BARRANCA MESA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
INFORMATIONAL FAMILY HANDBOOK
2015-16
Gina Terrazas, Principal
57 Loma del Escolar
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Main Line (505) 663-2730
Absence Line 663-2731
INFO Line 663-2732
Fax Line 662-6645
http://laschools.net/barranca
LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Kurt Steinhaus, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Diane Delgado
Assistant Superintendent
Los Alamos School Board
Jim Hall, President
Matt Williams, Vice President
Andrea Cunningham, Secretary
Jenny McCumber, Board Member
William Hargraves, Board Member
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LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS
District Vision
We prepare confident, life-long learners.
District Mission Statement
We work collaboratively to teach our students to become
resourceful adults who are able to achieve their personal best
in an ever-changing world.
Core Values
These are the values that will guide all LAPS employees toward
meeting our mission:
Respect for differences
Innovation for Continuous Improvement
Professional Learning
Responsibility for Student Learning
Sustainable Systems
Visionary Leadership
Life Long Learning
Data Driven Decisions
Ethical Practice
Fidelity to Instruction
Barranca Mesa Mission Statement
Mission
Every Student, Every Standard, Every Day….. is Important!
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WHO TO CALL IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS OR PROBLEMS
Barranca Mesa Elementary is firmly committed to working with parents/families in resolving problems
that may arise during the course of the school year. The administration and staff strongly urge you to
follow the most judicious path, which is to address the issue at its source. Here are the first people to
see regarding common school concerns:
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Academic Concerns: the classroom teacher or the guidance counselor
Physical/Medical Concerns: school nurse
Peer/Social Concerns: classroom teacher and/or guidance counselor
Emotional/Anxiety Concerns: classroom teacher and/or guidance counselor
Discipline/Safety Concerns: classroom teacher and/or principal
If resolution is not forthcoming after this step, please call or visit with the principal.
DAILY SCHEDULE
Every Wednesday, dismissal is 12:00 Noon for all grades
8:00
8:15
8:20
9:55 - 10:10
11:15 - 12:00
12:00
2:10 - 2:25
3:20
3:30
Playground supervision begins
All classes begin
Tardy Bell Rings
Morning recess
Lunch period ~ M-T-TH-F
(grades K,1st : Recess 11:15-11:35. Lunch 11:35-12:00)
(2nd & 3rd: lunch 11:15 – 11:35, recess 11:35– 12:00)
(grades 4th, 5th & 6th: recess 11:45 – 12:00, recess 12:00 -12:30)
Wednesday classes dismissed
Afternoon recess
Classes dismissed
Buses leave
Playground supervision Ends
ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance is an important factor in your child’s success at school. However, children who
are ill should be kept at home. We discourage taking children out of school for other than health
reasons. Dental and medical appointments should be made after school if possible.
The compulsory School Attendance Law (NMSA 1978) requires that students shall attend school.
Local school boards have discretionary authority to determine what constitutes a sufficient cause for
absence from school. The court (has) rejected the assertion that parents have an unconditional right
to take their children (out of school) in contravention of school district policy. (Legal Notes for
Education, May 1983)
ABSENCE LINE: 663-2731
AN ATTENDANCE TELEPHONE LINE HAS BEEN INSTALLED AT BARRANCA MESA ELEMENTARY AND WILL BE
OPEN FROM 5:00 PM THROUGH 9:00 AM. PLEASE FURNISH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION WHEN YOUR
CHILD IS GOING TO BE ABSENT OR TARDY:
*
CHILD'S NAME
*
GRADE
*
TEACHER
*
DATE OF ABSENCE/TARDY ARRIVAL
*
REASON FOR ABSENCE OR LATE ARRIVAL
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY, LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS ATTENDANCE POLICY ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE
SCHOOL:
In compliance with the Compulsory School Attendance Law of the State of New Mexico, the
following attendance procedures will be enforced at Barranca Mesa Elementary School. The
complete policy for elementary schools can be accessed on the LAPS website at
http://laschools.net
EXCUSED ABSENCES
Medical Reasons
Non-Medical Reasons
th
After the fifth (5 ) absence (consecutive or nonUp to and including 5 days upon parent request.
consecutive) a doctor’s certificate or a written
Requests must be made in writing prior to the
note from the school nurse is required
absence.
Prolonged illness (10 days or longer) require a
Recognized Religious Holidays
meeting to develop an academic plan
Family Bereavement (mother, father, stepmother, Officially excused school activities, e.g., field trips
stepfather, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister,
grandparent, step grandparent, aunts and
uncles.)
TARDY or EARLY for medical reasons.
5 tardies or earlies from medical reasons equal
one day of excused absence. A tardy/early is 5
or more minutes.
During the school day absences longer than 3.5 hours will equal a FULL DAY absence.
Homework or equivalent assignments will be arranged for excused absences.
After the 5th medical absence WITHOUT verification from a physician or the school nurse, a letter will
be sent home.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
The third (3rd) absence requires a parent/guardian conference with the Student Assistance Team
and/or IEP
The fifth (5th) absence – written notification to parents/guardians and to the LAPS Prevention
Specialist and to the Juvenile Probation office. This will include intervention documentation that was
determined at the 3rd absence.
The fifth (5th) absence within 20 days = TRUANT
The sixth (6th) through the ninth (9th) absence – written notification is sent to the parents/guardians.
The tenth (10th) absence – written notification is sent to LAPS Prevention Specialist, to the Juvenile
Probation Office and to FINS.
Five (5) unexcused tardies or earlies = one (1) full Mid-day sign-outs (e.g., piano lessons and the
day of unexcused absence.
like) constitute an unexcused tardy or absence.
Parents/guardians requesting absences beyond five (5) days in a given school year
(e.g., family travel, vacations) are unexcused.
NOTIFICATION
It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school at every absence. Please call the
office (663-2731) before 8:00 a.m. on the day of the student’s absence.
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LAPS - ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS
EXCUSED ABSENCES
EXCU SED ABSEN CES INC LUD E:
? Medi cal Absences,
? Prol onged Il lness,
? Bereavement Leave (mother, father, stepmother, stepfather, brother, sister, stepbrother , stepsi ster, g randpar ent, stepg randparents, aunts and uncl es),
? R ecogni zed R eli g ious Hol idays.
? N on-Medi cal Absences - Par ents may req uest thei r student be excused for non-medi cal reasons for UP TO FIVE (5)
D AYS PER YEAR .
? Five (5) Тtardi esУ or 5 Тearl iesУ for medi cal reasons eq ual one dayof excused absence.
STUD EN T
Student i s
absent from
school
SITE ATTEN DAN CE
ТSEC RETARY or
C LER KУ
PARENT/GU AR DIAN
PHYSIC IAN
or
SCH OOL N UR SE
P arent /Guardian
RE PORT S A BS E NCE
and stat es t he
RE AS ON
R eason i s on
the EXCU SED
LIST
Is this an
undocumented
medical absence
that bring s the
count
to 5?
NO
Absence i s
recor ded as
excused
A l ett er is sent to alert the
parent/ guardi an t hat the
i ll ness m ust be verif ied
t hrough a physi cian or the
school nurse.
YES
P arent /guardian contact s
physi cian/ school nurse
and request s
docum entat ion in
WRI TI NG
P hysi cian or School
Nurse sends writ ten
docum entat ion to the
at tendance clerk
I ll ness i s
docum ented
YES
NO
Absence i s
recor ded as
excused
Absence i s
recor ded as
unexcused
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LAPS - ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
U nexcused Absence: An absence fr om school or cl ass for whi ch the student does not have an all owabl e excuse pursuant to the r ules of
the C ompul sory Student Attendance Law or School Board Pol icy/Reg ul ati on (or i s not cover ed by the LAPS defi nitions of Тexcused.")
U ndocumented Medi cal Absences: After 5 undocumented medi cal absences have been accr ued bya student, documentati on must be
th
presented by the parent/g uardi an - i f not then the 5
medi cal absence i s unexcused.
Tardi es: A student who i s 5 or more mi nutes late to the openi ng of school or anycl ass wi ll be considered tar dy. Fi ve tardi es for nonmedical reasons wil l consti tute one unexcused absence.
Earl ies: Any student leavi ng school earl y for 5 or more minutes wi ll be considered an Тearl y.У Fi ve ear li es for non- medi cal reasons wi ll
constitute one unexcused absence.
Truant: A student who has accumul ated fi ve ( 5) unexcused absences
wit hin a twent y-day per iod.
H abitual Tr uant: A student who
JUhas
VEN
accumulated
ILE
ten (10) unexcused absences
STUD EN T
PARENT/GU AR DIAN
PROBATION
PRINC
wit hinIPAL
a school
OR year.
SITE ATTEN DAN CE
D ESIGN EE
ТSEC RETARYУ OR ТC LERKУ
A s soon as practi cable,
cont act parent /guardian by
t elephone/ cert if ied mai l to
gi ve not ice of absence
Student i s absent from
school without parent
notification of absence
1 st or 2 nd
time?
YES
A bsence i s
recorded as
unexcused
YES
P hone Cal l or
e-mai l home
NO
P arent Conf erence wi th
S tudent A ssist ance T eam
and/ or IE P (t his can be a
t elephone conference)
LA P S P revent ion S pecial ist
i s not if ied
YES
3RD ti me?
NO
4 th ti me?
Writ ten noti fi cati on t o parents/ guardi ans & to
t he LA P S P revent ion S pecial ist & t o t he
JUV ENI LE P ROB A TI ON off ice incl uding
YES
i nterventi on docum entat ion
NO
5 th ti me?
NO
Writ ten noti fi cati on
t o parents/
guardians.
YES
6th , 7th ,
8th , or 9 th
time?
NO
Writ ten noti fi cati on t o
LA P S P revent ion
S pecial ist , to the Juveni le
P robat ion Off ice and
Referral t o FI NS
YES
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10 th ti me?
A bsence i s
recorded as
unexcused
EXCESSIVE ABSENCES AND TARDIES
1. The teacher monitors tardies and absences. When these become excessive, the teacher will
make a call to families to discuss concerns regarding missed class time.
2. The teacher will discuss problems with the counselor or nurse. The nurse will call families to
discuss possible health concerns.
3. If problems persist, the principal will send a letter to families with a strong statement regarding
the district’s expectations for attendance.
4. For extreme cases when the above steps are followed and attendance or tardiness does not
improve, the principal, counselor and nurse will meet with the teacher to develop the next
plan of action, which could include a referral to state authorities.
5. Requests for pre-arranged absences should be submitted in writing to the principal one week
in advance of the absence. In granting a request of this kind the student’s attendance
record and special needs will be considered. You will be notified if there is a problem with
your request for an absence. The teacher will determine if work missed during an absence
can be made up in alternate assignments. When appropriate the teacher will develop
alternate assignments.
6. Non-medical or non-emergency absences which have not been pre-arranged are
unexcused and in violation of the compulsory attendance law.
EARLY DEPARTURE
When it is necessary for your child to leave during the school day, please report to the school office.
Your child will be paged and released to your custody in the office. If your child returns to school
following the appointment, please report to the office once again so we may verify your child's
return. Students must be signed in or out of the office by parents, authorized guardians or people on
the emergency call list. Families may be asked by school personnel to present identification. A child
will not be allowed to wait for their parent in/outside the building ahead of time.
ASSIGNMENTS FOR ILL STUDENTS
Students who are ill for several days and are able to work at home may obtain assignments by
calling the teacher. The assignments will be collected in the office and may be picked up there.
Please do not go to the classroom to request or to pick up assignments.
If you need to pick up assignments for your child, please call early in the day to give the teacher
time to gather the materials. Parents are asked to pick up the assignments before 4:00 P.M. in the
office. Arrangements can be made for a neighborhood child to bring home the assignments.
When students remain on campus for a supervised activity, the adults in charge of the activity are
responsible for these students. (i.e. scouts, chess club, YMCA activities)
TARDY
Students are considered tardy when they arrive at school after the 8:20 bell. Students arriving late in
the morning must check in through the office. We do keep a record of tardies as well as absences in
our computer system.
PICKING UP/DROPPING OFF STUDENTS
Buses must be able to arrive and depart in front of the school unimpeded by other vehicles. Please
do not park in the drop off area in front of the main building or by the entrance and exit to the
parking lot. When you pick up your children, please park your vehicle in our lot and walk up to the
curb to find your children. We are very concerned that a child will be hit if they run into the parking
lot. Please be sure to list anyone on the medical card as an alternate that may be picking up your
student from school. We cannot release your child to anyone not listed on the emergency card - this
is to help ensure your child’s safety at all times.
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ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL IN THE MORNING
The school district assumes responsibility for students; a) when they are using school bus
transportation as they come to and from school; and, b) when they are on the school grounds
between 8:00 A.M. and 3:20 P.M. on regular school days. The school is not liable for students who
arrive at school before 8:00 A.M. The schools are not responsible for children while they are walking,
riding bicycles or otherwise going to and from school. In this area, the county and the parents share
responsibility for the children. However, we have an active interest in maintaining and assuring the
safety and welfare of students who are walking or bicycling to and from school, and will work
cooperatively with the police, parents, and the County Transportation Committee in promoting and
educating children in pedestrian and bicycle safety and law enforcement.
DISMISSAL SUPERVISION
The school staff and parent volunteers will supervise the buildings, pathways, and the bus loading
area, for ten minutes after dismissal. All students will be expected to leave the school property during
that period of time. All supervision of students by school personnel will end at 3:30 pm, unless special
circumstances exist that would cause the principal to designate necessary extended supervision.
The school is not liable for students who are on school grounds after 3:30 pm, but may disallow
inappropriate behavior of any person on Los Alamos School Property at any hour of the day or night.
SNOW DAY PLAN
A Snow Day Plan will be declared when deep snow and weather conditions warrant. The purpose
for the delay is to allow traffic to spread out and avoid having students, buses, and cars on slick,
snow-packed streets at the same time. A “snow day” will be announced on the following radio
stations beginning about 6:30 a.m.:
KNLA radio - 101 FM
KDCE radio - 950 AM
KNYN radio - 95.5 FM
KBOM radio - 106.7 FM
KFLQ radio - 91.5 FM
The district’s information line, 663-2223, will also have “snow day” information.
On "Snow Days" school will start later than usual or be canceled. Bus pick-ups will be one/two hour(s)
late. Students will be dismissed at the regular time as on a normal day.
Early Dismissal or other Safety-related circumstances
On rare occasions, school will be dismissed early because of unusually heavy snow accumulation
during the day. The decision to dismiss early is made by staff in the Los Alamos Schools Central Office
in collaboration with LANS staff and Los Alamos County staff. When this occurs there will be radio
messages to inform you of the decision.
It is very important that children know where to go when bus service is unavailable or telephones are
out. Please have the Snow Day Plan in place and review it frequently with your children.
STUDENT WITHDRAWAL FROM ATTENDANCE
Any student who leaves Barranca Mesa to attend another school should checkout at least two (2)
days prior to departure. The checkout procedure is a process begun by the parent contacting the
school office. A temporary transcript of grades and helpful placement information will be provided
to the parent upon request. This will aid the new school in which the student will be enrolled. Copies
of the student’s permanent record will be mailed to the new school upon written request from the
proper official at the new school.
BUSING POLICY
The State of New Mexico has established regulations stating that only elementary children who live
more than one (1) mile from the school are entitled to ride a school bus. The Los Alamos Schools
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Director of Transportation is charged with enforcing this regulation. State and local officials establish
bus routes, boundaries, and bus stops. Route consolidations mandated by the State Department of
Transportation have resulted in most of our buses running near capacity. Due to expected load sizes
and state regulations prohibiting it, students may not ride a bus other than their normally assigned
bus to or from school without prior permission from the Transportation Department. Please call the
Transportation Office at 663-2255 if you have any questions or concerns.
BICYCLES
Students may ride bicycles to school if they follow proper safety habits. It is the responsibility of
parents to instruct the child in the proper operation of the above stated vehicles including safe riding
habits and abiding by proper traffic patterns and signs. The school can assume no responsibility for a
child’s vehicle operation. The following vehicle rules will be enforced during the school day: 1.
Students will walk their bicycles on the school grounds. 2. Students may not use bicycles on the
school grounds other than when coming onto or leaving the school property.
USE OF TELEPHONE
Students may use the telephone in their classroom to call a parent in the event of an emergency or
for some other important reason with permission from their teacher. Messages will be given to
students in the event of an emergency only. All telephones in the office are for business use and
should only be used by students in an emergency. We urge students to plan ahead for such things
as permission to visit a friend, to ask for homework, lunches, musical instruments, etc. Students will not
be allowed to use the telephone to get permission to visit a friend after school. We ask parents
cooperation in this area.
STUDENT BELONGINGS
Students are requested not to bring personal or valuable items (including money) to the classroom
that take away the learning or safety of others. We ask that toys, balls, etc. be left home for safety
reasons. If a student is bringing something for show and tell with the teacher’s permission, it is
important for the student to know he/she is responsible for personal items brought to school. Items
with great sentimental or financial value should be left at home. Please label all your child’s
belongings. Lost and Found items are placed in the Lost and Found area (in the main wing next to
the double doors going out to the 300 wing). Glasses, money, jewelry, and smaller lost and found
items will be kept in the office. We will make an attempt to contact students who have properly
identified their belongings. We have enforced the following policy on all found items that are
unclaimed: Unclaimed money will be given to the finder one week after it was turned in. Unclaimed
articles will be given to a charity two times a year in December and May.
STUDENT ELECTRONICS
Devices which are disruptive to the educational process, such as but not limited to walkie
talkies, two way radios, games, radios, red or green laser pointers, stereos, cellular phones, CD
players, iPods, MP3 Players, etc., are not permitted except during designated times or with teacher
approval. Barranca Mesa Elementary School safe time zones are any where on campus before
school and after school. Teachers may allow use in class when they feel it is appropriate. Schools
are not responsible for lost or stolen electronic items. Items used outside of these designated times
may be confiscated by school staff and must be picked up by the student's parents at the discretion
of the administrator. Noise level on electronics and earphones shall not disturb the educational
environment, or be audible to others.
LUNCH TIME
Plain milk and chocolate milk are made available to students through Summit Food Service
Management. Summit Food Service Management offers a weekly hot lunch for students to
purchase. Notification and order forms will be sent announcing the menu, prices and dates.
Otherwise, parents are responsible for providing a nutritious lunch for their children. We do provide
hot water for students who wish to bring dry soups, cocoa or other dehydrated foods. No glass
containers will be allowed for lunches or snacks. Containers with metal tab lids are also discouraged.
Students must bring their own utensils (knives are not permitted). There are no microwaves available
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for student use. Supervision is provided during lunch. Parents are welcome to join their children for
lunch during the regularly scheduled lunch session and are asked to sign in at the office prior to
joining their children.
GET INVOLVED! BARRANCA MESA SCHOOL PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
All parents and teachers are encouraged to attend P.T.O meetings
P.T.O. serves as a communication channel and schedules periodic evening programs of common
interest to parents and teachers. Dates for P.T.O. meetings will be published on the Barranca Mesa
Website.
PARENT VOLUNTEERS
Volunteering is an excellent opportunity to have hands-on experience in the classrooms and other
areas at Barranca (i.e. the library, art room, various special events). Your talents can be utilized in
many facets of your child’s educational process, both at home or in the classroom, working with
children or preparing materials for the staff. When volunteering, please be sure to sign in the office
and wear the volunteer/visitor badge provided proudly.
The principal encourages visits by parents and guardians to their children’s classrooms; however, the
principal or his representative may turn anyone away from the school in order to protect the learning
environment or the safety of students or staff.
BARRANCA MESA SCHOOL RULES OF CONDUCT
DRESS CODE
A student's appearance shall not disrupt the educational process or constitute a threat to health or
safety. Clothing which promotes gang activity, alcohol, tobacco or drug use, or any item of
clothing, which is obscene, offensive, or too revealing is considered inappropriate for school.
Bandannas and excessively sagging pants or shorts are not allowed. Unless there is a medical or
religious reason, hats will not be worn in the building. The following suggestions are provided as a
guideline for student dress:
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Shorts or skirts can be fingertip length or longer.
Revealing/torn jeans may not be worn at school.
Necklines may not be lower than one horizontal hand width (four fingers excluding the
thumb) from the collarbone.
Spaghetti straps or shirts with straps narrower than a 3-finger width
(student hand) may only be worn with a t-shirt underneath.
Shirts should be long enough to reach your waist and no skin should be showing between the
hem and the waistband.
Jerseys and open armhole tank tops may be worn with a shirt underneath.
Clothing should cover underwear at all times.
The use of make-up in elementary school is not appropriate.
School authorities will make the final determination as to what is acceptable.
If a student's dress is determined to be unacceptable, he or she will be given alternative
clothing to wear for the day if available. Students may call home to request parents to bring
alternative clothing to the school.
BASIC RULES
Barranca Mesa School is a caring community and provides an educational environment conducive
to good learning. We work to develop responsible, self-directed behavior. We expect each student
to learn to use good judgment in all situations and be responsible for his/her actions, even when the
action is taken as a member of a group.
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All procedures, rules, and regulations used shall be in compliance with the Federal Law, State and
Local Board of Education regulations, and specifically ensure each individual due process. All Los
Alamos Board of Education Policies apply at Barranca Mesa Elementary School.
Be safe, kind, and respectful to yourself and others, and treat all possessions and property
with respect.
Be punctual and prepared. You will be expected in class on time with all the necessary
materials.
Follow directions when they are given.
Follow the rules of the playground, lunchroom, halls and buildings as taught by Barranca
Mesa School and as posted in each classroom and in the lunchroom.
Leave i-Pods, MP-3 players, trading cards, toy cars, electronic games, expensive items, and
large amounts of cash at home.
Cell phones will be turned off, not used, and stored in back packs during the school day. The
school is not responsible for the loss or damage of cell phones brought to school.
No gum chewing at school.
Hats may not be worn in the building.
Students are not allowed on the school grounds until the bell rings at 8:00 A.M.
Leave the school promptly at dismissal time.
Do not ask to use the telephone except in an emergency and with a telephone pass.
Students are allowed in the classroom only with adult supervision.
No spitting on the playground.
No exchanging of money, trading cards, or toys allowed.
Swearing, cursing, and/or obscene language will not be tolerated.
No throwing of balls or other objects at or against the building walls or windows.

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

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


PLAYGROUND RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Be Safe and Follow All Safety Guidelines
Never Leave the Playground Without Permission (PASS)
Keep Your Hands, Feet, and Objects to Yourself
Be Kind to and Respectful of Others
Sleds are not allowed on playground
Pick up your trash
SAFETY GUIDELINES
-Slide:
Slide down the slide feet first on bottom. Wait for slide to be clear before sliding. Keep rocks
and other objects off the slide.
-Swings:
Count to 25 when swinging and swing independently. Keep clear of swings while you are
waiting for your turn. Swing forward and back only, not twisting or swinging side to side.
-Play Structure:
One way- follows arrows, keep clear under bars
-Sand Box:
Dig only as far as there is sand
- Red and Blue Cubes:
You may sit on top, but you may not stand.
- Spinner:
A maximum of two people on the spinner are allowed. Stand back from the spinner in line.
-Climbing Equipment:
Stay off the top of equipment
-Students can check out balls from the gym teacher. Please don’t bring playground equipment from
home.
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-Field in front of swimming pool is for 6th graders only.
-Weather Agreement
-If you are sledding, you must have a plastic bag, snow pants, and snow boots.
-Sled sitting down, feet first.
-If you are playing in the snow, you must have snow boots on.
-Stay off the ice, out of mud and away from gutters.
-Snowball throwing at targets only.
Barranca Mesa Bobcats are Safe, Responsible, and Respectful!
In our efforts to ensure a positive school climate and provide a safe and effective learning
environment, Barranca staff and students have implemented our school wide Positive Behavior
Support (PBS) program. This learning-based approach helps us systematically teach and recognize
appropriate behaviors. Additionally, we have measures to correct behaviors.
Defining Expectations: Barranca Mesa students will be Safe, Responsible, and Respectful.
Students have contributed to defining Safe, Responsible, and Respectful behaviors for all common
areas in the school. These expectations are posted throughout the school.
Positive Interventions for Discipline Referrals
This proactive program is based on the assumption that when students face behavioral challenges it is
because they lack skills. Positive Behavior Support offers a system for identifying the skills that are
lacking and teaching those needed skills. It also includes a communication piece. As Barranca, the
process is as follows:
 Infraction: Student demonstrates behavior that warrants an intervention,
 Intervention: Staff member addresses behavior by redirecting, reteaching,
or referring for additional intervention, as recorded on an “Behavioral Referral Form”,
 Office Referral: Accumulation for 4 or more Behavioral Referral Form or a high level
infraction will result in an office referral and further interventions.
Please note that our increased communication through the “Paws-itive” Low Level Form is not a
function of more behavior problems, but rather a result of our efforts to keep parents informed and
involved. The recognition for positive student behaviors will far outnumber discipline referral for
problem behaviors.
Use of PBS in schools across the country has been shown to improve academic performance, increase
attendance, reduce discipline referrals, and create a positive school climate. PBS is being
implemented district-wide.
Serious Offenses including bringing alcohol, tobacco, weapons, or other drugs will be dealt with
according to LAPS District Policy 5131R.
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Barranca Mesa Bobcat’s are Safe, Respectful, and Responsible!
I am…
All
Settings
Lunch
Recess
Safe
 Follow
the
Rules
 Keep
hands,
feet,
objects,
and
hurtful
words
to
yourself
 Walk
 Eat only
your
food
 Keep
hands,
feet,
objects,
and
hurtful
words to
yourself
 Walk
 Keep
hallways
clear
 Keep
hands,
feet,
objects,
and
hurtful
words to
yourself
 Wash hands
with soap
and water
 Keep water
in the sink
 Watch for
water on
the floor
 Enter and
leave in an
orderly
fashion
 Sit
appropriate
ly
 Keeps
hands, feet,
objects, and
hurtful
words to
yourself
Respectful
 Be kind
to
others
 Listen
to
Directio
ns
 Follow
the
“Golden
Rule”
 Ask
 Listen to
duty
staff
 Keep
hands,
feet,
objects,
and
hurtful
words to
yourself
 Stay in
supervis
ed areas
 Follow
the
playgrou
nd rules
 Take
turns on
equipme
nt
 Speak
kindly
and
politely
 Be polite
and quiet
 Stay to
the right
 Keep
body to
self
 Allow for
privacy of
others
 Wait your
turn
 Remember
to flush
 Listen and
pay
attention to
presenters
 Applaud
appropriate
ly
Responsible
 Take
care of
belongi
ngs
 Clean up
after
yourself
 Take
care of
yourself
 Throw
 Use a hall
pass
 Take care
of your
belonging
s
Wait your
turn in line
 Clean up
after
yourself
 Wash hands
with soap
and water
 Alert staff
about
clogged
toilets or
graffiti
 Stay with
your
teacher/cla
ss
 Applaud
appropriate
ly
permissi
on to
leave
 Use good
manners
 Speak
softly
and use
appropri
ate
language
 Throw
away
trash in
trash can
 Clean up
after
yourself


away
your
trash
Bring in
equipme
nt
Inform
staff if
someone
is hurt
or in
trouble
Hallways Bathrooms Assemblies
ACTIVITIES PROHIBITED BY STATE REGULATION
Certain activities are prohibited by State Board of Education Reg. 8-13. These are:
14
1. Criminal or delinquent acts
a. Willful interference with the educational process
b. Arson
c. Assault and/or battery
d. Criminal damage to property
e. Criminal libel
f. Criminal trespass
g. Unlawful assembly
h. Extortion
i. Larceny, robbery, or burglary
j. Illegal sale, possession, transportation, or use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco
products, firearms or other deadly weapons, and explosives
k. Sale, possession, transportation or use of a controlled substance without a
prescription, illicit drugs, drug analogs, substances purported to be drugs, or drug
paraphernalia
l. Use of solvent for intoxication
m. Use of a telephone to intimidate, harass, threaten or annoy
n. Traffic offenses
2. Gang related activity
3. Sexual harassment
4. Disruptive conduct
a. Intentionally causing substantial disruption by violence, force, noise, coercion, passive
resistance, or any other conduct
b. Intentionally engaging in disruptive conduct
c. Intentionally urging others to engage in disruptive conduct
5. Refusal to identify self
6. Refusal to cooperate with school personnel
a. Willfully refusing a direction to cease any conduct that is a hindrance to the activity
b. Willfully refusing a direction to cease disruptive conduct
c. Willfully refusing or failing to leave a school facility or activity when directed to do so
by administrative authority
d. Willfully refusing or failing to abide by disciplinary measures imposed by administrative
authority
ACTIVITIES PROHIBITED BY LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD POLICY
The Los Alamos Public Schools prohibit certain activities.
activities addressed in School Board Policy.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The following list includes examples of
Truancy and Tardiness – see Attendance section
Unauthorized use of and access to school property
Unauthorized presence of non-school persons on school property
Distribution of unauthorized publications on school property
Unreasonable conduct at school-sponsored activities or other activities on school property
Inappropriate or disruptive dress or appearance
We expect children to dress in a comfortable but appropriate manner.
 Clothing that appears to be gang-related attire or advertises alcohol, drugs,
tobacco, sex, or topics that are deemed offensive, distracting and/or
inappropriate for school will not be allowed.
 No short shorts, bare midriffs, or spaghetti straps. Pants need to fit above the hips
and not be excessively long so as to create a safety hazard.
 Underwear should not be visible
 No make-up except during a special activity or program.
Families will be notified when students come to school inappropriately attired and be asked
to bring alternate clothing.
15
7. Use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs in any form. Alcohol and other illicit drug use, including
manufacturing, possessing, smelling of, being under the influence of, selling, trading, dispensing in
any way, and/or transporting alcohol/illicit drugs, drug analogs, or substances purported to be
alcohol and/or illicit drugs, or products containing alcohol, are prohibited on school property, at
school, at school sponsored activities, or in school vehicles. Further, manufacturing, possessing,
selling, dispensing in any way, and/or using drug paraphernalia are prohibited on school property, at
school, at school sponsored activities, or in school vehicles. Any suspected violation of this policy
should be reported to the school principal or other school administrator. (School Board Policy 5129)
The Los Alamos School Board prohibits students and adults including school personnel or
volunteers from possessing, smoking, carrying, or holding a pipe, cigar, or cigarette, or using
other tobacco products in any form, on school campuses, in school buildings, on school
property, in school vehicles including buses, or at school-sponsored functions/activities.
(School Board Policy 5128)
This policy does not apply to those portions of school facilities, which are rented on a lease
agreement basis, e.g., Pajarito, Canyon, Mesa, or Pueblo.
8. Unauthorized assembly and speech
9. Inappropriate use of motor vehicles and bicycles which present a danger and are disruptive.
It is the responsibility of families to instruct the child in the proper operation of the bicycle,
including safe riding habits and abiding by proper traffic patterns and signs. The school can
assume no responsibility for a child's bicycle operation. Please make sure the bike is in good
working order and that your child knows bicycle safety rules.
The following bike rules will be enforced during the school day:
 Students will walk their bicycles on the school grounds.
 Students may not use bicycles on the school grounds other than when coming
onto or leaving the school property. The bike is to be used for transportation to
and from school and not as a recreational device before school, at noon, or after
school.
 Students may not loiter around the bicycle racks.
 Students are to wear helmets whenever they ride their bicycles.
All safe riding rules of the State of New Mexico and Los Alamos County should be followed.
Families will be notified of unsafe bicycle practice.
10. Using skateboards, rollerblades, and scooters.
11. Statements or actions which intimidate or injure another person, including profanity
12. Statements threatening violence or harm to persons and/or property including the threat to
bring a weapon to school.
13. Taking of property that belongs to another person
14. Participation in games of chance for the purpose of exchanging money
15. Violation of bus transportation rules.
16. Possession or use of a facsimile weapon/explosive
Students may not bring a weapon to school or have a weapon in their possession while
attending or participating in any school activity including transportation to and from such
activity. For the purposes of this policy, a weapon is defined as any item or device which may be
used as a weapon, including all pocket knives or other knives regardless of length of blade, or
other objects even if manufactured for a nonviolent purpose, that have a potentially violent use,
or any “look-alike” objects that resemble objects that have a potentially violent use. For
purposes of this policy, a “deadly weapon” is any weapon used in a violent or threatening
manner. In compliance with the federal Gun Free Schools Act, any student who brings a firearm
or weapon to a school or to a school-sponsored activity shall, in addition to penalties imposed
under School Board Policy, be referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities for
prosecution, or the Children, Youth, and Families Department. (School Board Policy 5154)
SEXUAL HARRASSMENT
All students have a right to be educated in an environment free from sexual harassment. Sexual
harassment of or by any student, employee, volunteer or non-employee who conducts business with
16
the school district is prohibited both during school and at school sponsored activities. Students or
parents who have a concern regarding conduct of this nature should contact the principal. (School
Board Policy 5152)
ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, AND OTHER DRUG USE
Use of alcohol and other drugs, including manufacturing, possessing, being under the influence of,
selling, dispensing in any way, and/or transporting alcohol/drugs is prohibited on school property, at
school sponsored activities, or in school vehicles. Any suspected violation of this policy should be
reported to the school principal or other school administrator. (School Board Policy 5129)
The Los Alamos School Board prohibits students and adults including school personnel or volunteers
from possessing, smoking, carrying, or holding a pipe, cigar, or cigarette, or using other tobacco
products in any form, on school campuses, in school buildings, on school property, in school vehicles,
including buses, or at school sponsored functions/activities. (School Board Policy 5128)
WEAPONS
Students may not bring a weapon to school or have a weapon in their possession while attending or
participating in any school activity including transportation to and from such activity. For the
purposes of this policy, a weapon is defined as any firearm, knife, explosive, or other object even if
manufactured for a nonviolent purpose that has a potentially violent use, or any look-alike object
that resembles a weapon. In compliance with the federal Gun Free Schools Act, any student who
brings a firearm or weapon to a school or school-sponsored activity shall, in addition to penalties
imposed under School Board policy, be referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities for
prosecution. (School Board Policy 5154)
ANTI-BULLYING POLICY FOR Barranca Elementary
Statement of Intent
We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our pupils
so they can learn in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable
at our school. If bullying does occur, all pupils should be able to tell and know that incidents
will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a TELLING school. This means that
anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the staff.
What Is Bullying?
Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results
in pain and distress to the victim. Boys report more physical forms of bullying: girls tend to
bully in indirect ways, such as gossiping and excluding. Research shows that 85% of bullying
episodes occur in the context of a peer group.
Bullying can be:
*Emotional – being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g. hiding books, threatening
gestures)
*Physical – pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
*Racist – racial taunts, graffiti, gestures
*Sexual – unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments
*Verbal - name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumors, teasing
*Cyber – all areas of Internet, such as email and internet chat room misuse, mobile
phone threats by text messages and calls
17
Why is it Important to Respond to Bullying?
 Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the right to be
treated with respect. Students who are bullying need to learn different ways of
behaving.
 Schools have a responsibility to respond promptly and effectively to issues of bullying.
Signs and Symptoms
A child may indicate by signs or behavior that he or she is being bullied. Adults should be
aware of these possible signs and that they should investigate if a child:
 Is frightened of walking to or from school
 Doesn’t want to go on the school bus and begs to be driven to school
 Changes their usual routine
 Is unwilling to go to school (school phobic)
 Becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence
 Cries themselves to sleep at night or has nightmares
 Feels ill in the morning
 Begins to do poorly in school work
 Comes home with clothes torn or books damaged
 Has possessions which are damaged or "go missing"
 Has unexplained cuts or bruises
 Becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable
 Is bullying other children or siblings
 Stops eating
 Is frightened to say what's wrong
 Gives improbable excuses for any of the above
 Is afraid to use the internet or mobile phone
These signs and behaviors could indicate other problems, but bullying should be considered
a possibility and should be investigated.
Procedures
1) Report bullying incidents to staff
2) In serious cases parents should be informed and will be asked to come in to a
meeting to discuss the problem
3) The bullying behavior or threats of bullying will be investigated and the bullying
stopped quickly
4) An attempt will be made to help the bully (bullies) change their behavior
Outcomes (with reconciliation of pupils being the goal)
1) Call parents
2) The bully (bullies) may be asked to genuinely apologize.
3) Repeated offenders may have consequences such as meeting with the principal,
participating in peer mediation, or participating in small group or individual
counseling.
4) After the incident / incidents have been investigated and dealt with, each case will
be monitored to ensure repeated bullying does not take place.
Prevention
We will use various methods for helping children to prevent bullying. When appropriate,
these may include:
 Writing a set of school rules
 Signing a behavior contract
 Writing stories or poems or drawing pictures about bullying
 Making up and participating in role-plays
 Having discussions (class meetings) about bullying and why it matters
 School/community training
18
SAFETY DRILLS AND CODES
The Barranca Mesa Safety Team has developed a Barranca Mesa School Crisis Plan as part of the Los
Alamos Public Schools’ Safe School Response Plan. This plan has been done in conjunction with the
other six schools in the Los Alamos Public Schools. By planning together, every school has agreed to
follow identical or similar procedures when responding to a crisis on campus. This planning has
included input from the Los Alamos Fire Department and the Los Alamos Police Department. There
are specific procedures the staff of Barranca Mesa School will follow to insure that the staff knows
what to do if there is a crisis on campus.
Please discuss the meanings of the words “drill” and “code” with your children. It is of the utmost
importance that we all know what to do in case of an emergency at school.
The following are a list of the drills/codes we will practice during the school year.

Lockdown Examples: wild animal on or near the campus, armed person, hostage situation,
drive-by shooting

Shelter In Place Examples: events of nature such as flood, blizzard, windstorm, environmental
concern

Evacuation from school/Relocation Examples: events that render the school unsafe; fire, gas
leak, chemical spill, bomb threat If relocation is necessary, staff, students, and visitors will
proceed to a safe, sheltered location. We will practice relocating to the tennis courts next to
the Barranca Mesa Pool.
PARENT/FAMILY ROLES IN AN EMERGENCY
Things parents can do now:
 Please make sure to update your child’s school emergency card. Call or come by the school to
update this information. Remember to update again when necessary.
 Discuss this school plan with your children.
 Stay calm in emergencies! At Barranca Mesa Elementary School, we have emergency plans in
place. We have planned, prepared, and practiced for such emergencies.
During a Lockdown at school
 Students will be accounted for and secured in locked areas.
 No one out, no one in! There will be no exceptions until the area is cleared by the Incident
Commander and/or the police.
 All cell phones and pagers will be off.
During a Shelter in Place at school
 Staff will be unable to release students until an “all clear” signal has been given.
 Please await further instructions.
 When parents are able to pick up their child, the parent will need to present identification.
During a Evacuation from school/Relocation
 All personnel and students will leave the building by the safest route to their assigned area.
 There they will await further instruction.
 Students will re-enter the building when the incident is remedied.
19
Incident Commander may change the location according to the situation.


Each teacher will have a student attendance list. The location of each student will be
determined by his/her class.
Parents will be able to pick up their children only when an “all clear” signal has been
given by the police or the Incident Commander. Identification will need to be presented
to Barranca Mesa Elementary School Staff.
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
HEALTH SERVICES INFORMATION
The school nurse works to protect and promote the health of the students and the staff. A healthy
student body and a healthy staff will maximize each student's potential to learn and grow. Each
school in the district has a full-time school nurse. Nurses work under the guidance of the school
physician and cooperate closely with state and local health providers. Health services include:


Emergency care of sick or injured students


Health education and counseling
Screening of vision, hearing, scoliosis, and blood pressure (includes monitoring if requested by
a physician, student, or parent)
Acting as liaison with parents, community, and health providers to promote a healthy and
safe school environment.
Parents are encouraged to consult the school nurse if they have information or concerns regarding
the health status of their student.
If your child has a health problem you wish to discuss or you have any questions regarding nursing
services, please call your school nurse.
HEALTH SCREENINGS
School nurses conduct vision, hearing, and height and weight screening on all new students, and on
students at selected grade levels. Parents will be notified of any detected deficiencies. If parents are
concerned about their child’s hearing, vision, height or weight, they should contact the school nurse
to make sure the particular screening has been completed.
Immunizations
According to New Mexico law, all students are required to provide proof of current immunizations
prior to or at the time of enrollment. Students without current immunizations will not be allowed to
attend class until the immunizations are current, or documentation is received that the child is in
process of receiving the required immunizations. These immunizations include:
Hepatitis B
All students in kindergarten through 12th grade are required to have the 3-dose Hepatitis B vaccine
series.
Varicella (Chicken Pox)
All kindergarten through 4th grade students must have had 2 Varicella vaccines and students in
grades 5th through 10th grades must have had one Varicella vaccine, unless a reliable disease
history of chickenpox supported by medical or lab record is provided.
Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis and Polio:
Four doses of Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and at least 3 doses of polio are required for all grades. At
least one dose of the polio vaccine and one dose of the DTP/DtaP/Tdap vaccine must have been
received after the age of 4.
20
In addition, grades 7th through 12th, require an additional combination booster vaccine, Tdap, to
prevent Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough), if the student has not received a
diphtheria or tetanus booster during the past 5 years.
Measles, Mumps and Rubella
All students, in grades kindergarten through 12th grade, must have had 2 doses of MMR, Measels,
Mumps and Rubella.
Documentation of required immunizations by a medical provider or public health official must be
brought to the school nurse before a child may attend school. The below cited statutory law applies.
N.M. Stat. Ann. § 24-5-2. Unlawful to enroll in school unimmunized; unlawful to refuse to permit immunization
It is unlawful for any student to enroll in school unless he has been immunized, as required under the rules and
regulations of the health services division of the health and environment department [department of health], and can
provide satisfactory evidence of such immunization. Provided that, if he produces satisfactory evidence of having begun
the process of immunization, he may enroll and attend school as long as the immunization process is being accomplished
in the prescribed manner. It is unlawful for any parent to refuse or neglect to have his child immunized, as required by
this section, unless the child is properly exempted.
N.M. Stat. Ann. § 24-5-3. Exemption from immunization
A. Any minor child through his parent or guardian may file with the health authority charged with the duty of enforcing
the immunization laws:
(1) a certificate of a duly licensed physician stating that the physical condition of the child is such that immunization
would seriously endanger the life or health of the child; or
(2) affidavits or written affirmation from an officer of a recognized religious denomination that such child's parents or
guardians are bona fide members of a denomination whose religious teaching requires reliance upon prayer or spiritual
means alone for healing; or
(3) affidavits or written affirmation from his parent or legal guardian that his religious beliefs, held either individually or
jointly with others, do not permit the administration of vaccine or other immunizing agent.
B. Upon filing and approval of such certificate, affidavits or affirmation, the child is exempt from the legal requirement of
immunization for a period not to exceed nine months on the basis of any one certificate, affidavits or affirmation.
Students may not attend classes until the immunization record has been cleared by our nurse and is
on file at the school. Contact the school nurse if you do not have the record, have any questions
regarding the law or procedures, or to request information regarding religious, medical, or
conscientious objection exemptions. All such exemptions must be renewed annually before the
beginning of the school year. Please inform the school nurse of any immunization updates your child
may receive during the school year.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
It is the parents' responsibility to obtain and provide medical care for their child in the case of an
emergency. The schools will assist. Frequently it is impossible to immediately determine the
seriousness of an illness or injury. The nurse, or, in her absence, other school personnel will notify
parents of head or eye injuries, possible fractures, persistent pain, and temperature elevations.
Parents will be informed if further observation or medical evaluation is indicated.
Student accident & health insurance is available. Enrollment forms are sent home at the beginning
of each school year. Parents are responsible for completing and returning forms directly to the
insurance company.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION CARDS
The district requires annual completion of Emergency Medical Authorization Cards, which list all
phone numbers to be used in the case of illness or injury at school. These cards will be distributed
during the first few days of school and should be returned as soon as possible. Parents should call
21
and update information throughout the school year with the school secretary as necessary. If urgent
medical care is required and school personnel cannot reach a parent, guardian or designated
representative, then the child will be taken by ambulance to Los Alamos Medical Center. School
personnel are not allowed to take ill or injured children to the hospital.
We cannot release your child to anyone not listed on the emergency card - this is to help ensure
your child’s safety at all times.
MEDICATION POLICY
If your child requires medication during the school day, please contact your school nurse regarding
the medication policy for daily and as needed medications. A Medication Permission Form will need
to be completed by you and your child’s physician.
The School Board Policy states that all medication should preferably be taken at home, but
recognizes that on occasion a student may need medication during school hours for treatment of a
chronic disability or illness.
Should a student need to take a medication at school because of chronic or acute problems,
please notify the nurse. Other staff members may not keep medications in their desks or assist in the
administration of medication.
In the few cases where assistance, supervision, or storage of medications is needed, arrangements
will be made by the nurse. Before any medication, INCLUDING over-the-counter medications, may
be administered, a form completed by the parent and physician must be on file. If you phone the
school with any information regarding your child’s medication, you will be transferred directly to the
nurse’s office. Staff members may not pass messages along regarding any medication - this must be
handled strictly through the nurse’s office. These policies are for the protection of the students and
staff. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.
HEALTH CONCERNS
Parents or guardians of students with known health concerns should contact the child's school nurse
as soon as possible at the beginning of the school year to ensure appropriate assistance.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Our goal is to assist students in attending school regularly, but there are a few recognized situations
when a child should remain at home. These are:
 When it is for the child's protection and health.
 When it is for the protection of other students and staff.
 When the child is unable to function in the classroom.
Communicable diseases that require exclusion from school as determined by the NM Department of
Health include, but are not limited to:
 Conjunctivitis (pink eye) – Pediatricians recommend staying home during the first 24 hours of
treatment (though this is not specified by the NM DOH)
 Strep throat - during at least the first 24 hours of treatment
 Chicken pox
 Hepatitis A
 Scarlet Fever, Measles, Rubella, and
 Mumps
 Impetigo
 Lice
 Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Children returning to school after an illness will not be excluded from physical education or recess for
more than three days without a written excuse from their physician. Both of these activities are part
of the school curriculum and are necessary for the student to function at a maximum level in the
classroom.
22
Children with elevated temperatures should not be in school. Our recommendation is that the
temperature should be "normal" for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to school.
SEX EDUCATION
The Los Alamos Public Schools developed a sex education policy during the 94-95 and 95-96 school
years. A copy of the policy and regulation 6173 and 6173R are available from any school principal
or central office administrator. The policy and regulation sets parameters for notifying families,
waivers and curriculum topics, when a course specifically related to sex education is taught.
STUDENT EDUCATION INFORMATION
STUDENT PLACEMENT - PROMOTION, ACCELERATION, RETENTION, CLASS ASSIGNMENT
The building principal is responsible for class assignment and promotion of students from one grade
level to the next. The principal welcomes information from parents regarding individual student
needs and learning styles that may be helpful in making these decisions.
Acceleration (moving ahead more than one grade level) or retention (repeating a grade level) are
decisions which require careful study and data collection. If acceleration or retention is being
considered, the parents will be included in discussions with the Student Assistance Team early in the
process. Every effort is made to meet the student's needs in the regular class assignment before a
recommendation to accelerate or retain is made. (School Board Policy 5123)
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN SCHOOL AND PARENTS
Teacher-Parent Communication
Our staff will try to talk with parents whenever a problem develops which is not resolved in a
reasonable amount of time. Similarly, we encourage parents to ask that a teacher call them, or ask
the school counselor to make an appointment for a teacher-parent conference whenever questions
or problems arise which are of concern. Please be sure to read the monthly Barranca Mesa
newsletter (The Bobcat Buzz - barranca.laschools.net) to keep abreast of school activities.
Calling to/from or E-mailing the School
Parents are encouraged to call or e-mail the school to check on their child's progress, ask a teacher
about grades, ask for a conference, discuss school policy or ask about any issue or concern. Phone
numbers and email addresses will be available on the website.
MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNICATIONS
A few of our students reside in more than one residence with parents and step-parents. Students are
supplied with only one report card and other communications with parents. If your student needs to
have more than one copy of information/communications sent home with him or her, you will need
to provide a letter stating your request to the Barranca Mesa Elementary School office.
CONFERENCES
Communication between school and home is paramount. Families and teachers are encouraged
to promote this communication. Two formal parent/family/teacher conferences are scheduled
during the year for the purpose of helping families and teachers share information concerning
students. Other conferences are strongly urged when either party feels the need.
23
CONFERENCES AND REPORT CARD DATES
2014-2015
Oct.
Oct. 17
Dec. 19
February
March 13
May 29
Parent/Family/Teacher Conferences 29th ½ day, 30th & 31th no school for
elementary students.
End of First Reporting Period
End of First Semester
Parent/Family/Teacher Conferences 25th ½ day, 26th & 27th no school for
elementary students.
End of Third Reporting Period
Last day of school semester
BARRANCA MESA ELEMENTARY HOMEWORK GUIDELINES
Purpose of Homework
Homework fosters student initiative and independence and teaches organization, responsibility, and
how to budget time. It reinforces that self-esteem comes from effort and can promote love of
learning. Homework can bring home and school closer together. Homework assignments give
families insight into the school curriculum and offer a greater opportunity for student learning to
occur. Homework helps students meet district standards. It prepares elementary school students for
middle school, high school, and college responsibilities, as well as for life-long learning.
Types of Homework
 Completion assignments are for students who have missed class assignments due to absences or
incomplete work.
 Practice assignments help reinforce newly-acquired skills.
 Preparation assignments help students get ready for upcoming classroom activities.
 Extension assignments are typically long-term continuing projects which require students to apply
previous learning. Examples include Science Fair projects and reports.
 Challenge assignments ask children to reach beyond regular expectations. They can provide
extra or optional learning opportunities.
Guidelines for Teachers
Teachers work to identify the needs of the students and assign appropriate homework to address
those needs. Guidelines employed by teachers in assigning homework include the following:
1. Homework will be assigned when it serves a clear purpose and reinforces learning.
2. Homework will be relevant to current classroom work and appropriate for the age group.
3. Homework assignments and their due dates must be understood by the children: assignments
started and developed in class for completion at home are desirable.
4. Homework will generally be reviewed with the class and must be evaluated by the teacher.
5. Homework may serve as an enrichment experience when given on an individual or small group
basis.
6. Homework assignments must be planned so that the resources needed to complete the
assignments are available in the schools, homes, or local libraries.
Guidelines for Families
Families need to provide the proper structure and encouragement to help the child complete
homework assignments. As a family, you need to:
1. Provide a regular time and a quiet place for your child to study.
2. Convey that you feel the completion of homework and learning in general are important.
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3. Be aware of your child’s homework assignments so you can help your child budget his/her time
throughout the week.
4. Keep family involvement to a minimum, remembering that it is your child’s homework, not yours.
(Although, assignments in younger grades often require family/child teamwork and more family
involvement.)
5. Be available to help with an occasional question.
6. Review completed assignments.
7. Stop your child if he/she is struggling or working much longer than is a reasonable time for the
assignment. Write a note to the teacher explaining the circumstances or requesting clarification
of the assignment.
8. When no homework is assigned, consider reading to your child or encourage other educational
activities.
Instructions to the Student
As a student, your homework responsibilities are to:
1. Know what your homework assignments are and when they are due.
2. Bring home all the things you need to do your homework.
3. Make your best effort on all of your homework assignments.
4. Complete your homework assignments on time.
5. Tell your family or your teacher if you are having problems with some of your assignments.
6. If you have no homework assignments, use your regular homework time to read, study, or work
on long-term projects.
Scheduling Recommendations
Assignments will generally be made Monday through Thursday, and will preferably be assigned near
the beginning of the week to give students flexibility in scheduling their homework. Homework will
not necessarily be assigned every night. Weekend assignments will be minimal, except for long-term
assignments that encompass several weekends. The quantity of homework (including long-term,
short-term, and reading assignments) that your child is expected to complete should reflect the
following recommendations:
Kindergarten
1st grade
2nd grade
3rd grade
4th grade
5th grade
6th grade
5 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 15 minutes per night.
10 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 20 minutes per night.
15 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 30 minutes per night.
30 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 45 minutes per night.
45 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 75 minutes per night.
45 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 75 minutes per night.
60 minutes typical with a suggested maximum of 90 minutes per night.
If a child is consistently working on homework beyond these guidelines or has regular weekend
homework, a parent/family/teacher conference is recommended. If homework regularly causes
great turmoil in the home, a parent/family/teacher conference is recommended. Homework should
not deprive a child of needed sleep and must be balanced with family life, outdoor recreation,
social activities, unstructured play, and the many other wonderful things about being a child.
LIBRARY-MEDIA CENTER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Barranca Mesa Elementary School’s Library Media Center houses an extensive book collection as
well as digital equipment, non-book materials, (i.e. globes, puppets, realia, educational games,
listening centers, DVDs, VHS, e-books, kits, and 6 OPAC [Online Public-Access Catalog] computers
that the students can use for research and educational activities.) The LAPS OPAC is available from
your home as well. Parent, teachers, and students can see what our library or any other in the district
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has available. The library is also providing the online e-book software Tumble Books. Your children
may read, answer questions about, play games about, and just enjoy hundreds of popular books fiction or non-fiction, and with several language options available, as well.
To access Tumble Book Library: (it’s free!)
www.TumbleBookLibrary.com
username: lasd
password: books
All classes make scheduled weekly visits to the library. The instructional program encourages literary
appreciation through recreational reading, development of library, literature, and classroom skills, as
well as instilling responsible behavior regarding libraries, research, and library materials.
Students may check out books for a week at a time. During the second quarter, upper grades (4-6)
may start checking out books for two weeks at a time, once a strong check-out record has been
shown. Parents and teachers may check out books for as long as needed. Parents are encouraged
to visit the librarian and set up a patron account. Books can be renewed provided another patron
has not already requested them.
Fines are not charged for overdue materials, but payment is required for all library materials lost or
damaged. Students will receive notice when a book is overdue, and if a book has been missing for
several weeks, the parents will be notified. The teachers will also be e-mailed the students check-out
list each week-we have new library software that does this automatically! If a book is missing and
presumed lost, families will receive a description of the item and the cost of replacing it. If an item is
paid for and then returned within six months, payment will be refunded. Since many of our materials
are impossible to replace, we would always rather have the item than the money. However, if the
library materials are not returned by year’s end, the final report card will be held until the book is
returned or paid for.
Please do not attempt to mend a torn or damaged book at home. Please have your child bring the
problem to our attention when it is returned so that we can mend it.
The library opens at 8:20 AM mornings (unless posted otherwise), most recess periods, and after
school until 3:30 PM. Occasionally, library activities meet in the library at lunch or after school. This is
for Library Club, Spelling Club, and Battle of the Books.
Parents willing to volunteer time on a regular basis through the Lab programs, or regular volunteer
time, are deeply appreciated, and provide valuable assistance to our library program. So, too, are
families who encourage their children to visit the library and check out books to share with their
families. Families are invited to visit the library and check out books to share with their children as
well. We hope all Barranca Mesa students enjoy reading and their experiences with the school
library!
“Miss Alice” Newman, Library Media Specialist
To call or e-mail:
a.newman@laschools.net
505-663-2738 Barranca Library and Learning Commons
STUDENT RECORDS
Student records are a property of the Los Alamos Public Schools and are kept according to local,
state, and federal regulations. The records are filed in six categories: open records, discretionary
records, confidential/diagnostic records, health records, Individualized Education Program (IEP)
records and at the high school, and advisement records.
Open, discretionary, and health records are maintained for each student in the Los Alamos Public
Schools. Confidential/diagnostic and Individualized Education Program (IEP) records are
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established for individual students as needed. Advisement records are maintained for all high school
students.
Directory information is defined as material concerning individual students that may be given to the
general public without the express consent of the student or the student's parents or guardians.
Directory information is limited to:
Student's:
Name, address, electronic address, and telephone number
Date and place of birth
Photograph
Grade level
Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Enrollment status (e.g. part-time or full-time)
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Weight and height if a member of an athletic team
Honors and awards received
Most recently attended agency or institution
Parents have until 2 weeks after enrollment in the current school year to notify the school not to
release directory information without prior consent.
Academic and attendance records, basic health records, and most recent diagnostic and
individualized education program records are kept indefinitely by the schools. Other records are
purged one year after graduation of the student's class. Test protocols are maintained until the time
of a new evaluation at which time previous test protocols are destroyed.
Information in student records shall be disclosed to eligible students (students over age 18), their
parents or guardians, school personnel and other persons or organizations only in accordance with
provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), provisions of New Mexico law
and provisions of the New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC).
At the time of graduation from high school, the parent or eligible student may request that all
records no longer needed to provide special education with the exception of information that must
be maintained permanently (student’s name, address, phone number, grades, attendance, classes
attended, grade level completed and year completed) be destroyed. This request must be
received in writing or documented in an IEP. (6.31.2.13 NMAC) The written request will be
maintained.
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act affords the following rights to parents and eligible
students with respect to the student's educational records:
•
The right to inspect and review the student's educational records within 45 days of the day the
District receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official)
a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The administrator will make
arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where
records may be inspected.
•
The right to request a change to any part of the student's records that the parent or eligible
student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of student rights.
The request specifying the correction the requester wishes must be submitted in writing to the
custodian of the records and identify why the requester believes the record is inaccurate,
misleading or violates student rights and why.
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The schools shall decide whether to amend the information in accordance with the request
within a reasonable period of time. The school will inform the parents or eligible student if it
refuses to amend the information and advise them of their right to a hearing.
Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or
eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
If, as a result of the hearing, the school decides that the information is accurate, it will inform
the parents or eligible student of their right to place in the records a statement commenting on
the information or reasons for disagreeing. This information will be maintained as long as the
record is maintained and will be disclosed if the records are disclosed.
•
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's
educational records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with
legitimate educational interests. A school official is:
1. An employee, trustee, or agent of the District, including an attorney, a consultant, a
contractor, a volunteer, and any outside service provider used by the District to perform
institutional services.
2. An employee of a cooperative of which the District is a member or of a facility with which the
District contracts for placement of students with disabilities.
3. A parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance
committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education
record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, the District discloses educational records without consent to officials of another
school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
•
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by
the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that
administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
STUDENT SERVICES
STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION
The Los Alamos Public Schools do not discriminate against any person because of race, creed, color,
national origin, sex, age, or handicap.
CHILD FIND
The Los Alamos Public Schools is required to identify all children with disabilities from birth to age
twenty-one who may be in need of special education and who reside within the jurisdiction of the
district. This applies to all children whether they are in public school, private school, or in the custody
of public institutions or agencies. Anyone who knows of a child with special needs, who is not
presently being served by the public schools, should contact Karla Crane, Coordinator of Student
Services at 663-2208. Children who are birth to three years old are referred to the Part C Early
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Intervention Service Provider, Las Cumbres, for assessment and possible services. Information will be
kept confidential.
STUDENT ASSISTANCE AND REFERRAL PROCEDURE
When a student shows signs of needing some type of special help, the student may be referred to
the building Student Assistance Team (SAT). The SAT is made up of the principal, counselors, teachers
and other personnel as needed. The student may be referred to the SAT by the school staff, a
parent, or through self-referral. Parents or students who wish to make a referral to the Student
Assistance Team may contact the classroom teacher, the counselor or the principal.
The SAT reviews the student's records and other information, recommends general education
intervention strategies and support, and develops a time-line for reviewing the success or failure of
these interventions. After the review, the SAT may decide that there is sufficient information to
substantiate the need for a multidisciplinary educational evaluation. If the student is determined to
be eligible for special education services, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be
developed.
If the SAT determines through appropriate evaluation that a student is eligible for
modifications to the general education program under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, a 504
Plan is developed with participation of the parents. The SAT will continue to provide support as
needed should the student not be eligible for either an IEP or a 504 program.
LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS PRESCHOOL PROGRAM
The Los Alamos Public Schools provides preschool programs for children ages 3-5 who are eligible for
special education due to disabling conditions or severe developmental delays. To qualify for
services, a severe delay must be identified through a complete evaluation in one or more areas of
development (i.e. speech and language, motor, cognitive, social/behavior skills). Parents who have
concerns about possible developmental delays may contact Karla Crane at the Los Alamos Public
Schools, 663-2208, to schedule an appointment for a screening.
Preschool age level peers who are typically developing in all areas are selected to participate on a
tuition basis to serve as models of age-appropriate language, motor and social skills. Parents desiring
to have their children considered as peer models should contact the schools at the above number
to be placed on a screening list. Peer models are selected in the beginning weeks of the school
year.
The special education preschool programs are located at Barranca and Pinon Elementary Schools
and are in session Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday during the school year. Programs are two
and a half hours in the morning for three year old children and two and a half hours in the afternoons
for four year old children. The first day of preschool is usually the first full day of elementary school
(Monday, August 17, 2015).
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE
The Speech and Language Clinician is concerned with children who exhibit language, articulation,
voice, fluency, or auditory problems which are outside the range of normal expectations within their
environment and are inconsistent with their chronological and/or mental age. If the child's problem
cannot be handled within the classroom setting through teacher-clinician consultation, the child
may be enrolled in therapy on an individual or small group basis.
COUNSELING PROGRAM
While the prime responsibility of the school is to advance the academic knowledge and abilities of
each student, we recognize that the growth of character, social skills, and emotional maturity
cannot be separated from the academic areas. Because the staff at Barranca Mesa is interested in
each student as an individual, our counseling program is a continual process.
The counselor works with children in their classrooms in the areas of self-awareness, setting goals,
interpersonal skills, understanding and managing emotions, problem solving, communication skills,
and responsible decision making.
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The counselor will work with teachers to assist them in planning programs for children who are
experiencing social, academic, or emotional difficulties in the classroom.
GIFTED AND TALENTED EDUCATION (GATE) PROGRAM AND SERVICES
The GATE Program enriches and expands the regular classroom curriculum.
 GATE students in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades are pulled out of their regular classrooms for
thematic areas of study. Currently, these GATE students do not receive a grade for their GATE
class work. They are expected to make up any work they miss in the regular classroom.
 GATE Students in the 5th and 6th grades are pulled out of the regular classroom. They are
expected to make up any work they miss in the regular classroom.
For more information on the GATE program at Barranca contact your child’s regular classroom
teacher or the principal.
CHILD ABUSE POLICY
1. It is the legal responsibility of all school employees and parents to report suspicion of/or
instances of child abuse or neglect to the Children, Youth and Families Department (855-3337233) or police (662-8222). Failure to make a report is a misdemeanor. Reports may be made
anonymously.
2. Adults need NOT verify that a child has actually been abused or neglected.
3. Principals/Supervisors shall review and clarify with staff members the following procedures for
reporting cases of suspected child abuse or neglect:
A. The report may be made to the Children, Youth and Families Department or police
prior to discussing their suspicions with their principals/supervisor(s).
B. Personnel may discuss their suspicions, findings or concerns with their
principal/supervisor(s). However, advising principal/supervisor(s) does NOT relieve an
employee of the legal responsibility to report to the Children, Youth and Families
Department or police.
C. The report should include the name, age, and address of the child, the name and
address of the parent or guardian, and the nature of the suspected/actual abuse or
neglect.
D. The report should also include any information that would be helpful to the
investigating agency.
E. All reports shall remain confidential.
4. School personnel shall, by law, permit a member of the law enforcement agency or an
employee of the Children, Youth and Families Department to interview the child with respect
to a report without the permission of his parent, guardian or custodian.
The investigating person has the discretion to determine who may or may not be present during an
interview of a child. School personnel will not release the child to the parents until the matter is
settled with the authorities.
MEGAN’S LAW
Megan’s Law Notice to Parents and Guardians:
The New Mexico Department of Public Safety (DPS) regularly publishes information on registered sex
offenders.
The Board of Education urges all parents and guardians of District students to check the listing of
registered sex offenders residing within the District so that they may take appropriate precautions for
the safety and welfare of their children/charges.
The listings include addresses of registered sex offenders in most cases, so parents and guardians
may determine if registered sex offenders live near their children’s or charge’s schools, school bus
stops, or their walking routes to school.
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Parents and guardians may review the listings on the DPS’s website www.nmsexoffender.com. The
listings may be searched by city, county, and by other categories. If you do not have a computer in
your home though which you can access the DPS website, you can access the website through
computers located at Mesa Public Library in Los Alamos and White Rock.
Pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, the release of sex offender registration
information is limited to those individuals convicted of certain sex offenses on or after July 1, 1995, or
those individuals convicted of a sex offense prior to that date and were incarcerated or on
probation/parole as of that date.
The integrity and accuracy of the information provided by DPS is based on the information provided
at the time a sex offender registers. Address information is subject to frequent change. Information is
updated when a sex offender registers, re-registers, after moving or following annual renewal:
however, you are cautioned that the information contained on the DPS’s web page may not reflect
the current residence, status, or other information regarding the offender.
If you believe there is a question regarding the accuracy of the information provided, please notify
DPS at (505) 827-9193
LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES
CIVIL CONDUCT OF PARENTS, VISITORS, AND DISTRICT EMPLOYEES
It is the intent of the School Board to promote mutual respect, civility, and orderly conduct among
district employees, parents, and the public. It is not the intent of the School Board to deprive any
person of his or her right to freedom of expression. The intent of this policy is to maintain a safe,
harassment-free workplace for teachers, students, administrators, staff, parents, and other members
of the community. In the interest of presenting teachers and other employees as positive role
models, the School Board encourages positive communication and discourages volatile, hostile, or
aggressive communications or actions.
1. Expected levels of behavior:
a. School and district personnel will treat parents, other school district personnel, and members
of the public with courtesy and respect.
b. Parents and visitors will treat teachers, administrators, and other district employees with
courtesy and respect.
2. Unacceptable/disruptive behavior - disruptive behavior includes, but is not limited to the
following:
a. behavior that interferes with or threatens to interfere with the operation of any function of the
school district on or off site.
b. using loud and/or offensive language, swearing, cursing, display of temper, or aggressive
behavior;
c. threatening to do bodily or physical harm to a teacher, school administrator, school
employee, student, or parent regardless of whether or not the behavior constitutes or may
constitute a criminal violation. This would include incidents involving hazing and intimidation,
which is likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, personal degradation, or disgrace resulting
in physical or mental harm to students or staff;
d. damaging or destroying school district property;
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e. any other behavior that disrupts the orderly operation of a school, classroom, or any other
school district facility; and
f. abusive, threatening, or obscene email or voice mail messages.
3. Parent recourse:
Any parent who believes he/she was subject to unacceptable/disruptive behavior on the part of
any staff member should bring such behavior to the attention of the staff member’s immediate
supervisor.
4. Authority of school personnel:
a. Authority to direct persons to leave school or school district premises any individual who does
the following:
(1) disrupts or threatens to disrupt school or school district operations;
(2) threatens or attempts to do or does physical harm to school district personnel, students, or
others lawfully on school premises;
(3) threatens the health or safety of students, school district personnel, or others lawfully on
school premises;
(4) intentionally causes damage to school property or property of others lawfully on a school
campus;
(5) uses loud or offensive language or who, without authorization, comes on a school
campus or other school property.
Persons may be directed to leave school property or a school sponsored function by a school’s
principal or assistant principal, or, in their absence, a person who is lawfully in charge of the school,
any district level administrator, including superintendent of schools, or other authorized personnel. If
the person refuses to leave the premises as directed, the administrator or other authorized personnel
shall seek the assistance of law enforcement and request that law enforcement take such action as
is deemed necessary.
AUTHORITY TO DEAL WITH PERSONS WHO ARE VERBALLY ABUSIVE
If any member of the public uses obscenities or speaks in a demanding, loud, insulting, and/or
demeaning manner, the employee to whom the remarks are directed shall calmly and politely warn
the speaker to communicate civilly. If the verbal abuse continues, the employee to whom the
remarks are directed may, after giving appropriate notice to the speaker, terminate the meeting,
conference, or telephone conversation. If the meeting or conference is on school district property,
any employee may request that an administrator or other authorized person direct the speaker to
promptly leave the premises. If the person refuses to leave, the principal or other authorized
personnel shall seek the assistance of law enforcement and request that law enforcement take such
action as deemed necessary. If the employee is threatened with personal harm, the employee may
contact law enforcement.
(LAPS Policy 4002 adopted 8/13/2002)
CODE OF ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITY OF THE EDUCATION PROFESSION
Any employee who fails to comply with the New Mexico Code of Ethical Responsibility may be
subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension, dismissal, and/or loss of licensure. Any
employee who receives a complaint of harassment, hazing, or violation of the code will be
disciplined appropriately (see Policy 4071). Any employee who retaliates against any individual who
has made a complaint is subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
1. The Code will be disseminated to all personnel.
2. New employees will be given this policy during their initial training session.
3. This policy will be referred to in all staff and student handbooks, including any extracurricular
activity handbooks. It will appear in any school district or worksite publications, which set forth
the school district’s comprehensive rules, regulations, procedures, and standards of conduct for
employees.
REPORTING PROCEDURE/INVESTIGATION
1. All complaints for violation of the Code will be put in writing by the complainant or the person
who receives the complaint and will be signed by the complainant. They will be given to the
immediate supervisor/evaluator of the person being reported.
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2. Each complaint shall be promptly investigated by the supervisor/evaluator and then referred to
the Department of Human Resources, as appropriate, in a way that respects the privacy of all
parties concerned to the extent permitted by law and to the extent practical and appropriate
under the circumstances.
3. The complaint investigator will put his/her findings in writing and will forward a copy to the
Assistant Superintendent, within one (1) week, or a reasonable extension of time thereafter for
good cause, after concluding the investigation.
4. The investigator will communicate his/her findings to the complainant and the person being
reported as expeditiously as possible.
5. Results may be indeterminate. If so, the matter will be recorded as unresolved. A written record
of the investigation will be maintained by the school district separate and apart from any student
or personnel file.
6. It is the duty of each school superintendent to provide written notification to the director of the
licensure unit after taking final action to discharge or terminate the employment, based in whole
or in part on a violation of the Standards of Professional conduct, of any certified school
employee, or any other person providing instructional services in a school who does not hold a
standard license but whose presence was authorized by the State Board of Education through a
waiver, substandard license, substitute license, or an educational plan approved by the State
Board of Education.
The above reporting/investigation procedures apply to internal investigation of complaints by the
school district. Nothing in this reporting procedure shall relieve any employee of the school district
from the reporting obligation imposed under the child abuse reporting acts.
(LAPS Regulation 4001R Adopted 7/02)
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