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Parent-Student Handbook

2016-2017

Our MissionTramway Elementary School will provide quality year-round

educational opportunities that prepare students to become life-long learners while promoting an atmosphere that encourages

self-confidence and inspires students to dream and become successful, productive citizens who are willing to question the

world around them.

Tramway Elementary School360 Center Church Road

Sanford, North Carolina 27330919-718-0170

Table of ContentsOur Mission ................... page 1

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.....

Seven Habits and Leader in Me...................

..... pages 3-4

LCS and Tramway Staff and Faculty...................

..... pages 5-6 Attendance

........................ page 7

Signing In and Out Procedures...................

..... page 8

Before and After School Procedures...................

..... page 9

Visitors and School Volunteers...................

..... page 10

Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)...................

..... page 11

Code of Conduct and Discipline...................

..... page 12-13

Bus Conduct...................

..... page 14

Cafeteria and Prepayment Schedule ...................

..... page 15Academic Information

Homework and Conferences...................

..... page 16

Student Progress and Honor Roll...................

..... page 17

Promotion Requirements...................

..... page 18

Physical Education...................

..... page 18

School Counselor...................

..... page 19

Permission to Print and Publish...................

..... page 19General Information

Records Up to Date, Child Placement, Fees and Solicitation

........................ page 20

Books and Supplies, Media Center, Insurance and Drills

........................ page 21-22

School Pictures, Celebrations, and Field Trips...................

..... page 22-232

Personal Belongings, Bathrooms, Snacks, Pets and Toys, Communication with Students or

Staff...................

..... page 24

Medication and Health Concerns...................

..... pages 24- 25

Immunization Information...................

..... page 25

Safety and Security...................

..... page 26Inclement Weather and School Closings

and Delays...................

..... page 26-27

Board Policies...................

..... page 28-32

Seven Habits of Happy Kids-The Leader in Me

Habit 1-be Proactive: You’re in ChargeI am responsible. I take initiative.

I choose my attitudes, actions and moods.

Habit 2-Begin with the End in Mind: Have a PlanI plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and

make a difference.

Habit 3-Put First Things First: Work First,Then PlayI spend my time on things that are most important. I say no to

things I know that I should not do. I am self disciplined and organized.

Habit 4-Think Win-Win: Everyone Can Win

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I want everyone to be a success. I don’t have to put others down to get what I want. When conflict happens, I look for a third

solution. I believe that we all can win!

Habit 5-Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood:

Listen Before you TalkI listen to other’s people’s feelings and ideas. I try to see things

from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting.

Habit 6-Synergize: Together is BetterI know that everyone is good at something. We all can learn something from each other. Working in groups creates better

ideas than what one person can do alone.

Habit 7-Sharpen the Saw: Balance Feels BestI take care of my body by eating right, exercising and getting

sleep. I learn in lots of ways and places, not just at school. I take time to help others.

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Lee County Schools AdministrationDr. Andy Bryan, Superintendent

Dr. Jim Atkinson, Sr., Assistant SuperintendentDr. Carol Chappell, Director of Instruction

Kelly Jones, Chief Finance OfficerJohn Conway, Assistant SuperintendentRob Dietrich, Chief Technology Officer

Lee CountyBoard of Education

Mark Akinosho, Sandra Bowen,Tamara Brogan,

Ophelia LivingstonCameron Sharpe

Janice Davis Dr. Lynn Smith, Chairman

School Board AttorneyJimmy Love, Sr.

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Our Tramway Elementary School Faculty and StaffAndrea Sloan, Principal

Stacie Eggers, Assistant PrincipalOffice Staff

Joan Phillips, Suzanne Sanders and Brandi WickerKindergarten First Grade Second Grade Third Grade

Tracy Beal Sarah Bullard Melanie Altman Tina Harrington Allison Pridgen Mamie Beane Hayley Gaines Melanie Hawes LaTonya McLean Courtney Quinn Sara Lyerly Lisa Hoffman

Beth Rives April Richardson Heather Potts Ashton LangleyChris Wicker Danielle Shade Lori Westrick Carly Peace

Stephanie Summerlin Caroline Phillips

Fourth Grade Fifth Grade Instructional AssistantsLynda Cummings George Beasley Christin Baker Monica Monroe

Barb Hruby Kristin Edwards Barbara Carnegie Donna Patterson

Samantha Scott Amber West Beverly Gunter Cathy Persons Melody Watts Pam Miller

Sarah MillerChristine

HilliardSondra

McDougaldLori Johnson

Callie SpitlerJudy TurnerDawn WeathersYolanda Womble

Exceptional Education:

Media : Sarah Slate

Senita McLaughlin Krista Von Canon

April BussyJaclyn Folz

LaKesha Draughn Art : Michelle HoltIntervention Teacher: Jessica Jackson

School Psychologist : Nicole Moyer

Music: Judy SpiveyTech : Marcus

Williams School Nurse: Mary Oates

Speech: Susanne Colandro

Physical Education:

Cara LangstonSRO: Sgt. McLean

ESL:Vivian Levarek

AIG:Angela Spurlin

School Counselor:June Wicker

Cafeteria Staff:

Billie ArnetteDebra Adkins Mary CloutierTerry Martin

Rebecca Wornom

Custodians:Victor BoykinLarry Harris

Toney FeasterJeremy Miller

Social Worker:Kim Richardson

Attendance (from Rule 23, Student Code of Conduct)Every student is expected to be in full-time attendance in his assigned classes except in instances of excused absences. Excused absences are:

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Personal illness Quarantine Death in immediate family Medical or dental appointment Court or administrative procedure Religious observance Absences with prior approval from principal, must have educational value Miscellaneous emergencies approved

by principalAll other absences are considered unexcused.

Unexcused Tardies and Unexcused Early Pick Up of students: It is very important that your child arrive at school on time and stay the entire school day. The following policy is in place to help prevent students from being excessively tardy and from checking out early excessively (for reasons that would be unexcused):

1-Principal letter on the third unexcused tardy/early pick up during a quarter2-Discipline measures at the discretion of the principal and up to one day of BIP may be assigned to students on the fourth unexcused tardy/early pick up in a quarter or who are habitually tardy/picked up early (as well as after the fourth).

Students who are absent ten consecutive days without notifying the school will be dropped from the roll.

When a student returns to school after an absence, he/she will be required to present a written note, from his/her parents or legal guardian, to his/her teacher. The note should contain the following information:

The student's first and last name The date(s) that the student was absent

The specific reason why the student was absent

The signature of the parent or guardian.7

Any student who fails to bring a note with the proper signature within three days of absence will receive an unexcused absence. Any student who presents false information or false signature to the school will receive an unexcused absence.

Sign In and Sign Out ProceduresOnce a student has entered the school campus during the school day, he or she becomes the responsibility of the school. Explanatory notes written by the parent, guardian or doctor will be forwarded to the homeroom teacher for filing. Excessive tardiness will require a parental conference. Teachers will not admit students to class without the proper tardy slip from the office.

Requests to leave school during the day because of illness or other reasons will be taken care of in the front office. The parent or guardian should come to the school office to pick up the student and sign them out. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE RELEASED TO ANYONE OTHER THAN THE CHILD'S PARENT OR GUARDIAN WITHOUT THE PARENTS’ CONSENT. ONLY THE NAMES LISTED ON THE PE CARD WILL BE CONSIDERED AS HAVING PARENTS’ CONSENT.

Signing out early from school should be rare and for very good reason. Parents should send a note to teachers in the morning when a student will be signed out before the end of the school day (indicating time and reason). This is necessary so that teachers can prepare needed materials for students to have before they leave. Students should only be signed out between 2:00 and 2:30 for medical appointments or family emergencies.

Before and After School ProceduresMorning: Morning car riders can be dropped off in the driving lane in the back of the school. The front of the school is for bus unloading from 7:30 – app. 7:45. The front is available for morning drop off when no buses are out front unloading at 7:45 am.

Tardies:Students arriving after 8:05 must be accompanied by an adult to the office in order to receive a tardy slip.

Afternoon: Parents should form a line in the front driveway beginning at the cones that block the rear driveway beside the cafeteria and continue around the back of the school to the covered walkway once the buses have been moved to the front of the school. This may begin at approximately 2:00 each day. Please have your child's name on a card and make it visible to us in the car line. This will help us expedite the loading process. ** All parents should drive through the car line to pick up students.**Fourth and Fifth Grade car riding students who do not have younger siblings may be picked up in the front of the school after the buses leave.

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Afternoon Transportation Changes: Please keep afternoon transportation changes to a minimum. These should be done very rarely and/or in emergency situations. For safety reasons we will not accept telephone calls to make transportation changes. All changes must be in writing and submitted to your child’s teacher upon arrival to school. We will not allow constant changes in schedules. Thank you for your help with this.

Daily Schedule*Supervision is provided in the cafeteria and gym only from 7:30-8:00 a.m.

Visitors

Parents are welcome at Tramway School. Parents should contact the principal's office and/or teacher prior to visiting during the school day. It is essential that prior notice be given to us for visits. We have had some parents to “drop by” the classroom unexpected, and this does disrupt instruction.

We do not permit students from other schools to visit without special permission from the principal. Children below school age shall not

be permitted to visit unless accompanied by their parents. Siblings of current students are not allowed to go on class field trips. These events are planned by the teachers for their classes only. Thanks for your help with this.

School Volunteer Program

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7:30-8:00 a.m.

Car rider drop off in driving lane in back of the school and students report to the cafeteria/gymStudents may eat breakfast and/or go to the gymBreakfast served from 7:35-8:00 a.m.

8:00 a.m. Students dismissed to go to class8:05 a.m. Instructional day begins

Tardy slips distributed at the front office

2:30 p.m. Instructional day endsBus riders dismissed and escorted to buses

2:33 p.m. Car riders dismissed and escorted to rear lobbyYMCA dismissed and escorted to gym

2:30-3:30 p.m.

Planning time for teachers

One of the best ways a parent can be involved in a child's education is through volunteering. A parent can volunteer as much or as little time as he/she wishes in a variety of areas that include:

assisting with clerical dutiesreading to a childtutoringworking closely with P.T.O.assisting with field trips and classroom activitiessharing special skills with childrenvolunteering in the P.T.O. Thrift Shop

We welcome and appreciate the valuable time and assistance our volunteers give to our children, staff, and the total school program at Tramway Elementary School.

OfficersBrandy Grindle….. President

Holly Windmeyer….. Vice PresidentLanie Pugh… SecretaryDana Miller… Treasurer

Meredith Sercy… Ways & MeansJune Wicker….. Faculty Representative

Scheduled Meetings

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Thursday, August 25, 2016 Summer Meeting 7:00 p.m.Thursday, December 8, 2016 Winter Meeting 7:00 p.m.Thursday, May 11, 2017 Spring Meeting 7:00 p.m.

Parent Information Sessions – Dates for 2016 – 2017 School Year

Kindergarten TBA TBAFirst Grade TBA TBASecond Grade TBA TBAThird Grade TBA TBAFourth Grade TBA TBAFifth Grade TBA TBA

Other meetings may be called as necessary.Code of ConductStudents are subject to the authority and discipline of school personnel. All students must adhere to the 2016-17 Student Code of Conduct and the rules and regulations of Tramway Elementary School. Any student violating the rules of the school or the Lee County Board of Education will be subject to discipline and the authorized consequences.

SCHOOL RULES

To engage in any of the following will be a violation of school rules:

1. Being disrespectful to faculty and other school staff members.2. Creating a disturbance in the classroom, building, school grounds

or on the bus.3. Fighting, engaging in an affray, provoking a fight or bullying of

any type.

4. Possessing any object that which can reasonably be considered a weapon,

weapon replica or toy weapon to school or on the bus.5. Possessing, using, or distributing intoxicants or narcotic drugs.6. Postponing, delaying or disturbing information or action that

disturbs the normal routine and welfare of the school, as an individual or within a group.

7. Committing any act which detains, detracts or infringes upon the rights of others as individuals.

8. Threatening the physical or moral well-being of a student, a faculty member or any other staff member.

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9. Smoking, bringing matches and/or lighters on campus, or at bus stops.

10. Purposely damaging or defacing school property.11. Extorting money from other students. 12. Stealing anything from anyone.13. Use of profanity and obscenity of any form.14. Gambling -- including playing with dice, cards, pitching

coins or possessing other gambling devices.15. Promoting and/or contributing to a fight or similar disturbance.16. Bringing Ipods, cell phones or electronic games to school.17. Wearing hats, sunglasses, bandanas or other head apparel inside

any building, or wearing belts unbuckled. 18. Inappropriate name calling.19. Throwing, shooting, popping, or otherwise hitting other students

with item such as berries, balls, rocks, pine cones, snow, ice, paper clips, rubber bands or staples.

20. Leaving classroom without first getting permission.21. Playing in a "roughhouse" manner on the campus.22. Defacing or disturbing the walls of the building.23. Playing with any type ball (baseballs, basketballs, etc.) in the

classrooms, hallways, parking lots, or any other building on campus other than the gymnasium or athletic/physical education fields, without teacher permission.

24. Leaving campus without permission or being in off-limits areas of the

building without permission.

Discipline Procedures

Students may expect to be dealt with fairly but firmly in all matters concerning discipline. It is our belief that the educational process cannot be served or maintained without a high degree of discipline. It should be clearly understood that violating school rules of a lesser nature, will invoke action from the principal that could range from conferences to suspension. The assistant principal or the principal may suspend students. For these minor offenses, less severe punishments shall be used as corrections for poor behavior or a rules violation. Students who continue to violate school policies will be suspended pending action by the superintendent or the principal’s recommendation for long term suspension.

The disruptive consequences of poor school citizenship and behavior upset the stable learning environment that is so vital if teachers are going to teach and students are going to learn. A single disciplinary problem often adversely affects the learning experiences of all students in the class.

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The Lee County Schools’ Student Code of Conduct brochure is sent home at the beginning of the school year with your child. Please review this information with your child and call the school if you have questions, or if you need additional brochures.

Bus ConductStudents shall comply with all appropriate rules in the Student Code of Conduct while riding, boarding or leaving the bus. In addition, students shall adhere to any additional school or county rules developed specifically to govern their conduct while riding, boarding, or leaving the bus. School bus transportation is a privilege, and students may lose this privilege through failure to follow the regulations for student conduct while riding the school bus. A brochure describing proper bus conduct and safety will be given to your child during the first week of school. Parents should review and discuss this brochure with their children.

Bus DisciplineThere is a growing concern in North Carolina over the safety of children riding school buses. Evidence supports that children creating problems on buses distracts the bus drivers and inhibits their performance--thus causing accidents. The Lee County Board of Education adopts these procedures as policy for bus students. The measures described are the minimum actions to be taken. The school principal may use her discretion to increase punishment as needed.

FIRST OFFENSE – Counsel with student; parent notification and maximum 3 days off school bus transportation. SECOND OFFENSE – 5 days off school bus transportation.

THIRD OFFENSE – 10 days off school bus transportation and may be suspended from the school bus for the remainder of the school year.

FOURTH OFFENSE – Student will be suspended from the school bus transportation for the remainder of the school year.

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Cafeteria

1. We promote good nutrition, good behavior, and proper table manners at all times.2. Breakfast will be served from 7:35 to 8:00 a.m.3. All students will go to the cafeteria to eat lunch, will sit together as a class, and remain in assigned seating area.4. Students will form a single line and wait to be served. There should not be any breaking in line or saving a place for a friend or group of friends.5. Students will not delay the normal routine of any cafeteria worker.6. All food items should be purchased when going through line.7. Students are to buy milk or bring juice/water bottles. We discourage tea, coffee, or carbonated drinks.8. Encourage your child to bring fruit for snacks and dessert rather than sweets.9. There will be no LOUD talking or playing in the cafeteria.10. Students should wait until a teacher/teacher assistant directs you to move tothe trash disposal area. Place paper products in disposal cans. Place trays andsilverware in appropriate place.11. No food, cups or paper products should be carried outside the cafeteria.

Cafeteria PricesStudent breakfast $1.50Reduced student breakfast –No ChargeStudent lunch $2.10Reduced student lunch $0.40Ice Cream $.65

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HomeworkHomework is an enriching and integral part of the curriculum. We believe that homework is a reinforcement of skills learned at school and also serves to inform parents of what their child is doing at school. During the school year, students will have homework assigned on a regular basis. Homework can effectively serve many purposes including:

Enriching and developing student initiative and independence

Reinforcement of previous learning Accommodating of student learning and ability

differences Completing unfinished work Encouraging utilization of school resources for learning

Parent ConferencesParent conferences are greatly encouraged and beneficial to teachers, parents, and students. Parents may call the teacher for an appointment for a conference at any time during the school year. Conferences will be required in K-5 as follows:

1. Kindergarten teachers will schedule regular parent/guardian conferences.2. A minimum of one conference a year will be held for

each K-5 student.3. A first and second semester conference will be held with

the parent/guardian of each child who is not making satisfactory progress.

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Student ProgressProgress reports will be sent home in the middle of each nine weeks. Report cards will be issued at the end of each nine weeks. Please remember you may review grades on Parent Assist through the Lee County Schools’ website at any time.

Progress Report dates: Report Card dates:August 12, 2016 October 10, 2016November 9, 2016 January 4, 2017February 7, 2017 March 15, 2017May 5, 2017 June 9, 2017

The progress rating scale/numeric grades for Kindergarten through Fifth grade are:

KindergartenE = Excellent Progress-On or above grade levelS = Satisfactory Progress-On grade levelN = Needs ImprovementU = UnsatisfactoryNumber grades given for English Language Artsand Math

First-Fifth GradeA = 90-100 (Outstanding)B = 80-89 (Above Average)C = 70-79 (Average)D = 60-69 (Below Average)F = Below 60 (Failing)

Honor RollTramway School wishes to honor those students who excel academically by recognizing them on either of two honor rolls. The Principal's Honor Roll will include students who receive A's and S's on all academic course work including composition, resource classes, and work habits, but excluding handwriting and social habits. The A-B Honor Roll will include all students who have no grade below a B or S in the same academic course work.

Promotion RequirementsParents are encouraged to monitor the progress of students throughout the school year. Prior to the end of the third nine weeks grading period, parents of a child who is in definite danger of being retained will be notified.

A student will be considered for retention if:1. The student is not achieving at a level commensurate with his/her abilities.

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2. The student is not achieving at a level commensurate with his/her grade placement and grouping (primarily in language arts and mathematics).3. The student has not demonstrated that he/she is putting forth the effort to make progress.4. The student has not attended school a required minimum of 164 days.5. It is determined that retention is in the best interest of the student.

The State of North Carolina has established that, for students in grades 3, 4, and 5, the standard for grade-level proficiency shall be a test score level of 3, 4 or 5 on end of grade tests in reading and mathematics.

Physical Education - Sharpening the saw

Tramway Elementary School’s Physical Education program provides every student the opportunity to sharpen the saw by developing and understanding his/her individual fitness level.   We believe that, by beginning at an early age, lifetime health and fitness habits will be instilled to help produce a well rounded, fit, and healthier adult.  We provide every child an opportunity to synergize by working together and create win-win situations by helping all students to feel successful through maximum participation in fitness activities, dance and variety of sports.

 Tramway is proud to offer many extra activities to enhance the physical education curriculum.  A walking program has been established to promote the importance of fitness and help students be able to focus in the classroom. Students also have the chance to participate in Jump Rope for Heart, water safety field trips, and K-2 and 3-5 Fitness Field Days.  Families are encouraged to be physically active through informational newsletters, fitness logs, and exercise calendars. Students in grades 3rd-5th grade will maintain a Fitness portfolio to help them take charge of their fitness. GO TIGER SHARKS!!!

School CounselorThe school counseling program at Tramway School is designed to serve as a bridge between the student’s home, our school, and the community.Our counselor, Mrs. Wicker, will work with students individually, in small groups, and in classrooms.  Classroom lessons focus on the academic, career awareness, and social/emotional areas of the counseling curriculum. Small group meetings may be scheduled to help new students become acclimated to the school, or to help students who are experiencing friendship difficulties. Mrs. Wicker will meet with students individually to discuss any issue that a student may be facing, such as concerns with friends, with academic work, or with anything that prevents a student from feeling invited, included, or important.  Mrs. Wicker will assist teachers and administrators as they work together to help each student to reach his/her potential. She will help identify

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specific needs of students, and work to find strategies to address those needs.  She works within a confidential environment, where parents, teachers and students can feel comfortable sharing confidences in an effort to provide the best education for the students.  Mrs. Wicker coordinates many school-wide service experiences, such as Food Drives.  She invites parents to contact her at any time to discuss particular needs or concerns.  

Permission to Print PhotographThe Lee County School System reserves the right to photograph your child at school for use in district publications including, but not limited to, calendars, brochures, district website, promotional materials, advertisements, instructional materials and flyers, unless contacted in writing by the 10 th day of receipt this NOTICE. Any written request to abstain from printing a student’s image should include the student’s name, school, grade, teacher, date and the printed name and signature of the parent or legal guardian.

Permission to Publish Student WorkThe Lee County School System reserves the right to promote academic work of students for use in district publications including calendars, brochures, district publications including the district website, promotional materials, advertisements, instructional materials and flyers, unless contacted in writing by the 10th day of receipt of this NOTICE. A written objection to the publishing of a student’s work should include the student’s name, school, grade, teacher, date and the printed name and signature of the parent or legal guardian.

Records Up to DatePlease help us to keep our records up to date! We need to know the following if they occur:

1. Change of address2. Change of phone number3. Change of alternate/emergency phone number4. Change of employer5. Change of physician6. Change of name7. Change in family status

Child PlacementEvery student is entitled to a quality education. It is the responsibility of the school staff and administration to meet the needs of individual students. This

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can best be accomplished when each classroom is representative of the total school population. Each classroom has students with a range of abilities and backgrounds. All students benefit by exposure to a variety of people.

It is the legal responsibility of the school principal to assign students to classroom teachers. This is not done randomly. The principal carefully reviews student records and matches the student with the most appropriate teacher. Parent requests for specific teachers are not accepted. The principal does welcome information from parents about the special needs of children that might be helpful in placements. This information should be sent to the principal during the months of March or April each year.

FeesGenerally, no fees are charged by Tramway School or the Board of Education except for field trips, damaged property or lost school materials.

Books and SuppliesMost books and supplies necessary for your child's education are provided by the State of North Carolina and the Lee County Board of Education. Textbooks and workbooks are school and state property and should be treated accordingly. If they are lost or damaged they must be paid for by the parents. Books and reusable materials remain the property of the school.

Media CenterThe Media Center contains instructional materials to meet the needs of the curriculum and provides for many levels of maturity, ability, and wide interests of the students. As part of the instructional program, all classes visit the Media Center on a regular basis.

The Media Center may host Book Fair Fundraisers during the year. Students must maintain school rules while in the book fair. Any infraction of the school rules (see Code of Conduct) during the book fair will result in punishment and the students not being allowed to return to the book fair for that school year, or the following school year. Infractions involving theft may result in the assistance of our school system’s SROs.

All books checked out will be the responsibility of that student. If books are lost or damaged, prompt payment of the full amount of the purchase price is expected to replace the lost or damaged book. Books that are not returned

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by the time the Media Center closes for the end-of-the-year inventory must be paid for. Not paying for books could result in punishment including, but not limited to, in school suspension, loss of special privileges, or for parents to pick up report cards when proper payment is received.

InsuranceThe Lee County Board of Education is again providing limited “accident” coverage for every student at no cost to the parent. The parents’ insurance will still be primary with this coverage being secondary. A copy of insurance information will be sent home at the beginning of the school year.

Fire DrillsAccording to North Carolina School Laws, each school is required to hold at least one fire drill and sanitation inspection each month. Routes for the nearest fire exit are posted in each classroom. We also practice lockdown drills at least twice a year.

Tornado DrillsTornado drills will be conducted periodically. Students will be instructed as to the safest areas of the school to seek shelter and how to assume correct protective posture.

School PicturesDuring the fall and spring, each student will have a photograph made by a professional photographer. Parents will be given an opportunity to purchase a variety of picture packages. Class pictures and individual pictures may be made in the spring of the year.

Individual pictures: October 25, 2016Individual and class pictures: April 27, 2017

Flowers and Gifts, Invitations, Celebrations and FoodDo not send flowers or gifts to the school. These items cannot be transported on the bus and cause a major distraction in the classroom.

No limousines are allowed at school for student pick up.

Parents may bring cookies, cupcakes, and/or juice for birthday celebrations. Parents should contact teachers and bring these items during the class snack time (not at lunch time). Cupcakes from a bakery or deli and juice boxes are the most popular and easiest birthday

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snack. Teachers will place birthday party invitations in folders, if all students in the class are invited (otherwise, we will not).

Do not bring home cooked items. Items should be store bought. This is important because the food needs to be prepared in a place that is inspected regularly by USDA or local health inspectors. Bakery items are the safest.

Field TripsDuring the school year, classes will be allowed to take field trips. Each field trip will be planned by the teacher as part of the instructional program and will have the approval of the principal and superintendent. Students who go on field trips will have insurance. Younger siblings may not attend the field trips.

Personal BelongingsWe strongly urge that all articles of clothing, school bags, lunches, books, etc. be marked clearly with the student's name and/or grade. All articles lost or found should be reported or turned in at the office. Parents/students should promptly report any loss as soon as possible. Lost and found items are temporarily kept on the hall tree outside of the back hall office area. They are then taken to the PTO Thrift Store. Students are discouraged from bringing extra money to school. The school cannot and will not accept the responsibility for lost money or theft.

Bathroom and Water FountainsAll bathrooms and water fountains should be kept clean. Students who deface or vandalize the bathroom and water fountains will be disciplined.

SnacksStudents are to bring healthy snacks to school. Chewing gum, eating candy, and drinking soft drinks during school is prohibited except during special occasions approved by the teacher. Failure to follow this policy will result in the student being disciplined.

Pets and ToysStudents often enjoy bringing a pet or toy to show classmates. Please communicate with your child’s teacher to find an appropriate time to share these with the class that would integrate with the curriculum being taught.

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Communication with Students or StaffIn order to protect the instructional time of the day, parents are urged to refrain from calling a student to leave a message except for emergencies. Staff members are only called to the telephone between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in emergency situations. If you wish to speak to a staff member, please call between 2:35 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. We will, however, be happy to leave a message in a staff member's mailbox at any time of the day. They will return your call as soon as possible.

Medication and Health ConcernsIf a child needs to take medication (prescription or nonprescription) at school, parents will need to provide a note from the doctor and written request from the parent or guardian. If the medication is for a short time (antibiotic for an infection, pain medicine after an accident) then the doctor can write a request for the child to take the medication at school on a prescription pad or other piece of paper. If the child needs long term medication (Ritalin, asthma medication, Tylenol as needed for chronic headaches) then the doctor and parent must fill out a "Request For Medication To Be Given During School Hours" form (available at school or the doctor's office) before school personnel can give medication.

All medication at school is designed to protect the child. Special medication procedures (such as a severe reaction to a bee sting) should first be checked with the school nurse. All medication will be kept in the front office and administered at the front office, except for asthma inhalers, if requested by a physician and parent. Parents, not students, should transport all medications to school.

The child may be sent home if school personnel suspect a communicable disease or condition, such as head lice, scabies, impetigo, chickenpox, pink eye, strep throat and others. We send children home for diagnosis and

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treatment if we think a child has one of these conditions as well as to protect other children from those children who might be contagious. Children with a temperature over 100 degrees who are vomiting and/or have diarrhea will be sent home from school. Children should be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school.

Our school nurse, Mrs. Oates, is scheduled for Tramway two days per week. Parents will be notified in the event of serious accidents or sudden illness. If a parent cannot be reached, the emergency contacts will be notified. Appropriate first aid will be given for minor injuries.

Immunization Information1. Certificate of Immunization must include:

- Name and date of birth of child- Name of the parent(s) or guardian(s)- Address of parent(s) or guardian(s)- Sex of the child- Date (month-day-year) of each dose of vaccine

administered on or after July 1, 1979 2. Immunization Requirements (Kindergarten - Fifth Grade)

(Minimum) 4 DPT (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) vaccine with the 4th

(booster) dose on/after the fourth birthday; 4 OPV (oral polio vaccine) doses 2 MMR (measles or rubeola, mumps and rubella) vaccines with the first

dose after the first birthday; 1 HIB (hemophilus influenza b) on/after 15 months of age 3 HBV (hepatitis b) vaccines 1 Varicella dose

Safety and SecurityAll faculty, staff, volunteers and guests of Tramway are required to wear identification badges while on campus. Students are instructed not to speak to anyone without an identification badge. As students travel about campus, a buddy system is used. Safety programs and activities will be provided during the school year to make students aware and accountable for their own safety.

Listed below are some personal safety/security steps parents can teach children.1. Always travel in groups or with another child.2. Stay close to others when walking to and from school or at play. Take someone’s hand when crossing the street.3. Never talk to a stranger, walk with a stranger, or get into a car with a stranger. Don’t believe a stranger who says someone in your family was hurt and that he will take you to them.

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4. Never leave home without telling your parents, older brother, or sister where you are going and with whom.5. At home, learn how to dial 911 for operator on the telephone if you see a stranger walking around your house, if someone in the house hurts himself or herself, or if you see a fire start in the house

Inclement WeatherParents should check our school’s website (first), or call the school concerning plans for early release due to unusual occurrences or bad weather. Students and parents should listen to local radio and television stations for information when weather may cause us to have delays or cancellations. For inclement weather closings and delays, our school system will also send a

Blackboard telephone message.

School Closing and DelaysCircumstances such as snow and icy roads, power failures and water outages, can force the decision to delay school opening or cancel school, at one or all schools. In the case of inclement weather, we try to make the decision and begin making the announcement by 6:00 a.m. The decision is based on the weather forecast and information received from law enforcement agencies, the NC Department of Transportation, and our own staff. If the weather is bad enough to prevent opening on a normal schedule, one of three decisions, with corresponding announcements will be made:

School closed to students: All staff, except food service, should report to work at regular time unless otherwise notified or take an annual leave day. Students will make the day up on a designated make-up day.

School closed to students and staff: Students and staff will make up the day. Ten-month employees do not report to work and twelve-month employees may use an annual leave day. Principals, custodians, and maintenance workers make sure buildings are secure and ready for students to return.

School opening will be delayed (1 or 2) hours: Staff members report to work before students arrive, ready for them. Buses run later, and routes may take longer because of road conditions. Day will not be made up.

In the event of inclement weather causing possible school closings or delays, call 774-6226 (Central Office main number).  A message will be immediately available at this number. Also, information will be posted on the Lee County School's website and the Blackboard telephone message system will be utilized.

You can also receive announcements from the following stations:Radio Stations TV Stations

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WFJA 105.5 FM WRAL Channel 5WWGP 1050 AM WTVD Channel 11WPTF 680 AM WBF Channel 46/Cable 16WQDR 94.7 FM WCD Channel 67/Cable 15

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Board Policies of Interest to ParentsBelow are board policies that cover the governance of the schools. Any parent who is unclear about procedures or who has concerns may contact the principal’s office or the superintendent’s office for further information and copies of all applicable board policies, which are also available online at www.lee.k12.nc.us.

Parental Involvement: Policy Code: 1310/4002. The board directs each school to develop a parental involvement plan as a part of the school improvement plan. This plan must include, at a minimum, the board directives provided in this policy. The superintendent and each school may provide further direction on parental involvement. The following directive is an example selected from this policy. C. Title 1 Parent Consultation Policy: The Title 1 program offers assistance to meet special education needs of educationally and economically disadvantaged children according to federal guidelines. Lee County Schools will:

1. Involve parents in the development of the School Improvement Plans ( Title 1 Plan) by having parents serve on the School Improvement Teams. Parents will have the opportunity to review the School Improvement Plans.

2. Provide coordination, technical assistance, and other support from various central office departments to assist schools in planning and implementing parent involvement activities that are designed to improve student academic achievement and school performance.

3. Build capacity for strong parental involvement by:a) Helping parents understand all national, state, and local standards and

expectations through community-based meetings and written information (which is translated for parents);

b) Providing materials to parents to help them with their children’s education;c) Working with school staffs to insure all school personnel understand the value

of parental involvement;d) Involving parents in Lee County preschool programs and Even Start Parents in

Teachers Programs;e) Insuring that all communications are in easy to understand formats for parents.f) Providing opportunities for schools to conduct programs in the communities.

4. Assist in the coordination and integration of all parental involvement strategies in the schools.

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Report CardsUnder federal, state and local requirements, all schools must keep parents informed of the school’s progress, as well as the level of achievement of their child in each of the state and local academic assessments. Lee County Public Schools keeps parents and the community informed of the progress through the School Report Cards, which include information about the performance, class size, and teacher quality for each school. This information is available to any parent or citizen at www.ncreportcards.org .

Student and Parent Grievance Procedures: While the board encourages informal resolutions, the board recognizes that students and parents might want a more formal process for certain types of complaints or if an informal process was not satisfactory. Policy 1740/4010 covers the procedure for filing grievances.

Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure for Students: The board prohibits students and employees from engaging in sexual harassment and advises students and employees that when evidence of sexual harassment is established, disciplinary action shall be taken. Students and parents are encouraged to submit any complaints of discrimination on the basis of race, religion, national origin, disability or sex (except sexual harassment) through the grievance procedure established in board policy 1740/4010. Policy 1745/4027 is available for students who believe that they may have been sexually harassed.

Curriculum Development: The board recognizes that curriculum development must be an on-going process in order to continually address the changing needs and diversity of all students and to fulfill the educational goals of the board. The board encourages and supports the professional staff in their efforts to investigate new curricular ideas, develop improved programs and evaluate the curriculum. While educators must be responsible for developing the curriculum, parents, other governmental agencies, businesses and members of the public have valuable insights in the type of curriculum needed. Policy Code: 3100

Comprehensive Healthful Living Program: The board is committed to a comprehensive health education program that provides students with accurate information and encourages them to be responsible for their own health and behavior. The health education program provided by the school district covers a comprehensive healthful living program, drug education and physical education. Parents may review materials used in these curriculum areas in the school media center. Parents wishing to withhold consent for their child participating in certain parts of these curricula may do so in writing to the principal by the 10th day of the school year. Otherwise, consent if the programs or activities are presumed.Policy Code: 3540/1310/4002. Any written request to withhold consent for participation in specific portions of the health education curriculum as per LCBOE policy, shall includeThe student’s name, school, grade, teacher, date, and the printed name and signature of the parent/legal guardian, and clearly identifies that area of the curriculum.

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Guidance and Counseling Program: Guidance and counseling programs are provided by the school district with the ultimate aim of improving student performance by increasing skills; helping students make adjustments; addressing problems that interfere with learning or the classroom environment; and assisting in career and college planning. Counseling may be provided individually or small/large groups. Students shall not be required to attend individual or small group counseling sessions unless agreement has been reached with the parent and student. Policy Code: 3610

Student Activities and Athletics: Policy Code: 3620Restrictions on Participation: Participation in extracurricular activities including student organizations and interscholastic athletics, is a privilege, not a right, and may be reserved for students in good academic standing who meet behavior expectations of the board and the school. Participation in extracurricular activities may be restricted if a student (1) is not performing at the grade level as provided in board policy 3400, Evaluation of Student Progress: (2) has exceeded the number of absences allowed by the board policy 4400, Attendance; (3) has violated the code of student conduct in the board policies found in the 4300 series; or (4) has violated school rules for conduct. Any school choosing to exercise its authority to restrict participation based upon any of the reasons provided in this paragraph shall not provide this policy and any additional rules developed by the superintendent or the principal to all parents or guardians and students. The grievance procedure, provided in policy 1740/4010 (Student and Parent Grievance Procedure), may be utilized by parents or students who believe that a student has been aggrieved by a decision made pursuant to this policy. Policy Code: 3620, Section B.

Physical Examination for Interscholastic Athletics: Every candidate for a team, who wishes to participate in interscholastic athletics, shall have and pass a medical examination by a licensed physician before being permitted to participate.Policy Code: 3620

Notification of possible media visits: Throughout the year, members of the media may contact the school district for permission to photograph classes. The Office of Community Schools/Public Information makes arrangements with the principal for such visits, which typically cover classroom or extra-curricular activities. Members of the media may not photograph without prior approval from the school. The Lee County School System or permitted media may photograph your child at school for use in district or school publications, including, but not limited to, calendars, brochures, district or school web site, promotional materials, advertisements, instructional materials and flyers. IF YOU DO NOT want the school system to allow the media to take photos or make video recordings of your child, please notify us in writing by the 10th day of the school year. If we do not hear from you regarding this, it is assumed that you have no objection. Any written request to abstain from printing a student’s image shall include the student’s name, school, grade, teacher, date, and the printed name and signature of the parent/legal guardian.

Permission to Publish Student’s Work on the World Wide Web: Your child’s work may be selected for submission to the school system’s web site at www.lee.k12.nc.us or the school’s website on the World Wide Web, a part of the Internet. Student work featured on this site reflects some of our school and school system’s best and serves as an education resource for others. The work will appear in and educational context on the web pages. No home address or telephone number will appear with the work published on the Internet. If you object your child’s work

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being on the school or the system’s web page, please notify us in writing by the 10 th day of the school year. If we do not hear from you regarding this, it is assumed that you have no objection. Any written request to abstain from printing a student’s work shall include the student’s name, school, grade, teacher, date, and the printed name and signature of the parent/legal guardian.

Cumulative Records: The school maintains a cumulative record on each student. This record contains important information such as addresses, personal data, health record, attendance records, grades, and standardized test results. Cumulative records provide information in case of and emergency, compulsory attendance law data, etc. With few exceptions, no individual or organization but the parent, eligible student. “Directory Information” may be released without written consent. It includes a student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, diplomas and rewards received, the most recent previous school attended, and other similar information. Parent(s) may request that any or all directory information not be released for their particular child. In order to make this request for active records and inactive records within a two-year period, submit this request to the principal at the student’s assigned school. Requests for an inactive record after a two-year period should be submitted to the Director of Student Services located at The Heins Education Building, 106 Gordon Street, telephone number 919-774-6226.

Policy Code: 4700. Any written request to abstain from publishing any or all directory information shall include the student’s name, school, grade, teacher, date, and the printed name and signature of the parent/legal guardian and be made by the 10 th day of the school year. When you enroll at a new school, we will forward educational records to the school where a student is enrolling as soon as the school makes a request. The records are mailed to the student’s new school. Parents, guardians, or eligible students (18 year old or married) shall be allowed access to the student’s records upon proper request. Within 45 days after receiving the request, a formal review of a student’s complete records shall be conducted only in the presence of the principal or designee. If parents wish to have copies made of the records, a fee of $2.00 may be charged. Further information concerning the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 or about Lee County Schools’ policies concerning student records may be obtained from the principal or the Lee County Board of Education (774-6226).

Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973: It is the intent of Lee County Schools to ensure that students with disabilities as defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are identified, evaluate and provided with appropriate educational services. Students may be eligible for services under Section 504 while ineligible for services under IDEA. In addition, students may be eligible for services under Section 504 and IDEA. Lee County Schools’ Section 504 coordinator is Anne Sessoms, the Director of Exceptional Children’s Services. She may be reached at the Lee County Heins Education Building, telephone number 774-6226 for district-wide procedures. Information regarding referral services may be obtained by contacting the Response to Instruction (RTI) chairperson at the student’s assigned school.

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Student Grooming and Dress: The Lee County School Board has adopted a Student Dress and Appearance Policy. Individual Schools are given the discretion to specify additional examples of dress or appearance that are appropriate under the policy. In all cases, the student will be required to correct the situation before being allowed to return to class. Policy Code 4301. The following are inappropriate and not permitted:

1. Sagging pants and oversized clothing.2. Sunglasses and head coverings of any kind are not to be worn inside he buildings.3. Clothing and accessories, which can be perceived as weapons.4. Clothing and attire with any symbols or styles frequently associated with intimidation,

violence, or violent groups.5. Clothing and items with messages or illustrations which are lewd, derogatory,

indecent, vulgar or advertising any product or service not permitted by law to minors such as drugs, illegal substances, tobacco and alcohol.

6. Clothing, shorts, dresses and skirts which are excessively tight or shorter than mid-thigh.

7. Clothing with excessive holes, see-through materials, strapless, tank and spaghetti tops.

8. Clothing exposing cleavage, midriff and undergarments.9. Clothing worn inappropriately such as unbuckled belts, inside out or backward,

unfastened pants, and skirts not at waistline, rolled-up pants and shoes not tied or secured.

10. Face paint is not allowed unless it is related to school activities or events.

Tramway Student Footwear Policy Students must wear closed toe/closed heel shoes and be securely fastened. Tennis shoes are a great choice, because this allows for easy movement and protection. This allows students to have ideal footwear for the 30 minutes of required physical activity each day. The following types of shoes are not allowed: flip flops, rainbows, clogs, crocs, sandals, platform shoes, no heel over 1 ½ inches.

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Acknowledgement of Handbook Receipt

By signing this page, I am indicating that I have read and understand the contents of Tramway Elementary School's Parent-Student Handbook for the 2016-2017 school year.

Child's name: ___________________________________________

Teacher's name: _________________________________________

Parent/Guardian signature: ___________________________________

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