AWBFCS 2008-09 Staff Handbook

Faculty and Staff Handbook (2008-2009) 1

A.W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School

Staff Handbook

FOREWORD The purpose of this handbook is to provide a ready source of information for the faculty and staff of A.W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School (“AWB-FCS”). It is required reading and contains important Personnel Policies and information for daily school operations and procedures. It cannot be all-inclusive and all encompassing for every possible situation, but it will serve as a directive upon which the school will operate. The official policies of AWB-FCS are found in the Board Policies and Administrative Regulations. The intent of this guide is to translate those policies and regulations into our daily school procedures. Hopefully, as we work through the printed words, suggestions and revisions will be made by staff members to clarify and improve procedures regarding factors that impact the learning environment of Brown-Fellowship STUDENTS and STAFF. This edition of the handbook supersedes all previous publications. Further, it is the policy of AWB-FCS not to discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color and/or national origin in its programs, activities, or employment as required by Title IX, section 504 and Title VI.


Mission Statement The vision of A.W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School is to provide a learning environment in which children are trained, prepared and equipped for life leadership and academic excellence. Academic Education ~ The Brown-Fellowship student experiences a curriculum designed to open children to the richness of their own intellect, as well as content area mastery. The academic rigor characteristic of a Brown-Fellowship education requires that the student attain a considerable level of proficiency in these disciplines. All the academic structures of Brown-Fellowship assist the student in discovering himself as an individual of reason, education and culture. Character Education ~ every subject area, every teaching method, every attitude, every action of student or teacher is a means of training character. Character training takes place throughout the day, no matter what else is being taught. Teachers maintain orderly, structured classrooms and expect the students to work hard to learn content, and in the process, teach them to: love wisdom, respect authority, pay attention, and obey willingly and immediately. In addition, they are taught to be diligent workers, honest at all times, and orderly and organized. Social Education ~ the development of the student's academic, character and social maturity is a task shared jointly by the family and Brown-Fellowship. The school provides both individual and collective opportunities where a student can grow as an individual and work as part of a group. Brown-Fellowship strives to promote an increase in acceptance of people of diverse cultures culminating in respectful attitudes toward all people. Personal responsibility and responsibilities toward the wider community is taught through unselfish public service and dedication to honoring one's commitments.

School Motto ~ "Soaring to Success" School Mascot ~ Golden Eagle School Colors ~ Red, White and Gold School Pledge ~ “As a proud member of the A.W. Brown-Fellowship

Charter School, I promise to respect my teachers and fellow students at all times; to obey all the rules, to protect the physical beauty of the building and to strive daily to improve myself in attitude, intellect, character, and body”.


A. W. BROWN-FELLOWSHIP CHARTER SCHOOL

1. We will respect ourselves by being on time and bringing all

supplies and assignments to class. 2. We will respect our teacher by raising our hands for

permission to speak or to move about the classroom. 3. We will respect our classmates and their property by keeping

our hands, feet, and all other objects to ourselves. 4. We will respect adults by being quiet when a visitor enters our classroom. 5. We will respect our parents’ training by being polite, helpful,

and following directions on the first request. 6. We will respect our environment by keeping our classroom

neat and orderly. 7. We will respect other classes and people by being quiet in

the halls and all common-use areas.

SEVEN HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE

Habit 1: Be proactive. Habit 2: Begin with the end in mind. Habit 3: Put first things first. Habit 4: Think win/win. Habit 5: Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Habit 6: Synergize. Habit 7: Sharpen the saw.

DISTRICT-WIDE RULES


Schedule for Staff and Students Cafeteria staff sign-in………………………………………………………….6:30 a.m. Professional/Office/Support Staff sign-in …………………………………..7:20 a.m.

Professional, office, and support staff members reporting after 7:25 are considered tardy.

• Teacher assistants should then report to Ms. Holmes or Ms. Hurst • IT professionals should report to Ms. Key • Office personnel should report to Ms. Key or Ms. Hurst

Breakfast served…………………………………………………..7:30 am – 7:55 a.m. Teachers sign-in……………………………………………………………….7:50 a.m.

Teachers reporting after 8:00 are considered tardy. • Pre-Kindergarten teachers should then report to Ms. Hurst • Kindergarten – Second grade teachers to Ms. Key • Third – Sixth grade teachers to Ms. Royal • SPED teachers to Ms. Newton

Teachers pick-up classes from Gym ........................................................7:55 a.m. Morning Announcements..........................................................................8:10 a.m. Student Dismissal (PK Campus) ..............................................................3:15 p.m. Student Dismissal (Elementary Campus) .................................................3:30 p.m. Professional Period........................................................................3:30 – 3:50 p.m. Teacher Dismissal ....................................................................................3:50 p.m. Professional and Support Staff Dismissal ………………………………….4:20 p.m.


GENERAL INFORMATION

ABSENCES If a staff person finds it necessary to be absent, notify your campus office manager by the time school closes on the day preceding the absence or no later than 6:00 a.m. the day of the absence. An employee may not contact his/her own substitute. Notify the school office by 2:30 p.m. prior to the day of your return. If you do not call by 2:30 p.m., a substitute will be retained for the following day.

ACADEMIC EXPOS Academic expos, inclusive of health, science, math and language arts are an essential part of the AWB-FCS experience. Staff participation is strongly encouraged. Participation in the math and language expos, however, is mandatory and comprises a portion of hours contributing to the 190 contracted days.

ACADEMIC COMPETITIONS The following competitions are mandatory and are meant to build higher order thinking and oral language skills in students: Oratorical Contest - (PK – 6th) Science Fair - (K – 6th) Spelling Bee - (4th – 6th) In-class competitions will be followed by school-wide competitions.

ARRIVAL Teaching Staff: Teachers must sign in between the times of 7:50 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. The sign-in/out sheet will be removed from the counter after 8:00 a.m. and replaced prior to 3:50 p.m. Late arrivals shall see Ms. Benson (PK), Ms. Key (K-2), Ms. Newton (SPED/ESL) or Ms. Royal (3-6) to sign in. Please remember that sign-in/out is the only way to be credited for days worked. Professional and Support Personnel: All professional and support personnel (meaning IT, teacher assistants, office and clerical staff) are to report 40 minutes prior to the instructional day and remain 40 minutes after; therefore, working an eight-hour day with one hour for a


lunch break. Thus, information technology, teacher assistance, office, and clerical staff members are expected to report to work at 7:20 a.m. and remain until 4:20 p.m. Custodial and Maintenance Personnel: Staff members who are compensated according to an hourly pay schedule must report promptly and fulfill their prescribed hours.

ATTENDANCE Attendance must be recorded via PowerSchool and submitted to the school office by 10 a.m. each day. Place office tardy slips and parent notes in the attendance folder and send them to the front office. Substitute teachers will not have PowerSchool access and will use traditional methods to record attendance. These methods are as follows: For students who are absent, mark the space provided with a “U.” For students who are present, no mark is necessary. Students arriving after 8:10 a.m. are tardy and should be marked as such (“T”). Students arriving after 10 a.m. are absent. School attendance records are auditable documents and must never contain any type of correction fluid or film. All attendance records must be maintained in ink. Simply cross through any mistakes and initial the error. PowerSchool Attendance Reporting Procedures:

1. Click on the picture of the chair next to the attendance course. (Note: If the chair appears translucent, it means that that class section is not in attendance for the current day.)

2. After clicking the chair, it will load the "Record Meeting Attendance"

screen.

3. Select the Attendance Code you wish to set in the "Current Attendance Code" drop-down list.

4. Click in the empty box next to the student(s) for whom you need to set this

particular attendance code. The code will appear in the box for that student. Repeat the process for the remaining students who must have this particular code set.

5. If you need to set a different Attendance Code for other students, repeat

steps 3 and 4 as needed.

6. When finished, click the submit button.

7. For added security, click "Logout" at the top right-hand corner of the page when leaving your workstation.


Substitute Attendance Reporting Procedures: Recording Absences 1. Use your Attendance Sheet to record absences. 2. Place absence excuse in the Attendance Folder. 3. If a student has been marked absent but arrives in class before the

Attendance Sheet is picked up, change the absence to a tardy. If the slip has been picked up, keep the tardy card as a reminder to change the status the following day. Place the tardy card with your Attendance Sheet, after the change.

4. If a student is present, do not indicate their attendance with a checkmark ().

Follow this format… Excused ABSENT A

Unexcused ABSENT U MEDICAL M TARDY T

Please use a black point pen for marking--do not use pencil. Do not make any other marks on the Attendance Sheet. Students are not to check the roll; student accountability is the responsibility of the teacher.

Corrections Always use ink to make entries or corrections in the attendance records. Never record manual entries in pencil or use liquid correction fluid or use a signature stamp. If errors are made on any official attendance document, strike through the error with a vertical line, enter correction(s) nearby, and initial.

CHANGE – A T AB Attendance Codes

E .......The day each child entered school (this code will appear only once) W ......The day the child withdrew from our school Tr ......The day any child was transferred to another class in our school A .......Excused absence (requires note from parent) U .......Unexcused absence M.......Medical (requires note from doctor dated the same day) T........Tardy


CHAIN OF COMMAND In an organization as close-knit as ours, it can be difficult to realize the importance of following the chain of command. If you, as an employee, have an issue that needs to be resolved, a complaint against another employee, a request for a special allowance or any other situation requiring special consideration, you must bring the issue to your immediate supervisor. If the situation is not resolved with your immediate supervisor, you may bring the issue at hand to the principal/executive director. If the issue is still not resolved, then, and only then, will the matter be taken to the Chief Executive Officer. Failure to follow the chain of command seriously disrupts the effective operation of our organization and will not be tolerated. It will be grounds for disciplinary action. If the principal is unavailable, please report your concern or problem to another administrator.

CHARACTER EDUCATION Character education is one of the foundational tenets upon which our charter is founded. The faculty and staff are unified in its efforts to promote honesty, integrity, responsibility, gratitude, respectfulness, and compassion, to name a few. “Caught you Being Good” is the district-wide effort to ensure positive reinforcement of these traits. The school also sponsors monthly Character Education parties to reward all students who consistently make the effort to set a good example and become “Smart, Effective, Efficient, and Disciplined.” Please see Appendix D for further information.

CHILD CARE SERVICES Staff members who have children enrolled in AWB-FCS will have child care services provided free of charge. The hours of service are from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Service is available ONLY to ENROLLED students who are related to the first degree of consanguinity, meaning children or grandchildren; not other relatives or those for whom you provide transportation. Students are encouraged to bring snacks as food service will not be provided by the school. Any school personnel who are required to report to work prior to 7:30 am will have before-school care provided in the cafeteria. Arrangements must be made with the Cafeteria Manager or Asst. Manager prior to services being rendered so children can be properly enrolled and identified.


CLASSROOM PARTIES Let us keep in mind that this is an educational institution. Birthday parties are allowed. However, the teacher must be notified in advance and the party should be confined to the final half hour of the school day.

COLLECTION OF FUNDS Any funds collected on behalf of the A. W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School must be submitted to the Office Manager on the same day they are collected. The funds will then be forwarded to the finance office. Monies received off-site must be fully accounted for and turned in on the very next business day. Utilizing school collected funds for personal use is grounds for termination. Anyone who collects funds should adhere to the following procedures:

1. Monies should only be accepted when the recipient has access to a receipt book

2. Issue the receipt 3. Make the corresponding notation in PowerSchool 4. Ensure that the funds are immediately turned in to the Office

Manager or grade level designee 5. Receive “acknowledgement of funds collected” signature

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT Corporal punishment has been approved by the Board of Directors as an appropriate disciplinary consequence for all Code of Conduct violations. However, corporal punishment may only be administered by an administrator. Corporal punishment is limited to spanking or paddling the student. The principal or his/her designee shall administer the corporal punishment. At least one other professional staff member of the school shall be present as a witness. Our policy does not permit the use of the following forms of punishment:

Emotional punishment, including ridicule, embarrassment or humiliation

Withholding food, light, warmth, clothing or medical care Physical restraint other than the restraint necessary to protect a

student or others from harm Discipline of Students With Disabilities: Students with disabilities shall be disciplined in accordance with:


1. Their Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) 2. State and Federal laws pertaining to discipline of students with disabilities Only an ARD/504 Committee may impose a change in placement of a student with a disability. Prior to any removal constituting a change in placement, an ARD/504 Committee meeting shall be held to determine whether a link exists between the student's behavior and his/her disabling condition.

CRISIS PLAN If ever a threatening or security-related crisis exists in the building, an administrator will make the following announcement: “Staff and Students, Professor Brown will return to his standard schedule immediately.” With that notice, all staff should remain in and keep all students confined in the classroom until further notice. If a parent meeting or any other occurrence seems to have the potential to escalate to a threatening situation, give your “Black Folder Grade Book” to a student and instruct them to take it to a neighboring staff member. Staff members, there is no real reason that a teacher would send you his/her grade book. If this occurs, be on alert that a crisis situation exists. Notify the front office immediately. (For Lockdown procedures, please see information below.)

CUSTODIAL HOLIDAYS Authorized custodial holidays calendar is listed below, taken from work dates beginning August 4, 2008 and ending July 31, 2009 (working 237 of the required 240 days): September 1 October 3 November 26 – 28 December 24 – 31 January 1 – 2; 19 February 16 March 18 – 20 April 10 May 25 July 1 – 3


DISASTER DRILL (FIRE, TORNADO, OR LOCKDOWN) FIRE SAFETY – FIRE DRILL: The fire drill signal will always be a siren sounding at two-second intervals. Upon hearing the siren, all occupants will follow the standard procedures (printed below) in exiting the building before proceeding to their designated point. Fire captains will be strategically placed throughout the building to help in the evacuation process.

Drill Instructions to Teachers: 1. Class lines up by rows quickly and quietly. 2. Students exit the room quickly and quietly, with the last student

having already been instructed to close the door. 3. Students walk in single file line without talking, with the teacher at

midpoint, being able to see both ends of the line. 4. Having exited the building, students wait quietly in line under the

supervision of their teacher. 5. After the proper notification, the classes re-enter the building using

the same procedures as for exiting. There are two types of fire drills – obstructed and unobstructed. This helps accommodate the “Be sure to know two ways out” rule.

Unobstructed Drill: All personnel will follow the primary designated evacuation route.

Obstructed Drill: If there is an obstruction of some sort in the way so that the hallway or door is blocked, the first person(s) to discover the obstacle should raise their hands. (The “obstruction” will consist of a monitor holding up a sign reading “smoke” or “exit blocked by fire.”) The group will “about face” and leave the building by the alternate route. TORNADO: Let us remember that these drills are to be given the utmost seriousness as each teacher is responsible for his/her class’s conduct, welfare, and knowledge of procedures. This drill is practiced as a safety precaution against possible tornado, cyclone, bombing and other emergencies which require all students to be kept in the building in the safest place, an interior corridor. During this drill, the signal will be the blast from a whistle over the Public Address System: one long and one short. Students should quickly and quietly be led into the hall where they will kneel and cover their heads with their arms. All personnel should stay away from the glass entry.


LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES: It is the responsibility of the school district to work with the police and Emergency Management to ensure the safety of all. The purpose of the lockdown is to ensure that safety. Until the police are certain that there is not a weapon in the building, students and staff must remain in areas such as classrooms. If there truly is a shooter present, to permit anyone to exit their area and enter the halls could put that person at risk if the shooter is in the hall.

Communication: In the event of an intruder on campus, the individual making the discovery shall immediately contact Administration or the Office Manager and provide as much information as possible.

• The Office Manager will announce the following statement over the intercom: “A stranger is on campus or in the building. This is a lockdown situation.”

• This will be followed with a description and approximate location of the individual(s). Note: Fire evacuation alarms are not to be sounded.

• The Office Manager will call 911 immediately. • The Office Manager will contact the Superintendent notifying him of the

current situation. • The Office Manager and Receptionist are to immediately take cover.

Procedures: • Classroom teachers will direct students to move away from direct line of

the classroom windows and doors. • Lock classroom and other doors. • Close windows & window blinds. • Everyone will crouch down in areas that are away from doors and

windows. • Turn off lights. • Everyone is to remain quiet. • No one is to answer incoming phone calls or make outgoing calls • Custodial and administrative staff will lock internal and external doors to

the building. • No one is to enter hallways. • Students in hallways are to seek shelter in the nearest classroom. • Students in the courtyard area will be immediately escorted to the

cafeteria if it is safe to do so. If the threat is outdoors on campus grounds, all outdoor activities will be cancelled.

• Should the fire alarm sound, do not evacuate the building unless: a. You have first hand knowledge that there is a fire in the building, or b. You have been advised by the police to evacuate the building.

• The ‘lockdown’ will remain in effect until law enforcement officers verify it is safe to resume school.


• Students will be dismissed at the end of the school day unless otherwise directed by the Superintendent to send children home earlier. In the event that the school needs to dismiss students, the ‘Early Dismissal Procedures’ will be in effect.

• If conditions warrant that students remain under supervision beyond the end of the school day, the students will remain at school until they are released to the parents or an authorized adult.

E-MAIL Check e-mail at least twice daily: morning and afternoon. Please remember that your “@awbrown.org” account is your professional, not personal e-mail address. Any e-mail directed to the entire staff must have professional relevance and prior administrative approval.

E-MAIL DIRECTORY: Please see Appendix C for a complete listing of e-mail contact information.

EARLY DEPARTURE FOR STAFF Complete an on-line leave request form and submit via email to your direct administrator as well as to the office manager. All staff members, however, are permitted to leave the campus during lunch periods with the proviso that returns to campus are made in a timely manner. Teachers may also leave campus during planning periods if no conferences, meetings, or trainings are scheduled.

EARLY DEPARTURE FOR STUDENTS In an effort to assure the safety of all students, never permit anyone to take students from your classroom without a security card ticket or an “Office Permit to Go Home” form. Please ensure the placement of the ticket or permit in your security folder. The school’s office issues permits to leave campus. Do not excuse a student to leave without proper authorization.

EMPLOYEE DRESS STANDARDS A.W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School employeess shall act as role models by exemplifying the highest standard of professional appearance. We will be on the front lines of educating our students and our community by setting the standard in proper grooming and hygiene. Professional personnel are expected to dress in a manner that projects a professional image for the employee and the school.


Female professionals shall wear professional dresses or skirts which are NO SHORTER THAN TWO INCHES in length above the bend of the knee. Dressy slacks are also permitted. Male professionals shall wear a dress shirt, tie, dress slacks or other appropriate professional clothing. General office and paraprofessional personnel shall wear attire in conformity with the workplace. AWB-FCS polo shirts are considered appropriate and can be worn by any staff member. The following items of clothing are considered INAPPROPRIATE: shorts, revealing or provocative shirts and tops, mini skirts, slippers, flip-flops, house shoes, sneakers, etc. Employees shall not wear any jewelry or similar artifacts that are either obscene, distracting or which may cause disruptions to the educational environment. Male employees shall keep their hair, beards and/or mustaches groomed neatly. Male employees may NOT wear earrings or any facial jewelry. Administrators shall have the discretion of determining whether staff attire and grooming are appropriate and may make special exceptions for instructors who teach physical education, vocational courses, or those who require medical accommodations. The above standards are meant to enhance school and community values and shall not infringe on any individual’s religious beliefs or protected freedom of speech.

EXTENDED LEAVE There may be occasions when an employee finds it necessary to be absent for a period of more than ten working days due to illness, etc. In these instances, the employee may opt to have their deduction divided over the remaining pay periods in a given academic year.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR SPONSORS The District appreciates the efforts of sponsors/directors to help build the whole child. However, it is imperative that the tenets of decorum and responsibility are adhered to in the following ways:


• Sponsors are responsible for staying with students until they are picked up

• Corporal punishment is not permitted • School discipline management requirements must be followed • Meetings and/ or practices should not be cancelled without a minimum of

24-hour notice to both the administration and participants’ parents • Practice dates, times, and sites must be clearly posted and adhered to • Practice dates, times, and sites must be posted to calendar.awbrown.org • Participation is limited to AWB-FCS students only • Funds collected must be submitted to the Office Manager on the same

day that they are collected. The funds will then be forwarded to the finance office. Monies received off-site must be fully accounted for and turned in on the very next business day. Utilizing these funds for any reasons other than those for which they were intended is grounds for termination.

• Scheduling for the use of building facilities, i.e., gymnasium, cafeteria, etc. can only be made through the office managers.

• Practice and/or rehearsal schedules must not conflict with after-school tutorial in that:

o Practices and/or rehearsals should be scheduled on Mondays or Fridays; OR

o Tuesday – Thursday practices and/or rehearsals must begin at 5:00 or later

• Audition and/or Try-out Procedures: o Eligibility guidelines must be posted a minimum of two weeks in

advance, inclusive of date(s), time, and locale o Extra-curricular physical exams for athletes are only available to

AWB-FCS students o Authorization forms/permits must be signed by parents o Doctors’ physicals slips must be on file o Judges must be selected and approved in advance o Judges should be respectful of student efforts and not engage in

behavior that can be deemed derisive o Rubric for judging criteria must be distributed a minimum of two

weeks prior to the judging event o Ensure that one of the two Deans of Instruction has approved

and will be present for the judging event

EVALUATIONS Faculty and staff will be evaluated on a continual basis in a variety of ways. Walkthrough Evaluations: “Walkthrough” evaluations will be performed on a regular basis and staff will be given immediate feedback on the results of walkthroughs. Walkthroughs performed in August will not be included in the individual’s personnel file, while walkthroughs performed after this time will be included. Walkthroughs will take a


brief look at classroom management, mastery of the lesson cycle, implementation of Reading Mastery, Everyday Mathematics, incorporation of TAKS/TEKS objectives, lesson plans, grade books and other issues as necessary. Periodic Evaluations: A periodic evaluation is longer in length than the walkthrough evaluation --- typically 30 to 45 minutes in length. A complete lesson cycle or activity will be observed. The components reviewed will be the same as those outlined in the walkthrough evaluation. Formal Evaluations: All faculty and staff will have a formal evaluation. The formal evaluation tool will be reviewed during staff in-service.

FACILITY CARE AND RESERVATIONS Scheduling for the use of building facilities, i.e., gymnasium, cafeteria, etc. can only be made through the office managers. Reservation procedures are as follows:

• Confirm reservation date and time with Office Manager. • Secure Facility Reservation form from Office Manager. • Complete “Existing Condition” section of the form. • Host meeting. • Complete “Post-Meeting Condition” section. • Sign and turn the form in to the Office Manager by the next school day.

FACULTY MEETINGS Faculty meetings are routinely scheduled monthly in the elementary cafeteria at 4:30 and will be called as needed. This is a required portion of staff development for all faculty and staff. There will be no routine and ongoing exemptions for attendance.

FIELD TRIPS Field trips can greatly enhance a student’s scope of learning. Several guidelines, however, must be followed:

Obtain written permission (field trip approval form) from the office manager. This form must be approved by an administrator.

Determine whether there will be fees connected with the trip. If so, collect them ahead of time and turn them into the office daily. Monies should never be left in a classroom.


Advise parents of the nature of the field trip, the destination(s), time and purpose(s) at least one week in advance. (For students with behavioral or disciplinary problems, ask the parent/guardian to attend.) Please be reminded, however, that students may only be excluded from “reward” field trips because of misbehavior. Every student must be permitted to attend educational trips.

Ensure that the Cafeteria Manager is notified at least two weeks prior to any field trip so proper arrangements for lunches can be made.

Advise students what to expect on their foray and that school T-shirts or uniforms must be worn.

Advise parents that federal and state law requires that criminal background checks are required for volunteers.

Special Note: Teachers are required to take contact information for each student on the field trip in case of an emergency. All field trips must be completed by 2:00 p.m. if Dallas County transportation is utilized. If a privately owned bus company is utilized, ensure that students return in time for dismissal.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE In an effort to support the welfare of AWB-FCS family members, please be advised that our district offers the following types of assistance:

A salary advance is available one time during a fiscal year but is limited to one-half of your monthly salary

$150 per month pre-paid by the district for health insurance Free child care for enrolled students of staff members Certification and limited tuition reimbursement Eligibility for student loan forgiveness HUD home mortgage assistance information

FIRE SAFETY – FIRE DRILL Please see Disaster Drill information.

GENERAL MEETINGS An administrator will be notified of any and all meetings scheduled in this school building. When meetings are called, please be on time. Tardiness is unfair both to the person conducting the meeting as well as those who assume the responsibility of being on time.


GRADE BOOKS Grade books must be appropriately maintained and available for viewing by the principal staff at any time. All borderline grades, eg., “69”, “79”, “89”, etc, should be re-examined to be sure they are reflective of the students’ academic success in that subject matter. Absences/Make-up Work:

• Work assigned prior to the student’s absence will be considered late if it is not turned in at the beginning of class on the day the student returns to school.

• A student returning from an absence will have one through three school days (depending upon the assignment) to make up his/her work.

Late Assignments:

• Assignments not turned in on the due date will be considered late. • Late assignments will only be accepted one day after the due date.

However, 20 points will be deducted if it is a regular assignment; 30 points will be deducted if it is a special assignment.

GRADING Students will receive a report card each six week period. Each teacher should post his/her grading guidelines the first week of school. It is imperative that a minimum of two grades per week are recorded for each core content area. Additionally, new grades must be posted to PowerSchool within a two-week period. Formal Grading for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten: The student profile/report card for students in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten shall follow the essential knowledge and skills. In recording grades for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, the following letters will be used: "E" - excellent progress "S" - satisfactory progress "N" - needs improvement “U” - unsatisfactory progress (kindergarten only) Documentation of mastery shall include multiple measures such as observations, checklists, portfolios, anecdotal records, work journals, and performance-based tests. Auxiliary Teacher and Conduct Grading for Pre-Kindergarten - Grade 6: Conduct in each class shall be communicated to parents by the homeroom teacher with an assessment of “E”, "S", “N”, or "U" for each six-week period on the report card.


Formal Grading for Grades 1 - 6: In grades one through six, numeric grades shall be used in all courses. The grade range shall be: 70 - 100..........Passing Below 70 ........Failing Grade Changes: Occasions may arise that necessitate the need for a student’s grade to be changed. A grade change form must be completed and approved before a grade will be changed. Absences/Make-up Work:

• Work assigned prior to the student’s absence will be considered late if it is not turned in at the beginning of class on the day the student returns to school.

• A student returning from an absence will have one through three school days (depending on the assignment) to make up his/her work.

Late Assignments:

• Assignments not turned in on the due date will be considered late. • Late assignments will only be accepted one day after the due date.

However, 20 points will be deducted if it is a regular assignment; 30 points will be deducted if it is a special assignment.

GRADING/CHECKING PAPERS Teachers should only allow pupils to check daily work. Grading tests and any other written, subjective work is a professional function of the teacher, cannot be delegated, and can be deemed a breach of student confidentiality.

GRAMMAR We believe that the utilization of correct grammar is essential in instructing young children as well as properly communicate with parents and our community at large. Our language and language patterns serve as an example for the elementary student. Consequently, all classroom teachers employed by the A.W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School will be required to pass the Praxis Writing Exam. Employees will be given three opportunities to pass the assessment. Failure to pass the assessment will result in the employee’s contract not being renewed for the ensuing year. (See Appendix).

GROUPING


Students should never be grouped homogeneously only. There are certain areas where homogeneous grouping is more effective. However, heterogeneous groups where students are selected from above average, average and below average categories MUST also be used.

HALL TRAFFIC For safety reasons, do not allow a student to leave your classroom alone unless it is absolutely necessary. Unaccompanied students should always have a hall pass. Students should not be sent to the office to make copies or to pick up items in the teacher’s mailbox.

HOLIDAYS Please be cognizant of and sensitive to the fact that not all constituents of our staff and/or student body are members of the same religious faith. Further, members of some faiths observe certain Holy Days which are not school holidays. If you are aware of such circumstances, do not schedule weekly or six-week tests on those days.

HOMEWORK Homework is an essential part of a student’s learning process. The concepts taught in class must be practiced at home in order for the student to master the objectives. While homework in an early childhood environment should never be excessive, it should be assigned Monday through Thursday nights of each week. Teachers in kindergarten through second grades must send the homework sheet for the week home on Monday of each week. HOMEWORK PACKETS: Homework packets may only be distributed by Kindergarten – Second grade teachers. Third – Sixth grade teachers may also distribute homework packets during review weeks.

HONOR ROLL Students earning all A’s for a six week period will be placed on the “A” honor roll. Students earning all A’s and B’s for a six week period will be placed on the “A/B” honor roll. The names of honor roll students will be posted each six weeks.

HOUSEKEEPING


Teachers should make sure that their classrooms are kept neat. Students should clean their immediate seating area before dismissal. The contents of shelves should be orderly. Bulletin boards should be attractive, informative and display current student work. Please consult an administrator before making any changes in the physicality of your room which requires mounting or removal of previously mounted materials.

INCLEMENT WEATHER NOTIFICATION All employees are to make every effort to report to their respective assignments on time when the decision is made to open school. Employees who fail to report for duty must use a personal business day for absences. If all personal business days have been used, the day(s) will be deducted from salary. The discretion of the Principal will be exercised in instances where employees report late during this time. STAY TUNED TO THE LOCAL NEWS ON DAY(S) OF INCLEMENT WEATHER.

INCLEMENT WEATHER PLAN

Morning Arrival: Elementary Campus: Our normal morning arrival procedure requires students to report to the enclosed courtyard. However, in the case of precipitation or extremely cold weather, students will enter the building and proceed to the following locations. They will remain there until they’re dismissed to class.

Grade/Section: Location: Supervisors: Kindergarten – Second Grades Gymnasium Carter Third – Fourth Grades Gymnasium Lett, Hudson Fifth – Sixth Grades Gymnasium Harper All Students Cafeteria Bean All Students Cafeteria Cisneros All Students Sixth Grade Hall Dunn All Students Cafe Entry Hall B. Harris

Recess: Students will be dismissed to the courtyard for recess immediately following lunch. However, in the case of precipitation, dangerous ozone alerts, or when the temperature, inclusive of wind chill, is 45 degrees or lower, students will proceed to the gymnasium. Supervisors: Teacher Assistants

JURY DUTY


A letter from the Central Jury Bailiff must be submitted to the principal’s office. A jury summons is not acceptable. Staff members who fail to bring such a letter will be assessed a personal business day. If there are none remaining, the day will be deducted from salary.

KEYS Once keys have been issued, the recipient is responsible for the safekeeping of the key(s) and for any charges incurred if the key(s) have to be replaced.

LEAVING MONEY AT SCHOOL It is recommended that money is never left in or on your desk during school hours as the school will not be held responsible for it. Monies should never be removed from the premises. If you are collecting money from students, please record it on the proper form and give to the Office Manager by 4:00 p.m.

LESSON PLANS Weekly lesson plans are required from ALL instructors. Plans should include TAKS/TEKS objectives. Lesson plans must be submitted to your direct supervisor by Monday at 8:00 a.m. All expected homework assignments for the week must also be posted to PowerSchool by Monday at 8:00 a.m.

LOUNGE/TEACHER WORK ROOM This is an area for adult work and/or relaxation. No children, including children of staff members, are allowed nor should they be sent there for any reason.

MAIL U.S. Mail service is located near the front office. MAILBOXES Please check and empty your mailbox at least twice per day. Conference requests, telephone messages, etc., will be placed there when received. Do not send students to the office to check the mailboxes.

MEETINGS FOR ALL STAFF MEMBERS The following meetings are considered part of contracted days:


a. Parent Orientation b. Parent Conferences c. Christmas Program with assigned rehearsals d. Awards Program e. Meet the Teacher Night f. Open House(s) g. Math and Reading/Language Expos h. School-Wide Academic Competitions i. Required PTA Meetings:

i. Whichever month your grade level performs

MEMOS/LETTERS TO PARENTS All formal memos, letters, etc., sent home with the student(s) MUST have an administrator’s prior approval.

MOVIE LIBRARY Movies shown in class must be “G” rated and/or checked out from the movie library. “PG” movies must have prior administrative approval.

MUSIC Neither instrumental nor vocal music with suggestive or age-inappropriate lyrics may be played on campus or at school-sponsored events.

NEXTEL/SPRINT PHONES All AWBFCS employees have the opportunity to procure a Nextel cellular phone. The full amount of the cellular bill as recorded by the provider will be deducted from the employee’s payroll disbursement each month. Each employee is allowed to add one additional individual to their Nextel account, the full amount of this individual’s cellular bill will be deducted from the employee’s payroll disbursement each month. If the employee would like to purchase additional equipment or change their cellular plan, a Nextel Notification of Change form must be completed and signed by the employee. These forms are available in the business office and must be completed before the equipment is ordered. The full amount of the equipment will be deducted form the employee’s monthly payroll disbursement each month.

PARENT CONTACTS Every professional staff member is required to send home a communication to each parent during the first six week period. The first few communications to


parents must be positive in nature. In extreme cases where more serious reports need to be conveyed, please ensure that your direct supervisor is consulted.

PARENTS AND VISITORS Parents and visitors should ALWAYS check in with the office. All staff members should check that strangers in the corridors or on the grounds have a permit/badge provided by the office. If suspicious or disruptive activity is witnessed or suspected, dial 86 and ask Mr. Solomon and Mr. Walton to report to your area.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES Teachers are required to participate in parent-teacher conferences as part of the reporting process. Parents will be requested to meet with teachers formally twice per year --- at the end of the first and fifth reporting periods. Conferences with parents of potential retainees will be conducted throughout the year for documentary purposes as well as to keep the parent abreast of the student’s progress.

PLAYGROUND Teachers, aides, custodial and administrative staff will assist in observing children on the playground. Students are never to be unattended in or out of the building.

PROFESSIONALISM As members of an educational institution, we are all expected to model professional behavior in the following ways: o Carry out duties as assigned or requested for required school events o Foster work environment conducive to staff collegiality. o Address fellow staff members by appropriate title, i.e. Mr. or Ms. o Maintain appearance and demeanor conducive to the workplace o Supervise students in common-use areas o Positively represent the school’s image in both speech and behavior o Maintain a clean, orderly, inviting work area o Promote positive school climate by communicating in a respectful tone. o Adhere to district policies relating to absenteeism, arrival and departure. o Routinely monitor e-mail, voice mail, mail boxes, and review written

communiqués and respond as is appropriate. o Adhere to district policy regarding dress, grooming, and hygiene standards.


o Meet all deadlines o Model correct grammar. o Responsibly care for school supplies and equipment. o Adhere to district policy in regard to music, movies, and other forms of media. o Adhere to district policy regarding telephone use.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION Students who have mastered the essential objectives of the core area subjects with an overall average of 70 or above for their particular grade level will be promoted to the next grade level. However, students will be retained in Grades 1-6 if they HAVE NOT mastered the core area essential objectives. Unless there are unusual circumstances, there should not be more than one retention during Grades 1-3 and 4-6. Students may also be retained for failure to perform satisfactorily on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills. A Notice of Retention Form should be completed. Please see annual master schedule for specific dates.

RECORDING GRADES PowerSchool Grade books must be maintained regularly. At least two grades per week MUST be recorded and labeled for each core area subject.

RECYCLING The faculty and staff make every effort to model good stewardship in the care of our environment. Please ensure that you encourage parents and students to participate in the paper recycling drive.

REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued every six weeks. Due to the high level of rigor attendant to the curriculum required at AWB-FCS, district policy supports students in the following ways:

Students who are not meeting IEP requirements can receive failing grades. However, SPED students cannot legally receive a grade below 70 without a failure ARD preceding the report card grade.

District policy discourages the issuance of a grade of 69 except in extreme circumstances that should be brought to the attention of your direct supervisor.

District policy discourages the issuance of a failing grade on the first report card. See copy of form issued to parent/guardian below:


“In an effort to support our students during the transition to the rigors of a new grade level, it is the policy of the A. W. Brown-Fellowship Charter District to post only passing grades on the first six weeks’ report card. However, for documentary purposes, please be advised that the actual grade for _____________________________ was ____________________ in (student’s name) (averaged grade) __________________________. (subject area) After this point, all reported grades will reflect the earned average. If concerns about your child’s academic progress persist, please call 972-709-4700 to arrange a conference with the homeroom or subject area teacher.”

RESIGNATION Any person wishing to resign should notify the Principal, who in turn will notify the Board of Directors. Resignations must occur 45 days prior to the start date of the upcoming school year; the deadline for receipt is June 12, 2009. If this condition is not met, contract employees will be required to pay the school liquidated damages in the event the Board does not approve the employee’s mid-contract resignation. Employees may be charged up to an amount equal to three months’ gross wages.

RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION The Response to Intervention Team (Rti) is composed of an administrator, two classroom teachers, and a special education representative as needed. The purpose of the Rti Team is to collect and evaluate data concerning students who are experiencing deficiencies and/or behavioral problems that may require additional or different educational or behavioral interventions in order to succeed. A student may be referred by any teacher on the staff or his/her parent or guardian. Referral packets may be obtained from the Special Services office.

SALARY Please be reminded that salary increases are reflected on the September check, corresponding with the beginning of a new fiscal and budget year. Proof of new certifications and/or degrees must be presented prior to September 1 in order to receive adjusted salary amounts applied to the upcoming school year.

SCHEDULE CHANGES


All schedule changes should be approved by the appropriate administrator as any change by one class can affect other classes. Please be mindful that actions taken by one person can affect many.

SCHOOL FURNITURE/PROPERTY All furniture items are inventoried in the office. A record of items added or removed during the school year are required in the office. No furniture is to be moved without the approval of an administrator. Moreover, please assist in teaching students to take care of school property.

SICK LEAVE/PERSONAL BUSINESS ABSENCE Salaried Employees: Each staff member is allocated ten sick or personal business absences over the course of a school year. In order to encourage good attendance, these days are accumulative up to twenty. Should the number of absences exceed the allocated number, those additional absences will be deducted from the salary. New employees earn their leave time at the rate of one day per month. New employees are not eligible for leave/absence with pay until after the completion of the thirtieth day. If a new employee exceeds one absence per month, they will receive a payroll deduction in the amount of their daily rate for each day absent. Employees may carry a maximum of 160 hours at the end of each fiscal year. Any employee who has more than 160 hours will be monetarily compensated for the time in excess of the 160 in hours in September. Hourly Employees: Hourly employees earn leave time at the rate of eight hours (one day) per month. They are not eligible for leave/absence with pay until after the completion of the thirtieth day. If an employee exceeds one absence per month, he/she will not receive compensation for that time missed. If the employee does not use his/her first year’s allotted time, any remaining hours (up to 80) will carry over to the new school year. Any hours in excess of 80 will be compensated at the employee’s hourly rate and will be paid in September of that year.

SIGN-IN DOCUMENTS All staff is expected to sign in and out each day. If you fail to sign in, it will be inferred that you were absent.


SMOKING State and federal law as well as Board policy prohibits smoking on school property.

SNACKS The approved list of student snacks is as follows: Low fat pudding, Jell-o, graham crackers, low fat animal crackers, cereal or cereal bars, trail mix, nuts, seeds, fruit or fruit cups in light syrup, low fat mozzarella cheese, yogurt, baked chips, jerky, and pretzels.

SPEAKERS/INVITED GUESTS/PERFORMERS All guest speakers or performers must have a supervisor’s approval prior to being scheduled.

SPECIAL PROGRESS REPORTS At the end of the first three weeks’ grading period, the Secretary/Office Manger will mail a potential failure notice to the parent or guardian of a student whose grade average is 75 or lower and is in danger of failing. The report will be placed in the mailboxes and must be returned within three school days. See annual master schedule for dates. Progress reports will be mailed to parents of students for whom a 10-point decrease in previous average is discerned.

STAYING AFTER SCHOOL Any staff member who wishes to keep a student after school (whether it is for tutorial, extra-curricular or behavioral/disciplinary purposes) may only do so if s/he has notified the parents/guardians at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance. If contact is not made, the student must be released at the regular dismissal time. The staff member who requires the student(s) to stay must remain with them until they’re picked up.

STUDENT SECURITY & ACCOUNTABILITY Designated personnel will be assigned to each student event (i.e., awards programs, Christmas extravaganza, etc.,) for the purpose of student check-out to parents. Those persons will be provided with student rosters for nighttime events so parents may check students out early if necessary. Student check-out forms


will be provided for daytime events. A copy should be given to the homeroom teacher and either Ms. Holmes, Coach Carter, or Ms. Lacey so that dismissal staff members will be aware that the student is no longer present. Moreover, please be reminded that district policy does not allow non-enrolled children under the age of 21 on campus. It is the district’s objective to protect enrolled students from harm, building furniture and equipment from damage, and visitors from the specter of false accusation. Strict adherence to this policy is required.

STUDENT PROFILES Individual instructional folders will be maintained for each student. These folders should contain samples of student work for documentation of student mastery of TAKS/TEKS objectives. These samples should further be used for teacher conferences. At the end of the school year, folders of passing students may be sent home. Folders of students being retained or transferred should be stored by the teacher.

STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM Please see Response to Intervention Team

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER(S) It is very difficult to obtain a substitute teacher. Without advance notice, it is nearly impossible. Please alert your campus office manager as soon as possible when learning that an absence is necessary. Please keep in a visible place on the teacher’s desk, a Substitute Folder containing all of the following items: class schedule, seating chart(s), specific procedures as it pertains to lavatory and water breaks, lunch, special duty assignments, etc., specific assignments from textbooks, worksheets, and enrichment sheets/activities.

TAKS OBJECTIVES All grade levels will be responsible for teaching the objectives associated with the TAKS tests as all students will be required to take a TAKS-based test appropriate for their grade level.

TEACHER RESPONSIBILITY FOR TEXTBOOKS


Classroom Use: In the classroom, the teacher is responsible for:

1. Ensuring that all textbooks are numbered prior to issuance. 2. Conducting periodic textbook inspections for damaged and lost textbooks

and requisitioning replacements if needed at least one time each six weeks.

3. Checking the issuance number and condition of the textbooks as they are turned in by the student.

Record Keeping: The teacher is responsible for keeping accurate records of all textbooks received and issued to the student. The teacher is responsible for keeping a written record, by student, of all serial numbers of textbooks that are issued. Teachers must complete a textbook assignment list. Lost Textbooks: Once a textbook has been lost, make a report to the office manager. The office manager will notify parents and collect funds. After the office manager has made at least three documented attempts to collect payment, the student’s name is placed on the “not clear” list. Destroyed Textbooks: A teacher must immediately notify the office manager about a destroyed textbook or the loss of a textbook by the student if it is deemed that the student was not at fault. The teacher should obtain the following information from the student or parent/guardian.

Type of destruction or loss; Date of destruction or loss; Last known location; Explanation of why the student was not at fault.

This information, along with the title, textbook serial number, and quantity must be reported to the office manager as soon as possible. The teacher should requisition a replacement textbook, if needed.

TECHNOLOGY Staff will employ electronic mail on a twice-daily basis at work as a primary tool for communications. The district may rely upon this medium to communicate information, and all staff will be responsible for checking and reading messages daily.


The network is provided for staff and students to conduct research, complete assignments, and communicate with others. Communications over the network are often public in nature; therefore, general rules and standards for professional behavior and communications will apply.

Care should be used in communicating by electronic mail and telecommunications in sharing confidential information about students or other employees because messages are not entirely secure.

Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and to ensure that staff members are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will be private.

The following behaviors are not permitted on district networks:

• sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures • assisting a campaign for election of any person to any office or for the

promotion of or opposition to any ballot proposition • using obscene language • harassing, insulting or attacking others • engaging in practices that threaten the network (e.g., loading files that

may introduce a virus) • violating copyright laws • using others' passwords • trespassing in others' folders, documents, or files • intentionally wasting limited resources • employing the network for commercial purposes, financial gain, or

fraud • violating regulations prescribed by the network provider • conducting union or employee association business, except as may be

agreed to in writing between the union/employee association and the District, and subject to the usage guidelines and conditions contained in this policy.

The Technology Director will report inappropriate behaviors to the employee's supervisor who will take appropriate disciplinary action. Any other reports of inappropriate behavior, violations, or complaints will be routed to the employee's supervisor for appropriate action. Violations may result in a loss of access or other disciplinary action. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.

Each employee will be given copies of this policy and procedures and will sign an acceptable use agreement before establishing an account or continuing their use for the upcoming school year. The District reserves the right to amend its policies and procedures regarding staff access to Networked Information Services and acceptable use agreement medium to communicate information. Again, all staff will be responsible for checking and reading messages twice daily.


Tech Support/Help Desk Procedures: The AWBFCS IT Staff supports all AWBFCS technical issues, telecommunication issues, and audio/visual issues. This may include:

• setting of proxies for the internet • troubleshooting problems a user may have in accessing the PC • resetting passwords for e-mail and network access • PowerSchool issues

Please Note: Priority response will be given to Student Information applications, financial, procurement and administrative issues Tech Support can be reached by submitting a repair request at any time. Please include as much detail as possible about your problem in any repair/trouble request. All such requests should be made via a Tech Support Ticket on the school’s website:

http://www.awbrown.org/support OR http://www.awbrown.org and clicking on AWB Technical Support on the right column under Teacher Links

As part of your access privileges, a Tech Support username and password will be issued for use with this function. In most cases, a user’s login username will be comprised of FIRST INITIAL & LAST NAME. There are exceptions (where username is too short or duplicate username already exists), see the IT Department for details.

If, for any reason, the website is unavailable, please use e-mail as an alternate means to convey your request. Any e-mail should be directed to [email protected].

TELEPHONES Please remember that this is an educational and business environment. There should be no personal phone calls that are excessive in either number or amount of time taken. Moreover, students should not be allowed to answer classroom telephones. Finally, please see that classroom voice mails are set up with one of the following messages: Routine Message: “Hello, you have reached ___________________, (grade level___ grade (subject)*___ instructor. My planning period is from _________ to ________. Please try to reach me during this time, or feel free to make an appointment with our Office Manager to see me. If you leave your name, telephone number, and a detailed message, I will phone you back as soon as possible. If you would like to reach me via the internet, my e-mail address is ______________.


Thank you.” *Subject not required for PreK-2. EXTENDED LEAVE/SICKNESS: “Hello, you have reached ____________. Today is (date) and I am away from the office (or) out of the classroom all day. I will be back in the office (or) classroom on (date). If you would like to reach me via the internet, my e-mail address is _____________. Otherwise, at the tone, please leave your name, telephone number, and a detailed message, and I will be happy to call you back upon my return. Thank you.” It is imperative that classroom telephones are set at a volume that can be distinctly heard during dismissal and that a caller is informed when s/he is on speaker or is being taped. Cellular phone usage will be limited to lunch and planning times. Cellular phones must be turned off during instructional time.

VIDEOS/DVD’S Movies shown in class must be “G” rated and/or checked out from the movie library. “PG” movies must have prior administrative approval.

VISITORS AND STRANGERS Faculty and staff should be on alert to observe people in the building who do not have identification badges, ribbons, etc., indicating that they have checked in at the office. Anyone without proper identification should be directed to the office. If suspicious or disruptive activity is witnessed or suspected, dial 86 and ask Mr. Solomon and Mr. Walton to report to your area.

WALKIE-TALKIES The effective and safe use of all Walkie-Talkies necessitates that we follow the ensuing guidelines:

Office, support, and custodial staff should keep the radios in your work area or on your person at all times.

Ensure that the walkie-talkie radios are removed from the charger upon

arrival in the mornings and are not replaced until after dismissal in the


afternoon as this will impact your battery’s memory and the length of charge it will retain.

Since the radios will be negatively affected if left on a charger for more

than five days, please see that all chargers are unplugged whenever school is dismissed for holidays.

For contact purposes during the school day, the following designations

should be followed:

o Elementary Campus - Channel 1 o Pre-kindergarten Campus - Channel 2 o Custodial Staff - Channel 3

Immediately notify your campus Office Manager if your radio malfunctions.

WELLNESS POLICY Please see Attachment E.


A.W. BROWN-FELLOWSHIP CHARTER SCHOOL

Staff Handbook Agreement

This form must be signed and turned in to the Office Manager prior to the first day of classes. Employee Name: ________________________________ I have read, understand and agree to abide by all the standards outlined in the A. W. Brown-Fellowship Charter School Staff Handbook. I realize that these guidelines will govern my behavior while employed by the school and that failure to be guided by the standards could result in disciplinary action, including dismissal. Employee’s Signature: _________________________ Supervisor’s Signature: _________________________


A. W. BROWN-FELLOWSHIP CHARTER SCHOOL Wellness Policy

In compliance with Section 204 of Public Law 108 – 265 --- June 30, 2004; Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 Sec. 204 LOCAL WELLNESS POLICY (a) IN GENERAL – Not later than the first day of the school year beginning after

June 30, 2006, each local education agency participating in a program authorized by the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq.) or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.) shall establish a local school wellness policy for schools under the local educational agency that, at a minimum ---

1. Includes goals for nutrition education, physical activity and other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness in a manner that the local educational agency determines is appropriate;

2. Includes nutrition guidelines selected by the local educational agency for all foods available on each school campus under the local educational agency during the school day with the objectives of promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity;

3. Provides an assurance that guidelines for reimbursable school meals shall not be less restrictive than regulations and guidance issued by the Secretary of Agriculture pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) of section 10 of the Child Nutrition Act (42 U.S.C. 1779) and section 9(f)(1) and 17(a) of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1758 (f)(1), 1766(a)0, as those regulations and guidance apply to schools;

4. Establishes a plan for measuring implementation of the local wellness policy, including designation of one or more persons within the local educational agency or at each school, as appropriate, charged with operational responsibility for ensuring that the school meets the local wellness policy; and

5. Involves parents, students, and representatives of the school food authority, the school board, school administrators, and the public in the development of the school wellness policy.


Therefore,

I. The A. W. Brown-Fellowship Charter District adopted and has implemented the following local wellness policy as of June 5, 2006.

II. Development of policy involved the following parties consisting

of the identified diverse groups:

A. Parents: Janetta Smith Christi Mayes John Sanders Melissa Gregg Sheryl Carter Tekiyah Murphy Rudy Tamez Chelsa Labbe Tosaha Lacy Tonya Shaw Jill Fance

B. Students:

Richard Guy Sylvia Johnson Montrel Williams Zenora Leggett Rachel Dupard Adriana Davis Ashlyn Mack Taylor McKnight Telor Chism Kendrick Warren

C. Representatives of the school food authority:

Linda Carlisle Vickie Holmes Delois Linley

D. School Board Members:

Cynethia Belton Judy Carroll

E. School Administration, Health, and Physical Education:

Paula Brown Lonnie Carter


F. Community Leaders: Paula Lewis Lisa King Lorenzo Brown

III. GOALS AND GUIDELINES FOR NUTRITION EDUCATION:

A. Students in grades preK-6 receive nutrition education that is interactive

and teaches the skills they need to adopt healthy eating behaviors via science and health curricula, center activities, inclusive of technology and physical education.

B. Nutrition education is offered in the school dining room (via visuals) as well as in the classroom (curriculum and centers).

C. Students receive consistent nutrition messages throughout the school and classroom.

D. State and district health education curriculum standards and guidelines include both nutrition and physical education.

E. Nutrition is integrated into the health education curricula. F. The school will link nutrition education activities with the coordinated

school health program (ex: basketball, track, health fair, walk-a-thon, dance)

G. Staff who provide nutrition education have appropriate training.

IV. GOALS AND GUIDELINES FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:

a. At a minimum, students should have 160 minutes of physical activity weekly.

b. Students should be given opportunities for physical activity during the school day through daily recess periods, physical education (PE classes), walking programs, and the integration of physical activity into the academic curriculum.

c. Students should be given opportunities for physical activity through after-school programs; i.e. interscholastic athletics.

d. Students should acquire the knowledge and skills for movement that provide the foundation for enjoyment, continued social development through physical activity, and access to a physically-active lifestyle.

e. The student exhibits a physically-active lifestyle and understands the relationship between physical activity and health throughout the lifespan. On-going monitoring will be measured through quarterly parent surveys.

f. The student will understand the benefits from being involved in daily physical activity and factors that affect physical performance (See TEKS 4A-E; pg 5.)

g. The student knows and applies safety practices associated with physical activities.

h. The student develops positive self-management and social skills needed to work independently and with others in physical activity settings.


i. We will provide an individualized physical fitness growth plan which will be inclusive of the following:

i. Cardio:

1. Tread mill 2. jumping jacks 3. laps around gym 4. timed running in place 5. jumping rope

ii. Gross Movement/Motor Skills:

1. Lunges 2. Squats 3. Knee lifts 4. Throws/Tosses 5. Toe Touches

iii. Strengths/Weights/Muscular Endurance:

1. Sit-ups 2. Push-ups 3. Chin-ups 4. Free weights 5. Climbing

iv. Tandalay Curriculum adoption: (Please see attachment one.)

1. Includes correlation to the TEKS 2. Includes grade level specific lesson plans 3. Features “Character Counts” ideas for expanding the lesson

across the curriculum, health and nutrition tips 4. Emphasis is on fun and movement rather than traditional

sports 5. Minimal equipment is needed

v. Nutrition:

1. Weigh-ins 2. The students will be able to describe the relationship

between food intake and physical activity such as calories consumed and calories expended

3. The students will be able to explain the link between physical activity/inactivity and health such as reduce stress and burn calories

4. The students will be able to explain the relationship between physical activity and stress relief and demonstrate stress relief activities such as brisk walking, gentle stretching, and muscle tension and release.

5. The students will be able to describe the need for rest and sleep in recovering from exercise


6. The students will identify sources of information on skill improvement, fitness, and health such as books and technology.

7.

V. GOALS AND GUIDELINES FOR OTHER SCHOOL-BASED ACTIVITIES:

a. Provide a clean, safe, enjoyable meal environment for students. b. Provide adequate time for students to enjoy eating healthy foods with

friends, scheduled as near the middle of the school day as possible. c. Prohibit use of food as a reward or punishment. d. Provide enough space and serving areas to ensure student access to school

meals with a minimum of wait time. e. Ensure fundraising efforts are supportive of healthy eating. f. Provide on-going professional training and development for foodservice

staff and teachers in the areas of nutrition and physical education. g. Provide student access to physical activity facilities outside school hours. h. Parent advisory groups will coordinate regular parent-staff physical

activities, e.g., parent-teacher basketball games, co-ed volley ball, softball and bowling leagues

i. Aerobics/Pilates classes will be offered to staff and parents after hours j. Monthly Saturday morning nutrition classes will be offered to the

community

VI. GOALS AND GUIDELINES FOR ALL FOODS AVAILABLE ON EACH SCHOOL CAMPUS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY:

a. Students in grades Pre-K – 6 receive nutrition education that is interactive

and teaches the skills they need to adopt healthy eating behaviors via science and health, technology, and center activities.

b. Students receive consistent nutrition messages throughout the school, classroom, and cafeteria.

c. State and district health education curriculum standards and guidelines include both nutrition and physical education.

d. Nutrition is integrated into the health education and science curricula. e. Schools link nutrition education activities with the coordinated school

health program i.e., health faith, walk-a-thon, dances, basketball, and track).

f. Staff who provide nutrition education have appropriate training. Special Note: Please see attachments regarding the lunch schedule, inclusive of a fifteen minute recess period for all grade levels, Tandalay Curriculum information packet, and personnel recommendations facilitating implementation of Wellness Plan guidelines.


E-Mail Directory (Revised July 7, 2008)

[email protected]: Paula Brown - Executive Director/Principal Judy Carroll - Vice-Principal Cynethia Belton - Vice-Principal Margaret “Peggy” Signall - Special Education Director/Diagnostician Tammy Benson - Pre-Kindergarten Dean Jayson Walton - Elementary Dean/Athletic Director Benjamin Solomon - Information Technology Director Portia Royal - PEIMS Coordinator/Registrar [email protected]: All staff members Maxx Frank - Production Director Takiyah Murphy - FEP Office Manager Nicole Brown - FEP Asst. Manager/Girl’s Basketball Coach Brenda Daniels - Nurse Sarah Green - Staff Child Care Mary Hooper - Staff Child Care [email protected]: All board members [email protected]: Sandy Hudson - Facilities Manager Clennard Holmes - Building Maintenance Manager Larnell Johnson - Part-Time Custodian – PK Campus Lawrence Dudley - Custodian – PK Campus Thomas Dudley - Custodian – PK Campus Erin Holmes - Custodian –Elem. Campus Iketrick Duncan - Custodian – Elem. Campus Steven Murphy - Custodian Elem. Campus Gwendolyn Moore - Custodian – Elementary Campus Brian Carroll - Part-Time Custodian – Elem. Campus Patrick Mitchell - Custodian – Elem./Finance Campuses Sam Hills - Groundskeeper [email protected]: Executive board members [email protected]: *All elementary staff members


[email protected]: Lynette Lett - Elementary Building Assistant Angela Cisneros - Elementary Building Assistant Cecily Scott - Elementary Building Assistant Linett Harper - Elementary Building Assistant Benny Dunn - Elementary Building Assistant Yolanda Bean - Elementary Building Assistant [email protected]: *Paula Brown - Executive Director/Principal Judy Carroll - Vice-Principal Cynethia Belton - Vice-Principal Tammy Benson - Pre-Kindergarten Dean Jayson Walton - Elementary Dean/Athletic Director Benjamin Solomon - Information Technology Director Delecia Key - Elementary Office Manager Angela Cisneros - Safety Patrol Supervisor Cherish Robinson - Vocal and Instrumental Choirs LaShannon Coleman - Cheerleading Tosaha Lacy - Cheerleading Chasity Pitts - Pep Squad Torina Johnson - Pep Squad William Holmes - Golden Eagles Step Team Winfred Dalcour - Lady Golden Eagles Step Team Open - Chess Club Don Broden - Chess Club Cynethia Belton - Student Council Twanna Mead - Student Council Cynethia Belton - Student Mentoring (Girls to Women) Sam Hills - Student Mentoring (Boys to Men) [email protected]: James Montfort - Chief Financial Officer Ann Thomas - Finance Manager/Treasurer Wanda Peer - Finance Administrator Janice Taylor - Benefits Manager [email protected]: Judy Carroll - Vice Principal William Holmes - KA - 104 Chavalla Arnold - KB - 106 Lisa Martin - KC - 108 Felicia Harrison - KD - 103 Melynda Morrow - KE - 105 Tammy Williams - KF - 107 Artrey Gipson - 1A - 109 Danecia Johnson - 1B - 110


Chasity Pitts - 1C - 111 Lywanda Knox - 1D - 112 Torina Johnson - 1E - 113 Christiana Lars - 1F - 114 LaShannon Coleman - 2A - 115 Latrice Freeman - 2B - 116 Tyrone Harvey - 2C - 117 Jessica Flores - 2D - 119 Rhonda Taylor - 2E - 121 Tinika Chism - 2F - 200 [email protected]: Cynethia Belton - Vice Principal Karea Scroggins - 3B - 204 Sumiko Hart - 3D - 209 Annette Wingo - 3E - 211 Kanetra Faison - 4A - 213 Kendrah Rougeau - 4C - 215 Kurian Alex - 4E - 302 Vanessa Duckett - 4F - 303 Adjuana Ellis - 5C - 306 Twanna Mead - 6B - 311 [email protected]: *Sandy Hudson - Facilities Manager Vickie Holmes - Cafeteria Manager Delois Linley - Assistant Cafeteria Manager Clennard Holmes - Building Maintenance Manager [email protected]: Paula Brown - Executive Director/Principal Tammy Benson - PK Dean/Math Chairperson Michel Hart - 3A - 202 Winfred Dalcour - 3C - 207 Anthony Gordon - 3F - 212 Annette Bradford - 4B - 214 Sher’rie Thurmon - 4D - 301 Patricia Boyd - 5B - 305 LaShonte’ Smith - 6A - 310 [email protected]: All Nextel/Sprint telephone users [email protected]: Adjuanita Hurst - Office Manager – PK Campus Delecia Key - Office Manager – Elementary Campus Jessie Newton - SPED/ESL Administrative Assistant


Daphne Guy - Receptionist – Elementary Campus Vickie Holmes - Cafeteria Manager William Holmes - ILT Patricia Boyd - ILT [email protected]: Paula Brown - Principal Judy Carroll - Vice-Principal Tammy Benson - PK Dean All Pre-kindergarten staff members [email protected]: Maria Arreguin - Assistant Sharon Henderson - Assistant Patricia Cooper - Assistant Ashley Holmes - Assistant Tammy Davis - Assistant Janetta Smith - Assistant Shania Davis - Assistant Rosalynn Pinkney - Assistant Lora Handy - Assistant Tosaha Lacy - Building Assistant/Receptionist [email protected]: *Judy Carroll - Vice-Principal Tammy Benson - Pre-Kindergarten Dean Tammy Roberson - PK3A/D - 102PK Ora Simmons - PK3B/E - 103PK Rachel Bolden - PK3C/F - 104PK Carla Butler - PK4A - 201PK Sha’vonn Waller - PK4B - 202PK Kim Dalcour - PK4C - 203PK Gloria Washington - PK4D - 204PK Sandra Washington - PK4E - 205PK Pamela Smith - PK4F - 206PK [email protected]: Jayson Walton - Elementary Dean/Athletic Director Lonnie Carter - Physical Ed - Gym Cherish Robinson - Music - 316 Toyia Curry - Science Lab - 120 Mahogonei Whitten - Computer Technology - 210 Colleen Jordan - In-School Suspension/Character Ed - 315 [email protected]: Paula Brown - Executive Director/Principal Jayson Walton - Elementary Dean/Athletic Director


Danny Dillard - 5A - 304 Dwaine Thompson - 6C - 312 Toyia Curry - Science Lab - 120 [email protected] Margaret “Peggy” Signall - Special Education Director/Diagnostician Tonja Adair - Diagnostician - 205B Dr. Karen Kreuder - Counselor/Psychologist Amy Reed - Intervention Specialist - 405 Linda Cedor - Reading and Dyslexia Therapist - 205A Dawn Simms - Speech Pathologist - 203 Robert White - Special Ed Teacher - 307 Anika Maiden - Special Ed Teacher - 309 Marc Morrow - ESL Teacher Robert Signall - Part-Time Diagnostic Assistant Jessie Newton - SPED/ESL Administrative Assistant Beverly Harris - SPED Teacher Assistant Vickie Hudson - SPED Teacher Assistant [email protected] Benjamin Solomon - Information Technology Director Kestin Wheeler - Information Technician Ama Grandberry - Information Technician [email protected]: Paula Brown - Executive Director/Principal Cynethia Belton - Vice Principal Jayson Walton - Elementary Dean/Athletic Director Michel Hart - 3A - 202 Karea Scroggins - 3B - 204 Winfred Dalcour - 3C - 207 Sumiko Hart - 3D - 209 Annette Wingo - 3E - 211 Anthony Gordon - 3F - 212 Kanetra Faison - 4A - 213 Annette Bradford - 4B - 214 Kendrah Rougeau - 4C - 215 Sher’rie Thurmon - 4D - 301 Kurian Alex - 4E - 302 Vanessa Duckett - 4F - 303 Danny Dillard - 5A - 304 Patricia Boyd - 5B - 305 Adjuana Ellis - 5C - 306 Twanna Mead - 6A - 310 LaShonte’ Smith - 6B - 311 Dwain Thompson - 6C - 312


Documents

AWBFCS 2008-09 Staff Handbook