Jacksonville Elementary School Parent-Student Handbook
Transcript of Jacksonville Elementary School Parent-Student Handbook
1
Jacksonville Elementary
School
Parent-Student Handbook
2015-2016
3400 Hillendale Heights Road
Phoenix, MD 21131
410-887-7880
http://jacksonvillees.bcps.org
Debbie Miller, Principal
Nancy Aumiller, Asst. Principal
Whitney Leber, PTA President
Rev. 07-2015
JETS
2
PTA EXECUTIVE BOARD
President Whitney Leber
Vice President for Volunteers Laura Beynon
Vice President for Ways and Means Amy Marson
Treasurer Kathryn Brayton
Recording Secretary Julie Criswell
Corresponding Secretary Amy Bachran
PARENTS QUICK REFERENCE
Getting the Help You Need
For issues relating to your child’s classroom or school concerns, use the following
steps:
1. Contact the teacher/counselor.
2. Contact the principal/assistant principal.
3. Contact BCPS Zone 2 Office: 410-887-3235.
4. If a parent wishes to observe a classroom, they are to notify the office to schedule an appointment.
For other information, please call the following numbers:
Bus Transportation 410-887-4321
Early Childhood Office 410-887-4313
Communications 410-887-5908
Free & Reduced Meals 410-887-7855
School Closings 410-887-5555
Magnet Schools 410-887-4127
Special Education 410-887-3660
JACKSONVILLE ELEMENTARY QUICK REFERENCE
Main Office Phone Number 410-887-7880
Main Office Fax Number 410-683-8919
Nurse’s Office Phone Number 410-683-8351
3
Welcome to Jacksonville Elementary School!
A Message from the Administrative Team
Jacksonville Elementary School’s Vision:
“We, the Jacksonville Elementary School Community, commit
ourselves to maximizing individual abilities using all available
resources to develop lifelong learners and responsible, caring citizens
able to meet tomorrow’s challenges.”
Jacksonville Elementary School’s Mission Statement:
At Jacksonville Elementary School we strive to provide quality education in a safe
and nurturing environment that develops the knowledge, skills, and character to
enable all students to reach their maximum potential as responsible, life-long
learners and productive citizens.
We believe that in order to realize this mission, the home and school must work in partnership. It is in
this spirit that we worked together in the overall planning, implementation, and evaluation of the total
school program. Your involvement in your child's education continues to make the difference.
This handbook has been provided especially for you. The purpose of the handbook is to provide
important information about our school. Please carefully review the handbook, store it away in a safe
place, and use it as a reference throughout the school year.
Let's keep the lines of communication open. Please do not hesitate to call or email us at any time. We
welcome questions and concerns. It's also nice to hear the good things you might have to say.
We look forward to our continued partnership!
Debbie Miller, Principal
Nancy Aumiller, Asst. Principal
4
Table of Contents
Before and After School Child Care………………….. 14 Breakfast Program……………………………………........ 15 Bus Policies and Procedures…………………………….. 8 Calendar…………………………………………………………… 22 Code of Conduct………………………………………………. 12 Connect-Ed Phone Message System………….……. 5 Delayed Openings and Early Dismissals…………… 7 Dress Code………………………………………………………. 11 Drinking Water at Jacksonville……………………..….. 16 Early Pick-up Procedures for Students……………... 10 Emergency/Information forms for Students….. 5 End of Day Pick-up Procedures………………………… 10 Food in the Classroom……………………………………… 6 Home/School Communication Folder………………. 6 Hours……………………………………………………………….. 5 Inclement Weather-Emergency Closings…………. 6 Late Arrival Procedure……………………………………… 8 Lockers…………………………………………………………….. 15 Lost and Found………………………………………………… 18 Lunch Program………………………………………………… 15 Mission Statement………………………………………….. 3 Morning Student Car Drop-off………………………… 9 Newsletter……………………………………………………… 6 Nurse/Health Information………………………………. 17 PTA Executive Board………………………………………… 2 Quick Reference Phone Numbers……………………. 2
RAPTOR Security Sign in System……………………….. 5 Recreation and Parks……………………………………….. 14 Reporting Student Progress…………………………….. 6 Special Area Classes…………………………………………. 16 Staff and Email Addresses……………………………….. 20 Student Behavior……………………………………………… 11 Suntrust Student Savings Program…………………… 19 Technology Information…………………………………… 18 Toy/Sports Equipment……………………………………… 15 Transporting by Car…………………………………………. 9 Vending Machines…………………………………………… 19 Vision Statement…………………………………………….. 3 Visitors…………………………………………………………….. 12 Volunteers………………………………………………………. 13
5
SCHOOL HOURS
The building will open at 9:05 for students to enter, and they should be seated in their
classroom, ready for class to begin by 9:20 am. Any student not in the classroom by the time
the bell rings will be marked tardy. Dismissal will be at 3:50. Walkers/car riders will be
dismissed at the end of the 2/3 hallway and all bus riders will be dismissed from their
classrooms. Please be advised we do not have control over when the busses arrive to take
children home. Problems at the high school or middle school can delay our busses arriving
here as much as 10-15 minutes.
*Buses will arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to the beginning of the school day.
No child should be dropped off prior to 9:05 am as there is no supervision.
RAPTOR VISITOR/VOLUNTEER SECURITY SIGN IN SYSTEM
All Baltimore County Public Schools are using the RAPTOR system. Everyone must ring
the buzzer located next to the right set of doors. Someone in the office will ask the purpose
of your visit. Please do not hold the buzzer when speaking. You will be invited into the
office where your driver’s license will be scanned and a visitor/volunteer badge printed.
This badge must be worn so it is visible at all times. If you are in the school without a
badge, you will be asked to report to the office to sign in. Please stop by the office to sign
out before leaving the building.
STUDENT INFORMATION/EMERGENCY FORMS
At the beginning of each school year, you will receive a form with all information currently on
file, including emergency contact information. You are asked to make any changes, sign and
return the form. It is extremely important that the office be notified IMMEDIATELY of any
changes in your telephone number, address, your place of employment, your spouse's
place of employment, and emergency telephone numbers. We would not want the
unfortunate situation of a child becoming ill or getting hurt and school personnel being unable
to contact parents because of outdated records. If you get a new telephone number and wish
to keep it confidential, please let us know.
In addition, parents will be asked to complete consent for Administration of Approved
Medications and Health Emergency Contact Information sheet. This sheet will be maintained
in the Health Suite.
If you have legal custody of your child, please make an appointment early in the year to see
the principal or our guidance counselor to discuss this matter. Custody papers and other related
legal documents are required to be on file at school.
CONNECT-ED PHONE MESSAGE SYSTEM
Jacksonville Elementary will again be using the Connect-Ed phone messaging system as a
quick way to get messages to parents. These recorded messages could be anything from an
emergency closing for JES ONLY to information on testing. Please make sure we have
current phone and email information so you receive these messages.
6
FOOD IN THE CLASSROOM
Per BCPS and Jacksonville policy, NO food items are to be brought in to celebrate birthdays in the classrooms. No cupcakes, snacks or food treats. Students can bring small treats, pencils, stickers, etc. for friends but no food. In addition, no McDonalds or special lunches are to be brought into the cafeteria.
For holiday/seasonal classroom parties, per BCPS guidelines, no homemade goodies can be brought in. All treats be store bought and brought to school in the container that it was purchased in. Teachers need to be able to double-check the labels for ingredients in the event that there are allergies in the classroom and it saves the school nurse from having to check allergies in every classroom.
NEWSLETTER
The first Thursday of each month, a newsletter will be posted online which will keep you
informed about important events in the school and community. You will receive an email
message advising you it is posted with a link to the website or you may access it at any time
by going to http://jacksonvillees.bcps.org. If you do not receive an email, please contact the
school to verify we have the correct email address.
REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS
Good communication between parents/guardians and teachers is very important to the
educational process. There are four reporting periods during the school year. Here at
Jacksonville, all classroom teachers schedule conferences with each parent/guardian to discuss
their child's program after the first term. The report cards will be distributed on November 12,
2015 for the first term, February 4, 2016 for the second term, April 21, 2016, for the third term,
and for the fourth quarter on the last day of school in June. Fourth quarter report cards WILL
NOT be mailed home if the student is absent the final day of school. They can be picked up
in the office during the summer.
HOME / SCHOOL COMMUNICATION FOLDER
Every child at Jacksonville will receive a home/school communication folder. This folder is
to go home every night and be returned by students on the next school day. Items such as
notices, information from teachers, and homework will go home nightly in the folders. Parents
are asked to review the folder nightly, pull out appropriate materials, and check homework. In
turn, parents can use the folder to communicate with teachers, as well as the school office.
Look at your child's folder nightly - - you'll find it a most effective communication tool!
INCLEMENT WEATHER-EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
JACKSONVILLE ELEMENTARY IS
LOCATED IN THE HEREFORD ZONE
7
When it is decided that schools are to be closed for inclement weather, announcements will be
made by local television and radio stations. In addition, information can be found on the
Baltimore County Public School website (www.bcps.org) or by calling the hotline at 410-
887-5555. We also encourage you to sign up with Schools Out, https://www.schoolsout.com,
a free service that will send you an email or test message when schools have a delayed opening
or are dismissed early. Students and parents are, therefore, asked to please do not call the
school for this information. These announcements are made for the cancellation of school, as
well as for delayed openings and early dismissals.
HEREFORD WEATHER ZONE -- Jacksonville Elementary is a Hereford Weather Zone
school. In case of inclement weather that would necessitate a delayed opening or early
dismissal of school, parents are asked to pay particular attention to radio and TV
announcements which might indicate information that would ONLY pertain to Baltimore
County Schools in the Hereford Weather Zone.
NOTE: If school has an emergency closing, Play Centers will also be closed AND all
before school activities are cancelled. If there is a field trip scheduled to leave before
school starts, it will be cancelled for that day.
Delayed Openings and Early Dismissals
Media Announcements: The following message will be given to television and radio stations:
"All Baltimore County Public Schools closed." -- (Jacksonville is closed.)
"Baltimore County Hereford Zone Only Schools closed." -- (Jacksonville Elementary is
closed.)
One-hour delay -- for either all Baltimore County Public Schools or for Hereford Zone only
-- Jacksonville will open at 10:05 a.m.
Two-hour delay - for either all Baltimore County Public Schools or for Hereford Zone only
-- Jacksonville will open at 11:05 a.m.
One-Hour Early Dismissal
Students will be dismissed one hour earlier than normal. Dismissal time for Jacksonville will
be 2:50 p.m.
Lunches will be served to students as usual.
Media Announcements: The following message will be given to television and radio stations:
"All Baltimore County Public Schools will close one hour earlier than normal closing
time."
Two-Hour Early Dismissal
Students will be dismissed two hours earlier than normal. Dismissal for Jacksonville will be
1:50 p.m. Lunches: Every effort will be made to serve lunches to all students, thus some
adjustments to lunch shift schedules will be necessary.
8
Media Announcements: Please tune to WBAL Radio 1090 AM. The following message will
be given to television and radio stations: "All Baltimore County Public Schools will close
two hours earlier than the normal closing time.”
Three-Hour Early Dismissal
Same procedure as Two-Hour Closing. Dismissal time for Jacksonville will be 12:50 p.m.
Lunches will be served.
IMPORTANT: For parents with children who attend Baltimore County Schools that are both
in and out of the Hereford Weather Zone, it is important that you recognize that delayed
openings or early closing will create situations whereby students will be on different
transportation schedules. This could present possible child care implications. Parents are
urged to make contingency plans now!
SPECIAL NOTE: Don't forget that Jacksonville Elementary is a Hereford
Weather Zone School. Listen for special messages on radio and television announcing
possible delayed openings or early closings that sometimes only affect Hereford Weather Zone.
It is also important to note that in the event of an early dismissal of Hereford Weather
Zone schools, the dismissal of two-thirds of the Jacksonville Elementary School
population currently living in the areas outside the Hereford Weather Zone would not
occur until approximately the normal dismissal time. In some instances, this may have
implications for child care. This is due to the established bus routes shared with other
schools that also transport Jacksonville Elementary School students. In the event of any
early dismissal of Hereford Zone Schools, the following buses will leave at the early times:
I - Troyer K – Stockton
All other buses will leave at the normal departure time.
LATE ARRIVAL PROCEDURE
Students arriving after 9:20 a.m. should report to the office accompanied by a
parent/guardian to sign them in, and take a note of excuse from parent to the classroom
teacher.
TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS
BUS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Jacksonville Elementary is served by approximately 15 buses. In order to facilitate an orderly
and safe dismissal, students must ride home on their assigned buses. Students will
not be allowed to ride home on any bus but their assigned one. Whenever a child who
normally rides a bus is to be picked up, a note should be sent to school. Students not riding
the bus will meet in a designated location in the school. Whenever your child's
transportation routine is altered, a note must be sent to your child's teacher to specify the
change. DO NOT EMAIL THIS INFORMATION as the teacher may be out or busy
teaching and not able to read it.
9
BUS LANE
TRANSPORTING BY CAR
Driving students to and from school is strongly discouraged in light of the large number of
buses being employed to transport students. When it is necessary to drive students to school,
however, students should be discharged at the center of the parking lot directly in front of the
school so that students can use the crosswalk printed on the driveway.
Only drop off at the parking lot side of the "Student Drop-Off Zone" where the signs are
posted.
Have your child/children prepared to exit the vehicle immediately when pulled up to the
"Student Drop-Off-Zone" area. (Remember, there are other cars waiting to pull up and
drop off.)
Drivers are NOT to drop off children anywhere else other than at the designated "Student
Drop-Off Zone."
Remember that children are to exit from the vehicle using the car door facing the building.
NEVER have a child exit into the parking lot on the opposite side.
Please wait your turn in the line of cars to drop off your children. Do not try to pass on the
left side of the line of cars.
If you must drop your child off or pick your child up early or at dismissal, do not use
the bus lanes.
MORNING STUDENT CAR DROP-OFF
Please review the diagram of how we have allowed for three student drop off spaces. Keep
these two safety precautions in mind as you drop off your students:
- Only allow your child/children
to exit your vehicle on the side
facing the school.
- Please proceed on immediately
after you drop off your child/
children so that the next car
can move up to your drop off space.
Parking Lot
10
STUDENT PICK-UP
(early dismissal)
If students need to leave early from school, they need to bring in a note from home in the
morning stating the time and reason the student will be picked up. DO NOT CALL
SCHOOL OR EMAIL TEACHERS. Parents must report to the office to pick up their
child/children. All parents must sign out their child/children from the office before leaving
school. No child will be dismissed between 3:15 and the last bus departure.
END OF DAY STUDENT PICK-UP
Students who are being picked up will be dismissed out the 2/3 hallway doors (by the gardens)
at 3:50 pm. We suggest you park on the upper lot next to the tennis courts and walk down.
Parent Pick Up Procedures
In order to insure the safety of all of our students, the doors will be opened at 3:50 for parent
pick-up and dismissal. The following guidelines have been established for parent pick-up of
students. In following these procedures, we can be sure that all students are being dismissed
to a designated person and that students are supervised in a safe area at all times.
Guidelines for Students Who Will Be Picked Up Regularly
Only complete the Parent Pickup Registration Form sent home on the first day of school if a
parent/designee is going to be picking up the child every day (or on a set schedule of days)
after school. Please notify the school of any changes during the year.
Guidelines for Students Who Will Be Picked Up On An Occasional Basis
Parents must send in a note to the classroom teacher that morning saying that the child will be
picked up and who will be picking them up. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE OFFICE OR
EMAIL THE TEACHER (the teacher might be out that day and not able to get email
messages). The notes will be sent to the office and a list will be compiled of all students who
will be picked up that day. If we do not receive the information in writing, we will put the
student on the bus.
PLEASE DO NOT GO TO THE CLASSROOMS OR HUB. ALL STUDENTS TO BE
PICKED UP WILL BE DISMISSED FROM THE PARENT PICKUP-UP LINE AT 3:50 PM.
WE APPRECIATE YOUR COOPERATION!!!
11
DRESS CODE
In an effort to create a more positive and respectful learning environment at Jacksonville
Elementary School, the following Dress Code Guidelines have been put in place:
1. The length of shorts or a skirt should not be shorter than finger tip length when
you are standing with your arms down at your sides.
2. Tank tops, muscle shirts, and shirts with spaghetti straps should not be worn.
3. Your stomach should not show.
4. Children should wear outdoor appropriate shoes. Flip flops are not acceptable.
5. Make-up is not appropriate for elementary age students.
6. Children should wear weather appropriate clothing, remembering that they will
go outside in cold weather.
7. Hats are not to be worn in school by boys or girls unless it is a special occasion.
8. Jewelry that distracts the child or others is not to be worn.
STUDENT BEHAVIOR
The primary goal of the Baltimore County Public Schools is to help all students reach their
academic potential. In order to attain that goal, it is important for students to assume
responsibility for their actions and realize the relationship between their behavior and learning.
The Board of Education's disciplinary code is designed so that all students may understand
acceptable and appropriate behavior. These policies are augmented by the administrative rules
and regulations explained in the Student Behavior Handbook.
At the beginning of each school year the school's administrators meet with each class to discuss
the Student Behavior Handbook.
Parents are required to fill out the Student Behavior Handbook Acknowledgment Form located
in the handbook and return it to their child's teacher.
CODE OF CONDUCT
I am respectful
I am responsible
I am safe
I am prepared
Therefore:
1. I will do nothing to keep my teachers from teaching and anyone from learning.
2. I will cooperate with my school family.
3. I will respect myself, others, and the environment.
4. I will walk in the hallways quietly and keep my hands and feet to myself.
5. I am ready to learn!
12
VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERS
As we all continue to work together to ensure the safety of our students, we would like to call
to your attention the following:
The driveway and parking lot in front of the school have been specifically designated for one-
way traffic. A ONE WAY sign is in place at the far entrance, with a Do Not Enter sign placed
at the entrance closer to Jarrettsville Pike.
VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Volunteering Information (including Field Trip Volunteers)
Sign-In
To assure protection under Maryland State Law for comprehensive liability insurance and
worker's compensation, all volunteers are required to sign in at the office upon entering
the school and to wear a volunteer pass. In addition, volunteers are also required to complete
the Safe Schools training online at http://www.bcps.org/community/volunteer_info. A copy
of the application and certificate must be submitted to the school one week prior to
volunteering, either in the school or on field trips.
It is important that you sign in and sign out in order to record your hours each time you report
to your volunteer job. The Maryland State Department of Education requires that we record
the number of volunteer hours in our school, and this information is taken from the computer
logs. Please also include the hours spent at home volunteering.
The school can receive recognition by the county and state for volunteer efforts based on the
total hours accumulated. Individuals will be recognized for their volunteer hours.
Tax Deductions
The IRS allows a number of tax benefits for volunteers. Un-reimbursed expenses, made as
part of giving services to a school, may be deducted by volunteers. Car mileage, bus and cab
fares are deductible. Service hours are not deductible.
Code of Ethics for Volunteers
The volunteer, like the teacher, is bound by professional principles of behavior.
13
Respect for Human Dignity
A JES volunteer…….
Is appreciative of all racial, religious, and ethnic groups.
Is appreciative of individual differences.
Is courteous and impartial.
Encourages positive self-concept through honest appraisement.
Understands and accepts the students in terms of their own backgrounds,
values, manners, sex, vocabulary, and aspirations.
Confidentiality
A JES volunteer…….
Considers personal family matters of pupils confidential.
Considers school records confidential.
Respects privacy of teachers and pupils in school relationships.
Dependability
A JES volunteer……..
Is regular in attendance.
Is punctual.
Notifies school when unable to come.
Signs in and out on appropriate sheets.
Cooperation
A JES volunteer…….
Develops a working relationship with all school personnel.
Is supportive of the staff in its educational efforts.
Observes all school policies, including health and safety procedures.
Observes school procedures in regard to conferences on his/her own children.
Handles school equipment and material in a responsible manner.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE
Our Jacksonville Elementary Child Care Committee, composed of parents and the
administration, carefully evaluated the before and after school child care for our students
provided by Play Centers, Inc. The committee's assessment of Play Centers supported the
return of Play Centers as our child care provider for the 2015-2016 school year. Child care
will be provided from 7:00 a.m. to 9:05 a.m. and from 3:50 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Interested
parents should call 410-296-4880 or 410-666-3055 for more information.
14
NEWS FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS
The Carroll Manor Recreation Council looks forward to serving both children and adults of
Jacksonville Elementary. Their website address is www.carrollmanor.org. There is also a
link from the JES website, or you may call the Recreation Office at 410-887-8207 weekdays
between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. for information on all their programs and events.
LOCKERS
Each child will be assigned a locker outside of the classroom door. Please remember there are
to be no locks. Lunches can be kept in the locker, but it is not a place to store food.
TOY ALERT / SPORTS EQUIPMENT
Students are to refrain from bringing radios, walk-men, electronic equipment, or cards to
school. Also, sports equipment may only be brought in if the Physical Education teacher
requests it due to current unit of study. Any personal item brought to school is the sole
responsibility of the student. All balls brought into school with teacher permission must be
carried in backpacks or in bags.
SCHOOL BREAKFAST/LUNCH PROGRAM
Grab-n-Go breakfast is available when school is in session for the full day. Breakfast includes
cereal or muffin, juice and milk. The cost is $1.40; reduced price is $0.30.
The BCPS's Office of Food and Nutrition will provide a balanced, hot lunch daily for students.
The cost of lunch items is outlined below:
$2.90 - hot lunch
.40 - reduced price hot lunch
.60 – milk
.50 – a la carte (ice cream, frozen yogurt, cookies, etc)
(price subject to change)
A menu will be sent home to you monthly and is also available on the BCPS website at
www.bcps.org. Our cafeteria provides computerized purchasing accounts for students buying
lunch items. One of the major advantages of this computer system is that students may deposit
funds into an account in advance for the purpose of purchasing meals or additional food items.
A prepayment form is available for your convenience. Students may make prepayments on
the first day of school. Prepayments are collected by the classroom teacher and forwarded to
the cafe manager each morning. Additional prepayment forms are available from the office,
cafeteria staff and on the BCPS website.
You may also add money to your child’s account using a credit card by signing up at
https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/login/getmain.action.
15
Additional money may be added to the account at any time. We will continue to accept daily
payments at the register, although we encourage and prefer the prepayment method to ensure
prompt and efficient service. A computerized statement indicating the balance in your child's
account will be sent home periodically.
JACKSONVILLE’S DRINKING WATER
Jacksonville Elementary School has been and is presently on bottled water. Water coolers are
strategically stationed throughout the school.
The Coordinator from the Office of Environmental Services for the Baltimore County Public
Schools monitors and conducts sample readings on the condition of our well water on a regular
basis.
SPECIAL AREA CLASSES
Physical Education Program
All students at Jacksonville will be provided with and expected to participate in physical
education classes. It is important that students be prepared for activities with appropriate attire.
Active wear that allows ease of movement and tennis shoes are required for class (no slip-on
shoes). County policy prohibits unprepared students from participation for safety purposes.
Parents will be notified of P.E. days so that you may help your child to be prepared for class.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Vocal Music Program
The vocal music program provides students with the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate a
wide variety of music on a regularly scheduled basis.
The program consists of: singing (including foreign language songs and games),
listening/appreciation, rhythm, playing percussion and melodic instruments, movement/dance,
reading, composing, and dramatizing.
Integrating the vocal music program with the ongoing implementation of the classroom
curriculum is important. In addition 4th/5th grade chorus is available to all 4th/5th graders.
Fifth grade students may also join band or orchestra and still be part of the fall chorus program.
Instrumental Music Program
The instrumental music program offers 5th grade students the opportunity to study one of the
following instruments: flute, clarinet, oboe, alto and tenor saxophones, trumpet, trombone,
baritone, French horn, tuba, snare drum, violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Lessons are
during school hours, once a week for 50 minutes on a rotation schedule.
16
Band is an enriching experience, and many students will remember it as one of the most
enjoyable and creative times in their lives. In order to get the most out of band, one has to
spend time outside of class getting to know the instrument better, and it is recommended that
each band student practice a minimum of thirty minutes a day. Please encourage your child to
practice. In these days of busy schedules for parent and child, your support is indispensable.
Let's build a band that we can take pride in, leaving you and your children many memories of
their first years of music.
Art Program
All students at Jacksonville Elementary will be provided art instruction. Integrating the art
program with the ongoing implementation of the classroom curriculum is important.
Parents should provide art smocks for all grade levels. (An oversized shirt, labeled with your
child's full name is fine.) Art materials used are non-toxic and water soluble.
Library Media Program
The Library Media Program ensures that learning activities are integrated into the curriculum,
and students become skilled users of information as they access and gather resources.
Instruction is also provided to stimulate interest in reading, viewing, and using information and
ideas.
NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE
The health and well being of your child are primary concerns while your child is in school. In
order to ensure and maintain his/her good health and safety, please take a few minutes to review
the following guidelines:
We attempt to discourage administration of medication in the schools; however, if your
physician decides it is necessary for your child to receive a medication during the school day,
the approval and specific directions must be provided to the school. Parents must bring the
medication to the school in the original box or bottle with the current prescription label
on the container. All medications (even over the counter medications) require a written
physician's order. Students are not to have medications in their possession.
Please keep all home, work, and emergency phone numbers at school up-to-date. When
children become suddenly ill or injured at school, it is essential that we have current phone
numbers.
Please keep the nurse informed of significant changes in your child's health. For example:
changes in diet, daily medication, new allergies, changes in physical restrictions, vision and/or
hearing impairment.
By communicating your child's special health and safety needs to us, we can ensure a safer and
healthier school year. Have a healthy year!
17
LOST AND FOUND
Please mark all belongings with your child's full name. Lost and found items will be located
in the cafeteria area. Students may get permission from their teacher and are encouraged to
look through the lost and found items during lunch time. Parents are also encouraged to check
the Lost and Found periodically during the school year.
VENDING MACHINES
There are no vending machines available to students during the school day. Drinks and snacks
are only available during lunch from the cafeteria. It is also recommended that parents not
send soda to school.
Staff email list on next pages
2015-2016 STAFF
Office Principal Debbie Miller [email protected]
Asst. Principal Nancy Aumiller [email protected]
Admin. Secretary Ann McGuire [email protected]
Records Secretary Carol O'Brien [email protected]
Kindergarten Barbara Bensen [email protected]
Janet Hourihan [email protected]
Chris Hurley [email protected]
Fawn Mitchell [email protected]
Grade 1 Amelia Beever [email protected]
Kathy Epple [email protected]
Jennifer Franklin [email protected]
Christine Poliszczuk [email protected]
Grade 2 Laurie Fink [email protected]
Laura Barton [email protected]
Susan Schmitz [email protected]
Kathy Vananzo [email protected]
Grade 3 Anne Marie Allison [email protected]
Nicole Brown [email protected]
Stacey Grill [email protected]
Jen Harlee [email protected]
Grade 4 John Brown [email protected]
Tim Hurley [email protected]
Mary Kunkel [email protected]
Jenny Ryan [email protected]
Grade 5 Kim Kelch [email protected]
Catie Lippa [email protected]
Renee O'Connell [email protected]
Megan Shiel [email protected]
Special Art Fran George [email protected]
Areas Art Laura Dutton [email protected]
Instrumental Music Wade Coley [email protected]
Library/Media SpecialistHelen Terry [email protected]
Physical Education Karla Lee [email protected]
Physical Education Jenny Springer [email protected]
Vocal Music Becky Tice [email protected]
Vocal Music Teresa Wenck [email protected]
2015-2016 STAFF
Support ESL Kathy Franzoni [email protected]
Staff Guidance Julie Sullivan [email protected]
Nurse Melissa DuCroix [email protected]
Occupational Therapist Sue Schlenger [email protected]
Psychologist Lloyd Collins [email protected]
Reading Julie Brethauer [email protected]
Resource Maggie Sommers [email protected]
Resource Gabe Ross [email protected]
Speech/Lang. Pathologist Jane Coughlin [email protected]
Speech/Lang. Pathologist Karen Forget [email protected]
STAT Cheryl Shaw [email protected]
Paraeducators Barbara Barnaba [email protected]
Linda DeGele [email protected]
Kdg. Asst. Ann Furman
Cafeteria Mieko Allen Person-in-Charge [email protected]
Doris McDavid Server
Robin Atkins Cafeteria Aide
Sharon Blair Cafeteria Aide
Custodial Michelle Tyrrell Chief [email protected]
Robert Smith
Nancy Surratt
Steven Johnson
Approved 5/5/15
BALTIMORE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Towson, Maryland 21204
Calendar 2015-2016 Revised
Pupil Days Teacher Days
August 14 (F) Administrative & Supervisory Personnel Meeting
17 (M) All School Staff on Duty
19 (W) Systemwide Professional Development Activities
24 (M) Opening Day for Students
6 11
September 7 (M) Labor Day – Schools and Offices Closed
14 (M) Rosh Hashanah – Schools and Offices Closed
23 (W) Yom Kippur – Schools and Offices Closed
19 19
October 12 (M) Columbus Day*
16 (F) Systemwide Professional Development Day/MSEA Convention –
Schools Closed for Students – Teachers on Duty
30 (F) First Marking Period Ends – Schools Close 3 Hours Early for
Elementary and Middle School Students – Grade Reporting and Data
Analysis** – Teachers on Duty – High Schools in Session Full Day
21 22
November 11 (W) Veterans Day*
12 (Th) Distributions of Report Cards – Preschool-3 and Pre-K Conference Day
– No Preschool-3 or Pre-K A.M. or P.M. Sessions – Teachers on Duty
13 (F) Elementary Conference Day – Schools Closed for Elementary Students –
Teachers on Duty – Middle Schools and High Schools in Session Full
Day
16-20 (M-F) American Education Week
26-27 (Th-F) Thanksgiving Holiday – Schools and Offices Closed
18-19 19
December 15 (T) Bill of Rights Day*
23 (W) Christmas Holiday/Winter Break Begins at the End of School Day
17 17
January 4 (M) Schools Reopen
15 (F) Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, Birthday *
15 (F) Second Marking Period Ends
18 (M) Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, Birthday Observed – Schools and Offices
Closed
19 (T) Schools Closed for Students – Teachers On Duty - Half Day Systemwide
Professional Development; Half Day Grade Reporting and Data
Analysis; Full Day Preparation for Teachers with Semester Courses
18 19
Page 2 of 3
Pupil Days Teacher Days
February 4 (Th) Distribution of Report Cards
12 (F) Lincoln’s Birthday*
15 (M) Presidents’ Day – Schools and Offices Closed 22 (M) Washington’s Birthday*
20 20
March 4 (F) Half-Day Systemwide Professional Development for Elementary and
Middle Schools – Schools Close 3 hours early for Elementary and
Middle School Students – Teachers on Duty – High Schools in Session
Full Day
24 (Th) Easter Holiday/Spring Break Begins at the End of School Day
25 (F) Maryland Day*
18 18
April 4 (M) Schools Reopen
8 (F) Third Marking Period Ends Schools Close 3 Hours Early for Elementary
and Middle School Students – Grade Reporting and Data Analysis** –
Teachers on Duty – High Schools in Session Full Day
21 (Th) Distribution of Report Cards
26 (T) Primary Election Day; Schools and Offices Closed
19 19
May 16 (M) Pre-K and Kindergarten Conference Day – No Preschool-3, Pre-K, or
Kindergarten Sessions
17 (T) Pre-K Conference Day – No Preschool-3 or Pre-K Sessions
27 (F) Last Day for Seniors
30 (M) Memorial Day Observed – Schools and Offices Closed
31 (T) Commencement Exercises Begin
21 21
June 1-9 (W-Th) Commencement Exercises
15(W) Assessment Day**** – Grade Reporting and Data Analysis –
Elementary, Middle, and High Schools in Session Full Day – Last Day of
Classes for Preschool-3 and Pre-K
14 (T) Flag Day*
16 (Th) Assessment Day**** – Schools Close 3 Hours Early for Elementary and
Middle School Students – High Schools in Session Full Day – Grade
Reporting and Data Analysis** – Teachers on Duty
17 (F) Assessment Day**** – Schools Close 3 Hours Early for Elementary and
Middle School Students – High Schools in Session Full Day – Grade
Reporting and Data Analysis** – Teachers on Duty
13 13
TOTAL 190-191 198
June 24 (F) Summer School Teachers on Duty (Teachers choose June 24 or July 1)
July 1 (F) Summer School Teachers on Duty (Teachers choose June 24 or July 1)
4 (M) Independence Day – Schools and Offices Closed
5 (T) Summer School Begins
29 (F) Summer School Ends
Page 3 of 3
*Schools open with appropriate exercises OR appropriate exercises to be scheduled on the school day
prior
** GRADE & DATA RECORDING, DATA ANALYSIS – Principals and teachers will have time for
grade and data recording, data analysis/progress assessment ****ASSESSMENT DAY – High schools will have the opportunity to administer traditional final exams
or to use alternative assessment procedures.
If schools are closed seven days due to emergency conditions, it may be necessary to alter the school
calendar. Additional days may be scheduled as required at the end of the school year. Depending on the
use of emergency full day closures, delayed openings or early dismissals, the calendar may be adjusted as
needed to meet the minimum required days/hours. Professional Development days may be modified.
Teacher duty days will not exceed 191. End-of-year adjustments to the school calendar will be
announced as soon as feasible.
Quarters
End Date Number of Days in Quarter
10/30/15 46 Days
1/15/16 46 Days
4/8/16 51 Days
6/17/16 48 Days
Teacher Professional Development Days
8/19/15 Full Day Schools closed for all students; Teachers on duty
10/16/15 Full Day Schools closed for all students; Teachers on duty
1/19/15 Full Day Schools closed for all students; Teachers on duty
Scheduled Early Releases
10/30/15 Half Day - Elementary and Middle schools close 3 hours early; Teachers on duty
3/4/16 Half Day - Elementary and Middle schools close 3 hours early; Teachers on duty
4/8/16 Half Day - Elementary and Middle schools close 3 hours early; Teachers on duty
6/16/16 Half Day - Elementary and Middle schools close 3 hours early; Teachers on duty
6/17/16 Half Day - Elementary and Middle schools close 3 hours early; Teachers on duty
Student Hours
High Schools: 1241.5 hours (including 45.5 inclement weather hours [7 days])
1196 hours (excluding 45.5 inclement weather hours)
1196 hours – 1170 hours (required HS hours) = 26 hours balance
Middle Schools: 1241.5 hours (including 45.5 inclement weather hours [7 days])
1181 hours (excluding planned 15 hours early releases and 45.5 inclement
weather hours)
1181 hours – 1080 (required MS hours) = 101 hours balance
Elementary Schools: 1241.5 hours (including 45.5 inclement weather hours [7 days])
1174.5 hours (excluding planned 1 day closure for parent conferences, 15
hours early releases and 45.5 inclement weather hours)
1174.5 hours – 1080 (required Elementary hours) = 94.5 hours balance