is free from all forms of harassment and to insist that each employee and child is treated with dignity, respect, and courtesy. Harassment includes, but is not exclusive to, name-calling, negative stereotyping or hostile acts that relate to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age or disability and will not be tolerated.

It is a violation of this policy for any employee, child, or volunteer of the School District of Wisconsin Rapids to harass another employee, child, or volunteer through conduct or communications which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive school environment.

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HOWE SCHOOL HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is an out-of-school assignment that contributes to the educational process of the child. It should be an extension of class work and should be related to the objectives of the curriculum presently being studied.

Homework may include additional practice exercises, reading of material on a specific subject, in-depth extension of classroom activities, or independent project work related to the subject. Instructional time is maximized and consists of introducing new material, so drill and memorization become an important part of homework.

Effective school research indicates that a positive correlation exists between expanding opportunities for learning and academic achievement. Most children, therefore, will have some homework each school day. Homework may include problem solving, completion of assignments introduced in class, projects, reading ahead in the textbook and other tasks as assigned by teachers. The daily amount of time depends upon grade level, varying from 10 to 45 minutes daily at the elementary level. In order to attain the maximum benefits from homework, your child is responsible for completing homework assignments on time and as directed.

The homework policy that has been established at Howe School indicates that all students will, on a regular basis, receive homework assignments for completion outside of the regularly allocated class time. The amount, frequency and nature of the assignments should be based on the teacher’s professional judgement, and reflect the child’s grade, subject and needs.  Homework will vary by instructional level, with assignments increasing in length and frequency as the child progresses through the grades.

Homework fulfills the following purposes:
• To review and reinforce classroom learning by providing practice with an application of knowledge gained.
• To teach children responsibility, neatness and organizational skills.

The following amount of time is expected for homework daily (excluding Wednesdays):
 Grades K and 1st – Approximately 10-20 minutes
 Grades 2nd and 3rd  - Approximately 15-30 minutes
 Grades 4th and 5th – Approximately 20-40 minutes
 Grade 6th – Approximately 25- 45 minutes

Note: These expectations will take into consideration a child’s ability and nature of assignments. Any child not completing homework assignments will be  expected to stay inside during the noon recess to finish the work.

The following expectations exist for teachers, all children, and parents.

Each teacher will: assign meaningful homework; take into account the capabilities of the class; assign work that will benefit each child and give all children feedback on assignments.

Each child will: learn to accept this responsibility; complete the assignments on time and with high quality; and develop good study habits.

Each parent must: nurture that responsibility in his/her child; encourage his/her child to complete homework assignments; provide for a climate that will foster educational endeavors; and stress the value of hard work and good study habits.

All children make far greater advances in academics when homework is given frequently to extend the school day. Additionally, gains are even greater when parents take a vital role in helping the child fulfill his/her responsibility. Ask your child’s teacher for helpful hints in helping your child complete homework assignments.

HOMEWORK - MAKE-UP WORK REQUESTS

As a result of student absences, sometimes make-up work is requested.  If a child is absent for one or two days, make-up work may not be sent home prior to the student’s return.  We are anxious for students to get well and reading a library book is encouraged.  Although we appreciate parent requests, teachers need sufficient time to gather materials.  If a student is absent more than two days, please contact the office before 8:30 a.m. so the teacher has time to prepare materials by the end of the school day.  With classes of 20 or more students and the possibility of several absences, it takes a significant amount of time to honor make-up work requests.  We appreciate your understanding.

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HOWE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

“TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WANT TO BE TREATED”

Respect other people.
    -Listen to the speaker.
    -Follow directions promptly.
    -Respect the opinions of others.
Respect property and the learning environment
    -Use quiet voice and appropriate language.
    -Walk in school.

Be responsible.
    -Be courteous, kind, and helpful.
    -Be on time.
    -Be prepared.
Discipline questions to use to reflect on behavior:
 Is my behavior:
       Respectful to others?
       Disruptive to the learning environment?
       Damaging property?
       Safe and responsible?

“Give me 5”  or “Show me 5”
     All staff will use a “Give/Show me 5” signal.  “Give/Show me 5” means eyes on speaker, mouth quiet, be still, hands free, and listen.

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HOT LUNCH AND BREAKFAST

• The Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools have a computerized meal system.  The system eliminates the need for meal tickets, simplifies the process of purchasing meals, and provides total confidentially for any child who is receiving free or reduced meals.

• This system works like a checking account where money is deposited in the child’s account.  Each time the child purchases a breakfast, lunch, milk or juice, the account will automatically be charged the correct amount.  Parents who eat school breakfast or lunch with their child may also have their meal subtracted from the child’s account. The system will automatically recognize any child eligible for a free or reduced meal and record the appropriate transaction.  No child receiving free meals needs to deposit money if the account will only be used for hot lunches.  If a child receiving free meals wishes to purchase additional juice or milk, money will need to be deposited into the account.

• Any parent eating on the account of a free or reduced child must pay full price for the meal  $2.50.

• Each child will have his/her own account with a personal ID number (PIN number) that he/she will enter onto a keypad at lunch.  The PIN number is a five digit number, which is the same number as the child’s ID number. Each time a child purchases a breakfast, lunch, milk or juice, the dollar amount of the purchase will be deducted from the child’s account.  A child will only be allowed to enter his/her own ID number. “Borrowing” or using another child’s ID number will not be allowed.

• Payments may be made in any amount to a child’s account.  Parents may deposit enough for a month or more and the system will track the balance.

• Each time a payment is sent in, the amount is recorded in the child’s account.  If a parent has more than one child attending Howe, one check may be written for all children in the family. We ask that all payments be sent in an envelope.  Checks are the preferred method of payment.  Please indicate the child’s first and last name, ID number, grade, and payment amount on the front of the envelope.   If a deposit is being sent for more than one child, please indicate each child’s first and last names, ID numbers, grades and payment amount on the front of the envelope.  The money will be deposited equally between each child listed unless indicated otherwise on the front of the envelope.   Having the correct information on the envelope will assure that the payment gets recorded correctly. 

• All deposits can be dropped in the mail slot on the outside of the office door.  This is a locked box so deposits can be made at anytime.

• The system will keep a record of all transactions, which a parent may review upon request.  Requests for this information may be made through the school office.

• Any elementary student whose lunch account balance falls below zero by 5 meals will NOT be allowed to continue the school lunch program until the account is brought current.

• Your child will NOT be allowed to charge additional meals, extra juices or milks if his/her account balance falls below zero by these amounts:
 Paid Student-$8.50      Reduced Student-$3.00      Free Student-$1.00

• If your child’s balance goes below these negative balance amounts, a regular school meal will not be served and a peanut butter sandwich and milk will be provided instead.  The parent/guardian will then be required to send a lunch to school for the child until the account is brought current. 

• If your child’s lunch balance is currently below zero, please make a deposit to the account.  We ask that you please be diligent in keeping your child’s lunch account balance current so he/she can receive school meals if desired.

• When a child’s account runs low a note will be sent home in your child’s folder.  We anticipate running these low slips every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, so please check with your child to make sure you are receiving them.

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LUNCHROOM SCHEDULE – 2007-2008

Grade 2  11:05 – 11:55

Grade 1  11:35 – 12:25

Grade 3  11:45 – 12:35

Grade 5  11:55 – 12:45

Kindergarten  12:00 – 12:50

Grade 4  12:15 – 1:05

Grade 6  12:25 – 1:15
 
No child should be required to leave the lunchroom if he/she has not finished eating.  However, your child should be reminded that the time to visit with friends is during recess. We have a large number of children needing to use the lunchroom in a limited amount of time.

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MEAL PRICES

Milk and Juice: 25¢ per carton

Meals:   The prices are as follows:

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HOWE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STORE

The school store will be open from 8:15 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

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MEDICATION

District Medication Policy
According to Wisconsin law and Board of Education Policy, prescription medication cannot be administered during school hours unless a signed physician and parent order is on file at the school.  A new physician order and parental order must be signed annually.

Over-the-counter medication cannot be administered without a parental permission slip filled out and on file in the office.

For your convenience the two required forms for medication are attached and can be torn off and used as needed.  Additional forms can be picked up in the office.

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION PROCEDURES

When possible, parents are encouraged to administer medication at home. The following procedures are used by the Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools
when administering medication at school.

FOR PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION:

• The "Physician/Dentist Orders for Administering Prescription Medication in School Form" must be completed by the prescribing physician and parent and returned to school before any medication will be administered. (See appendix A)

• Medication to be administered at school must be in a pharmacy labeled bottle with the information on the bottle identifying student, name of drug, dosage, and physician's name.

• Medication should be supplied in ready-to-administer dosage form, for example: pills cut in half if needed.

• Extra prescription labeled bottles can be obtained from your pharmacist upon request.

• Medication arriving in improperly labeled or unlabeled containers such as envelopes, baggies, or wrapped in aluminum foil will not be administered by school personnel.

• Changes in dosage, medication, and/or time of administration require a "Physician Order Form" to be completed.

FOR NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION:

• Over-the-counter medications will be administered only with proper written parental consent.  All medication must be provided by the parent in the original labeled container.    (See appendix B)
• Secondary students may assume responsibility for self-administration and storage of small quantities on non-prescription products with written parental consent on file in health office.

• All medication must be in original, labeled container.

• Students are strictly prohibited from administering any over-the-counter medications to other students.

…….Thank You ......
Wisconsin Rapids Public School Nurses
Carol Naze, Registered Nurse
Wendy Schooley, Registered Nurse
Kris Dauenhauer, Registered Nurse   

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SAFETY RULES /EXPECTATIONS

Lunchroom Behavior Expectations

.  Find your seat immediately.
.  Stay in your seat. If you need something, raise your hand.
.  Feet must be kept under the table.
.  Speak in a soft voice. Do not yell.
.  The use of  “please” and “thank you” is expected and appreciated.
.  Clean up your space after eating.
.  Please empty your trays carefully in the appropriate place.
   “Give/Show me 5” will be used to gain student attention.
. When dismissed, walk and quietly leave the lunchroom. Do not loiter in the hallways or washrooms.

Playground Safety Rules

Swings:
     Swing only on your seat.  
     One person on a swing at a time.
     No saving swings.
     Standing, twisting, jumping, running under,
            and holding other swings is prohibited.

Spider Climber:
     No hanging/ ‘apple’ flips.
     No standing on the climber

Slides:
    One person at a time.    
    Slide on seat only.
    Slide feet first at all times.  
    No standing or walking up slides.

Crossing Bars:
    One direction only.   
        
General Rules:
All injuries must be reported first to the playground supervisor and then to the office.  If the injury is serious and the person should not be moved, please have a classmate get help from the supervisor immediately.

• Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.
• No pulling on clothing or jackets.
• Stay out of the ditch.
• Wood chips must remain on the ground.
• No climbing over or under fences.
• You NEED permission to go back into school. 
• Fighting, karate, tackle football or any other activities where injuries could be inflicted are prohibited. “It’s a game” will not be an acceptable excuse.
• If a ball goes over the fence – Ask an aide for permission to go and get it. Take a partner and knock on the door first. Check back in with the aide when you return.
• Line up quickly and quietly when your bell rings. Pushing and shoving causes injuries.
• No tossing, kicking, bouncing or throwing a sports ball when coming into the building.

GUIDELINES FOR USE OF THE HILL

1. All children must be properly dressed with coats, snow pants, boots, hats and mittens or gloves.
2. All children must play safely. There is to be no shoving, pushing, king-of-the-hill, throwing or kicking of snow.
3. Two children may share a sled, however, only one child at a time may ride down the hill on the sled.
4. Sleds should not contain sharp points or metal parts.
5. Any  child who uses the hill in an unsafe manner may be suspended from the hill for a length of time deemed appropriate by the supervisor. Example of unsafe behaviors include sledding on stomachs, holding onto another sled, etc.
6. SNOWBOARDS MAY NOT BE USED ON THE HILL DURING SCHOOL HOURS. There is a greater potential for injury in a standing position.
7. HILL SCHEDULE for sledding will be sent home at a later date.

Throwing snowballs on the school grounds is prohibited.

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STUDENT GIFTS

Although we support a child bringing treats to celebrate birthdays or special occasions we have noticed the practice of parents sending helium balloons and/or flowers that become a distraction from the learning environment at school.  We ask that you not send these items to school and stick to the treats that have been traditional.

If balloons and/or flowers that may cause a distraction to the class arrive at school we will keep them in the office and the child may pick them up at the end of the day.  This will assure that we maximize the learning experiences.

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VISITORS IN THE CLASSROOM

Visitors to classrooms must have prior approval of the principal.  Instructional time is finite and must be honored.  If there is a need to meet with students, visitors may eat lunch with students during assigned times.

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VISITORS TO HOWE SCHOOL-CHILD

Periodically we have requests for a child’s relatives or friends to attend Howe School to visit for a day.  This usually occurs when vacations do not line up, etc.  The practice at Howe is that we will NOT permit a child to visit.  Although it would be nice to allow this to happen, it places a major responsibility and liability on the part of the district. 

Therefore, if parents inquire, please share this policy with them.

Exceptions may be if a child is from another country and such a visit would be a unique learning experience for all.

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VEHICLE PARKING

Because of the limited parking on the adjacent streets in the Howe School area, parents are encouraged to pick up their children from 3:30-3:40 p.m. using the southwest corner of the Immanuel Lutheran Church parking lot.

Note: As a reminder, there is no double parking on the streets around the school.
                      The Wisconsin Rapids Police Department enforces this and cars will
                      be ticketed. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

All visitors must report to the office for a pass and may spend lunch and noon recess only with the child they are visiting.  If a guests plan to purchase hot lunch, they must inform the school office before 9:00 a.m. on or before the day they visit.

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WELLNESS POLICY

Wellness influences a child’s development, health, well being, and potential for learning.  To afford students the opportunity to fully participate in the education process, students must attend school with their bodies ready to take advantage of the learning environment.  This district-wide nutrition and physical education/activity policy encourages all members of the school community to create an environment that supports lifelong healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.

The policy includes School Nutrition Guidelines and Physical Education/Activity Guidelines.  Some new guidelines specific to our elementary students include:

*School snacks/birthday treats/class activities/awards: Nutritious snacks are recommended for school or class activities and awards.  See the “Healthy Classroom Snack” resource developed for the district.  We strongly encourage that classroom snacks not be served within one hour before or after scheduled school mealtimes.  We encourage staff to utilize non-food rewards when possible.  If providing food rewards not on the suggested food list, use extremely small servings infrequently.

*School store/snack carts: Healthy snacks and beverages are recommended for school stores, snack carts, or snacks sold in classrooms during the instructional day.  See the “Recommended Food List for School Stores” resource developed for the district.  School stores/snack carts shall not sell food items during the school breakfast or school lunch meal times.  Mead School currently does not have a school store/snack cart.  If this service becomes available, a list of approved items available will be provided to parents. 

*Fundraising: Students, staff and parents are asked to consider alternative fundraising strategies that use healthy food choices or non-food items.
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DISTRICT POLICIES

Field Trips:

Field trips should grow out of the instructional programs, be related to and make a positive contribution to the accepted curriculum emphasis and direction. Every child should understand the purpose of the trip, why he/she is going, what the purpose is, and how he/she will use the information.  The purpose should be established prior to leaving with research preparation and concept development.

All field trips must have the prior approval of the principal. This is to be done at least two weeks prior to the trip.  Each child will be required to have a permission slip signed by a parent or guardian. Any child who chooses not to attend a field trip or who does not have a signed permission slip will be required to complete an alternative assignment.

This policy has been developed in accordance with WRPS Board of Education policy #352 and Wisconsin Statute 121.54 (7).

Film, Video and CD Policy:

• All films, videos and CDs used in the classroom must be previewed by the  staff member using them.
• Only those rated “G” may be shown.
• Exceptions to the “G” rating must have the permission of the principal. Any film rated “PG” must also have parent permission. Generally, films, videos and CDs should be limited to those that are curriculum related.

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PARENT RIGHT TO RESTRICT SCHOOL IN RELEASE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION

Wisconsin law permits parents, legal guardians, adult children (18 years or older), or the guardian ad litem of children attending public schools in Wisconsin to request that public schools not release certain directory information about their child.

According to Board adopted administrative rules, directory data may be released to parties outside of school when the request is for educational or career opportunity purposes, but not for commercial or promotional purposes.  However, directory information cannot be disclosed to the public, including the above, if parents (legal guardians, etc.) object. Directory information includes: child name, address, telephone listing, date and weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, photographs, degree and awards received, and the name of the school most recently attended.

Parents (legal guardian, etc.) of child attending the Wisconsin Rapids Public schools desiring to deny release of all or part of directory information during the school year should send a letter to  Director of Human Resources, Thomas A. Lenk Educational Services Center, 510 Peach Street, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 and the building principal. The letter should state the specific information regarding this requirement. Please contact the Human Resource Department of the Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools at 422-6017 with any questions. (SEE APPENDIX C)

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"NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND"

Under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, parents with children in schools receiving Title I funding have the right to request information about the qualifications of their child's teachers and paraprofessionals.  Parents may request information on teacher licensure, certification, degrees, and paraprofessional qualifications.  Howe Elementary receives Title I funding.

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ANNUAL ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION

As a result of the federal law AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) all primary and secondary schools are required to develop and implement a plan for managing all building materials which contain asbestos. Included in the AHERA Act is the requirement to annually notify all parents, guardians and staff members, as well as organizations representing them, of activities and events with the asbestos containing building materials.

In 1988, all buildings owned, leased, or “under the control of” the School District were inspected by EPA accredited inspectors, with building material samples analyzed by an independent laboratory. Based on the inspection, the School District prepared and the state approved a comprehensive management plan for managing the asbestos located within its buildings safely and responsibly.

Once every three years, certified inspectors must re-inspect remaining materials. The last re-inspection was completed in 2006.  In addition, a periodic surveillance of all known asbestos containing materials is completed every six months.

The School District has a list of the location(s) and type(s) of asbestos containing materials found in the building(s) and a description and timetable for their proper management. A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for review at the Buildings & Grounds office located at 2510 Industrial Street. Copies are available at twenty-five (25) cents per page. Our goal is to be in full compliance with AHERA. It is our policy to maintain a safe and healthful environment for our students and our staff members. This shall be accomplished by strict enforcement of the policies regarding asbestos by the asbestos manager and the school officials.

The School District also requires that all new building materials introduced into the School District are free from asbestos. For all new buildings/additions, the architect responsible for the design certifies that to the best of their knowledge, no asbestos containing materials are used.

This program will remain in effect until all asbestos containing building materials have been removed from District facilities.  Please direct any concerns to Thomas Helgestad, Director of Buildings & Grounds, at 422-6043.

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441 CHILD SURVEYS

The School Board respects the privacy rights of parents and their children. No child shall be
required to participate in any survey associated with a school program or the District's curriculums or
which is administered by a third party in the schools, if the survey includes one or more of the following items:

• political affiliations or beliefs of the child or the child's parent;
• mental and psychological problems of the child or the child's family;
• sex behavior or attitudes;
• illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;
• critical appraisals of other individuals with whom children have close family relationships; legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers;
• religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the child's parent; or
• income other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such a program.

The building principal shall notify parents/guardians at the beginning of each year of the specific or approximate dates during the school year when such survey activities are scheduled involving their children. Parents/guardians shall be given the opportunity to request that their child not participate in a survey containing the above information. If a survey containing any of the above information is funded in whole or in part by a program administered by the U.S. Department of Education, written consent shall be obtained from the child or, in the case of a minor child, the child's parent/guardian before the child participates in the survey.

Parents/guardians may, upon request, inspect a survey containing any of the above information and any survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to a child. They may also request to inspect any instructional materials used in connection with the survey or any instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum for the child. Requests to inspect a survey or instructional materials should be made to the building principal or his/her designee. Survey inspection requests should be made prior to the date in which the survey is scheduled to be administered to children. The principal or designee shall respond to such requests without delay.

This policy shall be published annually in child handbooks. The policy must also be distributed to parents/guardians and employees in the District.

LEGAL REF.: No Child Left Behind Act of 2001
Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment

CROSS REF. 333-Parent Rights in the Curriculum
347-Child Records
347-Rule(1)-Guidelines for the Control and Maintenance of Child Records
347-Rule(2)-Child Record Files
348-Research and Surveys in the Schools
349-Parent Rights and District Programs/Activities
491-Photographing of Children
850-Public Solicitations in the Schools

APPROVED: November 11, 2002*

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