Coatesville Area School District
`
Parent/Student
Handbook
2014 - 2015
1
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LOCATIONS AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Caln Elementary School
3609 E. Lincoln Highway
Thorndale, PA 19372
Phone: (610) 383-3760
Mary Jean Wilson-Stenz, Principal
East Fallowfield Elementary School
2254 Strasburg Road
Coatesville, PA 19320
Phone: (610) 383-3765
Wayne Wallace, Principal
Friendship Elementary School
296 Reeceville, Road
Coatesville, PA 119320
(610) 383-3770
Brad Bentman, Principal
King's Highway Elementary School
841 West King's Highway
Coatesville, PA 19320
Phone: (610) 383-3775
Stevan LeFever, Principal
Rainbow Elementary School
1113 West Lincoln Highway
Coatesville, PA 19320
Phone: (610) 383-3780
Clifford Maloney, Principal
Sean McDevitt, Assistant Principal
Reeceville Elementary School
248 Reeceville Road
Coatesville, PA 19320
Phone: (610) 383-3785
Catherine Van Vooren, Principal
2
CIVIL RIGHTS STATEMENT
Coatesville Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not
discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex and handicap in its activities,
programs, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504.
For information regarding civil rights, grievances procedures, or services, activities, and facilities
that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons, contact Mr. Jason Palaia, Director of
Elementary Education & Curriculum Instruction 3 – 5 & Special Education K – 5, 545 East Lincoln
Highway, Coatesville, PA 19320 (610-466-2400).
Coatesville Area School District es una institucion de educacion y no discriminara por causa de raza,
color, origen nacional, sexo o invalidismo en sus actividades, programas o practicas de empleo como
se requiere en "Title VI", "Title IX" y "Section 504".
Para obtener informacion con respecto a derechos civiles, procedimientos para anotar quejas,
servicios, actividades y facilidades que son accesibles y utilizables por las personas invalidas,
pongase en contacto con: Mr. Jason Palaia, Director of Elementary Education & Curriculum
Instruction 3 – 5 & Special Education K – 5, 545 East Lincoln Highway, Coatesville, PA 19320
(610-466-2400).
3
COATESVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Parent/Student Handbook
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this handbook is to assist parents and students to experience a productive
and enjoyable school year.
Parents and students are an important and valuable asset to our educational community.
Your cooperative action will enhance the educational climate and benefits for all children.
We ask you to please review the policies, handbooks and procedures with your children. If
you have further questions that are not answered in this handbook, please contact the
building Principal.
The cooperation you provide as parents/guardians is critical to the academic success of
your student(s).
Thank you for your support.
Wishing you a successful school year!
Dr. Cathy Taschner
Superintendent of Schools
4
SCHOOL DAY
Schools
Caln, Friendship, Reeceville
East Fallowfield, King’s Highway, Rainbow
Start Time
8:40
9:15
End Time
2:55
3:30
Act 80 Days, Professional Development Days and Holidays
The Coatesville Area School District has scheduled in- service days that will provide
continued professional development to all staff.
The following schedule is provided for your convenience and can also be found on the
2014-2015 district school year calendar.
No School Schedule
2014 - 2015
Students will not have school on the following days – please plan accordingly.
August 29, 2014
September 1, 2014
November 3, 2014
November 4, 2014
November 26 - 28, 2014
December 22 - January 2
No School
No School – Labor Day
No School – Conferences
No School – Election Day
No School – Thanksgiving Break
No School – Winter Break
No School – Martin Luther King
Day
No School – President’s Day
No School – Conferences
No School - Spring Break
No School
No School – Memorial Day
January 19, 2015
February 16, 2015
April 1, 2015
April 2 – 6, 2015
May 22, 2015
May 25, 2015
5
Early Dismissal Dates
2014 - 2015
Students will be dismissed at 12:15 on the following dates – please plan accordingly
September 17, 2014
October 8, 2014
November 25, 2014
December 10, 2014
January 16, 2015
February 13, 2015
6
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
Changes in the school's hours or closings due to inclement weather or other emergencies
(no water, heating failure, lack of electricity, etc.) are announced over the local television
stations and KYW News Radio (1060). Our district has been assigned the code number
852. While announcements over the Philadelphia stations may use our code, this
information can usually be viewed in the message line across the bottom of the screen.
Home procedures for handling emergency school closings should be arranged by each
family.
The Coatesville Area School District will also notify all parents through the Blackboard
Connect Inc./NTI automated calling system. The NTI system enables the CASD
administration to quickly and reliably contact parents via phone or email.
During inclement weather, the school receives many telephone calls from parents
regarding emergency school closings which make it difficult for the school to receive
important emergency calls. If you have access to TV or radio, please use this media for
information. Throughout the year, please make certain that your child’s school emergency
information is kept up to date. Please note the information below to help you in preparing
for late openings or closings.
TWO HOUR DELAYSTART TIMES
…Buses will be on a two hour delay as well
Caln, Friendship, Reeceville: 10:40 AM
East Fallowfield, King’s Highway, Rainbow: 11:15 AM
SPECIAL NOTES
* When school is delayed by two hours, students must not be dropped off before the
announced opening time in order to avoid being stranded at school if the delayed opening
changes to a school closing. There will be no supervision for children that arrive early.
All elementary after-school activities are canceled if schools are closed early or canceled
due to inclement weather or building utility problems.
7
SCHOOL EMERGENCY CLOSING PLAN
The school realizes that an unexplained early dismissal can be an inconvenience for
parents and a frustrating time for students. To insure that the best possible provisions are
made for students in the event that school would have to be closed early, parents are
required to complete the “Emergency School Closing Plan” form and send it to school.
Please discuss that plan with your children. Students should be told what they are to do, if
at ANY time they are not able to get into the house.
In the event that an emergency situation arises that will necessitate an early school
dismissal, the school will attempt to notify parents of the dismissal via the District’s
Blackboard Connect Inc./NTI Message System. The NTI mass communication system
enables the CASD administration to quickly and reliably contact parents via phone or
email. All emergency school closings and/or early dismissals will also be announced on
the local television stations.
ATTENDANCE
A day of learning is missed when a student is absent from school. Since each day's
learning builds on previous information, it is very critical that a student attend school
regularly. Please read carefully the Coatesville Area School District Attendance
Policy for specifics regarding absence, tardiness, excuses, etc.
Parents are encouraged not to schedule an appointment with the dentist or physician
during the school day. When an emergency occurs, a note on the day of an appointment
must be brought to the teacher.
Please notify the school office if your phone number has changed since last year or if it is
changed at anytime during the school year.
WITHDRAWING STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL
If you are moving and are withdrawing your child from school, please come to the school a
few days prior to the withdrawal date. This will ensure ample time to complete necessary
withdrawal paperwork and will allow our office staff to forward your child's records to the
new school in a timely fashion.
8
BUS SERVICE
Students are assigned to ride school buses that will pick them up and drop them off in
close proximity to their homes. It is recommended that students be at their bus stop five
minutes before the scheduled stop time. Students are not allowed to ride a bus other than
their assigned bus except in emergencies which will require approval of the principal.
Since school bus transportation is a privilege, students must behave in a safe, controlled
manner at all times. Parents are responsible for behavior at the bus stop. (PLEASE
READ CAREFULLY THE COATESVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT CODE OF
CONDUCT FOR STUDENTS RIDING THE BUSES). Parents must never board the bus
without prior authorization.
Large Objects Transported on School Buses:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation mandates in Title 67, Chapter 171, that the
interior of a school bus must be free of objects which could cause injury. Objects must be
secured, and the aisles and emergency exits cannot be blocked. The following must be
adhered to at all times:
Large band instruments or school projects are not permitted on the bus unless they can be
held on the pupil's lap.
Items may not be placed under seats; they become projectiles upon impact.
Nothing can be carried on the bus that will endanger the other students (i.e., glass objects,
hockey sticks, ice skates, large metal objects, fire arms, etc.,) or items that impede the
driver’s fields of vision.
Animals are not permitted on the bus.
Nothing can be placed in the driver’s compartment, doorway or aisle. In case of an
accident, students must be able to exit out of windows and doors.
9
Procedures and Conditions for Requesting Alternate Bus Assignment for
Babysitting Purposes
In order to have students transported to an alternate site for babysitting purposes, it is necessary
to complete and submit to the school office the Request for Alternate Bus Assignment due to
Babysitting Arrangements application. This application must be submitted a minimum of one
week prior to when transportation is requested to start.
Approval of the request is predicated on the signature and approval of the building principal and
the Supervisor of Transportation. The request will be granted when both the principal and the
Supervisor of Transportation are in agreement and if the conditions listed below are followed and
agreed to by the parent/guardian:
1. Same Bus
The student must ride the same bus in the morning and in the afternoon, five (5) days
per week. Example: a student may not be picked up at his home by Bus 11 and taken to
a sitter on Bus 12. Pick-up is at either the student’s home or the location of the
babysitter/childcare provider-not both. Emergency situations will be handled on an
individual basis.
2. Existing Bus Route
The location of the babysitter/childcare provider must be on an existing bus route and, if
possible, close to an existing bus stop. There will be no re-routing of a bus to
accommodate a babysitting/childcare request.
3. Space Availability
The assignment of a student to an alternate bus is contingent on space availability.
Should a bus to which students have been assigned for alternate transportation becomes
overloaded, students will be removed in the reverse order of being assigned to the bus
and will be reassigned to their original (home) bus assignment. A one week notice will be
given.
4. Same Attendance Area
A student may not travel outside their attendance area to go to a babysitter/childcare
provider and receive alternate transportation services. Even though some of the buses
may cross attendance boundaries, student will not be eligible for alternate transportation
if it is outside their assigned attendance area.
5. Emergency Closings
If the babysitter/childcare provider’s facility is closed due to an emergency or inclement
weather, parents are responsible for providing transportation to and from school.
Students may not use their home school assignment in the event of an emergency. If
the facility closes early, parents must pick up their child(ren) at the regular school’s
dismissal time.
6. Yearly Request
The request for alternate transportation must be for the entire school year. If you change
a babysitter/childcare provider during the school year, you must submit another request
for consideration. Up to two (2) changes may be requested after the initial request. If
subsequent requests are denied, parents must transport their child(ren) to school or the
child(ren) must ride transportation provided from their home address.
Questions concerning bus stops or service should be addressed in writing to the Supervisor of
Transportation, Coatesville Area School District, and 545 East Lincoln Highway, Coatesville,
PA 19320
10
OUTDOOR RECESS
Recess has important educational and developmental implications. It promotes play
which, in turn, enhances creativity, improves one’s ability to cope with stress, and
teaches children how to cooperate with others. Recess is one of the few times during
the school day when children interact with their peers on their own terms with minimal
adult intervention.
The school year provides a safe, supervised and challenging environment in which
youngsters can play. Too often, this is the only opportunity that some children have to
safely enjoy and explore the outdoors. As such, children need to be allowed to engage
in outdoor activities during the school day. They have a natural enthusiasm for playing
outdoors, and this enthusiasm needs to be supported in all seasons, including winter.
The human body is remarkably tolerant of the cold. The two major threats - hypothermia
(when the body temperature dips below 94 degrees) and frostbite (freezing of the skin) are not risk factors in even sub-zero weather as long as the individual is properly
dressed for the activity. Even medically challenged students, such as asthmatics and
diabetics are fully capable of participating in outdoor activities.
The Coatesville Area School District physician and the school nurses recognize the
benefits of recess periods and consider them an integral part of the school day.
Additionally, opportunities for outdoor play periods during the winter months are
encouraged and supported for all students provided the parents have dressed their
children appropriately for the weather. Only a written order from a licensed physician is
deemed an acceptable excuse for a child to be denied the opportunity to participate in
outdoor recess. Those children who are not well enough to be outside for a play period,
in all likelihood, are not well enough to be in school. For their own sake, as well as that
of their classmates, these students should remain at home until such a time they are
well enough to participate in all school activities, including recess.
STUDENT INFORMATION FORMS
In case of a medical emergency due to illness or accident, it is necessary that the school
have a fully completed Emergency Procedure Card on file. Updated information for
your child's permanent record folder and bus transportation card is also needed. Please
submit a completed Pupil Information Update form. It is the responsibility of the
parent/guardian to notify the school office of any information changes in a student
address, phone number or guardianship throughout the year.
11
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
The following immunizations are required as a condition of attendance at school in the
state of Pennsylvania: Children ENTERING SCHOOL (at K or Grade 1), in
2014 – 2015 need the following immunizations:





4 doses of diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP) –one dose should be after the
child’s 4th birthday
3 doses of polio
3 doses of hepatitis B
2 doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
1 dose of varicella (chicken pox)
Failure to provide proper documentation of immunization will result in exclusion from
school. These regulations were amended in 1997 and pertain to all students entering
school for the first time. Whenever your child receives an immunization you should send
documentation to the school nurse so your child’s health record can be updated.
Explanation of Health Services
The following health services are provided to every student in the Coatesville Area
School District in compliance with Pennsylvania State Law:
Every year every student:
Grades K, 1, 2, 3, 7 and 11
Grades 1, 3 and 7
Grades 1, 7 and 11
Grades K and 9
Grades 6 and 7
Height, weight, vision screening
Hearing screening
Dental - by school/family dentist
Physical - by school/family doctor
TB Tine Test - by school nurse/family doctor
Scoliosis screening
12
SCHOOL HEALTH PROGRAM
The challenge and rewards of school are best utilized and enjoyed by a healthy child.
The school nurse/health aide is available for emergency situations, dispensing
prescribed medications, required screenings and health instructions.
Sometimes parents may not be sure just when their child should not go to school.
Below are some symptoms that may mean your child is sick. Take no chances. Keep
your child home when he/she has:
FEVER, CHILLS
RUNNING OR INFLAMED EYES AND/OR NOSE
SKIN RASH
ABDOMINAL PAIN
VOMITING
DIARRHEA
SORE THROAT
ENLARGED GLANDS
A child should remain at home at least twenty-four hours without fever and vomiting
following an illness.
By following these guidelines you will protect not only the health of your child, but the
health of his classmates as well.
Also, note that your child will not be permitted to attend school if he/she is suffering from
Pink Eye, Head or Body Lice, Impetigo, Ringworm, Scabies, Unusual Skin Rash, Sore
Throat and Fever, and is not being treated by a physician.
All prescribed medication to be taken at school must be accompanied by a Consent Form
For Prescription Medication (two copies attached to this handbook), signed by the
parent or guardian, and stating the name of the medication and dosage to be
administered. Medication must be in the original prescription container. Additional forms
may be secured from the office as needed. All medication must be housed and
dispensed from the nurse’s office.
Students may have the opportunity to participate in a fluoride mouth-rinsing program. A
permission form will be sent home prior to this program.
Students are expected to go out on the playground for physical education and at the
noon recess time. An excuse from the doctor is necessary for a student to be
excused from participation in physical education class and/or outside recess.
If at any time you have any questions about your child and the School Health Program,
please do not hesitate to call the school nurse.
13
MEDICATION POLICY
FOR THE
COATESVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
It is recommended by the Coatesville Area School District school physician and school
nurses that NO medications be given during school hours. Most medications can be
given before and/or after school.
A physician’s statement that the medication administration is necessary during school
hours (medication order) MUST accompany requests for BOTH prescribed and overthe-counter (OTC) medication.
If any medication MUST be given in school, it MUST be in its original container
accompanied by a signed medication form (attached) from a parent or guardian
containing the following information:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
*8.
Current DATE
Student’s full NAME and GRADE
Name of MEDICATION
DOSAGE to be given
TIME medication is to be given
DATE(S) medication is to be given
CONDITION for which medication has been prescribed
SIGNATURE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN
The above information applies to both prescription and over the counter non-prescription
drugs. ALL medications are to be kept locked in the nurse’s office unless special
permission is given to the child to keep the medication with them. In that case, such as
asthma medication, it must be registered with the nurse and each use reported to the
nurse. It is strongly recommended that even asthma medication be kept locked in the
nurse’s office to avoid it being lost or used by another child which could cause that
person harm.
Remember when sending medication to school, 2 times a day means EVERY 12
HOURS, 3 times a day means EVERY EIGHT HOURS and 4 times a day means EVERY
6 HOURS unless your doctor specifies otherwise.
14
Medications on Field Trips:
1. A physician's statement (on the permission form) is needed to confirm
that a medication is absolutely required during the field trip and cannot be
given before or after the trip, or the dose skipped.
2. A physician's statement is also needed to confirm that the student is
capable of self-administering the medication(s). If a student is unable to
self-administer the medication(s), it is advised that a parent or
guardian accompany the student on the field trip.
3. If a medication is judged to be necessary for the student to have during the
field trip, BUT the student is unable to self-administer the medication, AND
a parent/guardian is unable to accompany the student on the field trip,
arrangements for the student to receive the medication MUST be made with
the administrator in charge of the field trip at least two (2) weeks prior to the
field trip.
4. All medications must be sent from home in the original labeled pharmacy
container with ONLY THE DOSE NEEDED FOR THE TRIP, and checked
in with the teacher in charge.
5. The student is responsible to confirm with the teacher in charge when the
medication is taken.
6. Teachers/administrators are unable to dispense/administer medications
during school hours, or during school-sponsored events.
7. If medication is not sent from home in its original prescription bottle (in a
single dose), accompanied by a physician's statement, and Field Trip
Medication Permission Form, the student will not be permitted to take the
medication.
Revised 7/15/2010 in accordance with CASD Policy # 210
15
COATESVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PARENT CONSENT FORM FOR ANY PRESCRIPTION AND/OR
OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS
ALL medication - either over the counter or prescription – MUST be accompanied by a doctor's note.
Date____________________
To The School Nurse:
As the parent/guardian of___________________________, I request that licensed school personnel (CSN, RN, LPN)
administer the medication listed below to my child according to the directions from the physician. I hereby
release the Coatesville Area School District School Board and its employees of liability for administration of
medication.
I understand ANY medication sent to school MUST be in its original container. If it is not, the medication will not be
dispensed.
Name of medication:___________________________________________________
Dosage to be administered:______________________________________________
Time medication is to be given:___________________________________________
Date(s) medication is to be given:__________________________________________
Condition being treated:__________________________________________________
Signature of parent/guardian:______________________________________________
"Guidelines for Pennsylvania Schools for the Administration of Medications and Emergency Care" from the PA
Department of Health require a “medication order” from a licensed provider to administer prescription, over the counter,
and herbal medicines.
ANY MEDICINE OF ANY KIND THAT IS BEING SENT TO SCHOOL FOR ANY
REASON REQUIRES A DOCTOR'S ORDER.
**SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR DIRECTIONS FOR MEDICATIONS ON FIELD TRIPS**
Doctor’s orders may be faxed to the Nurse at: (610) _________________________
Additional forms can be accessed on the C.A.S.D. web site www.coatesville.k12.pa.us
16
MEDICATIONS AND FIELD TRIPS:
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL MEDICATION TAKEN ON A FIELD TRIP MUST BE:
1.
2.
3.
SENT FROM HOME
IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER
SINGLE DOSE (EXCEPTIONS WOULD BE AN INHALER OR INSULIN)
It is necessary for this student to take the following medication(s) during a
field trip, lasting at least the entire school day (dose cannot be given
before/after trip hours or skipped):
Name of student: ______________________________Date of Birth:
______________________
Name of medication:
____________________________________________________________
To be completed by the parent:
_____
My child IS able to self administer the above medication as
instructed. I understand that
the medication MUST be sent from
home in an original labeled pharmacy container, in the single dose needed, and
checked in with the teacher in charge. Students MUST also confirm with the
teacher when the medication is taken. I understand the teachers/administrators
do not have the authority to administer medication to my child (CASD Policy #
210) and relieve them of any liability in my student's self-administration of
the above medication.
_____
My child IS NOT able to self-administer the above medication(s)
_____
I (or my designee) WILL be able to accompany my child on the
field trip in
order to administer the medication.
_____ I (or my designee) WILL NOT be able to accompany my child on
the field trip in
order to administer the medication. (Parents MUST
contact building administrator
at least two weeks in advance to make
arrangements for student to receive
medication on the field trip.)
Comments: ____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name: __________________________
Number:__________________
Phone
Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________________Date:
_____________________
**PARENTAL PERMISSION FORM MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PHYSICIAN’S NOTE**
17
COATESVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
MEDICATION ORDER FORM FOR ANY PRESCRIPTION AND/OR
O V E R - T H E - C O U N T E R M E D I C AT I O N S
TO BE COMPLETED BY A LICENSED PROVIDER
Dear Physician,
According to "Guidelines for Pennsylvania Schools for the
Administration of Medications and Emergency Care" by the Department of
Health, school nurses need a "medical order" from a licensed provider to
administer any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicines. In the
past we have required only parental consent. In order to simplify the
procedure we've developed the form below which will be available to
parents through the school nurse, in the student handbooks, and on the
school district web site www.coatesville.k12.pa.us.
We look forward to working with you to provide the best care we
can for our students. If you have any questions, concerns or
suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact the School Nurse at 610
______________________
Date:______________________________
Name of Student:________________________________________DOB___________
Name of medication:_____________________________________________________
Dosage to be administered:________________________________________________
Time medication is to be given:_____________________________________________
Date(s) medication is to be given:____________________________________________
Condition being treated: ___________________________________________________
Signature of licensed medical provider:________________________________________
Name of provider: _______________________________________________________
Phone number: __________________________________________________________
ANY MEDICINE OF ANY KIND SENT TO SCHOOL FOR ANY
REASON REQUIRES A DOCTOR'S ORDER
**SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR DIRECTIONS FOR MEDICATIONS ON FIELD TRIP**
THIS FORM MAY BE FAXED TO THE SCHOOL NURSE AT:
(610) ________________________
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MEDICATIONS ON FIELD TRIPS:
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL MEDICATION TAKEN ON A FIELD TRIP MUST BE:
1.
2.
3.
SENT FROM HOME
IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER
SINGLE DOSE (EXCEPTIONS WOULD BE AN INHALER OR INSULIN)
To be completed by the physician:
It is necessary for this student to take the following medication(s) during a
field trip, lasting at least the entire school day (dose cannot be given
before/after trip hours or skipped):
Student Name: ___________________________________
_________________
Date of Birth:
Medication:
___________________________________________
Time:
______________________________
___________________________________________
______________________________
The student above_____ IS_____
medication(s) as instructed.
IS NOT able to self-administer the above
Comments:____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Physician Name: _________________________________
________________
Phone Number:
Physician Signature: _________________________________
_____________________
Date:
ANY MEDICINE OF ANY KIND SENT TO SCHOOL FOR ANY
REASON REQUIRES A DOCTOR'S ORDER
Additional forms can be accessed on the C.A.S.D. web site
www.coatesville.k12.pa.us
19
SCHOOL DRESS
The Coatesville Ares School District has implemented a uniform dress code for the elementary
students. Students are expected to wear black or khaki bottoms (no jeans) and a red, white, or
black collared shirt or a combination thereof. Students will be expected to comply with this dress
code. This code can be referenced in Policy # 221 Student Dress Code and Grooming. The
information below is a more detailed description of proper uniform attire.
Uniform Bottom Wear
• Color Choices: Black or Tan Khaki bottoms (must be plain with no decoration or labels/logos)
• Boys may wear long pants or shorts.
• Girls may wear long pants, shorts, Capri pants, jumpers, skirts, skorts, dresses
• Bottom wear should be appropriately sized, worn at the waistline and must be the appropriate
length.
Uniform Shirts
• Color Choices: Red, White, Black (or a variation thereof)- no other colors are acceptable
• Shirts must have a collar (polo style)
• Shirts should be appropriately sized for neat appearance and neatly tucked.
Other Shirts
•
Sweatshirts, Cardigans, and Sweaters must be red, white, or black
Shoes
• No changes have been made to the shoe policy
Socks/Leggings
• Socks and leggings (under jumpers, skirts, skorts, or dresses) must be a solid color: white,
red, or black if they are visible
School dress should be safe, healthful, and not interfere with the educational process. It must be
appropriate for the activity. Appropriateness of a student’s appearance and attire will be
determined by the Principal.
Although the Coatesville Area School District Policy is noted above, below is a list of
guidelines for appropriate dress.

Hats, jackets, and coats may not be worn indoors unless permission is granted.

Shoes without heel support such as clogs, flip-flops, etc. are prohibited. “Heelies” are also
prohibited in all schools.

Laced shoes must be worn with laces and must be tied properly at all times.

Short shorts; bicycle (spandex) shorts, tank, bare midriff, and string tie tops; or garments
with reference to tobacco, alcohol, drugs, profanity, the occult and violence are prohibited.
20

Rubber soled shoes (preferable sneakers) must be worn during physical education class.

Slacks or shorts are appropriate for girls and boys.

Spiked jewelry, chains or any jewelry that could cause injury or constitute hazard are not
permitted. Dress code follows School Board Policy #425.
The building principal has the authority to determine what dress is appropriate for specific
school functions.
DISCIPLINE
It is necessary that children learn to develop self-discipline in order to further learning and
not to interfere with the learning of others. Parents are requested to review thoroughly
the District Discipline Code with their children.
Administrators and teachers may detain a student, after school hours for a period of at
least 30 minutes. Pupils shall be given 24 hours notice of such detention to inform
their parents of their whereabouts. In such instances, however, pupils/parents must
make their own arrangements for transportation to their homes. Refusal to serve a
detention may result in suspension.
SUPPLIES
Students receive basic educational supplies such as paper, pencils and crayons at the
beginning of each school year. Throughout the year, as the need arises, students will be
asked to supplement these basic supplies.
21
SCHOOL VISITATION
Parents and visitors are always welcome. All parents and visitors must enter the school
through the main doors and report immediately to the school office where office
personnel will assist them with their needs. No one is allowed beyond the Main Office
area unless they are properly registered AND are wearing an identification badge
provided by office personnel or the school district. Violators of this policy will be
subject to criminal prosecution.
Forgotten books, assignments, lunch money, etc. will be forwarded to the student by
office personnel.
Parental classroom visitations to observe a child at work are welcomed and must be prearranged through the classroom teacher or principal. As stated above parents must
report to the Main Office, properly register and wear an identification badge provided by
office personnel while in the school. All identification badges must be returned to the
Main Office prior to leaving the school.
During special events: Field Day, Recitals, Concerts, Parent/Teacher Conferences, etc.
the building principal may suspend the need for identification badges during the time of
the activity.
Communications is an essential part of an effective educational program. It is very
important for parents/guardians to keep in close contact with their child’s teachers
concerning academic and behavioral progress. The district calendar includes dates for
parent/teacher conferences. Conferences with teachers and administrators may also be
scheduled throughout the year by calling the teacher or office. In order to make sure that
adequate time is available; all conferences must be arranged in advance.
HOMEWORK
Homework assignments for students contribute to an appreciation of the need for
learning, a quality education, and the fullest development of each student's potential.
Therefore, homework is an integral part of the educational system in the Coatesville Area
School District. Effective homework is achieved when parents, teachers and students
are working cooperatively together.
ELEMENTARY HONOR ROLL
To recognize outstanding student achievement, the school has established an honor roll
in grades three, four and five. In order to be eligible for the honor roll, students must
maintain an 80 average in achievement in all subjects, with the exception of instrumental
music. Students that maintain a 90 or above average in achievement in all subjects will
be receive Distinguished Honor Roll.
22
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
A wide range of services is offered to support the educational program including
guidance, instructional support team, supportive reading services, and appropriate
special education services which include gifted education, learning support classes,
speech and language therapy, hearing, vision, occupational and physical therapy.
IST (INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT TEAM)
Effective July 1, 1998, federal legislation under IDEA, Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act, ensures and protects the legal rights of regular education students to
receive necessary adaptations and modifications within the regular education program.
The Instructional Support process is the vehicle that protects the rights of all at-risk
students and as such is the mandatory responsibility of all educators. The hub of
instructional support is the Instructional Support Team, which assists classroom teachers
in planning and implementing strategies that are designed to produce success for
students with academic and behavioral considerations. Each Instructional Support Team
is facilitated by a support teacher, who is specifically trained to assist other teachers in
meeting the goals set by the team.
In the process of providing instructional support to at-risk students, the Instructional
Support Team engages in a collaborative problem-solving process that incorporates
various actions. The IST precisely identifies the problem based on assessment
information and sets measurable goals. This allows the team to monitor the
effectiveness of the intervention and to evaluate the adequacy of the student’s progress
during the Instructional Support period. The IST designs interventions for use in the
classroom based on initial assessments of the student. A consensual decision is
reached on recommendations to implement, based on a variety of criteria.
Staff is assigned to support and fine-tune the intervention on an on-going basis.
The IST decides how to ascertain that the recommended course of action has been
monitored as specified, and how to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.
During this process, members of the team provide direct instructional and effective
interventions in the classroom for the purpose of systematically searching for a
successful strategy for the student. During the final phase of instructional support, the
team must determine whether the strategies used to provide the student with success are
within or beyond the scope of the classroom teacher’s ability to sustain once the support
teacher’s assistance is phased out.
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REPORT CARDS
Report Cards will be issued to students in Grades Kindergarten through Fifth after each
sixty day grading period (trimester). Report cards will contain academic development as
well as your child’s progress in understanding the Pennsylvania Academic Standards.
After a review of the report with their child, parents may keep the report card, but must
sign the report card envelope and return it to school.
Parents will be notified by their child’s teacher if the child is performing unsatisfactorily
during a trimester.
Marking period and report card distribution dates for the 2014-2015 school year appear
below:
First Report Card Period
Begins
Mid-Point (Progress Reports)
Ends
Monday
Wednesday
Thursday
August 25, 2014
October 8, 2014
November 20, 2014
Second Report Card Period
Begins
Mid-Point (Progress Reports)
Ends
Friday
Wednesday
Thursday
November 21, 2014
January 21, 2015
March 5, 2015
Third Report Card Period
Begins
Mid-Point (Progress Reports)
Ends
Friday
Friday
Friday
March 6, 2015
April 24, 2015
June 5, 2015
24
CARE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
The care of personal property (money, clothing, lunch boxes, notebooks, etc.) is the student’s
responsibility. The student’s name should be marked on all clothing and personal property. All
money brought to school should be kept in a wallet or envelope marked with the student’s name
and room number.
Toys, radios, pets, mp3 players, all electronic devices, and other
valuables may not be
brought to school without special permission of the school principal.
Students are not permitted to carry beepers or cell phones to school or on the bus. The building
principal must approve any special provisions.
All articles that have been lost or found are kept in a special area in the school. Periodic checks
for missing items should be made.
TEXTBOOKS
All basic textbooks are loaned to students for use during the school year and must be given good
care. Hardback books must be covered for protection.
LOST OR DAMAGED TEXTBOOKS / LIBRARY BOOKS
School equipment and furniture are quite expensive and must be used very carefully. Repair or
replacement of any equipment or furniture deliberately damaged will be the parents’
responsibility. The cost to replace a lost or damaged textbook / library book will be the current
(full) replacement price.
RECESS
Since play equipment and materials are provided for recess, permission must be secured for
personal play materials to be used on the playground. The following are basic playground rules:
1.
Rough play is not permitted. No tackle football, wrestling, snowballs, or “pretend”
fighting.
2.
Students may not leave the play area or cafeteria without permission from an aide
or teacher
3.
Any disrespect involving an aide will not be tolerated
4.
The following proper use of playground equipment must be followed for safety
reasons:
a.
Do not stand on, jump off or twist swings
b.
Sit up straight when going down sliding boards
c.
No horseplay while on climbing equipment
d.
Harassment of fellow students will not be tolerated
25
STUDENT INSURANCE
The optional purchase of student insurance is made available to parents at the beginning
of the school year. The forms with payment are mailed directly to the insurance company
by parents or guardians. Please note that students must have insurance to
participate in field trips.
FIELD TRIPS / EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
A student must have a signed parent permission form and must be covered by accident
insurance to participate in any field trip or extra-curricular activities. If a parent
permission form is not on file, students will not be able to participate in any school
sponsored field trips or extra-curricular activities.
Parents may be required to attend field trips for children with special needs, including
medical needs.
Students attending field trips who are on medication must follow school district
guidelines. Medication must be sent to school in an original container with an attached
note stating as to when medication is to be taken by the student.
The Coatesville Area School District is currently in the process of revising Policy Number
916, School Volunteers, under the section of Community. During the September
Committee Meeting, Policy Number 916 went through the “first reading”. Please refer to
the policy attachment. Please keep in mind that this ‘revised’ policy has not been board
approved, but is moving through the process of board approval. The purpose of this
communication is to make sure that all elementary school are prepared for the revisions.
The attached document explains in detail what a casual and program volunteer entail. In
regards to the safety requirements, casual volunteers are required to be screened through the
District’s Raptor system. If the casual volunteer is helping out during a single-day field
trip, they are also required to obtain an Act 34 Criminal History Report and obtain and
submit an Act 151 Child Abuse Clearance Statement prior to going on the field trip. If the
program volunteer will be unsupervised by a teacher, and is with a group of students on a
field trip, the volunteer would need to obtain and submit an Act 34 Criminal History
Report, Act 151 Child Abuse Clearance Statement, receive Act 126 video training, and pass
a PPD skin test for tuberculosis.
As a building, we embrace our volunteers. Our volunteers are important to our students
and staff. In order to continue with this much-needed support in the building, in our
classrooms, and during field trips, volunteers will need to obtain these Pennsylvania
clearances. Volunteers are extremely beneficial for the success of field trips. If you would
like to volunteer and/or chaperone field trip(s) this school year, it would be proactive to
attain the clearances noted above. The information can also be found in the attachments as
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well. The Act 34 and Act 151 Clearances can be found on-line. If you would like a hard
copy they will be available at the school for your convenience. If you have any questions
please feel free to contact your building principal.
School Board Policy 916
School Volunteers
Definition of a Volunteer: Any individual who performs a service for the school district without compensation,
remuneration or other consideration, and who otherwise meets the requirements of this policy. A volunteer must be at
least eighteen (18) years of age, but does not need to be a parent/guardian of a student enrolled in the school district.
Volunteer Category
Casual Volunteers
Definition
A volunteer who comes to
school infrequently (less
than ten (10) hours per
school year).
Role
Works in the presence of a
teacher/administrator with
students.
Will not have unsupervised
contact with the students.
Ex.: conducting classroom
celebrations, guest speakers,
single day field trip
chaperones
Program Volunteer
A volunteer who provides
recurring assistance ten (10)
or more hours per school
year in support of school
sponsored activities under
the general direction and
supervision of a coach or
sponsor employed by the
district, and may, from time
to time, have unsupervised
contact with students.
Multiple day field trips,
musicians, and other
individuals who provide
assistance to students through
school sponsored activities.
Requirements
Screened through the
District’s Raptor system.
Exception: a casual
volunteer who serves as a
single day field trip
chaperone shall also be
required to obtain and
submit and Act 151 Child
Abuse Clearance
Statement prior to going
on the trip.
Must obtain and submit
for approval an Act 34
Criminal History Report,
an Act 151 Child Abuse
Clearance Statement,
receive Act 126 trainings
(mandated reporting), and
will need to receive a PPD
(TB) skin test within three
(3) months of their initial
appointment. Program
volunteers shall not
chaperone students
without a negative reaction
to the PPD test or a
physician’s report stating
that the chaperone is free
of tuberculosis disease.
*** Program volunteers
will be required to renew
these clearances and TB
test in event of a break in
continuous service.
Confidentiality: No volunteer shall be permitted to access, review, disclose, or use confidential student information;
or participate in conversations in which confidential student information is discussed. Examples include, but are not
limited to the following: grades or other measures of academic performance, class standing, standardized or other test
scores, attendance records, discipline history, intelligence test scores, personality and interest test scores, IEPs, health
data, family background information, teacher or counselor ratings, or any other information contained within a
student’s file maintained within the school district.
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LUNCH
Our cafeteria provides nutritious and appealing lunches for students. Menus are sent
home on a regular basis. Lunch may be purchased daily for $1.95 – reduced lunch is
$.40. The Coatesville Area School District utilizes a computerized accounting program
for purchasing breakfast/lunch and/or snacks. As part of this process, students are
assigned a personal identification number (PIN). Parents deposit money in their child’s
account from which the cost of meals/snacks are deducted. As a child may not borrow
money from the office for lunch, parents are encouraged to maintain a sufficient balance
in the child’s cafeteria account. A Free/Reduced Meals program is available for eligible
students. Applications to determine eligibility are sent home each year and are available
in the school office. To remain eligible to participate in the Free/Reduced Meals
Program, parents must file an application each year. Students who were eligible for
free/reduced meals during the previous school year will continue to receive lunches at the
beginning of the new school year if a new free/reduced lunch application is processed
and approved.
Students may choose to bring a nutritious bag lunch to school. The lunches should not
require refrigeration or contain carbonated beverages.
Milk, orange drink, and packaged desserts may be purchased in the cafeteria on a limited
basis. A limit of two snacks may be purchased per child per day.
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BREAKFAST PROGRAM
The School Breakfast Program is a federally regulated program available to all students
on a daily basis. These meals provide the nutrients students need to carry them through
the morning and increase their learning potential. Breakfast has been proven to
statistically increase standardized test scores, reduce absenteeism and increase
attentiveness in the classroom. The evidence exists that School Breakfast Programs
have significant educational benefits.
All students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch meals also qualify for free or
reduced price breakfast meals. The cost for breakfast will be $ 1.00 ($.30 reduced).
EMERGENCY/ FIRE DRILLS
Emergency/fire drills are necessary for the safety of the students, staff and faculty. All
students must know the specific directions for reaching a point of safety from those areas
of the school building in which he or she may be. Specific information for the drills is
posted in each room.
TELEPHONE
Permission will be granted to students to make and receive emergency telephone calls
only.
P.T.O. / P.T.A.
The PTA/PTO is an important part of our school family. Membership is open to anyone
interested in the education of our students. You will receive an invitation asking you to
join. Please consider becoming a part of this worthwhile organization.
VOLUNTEERS
Parents are encouraged to participate in the education of their children at all times. The
school provides numerous opportunities to become involved such as clerical aides,
tutoring, library aides, computer aides, chaperons, homeroom parents, etc. If you are
interested in being a volunteer, please contact your school office.
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POSSESSION OF WEAPONS PROHIBITED
The Pennsylvania General Assembly has enacted legislation (Act 26) which requires all
public schools to take a mandatory course of action in dealing with students who are
found to be in possession of weapons.
The law requires the arrest and expulsion, for at least one year, of any student found in
possession of a weapon on school property, in a school program, or while traveling to or
from a school program, including time on public transportation.
The law defines a weapon to include, but not limited to, any knife, cutting instrument,
cutting tool, firearm, shotgun, rifle and any other tool or implement capable of inflicting
serious bodily injury. There is no requirement that the student use or try to use the
weapon and possession for self protection is not a defense. Parents should not send
tools or supplies such as metal or pointed scissors to school with their children.
The law requires that violations will become a part of student’s permanent disciplinary
record, and will be available to any school in which the student may later enroll. Parents
will be required to sign an affidavit prior to enrolling their child in any public school to
disclose the existence of any weapons violations or other serious violations.
These measures, required by Act 26, are designed as a safeguard to ensure that all public
schools are safe havens in which all students may interact in an environment and climate
which fosters learning and strongly discourages potential acts of violence.
Students are not to bring any weapons including firearms, nunchaku or any item which
looks like a weapon including water pistols and toy guns.
TERRORISTIC THREATS / HARRASSMENT
This topic is covered in-depth within the Student Codes of Conduct. Because of national
attention resulting from violent acts throughout our nation’s schools it is necessary for
parents to understand there is a changing climate regarding such threats.
Due to our own experience with increased incivility and in part to increased violent acts in
schools throughout the nation, we take every threat made by any student as serious
regardless of grade level.
We encourage you to speak with your child and explain to your child that any threat, even if
made in jest, is a violation of the policy and will be dealt with seriously.
30
SCHOOL RESPONSIBILITY TO THE CUSTODIAL AND
NON-CUSTODIAL PARENT
Court decisions on custody differ widely depending on the facts of the case. The school
staff often finds themselves caught between feuding parents who will try to involve the
school in their efforts to keep children and former spouses separated. This section of the
student handbook will attempt to simplify the responsibility of the school in such situations.
Unless other facts are known, the school staff must work from the premise that both natural
parents have equal rights of access to the child and any school records pertaining to the child. If a
court decree exists which limits the rights of either parent, it is the obligation of one or the other
parent to provide the school with a copy for the student files. The school will then comply with the
provisions of that decree. It is seldom that a court decree will deny a natural parent any access to
information concerning their child. More typically, it would limit personal access to the child to given
visitation periods.
Often, a custodial parent will approach the school and request that their former spouse not be
permitted to see the child’s report card or speak with a teacher about the child’s progress. This
sort of request cannot be honored unless a copy of a court decree to that effect can be presented.
Nor is the school obliged to contact the custodial parent before releasing information to the noncustodial parent. Sometimes a letter from the custodial parent’s lawyer is presented directing the
school to limit the former spouse’s rights. Again, this has no more authority than the parent’s
request and must be rejected.
If a non-custodial parent wishes to see their child face-to-face or take them from the school, the
staff will contact the custodial parent to notify them of the request and give them time to respond.
Assuming that joint custody has not been granted or specific visitation rights that would permit such
a request, the custodial parent will have the final decision in these situations.
Another situation that may arise is a request from a parent to use a different last name for the child.
Perhaps it is the mother’s maiden name which she has begun to use since the divorce or the name
of a step-parent. The school must use the child’s legal name as given on the birth certificate for all
official records including report cards, diplomas, etc. An official change of name requires a court
decree of formal adoption and upon the issuance of such a decree the school will convert all
records to the new name.
To prevent an unnecessary and unpleasant confrontation over the rights of parents and children, it
is recommended that custodial parents make certain the school administrator has in its possession
any court decrees relevant to access to the children and/or their records. Also, if any deviation in
the normal pattern of student visitation or transportation arrangements have been agreed to
between the parents, notify the school staff in writing that this is the case. Prior communication is
the best way to assure a smooth path for the child.
FOUR DAY CYCLE SCHEDULE
The Coatesville Area School District operates on a four-day scheduling cycle in grades K8. The school days of the week will be designated by the numbers one through four rather
than Monday through Friday.
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Each day of the scheduling cycle “floats” throughout the year resulting in students meeting
all classes on a regular basis regardless of school being closed for a vacation or an
emergency.
The four-day scheduling cycle will have no impact on subjects that are scheduled every
day. Each special subject class will be 40 minutes. For special subject classes (i.e., art,
music, physical education, library), meeting times will be designated by a day of the cycle
(1-4).
Teachers are responsible for communicating and assisting students and their families with
the interpretation of the four-day scheduling cycle.
READING/LANGUAGE ARTS PROGRAM
The Coatesville Area School District is a partner for student success with the Pennsylvania
Department of Education in aligning standards, curriculum, instruction and assessment.
The CASD is committed to providing a learning environment that will promote each
student’s successful development in listening, speaking, reading and writing to achieve and
exceed the standards developed by PDE.
“Literacy” begins in the home and community. Parents and caretakers play an important
role in providing children with early language and literacy experiences that foster reading
development. It continues in school where literacy instruction extends, stimulates and
refines reading, writing and thinking skills. Our goal is to promote positive attitudes in our
students and to assist them in becoming independent and competent readers and writers
as well as lifelong learners.
The Language Arts Program of the CASD reflects the belief that teachers play the critical
role in fostering and cultivating the academic success of their students. The program is
consistent with current research in the teaching of reading and, as a result, centers on the
following effective components:





Phonemic Awareness
Phonics
Fluency
Comprehension
Vocabulary
The PA Academic Standards are the foundation of the CASD Elementary Language Arts
Program. The program provides instructional resources that:



build on the home/community foundation which students bring to school and foster
home/school cooperation that is vital to students’ growing literacy
aspire to the same high standards for developing literacy for all students
meet students’ individual needs as they progress in the achievement of the
Academic Standards
32




respect and appreciate the diversity of each learner and encourage students to
respect and appreciate the diversity of others
introduce students to a wide variety of quality literature and “real world” resources
that increase their knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of themselves, other
people and the world in which they live
afford students opportunities for both discovery and direct, systematic instruction
help students develop and internalize a variety of strategies and skills that allow
them to construct, critically examine and apply meaning
33



integrate listening, speaking, reading and writing and use language arts to
explore content across the curriculum
encourage a variety of formal and informal assessment procedures to
support student learning, facilitate teacher instructional planning, document
student progress, and promote student self-evaluation and self-reflection
provide opportunities to practice effective research skills and to understand
the characteristics and functions of the English language
Reading Program
Read aloud to students daily utilizing a variety of genres of literature including
fiction, nonfiction, science fiction, biographies, autobiographies, and poetry.
We use the selections from StoryTown anthologies as shared reading to teach
and model comprehension strategies and expose students to quality literature.
We develop phonological awareness and progress gradually to letter/sound
association through resources found in Story Town, a multi-sensory approach,
emphasizing direct and systematic phonics skill instruction.
We implement a variety of flexible guided reading groups composed of students
with similar reading needs to ensure that all students master reading skills and
have opportunities to read at their instructional levels (word accuracy 90%-94%;
comprehension “partially proficient” on the rubric). The above, on and below level
readers provided by Harcourt’s Story Town should be utilized primarily,
supplemented by leveled books available in the book room if necessary.
We provide time for daily self-selected reading at the students’ independent
reading levels (word accuracy 95%-100%).
We maintain a multi-level classroom library that is frequently replenished.
Writing Program
The Coatesville Area School District will be implementing the Being a Writer
Program this school year after successfully piloting the program in 20122013 in grades 1 through 5. Being a Writer is a comprehensive writing program
that teaches students to write skillfully, creatively, abundantly, and motivationally
in various genres. Overall, the program teaches students to work together to help
them develop both socially and ethically.
Included in the program is daily writing in response to reading in language arts and
content areas. Accommodations are made, as needed, with visual supports such
as graphic organizers.
We utilize KidWriting as a method for writing in Kindergarten.
34
We utilize the stages in process writing: pre-writing, drafting, revising, editing
(including conferencing) and publishing.
We require students to revise a minimum of two pieces of written work per marking
period from a “draft” to a final copy for “publication.” Students will include the initial
and final selections (both copies) in their writing folders.
We incorporate the conventions of writing including spelling, grammar and
mechanics.
We explore a variety of writing modes, such as narrative, persuasive, descriptive,
and informational, including PSSA-style prompts.
Spelling Program
We integrate the Harcourt Story Town Spelling and Vocabulary across grade
levels as appropriate.
Handwriting Program
We teach and provide practice in manuscript and cursive writing in order to meet
Standard 1.9.
ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS PROGRAM
Today’s society expects schools to insure that all students have an opportunity to
become mathematically literate, are capable of extending their learning, have an equal
opportunity to learn, and become informed citizens capable of understanding issues in a
technological society. Consequently, as society changes, so must its schools.
Educational goals for students must reflect the importance of mathematical literacy.
Toward this end, the mathematics program must articulate five general goals for all
students:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
learn to value mathematics
become confident in their ability to do mathematics
become mathematical problem solvers
learn to communicate mathematically
learn to reason mathematically
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) has created a set of standards
for mathematics curricula. The two documents are: 1) Curriculum and Evaluation
Standards for School Mathematics, 2) Professional Standards for Teaching Mathematics.
These documents are designed to establish a broad framework to guide reform in school
mathematics in the next decade. There are several basic assumptions which governed
the selection and shaping of the curriculum standards, and these assumptions should
govern our curriculum. The elementary mathematics curriculum:
1.
is conceptually oriented
35
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
actively involve children in doing mathematics – classrooms should be
equipped with manipulatives
emphasizes the development of children’s mathematical thinking and
reasoning abilities
emphasizes the application of mathematics
includes a broad range of content
makes appropriate and on-going use of calculators and computers
allows students to communicate with mathematics
Through the use of classroom computers and appropriate math software, we strive to
individually challenge and accelerate students to obtain their maximum potential in
mathematics.
Coatesville Area School District Elementary Science Curriculum
The purpose of our elementary science program is to provide our K-5 students with a
strong science foundation by having our curriculum aligned to the Pennsylvania
Academic Standards for Science and Technology and Environment and Ecology. Most of
our curriculum will be taught through the FOSS (Full Option Science System) inquirybased kits. At the early primary level, the focus is on building student awareness by
providing concrete experiences for them to draw on their efforts to make sense of the
world. As they progress through elementary school, they should improve their knowledge,
attitudes (curiosity, respect for evidence, critical reflection, flexibility, & sensitivity to living
things), skills and participation. All of the programs are student centered, hands-on and
minds-on. Students are encouraged to use higher order thinking skills and construct their
own meaning. They need to be effective problem solvers and critical thinkers. The
teacher should be thought of as a “provider of opportunities.”
Science Units
Grade
Kindergarten
First Grade
Second Grade
Third Grade
Fourth Grade
Fifth Grade
Topic 1
Trees
Pebbles, Sand and Silt
Insects
Water
Earth Materials
Mixtures and Solutions
Topic 2
Wood and Paper
Balance and Motion
Weather
Astronomy
Motion/Design
Landforms
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Topic 3
Animals
Teacher Choice
Health & Safety
Magnetism and Electricity
Human Body
Environments
Students in kindergarten, first, and second will receive 1, 2, or 3. Students in third, fourth,
and fifth grade will receive percentage grades. Grades will be determined by both
formative and summative assessments, which focus on how the students are thinking.
While utilizing the FOSS and STC science kits students will be actively engaged in “doing
inquiry-based science” by following the 5 E Constructivist Model, which is explained
below.
Engage: Encounter and identify the instructional task, make connections between
past and present learning experiences.
Explore: Students participate in inquiry process while teacher facilitates.
Explain: Learner begins to put the abstract experience through which he/she has
participated in, into communicable form as they articulate their observations,
ideas, questions, and hypothesis. Facilitator introduces terminology/labels after
direct experience.
Elaborate: Students expand on the concepts they have learned, make
connections to other related concepts and apply their understanding to the world
around them.
Evaluate: On-going diagnostic process that allows the teacher to determine if the
learner has attained understanding of concepts and knowledge.
Inquiry should be thought of as both a learning goal and a teaching method. Inquiry is a
multifaceted activity that involves making observations; posing questions, examining
books and other sources of information to see what is already known; planning
investigations; reviewing what is already known in light of experimental evidence; using
tools to gather, analyze, and interpret data; proposing answers, explanations, and
predictions; and communicating the results. Inquiry requires identification of assumptions,
use of critical and logical thinking, and consideration of alternative explanations.
37
ELEMENTARY PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
The Coatesville Area School District’s elementary physical education curriculum is based
on the National Standards for physical education developed by National Association for
Sports and Physical Education.
Physical education teachers are responsible for helping young people acquire the skills
and self-confidence they need to participate in a wide variety of physical activities while in
school and beyond. Whether students choose basketball or biking, hockey or hiking,
they must make a lifelong commitment to engage in some form of regular daily activity.
Physical education will help students make that commitment by incorporating fun-filled,
meaningful activities into the existing curriculum that instills within students a desire to be
active for life.
Children with a foundation of physical success, cooperative social skills and leadership
qualities will meet the high demands of a rapidly advancing society. Our mission is to
provide educational excellence by preparing students with the skills necessary to become
life-long learners and responsible members of society.
The following standards have been adapted from the National Standards for physical
education and reflect developmentally appropriate practice for the elementary physical
education students in the Coatesville Area School District.







Demonstrate competency in many movement forms and proficiency in a few
movement forms.
Apply movement concepts and principles to learning and development of motor
skills and dance.
Exhibit a physically active lifestyle to maintain a health-enhancing level of physical
fitness.
Demonstrate responsible personal and social behavior in physical activity
settings.
Demonstrate understanding and respect for differences among people in physical
activity settings.
Understand that physical activity and self-discipline provide the opportunity for
enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and social interaction.
Make connections between physical education and other disciplines.
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ACT 211 OF THE PENNSYLVANIA LEGISLATURE
ALCOHOL, CHEMICAL AND TOBACCO ABUSE
Each public school student in Pennsylvania shall receive mandatory instruction in alcohol,
chemical and tobacco abuse in every year in every grade from kindergarten through
grade twelve. The instruction shall be integrated within the health curriculum or other
appropriate areas of study.
HIV/AIDS AND OTHER THREATENING COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
The Rules and Regulations of the State Board of Education mandate that instruction
regarding prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection/acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other life-threatening and communicable
diseases shall be taught at the primary, intermediate, middle school, and high school
level.
School districts shall excuse a pupil from HIV/AIDS instruction when the instruction
conflicts with the religious beliefs or principles of the pupil or parent or guardian of the
pupil and when excuse is requested in writing. Students who are excused will be
assigned related health work while HIV/AIDS instruction is being provided in the
classroom. Excused students will not be in the classroom while HIV/AIDS instruction is
ongoing.
Curriculum outlines and extra curricular materials used in conjunction with instruction are
available to parents and guardians during normal school hours or at parent-teacher
conferences.
ELEMENTARY MUSIC PROGRAM
The Coatesville Area School District’s music curriculum is based on the National
Standards for Arts Education.
The Coatesville Area School District’s music faculty believes that elementary students
learn by doing. Singing, playing instruments, moving to music and creating music enable
them to acquire musical skills and knowledge that can be developed in no other way.
Learning to read and notate music gives them a skill with which to explore music
independently and with others; it also enables them to be life-long learners. Listening to,
analyzing, and evaluating music are important aspects of musical learning. Since music
is a basic expression of human culture, it offers students an understanding of their
historical and cultural heritage enabling them to participate in a global society.
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The following standards have been adopted from the National Standards for Arts
Education and reflect developmentally appropriate practice for the elementary music
student in the Coatesville Area School District.
Move, alone or with others, with a steady beat and to various durations.
Sing, alone or with others, a varied repertoire of music.
Perform on instruments, alone or with others, a varied repertoire of music.
Improve melodies, variations and accompaniments.
Compose and arrange music within specified guidelines.
Read notate music.
Listen to, analyze and describe music.
Evaluate music and music performances.
Understand relationships between music, the other arts and disciplines outside the
arts.
Understand music in relation to history and culture.
Understand the work ethic in music.
Understand careers in music.
ELEMENTARY ART PROGRAM
The Coatesville Area School District’s art curriculum is based on the National Standards
for Art Education.
It is the belief of the art faculty that all elementary students benefit through the skills and
processes taught in art class. Students are exposed to a variety of skills and knowledge
in art, which allow them to see many facets of learning as well as connections with other
areas of the curriculum. Students are encouraged to apply creative thinking and problem
solving skills to their works. A strong emphasis is placed on utilizing the elements of
design and becoming familiar with a global community.
The following standards were the focal point in developing our elementary art curriculum:
Understand and apply media, techniques and process.
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Use knowledge of structures and functions.
Choose and evaluate a range of subject matter, symbols, and ideas.
Understand the visual arts in relation to history and cultures.
Reflect upon and assess the characteristics and merits of their work and the work of
others.
Make connections between the visual arts and other disciplines.
Understand the work ethic and careers in the arts.
INFORMATION LITERACY/LIBRARY PROGRAM
Information literacy is the ability to locate, evaluate, manage, and utilize information from
a variety of print, non-print and electronic sources. Students today live in a world
inundated with vast amounts of readily accessible information in a variety of forms. To be
productive citizens, the coming generations must be efficient users of information. The
Library Media Curriculum in the Coatesville Area School District enables our students to
become independent, ethical, life-long learners in a rapidly evolving information age.
By collaborating with the classroom teacher, the library media specialist enables students
to achieve the following library curriculum standards which correlate to the Information
Literacy Standards for Student Learning from the American Association of School
Librarians and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology:
Demonstrate selection abilities when choosing library resources for classroom
assignments and personal use.
Identify, define, locate access, evaluate, compare, and appreciate information and
recreational resources to meet curricular and personal needs.
Perform research using a formal information seeking process.
Exhibit social responsibility using library facilities and resources.
Identify, locate and appreciate the different types of literature.
Identify and use technology tools in all areas of the curriculum.
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Internet
The Coatesville Area School District recognizes the vast, diverse, and unique resources
Internet access offers students and how this service can promote educational excellence
in schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communications.
Student use of the Internet must be in support of education, research, and consistent with
the goals and objectives of the Coatesville Area School District.
Prior to allowing elementary students to use the Internet, parents or guardians must read
and agree with the District’s Internet Use Agreement, Policy 815. Parents/guardians
must sign and have on file in the main office an Internet Access and use Permission
Statement in order for their son or daughter to use the Internet in school. (Note: the
Elementary School Conduct Policies contain the Internet Use Agreement and sign off
page).
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