Bi-Cultural Day School Parent Handbook 2015-2016

Bi-Cultural Day School
Parent Handbook
2015-2016
:‫תֹורת ִאמֶּ ָך‬
ַ ‫ל־תטֹּ ש‬
ִ ַ‫ְׁשמַ ע ְׁבנִ י מּוסַ ר אָ ִביָך וְׁ א‬
Listen my child to the guidance of your father
and do not turn from the teachings of your mother.
-- Proverbs 1:8
Bi-Cultural Day School
2186 High Ridge Rd.
Stamford, CT 06903
Tel: (203) 329-2186 Fax: (203) 329-0464
www.bcds.org ● Email: office@bcds.org
Introduction
Bi-Cultural Day School is a unique and extraordinary school and community in so many ways,
respectful of our shared heritage and traditions, and respectful of each other. As educators
and as parents, we are bound together in a most important partnership: to help each student
to be his or her best at school, at home, with friends, and in the community.
The purpose of this handbook is to help you, our parents, as we embark upon another year
of outstanding Jewish education. We are committed to our ongoing goal of excellence in the
classroom and exemplary conduct by our children, by our staff and by our parents in the
halls and classrooms of Bi-Cultural, in daily life and in the community at large.
2
Bi-Cultural Day School Mission
Bi-Cultural…
… is a community day school embracing students and families across the Jewish spectrum and
inspired by a deep respect for all family traditions while guided by Modern Orthodoxy.
… provides a nurturing and academically stimulating environment that enables every student to
achieve excellence in both general and Judaic studies. An innovative values based curriculum
enables our students to become educated, committed and ethical members of their communities.
Menschlechkiet - building character - is our values standard.
… students develop pride in their heritage. This is accomplished by teaching the fundamentals of
Judaism: Torah, Hebrew language and love of Israel. By engaging students in meaningful
religious, cultural and chesed experiences we strive to deepen their connection to Judaism and the
Jewish people.
… recognizes that each student learns differently, and that all children need to succeed. Therefore,
Bi-Cultural respects the individual needs of each student and provides enrichment and remediation
in keeping with their individuality, as well as a broad extra-curricular program to provide a wellrounded experience.
… is a family. Our goal is to maintain an active partnership involving students, faculty, parents,
and the greater Jewish community.
… gives its graduates the building blocks to become accomplished, committed and principled
leaders in their secondary schools, universities, professions and communities.
3
Administrative and Office Staff 2014-2015
Administration and Office Staff
Head of School, Principal
Mrs. Jacqueline Herman
1308
Rabbinic Dean
Rabbi David Israel
1402
Associate Principal, Early
Childhood
Mrs. Rachel Bahar
1330
Associate Principal, General
Studies
Mrs. Rachel Haron
1396
Associate Principal, Judaic
Studies
Mrs. Michal Smart
1366
Associate Principal
Rabbi Yehuda Jeiger
1406
Director of Admissions
Mrs. Joanne Karow
1310
Director of Operations
Mr. Robert Abrams
1311
Director of Finance
Mrs. Judith Maya
1303
Coordinator of Jewish Studies
Morah Elisheva Kilner
1322
School Nurse
Mrs. Lisa Everett
Mrs. Sandra Moreno
1335
School Psychologist
Dr. Kate Cik
1412
School Librarian
Mrs. Dora Salm
1312
Head Secretary
Mrs. Pia Walker
1302
Head Custodian
Mr. Henry Lopez
1516
4
BCDS Board of Trustees
Executive Board of Trustees
Robert Zitter
President
Frederick Baer
Linda Meyer Russ
Vice President
Howard Fogel
Dr. Paul Berger
Past President
Cheryl Bader-Goldblum
Kamal Haron
Treasurer
Jay Jubas
Marc Leferman
Glenn Reicin
Board Members
Stephen Bodurtha
Maxine Freilich
Sarah Rich
Steven Chernys
Michael Friedman
Marvin Schildkraut
Stella Cohen
Jenny Fuchs
Tara Shapiro
Steve Cohen
Harvey Kaminski
Gary Shulman
Nimrod Dayan
Jill Kaplan
Mark Sternlicht
Shoshana Dweck
Allen Lichtenberg
Ami Soifer
Mark Feller
Gabe Moreen
Mia Weinstein
Barbara Friedlander
Maria Reicin
Shana Yakubovich
5
BCDS PA Board Contact List 2015 – 2016
Co-Presidents – Jill Kaplan and Tara Shapiro
PARENTS ASSOCIATION
Name
PA Board Position
Email
Jill Kaplan
Co-President
jfkaplan@hotmail.com
Tara Shapiro
Co-President
tarashapiro@hotmail.com
Jenny Fuchs
Past-President
jenfuchs@me.com
Maria Reicin
Past-President
Maria.Reicin@gmail.com
Robyn Winarksy
Vice President of Fundraising
Robyn501@aol.com
Jessica Bradley
bradles@optonline.net
Beth Baer
Director of Marketing and
Communications
Director of Volunteers
Susan Leferman
Secretary
susanlef@yahoo.com
Craig Price
Director of Dads
cprice@bbwg.com
Taly Farber
Toby Lazarus
Sue Yellen
Marlene Gatz
Dani Kwlawasser
Jodi Shapiro
Rebekah
Kanefsky
Melanie Kaplan
Julie Rosenberg
Melanie Riker
Ziona Doft
Reba Sitzer
Janice Steinberg
Reba Sitzer
Co-directors of In-Reach
Co-directors of Social Events
tntfarber@yahoo.com
telpsych@aol.com
syellen72@optonline.net
gatpigs@gmail.com
Director of EZ$
dkwalwasser@hotmail.com
jorensh1@aol.com
rebekahkanefsky@yahoo.com
Auction
Director of Volunteers
reba.sitzer@gmail.com
janice@alfacreative.com
reba.sitzer@gmail.com
Susan Leferman
Secretary
susanlef@yahoo.com
Meredith Cohen
Judith Jelen
Race for Education Co-Chairs
meredithcohen123@gmail.com
jelen1@aol.com
bethbaer@optonline.net
Managers of Spirit Wear
kaplanmelanie@hotmail.com
julierosenbergslp@gmail.com
Auction Co-Chairs
melanie.riker@gmail.com
zionadoft@yahoo.com
6
Faculty Rooms and Telephone Extensions
2015-2016 Staff Phone Extensions
Name
Abrams, Robert
Abrams, Robert
Alumni
Andersen, Alice
Auxillary Copy / Storage Room
Bahar, Rachel
Batton, Tina
Bernstein, Heidi
Bloch, Noam (Bat Sherut)
Brown, Kerry
Café Back
Café Front
Cahr, Jonathan
Carriero, Felicia
Cerra, Angela
Cerra, Angela
Chimes, Sharon
Cik, Dr. Kate - School Psychologist
Computer Lab
Cooney, Dana
Danner, Kathryn
Dremiler, Michael
Dulitz, Jessica
EC Tutorial (17 & 18)
Fass, Gina
Fass, Gina
Founders Room
Fritz, Beth
Ginsberg, Karen
Gordon, Michelle
Graseck, Chris
Grosberg, Rabbi Uri
Grosberg, Rabbi Uri
Hallway - 3rd Grade
Hallway - 7th Grade
Hallway - 7th Grade Far End
Hallway- Main Entrance
Haron, Rachel
Hazony, Lauren
Helman, Chiam
Helman, Chiam
Helman, Lior
Herman, Jacqueline
Room
Classroom
Office
Office
Office/Pre-K Classroom
Storage Room
Office
Office/Gym
Office/Tutorial 365/366
Office
Office
Café
Café
AV Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom
Office/Blue Classroom
Office
Computer Lab
Classroom / Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom / Office
Office
EC Tutorial
Classroom
Office
Conference Room
Classroom / Office
Server Room
Business Office
Classroom / Office
Office/Science Lab
Office/ Classroom
Office
Hallway 3rd
Hallway 7th
Hallway 7th
Hallway Main Office
Office
Office/ Classroom
Classroom / Office
Office
Classroom/ Office
Front Office
Room #
117-New
Chapel
210
363
11
114
22
Gym
365
370
Ext.
1409
1311
1529
1350
1360
1330
1328
1527
1522
Café
Café
Multi
204
202
207
19
380
219
110
102
216
1376
1375
1502
1388
1390
1396
1333
1506
1362
1322
1353
1347
17
118
119
153
112
Server Room
4
350
217
224
121
Hallway
Hallway
Hallway
Hallway
368
103
124
121
353
8
1334
1408
1411
1373
1324
1332
1536
1339
1358
1413
1320
1344
1314
1316
1405
1380
1523
1413
1533
1308
7
Hernandes, Julio
Hochman, Sarah
Hoff, Trish
Hupal, Erin
Israel, Rabbi David
Israel, Rabbi David
Jeiger, Rabbi Yehuda
Jeiger, Rabbi Yehuda
Jewish Studies Storage
Judson, Gayle
Kaner, Lea
Karow, Joanne
Kfare, Sherry
Kilner, Elisheva
Kitchen (Gym)
Kohl, Rabbi Eli
Konak, Neeley
Lieberman Center - JS Tutorial
Lieberman, Yospa
Lieberman, Yospa
Lopez, Henry
Marriott, Liz
Matthews, Gretchen
Matthews, Gretchen
Maya, Alan
Maya, Judith, Business Manager
Miller, Laura
Morgenthaler, Debbie
Multi-Purpose Room
Naughton, Christine
Nealon, Joseph
Neidober, Jessica
Nurse
Nursery
Old Chapel / Beit Midrash
Olson, Sally
PA Annex (Auction/Journal)
PA Office
PA Storage Room
Pitkoff, Cindy
Raffel, Helen
Raffel, Helen
Rand, Mimi
Robinson, Adrianne
Robinson, Adrianne
Sahar, Yael
Sakson, John
Salm, Dora
Sarfati, Hadas
Serbell, Yvonne
Serbell, Yvonne
Shimon, Lior (Bat Sherut)
Custodial Office
Computer Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom
Classroom
Office
Classroom / New Chapel
Office
Workroom/ Storage Room
Office
Classroom
Admissions Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom / Office
Kitchen
Office
Classroom / Office
Tutorial
Office
Classroom
Custodial Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom
Office
Computer Office
Business Office
Classroom/Office
Office/White Classroom
Behrend Auditorium
Main Office
Office/Gym
Office/ Classroom
Nurse's Office
Nursery
Old Chapel
Classroom / Office
Office
Office
Storage Room
Office/Pre-K Classroom
Classroom
Office
Classroom / Office
Classroom
Office
Office/Red Classroom
Classroom / Office
Office/Library
Office/Tutorial Room
Classroom
Office
Office
Basement
218
354
227
125
130
117-New
Chapel
222-223
104
108
14
Admissions
100
213
Kitchen
120
225
109
105
113
Basement
203
220
211
218
3
214
20
Multi
1
Gym
13
16
Nursery
150
12
151
131
152
10
220
211
113
118
106
21
215
145
205
238
207
370
1516
1315
1349
1361
1304
1402
1409
1406
1387
1352
1310
1386
1377
1319
1359
1321
1383
1325
1515
1389
1357
1342
1315
1303
1345
1351
1501
1301
1328
1354
1335
1509
1313
1535
1416
1309
1374
1521
1357
1342
1325
1408
1384
1379
1346
1312
1394
1367
1396
1522
8
Siegel, Marissa
Smart, Michal
Sound Room, Stage
Sterling, Barbara
Teacher's Room - K-1
Teacher's Room - 4th Grade
Teacher's Room / Main Teacher's Lounge
Teig, Ruth (Freeman)
Teig, Ruth (Freeman)
Trombka. Elana
Trombka. Elana
Tully, Emily
Video Classroom
Walk, Rabbi David
Walk, Rabbi David
Walker, Pia
Wetzler, Pat
Office/ Classroom
Office
Sound Room
Classroom
Teacher's Room K-1
Teacher's Room 4
Teacher's Room 5-8
Classroom
Office
Office
Classroom
Classroom / Office
Video Classroom
Classroom
Office
Main Office
Office/Art Room
101
226
Sound Room
111
15
360
208
212
206
119
118
201
Video
126
116
1
115
1378
1366
1318
1323
1336
1532
1397
1343
1395
1411
1408
1391
1370
1407
1369
1302
1327
9
Introduction
Every child who is a student at Bi-Cultural is a representative of his or her family, of our school and of the
Jewish people. Children of all ages need to be consistently reminded that wherever they may go, the way
they conduct themselves is noted by others and reflects upon their parents, their teachers, their school and
the Jewish community. At Bi-Cultural Day School, children are held to a high standard of decorum in the
classroom, on field trips and at celebrations with classmates. In keeping with our Jewish values, such
themes as honesty, integrity, respect and the importance of helping others are integral to the education
every child receives. We trust these values are also taught continuously at home. Bi-Cultural believes high
behavioral expectations produce students who emerge from our school with a positive self-image and a
strong sense of self-confidence, essential ingredients for a successful future. As our partners in raising
children who will be good Jews and good citizens, you, our parents, also play a critical role at home in
setting the best possible personal example. Your children love you and look up to you, and they are led by
your behavior and the example you set.
Arrival and Dismissal of Students
Arrival
BCDS formally opens its building for students at 8:00 a.m. each morning, with classes beginning at 8:15.
Students who arrive before 8:00 a.m. should enter through the building's front door and go directly to the
library, where they are to remain until class time.
Children in carpools should arrive between 8:00 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. and enter the building near the Early
Childhood Center, where staff will be waiting to greet them each day. Parking is permitted only in
designated parking areas and NOT along the stone walls surrounding the large tree at our building's
entrance. For the safety of our children, always keep in mind: there is only one lane for dropping off a
child, the lane closest to the building. Please keep the second lane, the one further from the building, free
for vehicular traffic and emergency vehicles.
TO PREVENT TRAFFIC JAMS, DO NOT PARK IN THE CAR POOL LANES OR IN THE
DRIVEWAY. If you will be staying at school in the morning, first drop of your child safely at the front
door, and then find a parking space in one of the designated parking areas.
Dismissal
Dismissal Mondays through Thursdays is at 3:35 p.m., and on Fridays at 1:05 p.m. until March 11th.
Extended Fridays begin on Friday, March 18 and end on Friday, June 10th. After-school activities will
take place between 3:40 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Our late bus operates on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Dismissal of students is done by grade. Teachers are assigned to car pool areas and school buses. The
teachers will remain at their posts for 15 minutes following dismissal. If your child needs to be picked up
prior to the regular dismissal time, you need to write a signed and dated note to be handed to the
classroom teacher. When coming to pick up your child, please go to the Main Office. The office will
contact the classroom to send the child to the office. Parents should NOT go to the classrooms, as this is
extremely disruptive to the teacher and class.
10
Attendance
Children should be in attendance daily unless they are ill or an emergency arises. Otherwise, the
continuity of instruction is hampered. If your child is sick, please let the school know first thing in the
morning by phoning Mrs. Pia Walker in the school office at extension 1302. All children should arrive in
time for the start of school at 8:15 a.m. Lateness negatively affects learning and disrupts the classroom
routines of children. Students arriving after 8:20 a.m. must first stop in the office to sign in and receive a
late pass. Chronic lateness will be addressed with students and parents by the administration.
Birthday Parties
Birthdays are important events in a child's life. If you wish to celebrate with a birthday treat for your child’s
class/grade, you may bring it in or have your child bring it in. We kindly request that parents do not stay in the
class. The teacher will provide a time for the treats to be distributed. Treats served MUST be under one of the
school's accepted kosher supervisions as listed below. Please speak with Rabbi Israel regarding kashrut
questions.
Birthday Parties at School –




Only Kosher food with a recommended Kosher symbol or from a recommended bakery is allowed.
Pareve food is recommended and common allergens (dairy, nuts, etc.) should be avoided.
On meat days (Tuesday and Thursday), pareve birthday treats are required.
Please contact classroom teacher in advance to schedule a birthday celebration.
Birthday Parties at Home



If more than 5 students are invited, all students of one gender or all students in the class must be
invited. For grade level parties, please be sure to include all students in the grade.
Birthday invitations are never to be handed out at school.
A parent must be in attendance at birthday parties.
All food and candy – dairy, meat or pareve - served at the party must have a recommended kosher
symbol or come from a Kosher caterer. (See page 23 for a list of recommended caterers)
Recommended Kosher Symbols:
Bakeries with many Kosher Products
 Beldotti Bakery (Newfield)
 Fairway Market (Canal Street)
 Stop 'n Shop (Summer Street) in Stamford and Stop 'n Shop Bake Shops in Norwalk (380
Main Avenue), Westport and Trumbull. Please note that many of their products are dairy.
11
Care of BCDS Building and Grounds
Our school building is an outstanding facility. It is important that we work together, recognizing that every
child, teacher and parent is a role model in maintaining the high standards of appreciation for our school
property and grounds. Please help us inculcate a respect for our school building and school property. Both
inside the building and in outside areas, you will find conveniently located receptacles for trash and
recyclables. Each of us plays a role in pitching in to keep our school looking its best.
Change in Transportation Plans
We recognize that transportation plans sometimes change unexpectedly. Parents must notify the
classroom teacher and the office by 12:00 p.m. of a change in transportation plans. Please do not call the
office at the last minute.
Communication From BCDS to Parents
Communication from the school to parents is very important and comes in many forms, chief among
them, e-mails to your personal e-mail address and Blackbaud. Blackbaud is our one stop information hub
where you gain access to everything from the school calendar to the daily lunch menu. Blackbaud enables
you to monitor your child's homework assignments, progress and is the key location for parent
information from your child’s teachers. All daily events, permission slips and field trip information can be
accessed and easily printed directly from Blackbaud. BCDS is a busy place and you don't want to miss out
on exciting news from your child's school.
Bi-Cultural maintains an emergency contact system which is used mainly for weather-related alerts (snow
days) and other vital information that must be speedily and widely dispersed. We use this system
sparingly. Please be sure emergency contact numbers and email addresses are up-to-date.
Communication From Parents to BCDS
AT BCDS, THE DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN TO PARENTS: Your concerns are our concerns at BiCultural Day School. Our administration maintains an open door policy. Parents are always welcomed at
the school. A full list of staff phone extensions and e-mail addresses is provided at the front of this
handbook.
If you or your child has a question or a problem of any kind, please feel free to phone the appropriate staff
member, always starting first with your child's teacher and progressing from there if necessary. Every
effort will be made to return any message left for a teacher or administrator as quickly as possible and
certainly within 24 hours. We remind you: the busy front office and crowded school hallways provide no
privacy for conversations between parents and staff members. A phone call is suggested to arrange a
mutually convenient time for a meeting in private, either by phone or in person at school.
At Bi-Cultural Day School, the staff and administration stand ready and willing to listen to any and all
concerns, complaints, questions, issues and bright ideas for doing things better. School-wide surveys,
which are conducted via e-mail, are an important way for us to get input and opinions from our parent
body, and we urge you to also make your views heard by participating in school surveys. We count on
you, our parents, for your views and suggestions to help our school be the best it can be.
An important note for parents: child psychologists report, and our own experience as educators has shown,
that parental complaints voiced about a school, a teacher or a school policy in front of a child can have
highly damaging effects on a child's attitude toward school and on a child's performance in the classroom.
Negative comments should never be voiced within earshot of your child. Parents need to be aware that
teachers and administrators at every school, including Bi-Cultural, frequently hear from the mouths of
12
children, sentiments that could only have been heard or overheard from parents at home. We urge you to
exercise utmost caution and discretion in this regard and, instead, come privately to your school
administration or members of the school's board of directors, all of whom are most happy to talk with you
about any and all concerns you might have.
Dates to Remember
September 10
September 9
October 21
October 25
Sunday, November 15
Monday, May 30
Sunday, June 5
Thursday, June 16
Back to School Night Grades 5 – 8
Back to School Night Grades 1 - 4
Back to School Night Grades Pre-K/Kindergarten
BCDS Open House
BCDS Annual Auction
Annual School Celebration
Salute to Israel Parade
Graduation
DISCIPLINE
Student Behavior Expectations
Opportunities
School is a time of opportunities for each individual student to grow and blossom into a well-rounded
mentch. In fact, development of a good sense of midot, or character, is a primary goal and core value for
each of our students at BCDS (Derekh Eretz Kadmah L’Torah). Teachers will be even more vigilant and
applaud appropriate behaviors such as arriving to class on time, respectful treatment of peers and teachers,
care for school property, honoring the image of Hashem in each person and using proper speech and tone
to name a few. Rudeness, bullying, fighting, disobedience, lateness to class, the willful destruction or
defacing of school property or the use of profanities will not be tolerated
Expectations
We are proud of our students and know they will rise to meet our appropriately high expectations! Yet, at
the same time, we must explain the process by which we will address problems that might arise.
Procedure
When a student misbehaves in class, in the hallway, on the bus he or she will be warned by the teacher
that the behavior is inappropriate. Subsequently, where appropriate the student will be asked to take a
moment to relax, regroup outside the room and then return. In the case of dress code violations, the
student will be asked to pick up an appropriate outfit from the school office for the balance of the day.
This outfit must be washed and returned the next school day.
If these steps are taken and the student continues to disturb the class or violate a school rule, the student
will be sent to an administrator and be asked to fill out the attached Behavior Reflection Form. This form
will be placed in the student’s file after being signed by parents and an administrator. Each time a student
is sent to an administrator, the infraction will be noted in Blackbaud where all staff and administration can
view it.


Any student sent to an administrator three times within a trimester will receive an after school
detention which will be held on days when late bus service is provided (Monday, Wednesday and
Thursday).
A second after school detention during the year will result in a day-long in-school suspension.
13

A second day long in-school suspension will result in an at home suspension.
Students in grades 1-3
Students in grades 4, 5
Students in grade 6, 7
Students in grade 8
will report to Mrs. Michal Smart
will report to Mrs. Rachel Haron
will report to Mrs. Jackie Herman
will report to Rabbi Yehuda Jeiger
As always, partnership between parents and the school is essential to support proper student behavior.
Please review this policy with your child. We thank parents for their support in helping make BCDS a
place where proper behavior and being a mentch is an understood expectation. If you have any questions,
please feel free to contact Rabbi Jeiger at yjeiger@bcds.org.
Events/Performances For Parents At School
Parents will be invited to special activities at school throughout the school year. Please remember to
respect our student dress code whenever you are in the building. Men should wear kippot, which are
always available at the front entrance.
Electronic Devices And Cell Phones
Students may not bring the following electronic devices to school:
• I-Pods
• MP3 Players
• Electronic Games i.e. Gameboy
All cell phones belonging to students must be kept in their lockers throughout the day and turned off.
Students must keep personal cell phones off during the entire school day. Should a student need to make a
call, please send the student directly to the office. If the cell phone is on and/or used during the school
day, it will be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the day. Students may retrieve cell
phones from the main office at the end of the day.
Faculty
Staff members are selected for their academic preparation, experience, commitment and affection for
children.
Field Trips
In order to enhance learning, classes are scheduled to go on field trips throughout the school year.
Permission slips will be available for downloading and printing from Blackbaud. They describe the trip
and request your written permission so that your child may attend. Field trip permission slips must be
signed and returned the next school day.
Homework
Homework assignments are integral parts of the school-learning program. The amount of homework
assigned increases as children move up the grades. Homework is assigned to reinforce concepts developed
14
during the school day. Help your child to structure homework time; however, remember that homework
assignments are for the children.
If you find that your child is having great difficulty with an assignment, contact the teacher via note, email or phone, explaining that the assignment was too difficult and providing a few helpful details. Do not
force your child to complete an assignment that is beyond his/her understanding. You undermine your
child's/children's success in school if you complain in front of them about the homework load. You can be
sympathetic but please direct all concerns to the teacher who will make every effort to help improve the
situation.
Bi-Cultural students arrive at high school well prepared for the rigors which await them. Their experience
managing their homework assignments at BCDS builds critical skills for high school success.
Daily Written Homework Expectations
Grades 1 – 3:
About ½ hour
Grades 4 – 5:
About 1 hour
Grades 6, 7, 8:
About 1 ½ hours
Homework Free Day
Bi-Cultural Day School has implemented a "homework-free day" each full week of school beginning in
November. Elementary students have a weekly “homework free day,” and middle school students have a
bi-weekly “homework free day.” The day will alternate each week, allowing students more time to work
on projects, prepare for tests, complete assignments, focus on outside pursuits, or spend more time reading
or relaxing with family and friends. Students will receive planners and be given time to encode daily
homework assignments.
15
The following dates are designated “No Homework Nights.”
Date
Elementary School
Middle School
Wednesday, November 4
X
Thursday, November 12
X
Monday, November 16
X
Tuesday, December 8
X
Wednesday, December 16
X
Thursday, January 14
X
Monday, January 25
X
Tuesday, February 2
X
Wednesday, February 10
X
Thursday, March 3
X
Wednesday, March 9
X
Thursday, March 17
X
Tuesday, March 29
X
Wednesday, April 13
X
Thursday, May 5
X
X
Wednesday, May 11
X
X
Tuesday, May 17
X
Thursday, May 26
X
Tuesday, June 7
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Blackbaud – Parent and Student Communication System
Each teacher also has a Homework Page on Blackbaud, our Internet homework communication system.
You and your child/children will be able to access this information through the internet at home,
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providing another link between parents and BCDS. Instruction and access information will be provided
soon after the opening of school.
Please direct all questions to Alan Maya, technology specialist, at Amaya@bcds.org.
“In The Know”
Bi-Cultural publishes a weekly e-newsletter to keep parents aware of the happenings in the school. Be
sure to read it every Friday!
Kashrut Standards
The Torah discusses the need to sanctify the everyday activity of eating by keeping the laws of Kashrut.
Although there are many specifics, there are just two main ideas of “eating kosher”:
 Only animals, fish and fowl permitted by the Torah and then properly and painlessly prepared,
are consumed.
 Meat and milk (and foods containing them) are not eaten together.
Bi-Cultural Day School is a kosher building. ALL food brought into BCDS must be kosher.
Recommended Kosher Symbols (Hashgachot)
The recommended Kosher symbols for Bi-Cultural Day School are in line with those of the Vaad
HaKashrut of Fairfield County, the agency responsible for supervising Kashrut in our area. They appear
below:
A “D” next to these symbols indicates the product is dairy.
A “P” indicates it is Kosher for Passover
No letter next to the symbol indicates it is parve.
Please contact Rabbi Israel for further clarification.
Lost and Found
Please make sure that all jackets, coats and other important personal articles are properly labeled with
your child's name. This will enable the school to return articles that have been left in the building. Outer
garments should have collar hooks for hanging up in cubbies and lockers. Non-labeled items will be
placed in our Lost and Found box in the lunchroom.
Lockers
All middle school students receive a locker. Students are permitted to decorate the inside of their
personal locker, however, are not permitted to decorate the outside of the locker. Magnets must be used
as adhesive. Tape is not permitted.
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Lunch Program
BCDS offers a comprehensive lunch program for purchase called “TRAY BIEN.” The healthy and
nutritious program includes a hot entrée, hot side, hot soup, salad bar and fruit daily. As an alternative to
the school lunch program, students may opt to bring lunch from home.
Please note the following lunch protocols for food brought from home:

All food brought into BCDS must be kosher (see Kashrut Standards, p. 15)

No meat from home/outside will be allowed. The only meat products allowed in school will be
from our caterer.

On meat days kosher-certified pareve or dairy food may be sent in for lunch. Kosher pareve or
dairy meals must be prepared at home. Any pre-packaged items sent in to school must have
proper Kashrut certification.

For a listing of healthy and well-balanced pareve lunch ideas, please visit the school website.

Any combination of dairy or pareve snacks are acceptable every day of the school week. All
snacks must be kosher-certified based on the Kashrut certifications recommended by the Vaad
HaKashrut of Fairfield County.
BCDS Kosher Policy
Food brought into BCDS must meet the guidelines stated above. Should a student bring a lunch that does
not meet the guidelines, s/he will receive lunch from school, a parent will be contacted by phone and
billed for the meal. If there is a second violation, parents will be called into school for a conference.
Please contact Rabbi David Israel at disrael@bcds.org with any questions.
Registering for the Lunch Program
Lunch registration information is sent out over the summer. Students have the option to enroll in the 5
day per week program, the “dairy day” program, or the “meat day” program. Contact Judy Maya at
jmaya@bcds.org or call (203) 329-2186, Ext. 1303 with further questions.
Parents Association
The Parents Association is an important part of the Bi-Cultural experience. The PA works closely with
parents to foster a strong tie between the home and the school. The PA sponsors many fundraising activities
that directly benefit students and BCDS.
It is important that all parents actively support PA activities. Parents should attend meetings, participate in
activities and help our PA to be successful throughout the year. Contact the PA office.
Parent/Teacher Conferences & Report Cards
Online report cards will accessible through Blackbaud in December, April and June for grades 1-8.
Interim reports may be sent, if necessary.
Parent-Teacher Conference Dates:

Wednesday, December 2, 2015 from 12:00 – 8:00 p.m.
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
Wednesday, April 6, 2016 from 12:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Parents may request a meeting with a teacher throughout the school year. To schedule an appointment
with a teacher, please leave a message on the teacher’s voice mail or email directly.
School Closings
In the event of severe inclement weather, we will use our Constant Contact email system to contact each
family. Please make sure the school has your current email address and that you receive emails
from the school at least once a week. Send an email to office@bcds.org with any changes to your
email address or other personal contact information.
A NO SCHOOL or DELAYED OPENING message will be broadcast as close to 6:30AM as possible
via:
 BCDS Constant Contact System
 BCDS telephone - (203) 329-2186
 BCDS website – www.bcds.org
 Channel 12
 Stamford radio station WSTC (1400 AM dial)
 Norwalk Station WNLK (1350 AM dial)
We will always follow the decision of the Stamford Public Schools regarding the closing or delayed
opening of schools. Whenever the Stamford Public Schools are closed, Bi-Cultural Day School will be
closed. Snow days will not be made up.
Early School Closings
In the event that severe weather conditions during the school day necessitate the early closing of school,
we will make sure that all families are contacted via our Constant Contact email system. Please make
sure the school has your current and you receive emails from the school at least once a week. Send
and email to office@bcds.org.
An EARLY SCHOOL CLOSING message will be broadcast immediately via:
 BCDS Constant Contact System
 BCDS telephone - (203) 329-2186
 BCDS website - http://BCDS.org
 Channel 12
 Stamford radio station WSTC (1400 AM dial)
 Norwalk Station WNLK (1350 AM dial)
If an early closing is necessary and the school has a question, the parents will receive a direct phone call.
School Journal & Dinner Celebration
Bi-Cultural Day School will celebrate its 59th Anniversary Celebration on Monday, May 30, 2016. It
is the major social and fundraising event of the year. All parents are expected to attend. Community
leaders, friends and alumni, parents and staff come together to socialize and support this lavish and
elegant event.
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School Telephone
The school telephone is reserved for official school business. Children are only permitted to use the
telephone for emergencies. Telephone calls received during the day interfere with classroom routines and
interrupt the learning process. Please make sure that all necessary arrangements for after-school activities
and appointments have been set before your child leaves for school. Telephone calls regarding changes to
a student’s dismissal plans must be received by the main office no later than noon.
Should you need to reach your child’s teacher during the day for a non-urgent matter, please use the list
of voice mail extensions on pages 7 and 8 of this brochure to leave a message for your child’s teacher(s).
Security
We aggressively continue to ensure the security of our building. To that end, we keep all doors locked
from the outside throughout the day. All parents and students must enter the building through the main
entrance w/buzzer entry. Parents should report to the Main Office when they visit BCDS during the
school day. ALL VISITORS MUST obtain a visitor’s pass from the office.
Student Behavior Expectations
The development of a good sense of midot, or character, is our goal for each student. It is expected that
each student will display appropriate behavior that is respectful to others. Rudeness, bullying, fighting,
the willful destruction of defacing of school property or use of profanities will not be tolerated.
Infractions may result in temporary or permanent suspension. The partnership between parents and the
school is essential to support proper student behavior. (See Discipline Policy, p. 13)
Transportation
The Stamford Board of Education engages a private bus contractor for the transportation of children in
grades K-8 who live within the City of Stamford. If you have concerns regarding transportation from the
Stamford Board, please call the Rabbi Jeiger at Extension 1406.
BCDS contracts mini-buses for students who live in Greenwich, Norwalk, Wilton, Weston, Fairfield and
Westport. Please complete THE TRANSPORTATION REQUEST FORM, and return it to Judy Maya in
the Main Office. New York students who live within 15 miles of BCDS generally are provided
transportation through their districts. Please check with your district regarding transportation. Please
review the Bus Transportation pamphlet with your child before the beginning of school. Safe
transportation requires that children strictly adhere to safety rules at all times.
Failure to adhere to safety rules, or inappropriate behavior, may result in the suspension of bus
privileges for a period of time.
Students, who need to take a different bus home or need to get off at a different bus stop on a periodic
basis, MUST have a written, dated note from their parents; otherwise, we cannot accommodate the
change. Changes are dependent upon available space on the bus.
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Policies and Procedures
BCDS Community Policy
BCDS COMMUNITY POLICY
Respect – Inclusiveness – Kashrut - Shabbat
By design, Bi-Cultural Day School reflects the diversity of our Jewish community. It is our philosophy
that in order to love the entirety of the Jewish People, we must learn and grow together.
It is our school’s belief that all Jews, adults and children, must accept that families make their own
choices within their homes as to how they observe Judaism. It is also our belief that by upholding and
educating according to a single Modern Orthodox standard, we are creating a united BCDS community
that makes everyone comfortable and will best equip our students to develop - each in his or her own way
- into literate, proud and committed Jews. This approach informs how we teach and speak to students
about religion, ethics, Jewish practices, diversity and a host of other subjects.
When a family sends their children to BCDS, they are committing themselves to these values. Respect
for others, inclusiveness, Kashrut and Shabbat are non-negotiable within our BCDS community. We
therefore take this opportunity to remind all of our staff and families of the following policies; the
professional, lay and Parents Association leadership are all committed to ensuring that these policies are
shared, explained and followed as we move forward. Should questions arise, please consult Rabbi Israel.
Food from Home 

Only Kosher dairy or pareve food with a recommended Kosher symbol may be brought from
home.
On meat days (Tuesday and Thursday), students and staff members with dairy lunches sit at a
dairy table.
Birthday Parties at School –



Only Kosher food with a recommended Kosher symbol or from a recommended bakery is
allowed.
Pareve food is recommended and common allergens (dairy, nuts, etc.) should be avoided.
On meat days (Tuesday and Thursday), pareve birthday treats are required.
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
Please contact classroom teacher in advance to schedule a birthday celebration.
Birthday Parties at Home



If more than 5 students are invited, all students of one gender or all students in the class must be
invited. For grade level parties, please be sure to include all students in the grade.
Birthday invitations are never to be handed out at school.
A parent must be in attendance at birthday parties.
All food and candy – dairy, meat or pareve - served at the party must have a recommended kosher
symbol or come from a Kosher caterer.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah





All BCDS student Bar/Bat Mitzvah dates, locations and caterers must be listed on the BCDS
calendar at least six months in advance of the event. Please contact Rabbi Israel at
disrael@bcds.org for the online form.
All students in the grade must be invited to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah service and celebration.
A parent plus appropriate additional adult supervision is expected at all Bar/Bat Mitzvah
celebrations.
Kosher food from a recommended caterer must be served to ALL guests at a BCDS student’s
Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah luncheons and celebrations must not require travel by car from the service.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations must not violate Shabbat.
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Bar and Bat Mitzvah Celebrations
General Guidelines
The beauty of a community school like Bi-Cultural is that children from a variety of Jewish backgrounds
come together in one school to create a caring environment of mutual respect as students learn about the
heritage they share. The strong feeling of acceptance and belonging, which the school promotes,
contributes significantly to the long tradition of students thriving at Bi-Cultural and in the larger Jewish
community. In this spirit of learning and acceptance, we invite all parents to nurture this essential value
by adhering to some basic inclusive and respectful guidelines when planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah
celebration. To help you plan, school policy is provided below. If you have any concerns or suggestions,
please feel free to contact Rabbi Israel or Mrs. Smart for further guidance.
Registration of Dates
It is vital that parents sign and submit the school's Bar/Bat Mitzvah Registration Form promptly upon
receipt of a student’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah date. Please contact Rabbi Israel at disrael@bcds.org for the
online form. Posting the dates is critical to helping classmates and their parents plan their own events.
Occasionally, an overlap in dates is unavoidable, but having an up-to-date calendar is most helpful in
enabling families to make celebration arrangements.
Invitations to Classmates
It is the policy of our school community that the entire grade be invited to every Bar/Bat Mitzvah
religious service. Because of the size of most grades, we recognize that occasions will arise when Bar/Bat
Mitzvah services will be scheduled for more than one student on the same date. All students in the
Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrant's grade, however, should still be invited to each ceremony service, as well as
to any Oneg or Kiddush immediately following the service. If the religious service is taking place on
Shabbat or a Jewish holiday, the Oneg or Kiddush (or any special reception--see below) should not
require vehicular travel from the service to the place of celebration. If a family wishes to hold a Bar/Bat
Mitzvah party, reception or special children's event (other than an Oneg or Kiddush), it is school policy
that all of the children in the grade be invited.
Student Conduct at Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
Adolescence is a challenging time for children and especially for their parents. It is a time when parental
guidance and continued reinforcement of behavioral messages are critical. We want our children to have
fun, but at the same time always be mindful of their family values and Jewish values. At school and at
home, our children need constant reminding that their behavior at celebrations should be respectful and
reflect well upon their parents and their school. Our message as a school and as parents must be: whether
a party is in a synagogue or temple, hotel or country club, home or backyard, respect for property is vital
and proper decorum is expected at all times of those who have the privilege of identifying themselves as
Bi-Cultural Day School students.
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Timing of Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebrations
Shabbat and Jewish holidays end three-quarters of an hour after sundown. In order to accommodate your
children's classmates who are Shabbat observant, children's parties on Saturday night (or after a Jewish
holiday) should not begin until one hour after Shabbat ends. In late spring, summer and early fall,
Shabbat ends late, which makes Saturday evening children's parties very difficult. Parties should never be
scheduled after sundown on Friday. Sunday celebrations are a popular alternative for family and friends
any time of the year.
Kashrut at Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebrations
At a Bar or Bat Mitzvah in which your child's Bi-Cultural classmates will be in attendance, the host
parents are urged to show respect for all members of the school community by serving only kosher food
to all guests at the celebration. Without a doubt, other family members, your rabbi and other guests will
also appreciate this thoughtfulness.
To assist you in your planning, we have provided a list of more than 20 widely accepted and excellent
kosher caterers in this handbook. Bi-Cultural does not intend to police the kashrut of anyone's simcha,
but at the same time, the school takes seriously its responsibility to educate our students and their
families to show consideration for the spiritual growth and well-being of every child and every friend in
our midst. When the school becomes aware of a celebration that does not adhere to school guidelines, we
will be in touch with the host family. BCDS administrators are available to help you make your
celebration as inclusive and as festive possible. Your effort to show respect at your event for all in our
Jewish community will be a source of great pride for your family and your children.
Caterer
Abel Caterers
Alex Klein Caterers
Beth Torah Glatt Kosher
Caterers
Ari’s Distinctive Catering
Borenstein Caterers
Chai Cuisine
Chai Caterers (CT)
Chap-A-Nosh
Corner Café
Elite Caterers
Foremost
Genadeen Caterers
Greenwald Caterers
Kay Caterers/
Lincoln Sq. Synagogue
Kingsway Caterers
L’Chaim Caterers
Main Event
Mauzone Catering
Mike’s Center Café
Mr. Omelette
RECOMMENDED CATERER LIST
Phone Number
Certifying Agency
(203) 389-2300
Vaad of Fairfield County
(718) 339-4466
OU
(718) 261-4775
Rabbi Gershon Kreuser
(718) 380-0866
(718) 656-3600
(973) 882-0121
(203) 374-8912
(718) 627-0072
(719) 601-2861
(718) 337-6600
(201) 664-2465
(516) 295-5554
(732) 370-8300
(212) 362-5555
Vaad of Queens
OU
OU
Vaad of Fairfield County
ARK
Vaad of Riverdale
Breuer’s
Star-K
Kof-K
Kashrus Council of Lakewood
N.J.and Rabbi Yisroel Gornish
OK
(718) 357-4585
(212) 304-4852
(201) 894-8710
(718) 261-7723
(203)321-0051
(516) 766-1884
Vaad of Queens
Kof-K
RCBC
Vaad of Queens
Vaad of Fairfield County
Vaad of Oceanside
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New Star Caterers
Prestige Caterers
Riverdale Kosher Market
Simcha Caterers
Sharmel Caterers
Six Thirteen
Seasons (formerly Supersol)
Soosh
(718) 891-8100
(718) 464-8400
(718)884-2224
(203) 209-8413
(718) 327-3575
(203)614-8777
(914) 472-2240
(203)658-7505
Kehilath Kashrut
Vaad of Queens
Vaad of Rivedael
Vaad of Fairfield County
Vaad of Queens
OU
Westchester Rabbinical Council
Kof-K
Dress Code
DRESS CODE FOR STUDENTS
The aim of the dress code policy at Bi-Cultural Day School is to create an atmosphere of dignity,
modesty and respect based on the principles of Jewish law, and to promote an atmosphere for learning for
our students. Proper student attire at our school fosters self-respect, self-confidence and seriousness of
academic purpose.
We are taught that our clothing not only reflects but also influences who we are. When we ask our
students to dress modestly and maintain a neat appearance, we encourage them to respect their bodies,
respect themselves and be sensitive to others.
When we ask our students to dress with a degree of formality, we encourage them to respect their school
as a place of learning. When we permit our students, within some guidelines, to choose their own
clothing, they are able to express themselves creatively. To these ends, we urge you to be sure your child
is dressed appropriately each morning.
The school sets the policy; it is essential that parents and all teachers help implement it.
Policies:
 Students must adhere to school dress code policies provided below.
 If an infraction occurs, the matter will be addressed as a disciplinary issue.
 Please help ensure your child is properly dressed before school.
ENFORCEMENT OF THESE POLICIES WILL BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY BY ADMINISTRATION
AND TEACHERS.
If a student violates the dress code, the student will be required to adhere to dress code parameters prior
to returning to class. The main office will supply dress code appropriate attire for the remainder of the
day.
BCDS Dress Code
Dress Code Standards for Grades PreK- 3
Primary students should dress in comfortable, safe and durable attire. T-shirts are permitted for boys and
girls in these grades but must not display slogans, advertisements or team names. Small manufacturer
logos are permitted and decorative prints for girls are acceptable.
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Boys are required to wear a kippah at all times.
Dress Code Standards for Grades 4 – 8
BOYS:
Shirts:
Short or long sleeve polo or oxford shirt in white, light blue or navy blue (solid color)
Pants:
Plain front or pleated "khaki style" pants in khaki, navy blue or black (solid color). Jeans, Cargo
and Painters Paints are not permitted.
GIRLS:
Shirts:
Short or long sleeve polo or oxford shirt in white, light blue or navy blue (solid color)
Skirts:
COVERING the knee in khaki, navy blue or black (solid color). Denim is not permitted.
Logos and Verbiage on Clothing:
Small manufacturer logos are acceptable, but should be no bigger than a half dollar. (Example: Polo,
Izod, Under Armour...) Designs, words, symbols or appliques are not acceptable on any article of
clothing.
Sweaters:
Solid color white, light blue or navy sweaters may be worn as outerwear over a shirt that meets the
dress code requirements.
Sweatshirts:
Spiritwear and Bar/Bat Mitzvah sweatshirts may be worn as outerwear.
SAFETY NOTE:
SNEAKERS ARE REQUIRED FOOTWEAR ON PHYSICAL EDUCATION DAYS.
FLIP FLOPS ARE A SAFETY HAZARD AND ARE NOT PERMISSABLE FOOTWEAR AT
SCHOOL FOR ANY STUDENT.
"DRESS DOWN DAYS": Guidelines for "dress down days" will be provided via e-mail to parents in
advance of these special days to ensure everyone is clear on what students may and may not wear.
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“8th GRADE THEME DAYS”: The last Friday of each month is designated for Grade 8 theme days.
Students are required to remain in dress code attire underneath the theme shirt, hat or accessories.
Piercing:
It is Bi-Cultural Day School policy that other than piercing to a female’s ears, all other noticeable
piercing of the body is prohibited. Additionally, tattoos or other marks made on the body are prohibited.
As stated earlier in this handbook, these rules are based upon the modesty, respect, and dignity accorded
the human body by Jewish law (halacha) deriving from the belief that all men and women are created
B’tzelem Elokim, “in the image of G-d.”
Food Health Procedures
Our health program promotes good health habits through specific preventive initiatives.
Pursuant to Connecticut State Law, new students and transfer students are required to have a completed
physical before entry to school. Health forms must be signed by your physician.
Students will not be permitted to participate in physical education classes without a copy of the physical on
file in our Nurse’s Office.
Common Medical Guidelines and Procedures:
PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE. DO NOT SEND A SICK CHILD TO SCHOOL.
ILLNESS SPREADS EASILY, AFFECTING OTHER CHILDREN, TEACHERS AND STAFF.
If a child exhibits signs of illness at home in the morning (a temperature greater than 100 degrees orally,
vomiting or diarrhea) he/she may not attend school until the symptoms have been resolved. A child must be
fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school.
A child who exhibits a temperature greater than 100 degrees orally in our school nurse's office will be
excluded from class and the parent will be called to take the child home. Again, it is required for children to
be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school.
As pediatricians advise, children diagnosed with strep throat must remain home for a minimum 24 hours after
beginning treatment with medication.
Students returning from an absence due to surgery or injury must submit a physician’s note indicating the
child may return to school and when he/she may resume physical education classes.
If your child has been exposed to a communicable disease (such as measles, chicken pox), please notify the
school nurse. If a child is absent due to a communicable disease, he/she must bring a note from your physician
when returning to school.
In the event a child develops head lice, an appropriate anti-lice preparation must be used and all nits removed.
You may be called to pick up your child from school, at which time detailed instructions will be provided to
assist you in helping your child become lice-free.
OUR SCHOOL NURSES WILL EXAMINE A RETURNING CHILD AFTER LICE TREATMENT
AND DECIDE WHETHER THE CHILD MAY RETURN TO CLASS.
In the case of pink eye or conjunctivitis, appropriate eye drops or ointments must be applied. There must be
no sign of discharge or significant redness before returning to school.
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Ideally, all medication should be given at home. Please request the physician to structure the schedule so
medications are given before and/or after school hours. If a child takes medication during the school day, a
note delineating the name of the medication, the time and the dosage to be given must be sent to the nurse.
STUDENTS MAY NOT TAKE MEDICATIONS IN THE SCHOOL ON THEIR OWN. WE MUST
HAVE A DATED NOTE FROM A PARENT AND THE FAMILY PHYSICIAN TO ADMINISTER
MEDICATION DURING THE SCHOOL DAY. It is imperative that the school nurse be aware of any
medications that your child is taking.
BCDS School Map
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