2007-2008 School Year | Coles Home | Printable PDF Handbook

Contents

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

The New Jersey Constitution and implementing legislation guarantee each child in the public schools equal educational opportunity regardless of race, color, or social or economic status. To assure these basic rights the Commissioner of Education and the State Board of Education have developed regulations which specifically implement N.J.S.A. 18A:36-20 and the State Board of Education Resolution concerning sex equality in educational programs. These regulations have also been developed in conformity with relevant Federal and State statutes concerning discriminatory conduct.

For further information, contact our Affirmative Action Officer:

                                                Mr. Randall Kanter
                                                Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education
                                                Cedar Street
                                                Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
                                                (908) 232-6161, Extension 29

GENERAL INFORMATION

1.      Daily Schedule

The elementary school day begins at 8:35 a.m. and ends at 3:10 p.m. for students in Grades 1 through 4. Supervision begins at 8:25 a.m., therefore, all students should plan to arrive between 8:25 and 8:35 a.m. Upon arrival, children are asked to walk onto the school grounds, line up in an orderly fashion at their assigned locations, and prepare to enter the building at 8:25 a.m. Students enter until 8:35 a.m., at which time the tardy bell is rung and the doors are closed. Students who are tardy must report to the Main Office, state the reason why they are late for school. We strongly urge parents to insure that their children arrive on time to guarantee a successful start of the school day. Please consult our time schedules in the tables below.

KINDERGARTEN	REGULAR DAY	SINGLE SESSION	DELAYED OPENING
A.M. Student Arrival	8: 25 a.m.	8:25 a.m.	9:55 a.m.
Morning Session	8:35 - 11:20 a.m.	8:35 - 11:05 a.m.	10:05 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Dismissal	11:20 a.m.	11:05 a.m.	12:15 p.m.
P.M. Student Arrival	12:20 p.m.	10:10 a.m.	12:55 p.m.
Afternoon Session	12:25 - 3:10 p.m.	10:10 a.m.-12:40 p.m.	1:00 - 3:10 p.m.
Dismissal	3:10 p.m.	12:40 p.m.	3:10 p.m.

GRADES 1 - 4	REGULAR DAY	SINGLE SESSION	DELAYED OPENING
Student Arrival	8:25 a.m.	8:25 a.m.	9:55 a.m.
Instruction Begins	8:35 a.m.	8:35 a.m.-12:40 p.m.	10:05 a.m.
Lunch	11:50 a.m.-12:50 p.m.	N/A	In School
Dismissal	3:10 p.m.	12:40 p.m.	3:10 p.m.

2.     Arrival and Dismissal

You may drop off your child in a drop-off zone. If you want to watch your child walk up to or enter the school, do not use the drop-off zone. Use your blinker when pulling up to the curb. Pull up as far as possible in the drop-off zone to allow others to pull up behind you (but be sure to leave yourself enough space to exit safely). Have your child get out of the car on his/her own. Do not use the drop-off zone if you need to unload items from your trunk or exit your car. Once your child has exited your car, use your blinker to signal your intention to reenter traffic and proceed cautiously. Do not remain in the drop-off zone. Never double park. Have your child exit curbside - not into the street. There are two drop-off zones adjacent to the building. One is on Kevin Road along the front of the school. The other is on Aberdeen Road at the side entrance. Using the Aberdeen drop-off is safest as your child will not have to cross the bus drive-thru. You may park in a drop-off zone only after the morning arrival time has ended.

           - Very limited parking is available for those who wish to watch children enter the building. Check the diagram and street signs for available street parking.

           - Use only the visitor spaces in the staff parking lot at arrival or dismissal times.

           - Please use the sidewalks and do not walk through the parking lot.

           - Teach your child to cross only in crosswalks and to check for traffic before crossing any street or parking lot.

           - Approach the school slowly, and yield to pedestrians and other drivers attempting to reenter traffic.

           - Follow the recommended one-way flow of traffic along Kevin Road during arrival and dismissal times (see diagram).

           - Carpool whenever possible - less traffic means greater safety at Coles.

           - The driveway to the staff parking area is NOT to be used to drop off or pick up students. There is also no parking or standing allowed on the opposite side of Kevin Road. Parking/standing on the opposite side of Kevin Road has the potential of being an extremely dangerous situation if a child should suddenly run across the street. For the safety of all children, please do not park, pick up or drop off your child on Kevin Road across from our school.

           - Please refer to the diagram for the designated traffic flow pattern. Your cooperation with this system will be appreciated by all.

3.      Automated Phone System

                                                 To reach the:                      Press:

                                                Main Office                               1

                                                Attendance Line                        3

                                                Nurse                                       4

                                                Dial by Name Directory *         6           

         *  To use the Dial by Name Directory, use the keys on the telephone key pad to enter
             the first three letters of the person's last name who you are calling (press 1 for "Q" or "Z").

4.     Staff Parking Lot

The Staff Parking Lot is for staff only. There are 12 visitors spaces available for your use. Please refrain from parking in the staff lot. Please use the sidewalk when you bring your child into school. Please do not walk through the staff parking lot, use the sidewalks.

5.     Bus Transportation

The district provides transportation for students in kindergarten through Grade 8 who reside two or more miles from school. Safety on the school bus is not solely the responsibility of the school and the bus driver. Safety requires the constant support and attention of the pupils and their parents, as well. State law allows for the temporary or permanent denial of bus privileges to students whose behavior presents safety hazards.

6.     Bus Safety

We recommend that parents of bus students discuss bus safety with their children and include the following information in their discussions:

7.     Bicycle Riders

Before permitting a child to ride his/her bike to school, parents should carefully consider local traffic conditions, distance, and the child's ability and maturity. Children should not be encouraged to ride bicycles to school before the third grade.

Bicycle racks are located on the 4th grade and kindergarten sides of the school. Parents should provide locks. The school cannot assume responsibility for bicycles stolen or damaged. Bicycle riding is not permitted on school property. Children must walk their bicycles on school paths and sidewalk.

For safety reasons, students are required to wear bicycle safety helmets when riding their bicycles to and from school. New Jersey State law requires all children under the age of 14 to wear bicycle safety helmets.

8.     Roller Blades

           - Rollerblading is only permitted off school grounds.

           - Proper safety equipment is extremely important. Wrist guards, knee guards and, most importantly, a safety helmet, are crucial for safe and enjoyable rollerblading. 

9.     Razor Scooters and Skateboards

Razor scooters and skateboards are also an enjoyable activity for many children; however, we must insist upon certain guidelines similar to those for roller blades. Razor scooters and skateboards must be used with extreme caution and safety at all times.

           - Razor scooters and skateboards and heelies are only permitted off school grounds.

           - Proper safety equipment is extremely important when using razor scooters and skateboards. Equipment such as wrist guards and knee guards are strongly encouraged and, most importantly, a safety helmet should be worn.

10. Walking to School

When walking to school we require students to use sidewalk areas and practice appropriate safety precautions. It is important to utilize the Scotch Plains and Fanwood crossing guards to safely cross busy intersections. The crossing guards are on duty from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:15 to 3:45 p.m. Crossing guards are located at the intersections of Terrill and Kevin Roads.

11. Attendance

It is important that students be present each day that school is in session (unless illness prevents their attendance) to insure continuity of instruction. However, attendance should never be stressed to the point where a child is sent to school ill. Please assist us in protecting the health of all our youngsters by keeping your child home if he/she is not well.

Please note: Children showing symptoms of sore throat, ear ache, runny nose, fever, cough, stomach upsets, vomiting, rash, diarrhea, or reddened, watering eyes, during the preceding 24 hours, should remain at home until total recovery.

Whenever parents keep their child home from school for matters other than illness, the school must be notified. If the period of absence is greater than three days, the parent/guardian should consult with the principal. In any event, if a child is absent from school for any period of time, a written explanation, signed by the parent or guardian, is required.

12.    Absences from School

Parents are asked to call the school attendance line at (908) 757-7555, before 9:00 am. Press Option 3, whenever their child is absent from school or will be late. Calls to this number may be made at any time during the day or night. Messages left on the voice mail will be checked against class attendance reports by the attendance clerk.

Follow-up calls will be made to parents who have not called the answering service about absent or tardy children. If the attendance clerk is unable to reach the family or the emergency contact person of the absent student, Board of Education policy requires the school to notify the local police of the unexplained absence. To avoid unnecessary calls to the police, parents are encouraged to keep the school informed about all of their child's absences by calling the attendance answering service whenever their child is unable to attend school for any reason, including family emergencies.

If a child has attended the morning session and for some reason cannot return for the afternoon session, parents should call the school office as soon as possible. These procedures will assist the school in verifying that students have arrived safely at school each day. Parents should continue to send a written excuse to their child's teacher whenever their child returns to school. Since attendance at school is essential for student learning, the following guidelines have been established to assist parents and guardians to focus on this critical goal.

13. Tardiness

Children in Grades 1 through 4, and morning kindergarten, are considered tardy if they are not in their classrooms ready to begin at 8:35 a.m. Children assigned to the afternoon kindergarten session are considered tardy after 12:25 p.m. Unavoidable exceptions, however, caused by weather or transportation, will be excused at the discretion of the school principal. When a student arrives at school after 8:35, parents are requested to escort their child to the office in order to indicate the reason for their child being late.

Since being prompt to school is essential for developing critical life skills, similar guidelines from our attendance practices have been established to assist parents and guardians to focus on this critical goal.

16.    Late (Delayed) Opening of School

Under certain conditions, hazardous weather or other emergency conditions, it may become necessary to delay the opening of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools. The announcement of delayed opening means that school will open 1.5 hours later than usual. Students who are bused will meet their bus at the same bus stop exactly 1-1/2 hours later than the normal time. Elementary students are requested to arrive at school no earlier than 9:50 a.m.; entrance time is 9:55 a.m. with instruction beginning at 10:05 a.m. On delayed opening days, dismissal times will not change and elementary students will remain in school for the lunch period.

On delayed opening days, the kindergarten morning sessions will be held from 10:05 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; afternoon sessions will be from 1:00 to 3:10 p.m.

17.    Closing of School and Delayed Openings

If school is closed or delayed because of inclement weather or emergency conditions, announcements will be made on Radio Station 101.5 FM and TV Station WNBC, Channel 4 between 6:30 and 9:00 a.m. Internet notice will be posted on the district website homepage, www.spfk12.org

In addition, the PTA room mothers call-chain system will be activated to alert all J. Ackerman Coles School parents on the phone chain.

18.    Emergency Dismissal

There may be occasions when students need to be dismissed before or detained after regular dismissal time because of unusual circumstances. In such cases the following procedures will be followed:

Parents should understand that during emergency situations they may not be able to contact the school by telephone to make dismissal arrangements for their child as the telephone lines may be in constant use. For this reason, parents are advised to discuss emergency dismissals with their children and provide specific instructions to be followed if an emergency occurs. Taking a few minutes each year to make sure your child knows exactly what to do in an emergency dismissal situation will help children take appropriate action if necessary.

19.    Lunch / Recess Student Management

Students have a one hour lunch/recess period. Those who stay for lunch spend a portion of that time eating in the multipurpose room and the balance of the time on the playground (weather permitting) or in their respective classrooms. Students are supervised in these areas by lunch aides who are hired within the guidelines provided by Board of Education policy. Children may bring their lunches in bags or boxes, clearly labeled, or they may purchase lunch.

The students' lunch period should be a pleasant and informal experience in the school day. These situations, however, require attitudes and behavior which differ from formal gatherings. In effect, we expect each of our students to exhibit socially accepted behavior. While the general connotation of this expression might be clear to the adults involved, it may not be clear to all of the students. We, thus, have the responsibility to fully acquaint students with our expectations, and to deal firmly and fairly with those young people who do not conduct themselves properly.

General information about lunchtime behavior is listed below:

In an effort to instill appropriate behaviors during the lunch and recess period, a system has been employed to enable children to reflect on their behavior and promote a positive change. Working in conjunction with teachers and the lunch and general aide staff, a restricted lunch setting for students who do not display appropriate behaviors can be arranged through the principal's office. A set of guidelines and procedures for implementation, as well as indicators of student expectations are indicated below.

In the event a student is disrespectful towards an adult or his/her peers, chooses not to be a good member of the J. Ackerman Coles community, or does not follow school rules, the student will be assigned to the restricted lunch setting. Here, the student will have some time away from classmates to have lunch, and reflect upon his/her behavior and how it could be changed to show respect for his or herself and others.

Students in second through fourth grades are to write one or two well-written paragraphs (depending on their level of proficiency) that reflects upon their behavior in a very specific manner. They will be asked to write about the situation they were involved in, what they could have done differently to avoid the behavior they displayed, and how they will attempt to change their behavior in the future. Children who are unable to construct a paragraph of this nature will have a discussion with the principal. Together they will develop a sentence or two that enables the child to understand the expectation for his/her behavior and, in the same manner, express how they will attempt to improve themselves in other situations. In each instance, the written assignment will be taken home for the parent/guardian to sign so the student can return it to the principal.

It is our hope that as this system is implemented, children who respond in a proper manner will have a pleasant lunch and recess period, and those who experience difficulty will learn to make a positive adjustment in their behavior.

Teachers will contact the homes of such students who are assigned to the restricted lunch classroom. Teachers are asked to work with their students to ensure that this aspect of the school day is enjoyable for everyone. Any questions regarding this system should be addressed to the principal.

Lunch/Recess Guidelines for Students

                        a. Walk in the halls and lunchroom at all times.

                        b. Follow directions the first time.

                        c. Use inside voices when inside the school.

                        d. Use appropriate school language.

                        e. Keep your hands to yourself and respect the space of others.

                        f. Stay in your seat at the lunch table.

                        g. Eat your lunch and clean up your trash.

                        h. Line up and move through the hall, quickly and quietly.

Lunch Schedule

                        Grades 3 and 4                        11:50-12:15                 Lunch

                                                                        12:15-12:20                 Transition

                                                                        12:20-12:45                 Recess, All Areas

                                                                        12:45                           Return to Class

                        Grades 1 and 2                        11:50-12:20                 Recess, All Areas

                                                                        12:20-12:45                 Lunch

                                                                        12:45                           Return to Class

      Students are to follow the procedures outlined by the classroom teacher during in-class recess periods. Teachers are asked to develop a set of lunchtime activities that are to be discussed with students and posted for reference.

      During outdoor recess:

      During indoor recess, indoor activities include reading, board games, puzzles, drawing and coloring.

In the event that a student does not find it possible to abide by these minimum regulations, the following procedures are to be followed:

20.    Alternate Lunch Arrangements

If your child normally eats lunch every day at school and you wish to make an alternate arrangement on a given day, please send a note so that the lunch aides can be informed of the change. Your note will confirm that you are aware of and approve the change. In summary, any change in your child's lunch schedule, whether at home or at school, must be requested in writing in advance. Children who go home for lunch are dismissed at 11:50 a.m. and should NOT return to school prior to 12:45 p.m.

21.    Purchase of Lunch

Lunch menus for the following week are sent home on Monday and are due back on Wednesday. Please complete the bottom of the form and return that portion to the office together with a check payable to the Scotch Plains/Fanwood Board of Education for the lunches purchased in an envelope with your child's name and grade/class on it. You must send exact amount and only one order per student. Circle your choices on the top of the form and save the top part for your reference. The lunch menu may also be downloaded from the Coles website. Lunch credit will be issued for illness only and must be called in before 9:00 am.

22. Milk Money

Containers of milk may be purchased separately on a monthly basis. There are three selections of milk to chose from including skim, low-fat, and low-fat chocolate. Milk money is collected on a predetermined day, for the number of days school will be in session during the following month. A milk form will be sent home. Yearly milk maybe purchased in September.

Again, we ask that the exact change for each student be sent in a separate envelope, labeled "Milk Money," with the student's name, the name of the student's teacher, and the type of milk the student is to receive (skim, low fat, low fat chocolate).

Because milk orders are placed in advance, no refunds can be made for absent children who have ordered milk. A child who is absent on the collection date may bring money for milk the next school day.

SPECIFIC INFORMATION

APPROPRIATE DRESS:

Pupils are encouraged to wear appropriate dress for school to reflect their participation in all school activities. Check with your child's classroom teacher or the principal if you have any questions about attire being appropriate for school. Temperatures can fluctuate from room to room. Although it may be 85 to 90 degrees outdoors, your child's classroom may be 72 degrees. Please make sure your child dresses to be comfortable during instructional time. No heelies are permitted in school.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT:

This special event is planned early in the school year and provides parents the opportunity to visit their child's classroom, meet their child's teacher, and listen to a presentation on the curriculum, procedures, and activities for the forthcoming year.

This is not the time to discuss your child's individual educational needs. Such discussions take place during Parent-Teacher Conference week in November, or arrangements may be made at any time a concern arises.

BASIC SKILLS INSTRUCTION:

Supplemental help in reading, math and writing is given to children in Grades 1 through 4 who do not yet meet district standards in these subjects. At each grade level, the Basic Skills instructors meet with small groups of children several times a week to strengthen skills in reading, math and writing. Participation in these programs is mandatory unless parents meet with the principal, acknowledge the need, and sign a form rejecting these services for their child.

STUDENT BIRTHDAY:

We want to do our part to encourage healthy nutritional habits. Due to the new Board of Education policy, small edible treats are permissible for birthday celebrations. Teachers need three days' notice of what will be sent in due to the need to compare ingredients with student allergies. Treats must be simple finger foods carried in by the children at morning arrival. Mini muffins, munchkins, or something similar would be acceptable. Generally these snacks will be shared during morning snack.
Because Coles will allow small edible snacks, no non-edibles will be allowed. Please remember that goody bags are not permitted for any occasion.

BUS:

CLASS PARTIES:

PTA room parents plan several parties during the school year in consultation with the classroom teacher. These parties range from 30 - 40 minutes and follow specific guidelines. Goody bags are not permitted.

COUNSELING SERVICES:

Resolve Counseling Agency, employed by the District, provides health services which include short-term programs designed to meet the needs of the elementary community. Resolve offers individual, group, and family counseling, with parental consent, that addresses the wide range of challenges facing children today. Concerns and difficulties in the area of self-esteem, peer relations, emotional well being, social/personality development, family issues, and substance use, are among the issues addressed. Parents wishing more information should contact the Resolve Office at 908-322-9180, or the Resolve counselor for Coles School. In addition, an instructional component will be added to our Resolve services this year, whereby classroom lessons will be implemented relating to topics that are pertinent to the developmental needs of the students.

CURRICULUM:

During the past few years tremendous emphasis has been placed on involving the professional staff, namely classroom teachers, in the revision of the elementary curriculum. Opportunities have been afforded for staff to meet in grade level settings for the purpose of sharing needs and selecting appropriate materials for implementation of the kindergarten through fourth-grade program. Time allotments are established as a guide to assure adequate attention to the various subject fields.

Over the years our curriculum has been reviewed to place increased content in areas of mathematics and science. Teachers are also encouraged to use interdisciplinary approaches whenever learning can be enhanced by it. More details are available on the district website, www.spfk12.org

EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY:

Children are the focus of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools. We believe that each child is a unique and valued individual with varied aptitudes, interests, and needs.

All students need:

Recognizing the above, the purpose of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood School system is to provide an education striving for excellence in realizing each student's potential for intellectual and personal growth.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL):

Children entering school from another country are tested to determine their level of English proficiency. State criteria are used to determine eligibility for assistance. All services are provided at School One; therefore, any student who falls below the cutoff score will attend School One for his/her total instructional program. Direct instruction in English is provided by a certified English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher for a minimum of 30 minutes per student per day. It is the responsibility of the ESL teacher to serve as a resource person for the entire staff and to provide materials and suggestions to classroom teachers who have non-English speaking students in their classes.

ENTRANCE AGE: PRE-SCHOOL DISABLED, KINDERGARTEN AND FIRST GRADE:

Resident students must be five years of age by October 1st to be admitted to kindergarten. No entrance readiness assessment will be given to resident students who do not meet the October 1st grade requirement. A student who becomes a resident of the school district after October 1st and was previously enrolled in a formal accredited kindergarten program in his/her prior district will be allowed to complete the balance of the school year in kindergarten, with the Superintendent's approval.

Resident students must be six years of age before October 1st to be admitted to first grade. No entrance readiness assessment will be given to resident students who do not meet the October 1st requirement. A student who becomes a resident of the school district after October 1st and who was previously enrolled in a formal accredited first grade program in his/her prior district will be allowed to complete the balance of the school year in first grade, with the approval of the Superintendent.

Students who have been classified as preschool disabled, and who are at least three years of age, may be registered for placement in a class for preschool disabled children.

Parents/Guardians must provide: (1) original birth certificate; (2) Certification of Residency form with supporting documentation; (3) Certification of Tenant's Residency form (if applicable) with supporting documentation; (4) Medical Examination Record (exemptions made only for verified medical conditions or based on the free exercise of the child's religious rights) and a physical examination from January and on of the year required with proof of immunization/testing for: diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus; polio; measles, rubella and mumps; hemophilis B (HIB); hepatitis B; varivax (chicken pox vaccine); and skin test for tuberculosis; (5) Health/Developmental History; and (6) Home Language Survey.

Kindergarten orientation and screening takes place in the spring. Parents of registered children receive information about these programs in separate communications.

FIELD TRIPS:

Individual teachers may plan field trips which directly relate to the instructional program. These class trips are always of an educational nature and make a valuable contribution to the curriculum. Each teacher decides which trips, if any, are appropriate for his or her class. Parents will be notified in advance of trip arrangements, and must sign and return a permission slip prior to the trip. The role and responsibilities of parents/guardians and students are outlined below:

1. Parent/Guardian:

2. Student:

3.   Shared Responsibilities:

GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAM (TIB):

The district's elementary gifted program, called "Thinking is Basic" (TIB), is for academically talented youngsters in Grades 3 through 5. Multiple criteria are used to identify children for this program, including IQ scores, standardized tests, and teacher and parent checklists. The program stresses creative thinking, problem solving, and critical thinking. It is a pullout program, and identified children meet with a special teacher in a separate classroom for approximately 2.5 hours weekly.

GOALS:

The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools aspire to fulfill this philosophy by working toward the attainment of the following goals:

HEALTH:

1.   Health Examinations

            Auditory Examinations

Each year, hearing screenings are done by the school nurse for all students. Students can be screened at the request of the classroom teacher, parent, or physician.

            Physical Examinations

A medical examination is required for all children entering kindergarten and transfer students.

            Visual Examinations

Each year the school nurse will conduct visual screenings for all students. Visual screening are also given upon teacher, parent, or physician request.

2.   Health Record Requirements

      To be enrolled in school, each student's health record must contain the following information; with dates for each:

3. Medication at School

The school nurse should be notified of any medication being taken by a child attending school, particularly those which might cause a change of behavior.

It is the policy of the Board of Education that the school staff may NOT provide students with aspirin or any other type of medication. The administration of any medication received from home to a student shall be done by a nurse only in exceptional circumstances, wherein the child's health may be jeopardized without it, or as in the case of medication being given to modify behavior.

Students requiring medication (prescription or over the counter) during school hours must have a written statement from the family physician which identifies the diagnosis, the type of medication, the time(s) for administration, and the number of days that medication is to be administered. In addition, a written statement from parents giving permission to the nurse to administer the medication as prescribed by the family physician is required. This statement will also remain on file with our school nurse.

Each prescription must be in the original correctly labeled prescription bottle. It is district policy that the parent/guardian or a responsible adult bring the medication to school. Children must NOT handle any medication and there can be NO exception to this provision. A form for the required information is available on the school website (www.spfk12.org) or from the nurse.

The nurse must always be notified in writing of any change or adjustment of any medication being given to a child by both the attending physician and parents.

4. Head Lice (Pediculosis)

Periodically we have had reported or identified instances of head lice. A procedure for informing parents has been established in order to provide consistency in all district elementary schools. This procedure includes a newsletter article in the fall and spring, which will be posted on the website of each year to provide parents with general information on this topic. In addition, as a case is reported or identified a letter will be sent home to the parents of all students in that class. It is hoped that this procedure will provide parents with the needed information. More in-depth information about head lice is always available from the school nurse.

Head lice are passed from person to person by direct contact or on shared objects, such as hats, combs, towels, barrettes, headphones, et cetera. Parents should encourage their child to keep these items to him or herself. Early identification and immediate treatment are essential in reducing transmission. Some common clues to look for include:

If you do find head lice, follow the steps below to easily take care of the problem.

Parents are urged to periodically check their child's hair and scalp. Call the school nurse if there are any questions or suspicions. There will be periodic surveillance for this condition at school.

When a case is reported or identified, the nurse examines the student. If the student is affected, the parents of the affected student are notified of the situation. Any identified student is removed from the school setting to receive treatment.

5. Injuries or Prolonged Illness

Please inform the school nurse if your child has a serious injury or a prolonged illness. A note from the attending physician outlining specific restrictions, if any, must be presented to the school nurse when your child returns to school. This is particularly important in orthopedic injuries as limited physical mobility may restrict participation in school activities.

6. Communicable Diseases

      DISEASE AND SYMPTOMS                           PERIOD OF CONTAGION

      Chicken Pox - small, clear pimples on                   Until 7 days after the application of

      covered parts of body; occasional low fever           blisters, rash, or no new evidence of rash;

                                                                                    also contagious the day before rash

                                                                                    appears.

      German Measles - slight cold followed by          Until rash disappears (about 4 days)

      red rash on face and body (prickly heat

      type)

      Measles - watery eyes and nose;                          From diagnosis until 7 days after

      eruptions in mouth, rash on face and body              appearance of rash

      Mumps - fever; painful swelling of                         Until all swelling of salivary has subsided

      salivary glands located just under the ear

      Scarlet Fever - sore red throat, bright red            Forty-eight hours after the start of

      tongue, vomiting, fever, rash (first on neck              treatment by physician; if contacts are

      and chest)                                                              symptom free, may return to school while on

                                                                                    antibiotic therapy for ten days

      Impetigo - purple with tan, yellow, or                   Exclusion until after treatment has been

      whitish blisters; scabs or crusts (as the                   started by physician

      common cold sore)

      Ringworm - highly contagious; spreads                   Exclusion until receiving medication             

      in a circular fashion, forming lesions up to                 under the supervision of a physician

      2 inches

      Pediculosis (Lice)  - highly contagious                   Exclusion until medicated shampoo has

                                                                                    been administered and child is free of lice

                                                                                    and nits.

                  NOTE: Children showing symptoms of sore throat, ear ache, runny nose, fever, cough, stomach upsets, vomiting, rash, diarrhea, or reddened, watering eyes during the preceding 24 hours, should remain at home until total recovery .

HELPING HANDS:

The Helping Hands is a voluntary organization open to fourth graders who are interested in promoting safety in our building and on school grounds. The primary objective of the patrol is to foster qualities of leadership and good citizenship among those who participate. Helping Hand activities are coordinated by teacher advisors.

HOMEWORK:

The Board of Education adopted the following policy regarding homework on May 28, 1992 (File code: 6154 - R):

Homework Practices, Grades 1 - 8

Guidelines:

Role of participants:

     It is the responsibility of the teacher to:

Students:  

Students must be helped to share responsibility for their own academic progress. It is the responsibility of the students to:

Parents:

Inherent in the concept of homework is the fact that each parent must play an active role in helping the child accept his/her responsibilities regarding homework. It is the responsibility of the parent to:

Time:

One of the most difficult facets of homework to judge is the element of time. Generally speaking, the following should be considered.

HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT REQUESTS DUE TO ILLNESS:

1.   Requesting Assignments Due to a Child's Illness

When a child is absent from school, parents/guardians often call to request assignments and work missed. If a child is absent for a short-term illness, which constitutes one or two days, teachers, at their discretion, will provide assignments upon the child's return to school. Our practice is based upon the philosophy that if a child is experiencing an illness, it is essential that they rest so that they may return to good health as soon as possible. When the child returns to school, the teacher will be able to explain the assignment and/or provide the necessary instruction so that the student's understanding will be enhanced. In addition, the teacher will also be able to determine a reasonable time frame for the work to be completed based upon other assignments that are planned during the week.

2. Long-Term Illness: Three or More Days

When a long-term illness of three or more days requires a child to be absent from school, the following guidelines have been established to reasonably maintain the student's skills, keep him/her abreast of classroom assignments and not place the student in a position of being overloaded upon his/her return.

3. Family Vacation

When planning family vacations, we respectfully request that you honor the Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District calendar. We strongly believe that it is essential for your child to be in attendance every day and only be excused when there is an illness or extenuating circumstances. If there should be an occasion that necessitates a family trip, the teaching staff and administration recommend that you engage your child in the following ways to maintain your child's reading, writing and basic computation skills.

Please do not request additional assignments from the teacher since many of the activities generated in the classroom require teacher direction. Such instruction, where necessary, will be provided when the student returns to school.

INTERNET SAFETY POLICY

Approved: March 21, 2002

It is a primary goal of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education to promote and ensure the welfare and safety of children and young people when using the Internet. It is further our goal to provide Internet access, so all staff and students can become effective and safe users of the Internet and will extend their awareness and knowledge of the Internet while at the same time becoming motivated, responsible, independent users of the Internet.

Use of the Internet facilities in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District is primarily for educational purposes. This includes personal use and use for professional development of staff.

The Internet Safety Policy will be clearly displayed in the media centers and all labs. Violators are subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with District Policies and Regulations.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools

Cross Reference:
6142.10           Acceptable Use Policy for Staff and Students for Computing and
Information Technology Resources (Publicity Release Form (dated 3/21/02)

INTERVENTION AND REFERRAL SERVICE (I&RS COMMITTEE):

The Intervention and Referral Service ((I&RS Committee), previously known as The Pupil Assistance Committee (PAC), is a school-based, problem-solving group whose purpose is to assist teachers with strategies for dealing with learning and/or behavior problems. This group seeks creative ways to maximize the use of regular education resources. Members of the I&RS Committee function in collaboration, capitalizing on the strengths of each individual to enhance the total skill of the team. The composition of the team shall include, but not be limited to, the principal, professional teaching staff, school nurse and a representative from the Child Study Team.

When a student is identified by the classroom teacher, forms are prepared and a meeting is scheduled. At this meeting, the teacher presents a profile of the child, school records are reviewed, and recommendations are made to remediate the concern. Suggestions might include specific strategies and/or follow up to be used in class and at home, supplemental help in school via basic skills, speech, Resolve or a Child Study Team evaluation if a learning disability is suspected.

LIBRARY-MEDIA CENTER:

Each class in grades K - 4 is assigned one library period every week. Grades 2-4 may also sign up for flex time for class projects and assignments. In addition, children may go to the library at any time during the school day to borrow or return books, do reference work, use non-print audiovisual materials, or read periodicals. All students have a chance for "book exchanges" each week. Library materials may be borrowed for one week. Each child borrowing a book is responsible for keeping it in good condition and returning it promptly. Children will be fined for damaged or lost books. Parents are welcome to browse in the library and to check out books.

LOST AND FOUND:

Lost and found articles are collected in the lobby, with the exception of jewelry, glasses and keys which remain in the office. Parents and children may check for lost articles at any time during the school year. To reduce the number of lost items, clothing and personal possessions should be marked with the child's name.

In January and at the end of the school year, items that have not been claimed will be displayed on a table in the main lobby or the multipurpose room. Any items remaining at that time will be donated to local charities.

MOVING:

Please notify the office at least a week in advance if you plan to move out of town or to another location in Scotch Plains or Fanwood. A transfer card will be mailed directly to your child's new school on the day after your child's last day at Coles. Your child's permanent records will be forwarded when the new school sends a written request.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES:

At the close of the first marking period in November, parent-teacher conferences are scheduled. Children attend school for a single session in the morning and conferences are scheduled in the afternoon. Whenever possible, consecutive conferences are scheduled for parents with more than one child in school. Conferences may be arranged at other times during the year by sending a note to the teacher. If a conference with the principal is desired, an appointment may be made by contacting the school secretary.

PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS:

If you have a question or problem concerning your child, we suggest you first contact:

            Bus .............................................................................    Principal

            Curriculum .................................................................    Teacher

            Discipline ...................................................................    Teacher

            Health .........................................................................    Nurse

            Homework .................................................................     Teacher

            Instruction ..................................................................    Teacher

            Lunch/Milk Money.....................................................    Monthly Newsletter/Teacher

            Lunchtime ..................................................................     Teacher

            Moving.......................................................................     Office

            School Calendar .........................................................    School &

                                                                                                    PTA Handbooks, Website

            School Procedures .....................................................     Principal &

                                                                                                    School Handbook

            School Records ..........................................................    Principal

            Special Subject ...........................................................    Special Subject Teacher

            To and From School...................................................     Principal

REPORT CARDS:

Report cards are prepared and sent home four times a year in Grades 1 through 4 as indicators of student progress. The first report card is received and discussed during parent-teacher conference week in November.

Kindergarten report cards are issued twice a year, at the close of the second marking period and again at the end of the school year. Parents will also have the opportunity to confer with their child's teacher during Parent-Teacher Conference Week in November.

RESOURCE ROOM:

Resource Center instruction is available to students who require special education instruction. This replacement or support instruction may be provided in class or in a pullout program. Special education Resource Center teachers meet with small groups of children in Grades K through 4 to provide assistance in identified academic, social, behavioral and study skills, as specified in the student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Related services of speech, occupational and physical therapy are provided to students whose needs for such services are documented in their IEP.

SAFETY:

Safety is a primary concern for the general welfare of all students. Each child needs to understand the importance of practicing safe behaviors for their own safety as well as that of other children. Throughout the year the school teaches safety as an outgrowth of the Health Education Curriculum. Periodically, our local law enforcement agencies present safety assemblies to stress the importance of various topics such as Halloween, fire, bike safety, and stranger safety.

SAFETY RULES:

1.   Classroom and cafeteria:

                       -      Follow directions given by the supervising adult the first time.

                       -      Walk in the halls and the lunchroom at all times

                       -      Keep hands, feet, objects and angry, unkind words to yourself.

                       -      Use inside voices when inside the school

                       -      Stay in your seat at the lunch table

                       -      Eat only your lunch and clean up your trash.

                       -     Line up and move through the hall, quickly and quietly.

2.   Playground and outdoor area:

                       -     Follow the supervising adult's direction at all times, and have adult permission to leave the area.

                       -     Talk in a conversational tone, use appropriate language, and avoid inappropriate gestures.

                       -     Physical contact, such as pushing, tagging, or pulling legs, arms, or clothing may not occur in any area.

                       -     Approved equipment, such as utility balls, soccer balls, nerf balls, and jump ropes, may be used only in designated grass areas and blacktop surfaces.

                       -     Slide: Two students on the slide at one time; one as a slider, the other as a climber.

                       -     Monkey bars/Rings: Know your ability before using apparatus. A limited number of students will be permitted on the equipment based upon the judgment of the supervising adult. Use a spotter whenever climbing on any equipment.

SCHOOL RULES:

                            1. Be the first to say "hello".

                            2. Use "please" and "thank you".

                            3. Look people in the eye.

                            4. Use appropriate school language.

                            5. Keep your hands to yourself and respect the space of others.

                            6. Walk in the hallways.

                            7. Treat others the way you want to be treated.

SPECIAL EDUCATION:

Special class programs are available to district students who require special education instruction. Special class programs provide a full continuum of alternative placements to meet the needs of students with disabilities for special education and related services. The instructional program for students in a special education class is individualized in accordance with the educational program developed by the Child Study Team. Students are integrated into the mainstream program for academic subjects, specials and/or activities, whenever appropriate, as specified in the students' IEP (Individualized Education Program).

STANDARDIZED TESTING:

The Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District has adopted and implemented standardized forms of assessments to provide parents and teachers with a measure of the students' overall academic growth. There are two forms of assessment implemented in the elementary schools; one designed by the State Department of Education (the New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge for third and fourth graders) and the other a district-designed assessment for first and second grade students.

Indicated below is a brief synopsis of our testing practices that will be implemented during the school year and the instruments that we are utilizing.

All students in Grade 1 will be assessed each spring through the use of an assessment instrument developed by our district teachers. The testing procedures occur as part of everyday instruction and take place in small time segments based upon the discretion of each grade level. The language arts components are scheduled for a weekly period of time and the math components are implemented during a different week. In addition, each child has the opportunity to read orally in a one-on-one situation with their classroom teacher using the "running record data-collection procedure" that is used extensively in our Reading Recovery program. The objective of the testing program is to provide useful information about student achievement and ability. A copy of each child's test score is sent home through the mail or in the child's report card on the last day of school.

Students in Grade 2 will take the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test from Harcourt Brace and the NJ PASS from Riverside. Student reports are sent to parents.

The testing program for our third and fourth-grade students, entitled New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJASK), has been mandated by the State of New Jersey. The NJASK is designed to assess students' knowledge and skill levels in language arts literacy and mathematics.

The grid below reflects the assessment practices for each grade level:

                                    First Grade                  District Assessment

                                    Second Grade              NJ PASS
                                                                        Otis-Lennon School Ability Test

                                    Third Grade                 NJASK 3

                                    Fourth Grade               NJASK 4

New students in Grades 1 through 4 whose cumulative records do not include standardized testing results are tested in reading and math to assess their knowledge and understanding of basic skills in these subjects and to determine appropriate instructional levels. Diagnostic testing may also be done at other times during the school year to identify specific skill needs or to assess overall student progress and performance.

STUDENT INSURANCE:

Application forms for student accident insurance are sent home in September. Parents interested in additional accident coverage may purchase this insurance at a nominal cost, and should contact the insurance carrier directly.

TECHNOLOGY:

The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education believes that the use of technology and computer-assisted communications is vital to our students' success. It is the responsibility of our educators to foster an understanding of appropriate technology and to teach those technological skills which are necessary to promote academic excellence. The proper use of technology and technological skills will be integrated into our instructional programs when learning is enhanced by its use.

FILE CODE: 6142.20

TELEPHONE MESSAGES TO AND FROM HOME:

While we fully understand that there will be times when a student must call home or a circumstance that requires a child to receive a message, this will only be allowed in a bona fide emergency situation. Since one of our objectives is to instill responsibility in our students, they should be prepared for school with all of their instructional materials, such as homework, musical instruments, library books, snack, and lunch.

In the event that a student forgets any one of the above, permission will NOT be given to call home. If a child should fail to bring his/her lunch or milk money to school, the child will be given permission to call home on the first and second occurrence; but on the third incident, other arrangements will have to be made. This will also hold true for a child who brings lunch to school. We will permit one or two incidences, but on the third occurrence, other provisions will be made.

After-school plans and pickup arrangements should be made with your child BEFORE he/she arrives at school. Classroom instruction will be interrupted only for true emergency messages.

We understand that this policy may be difficult to adjust to in the beginning; however, we believe that it will instill in each child a level of responsibility, and will minimize disruptions in the instructional program.

In addition, we ask that parents make all necessary arrangements for their child's dismissal from school in the morning before they leave for the day. We realize that occasionally an emergency arises and you must get a message to your child during the school day, but we request that you keep these interruptions to a minimum. There is a concern about messages received at the end of the day when we cannot guarantee that the message will be received by the student in time.

TEXTBOOKS:

Pupils are responsible for maintaining the textbooks issued to them during the year. Fines will be charged for books that are lost, defaced, or badly damaged.

VISITORS:

Visitors are always welcomed at Coles. To insure the safety of our students and staff, and to keep our building secure, the practices listed below will be employed:

To reduce the number of classroom interruptions, parents should leave all items to be delivered to their child/children at the school office. Items will be placed in the teacher's mailbox. The office will not call the classroom to relay such messages.

WHAT TO DO IF:

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