Site  This Folder   Advanced Search Printer-Friendly Version Welcome September 3, 2008 Dear Parents and Guardians, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all of you to a new school year and a new school building! With construction now complete, it will be wonderful to have all of our students Pre-Kindergarten through grade 5 in one building. This is a very exciting time at the Jacobs School and I look forward to a wonderful year working with all members of the Jacobs School Community. Please take the time to read through this handbook with your child(ren) and familiarize yourself and your child with the school policies. The purpose of the handbook is to answer any questions you have regarding policies, procedures, personnel and events and to strengthen the ties between home and school. As we move into a new year, I hope that we can work together to build a strong partnership between home and school. The success of each child as well as the success of the greater school community depends on the combined effort of all of us. As parents/guardians, you can help your child be successful in school by following the procedures outlined in this handbook, ensuring your child is well rested and in school-on time-everyday, by providing a quiet place for homework and support and encouragement in completing homework assignments, by acknowledging both effort and accomplishments, and by attending school functions, open houses, and conferences. As teachers and administrators we can assist by setting high expectations of ourselves and our students and celebrating results, by communicating regularly with parents, by providing an atmosphere that is welcoming to and supportive of parents, by acknowledging the efforts and accomplishments of all students, and by providing an environment where every student feels safe, nurtured and valued for who they are. As a school, one of our goals is to make families and community members feel welcome. I hope that you will participate in the Parent/Teacher Organization, the School Council, and become actively involved in the school. We hope to be seen as a place in the community where parents can get information about local educational programs, community events, and resources that are available to families in Hull, as well as a place where parents can share thoughts and ideas that will enhance the quality of our school community. At the Jacobs School we strive to meet the social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of your child(ren). We offer a challenging curriculum while working to help children grow as caring members of their community. A strong sense of well-being and self-esteem are key components in a successful school experience. Together we can support our children and help them on their way to a successful and happy school year. This handbook was developed by the Jacobs School Council as a guide and will be revised annually. We ask that you let us know how we can help support you and your child(ren). Sincerely, Donna Tobin 1 Table of Contents Greeting to Parents 1 Table of Contents 2-3 Mission Statement 4 Wellspring 5 Registration 5 School Hours 6 School Cancellation 6 Attendance 7/8 Bus Conduct/Transportation 8 Walkers 9 Bicycles 9 Visitors/Security 9 Fire Drills/Lockdowns 10 Health Services 10/11 Food Services 11 Lost and Found 12 Dress Standards 12 Cell Phones 12 Birthdays/Invitations 12/13 Field Trips 13 School Ceremonies/ Observances 13/14 Class Placement 14 Standardized Testing 14 2 Communication 15 Student Records 16 Confidentiality of Records 16/17 Homework Policy 18/19 Discipline Policy 20-22 Notices of Civil Rights 22/23 Harassment and Bullying 24/25 Grievance Procedure 25/27 Internet Use Policy 28/29 Specialists 30-32 Support Services 32-34 Title I Special Education Speech and Language Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Counseling Extended Programs for Children 35 Organizations for Parents 35/36 Appendices Staff Directory School Calendar Map of School Contact List Internet Acceptable Use Policy and Agreement Form 3 Mission The Hull Public Schools will facilitate the development of students into independent thinkers and lifelong learners who are continually increasing their achievements, self-esteem and self-confidence in order to become socially responsible individuals. Vision We envision that the Hull Public Schools will: • Promote a vibrant identity • Become a model of rigorous and innovative instruction • Build an expanded core of learning • Exceed external expectations • Expand needed resources • Develop relationships critical to the mission Values • Equal access to educational opportunity for all • Recognition and acceptance of individual student differences • A safe and nurturing environment • High expectations for quality instruction • A supportive home and school relationship • Diverse methods of instruction • Positive and productive relationships among and between staff, students and community members • Awareness of fiscal responsibility • Broad based communication between all school and community stakeholders • Decision-making founded in the assessment and accountability of school programs and personnel • Standards based accountability 4 Entrance Age Requirements and Registration into Kindergarten Children entering kindergarten must be 5 years of age as of August 31st. Children entering First Grade must be 6 years of age as of August 31st. Transfers from other school systems shall be done on a grade-to-grade basis. Children from other school districts Kindergarten programs may transfer into Hull Kindergarten provided that the Hull entrance age requirement has been met. There shall be a pre-entrance conference between kindergarten teachers, parents/guardians, and the children in September of each year. School Hours The school phone is answered between 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM. The number of the Jacobs School office is 781-925-4400. Instruction begins for students at 8:35 AM and concludes at 2:45 PM. All students not involved in a supervised after-school activity should leave the school immediately following dismissal to the buses at 2:45. Supervision (unless otherwise arranged) is not available after this time. School Cancellations, Delayed Openings and Emergency Dismissals If it becomes necessary to cancel school, announcements will be made over television stations 4 , 5 and 7 as well as on radio stations WJDA, WBZ 1030 AM, WATD 95.9 FM, WRKO 680 AM as soon as possible in the morning. The superintendent will also call each home using the Connect Ed telephone system. It is essential that at the beginning of each school year that your home phone number and a back up number are provided to the school in order to update our Connect Ed system. Connect Ed will not connect to extensions so direct numbers are required. Announcements regarding delayed opening of school will be made on the same radio and television stations as the cancellations. Delaying school by 1 or 2 hours changes the starting time at all three of the Hull Schools. This moves the bus schedule ahead throughout the system. Schools will dismiss at the regular time in the afternoon. In the event of an emergency dismissal, parents/guardians will be informed by telephone using the Connect Ed telephone system. However, we still need to have School Cancellation Contingency Plan on record. A form for every child should be completed and returned to school. The form indicates where your child(ren) should go if an unexpected school closing occurs. Classroom teachers hold the contingency plan forms and can remind students of parent/guardian instructions. Please be sure that your child is aware of and understands your school cancellation contingency plan. (Please note, if appropriate, a school staff member will remain in the building for at least 30 minutes after the building has been evacuated.) Walking and Biking To School Students are allowed to walk and bike to school. When biking, helmets MUST be worn. Bicycles must be kept locked up outside the school building. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged bicycles. Parents/Guardians should use their own discretion in determining whether or not it is appropriate for their children to walk or bike to school. 5 Attendance Regular and punctual school attendance is essential for success in school. Regular and punctual school attendance is essential for success in school. The School Committee does recognize that parents of children attending our schools have special rights as well as responsibilities, one of which is to ensure that their children between the ages of 6 and 16 attend school regularly, in accordance with state law. State law requires the school system to investigate cases of excessive school absence. For this purpose, the Committee defines excessive absence as more than five unexcused absences per five-month semester. All absences (even those authorized by parents) are considered unexcused unless the required documentation is provided. An absentee line is provided for parents/guardians to report absences. That number is 781-925-4398. Therefore, students may be excused temporarily from school attendance for the following reasons: 1. Illness or quarantine (with a doctor’s note); 2. Bereavement or serious illness in family; 3. Weather so inclement as to endanger the health of the child; 4. For observance of major religious holidays; or 5. Legal (with documentation from the court, lawyer etc.) 6. Other – a student may be excused for other absences with approval from the school administrator. Documentation for the above absences should be provided to the school principal or designee within ten (10) school days of the absence. Documentation provided after 10 school days may require a meeting with the principal or attendance counselor. Clear communication between parents and the school is imperative to ensure the safety of students and to reinforce a student’s understanding of the importance of day-to-day schoolwork. Accordingly, parents will provide a written explanation for the absence and tardiness of a child. This will be required in advance for types of absences where advance notice is possible. Unexcused absence from school is considered truancy and will be treated as such. This includes absence from any class, study hall, or activity during the school day for which the student is scheduled. It also includes any after-school special help session or disciplinary session that the student has been directed to attend. Disciplinary action shall be taken in such case, beginning with notification of parents. Continued violation may lead to suspension from school. Unexcused absences in excess of five per semester will require assessment and intervention Interventions may include contact with parents, school conferences, case management services and service referral. In situations in which attendance does not improve despite intervention by the attendance counselor, one or more of the following actions may be taken by the school: 1. A Failure To Send, Criminal Complaint, against the parent will be sought at Hingham District Court; 2. A 51A for parental neglect will be filed with the Department of Social Services; 3. A CHINS petition will be sought at Hingham District Juvenile Court. LEGAL REFS: M.G.L. 76:1; 76:2; 76:16; 76:20; 119:39E; 119:51A 6 Bus Conduct/Transportation Bus transportation is available to students at the Jacobs School. Alternative arrangements for students with special needs may be made on an individual basis provided that their educational plan calls for such alternatives. The bus driver is responsible for maintaining order on the bus, and all students are expected to cooperate with the driver’s instructions at all times. Riding the school bus is a privilege. Students whose behavior fails to comply with the bus regulations or endangers the welfare of other riders may have this privilege suspended or revoked by the principal, in which case the student’s parents/guardians will be responsible for arranging transportation for the student to and from school. Bus rules and regulations are intended to insure the safety of all riders. All students are required to adhere to the following: 1. Students will wait at their bus stops in a safe and orderly fashion, respecting private property in the vicinity. 2. Students must remain in their seats until reaching their destination and should keep private property in the vicinity. Students should keep their hands to themselves at all times. 3. Students should use appropriate language and “inside” voice at all times on the bus. Inappropriate language should never be used on the school bus or on school grounds. 4. Students must not open or close the windows or emergency door without instructions from the bus driver, except in an emergency. Heads, arms and hands must remain inside the bus at all times. 5. Bullying of any kind is prohibited both in school and on the school bus and will not be tolerated. This includes teasing, verbally or physically threatening anyone, or any type of physical contact. 6. Students who cross the street after exiting a bus must do so in front of the bus while it is stopped and its lights are flashing. 7. Students may only ride the bus to which they have been assigned and must get on and off at their designated stops. Changes are allowed for childcare and emergencies. A written request from a parent/guardian, which is approved by the principal, is necessary in order for a student to change buses. A phone number to reach the parent must be included on the note. 8. Upon returning home, kindergarten students must be met at the bus stop by a responsible adult. If no adult is present, the bus driver will drive the child back to the school. 9. Students who normally travel to and from school by bus must have a note from a parent/guardian in order to use any other means of transportation. 10. Students are responsible for any damage that they cause to bus equipment. Visitors and Building Security Parents/guardians and community members are certainly welcome and encouraged to visit the Jacobs School throughout the year. As you enter, signs are posted on the main entrance doors instructing all visitors (including parents/guardians) that they must report to the office to sign the visitors’ log and obtain a visitor’s pass before proceeding further into the school. With the exception of school arrival and dismissal times when a faculty member is on duty, all building doors are locked. All visitors must ring the bell to be admitted into the school during school hours, and must immediately report to the office for a visitor’s pass. No student may be dismissed from school unless the parent/guardian has written a note to the teacher informing the teacher of early dismissal and who will be picking up the student. The adult dismissing the student MUST report to the office to sign the dismissal log. Positive photo identification will be required before the student can be summoned from his/her classroom. Fire Drills/Emergency Lockdowns Periodically, there will be fire drills and lockdowns during the school year. The procedures will be taught to the students and practiced. 7 Health Services Role and responsibility of the School Nurse At the beginning of each school year, or as necessary, it is important for parents/guardians to notify the school nurse of any changes in their child’s medical conditions. The school nurse, Barbara Meschino, is available to assist parents/guardians throughout the school day. Emergency Cards Every child is required to have a signed and completed emergency card on file in the nurse’s office. The school should be notified immediately of any changes in telephone numbers (home, work, emergency) or addresses. Communicable Diseases A doctor’s “free from contagion” certificate should be presented to the school nurse on the day of a child’s return form conditions such as, but not limited to: Chicken Pox Ringworm Mononucleosis Conjunctivitis Strep Throat Impetigo Head lice – Children will be excluded from school until “nit free”. In order to return to school a parent/guardian must accompany their child to the nurse’s office for clearance. If your child shows symptoms of being ill, you should keep your child home. No child should attend school until he/she has been “fever free” for 24 hours. Children who are sent home from school with a fever or vomiting should stay out of school for 24 hours. Medications All medications should ideally be given at home. If it is necessary for medications to be given during the school day, please review the school’s medication policy. School Medication Policy No medication of any kind (other than acetaminophen-see below) will be given at school without a doctor’s signature and directions for dispensing. Pharmacy prescription labels on bottles will be acceptable. Parental notes and directions are not sufficient to cover the law. However, parents do have the right to come to school and give the medication they desire. Please do not send pills or medicine to school in lunch boxes, pockets, etc. as other children may accidentally ingest them and potentially have a serious reaction. • An age appropriate dosage of acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be dispensed to a student for fever or a minor complaint after parental permission has been obtained by phone or in writing. • The school may decline to administer medicine in certain instances due to safety issues. Parents/guardians should provide the school with a phone number of a person who can be called in such instances. Periodic Physical Examination Annual height and weight measurements are recorded. Annual vision and hearing screenings with necessary referrals are completed. Current physical examinations with proof of up to date immunizations are required upon entering Pre-K, Kindergarten and for all students entering third grade. 8 Food Services The Hull School System’s Food Services Department offers both breakfast and lunch to every child who attends the Jacobs School. Children who qualify for free lunch also qualify for free breakfast. Our menus serve as our analysis for nutritional content and are available for review at any time. Students are generally asked to choose from the day’s main dishes or they may select soy butter and jelly, which is available every day. Any questions or concerns regarding the school breakfast or lunch program should be directed to the food service Director at 781-925-6011. The Jacobs School requires parents to refrain from sending any peanut or nut products to school due to severe allergies. Please do not send ANY peanut or tree nut products into school with your child. Please Note: While the Jacobs School strives to provide a peanut/nut free environment, it is essential to know that there may be times when peanut/nut products make their way into the school building. The risk of life threatening allergic reactions can never by fully eliminated in the school environment. Parents must speak with their children about how to avoid contact with foods and products they are allergic to. Allergies and Other Special Conditions: If your child has an allergy, it is imperative that you complete an Individualized Action Plan and submit it to the nurse’s office. You should also meet with you child’s teacher at the start of the school year to share any important information about the allergy, signs and symptoms that may occur, and any concerns you have. If your child has any medical conditions or special circumstance that you feel may be important for the teacher and/or nurse to be aware of, please set up a meeting with the nurse and/or teacher at the start of the school year to discuss your concerns and to share any information that you think might be helpful. Birthdays/Invitations A child’s birthday is a special time and the Jacobs School staff understands the desire to share that day with classmates. However, too often it means numerous treats brought into school to celebrate birthdays. In order to encourage a healthier approach to celebrations, we ask that you consider bringing in non-food items to share with the class or school. A special book donated to the library with your child’s name on it, a puzzle or game to be used during in-door recess, or special pencils to share are a welcome treat for students. Homemade food products should not be brought into school due to cross contamination and health and safety issues. Remember that no peanut or nut products will be allowed in school. It is imperative that the classroom teacher be contacted in advance so as to not disrupt the classroom schedule on that special day. Distributing invitations to birthday parties or other events at school will not be allowed. For those who do not receive an invitation, it can be a hurtful experience that may affect the remainder of their day in the classroom. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. Also, due to confidentiality, class lists of phone numbers or addresses cannot be given to parents, unless signed permission is given by the parent. Lost and Found Staff cannot be responsible for your child’s lost clothing and/or materials. Throughout the school year, many articles of clothing are left on school grounds, in the school, and on the buses. These items are placed on display in the Lost and Found area in the main lobby. Throughout the year, we will notify parents that unclaimed articles will be given to charity. If articles are not picked up within the given timeframe, they will be given to charity. It is suggested that all articles of clothing and backpacks be clearly marked with the child’s name to facilitate return to the owner. 9 Dress Standards The manner in which a student is attired reflects the quality of his/her learning environment. It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians that the student is appropriately dressed in style or type of clothing conducive to school activities. Students should not wear clothing that advertises alcohol, tobacco, or other products that are illegal for student use. Students’ midriffs should be covered at all times, and undergarments should not be seen. Students are required to wear sneakers on the day of their physical education class. When the weather is wet, cold or snowy, students should be dressed warmly and wear weather appropriate footwear. The wind can change suddenly at the Jacobs School’s elevated location, it is suggested that a sweater or sweatshirt be packed in the student’s backpack. As a safety measure, it is requested that drawstrings at the wrist or neck of outerwear be removed. Also as a safety measure any footwear containing wheels are prohibited. Field Trips Field trips enhance the educational experience for our students providing a learning environment at a site outside the classroom. These trips may include visits to local historical sites, museums, science centers, performing arts theaters and other locations that are age appropriate for the students. Parents/guardians will be notified in writing by the classroom teacher via permission form stating details of the trip, i.e. date, fee, etc. The permission form must be signed by parents/guardians and returned to the classroom teacher with any fee required, prior to the date of the field trip. Students without a completed form will be unable to participate. Adult volunteers will accompany the students and classroom teachers as chaperones as needed. CORI checks are required for all school volunteers, including field trip chaperones. Participation on a field trip experience is a privilege. Each student’s behavior reflects directly on the Jacobs School. At the discretion of the principal, a student may be excluded from a field trip as a result of past behavior. This is to ensure the safety of the students, chaperones and classroom teachers. No child shall be denied access to attend a field trip because of the family’s financial situation. School Ceremonies and Observances The United States Constitution and constitution of the State of Massachusetts and related court rulings clearly establish the concept of “separation of church and state” and the “preclusion of sectarian instruction in public schools”. In order to help staff members abide by the spirit and letter of the law, and to avoid compromising any student’s religious or conscientious beliefs or freedoms, the following guidelines have been established. The observance of religious holidays is not the responsibility of the public schools. However, we will not plan activities during religious holidays as noted on the school calendar. While it is recognized that some activities are initiated with the approach of major holidays due to interest that is generated at these times, it should be understood that such occasions frequently have religious underpinnings. Care should be taken to relate only to secular aspects of these holidays. Music programs given at times close to religious holidays should not use religious aspects of these holidays as the underlying motive or theme. Although religious music is appropriate in the schools to the extent that it is sung or presented for musical rather than religious content, its use should not violate the secular nature of the school. Pageants, plays, recitals and other literary or dramatic activities should not be used to convey religious messages. Teachers should avoid assigning or encouraging artwork that promotes religious aspects of such holidays. In accordance with the Hull Public School “School Ceremonies and Observances” policy, the Jacobs School council has decided to acknowledge the diverse religious beliefs of the student population and may display holiday symbols and seasonal décor of the various holidays in the showcase in the school’s lobby. 10 Cell Phones – Other Electronics Students are not allowed to use cell phones on the buses or school property. Students are not allowed to use iPods, Walkmans, etc. during school hours or on the school bus. These products should be kept at home. The Jacobs School will not be responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items that students bring to school Class Placement From the end of April until June, teachers and administrators work in partnership considering gender, academic achievement and social skills in their efforts to develop well-balanced heterogeneous classes. As parents/guardians, and as your child’s first teacher, you have significant knowledge of your son or daughter’s learning. If you have specific concerns regarding class placement, please write to the principal by March 15th . Parental requests for a particular teacher are not accepted. Whenever possible, parents are notified of class placements for the following year on or before the last day of school. State-wide Standardized Testing The following standardized tests are administered to elementary students: Grade 3: Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Reading and Mathematics Grade 4: Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) English Language Arts and Mathematics Grade 5: Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Science & Technology, Reading and Mathematics Communication A Jacobs School calendar is distributed monthly to keep you informed of special events, holidays, vacations and early release days. We also publish our weekly “blue notes” at the end of each week to inform parents of upcoming events and to provide important information. The “blue notes” are also posted on the school web site. All notices, flyers, calendars, and “blue notes” will be sent home in one envelope each Thursday. We hope this will cut down on parents/guardians needing to keep track of daily notices. Please return the envelope to school with your child the following day. A lunch menu for the month is posted on the back of the calendar as well as on the weekly “blue notes”. In the event of a very important announcement, we will use our ConnectEd phone system. When completing all of your emergency cards and ConnectED notification forms at the beginning of the year, please be sure to include two phone numbers that can be used for ConnectEd (phone numbers may NOT have extensions for ConnectED). Classroom teachers will keep parents/guardians informed of classroom happenings, important skills and specific work for parents/guardians to see on a regular basis. Newsletters, classroom information, and/or calendars on web sites will be updated weekly. All educators, teachers in particular, know and appreciate that parents’/guardians’ interests and participation are crucial components of any student’s successful education. There are two scheduled conference dates (November and February) and one Open House (September) each year. Additional conferences may be arranged as needed by sending a note to the teacher or calling the school. All parents are strongly encouraged to take part in conferences with your child’s teacher(s). 11 Student Records Transfer of Student Records to Another School The Lillian M. Jacobs Elementary School is responsible for maintaining official student records that include permanent and temporary transcripts of every student. The school will provide a complete copy of a student’s school record to any public school into which the student seeks or intends to enroll, upon receiving verification from any source that the student may be transferring out of this school district. Upon promotion, a student may obtain a copy of any record pertaining to that student. Consistent with the Education Reform Act and 603 CMR 23.07 (4) (g), notice is given to parents/guardians the Hull Public Schools have authority to transfer a student’s complete record to the student’s new school without prior consent. This record includes, but is not limited to, “any incident reports in which such student was charged with any suspended act.” The records are mailed to the new school pending a signed release of records. We do not allow parents to hand carry records to a new school. The regulations listed above are some of the more important provisions of the Student Record Regulations that relate to the rights of parents/guardians and eligible students. The Student Record Regulations are included in the Code of Massachusetts Regulations at 603 CMR 23.00. For more detail, a copy is available at the principal’s office at the school. Confidentiality of Records Except where the regulations specify authorized access by third parties, no individuals or organizations other than the parent/guardian, eligible student, and school personnel working directly with the student are allowed to have access to information in the student record without the specific, informed, written consent of the parent/guardian of the eligible student. As required by M.G.L. Chapter 71 Section 34H, a non-custodial parent may have access to the student record in accordance with the following provisions. 1. As set forth in 603 CMR 23.07(5), non-custodial parents are eligible to obtain access to their children's student records unless the school or district has been given documentation that: • the parent has been denied legal custody or has been ordered to supervised visitation, based on a threat to the safety of the student and the threat is specifically noted in the order pertaining to custody or supervised visitation, or • the parent has been denied visitation, or • the parent's access to the student has been restricted by a temporary or permanent protective order, unless the protective order (or any subsequent order modifying the protective order) specifically allows access to the information contained in the student record, or • there is an order of a probate and family court judge which prohibits the distribution of student records to the parent. 2. In order to obtain access, the non-custodial parent must submit a written request for the student record to the school principal annually. The initial request must include the following: • a certified copy of the court order or judgment relative to the custody of the student that either indicates that the requesting parent is eligible to receive access as set forth in 603 CMR 23.07 (5) (a), or a certified copy of a court order specifically ordering that the student records be made available to the non-custodial parent, and • an affidavit from the non-custodial parent that said court order or judgment remains in effect and that there is no temporary or permanent order restricting access to the custodial parent or any child in the custodial parent’s custody. Additional information regarding these state regulations may be obtained from the guidance office. 12 According to Public Law 107-110 (H.R.1) Section 9528, the school shall provide, on a request made by military recruiters or an institution of higher education, access to secondary school students names, addresses, and telephone listings. Parents/guardians have the right to deny this access by written request to the guidance office. NCLB Parent Notification Provisions Related to Teacher Qualifications The Federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 requires school districts that receive federal Title I funding to notify parents/guardians of their right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct their child. As a recipient of these funds, Hull Public Schools will provide parents/guardians with this information in a timely manner if requested from the Superintendent of Schools. Specifically, parents/guardians have the right to request the following information about each of their child’s classroom teachers: • Whether the teacher meets the state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grades and subjects he or she teaches. • Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency waiver because of special circumstances. • The teacher’s college major, whether the teacher has any advanced degrees, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree. • Whether paraprofessionals provide services to their child and, if so, their qualifications. Report Cards Students in grades K-5 will receive four report cards throughout the year. It is necessary to sign and return your child’s report card to their teacher. Space is provided for and you are encouraged to comment about your child’s progress. 13 Hull Public School’s Homework Policy Homework refers to a daily assignment to be prepared during a period of supervised study in class or outside of class or which requires individual work at home. The Hull School Committee regards homework as an integral part of the school program. Homework serves as an important link between the school program and the objectives of instruction. Homework is viewed as an extension of the student’s daily instructional program. As it is assigned the following educational goals should be considered: • To positively and meaningfully review, reinforce and refine the skills and concepts that are taught through instruction • To provide opportunities to pursue exploratory, applied, independent or enrichment studies related to the classroom curriculum • To develop a positive attitude toward learning and connections to what is learned to life activities and goals Homework assignments should be consistent in terms of the amount given each day and the time required for each assignment. The following are general guidelines of time allotment for homework and apply to assignments done at home not in school: Kindergarten: .. Homework at this level will be informal and given at the teacher’s discretion. Assignments may be geared more to requests by teacher for children to seek out and bring in objects and/or materials that will enhance what the child is studying in school. Daily reading of twenty minutes to or with the child is expected. First Grade: .. 10 minutes/day 4-5 nights/week .. 5 minutes of practicing math facts .. 10-20 minutes of reading a day Second Grade: .. 20 minutes/day 4-5 nights/week .. 5 minutes of practicing math facts .. 15-20 minutes of reading a day Three Grade: .. 30 minutes/day 4-5 nights/week .. 5 - 10 minutes of practicing math facts .. 20 minutes of reading a day Four Grade: .. 40 minutes/day 4-5 nights/week .. 5 - 10 minutes of practicing math facts .. 20 minutes of reading a day Fifth Grade: .. 50 minutes/day 4-5 nights/week .. 5 - 10 minutes of practicing math facts .. 20 minutes of reading a day All information for homework assignments should be clear and specific so that students understand what is to be accomplished and parents/guardians can assist the student. Homework assignments will be posted on teacher websites. Students will write down assignments as appropriate allowing parents/guardians access to the information. Every effort will be taken to consider individual differences of students. Homework should never be used as a punishment. If daily homework is counted into a final grade average, it should count as no more than 25% of that average. Long- term projects will be graded according to guidelines established prior to the beginning of the project. Students are expected to complete and submit homework on time. If extenuating circumstances exist, students will be afforded opportunities to make up homework. Students, teachers, and parents/guardians are encouraged to work together to make the homework experience meaningful, productive and positive. At the Lillian M Jacobs School, reading is encouraged every day. Reading has been found to be the single common factor for success in school. Reading with and to children as well as independently will help encourage a lifelong love of reading with your children. Sixth Grade: .. 60-90 minutes/day 4-5 nights/week Seventh and Eighth Grade .. up to 2 hours/day 4-5 nights/week Ninth – Twelfth Grade .. 2-3 hours/day 4-5 nights/week 14 Elementary Homework Guidelines Homework at the elementary level is an expected part of the educational program. Homework is an extension of the student’s daily instructional program that requires individual work at home. Research suggests that homework does, in fact, enhance the educational process. Homework improves student’s study habits and skills, as well as improves students’ attitudes toward school. Finally, homework acquaints parents with what their children are learning in school. They demonstrate an interest in the academic progress of their children, allowing students to become aware of the connection between home and school. Reading has been found to be the single common factor for success in school. Reading together with your child allows for opportunities for thoughtful discussions about the content of the book. These discussions can improve reading comprehension and allow children to have access to literature that may be too difficult for them to read independently. Therefore, daily at home reading (to, with, or by a child) is an important aspect of a child’s education and enhances the building of a strong foundation for life long learning and the enjoyment of reading. Purposes .. Reinforce school learning by providing practice and application .. Extend and review skills and techniques taught in school .. Develop a sense of responsibility and accountability .. Foster the development of independent study skills .. Create life-long readers Recommended Times and Frequency The time actually required may vary from child to child and from one assignment to the next. However, children should not be expected to expend more than the allotted time on a regular basis. If homework completion becomes an ongoing issue, the parents/guardian should instruct the child to make his/her best effort for the allotted time, and the parent should contact the teacher to discuss the matter further. Long-term assignments may increase a student’s homework load over and above the normal time recommendations. This will require a student to plan ahead and to budget time and pace. Homework assignments should be consistent in terms of the amount given each day and the time required for each assignment. Homework assignments missed because of absenteeism due to illness, family emergencies, and vacations taken during school time may be required to be made up. It is the responsibility of the student or parent to request homework assignments when a student is absent from school. These policies are recommended as guidelines to establish consistency within the school system. They should not be interpreted as a constraint upon a teacher’s academic freedom, nor upon any departmental policies about homework that would further refine or clarify these policies. Role of Parents/Guardians Parents/guardians are children’s first teachers and they continue to be teachers throughout the child’s life. When they go to school, children respond to their parents’/guardians’ expectations about the importance of education. Parents/guardians can do many things to provide for their child’s best school experience: 1. A quiet, distraction free location that is conducive to study. Limit or eliminate TV, radio and telephone during study times. 2. Supply necessary tools such as paper, pencils, dictionary, etc. 3. Age appropriate assistance with homework includes encouraging completion, accuracy, neatness, etc. 4. Contact teachers for ideas on how you can expand or compliment classroom instruction. 5. Volunteer at school with your special talents and time. 6. Read, read and read. – Even after a child has mastered the ability to read independently, he/she still enjoys being read to. Reading together with your child allows for opportunities for thoughtful discussions about the content of the book. These discussions can improve reading comprehension and allows children to have access to literature that may be too difficult for them to read independently. 15 Discipline Policy The staff at the Lillian M. Jacobs School will expect, model and encourage appropriate behavior from our students in all school situations, i.e. classrooms, cafeteria, playground, buses and during school sponsored events. A major goal of the Jacobs School is to provide a positive learning environment that will encourage the intellectual, emotional, physical and social well being of children. Behavioral expectations have been established to foster self-discipline through taking care of oneself, each other and the school. Students are required to treat people (fellow students, staff, teachers and visitors) and property with respect and not to engage in harmful conduct. Students are expected to abide by the School Rules Against Bullying: 1. We will not bully other students. This includes physical threats or actions, name-calling, verbal threats, and teasing. 2. We will try to help students who are bullied. 3. We will make a point to include students who are easily left out. 4. When we know somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home. On those occasions when behavior is detrimental to the conducting of effective classes, or to the other students, we may follow a procedure that could include any of the following: a.) Discussing the specific incident with the child or children who are involved. b.) Excluding the child from a specific activity. c.) Notifying the parent/guardian via a note or phone call about the specific incident. d.) Having parent/guardian come to the school for an in-school conference. e.) Implementing a plan of action to address the on-going behavioral issue with the student, parents/guardian, and the school. f.) Suspension, in or out of school. In determining the severity of the penalty, the principal, assistant principal or designee may consider all relevant factors, including, but not limited to, the following: a.) The student’s previous disciplinary record. b.) The severity of disruption to the educational process. c.) The degree of danger to self, other and the school in general. d.) The degree to which the student is willing to change his/her inappropriate behavior. Restraint Policy The Hull Public School System has adopted a policy and procedures consistent with the state law governing the use of physical restraint in public schools. A full copy of this policy is available in the Principal’s office. 16 Discipline Of Students on Individual Educational Programs and 504 Plans All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in this handbook. Regulations based on federal law, 20 U.S.C. § 1415k and federal regulations, 34 CFR §§ 300.519 – 300.529, require that additional provisions be made for students who have been found by an evaluation team to have a disability and whose support plan is described in an Individualized Educational Program (IEP). Students that are in the process of being tested, or are awaiting testing, are afforded all the provisions of a student with an IEP until eligibility is determined. The following additional requirements apply to the discipline of students with disabilities: • In some cases, the IEP for a student with disabilities might indicate whether the student can be expected to meet the regular discipline code or if the student’s handicapping condition requires a modification. Any modification will be described in the IEP. • The principal or designee will notify the Special Education Office of the suspendable offense of a student with disabilities and a record will be kept of such notices. • When it is shown that the suspension(s) of a student with disabilities will accumulate to ten (10) days in a school year, a manifestation determination will be held to determine the appropriateness of the student’s placement or program. The team will make a finding as to the relationship between the student’s misconduct and his/her handicapping condition. • Pending the approval of the amended IEP and alternative plan by the parent/guardian(s), the student remains in the last agreed upon placement, unless a court order has been obtained which allows the school district to change the student’s placement. • If a student on a 504 plan is being considered for expulsion, the 504 TEAM must convene to conduct a manifestation determination. • In some instances, additional evaluations may be required before a determination is made as to whether the student’s misconduct is related to his or her disability. Due Process Under the law, students are entitled to due process in matters dealing with possible suspension. In general, the following is required for a fair hearing: • Oral/written notice of the charges against him or her • An explanation of the evidence and the opportunity to present his or her side of the story to an impartial decision-maker (e.g., the school administrator) In matters, which involve a possible exclusion for over ten days or possible expulsion, the student’s rights are extended to include the following: • Written notice of charges • The right to be represented by a lawyer or advocate (at the student’s expense) • Adequate time to prepare for the hearing • Suspensions and expulsions are conducted in accordance with the applicable provisions of law and may involve, depending on the circumstances, the school Principal, the Superintendent or the School Committee • As required by law, such as in special education situations, the school may apply a different procedure for suspensions and expulsions in accordance with applicable law. Appeals If an appeal is to be considered, it must be presented to the principal in writing, stating the overall issue, the grounds for the appeal, and the desired result of the appeal. Appeals must be submitted to the principal within twenty-four hours of notification of suspension. 17 NOTICES OF CIVIL RIGHTS Notice of Equal Opportunity The Hull Public Schools reaffirms that they do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or sexual orientation in admission to, access to treatment in or employment in its programs or activities. Consistent with M.G.L. Chapter 76, Section 5, the Hull School District also affirms the commitment to maintain a school and work environment free of harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age disability or sexual orientation. Any harassment on the basis of sex, race, national origin, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation will not be tolerated and will be punishable to the full extent of the law. If you should have a complaint or concern that there has been discrimination, you may also utilize the following procedure: 1. Report the violations to any staff member in the Hull Public Schools. He/she will notify a building Administrator. The building Administrator will meet with you and other persons who might have information about the issue promptly and will attempt to resolve the issue. Any additional investigation will be commenced by the school district investigators in each area, within a reasonable period of time. The building Administrator will issue his/her decision in writing to you within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the investigation. 2. If the complaint is not resolved, it can then be appealed to the district’s Equal Opportunity, Title IX, Section 504, ADA Coordinator. This appeal must be in writing, describe the circumstances, and the relief you seek. This appeal should be taken within one week after receipt of the Administrator’s decision. 3. The Equal Opportunity, Title IX, Section 504, ADA Coordinator will meet with you within a reasonable time. Following a review of the materials presented to the Administrator and any additional investigation that will be conducted promptly, the Coordinator will make a final determination on whether there ha been a violation of the district’s policy within twenty (20) days after the conclusion of any additional investigation. If there has been a violation, the Coordinator will indicate the steps to be taken to correct it. Inquiries concerning the application of nondiscrimination policies may also be referred to the Superintendent of Schools or the Regional Director, Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Room 222, Boston, MA 02109-4557. Notice of Non-Discrimination Lillian M. Jacobs Elementary School admits the students of either sex and of any race, color, religion and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, courses and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Further, School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin or disability in the administration of its educational policies and programs. Inquiries concerning the application of this policy prescribed by TITLE IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Chapter 622 of the Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts may be directed to a building Administrator or the Superintendent of Schools Further, the Hull School Department affirms its compliance with Chapter 622 "that no person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school or in obtaining the advantages, privileges and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, or national origin." Section 504 is a federal Civil Rights Act that prohibits discrimination against individuals with a disability in any program receiving Federal financial assistance. The Act defines a person with a disability as anyone who: 1. Has a mental or physical impairment, which substantially limits one or more major life activity (major life activities include activities such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working); 2. Has a record of such impairment; 3. Is regarded as having such impairment. In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the Hull Public School district recognizes a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person solely due to his/her disability will knowingly be permitted in any of the programs and practices in the school system. The school district has specific responsibilities under the Act, which include the responsibility to identify and evaluate, and if the child is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services. If the parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer. 18 The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also specifies rights related to educational records. This Act gives the parent or guardian the right to: 1) inspect and review his/her child’s educational records; 2) make copies of these records; 3) receive a list of all individuals having access to those records; 4) ask for an explanation of any item in the records; 5) ask for an amendment to any report on the grounds that it is inaccurate, misleading or violates the child’s rights; and 6) a hearing on the issue if the school refuses to make the amendment. Dr. Marguerite Rizzi, Director of Student Services and Section 504 Coordinator for the Hull Public Schools, 7 Hadassah Way, or 781-925-0771 x15. Inquiries concerning the application of nondiscrimination policies may also be referred to: Regional Director, Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Room 222, Boston, MA 02109-4557. Harassment and Bullying Lillian M. Jacobs Elementary School views “harassment” as any abusive and illegal behavior that harms individuals and negatively impacts the school culture by creating an environment of fear, distrust, and intolerance. Because the Hull Public School District is committed to providing an environment that promotes respect, dignity, and equality for all students, School will seek to create and preserve an educational environment free from unlawful harassment and discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, origin, sexual orientation or disability. It is the policy of the Hull Public Schools to promote and maintain a working environment that is free from all forms of harassment including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment may include: • Coerced sexual relations • Physical assault, including rape • Inappropriate personal questions • Sexual remarks about a person's clothes, body or sexual activity • Suggestive remarks, verbal abuse • Public display of sexually explicit, offensive or demeaning photographs • Requiring a person to wear sexually revealing clothing • Leering, ogling of a person's body • Unnecessary touching in any form • Subtle pressure for sexual activity • Demanding sexual favors, accompanied by promises, hints or threats concerning one’s opportunities. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: 1. Submission to such conduct is made a term or condition of employment; 2. Submission or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment decisions or success as a student; 3. Such conduct unreasonably interferes with work performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or educational environment. Grievance Officer: The building Principal or Assistant Principal acts as grievance officers for the Lillian M. Jacobs School. The grievance officers are responsible for processing all sexual harassment complaints following the procedure outlined below. The grievance officers will be provided with training for handling sexual harassment cases and each year will be responsible for informing all staff and students of their rights and responsibilities under this policy. Procedure: 1. Any member of the school community who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment will report the incident(s) to one of the grievance officers. 2. The grievance officer will attempt to resolve the problem through the following process: a) The grievance officer will meet with the individual to obtain a clearer understanding of that individual's statement of facts. After meeting with the grievant, the grievant or grievance officer shall put the complaint of sexual harassment in writing. In the event that the grievance officer puts the complaint in writing, the grievant will review the written grievance for its accuracy and sign it. In the event that the grievant does not feel comfortable making the grievance as outlined above, he or she is free to file the grievance with any other administrator. That administrator will then coordinate the processing of the grievance with the grievance officer. b) The grievance officer will meet with the alleged harasser to obtain his or her response to the complaint. c) The grievance officer may hold as many meetings with the parties as is necessary to gather facts. 19 d) The grievance officer will meet with other individuals who may have pertinent information. e) The grievance officer will review any pertinent documents. 3. The investigation will be processed expeditiously with a completion time goal of two weeks. Upon completion of the investigation, the grievance officer shall prepare a report outlining the findings. If sexual harassment is found to have occurred, the grievance officer will meet with the Superintendent of schools to plan appropriate disciplinary action. The disciplinary action may include an oral warning or reprimand, a written warning or reprimand to be placed in a personnel file, a suspension, a demotion, a termination, or a combination of the above. 4. The grievance officer will write a summary of the investigation and the disciplinary action decided upon by the Superintendent of Schools. Both the complainant and the harasser shall receive the summary. If a complaint is substantiated, the summary shall be placed in the personnel file of the harasser. If the complaint is unsubstantiated, a summary shall be kept in the grievance officer's confidential files for one (1) year. 5. Grievants are not limited to a formal grievance procedure but may seek relief from other agencies including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, or the Office of Civil Rights of the Department of Education. Any retaliatory action taken by an employee or student in connection with a harassment complaint will be regarded as a separate and distinct matter under this procedure. ABBREVIATED REFERENCE TO THE LEGISLATION AND SPECIFIC CRITERIA OF CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS, AND SCHOOL AND DISTRICT COORDINATOR INFORMATION Law Coordinator Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 - prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits based on race, color and national origin. Dr. Joy Turpie 180 Harborview Road 781-925-4400 Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 - prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits in educational programs based on sex. Ms. Rebecca MacDonald 781-925-2040 Dr. Joy Turpie 180 Harborview Road 791-925-4400 Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 - prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits on the basis of disability in the areas of employment. Mrs. Maria Hortarides, 180 Harborview Road 781-925-4400 Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 - prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits on the basis of disability in the areas of educational programming and activities. Ms. Judith Kuehn 180 Harborview Road 781-925-4400 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1993 - prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits based on disability. Ms. Jennifer Costa, 180 Harborview Road, 781-925-4400 Ms. Rebecca McDonald 81 Central Avenue, 781- 925-2040 Ms. Andrea Centerrino, 180 Main Street, 781-925-3000 Dr. Joy Turpie 180 Harborview Road Massachusetts General Laws, Ch. 76, S. 5 - prohibits discrimination in all public schools on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion and sexual orientation. Dr. Joy Turpie 180 Harborview Road 781-925-4400 Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 - designed to help disadvantaged children meet challenging content and student performance standards. Dr. Joy Turpie 180 Harborview Road 781-925-4400 20 603 CMR 46.00 - governs the use of physical restraint on students in publicly funded schools Ms. Christine Cappadona, 180 Harborview Road 781-925-4400 Ms. Marilyn Smith 81 Central Avenue 781-925-2040 Mr. Gerald McGrath, 180 Main Street, 781-925-3000 Hull Public School policy, AC, “Nondiscrimination” states, “Individuals who have a complaint or feel they have been discriminated against because of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation and disability, should register their complaint with the Title IX compliance officer.” The above referenced laws and coordinators indicate whom individuals should contact in the event they feel they have been victims of discrimination. 21 INTERNET USE POLICY Internet Acceptable Use Policy In order for a student/faculty/staff to use the Hull Public Schools' Internet Connection, the party must read these guidelines and sign the Acceptable Use Contract. A parent or guardian for anyone under eighteen (18) years of age must also sign the contract. Internet Acceptable Use Contract The Internet is a vast global network, linking computers at universities, schools, research facilities, and commercial sites. By way of the Internet, one can communicate with people from all over the world through various means including discussion forums and electronic mail (e-mail). In addition, files, many of which have educational value, are available for downloading. Because of its enormous size, the Internet's potential is boundless. It is possible to speak electronically with people from all walks of life. However, with such great potential for education comes the potential for abuse, as well. It is the purpose of these guidelines, as well as the contract for Internet use, to make sure that all who use the Internet, both students and faculty, use this valuable resource in an appropriate manner. Use of the Hull Public Schools networks is a privilege, not a right, which may be revoked at any time for abusive conduct. Such conduct would include, but is not limited to, placing unlawful and/or inappropriate information on a computer system, the use of abusive or otherwise objectionable language in either public or private messages, the sending of messages or files that are likely to result in the loss of a recipient's work or systems, the sending of "chain letters", or "broadcast" messages to lists or individuals, any other types of use which would cause congestion of the networks or otherwise interfere with the work of others, as well as the use of the Internet in a manner which would violate the copyright and/or trademark laws of the United States. In addition, the Hull Public Schools System takes no responsibility for any information or materials that are transferred through the Internet. Because of the size of the Internet, many kinds of materials eventually find their way onto the system. Should a user happen to find material that may be deemed inappropriate while using his or her Hull Public Schools' Internet account, he or she shall refrain from downloading this material, and shall not identify or share the location of this material. Be aware that the transfer of certain kinds of material is illegal, and punishable by fine or jail sentence. The primary purpose of the Internet connection is educational. It is essential that everyone who uses this connection understand that purpose. Therefore, anyone using the Internet connection for non-educational purposes shall immediately log off should any significant system slow-down occur. No student shall use the Internet connection without the direct supervision of a qualified instructor. Failure to abide by these regulations shall result in suspension of their Hull Schools' Internet account, pending administrative review. The Hull Public Schools makes no guarantee, implied or otherwise, regarding the reliability of the data connection offered. Neither the Hull Public Schools nor the sponsor organizations shall be liable for any loss or corruption of data resulting from using the school Internet connection. The Hull Public Schools reserves the right to examine all data stored in the machines involved in the Internet project to make sure that all users are in compliance with these regulations. Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may view files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on school department servers would always be private. Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. During the school day, teachers of younger students will guide them toward appropriate materials. Outside of school, families bear the same responsibility for such guidance as they exercise with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio and other potentially offensive media. No user shall use this Internet link to perform any act that may be construed as illegal or unethical, including the use of the link to gain unauthorized access to other systems on this or any other network. The Hull Public Schools condemns the illegal distribution of software, otherwise known as pirating. Any student caught transferring such files through the Internet, and any whose accounts are found to contain such illegal files, shall immediately have their accounts permanently revoked. In addition, all users should be aware that software piracy is a federal offense and is punishable by fine or imprisonment. Also, all users should keep in mind that when they are using the Internet, they are entering a global community, and any actions taken by them will reflect upon the Hull Public Schools as a whole. As such, all users must behave in an ethical and legal manner. In summary, all students, teachers and staff of the Hull Public Schools are prohibited from: using the school department's Internet access for any personal use without permission (i.e., to send an e-mail and/or access an Internet site); using any 22 profane, vulgar, threatening, libelous, or criminal language when using the Internet; accessing any prohibited sites on the Internet; overriding or encouraging students to override any firewalls established on the Internet access network; permitting another individual to use their password, dissemination of any passwords, codes, access telephone numbers, or account numbers; and/or any other action whatsoever which would in any way subject the user and/or the Hull Public Schools to a possible criminal or civil action. The foregoing list is not all-inclusive and the Hull Public Schools reserves the right to notify a user of any other impermissible action regarding the use of the Internet. The Internet Acceptable Use Policy is posted on the school’s web site. Any changes to this document will be posted on the school website 23 Specialists Children in K-5 are exposed to a minimum of one period per week in the areas of Music, Art, and Physical Education. In addition certain grades also receive additional instruction periods in library and computer. Music The goals of the Jacobs School’s Music Program are to create an awareness of music, to develop an understanding of how music functions and is created to foster in all students a lifelong interest and appreciation of music. Instrumental music lessons are offered to students in grades four and five. Art The goals of the Jacobs School Art Program are to let all children find a means of expression that they will take along their life’s journey. Art lessons are process oriented not product generated. Children will learn that all people perceive and interpret the world around them differently. An art session consists of instruction and implementation of a lesson where children are exposed to a variety of different artists, methods, materials and techniques. DON’T FORGET: Your child will need a paint shirt to protect his/her clothing. Library The goals of the Jacobs School Library are to familiarize all students with books and resources and to encourage a love of reading that is the foundation not only of all education, but one of life’s great pleasures. Stories are read and books may be borrowed at library time. Children should return their borrowed books each week on their class’s library day. Overdue materials may be returned on other days at the discretion of the teacher. Unless the librarian gives special permission, students may not borrow new materials until they return books that they have previously borrowed. Students are responsible for the books that they borrow and may be charged for lost or damaged materials. Computers The goal of the Jacobs School is to continue to work towards integrating computers into instruction and providing all students with meaningful technology based experiences. The lessons and activities presented in the lab vary among classroom teachers and grade levels. The staff recognizes that the computer is another tool in a child’s educational program and the use of technology is encouraged. In addition, every classroom has computers within the class and access to the Internet. It is expected that teachers will integrate technology into their instructional plans. Physical Education 24 A Physical Education specialist meets with heterogeneous classes of children once per week. Activity classes are scheduled for forty-five minute periods. Homeroom teachers are not required to stay with the class. Activities that emphasize body awareness, spatial awareness, relationships and effort concepts as they relate to human movement are the focuses. The environment is conducive to development of the “whole” child. Support Services The Lillian M. Jacobs School faculty has worked together in an effort to create truly inclusive classrooms. Special education teachers will provide services to students with Individual Education Plans within the classroom when appropriate. It is our belief that the classroom teachers are of paramount importance when servicing children with special needs. Title I Title I is a federally funded program that provides financial assistance to public school districts. It is a supplementary program designed to provide additional help in the basic skill areas of Language Arts and/or Math. The classroom teachers refer children for Title I services based on a checklist of test scores and classroom performance. The Jacobs School follows an inclusion model. The Title I teachers give direct services in the classroom whenever appropriate. Various instructional strategies are introduced and modeled. Parental involvement is emphasized and encouraged. Parents/guardians are invited during Open House to visit with both the classroom teacher and their child’s Title I teacher. These teachers will be able to share strategies that they utilize in the classroom. Homework and study skills will also be highlighted. Special Education The Jacobs School embraces the concepts of full inclusion. Most of the services are provided in the regular classroom. Special education teachers provide consultation, support and direct services to children. There are also para-professionals who work with students, classroom teachers and specialists under the supervision of a special education teacher.. Students with special needs are monitored in compliance with all state laws and in conjunction with I.E.P. recommendations. Student progress is reported twice a year. Annual reviews and three-year re-evaluations are also conducted for students with I.E.P.’s. Access to the curriculum for children with an I.E.P. is based on the child’s need and the curriculum being utilized by the classroom teacher. This integration is carried out in various manners. Students who can follow regular class lessons with support are given accommodations so that they may remain on task with the rest of the class. If class lessons are beyond a child’s skill level, lessons are differentiated or assignments are modified to target the appropriate skills. Children needing additional help may receive support in a small group within the class. For some special education students there is a need for “pull out” services where students leave the regular education classroom for direct instruction. These services are provided in the resource room. Skills taught in the resource room are reinforced throughout the day in the regular classroom. Speech and language services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and optimal learning physical education classes are typically held outside the regular classroom. Referral Procedures for Special Education If a teacher is concerned about a child, he/she initially consults the child’s parents or guardians. If the concern is of an emotional/social nature, the teacher may consult the school psychologist, assistant principal, adjustment counselor or guidance counselor. The concern may be resolved. If not, the child will be part of a discussion at a Student Assistance Team’s meeting (guidance counselor, assistant principal, school psychologist, adjustment counselor). The Student Assistance Team meets once a week. At this meeting further support will be determined. Support may take many forms: continued consultation with the teacher, group or individual counseling at school, meeting with the parent/guardian and/or possible referral for outside services. If the concern were of a more academic/cognitive nature, the teacher would make a referral to the Child Study Team. The Child Study Team is composed of the school psychologist, guidance counselor, assistant principal, adjustment counselor, a classroom teacher and specialist education teacher. This team provides a forum for discussion of any child with problems whose teacher desires advice or support. The team formulates an action plan. The success of this plan is evaluated within four weeks. If additional support is then deemed necessary, the child may be referred for an evaluation (specialized assessments) through the team chair. A parent may also request an evaluation at any time. 25 Once the evaluation request is received, specified assessment measures are determined. All state and federal regulations are followed. A Notice of Procedural Safeguards and Permission to evaluate form is sent to the parents/guardians. Once permission to test has been received by the team chair, all members involved in the assessment are notified of permission to test, the due date and the day they will meet with the parent/guardian to discuss the results. Upon completion of the evaluation, within thirty days after the referral has been signed, the specialist, classroom teachers and parents/guardians will meet to determine the best educational plan for the child. If found eligible for special educational services, an Individualized Educational Program (I.E.P.) will be developed. Speech and Language Therapy Services The speech and language pathology team screens all preschool children (ages 3 and 4) to determine if a need exists for a speech and language intervention. In addition, speech and language evaluations may be included as part of initial evaluations or three year re-evaluations when appropriate. Speech and language services address delays in articulation, language (expressive and receptive), fluency, and voice. Services may be provided in small groups, individually, in the classroom, and through consultation with classroom teachers. Students are referred for speech and language services by the child study team, parents/guardians, classroom teachers, or physicians. Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy Occupational and physical therapy services are provided to children who have delays in their fine motor or gross motor, visual motor, sensory integration or perceptual development. Services may be provided individually, through consultation with classroom teachers, or in a small group. Students are referred for occupational and/or physical therapy by the child study team, by parents/guardians, classroom teachers or physicians. Counseling Services Counseling services are available to all children through the school psychologist, a school adjustment counselor and/or other staff members to provide services to students, parents/guardians and teachers. The counseling staff helps students identify their abilities, interests, feelings and behaviors, either individually or in small groups. They help students to a better understanding of themselves and others, into accepting responsibility for their behavior, to express thoughts, feelings and attitudes and to develop such skills as listening, sharing, making choices and solving problems. The backbone for all counseling services is to create teamwork between home and school for that is the key to well-adjusted children and successful education. Extended Programs and Organizations for Children Kids Care A day care enrichment program at the Jacobs School is available to all children in grades K-5. A curriculum based on a variety of themes is offered. The children have access to the school’s computer lab, gymnasium and outdoor playground. Kid’s Care follows the same calendar as the Jacobs School, including snow days, delays and emergency cancellations. The hours of the program are 2:45 PM to 6:00 PM on Monday through Friday. Extended hours are available on scheduled half-days and during school vacations. All financial obligations are met through tuition fees. Financial assistance is offered to those in need. For more information contact Barbara Stanley at 781-925-8012. Before School Program The Before School Program provides child-care to Jacobs School students in grades K-5 whose parents/guardians leave for work prior to the start of the school day. Children may read, do homework or participate in games and computer activities. The program is available from 7:15 – 8:30AM on school days. A small daily fee is charged for each child. For more information please call the school at 781-925-4400. JASPER Jacobs After School Program for Enrichment and Recreation The Jacobs School offers several sessions of JASPER throughout the year. Courses typically meet for one hour after school, one day a week for six weeks. A variety of courses are offered during each session such as: arts and crafts, games and sports. The vision of JASPER is to provide a low-stress, small group, safe and caring environment for students in grades K-5. For more information call the school at 781-925-4400. We are always looking for parents to offer enrichment courses as part of our JASPER program. Please call us if you are interested in teaching a course or assisting in a program. 26 Organizations for Parents/Guardians Jacobs School Council In accordance with the Education Reform Act of 1993, the Jacobs School has an advisory board, referred to as the Jacobs School Council. The council is comprised of parents/guardians, community members, teachers and the principal. Though law dictates the number of members, anyone is welcome to attend any of the meetings. Dates are posted at Town Hall or can be found through the school office. The council meets monthly to review school budgets, formulate school improvement plans and advise the school principal. Hull P.T.O. The Hull P.T.O. (Parent Teacher Organization) is a group of parents/guardians, teachers and community members who actively support the educational program of the Hull Public Schools. Its members are involved in fundraising projects to provide financial support for activities such as field trips and supplementary materials for teachers. The P.T.O. sponsors two book fairs every year at the Jacobs School. The proceeds benefit the library and other student activities. The organization also provides parent/guardian volunteers for special events throughout the school year. PTO Officers for 2008-2009 are: Co-president- Sharon Striglio-925-1151 striglios@juno.com Co-president-AnnMarie Dunn 925-2429 adunn21n@comcast.net  Vice-president- Sherry Kearns 925-9959 kearns9959@comcast.net Secretary- Nancy Sullivan 925-9294 njs33@comcast.net  Treasurer- Linda Neville 925-2401 H.A.S.C. (Hull Academic Support Coalition) H.A.S.C. is a parent initiated non-profit organization created to promote excellence in the Hull Public Schools. Specifically, they offer grant opportunities for educators to pursue high quality academic enrichment programs for students. If you would like more information about H.A.S.C, please contact Mary Merrigan (781-925-4582). Contact List: Principal’s email: dtobin@town.hull.ma.us  Assistant Principal’s email: ccappadona@town.hull.ma.us  School Psychologist’s email: asherman@town.hull.ma.us  School Guidance Counselor’s email: jcosta@town.hull.ma.us  School Adjustment Counselor’s email: rmacdonald@town.hull.ma.us  School Phone Number 781-925-4400 School Fax Number 781-925-2938 School Absentee Number 781-925-4398 School Web Site: http://www.town.hull.ma.us/Public_Documents/HullMA_JacobsClass/homepage  Kids Care 781-925-8012 Wellspring Since 1996, the students and community of L.M. Jacobs School have been donating to Wellspring, our wonderful local multi-service center in Hull. All respond generously, willing to give to others less fortunate whatever the reasons. A monthly donation list is distributed in September to help guide contributions. It is included here for reference and as a 27 thank you to the students and their families for their continued support that is much appreciated by Wellspring and the community at large. Reminders with specific collection dates will be sent home monthly, however donations will be greatly appreciated at all times. Suggested Donations – Other Items will Happily be Accepted September: pancake mixes, syrup October: Thanksgiving fixings – stuffing, gravy, piecrust and filling November: new hats, mittens, and scarves – all sizes December: pennies January: canned soups, crackers February: canned stews, hot chocolate, marshmallow, fluff March: canned pasta sauces, pasta April: fruit juices May: personal care items, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, brushes 28 Hull Town Hall 253 Atlantic Ave., Hull, MA 02045 Tel: 781-925-2000    Fax: 781-925-0224 Email Subscriber Send Us Comments © 2004 Town of Hull - All Rights Reserved