Shalimar
Elementary
School
Student
Handbook
2015-2016
SHALIMAR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Home of the Dolphins
1350 Joe Martin Circle
Shalimar, FL 32579
850-833-8339 FAX 850-833-4357 www.okaloosaschools.com/shalimar
Jon Williams, Principal
Kim McSparren, Assistant Principal
Attendance .........................................................................................................................................................................................2
Book Fees ..........................................................................................................................................................................................2
Bullying .............................................................................................................................................................................................3
Cafeteria ............................................................................................................................................................................................3
Campus Traffic ..................................................................................................................................................................................4
Celebrations .......................................................................................................................................................................................4
Change of Address/Phone Number....................................................................................................................................................5
Checking Students Out ......................................................................................................................................................................5
Classroom Reassignment ...................................................................................................................................................................5
Code of Conduct ................................................................................................................................................................................5
Communication .................................................................................................................................................................................5
Conferences-Parent/Teacher ..............................................................................................................................................................5
Daycare Providers for Shalimar Elementary .....................................................................................................................................5
Discipline Plan............................................................................................................................................................................. …..6
Dress Code for Students ....................................................................................................................................................................6
Family Rights and Privacy Act ..........................................................................................................................................................6
Field Trips .........................................................................................................................................................................................7
Gifted Services ..................................................................................................................................................................................7
Head Lice…………………………………….. .................................................................................................................................7
Internet Access……………….………………………….………………………….. ........................................................................7
Lost and Found ..................................................................................................................................................................................7
Media Center ............................................................................................................................................................................. ……7
Medical/Medications………………………………………………………………………………………………….………. ... ..…8
Music Education ................................................................................................................................................................................8
Newsletters............................................... .................................................................... ......................................................................8
Parent Teacher Organization .............................................................................................................................................................8
Personal Property…………………………………. ........................................................................................... .…………………..9
Physical Education ........................................................................................................................................................................... .9
Program Exemption .......................................................................................................................................................................... .9
Promotion and Retention ..................................................................................................... ..............................................................9
Safety .................................................................................................................................................................. .............................10
School Advisory Council................................................................................................................................................................. 10
School Pictures ............................................................................................................................................................................... .10
Student Insurance ............................................................................................................................................................................ 10
Student Progress…………………………………………………..……………. .......................................................................... ..10
Telephone ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
Transportation ................................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Visitors ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
Volunteers ................................................................................................................................................................................... ...12
Volunteer Affidavits ........................................................................................................................................................................ 12
Withdrawals ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Zoning Waivers………………………………. ........................................................................................................................ .......12
School District of Okaloosa County
VISION STATEMENT:
 We inspire a lifelong passion for learning.
MISSION STATEMENT:
 We prepare all students to achieve excellence by providing the highest quality education while empowering each individual
to positively impact their families, communities, and the world.
CORE VALUES:
 Accountability: We, working in conjunction with students’ families, accept responsibility to ensure student learning, to
pursue excellence, and to hold high standards for all.
Citizenship:
 We prepare all students to exercise the duties, rights, and privileges of being a citizen in a local community and global
society.
Excellence:
 We pursue the highest academic, extracurricular, and personal/professional standards through continuous reflection and
improvement.
Integrity:
 We embrace a culture in which individuals adhere to exemplary standards and act honorably.
Personal Growth:
 We promote the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and experience to develop individuals with the aspiration, perseverance,
and resilience to be lifelong learners.
Respect:
 We show regard and consideration for all through a culture of dignity, diversity, and empathy.
Leadership:
 We provide guidance and direction to accomplish tasks while being a moral compass to others.
SHALIMAR SCHOOL HOURS
7:20 a.m.
Office opens
7:25 a.m.
Students admitted to breakfast
7:35 a.m.
Students admitted to class
7:50 a.m.
School begins
10:30 a.m. – 12:35 p.m. Lunch periods (to be posted)
2:17 p.m.
Car riders dismissed
2:20 pm.
Daycare and bus riders dismissed
2:25 p.m.
Walkers and Bikers dismissed
2:50 p.m.
End of teacher workday/ Office closes
Students may arrive on campus no earlier than 7:20 a.m. The breakfast program is held in the cafeteria from 7:25 a.m. – 7:50 a.m.
Students must complete breakfast by 7:50 a.m. Students arriving to breakfast after 7:50 a.m. will be considered tardy for class.
Classroom instruction begins at 7:50 a.m. Students not on campus by 7:50 a.m. need to report to the office to obtain a tardy pass.
Supervision is provided for students upon dismissal at 2:20 p.m. until 2:50 p.m. at which time all students should have departed the
campus.
To insure the safety of your child, please carefully review the following guidelines for supervision.
Supervision of students by school personnel is provided:
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During the time the student is being transported to or from school at public expense;
During the time the student is attending school;
During the time the student is on the school premises participating, with authorization, in a school-sponsored activity;
During a reasonable time – thirty minutes before and after a student is on the school premises for attendance at school or for
authorized participation in a school-sponsored activity – and only on the school premises;
In accordance with Florida law, parents should not rely on the school to provide any additional supervision.
ATTENDANCE / TARDIES
(per ODSD Pupil Progression Plan)
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS
Regular attendance provides students the opportunity to master required skills at each grade level. Many integral activities, including
class discussions, group experiences, field trips, guest speakers, and direct instruction, cannot be simulated or replicated with written
work. “Each public K-12 student must remain in attendance throughout the school year, unless excused by the school for
illness or other Good Cause…” Types of absences listed as excused absences are considered to be “good cause.” Therefore, with the
goal of promoting student success, the School District of Okaloosa County has adopted a uniform attendance policy. It is our intent to
encourage honest, accurate, and consistent adherence to this policy by all students, parents, teachers, and administrators.
F.S. 1003.04; 1003.21; 1003.24; 1003.26
A. ABSENCES DEFINED
Excused absences are absences resulting from the following:
 Death in the family or any other bona fide family emergency;
 Illness or injury requiring medical or dental attention (physician’s statement required);
 Illness, injury, or circumstances not requiring medical attention will require a parent note explaining the absences, up to 9
absences per semester;
 Appointments for medical or dental care (physician’s statement required);
 Religious holidays- Pupils are permitted to be absent in observance of established religious holidays, but they must be
counted absent on all school records. Absences of a religious nature, preceded by prior parent notice, will not require
written notification on the student’s return to school. Religious holidays considered excused absences include Good Friday,
Yom Kippur, Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and Hanukkah (Review Board policy). Students may be excused for other religious
holidays if a parent makes a request in writing five (5) days prior to the absence.
Unexcused Absences are absences resulting from:
 An absence not designated as excused
 Unverified absence
 Truancy
 Suspension: absences accrued through suspension do not impact driver’s license suspension
 Expulsion
 Participation in private lessons, activities, or classes sponsored by outside agencies
B. REPORTING AN ABSENCE
Students who produce and place on file with the district medical and legal documentation of permanent and total disability, as defined
by the U.S. Social Security Act and eligible to make up any and all work for absences from medical care or medical conditions related
to their permanent and total disabilities.
When a student accumulates a total of nine (9) excused or unexcused absences within a semester, the student must have an excuse
from a doctor or an official agency (i.e., Department of Juvenile Justice, Department of Children and Families), for each subsequent
absence. For purposes of make-up work only, a partial day’s absence may be calculated in the limit of 9 days per semester.
a. After the third (3rd) unexcused absence or absences for which the reasons are unknown the parents or legal guardian of the student
will be notified. The contact will include a review of the current attendance/truancy policies.
b. After the fifth (5th), but before the eighth (8th), absence (excused or unexcused) per semester, the parents or legal guardian will be
notified of the absences in writing.
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c. After the ninth (9th) absences (excused or unexcused) per semester, a letter will be sent to the parents or legal guardian notifying
them of the necessity for a doctor’s excuse or an excuse from an official agency in order for the make-up work to be provided. In
addition, this letter will notify parents of the consequences of any additional absences.
d. Prior to the fifteenth (15th) absence, the principal may review any absence caused by some insurmountable or extraordinary
situation or event that places an undue hardship on the student and notify the teachers that this student may make up all work.
e. After the fifteenth (15th) absence per semester, no make-up work will be allowed. A parent/teacher conference should be scheduled
before the student returns to school.
f. After the fifteenth (15th) absence per semester, the student’s parent or legal guardian can appeal to the school’s attendance review
committee for permission to make up missed work. Pending approval of the appeal and the submission of a doctor’s excuse, absences
after the fifteenth (15th) may be entered as an excused absence in the AS400 system.
C. MAKE-UP WORK (ALL LEVELS)
Students will be allotted 5 school days to complete assignments following an excused absence; the 5-day period begins the day the
student returns to school. However, the teacher and/or principal may grant additional time for the make-up work if the individual
situation warrants that action.
1. All students (Elementary, Middle, and High): For excused absences (up to 15), the student is expected to request and make
up the work missed. Upon the student’s return, the teacher is responsible for providing the make-up assignments for all
excused absences.
2. During multi-day excused absences, students who are absent are expected to seek and work on make-up assignments, to
the extent medically appropriate and practical. To promote and maintain academic progress during such absences, principals
will ensure that teachers provide make-up assignments upon parental or student request. As a general rule, make-up
assignments will be provided no later than 24 hours following a parental or student request.
3. Unexcused Absence: Students with an unexcused absence will receive a grade of 0 (zero) for any classwork/test assignment
by the teacher on the day of the absence.
D. TARDINESS/EARLY CHECKOUT
Elementary: The parents or legal guardian will be notified when a student accumulates five (5) unexcused early checkouts and/or late
arrivals within a semester. When the number of early checkouts and/or late arrivals reaches seven (7) within a semester, the parents
will be requested in writing to have a conference with the principal or his/her designee.
BOOK FEES
There is no fee for the use of library books or textbooks. However, students are responsible for exercising use of care in the use of all
library and textbooks loaned to them. FS 1006.28(3) (b) The school shall collect from each student or the student's parent the purchase
price of any instructional material the student has lost, destroyed, or unnecessarily damaged and to report and transmit the money
collected to the district school superintendent. The failure to collect such sum upon reasonable effort by the school principal may
result in the suspension of the student from participation in extracurricular activities or satisfaction of the debt by the student through
community service activities at the school site as determined by the school principal, pursuant to policies adopted by district school
board rule.
BULLYING AND HARASSMENT PROHIBITION
The Okaloosa County School District is committed to encouraging and assisting each student in developing his/her individual talents.
In order to accomplish these purposes, it is necessary that the school climate be free of disruptions that interfere with teaching and
learning activities. All students and employees are entitled to a safe, secure, and equitable environment free from harassment and
bullying of any kind.
Bullying or harassment will not be tolerated and shall be just cause for disciplinary action. This policy shall be interpreted and applied
consistently with all applicable State and Federal laws and the Board’s collective bargaining agreements. Conduct that constitutes
bullying or harassment, as defined herein, is prohibited.
The entire Bullying Policy can be found on the Okaloosa County School District website at www.okaloosaschools.com.
CAFETERIA
The price for student lunch will be $2.55 per day and adult lunches will be $3.75. It is encouraged to pre-pay for your child’s lunches
at (web site), however you may pay for your child’s lunch each day. Please send all pre-paid monies in a sealed envelope with the
name of your child/children, date, amount, grade, teacher’s name and if paid by check or cash. Please make checks payable to
Shalimar Elementary School. If your child is absent during the week, his pre-paid lunch may be used when he returns to school. Extra
milk is available for students at $ .65 per half-pint. The price of breakfast is $.1.80 per day and adult breakfasts will be $2.25. You
may also pre-pay for breakfast. Reduced breakfast = $.30 and reduced lunch = $.40. Free or reduced applications must be completed
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for each school year. (Information may be obtained in the front office as to the procedure and website.) It is the parents’ responsibility
to submit an application. Parents are reminded when applying for the free/reduced meals at the beginning of the school year, that until
the applications are approved, they will need to make sure their child pays for his/her lunch. .
Cafeteria Policies:
 We strive to maintain a positive lunchroom environment. Please talk to your child about manners and behavior in the
cafeteria. Students are expected to act like young ladies and young gentlemen while in the cafeteria. Cafeteria monitors will
supervise the cafeteria during lunch. If the cafeteria gets too loud during lunch, talking will be prohibited in the cafeteria until
order is well established. There will be a time-out table in the cafeteria for students having difficulty with lunchroom
behavior; talking will not be allowed while assigned to the time out table.
 Parents are welcomed to have lunch with their child on any day. The student(s) must be checked out, the parent must sign in
as a visitor and I.D. must be provided. Parents are not allowed to remove other students from their class unless they are the
other student’s checkout. A designated eating area is provided in the hallways and outside to eat lunch with your student(s).
 Soft drinks of any kind or bottled beverages (except water) may not be brought to school or on the bus.
CAMPUS TRAFFIC
It is essential that all persons who drive on our campus drive carefully. Understand that children often do the unexpected. Drive slowly
and with great caution. If you are parking, please park in designated areas only. Please do not park in grassy areas as you may damage
sprinklers. A traffic flow pattern has been implemented to reduce congestion. Parking in designated Handicapped spaces is prohibited
by law, violators will be prosecuted.
LOADING AND UNLOADING STUDENTS:
For the safety of your child, car riders must enter our campus by way of Eglin Parkway to load or unload students. The bus entrance
(off 12th Avenue) may not be used for personal vehicles during the school day. Parents who wish to escort their child into the school
building should enter the campus by way of Eglin Parkway and proceed to the front of the school to park in the designated parking
spaces only. Please caution your children to watch for buses when walking to and from school. If bus transportation is available, it is
suggested that the bus be used rather than car rider status. Car congestion is a reality and patience is required especially during
inclement weather.
CAR RIDERS SAFETY PROCEDURES: The two lanes of cars must merge into one lane before entering the ramp.
A.M. Drop Off
 Pull your car forward to the FAR END OF OUR RAMP and have your child ready to unload on the passenger side.
 Do not drive off until your child steps onto the sidewalk.
 If you need to park your car please park in the designated parking spaces.
 Arrive early to avoid traffic delays (Students arriving prior to 7:35 are to go directly to the cafeteria.)
P.M. Dismissal
 A car hanger with your child’s name and grade printed in large letters must be placed in the rear view mirror.
 Pull forward so cars can be loaded simultaneously.
 Children must remain on the sidewalk until your vehicle is completely stopped.
 Please watch for directions from a faculty or a staff member that is on duty.
 Load children from the right side of your vehicle only.
 Remain in your vehicle – your child may not load until your car is completely stopped.
 The car ramp is a NO PARKING zone.
 Please encourage your child not to loiter in the building, and to come directly to the car ramp at dismissal.
 If you park in the parking lot area, you must walk up the pick up your children.
CELEBRATIONS
All parties, celebrations, and other such events are coordinated and managed by the classroom teacher. Please contact the classroom
teacher regarding any such planned activities. Parents who do not wish for their child to participate in these activities should notify
the teacher early in the year. Parents should also take care to ensure the teacher is familiar with any food allergies. “Ballooning,
costuming, flower vases,” etc. are not permitted. Parties involving food should not be planned to supplant lunch and should be
scheduled 1 hour before or after the lunch period ends. No pizza parties allowed. If you wish your child to have a birthday celebration
during the school day, it should be coordinated with the teacher and scheduled for a break time in the class during the day and not held
in the lunchroom.
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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE NUMBER
It is of extreme importance for emergency and administrative reasons that every parent maintains an up-to-date address/telephone
number at the school office. Please notify the school immediately if you have an address/telephone number change during the year.
CHECKING STUDENTS OUT
If it is necessary for a student to leave school during the day, a parent or the parent’s authorized representative must come to the office
and sign the student out; students will not be released from the classroom. All authorized adults must show a picture I.D. and be listed
on the checkout card in order to check out a student. Office staff will follow check out procedures, which will minimize the
interruption to the classroom. Early check out is acceptable only for situations such as doctor/dental appointments and illness.
Students will not be allowed to be checked out between 2:00 p.m. and dismissal (2:17 p.m.) except for extreme emergencies. Please
review the Attendance Policy regarding unexcused removal of students before the official dismissal time.
DISTRICT POLICY STATES THAT NO CHANGES OF STUDENT’S REGULAR AFTERNOON DESTINATIONS CAN
BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. IT MUST BE IN WRITING VIA A NOTE OR A FAX TO THE SCHOOL.
CLASSROOM REASSIGNMENT
If a teacher change is requested, the following procedure must be taken:
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5.
An adequate adjustment period must be given for the student to adapt to his/her classmates and teacher (6 weeks is
recommended).
The classroom teacher should be made aware of areas of concern.
A conference must be held with the classroom teacher.
If a solution is not found following the parent/teacher conference, the principal will meet to determine where and if a
change in placement is feasible.
The principal or designee will inform the parent(s) of appropriate placement.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Each student will receive a copy of the Okaloosa County Schools Code of Student Conduct. Please review this information with your
child.
COMMUNICATION
We believe good communication is essential. There are several modes of communication offered by Shalimar:
 Bi-monthly school newsletter
 Website at www.okaloosa.k12.fl.us/shalimar LED sign
 Marquee sign
 Automated voice message that sends out important information.
 Parent Teacher Conferences
 Pinnacle Grades Online
 Student Planners (grades 3-5)
 Classroom Newsletters (by participating teachers)
 FB: Shalimar Elementary Events and School Spirit Page
CONFERENCES
School faculty and staff are available for individual conferences when appropriate. Often, simple notes or telephone messages are
sufficient. Parents who wish to meet with their child’s teacher should send a note to the teacher indicating their desire for a
conference. The teacher will then send a note home or telephone the parent(s) in order to schedule a convenient time for both parties
to meet, usually within 24 hours of request.
DAYCARE
Providers for Shalimar Elementary School (Busses provided to and from Shalimar Elementary)
Boys and Girls Club 850-862-1616
Child Care Network 850-862-0512
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Kids Discovery 850-301-9409
TLC 850-862-0018
Dimples Day Care 850-651-2868
DISCIPLINE PLAN
Office Referral
If deemed necessary, an attempt will be made to contact the parent the day of the referral. Often the contact is attempted later in the
afternoon following school dismissal. Parental input and suggestions to help prevent further referrals are welcomed and appreciated.
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After 3 consecutive infractions the student will receive an office referral
In class time out does not have to be served at moment of infraction
The following infractions can result in a student infraction report. Parents are notified of the infraction via the infraction report or a
phone call:
 Classroom disruption
 Defacing property
 Defiance / disrespect
 Disobedience
 Physical contact
 Profanity, inappropriate language or gestures
 Safety for self or others
 Stealing (minor)
The following will result in an immediate office referral (probable suspension):
 Fighting
 Physical, verbal, or emotional harassment
 Stealing (major)
Student Training Program
 If the number of incidents is excessive or the nature of the incident is considered severe, suspension may be selected as an
appropriate course of action. A formal letter outlining the nature of the incident and the specifics of the suspension will be
handed to the parent or mailed home. If suspension occurs, a conference must be scheduled between the parent, the student,
and the principal before a student may return to the classroom.
DRESS CODE
Shalimar Dolphins dress for success!
The wearing of garments appropriate for school is expected. Failure of any student to dress appropriately will be brought to the
attention of administration. Extreme styles in dress, hairstyle, makeup, or jewelry are not in good taste and should be discouraged. It
is important that parents carefully review the following guidelines so that clothing purchased for school is acceptable:
A. Grades K-5
1. Clothing should be neat and clean.
2. Footwear with ankle support is desired for sanitary and safety reasons.
3. No hats are to be worn inside the building.
4. Garments bearing inappropriate slogans or pictures are not permitted (i.e., alcohol, drugs, racial remarks, or sexual
connotations).
5. No baggy or sagging pants
B. Grades 4-5
6. Hairstyle must not interfere with vision.
7. Tank tops and similar shirts or blouses, when worn without another top are not permitted.
8. The midriff must be covered, pants may not be pulled down on the hips, and undergarments must not show at any time.
9. Shorts should reach a mid-thigh length.
10. Hoop jewelry or other adornments that pose a safety problem should not be worn.
11. Extremes in dress that disrupt the learning environment will not be allowed.
FAMILY RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT
This act was revised and became a Federal Law in November 1974. The intent of this law is to protect the accuracy and privacy of
student educational records. These records include files, documents, and other materials containing information directly related to
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your child. Without your prior consent, only you and authorized individuals having legitimate educational interests will have access
to your student’s educational records. You have the right to review all records. Please contact the school Guidance Counselor with
your notification request.
FIELD TRIPS
Your child’s teacher will schedule educational field trips periodically. A parent or guardian for a child to participate in field trips must
sign field trip permission forms. Permission slips for out of county field trips must be notarized. Parents must complete a Volunteer
form 24 hours before the field trip in order to go on the field trip. There are notaries in the office if you would like to access this
service. If you pay for your child to attend a field trip and your child does not attend due to disciplinary actions, there will be no
refunds for the cost of the field trip. The cost of field trips includes the cost of the bus and reservations.
GIFTED SERVICES
Shalimar’s gifted students will be served on our school site.
HEAD LICE
Okaloosa County School Health /Procedure for Assessment and Treatment of Lice/Nits
Purpose: This procedure establishes guidelines for the assessment and treatment of lice in the school environment.
Procedure: School Board Policy 4-42:
(A) Students in Okaloosa County School District schools may be checked for head lice by the school clinic staff. School officials will
take the following steps when a student is identified with head lice:
(1) Parents or Guardians will be called to transport the student home. Students are not permitted to ride the bus when head lice are
identified.
(2) School clinic staff will give parents written procedures on the treatment of head lice.
(3) After treatment, parents will bring the student back to the clinic with documentation that the head lice was treated and the clinic
staff will check that the student is free of lice and/or live nits.
(4) Students will be allowed to return to class once the school has been provided with documentation that head lice are being treated
and the student has been checked by clinic staff.
(5) The student will be referred to the school officials upon the third incident of lice or live nits in a single semester. Upon referral, the
school officials may refer the student to other available resources.
Statutory Authority: Section 1001.41(23); 1012.28, Florida Statutes
Laws Implemented: Section 1001.42(6), Florida Statutes
Adopted: August 13, 2007
Revised: March 28, 2011
INTERNET ACCESS
The Internet provides exciting opportunities to expand learning for students and educators. However, with this opportunity comes the
responsibility for appropriate use; therefore, the School Board of Okaloosa County has adopted an Internet Acceptable Use Policy that
covers policy and procedural guidelines for accessing and using the Internet in Okaloosa County Schools. In order to use the Internet,
each student and their legal guardian must read the Internet Acceptable Use Policy and sign the attached Internet Responsibility
Contract (MIS 5251 Rev. 6/2006).
LOST AND FOUND
All items found will be returned to the office or placed in the designated lost and found area. Please label all of your student’s
belongings. Items not claimed during the school year will be donated to a charitable organization.
MEDIA CENTER
Students and Parents are encouraged to use the school library. The Shalimar Media Center is available to all parents, students, and
teachers throughout the day, and also before and after school. First through fifth grade students come to the Media Center for
orientation during the second full week of school and then may check out books.
Second through fifth grade students may check out two books and a reference book if needed. Kindergarten and first grade students
may check out one book at a time until they start the Accelerated Reader program. At that time students may check out one book on
their AR level and one “fun” book for parents to continue reading to them. All books (except overnight reference) may be checked out
for a one-week period and renewed if needed. Parents are also welcome to come and check out books.
ACCELERATED READER PROGRAM (AR)
The Accelerated Reader Program, available to students in grades K-5, is a supplemental computerized reading management program
that improves fluency as it relates to reading comprehension skills. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves with guided
selections of reading materials. Progress displays and reward incentives are used to encourage performance excellence.
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MEDICAL
State law requires that any child absent due to a communicable disease must have a doctor's certificate before returning to school. You
may contact the school for a list of the communicable diseases.
SCHOOL CLINIC:
The purpose of the School Clinic is to provide care for a student who becomes ill or injured at school and for dispensing of medicines.
There are no facilities available to keep sick or injured children for an extended period of time. Parents will be called to pick up a sick
child.
Children with communicable diseases will be sent home and should have a doctor's certificate or certificate of clear health from the
health department to re-enter (State Health Laws).
Telephone numbers to call in case a child gets sick or injured while at school are imperative. If parents plan on being out of town or
can’t be easily reached, it is advised to leave a Power Of Attorney with a reliable contact person and also a copy sent to the school. In
case of serious accidents, an emergency vehicle will be called to transport the injured to the hospital.
If your child has any type of medical problem, please alert us as soon as possible as it will help us to better care for your child.
Problems such as allergies, diabetes, seizures, etc. should be brought to our attention.
MEDICATIONS
In order for medicine to be administered at the school, parent permission and instructions must be obtained. The parent, legal
guardian for the child shall file with the school principal’s designee a signed permission form authorizing the school to assist in the
administration of medication. The medication prescribed for the student must come in the original container.
The school's designee will record each dosage given on the Individual Medication Administration Log. If your child is on daily
medication and you forget to give him/her the early morning dosage, you will need to come to the school and administer the
medication and sign a new form giving us permission to give the next dosage at a time later than the time stated on his/her medication
form. Parent’s phone calls are not acceptable to change the dosage or time of dosage. Changes in the dosage or the times medication is
administered will require a physician's written permission. The first dosage of any new medication shall not be administered during
school hours due to the possibility of an allergic reaction.
Non-prescription medication must be brought to school, by a parent, in an original, unopened container and shall be labeled with the
student's name. A permission form for the administration of medication must be completed, signed, dated, and kept on file. Each
administration will be recorded on the Individual Medication Administration Log whenever given. No medication, including cough
drops, will be administered without permission.
NO MEDICATION CAN BE FURNISHED BY THE SCHOOL.
Under no circumstances are children to have any kind of medication in their possession while at school or on the school bus, including
inhalers, eppipens or cough drops.
The Okaloosa County Health Department provides Medication Administration Forms that will be used in the Clinic for all students
and each parent will be required to come into the school to fill out this form when they hand carry medication to the Health Tech.
MUSIC EDUCATION
Music education is an essential part of the total learning experience of the child. The Okaloosa County music curriculum provides a
program based upon mastery of specific objectives (melody, rhythm, harmony, etc.). At each grade level, activities are planned which
emphasize skill development and participation in class activities. Since our American musical heritage includes religious works and
patriotic material, examples of these will be used during music classes. Music celebrating various holidays (Winter Concert,
Valentine’s Day, etc.) is also used during the year to stimulate student interest. If you object to your child’s participation in music of
this nature, please send the music teacher a brief note to request exemption from the music program.
NEWSLETTERS
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Twice a month, students will bring home a newsletter to help keep parents informed of various activities at school. The
newsletter lists activities, events and special functions of Shalimar Elementary. The newsletter can also be found on the
school web site at www.okaloosaschools.com/shalimar or on our FB page: Shalimar Elementary Events and School Spirit.
PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)
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The PTO is an organization consisting of parents and teachers working for the improvement of education for all students.
Meetings, informative programs, and fund raising activities are held throughout the year. All parents are encouraged to
participate and support our school.
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The goal of your Shalimar Elementary PTO is to enhance our children’s learning experience through united efforts between
all of our parents, teachers and administration.
We welcome and encourage participation in all events. Please remember fundraising events are necessary in order for us
to provide family social gatherings, enrich educational elements at Shalimar Elementary and provide for our teachers and
staff.
Shalimar’s Parent Teacher Organization has been very supportive over the years. Our school has many extras that enhance
the learning process and experiences for our children.
Membership consists of all parents/guardians, teachers, and volunteers interested in supporting activities at Shalimar
Elementary. All parents are encouraged to be active participants in the Shalimar PTO. The support given our school both
morally and financially is much appreciated. Children respond more positively in an atmosphere where they are
comfortable and having active parents at school accomplishes this as well. Being involved benefits everyone.
Each teacher has a PTO Room Representative. Room representatives are our strength and provide a link between parents
and their child’s teacher. If you are interested, contact your child’s teacher.
PTO meetings will be on a monthly basis.
PERSONAL PROPERTY
Shalimar Elementary School is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Parents are urged to label students personal items such as
jackets, sweaters and lunch boxes with the child’s name (first and last) and room number. The wearing of expensive jewelry and
bringing more money than is needed for the day is discouraged. A lost and found is located near the Health Tech’s office. Children are
not allowed to bring toys from home. If cell phones are brought to school they must be turned off, not used during the school day and
should be kept in the child’s backpack so they are not visible. (Per Okaloosa County School Board Policy.)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The Physical Education (PE) program is geared toward the development of physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially fit students.
Physical education activities have been selected to meet those goals. Participation in all activities is required unless a student has a
medical reason for exclusion, which should be documented through a doctor’s note or a parent’s statement. A parent note will be
honored up to 3 consecutive days. After 3 consecutive days, a physician’s note is required stating the length of time the student
should be excused as well as contain a recommendation for activities. A student returning to school from absence due to severe illness
or injury will be admitted as a convalescent under observation of the teacher and should stay in the modified program until a physician
states that the student is ready to participate in the regular program. A note from the parent will excuse the student temporarily from
physical education after absence due to brief illness. Please inform PE teachers of any ongoing health problems.
Communication is maintained with weather officials to determine the appropriateness of weather for outside activities. During hot or
inclement weather, alternate activities are made available to students and are provided in a classroom setting.
** Closed toed shoes are required for all PE classes** All students needs to bring tennis shoes to change into during PE class.
PROGRAM EXEMPTION
Parents who feel their child should be exempt from a school function or program may submit their request in writing to the office.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
A (PMP) Progress Monitoring Plan will be developed for any student experiencing difficulty in Reading and/or Mathematics.
If the student’s PMP in reading (K-5) and/or mathematics (3-5) is not effectively remediating the deficiency at the end of the first
semester, a letter communicating the recommendation of possible retention will be sent to the parent(s). Intensive remediation will be
continued. A final placement determination will be made by the MTSS Committee at the end of the year after gathering input from
the principal and teacher(s) who have consulted with the parent(s) and in consideration with FSA test scores (3-5), as per the District’s
Pupil Progression Plan (PPP).
 The teacher must document the possibility of retention of a student to the principal and to the parent at the end of the first
semester. A planned program of remediation shall provide the student with enhancement or improvement of any basic skills
in which the student is deficient and shall assist the student in moving from one grade to another.
 The school’s Guidance and Placement Committee (MTSS) will make its recommendation for retention or promotion, based
upon the PPP.
 The principal shall make his/her recommendation in writing to parents. In good cause or administratively promoted cases
there also will be a district review.
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In the case of a transfer student, the PPP will be followed as much as possible.
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It is the responsibility of the principal to have the final decision regarding grade placement of individual students not meeting
the overall promotion requirements. The principal’s decision for placement should be made after gathering input from the
teacher who has consulted with the parents(s), and the school’s Guidance and Placement (MTSS) Committee, as well as
conducting a review of evaluation data.
SAFETY
Items such as guns, knives, sharp pointed objects, slingshots, and any type of explosives are forbidden on school buses or school
premises. Possession of any of these items is basis for suspension. The following items are not allowed at school: Any type toy gun,
fireworks, head phones, skateboards, video games, animals/pets, any toy (including dolls), or trading cards.
SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL (SAC)
The School Advisory Council (SAC) consists of faculty, staff, parents, and business partners from our community
.
There is School Advisory Council in each District school. Florida law requires the School Board to establish a SAC in every school.
The three main objectives are:
1. To serve in an advisory capacity to the school principal
2. Help in the development of the education program
3. Aid in the preparation and evaluation of School Performance Plan
The Shalimar SAC accomplishes these goals through the work of the following committees: Budget, Child Focus, Needs Assessment,
Website, Agenda/Procedure and Safety.
The SAC meets as a group to monitor the implementation of the School Improvement Plan, which is based on 8 Florida state goals:
1. Communities and schools collaborate to prepare children and families for children’s success in school.
2. Students graduated and are prepared to enter the work force and post-secondary education.
3. Students successfully compete at the highest levels nationally and internationally and are prepared to make well-reasoned,
thoughtful and healthy lifelong decision.
4. School Boards provide a learning environment conducive to teaching and learning that includes sequential instruction in
mathematics. Reading, writing, and the social sciences and appropriate educational materials, equipment and pupil-teacher
ratio.
5. Communities provide an environment that is drug free and protect students’ health, safety, and civil rights.
6. The schools, districts, and state ensure professional teachers and staff.
7. Adult Floridians are literate and have the knowledge and skills needed to compete in a global economy and exercise the
rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
8. Communities, school boards, and schools provide opportunities for involving parents and guardians as active partners in
achieving school improvement and education accountability.
Peers elect the members of the SAC; teachers elect teachers, educational support employees elect educational support employees and
parents elect parents. The Principal is an integral part of the SAC committee. There is a minimum of 17 members with a cap of 27
members. Anyone interested in being a member of SAC please contact administration. A new member vote will be held in
September. *The Shalimar SAC meetings will be scheduled at the beginning of each school year by the SAC President and the
Principal. There will be a minimum of 4 meetings per year. Meetings subject to change depending on council vote.
SCHOOL PICTURES
Individual school pictures are scheduled to be taken in the fall and spring. Class pictures are also taken during the school year.
STUDENT INSURANCE
An optional school insurance plan is available to students at a nominal cost. Forms are sent home during the first week of school. If
you do not receive a form, contact the front office for an application.
STUDENT PROGRESS
REPORT CARDS/INTERIM REPORTS:
Okaloosa District School’s elementary and secondary schools report grades at nine (9) week periods. However, a parent may keep up
with their child’s grades by using grades on-line. Please see your child’s teacher for log on and password. A link is on our website at:
www.okaloosaschools.com/shalimar.
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Student promotion and retention is based on criteria outlined in the Okaloosa County Pupil Progression Plan.
HONOR ROLL:
The Honor Roll is designed to recognize students in grades 1-5 who excel in all areas of school performance.
Criteria for Honor Roll status is as follows:
1.
All "A" Grades - "A" Honor Roll
2.
All "B" or better Grades - "A-B" Honor Roll
3.
Perfect Attendance
Students are recognized quarterly after report cards are issued. An end of the year honor’s assembly is held for each grade level the
last week of school recognizing yearly honors.
TELEPHONE
Students are permitted to use the school telephone for emergencies and only with permission. Urgent messages from the home will be
relayed to students via the front office.
TRANSPORTATION
BUSES:
The note must have the Office Staff’s signature before the student can be allowed to change a bus.
INSTRUCTION FOR RIDING SCHOOL BUSES
1.
STAND OFF ROADWAY WHILE WAITING FOR THE BUS.
2.
PUPILS MUST BE ON TIME: BUS WILL NOT WAIT FOR THOSE WHO ARE TARDY.
3.
PUPILS MUST BOARD AND LEAVE THE BUS AT THEIR REGULAR STOP, (UNLESS BY WRITTEN PERMISSION
OF PARENT AND PRINCIPAL).
4.
WALK 10 FEET IN FRONT OF THE BUS. WAIT FOR DRIVER'S SIGNAL BEFORE CROSSING ROAD.
5.
THE DRIVER IS IN FULL CHARGE OF BUS PUPILS. PUPILS MUST OBEY DRIVER.
6.
THE DRIVER HAS THE RIGHT TO ASSIGN SEATS. PUPILS MUST SIT 3 TO A SEAT FROM WINDOW TO AISLE.
7.
STAY IN YOUR SEAT AT ALL TIMES WHEN BUS IS MOVING.
8.
KEEP ARMS AND HEADS INSIDE WINDOW. NO OBJECTS SHALL BE THROWN FROM WINDOWS OR AT BUS.
9.
UNNECESSARY CONVERSATION WITH THE DRIVER IS DANGEROUS.
10.
OTHER THAN ORDINARY CONVERSATION, CLASSROOM CONDUCT IS TO BE OBSERVED.
11.
ABSOLUTE SILENCE IS REQUIRED AT ALL RAILROAD CROSSINGS.
12.
NO EATING, DRINKING OR USE OF TOBACCO IS ALLOWED ON BUS.
13.
NO ANIMALS (DEAD OR ALIVE), GLASS OR GLASS CONTAINERS, SHARP OBJECTS, BALL BATS, CUTTING
INSTRUMENTS, BATONS, AND DRUMSTICKS WILL BE ALLOWED ON BUS WITHOUT PRIOR PERMISSION OF
DRIVER.
14.
LARGE OBJECTS INCLUDING BAND INSTRUMENTS THAT INTERFERE WITH SEATING AND SAFETY OF
OTHER STUDENTS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED ON BUS.
15.
RIDING THE BUS IS A PRIVILEGE. SERIOUS OR REPEATED MISCONDUCT MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION
FROM THE BUS
In order for a student to ride a different bus to or from school, parents must send a note to the office requesting such.
The note must have the Office Staff’s signature before the student can be allowed to change a bus.
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VISITORS
All visitors are required to report to the school office upon arrival at school, including take in or dismissal times.
Parents are encouraged and welcomed to visit the school; however, they must first come through the front office and sign in
as a visitor, receiving a visitor’s pass. Office personnel will be happy to send for your child, deliver messages, etc. This
policy is for the protection of the students and to avoid disruption of classes.
Student Visitors -Student visitors and small children are not permitted to visit the school during class hours.
Parent Visitors -Parents are welcome, but arrangements for in-class visitations should be made 24 hours in advance with the
classroom teacher and administration.
Parent visitations are only intended for those classrooms in which their child is enrolled.
Parents are welcomed to have lunch with their child on any day. The student(s) must be checked out, the parent must sign in
as a visitor and I.D. must be provided. Parents are not allowed to remove other students from their class unless they are the
other student’s checkout. A designated eating area is provided in the hallways and outside to eat lunch with your student(s).
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VOLUNTEERS
A key philosophy of Shalimar Elementary School is that community involvement is important. We feel many people can help the
students in our school. Volunteers work as tutors, mentors, youth motivators, classroom assistants, computer assistants, and media
center assistants, room parents, PTO and SAC volunteers. The staff at Shalimar Elementary School urges you to join us in providing
the best quality educational programs possible for our students. We do request that you make babysitting arrangements for pre-school
age children during your volunteer time at the school. Volunteers must sign in at the front office and receive a nametag to wear while
on campus.
VOLUNTEER AFFIDAVIT
The use of volunteers in our school program is encouraged. If you wish to volunteer please request an application in the office. For
the protection of our students, the Okaloosa County School District requests every school volunteer complete a Volunteer Affidavit
form (MIS 1419 Rev. 10/08). A new Volunteer Affidavit form must be completed each year! Many students function better when
their parents are not present in the classroom. Should this apply to you, you may wish to volunteer in another classroom or some other
area. We have many areas to consider. We appreciate your help.
WITHDRAWS
When it becomes necessary to withdraw a student from our school, parents should notify the front office to request a withdrawal.
Withdrawal paperwork, stating the number of days of attendance, academic progress, report cards, and clearance of financial
obligation, is given to the student. If you are moving out of county, your child’s school records will be prepared for you to hand carry
to the next school, but may only be picked up by parents or guardian. Notification of withdrawal should be made at least three (3)
days in advance, if possible.
ZONING WAIVERS
Zoning waivers must be approved by the receiving principal each year. At any time there is not space available or provisions of the
waiver are not being honored, the zoning waiver may be revoked.
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