1000 School Circle
La Crosse, Virginia 23950
Connie Puckett, Principal
Parent/Student Handbook
2012-2013
School Phone: (434) 757-7374 or (434) 757-4468
Fax: (434) 757-1378
Cafeteria: (434) 757-7465
www.mcpsweb.org
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La Crosse Elementary School
Connie S. Puckett, Principal
1000 School Circle
La Crosse, VA 23950
August 2012
Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s) and Students:
Welcome to La Crosse Elementary School! Whether you are a returning student, new to our school, or
starting school for the first time, we know that you share with us the excitement of a brand new school
year. On behalf of the faculty and staff, we are so glad to have you as a part of the La Crosse
Elementary School family, and we look forward to the opportunity to work with each of you to help
your child experience a productive and successful school year.
I am extremely pleased to inform you that La Crosse Elementary School has once again performed
exceptionally well on the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. As a result of our students’
academic excellence, La Crosse Elementary remains fully accredited according to the guidelines
established by the State of Virginia. Such outstanding accomplishments in reading, writing, math,
science, and social studies are a direct result of the hard work, determination, and teamwork of
students, parents, and teachers. Thank you to all who actively pursue such an important role in
helping your child achieve academic excellence.
As we prepare for the exciting learning opportunities expected in the upcoming school year, please
take time to read over the Parent/Student Handbook with your child. The Parent/Student Handbook is
provided to answer questions about the policies and procedures of Mecklenburg County Public Schools
as well as the expectations and activities specific to our school. I urge you to keep your copy of the
Parent/Student Handbook handy for quick reference as questions arise throughout the school year.
Please remember that your active participation in our school is vital to the success of your child. Let
your child know that school is important through your words and your actions. When the home,
community, and school work as a team, we can expect great things for and from our children. I
encourage you to communicate regularly with your child’s teacher, attend meetings and conferences,
and join the PTO. Your support is wanted and needed. If we can be of any assistance to you at any
time, please feel free to call us at 757-7374. We look forward to serving you and challenge you to
make this your best year ever!
Sincerely yours,
Connie Puckett
Connie Puckett
Principal
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MCPS MISSION STATEMENT
Mecklenburg County Public Schools are responsible for setting high expectations for all students and providing
the environment, instruction, and support to ensure that all students are learning and achieving as measured by
rigorous standards.
La CROSSE ELEMENTARY MISSION STATEMENT
The La Crosse Elementary School community envisions maximizing the educational potential of each of its
students through the use of differentiated teaching approaches. Students will succeed socially, emotionally,
physically, and intellectually.
La Crosse students will be involved in appropriate educational experiences. These experiences will bring about
mastery of state and local standards, which will assist the student in functioning as a contributing citizen in a
local, national, and global community.
The cooperation of parents, students, teachers, and community will foster an environment that provides for mutual
respect and an appreciation of education and learning.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
The philosophy of La Crosse Elementary School reflects the belief that our educational program must undergo
continual assessment and refinement to meet the needs of its students in a rapidly changing society. It is also
based on the belief that education is a shared responsibility of home, church, school, and state. We believe that
education, formal as well as informal, is a lifelong process. This philosophy is in accordance with the Standards
of Quality for Public Schools in Virginia, the Standards of Learning, and the philosophy and objectives of the
Mecklenburg County School System.
OUR GOAL
The goal of La Crosse Elementary School is to develop independent-thinking, motivated, self-directed learners
with the ability to function in a changing society.
OBJECTIVES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
To nurture the natural curiosity that is inherent in children.
To develop attitudes that will enhance the desire to learn.
To create a love for learning that will increase incentive.
To provide students with a solid base for lifelong learning.
To increase each student’s learning and development.
MCPS POLICY STATEMENT
The Mecklenburg County School Board does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,
disability, or age in its programs and activities or employment and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and
other designated youth groups. The following people have been designated to handle questions regarding the
nondiscrimination policies: Supervisor of Personnel will be the Title IX Coordinator, who will handle complaints
for sexual discrimination and the Director of Exceptional Programs will be designated as the Section 504
Coordinator, who will handle complaints concerning disability discrimination. Please contact the Title IX or the
Section 504 Coordinator at 175 Mayfield Drive, Boydton, VA 23917 or by calling 434-738-6111.
For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit
http://wdcrobcolp01.ed.gov/CFAPPS/OCR/contactus.cfm for the address and phone number of the office that
serves you area, or call 1-800-421-3481.
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HISTORY OF THE SCHOOL
La Crosse Elementary School is located in eastern Mecklenburg County, Virginia, approximately 1½
miles southeast of the town of La Crosse. The school is located at the intersection of Canaan Church Road and
Hall Road, and serves the La Crosse District of the county by enrolling students in grades Pre-K through 5. The
school district is primarily rural, and the community served by La Crosse Elementary School represents a variety
of economic, cultural, social, and educational levels. The La Crosse community provides its citizens with access
to the recreational and educational facilities of adjacent and nearby towns, including Bracey, Lake Gaston,
Blackridge, Brodnax, Ebony, South Hill, and Forksville. La Crosse, an incorporated town, has an elected MayorCouncil form of government. The Town of La Crosse also employs a town manager.
La Crosse Elementary School was built in 1962 and began operation as Booker-Boyd Elementary School,
with an initial enrollment of 433 pupils. At that time, the school consolidated four smaller schools. They were
M. M. Booker, N. V. Boyd, Mount Vernon, and La Crosse Graded. Many pupils who attended Carroll Boyd
School were added to the enrollment in 1963, when this smaller school closed.
Until the fall of 1969, Booker-Boyd Elementary School operated as an all-black school with grades one
through seven. It took its name from two former black Mecklenburg County Public School Supervisors, Mrs.
Matila M. Booker and Mrs. N. V. Boyd. With re-organization for integration in 1969, the school’s name was
changed to La Crosse Primary School. It opened with an enrollment of 354 pupils from kindergarten through
fourth grade.
In the fall of 1980, the name of the school was again changed. With declining enrollment and reorganization, several county schools were closed. Among those school closings was the older La Crosse
Elementary School, which was later renovated and now operates as La Crosse Commerce Center. As a result of
the school closings, La Crosse Primary School then became La Crosse Elementary School, enrolling 355 La
Crosse area students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
Currently, La Crosse Elementary enrolls approximately 370 students in Pre-K through fifth grade and
employs a staff of approximately 60 teachers, paraprofessionals, and support personnel. Tri-County Community
Action Agency also operates a Head Start facility on the La Crosse Elementary premises, enrolling approximately
17 students.
La Crosse Elementary School was initially accredited by the Department of Education in 1962-63. Mr.
Sherman L. Graham served as principal of the school from the beginning of operation in 1962 until the time of his
retirement in 1997.
There have been many changes in the structure of education since 1962. Perhaps one of the most
controversial and most demanding of these changes was the Board of Education’s implementation of the Virginia
Standards of Learning (SOL) Tests in 1999. Results of these tests strictly determine a school’s accreditation
status from year to year. La Crosse Elementary School initially became fully accredited according to the Virginia
Standards of Learning in the spring of 2003 and has retained its full accreditation status every year since that time.
In addition to being fully accredited by the State of Virginia, La Crosse Elementary School also achieved
Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for the 2007-2008 school year by meeting the high standards of learning and
achievement in reading and mathematics established by the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation.
The school has continued to achieve AYP every year since that time. Additionally, the school was awarded the
VIP Educational Excellence Award by Governor Kaine in 2008 and 2009 and was recognized as a Title I
Distinguished School for the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 school years.
Sherman L. Graham, Principal
Lindell T. Palmer, Principal
Brenda Ball, Principal
Doris E. Allen, Principal
Nan Alga, Principal
Connie Puckett, Principal
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1962 - 1997
1997 - 1999
1999 - 2001
2001 – 2006
2006 – 2011
2011-
La Crosse Elementary School
Faculty and Staff
Principal
School Secretary
Attendance Clerk
Guidance
Nurse
Pre-Kindergarten
Kindergarten
Kindergarten
Kindergarten
1st Grade
1st Grade
1st Grade
2nd Grade
2nd Grade
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
3rd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade
4th Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
5th Grade
5th Grade
Special Education (gr. K-3)
Special Education (gr. 4/5)
Speech Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Physical Education
Art Education
Librarian/Media Specialist
Music
RtI Interventionist
Reading Specialist
Title I
Title I
ESL Instructor
GATE Teacher
Technology Resource Teacher (TRT)
Connie Puckett
TBD
Lori Poole
Lena Wilkinson
Susan Townsend
Malesha Hines
Kimberly Robertson
Flora Lewis
Valerie Moody
Lawrenceen Smith
Tracy Bugg
Cathy H. Howerton
Mary Lynn Crossman
Kristen DeJarnette
Stephanie Watson
Traylor Pratali
M. Hilda Caldwell
Diane Greene
Carol Hahn
Thomas Lawson
Tammy Townsend
Shannon Willis
Danielle Ashworth
Cassandra Lambert
Felecia Brodnax
Stephanie Hines
Stephanie Lucy
Jennifer Vella
Colin Emerson
Penny Hare
Wanda Richardson
Patricia Barton
Linda Morris
Linda Harrison
Rachel Johnson
Gretchen Hayes
Mariana Pacheco
Nancy Piercy
Remona Tomko
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Main Office
Main Office
Main Office
Main Office
Main Office
Mobile Unit # 1
Room 18
Room 19
Room 20
Room 1
Room 2
Room 17
Room 3
Room 4
Room 5
Room 6
Room 7
Room 8
Room 9
Room 10
Room 11
Room 13
Room 14
Room 15
Mobile Unit # 4
Mobile Unit # 3
Library
Itinerant
Gymnasium
Mobile Unit # 2
Library
Mobile Unit # 6
Room 16 (Lab 1)
Mobile Unit # 4
Mobile Unit # 5
Room 12 (Lab 2)
Mobile Unit # 5
Mobile Unit # 3
Itinerant
Paraprofessional- Computer Lab
Paraprofessional – K / PALS
Paraprofessional - Special Ed.
Paraprofessional – Pre-K
Paraprofessional – K
Cafeteria Manager
Cafeteria Asst. Manager
Cafeteria Employee
Cafeteria Employee
Cafeteria Employee
Bus Driver
Bus Driver
Bus Driver
Bus Driver
Bus Driver
Bus Driver
Martha Roberts
Elizabeth Simmons
Mildred Springer
Cynthia Wartman
Jacqueline Auerbach
Ellen Webb
Diana Simmons
Ella Clary
Susan Hall
Christine Moore
TBD
Fay Woodall
Vincent Meade
T. J. Hall
Amy Martin
Diane Morris
Rm. 16 (Lab 1)
Mobile Unit # 1
Mobile Unit # 3
Mobile Unit #1
Room 18
Kitchen
Kitchen
Kitchen
Kitchen
Cafeteria
Bus 68
Bus 112
Bus 109
Bus 74
Bus 54
Bus 84
Faculty and Staff (continued)
Custodian
Custodian
Custodian
Brad Nichols
James Sadler
Larry Waye
PTO Officers
(Parent-Teacher Organization)
Kristine Martin ………………………………………………………………………… President
Kim Harrell
………………………………………………………………………… Vice-President
Stephanie Hines ….…………………………………………………….
Recording Secretary
Shannon Griffin
…………………………………………………
Corresponding
Secretary
Lois Finch
………………………………………………………………………… Treasurer
Tracy Bugg
…………………………………………………………………………
Teacher
Representative
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GENERAL INFORMATION
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Morning announcements will be made via school intercom between 8:20 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. each day. Students
will be selected by homeroom (fifth grade only) on a voluntary basis to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, Moment of
silence and character education quote.
Announcements of general concern will be made by the principal, immediately following the students’
announcements. All announcements from faculty and staff members must be submitted in writing and approved
by the principal before such announcements are made.
Additional announcements concerning any reminders or new developments during the course of the day, if any,
will be made via school intercom at 2:45 p.m. each day or email notification
Teachers are to make sure that everyone in his/her classroom remains seated and silent during announcements.
MOMENT OF SILENCE
The Mecklenburg County School Board recognizes that a moment of silence before each school day prepares
students and staff for their respective work or school days.
The teacher responsible for each class shall make sure that each student:
(1) remains seated and silent and
(2) does not disrupt or distract other students during the moment of silence.
The moment may be used for any lawful silent activity, including personal reflection, prayer, and meditation.
However, the teacher responsible for each class shall not influence, in any way, students to pray or meditate, or
not to pray or meditate, during the moment of silence. Students and employees are prohibited from praying aloud
during the moment of silence.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
“ Strive for Five”
I pledge allegiance
to the Flag
of the United States of America,
and to the Republic
for which it stands,
one Nation under God,
indivisible,
with liberty
be respectful
be safe
work peacefully
follow directions
strive for excellence
and justice for all.
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ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
Parents and students should read and familiarize themselves with Mecklenburg County School Board policies on
student attendance and truancy.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
A student who leaves school before 10:30 a.m. or arrives at school after 1:30 p.m. will not be counted
present. Furthermore, in order for a student to receive the perfect attendance award at the end of the
school year, he/she must be present 100% of the time—no late arrivals or early dismissals.
School Board policy requires that any student who is absent from school for an entire day or more must provide
an excuse note by the parent or guardian. The excuse note may be a written note signed by the parent or guardian
or a verified excuse from phone contact between the parent and guardian and a member of the attendance staff. If
an excuse note, either written or through phone contact, is not received by the school by the close of the second
day after the student has returned, the absence is recorded as unexcused.
If a student accumulates more than twenty (20) absences all year long, including days missed because of late
enrollment, the student may not be eligible for credit. All elementary and middle schools, as well as the
Alternative Learning Center follow the 10:30/1:30 method for counting students present for daily attendance. This
means a student cannot leave school earlier than 10:30 and be counted present for the day and if wants to leave
earlier must have signed in no later than 1:30 to be counted present.
Attendance
School attendance is critical to academic achievement, and preparing students for the world of work and
personal success. Each parent or guardian having charge of a child within the compulsory attendance age shall be
responsible for the child’s regular and punctual attendance at school as required under provisions of state law.
For students age 18 or over, the requirements of this policy will apply to the student rather that the parent or
guardian. Every teacher in every Mecklenburg school shall keep an accurate daily or class record of attendance of
all children assigned. The Superintendent shall provide a copy of the compulsory school attendance law and this
attendance policy to the parent or legal guardian of each student within the first calendar month of each school
year.
A. Expectations
The School Board expects students and their parents or guardians to actively take responsibility for
ensuring attendance, with support from the school. A student is expected to arrive on time and attend class for the
full instructional period.
A student who is approved to participate in a school-sponsored field trip or other approved activity shall
be counted as in attendance. Students shall attend school for a full day unless otherwise excused. Secondary
students shall be scheduled for a full school day unless they are enrolled in a cooperative work-study program.
The Superintendent or designee must approve all other expectations to a full day schedule on an individual basis.
A student who is tardy to school or leaves early from school, regardless of whether it is excused or not,
may disrupt the learning environment for all. For elementary and middle school students, the principal or
designee must approve tardies to school or early dismissals from school. Any three unapproved tardies to school
or early dismissals from school in a nine-week grading period will count as the student missing a full instructional
day. Tardies to school or early dismissals from school may be considered excused for the same reasons as are
listed for absences in Section B. The Director of Elementary Schools shall establish and communicate guidelines
on the length of time that constitutes a tardy to school or early dismissal from school.
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B. Absences
There are times when a student is unable to attend school. Each parent or legal guardian having charge of
a child enrolled in Mecklenburg County Public Schools shall inform the school each day his or her child is absent
all or part of any school day. Schools will make reasonable effort to contact a parent or legal guardian of each
absent student every day and a log will be kept of contact attempts.
Absences that may be considered excused upon receipt of a valid written note or other form of notice
approved by the school from the parent or guardian on the day of the student’s return to school include:
 Illness (if over two days, the school may require a note from the physician);
 Medical and dental appointments;
 Court appearance;
 Death in the family;
 Observance of a religious holiday; and
 Extenuating circumstances as determined by the school administration.
 For the day of absence for which there is no valid written excuse, the principal or designee will
make a reasonable effort to directly contact the parent or guardian.
C. Excessive Absences
Excessive absences are those, which cause a student’s attendance, at any point during the year, to be
lower than the expectations stated in Section A. A student who displays a pattern of excessive absences, tardies
or early dismissals, whether excused or not, may be referred to the principal or designee who shall investigate and
recommend appropriate corrective action, including a conference with the parent or guardian, alternative
placement or referral to the appropriate agencies.
For any student whose absences exceed, during a school year, more than ten school days or ten class
periods of a course scheduled daily or five class periods of a course on the block schedule, the principal or
designee may require a conference with the parent or legal guardian to discuss the implications for learning and
achievement, the consequences of failure to attend, and any corrective actions to be made. Further, the principal
or designee may require documentation beyond the written excuse.
Any student whose absences exceed, during a school year, 20 school days in a year or 20 class periods of
a course scheduled daily or 10 class periods for a block class will not receive credit for the course unless the
student completes tutoring or an alternate learning module as prescribed by the principal or designee. The
principal may require the parent, guardian or student to pay for the costs associated with tutoring or the
alternative-learning module. The principal may waive this requirement upon consideration of extenuating
circumstances. This consequence complies with the state Standards for Accrediting Public Schools that define the
standard for awarding course credit for graduation. For elementary and middle school students, excessive
absences may be a factor in decisions regarding a student’s promotion to the next grade.
For any student whose absences exceed five scheduled school days for the school year and there is no
indication that the parent is aware of and supports the student’s absence, the principal or designee shall make a
reasonable effort to directly contact the parent to obtain an explanation and explain the consequence of
nonattendance. A plan will be developed jointly with the parent and student to resolve the student’s
nonattendance. If the student is absent for an additional day after the direct contact and again the parent is
unaware, a conference shall be scheduled with the parent and student within 10 days and held no later than 15
days after the sixth absence. Upon the seventh absence of which the parent is unaware, the principal or designee
will notify the Office of Student Services to take the actions prescribed by Section 22.1-258 of the Code of
Virginia. Actions include either or both of the following: 1.) filing a complaint with the juvenile and domestic
relations court alleging the student is a child in need of supervision or 2.)Instituting proceedings against the parent
pursuant to section 18.2-371 or Section 22.1-262, Code of Virginia.
D. Make-Up Work
It is the student’s responsibility, or the parent or guardian of an elementary student, to communicate with
the teacher on the day he or she returns to class to schedule the make-up of missed work. Students are expected to
make up all work missed immediately, and in a time period not to exceed six school days from return to school.
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For students in grades three through twelve, all missed work that is not made up within the time limit will receive
not higher than a failing grade of 68; a student whose work earns a grade below 68 will receive the grade earned.
The principal or designee, however, may consider extenuating circumstances in extending the time limit.
Elementary students must bring a note from the parent or guardian stating the reason for the absence or
follow other notice procedures as determined by the school. Because of the formative aspect of elementary
instruction, all elementary school students are expected to make up work missed because of absence, regardless of
reason. Refer above to timeline for make-up work.
*All school principals and other administrative officials will strictly enforce these policies and procedures*
Any student who arrives to school or class after the 8:30 a.m. tardy bell has sounded will be
considered “Tardy” He/She is required to report to the office first! A parent/adult must sign the student in
and the office staff will issue a “Tardy Slip” to the student. The student will report to his/her homeroom teacher
first and turn in the Tardy Slip. The homeroom teacher will then direct the student to the appropriate class,
according to the child’s schedule.
Car riders should arrive between 7:50 and 8:20 for the safety of the students. At 8:25 there will be no
one on care duty to supervise unloading.
BELL SCHEDULE
7:50 a.m.
8:00 a.m.
8:20 a.m.
8:30 a.m.
3:15 p.m.
3:20 p.m.
3:20 p.m.
3:45 p.m.
Staff Members on duty; Student Drop-Off Bell (Students report to the cafeteria);
Unload students eating breakfast / Breakfast begins
Unload the remainder of the students and they report to classroom
Breakfast ends; Morning announcements
Instruction begins; Tardy bell
Pre-K and Kindergarten, First and Car Riders dismissed
(Teachers walk students to buses)(Go through lower hall door)
Second and Third dismissed
(Teachers walk students to buses)(Go through lower hall door)
Fourth, and Fifth dismissed (Go down front hall and through cafeteria)
Staff dismissal
REGULAR DAILY SCHEDULE
Regular school day for students
Regular school day for staff
TWD/Staff Development
8:30 a.m. – 3:20p.m.
7:45 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
8:30 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Students who are brought to school by personal vehicle are not to arrive at school before 7:50 a.m. The school
will not be responsible for any students arriving before 7:50 a.m., as we cannot provide supervision for students
before that time. Parents who drop students off before 7:50 a.m. are considered in violation of the school
division’s safety policy. School administrators reserve the right to contact local law officials and/or Department
of Social Services officials to report such violations.
Beginning at 7:50 a.m., students arriving at school must enter through the cafeteria doors on the lower end of the
building and remain seated in a designated area of the cafeteria. At 8:00 a.m., a bell will ring for students to
report to classrooms, unless they are eating breakfast. Breakfast is served from 7:55 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. As soon as
a student finishes breakfast, he/she must report directly to homeroom. Students are expected to be in their
homerooms and ready to begin instructional activities at 8:25 a.m. prior to tardy bell.
It is important that all car riders arrive no later than 8:20 a.m for drop off. We will have supervision from
7:50 to 8:20. After 8:20 our staff member must come in the building to prepare for classes to start at 8:30.
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BREAKFAST and LUNCH PROGRAMS
Breakfast will be served from 7:55 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. Children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals will
receive those benefits for both breakfast and lunch.
Breakfast Prices:
Student – Full Price
Student – Reduced Price
Adult
$0.70
$0.30
$1.25
Lunch Prices:
Student - Full Price
Student - Reduced-Price
Adult
Milk
$1.60
$0.40
$2.75
$0.50
STUDENTS and STAFF ARE EXPECTED TO HELP KEEP THE CAFETERIA CLEAN AND
ATTRACTIVE AND TO CONFINE THEIR EATING OF FOOD TO THE CAFETERIA, WHETHER
THEY PURCHASE MEALS AT SCHOOL OR BRING FOOD FROM HOME.
In keeping with the school division’s Student Wellness Program,
STUDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BRING BOTTLED OR
CANNED SOFT DRINKS TO SCHOOL FOR LUNCH.
Every student is expected to go through the lunch line to get lunch, unless he/she has brought lunch from home.
Extra milk may be purchased as the student goes through the line.
It is the policy of the Mecklenburg County School Division that students not be allowed to borrow meal money.
Parents are encouraged to apply for free or reduced-price meals if they are unable to pay full price for their
child’s meals. Those students who pay for meals are encouraged to pay for their meals by the week or by the
month. If a parent wishes to pay for their child’s meals weekly, the money should be sent on the first school day
of the week. Likewise, if they pay monthly, the money should be sent on the first school day of the month.
Students will take their meal money to the cafeteria immediately after morning announcements to pay the
cafeteria manager. It is the responsibility of every parent to make sure that provisions have been made for
his/her child’s meals each day.
Parents are welcome to have lunch with their child(ren) under certain conditions:

Lunch requests must be placed before 9:00 a.m., either by sending a note to your child’s teacher or by
calling the cafeteria manager at (434) 757-7465. Only a limited number of meals are prepared unless
advance notice is given.

The students’ and school’s regular lunch schedules must be strictly adhered to.

All food and drinks must be consumed in the cafeteria, unless an administrator grants the student
special permission. Those students who bring lunch to school are not allowed to microwave their
lunch, nor may they store refrigerated items.
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For the convenience of our parents, students, and staff, school breakfast and lunch menus will be sent home
monthly by the student and also may be found on the school’s website at lce.mcpsweb.org.
LUNCH SCHEDULE
11:00 – 11:30 Hines
11:05 – 11:35 Robertson
11:10 – 11:40 Lewis
11:15 – 11:45 Moody
11:20 – 11:50 Bugg
11:25 – 11:55 Smith
11:30 – 12:00 Howerton
11:35 – 12:05 Caldwell
11:40 – 12:10 Greene
11:45 – 12:15 Pratali
11:50 – 12:20 Hahn
11:55 – 12:25 Townsend
12:00 – 12:30 Lawson
12:05 – 12:35 Crossman
12:10 – 12:40 Dejarnette
12:15 – 12:45 Watson
12:20 – 12:50 Lambert
12:25 – 12:55 Ashworth
12:30 – 1:00
Willis
12:30 – 1:00
Headstart
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CHARACTER EDUCATION
In accordance with state guidelines, our curriculum includes a Character Education Program. This program
focuses on important character traits such as honesty, respect, responsibility, fairness, forgiveness, cooperation,
obedience, and trustworthiness. Each month will feature a new character word. We will provide you with the
Character Education Word of the Month on each of our monthly calendars of events. Please follow through with
these character traits in your child’s home environment. Studies indicate that strong personal character is
essential to great achievement. We must work together as a school, home, and community to ensure that our
children reach their maximum potential both academically and personally. Every month each homeroom teacher
will select the student in his/her class whose behavior has best exhibited the character word designated for that
month. These students will be recognized for their accomplishment.
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION
The Virginia Board of Education provides standards of learning and curriculum guidelines for a comprehensive,
sequential family life education curriculum from kindergarten through grade 12. The guidelines include
instruction as appropriate for the age of the student in family living and community relationships; abstinence
education; the value of postponing sexual activity; the benefits of adoption as a positive choice in the event of an
unwanted pregnancy; human sexuality; human reproduction; forms of contraception; dating violence; the
characteristics of abusive relationships; steps to take to avoid sexual assault, and the availability of counseling and
legal resources, and, in the event of such sexual assault, the importance of immediate medical attention and
advice, as well as the requirements of the law; the etiology, prevention and effects of sexually transmitted
diseases; and mental health education and awareness. All such instruction shall be designed to promote parental
involvement, foster positive self concepts and provide mechanisms for coping with peer pressure and the stresses
of modern living according to the students’ developmental stages and abilities. Parents and guardians have the
right to review the family life education program offered by the school division, including written and audiovisual education materials used in the program. Parents and guardians also have the right to excuse their child
from all of part of family life education instruction. A copy of Virginia’s Family Life Education Standards of
Learning and be found at: www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/studentsrvcs/familylife.shtml.
See Parent Notification Section
COMMUNICATION/CONFERENCES
Good communication between parents and school personnel is important for development of a meaningful
educational program for children. A valuable way to gain knowledge of your child’s development is through
parent/teacher conferences. Teachers will be happy to share information about your child’s progress either
through written communication or scheduled conferences. All conferences should be held during the teacher’s
planning time or after school. You may contact your child’s teacher whenever you feel it is necessary to
determine and schedule the most suitable time for a conference.
Regular parent/teacher conferences are scheduled to be held at the end of the first and third grading periods, this
year. Those conference dates are October 30, 2012, and March 21, 2013, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. on
both dates.
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EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Accurate information concerning each child is a must. The emergency card information must be completed by
parents and returned to the child’s homeroom teacher on the first day of school. Please make sure you provide
complete (detailed) information regarding phone numbers where you, or a responsible adult, may be reached in an
emergency situation. Each child’s emergency card is kept in the office and is used by our school’s staff for the
purpose of contacting a parent or responsible adult in an emergency.
Mecklenburg County Public Schools implement the rapid notification service, AlertNow, which is available to
our students and their families at no charge. The system uses the phone numbers parents provided on the School
Emergency Card when students are registered. It is therefore very important that parents provide only the contact
numbers they want called in the event of a school delay, closing, or emergency and to receive other school related
messages. It is also imperative that the school is informed when parents change a contact number or address for
any reason (see copy of Saf-T-Net AlertNow Service notice – Appendix C).
Parents are also required to list the names and phone numbers of all persons who have permission to sign out and
pick up their child from school.
No one other than a parent or legal guardian will be allowed to pick up or sign a child out from school unless:

He or she is listed as a responsible adult on the child’s emergency card
OR

The school principal has received and approved a written request from the child’s parent or
guardian. The request must be signed by the parent/guardian and must specifically name the
person(s) who is/are to be allowed to pick up the child.
(Occasionally, in the event of an extreme emergency, verbal permission may be given to the school’s office
staff.)
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES – SCHOOL CRISIS PLAN
La Crosse Elementary has an emergency response crisis management plan that establishes protocols and
procedures in the event of a school emergency. In accordance with the crisis management plan, assessments and
drills will be performed throughout the school year. Teachers will direct the students in the proper
drill/evacuation procedures. Visitors who are present on school grounds during a drill/evacuation should remain
with the teacher being visited. It is extremely important that students and visitors follow the teachers’ directions
very carefully.
A copy of the evacuation plan will be posted in each classroom and drills will be held on a monthly basis.
- 14 -
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES – SCHOOL CRISIS PLAN
continued
Notice of School Crisis Safety Procedures / Drill
It is the intent of Mecklenburg County Public Schools to provide a safe and secure environment for learning and,
if needed, to restore the learning environment as quickly and safely as possible following traumatic incidents.
The division is in the process of continually updating the emergency response crisis management (ERCM) and
school safety plans for all schools. These plans include protocols and procedures concerning the following phases
of ERCM: prevention/mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery for multiple types of incidents that
may occur at, or may impact schools.
In order to assure that proper procedures are being followed, schools will be required to perform functional tests
(drills) and assessments of each phase. Assessments and drills will be performed with students present and when
they are not present. Some assessments and drills will be announced and some will be unannounced.
In order to assure everyone’s safety in the event of a drill or incident, it is important for students, parents, faculty
and staff, visitors, and first responder organizations (law enforcement, fire and rescue squads) to follow
established protocols and procedures.
Be aware that:
 Students are not permitted to use cell phones or other personal communication devices at school and
especially not during a drill or actual emergency.

Only authorized law enforcement, fire department, rescue squad and other officially designated persons
should respond to any school during an incident.

Parents/guardians are encouraged not to call the school during a crisis event, and should not come to
school to remove their children during a crisis or threatened event, unless informed to do so by school
administration.

In the event of an actual emergency, the school administrator or central office administration will notify
parents and the public of the following: the situation, what is being done to protect students, if and when
the school will close, and when and how students will be reunited with their families.

It is suggested that parents/guardians become familiar with their child(ren)’s individual school ERCM
protocols and follow them.
Sex Offenders on School Property
Every adult convicted on a sexually violent offense is prohibited from entering or being present on school
property during school hours and during school related and school-sponsored activities. Sex Offender and
Crimes against Minors Registry can be found on the internet. (Va.Code 22.1-79.3.C) See parent notification
section.
- 15 -
Mandated Reporters
See parent notification section on policy
FIELD TRIPS
All school field trips will be planned with the permission of the principal and must be educational in nature.
Field trips are an integral part of education. We encourage all parents to make plans for their child to take field
trips whenever they are available. Permission slips will be sent home in advance of the trip date. PARENTS
must sign and return the permission slip by the deadline indicated on the slip.
The PTO occasionally absorbs a portion of trip costs, so the parents’ cost may vary. The PTO has budgeted $
500.00 per grade level for any chartered bus/field trip expenses. All money due from parents must be paid by the
deadline established by the teacher, to allow enough time to finalize arrangements.
Although we welcome parents to participate in their child’s education, space is limited on field trips. Therefore,
a limited number of parents from each class will be allowed to participate in class field trips. Parent
chaperones will be chosen by the teacher, either by random drawing or some other acceptable method of
selection. We are not able to accommodate siblings or other guests on a class field trip. Refunds for field
trips are not guaranteed; however, they will be considered on an individual basis and circumstance.
For further information, please refer to Field Trip Guidelines, APPENDIX D.
GIFT EXCHANGE
The Mecklenburg County School Board discourages the exchanging of gifts between students and teachers
because of the competition that often develops.
GRADES
See Parent Notification Section for Promotion/Retention Policy
Students’ progress is measured through a variety of assessments including, but not limited to:
Categories and Weights
1. Test, Projects, Presentation of Learning, Research Projects, Major Assessments 35%
2. Classwork, Daily Assignments, Quizzes
55%
3. Homework
10%
No assignment will be used more than once.
Total Number of Grades Per Nine Weeks
Grades 1-2
Total
12
Test
3
Classwork
8
Homework
1
Grades 3-5
Total
15
Test
4
Classwork
10
Homework
1
Graded papers are sent home weekly for parents to review, sign and return.
- 16 -
Each student will receive a report card EVERY NINE WEEKS indicating his/her academic progress as well as
conduct. In addition to report cards every nine weeks, parents will also receive mid-nine weeks' reports (Interim
Reports) approximately four and one-half weeks from the beginning of each nine week period. Report cards will
be sent home on October 30, 2012 / January 15, 2013 / March 21, 2013 and May 21, 2013. Interim reports will be
sent home on September 25, 2012 / November 29, 2012 / February 12, 2013 and April 18, 2013.
We request that graded student papers, progress reports, or report cards be signed by the parent and returned to
the teacher promptly to assure teachers that you are aware of your child’s progress.
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
OFFICIAL GRADING SCALE
A
B
C
D
F
93 – 100
85 – 92
77 – 84
69 – 76
0 - 68
S
N
U
Satisfactory
Needs Improvement
Unsatisfactory
See Parent Notification Section
HEALTH and MEDICATION
School Board policy states that prescription medication may be given to children only when the medication
is provided to the school in the original prescription container. Medication that does not require a
prescription must also be provided to the school in its original container. Medications sent by any other
method will not be accepted. Please do not send more than a thirty (30) day supply of medications to
school.
School personnel may give prescription medication to students IF a completed Mecklenburg County public
Schools’ Medication Consent form, signed by the student’s parent or legal guardian and the prescribing healthcare
professional, is on file for the current school year. Such medication must be delivered to school in the original
container by the parent/legal guardian or their adult designee. The prescription label must match instructions
from the prescribing healthcare professional.
School personnel may give non-prescription medication IF a completed Mecklenburg County Public Schools’
Medication Consent form, signed by the parent or legal guardian, is on file for the current school year. Healthcare
professional’s signature is only required for non-prescription medication when the requested dosage or length of
administration exceeds over the counter recommendations on the medication label. Such medication must be
transported to school in an unopened original container by the parent/legal guardian, or their adult designee.
Students are allowed to carry and self administer inhaled asthma medications and/or auto-injectable
epinephrine IF an Asthma Action Plan and Medication Authorization form OR Allergic Reaction Action Plan
and Medication Authorization form has been completed signed by the treating physician or nurse practitioner for
the current school year. The appropriate form must also be signed by the parent/guardian and the student.
Medication administration forms are available in the school office or nurse’s office.
- 17 -
Aspirin and other medications are not to be given to children by teachers. THIS IS FORBIDDEN BY STATE
LAW. If it is determined that a student is ill or has sustained an injury that requires more than assistance given
in the classroom, that student will be brought to the office immediately for further evaluation by the school nurse.
If parent contact is necessary, every effort will be made to notify the parent or responsible party listed on the
student’s emergency card.
It is imperative that the information on the student’s emergency card be kept current. In most cases, your
child will need to be picked up by a parent or designee so that a decision can be made on the treatment needed.
Adequate facilities and staffing are not available to allow us to isolate sick or injured children for an extended
amount of time; therefore, your prompt response is essential.
NORMALLY, IF A CHILD IS TOO SICK TO BE IN CLASS, HE/SHE IS TOO SICK TO BE IN
SCHOOL.
If a student is ill and requires extended time out of school, parents must call the school to request homebound
instruction. A licensed physician must indicate in writing that the child cannot attend school, in order for a child
to qualify for this service.
For further information on policies regarding Medication at School, please see Appendix E.
For further information on policies regarding Accident/Injuries/Illnesses, Emergency Care, and Head Lice,
please see Appendix F.
HOMEWORK
The basic objective of homework is the reinforcement and application of previously learned concepts, principles
and skills. Homework assignments, therefore, should be instructed to reinforce and apply that which has been
introduced and explained in the classroom.
Homework should be assigned daily in at least 2 of the 4 core areas. In grades K - 2, homework assignments will
be a minimum of thirty (30) minutes per night and a minimum of 1 hour per night in grades 3-5.
NOTE: Major tests, nine weeks’ tests, examinations, projects, term papers, book reports, and required reading
may add to homework time.
Please see Mecklenburg County Public Schools policy on homework – Appendix G.
- 18 -
HONOR ROLL
Each nine weeks, an honor roll list of students in grades 3-5 will be published. To be eligible for honor roll, the
student must not earn any grade below a “B” on his or her report card for that particular grading period. This
includes grades in all core subjects.
Additionally, a list of all students in grades 1-2, who achieve “Soaring Eagle” honors will also be published. To
be eligible for “Soaring Eagle” status, the student must not earn any grade below a “B” on his or her report card
for that particular grading period. This includes grades in all core subjects
To honor and recognize outstanding academic achievement, “Soaring Eagle” and honor roll students will be
photographed. These photos will be sent to the local newspaper along with the list of names.
INSURANCE
The Mecklenburg County School Board does not carry insurance on individual students. Parents are responsible
for all medical expenses arising from accidents at school.
The homeroom teacher will distribute information regarding student accident insurance on Registration Day,
August 23, 2012, or the child’s first day of school. Participation in this insurance plan is purely voluntary;
however, student accident insurance is strongly recommended for those who do not have other insurance
coverage.
LIBRARY and ACCELERATED READER
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a computerized reading program that has been proven to be a very effective tool in
improving reading in the classroom and increasing library circulation. The AR program provides students the
opportunity to practice reading at their level, establish goals for their reading, and aid in the development of a love
for reading and learning.
As a motivator, students receive points for their participation in the program. After a certain number of points
have been accumulated, students are able to redeem the points for a reward.
One additional benefit to this program is that a reading level is determined according to the progress a student
makes while demonstrating mastery of various comprehension levels. Please encourage your child to read every
day.
LOST and FOUND
Many items are accidentally left in the building or on the playground. All unclaimed articles are sent to the
school office. These things will be placed along the front wall of the stage in the cafeteria. They may be claimed
upon proper identification. All unclaimed items will be discarded periodically; therefore, if your child is missing
any of his/her personal items, please ask him/her to check the lost and found collection as soon as possible after
the item is lost.
To assist in identification, please properly label any of your child’s possessions that could possibly be misplaced
at school. Such items may include lunch boxes, coats, caps, sweaters, backpacks, and gloves.
- 19 -
PARTIES
In the interest of maintaining optimal instructional time as well as a clean learning environment, classroom parties
are limited to parties in observance of Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. ALL PARTIES WILL
BEGIN AT 2:00 P.M.
Accommodations for those parents who wish to provide treats in celebration of their child’s birthday will be
provided in the cafeteria during the lunch break. Items must be store bought and not baked/cooked from
home.
SALES
School-sponsored door-to-door sales are prohibited. Also, students are not permitted to sell anything at school
without prior approval from the principal.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS and DELAYS
At times, Mecklenburg County Public Schools must either delay opening or close suddenly due to adverse
weather conditions (fog, flooding, ice/snow, etc.), loss of electrical power, loss of water, and other similar
circumstances. School closings and delays will be announced on several local radio and television stations.
School closing and school delay announcements are aired by 6:30 a.m., if possible. These announcements will
also be posted on our county website at www.mcpsweb.org.
Mecklenburg County Public Schools is pleased to provide the rapid notification service, AlertNow, to our
students and their families. AlertNow allows division administrators and school principals the opportunity to use
digital messaging technology to quickly provide telephone, cell phone, and pager notification messages to parents
and faculty in the event of school closings, delays, and emergencies (see Saf-T-Net AlertNow Service notice –
Appendix C and Appendix B for station notification).
The safety of the children is our primary concern. Each child should know, in advance, where to go if an
emergency arises and school is dismissed early. Parents are asked to develop a school delay/emergency
dismissal plan and discuss the plan with their child so that he/she will know what to do.
Each parent will be given a Student Transportation Form in the registration packet that is distributed on
Registration Day, Thursday, September 2, 2010 (or the child’s first day of school). It is extremely important
that this form is completely filled out, providing us with as much detailed, accurate information as possible!
Any special needs should be indicated on the form and should also be discussed with the child’s teacher.
- 20 -
SCHOOL PICTURES
Individual student portraits are taken each fall and developed by a professional photographer. Purchase of these
portraits is optional. The fall portrait date is scheduled for Wednesday, September 12, 2012.
Both individual and group portraits are taken each spring and are also developed by a professional photographer.
Again, the purchase of these portraits is optional. The date for spring portraits will be determined and parents will
be notified ahead of time.
SCHOOL-WIDE DISCIPLINE PROGRAM
A school-wide discipline program is critical in establishing and maintaining an orderly, respectful, and safe school
environment. This year will will “Strive for Five” Every student begins each day on “Great Day.” Violations of
established guidelines result in a progression of consequences, including “Warning, Silent Lunch, Call or Note
Home, Principal or Guidance Counselor.”
- 21 -
SECURITY
Parent and community involvement in the education of our children is very important. We encourage parents and
members of the community to visit and volunteer at our school; however, in accordance with the Safety Protocol
Guidelines for our school district, ALL VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERS must enter the building through the
MAIN ENTRANCE at the front of the building, and report DIRECTLY TO THE OFFICE to sign in and
obtain a “Visitor’s Pass.”
Under no circumstance will a visitor be allowed to disturb a teacher or classroom, during class time. Parent
conferences will not be held during class time. Parents/guardians, who need a conference with their child’s
teacher, should send a written request to the teacher. The teacher is responsible for contacting the parent to
schedule a conference time.
School officials are responsible for maintaining a peaceful learning environment for all students as well as
ensuring and protecting the safety of everyone on school property (students, faculty, staff, visitors, and
volunteers). In order to accomplish this task, school officials must, at all times, have knowledge of:
 the identity of each individual present on school property
 the location of each individual present on school property
 the purpose of each individual’s presence on school property
Therefore, anyone who wishes to visit or volunteer during the instructional day must first obtain the principal’s
prior approval. Likewise, any teacher who requires a volunteer’s assistance must also notify the principal and
obtain prior approval.
The principal, or his/her designee, may establish a schedule of designated days on which volunteers will be
allowed to work. Your cooperation and assistance in this process, by simply adhering to school policies and
procedures, will be greatly appreciated!
STUDENT AWARDS
La Crosse Elementary students are given numerous opportunities to receive special recognition and rewards.
Each year, the faculty will select students who, during the school year, distinguish themselves in academics,
attendance, and good citizenship. These students are recognized at various times throughout the school year and
during our annual Awards Assemblies, which are normally held during the last month of school
- 22 -
STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
Parents and students should read and familiarize themselves with Mecklenburg County School Board policies on
Attendance, Bus Conduct, Dress Code, and Discipline. These policies can be found in the Mecklenburg County
Public Schools 2012 – 2013 Attendance, Conduct, and Dress Code booklet (orange).
The following student behavioral expectations have been developed and will be enforced for our students at
LaCrosse Elementary School:
1. We take responsibility for learning.
This means:
A. We arrive at school on time.
B. We are prepared for class.
C. We demonstrate a serious and responsible attitude in daily work.
D. Homework is carefully and thoughtfully completed and on time.
2. We settle our differences in a peaceful manner.
This means:
A. We respect other people’s property and personal space.
B. We do not physically or verbally fight with other children.
C. We do not take anything that does not belong to us.
3. We follow directions of all adults in charge the first time given.
This means:
A. We look at the speaker.
B. We do not disrespect/talk back to teachers or adults in charge.
C. We cooperate with the adult in charge and immediately follow his/her directions.
D. This applies to all adults in charge, including (but not limited to) the principal, secretary,
guidance counselor, teachers, teacher aides, substitutes, custodians, bus drivers, and cafeteria
staff.
4. We are sensitive to the needs and feelings of others.
This means:
A. We use appropriate language at all times.
B. We do not bully or tease other children.
C. We never boo or whistle during programs or assemblies.
D. We are willing to help each other.
E. We are friendly and courteous.
5. We are expected to move safely through the school and on the school grounds at all times.
This means:
A. No playing around in the classrooms, bathrooms, hallways, cafeteria, or in bus lines.
B. No running in the lunchroom, hallways, or up and down stairs.
C. No running to or from the buses
- 23 -
STUDENT EXPECTATIONS (continued)
1. Students will be held responsible for keeping their work areas neat and clean. Students are not to leave
their work area until desks or tables are neat, chairs are placed appropriately, and the floor is clear of debris.
2. CHEWING GUM is not permitted.
3. SMOKING IS PROHIBITED ON SCHOOL PROPERTY.
4. STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED IN THE TEACHER’S LOUNGE AT ANY TIME AND ARE
NOT PERMITTED TO BUY ITEMS FROM THE STAFF VENDING MACHINES.
STUDENT CONSEQUENCES
Disciplinary consequences for failure to abide by rules as outlined under Student Expectations will be addressed
in accordance with the Mecklenburg County Public Schools 2012-2013 Attendance, Conduct and Dress Code
booklet (orange).
OUR SCHOOL POLICY MANDATES A “ZERO TOLERANCE” FOR THE FOLLOWING
OFFENSES. ANY VIOLATION WILL RESULT IN AN AUTOMATIC (DIRECT) REFERRAL TO THE
SCHOOL PRINCIPAL:
NOTE:
Spitting
Fighting
Profanity
Stealing
Sexual Harassment (Bad Touching)
Disrespect/Talking Back to Adults in Charge
For further information on policies regarding Search and Seizure, Personal Searches, Consent Searches, and
Seizure of Illegal Materials, please see Appendix H.
- 24 -
Mecklenburg County Public Schools Dress Code
The Mecklenburg County Public Schools Dress Code will apply for all students in all grades Pre-K to 12th grade
while at school. Discretion will be used when applying the Dress Code to Pre-K to 2nd grade students.
Dress is expected to be appropriate and safe for all school activities. Dress that is distracting or disruptive is
considered inappropriate and improper at school.
1. All students are required to wear shirts and/or coats that fit them so that the garment hem does not extend
below the students’ fingertips when their arms are hung at their sides.
2. Students shall not wear clothing so that is shows excess cleavage as determined by the school
administrator or their designee.
3. Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be worn with the hem being no shorter than the finger tips while standing
with the arms hung at sides. The shorts must also be loose enough to be pulled away from the thigh
freely.
4. Leggings may be worn when worn with shorts, skirts, and dresses with the hem below the fingertips while
standing with the arms hung at sides.
5. All pants (jeans, shorts, slacks, and skirts) must be worn above the hips and not reveal any portions of
undergarments or the absences of undergarments. Over-size and baggy pants are unacceptable.
6. Safe, sturdy, and acceptable shoes must be worn at all times.
7. The following clothing will not be worn by students:
a. Undershirts worn as blouses or shirts
b. Curlers, picks, combs (except for barrette style), or rakes in the hair
c. Hoods, hats, caps, gloves, sweatbands, bandanas, scarves, wave caps, or sunglasses
d. Unfastened belts
e. Heavy chains
f. See-through apparel or tank tops
g. Clothing, jewelry, other apparel or personal belongings depicting or representing the
following:
 Inappropriate slogans or gestures
 Nudity or semi-nudity
 References to violence, profanity, or vulgarity
 Alcohol, illegal drugs, or tobacco products
 References to gangs, race, gender, creed, or sexual orientation derogatory statements.
8.
All clothing should be clean.
Appropriate
 Shorts, skirts, and dresses with the hem at or below the fingertips while standing with the arms hung at
sides.
 Leggings when worn with shorts, skirts, and dresses with the hem below the fingertips while standing
with the arms hung at sides.
 Pants at the hips with no undergarments or lack of undergarments exposed.
 Safe, sturdy, and acceptable shoes.
- 25 -
TELEPHONE USAGE
The school telephones are intended for use by staff members in conducting school business. Students’ use of the
phone is strictly limited to emergency use only. AN ITEM OR ASSIGNMENT FORGOTTEN AT HOME
IS NOT CONSIDERED TO BE AN EMERGENCY. Normally, we do not call students or teachers from class
to receive phone calls.
In the case of an actual emergency, school personnel must accompany a student to the office to receive permission
to use the phone.
BEEPERS, CELLULAR TELEPHONES, PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS (PDA’s) RADIOS, IPODS,
OR SIMILAR ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students shall not have turned on, in use, or visible a beeper, cellular telephone, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA),
or other communication device, radios, IPod, or other similar electronic device, or headphones or wear such
devices at school or on school busses; unless approved for legitimate school use by the administrator.
In addition, confiscated beepers, cellular telephones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA’s), or other communication
devices, radios, IPods, or other similar electronic devices will be subject to search by school administration when
reasonable suspicion exists that additional student code of conduct violations or criminal acts may have taken
place and the confiscated devices(s) may contain evidence of such acts or violations.
TESTING
Please mark these important dates on your calendar. More specific dates and times for SOL testing will be
forthcoming as information is received from Central Office.
IMPORTANT DATES TO NOTE:
Dates for 5th grade Writing SOL:
March 11, 2013
Multiple Choice
March 12, 2013
Direct Writing Prompt
Spring SOL testing window:
April 29 – May 17, 2013
3rd, and 5th Grade Reading, Math, Social Studies and Science
4th Grade Reading, Math, and VA. Studies
Please make every effort to have your child at school on time every day prior to and during testing and allow
him/her to remain at school for the entire day. It is extremely important that appointments, vacations/trips, etc.,
be scheduled at times that do not interfere with the school day, as there will be ongoing daily instruction and
review to prepare the students for testing.
BENCHMARK TESTING
Grades 3, 4, and 5 will be tested with Interactive Achievement 3 times throughout the school year. The dates are
as follows:
Benchmark # 1 Week of November 26th
Benchmark # 2 Week of February 4th
Benchmark # 3 Week of March 11th with 5th grade starting Week of March 18th
- 26 -
TITLE I SCHOOL
La Crosse Elementary School is a school-wide Title I school and receives federal Title I funding. Title I is
intended to help ensure that all children have the opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach
proficiency on challenging state academic standards and assessments. Title I targets resources to schools where
the needs are greatest. These services are delivered by classroom teachers, instructional assistants, and teacher
specialists. Please see letter regarding your right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers
instructing your child and the Parental Involvement Policy found under Parent/Student Notifications in this
handbook.
- 27 -
TRANSPORTATION
See Parent Notification Section on Bus Safety
Rules for Students Who Are Transported By Mecklenburg County Public School
Buses
Bus transportation is a privilege, not a right.
Parent, Guardian, and Caretaker Responsibilities for the Safe Bus/Car transport of Students To/From School.
Parents, Guardians, and Caretakers of students attending Mecklenburg County Public Schools and utilizing school
transportation (school buses or cars) must:
1. Discuss transportation safety rules with their students on a regular basis.
2. Assure their students are appropriately supervised the entire time the student is at the bust stop for
transport to school and be present or have arranged for other appropriate supervision of their child for
arrival back to the bus stop at the end of the school day.
3. Have turned in written permission (no phone calls) for their student to ride a bus different from their
assigned bus prior to 2:00 p.m. on the day the student is to ride an alternate bus.
4. Communicate bus concerns to building administration.
5. Refrain from entering Mecklenburg County Public Schools (MCPS) Transportation.
The following rules are established in the interest of the welfare and safety of all students who are transported by
the bus:
 Students must be at and remain at designated bus stops, on the shoulder of the road, out of the line of
traffic, until the bus arrives. Playing in traffic lanes can be fatal.
 Students are to avoid crowding, pushing and otherwise disturbing others when entering or leaving the bus.
 The driver is in charge of the bus and students who ride the bus. Students must accept this authority of
the driver and cooperate with his or her requests.
 Students shall not carelessly or maliciously damage seats, glasses, or other bus equipment. Students who
are responsible for damages and their parents must make arrangements for payment of damages.
 Each student who rides a bus has a personal responsibility to help keep the bus clean, sanitary and
orderly.
 Boisterousness (loud) and vulgarity on the part of students will not be tolerated.
 Al students must remain seated at all times when the bus is in motion. Students to be discharged must
remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. This is for the safety of students and must be
strictly observed.
 Students who must cross the highway when getting on or off the bus must cross 8 to 10 feet in front of the
bus in velar view of the driver.
 Students must not talk to the driver while the bus is in motion because this will distract his attention from
his duties.
 Students are not allowed to bring bottles, cans, toys, sharp instruments, candy, potato chips, flowers or
other unnecessary objects on the bus at any time. Students may not chew gum, eat, or drink on the bus.
 Students shall not initiate fights on the bus.
 Students are not to stand at any time.
 Students must never use the emergency door of the bus unless told by the driver to do so or in case of an
emergency when the front door cannot be used and the driver is unresponsive.
- 28 -
DROPPING OFF and PICKING UP STUDENTS
The following safety procedures will be strictly enforced during student drop-off and pick-up:

PARENTS MUST USE THE PARKING LOT LOCATED AT THE LOWER END OF THE CAFETERIA, WHICH
HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AS VISITOR PARKING, FOR STUDENT DROP-OFF.(Moring only) (Please do not
park in this area in the afternoon because this is the bus loading zone) (PLEASE SEE MORNING DROP
OFF PROCEDURES, APPENDIX I) There will be staff members on duty to monitor safety and direct
students into the lower cafeteria entrance. In order to ensure maximum safety for everyone, parents and
students are expected to honor the instructions of school staff.

DO NOT WALK BETWEEN THE BUSES WHILE THEY ARE LINED UP IN FRONT OF THE BUILDING.

DO NOT park in parking lot parallel to building and bus unloading zone and walk or have your child
walk through buses unloading

ANY PARENT WHO PICKS UP HIS/HER CHILD AT THE REGULAR DISMISSAL TIME MUST REMAIN IN
THEIR VEHICLE IN A LINE AS SHOWN IN APPENDIX J. We will have employees on duty to call for your
child in the main lobby.

ANY PARENT WHO PICKS UP HIS/HER CHILD BEFORE 3:20 P.M. MUST SIGN THE CHILD OUT IN THE
OFFICE.

PARENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO WAIT FOR THEIR CHILDREN IN THE FRONT LOBBY. This creates too
much congestion and a potential safety hazard as the various classes pass through the lobby to load the
buses.

PARENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO WAIT FOR THEIR CHILDREN UNDER THE AWNING AT THE MAIN
ENTRANCE. This also creates too much congestion and could become a potential safety hazard as well as
a liability issue for the school division.
- 29 -
APPENDIX A
CHARACTER EDUCATION
2012-2013
In order for students to displays good character and be a good citizens
at La Crosse Elementary, they need to be familiar with the follow
character traits and exhibit qualities from them.
Diversity
Integrity
Citizenship
Responsibility
Honesty
Fairness
Caring
Courage
Respect
Trustworthiness
- 30 -
APPENDIX B
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC
SCHOOLS DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
Listed below are the television and radio stations used for school closing or school
delay announcements. These announcements are aired by 6:30 A.M. if possible.





Radio Station
Radio Station
Radio Station
Radio Station
Radio Station
WSHV
WJWS
WLUS
WJLC
WWDW
South Hill, Virginia
South Hill, Virginia
Oxford, North Carolina
South Boston, Virginia
South Hill, Virginia
101.9 FM
1370 AM
98.3 FM
95.3 FM
107.7FM





TV Station
TV Station
TV Station
TV Station
TV Station
WRAL
WRIC
WSET
WTVD
WWBT
Raleigh, North Carolina
Richmond, Virginia
Lynchburg, Virginia
Durham, North Carolina
Richmond, Virginia
Channel 5
Channel 8
Channel 13
Channel 11
Channel 12
Occasionally, Mecklenburg County Public Schools must either delay opening or be
closed suddenly due to adverse weather conditions (fog, flooding, ice/snow, etc.), loss
of electrical power, loss of water, and other similar circumstances. In these events,
officials from the Mecklenburg County Public School Board Office will provide
information to several of our local radio stations, as well as our county website,
www.mcpsweb.org. The above stations will be making announcements.
Please do not contact for closing information. We may not always be available and
there are limited lines.
- 31 -
APPENDIX C
Saf-T-Net AlertNow Service Notice
Mecklenburg County Public Schools is pleased to provide the rapid notification service, AlertNow, to
our students and their families for the 2010-2011 school year at no charge.
AlertNow allows division administrators and school principals the opportunity to use digital messaging
technology to quickly provide telephone, cell phone, and pager notification messages to parents and
faculty in the event of school closings, delays, and emergencies. The AlertNow system will also be used
to send school-related messages about meetings, practices, public services, and other important, but less
serious matters to individuals or select groups.
The system uses the phone numbers parents provide on the School Emergency Card when students are
registered. It is therefore very important that parents provide only the contact numbers they want called
in the event of a school delay, closing, or emergency and to receive other school-related messages. It is
also very imperative that the school is informed when parents change a contact number or address for
any reason. Otherwise you may not receive important school messages.
Please do not supply numbers for your workplace, friends or relatives unless you have discussed the
AlertNow system with them and you have received their permission in advance to have the school
contact them for matters related to your student and for messages about closing, delays, activities, etc.
The school system does not want to bother people unnecessarily. Employers, relatives, and friends who
do not have children in school are often upset when they are contacted by the school without having
been forewarned and without knowing why they are being called.
Most school divisions have a similar system in place because parents find it very helpful to know what is
going on as quickly as possible. If you have any questions about this service, or experience problems
with the AlertNow this year, please feel free to contact David Skipper at the office of Student Support
Services, your building principal, or check out AlertNow on the web at www.alertnow.com.
We thank you for your continued support and cooperation in our efforts to increase parent awareness.
- 32 -
APPENDIX D
La CROSSE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
FIELD TRIP GUIDELINES
The purpose of a field trip is “to extend the learning opportunities provided in the regular instructional
program.” Class field trips are a valuable and important part of the learning experience at LaCrosse
Elementary School. Independence, social development and learning are just some of the benefits of
field trip events.
While we encourage parent participation in all activities at our school, the use of chartered buses for
several of our field trips limits the number of parent chaperones on field trips. We recognize that
parents may want to follow the bus in a car and become part of the child’s field trip experience. In order
to make the field trip as pleasant, enjoyable, rewarding and safe as possible for everyone, we offer the
following guidelines to those who are not chaperones to assist in our efforts:
*The first and foremost consideration in any activity is the safety of our children.
*On field trips, the teachers arrange the groups of children who are to be together.
*Teachers and chaperones are responsible for all children.
*Chaperone(s) will be assigned to each group.
*Students must be supervised at all times while at school-sponsored events.
*No student may leave the group without permission from the teacher or chaperone.
*Students must ride the bus with the class unless a written note from the
parent/guardian has been sent to the child’s teacher and approved by the
principal in advance of the field trip.
*Parents should stay with their child’s group and avoid providing “extra”
treats or allowing extra privileges. Please take into account that such
“extras” can be a source of disappointment and hurt feelings for the
children who are not included.
*All school rules apply on school-sponsored events.
Your support and assistance for our field trip programs is most appreciated. If you should have any
questions or concerns, please contact the principal, at 434-757-7374.
- 33 -
APPENDIX E
File: JHCD
ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS
Prescription Medications
Mecklenburg County Public School personnel may give prescription medication
to students only pursuant to the written order of a physician or nurse practitioner and
with written permission from the student’s parent or guardian. Such medicine must be in
the original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse or school division
designee by the parent/guardian of the student.
Nonprescription Medications
Mecklenburg County Public School personnel may give nonprescription
medication to students only with the written permission of the parent or guardian. Such
permission shall include the name of the medication, the required dosage of the
medication, and the time the medicine is to be given. Such medicine must be in the
original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse or school division designee
by the parent/guardian of the student.
Self-Administration of Medication
Self-administration of any medication with the exception of asthma medication
and auto-injectable epinephrine, as discussed below, is prohibited for students in grades
kindergarten through eight.
Students in grades nine through twelve may be allowed to possess and self-administer
non-prescription medicine if:
- written parental permission for self-administration of specific nonprescription
medication is on file with the school;
- the non-prescription medication is in the original container and appropriately labeled with the
manufacturer’s directions;
- the student’s name is affixed to the container; and
1. the student possesses only the amount of non-prescription medicine needed for one school
day/activity.
Sharing, borrowing, distributing, manufacturing or selling any medication is
prohibited. Permission to self-administer non-prescription medication may be revoked if
the student violates this policy and the student may be subject to disciplinary action in
accordance with the Standards of Student Conduct.
- 34 -
© 5/05 VSBA
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
File: JHCD
(Page 2)
Self-Administration of Asthma Medications and Auto-Injectable Epinephrine
Students with a diagnosis of asthma or anaphylaxis, or both, are permitted to
possess and self-administer inhaled asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or
both, as the case may be, in accordance with this policy during the school day, at school-sponsored
activities, or while on a school bus or other school property. In order for a student to
possess and self-administer asthma medication, or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both,
the following conditions must be met:
2. written parental consent that the student may self-administer inhaled
asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, must be on file
with the school;
3. written notice from the student’s health care provider must be on file with
the school, indicating the identity of the student, stating the diagnosis of
asthma or anaphylaxis, or both, and approving self-administration of
inhaled asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, that
have been prescribed for the student; specifying the name and dosage of
the medication, the frequency in which it is to be administered and the
circumstances which may warrant its use; and attesting to the student’s
demonstrated ability to safely and effectively self-administer the
medication;
-
an individualized health care plan must be prepared, including emergency
procedures for any life-threatening conditions; and
4. information regarding the health condition of the student may be disclosed
to school board employees in accordance with state and federal law
governing the disclosure of information contained in student scholastic
records.
Permission granted to a student to possess and self-administer asthma medications
or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, will be effective for a period of 365 calendar
days, and must be renewed annually. However, a student’s right to possess and self-administer
inhaled asthma medication or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, may be
limited or revoked after appropriate school personnel consult with the student’s parents.
© 5/05 VSBA
- 35 -
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
File: JHCD
(Page 3)
Regulation
The superintendent shall develop a regulation for administration of medicines to
students. The regulation shall include provisions for the handling, storage, monitoring,
documentation and disposal of medication.
Adopted: September 15, 1997
Revised: November 20, 2000
Revised: March 17, 2003
Revised: August 15, 2005
Legal Ref.: Code of Virginia, as amended, §§ 22.1-78, 22.1-274.2, 54.1-2957.02.
Cross Ref.: JFC-R Standards of Student Conduct
JHCE Recommendation of Medication by School Personnel
© 5/05 VSBA
- 36 -
APPENDIX F
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES AND REQUIREMENTS
ACCIDENT / INJURIES / ILLNESSES
Any accident, injury or illness, which occurs on school property, must be immediately reported
to the principal. This is essential for medical and insurance purposes.
Every effort shall be made to immediately contact the parent or guardian. If they cannot be
reached, the student will be transported by the most appropriate means to emergency treatment. Under
no circumstances shall the student be permitted to stay home alone.
The principal shall report serious incidents to the office of the superintendent.
ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES: EMERGENCY CARE
School Personnel:
5. Shall render emergency care only to students who are injured at school. School personnel shall
not treat students who are injured at home or in areas for which school is not responsible.
6. Shall proceed on the assumption of maximum disability in the event the severity of an injury
cannot be determined.
7. Shall see that first-aid kits are handily available when students are conducted on field trips.
8. Shall under no circumstances stipulate or imply to anyone that they or the school are responsible
or liable for an accident. Responsibility or cause and payment of doctor bills are to be decided by
the insurance carrier.
9. Shall notify the parent before a physician is contacted except in cases of extreme emergency.
This must be a matter of judgment. The decision to contact a physician immediately should be
made if it is in the best interest of the student.
10. Shall file a report of the accident to the Superintendent or his/her designee.
- 37 -
HEAD LICE
Students will be free of lice and nits. Lice checks can be scheduled school-wide or by classroom at
intervals during the year, or on demand, at the discretion of the principal. If there is reason to suspect an
infestation on a child, a lice check can be requested by the teacher.
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES AND REQUIREMENTS
LICE PROTOCOL
1. When a child is suspected of having head lice, the child should immediately be sent to the principal with a
note asking that his / her head be checked.
2. Each school should have a person trained in lice identification.
3. The child will have his/her head checked in a private setting. If the child has an active case, he /she will
be isolated from other children. The child will be kept in an office area and will only be allowed to sit on
non-fabric, non-cushioned seats. We will not assume responsibility for washing students’ heads for the
family.
4. The parents of the infested child will be notified to pick up their child. If the parent(s) cannot be reached,
the child should remain in isolation in the office. If there is no phone and the child says a parent is home,
the principal may transport the child home. (Send the appropriate letter home.) The student will be
excluded from school until he/she returns with verification of treatment (e.g. label or box top from
lice shampoo or doctor’s note) and has been rechecked by the principal. This recheck will certify that
there are no lice and no nits. If either is present, the child is to be sent home again. Appropriate treatment
includes any over-the-counter lice shampoo prescribed by a doctor. After ten (10) days children are to
be re-treated by parents as per instructions, and re-treatment verification should be provided.
5. It is appropriate and recommended that the principal send a letter home to the classmates when a student
is infested. A letter to the entire school population should be reserved until a large number of children
have been infested. When children are out of school due to lice, they should be treated as if they were out
with a health-related issue and make-up work could be provided.
6. It is also appropriate and recommended to check the heads of siblings, playmates, and classmates of the
infested child.
7. A child who is not properly treated will be re-infested again 7-10 days after the first treatment. School
personnel should check the infested child’s head as deemed necessary with the final check being 7-10
days after the initial treatment. If the child is infested again, he/she is to be sent home with another letter
saying that the child is re-infested and that the initial treatment was not effective. The child is to be
checked daily before the school day begins and sent home if necessary. The school personnel will review
the proper procedures with the parent and check for problems or omissions.
8. If a child is re-infested a third time within a six- to eight-week period, school personnel will contact
the Department of Social Services for follow-up with the parent.
- 38 -
APPENDIX G
POLICY 6-5.4 HOMEWORK
Generally
The Mecklenburg County School Board supports the assignment of homework to pupils when its use has
the purpose of enriching and extending school experiences. Teachers are responsible for thoroughly explaining
homework assignments before pupils are to be expected to perform the assigned task(s). Teachers are also
responsible for evaluating homework assignments. Within this framework, careful consideration shall be given to
the amount and timing of homework. In addition, quality assignments shall be the primary goal. The division
superintendent or his designee may develop guidelines for the use of homework.
Parental Assistance with Instruction
The School Board encourages parents to provide instructional assistance to their children in the home. The
school division offers a voluntary training program to the parents of children in kindergarten through third grade,
to assist them in developing the skills necessary to provide effective instructional assistance to their children.
Information regarding parent training on instructional assistance shall be available in every Mecklenburg County
elementary school.
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, §§ 22.1-70, 22.1-78, 22.1-253.13:7; Virginia Board
of Education Regulations Establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia, 8 VAC 20-131-10, et
seq.
Adopted: October 17, 2011
- 39 -
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
HOMEWORK
Guidelines for Parental Instructional Assistance
Parents should provide a good learning environment in the home.
-- Ensure adequate study time.
-- Provide an atmosphere free from disruptions.
-- Supply necessary reference materials, such as a dictionary, encyclopedias, atlas and
other materials.
Parents should encourage the student to keep a list of assignments in a notebook.
Parents should not do the homework assignment. The work is intended to benefit the student.
Parents should encourage and support students in accomplishing homework.
Parents of elementary school students may help by:
-- Finding books and other research materials.
-- Reading aloud spelling and vocabulary lists.
-- Checking work for neatness and completeness.
-- Providing books, magazines and other leisure reading materials.
-- Asking the child to explain a chapter from the science or social studies book or
other reading assignments.
-- Reviewing notes for a test.
-- Helping students allocate time for long-term assignments.
-- Encouraging students to meet deadlines.
-- Reading with or to the student.
Parents should show a positive interest in homework and in school. If problems arise, students
should be encouraged to ask questions or parents should call the teacher at school. Parents should
refrain from complaining to the student to avoid creating a negative attitude about the work, teacher and
school.
Parents should be aware of signs that indicate study problems. For example, unclear writing, lips
moving when reading, frustration with tasks, procrastination and weak organizational skills. Help can
be given in these areas.
Parents should help students set appropriate priorities and learn to handle their time requirements
between school, work and extracurricular activities.
- 40 -
APPENDIX H
MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
To maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the health, safety and welfare of students and
school personnel, school authorities may search a student, student lockers or student automobiles under the
circumstances outlined below and may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the
search.
As used in this policy, the term “unauthorized” means any item dangerous to health or safety of students or
school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission or process of the school, or any item described as
unauthorized in school rules available beforehand to the student.
A student’s failure to permit searches and seizures as provided in this policy will be considered grounds for
disciplinary action.
Student desks are the property of the school, and may be used for the storage of permitted student
belongings only. School officials reserve the right to search desks. A general search of desks may be conducted
to repossess school property or to locate illegal materials. School officials in accordance with a pre-determined
search formula may conduct a random, systemic, non-selective search of student classrooms, desks. Students are
responsible for the content of their desks at all times. The student’s individual right to privacy and freedom
from unreasonable search and seizure is balanced by the school’s responsibility to protect the health, safety, and
welfare of all persons within the school community. Should illegal materials be found during a search, law
enforcement officials should be notified.
The locations at which searches of students and student property may be conducted are not limited to the
school building or school property, but may be conducted wherever the student is involved in a school-sponsored
function.
PERSONAL SEARCHES
A student’s person and /or personal effects (e.g. purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched by a school official,
whenever the official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student has violated, or is about to violate the
law or a school rule, and that the search will yield evidence of the violation.
A personal search may include requiring a student to be scanned with a metal detector.
A pat-down search of a student may only be conducted if a school administrator has established a high level of
reasonable suspicion that evidence will be found to corroborate suspicion that a law or school rule has been
broken. If a pat down search of a student’s person is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official
of the same sex and with an adult witness of the same sex present.
CONSENT SEARCHES
If a student gives a school official consent for a search, the school official does not need to demonstrate
reasonable suspicion. A student’s consent is only valid if given willingly and with knowledge of the meaning of
consent. Students should be told of their right to refuse to be searched, and students must not perceive
himself/herself to be at risk of punishment for refusing to grant permission for the search.
SEIZURE OF ILLEGAL MATERIALS
If a properly conducted search yields illegal or contraband materials, such findings shall be turned over to
proper legal authorities for ultimate disposition.
- 41 -
APPENDIX I
LaCrosse Elementary School
Morning Drop-Off Procedures
Canaan Church Road
(from Marengo Road)__________________
Enter /Exit
_____________
Bus Zone Only ______
Parking
Playground
Faculty
Parking
Car Riders
Unload
Cafeteria
(Kitchen)
LaCROSSE
ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL
- 42 -
Buses Unload
Main Building
(Front Entrance)
H
a
l
l
R
o
a
d
APPENDIX J
LaCrosse Elementary School
Afternoon Pick-Up Procedures
Canaan Church Road
(from Marengo Road)__________________
Enter /Exit
Playground
Cafeteria
(Kitchen)
Main Building
(Front Entrance)
LaCROSSE
ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL
- 43 -
Faculty
Parking
and
overflow
for
student
pick up
in
evening
H
a
l
l
R
o
a
d
PARENT/STUDENT
NOTIFICATIONS
- 44 -
La Crosse Elementary School
1000 School Circle
La Crosse, Virginia 23950
August, 2012
Dear Parent/Guardian,
On January 8, 2002, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) was signed into
law. Section 1111(h) (6) (A) states that as a parent of a student in LaCrosse
Elementary School, receiving Title I funds, you have the right to know the
professional qualifications of the classroom teachers instructing your child. Federal
law requires the school division to provide you this information in a timely manner if
you request it. Specifically, you have the right to request the following information
about each of your child’s classroom teachers:

Whether the teacher meets the state qualifications and licensing criteria for the
grades and subjects he/she teaches.

Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or provisional status because
of special circumstances.

The teacher’s college major, whether the teacher has any advanced degrees,
and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.

Whether paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if so, their
qualifications.
If you would like to receive any of this information, please contact Connie Puckett,
Principal, at 434-757-7374.
Sincerely,
Connie Puckett
Connie Puckett
- 45 -
La Crosse Elementary School
Title I
Parental Involvement Policy
La Crosse Elementary School recognizes that the education of each student is a responsibility shared by the
school, the student, and the student’s family. La Crosse Elementary School endorses parental involvement and
encourages the regular participation by all parents in the education of their child(ren). LaCrosse Elementary
School is designated as a school-wide Title I School.













The school will convene an annual parent meeting during the month of September.
The school will establish a quarterly meeting schedule. Meeting agendas and minutes will be available to
parents.
Meetings/Workshops will be scheduled at varying times of the day to meet parent schedules.
The school will establish a Title I Advisory Council and Council meetings will be open to all parents.
The Council will be comprised of administrator(s), Title I staff, teachers and parent representative(s) from
each grade level.
The school will provide curriculum/assessment information to all parents.
The Title I Advisory Council will review data with school staff and provide input relative to the School
Improvement Plan.
The school will provide parents with a copy of the school’s Parental Involvement Plan in the student
handbook.
The Title I Compact/Survey will be sent to parents twice a year to collect data regarding parent
involvement and concerns. Any noted concerns will be forwarded to the school district level and
addressed when establishing goals for the following school year.
The Parental Involvement Policy will be developed by the Title I Advisory Council and reviewed/amended
annually.
The Parental Involvement Policy will be available to parents of English as a Second Language (ESL)
students.
The school’s Parental Involvement Policy supports the Division level policy.
The school will provide timely information about programs, parent/teacher conferences, daily schedules,
school events, supply lists, and contact information via AlertNow, newsletters, school calendar,
school/County website and other varied media outlets.
Parental involvement is the centerpiece of Title I





Parents are full partners in their child’s education and are encouraged to be actively involved in his/her
success.
The school will include parents, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their child(ren).
Parents are encouraged to attend meetings, workshops, and conferences at the school level.
Parents will be responsible for completing and returning the Title I Compact twice a year.
Parents may participate by volunteering at school, serving on various teams and committees, observing
the operation of the Title I Program, assisting with the evaluation of the success of the Title I Plan, and
offering suggestions for improvement.
Curriculum and Assessment
- 46 -
All students at La Crosse Elementary School are taught using the Virginia Standards of Learning in all subject
areas. La Crosse Elementary follows the State-developed curriculum framework and County-wide pacing guides.
To support the Standards of Learning, the school uses County-adopted textbooks. Many opportunities are
provided to help children perform at their maximum level of academic achievement. Examples of those
opportunities include:
Accelerated Reader
Holey Cards
Various computer technology programs
Counseling
ESL
Gifted and Talented Program
4-H
DARE
Nutrition/Wellness Program
Book Fairs
Instructional Consultation Team
Music Education
Physical Education
Art Education
Special Education
Speech and Language services
Power Hour (after-school remediation program)
Summer School
Title I (Small group and collaborative)
Tutoring
PALS
Reading Specialist
Math Specialist
Literacy Groups
Family Literacy Workshops
Response To Intervention (RTI)
All students in grades three through five take the Virginia Standards of Learning assessments. The school uses
additional County-wide and school-wide assessments. Examples of school assessments include:
Assessments
Virginia Standards of Learning
STAR Math
STAR Reading
Early STAR Literacy
End of Grade Testing
PALS
Benchmark Testing
SuccessMaker
Remediation Pre- and Post-Tests
Curriculum Based Assessments
Teacher Made Assessments
Textbook Assessments
Proficiency Levels
400-499 Pass Proficient
500-600 Pass/Advanced
Grade Level Proficiency
Grade Level Proficiency
Grade Level Proficiency
County Policy; 69-100 indicates passing
Benchmark (Fall, Mid-Year, Spring)
County Policy; 69-100 indicates passing
Grade Level Proficiency
County Policy; 69-100 indicates passing
Grade Level Proficiency
County Policy; 69-100 indicates passing
County Policy; 69-100 indicates passing
* Academic performance will be the prime determiner as to whether a student should be promoted or retained.
Other factors such as chronological age and social/emotional growth will be considered.
Pupils in grades K-3 who fail reading will be retained. Students in grades two through five who fail two major
subjects in one school year or who fail the same major subject two years in succession may be retained.
The faculty of LaCrosse Elementary School is committed to providing a quality education for all students
recognizing the essential role of parents and the value of their input.
- 47 -
Mecklenburg County Public Schools
Notice for Directory Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Mecklenburg County
Public Schools, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally
identifiable information from your child's education records. However, Mecklenburg County Public Schools may
disclose appropriately designated "directory information" without written consent, unless you have advised the
District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to
allow the Mecklenburg County Public Schools to include this type of information from your child's education
records in certain school publications.
Examples include:
• A playbill, showing your student's role in a drama production;
• The annual yearbook
• Graduation programs, and
• Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if
released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent's prior written consent. Outside
organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In
addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory
information categories - names, addresses and telephone listings - unless parents have advised the LEA that they
do not want their student's information disclosed without their prior written consent.1
If you do not want Mecklenburg County Public Schools to disclose directory information from your child's
education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing within 15 days of
receiving this notice. Mecklenburg County Public Schools has designated the following information as directory
information:













Student's name
Participation in officially organized activities and sports
Address
Telephone listing
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Electronic mail address
Photograph
Degrees, honors, and awards received
Date and place of birth
Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Grade level
The most recent educational agency or institution attended
Footnotes:
1 These laws are: Section 9258 of the ESEA (20 U.S.C. 7908), as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-110), the
education bill, and 10 U.S.C. 503, as amended by section 544, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (P.L. 107-107),
the legislation that provides funding for the Nation's armed forces.
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MECKLENBURG COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS NOTICE OF PARENT
AND
STUDENT RIGHTS UNDER SECTION 504
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as Section 504, is a nondiscrimination Statute
enacted by the United States Congress. The purpose of the Act is to prohibit discrimination and benefits equal to
those provided to nondisabled students.
An eligible student under Section 504 is a student who (a) has, (b) has a record of having or (c) is
regarded as having, a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits a major life activity such as
learning, self-care, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, working, and performing manual tasks.
Section 504 requires that a public school division conduct an individual evaluation of any child who,
because of his or her disability, needs or is believed to need special education or related services, before the
division takes any action with respect to placing that child in a regular or special education program, or make any
subsequent significant change in the child’s placement.
Section 504 also requires that all tests and evaluation materials used to assess a child with a disability be
administered by trained personnel, and that such materials be validated for the specific purposes and populations
for which they are intended.
Section 504 requires that, in making a placement decision regarding a child with a disability, a public
school division draw upon information from a variety of sources, including aptitude and achievement tests,
teacher recommendations, physical condition, social or cultural background, and adaptive behavior. (Section 504
defines adaptive behavior as the effectiveness with which an individual meets the standards of personal
independence and social responsibility expected of his or her age and cultural group).
Section 504 specifies the following rights as minimum necessary procedural safeguards:
1. Parents have the right to receive notice of (not necessarily in writing) and to disagree with actions a
public division proposed to take regarding the identification, evaluation, and placement of a child with a
disability.
2. A child with a disability has the right to an appropriate education designed to meet his/her individual
educational needs as adequately as the needs of non-disabled students are met.
3. A child with a disability has the right to a free education except for those fees that are imposed on
nondisabled students or their parents.
4. A child with a disability has a right to placement in the least restrictive environment.
5. A child with a disability has a right to facilities, services, and activities that are comparable to those
provided for non-disabled students.
6. A child with a disability has a right to an evaluation prior to an initial Section 504 placement and
subsequent significant change in placement.
7. Placement decisions must be made by a group of persons, including persons knowledgeable about the
child with a disability, the meaning of the evaluation data, the placement options, and the legal
requirements for the least restrictive environment and comparable facilities.
8. If eligible under Section 504, the child with a disability has the right to periodic reevaluations,
generally every three years.
9. Parents have the right to examine the child’s school records.
10. The parents have the right to an impartial hearing regarding the appropriateness of the division’s
education program.
The procedural safeguards described above mean that a division must notify the parents of a child with a
disability of their due process rights before the division refers for evaluation, evaluates, provides special education
services to (or refused to do so), long-term suspends or expels, or otherwise significantly changes the educational
placement of the child or takes any other action regarding the child’s identification, evaluation, and placement.
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La Crosse Elementary School
Mrs. Connie Puckett, Principal
1000 School Circle
La Crosse, Virginia 23950
(434) 757-7374
(434) 757-4468
Fax (434) 757-1378
LETTER OF NOTIFICATION
RE: Asbestos Identification and Notification (AHERA, Public 99-5 1 0)
(40 CFR part 763)
Dear Parents of Students at La Crosse Elementary,
This memo is to provide notification and identification of the presence of asbestos in the LaCrosse
Elementary School.
On October 22, 1986, President Reagan signed into law the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act
(AHERA, Public Law 99-519). The law required EPA to develop regulations, which provide a
comprehensive framework for addressing asbestos problems in public and private elementary and
secondary schools. On October 30, 1987, EPA published the Asbestos-Containing Materials in Schools
Rule (40 CFT Part 763 Subpart E). This new rule requires all public and private elementary and
secondary schools to be inspected for friable and non-friable asbestos, develop asbestos management
plans, and implement response actions in a timely fashion.
To carry out the above activities, involving inspections, management plans, and response actions, the
Mecklenburg County School employed an accredited Asbestos Inspection firm, Industrial Training
Company, of Richmond, Virginia, to prepare our Management Plan, as determined by AHERA, public
Law 99-519.
The La Crosse Elementary School facility has been tested for asbestos. Results of those tests have
shown that there is some asbestos present in the school. The Management Plan, which includes
laboratory reports, is available at the school. The Management Plan and documentary data have also
been filed with the Virginia Department of Education, Energy and Facilities Services. Questions
regarding any of this data may be addressed through the Principal of the school.
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SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY NOTIFICATION
POLICY 2-2.2 SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY NOTIFICATION
The Mecklenburg County School Board recognizes the danger sex offenders pose to student safety.
Therefore, to protect students while they travel to and from school, and attend school or school-related activities,
the School Board shall request automatic electronic notification of registered sex offenders in the same or
contiguous zip codes as any school within the school division as permitted by applicable law. Such request and
notification shall be made according to the procedure established by the Virginia Department of State Police
(State Police).
The division superintendent shall serve as the contact person with the State Police for receipt of the registered sex
offender information.Annual Notification.
At the beginning of each school year, the School Board shall notify parents and employees of the school
division’s policy on the dissemination and use of sex offender registry information.
Dissemination of Sex Offender Registry Information
Sex offender registry information should be provided to employees who are most likely to observe
unauthorized persons on or near school property including, but not limited to:
1. school bus drivers;
2. employees responsible for visitor registration;
3. employees responsible for bus duty;
4. security staff;
5. coaches;
6. playground supervisors; and
7. maintenance personnel.
When registry information is disseminated, it shall include a notice that such information should not be
shared with others and may only be used for the purposes discussed below. Employees who improperly share
registry information with others may be disciplined.
The School Board recognizes that it is the responsibility of local law enforcement officials to notify the
community of potential public danger. Therefore, the School Board and its employees will not disseminate
registry information to parents. Use of Sex Offender Registry Information Registry Information shall only be used
for the purposes of the administration of law-enforcement, screening current or prospective school division
employees or volunteers, and for the protection of school division students and employees. Registry information
shall not be used to intimidate or harass others. Registered Sex Offender Sighted. If a notified employee sees a
registered sex offender on or near School Board property, around any Mecklenburg County student, or attending
any school division activity, he shall notify the division superintendent or his designee immediately. The division
superintendent or his designee may, in his discretion, notify local law-enforcement officials.School Volunteers
and Student Teachers. Each staff member shall submit to his principal the name and address of each volunteer the
staff member is or may be using as soon as the person is identified. The principal shall screen each student teacher
and volunteer’s name and address against the registry information. If a match is found, the principal shall notify
the division superintendent, who shall confirm the match. If the match is confirmed, the division superintendent
shall inform the individual, by mail, that he may not be on School Board property without permission of the
division superintendent. The notice shall provide the reason with reference to this policy. The division
superintendent shall also inform the principal and employees that the individual may not be used as a volunteer.
Contractors’ Employees. The division superintendent shall include the following language in all school
division contracts that may involve an employee of the contractor having any contact with a student. “The
contractor shall not send any employee or agent who is a registered sex offender to any school building or school
property.
Monthly, the contractor shall check the registry to determine if any employee is registered.”
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School Division Employees. Each time sex offender registry information is received, the principal shall
review it to determine if a school division employee is registered. If a match is found, the division superintendent
shall confirm or disprove the match with local law enforcement officials. If the match is confirmed, the division
superintendent shall notify the School Board. The School Board will take the appropriate action to comply with
state law which may include termination of employment. Applicants for Employment. Before hiring any person,
the division superintendent shall determine whether the prospective employee is a registered sex offender. If the
prospective employee is a registered sex offender, he shall not be hired by the school division.
Students and Parents of Students. A sex offender registrant who is the parent or guardian of a student
shall be permitted to participate in appropriate parent or guardian activities, unless prohibited by court order.
Students who are registered sex offenders may not be precluded from attending school.
Precautions to Protect Students. When the division superintendent determines it is necessary because of
the presence of a registered sex offender, alternative arrangements may be made for bus and walking routes to and
from school, recess and physical education periods, or any other activity in order to protect school division
students.
Requests for Registry Information
Anyone requesting registry information from the school division shall be referred to the State Police.
Permission to Enter School Board Property
No adult who has been convicted of a sexually violent offense, as defined in Virginia Code section 9.1-902
may enter or be present during school hours or during school-related or school-sponsored activities, at any school,
unless:
1. he is a lawfully registered and qualified voter, and is coming upon such property solely
for the purposes of casting his vote;
2. he is enrolled at the school; or
3. he has obtained a court order allowing him to enter and be present upon such property,
has obtained the permission of the school board for entry within all or part of the scope of
the lifted ban, and is in compliance with the School Board’s terms and conditions and
those of the court order.
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, §§ 9.1-900, et seq., 18.2-370.5, 19.2-390.1, 22.1-79,
22.1-79.3. Commonwealth of Virginia, et al. v. John Doe, 278 Va. 223 (2009)
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CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING
POLICY 7-5.7 CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING
Every employee of Mecklenburg County Public Schools who, in his professional or official capacity, has
reason to suspect that a child is an abused or neglected child, shall immediately report the matter to:
1. The local department of social services where the child resides or where the abuse or neglect is believed
to have occurred;
2. The Virginia Department of Social Services toll-free child abuse and neglect hotline; or
3. The person in charge of the school or department, or his designee, who shall make the report
immediately.
Posted in each school within the School Division shall be a notice that: i) any teacher or other person
employed in a public or private school who has reason to suspect that a child is an abused or neglected child,
including any child who may be abandoned, is required to report such suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to
local or state social services agencies or the person in charge of the relevant school or his designee; and (ii) all
persons required to report cases of suspected child abuse or neglect are immune from civil or criminal liability or
administrative penalty or sanction on account of such reports unless such person has acted in bad faith or with
malicious purpose. The notice shall also include the Virginia Department of Social Services toll-free child abuse
and neglect hotline.
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, § 22.1-291.3; 63.2-1509, et seq.
Adopted: October 17, 2011
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REPORTING TO PARENTS
POLICY 6-6.1 REPORTING TO PARENTS
Report Cards
A progress report shall be given to the parents or guardians of each Mecklenburg County Public Schools
student every four and one half weeks. Progress reports and report cards shall reflect the standard of work the
student has achieved, his attitudes, and his work habits. The reporting teacher shall make the evaluation of the
student's work, including the assignment of grades, as is further described in School Board Policy 6-6.2.
Warning Notices
In cases where a student is in danger of failing a course or subject, sufficient notice shall be sent to his
parents or guardians in order that they may be aware of the possibility of failure and so that appropriate corrective
measures may be taken.
Parental Conferences
The Mecklenburg County School Board encourages instructional staff to conduct regular conferences with
parents/guardians for purposes of understanding and assisting the students. Where problems exist, conferences
should be held as soon as possible. Teachers shall periodically communicate with the parents of students (i) who are
not making satisfactory progress; (ii) who have made drastic changes in achievement; or (iii) at any other time
deemed appropriate by the teacher.
Seniors
If a senior is in danger of failing to meet the requirements for graduating with his class, the student and his
parents or guardians shall be notified of such danger at the earliest possible time, and assistance should be provided,
where possible, to help the student satisfy the requirements. The responsibility for informing the student and
parents/guardians shall rest with the teachers, guidance counselors and principal. Students shall have justification
for appealing administrative decisions regarding graduation should appropriate instructional personnel fail to
provide notice to seniors and their parents/guardians as required by this policy.
In addition to the notification referenced above, the School Board shall provide the annual notices
described in Policy 6-4.4.
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, §§ 22.1-70, 22.1-78.
Adopted: October 17, 2011
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STUDENT EVALUATION AND GRADING
POLICY 6-6.2 STUDENT EVALUATION AND GRADING
Teachers shall be responsible for the grading and evaluation of student achievement. The following
guidelines shall be used in the evaluation:
1. A student’s grade shall be based solely on achievement.
2. A student’s grade shall not be penalized for any personal action or for any excused absence except
as indicated in Mecklenburg County School Board Policy 7-2.3.
Assessment of Student Performance
When calculating the student’s academic achievement or grade, the following system shall be utilized for
grades 1-12:
93 -100 = A
85 - 92 = B
77 – 84 = C
69 - 76 = D
0 – 68 = F
Nine-Weeks Test, Unit Test and Semester Examination
In grades 4-8 the teachers will administer either nine-weeks or unit tests during each grading period.
Alternative cumulative assessments in place of the nine-weeks written test must be approved by the principal. The
relative weighing of the tests in the determination of nine-weeks grades shall be determined by the teachers after
considering other evaluation factors. If a nine-weeks test is used, it should count no more than one-fifth of the nine weeks
grade.
For those courses taken for high school credit in grades 8-12, nine-weeks tests or unit tests are to be given
at the end of the first and third nine-weeks. Alternative cumulative assessment in place of the nine-weeks written test
must be approved by the principal. The nine-weeks test is not to count more than one-fifth of each nine-weeks grade.
At the end of each semester, an examination will be given in each subject area. The examination is not to count more
than one-fifth of the semester grade.
SOL Tests
Any secondary school student whose final grade average is between 50 and 68 and who passes the
appropriate end-of-course SOL test for that course will be credited with a numerical grade of 69 as the final course
average and will be given credit for the course. Secondary courses include: English 11 (Reading and Writing),
Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, World History I, World History II, World
Geography and Virginia and United States History.
Any eighth grade student whose final grade average is between 50-68 and who passes the appropriate SOL
test for that course will be credited with a numerical grade of 69 as the final course average and will be given credit
for the course. Eighth grade courses include: English (Reading and Writing), mathematics, science and social
science/history. Algebra I and Geometry would be included with the appropriate end-of-course test.
Report cards shall reflect only letter grades with no notations of plus, negative, or numerical values.
Notations will be made on permanent records for students who are enrolled in the Advanced Placement, Honor, or
Gifted and Talented classes. For all courses utilized for graduation purposed, Carnegie units will be awarded as
outlined in the Standards for Accrediting Schools in Virginia. Quality points, used in calculating grade point average
and in class ranking, are assigned to the final course letter grade. Quality points are designated as follows:
A = 4 Points
B = 3 Points
C = 2 Points
D = 1 Points
F = 0 Points
All advanced placement and dual enrollment courses will carry one additional quality point per letter
grades A, B, C and D. No additional point will be awarded for a letter grade of F. In grades 1-5, letter grades will be
utilized except in the following areas which will indicate progress by S or U, library, music and physical education.
-), or an (x). Progress for
kindergarten students shall be reported to parents every nine weeks utilizing a skills checklist and notation system of
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G (Good), S (Satisfactory), I (Improving), or N (Needs Improvement). Students in grades 3-12 demonstrating
outstanding academic achievement will be recognized during each grading period by means of an honor roll. To
qualify for the Honor Roll, the student shall have received all A’s and B’s for the designated marking period.
Nothing in the above guidelines prohibits a principal and staff from implementing additional means of recognizing
outstanding student achievement.
Grade Point Average Any policies, rules, or regulations addressing grade point average that are in place when a student enters
the ninth grade will follow that student throughout his/her high school career. Grade Point Averages (GPA) are
calculated for all students based on student enrollment in courses and units of credit awarded for these courses.
Quality points are assigned to each course grade according to the following scale:
Grades Normal Quality Points Weighted Quality Points
A 4.0 5.0
B 3.0 4.0
C 2.0 3.0
D 1.0 2.0
F 0.0 0.0
Weighted quality points are awarded for dual enrollment courses (DE), Governor’s School courses and all
Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Criminal Justice I and II, Emergency Medical Technician Basic and Firefighting
I are dual enrollment courses but do not receive weighted quality points.
The total number of quality points is calculated by multiplying the unit of credit for each course and the
quality points assigned to the final course grade. To obtain the total quality points a student would earn, all would be
added together from his/her courses taken. The GPA would be calculated by dividing the total quality points earned
by the number of credits attempted. The GPA is calculated to the nearest thousandths of a point.
Rank is determined by arranging the GPA values in descending order with the student with the highest
GPA being ranked first, the student with the second highest GPA being ranked seconds and so on.
The student with the highest Grade Point Average will be designated as Valedictorian and the student with
the second highest GPA will be designated as Salutatorian. If for any reason the Valedictorian or Salutatorian does
not wish to speak, the person with the next highest GPA will be the speaker.
A two-tiered system for recognition of honor graduates during graduation ceremonies will be based upon
individual student GPA. Students with a 3.9 GPA or above will receive “high honors” and students with a range of
3.6 to 3.89 GPA will receive “honors.”
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, §§ 22.1-70, 22.1-78.
Adopted: October 17, 2011
Amended: January 17, 2012
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PROMOTION AND RETENTION
POLICY 6-4.3 PROMOTION AND RETENTION
Generally
The State Board of Education charges school principals with the ultimate responsibility of assigning pupils to classes,
programs, and activities that are designed to promote maximum learning. In accordance with this provision, the school
principal is the final authority in all matters of promotion and retention.
Grade Placement
Elementary School (grades K-5)
Promotion or retention of Mecklenburg County Public School elementary students shall be based on what best serves the
educational welfare of the individual student. In making the determination for placement, the student’s teacher and principal
shall take into consideration several factors regarding the individual student’s performance, including but not limited to:
1. Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening (PALS) results:
2. Standards of Learning (SOL) test scores;
3. Division-wide quarterly and summative assessments;
4. Attendance;
5. Academic performance;
6. Evaluation of interventions;
7. Reading development;
8. Intellectual ability;
9. Journal samples/writing assessments;
10. Work study habits;11. Chronological age;
12. Physical, social and emotional development; and
13. Parent conference information.
The initial responsibility for recommending the promotion or retention of students in grades kindergarten through five (5) lies
with the teacher in concurrence with the Student Support Team (SST)/Child Study Team, and the principal, after consultation
with the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s).
When making parents aware of a student’s possible retention in a grade, teachers shall obtain the parent(s)’ or guardian(s)’
signature on a “Discussion of Retention” form to be provided to the building principal no later than February 20 of the year
in which retention is recommended. If the decision is made to retain a student, the classroom teacher shall complete a
“Retention Analysis Sheet” and provide it to the principal by May 15 of that same year. A letter outlining the student’s
retention will be mailed to the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s).
In any grade in which SOL tests are administered, any student who fails all of his/her SOL tests shall participate in a
remediation program before the student is placed in the next grade level, including summer school as required by applicable
Virginia law. The student must successfully complete summer school before being promoted. If a student fails to do so, then
the principal may retain the stude
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SCHOOL BUS SAFETY PROGRAM
POLICY 4-4.4 SCHOOL BUS SAFETY PROGRAM
The division superintendent or designated representative shall establish a safety program for the operation
of school buses. Requirements of state and federal laws and administrative procedures will be incorporated into the
program.
1. A school bus emergency drill will be conducted for every bus during the first 90 calendar days of
each school year. Additional drills may be conducted as needed.
2. A training and safety program shall be developed for bus drivers and persons applying for
employment as a bus driver. Requirements and qualifications for employment as a bus driver
shall be included in the job description for bus driver positions.
3. Records of training shall be maintained by the Supervisor of Transportation to comply with state
and federal regulations.
4. All buses and other vehicles owned and operated by the school division will be inspected for
safety by the assigned driver and transportation supervisor on a regular basis. The transportation
supervisor will develop and maintain a safety inspection record that will be filled out and signed
by the individuals conducting the inspection. In addition, all buses will be available for the
regular state inspections. Any defects noted by local or state inspections will be remedied
immediately.
All accidents, regardless of the damage involved, must be reported to the transportation
supervisor.
No person shall use any wireless telecommunications device, whether handheld or otherwise, while driving
a school bus, except in the case of an emergency, or when the vehicle is lawfully parked and for the purposes of
dispatching. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the use of two-way radio devices authorized by
the owner of the school bus.
STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES
POLICY 4-4.5 STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES
Each Mecklenburg County Public Schools’ building principal shall have the authority to suspend the riding
privileges of students and/or take other disciplinary actions for students who are disciplinary problems on school
buses. Parents (or guardians) of children whose behavior and misconduct on school buses violates the Student Code
of Conduct or otherwise endangers the health, safety and welfare of other riders shall be notified that their
child/children face the loss of school bus riding privileges and/or other disciplinary actions.
In those instances where students have riding privileges suspended, it shall be the responsibility of the
parents (or guardians) of the student to see that their child/children get to and from school safely. The bus driver
shall be responsible for maintaining the orderly behavior of students on school buses and shall report misconduct to
the student's principal and provide a copy of all misconduct reports to the transportation office.
A student shall not be put off the bus en route to or from school for misconduct on the bus. If the behavior
is such that it affects the safe operation, then the bus shall be parked in a safe location and the transportation
supervisor notified immediately.
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, §§ 22.1-78, 22.1-181, 22.1-293; Virginia Board of
Education Regulations Governing Pupil Transportation, 8 VAC 20-70-10, et seq.
Adopted: February 21, 2011
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SCHOOL GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING PROGRAMS
POLICY 6-5.1 SCHOOL GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING PROGRAMS
Definition of Service Domains
Pursuant to the Standards of Quality, the following guidance and counseling services are available to all
students in Mecklenburg County Public Schools:
1. Academic guidance and counseling that assist students and their parents in acquiring knowledge of
the curricula choices available to students, including planning a program of studies, arranging and
interpreting academic testing, and seeking post-secondary educational and career opportunities
.
2. Career guidance and counseling that help students to acquire information and plan action about
work, jobs, apprenticeships, and post-secondary educational and career opportunities.
3. Personal/social guidance and counseling that assist students in developing an understanding of
themselves and the rights and needs of others, resolving conflict and defining individual goals that
reflect their interests, abilities and aptitudes.
4. Employment counseling and placement services which furnish information relating to the
employment opportunities available to students graduating from or leaving the public schools.
Such information will be provided to secondary students and will include all types of employment
opportunities, including, but not limited to, apprenticeships, the military, career education schools,
and the teaching profession. In providing such services, the School Board will consult and
cooperate with the Virginia Employment Commission, the Department of Labor and Industry,
local business and labor organizations, and career schools.
Types of Service Delivery
These services are provided through:
1. Classroom Guidance: a series of classroom lessons conducted by the school guidance
counselor in the classroom for all students at each grade level.
2. Small Group Counseling: available to students experiencing specific and commonly
shared concerns. Emphasis is on problem solving and the development of positive and
effective personal skills.
3. Individual Counseling: direct assistance to individual students. Counseling of individual
students is conducted to help them learn more efficiently and effectively with emphasis
on identifying concerns early before they interfere with learning.
Procedures for Service DeliveryThe framework for the delivery of these services is as follows:
1. Written notification will be provided to parent(s)/guardian(s) at least annually about the
academic, career and personal/social guidance and counseling services which are
available to their children. The notification shall include the purpose and general
description of the programs, information regarding ways parent(s)/guardian(s) may
review materials to be used in guidance and counseling programs at their child's school
and information about the procedure by which parent(s)/guardian(s) may limit their
child's participation in such programs.
2. School guidance counselors are prohibited from using counseling techniques which are beyond the
scope of the professional certification or training of counselors, including hypnosis or other
psychotherapeutic techniques that are normally employed in medical or clinical settings and focus
on mental illness or psychopathology.
3. All information and records of personal/social counseling shall be kept confidential and separate
from a student's cumulative educational record and shall not be disclosed to third parties without
prior parental (guardian) consent or as otherwise provided by law. See Policy and Regulation 71.4 (Student Records).
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4. Parent(s)/guardian(s) may elect in writing to have their child not participate in classroom guidance
lessons, or any counseling activity to which they object.
5. Parental (guardian) permission is required in writing for any small group counseling or on-going,
structured individual counseling in the personal/social domain following initial contacts.
6. Parental (guardian) permission is not required for short duration personal/social counseling which
is needed to maintain order, discipline or a productive learning environment.
7. School officials may permit on-going, structured personal/social counseling for children whom
they believe would benefit from such counseling, but whose parent(s)/guardian(s) fail to respond
either affirmatively or negatively to reasonable requests for consent. Refusal of services must be
in writing to the principal.
Psychological Services
The services of the school psychologists are available to students who have been identified as in need of
these services.
LEGAL REFERENCE: Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, §§ 22.1-209; Virginia Board of Education
Regulations Regarding School Guidance and Counseling Programs in the Public Schools of Virginia, 8 VAC 20620-10.
Adopted: October 17, 2011
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Mecklenburg County Public Schools Policies
Please note that some policies are noted in your handbook.
However, all policies can be found at www.mcpsweb.org.
Choose administration on right hand side and then choose
policies.
Also a copy in kept in the office at La Crosse Elementary school.
Please contact your school administration first if you have any
concerns, questions, or issues that need to be addressed.
Connie Puckett, Principal
School: 434-757-7374
Home: 434-447-2994
Cell:
434-917-5196
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