South Shore Elementary School
Parent-Student Handbook
2008-2009
Dr. Linda M. Ferrara
Principal
“Let us put our heads together
and see what life we will
make for our children.”
Sitting Bull, 1883
South Shore Elementary School
Parent-Student Handbook
Table of Contents
Welcome to Success
Welcome Message
2008-2009 School Calendar
No Child Left Behind Act
Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ Goals
Mission, Vision, & Values
South Shore Elementary Staff
Instructional Program
School Organization
Guidance Program
Speech and Language Pathologist
Psychological Services
Communications
School Hours
School Poem
Code of Student Conduct
School Rules and Consequences
School Wide Hand Signals
Cafeteria
School Meals Program
Pre-Pay Meals Information
School Pledge
Behavior at the Bus Stop
School Bus Behavior Rules
Bus and Bus Stop Changes
Car Riders
Attendance
Homework Policy
Time Guidelines for Homework
Ten Ways to Help Your Child with Homework
Student Recognition Program
Report Cards and Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent Strategies for Successful Conferences
Parent Teacher Association
Citizens Advisory Committee
Human Relations Committee
Parent Volunteers
Volunteer Committees
Tips for Parents on Preventing Violence
Dress Code
Recess
Chewing Gum
Lost and Found
Student Property
Money
Educational Excursions
Illness
Care of Books
Safety Drills
Early Dismissal
Parent Handbook and Student Handbook
Administering Medication
How Do I Know When to Keep My Child Home from School Because of Illness
Enrollment & Immunizations
Early/Emergency School Dismissal
Emergency Information Card
Telephone Calls
Visiting the School
School Supply List
School Song
Welcome to Success
Welcome to Success.
A place where we do our best.
We respect, encourage, and
support each other.
We never laugh at, put down, or
discourage another.
We may be children,
but we have great dreams.
Working together we can achieve
anything.
Welcome to Success.
A place where we do our best.
Welcome to South Shore
Elementary School
Welcome Message
Welcome to South Shore Elementary and the educational experiences for
your child. The staff and I are happy South Shore provides quality
education with a committed and dedicated staff. The Crownsville
community supports the mission and vision of our school. Together we
can make a difference in the lives of our children – our future. You are an
integral part through your school involvement.
We are looking forward to a successful 2008-2009 school year – “Doing
our best to be the best.”
Sincerely,
Dr. Linda M. Ferrara
Principal
Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ Goals
Goal I - Academic Achievement
All diploma-bound students will reach high standards, as established by Anne Arundel County
Public Schools and state performance level standards in English/Reading/Writing,
Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Achievement disparities among all No Child Left
Behind (NCLB) groups of students will be eliminated.
Goal II - Safe and Supportive Learning Environment
All students will be educated in a safe, positive, and supportive learning environment with a
focus on security enhancements that support system-wide safety and discipline standards.
AACPS will eliminate disparities among all NO Child Left Behind (NCLB) student groups in
the referral, suspension, and expulsion rates for violation of the Code of Student Conduct.
Goal III - Workforce Quality
Anne Arundel County Public Schools will ensure and maintain a work environment of respect
and mutual collaboration by attracting and retaining a quality work force that demonstrates a
commitment to providing a positive learning environment, values diversity, and reflects the
diversity of the county and the relative labor market.
Goal IV - Community Engagement
All Anne Arundel County Public School students will be educated in schools that are familyfriendly, welcoming environments. Anne Arundel County Public Schools will eliminate
disparities in parent and community representation and participation in traditional and nontraditional school-community activities.
No Child Left Behind
In January 2002, President Bush signed into law the
No Child Left Behind Act, which includes provisions
to ensure that parents are notified of.
1._________________________
Their right to request teacher
qualifications.
Parents may request information
regarding
the
professional
qualifications of their child’s
teacher. Specifically, parents may
ask
about
the
teacher’s
undergraduate major, the graduate
certification or degree held by the
teacher, and the field in which the
teacher is certified. In addition, a
parent may request information
about the status of the teacher’s state
certification and licensing measures
for the grades and subject areas in
which the teacher is teaching.
Parents can obtain information by
submitting a request in writing to the
Anne Arundel County Public
Schools, Public Information Office,
2644 Riva Road, Annapolis,
Maryland 21401.
2._________________________
Their right to be informed when
their child is taught by a teacher
who is not “highly qualified” for
four or more consecutive weeks.
The definition of “highly qualified”
is determined by each stat’s
education department. At this time,
the Maryland State Department of
Education (MSDE) is developing
thorough guidelines that define what
it means to be highly qualified at
each grade level and in each subject
area. The Anne Arundel County
Public Schools will continue to
abide by the state’s guidelines in
complying with this parental right.
3._________________________
Their right to transfer their child
under the “Title I” transfer
provision.
Parents of children in Title I schools
that fail to make “adequate yearly
progress” (AYP) for two or more
years have the right to request a
transfer for their child out of that
school and into a school that is
making AYP, with transportation
provided.
MSDE currently is
developing a definition of AYP that
will apply to future transfer option
decisions.
Parents of children
eligible for the Title I transfer option
will be notified each school year of
their option to transfer and the
designated schools to which they
may have their child transferred.
Board Policy and Administrative
Regulations 900.02 set forth the
requirements and process for the
transfer option.
4.___________________________
Their right to transfer their child
from a “persistently dangerous
school” or if their child is the victim
of a violent criminal offense while
in or on the grounds of his or her
school.
Parents of children in schools
defined as “persistently dangerous,”
according to criteria established by
MSDE, will have the option to
transfer their child out of the school;
however, transportation is not
provided.
The same option is
provided to parents of a child who is
the victim of a violent criminal
offense while in or on the grounds of
his or her school. MSDE currently
is developing definitions and criteria
that the Anne Arundel Public
Schools will follow in implementing
this part of the law.
5._________________________
The AACPS parent involvement
policy.
Parents have a right to know about
the AACPS parent involvement
policy and are encouraged to
become involved in their children’s
school and in the school system in
general. Board Policy 507 is the
current AACPS policy on this
subject.
6._________________________
A description of the ELL (English
Language Learners) program and
their options for their child.
Parents of students who are
currently participating in ELL
programs, as well as parents whose
children who have been newly
identified for participation in ELL
programs, are entitled to a
description of the program and their
rights under the law. If you have
additional questions about this
information, please call 410-2225424.
For more information on the No Child Left
Behind Act, please visit our website at
www.aacps.org or the federal government’s
website at www.nochildleftbehind.gov.
South Shore Elementary School Staff
2008-2009
Principal
Secretary
Secretary
School Nurse
Health Room Assistant
Kindergarten
Kindergarten
Kindergarten Assistant
Grade 1
Grade 1
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 5
Special Education
Special Education
Special Education Assistant
Art
Guidance Counselor
Media Specialist
Media Assistant
Music
Occupational Therapist
Physical Education
Psychologist
Reading Specialist
Speech/Language Pathologist
Talent Development Resource
Technology Support Technician
Cafeteria Manager
Cafeteria Assistant
Chief Custodian
PM Custodian
PM Custodian
Dr. Linda Ferrara
Mrs. Joddi Akers
Ms. Francina Steadman
Ms. Laura Ballotte
Mrs. Carol Smith
Miss Angela Riccuitti
Ms. Carrie Bayza
Ms. Delores Cager
Miss Hilary Jump
Miss Ashley Stone
Ms. Patricia Pinder
Miss Erica Lindsay
Mrs. Kelly Thomas
Miss Phoebe Heil
Mrs. Judy Truss
Miss Lauren Marino
Mrs. Elizabeth Joy
Miss Catherine Bach
Mr. Seth Lyons
Mrs. Gayle Keaton
Miss Claire Collins
Mrs. Fran Hughes
Mrs. Marcie Canine
Ms. Marlene Krueger
Mrs. Cynthia Bark
Mrs. Sandra Kane
Miss Emily Morozek
Mrs. Karen Dell
Mrs. Susanna Parks
Dr. Mary Parraga
Mrs. Janice Spicknall
Mrs. Lisa Robbins
______________
Mrs. Karen Bowman
Ms. Billie Armstrong
_________________
Mr. Timothy Ford
Mrs. Ida Wells
Mrs. Christine Sharps
South Shore Elementary
Our Mission
At South Shore Elementary School we are committed to the development of all students
in a safe positive learning environment. We believe in equity and academic success for
all students. We will encourage our students to do their best to be the best to achieve
their full academic potential.
Our Vision
At South Shore Elementary School we will focus on meeting the standards for academic
excellence. We will strive to provide opportunities for success for all students. We will
utilize appropriate and effective instructional strategies and materials, which address
integrated curriculum, higher order thinking skills, technology, and cooperative learning
structures.
Our Values
At South Shore School we are committed to:
 a belief that all children can learn
 teaching the Maryland Learning Outcomes and Indicators
 providing evidence of student achievement
 learning and working cooperatively in an environment that embraces diversity
 helping students to be proud, respectful, and goal oriented
 sustaining a strong home/school partnership
South Shore Elementary School
Instructional Program
The elementary years develop an important foundation for the total educational experience
that each student in the Anne Arundel County Public School System receives. Experience
clearly shows that the instructional efforts made in these early years have a lasting effect on
each student’s academic progress.
South Shore Elementary School is an exciting place where teachers make a difference by
helping students develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically.
Discovery and exploration encourage children to apply reasoning, problem-solving, and
decision-making skills in diverse situations. Instruction is provided through an integrated
approach based on student strengths as well as student’s rates and styles of learning.
Our students receive a balanced program of study that includes integrated language arts
(reading, spelling, handwriting, literature, oral and written language), mathematics, science,
social studies, art, music, media, technology education, health, and physical education.
Strings instruction is offered in third, fourth, and fifth grades and instrumental music
instruction is offered in the fourth and fifth grades. Additional objectives are added to
existing curricula in the areas of drug education, personal safety, dental health, nutrition, and
environmental concerns at various grade levels.
A Great Beginning At South Shore Elementary
Organization of South Shore Elementary School
South Shore Elementary School is a graded, self-contained classroom school with grades
Kindergarten through fifth grade. South Shore also has two full time special education teachers,
reading specialist, and music teacher.
South Shore has part time teachers for art and physical education, as well as a part time guidance
counselor, and media specialist.
The school has two secretaries, a registered nurse, a health assistant, and a custodial staff of three.
In addition, we have a cafeteria staff to provide hot lunches for our students.
Ms. Catherine Gilbert is our Instructional Director who visits the school regularly. Personnel are
also available from the central office of Anne Arundel County Public Schools for consultation and
assistance on all school matters.
Members of the South Shore Elementary staff are ready to serve you. Please do not hesitate to call
the school when you have questions or concerns.
Guidance Program
The school guidance programs are designed to assist students in acquiring the knowledge,
attitudes, and skills required to learn to work and to relate to others.
The guidance activities include small and large group instruction conducted by the counselor
and teachers in the classroom or counselor’s office. Mrs. Krueger also provides individual
and small group counseling for students referred by parents, teachers, or the principal.
As advocates for the students, Mrs. Krueger consults with parents, teachers, and other adults,
when necessary, in order to assist students.
Speech and Language Pathologist
Students with speech and/or language problems are referred to the Speech and Language
Pathologist, Mrs. Lisa Robbins. Children may be referred for an evaluation by the classroom
teacher, principal, parent, pediatrician or health clinic.
Psychological Services
The school system provides the services of a consultant psychologist. The psychologist,
Dr. Marianela Parraga, is consulted when the school feels a need for further help in planning a
program for a student. As a consultant, Dr. Parraga is available to parents in order to assist in
school problems or concerns.
Communications
When parents and teachers stay in touch – through telephone calls, conferences, notes
and letters – students benefit. Your interest and involvement in your child’s
education is a key to academic success. Please call first to make an appointment with
a teacher, guidance counselor, or principal.
The South Shore newsletter is sent home the last Thursday of each month. News
from the classrooms and of upcoming events are published so that you are kept
current of all happenings in the school.
The South Shore Website is also a source of current information concerning our
school. The website is linked from www.aacps.org/.
School Hours
School is in session from 8:20 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Children who are driven or walk to
school should not arrive before 8:05 a.m.
Students who arrive after 8:20 a.m. will be considered tardy and must have a note
from the parent explaining the lateness. The student will then receive a tardy slip in
order to be admitted to class.
Breakfast is served from 8:05 a.m. until 8:15 a.m.
Morning announcements begin at 8:20 a.m.
The instructional day begin at 8:30 a.m.
The lunch periods are:
10:45 – 11:10
11:15 - 11:40
12:00 - 12:25
12:30 – 12:55
Grade K
Grade 1
Grades 2 – 3
Grades 4 – 5
Recess periods will follow as scheduled:
11:15 – 11:35
Grade K
11:40 - 12:00
Grade 1
12:25 - 12:45
Grades 2 – 3
12:55 – 1:15
Grades 4 - 5
The instructional day ends at 2:40 p.m. with afternoon announcements. Dismissal is at
2:45 p.m.
I Am
I am strong
I am gentle
I am proud
I am humble
I am confident
I am beautiful
I am intelligent
I am becoming all that I can be
I am a student of South Shore
Elementary School
Code of Student Conduct
Appropriate student behavior is essential to an effective learning climate and is the
responsibility of students, teachers, and the principal.
Students have the responsibility to conduct themselves in a manner that does not
distract from the learning process. Students must understand school regulations, make
every effort to uphold them, and recognize that those in authority have the
responsibility for maintaining the orderly process of education.
School Rules and Consequences
School expectations and rules are very important for an orderly and safe school.
Listed below are the South Shore School rules that are implemented school-wide to
ensure an inviting place for all to come.
1.
2.
3.
4.
School Wide Rules
Keep my hands, feet, and body to myself.
Respect myself, others, and my school.
Use kind words when speaking.
Walk quietly in the hall.
Consequences
Behavior is maintained by both positive and negative consequences. Rewards and
recognition will be given to those students who follow school rules and demonstrate
appropriate behavior. Discipline is the student’s ability to accept consequences for
his/her behavior. Negative consequences for infractions of school rules may include a
time-out, loss of recess privilege, writing a mediation essay, an apology, in-school
suspension, or out of school suspension. Also see AACPS Student Code of Conduct.
School Wide Hand Signals
For attention and silence:
 Raise arms and hands. Clap three times or
 Raise hand with fingers spread and say, “Give Me Five.” Students know that their:
Eyes are watching;
Ears are listening;
Feet are still;
Hands are still;
Lips are silent.
Cafeteria
South Shore operates a Panda Café, which offers students hot lunches each school day.
Breakfast is also available to students in the café each day. A computer-coded card for each
child is used for the accounting of lunches and breakfasts. Money to be used for meals is placed
in the card account. As money runs out, students and parents are given notice to replenish the
account.
Parents who opt to pack student’s lunch are cautioned to pack only those foods that do not spoil
easily. Soft drinks and other carbonated beverages are not encouraged to be consumed by the
students in the cafeteria. Students who bring lunches from home may purchase milk in the café.
School Meals Program
If you believe your child qualifies for free or reduced-price meals, you are encouraged to complete
an “Application for Free and Reduced-Price School Meals,” and return it to the school. The
information provided on the application is strictly confidential.
Application forms for Free and Reduced Meals will be sent home the beginning of the school year.
A new application must be completed each year during the month of September.
Also, you may apply for meals any time during the school year by requesting an application from
the school. You will be notified when the application is approved or denied.
Breakfast Paid
Breakfast Reduced Price
Lunch Paid
$1.25
.30
2.00
Lunch Reduced Price
.40
Milk
.50
Each month a lunch menu is sent home listing the menu for each day.
PRE-PAY INFORMATION - ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS), Division of Food and Nutrition Services, offers you the convenience
of pre-paying for breakfast, lunch, and a la carte purchases. Please review the following:
How does the Pre-Pay system work?
• Students deposit money on account by cash and/or check and access it with their Student Identification #
(PIN#).
• Students bring purchases to register, enter confidential PIN #, and transaction is completed.
• If funds are not sufficient to cover purchase, cash and/or a deposit may be accepted.
What are the advantages to a Pre-Pay System?
• Money may be deposited on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis.
• Eliminates the need for students to carry money to school every day.
• Provides faster service to students, allowing more time for dining.
• Provides an account history.
Where can I obtain my child’s Student Identification Number (PIN#)?
• If your child has previously participated in the School Meals Program, they would know this number.
• The PIN# can be found on your child’s AACPS report card or obtained from your school office.
How do I establish a Pre-Pay account?
• Pre-payments may be made to the student’s account by cash or check payable to the name of the school
cafeteria.
• Include name and address of payee, student’s name, and PIN # on check.
• Submit payment to Cafeteria Manager. Funds are immediately available upon submission of payment.
• Households with more than one child at the same school may send one check or cash if the amount of money
to be placed into
each child’s account is designated. List the name of each child with the amount of money designated for each
child’s account.
Accounts may not be shared between children.
Can I check my account balance?
Yes. Contact the Cafeteria Manager for account information.
What happens to the account if my child transfers or withdraws from the school?
Upon request from the Parent/Guardian, the Cafeteria Manager will refund the balance of money on the account.
What happens to money remaining on account at the end of the school year?
Monies remain on account and are carried forward to the new school year for students who continue to be
enrolled at the same school. Graduating students and students promoted to Middle School or High School will
automatically have monies refunded.
What are the current meal prices?
This information is available at the following locations:
AACPS Website
Elementary School Menu
School Office
Food and Nutrition Services Office
Can my child’s Pre-Pay account also be used for the purchase of a la carte items?
Yes. Students (full price, reduced price and free) may purchase a la carte items on account with written approval
on the Pre-Pay Consent form. (See below)
If you have questions, contact Food and Nutrition Services at 410-222-5900.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consent for Purchase of A La Carte Items on Pre-Paid Account
School:_____________________________ Grade:____________________________
Student:____________________________ Student Identification # (PIN#)______________
I approve that this account may be used for the purchase of A La Carte Items.
Parent/Guardian signature:
_______________________________Date:________________
Return Form to the School Cafeteria Manager
Behavior At The Bus Stop
Behavior before and after the bus arrives is a community responsibility that should be
shared by all parents at a particular stop. To alleviate problems we suggest the
following.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Do not send children to the bus stop too early.
Parents, if possible, should accompany students to the bus stop.
If children are misbehaving, notify their parents.
If you have concerns about bus arrival times or other bus concerns, please
contact Mr. Bob Willis at 410-222-2917.
Cooperation from you and the community will prevent the school from spending
instructional time to help solve the behavior problems which the children bring from
the bus stops. Each child’s day needs to start positively.
School Bus Behavior Rules
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is due.
Line up quietly in single file away from the road.
Never stick your hands, head, or feet out the windows.
Stay out of the Danger Zone, which is 10 feet around the
bus on all sides.
Talk quietly and stay seated on the bus.
Keep the aisle clear.
Pay attention to the bus driver.
Use handrails to get on and off the bus.
Failure to comply with bus rules may result in removal from the bus for a limited or
permanent period of time.
Bus and Bus Stop Changes
All children are to ride their regular bus and get off at their regular stop each day unless a change
is absolutely necessary and has been approved by the principal. This is done so children will not
be lost or left unattended, and to prevent overcrowding of busses.
Children are not to ride different busses or get off at different bus stops to visit friends, to go to
scouts, sporting events, or other activities. Any temporary or permanent bus or bus stop changes
must be absolutely necessary and cleared through the office in writing.
Exceptional
Transportation Request form is to be used in all cases. Parents should come to the school office
to secure the form.
Parents are to fill in the upper portion of the form and submit it to the principal at least five (5)
school days prior to the date exceptional transportation is to begin.
The principal completes the section of the form under “Office Use Only.” Please make sure all
information is completely filled in (School name, bus numbers, pick-up and arrival times, bus
stop).
Follow these instructions when the following reasons are checked…
 Medical - A physician’s statement must be attached.
 Other - Please state reason on line below “Reason for Request” or attach a note.
Emergency Situations will be handled by the principal. Depending on the situation, the five (5)
day advance notice is waived, but the parent is to come to the school to fill out the form. A
written notice is required.
The bus driver is to be given the driver’s copy of the Exceptional Transportation Request at least
one day prior to commencement of exceptional transportation. The exception, of course, would be
an emergency situation and then the day of the commencement of exceptional transportation is
acceptable.
South Shore Pledge
We the family of South Shore Elementary School
show respect to ourselves, others and the
property of others.
We come to school prepared to work.
We are responsible for what we say and do.
We work and play safely.
We tell the truth.
We show kindness.
We are doing our best to be the best.
Car Riders
Parents who transport their child to and from school by car are not to use the driveway
in front of the school. This driveway is for school busses only. The safest and only
area for discharging and picking up your children is the lower parking lot near
Fairfield Loop Road.
Attendance
Regular school attendance is an important factor in student success. As a parent, you
can encourage proper attendance by ensuring that your child gets adequate rest, eats a
healthy breakfast, and has adequate time to catch the school bus or walk to school.
There are lawful reasons for absence from school. Whenever your child is absent, you
must provide a note of explanation to the school within three days of your child’s
return to school. Please be as specific as possible so that school personnel will be
able to code the absence as lawful or unlawful. If we receive no communication in
reference to your child’s absence, he or she will be coded for an unlawful absence.
Absences of five consecutive days or more require a physician’s note.
A student who is legally absent will be allowed to make up work within a reasonable
number of days, and will receive credit for that work. A student who is illegally
absent will be allowed to make up work, but will receive no credit for the work.
Religious absence will not cause a student to be subjected to attendance review and/or
denial of credit.
Whenever your child is going to be out of school for an extended period of time, you
should contact the school immediately to make provisions for instruction.
Home/hospital teaching is available for students who are out of school for an extended
period of time for medical and other specified reasons.
Homework Policy
“Behind every successful student is a parent who says:
‘”Not until your homework is done.’”
Practice makes perfect and home is the perfect place for practice. In the elementary
school, the emphasis is on developing work habits and responsibility. Homework is a
teacher-planned learning activity, which takes place outside of the student’s regular
school hours. The homework assignment includes only what the child has been
previously taught in school. It is an extension of classroom instruction. The teacher
will judge the amount of homework and assign it according to the needs and capability
of the individual child. Homework assignments may include drill in skills, review or
enrichment activities. Teachers make sure the needed resources are available before
the assignment is given. Parents may help by providing study areas, allowing time for
study, providing interest and encouragement, and helping the child in oral reading,
spelling and drill. At all times, remember that the work is the child’s.
Homework is a required component for student achievement. A teacher’s evaluation
of homework shall be reflected in each student’s grades. In elementary school,
homework is reflected in the grade assigned for work habits.
Time Guidelines for Homework
General guidelines on time allotments for homework are:
Grade K
20 minutes per night, two to three times per week.
Grades 1-2
30 minutes per night, three to four times per week.
Grades 3-5
45 minutes per night, three to four times per week.
10 Ways to Help Your Child with Homework
1.
Let your child know that homework is important and valuable.
2.
Set a regular time each day for homework, allowing some time to unwind after
school before getting started.
3.
Be sure your child has all essentials such as paper, schoolbooks, and pencils.
4.
Help your child get organized by providing folders for papers and a calendar
and/or assignment book.
5.
Have a quiet, clean, and well-lit place to study, with a comfortable chair. Keep
all schoolwork there.
6.
Discourage distractions, including TV, during study time. Allow study breaks
at intervals.
7.
Be available to answer questions or help quiz your child, but keep homework as
his or her responsibility to complete.
8.
Spot check homework when it’s completed, and have students review their
work.
9.
Read any comments the teacher has made on returned assignments.
10.
If a homework problem arises, contact the teacher for clarification.
REMEMBER – Praise your child for homework done to the best of his or her ability.
Grading Guidelines
All students are evaluated in relation to their individual instructional levels. There are four
grading periods, each nine weeks in length. Report cards and interim reports are issued for
each grading period.
In kindergarten, progress cards indicate “consistently demonstrating,” “developing,” and “not
yet demonstrating” for specific skills in listening/speaking, reading, writing, math, science,
social studies, technology, social emotional growth, and psycho-motor development.
In grades 1-2, report cards indicate “consistently demonstrating,” “developing,” and “needs
improvement” for specific skills in language arts, math, science, social studies art, music,
physical education, technology, and personal growth/learning/social behaviors.
In grades 3-5, elementary school report cards indicate student achievement by letter grade for
reading, language arts (excluding listening and speaking), math, science, and social studies.
Letter grades are used for reporting student progress in:
 Language Arts (with the exception of listens and speaks effectively)
 Mathematics
 Social Studies
 Science
Each letter grade on the report card is based upon a compilation of the grades recorded
during the marking period.
Number codes are be given for:
 Personal Growth/Learning/Social Behaviors
 Language Arts – listens and speaks effectively
 Art
 Music
 Chorus
 Physical Education
 Technology
Grading Terminology
Grades K – 2
Consistently Demonstrating
The student exhibits the skills independently with minimal teacher intervention.
Developing
The student exhibits the skills with teacher guidance and support.
Needs Improvement
The student exhibits the skills in isolated or rare instances, or with a great deal of
support. The performance is inconsistent and below the normal range of expectancy
for a student at that grade level.
Not Yet Demonstrating
The student has never exhibited the skills/behaviors or has exhibited the skills in
isolated or rare instances.
Grades 3-5
Number Codes:
3 = 85 to 100%
(Very Good)
2 = 70 – 84%
(Satisfactory)
1 = 0 – 69%
(Needs Improvement)
Letter Grades:
A letter grade for the marking period shall be established using the following scale:
A = 100% - 90%
B = 89% - 80%
C = 79% - 70%
D = 69% - 60%
E = 59% or less
Student Recognition Program
Each marking period we formally recognize students who are demonstrating academic
achievement, putting forth exemplary effort and perfect attendance at our Student
Recognition Assembly.
The criteria is listed below:
Principal’s Honor Roll
 Primary students can earn no more than three (3) Developing marks, all other
marks must be Consistently Demonstrating
 Grades 3-5 students must earn all A’s
Honor Roll
 Primary students can earn no more than six (6) Developing marks, all other
marks must be Consistently Demonstrating
 Grades 3-5 students must earn all A’s and B’s
Effort Award
 This award is for students who tried extremely hard but did not earn the
Principal’s Honor Roll or the Honor Roll. The classroom teacher will select the
honorees.
Perfect Attendance
 This award is for students who were in attendance every school day.
Report Cards & Parent/Teacher Conferences
The report card is only one method of communication between home and school regarding
a student’s academic performance. Report cards are issued four times a year at the end of
each marking period. Report cards will be distributed on November 21, February 13,
April 24, and on the last day of school in June.
Interim reports will be distributed on October 3, December 12, March 6, and May 8.
Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled for November 24 and 25. Teachers of
kindergarten students hold conferences with parents each spring.
For parents, the conference provides an opportunity to:
 get to know your child’s teacher or teachers.
 learn about the school and curriculum.
 discuss your child’s strengths and areas of concern.
 work with the school in setting goals and plans.
 learn ways you can support your child.
 communicate your concerns to the school.
Parent Strategies for Successful Conferences
In order to have a successful conference, the teacher and parents need to work together to
share information, answer questions, and develop goals. Parents may effectively prepare for
conferences by doing two things. First, discuss school and general concerns with your child.
Second, make a list of questions and comments to discuss with the teacher.
When discussing school with your child, try to determine specifics such as strengths and
areas of concern, favorite and least favorite subjects, and any problems that might be
occurring. Make special note of any challenges with peers or teachers.
A list of questions and comments should address both academic achievement and behavioral
situations. Ask specific questions about classroom participation, comprehension, study
habits, written communication, reading level, and relationships.
Be willing to share
information which might assist the teacher in meeting your child’s academic needs and social
needs.
Remember, a conference is held for the parents and teacher to communicate with each other
concerning the progress and needs of the child. Parent input provides a vital ingredient to a
successful conference.
Parent Teacher Association
The objectives of the PTA are to develop closer relationships between parents and teachers in
order to promote mental, social and physical education of all students; to assist in obtaining
adequate laws for the protection of children and youth; to promote improvement in all
environmental conditions which influence the development, learning conditions, and
behavior of children and youth; and to cooperate with all established school policies and
regulations as set forth by the Anne Arundel County Board of Education, and the school
principal, Dr. Linda Ferrara.
Education is a team effort, and we are proud to work with parents through the PTA. We
invite all families to join the South Shore Elementary School PTA. The PTA meets during
the school year on the first Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
The PTA Executive Committee for 2008-2009 is:
President – Becky Bell (bbzra@comcast.net)
Vice President – Cynthia Shay (cshay@gfrlaw.com)
Secretary – Marirose Hubscher (mrhubscher@verizon.net)
Treasurer – Cindy Myers (cynmyers@comcast.net)
Citizens Advisory Committee
The Citizens Advisory Committee is intended to provide a forum for public discussion of
education concerns. It provides a means of communication between the taxpayers and the
Board of Education. The group is open to any concerned citizen in the county whether or
not they have children enrolled in the public schools.
This year’s CAC meetings are scheduled on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 10:00
A.M. (*with the exception of the following months: HOLIDAYS for *November,
*December and INSERVICE for *January.) Our first CAC Meeting is September 24,
October 22, December 18, February 25, March 25, April 22 and May 27. The meetings are
open to the public and parents are encouraged to attend to discuss matters of concern to them.
The CAC Committee for 2008-2009 is:
Michelle Cote
Becky Bell
Nadia Ste-Marie-McKeon
Human Relations Committee
Effective human relations help create a positive learning environment in schools and
promote cooperation among citizens, staff, students, and parents.
Human relations activities are promoted through the cooperative efforts of all
individuals involved in the school community. The Human Relations Committee is
responsible for supporting these efforts.
The South Shore Human Relations Committee is very active and is composed of
parents, students, teachers, and the principal. The sponsors are Miss’ Erica Lindsay
and Hilary Jump.
Parent Volunteers
When parents volunteer, both families and schools reap benefits that come in few
other ways. Parents and family members perform literally millions of dollars of
volunteer services each year in the public schools. Studies have concluded that
volunteers express greater confidence in the school where they have opportunities to
participate regularly. In addition, assisting in school or program events and activities
communicates to a child, “I care about what you do at school.”
With your support and enthusiastic involvement every student at South Shore
Elementary School can learn and succeed in a comfortable, secure school
environment.
To become involved or to learn more about the variety of ways you can help make a
positive difference in your child’s education and in the education of all children,
please call Mrs. Janice Spicknall, the staff volunteer liaison.
Tips for Parents on Preventing Violence
and
Recognizing Early Warning Signs
We are committed to helping create safe schools and getting help for students who show signs of becoming
violent. But we need your cooperation. Here are some ideas that parents in other communities have tried. Please
read the list carefully and call the principal if you have any questions.
Teach your Child



Keep lines of communication open with your
child-even when it is tough doing so. Encourage
your child to always let you know where he or she
will be and with whom. Get to know your child’s
friends.

Listen to your child if he or she shares concerns
about friends who may be exhibiting troubling
behavior. Share this information with trusted
professional, such as the school principal,
psychologist, or teacher.
Discuss the school’s discipline policy with your
child. Show your support for the rules, and help
your child understand the reasons for them.
At home involve your child in setting rules for
appropriate behavior.

Talk with your child about the violence he or she
sees on television, in video and computer games,
and possibly in the neighborhood.

Help your child understand the consequences of
violence.

Teach your child how to solve problems. Praise
your child when he or she follows through.

Help your child find ways to express anger that do
not involve orally or physically hurting others.
When you get angry, use it as an opportunity to
model these appropriate responses for your child
and talk about it.

Help your child understand the value of accepting
individual differences.

Teach your child about the danger of firearms and
make sure your child does not have access to
firearms.
Get Involved with School

Be involved in your child’s school life by
supporting and reviewing homework, talking with
his or her teacher, and attending school functions,
such as parent conferences, class programs, open
houses, and PTA meetings.

Work with the school to make it more responsive
to all students and their families. Share your ideas
about how the school can welcome all families,
encourage their involvement, and include them in
meaningful ways in their children’s education.

Explore the options available in your community
for before-and after-school programs.

Volunteer to work with school-based groups
concerned with violence prevention.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs


Note any disturbing behavior displayed by your
child. For example, frequent angry outbursts,
excessive fighting and bullying, cruelty to animals,
setting fires, frequent behavior problems at school
and in the neighborhood, lack of friends, and
alcohol or drug use can be signs of deep problems.
Get help for your child. Talk with a trusted
professional in the school or in the community.

Talk with the parents of your child’s friends.
Discuss how you can form a team to ensure your
children’s safety.
Find out if your employer offers flexible hours or
other provisions to allow time for parents to
participate in school activities.
VOLUNTEER COMMITTEES
CLASSROOM ASSISTANTS: Volunteers are needed to provide clerical assistance, tutor individuals
or small groups, provide occasional help with special projects and parties, and to complete book orders.
Volunteers will be contacted.
ART HELPERS: Mrs. Marcie Canine needs occasional helpers who can assist with special projects
on Volunteers will be contacted as needed.
MEDIA HELPERS: Mrs. Bark and Mrs. Kane need occasional helpers to shelve books, perform
clerical duties, assist with Chessie Club, and film school performances. Volunteers will be contacted
as needed.
MUSIC HELPERS: Ms Emily Morozek will need help with special musical productions in December
and May. Costume designers, make-up artists, and scenery designers are needed. Volunteers will be
contacted as needed.
P.E. HELPERS: Mrs. Susanna Parks will need volunteers to conduct South Shore’s fitness
assessments in October and April and to help with Field Day in the spring.
SCIENCE LAB: Volunteers are needed to assist with equipment maintenance and lab set-up as well
as to work with groups of students engaged in science experimentation. Volunteers will be contacted.
BOOK FAIR and LITERACY WEEK: Volunteers are needed to help organize and run the annual
Scholastic Book Fair and Media Night. The event will be held in November, during Literacy Week.
Volunteers will be contacted.
VISION AND HEARING: The Health Department will screen children for vision and hearing. Two
parent volunteers are needed to assist the school nurse on December 22 and 23.
COPY BOX: Volunteers are needed to copy classroom material for all teachers.
READING HELPERS: Mrs. Jan Spicknall needs helpers to assist students in practicing reading
skills. Students will work with volunteers individually or as a group. Volunteers are needed for both
occasional and regularly scheduled times.
AT HOME HELPERS: Although there are many parents for whom volunteering during school hours
is not possible, creative solutions like before or after-school “drop-in” programs or “at home” support
activities provide opportunities for parents to offer their assistance as well.
Dress Code
Students have the right and responsibility to choose their attire and to arrange their
personal appearance in a manner, which is healthy, safe, inoffensive, and not disruptive to
the educational process.
Girls are not permitted to wear tops or dresses with spaghetti straps, tops that reveal the
belly, or shorts that rise higher than the mid thigh.
Boys are not permitted to wear undershirts without a shirt over them.
Students must wear shoes that have straps, sandals without straps and flip-flops are not
allowed.
Recess
Recess is arranged during the day when weather permits. Students will not be exposed
needlessly to bad weather. When a general recess is called, everyone is expected to go out.
When students go out for directed play or recess they should be engaged in worthwhile,
organized games. When directed play or recess is over classes are to line up quietly and
enter the building in an orderly manner.
Bullying, fighting, rough play, tackle football, rock throwing, or throwing of any other
objects are unacceptable and has consequences.
Chewing Gum
Chewing Gum is forbidden in the school. This is a sanitary as well as a health regulation.
Parents are requested to help the school enforce this regulation by seeing to it that their
children do not bring gum to school.
Lost and Found
If your child misplaces any of his/her belongings while at school, please have your child
check the Lost and Found container located in the café. The school cannot assume
responsibility for students’ losses. Proper marking of personal property can reduce these
losses. Please mark all items such as coats, jackets, sweaters and lunch boxes.
Lastly, any item not claimed within a reasonable length of time will be given to a charitable
organization.
Student Property
Students are assigned lockers for their belongings. Educational materials and supplies
are kept in desks. It is a good policy to have your child label all of his/her belongings so
that ownership may be easily determined. Students should understand that on occasion
it may be necessary to examine the content of lockers or desks.
Students are not permitted to bring radios, tape players, or toys to school unless they
have the teacher’s permission to do so.
Students are issued materials for all basic needs to the instructional program. Minimum
requests are made of parents for the purchase of supplementary materials. When
teachers make these requests, it is because they feel the materials will enhance the
effectiveness of the basic program.
Money
When your child brings money to the school for insurance, field trips, pictures, etc.,
please put the money in an envelope and write your child’s name, grade, and teacher on
it. Students should not bring large sums of money to school unless it is for one of the
stated purposes. Also, please encourage your child to assume responsibility for lunch
money.
Educational Excursions
Educational excursions are planned by teachers as part of the instructional program and
must be an outgrowth of the lessons being taught in class. Notices are sent home in
advance outlining the details and cost of the trip. No child may be taken on a school trip
without written parental permission. All reservations are made in advance. Because we
are obligated to pay for our reservations, we are not able to refund any money, if your
child misses the trip. A limited number of parent chaperones may be asked to
accompany the class on the trip.
Chaperones should follow school rules and accepts the responsibility of following the
procedures set by the teachers.
Students are expected to exhibit excellent behavior as they represent South Shore
Elementary School away from school.
Illness
The school policy is to call parents when children get sick or hurt at school. Children
who are too ill to return to class must be taken home by their parents. They may not
remain in school. If the parents are not available, the emergency numbers will be called
and the person listed will be asked to pick up the student.
In the event that your child has an accident while in school, we will do our best to
contact you. If we cannot locate you, we will take all appropriate measures to assure the
proper treatment of your child.
Care of Books
During the year, textbooks and media books may be sent home. All textbooks that are
sent home must be covered. The condition of the book and number are noted before
issuance.
The students are informed at the beginning of the school year that he/she is expected to
return the book(s) in the same condition at the close of the school year. If the book is
not returned in good condition or is lost, parents will be requested to reimburse the
school in the amount of the total cost of the book.
Safety Drills
Throughout the school year we practice safety drills in the event of an emergency or
crisis incident.
An emergency is a sudden need for action. We practice appropriate responses for the
following emergencies:
Fire
Bus accidents
Severe Weather
Utility System Emergencies
A crisis is an unstable or crucial situation that requires immediate action to prevent or
minimize a highly undesirable outcome. The following crisis code system was devised
by Anne Arundel County Public Schools to provide school staff with a standardized
method to alert staff and students to a crisis:
Code Red
Threat/incident inside or outside the school, when the best course of action
is to keep everyone in place but requires The School Emergency Response
Team to react.
Code White
Threat/Incident within the school when the best course of action is to
implement the school’s Shelter-In-Place plan.
Code Yellow
Situation where the best course of action requires multiple responses by
staff. Normally used as a secondary response after a Code Red or White.
Code Green
Evacuate the school.
Code Blue
Situation is all clear. Students and staff may resume normal activities.
Early Dismissal
When a student is to be dismissed early, the school must be notified in writing in
advance of the early departure. The note should contain the date and time of the early
departure, the reason for the early departure, and the name of the person who will be
picking the child up from school. The child should be picked up from the office at the
appointed time and signed out at that time by the person who will be responsible for the
child. A sign-out log is available in the office and the information is kept on file in the
event that a problem arises.
Parent Handbook and Student Handbook
A copy of the Anne Arundel County Public Schools Parent Handbook and Student
Handbook are distributed in September or October. Please review this information with
your child.
Administering Medication
To request that medication be administered to your child during the school day at
school, you must complete a “Parent’s Request to Administer Medication at School”
form, which includes several stipulations and assigned order from a physician.
Medication cannot be administered to students without this completed paperwork.
Medication cannot be self-administered.
The term “medication” refers to both
prescription and non-prescription medicine.
If your child has a chronic health condition, such as asthma or diabetes, you should
notify the school immediately so that proper procedures can be developed to assist your
child. Home/hospital teaching is available for students who are out of school for an
extended period of time for medical and other specified reasons. For more information,
call Dr. Ferrara, Mrs. Krueger, or the school nurse, Mrs. Laura Ballotte.
How Do I Know When to Keep My Child Home
from School Because of Illness
Parents should keep their child home from school because of a serious illness, injury or
a condition that can be passed on to other children. Although no comprehensive list is
possible, the following conditions may be considered appropriate reasons to keep a
student home from school:
Examples of serious illness or injury:

Vomiting

Temperature 101° or greater

Severe abdominal pain

Earache

Head injury

Adverse medication effect

Suspected fracture

Chest pain

Severe pain

Severe shortness of breath or wheezing
Examples of possibly communicable conditions

Vomiting

Loose runny stools/diarrhea

Suspected communicable disease

Nuisance condition not currently being treated; e.g., ringworm, scabies,
head lice

Red, draining eyes

Persistent runny nose with yellow/green discharge, accompanied by fever

Productive cough, accompanied by fever

Undiagnosed rash
Parents should consult with their doctor for advice and/or treatment of the conditions or
symptoms listed here.
Enrollment and Immunization
To enroll a new student, you must bring the child’s birth certificate and a copy of the
child’s immunization record to school. A student enrolling in a school in Maryland for
the first time must complete a physical within nine months after enrolling. A student
transferring from another school system in Maryland must have the Maryland transfer
form. A student enrolling from out-of-state should bring the most recent transcript and
immunization record.
Immunization Requirements
Kindergarten through Grade 5
4 DTP
3 Polio
2 Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
1 Varicella
3 Hepititis B
A student may not attend school without proof of immunization compliance.
Early/Emergency School Dismissal
Unscheduled emergency school closings may be necessary from time to time. Weather
emergencies may require a closing, a late opening or an early closing for all schools. In
addition, a localized emergency, such as a fire, a boiler failure, or a water emergency
may require an adjustment to the scheduled opening or closing time.
Changes to school schedules are posted on the school system’s web site,
www.aacps.org. In addition, announcements are posted on www.schools-out.com
Parents should be prepared for these potential events. The students should know the
procedures to follow as outlined by the parents. When schools are closed early for
inclement weather or other emergencies, there will be no after school S.A.C.C. program.
Emergency Information Card
It is important for you to keep the school up-to-date on work and home telephone
numbers as well as the names of people to contact in case of an emergency. You will
receive an emergency information card from the school to fill out and return. If any of
the information changes during the course of the school year, including those people
with permission to pick up your child from school, please contact the school office
immediately. School personnel will require photo identification from anyone who
comes to school to pick up a child.
Telephone Calls
The telephones in the office are to be used only in case of an emergency. Forgotten
assignments or musical instruments are not considered emergencies, but a responsibility
of the student. Emergency messages will be given to your child.
We are asking for your continued cooperation.
Visiting the School
South Shore has an open door policy for visitation. We welcome visitors, but we
request that you report to the school office upon your arrival. This procedure ensures the
safety of all children and staff members. Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit
South Shore Elementary School. Visitors must sign in and receive a visitor’s button.
Upon departure, visitors are asked to return to the office to sign out and to return the
visitor’s button.
“Be The Best You Can Be!”
School Song
Be the best you can be!
Try your hardest and see,
Students at South Shore Elementary,
Do all their work successfully.
We work, we play, we study all day.
We never let worries get in our way.
Be the best you can be!
At South Shore Elementary!