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Cooper County R-IV

2019-2020Staff Handbook

1Board Reviewed 2018

Table of Contents

Welcome……………… ……………………………………………………………………………………3

Purposes and Objectives ……………………………………………………………………………………4

Students Rights and Responsibilities………………………………………………………………………..5

District BOE Members, Administrators, and Staff…….……………………………………………………6

General Expectations…………….………………………………………………………………………….7

1. Academic Lettering 33. Laminator2. Accident Report 34. Leave Days3. Activity Fund Accounting 35. Lesson Plans4. Admit Slips 36. Maintenance and Repair5. AIM 37. Make Up Work6. Athletic Events Admission Policy 38. Maternity Leave7. Attendance 39. Medical Concerns8. Attendance at Events Outside of School 40. Meetings9. Audio Visual Equipment 41. Parent-Teacher Conferences10. Behavior 42. Payday and Reimbursement11. Bereavement 43. Personnel File12. Board Meetings 44. Photocopies13. Breakfast and Lunch Program 45. Playground Rules14. Building 46. Professional Behavior15. Care of Facilities 47. Professional Development Plan16. Contracted Time 48. Progress Reports17. Contracts 49. Retention Policy18. Daily Bulletin 50. School-Home Communication19. Daily Schedule 51. Smoking20. Evacuation and Safety Procedures 52. Special Services21. Equipment 53. Sponsorship22. Faculty Absences 54. Staff/Parent Complaints and Grievances23. Faculty Mailboxes 55. Student Discipline24. Field Trips and Bus Requests 56. Supervision25. Fundraising Activities 57. Teacher Evaluations26. Gate Duty 58. Textbooks and Purchasing27. Grades 59. Weighted Classes28. Guidance Services 60. Vacations and Trips29. Honor Roll 61. Visitor Policy30. Hall Passes 62. Withheld/Incomplete Grades31. Inclement Weather 63. Years of Teaching Experience32. Internet Access Brought into District

Tornado Watch and Warning Procedures…….……………………...……………………………………...24

Fire Procedures.……………………...……………………………………………………………………...25

Programs Receiving Federal Financial Assistance……………………...…………………………………..26

Equal Opportunity Compliance……………………………………………………………………………..27


Welcome

District Mission Statement: Cooper County R-IV School District reflects the heritage, values, and strengths of our community. We are the heart of the community and our success is in direct correlation to this community’s support. The school’s goal is to meet and exceed the educational expectations of our students, community, state, and nation. Our students will graduate from Cooper County R-IV School District well prepared and confident that they can take their place in society by holding onto their small town values as they strive to achieve their big time dreams.

We believe that the Cooper County R-IV School District is an excellent school and we have worked hard through the cooperative efforts of the Board of Education, Administration, Faculty, Staff, Students, Parents, and Community, to strive for high expectations. We look forward to working with you in the new school year, and it is our hope to continue working together for the same goals, those which will ensure much success for the Bunceton R-IV students to succeed at whatever level each can attain.

The progress of education is ever-changing and we, too, must change as it may affect the manner in which all students learn and achieve their goals. Attitude is everything! We look for the best attitude in our students and staff and hopefully we find the best within ourselves. We’re here for our students and to give them the very best in education that we can offer. It is our gift to them in their lives and be assured that they may not get the individual concern in a bigger school…Let’s make each kid count and help change their future.

The purpose of this handbook is to acquaint the faculty and staff with general and specific regulations that are essential for the smooth operation of our school. There may be new policies put into effect this year and throughout the school year, teachers are expected to operate according to guidelines outlined within. It is the responsibility of teachers and staff to read, review, and update themselves on all new policies. All new policies can be found on the school’s web page at www.bunceton.k12.mo.us.

Purposes and ObjectivesThe administrators, teachers, and staff of the Cooper County R-IV School District believe that they are obligated to provide a continuously evolving type of educational program whereby all students in the school district may:

1. Become aware of their own interests, abilities, and potentials through the development of an appreciation for art, music and literature, as well as hobbies and recreational activities.


2. Evolve a plan whereby the growth of all students can be assured in terms of interests, abilities, and potentials.

3. Develop proper health awareness and maintain health wellness through personal health habits and physical fitness for a healthy lifestyle.

4. Become proficient in all areas of communication and in the understanding and interpretation of basic areas of knowledge.

5. Make use of their creative abilities and their ability to do reflective and critical thinking.

6. Equip them for happy and successful living in a vocation for which they are well suited.

7. Develop an understanding and respect for the written and implied laws on which our nation was founded and learn how these laws apply to the morality of daily life.

8. Prepare themselves for the responsibilities and privileges of family life.

9. Prepare themselves for the acceptance of responsibilities as American citizens to be positive influences and contributors to the society in which they will live and to the rest of the world.

Students Rights and ResponsibilitiesThe Board of Education believes that students have rights which should be recognized and respected. It also believes that every right carries with it certain responsibilities. Among these rights and responsibilities are the following:

● The rights to attend free public schools; the responsibility to attend school regularly and to observe school policies, rules, and regulations deemed essential for permitting others to learn at school.


● The right to a quality education; the responsibility to put forth the best efforts during the educational process.

● Civil Rights-including the rights to equal opportunity and freedom from discrimination; the responsibility not to discriminate against others.

● The right to free inquiry and expression; the responsibility to observe reasonable rules and regulations regarding these rights.

● The right to due process of law with respect to suspension, expulsion, and decisions which the student believes injure his/her rights.

● The right to privacy, which includes privacy in respect to student’s school records.

Cooper County R-IV School DistrictBoard of EducationAmy Heilman –President Anna Kahle – Vice-President Justin Hein – TreasurerRobin Bishop – Secretary Ashley Benny – member Ron Anderson – member


Brian Arnold – member

AdministrationDr. Kathryn Anderson SuperintendentJessica Huth PrincipalBrian Emde Assistant Principal/Activities Director

Certified StaffAshton Hays Pre KJessica Wolpers KindergartenChelsea Emde First GradeTamara Parker Second GradeKim Scott 3rd-5th Reading- Third Grade HomeroomAngela Schultz 3rd- 5th Math- Fourth Grade HomeroomSandy Page 3rd-5th SS/Science- Fifth Grade HomeroomTammy Ray Title IKylee Ratcliff Middle School Communication Arts and Social StudiesKim Thompson Middle School Math and Science Belinda Thompson High School Social StudiesRobert McKee High School MathematicsJerry Pirtle High School Communication ArtsDouglas Gilliam High School ScienceChris Herriman Business Marsha Vernon K-12 Special ServicesRebecca Ray K-12 Music/Band/ChorusDustin Ray K-12 Physical EducationJessica Gutierrez K-12 ArtSheila Blake Library Media Center Specialist/FACSShauna Baker CounselorAshley Haslag Nurse

StaffJeannie Tuttle Head CookJulie Greer Assistant CookRita Tate Kitchen Aide/MaintenanceBill Moser MaintenanceMorgan Wieland Special Ed. ParaNorma Bishop Special Ed. ParaSharon Simmons Special Ed. ParaChristal Jones Administrative AssistanceMid West Computech Tech CoordinatorGlenda Scott Bus DriverRussell Hein Bus Driver

General Expectations (A-Z)1. Academic Lettering – An academic letter will be awarded to any high school student who achieves a 3.50 grade point average for the first three quarters of the year with no grade lower than a “C-” on any quarter grade report. A student earning an academic letter for the first time will be awarded a certificate, a letter, a pin of knowledge, and a bar. A student who earns a letter for the second, third and fourth year will be awarded a certificate and a bar for each year.

2. Accident Report Form – All accidents shall be reported to the school safety coordinator (Superintendent). A completed accident report form indicating description of accident, location,


witness names and actions taken shall be submitted by the person witnessing such accident. Accident reports are kept on file and a log of such shall be maintained by the safety coordinator. In the event of student becoming injured in your room or under your supervision, be sure to obtain and complete an accident report form as soon as possible. Accident report forms are available in the principal’s office and superintendent’s office.

3. Activity Fund Accounting – according to state law, all money collected in any way through school activities must be carried on one account through the school’s business office. Class, organization, or concession stand sponsors will carefully supervise expenditures, collections, accounting, and depositories of activity money under their direction. Each class, 9th through 12th, will handle and keep accurate up-to-date records of its own money, both receipts and expenditures. However, all money must be turned in to the office for deposit and receipts received in return. Keep track of these receipts as they will be your primary source of knowing what money is where. Students must turn in all money received on items sold before additional items will be issued. All money taken in by a class or organization will be turned in to the office and receipted. Money is to be turned in by noon on the next school day following the activity so that it may be taken to the bank that day. Each class and organization will keep accurate records of all receipts and purchases or expenditures throughout the school year. No class may spend more money for any reason than it has earned through class projects. Any SENIOR CLASS BALANCE not used may be donated back to the school or a purchase of an item may be made for the school.

4. Admit Slips – If a 6-12 student has been absent, they should present an admit slip upon return to each class missed. Students are to request admit slips from the high school secretary before school between 7:50 and 8:12 a.m. Any student not having an admit slip should not be allowed to enter the class, but be sent directly to the principal’s office to secure an admit slip.

Absences are recorded by the principal’s office as excused, unexcused, medical, parental excused, field trip, ISS, OSS or tardy. A student may not receive credit for work completed the day of an unexcused absence. Students absent from the classroom because of school activities should not be counted absent, but should make arrangements with the teacher to secure assignments prior to the absence. Class work should be required and credit given for its completion in these instances. The only way the teacher knows whether the absence is excused or unexcused and the student is permitted to submit makeup work is to check the student’s admit slip.

Parents of students K-12 are asked to call and notify the office if a student will not be at school and to send a note explaining the reason for the absence when their child returns to school. The principal’s office will make random follow-up phone calls to parents and guardians to verify absences and reasons for absences. For additional information regarding the attendance policy, consult the student handbook.

5. AIM – The Cooper County R-IV Board of Education decided to expand services in the fall of 2011 by offering a gifted education program. Grades K-5 are being serviced in a pull-out program and grades 7-12 students select classes such as Advanced Placement courses, dual credit courses, and participation on the Bunceton Academic Bowl Teams.


Procedures for recommendation and placement of gifted students entails many aspects of academics. Awareness of high academic grades and test scores, general mental ability, academic ability, creativity, reasoning, and problem solving and performance with all enter in the recommendation and placement. If the criteria has been met, parents and teachers will meet to schedule and approve activities. After students have been placed in the program, they must maintain a “B+” average to remain in the program. Students not placed will be reevaluated each year. Transfer students who were placed in a gifted program at their previous school will be placed in the Cooper County R-IV School’s gifted program.

6. Athletic Events Admission Policy – Those admitted free to all athletic events are the following:

● Faculty member and spouses

● Administrators and spouses

● Coaches and spouses from other schools

● Administrators and spouses from other schools

● Players approved by coach

● Manager (one per team)

● Score Keeper (one per team)

● Visiting bus drivers (if they drove the bus)

● Cheerleaders (in uniform)

● Non-certified personnel and spouses from Bunceton School

● School board members and spouses

● Senior citizens 65 or older

People to be admitted at reduced price to all athletic events are the following:

● Parents with two children admitted at the regular price with remainder of family admitted free

7. Attendance – All teachers will take attendance at the beginning of each day/hour and record absentees and tardies, as well as lunch count for your students and include yourself in our student information program – Common Goal. Lunch money for the day may be brought to the school office. Teachers are to keep a hard copy record of their daily attendance.

Teachers of grades six through twelve should also take attendance at the beginning ten minutes of all class periods and record absentees and tardies in Common Goal attendance by the end of


the day. The marking “T” should be used for a student who arrives late to class. It is important that you keep accurate records in your class record book, as the class record book is the “official record” and has been in the court of law to establish such information as the whereabouts of a student; it is imperative that attendance is accurately recorded. Class record books may also be examined to verify the district’s attendance records during the annual school audit.

Teachers shall not give students permission to leave the school premises at any time. This will be done only by administrators only. Teachers shall not give students permission to leave class to use the phone.

8. Attendance at Events Outside of School – Events, in which students participate during school hours or as representatives of the school, but at places outside of the school, must be sponsored and supervised by professional school personnel. Rules of behavior shall be the same as at any in-school activity or event.

9. Audio Visual Equipment – Most televisions and videocassette recorders are in classrooms and are readily accessible for use. If one is not located in your classroom, check with another teacher in close proximity to determine the availability of a unit. Several classrooms have overhead projectors that are used frequently. You may borrow any of these. If your mode of instruction necessitates the daily use of an overhead projector, check with the principal for the acquisition of a unit for your use. Recordings, films, etc. are stored and cataloged in the library media center. The media center specialist can supply you with a list of programs available. Updates will be made available to acquaint you with new acquisitions.

10. Behavior – All teachers have a definite responsibility to work together for the maintenance of good discipline in the classroom, throughout the building, and on school premises.

Teachers should expect respect from all students, from other students and all faculty and staff at all times whether in or out of the classroom.

Each teacher is expected to willingly accept their share of the school responsibility. Each is expected to be loyal and cooperate at all times with other members of the staff and administration.

Teachers will refrain from discussing pupils, co-workers, staff and school in general other than in a professional setting.

No employee shall possess, use or distribute illegal drugs or alcohol on school property or at any school activity. Violations of this policy will result in termination.

If an employee’s teaching or working ability is affected by a drug problem, disciplinary sanction may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program.

As required by law, any school official or employee who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect or who observes the child being subjected to conditions or circumstances which would reasonably result in abuse or neglect will


immediately report or cause a report to the Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-392-3738) to the Missouri Division of Family Services. The designee will make the principal and superintendent aware that a report has been made and will keep them aware of the status of the case.

11. Bereavement – Bereavement leave will be granted by the administration on an individual basis when needed.

12. Board Meetings – The Cooper County R-IV Board of Education meets in regular session the third Thursday of each month at a set time. Regular board meetings are open to all faculty and staff members, as well as to the general public. All individuals wanting to be placed on the Board agenda will need to present a request in writing to the School Superintendent 5 business days prior to School Board meeting.

13. Breakfast and Lunch Program – The school lunch program operates on shifts. Students are expected to eat their lunch and stay in the lunchroom at all times. Permission to leave the lunchroom during lunch must be obtained from the teacher in charge. Teachers are in charge of their class during lunchtime. The District is a CPI School which allows students, teachers, and staff to take a tray for breakfast and lunch for free.

14. Building – Each teacher shall assume reasonable monitory responsibilities of their room, building and grounds. Teachers can give invaluable assistance in helping keep the building clean.

15. Care of Facilities – Many improvements have been made and will continue to be made to the building. We have a day and an evening custodian employed with specific areas assigned to each one of cleaning. Each individual teacher is responsible to keep excessive amounts of trash picked up off the floor and to stack or place chairs on tables each evening before leaving to make it easier for the custodian to sweep your room. Neatness of a classroom is a personal reflection on the teacher. Please request students to pick up paper at the end of each class. Take appropriate measures to see that desks are kept clean. Cleaning materials may be secured from the custodians. Close supervision will discourage graffiti and defacement of school property.

16. Contracted Time – Classes will be in session from 8:05 a.m. until 2:50 p.m. All teachers are expected to be in the building from 7:45 until 3:30. All teachers are to have their rooms open by 7:50 a.m. in preparation for classes and so students having breakfast will have a classroom to go to after eating. Teachers are not to eat in their rooms.

17. Contracts – A $1,000 late resignation fee will be imposed for breaking signed contracts before June 1 with the exception of a tenured teacher who has until June 1 to turn the contract back in to administration and following that time a fee will be charged. An additional 5% of the contracted salary (plus $1000) will be imposed for breaking signed contract June 1 through June 30. $1000 plus 10% will be imposed after June 30.

All teachers should step into the hall during the passing of classes and at the time of dismissal of school to monitor the halls so they are quiet and orderly. The responsibility and authority of a teacher extends beyond the individual classroom. The development of good citizenship is a team effort.


Each teacher is responsible for picking up their own mail from the teacher’s workroom. Teachers will be expected to help in the supervision of the lunchroom and in the corridors during the lunch period. Teachers are also asked to help supervise students during extra-curricular activities.

All teachers are given one period each day for the purpose of preparing/planning the next day’s assignments, helping students, and conferring with administrators and parents. All teachers are given 40 minutes at the end of the day for reports, etc. Elementary teachers have their conference time during P.E., Art, Music, and Library. Teachers are to remain at school during their planning period, unless it is necessary to leave the building and in such a case, the office is to be notified.

No teacher shall be released from a signed contract with the Cooper County R-IV School District until the Board of Education has approved the release and conditions are met. (See contract forfeit scale on your contract)

18. Daily Bulletin – A daily bulletin indicating events, announcements and reminders for the day will be placed on the Web via Common Goal. Information to appear in the daily bulletin should be submitted with at least one day’s notice.

19. Daily Schedule – Bunceton School Hours:

● Students are not to arrive before 7:30 a.m.

● At 7:50 a.m. elementary students may go to their classroom.

● At 8:00 a.m. the bell with dismiss 6-12 grade students to their lockers.

● Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m.-8:00 a.m.

● Classroom instruction officially begins at 8:05 a.m.

● Dismissal time for students begins at 3:00 p.m.

The bell does not dismiss students from class, only teachers dismiss students. Have your students leave only after you have dismissed them, not when the bell sounds. Students are not to be standing in the classroom doorway waiting for the bell to ring. Teachers are expected to be in the classroom at all times when classes are in session, unless there is an emergency or a shortened day; the bell schedule will be as follows:

Daily Bell Schedule

Class Period Class Time Passing PeriodBreakfast 7:30 – 8:01 8:01 – 8:05


1st 8:05-8:55 8:55-8:592nd 8:59-9:49 9:49-9:533rd 9:53-10:43 10:43-10:474th 10:47-12:10 12:10-12:14

Lunch5th 12:14-12:54 12:54-12:586th 12:58-1:48 1:48-1:527th 1:52-2:42 2:42-2:46

Study Hall/RTI 2:46-3:00 Dismissal

Dismissal:

● 2:55 Elementary Walkers

● 3:00 Middle and High school students dismissed from 7th hour

● 3:30 Main Office Closes

Lunch Schedule

Grade Start Time End Time6, 7, & 8th Grades 10:47 11:10

Kindergarten 11:10 11:301st Grade 11:10 11:302nd Grade 11:15 11:353rd Grade 11:15 11:354th Grade 11:20 11:405th Grade 11:20 11:40

9, 10, 11, & 12th Grades 11:40 12:10

Early Release Lunch at regular times. Early Release for walkers will be 12:25, bus riders and drivers 12:30.

During lunch time students are not to be allowed to be in classrooms, hallways, or gymnasiums. Students need to remain with their class and teacher at all times.

No teacher shall dismiss their class before the dismissal bell rings unless given permission by the principal.

20. Evacuation and Safety Procedures – A special School Safety Plan has been implemented by the Cooper County R-IV School District to instruct all personnel and students in the case of all emergency situations. It is impertinent that the manual be reviewed and kept within reach for all of these situations. State regulations require that evacuation plans and descriptions of bell warnings be posted in each room (see inserts).


21. Equipment – Teachers are encouraged to keep their keys and security card with them, especially when leaving their rooms. If lost, a fee of $10.00 will be charged.

Each teacher will be responsible for monitoring the condition of classroom furniture, student desks, etc. and request repairs as necessary for safety and function.

The teacher should close and lock all windows, lock classroom doors, and shut off all lights at the end of the day. When not in room, teacher’s computers should be locked. Students are not allowed to use teachers’ computers.

It is the responsibility of each teacher to file with the administration an inventory of all supplies and equipment in their department. This inventory is to be revised annually and is due on the last teacher-workday of each school year.

22. Faculty Absences – If for any reason you cannot be at school, notify your principal as soon as possible so that a substitute may be obtained. Notification should not be later than 6:00 a.m. of the day you are going to be absent.

23. Faculty Mailboxes – A mailbox has been assigned to you to assist in the delivery of postal mail and messages. Mailboxes are located in the teacher’s workroom. Teachers are responsible for checking mailboxes in the morning and before leaving for the day. Phone messages will be placed in mailboxes or delivered personally. While some mail is trivial, other items may be quite important. You are also encouraged to check the morning bulletin each day for faculty/staff notices. Mailboxes are located in the teacher work area and the elementary office.

24. Field Trips and Bus Requests – If you are planning a field trip or other activity out of the classroom, please complete the “Trip Form and Bus Request” for such trips and turn into principal. Make arrangements four weeks in advance for the trips, this includes all CCAA activities, events, and sports. Students are to have permit slips completed by parents before going on a field trip. Field trip forms are available in the office. YOU MUST HAVE PRIOR PERMISSION FROM ADMINISTRATION FOR ALL FIELD TRIPS.

25. Fundraising Activities – All fund raising activities must be requested by the organization sponsor and approved by the principal before purchases are made.

26. Gate Duty/Leadership Duty – Gate and Leadership duty will be assigned by the administrators, and a schedule will be given to faculty and staff at the beginning of the school year. Workers at athletic events are to be on duty 45 minutes before game time. Gate duty; you will be relieved from duty at the half time of the final event each night. Leadership duty; you will stay until the event is cleaned up and lock the doors at home event; at away events you will stay until the team leaves on the bus. Even when teachers are not on duty, it is suggested that they attend all activities that they possibly can during the school year. This gives the students greater pride, boosts morale, improves faculty-student relationships and makes students feel that the whole event is a team effort and that the school employees are supporting them and backing them in their endeavors. It makes students proud of their teachers and their school. Gate


Duty/Leadership Duty will not be switched without the Principal’s prior approval; a form will be completed prior to approval.

27. Grades – Every nine weeks, report cards will be issued to students. Parent/teacher conferences will be held mid-quarter in September and again mid-quarter in February enabling parents/guardians to visit with the classroom teachers and secure report cards. 2nd and 4th Quarter report cards will be mailed home. The letter grades on cards used to represent the achievement will be A, B, C, D, and F with plusses (+) and minuses (-). In some elementary classes, where more developmentally appropriate, satisfactory/unsatisfactory, pass/fail, etc. is used. All report cards K-12 will be created and printed from the Common Goal Program.Grade check will be done each week to ensure students participating in extra/inter-curricular act ivies are eligible.

Teachers of students in grades K-12 will utilize Common Goal for each class and enter the grades appropriately, which will be accessible to the principal’s office. Information from these reports will be generated into grade reports that are mailed to parents/guardians. Grade reports will be filed in the students’ permanent record.

Letter Grade Percent GPAA 93-100 4.0000A- 90-92 3.6666B+ 87-89 3.3333B 83-86 3.0000B- 80-82 2.6666C+ 77-79 2.3333C 73-76 2.0000C- 70-72 1.6666D+ 67-69 1.3333D 63-66 1.0000D- 60-62 0.6666F 0-59 0.0000

Finals will be taken at the end of each semester. They will count toward 10% of the total semester grade. All EOCs (End Of Course -Assessments) will count as 8.0% of a courses final grade.

28. Guidance Services – Guidance services are available to our students. There will be times when classes will be interrupted for necessary counseling and testing. Each senior will have the opportunity to meet with the counselor regarding career information, financial aid possibilities, scholarships, college testing dates and requirements for different careers. The guidance counselor will inform teachers of dates that guidance activities will occur within the regular classroom period. 8th hour may be utilized for counseling purposes as well.

29. Honor Roll – A Middle School (6th, 7th and 8th grade), and a Senior High honor roll will be issued following the end of each of the two semesters of the school year. To be selected to the Principal’s Honor roll, a student must have an average of 4.0 plus. To be selected to the “A” Honor roll, a student must have an average of “A-” or better with no grade below a “B-”. To be selected to the “B” Honor roll, a student must have a “B” or “B+” average with no “F” grades.


Every class, participated in by the student for that quarter, will be averaged in and considered of equal importance when calculating the honor roll. Principal’s Honor Roll must be a 4.0 GPA or higher with nothing less than an A for a grade any semester.

30. Hall Passes – Students in grades 6th - 12th grades shall be in possession of a pass given to them by their classroom teacher.

31. Inclement Weather – If it becomes necessary to call off school due to inclement weather, you will be notified by the implementation of School Reach. Announcements will be made by radio station KWRT in Boonville, KY107, KMMO, KWRT and TV channels 8, 13 and 17 in Columbia. As well as School Reach.

32. Internet Access – Staff members and students of the Cooper County R-IV School District have access to the Internet. Before any student is allowed use of the Internet, that student and his/her parent must sign an Internet agreement and return it to the Technology Coordinator. No student is to use the Internet without being monitored by a teacher or an approved staff member. All staff members and students are expected to follow the Internet rules and regulation.

33. Laminator – A laminator is located in the teacher workroom. All supplies are stored in their respective work areas. This laminator does not require heat; however, if you use the poster maker and then laminate, remember to shut-off the poster maker. If you notice that the supply of lamination materials is getting low, let the principal know so more may be ordered before the supply is gone.

34. Leave Days – You are entitled to 10 leave days per school year.

35. Lesson Plans – It is assumed where good teaching is being accomplished, lesson plans have been made. Lesson plans are expected to be written in advance of each week’s lessons, and made available to the principal upon request. The lessons need to focus on the Learning Targets which should be posted on the board and all students should know what it is.

Cooper County R-IV administers the MAP, EOC, and ACT tests. Teachers shall integrate these skills and competencies into existing curriculum goals.

36. Maintenance and Repair – When repairs need to be performed in your room, obtain a maintenance repair request form located in the teacher workroom or principal’s office. Complete and submit form to the superintendent’s office. Minor repairs will be completed before or after school hours to prevent disruption of classes and protect instructional time. Major repairs are usually performed during the summer months or over holiday vacations.

37. Make Up Work – Any student having an excused absence from school will have the opportunity to make up his/her work at the rate of one day for each day missed. It is the responsibility of the student/parent to make arrangements with the classroom teacher upon his/her return to school to complete class work and make up tests.


38. Maternity Leave – All school personnel of the Cooper County R-IV School District will be granted maternity leave for a duration period as prescribed by the physician under whose care the personnel member is receiving services. The personnel member requesting maternity leave must submit, in writing, the physician’s recommended time period that the member is to be released from his/her duties from the district. Should the personnel member need an extension of time, the extension will be granted upon written recommendation by the physician. The maternity leave time period granted will not be considered as a factor in giving pay or salary increments for accumulated consecutive years of service or in granting tenure. The personnel member may use any or all of his/her accumulated sick leave for his/her absence during the period granted. After all sick leave has been used, an amount will be deducted from the personnel member’s salary equal to the per day salary that he/she receives as described in his/her contract. However, when the physician gives release for the member to return to work, he/she must do so. Failure to do so will be considered as a breach of contract, unless contractual agreement has been previously arranged and granted by the board of education.

39. Medical Concerns – Use discretion when sending students out of the classroom for medical reasons. As in any situation, a hall pass is required. Any student wishing medical treatment must first visit the school nurse or principal’s office. If a student becomes violently ill, it is wise to send another student to accompany them to the nurse’s station.

A classroom teacher should not administer any medication to a student. The administration of medications, including over-the-counter medications, must be administered by a registered professional nurse or licensed practical nurse. The school secretary may administer medications in the absence of the nurse.

40. Meetings – When school is closed by order of the Board of Education to permit teachers to attend district or state teacher’s meetings, etc., it shall be the duty of each teacher to attend such meetings.

Each teacher shall attend all faculty meetings called by the administration unless excused by an administrator. Extra-curricular activities shall not be planned during faculty meetings.

As mandated by law, any teacher having a student in class with an IEP shall be present at IEP meetings for that student and shall make the modifications to the student’s lessons in accordance with the student’s IEP.

41. Parent/Teacher Conferences – There is one school scheduled parent/teacher conference during the school year which is held at midterm of the first quarter. The instructional staff reserves a time to visit with each and every parent during these scheduled conferences. These conferences are a time to go over your child’s general progress and discuss general areas of strengths and concerns. The average time for these conferences is 15 minutes. If you need to visit with your child’s teacher additional time, please feel free to schedule another conference, when there is more time to address specific concerns. The instructional staff wants to keep the channels of communication open. Please feel free to contact your child’s teacher at any time.


42. Payday and Reimbursement – Payday is the 15th of the month unless the checks are cut and signed previous to this date. Reimbursement for travel expenses that have had prior approval, but which have been paid by the teacher, will be given after the bill has been turned in with the proper form. All reimbursement purchase orders are required to be turned in to the Superintendent by the 10th of the month.

43. Personnel File – Each teacher shall, not later than the first week of school, furnish the principal with their teacher’s certificate, an official and up-to-date transcript, which includes any course work completed, federal and state withholding forms, employee information sheet and any other information / data requested. Adjustments to the teacher’s salary will be made at this time based on written information submitted.

44. Photocopies – There are (2) copiers in the building. One is located in the teacher’s work area in the main office and one in the elementary workroom. If a problem should arise while operating any of these copiers, please report the problem to the principal. Toner is kept with the IT person and will be replaced by them. Report any observed need for toner to the principal’s office. Extra paper for any of these copiers is located in the storage cabinet. Notify the principal’s office or the custodian of any need for paper. Students are not permitted in the teacher workroom and shall not use the photocopy machines. Photocopying is a preparation function and the responsibility of the teacher to be accomplished before class time.

45. Playground Rules

Jungle Gym:

● Children playing on or around the jungle gym are to exercise caution.

● There is to be no pushing or pulling other students at any time.

● No standing on the top of the jungle gym.

Slide:1. Only one person is to go down the slide at a time2. Slide down with your feet in front of you3. Clear the slide as soon as you are at the bottom4. The next person must wait until the slide is cleared to begin sliding down5. Walk up the ladder, not the slide

Swings:1. Remain seated while on the swings2. No twisting chains3. Stay clear of moving swings4. Remain in the swing seat until it has stopped5. One person on a swing at a time

General Play:1. No ball tag anytime, anywhere, on the playground


2. Touch football, soccer and kickball may be played as long as they don’t get physically rough or cause a problem. These activities are to be played on the grassy area of the playground. Playground sports are for recreation; leave the heated competition to the professionals.

3. Keep your hands to yourself at all times.4. Use appropriate language5. Children are to remain within the area of supervision at all times6. You must obtain permission from the playground supervisor to reenter the building

during recess.

Moving to and from Recess:1. Wait quietly in a line at the door until the supervisor gives you instructions2. Remain silent in the halls3. Walk in a straight line4. Keep your hands to yourself

Recess is a privilege, not a right. When individuals abuse privileges, they are taken away.

46. Professional Behavior – Teachers should go to the principal with problems and concerns. Your administration believes in a definite chain of command and requests that you act accordingly. When differences and concerns cannot be satisfactorily resolved, the matter should then go to the superintendent. If difficulties or misunderstandings occur, they should be adjusted through proper channels and not discussed outside the school setting.

47. Professional Development Plan – The Professional Development Committee will develop a guidebook for all teachers. Please refer to this document for professional development information.

48. Progress Reports – Mid-quarter progress reports each quarter will be printed for all students. Grades K-12 progress reports will be mailed to parents from the principal’s office with the exception of Parent/Teacher Conferences. All progress reports will be generated by Common Goal and printed by the counselor.

49. Retention Policy – Whenever retention is being considered, the teacher shall confer with the principal and other staff members involved with the child. The parents shall be invited to a conference with the teacher, principal, and other staff for discussion of the matter. This discussion shall consist of an explanation to the parents of their child’s current academic standing in relationship to the group and his/her own individual ability. This process should identify the student early in the school year in efforts to put in place intervention strategies towards the student’s success. When academic concerns arise the teacher should confer with principal prior to October of that school year.

50. School-Home Communication – Each elementary teacher sends home a weekly newsletter that contains important information for the upcoming week. You will get information about classroom projects, assignments, and activities for the week. You may receive a phone call from


time to time letting you know how things are going. The first day of school, your child is issued a student planner to keep track of his/her assignments, and for daily communication to and from home. We ask that parents review the planners each day and initial it indicating that it has been reviewed. The teacher and parents can correspond back and forth in the planner as necessary.

Each middle and high school teacher will send an email home on progress report dates informing guardians of their student’s current performance if the overall grade is less than 70%.

51. Smoking – In conjunction with the Safe Schools Act, no smoking or tobacco products are allowed on school property during school hours or extra-curricular activities.

52. Special Services –The Cooper County R-IV School District provides the following special services:

● Emotionally Mentally Handicapped

● Learning Disability

● Behavior Disorder

● Speech and Language Development

● Title I

● At Risk

● Gifted

● Parents as Teachers

● School Nurse

The Cooper County Health Department provides immunization clinics, vision and hearing examinations and other health-related services to students. Staffing meetings should be organized with the special services personnel in a specific area that any teacher feels is needed for a student. The special services procedures will be followed by state regulations.

53. Sponsorship – School spirit can be enhanced by involvement in a strong extracurricular program of athletics, academics, and organizations. This also provides an atmosphere of enthusiasm and concern for others. The role of the faculty is essential. As a school activity sponsor, it is your responsibility to supervise all students to assure they conduct themselves appropriately and represent the school and community in a positive manner. If your organization is the sponsor of an activity, it is your responsibility to remain at the activity for the duration until all students have left the premises and the building is secure. A list of organizations and sponsors can be found in the appendix. It is also required that all sponsors and coaches ride the school to and from all events and activities.


54. Staff/Parent Complaints and Grievances – It is the intent of the Board of Education that, through this staff complaints and grievances procedure, employee complaints will be identified and corrected at the earliest possible time and at the lowest level of supervision. Complaint processing should be viewed as a positive and constructive effort to establish the facts upon which the complaint is based and come to a fair conclusion. Employees will not be discriminated against nor will reprisal be attempted against an employee because a complaint was filed.

I. DefinitionComplaint – An assertion by an employee that there has been a violation, misinterpretation or misapplication of district policies, regulations and procedures, employees handbooks, employee contracts, existing laws or other actions that adversely and directly affect the employee in performing assigned job responsibilities.

II. Procedures (Complaints will be processed according to the step-by step procedures outlined below.)

Working Site Level (Step 1)

● A complaint will be presented orally and informally to the immediate supervisor. If the complaint is not properly resolved, it will be reduced to writing and submitted to the immediate supervisor.

● Within five (5) workdays of receiving the written complaint, the immediate supervisor will render a decision in writing to the complainant and the person or persons originally involved in the complaint.

Site Level (Step 2) This step may be omitted if the principal services as the immediate supervisor at Step 1.

● Within five (5) workdays after receiving the decision at step 1, the complainant may appeal the decision in writing to the principal.

● The principal will, within ten (10) workdays of receipt of the appeal, investigate, and render a decision in writing to the complainant, the immediate supervisor and to the person or persons originally involved in the complainant.

District Level (Step 3)

● Within five (5) workdays after receiving the decision at Step 2, the complainant may appeal the decision in writing to the superintendent.

● The superintendent will, within ten (10) workdays of receipt of the appeal, investigate and render a decision in writing to the complainant, the principal or immediate supervisor and to the person or persons originally involved in the complaint.

Governing Board Level (Step 4)


● Within five (5) workdays after receiving the decision at Step 3, the complainant may appeal the decision to the Board of Education.

● The Board will schedule the matter for a hearing within twenty-five (25) workdays following the receipt of the appeal. The Board will render a decision within fifteen (15) workdays after the hearing and record its decision in its minutes. Copies of the decision shall be given to the complainant, the immediate supervisor and to the person or persons originally involved in the complaint. The decision of the Board of Education will be deemed final.

55. Student Discipline – Discipline is a basic element for the successful operation of any school. Without it, a successful teaching/learning program cannot be accomplished. A teacher cannot help but be a failure in the classroom without good disciplinary techniques. An orderly classroom is a must at all times. The teacher is responsible for maintaining this order with a positive atmosphere conductive to learning. An interesting presentation of each day’s lesson will eliminate most discipline problems. Have something planned for every day. Idleness causes discipline problems. The teacher should expect and require pupils to conduct themselves as responsible citizens with respect for the rights of others. Methods of dealing with problems will vary with each teacher. However, every successful teacher does have a plan for assertive discipline, which is immediate and consistent. Inconsistencies can very well be the downfall of an otherwise excellent teacher. Classroom management prevents referrals, and a referral to the office should be last resort, with prior interventions being expected. All teachers are required to contact parents when a referral is written, or student is sent to principal’s office.

Teachers should take care of their own disciplinary problems whenever possible as this will tend to strengthen your position in the classroom. You are to keep parents informed of any and all recurring or major discipline problems. Sending pupils to the office for disciplinary purposes should be reserved for extreme cases. Many times, it is advisable for the teacher to discuss in advance with the principal about potential problems than to wait and deal with the situations when they arise. Teaching the students to avoid possible problems and to develop self-discipline is the best method. Many discipline problems can be avoided if preventive measures are taken in advance. Any student who persists in creating problems which causes others in his/her class to be distracted from their work and which interfere with the teaching/learning atmosphere should be referred to the principal’s office.

When you send someone to the office for disciplinary reasons, please send with the student a referral form giving the reason for which he/she is being sent. If there is no referral form, the student will be sent back to class. Should an occasion arise when a student must be sent to the office, he/she is to go directly there. Students are not to be left unsupervised in the hallways. Teachers are expected to make contact by the end of the day with the student’s parent in regards to all referrals.

Each teacher is responsible for helping to prevent damage to the building and equipment. You are to report immediately to the principal any student found defacing school property.


All teachers are expected to help supervise and discipline students in the hallways before school, between classes, and when school has been dismissed.

Corporal punishment is permissible by administrators only after all other disciplinary measures have been pursued. (Refer to student handbook for further explanations of student expectations and disciplinary measures).

56. Supervision – No teacher shall leave the classroom or any area of supervision when students are present.

57. Teacher Evaluations – Evaluations of probationary teachers will be performed at a minimum twice each year and are on-going throughout the school year in all situations. Tenure teacher-evaluations will be performed every three years at a minimum. All observations are unannounced. A conference is held with the principal and teacher to discuss the evaluation report and job performance. A signature by each person on the form signifies that the report has been discussed.

58. Textbooks and Purchasing – Inventory of Textbooks: Each teacher is responsible for keeping an accurate and current inventory of textbooks used in their classes. When issuing textbooks, place (G) for good, (F) for Fair, (P) for Poor, or (N) for New beside the student’s name in your class record book and on the textbook inventory list. Also record the number of the textbook issued to each student by his/her name in the class record book. Assign numbers to new textbooks and make sure they are stamped with the school stamp. This will reduce confusion at the end of the year.

Textbook Damage: Textbooks are furnished free of charge, however, any damage they incur during the year is the student’s responsibility and damages must be paid in full at the close of the year. High school students must NOT leave books in the classrooms. Teachers should turn in a list of students owing money to the office at end of year.

Purchasing: All teacher/classroom purchasing of supplies must be handled through the superintendent. You will make your request to the superintendent on a purchase order form, which includes a description of the item, price, quantity desired, and source of the item. The administrator will approve or not approve the purchase order. If approved, he or she will sign it. For obtaining supplies that you are going to pick up, you will need to take the white copy with you. Any item ordered or purchased by an individual without a purchase order number or prior permission will have to be paid for by the person making the order. Any purchase order NOT signed by an administrator will not be valid and ALL purchase orders must be approved prior to purchase.

59. Weighted Classes – Classes to be weighted should include as part of their requirements either a research paper or major project. The following weighting scale will be applied to the grades received in the classes identified below.

Letter Grade Regular WeightedA 4.000 5.000A- 3.666 4.666


B+ 3.333 4.333B 3.000 4.000B- 2.666 3.666C+ 2.333 3.333C 2.000 3.000C- 1.666 2.666Weighted Subjects (*) and Dual Credit (**) are as follows:

American History** Personal Finance**Anatomy/Physiology* Psychology**College Algebra** Political Science**College English** Sociology**Communication Skills** Statistics**Criminal Justice** Trigonometry**Intro to Business**

Revised: 02/17/2010

60. Vacations and Trips – It should be clearly understood that students taking vacations and trips during the school year with parents or guardians should have the least amount of conflict to one’s education. Arrangements for course work completion will be made in advance with all teachers and approved by the principal.

61. Visitor Policy – Bunceton Elementary Staff believe in strong home/school/community ties. Parents and patrons are welcome anytime, but we ask that you sign in at the central office and get a visitor’s pass. Parents are welcome to visit the elementary classrooms and be a part of the day-to-day instructional activities. Conferences with an instructor during school hours must be previously scheduled. If you wish to conference with an instructor during school hours, please pre-arrange that conference time. The instructor will be called to the office conference room by the administration.

62. Withheld/Incomplete Grades – If a student receives an incomplete grade or if their grade is withheld at the end of the regular grading period, the student will be ineligible for extracurricular activities just as though they had received an F on the grade card. Exceptions will be made on an individual basis. Incomplete grades should be kept to a minimum and given only when deemed absolutely necessary after consulting with the principal. When an incomplete grade is given, it should be made clear to the student at that time the due date for submission of the completed work, adherence made to that date and consequences if outstanding work is not submitted.

63. Years of Teaching Experience Brought into District – A new hire can bring a total of eight years of previous teaching experience into the district.


Tornado Watch and Warning ProceduresThe tornado alarm will be sent over the all school system by the superintendent or principal. In the event of a tornado, please evacuate accordingly. After moving to location, sit on floor, put your face down and cover your head.

Class LocationScience Lab Cafeteria Restroom

I-TV Old GymHS Social Studies Cafeteria Restroom

Stage Cafeteria RestroomOffice Cafeteria Restroom

HS Math Old GymHS English Old GymISS Room Old Gym

Small Gymnasium Old GymNew Gymnasium Boys Locker Room

HS Science Staff RestroomMS English/Science HS Hall Restroom (Boys)

Library HS Hall Restroom (Girls)FACS HS Hall Restroom (Girls)

Art Music Room Storage RoomMusic Music Room Office

Maintenance Area HS Hall RestroomSpecial Services Old Gym

Learning Lab Learning LabKindergarten Teacher Work RoomFirst Grade Teacher Work Room

Second Grade Teacher Work RoomThird Grade Girls Restroom in LunchroomFourth Grade Boys Restroom in LunchroomFifth Grade Girls Restroom in Lunchroom

Title I Teacher Work RoomCafeteria Cafeteria Restrooms/Gym Locker Rooms

Coaches Office Stay in RoomNurse Stay in Room

Outside Go Inside to Appropriate Location


Fire ProceduresThe FIRE alarm will consist of short bells with animated voice repeating “Fire, Fire, Evacuate Building”. In the event of a FIRE, please evacuate immediately and accordingly. Do not take time to collect any items other than your student’s, student list and red/green cards. Move to your assigned location outside of the building. The below list are locations for each classroom and the designated area away from the building

Class LocationScience Lab Exit Front Doors (South) Walk around to ball field

I-TV Exit Front Doors (South) Walk around to ball fieldHS Social Studies Exit (West) Door and walk to ball field

Stage Exit stage Exit Front Doors (South) walk around to ball fieldOffice Exit Front Doors (South) Walk around to ball field

HS Math Exit (West) Door and walk to ball fieldHS English Exit (West) Door and walk to ball fieldISS Room Exit Front Doors (South) Walk around to ball field

Small Gymnasium Exit (West) Door and walk to ball fieldNew Gymnasium Exit (North) gym doors go to lower bus parking area

HS Science Exit (West) Door Go to ball fieldMS English/Science Exit (West) Door Go to ball field

Library Exit (West) Door Go to ball fieldFACS Exit back class door of band room(West) to ball field

Art Exit back class door of band room(West) to ball fieldMusic Exit back class door of band room(West) to ball field

Maintenance Area Exit back door (North) Go to ball fieldSpecial Services Exit (West) Door Go to ball field

Learning Lab Elementary Door (East) to student parking areaKindergarten Elementary Door (East) to student parking areaFirst Grade Elementary Door (East) to student parking area

Second Grade Elementary Door (East) to student parking areaThird Grade Elementary Door (East) to student parking areaFourth Grade Elementary Door (East) to student parking areaFifth Grade Elementary Door (East) to student parking area

Title I Elementary Door (East) to student parking areaCafeteria Exit Cafeteria Doors (East) to student parking area

Coaches Office Exit (West) Door and walk to ball fieldNurse Exit (West) Door and walk to ball field


Outside Assemble in your assigned area outside of the building

Programs Receiving Federal Financial AssistanceRace, Color, Religion, Sex, National Origin – In addition to the protection of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VI of the Civil Rights Acts prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in programs or activities receiving Federal financial assistance. Employment discrimination is covered by Title VI if the primary objective of the financial assistance is provision of employment, or where employment discrimination causes or may cause discrimination in providing services under such programs. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities, which receive Federal assistance.

Individuals with Handicaps – Section 504 of the rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of handicap in any program or activity, which receives Federal financial assistance. Discrimination is prohibited in all aspects of employment against handicapped persons who, with reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of a job. If you believe you have been discriminated against in a program of any institution, which receives Federal assistance, you should contact immediately the Federal agency providing such assistance.


Equal Opportunity Compliance StatementEmployers Holder Federal Contracts or Subcontracts – Applicants to and employees of companies with a Federal government contract or subcontract are protected under the following Federal authorities:

Race, Color, Religion, Sex, National Origin – Executive Order 11246, as amended, prohibits job discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin, and requires affirmative action to ensure equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, prohibits discrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe benefits, job training, classification, referral, and other aspects of employment, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Individuals with Handicaps – Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended prohibits job discrimination because of handicap and requires affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with handicaps who, with reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of a job.

Vietnam Era and Special Disabled Veterans – 38 U.S.C. 4212 of the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 prohibits job discrimination and requires affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified Vietnam era veterans and qualified special disabled veterans. Any person who believes a contractor has violated its nondiscrimination or affirmative action obligations under the authorities above should contact immediately: The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), Employment Standards Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210 or call (202) 219-9368, or an OFCCP regional or district office, listed in most telephone directories under U.S. Government, Department of Labor.

Private Employment, State and Local Governments, Educational Institutions –Applicants to and employees of most private employers, state and local governments, educational institutions, employment agencies and labor organizations are protected under the following Federal laws:

Disability – The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, protects qualified applicants and employees with disabilities from discrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, job training, fringe benefits, classification, referral, and other aspects of employment on the basis of disability. The law also requires that covered entities provide qualified applicants and employees with disabilities with reasonable accommodations that do not impose undue hardship.


Age – The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, protects applicants and employees 40 years of age or older from discrimination on the basis of age in hiring, promotion, discharge, compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment.

Sex (Wages) – In addition to sex discrimination prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (see above), the Equal Pay Act of 1963, as amended, prohibits sex discrimination in payment of wages to women and men performing substantially equal work in the same establishment. Retaliation against a person who files a charge of discrimination, participates in an investigation, or opposes an unlawful employment practice is prohibited by all of these Federal laws. If you believe that you have been discriminated against under any of the above laws, you immediately should contact: The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 1801 L Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20507 or an EEOC field office by calling toll free (800) 669-4000. For individuals with hearing impairments, EEOC’s toll free TDD number is (800) 800-3302.


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