From the Principal. . . Dear Parents, Welcome to the 2014-2015 school year at Granite Hill Elementary School. If you are a returning Granite Hill family, we look forward to having you back and watching you continue to make progress. If you are new to Granite Hill, we extend an especially warm welcome for an exciting and productive year. We hope that you will quickly feel at home and become involved in the activities of our school through the PTA, parent committees, and your child’s classroom program. At Granite Hill, our mission is to provide an extraordinary instructional program where students are equally empowered and challenged, and provided with multiple opportunities to grow academically and socially. We want our students to embrace the notion that we are all lifelong learners and that success comes through doing our best, being our best, and feeling proud in our efforts. As the state, our district, and most importantly our school embrace the new Common Core Standards, you will see a more abstract, rigorous curriculum through the use of collaborative grouping, project-based learning, performance tasks, non-fiction reading material, and the use of technology. Our highly qualified staff continues to grow professionally, ensuring that they are utilizing best practices to teach the new standards. Teachers have attended various workshops for Common Core Language Arts and Math and will continue to do so this school year. Common Core standards will be used to assess student progress and communicate with you about whether your child is learning at a satisfactory level. These standards are designed to help our students be college and career ready. Common Core standards will require that your child is able to: Persevere in problem solving through planning solutions, exploring, checking their answers, showing various representations for solutions (tables, graphs, diagrams, etc.) and finding alternative methods to math problems. Justify their conclusions and respond to arguments of others to determine whether or not the solution makes sense through higher level questioning and written responses. Know if and when to use various tools to solve problems and to deepen their understanding of a concept. Communicate using academic vocabulary with peers to explain their thinking, restate the processes, convey similarities and differences, and to state various perspectives. Read both narrative and informational text and thoughtfully recall information through inferring, comparing, contrasting, justifying, analyzing, describing, and defining. Your partnership is critical to our instructional program. It is essential that your children see you as an active participant at school, so they know that you value their education. You can help by encouraging your child to do his or her best work in the classroom, to complete all homework assignments, and practice respect when dealing with others. Parental support is an integral component of student success. I encourage you to join us in our efforts to make this year a rich and rewarding one for your child. Seek opportunities to join parent committees such as PTA, School Site Council, and the English Language Advisory Committee. There are also many opportunities to help out or participate in special school events and parent workshops. Join us in the pursuit to make a genuine difference in the life of your child. I look forward to working with you in the upcoming year! Sincerely, Corrine Ortiz, Principal Please note that a student handbook is a guide. It is impossible to cover every event and situation that may occur during the school year. In these cases it is incumbent upon the principal to make decisions in the best interest of the school and all parties. 1 Jurupa Unified School District Our Children, Our Schools, Our Future! Overall Mission Statement The mission of the Jurupa Unified School District is to educate each student to the highest levels of academic achievement and prepare students to succeed in life. District’s Elementary School Mission Statement Develop a strong academic foundation. District’s Middle School Mission Statement Supporting a successful transition through academic and social learning. District’s High School Mission Statement Preparing students for the challenges of today and tomorrow. District’s Community Mission Statement Involve parents and the community in the educational process. District Goals Performance Goal #1: All students will reach high academic standards. Performance Goal #2: All English Language Learners will become proficient in English and reach high academic standards. Performance Goal #3: All students will be taught by highly qualified teachers. Performance Goal #4: All students will be educated in learning environments that are safe, drug-free, and conducive to learning. Performance Goal #5: All students will graduate from high school. Performance Goal #6: All students will benefit from the District engaging and sustaining the trust and involvement of parents and the community in the educational process. 2 Granite Hill Elementary School Mission Statement All students learning Supportive environment Thinking critically Respect for others, and pride in self Opportunities for academic achievement ‘Shared leadership Application of knowledge Involving parents and community Making good choices Granite Hill -- where learning never stops! Astros Rock! Board of Education The Board of Education meets on the first and third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. (Tuesday if Monday falls on a holiday). Meetings are conducted at the Education Center, Board Room, and 4850 Pedley Road, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509. 3 Granite Hill Elementary School Tentative Certificated Assignments 2014-2015 Teacher’s Name Grade Level Room Assignment Tracey Douglas TK/Kinder - AM 2 Kinder -PM 4 Laurie Reimer Kinder – AM/1 1 Lorena Fong 1 3 Rhonda Brewster 1 5 Conie Mena 1 7 Cindy White 1/2 6 Sherine Candido 2 27 Kathleen Brooks 2 28 Jamie Smallwood 2/3 29 Lynne Bjazevich 3 18 Lorena Graves 3/4 20 Nenoise Trotter 3 17 Renee Schultz 3 21 Kristin Alkire 4 22 Jennifer Hensley 4 19 Adrianne Lara 4 24 Cassandra Lemus 4/5 25 Kelly Jiannino 5 8 Heather Schaefer/Vicki Watanabe 5 9 Philip Martinez 5/6 13 Otis Allmon 6 14 Steven Santiago 6 15 Felician Horner Maria Gadsden 6 16 Debbie Ramirez Primary Intervention Old TT office Kara Davis Intervention 4/5 23 Julya Anderson SDC 11 Robert Magyar LSH Speech Claudia Avila/Kimberly Lambert RSP 26 Sophia Hernandez Band Room 30 Theresa Jiminez Psychologist Psych Room Jose Delgado,Think Together ASP Mini Lab Computer Lab All grades 12 4 Granite Hill Elementary School 2014-2015 Regular Day Schedule Astros Rock Grade Level Start End Minutes Description (Instruction, Recess, Lunch, etc.) Kindergarten A.M. 8:35 12:15 200 Instruction 11:45 12:05 20 Lunch Total Minutes of Instruction = 200/day X 180 days = 36,000 Kindergarten P.M. 11:44 3:04 200 Instruction 11:24 11:44 20 Lunch Total Minutes of Instruction = 200/day X 180 days = 36,000 Primary (1) 8:35 10:37 122 Instruction 10:37 10:59 22 Recess 10:59 12:10 71 Instruction 12:10 12:55 45 Lunch 12:55 3:04 129 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 322 minutes X 140 days = 45,080 minutes Primary (2) 8:35 10:37 122 Instruction 10:37 10:59 22 Recess 10:59 12:20 81 Instruction 12:20 1:05 45 Lunch 1:05 3:04 119 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 322 minutes X 140 days = 45,080 minutes Primary (3) 8:35 10:37 122 Instruction 10:37 10:59 22 Recess 10:59 12:30 91 Instruction 12:30 1:15 45 Lunch/Recess 1:15 3:04 109 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 322 minutes X 140 days = 45,080 minutes Intermediate (4) 8:35 10:15 100 Instruction 10:15 10:37 22 Recess 10:37 12:40 123 Instruction 12:40 1:25 45 Lunch 1:25 3:04 99 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 322 minutes X 140 days = 45,080 minutes Intermediate (5) 8:35 10:15 100 Instruction 10:15 10:37 22 Recess 10:37 12:00 83 Instruction 12:00 12:45 45 Lunch 12:45 3:04 139 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 322 minutes X 140 days = 45,080 minutes Intermediate (6) 8:35 10:15 100 Instruction 10:15 10:37 22 Recess 10:37 11:50 73 Instruction 11:50 12:35 45 Lunch 12:35 3:04 149 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 322 minutes X 140 days = 45,080 minutes 5 Granite Hill Elementary School 2014-2015 Minimum Day Schedule Astros Rock Grade Level Start End Minutes Description (Instruction, Recess, Lunch, etc.) (1-2) 8:35 10:40 125 Instruction 10:40 10:55 15 Recess 10:55 12:00 65 Instruction 12:00 12:42 42 Lunch 12:42 1:19 37 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 227 minutes X 40 days = 9,080 minutes 3-4 8:35 10:25 110 Instruction 10:25 10:40 15 Recess 10:40 12:30 110 Instruction 12:30 1:12 42 Lunch 1:12 1:19 7 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 227 minutes X 40 days = 9,080 minutes (5–6) 8:35 10:10 95 Instruction 10:10 10:25 15 Recess 10:25 11:30 65 Instruction 11:30 12:12 42 Lunch 12:12 1:19 67 Instruction Total Minutes of Instruction = 227 minutes X 40 days = 9,080 minutes Minimum Days 2014-2015 8/27/14 10/01/14 10/29/14 12/10/14 2/4/15 3/4/15 4/15/15 5/20/15 9/3/14 10/8/14 11/5/14 12/17/14 2/11/15 3/11/15 4/22/15 5/27/15 9/10/14 10/15/14 11/12/14 1/14/15 2/18/15 3/18/15 4/29/15 5/29/15 9/17/14 10/22/14 11/19/14 1/21/15 2/20/15 3/25/15 5/6/15 6/3/15 9/24/14 10/24/14 12/3/14 1/28/15 2/25/15 4/8/15 5/13/15 6/4/15 Total (180 days) = 45,080 minutes (140 days) + 9,080 minutes (40 minimum days) = 54,160 minutes (PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL AM AND PM KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS WILL ATTEND SCHOOL AT 8:35 AM TO 12:15PM ON EVERY MINIMUM DAY THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR STARTING AUGUST 27, 2014). 6 Journey to Success NONDISCRIMINATION NOTICE SEXUAL HARASSMENT GENDER EQUITY (TITLE IX) AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT REHABILITATION ACT, SECTION 504 The Jurupa Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic group identification, ancestry, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, race or ethnicity, color, nationality, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, or mental or physical disability in any of its policies, procedures or practices, nor does it permit, condone, or allow sexual harassment of students or staff members. Any student or employee who is found guilty of sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action. Inquiries regarding Federal laws and regulations concerning nondiscrimination or questions or complaints pertaining to sexual harassment or gender equity should be directed to the District Title IX Coordinator: Ms. Ilsa Garza-González, Director Administrative Services Education Center 4850 Pedley Road Jurupa Valley, CA 92509 (951) 360-4140 M-F 8:00 am – 4:30 pm Questions, complaints, or requests for additional information regarding the ADA and Section 504 should be directed to the ADA and Section 504 Compliance Coordinator: Ms. Michelle L. Johnson, Administrator Education Support Services Education Center 4850 Pedley Road Jurupa Valley, CA 92509 (951) 360-4144 M-F 8:00 am – 4:30 pm 7 Student Failure Notification Teachers shall monitor student progress and achievement continuously throughout the school grading period. When it becomes evident that a pupil is in danger of earning a failing grade at the end of any grading period, the parent or guardian shall be notified. Such notification may be in person, by phone, or by letter. The parent or guardian shall be invited to the school to discuss the pupil’s schoolwork, reasons for possible failure and action to be taken to improve the pupil’s performance. Failure of the parent to attend a conference shall not preclude the awarding of a failing mark at the end of the grading period. Child Abuse Reporting Under California law, all Jurupa U.S.D. employees are mandated to report reasonable suspicion of child abuse. Information concerning suspected child abuse may be received by school personnel from a variety of sources. A mandated reporter who fails to report an instance of child abuse which he / she knows to exist could be prosecuted for failure to report as required by law. No supervisor or administrator may impede or inhibit reporting duties and no person who makes a report can be subject to any sanction for making a report. Homework Homework is work to be completed at home that is a meaningful extension of regular classroom work. Homework is a valuable aid to student learning. Although each teacher’s assignments will vary according to students’ needs, abilities and interests, the following is a suggested schedule: Kindergarten Grades 1 & 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 10-15 minutes, 2-3 days per week 10-20 minutes, 3-4 days per week 15-30 minutes, 3-4 days per week 30-40 minutes, 3-4 days per week 30-50 minutes, 3-4 days per week 30-60 minutes, 4-5 days per week Homework assignments, once completed, deserve recognition. Certain homework assignments may require only acknowledgement, while other are corrected and/or graded. Teachers check homework by using a variety of methods, such as: a check mark, stamp, letter grade, teacher’s initials, star or sticker, or comments. Students with 100% homework completion are entered into a monthly drawing for Lunch With the Principal at Shakey’s. Parents can help at home by: Providing a quiet study place with good lighting. Ensuring students have a supply box with necessary items needed to complete homework such as (pencils, erasers, crayons, glue sticks, and paper). Establishing a routine time every day to study to reinforce the importance of homework. Reminding their child to do his / her homework assignments. Assisting by clarifying directions, but Not by completing the assignment for the child. Providing encouragement towards working independently on assignments. Checking periodically with the teacher to verify if completed homework assignments are being returned to school. 8 Some students need to have breaks to complete homework. Sometimes working for 10 minutes and taking a 5 minute break helps kids complete assignments without frustration. Establish a routine when homework is done… place in a location for you to check it, or place it directly in the backpack. Before students leave the classroom at the end of the day, they should: Understand what the homework assignment is and how to do it. Know when the assignment is due. Take all needed materials and homework assignment papers home. Assume responsibility for making up missed assignments. When assignments are turned in, they should: Be on time. Have the proper heading including name. Demonstrate that the student put forth maximum effort. Electronic Information Use Policy The Jurupa Unified School District strongly believes in the educational value of Internet electronic services and recognizes their potential to support teaching and student learning. The District’s electronic information services rely upon proper conduct by its students and personnel as well as adherence to strict rules and regulations governing acceptable use. The use of the district information system is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in the cancellation of those privileges. Each person who receives an account will participate in an orientation or training course with a designated faculty member. Before using the district Internet electronic services the student and parent must complete an Internet Use Agreement” form, which is available in the office. Students who post anything on public internet websites that is perceived as bullying, intimidation, or a threat to students or school staff, or results in the disruption of school activities, will be subject to disciplinary action. 9 Internet Electronic Information Services Rules & Regulations The use of electronic information services must be in support of the educational goals and objectives of the District and used for educational research and professional duties only. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. 1. Students are responsible for the proper use of their account. For your safety and security, students are discouraged from using email, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications; e.g., instant message services, without permission of the teacher. 2. Students shall not give out their personal information or the information of others, such as their last name, address, phone number, or password. 3. Transmission of any restricted material in violation of any federal or state law or regulation is prohibited. This material includes, but is not limited to copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, material protected by trade secret, or material that could be construed as harassment or disparagement of others based on their race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or political beliefs. Users shall report any unsolicited mail or files of an inappropriate nature as listed above. 4. Use of the electronic information services to encourage the use or sale of drugs, alcohol or tobacco, or promotion of unethical or immoral practices or any activity not allowed by the law or Jurupa Unified School District policy is prohibited. 5. Use of electronic information services for commercial activities by a for-profit institution is generally not acceptable. Use of product advertisement or political lobbying and services for personal financial or commercial gain is prohibited. 6. Use of the electronic information services for plagiarism is prohibited. “Plagiarism” is defined here as the taking of ideas or writings from another person and offering them as your own. Credit should always be given to the person who created the article or idea. 7. Student users shall not read other users’ mail or files; they shall not attempt to interfere with other users’ ability to send or receive electronic mail, nor shall they attempt to delete, copy, modify or forge other users’ mail or files, seek unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors on line. 8. Students’ mail and/or files are considered student work and may be accessed by appropriate personnel. 9. Use of any other organization’s networks or computing resources must also comply with the rules of that network. 10. Messages sent or forwarded of a private or personal nature involving students, staff, or other individuals are not permitted. 11. Users will protect the electronic network. All users must scan any personal disks or software in a designated Virus Scanning Computer before using that disk or software in a networked computer. 12. Users granted access to the Internet through the district information system assumer personal responsibility and liability, both civil and criminal, for uses of the Internet not authorized by district policy. Users are considered subject to all local, state and federal laws. 10 Tobacco and Drug-Free School The Governing Board believes that the use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs adversely affects a student’s ability to achieve academic success, is physically and emotionally harmful, and has serious social and legal consequences. Therefore, in the best interests of students, employees and the general public, and in accordance with State and Federal Law, the Board of Education of the Jurupa Unified School District prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of controlled substances, alcohol or tobacco products at all times on district property and in district vehicles. This prohibition applies to all employees, students, visitors and other persons at any school or district facility, or school-sponsored activity or athletic event. It applies to any meeting on any property owned, leased or rented by or from the district. Parents or community members using tobacco products on school or district property will be asked to refrain from such use or leave the property. Persistent disregard for these policies will result in a referral to law enforcement. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. Jimmy Johnson Happiness is a direction, not a destination. Author Unknown If you are doing your best, you won’t have time to worry about failure. M. Jackson Brown, Jr. An eye for an eye only makes the whole world blind. Gandhi The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Eleanor Roosevelt 11 General Information Emergency Information As part of the annual registration packet, you are asked to fill out an Emergency Card. This must have telephone numbers and addresses for at least two people who can be reached during the day. It is also essential that the school have authorization to contact your doctor or some medical facility in the event of a severe emergency in which you cannot be reached. Because we want your child fully protected and provided for from the first hour he or she is enrolled, we will not enroll children for whom we have no emergency information. Please notify the school when there is a change in residence, employment or telephone numbers. WE WILL ONLY RELEASE YOUR CHILD TO THOSE PEOPLE LISTED ON THE EMERGENCY CARD, except during a disaster. (Please see "Disaster Plan".) Leaving School During the Day A parent or guardian who wishes to have a child dismissed early must report in person to the school office with a valid photo ID card. Please make all those on your emergency contact list aware that they will be asked to show a valid photo ID before your child can be released to them. This will count against your child’s perfect attendance. Medication Policy Occasionally it is necessary for a student to take medicine while at school. This is permissible only when it has been prescribed by a physician, and when the label specifies four times a day, or for a specific time. Wherever possible, please give your child his or her medication at home; this eliminates accidentally missed doses. If your child must take medicine while at school, you need to comply with the following guidelines: 1. 2. 3. 4. The medication must be brought to school in the labeled bottle given by the pharmacy. Written instructions from the child’s physician are required. The medication administration form needs to be completed by the physician. A written request from the parent requesting assistance in administering the physician’s instructions is required. The school office has a Medical Release Form available which must be signed to provide medication under the conditions listed above. Please ask for this form if your child must take medication at school. Students are not allowed to keep any form of medication in their possession during school hours. (Education Code, Sec. 4942) Absences and Tardies Regular attendance at school is an important prerequisite for academic progress. This also includes being on time. When students are late to school, important instruction is lost. Often times, the other students in class are also inadvertently affected by student tardiness since the teacher has to stop and re-explain. By making sure that your children are in school every day, you are ensuring their opportunity to obtain a quality education. Research shows that when parents actively participate in their child’s education, the quality of learning improves. Please stress the importance of good attendance to your child. If possible, schedule doctor and dental appointments ahead of time to ensure you can get an after school time. Otherwise, schedule appointments during school holidays to avoid absences. Saturday school will be available to 12 make up an absence in the event that an emergency occurs or if your child has an unforeseen illness. Attendance Awards We like to acknowledge students with awards for attendance. The school will award Perfect Attendance certificates or medals for students with Perfect Attendance for the trimester. The definition of Perfect Attendance is that your child was on-time, everyday for the quarter. It also means that he/she was never checked out early during the quarter. Students with 98% attendance will be awarded a certificate. Students with 100% Perfect attendance will be awarded a medal and an invitation to our Perfect Attendance BBQ. Students who attend Saturday School within the trimester to earn Perfect Attendance will receive a certificate and an invite to the BBQ. California Compulsory Attendance Laws require all students aged 6-18 to be in school every day unless excused for a valid reason (Education Code 48200). California law provides that only the following are valid excuses (Education Code 46010, 48204): Student is ill. Student is quarantined by county or city health office. Student is having medical, dental, optometric, or chiropractic services rendered. Student is attending a funeral of a member of the immediate family (1 day for in state, and 3 days for out of state). “Immediate family” includes the mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, brother or sister of the student, or any relative living in the immediate household of the student. Student is excluded from school pursuant to the Health and Safety Code (for up to 5 days such as for head lice or not having immunizations). Student has to appear in court. Student is celebrating a religious holiday. STUDENT has an employment conference. A hardship situation exists where the principal has approved the absence. Student is attending a religious retreat (up to 4 hours per semester). STUDENT IS THE PARENT of a child who is ill or having medical services rendered. All other reasons, including the following examples, are not valid excuses, and will subject your child to being marked as unexcused absent: Student is on a family vacation (unless he / she is enrolled in an independent study program for the duration of the vacation). Student is baby-sitting. Student is helping at home. Student is studying or shopping. No verifiable excuse is given within 3 days of the end of the absence. Truancy is verified. Any other excuse given. It is important to understand that school attendance is not a matter of choice but is a mandate. It is essential that any absences be reported and verified through the school office within 3 days of the last day of the absence. Please send a written excuse to school including the following information when your child is absent: Child’s name Date/s of Absence Teacher Room number Reason for absence Parent signature 13 If a child is ever marked unexcused absent, he or she will be assigned a morning of Saturday School (8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon) for each day of unexcused absence in order to make up missed work and ensure higher levels of learning. Attendance at Saturday School will cancel an unexcused absence mark form the student’s school record. Saturday School is held once a month at Granite Hill and is taught by one of our teachers. Students who have perfect attendance after attending a Saturday School will be awarded a certificate and be invited to the BBQ. State law provides that any student who is unexcused absent for 3 or more days in any one school year shall be declared truant (Education Code 48260). This subjects the parent / guardian to the process of law which may include appearance before the School Attendance Review Board (SARB), and possible referral to the Riverside County District Attorney (Education Code 48263). There is also a Riverside County Ordinance (#339.2) to enforce daytime truancy which may result in a fine, community service, or delay of student driving privileges to the age of 26 for students cited or picked up by law enforcement while truant. The new CalWORKS law for families on assistance will also require students to attend regularly and may result in sanctions for excessive student absences. Cafeteria Breakfasts and Lunches Breakfast is served from 8:05 – 8:25 a.m. Breakfast is now FREE for every student. Please be at school early to eat breakfast. Milk may be purchased alone for $0.25. Non-students may purchase breakfast (without milk) for $1.75. The cost of a student lunch is $1.75. Milk may be purchased alone for $ 0.25. Students may also purchase ONE snack for an additional $ 0.50. Parents / guardians may purchase a lunch for $2.50, or salad bar for $2.25. Applications for free and reduced cost lunches are available in the office. Students may also bring a sack lunch from home. Students who prefer not to eat lunch must have written permission from their parents on file in the office prior to being excused from lunch. Students are allowed to bring a healthy snack to school. Items that are not allowed include: Hot Cheetos or Lucas candy. If either item is brought to school, they will be confiscated. Also, full bags or large quantity of food should not be brought to school. Students should not be bringing snacks to share with others. In the event that large bags of food are brought to school for lunch, they will be confiscated. Disaster Plan During an emergency, school district employees are declared by law to be “disaster service workers”, and are responsible for students in our care until parents or authorities relieve us of that responsibility. Granite Hill will conduct regular monthly drills to prepare students and staff for safe and orderly conduct during a disaster. All of us hope we never have occasion to use this training, but in the event of a major disaster while your child was at school, you could expect the following: Students would take cover until the danger of falling objects had passed. Students would then be evacuated to the rear of the school grounds as soon as safely possible. Students would be carefully accounted for, kept under supervision of school personnel, and treated for any injuries. 14 Students would be kept on the school grounds until claimed by parents. The grounds would be secured and parents would not be allowed to enter the grounds without permission. The only way we could be certain that students were not missing, injured, or unsupervised would be to release them in an orderly manner. Careful records of when each child was released and to whom will be kept. During the first hours after a major disaster, we would release students only to those people designated on the emergency card or to those who came with authorization signed by the parents. Later, if the people on the Emergency Card do not appear to claim a child, the child may be released to neighbors or relatives willing to take responsibility for the child. However, they must designate where the child will be if parents look for them later. We will not release your child to another child. Therefore, siblings younger than high school age may not claim students. Standard Student Dress Code Policy All students are required to present themselves in an orderly manner, conducive to the advancement of education. Appearance should be neat and acceptable. Items that are disruptive or could cause situations that would diminish the safety of students will be prohibited. Students and parents/guardians will be informed about dress and grooming standards at the beginning of each school year and whenever these standards are revised. Students in violation of the dress code will receive a warning and parents will be notified. Students will be required to change or wear attire provided by the school. Repeat violators will receive consequences according to the school assertive discipline plan as appropriate for defiance of school rules. The following specific guidelines shall be used to determine appropriate dress: Gang-Related Apparel Gang-related apparel is strictly prohibited. “Apparel” includes, but is not limited to, hats, jewelry, belt buckles, bandannas, hair nets, insignias, exposed tattoos, colors, paraphernalia, and sports jerseys or logos that indicate an affiliation with a group or gang which may provoke others to act violently or be intimidated. This may include, but is not limited to, logos of the Oakland Raiders, Los Angeles apparel, or any kind of the number “13.” (No professional team jerseys or gear is permitted) A list of specific, prohibited “gang-related apparel” will be developed and maintained by the principal or designee in continued consultation with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and will be available at the office for review. The list of prohibited gang-related apparel may be revised from time to time as deemed necessary, and must be limited to apparel that reasonably could be determined to threaten the health and safety of the school environment if worn or displayed on a school campus. Students will be provided copies of the list of prohibited apparel, and any revisions to the list, prior to enforcement. Appropriate Dress - General Brief garments, such as swimsuits tops, strapless or halter tops, beach wear, tank tops with deep armholes, bare midriffs, backless shirts, tube tops, pajamas, lounge wear, sheer clothes, ripped or tattered jeans, low necklines, and exposed undergarments are not appropriate for school. Garments with shoulder straps less than 1” in width are prohibited. Dresses, skirts or shorts must cover the full curve of the buttocks when walking, sitting, reaching or bending. Students’ dresses, skirts or shorts should be as long as the length of their finger tips. Bagging or sagged pants shall not be worn at school. The term “baggy pants” means the waistline of the pants, located at the hipbone of the student when pulled and pinched will gather 15 more than one inch of material. The term “sagged pants” means the waistline of the pants is located below the hipbone of the student. With the pants correctly worn the crotch of the pants will not hang away from the body. Properly fitted pants, incorrectly worn (below the hipbone) are “sagged pants.” Pants that are loose enough to fall off the hips without a belt are too big. Prohibited Items Clothing, jewelry and personal items (backpacks, gym bags, water bottles, etc.) shall be free from writing, pictures or any other insignia which are crude, vulgar, profane or sexually suggestive, or which bear drug, alcohol or tobacco company advertising, promotions and likenesses. This includes any symbols the principal or designee considers to be drug related such as KK, blunt, 420, and 8-ball. Also prohibited are clothing or other items which advocate gender, racial, ethnic or religious prejudice (i.e., white/brown/black pride or power) or which demean or exalt any group of people such that it infringes upon the rights of others to be free from harassment or intimidation. Also prohibited are items containing messages that promote or glorify death, mutilation or violence, or which constitute gang “silent code” messages, as determined by the school principal or designee in consultation with law enforcement. Electronic Devices including Cell Phones Students are not allowed to have any electronic devices on campus. Such items include: cell phones, iPods, and personal video players. Students are not allowed to use a cell phone while en route to or from school on the district bus or while on campus. If a parent would like for a child to have a cell phone, the child may bring the cell phone into the office to leave for the day. At the end of the day, the child will retrieve the phone before they leave for home. If a child breaks this rule, the phone will be confiscated and a parent will need to pick up the phone in the office. Your child does not need a cell phone during school hours. Every classroom and office has a phone. In the event of an emergency, please contact the office. The school is not liable to investigate or replace lost or stolen electronic devices. Jewelry Jewelry with gang-related or other inappropriate symbols, as described above, is prohibited. Also prohibited is jewelry designed for use as a weapon or designed to contain hazardous or contraband materials. In addition, jewelry or other accessories which display studs, spikes, chains, replica weapons or drug paraphernalia, dangling earrings or which may pose a threat to student safety are prohibited. Students should only wear small earrings that do not dangle. Chains greater than 1/8 inch in diameter are prohibited. Shoes Shoes must be worn at all times. For safety reasons, only shoes which are appropriate for school wear are allowed, as determined by school administration. No slippers are allowed. Students should only wear closed toe shoes. No flip flops or sandals are allowed. Shoes with spikes or wheels are not permitted on campus. Hats Only school approved hats, caps or other head coverings may be worn outdoors for sun protection and shall not be worn indoors. Hats and caps with brims must be worn forward. (Students may ONLY wear solid color hats without logos.) Hair Hair must be clean and neatly groomed. Hair lengths or styles which jeopardize the health and safety of the wearer or others of which substantially disrupt, interfere with, or distract from the orderly conduct of school activities are not allowed (This includes the Mohawk style or hair coloring). 16 Make-up Elementary students are not allowed to wear make-up while at school. Body Piercing No body piercing except in the ear (no ear plugs). Absolutely no safety pins should pierce any part of the body. No dangling earrings allowed for safety issues. Programs and Services Health Services We have the services of a school nurse for one day each week. The nurse is shared by other schools and may be called to the school in case of an emergency. We have a Health Clerk on site 3 hours a day to assist with minor health incidents. Illness or accidents that occur after students arrive at school should be reported to the Health Office. All office personnel hold Red Cross First Aid / CPR cards and can assist the nurse and fill in for the nurse when she is not present. If a student is ill at home, it is best for parents to keep him or her at home under observation. No child may leave the school grounds during school hours without consent from the parent and principal. Please do not send a child to school with an illness or injury and expect the school nurse to examine or treat the child. Drug, Alcohol & Tobacco Counseling There are a variety of community resources available to students or parents who seek drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation and / or re-entry programs: Riverside County Alcohol Control Program Riverside County Drug Abuse Program Youth Service Center (951) 275-2125 (951) 275-2105 (951) 683-5193 Additional resources may be obtained in the office. Special Education Students experiencing difficulties will be recommended to the Student Study Team (SST) for interventions and program modifications. After interventions and regular classroom modifications have been attempted, the SST may opt to refer students to the Jurupa Support Services for additional assessment, and possible placement into one of the programs below: Resource Specialist Program Our Resource Specialist Program (RSP) provides assistance to students with identified learning disabilities who require assistance for less than 50% of the day. Students may receive services from the Resource Specialist or from instructional aide(s) in either a classroom or pullout setting. In addition to assistance from special education personnel, students may receive modified instructional programs and materials. Parents, classroom teachers, special education staff and others determine instructional goals through the development of an Individualized Educational 17 Program (IEP). RSP students may receive assistance in the classroom or in a pullout setting, based on the Individualized Educational Plan. Special Day Class Students who need assistance for more than 50% of the time are placed in a Special Day Class, where they receive services from the classroom teacher and instructional aide(s). Granite Hill currently has an intermediate SDC class (grades 4-6). Instructional programs are modified to meet their special needs. Strategies used include ability grouping, one-on-one groups, and small group instruction. Six hours of instructional aide time is provided. As their skills improve, they are mainstreamed for portions of the day back into the regular classrooms. Parents, classroom teachers, special education staff and others determine instructional goals through the development of an Individualized Educational Program (IEP). Language, Speech and Hearing Specialist Program The Language, Speech and Hearing Specialist provides assistance to students with identified language or articulation problems. The student is generally served in a pullout program at his/her school site, but students with more severe problems may be placed in a special class for greater service. Low-Incidence Disability Program Students with low incidence disabilities may be served by either an itinerant specialist or in a program offered through the Riverside County Office of Education. Such disabilities include vision impairment, hearing impairment, multiple handicaps, etc. Mental Health Services Students who may be able to remain in a regular class with mental health services may receive counseling through the District, County Mental Health Services or through private agencies. Psychological Services A school psychologist is on campus 2 ½ days per week. The psychologist assists with special education diagnostic testing through the SST process, crisis intervention, parent meetings, behavior management, and assists with the development of goals and objectives for students with an IEP (Individual Education Plan). The school psychologist may see general education students on a limited basis for counseling as needed to discuss individual or school-related problems. Services are provided to students at no cost. For additional counseling information and referral service, call 686-HELP (crisis advice, health care, child abuse, rape, alcoholism, or tobacco or drug abuse). The school office also has a current list of local free or low cost resources available if needed. Title I Students Granite Hill School is a school wide Title 1 school. For this reason, we receive a variety of supplemental services. Supplementary materials are available in classrooms to modify instructional programs, in order to meet the needs of the students. Strategies such as using oneon-one help, small group instruction, cooperative learning, peer tutoring, hands-on activities, and technology-assisted instruction are used as interventions in helping students succeed. In 18 addition, students have the opportunity to receive assistance in reading and writing in our afterschool Extended Learning Opportunities program. Think Together Granite Hill will continue to offer the after school Think Together Program for 1st – 6th grade students. Think Together will be in operation the first day of school. We have a waiting list forming. Be sure to complete an application to be considered for the program. The program runs until 6 PM daily. If your child was in Think Together last year, that does not automatically place them in the program this year. A new application is required. Applications are available in the school office. Please contact the Think Together site coordinator, Jose Delgado if you require additional information. 100 Mile Club All students are encouraged to participate in this wonderful health and fitness program. Students will earn rewards at each 25 mile interval throughout the year. Students that achieve 100 miles will be recognized at a special 100 Mile Club Awards Assembly at the end of the year. This program is district supported and it promotes healthy bodies and healthy minds. Family walks will be available at our local high schools. Lookout for flyers showing days of the week and times. Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Students may be considered for the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program, based on a recommendation from the parent, teacher or other staff member. To qualify, a student must meet a minimum number of criteria, including performance on standardized achievement tests, grades, parent surveys, teacher surveys, participation in extracurricular activities, intelligence tests, etc. An emphasis is placed on identifying historically under-represented students. Students are screened/tested in 2nd and 3rd grade to see if they meet the criteria to be a GATE student. Students in older grades may also be tested on an individual basis if the instructional team at the school site determines a need. Identified GATE students have an opportunity to participate in a variety of specially-designed activities throughout the year. GATE students receive specially-modified instruction in their classrooms by their teachers who have been trained in higher-level GATE strategies. The students also receive a quarterly GATE progress report with their regular report card. Regular Education Students Requiring Program Modifications Regular educational students who need modifications in the regular program receive assistance through the development of a 504 Program Modification Plan, developed with their teachers, parents, health care workers and others to meet their special needs. Library / Media Center Our comprehensive school library is open to students to check out books for their reading enjoyment. If a book is lost, parents are responsible for reimbursing the school for the cost of the book. Parents may also check out books for their children. Instrumental Music Instrumental music instruction is offered to all fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students who are interested. Instruments taught include the woodwind, brass and percussion families. Lessons are held during the school day. Attending instrumental lessons is a privilege. Students need to be responsible enough to complete the classroom assignments they miss while they are at Band. A 19 meeting will be held in the beginning of the school year to answer questions regarding the Band Program. Learners of English Option 1: Mainstream English Program The Mainstream English Program provides the opportunity for the acquisition of English in an educational setting in which the language and materials of instruction are presented in English. Option 2: Structured English Immersion Program The Structured English Immersion Program provides an educational setting in which the language and materials of instruction are in English. The curriculum and presentation are specifically designed for students who are learning the English language, provided by authorized teachers. Instructional clarification and reinforcement may be provided in the primary language of the student to facilitate the understanding of concepts, directions, assignments, and content. A strong English Language Development program is an essential component of this option. Option 3: Dual Immersion Program The Dual Immersion Program is only available to students whose parents complete an application during Kindergarten registration, attend a mandatory parent meeting, and attend an appointment for testing at the Language Services Department. This program is offered at select schools in the district, not at Granite Hill. The Dual Immersion Program provides the opportunity for students to receive instruction in Spanish, with the goal of becoming bilingual and bi-literate (linguistically and academically) in English and Spanish. . 20 Title I Parent Involvement Policy PART I. GENERAL EXPECTATIONS Granite Hill Elementary School agrees to implement the following statutory requirements: The school will jointly develop with parents, distribute to parents of participating children, a School Parental Involvement Policy that the school and parents of participating children including parents with limited English proficiency and parents with disabilities agree on. The school will notify parents about the School Parental Involvement Policy in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, will distribute this policy to parents in a language the parents can understand. The school will make the School Parental Involvement Policy available to the local community. The school will periodically update the School Parental Involvement Policy to meet the changing needs of parents and the school. The school will adopt the school’s school-parent compact as a component of its School Parental Involvement Policy. The school agrees to be governed by the following statutory definition of parental involvement, and will carry out programs, activities and procedures in accordance with this definition: Parental involvement means the participation of parents in regular, two-way, and meaningful communication involving student academic learning and other school activities, including ensuring— (A) that parents play an integral role in assisting their child’s learning; (B) that parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their child’s education at school; (C) that parents are full partners in their child’s education and are included, as appropriate, in decision-making and on advisory committees to assist in the education of their child; (D) the carrying out of other activities, such as those described in section 1118 of the ESEA. PART II. 1. Granite Hill Elementary School will take the following actions to involve parents in the joint development and joint agreement of its School Parental Involvement Policy and its school wide plan, if applicable, in an organized, ongoing, and timely way: 2. DESCRIPTION OF HOW THE SCHOOL WILL IMPLEMENT REQUIRED SCHOOL PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY COMPONENTS By way of school site advisory groups, School Site Council (SSC), English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC), Parent Teacher Association (PTA); other advisories, and if necessary, District School Liaison Team (DSLT) meetings when in program improvement status. Granite Hill Elementary School will take the following actions to distribute to parents of participating children and the local community, the School Parental Involvement Policy: The School Parental Involvement Policy will be provided in the informational materials that are distributed to parents at the beginning of the school year. 21 3. 5. Granite Hill Elementary School will update periodically its School Parental Involvement Policy to meet the changing needs of parents and the school: An annual survey of parents will be conducted at sites to assess needs, determine barriers, and evaluate the effectiveness of the parent involvement activities. By way of school site advisory groups, School Site Council (SSC), English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC), other advisories, and if necessary, District School Liaison Team (DSLT) meetings when in program improvement status. 5. Granite Hill Elementary School will convene an annual Title 1 meeting to inform parents of the following: that their child’s school participates in Title I, about the requirements of Title I, of their rights to be involved, about their school’s participation in Title I. Granite Hill Elementary School will hold a flexible number of meetings at varying times, and may provide transportation, materials, child care, and/or home visits, paid for with Title I funding as long as these services relate to parental involvement: 6. Granite Hill Elementary School will provide timely information about Title I programs to parents of participating children in a timely manner: 7. 8. Trainings to empower parents to support and assist their children’s education will be scheduled and based on identified needs and include child-care services, with translation provided, if necessary. Granite Hill teachers will hold parent workshops to help parents assist their students. Through parent newsletters, school website, Back-to-School nights, SSC, ELAC, and PTA. Granite Hill Elementary School will provide to parents of participating children a description and explanation of the curriculum in use at the school, the forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet: Assessment information reflecting student academic progress and copies of grade-level standards will be shared with parents at parent-teacher conferences. Student progress in relation to Common Core Standards and in relation to national norms will be explained to parents including curriculum being used, grade-level expectations for proficiency, data reporting for CAASPP (California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress), other state tests, and district assessments, and available interventions in reading, language arts, and mathematics for students needing assistance. An additional parent conference day will be scheduled at mid-year to provide information and assistance regarding how parents may help their children maximize academic progress. Granite Hill Elementary School will provide parents of participating children if requested by parents, opportunities for regular meetings to formulate suggestions and to participate, as 22 appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children, and respond to any such suggestions as soon as practicably possible: 9. Through informal parent requests for meetings, parent teas, Back-to-School nights, SSC, ELAC, and PTA. Granite Hill Elementary School will submit to the district any parent comments if the schoolwide plan under section (1114)(b)(2) is not satisfactory to parents of participating children: Parents may submit comments through the Principal and/or the School Site Council (SSC) if they are not satisfied with the school plan. PART III. 1. Granite Hill Elementary School will build the school’s and parents’ capacity for strong parental involvement, in order to ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school involved, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, through the following activities specifically described below: 2. the State’s academic content standards, the State’s student academic achievement standards, the State and local academic assessments including alternate assessments, the requirements of Title I, how to monitor their child’s progress, and how to work with educators. The school will, with the assistance of the district, provide materials and training to help parents work with their children to improve their children’s academic achievement, such as literacy training and using technology, as appropriate, to foster parental involvement, by: 5. Distributed through parent-teacher conferences or mailed to parents not in attendance. The school will, with the assistance of the district, provide assistance to parents of children served by the school in understanding topics such as the following: 4. Appropriate roles for community organizations will be developed and may include: Adopt-a-school, supporting academic excellence through awards and other recognition, supplying the school with needed materials, equipment, career information and role modeling. The school will incorporate the school-parent compact as a component of its School Parental Involvement Policy: 3. SHARED RESPONSBILITIES FOR HIGH STUDENT ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT Training to empower parents to support and assist their children’s education. This may include such activities as: Family Math Training, Curriculum Nights, Family Literacy Night, Family Science Night, ESL classes, and Computer Training. The school will, with the assistance of the district and parents, educate its teachers, pupil services personnel, principals and other staff, in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, in the value and utility of contributions of parents, and in how to implement and coordinate parent programs and build ties between parents and schools, by: 23 6. The district distributes a “Parents Make a Difference” newsletter to all schools in the district in English and Spanish as well as provides copies for office staff and visiting parents. District Title I Parent Involvement policy and parent survey is mailed to all Title I parents in the district and results are aggregated and disaggregated by site. Coordination of parent involvement activities at the site are done by the leadership team, PTA, and/or the SSC. The principal, leadership team, and SSC monitors the implementation of the parent involvement activities in the plan, help to administer the needs assessment to parents through district and site surveys, and assists in designing the evaluation of the parent involvement program. The school will, to the extent feasible and appropriate, coordinate and integrate parental involvement programs and activities with Head Start, Reading First, Early Reading First, Even Start, and public preschool and other programs, and conduct other activities, such as parent resource centers, that encourage and support parents in more fully participating in the education of their children: 7. Through parent newsletters, kindergarten orientations, and referral to viable parent resources. The school will, to the extent feasible and appropriate, take the following actions to ensure that information related to the school and parent- programs, meetings, and other activities, is sent to the parents of participating children in an understandable format, and, to the extent practicable, in a language the parents can understand: School information, including communication about the Title I program, will be distributed in all the major languages spoken by the families of the students at the school. By way of translation support either at the school or district level and, as available, interpreters will be present to translate for parents at meetings conducted in English only. To the extent possible, someone will be available in the school office who can communicate with parents who speak a language other than English. To the extent possible, notifications regarding parent meetings will be sent via newsletters, automated phone calls, text messaging, and emails. 24 Board of Education Policy 1902 The Board of Education recognizes that the district has primary responsibility for insuring that it complies with state and federal laws and regulations governing educational programs. The district shall investigate and seek to resolve complaints at the local level. The district shall follow this Uniform Complaint Procedure whenever a complaint is received alleging: Unlawful discrimination based on race, sex, age or disability Sexual harassment / gender equity per Title IX Failure to comply with requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; Failure to comply with the legal requirements pertaining to: Adult basic education Consolidated categorical aid programs Migrant education Vocational education Child care and development programs Child nutrition programs Special education programs The Board prohibits retaliation in any form for the filing of any complaint, or the reporting of any type of discrimination, or for participation in complaint procedures. Such participation shall not in any way affect the status, grades, or work assignments of the complainant. The Board acknowledges and respects student and employee rights to privacy. Complaints shall be investigated in a manner that protects these rights. The identity of any complainant alleging discrimination shall be kept confidential as appropriate. The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that employees designated to receive and investigate complaints are knowledgeable about the laws and programs for which they are responsible. Such employees may have access to legal counsel as determined by the Superintendent or designee. The Board recognizes that a neutral mediator can often suggest an early compromise that is agreeable to all parties in a dispute. The Superintendent or designee may initiate a mediation process before beginning a formal compliance investigation, provided that all parties to the complaint agree to try resolving their problem through such a process. Notice of the complainant’s right to appeal the findings of fact and conclusions to the California Department of Education, and the procedures to be followed for initiating such an appeal. All complainants have the right to appeal any findings of fact and conclusion. Procedures to be followed for initiating such an appeal, including appropriate civil law remedies, may be obtained from the compliance officer. The Board of Education designates the following compliance officers to receive and investigate complaints and ensure district compliance with law: Administrator, Education Support Services Section 504 Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator 4850 Pedley Road Jurupa Valley, CA 92509 (951) 360-4144 Director of Administrative Services Title IX (gender equity), Sexual Harassment, Discrimination Coordinator 4850 Pedley Road Jurupa Valley, CA 92509 (951) 360-4140 25 Sexual Harassment Policy Board of Education Policy 5145 The Board of Education is committed to maintaining a learning environment free from harassment, intimidation or insult. Further, the Board believes that all persons, regardless of their sex, should enjoy freedom from discrimination of any kind, including sexual harassment in the district’s schools. Sexual harassment constitutes a violation of the California Education Code, Section 212.6 and 48900(f) as well as Federal law, Section 703 of Title VII. As such, sexual harassment may constitute just cause for disciplinary action against pupils committing such an offense. Compliance Officer The Board of Education designates the following compliance officer to receive and investigate complaints and ensure district compliance with law: Administrator of Education Support Services Title IX/Section 504/Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator 4850 Pedley Road, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509 (951) 360-4144 Notification The district’s policy on sexual harassment as it pertains to pupils shall be included in the annual notification to parents along with the specific rules and procedures for reporting allegations of sexual harassment and for pursuing available remedies. A copy of the policy on sexual harassment shall be posted in the district office, at all schools and any other area where notice regarding district rules, regulations, procedures and standards of conduct are posted. Definition Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature made by someone from or in the educational setting. The conduct must be considered by a person of the same gender as the victim to be sufficiently severe or pervasive to have a negative impact upon the individual’s academic performance or to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. In general, the following conduct is considered sexual harassment: a. Sexual assault b. Physical abuse (unnecessary touching, pinching or cornering) c. Verbal abuse (propositions, lewd comments, or sexual insults) d. Visual abuse (leering, or display of pornographic material designed to embarrass or intimidate), or e. Subtle or overt pressure for sexual favors accompanied by an implied or overt threat. f. Create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment. Students In addition to the reason specified in EC Section 48900, Section 48900.2 specifies that a pupil may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has committed sexual harassment as described in Section 212.5. All recommendations and/or orders to expel shall be made pursuant to Section 48915. This policy does not apply to pupils enrolled in Kindergarten and grades 1 to 3, inclusive. 26 Complaint Process and Informal Site Investigation Procedures Any student who feels that he/she has been the victim of sexual harassment, either by another student or a staff person, should report this violation of Board Policy to any staff member or the principal. When a staff member receives such a complaint, he/she should notify the principal or his/her designee and provide pertinent information so that an investigation of the allegation can be completed. The complaining student should make a factual written statement of his/her complaint. It may be dictated and signed by the student, if desired. The statement should be provided to the person(s) investigating the complaint, and within a reasonable time, to the accused student or employee. Once a complaint has been received, an immediate impartial investigation commencing not later than two (2) school days of receiving the written complaint shall be conducted by the principal/designee and/or other qualified investigator(s). At least one of the investigators shall be of the same sex as the complaining student. The investigator(s) should interview the complaining party, the accused student/employee, and all identified witnesses. The investigator(s) shall then review the factual information to determine whether the alleged conduct constitutes harassment as defined above, giving consideration to the record as a whole and the totality of circumstances, including the nature of the alleged conduct and the context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred. The investigation shall be completed within forty-five (45) school days after the complaint is received. Based on the investigator’s findings, the principal of the accused student or assistant superintendent of the division to which the accused employee is assigned shall take or recommend appropriate action. The results of the investigation shall be communicated to the complaining party and his/her parents. Appeal If the complainant is dissatisfied with the resolution of the situation, the principal or designee shall give the student a copy of Board Policy 5164, Uniform Complaint Procedures, and instructions on how to initiate a formal complaint. Procedures to be followed for initiating such an appeal, including appropriate civil law remedies, may be obtained from the compliance officer. Discipline When a determination is made that sexual harassment occurred and the accused student or employee committed the violation, the principal or designee shall proceed in the same manner as any student suspension or suspension with a recommendation for expulsion. If an employee committed the harassment, discipline shall be administered consistent with established procedures for employee discipline. Confidentiality It is essential that the principal ensures confidentiality throughout the investigation of allegations of sexual harassment. The actual facts of the complaint and the sensitive nature of specific allegations may require special efforts to maintain confidentiality. The principal should inform all parties to a sexual harassment investigation, including witnesses, not to discuss the matter with others. Information to Students 27 Information regarding the serious nature of sexual harassment, the impact upon a victim and the consequences of violation of this policy shall be conveyed to students in the regular rules and regulations distributed to students at the beginning of the school year, and upon initial enrollment. Megan’s Law In 1996, California enacted “Megan’s Law,” which provides the public with photographs and descriptive information on serious sex offenders residing in California who have been convicted of committing sex crimes and are required to register their whereabouts with local law enforcement. The Sex Offender Identification Line is a telephone service for use by the public and organizations to identify serious sex offenders. The cost for calling the 1-900-463-0400 line is a flat rate fee of $10 for information on up to two individuals. To use the 900 Line, you must be at least 18 years of age, and you must know the following information about the person you are checking: Name of person AND one of the following: An exact address; or California’s driver’s license, identification number or social security number. If you only know the person’s name, you will need to provide a complete description of the person. In addition, a CD-ROM provides the following information about serious sex offenders: registrant’s name; aliases; photograph (if available); sex; physical description, including scars, marks, and tattoos; registered sex offenses; county of residence; and ZIP code. Contact your local law enforcement agency to obtain more information on how and where you can view the CDROM, or write: California Department of Justice P.O. Box 944255 Sacramento, CA 94244-2550 28 Blueprint for Learning Five-Point Plan A "Blueprint for Learning” is being implemented in the Jurupa Unified School District. Research tells us that we must focus on learning. Teaching can only be effective in an environment in which students are motivated and have an opportunity to learn. A five-point plan is outlined below: 1. The Resources: Focus fiscal resources, including categorical monies, on providing tools to sites, including staff development, assessment, support and materials, and human resources. Utilize an evaluation system with administrators to clarify expectations focusing on the implementation of the plan. Provide training and support to teachers. 2. The Structure: Utilize the Academic Program Survey (APS) developed by the California Department of Education for School Assistance Intervention Team (SAIT) schools at every school in the District. This will provide for planning, implementing, and evaluating a standardsbased curriculum. Base the instructional program on all State Standards with a focus on the most Essential Standards. 3. The Materials: Continue with full implementation of standards-based textbooks and materials. Purchase standards-based textbooks in English/language arts, mathematics, science and history/social science. Provide professional development to teachers and principals (Common Core Units of Study for Language Arts and Math as well as Balanced Math Training) on full implementation of standards-based planning. Establish a clear evaluation system for certificated administrators. 4. The Method: Utilize a model of Professional Learning Communities (PLC) and continuous improvement devised from Quality Systems Theory. Create grade level, cross grade level, and disciplinary (subject area) teams at every school to focus on improving student learning by: Utilizing data to drive the instructional process. Sharing and critiquing instructional strategies. Looking collaboratively at student work. Evaluating and modifying the instructional process. Creating clear expectations in the staff evaluation system. 5. The Support: Provide district support for plan implementation. Provide coaches to aid in the implementation of collaborative teams using the PLC model and the application of APS. 29 School Rules / Expectations Duties of Pupils Every pupil shall attend school punctually and regularly; conform to the regulation of the school; obey promptly all the directions of his teacher and others in authority; observe good order and propriety of deportment; be diligent in study; respectful to his teacher and others in authority; kind and courteous to schoolmates; and refrain from the use of profane and vulgar language. C.A.C. Title 5 300 A pupil who goes to school without proper attention having been given to personal cleanliness or neatness of dress, may be sent home to be properly prepared for school, or shall be required to prepare himself for the schoolroom before entering. C.A.C. Title 4 302 All pupils shall comply with the regulations, pursue the required course of study, and submit to the authority of the teachers of the schools. E.C. 48908 Any minor who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise injures in any way property, real or personal, and belonging to a school district is liable to suspension or expulsion, and the parent or guardian shall be liable for all damages so caused by the minor. E.C. 48908 The Governing Board believes that academic honesty and personal integrity are fundamental components of a student’s education and character development. The Board expects that students will not cheat, lie, plagiarize or commit other acts of academic dishonesty. E.C. 35291 Students, parents/guardians, staff and administrators shall be responsible for creating and maintaining a positive school climate that encourages honesty. Students found to have committed an act of academic dishonesty shall be subject to district and school-site discipline rules. E.C. 5131 The Superintendent or designee may establish standards of academic honesty, measures of preventing dishonesty, and specific consequences for acts of dishonesty. Any recommendations for discipline shall be incorporated into the school’s site level discipline rules. E.C. 5144 30 Suspension Alternative interventions will be utilized for behavior situations that occur before suspension is assigned. However, in order to maintain a safe and orderly campus, pupils may be suspended for good cause. Some causes for suspension include: Fighting or threatening another person Possessing any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object whether real or imitation Possessing, using, or selling alcoholic beverages, intoxicants, tobacco products, or any other controlled substance or paraphernalia Vandalism Committing or attempting to commit robbery or extortion Stealing Sexual harassment Hate violence or terrorist threats Profanity or vulgarity Obscene actions Disrupting school activities or willfully defying the authority of school personnel Defiance of school personnel Receiving stolen property Harassing, threatening or intimidating others Engaging in or attempting to engage in hazing Tampering with electronic files and databases When other means of correction fail to bring about proper conduct A pupil may be suspended or expelled for acts related to school activity or attendance which occur at any time, including, but not limited to, any of the following: 1) while on the school grounds; 2) while going to or coming from school; 3) during the lunch period, whether on or off campus; or 4) during or while going to, or coming from, a school-sponsored activity. 31 _________________________________________ Granite Hill Elementary School Rules __________________________________________ As part of our school-wide Positive Behavior Support Initiative, Granite Hill has adopted the following social skills for the 2014-2015 school year. Your children will receive daily mini lessons on these social skills and they will be positively rewarded for exhibiting their understanding of these skills. Reward Tickets will be given out to students who practice these social skills effectively. These tickets will be collected for drawings throughout the school year. Teachers and staff members have attended staff development trainings to support the PBIS initiative. When students practice positive behavior, all students are able to perform at their absolute best. We will be working to design a PBIS link on our school website for parents. Be sure to look out for information on this. Positive Behavior Standards For 2014-2015 Following Directions o Staying on Task o Listening Manners Keep Our Campus Clean Resisting Peer Pressure Using Correct Voice Tone Disagreeing and Apologizing Calmly o Accepting “No” for an Answer Respecting Other’s Privacy Working With Others o Accepting Criticism o Giving Criticism Waiting Your Turn o Asking for Help o Getting an Adult’s Attention o Getting a Teacher’s Attention 32 School Textbooks Students’ textbooks are checked out through the library. Students are responsible for any damage or loss to their textbooks. Parent Teachers Association (P.T.A.) The P.T.A. is an organization of parents and teachers working together to help children get a better education. When you join the P.T.A., you are helping your children in many ways. The P.T.A. sponsors a variety of programs for children including assistance with special events, fundraising, fieldtrips to support the instructional program, and providing most of the student incentives. We hope this year that you will consider becoming a member of this valuable association! Recognition Special recognition will be given to individual students each trimester who have performed especially well during the previous trimester. Awards are given in academic areas as well as for positive behaviors that foster learning and perfect attendance. Incentives will be given throughout the year to students who exhibit positive social skills. Awards ceremonies will be held each trimester. Parents will be notified in a timely manner if your child will be recognized. Students will also be recognized monthly for completing all homework assignments and for demonstrating positive character traits. Student Progress Our district has moved from the quarter to the trimester grading system this year. The initial student progress report is made in October, at which time parent conferences are held. Subsequent reports are made in February and June. Please make inquiries about your child’s progress whenever you have a concern. Learning Environment Plan Parent participation is a key component in establishing an excellent educational program. You are most welcome here! There are several items in our school policy, which directly impact parents and other visitors. Exiting and Entering Campus Our parking lot is extremely busy at dismissal, and we are concerned about the safety of children who walk to waiting cars. Because of this, we ask that all parents utilize our pick up loop to pick up their children. We have staff to assist at this location. No student will be dismissed directly into the parking lot or nearby street. If you prefer to park and walk to pick you your child, we ask that you park in a designated parking space. Your child will be waiting in the pick-up loop. We will no longer be using the Kinder playground as a waiting area for students. Only PM Kinder students will be using this location to wait for parents. Please do not park on Granite Hill and wave your students to cross the street. This is very unsafe! Students and adults who walk to and from school should enter / exit the school grounds through the bus loop, rather than through the parking lot. These routes provide a sidewalk path, and don’t needlessly put pedestrians in the path of automobiles. Students walking to and from school are expected to conform to school rules. Students are to go directly from the home to school and directly home from school. Pupils may not enter the school grounds prior to 7:45 a.m., and must leave promptly at the 3:04 p.m. dismissal. Students may not wait on campus for other students participating in after school activities. 33 Students should refrain from riding bicycles, skateboards, scooters, roller-skates and similar items to school. Granite Hill staff members are doing their best to keep children safe. Your patience and cooperation in helping us to provide your child with a safe and happy school experience is most appreciated! Expectations for Parents and Other Visitors All parent helpers will need to have a TB clearance on file with the district office before you can help in a classroom. If you plan to chaperone for a fieldtrip, a TB test and fingerprinting are required. All parents and visitors will abide by school rules while on campus. All parents and visitors will insure proper security on campus. Please sign in and pick up a visitor’s pass, regardless of the length of your stay on campus. To ensure the safety of students and staff, and avoid potential disruption, on January 21, 1997, the Jurupa U.S.D. Board of Education adopted a revised "Visitors on Campus" policy which states in part, "To ensure the safety of students and staff and avoid potential disruption, all visitors shall register in the office immediately upon entering any school campus during school hours". In addition, the policy states, "no electronic listening or recording device may be used by visitors or students in any classroom without the expressed permission of the teachers and the principal". You will be issued a Visitor / Volunteer badge, so staff members responsible for supervising students know that you have permission to be on campus. This policy helps us to ensure that inappropriate visitors do not have access to students, and enables us to account for all persons on our campus in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency. Should your child experience a problem at school, please contact his / her teacher right away. Our staff is committed to ensuring that every child has a happy, positive experience at our school, and the teacher should be your first point of contact should you have a concern. Call to speak with teachers when class is not in session. The best time to call is from 8:00 – 8:30 a.m. or from 3:04 to 3:30 p.m. You can also contact the office, send a note with your child for the teacher, or email the teacher through our school website. Make arrangements 24 hours ahead of time to obtain student work or to schedule conferences, or other classroom visits. For safety reasons, refrain from allowing students to enter the campus prior to 7:45 a.m. or to remain on campus after school gets out (except with prior permission to participate in an after school activity). Make after school arrangements for children prior to coming to school. Students may use the school telephone in emergency situations. Expectations for Teachers and Other Staff Members All staff members will: Manage / discipline all students. Be prepared to meet and teach the students each day. Set a good example by following the rules students are expected to follow. Arrive for dismissal duty on time, and ensure that no students are left on the kindergarten playground or in other areas of the grounds at the end of assigned duty. Ensure that no students are left in classrooms or hallways unsupervised. Strive to be consistent in enforcing school rules with all students. Pick up students promptly at the end of scheduled breaks. Use discretion in allowing students to come to the health office. Schedule appointments to handle parent concerns. Prohibit students from coming to the office to telephone home for missing homework, band instruments, field trip forms and the like. 34 Develop each student’s potential to the fullest. Expect students to respond with clear, articulate communication. Organize special events for students well in advance. Use a professional voice and tone with students, staff and parents. Return telephone calls and other communications in a timely manner. Expectations for Students All students will: Obey all school rules and expectations Demonstrate a positive attitude at all times Strive for excellence in academic progress and behavior Demonstrate daily, regular, punctual attendance Focus on learning in the classroom Complete and return neat, accurate homework on time Take notes, flyers and other communications home and return needed documents in a timely manner Comply with the directions of staff members the first time they are given Use a kind tone of voice at all times Demonstrate appropriate listening skills when speaking with others Refrain from “put downs,” “back talk,” or using inappropriate language Refrain from making inappropriate gestures or mocking others Dress for safety and appropriateness Use playground equipment safely Refrain from running on the campus, except on the grassy area of the playground Obtain permission from the classroom teacher and principal prior to bringing pets to school Exit the school grounds at dismissal, unless participating in a supervised school activity. Be safe, be responsible, and be respectful Essential Guidelines for Demonstrating Respect, Manners and an Appreciation for Others When responding to an adult, answer by saying, “Yes ma’am,” or “No sir.” Nodding your head or saying any other form of “yes” or “no” is not acceptable. All adults are to be addressed by their title and last name (i.e. Ms. Cobb, Mr. Allmon or Ms. Garcia). Make eye contact. When someone is speaking, keep your eyes on him or her at all times. If someone makes a comment, turn and face that person. During discussions, respect other students’ comments, opinions, and ideas. When possible, make statements like, “I agree with John, and it made me realize . . .” If you win or do well at something, do not brag. If you lose, do not show anger. If you are asked a question in conversation, ask a question in return. Use your inside elbow to cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough and say, “Excuse me.” Do not smack your lips, roll your eyes, or show disrespect with gestures. Always say “thank you” when you are given something. There is no excuse for not showing appreciation. When you receive something, do not insult the gift or the giver. Surprise others by performing random acts of kindness. Go out of your way to do something surprisingly kind and generous for someone regularly. Speak and write in complete sentences at all times. At times throughout the school year, rewards will be given for good behavior, academic performance, and other acts worthy of praise. If you ask for a reward, however, it will 35 not be given. You should be good and try your best because you are trying to better yourself, not because you are anticipating a reward. Completed homework is to be turned in on time by every student with no exceptions. Make every effort to be as organized as possible. While you are with a guest teacher, obey the same rules that you follow when you are with your regular teacher. Substitutes are guests at our school, and must be treated well. Flush the toilet and wash your hands after using the restroom. Do not save seats in the lunch area. If someone wants to sit down, let him or her. Do not try to exclude anyone. We are a school family, and we must treat one another with respect and kindness. If a teacher or supervisor in the school is disciplining another student, do not look at that student. You wouldn’t want others looking at you if you were in trouble, so don’t look at others in that situation. If you are the student being spoken with, do not get angry or fuss at students who are looking at you. Let the teacher know, and he or she will handle the situation. After you have eaten, clean up after yourself. This includes cleaning off the table, and making sure that you haven’t left any trash on the floor, or around the eating area. When riding on the bus, always sit facing forward. Never turn around to talk with another student, stick anything out of the windows, or get out of your seat when the bus is in motion. If someone drops something, pick it up and hand it back to him or her. Even if they are closer to the object, it is only polite to make the gesture of bending down to retrieve the item. If you approach a door and someone is following you, hold the door. If someone bumps into you, even if it was not your fault, say, “Excuse me.” When entering an assembly, or any place where people are gathered, enter the building so quietly that no one will even notice that you are there. During an assembly, do not speak and do not look around and try to get the attention of your friends in other classes. Show that you have your act together! When in line, silently walk single file, two to three feet behind the person in front of you with you arms at your sides. You should face forward at all times. Accept that you are going to make mistakes. Learn from them and move on. No matter what the circumstances, always be honest. Even if you have done something wrong, admit it. Be the best person you can be! --Adapted from The Essential 55: An Award-Winning Educator’s Rules for Discovering the Successful Student in Every Child By Ron Clark Student Playground Rules Follow directions the first time they are given. Students must respect and obey adult supervisors. Refusal to obey, arguments about rules, or disrespectful remarks will be considered defiance. Run and play only in designated areas. Refrain from fighting, play fighting, and other rough play. Learn all the rules for apparatus use. Throw only designated play equipment. Use only school equipment on the playground. (no toys from home). 36 Remain in the designated area during recess or lunch. Written permission to leave the area must be obtained from the activity supervisor or teacher prior to leaving. Students must be supervised at all times! Keep hands and feet to yourself. Remain seated in the eating area until given permission to leave. Bus Service Transportation to and from school by school bus is a service provided to students who live a significant distance from the school. Effective January 1, 1998, a new law, AB 1297 was enacted. All school bus operators are required to use the red crossover lights at any bus stop where students load or unload. To insure the safety of students riding the school bus, all riders must abide by the following District rules and California state laws: Arrive at the assigned pick-up point at least five minutes before the bus is due to arrive, but no earlier than 10 minutes before. Use only the bus stop and bus assigned to you and be prepared to show your bus pass. Orderly behavior is required at the bus stop and school loading zones. When the bus arrives, you must stay in line, stand at least six feet back from the curb, and not move toward the bus until it has come to a complete stop and the driver has opened the door. Find a seat quickly after boarding the bus and remain seated, facing forward while the bus is in motion. Refrain from distractions or disturbances, such as shouting, yelling, boisterous behavior, conversation with the driver or any unnecessary loud noise. Keep your head and arms inside the bus, and refrain from yelling or shouting out the window. Behave in an orderly manner while on the bus. Abusive body contact (fighting, slapping, hitting, poking shoving, etc.) is not permitted. Refrain from eating, drinking and gum chewing. Animals, glass objects, skateboards, aerosol cans, matches, lighters, radios, knives, scissors, guns, alcoholic beverages and/or drugs may not be carried aboard the bus. Littering the bus, vandalism, or throwing anything in or out of the bus is not permitted. Shoes are required on the bus. Cleats are not allowed. Passengers may never open, close, or tamper with any part of the bus or its equipment unless specifically instructed to do so by the driver. Students are to follow the driver’s instructions when getting off the bus, and always cross in front of the bus when crossing the street. The school bus driver must escort all pupils in eighth grade or below if they need to cross the street, even if the child’s parent is available to cross them. Students may not use profane language, obscene gestures, or have any type of pornographic or obscene materials or literature. Students are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to conform to classroom standards of behavior. The bus driver is responsible for the behavior of students on the bus, and students are required to obey the bus driver. A bus driver may issue a bus ticket to students who do not abide by the bus rules. Bus riding is a privilege. This privilege will be revoked when serious misconduct occurs or when minor infractions occur repeatedly. Parents have the legal responsibility of providing transportation for students who lose bus privileges. Staying home because of a bus suspension constitutes truancy. Students who miss the bus must make alternative arrangements; staying home constitutes truancy. Cancellation or Delay of Buses Due to Fog or Other Emergency 37 Whenever fog makes the movement of school buses unsafe, the Director of Transportation will contact the following radio stations that have agreed to broadcast announcements of bus delays. KGGI KPRO KFRG KCAL KSZZ FM AM FM AM AM 99.1 1570 95.1 1410 (Spanish) 590 (Spanish) 38 39 40 41 42 Dates to Remember August 12 13-19 19 27 September 1 19 October 3 17 24 30-31 31 School Starts Scholastic Book Fair Back-to-School Night (Grades K – 6) First Minimum Day for Grades 1 – 6 /Dismissal Time at 1:19 PM HOLIDAY – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE School Fundraiser Begins School Fundraiser Ends Fall Picture Day with Lifetouch Photography Minimum Day – (Grades 1-6) - Dismissal Time at 1:19 PM Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences End of 1st Trimester of Instruction (Grades K-6) November 11 21 24-28 HOLIDAY – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE Make-Up Picture Day with Lifetouch Photography THANKSGIVING RECESS – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE December 22-31 WINTER RECESS – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE January 1-9 12 19 SCHOOL CLOSED – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE School Resumes HOLIDAY – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE February 9 16 20 27 24 HOLIDAY – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE HOLIDAY – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE Minimum Day – (Grades 1–6) - Dismissal Time at 1:19 PM End of 2nd Trimester (Grades K–6) Spring Picture Day with Lifetouch Photography March 30-31 SPRING RECESS – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE April 1-3 15-25 SPRING RECESS – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE CST STAR Testing for Grades 2 - 6 May 25 29 HOLIDAY – NO STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE Minimum Day – (Grades 1-6) – Dismissal Time at 1:19 PM June 4 4 Minimum Day – (Grades 1-6) – Dismissal Time at 1:19 PM End of 3rd Trimester (Grades K-6) – Last Day of School Remember: Every Wednesday is a minimum day beginning August 27, 2014! Students in grades 1-6 are dismissed at 1:19 p.m. 43