Center School Handbook

A         Accept your child, unconditionally.
B          Believe in your child. Trust in his or her ability.
C         Communicate with your child. Share ideas.
D         Discuss things with your child.
E          Enjoy your child. When parents enjoy their children, children enjoy their parents.
F          Find things of interest to do together.
G         Give your child responsibility which can be handled. This can lead to a feeling of accomplishment.
H          Help your child with words of encouragement.
I           Impress upon your child the vision of what is all around. Talk about the things you see, hear, taste, feel and smell.
J          Join your child in fun activities.
K          Keep from over identifying with your child. Don’t try to live your life again through your child.
L          Listen to your child. He or she needs someone to share thoughts and ideas.
M         Model behavior you want to see in your child.
N         Name things for your child. Labels are important.
O         Observe the way your child goes about tasks. Provide help when needed.
P          Pace your child. Help your child do one thing at a time and do it well.
Q         Question your child using question words such as who, what, where and when. Ask about stories or everyday things that happen.
R          Read to your child every day.
S          Spend time with your child.
T           Take your child to the library on a regular basis.
U          Understand that learning isn’t always easy. Sometimes we all fail. We can learn from our mistakes.
V         Value your child’s school and teachers. Your attitude will often be mirrored in your child.
W         Write with your child. Encourage the youngster to write; even scribbles are important.
X          X is often unknown quantity. What else would you like to add to this list?
Y          You are your child’s most important teacher.
Z          Zip it all up with love. Love gives zest to life.

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

Dear Parents:

Welcome to a new year at Center School. The faculty and staff have spent many hours this summer preparing for a fun and educational year for all of our students.

Our goals this year are: 1) The Litchfield Public Schools’ students will increase their comprehension and interpretation of written text and materials through the use of differentiated instruction; 2) The students will use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities.

The purpose of this handbook is to provide information about the practices and policies at Center School. Visits to the school for conferences are always welcome. The Litchfield Public Schools’ website is www.litchfieldschools.org

I would be happy to answer any questions you have regarding your child and welcome your cooperation in helping us make your child’s educational experience a rewarding one.

	Sincerely,
	Andrienne Longobucco
	Principal

LITCHFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION

Mr. James Katzin, Chair

Mr. Frank Gorman, Vice Chair

Mrs. Christine Reardon, Secretary

Mr. John Noone

Mr. Donald Falcetti

Ms. Gayle Carr

Mr. Wayne Shuhi

Mr. Frank Simone

Mrs. Elizabeth Fabbri

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

Dr. Dominick Vita

BUSINESS MANAGER

Mrs. Margaret Perusse

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING

The School

The Center School has a very special history. It was built in 1925 and accommodated grades K-12. In 1955, when the new High School was built, Center School became an elementary school. From 1987 to 1988, Center School was closed for major renovations. It reopened in August of 1988 as a “new” K-4 school. It now serves students Pre-K through Grade 3.

Mission

Our mission is to educate primary age students by providing developmentally appropriate programs which are based on children’s needs. We strive to encourage a lifelong appreciation for learning in an exemplary environment which fosters respect, inclusion, decency, empathy, cooperation, and responsibility.

Expectations

The Center School shall provide a balanced curriculum offering a variety of academic and developmentally appropriate programs responsive to the changing needs of its students and society. The students will be carefully monitored to ensure that the academic programs challenge their capabilities and meet their needs.

The expectation for all students is to:

· read with understanding and for enjoyment,

· express themselves clearly and correctly in both writing and speaking,

· listen with understanding,

· use mathematical skills as a practical tool,

· apply appropriate problem-solving skills in social and academic areas,

· learn about other people and their ways of living, past and present,

· gain an awareness of local geography and government,

· be introduced to life, earth, and physical sciences through process and exploratory approaches,

· develop skills and attitudes that promote physical and mental health,

· develop skills and increase sensitivity, imagination, and joy of self-expression through the arts,

· use technology and other media as a tool to gain knowledge and enhance understanding of other curricular areas,

· utilize a cross-curricular approach in implementation of the curriculum,

· demonstrate social and academic responsibility for their own actions,

· respect integrity, hard work, and the rights and opinions of others.

Philosophy

Education is the key to a full and productive life. The purpose of education at Center School is to provide an environment in which all children will develop to the optimum of their capabilities; physically, intellectually, socially and emotionally. Individual needs shall be recognized and pupils helped to understand their responsibility in the learning process.

The role of the school is to provide an opportunity for each student to attain the skills and abilities necessary to meet future educational and life challenges. The school shall provide a stimulating environment that challenges students to think for themselves and become self-directed, self-disciplined and creative.

The school will promote an atmosphere of cooperation and open communication among children, parents and community members. The school shall encourage and guide each student to become a purposeful and effective member of a free society.

Commitment

At Center School we are committed to providing the best possible instructional program to meet the unique needs of young students. The curriculum and programs are designed to provide a smooth transition from the contained classroom of the elementary school to the more comprehensive program of an intermediate school. The staff is knowledgeable of and dedicated to primary and intermediate elementary education. The community is supportive of the school and an active participant in developing, implementing and evaluating its programs.

Center School is a place where learning is celebrated. We believe that scholastic achievement is most important. Our school is a place where students feel secure, and where students and parents feel welcome.

We are proud of our school, and we are committed to improving the total instructional program. This commitment to improvement through planned change will allow us to take another step towards educational excellence.

School Goals

Our goals for 2007-2008 are: 1) The Litchfield Public Schools’ students will increase their comprehension and interpretation of written text and materials through the use of differentiated instruction; 2) The students will use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities.

All curricular areas are aligned with the State of Connecticut Curricular Frameworks and National Standards.

Reading/Language Arts

The Reading/Language Arts program offers children the opportunity to develop literacy skills through active teaching and discovery experiences. Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop, which is an individualized reading and writing approach for each child, is the foundation of our Reading/Language Arts program. Correlated assistance is offered to children through an ongoing diagnostic process.

Math

The math program emphasizes a practical hands-on, manipulative, problem-solving approach. Our goal is to help children apply math to life experiences. Correlated assistance is offered to children through an ongoing diagnostic process.

Science

The science program taps the children’s natural curiosity about their world. Inquiry units are covered in each grade.

Social Studies

The social studies program emphasizes concepts with a focus on learning about families, communities, different types of cultures and geographical locations.

Music

The music curriculum uses quality folk song literature to develop singing, listening, movement and music literacy skills. These skills are developed through a variety of challenging activities, which culminate in recorder instruction.

Art

Art instruction is provided for all children. A variety of materials and media is used to encourage children to present their thinking and creativity through many, varied and unusual projects. All children should bring in a smock to protect their clothing from art material that stains.

Physical Education

Physical education is required for all children in grades K-3. Emphasis is on personal space and movement. Students must wear sneakers or go barefoot for safety reasons. A signed note from the child’s physician is required to be excused from gym.

Library/Technology

The Library/Media Center gives all children the opportunity to borrow books, use technological equipment and conduct independent research. A class period is provided each week to instruct the children in the proper and efficient use of our well-equipped library/media/technology center and to provide support of classroom themes.

PUPIL SERVICES

Special Education

In Connecticut, state statute defines special education as “special classes, programs or services designed to meet the educational needs of exceptional children.”

Each local school district must provide programs designed to meet the particular educational needs of students whose disabilities have resulted in learning difficulties. Some students who need special education may require modification of their instructional program and occasional support services; some may require extensive specialized instruction and services during the day. A student may have more than one disability, requiring more than one kind of specialized program or service. Many students with disabilities have special emotional needs which should be considered when developing their educational programs.

As every student is different, each special education student must have an Individualized Education Program.

Referral Process

If you suspect that your child may require special education, you should discuss the situation with school personnel as soon as possible.

After a student has begun attending school, any persistent learning difficulties noted by the student or by his or her parents or teachers may be a sign that special education is needed. Sometimes a disability can go undetected until a student has learning problems in school. Whether a student receives surprisingly poor grades or is unhappy and uncooperative in class, a complete evaluation will help parents, teachers, and the student understand the problem and, if necessary, plan an appropriate educational program.

Before a child is referred for evaluation, “pre-referral” strategies must be explored. What this means is that alternative procedures and programs in regular education must be explored and, where appropriate, implemented. Should the child’s difficulties persist after this intervention, a referral for special education evaluation is then properly made to the Planning and Placement Team (PPT).

Center School shall accept and process referrals (the standard referral form is available from the School Psychologist or Director of Special Services) from appropriate school personnel, as well as from a child’s parents; or from a physician, clinic or social worker, provided the parent so permits in order to determine a child’s eligibility for special education and related services.

Once a student is referred to the Planning and Placement Team (PPT), the school district must do two things:

1. The parents must be informed in writing that the student has been referred to the PPT to determine whether the student is eligible for special education, and must be informed of all their due process rights.

2. Written parental consent must be obtained before pre-placement evaluation and testing may begin.

At Center School, special education services are available to students who have been diagnosed through the PPT process. These include speech/

language therapy, psychological evaluations, projective testing or counseling with the school psychologist, health assessment by the school nurse, occupational therapy, physical therapy and learning center services.

The Litchfield Public Schools adheres to section 504 Regulations, described as non-discrimination on the basis of handicap in programs and activities receiving or benefiting from Federal Financial Assistance.

STATE MANDATED INFORMATION

Immunization Requirements

Before a child is permitted to attend the Litchfield Public Schools, he/she must have proof of immunization against the following illnesses: Haemophilus Influenza type B (Hib), Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Polio, Diptheria, Pertussis, Tetanus (DPT), and Hepatitis B (HBV). Students entering kindergarten must show proof of having received 2 doses of measles vaccine, 4 doses of DPT/DtaP vaccine and 3 doses of polio vaccine (IPV or OPV) with at least 1 dose given on or after the fourth birthday. Children born January 1, 1997 or later must have one dose of Varicella (Chicken Pox) vaccine on or after that individual’s first birthday and before that individual’s 13th birthday or two doses of Varicella given at least four weeks apart if the first dose was on or after the 13th birthday. Exemption: child has written statement signed and dated by physician that child had Varicella based on family/medical history. Children born after January 1, 1994 must have full 3 dose schedule of Hepatitis B vaccine.

Transferred School Records

The Principal may admit the student who is being transferred from another Connecticut school without possession of the record provided that the Principal or nurse has telephoned the sending school and has assurance from that school’s Principal that proof of immunization is in the school record being forwarded. If records indicate that the child is not properly immunized, parents will be notified that the child will not be allowed to attend school until the child is properly immunized.

Student Records

The Center School collects, records, and maintains information about pupils and their families which are necessary to the effective performance of their designated educational function. This information, which constitutes the student record, is collected for educational purposes which include instruction, guidance, and research. The administration is responsible for the collection and storage of data used to promote the educational progress of each child while safeguarding the rights and privacy of the student and family. Student records are confidential; therefore, the contents are available only to parents, a school staff member, or persons authorized by statute.

Since 1974, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (the Federal law known as the “Buckley Amendment”) grants you the right to inspect your child’s school records and to request correction of any information in the records which is inaccurate, misleading, or a violation of the child’s right to privacy or other rights. The law also guarantees the confidentiality of school records.

Just as a student’s or parent’s information can help the school, the school records may help the student or parent in understanding a problem. Upon written request, schools will make an appointment for you to inspect and discuss your child’s school records, and will provide one free copy of each document in your child’s school record. Schools may charge for additional copies; however, a charge may not be applied if it would deny you your right to access the educational records. Each school district in Connecticut must publish its policies and procedures regarding student records, and you may request a copy of your district’s records policy.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registration for kindergarten occurs each spring. Children who will be five years old on or before January 1 are eligible to enter kindergarten in September. Children who will be six years old on or before January 1 are eligible to enter first grade in September. When registering a child for kindergarten through Grade 3, parents must submit a birth certificate and health records. Proof of residency may be requested at time of registration.

Student Records

Records of a student may be reviewed by parents. Letters of request should be directed to the administration.

A student’s name may be disclosed in a news release unless a written refusal has been submitted to the principal by the parent or legal guardian.

Kindergarten Orientation

Kindergarten orientation takes place late each spring for all prospective kindergarten students. This procedure allows parents and prospective students to meet with the Center School staff.

Insurance

Insurance programs are available to all students. Parents who wish to purchase individual accident insurance will be provided with the necessary information and forms early in the school year.

SCHOOL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMS

Health Services

“The school nurse strengthens and facilitates the educational process by modifying or removing health related barriers to learning in individual students and by promoting an optimal level of wellness for students and staff.” (National League of Nurses)

Center School has full-time nursing service, which includes health assessments, health education, evaluation, treatment and referral of accidents and illnesses. A confidential health record is maintained for each student. The school nurse plans and implements State Mandated Programs.

Physical Examinations

A Health Assessment is required for all students entering kindergarten. They are also required for all new students entering the school. Other students transferring into the school may be required to have a physical after an evaluation of their incoming medical record is made by the school nurse. Immunization records must also be evaluated by the school nurse. A school physical examination form may be obtained from the school to be completed by the examining physician and returned to school.

Visual and hearing examinations are conducted for all pupils annually. Findings are noted on the medical record of each child and any conditions needing further attention are reported to the parents by the school nurse.

Medical Administration of Prescription and Nonprescription Drugs

There are specific state statutes regarding the administration of medication in school. Board of Education policy requires that any child needing medication during the school day must have that medication brought to school by a responsible adult. Prescribed medicinal preparations may be administered by the school nurse. THE MEDICATION TO BE ADMINISTERED MUST BE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO THE SCHOOL NURSE BY A RESPONSIBLE ADULT AND BE DELIVERED AND DISPENSED FROM A CONTAINER PROPERLY LABELED WITH THE NAME AND STRENGTH OF THE MEDICATION, NAME OF PATIENT, NAME OF PHYSICIAN, THE DATE OF THE ORIGINAL PRESCRIPTION, AND DIRECTIONS. No exceptions to this policy will be allowed.

Communicable Diseases and Health Problems

Children who contract any of the following diseases should be treated by a physician and be reported to the school nurse before being allowed to re-enter school: chicken pox, impetigo, head lice, conjunctivitis, streptococcal sore throat, scabies, and ring worm. The school nurse will relate our exclusion policy at that time.

Illness

Illness may require a child to be sent home. The nurse will notify the parent or, if not available, the person noted on the emergency form. If information on

the emergency form is changed during the year, please notify the office or the nurse.

Parents are required to call the school when children are absent. If a child is absent due to a communicable disease, they must see the nurse before being readmitted.

Dental Health

A fluoride rinse program is carried out on a weekly basis throughout the school year. It is administered by parent volunteers under the supervision of the school nurse.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Our committee to improve disciplinary procedures recommends that we make our expectations for parent, student and teacher responsibility for conduct clear to parents and students at the beginning of each school year.

Parents’ Responsibility for Promoting a Positive School Atmosphere

We at Center School believe the area of student discipline affects the total achievements of our school. An orderly, respectful, stimulating atmosphere in the classroom and throughout the school is essential. Student discipline should be the combined responsibility of students, parents and school personnel.

First and foremost, good discipline begins at home. Parents, by their own example and guidance, help children develop positive attitudes toward the school, as well as good habits of behavior. It is our hope that parents will share with teachers an active interest in the child’s progress and assist in monitoring homework assignments. Parents should understand the school rules concerning pupil conduct and cooperate with the school in carrying out corrective disciplinary procedures.

Students’ Responsibility for Promoting a Positive School Atmosphere

Children attending Center School are expected to develop their individual abilities to the fullest. The children must understand that they are responsible for their own actions and that positive behaviors contribute to an orderly and stimulating school environment. As a member of the school community, each child should:

· show kindness and respect for others.

· use good manners.

· work up to their potential.

· complete and return homework consistently and promptly.

· obey school and classroom rules.

· follow the directives of adults promptly.

· exhibit self-control in a variety of situations.

· respect property.

Teacher’s Responsibility for Promoting a Positive School Atmosphere

Teaching involves providing an effective program of instruction as well as establishing an atmosphere conducive to learning. In order to achieve this, the teacher should:

· work toward a program of instruction which develops each child’s interest, talent and abilities.

· manage classroom routines so that they contribute to the total instruction program.

· teach the children what is expected of them in terms of accepted behavior.

· enforce the rules of the school in a fair and consistent manner.

· inform parents, in accordance with school procedures, about the academic and behavioral progress of the children.

· be sensitive to the behavior of all pupils and aware of sudden changes which may need assistance.

· work with the principal and other school personnel when necessary to help pupils toward the attainment of self-discipline.

Discipline Procedure

1. The teacher will remind the student of the rule and have him/her demonstrate the proper behavior.

2. If the student ignores a school rule after being reminded about proper behavior, he/she will be warned and will be required to write the rule (Grade 1) and an explanation of why observing the rule is important (Grades 2 and 3). This must be signed by his/her parents and returned to the teacher.

3. If the behavior continues, the teacher will contact the parents to discuss the problem and notify the principal.

The committee also felt that teachers needed some concrete ideas for promoting good behavior and for reprimanding poor behavior. In addition to the strategies already outlined in our handbook, the following suggestions can be used.

To help students reach our behavioral expectations, the committee suggests that teachers may employ the following incentives;

· extra privileges for small groups

· rewarding stickers or points for specific time periods of good behavior (i.e. quiet walking in the halls)

· “good work/behavior” certificates

· treasure box treats, popcorn parties, extra recess, etc.

To discourage or end poor behavior, the committee suggests that teachers employ the following consequences:

· classroom time-out at the discretion of each

· loss of privileges individual teacher

· staying in for recess

If all of these strategies have been tried and the child is still disrupting the teaching and learning process, the teacher will refer the child to the Rules Review Room. This applies to students in grades 1-3 only.

Rules Review Room Procedures:

Teacher will place student’s name on a rules review list in the office.

1. Teacher will write the reason the child has been sent to the room on the form letter that will be taken home with the student for their parent’s signature.

2. The letter can be left in the office folder prior to the weekly Rules Review Meeting time.

3. During recess time, students will report to the Rules Review Room.

4. Students will form a group and will each give a brief description of why they have been sent to the room.

5. Principal/Lead Teacher will discuss alternate choices for positive behavior with the children.

6. Extra time in the room can be used for heads-down quiet reflection or rules writing.

Rules Review Room: Teacher’s Responsibility:

1. Don’t overuse the room. It is for repeat offenders only!

2. Be sure the child is aware of this infraction before going to the room.

3. Follow up with the form letter home, adding a note about the specific behavior of the child.

Rules Review Room: Student’s Responsibility:

1. Report to the room knowing why you are there.

2. Take a letter home for parent’s signature and promptly return the note to the teacher.

General School Rules

1. Be polite and considerate.

2. Walk silently through the halls.

3. Keep hands to yourself.

4. Respect property.

General Classroom Rules

All students in the school are expected to behave responsibly. These are rules which would apply to any class in the school. Each individual class will develop its own rules and consequences which specifically relates to that class, its teacher and students.

Dining Hall Rules

Playground Rules

1. Follow directions of the adults.

1. Follow