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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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 _____________________________________
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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
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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
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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.
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