ABSENCES
Regularity of attendance and scholastic achievement go hand in hand. Parents are urged to see that their
children attend regularly, except when illness, personal emergency, or religious reasons create good
reasons for nonattendance. A parental note explaining absence must be sent with students when they
return to school. When a student is absent, the parent must notify the school by 10:00 a.m. either by
phone, by note, or in person. Absences greater than 9 days a year are considered excessive and may result
in a need for retention, remediation and/or disciplinary action. Please make special arrangements with the
principal for home study if a student needs to be out of school for a prolonged period of time.
AUDITORY (HEARING) SCREENING
Each year the health services specialist screens kindergarten through 8th grade students for hearing
difficulties. Referrals to private physicians may be made.
BICYCLES
Students may ride bicycles to school. Racks are available and the students should bring a lock to protect
the bicycle. The school is not responsible for damaged, lost or stolen bicycles. Bicycles should not be
ridden on sidewalks or in the parking lot area.
BOOKS
Books are furnished by the school district at an average cost of $70.00 each. They become the
responsibility of students to maintain and return at the end of the year. There will be periodic book
checks to inventory books and to determine that students have their assigned books. Students are
responsible for paying for their lost or mutilated textbooks and library books. Please treat all books with
respect. They are very expensive.
CAMPUS HOURS
Students are not allowed on campus before 7:30 a.m. Classes start at 8:00 a.m. Students are dismissed at
3:00 p.m., except on Wednesdays students are dismissed at 1:00 p.m. As soon as students are released
they should leave campus unless they are under the supervision of an adult. The school grounds must be
cleared after dismissal.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students are expected to take care of school property, including desks, books, walls, chairs, furniture, and
other items which are a part of the equipment of the school. Costs of damage to school property will be
charged to the parents of the student who owes the damage.
CELL PHONES
Cell phones can be disruptive to the educational environment and/or adversely impact school safety.
Since each classroom is equipped with a phone and the school office phone is available for student use,
personal cell phones are unnecessary during school hours. We request that parents/guardians, who wish
to allow their child to bring a cell phone for before or after school use, observe the following guidelines.
 Cell phones will not be visible nor heard during the school day.
 The school will not be responsible for lost, stolen or damaged cell phones.
 On the first violation of cell phone policy, the cell phone will be confiscated and returned to
the student at the end of the school day. Following a second violation, the cell phone will be
retained for pick up by the parent/guardian. Subsequent violations may result in cell phone
confiscation for the entire school year.
CHILDREN’S BELONGINGS
Students bring personal property to school at their own risk. All personal items (such as coats, sweaters,
books, lunch boxes) should be marked with the child’s name. Money sent from home should be placed in
a sealed envelope with the name and amount on the outside. Trading, selling, exchanging or giving the
property of one student to another is discouraged. No undesirable items (such as pocket knives, laser
1
pointers, noise makers, etc.) that could injure others or create disturbances are to be brought to school. If
contraband is brought to school, it will be confiscated.
COLORS AND SCHOOL MASCOT
Wellton Public School mascot is a bulldog and the school colors are purple and gold. We encourage our
students to identify with these symbols as a representation of our school pride and spirit!
COURSE OF STUDY
Each grade level has a series of objectives in all subject areas. These objectives are a part of the school’s
curriculum. Students are expected to show proof that they have mastered the grade level curricula by
passing a series of tests throughout the year. The student’s report card is evidence that a student is
“making the grade” necessary for promotion.
CURRICULUM MATERIALS AND METHOD OF INSTRUCTION--FAMILY RIGHT
TO REVIEW
Parents or legal guardians have the right to review instructional materials or methods and request changes
under certain conditions.
DANCES
All rules governing the campus, including dress code, apply to student dances. After arriving at a dance,
students are not permitted to leave and then return. Parents are always welcome to attend school dances.
Junior High may have 3 dances during the school year. Alternatives to students not interested in
attending the dances will be published and provided to parents. Sixth grade students are allowed to attend
the Valentine’s Dance. There will be no dances allowed for fifth grade or below.
DEFICIENCY NOTICES
About halfway through the nine-week grading period, deficiency notices are sent home in the
mail for those students who are close to failure or who are failing a subject. The purpose is to
inform parents of any problem in a student’s academic or behavioral progress before the report
card is issued. If parents or students have questions about a deficiency notice or current grade
standing, they should contact the classroom teacher. Jr. High students with a core grade average
of below 63% may be denied participation in class field trips, dances, promotion ceremony or
extra-curricular activities.
DETENTION-AFTER SCHOOL
Various corrective actions may be used to discipline students who disrupt classrooms or otherwise violate
school regulations. After school detention service may be necessary. If we choose to keep your child
after school, you will be notified. In all cases, it is the responsibility of the parent to provide
transportation home for students who are kept after school.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Students who become involved in areas of problem behavior will be subject to certain disciplinary
actions. Depending upon the behavior problem of the student, one or more of the following actions will
be taken by the school officials. All actions will consider severity and circumstances of the incident.
1.
2.
3.
Informal talk. A school official, teacher or administrator will talk to the student
and try to reach an agreement regarding how the student should behave.
Conference. A formal conference is held between the students and one or more
school officials. During this conference, the student must agree to correct his/her
behavior.
Parent Involvement. Parent(s) may be notified of disciplinary actions by
telephone, personal contact, letter or certified letter. A conference may be
2
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
conducted between the student, his/her parent(s), appropriate school personnel
and any other individuals concerned.
Closure from classes. The student is closed from classes, but remains at school
during these class periods, or receives appropriate disciplinary actions, such as:
assignment to in-school suspension, suspension of privileges (including bus) or
community service.
Loss of Privilege. The student may be excluded from a specific activity during or after school
including but not limited to recesses, sports activities, field trips, classroom events, promotion
ceremony, etc.
In-school suspension. (An alternative to remaining off campus for a violation of the discipline
code.) Students assigned in school should report immediately to the front office when arriving to
school. This is an area of isolation and the student may not leave the area unescorted. Breakfast
and lunch will be made available other than the regular time to this student. Scheduled restroom
and water fountain time will be made available. Participation in all school activities will not be
allowed for the assigned student of the day(s) spent in in-school suspension.
Notice. After five disciplinary referrals in a school year the principal may request an intervention
meeting involving parents, teachers and support staff to discuss more effective interventions.
Community Service. Students have clean up duties on school property, isolated
from other students and supervised by a staff member.
Law enforcement involvement. School officials are not required to initiate or complete due
process procedures prior to notifying police authorities. If law enforcement or authorities are
notified, parents will be contacted by phone or certified notice. Any action taken by law
enforcement authorities will be in addition to action taken by the school. School administration
will cooperate with probation, parents, and law enforcement on joint disciplinary efforts.
Suspension/Expulsion:
-Step 1. The student will receive notice, written or oral, of what he is accused of doing and the
evidence the school authorities have of the alleged misconduct. Once the student has received
notice, he/she will then be asked to explain his version of the situation. The principal shall make
reasonable efforts to verify facts and statements prior to making a judgment.
-Step 2. The Principal or Superintendent may suspend a student for not more than 10 (ten) days
at a time. Due process shall be followed in all cases regarding suspension or expulsion.
-Step 3. A student who is suspended from school for disciplinary reasons is not permitted to
attend any school activities during or after school hours. If a student violates these rules the
student is subject to an extension of the suspension.
-Step 4. Authority for student expulsion rests with the school Board. Should the Superintendent
conclude that an expulsion should be made; the parent or guardian shall be notified by certified
mail that an action for expulsion is being initiated. The notice shall state the circumstances for
the expulsion action as well as advise student and parent of their rights. The notice shall also
state the time, date, and location of the hearing to be held before the Board.
-Step 5. The Special Education Department will be consulted for students with an I.E.P.
DRESS CODE
Based on parent/guardian request, students shall wear school uniforms. It is not the District’s intent to
either dictate fashion nor limit individual freedom of expression. However, it is our goal to implement a
dress code that promotes a school climate focused on academic achievement and good citizenship.
The following dress code applies:
 Clothing will be uniform style as purchased at Z-trends, JCPenney or Walmart in the “School
Uniform” section. Alterations made after purchase should not change the style.
 Clothing and accessories must be clean, properly fitted, and worn as intended.
 Clothing should be solid in color with no logo, insignia or picture of any kind. Obscene
language or symbols, or symbols of sex, drugs, tobacco or alcohol are prohibited.
 Clothing that represents the promotion or membership of gangs or gang activity is prohibited.
Bandanas are not permitted. Body piercing jewelry other than earrings, is prohibited. No
hats or beanies allowed.
3
Shirts:
 Shirts include any solid color polo shirt or cotton dress shirt, long or short sleeve. Shirts
should be collared with at least three buttons. Cotton t-shirts are not acceptable unless they
are school logo shirts worn on spirit days. Spirit day t-shirts may also be solid purple or gold.
 Students will be encouraged to tuck in their shirts, but may wear the shirt not tucked in,
provided the shirt is otherwise properly fitted. Any shirt worn not tucked in should extend to
the mid hip area, not at waist length and not below the hip. Boys will be encouraged to wear
tucked in shirts and belts. Any undershirt worn underneath the uniform shirt may not visibly
hang from below the uniform shirt.
Pants, shorts, skirts, capris, skorts or A-line jumpers:
 Cotton blend or twill fabrics are acceptable fabrics for pants, shorts, skirts, capris, skorts or
A-line jumpers. They must be appropriate in length, which means they are approaching
knee-length. Cargo shorts or pants are acceptable as long as they meet the rest of the dress
code requirements. They must be navy, khaki, black, grey, brown or white.
 On spirit days, jeans or shorts without holes, rips or fringes; or regular uniform
pants/short/skirts are permitted.
Shoes:
 Athletic shoes, sandals, closed-toe, or closed-heeled shoes are permitted.
 Heels must be one (1) inch or less. Students may not wear shoes with wheels. Flip-flops are
not permitted.
 During physical education class, students will wear proper athletic shoes.
Jackets
 Solid colors are encouraged for outer jackets or hoodies.
 Jackets may be worn indoors at the discretion of the teacher.
Spirit Days
 Spirit day will be every Wednesday and game days.
 Solid purple or gold t-shirts, school logo shirts and regular uniform style shirts are permitted.
 Jeans or shorts without holes, rips or fringes; or regular uniform pants/shorts/skirts are
permitted.
When there is disagreement between parents, student and certified staff, the principal will need to make a
decision as to whether attire is appropriate for school. A teacher may also restrict the manner of dress or
length of hair when it pertains to the health or safety of a student in the teacher’s specific instructional
area.
Upon first violation of the dress code, the parent/guardian will be notified and requested to bring uniform
clothing to the student. Subsequent violations will result in detention at lunch until compliance to the
dress code is satisfied. After three consecutive days of non-compliance, the student will be suspended
from all extra-curricular activities and denied other privileges (e.g., field trips, dances, class parties,
computer use, et cetera) for the quarter. Ten or more accumulated days of non-compliance will result in
privileges lost for the remainder of the school year.
Exceptions
A student my “Opt Out” of compliance with the uniform policy in the following situations:



A student who participates in a nationally recognized youth organization (i.e., Boy Scouts,
Girl Scouts, et cetera) will be allowed to wear their organization’s uniform to school on days
when the organization has a scheduled meeting, or activity.
Accommodations can be made if the school uniform or components of the uniform interfere
with a student’s sincerely held religious beliefs. Accommodations will be made on an
individual basis.
Accommodations can be made for a student with a medical condition that prevents the
student from adhering to the uniform policy. Accommodations can be made upon
4

presentation of proper medical documentation and upon approval by an appropriate medical
professional of the District, such as the school nurse.
During school spirit or game days students may choose to wear school colors and may
include jeans and t-shirts that in other ways meet the dress code requirements. T-shirts must
be solid or school logo t-shirts.
EATING IN BUILDINGS
Students may bring water bottles that contain water and have lids, which seal to protect from spills and
leaks. It is against school regulations to bring food or beverages into any school building except when
special arrangements have been made through the Principal’s office or with the teacher. For health and
safety reasons, all items brought to the classroom for parties or celebrations must be pre-packaged or store
bought.
GUM CHEWING ON CAMPUS IS NOT PERMITTED (UNLESS A DESIGNATED DAY). Juices,
milk and chocolate milk should be consumed inside the cafeteria. Open containers, energy drinks and
sodas are NOT permitted on campus. Beverages or other items brought to school are not to be shared.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
To prevent loss or damage, we ask you not to bring electronic devices (radios, ipods, mp3 devices, etc.) to
school or after school, unless they are part of a class assignment with written permission from the
teacher. Unauthorized electronic devices at school will be taken and turned into the office. Repeated
offenses will result in the object’s confiscation for the rest of the school year. Only parents will be
allowed to pick up items at the office.
ELIGIBILITY
Students will need to maintain a 63% grade point average in the 5 core classes to be eligible for sports and
activities. Also, there can be no F’s or U’s in any class. The student’s average will then be reviewed
every two weeks. If a student is ineligible they may review their grades after two weeks. Once they are
eligible they may return to their team. Teachers will turn in a list of ineligible students to the principal or
athletic director every two weeks.
EYE SCREENING
Each year the entire student body is checked for eye problems. Should we discover that your child has a
problem with vision, you will be notified.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips within our city and to nearby points of interest are scheduled by various classroom teachers
throughout the school year. These trips are designed to supplement different aspects of the classroom
curriculum and to introduce students to the resources of the community. Parents will receive notice of a
field trip date and will be asked to sign field trip permission forms. Sometimes a small amount of money
may be requested from each student to help defray transportation or facility use costs.
GIFTED EDUCATION
Students who demonstrate exceptional talent in academics, creativity, and intelligence may be referred for
Gifted Education. The program is a supplemental resource program designed to challenge and motivate
gifted children. Additional information is available through the school office.
GIFT FROM STUDENTS AND/OR PARENTS
Students or parents wishing to express special praise or appreciation to a teacher or staff member should
do so through a letter rather than through the presentation of a gift. In no case, should any student or
parent be made to feel obligated to present an individual gift or participate in the group presentation of a
gift.
5
HAZING
There shall be no hazing, solicitation to engage in hazing, or aiding and abetting another who is engaged
in hazing of any person enrolled, accepted for or promoted to enrollment, or intending to enroll or be
prompted to District schools within twelve (12) calendar months. For purposes of this policy a person as
specified above shall be considered “student” until graduation, transfer, promotion or withdrawal from
the District school.
Definitions
“Hazing” means any intentional knowing or reckless act committed by a student, whether individually or
in concert with other persons, against another student and in which both of the following apply:
 The act was committed in connection with an initiation into, an affiliation with or the
maintenance of membership in any organization that is affiliated with an educational
institution.
 The act contributes to a substantial risk of potential physical injury, mental harm or
degradation, or causes physical injury, mental harm or personal degradation.
“Organization” means an athletic team, association, order, society, corps, cooperative, club, or similar
group that is affiliated with an educational institution and whose membership consists primarily of
students enrolled at that educational institution.
Directions
It is no defense to a violation of this policy if the victim consented or acquiesced to hazing. In accord
with statute, violations of this policy do not include either of the following:
 Customary athletic events, contests or competitions that are sponsored by an educational
institution.
 Any activity or conduct that furthers the goals of a legitimate educational curriculum, a
legitimate extracurricular program or a legitimate military training program.
All students, teachers and staff shall take reasonable measures within the scope of their individual
authority to prevent violations of this policy.
Reporting/Complaint Procedures
Students and others may report hazing to any professional staff member. Professional staff members
must report the incident to the school administrator or next higher administrative supervisor, in writing,
with such details as may have been provided. Failures by a staff member to timely inform the school
administrator or next higher administrative supervisor of a hazing allegation or their observation of an
incident of hazing may subject the staff member to disciplinary action in accord with District policies.
The staff member shall preserve the confidentiality of those involved, disclosing the incident only to the
appropriate school administrator or next higher administrative supervisor or as otherwise required by law.
Any instance of reported or observed hazing, which includes possible child abuse or violations of statutes
known to the staff member shall be treated in accord with statutory requirements and be reported to a law
enforcement agency.
A person who complains or reports regarding hazing may complain or report directly to the school
administrator or to the professional staff member. The professional staff member receiving the
report/complaint shall retrieve sufficient detail from the person to complete the form designated for such
purpose. At a minimum the report/complaint shall be put in writing containing the identifying
information on the complainant and such specificity of names, places and times as to permit and
investigation to be carried out. When a professional staff member receives the information, the staff
member will transmit a report to the school administrator or supervising administrator not later than the
next school day following the day the staff member receives the report/complaint. The report or
complaint will be investigated by the Administrator or supervising Administrator. The procedures to be
followed are:
6



An investigation of the reported incident or activity shall be made within ten (10) school days
when school is in session or within fifteen (15) days during which the school offices are open
for business when school is not in session. Extension of the time line may only be by
necessity as determined by the Superintendent.
The investigator shall meet with the person who reported the incident at or before the end of
the time period and shall discuss the conclusions and actions to be taken as a result of the
investigation confidentiality of records and student information shall be observed in the
process of making such a report.
The investigator shall prepare a written report of the findings and a copy of the report shall be
provided to the Superintendent.
All violations of this policy shall be treated in accord with the appropriate procedures and penalties
provided for in District policies related to the conduct and discipline of students, staff, and others.
HEALTH SERVICES
1.
The student health services specialist serves as health counselor and advisor for all student health
problems.
2.
Services are educational, preventive, and consultative.
3.
The health specialist maintains health records and renders first aid. In most cases, the student
must ask teachers for passes to the nurse. In emergency cases a student will be accepted without
a pass.
4.
Only first aid and emergency illness are cared for at school. Written permission from a parent or
legal guardian must be on file in the health services specialist’s office before medication may be
taken at school. The health specialist should be consulted in case of injury or illness during the
school day.
5.
The health specialist conducts follow-up services and consults with school personnel and parents.
6.
For illness or injury at school requiring immediate medical attention, the school health specialist
will advise the parent to see their family physician.
7.
Medication: Under certain circumstances, when it is necessary for a student to take medicine
during school hours, the District will cooperate with the family physician and the parents if the
following requirements are met:
-There must be a written order from the physician stating the name of the medicine,
dosage, and the time it is to be given.
-There must be written permission from the parent to administer the medicine to the
student. Appropriate forms are available from the school office.
-The medicine must come to the District office in the prescription container.
This policy and any related policies or amendments to these policies would be forwarded to the District
liability insurance carrier for review.
HOME ECONOMICS-INDUSTRIAL ARTS (SHOP)
In these courses, projects completed become the property of students. Projects are selected by the
students, therefore, the student must sometimes purchase special materials.
HOMEWORK GUIDELINES
Homework will be assigned consistent with the maturity, special needs, and potential and achievement
level of the individual student. Homework serves an important purpose in your student’s school life. It is
a means of reviewing and reinforcing the lessons taught in school. Homework is also a way to help
students develop work and study habits that will assist them throughout the years spent in school.
Homework is the responsibility of the student not the parent. Parents should not do the work; rather, they
should be concerned with whether or not the student did the homework. If the student has trouble with a
homework assignment and cannot complete it, write a note telling the teacher about the problem. It is the
teacher’s responsibility to make the homework assignment clearly understood by each student.
For the School Wide Homework Policy, refer to page 20 for a more detailed explanation.
7
HONOR ROLL (GRADES 4-8)
Students who have a grade point average between 90%-100% are honored with “A” Honor Roll
distinction. Students who have a grade point average between 80%-89% are honored with “B” Honor
Roll distinction. Honor Roll students cannot have any grades that are “69” and below. Teachers will
submit honor roll students’ names each quarter. Students cannot have any unsatisfactory marks or “U’s”.
All grades must be earned at grade level or above.
ILLNESS
If your child should become ill in school, you will be contacted to come and take him/her home. It is
important that you notify the school when you have a change of address or telephone number at home or
business and if there is a change in the name or telephone number of the person to be contacted if you are
not available. When your child is ill the evening before or day of school, please keep him/her at home.
Children who run a fever, vomit, experience diarrhea, coughing, or sore throat or other cold/flu related
symptoms are not ready for a rigorous day at school. They need at least 24 hours rest before returning to
school.
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Yuma County Health Department sponsors immunizations each year. Arizona Law requires proof of
proper immunization as part of school enrollment. Students cannot be enrolled without proper and up-todate immunization records.
IMPROPER DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
There should never be any unnecessary or inappropriate public display of affection. Those who do this
downgrade themselves and make it uncomfortable for others. (Examples are hugging, kissing, or
embracing.)
INSTRUCTIONAL TELEVISION
Movies/Videos:
It shall be the policy of the District that there is educational value in utilizing movies and videos in
classrooms only when such movies and videos reinforce the concepts being taught and when they have
been planned for in advance. Parents have the right to request that their child not view any movie/video.
Board Policy allows for only “G” rated films at school.
INSURANCE
The school does not provide free insurance for students. Insurance may be purchased at a very reasonable
rate. The school office has further information about insurance. No students will be allowed to
participate in any school related sports without proof of insurance.
LICE
There is occasionally an incident of pediculosis (head lice) among children. We examine the hair of
suspected cases and may exclude students from school during treatment. Excluded pupils will be returned
to school after treatment. Inspection of the hair and scalp must show that treatment has been effective.
Your pharmacist can recommend a suitable shampoo. A fine-tooth comb should be used daily to remove
nits.
Some prevention hints:
1.
Warn pupils not to lend their comb or brush to anyone. Have your child leave his or her comb
and brush at home.
2.
Check and launder child’s clothing.
3.
Advise your child not to try on other children’s clothing.
4.
If you purchase or receive clothing for your child, wash it before your child wears it.
8
LITTER ON CAMPUS
We are proud of our clean campus. All people on campus including students, teachers, administrator,
instructional aides, and support personnel are expected to help keep the campus clean. We encourage
people to use the trash barrels for litter and to pick up trash even if they didn’t drop it.
LUNCH/BREAKFAST PROGRAM
FREE OR REDUCED BREAKFAST AND LUNCH
Application forms are available in the Business Office for those families who qualify for free or reducedprice breakfast and lunches. It is suggested that all families who might feel the need for lunch assistance
complete the application forms. These forms can be obtained in both English and Spanish. If you need
help, ask at the school office for assistance in completing the form.
1.
2.
The cafeteria is operated as a service to the students and faculty. Students are
expected to cooperate in maintaining an atmosphere of neatness and courtesy.
Students may pay in advance for meals. The prices are as follows:
BREAKFAST FULL PRICE
LUNCH FULL PRICE
BREAKFAST REDUCED PRICE
LUNCH REDUCED PRICE
ADULT BREAKFAST PRICE
ADULT LUNCH PRICE
A LA CARTE MAIN DISH
OTHER ITEMS
CHILD VISITOR BREAKFAST
CHILD VISITOR LUNCH
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
$1.00
1.70
.30
.40
1.70
2.75
1.00
.50
1.00
1.60
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
DAILY
Meal-charges are not allowed. STUDENTS WHO DO NOT PAY FOR THEIR MEALS WILL
BE GIVEN A DAILY NOTICE EACH OF FIVE DAYS. ON THE SIXTH DAY
FOLLOWING, A PEANUT BUTTER SANDWICH WILL BE SERVED TO THE STUDENT
UNTIL THE CAFETERIA RECEIVES PAYMENT IN FULL.
All students enter through the west door and exit through the east doors.
Lines move promptly if students take their lunch trays quickly and respect other student’s place in
line.
Students are to carry their trays and dump them into the trashcans when finished eating.
Lunches brought to school should be in some sort of bag or container and NOT shared with other
students.
MAKE-UP WORK
The school is obligated to provide makeup work for absences. Students or their parents are responsible
for requesting make-up work immediately upon the students return to school. If dates of a student’s
absence are know in advance, the teacher should be notified and planned assignments may be given.
Students have one day to complete the work for each day of absence.
NEWSLETTER
A school newsletter containing items of interest to students and parents will be distributed before the first
of each month. The newsletter will feature at least one presentation concerning a major facet of the
school program, and it will include monthly menus and timely information. Classrooms and individual
notices and reminders will be sent home periodically. Newsletters are posted on the school website each
month.
OFF-LIMITS AREAS
Our school is maintained and operated for the benefit of our students. However, common sense and
safety consideration dictate the designation of a few off-limit areas where unsupervised students are not
9
allowed. These areas include the furnace rooms, storage areas, teachers’ lounge, kitchen, maintenance
area, and the trash collection area. Students are expected to cooperate and refrain from playing in or
visiting in these areas.
PARENT STUDENT ORGANIZATION (P.S.O)
Meetings are held once a month at the school. For more information, please contact Monica Duarte by
email: monica_duarte@marykay.com or by phone: (520) 477-6529.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Conferences will be held the first and third quarter of the school year. Sharing information about your
child with his/her teacher will enable us to provide a learning program that will best meet the needs of
your child.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education is an important part of the educational experience. The development and maintenance
of a healthy body is essential for physical well-being and good mental health. We also believe that
attitude development is an important part of education. We will attempt to create an atmosphere for the
development of leadership, sportsmanship, and congeniality through our physical education program.
Physical education classes will be provided at least twice each week for all students. Students will need
to wear proper shoes for activity participation.
PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION
School staff will supervise the playground beginning at 7:30 a.m. Other supervised play times are the
morning, noon, and afternoon recesses. The playground is not supervised after school and students are
expected to leave for home immediately following dismissal.
PROBLEMS
When a student/parent feels he/she has a school concern or problem, this concern or problem should be
addressed directly to the person involved. If the situation is not resolved, the next proper recourse is
consulting with the principal. We would appreciate cooperation from all parents regarding this procedure.
PROMOTION EXERCISE GUIDELINES
This exercise has been usually referred to as a Graduation Exercise. We hope that students realize that
graduation will occur if they complete high school, a trade school program, a junior college program, or a
college under graduate or graduate program. The certificate presented to our eighth graders when they
complete all requirements of the grammar school curriculum is a promotion certificate. It is needed to
enter high school.
For Promotion/Retention Criteria, refer to page 21.
RECORD REVIEW--FAMILY PRIVACY AND RIGHT TO INSPECT RECORDS
Student records are available for review only by persons who have a reasonable purpose for reviewing
them. Parents have the right to review any and all records related to their children and may have some
materials removed from files with the principal’s approval.
REMEDIAL READING
Supplemental reading instruction is offered to students who have demonstrated a reading problem. A
reading specialist and an instructional aide provide resource room instruction in all areas of reading
competency. Parents can assist students who have reading problems at home by reading to and with the
student.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are issued at the end of each nine-week period. This report gives a general grade for each
subject in which the student is enrolled. Midway in the first and third quarter Parent/Teacher conferences
10
will be held to discuss student progress. Report cards will be sent home with students each quarter. The
parent’s attendance at conferences is very important. A parent may request a conference with their
child’s teacher at any time during the school year. Please call the school for an appointment if a
conference is desired. Likewise, a teacher may sometimes find it necessary to request a special
conference with a parent. Please make every effort to meet with the teacher upon their request.
RESPECT FOR ALL
All individuals like to be treated with respect and courtesy. It is very important that students accept the
responsibility for conducting themselves in the best possible manner each school day. With this attitude,
they will become more and more successful in school. Disrespect shown by students or staff members
will be referred to the principal’s office. If disrespectful behavior continues, a conference with parents,
student, teacher(s), and the principal will be arranged. In some cases, it may be necessary to send the
student home for a day or more to give everyone an opportunity to try to resolve the problem. Finally, it
may be necessary to start formal procedures for suspension.
For Bulldog Etiquette, refer to page 22 for a more detailed explanation.
RESPECT OF PRIVATE PROPERTY
Students are asked not to walk on private lawns adjacent to the school. They should not disturb the
property of fellow students even in fun. They will be held responsible for any damage done to the
property of others. The principal will carry out appropriate disciplinary procedures.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Under the direction of the Arizona Department of Education Division, Wellton School provides special
education programs for students who qualify within the official classification. Students previously
enrolled in a special education program may be placed automatically with parent authorization, provided
previous testing and placement forms are current and in compliance with special education guidelines.
Students may be recommended for testing for special education placement by parents, classroom teachers,
resource room teachers, and special education consultants. Conferences will be held with the parents
concerning parental rights and program guidelines. All student placements are in strict adherence to
federal and state guidelines. Any questions concerning special education may be directed to the school
principal or special education director. Discipline issues may be modified by I.E.P.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS
A substitute teacher will teach every student periodically. The most common reason for using substitute
teachers occur when the regular teacher is ill. However, substitute teachers are also used when regular
teachers are on leave for personal business, professional training, or family emergencies. Students are
expected to be very courteous to substitute teachers. Any misconduct in the classroom will be dealt with
immediately.
SUPPLIES
The school furnishes paper, pencil, and other items directly associated with the requirements of the
instructional program; however, students are responsible for making good use of these supplies and urged
to make sincere effort not to be wasteful. Students may complement those materials with their own
pencil, notebook, etc.
TARDINESS
Prompt arrival at school is expected of all students. Late arrival disrupts classes and causes loss of
instructional time. Any student who arrives after 8:00 am. is considered tardy. Parents must call, stop by
the office, or provide a signed written note when their child is tardy. After the fourth tardy, regardless of
whether its excused or not, the teacher will assign the student to stay after school one hour.
Parents are responsible for providing transportation home on any night their child must stay after school.
Parents will be notified prior to a child staying after school. Procedures for tardiness for each grading
period are as follows:
11



1st. and 2nd. tardy - teacher reprimand
3rd. tardy - principal reprimand - parent contact & refer to Safe Schools
Repeat occurrences - one-day detention - refer to Safe Schools - Administrative intervention.
TRANSPORTATION
Buses are provided for pupils who live at a distance of one or more mile(s) from school or for pupils
whose health makes bus service essential. While the district operates a bus program to furnish
transportation, it does not relieve parents or students from the responsibility of supervision before the
child boards the bus in the morning and after the child leaves the bus. Only when the child boards the bus
in the morning does he or she become the school’s legal responsibility and responsibility shall end when
the child is delivered to the regular bus stop. When it is necessary for a child to deviate from his normal
routine, a note from the parents or legal guardian must presented to the front office secretary. These
changes include staying after school for a special event, riding, or walking to an address other than the
student’s own, being picked up by someone when the student usually rides the bus, leaving early, etc.
Students being transported are under the authority of the bus driver and shall observe the following
standards:
Discipline
1. Obey driver’s instructions.
1st Occurrence
2. Keep aisles clear.
-Warning
3. Remain in assigned seat until stopped.
2nd Occurrence
4. Keep everything inside the bus.
-Community Service
5. Talk quietly - Do not yell or use profanity.
-Loss of Activity
6. Keep your hands to yourself. Be courteous.
3rd Occurrence
7. Do not throw anything.
-Loss of Bus Privilege
8. No weapons allowed.
9. No smoking.
10. No alcohol or drugs.
11. Maintain orderly conduct at bus stops.
11. No food or beverages.
* Punishment will depend upon severity.
VISITORS
1.
Parents are welcome to visit school at any time. As a courtesy, please attempt to make prior
arrangements before your visitation.
2.
All visitors must check in through the school office before going to the classrooms and the
playgrounds. Visitors need a visitor pass.
3.
Visitors should be careful not to disturb teachers while they are engaged in instructional
activities.
4.
The principal will be happy to accompany parents on their visitation, if parents need more
information.
5.
Smoking or the use of tobacco in any form or drinking alcoholic beverages on District premises is
prohibited at all times and events.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
Pupils withdrawing from school should obtain a withdrawal form from the office and follow instructions
to get it signed and completed. The homeroom teacher will complete the report card, if the parent has
requested one and send it to the office with the official transfer form.
WELLTON SCHOOL HISTORY
In 1993 it was discovered that the old school building could not be revitalized because it did not meet
building code. The old school building had to be removed. A new building, resembling the old school
building, has been built at the original site and houses the office and the library. In its honor, it seems
12
appropriate to give our families some of our school history (taken from the Wellton-Mohawk Valley
Teachers Association in 1962 and updated by Henrietta Ruiz, 1989). The first Wellton School was the
“Tent House” School of 1907. A branch of the Yuma School District, it was located in front of the
present Wellton Hotel. Nine pupils attended this school. In 1908 the Wellton School District was formed
with a one-room frame building one-half mile north of the jail.
Original Old School Building of 1920
In 1920 the west room of the old school building was constructed and a one-teacher school was
established. Then in 1926 it was necessary to add another teacher and classes were all conducted in this
one room. 60 Pupils were enrolled that year in four grades. This overcrowded condition led to an
addition of two rooms and restrooms. Shortly afterwards, California promoters built great interest in the
local area as grape and citrus land. This brought in enough families to require a fourth room.
Cafeteria and Nine Classrooms in 1952
The next major change in Wellton came in 1952 with the construction of a nine-room building with an
office and cafeteria. There was discussion regarding tearing down the old building, but it was decided to
use the building for home economics, as a library and for music classes.
Six New Classrooms in 1960
An addition was necessary in 1960 when a six-room building was added. These classrooms are located
directly north of the cafeteria.
High School Students Travel Daily To Yuma
At first the students from both Wellton and Mohawk Valley Schools had to be transported to Yuma daily
to high school. This meant that they had to leave for school sometime before dawn and arrive home after
dark traveling on a gravel road clinging to the mountainside through Telegraph Pass.
Antelope Union High School 1940
All districts and the Southern Pacific Railroad held meetings in 1940 discussing withdrawal from the
Yuma High District. Permission was given by the state and elections were held June 25 on the location of
the school. The high school was built.
Public Library moves to Old School Building
In June of 1960 the Wellton Branch Library requested space in the old school building. (In 1990 the
library moves to its present building on the east side of Wellton.)
Custodian’s House
In 1964 a house was built on the Southeast side of the school grounds for the use of the head maintenance
employee.
Four Classrooms, Library, Workroom, Boiler Room 1966
In 1966 another building was erected which consists of a boiler room, school library, supply room, staff
workroom and four additional classrooms. This building is located in the northwest corner of the school.
Home Economics, Industrial Arts, Storage Area 1975
In 1975, just east of the cafeteria, a building was constructed to house the home economics and industrial
arts facilities.
Custodian’s House Converted to Kindergarten Center 1988
In 1988 the house that had been used by the head maintenance employee was converted into a “Kinder
Center” in order to make room for a continuing rise in enrollment. Two Kindergarten classes, morning
and afternoon were in session.
Two Classrooms Added 1989
13
In 1989 two additional classrooms were added on to the northeast building as enrollment continued to
increase.
Administration Office/Library Added 1995
In 1995, a combination administrative complex and library were added to the east end of the campus. The
front of the administrative office is a replica of the Original Wellton School.
Gymnasium Added in 1995
In 1995, a very spacious building that consist of a gymnasium and two locker rooms with offices was
located on the northeast end of campus
14