Message from the Principal... Knowledge is a Treasure
Transcription
Message from the Principal... Knowledge is a Treasure
August 25, 2015 Message from the Principal... Dear Westchase Families, Can you believe it? Another school year is here already. With a new school year come celebrations, changes and challenges. We celebrate a new crop of Westchase Wizards coming to us in kindergarten as well as transfer students from other schools. You should start noticing some upgrades around the building. The exterior of the building is being painted and will hopefully be completed soon. All windows were removed, scraped and placed back in the walls with a nice, thick bead of caulk. The office has been transformed into a family-friendly enchanted forest. Finally, I’ve been told that the marquee will be corrected and powered up very soon. Thanks to PTA, I have purchased 20 new projectors to replace old ones in classrooms that are no longer working correctly. We have also begun the process of replacing televisions. After nearly 20 years, they are starting to die out. They are being replaced with very cost efficient LED televisions. Thanks again PTA! We are on the list for an upcoming technology “refresh” that will replace some old computers with new computers, at no cost to the school. The school theme, is “Knowledge is a Treasure” As a team of educators and parents we need children to see the value of learning. We’re fortunate to live in a country that educates all children. Together, we’ll engage in adventures that will expand the minds of our children. Respectfully, Erik Holley, Principal Knowledge is a Treasure Westchase Elementary School ●9517 W. Linebaugh Ave●Tampa, FL 33626 (813) 631-4600●http://westchase.mysdhc.org School Board Susan L. Valdes, Chair Doretha W. Edgecomb, Vice Chair April Griffin Sally A. Harris Carol W. Kurdell Melissa Snively Cindy Stuart Superintendent of Schools Jeff Eakins Chief of Schools Larry Sykes, Ed.D. Area Superintendent, Area II Lisa Yost Principal Erik Holley Contents 1. Principal’s Message 3. PTA President’s Message 4. Who Can Help Me? 5. Communication 6. Parent Input Form 7. Attendance and Tardy Information 8. Award Criteria 9. Dress Code 9. Reunification Site 10. Recommended Supplies 11. Afterschool Care Providers 12. Student Handbook 12. School-wide Discipline 13. Bullying 14. Arrival and Dismissal Procedures 16 Student Nutrition 18 School Bus Standards of Conduct 19. Kindergarten Bus Information 20. Walkers/ Bicycle Rider Permission 21. Year at a Glance Calendar 22.Student Academic and Assessment Calendars 23. Picture Release and Internet Exclusion 24. Volunteer Application August 2015 Dear Parents: Please take the time to read, complete and review the information in this first day newsletter with your child. Please return any items that are bolded in the list below. □ Emergency Information Card (MOST IMPORTANT) Check pre-printed information – make needed corrections Complete all sections that are not pre-printed Sign and date – return ASAP! □ Attendance and Tardy Information □ SERVE 2015-2016 Volunteer Application (Required for all volunteers, chaperones and visitors within the school day) □ Picture Permit —AND— Internet Use Form □ School Dress Code information □ Bus Conduct Form □ Bicycle/ Walker permission and Inclement Weather Plan (if applicable) Please read all information and review with your child those items that pertain to school policies and procedures. I am looking forward to working with you and your child during the school year. Sincerely, Erik A. Holley 2 August 2015 Dear Wizard Families: On behalf of the Westchase Elementary PTA, I welcome you all back to school! As we enter the 2015-16 academic year, Mr. Holley reminds us that “Knowledge is a Treasure.” Whether your child is new, or a returning student, I hope s/he will take advantage of the many on-campus opportunities to learn, explore, and discover their unique gifts. As your PTA President, I am fortunate to work with a dedicated group of volunteers who remain focused on our PTA mission: “Every Child. One Voice.” A portion of your PTA Membership dues helps support our efforts to be a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for the education and well-being of every child. Together, your PTA produces a variety of programs and events that enrich our students’ academic and extracurricular experiences year-round. Please see the enclosed package of information highlighting upcoming PTA programs and important dates. Or, visit our website at www.westchasepta.org Please also “Like” our Facebook Page to receive important updates in your News Feed. Finally, please plan to attend the first General Meeting on Thursday, August 27 at 6:00 p.m. in the MultiPurpose Room (MPR) to learn what the PTA has planned for the year. And, if you’d like to become more involved, please don’t miss the Volunteer Breakfast on Friday, President August 28th at 8:30 a.m. in the MPR. Carolyn Reynolds Committee Chairs will review the 1st V.P.–Programs many opportunities to serve 2015-16 PTA Officers throughout the year. All gifts of time and talent are welcome and appreciated. Sincerely, Carolyn Reynolds Westchase PTA, President (and John and Lauren’s Mom!) AnnMarie Flannery 2nd V.P. –Ways and Means Jen Newman, Neema Patel 3rd V.P.—Volunteers Leslie Spence 4th VP Membership Nichole Fisher , Leslie Holryod Treasurer Nikki Pivnichny Recording Secretary Tara Caraballo Corresponding Secretary Laura Kohler 3 Who Can Help Me at Westchase? Below you will find a list of people who work at Westchase that can assist you with specific concerns. When you call the office with a concern, the staff will assist by directing you to the correct person first. If you have gone through the appropriate progression and you still need assistance, please call and schedule an appointment with Ms. Pecoraro. If you still have unresolved concerns, my secretary, Ms. Mendez is available to listen to your concerns and schedule an appointment to meet with me. Erik Holley, Principal Area of Concern 1st 2nd 3rd Assessments Classroom Teacher Cori Pecoraro, Asst. Principal Attendance Records Classroom Teacher Brenda Jacobs, Data Processor Attendance/ Truancy Concerns Classroom Teacher Rachel Bruns-Brice, School Social Worker Bus Concerns Bus Driver Luanne Lockwood, Bus Safety Bus Transportation Requests Gaye Blake, Secretary Brenda Jacobs, Data Processor Business Solicitations Monsie Mendez Principal’s Secretary Cafeteria Concerns: Kitchen Yarida Lopez, Asst. Mgr. Cafeteria Student Behavior Classroom Teacher Family Community Support Kiersten Demarest, Guidance Counselor Rachel Bruns-Brice, School Social Worker Counseling/ Emotional/Family Kiersten Demarest, Guidance Counselor Michele Durrance, School Psychologist Curriculum/ Textbooks Classroom Teacher Jackie Reinhart, Reading Coach Custodial Manuel “Manny” Elizalde, Head Custodian English Language Learners Classroom Teacher Exceptional Student Education ESE Case Manager Field Trip: Financial Classroom Teacher Field Trip: Scheduling Cori Pecoraro, Asst. Principal Field Trip: Concerns Classroom Teacher Health/ First Aid Edie Montesano, Health Asst. Maintenance/Grounds Manuel “Manny” Elizalde, Head Custodian Media Center Marlene Urwiler, Media Asst. Vicki Bollinger, Media Specialist Parent-Student-Teacher Concerns Classroom Teacher Kiersten Demarest, Guidance Counselor Report Cards Classroom Teacher Cori Pecoraro, Asst. Principal Safety/ Emergency Drills Luanne Lockwood, Bus Safety Amber Watson, Patrol Sponsor Scheduling Cori Pecoraro, Asst. Principal Student Behavior Classroom Teacher Student Records Brenda Jacobs, Data Processor Substitute Teacher Concerns Classroom Teacher Monsie Mendez, Principal’s Sec. Amber Watson, Patrol Sponsor Karen Read, Café. Mgr. Rachel Bruns-Brice, School Social Worker Rosa Cooper, ELL Program Director Monsie Mendez, Principal’s Secretary Stacey Chute, R.N. Kiersten Demarest, Guidance Counselor Gaye Blake, Secretary 4 Dr. Michele Durrance, School Psychologist Communication Westchase strives for transparency and constant communication. Listed below are some of the many ways the Faculty and staff and Westchase reach out to keep parents informed: Newsletter: After this initial newsletter for August/September, the newsletter will no longer be sent home in hard copy form. Our teachers are working to grow global citizens who are aware of the earth and conservation efforts. One way we can reduce our carbon footprint is to publish the newsletter online. The newsletter is posted on the second Wednesday of every month. As soon as it is posted on the school website, I will also out a parent link via email and text message to inform parents that the newsletter is ready. Please take the time to read the newsletter as it contains valuable information. We also make a dozen or so copies in the office if you would prefer to have a hard copy. Website: Many people don’t know that the school website www.westchase.mysdhc.org has an online calendar with updated information on upcoming events. We are continually working on enhancing the website to make it more useful for parents. Parent Link: Parent Link is a system that allows us to make a recording and send it out to the telephones of our Westchase families. Most parent link messages will arrive in text or email format. I try to reserve voice parent link calls for emergencies and very important announcements and reminders. Email: Teachers have email addresses that you can access from the school web page. They make every attempt to respond to emails within 24 hours or one work day. Please be sure to share your email address with the teacher if you would like to have notices of events emailed to you in addition to the Parent Link. Email addresses are only for the purposeful use by Hillsborough County Schools, and Westchase Elementary School staff. Telephone Calls: Of course you can still call Westchase at 813-631-4600. During normal work hours, 7:30-4:00, a live person will answer your calls. Teachers typically return phone calls within one working day. Parent Conferences: Formal Parent Conference Nights are held two evenings a year. In addition to those dates, you may request a conference at any time. Please be aware that teachers are not available for conferences from 7:30-8:00 a.m. as they are supervising students and working with some of them to provide additional assistance. You may call the office and leave the teacher a message or you can send the teacher a note or email that you would like to set up a time to conference in person. Friday Folders: The teachers at Westchase will send home a Friday Folder. Instead of everything coming home a piece at a time, stuffed in the back of the desk or backpack, you can expect the Friday folder every Friday. Unless there are emergency notices, all information will be held until Fridays so that you can expect to see them regularly. 5 Parent Input Forms Parents- Below is copy of the Hillsborough County Parent Input Form. Anytime a you have a concern or a compliment, you may use the Parent Input Form. Completed forms are shared with the teacher and then kept in Mr. Holley's office until the end of the school year and then they are used as input towards a teacher's evaluation. We have copies in the office, I can email an electronic copy, or you can use the copy in this newsletter. Please feel free to offer your input. 6 Attendance and Tardy Information Westchase Elementary Absentee Phone Number: 631-4600 x 400 To fully benefit from the instructional program, students are expected to attend school regularly and be on time for school. Poor attendance or excessive tardiness may result in low or failing grades. Our goal at Westchase is a minimum of 96% daily attendance. We met that goal again in 2014-2015. Excused absences include: An illness of the student or a medical/dental appointment. (A doctor’s statement may be required) An accident resulting in an injury to the student. A death in the immediate family of the student. An observance of an established religious holiday. A subpoena by a law enforcement agency or a required court appearance. The principal reserves the right to excuse an absence for any extenuating circumstances. *Note- Vacations are not excused absences. TARDIES: All students who arrive late to school must be walked to the office by a parent and be signed in. Unattended students will be considered unexcused tardy. When a student is tardy, (s)he misses intervention and enrichment academic time AND disrupts the learning process for the other children in the class. Frequent tardies and absences will be turned over to the school social worker. Help Westchase to surpass our 96% Attendance goal! But keep in mind that children who are sick (fever and/or vomiting) should stay home for at least 24hours. Mom and Dad Please keep me home if any of the following occur: Vomiting or diarrhea within past 24 hours Fever within past 24 hours Sore/Red Throat Persistent coughing or sneezing Red, watery eyes Rash Earache, drainage from ear Excessive mucus from nose (runny nose), particularly greenish-yellow mucus Please report all absences to the school: 813-631-4600 X400 I have reviewed the Attendance Policy and am committed to assuring my child is in school on a regular basis. Student Name ______________________ Homeroom Teacher _______________________________ Parent Signature _____________________________________ 7 Westchase Elementary School Awards Criteria PLEASE NOTE: End of year award criteria will be reviewed this year to reflect high standards and expectations. Kindergarten Proud Wizard No N’s in expected behavior Grades One and Two Academic Excellence All E’s on any instructional level No N’s in expected behavior Academic Achievement All E’s and S’s or all S’s on any instructional level No N’s in expected behavior Proud Wizard No N’s in expected behavior Did not qualify for an Academic Excellence or Achievement Award Grades Three to Five Golden Wizards All A’s on any instructional level No N’s in expected behavior Silver Wizard All A’s and B’s or all B’s on any instructional level No N’s in expected behavior Proud Wizard No N’s in expected behavior 8 DRESS CODE (For specific information, refer to HCPS Policy 5511) Kindergarten – Fifth Grades: 1. Footwear must be suitable for outdoor physical education classes. (securely fastened to the feet and closetoed) Flip-flops, sandals, and Crocs are not appropriate/safe for outdoor play. NOTE: Students have either Physical Education with the coach or Teacher Directed Physical Education daily. 2. Tops must cover the midriff. Sleeveless shirts must, at least, have straps @ 3 fingers wide. While it’s not addressed in the dress code, I advise our young gentlemen to wear shirts with sleeves. 3. Hats and other head coverings shall not be worn in the building unless required for religious observance or health-related reasons. 4. Clothing and jewelry should be appropriate for public viewing. Think about the image your child is portraying. Reunification Sites The safety of our students and staff is a priority at Westchase. The district requires us to have an emergency plan in place for different types of emergencies. In the event that an emergency causes us to evacuate the students from our school, we have several reunification sites identified. When a school evacuation is needed, students will be relocated to Davidsen Middle School. If Davidsen is not available the students will be transported to Alonso High School. We will strive to communicate through the Parent Link System if this should occur.. Please make sure that you keep your child’s emergency card updated. The phone numbers on the card are used to contact you in the event of an emergency. Thank you for your help and support in ensuring the safety of all of our students. 9 2015-2016 Westchase Elementary School Recommended Supply List Kindergarten 2 boxes 8 count Crayola crayons 4 boxes 24 count Crayola crayons 1 box Crayola Washable Classic Colors markers 2 dozen #2 pencils 2 large pink erasers 2 plastic dual pocket folders w/prongs (blue, yellow) 3 composition notebooks (blue, green, black) 1 plastic 5 x 8 inch pencil box 4 pkg. of white glue sticks ** 1 bottle, Elmer’s Glue 1 pair Fiskars scissors, 5” blunt 1 medium sized backpack First Grade 5 boxes 24 count Crayola crayons 1 box Crayola Markers (Classic Colors, Broad) 2 dozen #2 pencils 1 pkg Dry erase markers, 4 pack, asst’d broad tip 4 Dry erase markers, black, broadtip 4 composition notebooks, black wide ruled 1 plastic 5 x 8 inch pencil box 18 Glue sticks, small pair Fiskars scissors, 5” blunt 2 3”x3” yellow post-it pads 2 Large white hi-polymer erasers 1 change of clothing (top, underwear, shorts and socks) in a labeled ziploc bag. *Please do not label supplies with your child’s name. Third Grade 1 boxes 24 count Crayola crayons 1 box 8ct Crayola Washable Markers (Classic Colors, Fine)** 1 box colored pencils, 12 count 48 pencils, #2 1 large pink eraser 2 Highlighters, broad, yellow 4 plastic dual pocket folders w/prongs (blue, green, red, yellow) 1 Binder, 1” white, clear view cover 4 composition notebooks, black 1 Paper, looseleaf, wide ruled 1 pencil case, zippered soft pouch 6 Glue sticks, small 1 pair Fiskars scissors, 5” pointed AGP 1st – 2nd 2 large pink erasers 1 box 24 ct. crayons 1 plastic dual pocket folder w/ prongs 1 spiral notebook 2dz. #2 pencils 1 wide-ruled composition book 1 1/2” binder– 3 rings, hardbound, heavy duty Fourth Grade 1 boxes 24 count Crayola crayons 1 box Crayola Washable Markers (Classic Colors, Broad) 1 box 8ct Crayola Washable Markers (Classic Colors, Fine) 1 box colored pencils, 24 count 24 pencils, #2 2 Highlighters 4 plastic dual pocket folders w/prongs 1 pkg, looseleaf paper. college ruled 4 pkg Post-its 5 Scotch tape, ¾” refill 1 pair Fiskars scissors, 7” pointed 2 1” binders, 3 rings, hardcover, heavy duty AGP 3rd – 5th 1 large pink eraser 4 plastic dual pocket folders w/ prongs (blue, red, green, yellow) 2 spiral notebooks 6 pens, blue 2 dz #2 pencils 1 pencil sharpener 1 ½ ” binder, 3 rings, hardcover, heavy duty Second Grade 2 boxes 24 count Crayola crayons 2 boxes Crayola Washable Markers (Classic Colors, Broad) 1 box colored pencils, 24 count 4 dz #2 pencils, 1 large pink eraser 1 Highlighter, fine, 4pack asst. 1 pkg Dry erase markers, 4 pack, asst’d chisel tip 3 plastic dual pocket folders w/prongs (blue, red, yellow) 1 Binder, 1” white, clear view cover 2 composition notebooks, black 1 soft pouch, zippered pencilcase 12 Glue sticks, small 1 pair Fiskars scissors, 5” pointed Fifth Grade 1 box colored pencils, 12 count 24 pencils, #2 2 pens, red 2 Highlighters, broad, yellow 1 4 pack asst. dry erase markers, chisel tip 5 plastic dual pocket folders w/prongs (assorted colors) 2 pkg, looseleaf, wide ruled paper 6 spiral notebooks (assorted colors) 1 pkg index cards, ruled, 100 count 4 Post-its (3x3, yellow) 5 Scotch tape, ¾” refill 1 pencil case, zippered soft pouch 1 pair Fiskars scissors, 7” pointed 1 ½ ” binder, 3 rings, hardcover, heavy duty Optional Items Requested : 1 ream of paper Hand sanitizer 1 box of tissues 1 roll of paper towels 1 container baby wipes Items such as colored pencils, crayons, and markers may need to be replaced throughout the year (Stock-up while they’re on sale) When possible, pre-sharpened pencils are greatly appreciated. Note: This is a basic list of supplies requested by grade levels. Teachers may request additional items at the start of school. Please, for everyone’s safety: No Backpacks with wheels 10 After-School Care Providers NAME PHONE LOCATION Time of Wonder 886-9500 5310 Eisenhower Blvd.Ste 180 884-0878 881O W. Norfolk Countryway Village ChildCare Creative Music After School 454-1158 Extreme Youth Sports Westchase Recreation Center JCC Federation Kids R Kids John Prevatt Karate Panda Hugs Primrose School Tonia Riter (director) Bianca D'Andria (owner) Marlene Peek 6911 Pistol Range Rd. Samuel and Carolina Ste.103A Polanco 817-5425 4920 Newkirk Dr.Ste. 5 Duane Spires 964-2948 Dona Smith 264-9000 13009 Community Campus Dr. 926 5437 9802 Westchase Dr Alissa Fischel Land of Learning Academy 886-6494 8809 West Robson St. Lugo's Martial Arts CONTACT PERSON Lisa Haney or April Hetrick Angie Triplett 920-7590 8549 Gunn Hwy. Laura Ricchino 362-0022 926-4004 9568 W. Linebaugh Ave. John Prevatt Protential Sports 926-5742 8643 Gunn Hwy. Tom Driscola 814-9685 12051 Whitmarsh Ln Opal Gierschke 814-9686 843-9460 14401 Waterchase Blvd. Nyree Bland Storybook Ranch 926-1205 8401 W. Linebaugh Ave. Sherri Simpson Tampa Elite Sports Academy Traditional Tae Kwon Do Center Vinh's Tae Kwon Do 443-5067 8001 Sheldon Rd. Dewey Paxton Wellspring After Care Enrichment Westchase Afterschool (HOST) YMCA-Northwest 855-6666 8991 Race Track Rd. Karl Schweiberger 545-0774 882-8000 5537 Sheldon Rd. Suite Master Hieu Vu B 926-5006 10701 Sheldon Rd. Angela Hartle Ext 101 631-4600 9517 W. Linebaugh Ave. Paul or Chris Ext 248 249-8510 8950 W. Waters Ave. Eve Drewry Classic Martial Arts 269-4444 4540 West Village Drive Marcel Weidenbacher 11 Schoolwide Discipline Although classroom procedures vary from class to class and grade to grade, all students are held to basic expectations for behavior. The basic underlying principles for school rules and procedures are safety and respect. If a child is continuing to have difficulty maintaining these standards, the school follows a consistent progression of consequences: 1. Verbal reminder of rule or procedure 2. Visual or written reminder to student 3. Student moved to a different area of the classroom to reflect on behavior. (parent notified via agenda, note, email or phone call) 4. Student moved to a different classroom for a period of time, not to exceed 30 minutes. (parent notified via agenda, note, email or phone call) 5. Teacher may request assistance from guidance and/or administration (parent notified by a phone call) May result in a discipline referral Depending on the severity and frequency of the behavior, referral may result in: Counseling In School Suspension Out of School Suspension with the number of days based on the severity and frequency of the behavior, or Other non-corporal consequences. Consequences for severe behaviors such as fighting, foul language, or gross disrespect may accelerate the progression plan to #5. Parents seeking assistance should discuss the matter with the teacher first. Other staff available to assist in these matters are the guidance counselor and the school psychologist. Repeated behavior concerns will be reviewed by the school Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Problem Solving Team. The team is comprised of the grade level teachers, Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teachers, the guidance counselor, the school psychologist and administration. The goal of the team is to develop and monitor strategies to improve persistent behaviors that are interfering with a child’s academic and/or social experience at Westchase. Student Handbook Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Student Handbook is now available online through the mySPOT Parent Hub. To access the 2015-2016 Student Handbook, visit https://myspot.sdhc.k12.fl.us and log in with your mySPOT user account. Parents who are new to Hillsborough County Public Schools or who do not have an existing mySPOT account may register by clicking the “Register New Account” link on the login screen. To register a new account, you will need your child’s 7-digit student number, birth date, school name, and last four digits of the student’s Social Security Number. Once you have created a mySPOT account, the 2015-2016 Student Handbook is available under “District Resources”. If you prefer a hard copy of the 2015-2016 Student Handbook, a copy will be available in the main office. 12 August 2015 Hillsborough County Public Schools, in compliance with 2008 Florida Statute -1006.147~adopted its own anti-bullying and harassment policy in December, 2008. It is the policy of Hillsborough County Public Schools that all of its students and school employees have an educational setting that is safe, secure, and free from harassment and bullying of any kind. The district will not tolerate bullying or harassment of any type. Conduct that constitutes bullying or harassment, as defined in the policy, is prohibited. More information can be found at http://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/bullyprevention/ Bullying can be reported online at http://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/bullyprevention/ or by notifying the teacher, speaking with the bus driver or calling the school. Understanding Bullying “Bullying- Bullying is when someone repeatedly and on purpose says or does mean or hurtful things to another person who has a hard time defending himself or herself.”( Olweus, 2007) "Bullying" means systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one (1) or more students or employees. It is defined as any unwanted and repeated written, verbal, or physical behavior, including any threatening, insulting, or dehumanizing gesture, by an adult or student, that is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment; cause discomfort or humiliation; or unreasonably interfere with the individual's school performance or participation; Bullying can take many forms. Direct bullying includes: Hitting, kicking, shoving or spitting Taunting, name calling, using degrading remarks Threatening or obscene gestures Indirect bullying includes: Getting another person to bully someone Spreading rumors Causing another person to be socially isolated Cyber-Bullying The harmful effects of bullying can include: Lowered self-esteem Depression and anxiety Absenteeism Thoughts of suicide Illness Lowered academic performance Currently, the school district has posted a copy of the district Bullying and Harassment Policy on the website http:// www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/bullyprevention/ which explains district policies regarding bullying and harassment. Students, parents, and staff members all have the opportunity to make a formal bullying complaint, to be investigated by the principal. After an investigation, parents will be notified regarding the outcome. Currently, the form is available in the office. Bullying incidents may also be reported online from the school district website at: http://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/bullyprevention/ There will be ongoing discussions in the classroom, as well as with the guidance counselor. Please follow up at home with discussions about bullying. Our goal is that Westchase will continue to be a safe place where everyone has the opportunity to learn. Sincerely, Kiersten Demarest, Guidance 13 Arrival and Dismissal Morning drop off begins at 7:30. All students are encourage to take part in the breakfast program that is provided free of charge. Students are to get breakfast before going to the classroom. The north side of the small parking lot will be coned off until after 8:00 a.m. This area will be supervised as a second drop-off point. It will still only be accessible through Westchase drive, via Montague. Parents still have the option to park and walk from either of the two parking areas during morning drop-off. As a matter of safety, children are not to be dropped off from parking spaces, the bus drop off area, or the middle of the road. Students may not be left earlier than 7:30, as there are no staff members assigned to supervise children. Dismissal begins at 2:15. Students are escorted to their respective dismissal points. School buses are scheduled to depart at 2:20. Parents who prefer to drive and pick up their children may do so in the parent pick-up loop in the front of the school. Hangtags are included in the first day packet. After the first week of school, if someone comes to pick up a child without a hangtag, they will be directed to park and enter the office and show identification. Walkers and bicycle riders will be released from the gate west of the main office. Students that ride bicycles must wear a helmet. Bus Drop Off —————————Staff Parking Only Morning Drop off Afternoon Pick Up Visitor parking Accessible via Linebaugh Ave. Morning Drop off Accessible via Montague / Westchase Drive 14 Arrival and Dismissal (continued) Early Dismissal/Release of Students A request to have a student excused from class early should be sent with the student on the morning of dismissal. The time and reason for leaving should be included. When possible, medical and dental appointments should be made outside of school hours. Any student who leaves during the school day must be released through the school office. The parent must bring photo identification to the office to sign the child out on the school safe-net system. If the parent is authorizing another adult to pick up the child the office must be advised in writing. This information should be sent with the child. No child will be released without positive photo-identification. The student will then be escorted to the office. Students may not be called to wait in the office before parent arrival. Students are only called after photo identification has been verified. The latest time to sign-out students on Monday is 12:45 and Tuesday – Friday is 1:45. Transportation Changes Student transportation changes may not be made over the phone. Parents may : 1. Send the teacher a note (a template is provided for you to use, if you like); 2. Email the teacher and the office staff: gaye.blake@sdhc.k12.fl.us brenda.jacobs@sdhc.k12.fl.us monserrate.mendez@sdhc.k12.fl.us (It’s best to email at least the teacher and one other person. More is better!) -or- 3. Fax a signed request to the school office at 813-631-4617. Change in Transportation: Westchase Elementary School Date____________ Student Name ___________________________ Homeroom Teacher ________________ In effect for the following date(s):__________________________________________ -or- _____ Until Further Notice My child will be changing their regular mode of transportation by the method checked below: _______ Picked up in the car line by ________________________________________ _______ Riding Bus# ____________ Stop ___________________ (pending approval by transportation) _______ Going to Daycare _______ Walker _______ Bike Rider Other _____________________________________ Parent Signature ______________________________________ Phone # ______________________ 15 REDUCED PRICE MEAL SCALE for School Year 2015-2016 Household Size Annually Monthly Twice Per Month Every Two Weeks Weekly 1 21,775 1,815 908 838 419 2 29,471 2,456 1,228 1,134 567 3 37,167 3,098 1,549 1,430 715 4 44,863 3,739 1,870 1,726 863 5 52,559 4,380 2,190 2,022 1,011 6 60,255 5,022 2,511 2,318 1,159 7 67,951 5,663 2,832 2,614 1,307 8 75,647 6,304 3,152 2,910 1,455 +7,696 +642 +321 +296 +148 For each additional family member, add 16 17 School Board Superintendent of Schools Jeff Eakins Susan L. Valdes, Chair Doretha W. Edgecomb, Vice Chair Chief of Schools April Griffin Larry Sykes, Ed.D. Sally A. Harris . Carol W. Kurdell Area Superintendent, Area II Melissa Snively Lisa S. Yost Cindy Stuart Principal, Westchase Elementary Erik A. Holley Dear Parents: Please read the following Standard of Conduct for Pupils Riding School Buses with your child. It is important that you and your child understand the standards of conduct for students riding Hillsborough County Public Schools' buses. GENERAL Daily bus service will be provided for all pupils living in excess of two miles from school. Pupils, who are physically handicapped or if walking would subject them to hazardous walking conditions (as defined by the State and the School Board), may be provided transportation. STANDARDS Acceptable classroom standards of conduct are expected of bus passengers. Drivers shall ensure that pupils observe regulations at all times. DISCIPLINE the bus any pets, animals, insects, balloons, weapons, glass of any kind, or sharp instruments that could 2. cause injury to others on the bus. Only items that can be carried on the lap or between the legs may be carried on the bus. This policy in- 3. cludes musical instruments, sports equipment, such as bats, racquets, etc. Those items should be stored 4. inside a sports bag. At no time should anything be placed near the stepwell service (entrance) door or emergency door. Cellular phones may not be used on the school bus. 10. Keep the aisles clear at all times. A driver experiencing discipline problems with 11. Hold books and other belongings a student will notify the school principal by firmly on your lap. submitting a written referral describing the discipline problem. The principal may sus- 12. Large or heavy articles that cannot pend the student's bus privileges. During a be held on your lap should be transperiod of suspension, the School Board shall ported to school by your parents; not be responsible for transporting the pupil to this includes large band instruschool. ments. STUDENT CONDUCT 13. Normal classroom behavior is expected while riding the bus. 1. Recognize that the bus driver is the authority on the bus; obey and be courteous 14. Observe complete silence at all railto the driver and to fellow students. Folroad crossings. low the directions of safety patrols that are assigned to assist the bus driver. 15. Do not throw objects about the bus or from a window. Keep arms and 2. Plan to leave home each day so that you head inside the bus at all times. will arrive at your bus stop on time. 16. Do not tamper with the emergency 3. When walking where there are no sidedoors. walks, face the traffic, and walk on the 17. No eating, drinking, smoking, yellshoulder of the road. ing, or fighting is allowed on the bus. 4. Stand away from the highway at the bus 18. Leave the bus ONLY at your desigstop. nated stop. 5. Never run alongside a moving bus. 19. Take all your belongings off the bus 6. Wait until the bus and other traffic comes each day. Transportation is not to a full stop and the bus door is opened responsible for articles left on school before moving toward the bus. Cross in buses. front of the bus at a distance of 10' to 12' 20. Report any illness or injury susfeet. tained on or around the bus immedi7. Use the handrail when boarding the bus. ately to the driver. 8. Go directly to your assigned seat and PARENTS' RESPONSIBILITIES remain seated unless otherwise directed 1. Parents are encouraged to walk with by the driver. students to and from bus stops and 9. Students will not be permitted to bring on to meet their children at the bus stop 18 in the afternoon. Parents are responsible for their children's safety when they are going to and from the bus stop. A responsible person must accompany Exceptional Education students at their bus stop both in the morning and afternoon. Parents should not expect to have conferences with the school bus driver at the bus stop. If necessary, conferences can be arranged through the school and the Transportation Department. 5. Parents should make a reasonable effort to understand and cooperate with those responsible for pupil transportation, and accept responsibility for the proper conduct of their children. 6. Parents are to refrain from boarding school buses and/or attempting conferences with drivers at bus stops. 7. Parents may access their children only at designated bus stops unless the driver has authorization for a change approved by the school administrator. __________________________________ FOR PARENT OR GUARDIAN I have read and helped my child to understand the Standards of Conduct for Pupils Riding School Buses. ________________________________ Signature: Parent or Guardian Date ________________________________ Child's Name (printed): Please return to your child’ school after signing. KINDERGARTEN BUS INFORMATION FOR In order to help ensure safe bus transportation home of all kindergarten bus students, the following procedures will be in place for the 2015-2016 school 1. Upon kindergarten bus students will be issued a green tag with containing important identification information. The tag is to be attached to student's book bag for the entire year. The tag must be shown daily to afternoon bus driver. Upon kindergarten students who are not riders will be issued a red The red tag will be left blank (there be identification information). The red tag is to be attached to the student's bag for the entire year. This tag will indicate that the student is not a bus and should not be placed on the 2. All kindergarten students will sit at the front of the bus. Older siblings dergarten students may also sit at the front of the bus with their kin- 3. A designated adult must be at the bus stop in the afternoon to receive the child. 4. A kindergarten student may be released at the bus stop with an older less otherwise stipulated by the 5. If no older sibling rides the waiting in the un- a designated adult must be at the bus stop 6. If there is no adult at the stop, the kindergarten student will be returned to school after the elementary route is 7. The kindergarten student returned to the school will be in the care of the or designee. If an administrator is not available, the afterschool care program assist with supervision. The school will attempt to contact the parent. Please sure to always update your current contact information with the school. You need a photo ID to pick up your child. You will also sign for receipt of your child. the student is not picked up by 4:30 p.m. at the school, 8. After 3 incidents of an adult not meeting the kindergarten student at the student may be suspended 1 day from the The next incident may day suspension and subsequent times may increase the days from the 9. Charges may be incurred from the afterschool care program 19 the in a 3 suspension Walkers/ Bike Riders If you would like your child to walk or ride a bicycle home from Westchase, we must have your written permission on file, as well as your rainy day plan. Children will not be released to ride bikes or walk home during inclement weather. Walkers / Bicycle Riders Permission Form Student Name: Age: Homeroom Teacher: Grade: As the parent or legal guardian of , I hereby grant permission to the school to release my child to walk and/or ride a bicycle from school. I understand that children without helmets will not be released with their bicycles and parents will be called to arrange pick-up. In case of inclement weather, our family has discussed our plan (outlined below) for alternate dismissal. Parent Signature Date Parent Phone Number Please return this form to you child’s teacher at Westchase. 20 2015-2016 Year at-a-Glance (TENTATIVE DATES) Westchase Elementary School August 27– AGP/ESE Open House August 28– Volunteer Orientation Sept. 10– Homeroom Parent meeting September 11– Grandparents Day Sept. 17– Math and Science Night Sept. 17– Mentor Breakfast Sept 21– Boosterthon Kickoff Oct. 7—Walk to School Day Oct 8 Literacy Night Oct. 16– Fall festival Oct. 27-30 Red Ribbon Week Oct 23 Nov. 9 End of 1st Quarter Report cards go home Jan 15 Feb. 1 End of 2nd Quarter Report cards go home Apr. 1 Apr. 18 End of 3rd Quarter Report cards go home June 10 End of 4th Quarter Report cards go home Oct. 30- Storybook Parade. Nov. 10 Veterans’ Day Program Nov 13 P T A M eet in gs Family Movie Night Nov 16-20 Book Fair Nov. 19 Great American Teach In. Dec 15 & 17 Winter Concerts TBA Jingle Bell Jog Jan. 22– Kindergarten Roundup Feb 1-5 Soup-er Bowl Canned Food Drive Feb 25 Art/Music PE Night Aug 27 6:00 PTA Executive Board 9:30 a.m. Sept 3 Oct 1 Nov 5 Dec 3 Jan 7 Feb 4 Mar 3 April 7 May 5 June 2 March 13 Daylight Savings (Spring Forward) May 2-6 Staff Appreciation Week May 13-19 Book Fair May 17 & 19 Spring Concerts EARLY RELEASE!! Every Monday at 1:15 5th Grade Steering Committee JA Biz-Town trip 5th Grade Field Trip Bowling Trip Patrol Picnic Yearbook Signing Activity to be determined Banquet 5th Grade Clap In /Awards Ceremony November 5 3:30-8:30 February 4 3:30-8:30 Pi c t ure D ays October 1 –2- Picture Day Individual Pictures Pre-Pay only November 12– Picture Retakes January 21—Club Pictures March 3-4 Picture Day Class Pictures– Pre-pay Individual Non-Student Days Sept 7 Oct 26 Nov 11 Nov 23-27 Dec 21-Jan 1 Jan 18 Jan 19 Feb 5 March 14-18 March 25 May 30 Labor Day Students Off Veterans Day Thanksgiving Winter Break MLK Day Students Off Fair Day Spring Break Students Off Memorial Day After School Enrichment Fifth Grade Activities Sept 16 Dec 17 May 10 May 26 TBA June 7 June 8 June 9 June 10 General Assembly Meeting March 11 Field Day April 28– Super Summer signup Conference Nights Progress Alerts Fall Registration Sept 8-9 Fall ASE Begins Sept 23-24 N0 ASE Nov 11-12 Fall ASE Ends Nov 18-19 Spring Registration Feb 10-11 Spring ASE Begins Feb 24-25 Spring ASE Ends April 20-21 Knowledge is a Treasure 21 Don’t Forget- Every Monday is an early release day! Students’ First Day of School Tuesday, August 25 Labor Day Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed Monday, September 7 End of 1st Grading Period Friday, October 23 Non-Student Day Monday, October 26 Veteran’s Day Holiday/Non-Student Day Wednesday,Nov.11 Fall Break/Schools and District Offices Closed November 23-27 Students Return to School Monday, November 30 Winter Break/Schools and District Offices Closed December 21 – January 1 Students Return to School Monday, January 4 End of 2nd Grading Period Friday, January 15 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed Monday, January 18 Non-Student Day Tuesday, January 19 Florida State Fair Day/Non-Student Day – West Hillsborough County Friday, February 5 Spring Break/Schools and District Offices Closed Monday – Friday March 14 – 18 Students Return to School Monday, March 21 Non-Student Day Friday, March 25 End of 3rd Grading Period Friday, April 1 Memorial Day Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed Monday, May 30 Last Day of School/End of 4th Grading Period Friday, June 10 Hillsborough County Elementary Testing Calendar 2015- 2016 Pending and Tentative Draft (updated 7/13/15) 2015-16 Test Grades/Course Tested Feb. 29 – Mar. 11, 2016 FSA ELA - Writing Component 4th – 5th (CBT) Mar. 29 – Apr. 8, 2016 FSA ELA - Reading FSA Math Stanford 10 Complete (ES) 3rd 3rd - 4th 1st & 2nd FSA ELA – Reading FSA Math 4th – 5th 5th FCAT 2.0 Science 5th Stanford 10 (ES) 3rd (Reading Comprehension only) March 31 – Apr. 12, 2016 Apr. 11 – May 6, 2016 (PBT Administered Apr. 11- 22 ONLY) Apr. 11 – May 6, 2016 Apr. 13, 2016 22 Picture Release for Public Media From time to time we have requests from the media (newspapers, television news, etc..) for pictures of our students engaged in various school activities. We grant the taking of such pictures only when the publicity is in keeping with the policy followed by all Hillsborough County Public Schools. You may be assured we would NOT PERMIT photography or video that would be, in any way, embarrassing to the parents or child. This release does not allow usage of student pictures for social media such as Facebook, Instagram, etc... PLEASE CHECK YOUR PREFERENCE: I give permission for pictures to be taken. I do not give permission for pictures to be taken. Parent/Guardian Signature Date Student Teacher Internet Exclusion Request (Complete only if you do not want your child to have individual internet access). I (we) are requesting that the above named student NOT be allowed to individually access the internet while in school. I understand that if he/she attempts to access the internet on his/her own, they will be subject to disciplinary action at the school. Students who are excluded will still utilize instructional software that does not have open access to the internet such as: Myon, Fast Math, or iStation. Parent/Guardian Signature Date Student Teacher Please return this signed form to your child’s homeroom teacher. 23 24