2012-2013 Parent and Student Handbook

1Parent & Student Handbook

2012-2013

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Mission ➤Vision StatementPhilosophy & MethodologyThree Year Strategic Plan

HistoryThe School DayDress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

Vision StatementWhitby School will be a recognized leader in twenty-first century education, offering its children a competing path from the crucial early years through eighth grade, with exceptional programs andexperiences to prepare students for success in higher education. Built on its Montessori foundation and the rigor of the International Baccalaureate program, Whitby’s child-centered and inquiry-based learning approach will foster a multi-cultural academic community enriched by dedicated teachers and involved parents, all working together in a nurturing campus environment to develop accomplished, confident global citizens.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees, November 2010

Philosophy & Methodology By combining the complementary Montessori and IB teaching

methodologies along with educational best practices, Whitby endows each student with distinct educational advantages.

As America's oldest continuously running Montessori school, Whitby follows the child’s developmental stages to provide the

most effective teaching approaches, respecting and encouraging each child's innate curiosity about the world. Furthermore, Whitby’s IB curricular programs of structured inquiry are tailored to the maturity and intellect of the child and

develop the fundamentals of the IB learner profile in each

student.

The result is that Whitby provides each child the tools to succeed academically, socially and emotionally, now and in the future.

Three Year Strategic Plan

Whitby has set a long-range vision to grow its student body with its innovative curriculum, strengthen the engagement and commitment of the Board and community of stakeholders who support Whitby, and create a platform for long-term financial stability and enhanced impact for the children and families

served by Whitby. Click here to view Strategic Plan overview.

Whitby School | 969 Lake Avenue, Greenwich, CT | 203 869 8464 www.whitbyschool.org

MissionBuilding upon the principles of the Montessori philosophy and the International Baccalaureate Programs, Whitby School inspires academic excellence, independence and a passion for learning while motivating our students to confidently take action as contributing members of a diverse global community.

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/Giving/Whitby_Strategic_Plan_Final_-_Short_Online_Version.pdf

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/Giving/Whitby_Strategic_Plan_Final_-_Short_Online_Version.pdf

http://www.whitbyschool.org


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Mission History ➤The Whitby Crest

School Hours,Pickup & DismissalDress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

Over 50 years ago, a mother named Georgeann Skakel Terrien

was seeking better educational opportunities for her children. She, along with other like-minded parents in Greenwich was frustrated with the status quo at local schools, falling short of her expectations and wishes for her children. From her mother's trip to Ireland, she became aware of the Montessori

teaching method. This style of teaching and learning finally seemed logical to her. Georgeann was not only eager to share her discovery with the other parents but she knew that together they should start a school using the Montessori method. This core group of parents hired Nancy Rambusch, an

American educator with a passion for Montessori, to head the Whitby School.

In 1958, this was the humble beginning of Whitby as a day school for children between the ages of three through fourteen, as well as the first Montessori school in the United

States. As part of its history, Whitby School was significant in the formation of the American Montessori Society. The first AMS teacher training courses were based in Greenwich, utilizing Whitby classes as their model.

The first Whitby classes were held in a converted barn with the

school moving to its present 25 acre Lake Avenue location school in 1960. Attending the dedication ceremony in 1961 was Maria Montessori's only son - Mario Montessori. Additionally, a stone from the famed Whitby Abbey was presented to the

school by the people of Yorkshire, England.

In 1975, a toddler class, "Stepping Stones", was created to serve children between two and three years of age. By 1982, "Stepping Stones" was accepting children at eighteen months. In 1994, the Junior High Division was reconfigured into the

present Middle School.

Whitby's beginnings came from the passion, energy and

excitement of these early parents who shared a common belief with others. This passion to offer a new and better way to educate children continues today with the integration of the highly regarded International Baccalaureate (IB) program into our Montessori roots. As before, the vibrant Whitby community

is the catalyst behind this addition of IB and the innumerable recent and positive changes taking place at the school. Whitby is healthy and strong and remains an innovative leader in preparing students education to learn, live and succeed today and in the future.

Whitby School, the flagship school of the American Montessori Society, is the only school in the United States accredited by both the American Montessori Society (AMS) and the International Baccalaureate Organization for both the Primary (PYP) and

Middle Years (MYP) programs years. Whitby is also accredited by the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools, and is a member of the Educational Records Bureau, the Parents League and the REACH Prep program.

The Whitby Crest

Saint Hilda was the Abbess of Whitby Abbey, which was established in 657 AD Under Saint Hilda, the Abbey flourished as a seat of learning and celebration of life. She became known

as one who nourished and encouraged the talents of her people.

Symbolic of the heritage of St. Hilda, is the crest, which is dominated by the Benedictine Cross, representing the strength of the community. The three coiled snakes represent fossils

found in abundance on the seashore near the Whitby Abbey.


History



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Mission HistoryThe School Day ➤School HoursArrivals and DismissalsLunch, Snack & NutritionCelebrationsAttendance and AbsencesDelay/Cancellation InformationAfter School Activities

Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

School Hours

HoursPlease refer to the Arrival & Dismissal Guide for start times, end times, and arrival and dismissal procedures.

It is important that children arrive on time, as the beginning of

the school day sets a tone for the classroom.

Classroom doors open at 7:50 for students in PR - Grade 8, with classes starting promptly at 8:05.

Parents should not enter classrooms or disturb teachers once the day has begun, this includes lunch and snack times. Any

deliveries to students should be routed through the front desk. To contact a teacher, please leave a voice mail or email message, which will be returned within one business day. In an emergency, please contact the school receptionist.

Special DismissalsIn order for students to be dismissed to anyone other than someone with approved pickup privileges, please send a written note to the classroom teacher or to the school

receptionist. Any note should be specific, dated and signed by the parent. Telephone calls to rearrange plans are acceptable only in cases of emergency and should be directed to reception or the Lower or Upper School Assistants.

Early DismissalsIf you must pick your child up before the regular dismissal time, please call the receptionist or send a note with the student. Once at school, the receptionist will call the classroom and

arrange for the student to be picked up. For safety reasons,

please sign students in and out at the front desk whenever picking up or dropping off students outside of regular arrival and dismissal times.

Illness Children are expected to be in school except in cases of illness. Parents are requested to notify the Receptionist Desk

before 8:00 a.m. each day their child is absent due to illness.

Special Circumstances If a parent wishes to request permission for a child to be absent for reasons other than illness, the parent should put the request in writing to the Head of Lower or Upper School.

Medical and Dental Appointments Whenever possible, medical and dental appointments should be scheduled outside of school hours.

Religious Holidays Whitby is sensitive to the potential conflicts between religious holidays and schoolwork expectations. As a

courtesy to faculty members, families are asked to notify their children’s teachers beforehand if their child will be absent and/or unable to complete their assignments due to an upcoming religious holiday.

Attendance Whitby adheres to State standards for attendance; therefore, the Head of School will speak to families whose children have absences of any kind in excess of 20 days. Student Evaluation Reports in Elementary as well as recommendations to other schools will reflect attendance.


The School Day

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/Handbook/Arrival-Dismissal_Information-August2012.pdf

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/Handbook/Arrival-Dismissal_Information-August2012.pdf



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Mission HistoryThe School Day ➤School HoursArrivals and DismissalsAttendance and AbsencesLunch, Snack & NutritionCelebrationsDelay/Cancellation InformationAfter School Activities


Lunch, Snack & Nutrition

Students are encouraged to bring healthy, balanced lunches to school. Please remember we are a nut-free school, and we do not allow students to bring candy, gum or soda to school. There are microwave ovens available, but refrigerator space is very limited. An insulated lunch bag is best.

Snack

Whitby provides a lunch service through an outside vendor for Montessori Plus, Extended Day, Elementary and Middle School students. Menus are posted on our website and include a direct link to the vendors online ordering site. Food is delivered

to the school and then to the classrooms. General information regarding the lunch program is mailed to the home at the beginning of the school year. For additional information, please go directly to the Connecticut Catering Ordering website and register using the school password: whitby128

Snack/Nutrition PoliciesWhitby provides organic produce, healthy snacks and preservative free items for students from Stepping Stones

through Lower School. Parents of Upper School students should pack a healthy, “nut free” snack for their child to eat during the mid-morning break time. Students are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle with a secure lid to school every day, which can be used throughout the day with teacher approval.

CelebrationsBirthdays are important events, particularly for the Primary and Lower Elementary children. Each classroom has its own way of

honoring the birthday child and the teacher will notify parents in advance of their role in this celebration. Elaborate snacks are

not necessary; a two-bite sized organic cupcake, fruit kebabs, or

homemade cookies are preferred alternatives.

Delay/Cancellation InformationSeveral radio and television stations provide announcements regarding delays for the Greenwich Public Schools, Private and Parochial Schools, served by the Greenwich bus system. To find

out the delay information for Whitby, please check the following venues:

Whitby utilizes the Veracross Alert System. Parents will receive an automated text alert and email informing them of delay/cancellation information

Veracross Alert System: Parents will receive an automated text alert and email informing them of delay/cancellation information.

Whitby website: www.whitbyschool.org

Whitby main phone line: (203) 869-8464 will be updated by 6:00 a.m.

Television stations: Cablevision of Connecticut and Westchester News Channel 12

Radio Stations – Connecticut: WEBE 108 FM, WGCH 1490 AM, STAR 99.9 FM/AM 600 Westchester: WFAS 1230 AM, 103.9 FM & 106.3 FM

.


The School Day

https://ct-catering.orderlunches.com/

https://ct-catering.orderlunches.com/

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/Handbook/Nutrition_Guidelines-August2012.pdf

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/Handbook/Nutrition_Guidelines-August2012.pdf



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Delayed Opening Announcements When Greenwich Public

Schools announces a delayed opening, Whitby will make its own announcement of a one or two-hour delayed opening OR a closing. In the case of a delay, school will open at either 9:00 or 10:00. When a two-hour delay is announced, there will be no STEPPING STONES morning class. Whenever school is delayed,

employees will be responsible for being at school 30 minutes prior to student arrival.

Busses If you use the Greenwich Bus system and there is a delay in the Greenwich Public School System, your bus will arrive at your bus stop one or two hours later than regular morning pick-

up time.

Parents of students who use NY bus companies should call the company for pick-up times and notify the company if their child will not be riding the bus to school that day. Please be sure to let the bus company know if they should pick up your child at

the end of the school day.

Emergency Early Closing When weather conditions are questionable or severe during the school day, parents are encouraged to make individual decisions regarding when to pick their children up from school based on local conditions.

Please be prepared to be on standby, or to have someone else listening to your local radio stations for early school closing updates. After 10:30 a.m., closing information will be conveyed via SMS and email notification through Veracross. Students who

utilize bus service will be dismissed at the time that their bus arrives.

If your child will be going home with another family, the school must have written permission (email, fax, or hard copy) to release the child from school.




The School Day



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WEECP and Co-Curricular Programs start at 3:00 for the

Children's House (Primary 2 and 3 grades) and Lower and Middle Elementary (1-4 grades), and at 4:00 for the Upper Elementary and Middle School (5-8 grades) students. These are fee based activities at a cost of $20 for the Monday to Thursday classes and $30 for Friday. The list of activities and costs is set

out in greater detail and description in the WECCP brochure, which is updated each season and accessible through the website.

These activities fall under the program WECCP (Whitby Enrichment and Co-Curricular Program) and are designed to

complement the already rich inquiry based learning environment with other engaging and enriching activities and classes, that aim to develop self-confidence, problem-solving skills and a greater sense of community.

For the Children House students such activities include, but are

not limited to, Fun with Science and Magic Dance to Super Soccer, Handwriting Without Tears, Sports Sampler and Yoga.

For Lower and Middle Elementary students such activities include, but are not limited to, Cartooning, Golf, pre-Engineering with LEGO to Sports Sense, Chinese, French and

Chess. Middle Elementary students are also offered the opportunity to participate in the ME Band and Chorus in addition to taking instrumental lessons. Note the Band and Chorus is a non-fee class, even though they occur from 3:00

onwards.

For the Upper School students, the WECCP program activities

are fairly limited due in nature to the Curricular Elective program occurring two days per week and the Athletic program for three days per week from 2:55-3:55. However students may participate in the UE/MS Band, the UE/MS Madrigal Singers, UE/MS Chorus and Theater Performance and are no fee based

programs. Study Support is offered all four days from Monday through Thursday and this is fee based at $20 per class.




The School Day

http://www.whitbyschool.org/page.cfm?p=36




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Mission HistoryThe School Day ➤Dress Code ➤Land’s End

CommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

All students from Primary 1 through Grade 8 are required to

wear the Whitby School Uniform.

Whitby’s Dress and Appearance Code is an extension of the philosophy of the school intended to promote the values we try to embody: academic excellence, a passion for learning, respect, social egalitarianism, school and community spirit,

modesty, and self-esteem.

Please refer to this link for detailed uniform requirements.

To place an order, please visit the Land's End website (www.landsend.com/school) and search within Whitby’s customized uniform portal. Our preferred school number for Land's End is 900034141.


Dress Code





http://www.landsend.com/school

http://www.landsend.com/school



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunications ➤Conferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

Whitby is committed to open communication and maintaining

an effective, efficient, and friendly interchange of information throughout the school community. We strive for an open dialogue between parents, teachers and administration. Parents are encouraged to email teachers with questions or concerns or schedule a time to meet.

The school communicates with the parents through a variety of print and electronic venues. We continue to seek to use electronic delivery of information as much as possible, both to reduce the use of paper and to more efficiently deliver the timely information parents need.

Key Communications include:

MyWhitby Parent Portal (Veracross) Secure, personalized login provides school and teacher emailing capabilities and parent/teacher conference signup plus classroom and student specific information including attendance, class schedule,

homework, progress reports, school/athletic/birthday calendars, student/parent and faculty/staff directories.

WOW Windows on Our World is Whitby's weekly publication emailed every Friday morning that provides current

information regarding campus events and other important information for parents. Please review WOW regularly as is contains a wealth of information. If you have any questions or comments regarding WOW or to submit announcements to WOW, please email Renee Bornstein, Communications Assistant

at [email protected].

School Calendar Please regularly review the school calendar on the MyWhitby Parent Portal (Veracross) for key date information.

Conferences Teacher-Parent conferences are provided twice a

year. An additional Advisor-Parent conference is provided early in the year in the upper school.

State of The School Meeting Whitby’s Annual State of The

School Meeting is held each fall to give parents an opportunity to learn more about the financial health of the school.

Curriculum Nights Parent’s Curriculum Nights are held at the

beginning of the school year. Parents are encouraged to participate in the evening to learn more about the educational program provided at your child’s level and for your child’s particular class.

Children’s House- Wednesday, September 12th 6:30-8:30

Lower School- Wednesday, September 19th 6:30-8:30

Upper School- Thursday, September 20th 6:30-8:30

Visiting Days Whitby provides the following special days for visiting your child’s classroom. These are great opportunities to learn more about what is happening at the school and share the classroom experience with the children. Please see school

calendar for dates:

Fathers Visiting Day

Mothers Visiting Day

Grandparents/Special Persons Visiting Day


Communications

mailto:[email protected]




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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical Information ➤General PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

AllergiesAn increasing number of children currently have developed seasonal allergies, and allergies to food, pets, and latex. When bringing in snack, please remember to check with your teacher or the nurse, for children with allergies. Additionally, pets are not be allowed in the school.

Allergy – Nut PolicyDue to an increasing number of children diagnosed with life-threatening peanut and nut allergies, no peanut or nut products, peanut butter, or products with peanuts or nuts in them will be allowed at Whitby School at any time. Parents should not send anything to school with peanuts or nut products for school lunches, classroom snacks, field trips or special celebrations. Many store bought baked goods which appear to be nut free are in fact produced with peanut oil or other nut products. This nut free environment also applies to cooking classes, Whitby special events, school trips, and any other occasion where food may be involved on campus.

Serious Accident or Serious In-School IllnessWhen there is a serious injury or acute illness, the school will attempt to contact parents or the emergency contact listed by the parent. If the child’s condition appears to be life threatening or unstable, paramedics will be summoned to stabilize and transport the child to an emergency room. If the child’s condition is stable, school personnel may transport the child directly to Greenwich Hospital. Continued efforts will be made to contact the parents or the designated contact in the event they are not immediately available.

Student Illness in SchoolIf a child reports feeling ill, the teacher will treat this as a real concern. The School Nurse will assess the seriousness of the situation. If the child has a fever or the sickness continues, parents will be called to take the student home. The decision to phone the parents rests with the School Nurse, or the Head of School.

Communicable Disease PolicyIt is the policy of Whitby School, that any person in the school community including faculty, staff, and students, shall report immediately to the Head of School, the presence of any health condition including but not limited to; lice; measles; chicken pox; or viral or bacterial infections, that may call for the separation or isolation, or other special measures to protect the health of other persons.

Return to School after IllnessBefore a child returns to school following an illness, he/she should no longer be in a condition infectious to other children as determined by the child’s physician. Please do not send children to school if they have a fever. In addition, the child should have the strength, both physically and mentally, to participate fully in school activities, including outdoor recess and regular physical education classes.

There is the occasion when a child is fit enough to participate in all aspects of the school’s activities, yet unable to participate physically in recess and physical education. It is then appropriate for the child to attend school, bringing a note from parent or physician excusing the child from recess and/or physical education classes.


Medical Information



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical Information ➤General PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

Medication

Any student who needs to take medication during the school day must bring the medication, along with written directions, to the School Nurse. Connecticut State Law and Regulations require a physician’s/dentist’s written order be obtained before medication can be administered. This form can be

acquired at the nurse’s office. It must be signed by the physician/dentist and parent. The medication must be labeled and in its original container from the pharmacy. No medication can be accepted if given in envelopes or baggies.


Medical Information



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral Policies ➤Class PlacementField Trip GuidelinesChild Safety LawsEmergency CardsGifts for TeachersGuidelines for Computer Use and Internet AccessHomework PolicyLost and FoundSecondary School CounselingTranscriptsToys from HomeBusiness Office

Student Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association

Class Placement Policy and Procedures

Towards the end of each school year it is our policy to create

class placements for new and returning students for the next academic year. This is a detailed and carefully reviewed process that is based on a set of clear and equitable criteria. The goal of this process is to achieve a balance in each class that promotes learning within a positive social, emotional and academic

environment. This criteria includes: Academic skills; social and emotional considerations; friendships/optimal peer relationships; a balance of new and returning students; class size and capacity; gender; student age; culture and nationality; EAL or SAIL needs within each class; Teacher’s professional

judgement, experience, detailed knowledge of the child, considering academic and personal abilities and needs. For more information on the class placement process, read the complete CLASS PLACEMENT POLICY AND PROCEDURES document.

Field Trip Guidelines

Emergency Cards

All students must have a current school year emergency card on file with the Nurses Office. Emergency cards go with the faculty on all school trips in order to give permission to medically treat an emergency. Students who do not have

current school year emergency cards on file will not be able to participate on field trips.

Primary 1—Primary 1 students are accompanied by their parents/caregivers on all field trips. The student must ride with the parent/caregiver to attend the field trip.

Primary 2 & 3—Whitby will arrange bus or van transportation for all Primary 2 & 3 students. For field trips where parent volunteers are requested, parents will be allowed to drive their own children to the field trip.

Grades 1 - 8—School buses are used for field trips or for

sporting events. Coach buses are used for extended trips.

Gifts for Teachers

It is the school’s policy, that children and parents are discouraged from giving elaborate gifts to teachers during the

holidays and at year-end. Students and families are encouraged to give meaningful gifts such as handmade items by the student. Contributions towards group class gifts to teachers are voluntary, and should not exceed $100.00.

Guidelines for Computer Use and Internet AccessWhitby students are expected to be polite and considerate in their use of the school’s computers and other media resources.


General Policies

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/Handbook/Class_Placement_Policy_Procedure8-15-2012.pdf

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/Handbook/Class_Placement_Policy_Procedure8-15-2012.pdf



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral Policies ➤Field Trip GuidelinesChild Safety LawsEmergency CardsGifts for TeachersGuidelines for Computer Use and Internet AccessHomework PolicyLost and FoundSecondary School CounselingTranscriptsToys from HomeBusiness Office


It is understood that students will not use obscene language or

utilize any electronic resource to harass, intimidate, libel, or ridicule anyone in the school community or elsewhere. Violations of the policies outlined below may lead to revocation of privileges and other disciplinary measures, with penalties up to and including dismissal from the school.

• All use of technology must be in support of education and consistent with the purposes of Whitby School.

• No activity that disrupts the use of the network for others is allowed.

• Hardware or software should not be destroyed, modified,

or abused in any way.

• User accounts, passwords, and files are considered to be private. Network accounts are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account. Users should not intentionally seek out, modify, or erase passwords or files

belonging to other users.

• The school expects that all work submitted to teachers is the exclusive work of the individual student. Plagiarism of any kind is unacceptable at Whitby School.

• The unauthorized installation of copyrighted software on

Whitby School computers’ is prohibited. All software installations must receive the prior approval of the Director of Technology.

• Use of the Internet to access or publish obscene or

pornographic material is prohibited.

• Use of the network to transmit material that is harassing, discriminatory, or likely to be offensive to the recipient is prohibited.

• Students are not permitted under any circumstances to

use computers located at teachers’ desks or work stations.

Homework Policy

Homework is assigned both to reinforce concepts taught in class and to foster a sense of responsibility and independence. Recommendations for time spent on homework per subject area vary by subject and aim to support, develop, and strengthen student learning. Teachers aim to provide homework that is developmentally appropriate and provide the necessary support and scaffolding to enable student success. The length of specific assignments vary based on curricular goals, grade level, and the individual student.

In the beginning of the year, each Upper School student is given an academic planner to help organize assignments and academic activities in each subject area. With the help of their teachers and advisors, students learn how to organize their schoolwork and manage their time. The academic planner is also a helpful communication tool between teachers and parents and should be reinforced at home as well as at school.

Lost and Found

Please make every effort to label your child’s clothing, backpack and other possessions with a first and last name. Items such as children’s clothing or backpacks found in the halls, or on the school grounds, can be claimed in the large container outside the Nurse’s Office. For articles of greater value, such as cameras

or jewelry, please check with the receptionist. The Upper


General Policies



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral Policies ➤Field Trip GuidelinesChild Safety LawsEmergency CardsGifts for TeachersGuidelines for Computer Use and Internet AccessHomework PolicyLost and FoundSecondary School CounselingTranscriptsToys from HomeBusiness Office


Elementary and Middle School students have lost and found

arrangements within their classrooms.

S.A.I.L. (Special Assistance in Learning)

The mission of the SAIL Team is to be proactive in identifying learning differences, to provide referrals for diagnostic evaluations, to support the educators and families of children with learning differences and to provide intervention programs for students diagnosed with different developmental profiles, including advanced learners.

(For information regarding the process for children who require accommodations for testing, please click here.)

Secondary School Counseling

By the time they reach eighth grade, Whitby students understand what it means to learn and the impact community and learning have on each other. Having developed and matured under the careful guidance of so many skilled and compassionate educators, the question of where to go after

Whitby can be a challenging one.

Whitby’s Secondary School Guide is a thorough resource developed to introduce students and parents to the secondary school selection and application process. Whitby’s

individualized secondary school counseling program formally begins in seventh grade where students and parents are invited to attend informational meetings and the annual Secondary School Fair. These meetings provide opportunities to learn about the general secondary school process as well as to learn

about potential schools through conversations with

prospective school representatives.

During eighth grade, students and parents take a more intensive approach to finding a good secondary school match. Individual secondary school counseling meetings, interview preparation, assistance coordinating application documents, as

well as coordination with test preparation courses are all part of the program ensuring our students find a school that can build upon the strong foundation of a Whitby education.

TranscriptsRequests for transcripts and teacher recommendations should

be made to the Lower or Upper School Office. Parents must sign a release of information form before any materials can be forwarded. All such application materials will be sent so as to arrive by the deadline of the receiving school. All Whitby bills must be paid before transcripts are released. Teachers are not

permitted to complete recommendation forms without the approval of the Head of Lower or Upper School.

Toys from HomeThe Whitby staff respectfully asks that you discourage your

child from bringing toys of any sort to school. On occasion a child may wish to bring in a souvenir from a trip or a special toy, book or nature object to show or share with the class. Use your judgment, or talk with the teacher in advance. Stepping Stones children may bring any toy or blanket, which they need in the

first few days of transition.

Business Office

The Business Office is responsible for the school’s financial matters. Tuition, fees and payment schedules are detailed in


General Policies

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/email/WhitbyAccommodationsPolicyApril2012.pdf

http://www.whitbyschool.org/uploaded/documents/email/WhitbyAccommodationsPolicyApril2012.pdf



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral Policies ➤Field Trip GuidelinesChild Safety LawsEmergency CardsGifts for TeachersGuidelines for Computer Use and Internet AccessHomework PolicyLost and FoundSecondary School CounselingTranscriptsToys from HomeBusiness OfficeFinancial AidIndependent Professional Non-Whitby Employees


each student’s enrollment contract. It is the parent’s responsibility to pay all amounts owed.

Re-Enrollment Current families are offered the opportunity to re-enroll their children before new families are offered admission. Families that are in good financial standing with the school receive re-enrollment contracts in January, and need to be digitally signed and submitted in Veracross by the required date with the deposit to secure your child's place for the following school year.

Financial Aid Whitby School believes that qualified students who desire an education should not be denied that opportunity because of economic hardship. Therefore, Whitby School has established a tuition assistance program to help families in need. Tuition assistance is completely confidential and awarded on the basis of need. Whitby School does not award any athletic or academic merit scholarships.

Current families who are receiving tuition assistance will be contacted by the financial aid administrator in November regarding the application process for the next school year. Financial Aid applications must be completed by the parents and submitted to the School and Student Service (SSS).

Independent Professional Non-Whitby Employees

Whitby School requires that all non-employees who work as independent consultants/support personnel for students within our educational program, or who work within our Athletics, Co-Curricular or WECCP programs, must register with the school’s Human Resources Coordinator and complete an application to work on campus, inclusive of a criminal background check. Once this application has been completed, permission for working on the Whitby School campus resides with the Head of School.


General Policies



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of Conduct ➤Student BehaviorRules of ConductDiscipline Policies

Support Whitby SchoolParents Association

Visitors

If a student is not currently enrolled in the School or involved in an admissions visit or tour with a representative of the Admissions Office, they are not allowed to visit in the School for any length of time unless a signed waiver is on file with the Admissions Office and the visit has been approved by the Heads of Lower School and Upper School. This policy includes graduates, former students or relatives of current students. The Head of Upper/Lower School must approve visitors and ensure that there is a signed waiver in place before allowing a student to enter a classroom for a visit. This ensures that the child is covered by our insurance policy in the case of an emergency and it also ensures that teachers have professional liability coverage.

A classroom teacher’s first responsibility is to the children who are enrolled in the School. Many children, and parents, object to visitors in the class because it disrupts the daily routine. When teachers are contacted regarding a potential student visit, this request should be deferred to the Heads of Lower School and Upper School. A visitor may not exceed a two-day period during a school year.

Student Behavior

The Whitby community is characterized by three themes:

• Spirit

• Wisdom

• Respect

These words stand for what permeates throughout the entire

Whitby community. Parents play a crucial role in achieving these goals within our community by supporting their children and the school. Parents demonstrate school spirit through attendance at school events and foster the development of wisdom within the community by supporting their children’s education and by

participating in parent education. In order to create a climate characterized by respect, parents model respectful behavior and civil discourse in all of their interactions within the school environment. As powerful role models, parents show their children that everyone within the school community deserves

respect and, in turn, that they and their children deserve to be treated in a respectful manner.

The school’s aim is to work proactively with students and parents to create a climate of respect within the school. It is therefore of

the utmost importance for the teacher, the Head of Lower School, the Head of Upper School, and the Head of School to communicate with parents to secure their help, support, and cooperation.

Whitby students are expected to behave in a manner that is

acceptable to everyone concerned—other students, parents, teachers, administrators, and society in general. While in school, during school functions, and on school-authorized trips, students are under the authority of their teachers, bus drivers, Head of Lower School, the Head of Upper School, and the Head of School.


Student Behavior & Rules of Conduct



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Rules of ConductIn each classroom, teachers work with students to develop

meaningful rules and guidelines for respectful interactions in the classroom. In addition, the following general guidelines apply in all situations:

Individual Responsibility-Each student is responsible for his/her own behavior and has a choice regarding how he or she

interacts within the school community. With young children, teachers model how to make good choices; teachers support young children in making appropriate choices until this becomes internalized by the child. For older children, it is expected that they will make appropriate choices

independently of their teachers. Each student is also an advocate for his or her own learning. Students are expected to attend, be prepared for, and be on time to all classes, unless officially excused. All students require organizational assistance from their teachers; this is provided and it is the responsibility

of the student to use it to his or her benefit. Students are expected to do their own work. Collaboration is encouraged, but must always be acknowledged; cheating and plagiarism will not be allowed.

Mutual Respect-All students deserve to be treated with respect and are requested to respect all members of the school community. If a student doesn’t understand what constitutes respectful behavior, it is his or her responsibility to clarify this with the teachers, the Head Of Lower School, The Head Of

Upper School, or the Head of School.

Conflict Resolution-All students must learn to resolve conflicts appropriately. Students are expected to engage in respectful discourse and to refrain from using inappropriate language and

gestures. Students are not to threaten, intimidate, or cause

bodily harm to any student or school employee. Fighting will not be tolerated.

Rules are Rules-Individual comportment in all situations should be a demonstration of respect for and pride in the school community. As a result, students are to be in compliance with

rules of conduct and behavior, as well as the dress code at all times. Recognizing that some individuals question rules and codes, we provide safe and appropriate channels for this kind of discussion, such as class meeting, advisory and Student Council. However, a violation of rules and codes due to

disagreement or protest still constitutes a violation of the rules and codes that govern the school community.

Environment for Learning-Classrooms are learning environments and are prepared by the teachers so that learning may take place. Noise in any area of the classroom should be

kept to a minimum. Disruption of the classroom is an indication of disrespect. Running (within the classroom, in the hallways or on the walkways) is not safe. Students are not to throw dangerous or inappropriate objects. Students are not to remove, deface or alter school property. Students are to respect

the personal space and personal property of other students and of their teachers. Teacher permission is required in order for students to leave the classroom and these guidelines also apply while the student is out of the classroom.

Prohibited Items and Activities-There is no reason for a student to have the following items in his/her possession at any time while he or she is in school: matches; lighters; knives; toy weapons or weapons (guns, darts, sling shots); nuisance items; gum or candy, cell phones, pagers or beepers. Students will not





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use, possess, distribute, or sell tobacco, alcohol, or drugs in the

building, and/or on school property, including on school buses, at bus stops, on school trips, and at all school activities.

Discipline PoliciesAll members of the Whitby community will be expected to abide by the rules and regulations set forth by Whitby School.

The child’s teacher and/or advisor, the Heads of Lower and Upper School and/or the Head of School will have the same right as a parent or guardian to control and discipline a child while the child is in attendance in school, in school vehicles to and from school and school trips, or while attending school

functions. Any student who is found to be disobeying the rules or showing disrespect for the other students, teachers, the school administration, visitors, or school property will be subject to disciplinary action. The disciplinary action to be taken will depend on the severity of the violation and the prior

circumstances related to the violation. Based upon policies adopted by the Board of Trustees, the parent handbook outlines regulations and consequences associated with attendance at the Whitby School; these include:

Disruption of School-A student shall not by use of violence,

force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or any conduct intentionally cause the substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission, process, or function of the school. A student who fails to

comply with directions from the Head of School, teachers, administration, or other authorized school personnel while at school shall be in violation of school rules and regulations. The same standards of behavior for students during school hours apply to after school programs, school trips, and on school

buses. Disruption of school is cause for detention and/or

suspension, with a continued pattern the possibility of expulsion.

Profanity/Obscenity/Pornography-The use of obscene language is an act of disrespect and constitutes a serious offense and is in direct violation of school policy. A student who

engages in such acts will receive discipline that could result in action outlined in the following section. Pornography in any form is unacceptable. Students found to be in possession of pornography or pornographic materials may be subjected to detention, suspension or expulsion.

Harassment-The school does not tolerate harassment, in any form. Sexual and/or gender harassment is recognized as a form of sex discrimination and thus a violation of the laws that prohibit sex discrimination. Any instances of harassment should be reported to the Head of School for investigation.

Students found to be involved in harassing behavior are subject to discipline which could result in detention, suspension, or expulsion.

Weapons and Dangerous Instruments-Students who possess a weapon, or use any dangerous or annoying device or item that

could be used as a weapon, used for assault during school time, on school premises, on school buses, or during school-sponsored activities will be subject to detention, suspension or expulsion.

Vandalism and Property Damage-Students who willfully destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages or make restitution through community service and may be subject to additional disciplinary measures including detention, suspension, or expulsion. If a student





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should damage something by accident, it should be reported

immediately to the teacher, Section Head, or the Head of School.

Substance Abuse-At Whitby, we believe that students cannot access the educational program if they are involved in the use of mood-altering or controlled substances—including alcohol,

drugs, and tobacco—because the use of these chemicals and the activities associated with their use can seriously inhibit a student’s capacity to learn and to function effectively. Therefore, the following are not permitted by students in school buildings, on school property, on school vehicles, on

vehicles rented by the school for student transportation, on school trips, or at school functions: the sale, distribution, use, or possession of alcoholic beverages, controlled substances (including tobacco and tobacco products), illegal drugs, marijuana, mood-altering substances, drug paraphernalia, or

other materials expressly prohibited by federal, state, or local law; and the sale, distribution, unauthorized or abusive use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Students found to be in violation of this policy are subject to suspension and expulsion.

Attendance in Class-Students shall attend all classes in a timely

manner according to their schedule. Students subject to persistent lateness and/or skipping classes will result in either detention, suspension or expulsion.

Consequences-Students who have violated school/and or

classroom rules will receive disciplinary action that is appropriate for the particular offense and will, to the extent possible, experience logical consequences for their behavior. Efforts will be made to communicate with parents to help prevent further misconduct by the student. Each time a student

commits an offense against the established rules, he or she will receive one of the following consequences:

• Student Conference with Teacher

• Student Conference with the Head of Lower or Upper School

• Student Conference with Head of School

• Parent Contact (Telephone, Letter, Conference)

• Assignment of one or more of the following:

Learning activity appropriately connected to student action(s)

Detention (1) (lunch, recess, after-school)

Suspension

In-School (2) (morning, afternoon, or whole day and

from school activities)

Out-of-School (one to ten days/one to two semesters)Expulsion (3)

(1) Detention is assigned by a teacher, Heads of Lower or Upper School, Head of School to occur during a recess, lunch period or after school. After school detention requires students to remain at school until 5:00 p.m. in a designated detention room. Parents will be requested to provide transportation from the after-school detention program.

(2) In-school suspension (morning, afternoon, whole day) is assigned by the Head of Lower School, Head of Upper School, or Head of School and requires the student to attend school, but to work in isolation from other students and to complete assignments appropriate for the circumstances. Depending on the severity of the violation and after investigation of an incident by the Head of School, the Head of School may order a student to be suspended from class or from school for a period up to and including ten days or suspension from the school for the remainder of the semester and up to one additional semester. Parents are responsible for ensuring that their children are supervised at home during suspension.

(3) Expulsion is a disciplinary measure whereby a student is no longer allowed to attend the school. An evidentiary hearing will be arranged within three days from the time a charge is made against the student, unless a mutual agreement is made between the Head of School, parents





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Mission HistoryThe School DayDress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of Conduct ➤Student BehaviorRules of ConductDiscipline Policies



Student Behavior & Rules of Conductand student for an extension of time; during such period the child will be suspended from school. The Head of School is the final arbiter of all evidentiary expulsion hearings. The Chair of the Board of Trustees will be informed of the Head’s determination.

Severe or Repeated Misconduct-Severe misconduct or repeated misconduct at school, or at school activities, will result in disciplinary action determined directly by the Head of School. Instances of severe misconduct or repeated misconduct will be recorded in the student’s permanent record.

Students failing to serve any disciplinary assignment will receive additional disciplinary action by the Head of School.

If a disciplinary concern has not been resolved and inappropriate behavior continues, a special conference will be held with the parent(s), the student, the teacher(s), the Head of School and any educational or psychological professionals deemed appropriate by the Head. The Head of School will be the final arbiter of the appropriate action in each case, which may include additional suspension time or expulsion from the school. The Chair of the Board of Trustees will be informed of the Head’s determination.

Financial Aid Whitby School believes that qualified students who desire an education should not be denied that opportunity because of economic hardship. Therefore, Whitby School has established a tuition assistance program to help families in need. Tuition assistance is completely confidential and awarded on the basis of need. Whitby School does not award any athletic or academic merit scholarships.

Current families who are receiving tuition assistance will be contacted by the financial aid administrator in November regarding the application process for the next school year. Financial Aid applications must be completed by the parents and submitted to the School and Student Service (SSS).



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby School ➤Parents Association

Giving

For over 50 years, the generosity of previous and current generations of Whitby families have allowed us to celebrate and honor the vision of the founding families and create a school focused on the individual child, with a beautiful campus and buildings to support and foster educational and personal development of our children, and a strong and thriving community to promote and preserve this vision. As the school grows and evolves to meet the needs of an ever-changing world, we need to continue to invest in the school in order to continue Whitby’s wonderful legacy, both now and for future generations of students and families, just as previous generations of Whitby families have done for us. Our children have benefited from the generosity of past and present donors, and we all are asked to similarly support the school. We need to continue to invest in the school in order to continue Whitby’s wonderful legacy, both now and for future generations of students and families, just as previous generations of Whitby families have done for us. We welcome you to be as engaged as your time, talents, and resources permit. There are several opportunities to contribute and financially support Whitby throughout the year. Each has a particular purpose and timing, but they are all essential to supporting and strengthening the school, both during the current year, as well as into the future. All contributions to Whitby are outright gifts and are tax-deductible, subject to any tax deduction limitations within the appropriate tax jurisdiction. As you

consider how and where you wish to support Whitby during the year, please make note of these important direct giving opportunities. Direct GiftsThe Whitby Annual Fund is the only recurring, yearly fundraising campaign supported by all members of the Whitby community (parents, alumni, friends and faculty and staff). Gifts to the Annual Fund constitute the most important source of unrestricted funds available to the School outside of tuition, to both support the operating budget and enhance every aspect of the Whitby experience. Our goal is 100% participation. The Annual Spring Benefit is a major social event and opportunity to celebrate the successes of the year, and come together as a community. This event is organized by the Parents Association, and attended by families, faculty and staff, alumni, and friends of Whitby. Funds raised by this event support the operating budget, as well as specific Strategic Plan Initiatives. The Whitby School Legacy Lecture Series Fund was established and funded in 2010 by alumni and patrons of Whitby School, with additional support from the Parents Association, to perpetuate a speaker series and expand Whitby’s presence and educational focus beyond the borders of the school campus, and into the greater Fairchester and Westchester communities. Parent and student alumni are encouraged to support this initiative to further the mission of Whitby, both beyond the campus, and beyond 8th grade.


Support Whitby School



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Mission HistoryThe School Day Dress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby School ➤Parents Association

The Capital Campaign is a multi-year strategic fundraising effort periodically used to request significant support from Whitby families (past and present) towards new and improved facilities, capital improvements, and restricted funds/endowments to meet the long-term needs and preserve Whitby’s legacy well into the future. Contributions to the Capital Campaign are above and beyond the annual support that is provided via tuition, and contributions to the Annual Fund and Annual Benefit. The most recent capital campaigns raised funds for the renovation to Founder’s Hall, construction of Children's House, a new library, construction of Renaissance Hall, and renovations to Caedmon Hall including a new Performing Arts Center.

The Whitby Angels Fund is for individuals or families who want to make an additional significant donation in any school year, in the absence of a formal capital campaign underway. Donations to this fund provide Whitby with additional flexibility so that it can continue to enhance the curriculum and campus as needed. Whitby Angel donations are separate from Annual Fund and Capital Campaign giving, and require a minimum donation of $30,000.

Ways of Giving Direct Gifts

Cash or Checks may be made payable to Whitby School, with the gift designation in the memo section Online Giving – Whitby accepts Visa, MasterCard and American Express. To make an online contribution, please go to www.whitbyschool.org/onlinegiving Matching Gifts – Many companies will match contributions made by an employee (or by an employee’s souse) to a not-for-profit institution. Gifts of Securities – Gifts of appreciated securities are an excellent way to make a gift. Donors receive a deduction for the entire amount of the stock transferred and avoid taxes on capital gains. Please contact the Development Office for instructions. Planned Gifts- In addition to the above listed Direct Giving opportunities, which provide immediate income to Whitby while also providing immediate associated tax benefit to donors, Planned Gifts provide the opportunity for parents, alumni, and friends to donate to Whitby over time or in the future, while providing economic benefits to your estate. Estate planning is constantly changing, so you are advised to consult with your financial advisors to consider options that would benefit you most. Planned Giving opportunities include the following:



http://www.whitbyschool.org/onlinegiving

http://www.whitbyschool.org/onlinegiving



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Mission HistoryThe School DayDress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby School ➤Parents Association

Bequests are cash, property or share of an estate in your will, that allow you to make a gift in the future to Whitby without affecting your cash flow or portfolio now. Charitable Gift Annuities or Charitable Remainder Trusts are vehicles that allow you to retain income benefits from the assets you give to Whitby, and thus afford a larger gift over time. Charitable Lead Trusts support programs at Whitby for a fixed period of time with the principal going to your heirs. Gifts of Life Insurance allow you to create a policy or donate a paid-up policy whose coverage you no longer need or desire.

Please join the Whitby community in giving to those areas of most interest to yourself, and in the form and as your means permit. Whitby is very grateful for the support of all of the Whitby families that have supported these initiatives over the years, and we thank you in advance for considering giving to one or more of these important initiatives during the upcoming school year. If you or your spouse is associated with a company that matches charitable donations, please ensure you take advantage of the generosity of your company, as

your gifts can be doubled, and in some instances tripled, by your employer. The Development Office is available to assist with these requests. If you have questions on the above, wish to make a gift of securities, or wish to discus how best to support Whitby, please do not hesitate to contact in confidence the Development Office.



* For more information on the gap amount and gap methodology, please contact Richard Bernero, Director of Development, at [email protected]





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Mission HistoryThe School DayDress CodeCommunicationsConferences, Events& MeetingsMedical InformationGeneral PoliciesStudent Behavior & Rules of ConductSupport Whitby SchoolParents Association ➤

The Whitby School Parents Association is an organization

whose purpose is to work with the Administration and the Board of Trustees to support the school's mission, programs and activities by encouraging and facilitating the exchange of ideas and information and promoting goodwill. All parents of currently enrolled Whitby School students constitute the

membership of the Whitby Parents Association.

Parents remain the most important and influential people in their children's lives. The PA provides wonderful opportunities to stay involved with your son or daughter's educational experience. You will not only support your child's success while

at Whitby, but also share in this extraordinary journey. Through the PA, parents can become more effective partners in their child's education, plan and implement community-building activities and create a supportive network for themselves. You may find an opportunity for personal growth and develop new

friendships.

Every child at Whitby benefits directly from the work of the PA and there are so many ways for parents to get involved and make a difference. Whitby has been very fortunate to have an outstanding parent community that helps with a wide range of

projects at the school. Parents are offered the opportunity to

volunteer their time in a variety of ways and are a critical part of the success and strength of the PA. The PA invites all parents to join in its endeavors to make our children's experience at Whitby as rewarding and enriching as possible. The contribution of your time -- no matter how large or small -- is greatly appreciated. Volunteer, participate and share your ideas!

PA General Meetings are held monthly from October through May in the Performing Arts Center at 8:30 am. Refreshments are served beforehand to give parents the opportunity to meet and greet. A dial-in capability is available for parents who are unable to attend the meeting in-person. Minutes of the PA General Meeting will be available on the Whitby website.

PA 2012-2013 Welcome Letter

To learn more contact the Whitby PA at [email protected]


Parents Association







2012-2013 Parent and Student Handbook

Documents

Transcript of 2012-2013 Parent and Student Handbook