2013-2014
Parent/ Student
Handbook
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School Procedures
HACIENDA SCHEDULE
The regular school day is 8:50 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.
The minimum day schedule for all students is 8:50 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
A warning bell will ring at 8:45. CAMPUS OPENS AT 8:25.
Regular Day Schedule
Nutrition Breaks:
4th Grade
11:00-11:15
th
5 Grade
11:25-11:40
th
6 Grade
11:45-11:55
Lunches:
4th Grade
5th Grade
6th Grade
12:25-1:05
1:00-1:40
1:30-2:10
Minimum Day Schedule
th
4
5th
6th
Lunch
Grade
Grade
Grade
Only
11:00-11:40
11:40-12:20
12:20-1:00
Parents please note:
It is important, if possible, to let your student and the
teacher know in advance if your child will be leaving early.
The students and the teachers are on break at the same
time, and therefore no one is in the classroom if students
need belongings such as jackets and backpacks. Also, our
announcement system is not wired into the cafeteria and
cannot be heard from the blacktop or field areas. It may
take several minutes for yard supervisors to locate your child
on the playground.
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CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY
A “Closed Campus Policy” means that during school hours of 8:20 – 3:35, our
campus is “closed” to visitors. Only students and Hacienda Elementary School
employees will be allowed on campus. Students will have access to the campus
through the main gate outside the cafeteria, and from the bus drop-off point on
the west side of the school. Any adult or sibling escorting a student to school
WILL NOT BE ALLOWED past the campus gate.
Any individual who has a scheduled visit must register in the Main Office before
coming on campus, regardless of the length of the visit. All visits must be prearranged through the front office 48 hours in advance.
Any teacher scheduling PARENT VOLUNTEERS must submit a Parent
Volunteer Schedule with office approval. VOLUNTEER help includes any
scheduled visit for any length of time. All volunteers must sign in through the
office and receive a VOLUNTEER pass to enter campus.
CLASSROOM VISITS
Parents are encouraged to visit the classrooms of their students.
All campus visits must be pre-approved and arranged with the office staff. Classroom visits
can be scheduled with 48-hour advanced notice and the proper forms completed. As with
all the schools in the district, visitors need to sign in at the front office.
ATTENDANCE
According to California law, all persons between the age of 6 and 18 years of age
must attend school on a regular basis. It is the desire of Hacienda that attendance
is a priority for all of its students. Research shows that students learn and retain
what they have learned, when they are at school regularly. In addition to being at
school regularly, it is important that students are at school on-time. The academic
day starts with the morning bell. When students are late to class they miss out on
valuable learning.
If your student is unable to come to school, it is important that you contact the
attendance clerk or school as soon as possible. There are two types of absences,
excused and unexcused. Each type of absence is explained below. Please note:
with the change in California school funding laws, schools are only funded when
students are at school.
Excused Absences
Absences must be verified within three (3) days. Absences will be considered
excused, per California Education Code 48205, for the following reasons only:
 Due to the student’s illness
 Due to the student being quarantined under direction of
county or city health officials
 For the purpose of the student having a medical, dental,
optometric, or chiropractic services rendered.
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For the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member
of his or her immediate family, so long as the absence is not
more than one day if the service is conducted in California and
not more than three days if the service is conducted outside
of California
For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law
Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours
of a child whom the pupil is the custodial parent
For justifiable personal reasons including, but not limited to,
an appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service,
observance of a holiday or ceremony of his or her religion,
attendance at religious retreats or attendance at an
employment conference when the pupil’s absence has been
requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by
the principal or a designated representative pursuant to
uniform standards established by the governing board (for
purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall
not exceed four hours per semester.
Unexcused Absences
Absences remaining unverified for more than three (3) days will be considered
unexcused. If a student misses school without an excuse and does not turn in
homework, take a test, or fulfill other class requirements which he/she missed, the
teacher may lower the student’s grade for nonperformance. Students with six (6)
or more unexcused absences in a grading period may be given a failing grade.
Truancy
Any student absent and/or tardy 30 minutes or more without a valid excuse for three (3)
days in a school year is considered truant. Any student found to be truant may be subject
to the following actions:
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First Truancy— a letter will be sent home to make parents aware their
child is considered truant.
Second Truancy- A second letter will be mailed and the student and
parent will be encouraged to set up a meeting with the principal and
attendance personnel to discuss the student’s attendance issues.
Third Truancy— a third letter will be sent and the student may be
referred to SARB committee. Parents again are encouraged to contact the
school and set up a meeting to help and work with the families of truant
students and come up with solutions to ensure they are attending school.
Fourth Truancy—Student shall be classified as a habitual truant and
will be required by subpoena, along with their parents, to attend a
meeting of the School Attendance Review Board. This committee
includes members from the district attorney’s office, health and human
services, juvenile probation, Cal City police department and Mojave
Unified School District. At this meeting the students and parents will be
put on an attendance contract, other actions may include a citation
accompanied by a fine or a truancy mediation program established by the
District Attorney or probation officer, or other comparable program.
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ATTENDANCE AWARDS
Hacienda students are given the opportunity to receive awards for their
good attendance at various points in the school year. The following criteria
are used to determine attendance awards eligibility:
Trimester: A Certificate of Excellent Attendance is awarded to
students who have been enrolled in the Mojave Unified
School District for 54 days or more of the trimester.
Excellent attendance is defined as no absences and no
more than four tardies a trimester (AR 5110 #1)
A Certificate of Perfect Attendance is awarded to
students who have been enrolled at least 54 days of the
trimesters with no absences and no tardies of any kind
for any reason (AR 5110 #2)
***The classroom with the highest attendance for each
grade level will win the monthly attendance trophy. ***
Year End:
A plaque for a full year of perfect attendance will be
awarded to students who have been enrolled for at least
160 days of the school year with no absences, no left
earlies, and no tardies of any kind for any reason.
The students must have been in attendance for no less
than the required minutes for each individual school day.
BEHAVIOR
The staff at Hacienda Elementary School believes it necessary that students learn
to develop self-discipline in order to further their learning. We believe in the
importance of good behavior and self-control. In light of these beliefs, the
following seven guidelines have been adopted:
1. Students are to report to class regularly and on time. They are
expected to bring textbooks and other materials to class each
day as needed.
2. Teachers, students, and staff should be respectful and
courteous to each other.
3. No one should disturb another class member or make it
difficult to study or listen in class.
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4. Students should respect the rights and property of other
students and the property, equipment, and furniture of the
school.
5. Students should learn the procedure to follow for fire drills,
earthquakes, and disaster alerts.
6. Students are to be attentive to the teacher during instruction.
7. Students should follow the rules in all areas of campus.
These seven guidelines are incorporated into the Hacienda Area Behavior Matrix
which follows at the end of this handbook. Staff members will be teaching and
reinforcing the three “Be”s in the Behavior Matrix: Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be
Responsible, throughout the year.
 Examples of unacceptable behavior at school include:
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Chewing Gum
Putting your hands or feet on anyone.
Play fighting
Using electronic devices on campus including but not limited to cell phones,
handheld electronics, and mp3 players.
Wearing hats or hoods inside any building
Eating in the classroom or on the school grounds w/out adult permission
Wearing a backpack at recess or lunch
Unsportsmanlike conduct
Inappropriate school attire or makeup
Foul language
Being in an “off-limits” area
Being in the office or library without a pass or valid reason
Failure to line up at appropriate time and place
Name Calling
Uncooperative behavior
Littering
Running on sidewalks or academic areas of campus
Disrupting an activity of another group
Misuse of equipment
Throwing/kicking sand
Bringing Cologne or Perfume on the bus or campus
Examples of major offenses against school rules include:
Fighting
Bullying
Obscene language and/or body gestures
Possession and/or use of cigarettes or other controlled substances
Severe defiant behavior
Deliberate destructive behavior causing injury such as rock throwing,
biting, etc.
 Possession of a weapon, object or hazardous material that can be
used as a weapon or cause injury
 Threatening the well being of another student or staff member
 Destruction of property including personal property of a student,
school, or staff member
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BEHAVIOR CONSEQUENCES
The staff at Hacienda Elementary uses the following consequences when
students are unable or unwilling to follow school behavioral expectations:
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Warning concerning inappropriate behavior and reminder of correct
behavior
Contact with parent
Campus beautification/Detention
On Campus Suspension
Suspension
Expulsion
The administration reserves the right to accelerate the consequences if the
situation warrants. Threats to cause physical harm with a weapon will be
taken seriously. Regardless of the age of the student involved, suspension
will be leveled against the offender with a report to law enforcement for
follow-up.
Students may be subject to suspension or expulsion for committing any of
the acts listed below and shall be suspended and/or expelled when so
required by law:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to
another person, or willfully used force or violence upon the person of
another except in self-defense. ED48900 (a)
Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or
other dangerous object unless, in the case of possession of any object of
this type, the student had obtained written permission to possess the item
from a certificated school employee, with the principal, or designee’s
concurrence ED48900 (b)
Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or was under the
influence of, any controlled substance as defined in the Health and Safety
Code 11053-11058, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind. ED48900
(c)
Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any controlled substance
as defined in Health and Safety Code 11053-11058, alcoholic beverage or
intoxicant of any kind, and then sold, delivered, or otherwise furnished to
any person another liquid, substance, or material and represented same as
controlled substance, alcohol beverage or intoxicant. ED48900 (d)
Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion. ED48900 (e)
Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private
property. ED48900 (f)
Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property. 48900 (g)
Possessed or used tobacco or any products containing tobacco or nicotine,
including but not limited to cigars, cigarettes, miniature cigars, clove
cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets and betel. This
restriction shall not prohibit a student from using or possessing his/her own
prescription products. ED48900 (h)
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9. Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.
ED48900 (i)
10. Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell
any drug paraphernalia, as defined in Health and Safety Code 11014.5.
ED48900 (j)
11. Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority
of supervisors, teachers, administrators, other school officials, or other
school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties. ED48900 (k)
12. Knowingly received stolen school property or private property. ED48900 (l)
13. Possess an imitation firearm, i.e. a replica of a firearm that is as
substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm as it leads a
reasonable person to conclude that the replica is a firearm. ED48900 (m)
14. Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Penal code
261, 266c, 286, 288, 288a, or 289, or committed a sexual battery as defined
in Penal Code 243.4. ED48900 (n)
15. Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a student who is a complaining witness
or witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either
preventing that student from being a witness or retaliating against that
student for being a witness, or both. ED48900 (o)
Student in grades 4 through 12 are also subject to suspension or
recommendation for expulsion for any of the acts listed below:
1.
Committed sexual harassment as defined in Education Code 212.5.
ED48900.2
2. Caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an n act
of hate violence as defined in Education Code 33032.5. ED48900.4
3. Intentionally harassed, threatened or intimidated a student or group of
students to the extent of having the actual and reasonable expected effect
of materially disrupting class work, creating substantial disorder, and
invading student rights by creating an intimidating or hostile educational
environment. ED48900.4
A student may be suspended or expelled for any of the acts listed above if
the act is related to school activity or school attendance occurring at any
district school or within any other school district, including but not limited
to the follow circumstances: (Education Code 48900)
 While on school grounds
 At the bus stop
 While going to or coming from school
 During the lunch period, whether on or off the school
campus
 During, going to, or coming from a school-sponsored
activity
AR5144.1 (b) (c) (d)
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Bullying
A commonly accepted definition of bullying is as follows: aggressive behavior that is
intentional, repeated over time, and involves an imbalance of power or strength.
Bullying can take many forms, such as hitting or punching, teasing or name-calling,
intimidation through gestures, social exclusion and sending or posting insulting
messages or pictures by cell phone or online (also known as cyber-bullying). Common
examples of school type bullying, which are seen at all grade level include, but are not
limited to, the following:
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Saying hurtful and unpleasant things
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Making fun of others
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Using mean and hurtful nicknames
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Completely overlooking someone
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Deliberately excluding someone from a group of friends
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Hitting, kicking, pulling hair, pushing etc.
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Telling lies
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Spreading false rumors
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Sending mean notes
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Trying to get other students to dislike another person
(Please refer to the California Department of Education Frequently Asked Questions on
BULLYING at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/se/bullyfaq.asp#promotemessage)
Assembly Bill 1156 (AB 1156) effective July 1, 2012 broadens the definition of “bullying” to mean
any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in
writing or by means of an electronic act, and including one or more acts committed by a pupil or
group of pupils. This bill also provides pupils who are victims of bullying to be given priority for
inter-district attendance at the request of the person having legal custody of the pupil. AB 1156
encourages districts to include bullying policies and procedures in their comprehensive school
safety plan and provide training to school personnel to recognize bullying.
Assembly Bill 9 (AB 9) effective July 1, 2012 (Seth’s Law) will require school districts to adopt a
policy that prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying, be responsive to
complaints about bullying, train personnel how to recognize and intervene in bullying and make
resources available to victims of bullying. The policy that is adopted must be posted in all schools
and offices, including staff lounges and pupil government meeting rooms.
Assembly Bill 746 (AB746) effective January 1, 2012, amends the definition of “cyberbullying”
although it will be subsumed by AB 1156 as of July 1, 2012. This bill defines an “electronic act” as
“transmission of a communication, including but not necessarily limited to, a message, text,
sound, or image, or a post on a social network internet web site by means of an electronic device,
including but not necessarily limited to, a telephone, wireless telephone or other wireless
communication device, computer, or pager.” This bill is an update of earlier legislation.
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BEHAVIOR ON THE GROUNDS
What follows are the guidelines that students are taught and enforced
throughout the year to ensure the safety of all parties on the grounds:
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We treat other with respect
We follow the instructions of the yard supervisors
We do not eat or chew gum on the playground
We keep our hands and feet to ourselves
Students in a group of 5 or more will need to be seated or involved in an
organized activity.
Appropriate dress and shoes for play must be worn
Personal toys or sports equipment will not be brought out to the
playground
Only school provided playground balls are to be used
Ball games are to be played in the areas designated
We will consider the safety of others and ourselves in all areas of play.
BEHAVIOR INCENTIVES
Good behavior is encouraged and rewarded at Hacienda. A school-wide
behavior incentive program has been implemented. Students are given
tickets when they are observed doing one or more of the defined behavior
areas. Students have the opportunity to redeem their behavior tickets for
incentives.
In addition to the school-wide program, students have the opportunity to be
honored at assemblies during the school year. The following awards are
given to deserving students:
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Student of the Month—based on criteria each teacher sets forth
Character Counts – based on one or more of the following pillars of
Character (Trustworthiness, Responsibility, Respect, Fairness, Caring,
and Citizenship)
Accelerated Reader—based upon AR goals set by each grade level
Chamber of Commerce – based on academics, good behavior and good
attendance.
WINN Award (What I Need Now) – based on criteria set forth by
each individual WINN teacher.
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CELL PHONES
Cell phones and personal electronic devices are banned from use during
school hours at Hacienda Elementary. Students who ignore this directive
face the following consequences:
 1st Offense—electronic device is confiscated and given back to
the student at the end of the day.
 2nd Offense—electronic device is confiscated and the
parent/guardian must retrieve the device.
 3rd Offense—the third offense is considered defiance and the
student faces suspension per Education Code 48900 (k).
The school and school district are not responsible for cell phones and
personal electronic devices that are lost, damaged, or stolen.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
It is of the utmost importance that the school is notified of a change of
address or phone number. Should an emergency occur; the school needs to
be able to locate a parent/guardian immediately. Please ensure that your
address and phone number are current by contacting the school
secretary once a change has been made. This also includes ensuring that
emergency contact numbers are current. This will also ensure you receive
the most up to date information from the schools.
CIVILITY POLICY
Members of the Mojave Unified School District staff will treat parents and other members
of the public with respect, and expect the same in return. The District is committed to
maintaining orderly educational and administrative processes in keeping schools and
administrative offices free from disruptions and preventing unauthorized persons from
entering school/District grounds.
This policy promotes mutual respect, civility and orderly conduct among District employees,
parents and the public. This policy is not intended to deprive any person of his/her right to
freedom of expression, but only to maintain, to the extent possible and reasonable, a safe,
harassment-free workplace for our students and staff. In the interest of present district
employees as positive role models to the children of this District, as well as
the community, Mojave Unified School District encourages positive communication, and
discourages volatile, hostile or aggressive actions. The District seeks public cooperation
with this endeavor.
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CHARACTER EDUCATION
The California Education Code requires each teacher to “endeavor to impress upon
the minds of the pupils the principles of morality, truth, justice, patriotism, and a
true comprehension of the rights, duties and dignity of American citizenship, and
the meaning of equality and human dignity, including the promotion of harmonious
relations, kindness toward domestic pets and the humane treatment of living
creatures, to teach them to avoid idleness, profanity, and falsehood, and to instruct
them in manners and morals and the principles of a free government”. (California
Education Code 44806)
To fulfill the requirements set forth by law, Mojave Unified School District has
adopted the principles of Character Counts. At Hacienda Elementary, the pillars of
character are focused on each month. Teachers instill the value of these character
traits into their classrooms throughout the school year. Please join the staff at
Hacienda by reinforcing these character traits at home with your student.
Trustworthiness –
Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal • Be reliable — do
what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be
loyal — stand by your family, friends, and country
Respect - Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant and accepting
of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others
• Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements
Responsibility –
Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • Persevere: keep on
trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act —
consider the consequences • Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes • Set a
good example for others
Fairness –
Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others •
Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly • Treat all people fairly
Caring –
Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive
others • Help people in need
Citizenship - Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate •
Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws
and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment • Volunteer
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DISASTER DRILLS
During the course of the school year, Hacienda students will be participating in
different disaster drills such as fire, earthquake, and intruder drills. These drills are
necessary so that students know what to do, should an emergency arise. Students
will be instructed by their classroom teachers on how to proceed during each type
of drill and then will be expected to follow the procedures in a quiet and orderly
fashion.
FIRE DRILL PROCEDURE
A.
When fire drill signal is given, have student nearest door open it.
B.
Students line up at door, single file.
C.
Students file out of room, followed by the teacher, and go to their designated
area. Teachers are to leave the classroom door closed. Do not lock doors.
D.
Assign one person in the room to report all clear for his/her room to the
secretary.
E.
Return to room when the all-clear signal has been given.
F.
Pupils should walk briskly, orderly, and no talking or running.
G.
MULTIPURPOSE ROOM – If the fire signal is given when pupils are in the
Multipurpose Room, students are to leave through the doors and proceed in an
orderly manner to their class staging area.
Earthquake Procedures
A.
B.
Inside Buildings
1.
Power On – Alarm will sound
2.
Power Out – Teachers have students DROP to the floor, using desks,
tables, or chairs to protect themselves from falling objects and flying
debris
Outside Buildings
Staff will order students to DROP to the ground. The safest place is in the open,
away from buildings, trees, and exposed wires.
C.
Tremors Subside
1.
Power On – Evacuate buildings (intermittent bell, fire alarm sound).
2.
Power Out – Administrator will order evacuation by way of bullhorn. If
outside – students and teachers will assemble at assigned Staging Area
–Basketball Court.
3.
Teachers take roll and send report with list of those who need first aid to
Felicia Deck or Shaunte Buck in the Command Post/First Aid Area.
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Lockdown Procedures:
An extreme emergency exists when one or more of the following situations occur on
campus: (1) LEVEL 1 Code YELLOW-Precautionary lock down, threat in outlying
area off campus, (2) LEVEL 2 Code RED-armed intruder, helicopter searches, driveby shooting, or SWAT team operations.
1. Imminent Danger Signal – Announcement/ Attention: Hacienda is on a LEVEL
1/LEVEL 2 lock down, repeated every ten seconds for the first two-three
Minutes, then repeat the announcement every five minutes during the duration of the
lockdown until an all clear is announced. When the imminent danger signal is given,
teachers should take the following actions:
LEVEL 1 : PRECAUTIONARY LOCK DOWN ; ACTIVE THREAT
• All students and staff report to their assigned classrooms. Remain at the door
until all students have entered. Scan the immediate area to be sure all
students have entered a classroom safely. Secure doors after all visible
students/staff has entered safely. Take roll. Call the office reporting any
missing students. If there are any additional students in your supervision, call
the homeroom teacher with the name of the student, then notify the office that
you need a student escort. NOTE: Send all SDC students with an adult escort
to their classroom teacher.
• All aides, campus supervisors, and teachers who are unassigned report to
the office to assist in student escorts.
• Continue instruction.
• Notify the office if students need an escort for out of classroom emergencies.
• Remain in precautionary lock down until given an all clear. Implement a
delayed dismissal until an all clear is given.
• Check e-mails and text alerts for up-to-date information regarding the
imminent threat.
LEVEL 2 : IMMEDIATE THREAT/INTRUDER
• When possible, all students/staff report to the nearest shelter. Secure doors
after all visible students/staff has entered safely.
• Students/staff in rooms are to be under their desks and avoid being visible
from any window.
• Stay silent. No movement.
• Doors should only be opened to allow persons to safety.
• Check text alerts for up-to-date information regarding the imminent threat.
• Remain in LEVEL 2 lock down until given an all clear. All students return to
their assigned classrooms. Take roll. Call the office reporting any missing
students. Remain in LEVEL 1 precautionary lock down until notified by
administration.
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DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
Students will only be dismissed to the custodial parent(s). If the noncustodial parent is to pick up a student, that parent MUST be listed as an
emergency contact for the student. (MUSD Board Policy 5021)
The following procedures will be enforced when dismissing students to
anyone other than the custodial parent/guardian during school hours:
 A written note signed by the custodial parent/guardian
must be provided to the school office or the student’s
teacher.
 The person picking up student must be at least 18 years
of age.
 The person picking up student must be listed on the
student’s emergency contact card.
 A valid form of identification must be provided.
 The student must be signed out on the “Student SignOut” sheet prior to leaving campus.
 Telephone calls will not be accepted.
DRESS CODE
Hacienda Elementary School Dress Code
Pupils are required to be neat and clean upon entering school. It is expected that
every student come to school dressed acceptable for any public gathering (Ca Code
of Reg. 302). The dress code is designed for safety and to prepare students for
the world of work. Students whose clothing are neat and clean understand the
boundary between a place of work and a place of recreation. Student dress should
show care and concern for others. Disciplinary action will be taken against students
whose mode or manner of dress is disruptive and impairs the structured classroom
learning environment or school environment. No apparel that has a picture or sexual
message/implication or contains profanity or weapons and is obscene or otherwise
provocative shall be worn including the following:
Pants
a. Pants must be worn at the hip bone or higher, and should not be able
to fall if belt is removed or student walks or runs.
b. No oversized or baggy pants will be permitted. Pants are not to touch
the walking surface or have slits in them.
c. Belts must remain inside of the pant loops at all times and the length
must not hang down in the front of the pant.
d. Undergarments and should not be visible above the pants.
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Shirts
a. No see through or short tops that reveal the midriff area.
b. No halter tops or backless shirts, spaghetti straps, or muscle shirts.
c. No undergarments shall be revealed when shirts with straps are worn.
d. Shirts or blouses must be long enough to cover the torso.
Shorts
a. There is a 3” inseam required for all shorts worn. Dresses and skirts
shall be no shorter than mid-thigh.
b. Shorts must be worn at the hip bone or higher, and should not be able
to fall if a belt is removed.
Shoes
a. Shoes must be worn at all times.
b. No bedroom slippers or house shoes, flip flops, backless shoes, or
backless sandals.
c. Sandals must have heel straps and the toes must be covered.
Accessories
a. Accessories offensive in nature will be dealt with by the
administration
b. Accessories inappropriate and dangerous are not allowed.
c. Chains on pants are not allowed.
d. Bandanas and wave caps are not allowed.
e. Hats and caps shall be worn facing the appropriate direction for which
they were intended. Hats and caps shall not be worn indoors.
f. Wearing an over-sized belt with one end hanging down is prohibited.
g. Glitter, ink markings or writing, temporary tattoos (if deemed
inappropriate), and wash out hair coloring different from their natural
color are not to be worn on exposed parts of their bodies except as a
part of a costume for a school event.
h. Ear lobes may be adorned with jewelry, provided they are not
excessively long. If spikes or gages are worn they are to be made of
flexible plastic and may not exceed ½ inch in length in the front or
back of the ear. Earrings should not hang more than 1” from the
bottom of the ear lobe. Other piercing, such as Noses, Chins,
Eyebrows, and Tongues are not permitted. Apparel or jewelry that is
suggestive or promotes the use of controlled or illegal substances is
not allowed. Personal cleanliness is required at all times. The
administration has the right to determine the appropriateness of any
item worn on school grounds.
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Dress that is potentially hazardous is not allowed. Outer garments, buttons,
badges or other apparel with patches or embroidery that are vulgar or in any
way suggestive of inappropriate behavior or thought, or are emblematic of
membership in organizations not approved by the Board of Trustees is
forbidden, (i.e., club and gang member insignias).
Students whose apparel does not conform to the aforementioned
requirements will be required to notify parent/guardian and arrange for a
change in clothes. Final decisions on dress will be made by the
administration.
FOOD SERVICE
Students have the opportunity to purchase breakfast and lunch. For those
that qualify, meals are provided either free or at a reduced rate.
Free/reduced lunch forms must be filled out and turned in each year in
order to continue to qualify. All questions regarding food service, account
balances, and payments should be directed to the food services office
located at California City High School: 760-373-1819.
Breakfast will be served before school only. Once school has started,
breakfast will no longer be available. Students can bring a nutritional snack
to school to eat during recess time.
Students are to eat in the cafeteria unless site administration has made
arrangements for students to eat outside. During the lunch period, students
are expected to take their seats at their designated eating areas and to
raise their hands to be dismissed to the play area when they are finished.
Students are at all times encouraged to be responsible for their eating
areas and students are expected to “Leave No Trace” when they are
finished. The following are procedures that are to be followed in the lunch
area:
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Good manners should be displayed at all times
Students are expected to pick up after themselves
Quiet voices only should be used
Be orderly while waiting in line
Throwing food is absolutely unacceptable
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HOMEWORK
The Governing Board recognizes that homework contributes toward building
responsibility, self-discipline and life-long learning habits, and that time spent on
homework directly influences students’ ability to meet the district’s academic
standards. The board expects students, parents/guardians and staff to view
homework as a routine and important part of students’ daily lives. (Board Policy
6154) Hacienda Elementary School will be doing standards based grade level
homework.
LIBRARY
Student use of the Hacienda library plays an important role in student learning and
in student responsibility. In order for students to use the Hacienda Library, a
Library Agreement form must by signed by the student’s parent/guardian. By
signing the Library Agreement, the parent/guardian resumes full responsibility for
any overdue, lost, damaged, or stolen books that are incurred by their student.
TRANSPORTATION
Students are expected to leave campus when the dismissal bell rings.
Arrangements for transportation must be made in advance. Students will not be
allowed to call home during the school day to make transportation arrangements.
Students will be expected to go to the address designated on their registration
card. If a student is to go to another location, the following will be required:
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A written note signed by the custodial parent/guardian
only.
The custodial parent or guardian may stop by the school
office up to 30 minutes before dismissal to initiate a
change.
Telephone calls will not be accepted to change a student’s
destination.
The Hacienda office closes at 4:00 p.m. on a regular school day AND
2:30 on a minimum day. If a student has not been picked up by the
above listed times the California City Police Department will be
contacted and appraised of the situation.
Automobile Transportation
The student pick-up/drop-off zone has been established at Hacienda Elementary
School. Students are expected to wait in the pick-up area until their ride has
safely stopped in the loading zone. For safety reasons, students are not allowed to
go through parking lots. Students will not be allowed to enter into cars that have
stopped in the red zones or in the middle of the street.
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Bicycle Transportation
Bicycle racks are provided for students who would like to ride their bicycles to
school. Should students choose this form of transportation, they must wear a
helmet. Bicycles should be safely secured to the bicycle rack with a lock provided
by the student.
Bus Transportation
Bus transportation is a privilege extended only to students who display good
conduct while preparing to ride, riding, or leaving the bus. Continued disorderly
conduct or persistent refusal to submit to the authority of the driver shall be
sufficient reason for a student to be denied transportation.
Because school bus passengers’ behavior can directly affect their safety and safety
of others, the following regulations apply at all times when students are riding a
school bus, including school activity trips.
 Riders shall follow the instructions and directions of the bus driver
at all times.
 Riders should arrive at the bus stop on time and stand in a safe place
to wait quietly for the bus.
 Riders shall enter the bus in an orderly manner and go directly to
their seats
 Riders shall remain seated while the bus is in motion and shall not
obstruct the aisle with their legs, feet, or other objects. When
reaching their destination, riders shall remain seated until the bus
stops and only then enter the aisle and go directly to the exit.
 Riders should be courteous to the driver and to fellow passengers.
 Because serious safety hazards can result from noise or behavior
that distracts the driver, loud talking, laughing, yelling, singing,
whistling, scuffling, throwing objects, smoking, eating, drinking,
standing and changing seats are prohibited actions which may lead to
suspension of riding privileges.
 No part of the body, hands, arms or head should be put out of the
window. Nothing should be thrown from the bus.
 Riders shall help keep the bus and the area around the bus stop clean.
Riders shall not damage or deface the bus or tamper with bus
equipment.
 No animals shall be allowed on the bus.
 Riders should be alert for traffic when leaving the bus.
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Violating a bus rule can result in a bus ticket. The following consequences
are associated with bus tickets:
 Bus Ticket #1—Driver contacts parent/guardian and requests
assistance.
 Bus Ticket #2—2 day bus suspension.
 Bus Ticket #3—5 day bus suspension.
 Bus Ticket #4—10 day bus suspension.
 Bus Ticket #5—Suspension of bus privileges for the remainder
of the school year.
Violation of the following IS NOT included in the bus ticket procedures and
may result in immediate suspension of bus privileges.
 Fighting or play fighting
 Profanity
 Damage to school vehicle and/or equipment
 Possession of any firearm, knife, explosive, or dangerous
objects
 Overt defiance of driver authority
 Assault or battery on a driver
 Safety violations
 Any overt, indecent, or vulgar behavior
The Superintendent may deny any student transportation privileges on a
permanent basis for violations of the above that are considered flagrant or
extreme.
Students with active bus tickets will not be allowed to participate in any
field trip requiring the use of district transportation.
Questions or concerns regarding transportation issues are addressed by the
MUSD Maintenance, Operations, and Transportation
Office, 661-824-2047 ext. 22.
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Behavior Matrix
Area
Cafeteria
Be Safe
Keep all food to self.
Sit with feet on the floor,
facing the table.
Enter and exit appropriately.
Keep hands and feet to
yourself in line.
Playground
Bathroom
Sidewalks
Arrival/Dismissal
Area
Office
Walk to and from the
playground.
Stay within boundaries.
Be aware of activities around
you.
Keep feet on floor.
Keep water in sink.
Wash hands after use.
Put trash in the garbage can.
Buses
Follow all directions of
the yard supervisors.
Play fairly.
Include everyone.
Use kind words and
actions.
Knock on stall door.
Give people privacy.
Use quiet voices.
Be Responsible
Raise your hands and
wait to be excused.
Leave no trace.
Take care of all
playground and school
equipment.
Remind others to follow
rules.
Flush toilet after use.
Return to classroom
promptly.
Use bathroom pass.
Leave no trace.
Walk at all times facing
forward.
Be silent.
Follow adult directions.
Wait quietly in the designated
area.
Use sidewalks and crosswalks.
Walk bikes and skateboards on
school property.
Keep hands, feet, and objects
to self.
Enter and exit appropriately.
Wait quietly in the designated
area.
Use kind words and
actions.
Follow adult directions.
Arrive and leave on
time.
Take proper care of all
personal belongings and
school equipment.
Follow adult directions.
Do not interrupt.
Speak in a reasonable
voice and be polite.
Get permission to use
the phone.
Use a pass to enter.
Follow school rules.
Use audience manners.
Follow adult directions.
Sit and be silent.
Follow adult directions.
Use kind words and
actions.
Wait for your turn.
Follow school rules.
Focus on presentation.
Keep hands and feet to self.
Special
Events/Assemblies Enter and exit appropriately.
Classroom
Be Respectful
Allow anyone to sit next
to you.
Use quiet voices.
Follow adult directions.
Keep hands, feet, and objects
to self.
Use all equipment and
materials appropriately.
Always walk.
Stay within boundaries.
Back against the seat, feet on
floor, and face forward.
Do not get up until the bus
stops.
Use kind words and
actions.
Follow adult directions.
Wait for your turn.
Go directly to your
destination.
Leave no trace.
Take proper care of all
personal belongings and
school equipment.
Be prepared to learn.
Keep belongings in
backpacks.
Do not leave anything on
the bus.
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Hacienda Elementary School Compact – Parent/Family
Staff Pledge:
I agree to carry out the following responsibilities to the best of my ability:
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Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction.
Motivate my students to learn.
Have high expectations and help every child to develop a love of learning.
Communicate regularly with families about student progress.
Provide meaningful, daily homework assignments to reinforce and extend learning (30
minutes for grades 4-6).
Participate in professional development opportunities that improve teaching and learning
and support the formation of partnerships with families and the community.
Actively participate in collaborative decision making and consistently work with families
and my school colleagues to make schools accessible and welcoming places for families
which help each student achieve the school’s high academic standards.
Respect the school, students, staff and families.
__________________________________________
Teacher Signature
Student Pledge:
I agree to carry out the following responsibilities to the best of my ability:
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Come to school ready to learn and work hard.
Bring necessary materials, completed assignments and homework.
Know and follow school and class rules.
Ask for help when needed.
Communicate regularly with my parents and teachers about school experiences so that
they can help me to be successful in school.
Read and complete homework every day after school.
Respect the school, classmates, staff and families.
_________________________________________
Student Signature
Family/Parent Pledge:
I agree to carry out the following responsibilities to the best of my ability:
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Provide a quiet time and place for homework and monitor.
Encourage my child to read every day 20-30 minutes each day.
Communicate with the teacher or the school when I have a concern.
Ensure that my child attends school every day, gets adequate sleep, regular medical
attention and proper nutrition.
Regularly monitor my child’s progress in school.
Participate at school in activities such as school decision making, volunteering and/or
attending parent-teacher conferences.
Respect the school, staff, students, and families.
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Parent/Guardian Signature
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