Benjamin E. Mays Academy

2016-2017

Parent/Student Handbook

6656 South Normal Blvd. Chicago, IL 60621

(773) 535-3892- Main Office (773) 535-3895- Fax

Dr. Patricia McCann, Principal

Ms. DeLisa Carter, Assistant Principal

September 6, 2016

Mays Academy Parents! Welcome to another wonderful school year at Benjamin E. Mays Academy. The first day of school here and the school year rip with

possibility. The staff and I are thrilled to share another year of learning together with all stake holders and supporters. There have been a few noteworthy changes for new school year; the most important change is the change in the start and ending time for

students and staff. Our new instructional start time is 7:45 am. The new start time was needed to accommodate students that have to travel on school buses to get to school on time

We are happy to announce that are once again able to offer two full-days, pre-kindergarten classrooms. Ms. Adrienne Hudson a senior staff member at Mays will return to her first love by becoming the teacher for the 4-year-old class and we are excited that twenty children will

now have an opportunity to extend their learning opportunities in her classroom. As she prepares them for kindergarten, we anticipate wonderful teaching and learning. The other (3-year-old) class will be taught by Ms. L’Oreal Carrethers, another veteran teacher who is well

suited to teach our youngest children the socialization and academic skills needed to become successful students. There is still space available for youngsters who have made their 3rd birthday by September 1, 2015, so please contact the CPS pre-K offices for

information. We welcome Dionne Jenkins and Carla Thompson who have joined us to support our goals of "excellence for all". There have been several

changes in our school organizational structure, but all changes have been made to strategically increase not only student achievement, but also to improve the social and emotional climate of our school. We are looking forward to tremendous growth as a result of re-structuring our

instructional groupings. Each year the start of school is a busy time, and this year is no exception. In addition to continuing the implementation of the

Common Core State Standards in all classrooms, we are making concerted efforts to improve our attendance and support the “Culture of Calm” in our building that will support our goals of maximized instruction in all classrooms. We have a lot of work to do, as we move

toward meeting expected student achievement goals, our instructional goals are ambitious but our staff is focused on meeting every goal set.

During the first week of school all students will experience schools transitions and their expectations for behavior. Mays Academy is a

CHAMPS school. CHAMPS is the school culture model that we use to support student understanding of behavior and academic expectations. This model supports students by clearly outlying expectation for instruction and behavior. We believe that when students are aware of

classroom and school wide expectations, confusion is avoided and there are fewer chances that disruptive behavior will interrupt the calm school climate. Previously identified expectations will lead to better communication between teachers and students and support day to day

classroom interactions. Less time is spent giving student directions and more time on instruction. All of our decisions focus on what meets the needs of the children we serve. All other elements of our decision making process are secondary

to this objective. The students we serve are our greatest resource in Mays Academy. Parents are our partners in education. We will ensure your voice is

heard and that you are given opportunities to contribute to creating the best environment for our students. I am requesting that every parent take ownership of the academic progress of their child. Please comply with teacher request for school supplies, conferences and behavior

recommendations. If a teacher reaches out to you, know that the contact is made out of care and as support. Make sure that your children arrives at school daily; on time, dressed in the appropriate school uniform and carrying a book bag filled with everything they need

for a successful instructional day. A fresh pencil or pen and writing paper can make the different in how the school day starts for each child.

In keeping with the start of a good school day, if needed please make sure the students arrive at 7:30 for a hot breakfast. If you decide to serve breakfast at home, student may come at 7:30 to play and enjoy themselves with their classmates on the playground prior to the 7:45

start of school. Again, welcome to Mays Academy. We wish you the best and ask that you join the parent groups, volunteer in your child’s classroom and

participate in school activities. Remembering always that we have your child’s best interest at heart and share your concern for producing students prepared for high school and college.

Yours for children, Patricia Davis McCann, Ed.D, Ed. S. Principal

Mays Academy M i s s i o n S t a t e m e n t

At Benjamin E. Mays Academy, the over-arching goal is to prepare

students to be College and Career Ready. Our mission is to ensure that every child is on track to graduate prepared for success in high school.

We are committed to providing a nurturing, safe, orderly, and supportive environment where students gain confidence in their

abilities to make good choices. We strive to give children help, hope, and opportunity by removing barriers to academic and social

achievement through school and community partnerships. We offer a high quality, world class education for the 21st century.

Mays Academy V i s i o n S t a t e m e n t

We envision a school where the education of our students is a shared

responsibility for all stakeholders. We foresee all students experiencing academic excellence from the engagement of well

planned, Common Core State Standards based, differentiated learning activities that are interesting, stimulating, rigorous, and

developmentally appropriate.

I’ve only just a minute,

Only sixty seconds in it.

Forced upon me, can’t refuse it,

Didn’t seek it, didn’t choose it,

But it’s up to me to use it.

I must suffer if I lose it,

Give an account if I abuse it,

Just a tiny little minute,

But eternity is in it.

By Dr. Benjamin E. Mays

Benjamin E. Mays Academy

Organizational Chart

ADMINISTRATION

Dr. Patricia McCann, Principal

DeLisa Carter Assistant Principal

OFFICE STAFF

Mildred Kyles, Office Manager

Camika Harding, Attendance Coordinator

PRIMARY DEPARTMENT

Adrienne Hudson,, PreK 102

Loreal Carrethers, PreK 101

Dione Jenkins, Kindergarten 104

Jennifer Harris, Kindergarten 105

Jessica Wilkes, 1st Grade 108

Tiffany Smith, 1st Grade 109

Anne Cleary , 2nd Grade 106

Caitlin Mack, 2nd Grade 107

INTERMEDIATE DEPARTMENT

Chamiyah Pugh, 3rd Grade 305

Michael Williams, 3rd Grade 306

Patrick Dow, 4th Grade 308

Leland Sanford, 4th Grade 307

DeLisa Carter, 5th Grade 303

Curtis Hill, 5th Grade 309

UPPER DEPARTMENT

Yolanda West Bell, 6th Grade 205

Theresa Curry, 6th Grade 206

Chanika Moody 7th Grade 204

Kumberly Milan, 8th Grade 203

DIVERSE LEARNER SPECIALISTS

Linda Jenkins 213

Sharman Hampton 211

Renita Thomas 304

Candance Bargo 304

Vivian Stewart 208

Chioma Ochibutor 208

Rhonda McLeod, Primary Cluster-Case Manager 311

Alma McNeal-Hill, Intermediate-Upper Cluster 214

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Mrs. Bell, Nursing

Toi Davis, Occupational Therapist

Nicole Farinella-Bottigliero, Literacy Coach ( Compass

Learning/ ELA Coordinator) 212

Sakina Hull Guidance Counselor 215

Angela Thomas, School Culture Coordinator ( Academic &

SEL Interventions ) 212

Kimberly Johnson, Physical Therapist

Adrienne Loury, Speech Pathologist

Dr. Yosra Mari, Psychologist

Anthony Rainey, Dean of Students

ENRICHMENT DEPARTMENT

Anthony Rainey, Physical Education 210

Sharon Mason, Fine Arts Coordinator 312

Sakina Hull, Guidance Counselor 209

Angela Thomas/Nicole Bottigliero – SEL and Academic

Enrichment Intervention 212

Carla Thompson, Digital Curriculum and Learning

Technology 103

SCHOOL PARTNERS

Children’s Home + Aid, Shannon Carr 314

Chicago Urban League, Danielle Parker and Mrs. Nixon

DePaul University, Kathryn Grant and Tiamo Katsonga-

Phiri

Communities in Schools of Chicago, Jason Trische

Chicago Children’s Choir - Lonnie Norwood

SECURITY

Jacqueline Bradfield

Nathaniel Leonard

ESP

Carolyn Heyward, Guidance Counselor Assistant/ Records

Coordinator

Myra Anderson, Teacher Assistant (PreK)

Terrill Curry, Teacher Assistant ( PreK)

Kimberly Jones, SECA

Sherrie Varsice, SECA

Christine Lott, SECA

Taywana Gault, SECA

Jacqueline Dates, SECA

Shariff Ali, SECA

Angela Magee, SECA

LUNCHROOM

Manager ( Vacant)

Kimberly Penson

Willie Mae Davis-Overton

Doris Carr

FACILITIES

Donald Brantley, Engineer

Demetrius Meyers, Custodian

Petra Martinez, Custodian

Kenneth Gayden, Custodian

Amending Handbook

Statements in this handbook are subject to amendment with or without notice. The school will attempt to keep you informed of all changes as soon as possible. Some changes may be made immediately due to unforeseen

circumstances.

School Hours

Student Entry to the Playground 7:30 a.m.

Universal Breakfast 7:30 a.m.-7:45 a.m.

Teacher Entry 7:45 a.m.

Student Entry 7:45 a.m.

Regular School Day 7:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m.

Lunch/Recess Periods

Pre-K, Kindergarten, & 1st grade 10:00-10:25

10:25-10:45

2nd & 3rd grade 11:00-11:25

11:25-11:45

4th & 5th grade 12:00-12:25

12:25-12:45

6th, 7th, & 8th grade 1:00-1:25

1:25-1:45

Please have your child at school no later than 7:45 a.m. Children should not arrive earlier than 7:30 a.m. or remain on school grounds later than

2:45 p.m. unless they are participating in a supervised activity.

No students are allowed to enter or remain in the building after dismissal unless authorized by Dr. McCann.

Arrival Times

Breakfast starts at 7:30 a.m. If your child plans to eat breakfast at school, please make sure they arrive between 7:30 and 7:45. Students not eating breakfast may arrive at 7:45 a.m. Please make sure your child does not arrive to school too early. We will notify parents if this

occurs.

Entrance and Dismissal Procedures School hours are 7:45 a.m. until 2:45 p.m. each day. Please have your child at school no later than 7:45 a.m. Children should not arrive

earlier than 7:30 a.m. or remain on the school grounds later than 2:45 p.m. unless they are participating in a supervised activity. Supervision will not be provided for students who arrive before 7:30

a.m. or remain later than 3:00 p.m. The above procedures are designed for the safety and well-being of your children.

Morning Drop-off Location

Pre-K Rooms 101, 102- Door 1

Kindergarten-8th grade-Door 5/Gymnasium

Afternoon Pick-up Location

Pre- K Rooms 101, 102- Door 1

Kindergarten-2nd grade Door 5

3rd-5th grade-Door 4

6th-8th grade- Door 4

Please make clear arrangements with your child as to your afternoon pick-up plan. Make sure your child knows what to do if you are

unexpectedly late. If this happens, your child will be told to return to

the Main Office as a part of our contingency plan.

Children, who are frequently picked up late, will not be eligible to participate in our after-school programs.

Benjamin E. Mays Academy SY16-17 School Supply List

Pre-Kindergarten Book bag/Backpack

Headphones (Full Day students only) Change of clothes* Beginner wood pencils Crayons

Glue sticks Primary scissors Facial tissue 2 rolls of paper towels

Hand soap Kindergarten-Third grade

Book bag/ Backpack Headphones Change of clothes* 2 composition notebooks

1 inch (3-ring) binder 3 ring binder dividers Index cards (2 packs) 3 spiral notebooks

4pocket folders w/prongs Construction paper #2 pencils Pencil sharpener

Ruler (centimeter/inches) Crayons Notebook paper Glue sticks

Kleenex Safety scissors Pencil pouch Liquid soap

Ziploc bags (gallon/sandwich) 2 rolls of paper towels *change of clothes includes underwear, socks, school shirt and

bottom

Fourth Grade

Book bag/ Backpack Headphones #2 pencils 1 inch (3-ring) binder

3 ring binder dividers Crayons Washable markers Glue sticks

Notebook paper (wide-ruled) Student scissors Kleenex Pencil pouch

Pencil sharpener 5 pocket folders w/prongs 5 spiral notebooks Liquid soap

2 rolls of paper towels Eraser Small pocket dictionary

Fifth Grade Book bag/ Backpack #2 pencils

Pencil sharpener Blue/Black pens 1 inch (3- ring binder) 3-ring binder dividers

Post-it notes Ruler Colored pencils Glue sticks

Notebook paper Scissors Kleenex Hand soap

2 rolls of paper towels Pencil pouch 5 pocket folders w/prongs 5 spiral notebooks

TI-30X calculator USB Flash drive

PARENTS:

Please keep in mind that this

is a recommended list.

Classroom teachers should be

in contact with you soon, and

may ask for additional items.

Sixth – Eighth Grade

Book bag/ Backpack Headphones #2 pencils Pencil sharpener

Blue/Black pens Red pens Highlighters 1 inch (3-ring) binder

3 ring binder dividers TI-30X Calculator Index cards (3x5 & 4x6) Pocket dictionary

Thesaurus Protractor Ruler USB Flash drive

Post-it notes Colored pencils Glue sticks Notebook paper

Student scissors Kleenex Pencil pouch 5 pocket folders w/prongs

8 spiral notebooks Hand soap 2 rolls of paper towels

All 5th-8th grade students should also have:

Personal Hygiene Kit

- Small plastic travel bag - Wash cloth - Soap in a travel container - Hand/Body Lotion - Hand Sanitizer - Deodorant

-Feminine needs (girls only)

PARENTS:

Please keep in mind that this

is a recommended list.

Classroom teachers should be

in contact with you soon, and

may ask for additional items.

Pre-K (Ready to Learn)

This year (SY16-17) we are continuing our “Ready to Learn” Pre-school Program. Classes reach capacity at 20 students. Students must have the health examination in their file before attending the first day of school.

Schedule:

7:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m. (3 year olds and 4 year olds)

10:00-10:45 a.m. (Lunch/Recess period for 3 year olds and 4 year olds)

Classroom Entry/Departure

Students should enter/depart from the Main Door (Door 1). Students are not allowed to enter prior to the 7:45AM start time. Parents must accompany students into the room, help them with entry/exit procedures, and sign their child both in and out.

Student Expectations

The purpose of our school is to provide the best possible educational

environment for the students in our community. A student’s prime responsibility is to secure an education in a safe environment

conducive to the learning process. Student behavior and discipline policies are in effect at all school-sponsored events.

Student Responsibilities

Disruption, disrespect, insubordination, or noncompliance with other Benjamin E. Mays Academy expectations and/or school personnel will

result in appropriate disciplinary action.

1. Each student shall accept the responsibility for his/her own behavior.

2. Each student shall show respect for self, others, and for the

school and building by keeping Benjamin E. Mays Academy free from vandalism, graffiti, and other personal trash.

3. Each student shall comply with school board policies, rules, and standards designed to protect the right of all.

4. Each student shall be involved in the educational process to the fullest extent possible.

5. Each student shall contribute to a positive classroom learning environment by

a. Being respectful and considerate of your teacher and classmates in both words and actions.

b. Remaining awake and avoiding the impression you are asleep.

c. Coming prepared for class by bringing: i. Pencil or pen. ii. Notebook or paper as appropriate. iii. Book(s) as directed.

iv. Other materials assigned. d. Sitting in your assigned seat. e. Working only on assignments from the class he/she is

in unless otherwise directed from your teacher.

f. Remaining in your seat and working until the end of the class or teacher dismissal.

g. Participating in class.

Playground Rules and Expectations

Stay in designated areas.

Use appropriate equipment.

Use equipment appropriately.

Be respectful of students and adults.

Respond promptly to requests by school staff.

Behave in a cooperative manner that does not interfere with the activity of others.

Keep your hands and feet to yourself.

Use appropriate language.

Leave rocks, grass, etc. on the ground

Students are not allowed to climb on, or over the fence for any reasons, not even to retrieve a ball.

Students are not allowed to pick-up or carry other students.

Students are to behave in a cooperative manner that does not

interfere with the safety of other students.

You can help make Benjamin E. Mays Academy bully free. The

following actions are considered bullying behavior: name calling, teasing, pushing, or pulling someone, threatening, hitting, kicking, or attacking, taking and throwing around other’s possessions, spreading

rumors, ignoring and leaving someone out, or forcing others to do

something they don’t want to do. These behaviors are not allowed at Benjamin E. Mays Academy. We can work together to reduce and

eliminate bullying from our school. If you are being bullied, please tell an adult. Bullying is a bad habit. If you are a bully you can change.

Benjamin E. Mays Academy School Uniform Policy

ALL STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE IN FULL UNIFORM DAILY.

NO EXCEPTIONS!

The purpose for implementing this student dress code policy for all students in grades Kindergarten through 8th is to strengthen the learning environment for classroom instruction and academic

performance; prevent disruption to the educational process; prevent distraction to students, staff and the educational process; facilitate learning; increase the atmosphere for school pride and personal appearance; and enhance the image of students at Benjamin E. Mays

Academy.

*This dress code policy shall be in effect during the regular school year.

All clothing must be of appropriate size and fit neatly. Any clothing that is too tight, revealing/see-through, or saggy/baggy, including but

not limited to form-fitting tops or bottoms, is not permitted.

Benjamin E. Mays Academy Standard Uniform

Kindergarten-8th grade

Red (K-5th) or Black (6th-8th) “Mays” emblem shirt Khaki bottoms

No shoe color requirement

Tops Students are to wear the manufacturer’s logo/emblem “Mays Academy” polo shirt. Kindergarten-5th grade- Red top 6th-8th grade-Black top

Bottoms

Bottoms are to be khaki and solid in color. Shorts are permitted, but must be no shorter than two inches from the top of the knee. Capri pants, skirts, and skorts are also permitted. The hemline on skirts,

skorts, dresses, and jumpers must be no shorter than two inches from the top of the knee.

Students are not required to wear a belt with bottoms. All bottoms must be worn at the waist. The waist is defined as the area between the bottom of the rib cage and top of the

hip bone.

Footwear

PERMITTED:

Students are required to wear any style of “closed toe” footwear,

made of canvas, plastic, rubber, leather, fake/faux leather or leather-like synthetic compound with either a rubber sole or leather sole, which includes: dress shoes, casual shoes, athletic shoes, boots, and closed toe sandals. Footwear may have a back or be “backless” in nature.

PROHIBITED:

“Open toe” footwear is strictly prohibited. Slippers and flip flops of

any kind (leather, transparent plastic, rubber, wood, etc.) are strictly prohibited. Flip flops are defined as flat and backless consisting of a flat sole held loosely on the foot by a Y-shaped or V-shaped strap, like a thin thong, that passes between the first (big) and second toes and

around either side of the foot. Shower shoes are strictly prohibited.

Shower shoes are defined as those meant to be used near pools, bathrooms, or other wet places, and are made of plastic or rubber.

Jackets/Hoodies/Coats, etc.

Hooded tops or “hoodies” are prohibited. Hooded tops or “hoodies” may be worn as outerwear but must be placed in coat closets upon arrival to school.

Outerwear/outdoor clothing are not permitted once classes

begin.

Uniform Infractions

First Offense:

The student shall be given an opportunity to correct the infraction in school by either calling home for appropriate clothing or obtaining the appropriate clothing from the Main Office.

Second Offense:

Alternative Education placement for the balance of the school day with instructions to report to school the following day dressed appropriately.

Third Offense:

The student will be issued the proper attire through “loaner” and/or “debt slip”. Parent will be notified and a conference will be requested to aid the family in complying with the school’s policy.

Attire that is not in compliance with this dress code policy is not permitted. In addition to the clothing items expressly prohibited under

this policy, Principals and District Administration have discretion to address any attire/body art that is offensive, degrading, and vulgar, contrary to the educational mission of the school that disrupts the learning environment, or infringes upon the rights of others.

Physical Education On a student’s Physical Education day, he/she is required to wear a gym uniform. Students can purchase a gym uniform from the school

through the Main Office and/or wear a white t-shirt and red shorts. If you have any questions concerning the uniform, please speak with a

member of our administrative staff as soon as possible.

Absences

Parents are required to call the school to inform the classroom teacher of a child’s absence. You may call the school office (773-535-3892) to notify us of your child’s absence. Please leave a message if you are not able to talk to the school clerk.

There are four acceptable causes for a student absence:

Illness

Death in the immediate family

Family emergency

Observation of religious holidays After every absence, it is very important that your child return to

school with a note that is presented to the teacher explaining his/her absence. (This is in addition to calling the school office on the day of the absence.) Students returning without a note will be considered truant (unexcused absence), until a note is provided.

Once your child has 5 unexcused absences, CPS policy requires Mays Academy staff to issue a five-day unexcused absence warning. If you present a note that explains the reason for the absence, we may excuse

the absence according to CPS policy. If you know that an extended absence (four days or longer) will be necessary, please contact the office.

In addition, please be aware of the following:

Absences due to family vacations during the regular school year are highly discouraged and are considered unexcused absences.

If your child is absent more than five consecutive days and there has been no contact with the school, a home visit, contact from the attendance coordinator, or contact from the principal will be made.

In the event that your child is absent, please make arrangements to pick up homework from his/her classroom teachers.

In the event that a child continues to have unexcused

absences, the school will follow the CPS Attendance policy that includes 5-day, 10-day, and 18-day unexcused absence letters. Truancy violates state and local attendance laws and is ultimately responsible for their child’s attendance in school.

Please make every effort to schedule medical appointment after regular school hours or on Saturday, except in cases of

emergencies. Removing students from their classroom interrupts instructional time and the educational process.

Once a child is enrolled in Kindergarten, all CPS attendance policies apply. Children learn important skills during this time that will determine future success. Please consider attendance in Kindergarten as seriously as attendance absences in any grade. By the end of the school year, if your child has

accumulated 20 or more unexcused absences, your child may be retained.

Enrollment Expectations

The following items are expectations that should be met for successful enrollment:

Verify address

o If within boundaries, continue with enrollment

process.

o If out of boundaries inform parent of neighborhood

school. If parent still wants enrollment into out of

boundary school enrollment parent is informed that

acceptance is contingent upon space and Principal

approval.

Notify parents of documentation needed for enrollment:

o Birth Certificate – to verify guardianship and for new

students entering school for first time. Kindergarten

student must 5 before by September 1st.

o Identification – Driver’s license or State I.D.

o Two proofs of residency – provide parents with list of

acceptable documents.

o Updated immunization and physical or medical

compliance letter from transferring school.

o Transfer papers from previous school.

o Guardian is given a “Request for Records” form to

sign and it is faxed to previous school that student

transferred from to obtain student documents.

o Copy of current Individual Education Plan (IEP), if

Special Education services is marked “Y” or parent

states the child has an IEP when asked. If parent

does not have copy of current IEP then Case Manager

is notified for assistance.

o If STLS student/family then refer the guardian to STLS

Coordinator.

Provide parent with enrollment packet.

o Pre-School students must go through the intake

process with Early Childhood first. Locations are

provided to parents to facilitate that process.

Once all enrollment requirements are met child is assigned a

classroom and parent is notified.

o If child has an IEP the Case Manager is asked to

review IEP to assist with class determination.

Transportation needs are addressed at this time.

o If a particular concern is determined, every attempt

is made to place child in classroom that best fits

student’s needs.

Secure appropriate school uniform

Student fees paid

Emergency Contact Information

There is a list of important phone numbers that you as the parent, and all family members should know in the event of an emergency. Important phone numbers should be programmed into everyone’s cell phones and be located in easy to find places in the house, such as, on the refrigerator or near telephones.

It’s also important that you make sure your contact information is up-

to-date at your child’s school as well. In the event of an emergency, the school will use the information you have on file to reach you so it’s important to make sure the information is accurate.

Important numbers to keep in mind include:

Your work number(s)

Relative/friend emergency number(s)

School telephone number (773-535-3892)

School bus company name (if applicable)

School bus company number (if applicable)

Site pick-up number

School pick-up number

Other important phone numbers

Early Dismissals

If a child needs to be dismissed early, the Parent/Guardian should report to the Main Office to pick up his/her child. Parents’ must sign

our school’s Early Dismissal Log, stating the date, time, and reason for

early departure. Parents’ are not allowed to go to the classroom to pick-up their children.

TARDY Procedure for Students

Students are tardy at 7:50AM. Students who arrive between 7:50AM-8:30AM should get a tardy slip from the security desk. Students arriving

after 8:30AM must go to the office to report their tardy.

Student Records (Child Custody)

Since Benjamin E. Mays Academy assumes responsibility for children in

the school, it is important that we be notified of any court-sanctioned arrangements regarding custody of and access to children whose parents’ are divorced and/or separated. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the

responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.

Accidents, Illness, Injury

If a student is injured in an accident or becomes seriously ill at school, the parent will be notified immediately. If the parent cannot be reached, we will attempt to contact the adult listed on the emergency

contact form. Emergency contact sheets will be distributed and collected at the beginning of each school year. If your contact information changes during the school year, please contact the office to update all contact information. When necessary, injured or seriously

ill students will be transported by ambulance to the nearest hospital. Every effort will be made to contact parents. Students cannot receive treatment at a hospital unless a parent has been contacted. For this reason, the school must have a current emergency form on file for each

student.

School Telephone Usage

The school telephone is installed for official business. Students’ may

use the school phone only in an emergency, and only with the permission of a teacher and/or Main Office personnel. We will not interrupt classes to give students’ phone messages, unless it is a serious emergency.

School Visitation

Parents’ are welcome to visit classrooms when appropriate arrangements have been made. Parents who are interested in

observing the learning activities of their children are asked to notify the school’s office prior to the visit.

Immunization Children must provide proof of required immunizations and health

exams before October 15, 2016, or they will face exclusion from school. Physical Examination requirements due upon enrollment

Must be completed within one year prior to entry to for;

Students entering any Chicago Public School for the first time,

at any grade level

6th grade and 9th grade (ages 6, 11, 15 for un-graded

programs)

Preschool and Kindergarten (Physical exam and Lead screening

through age 6)

Vision Examination requirements due upon enrollment

Students entering the State of Illinois for the first time at any

grade level

Entering Kindergarten

Dental Examination requirements due upon enrollment

Students entering Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 6th grade

Tdap Vaccine

Children entering 6th, 7th, and 8th grade will be required to show

proof of receiving one-dose of the Tdap vaccine.

Medication

The School Nurse and the Main Office must be notified if medication is needed by a student. Medication should be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by a physician or pharmacy with the name of the student, dosage, and time to be administered.

Parent/guardians must submit written permission. ONLY PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION AS INDICATED ABOVE CAN BE TAKEN AT SCHOOL. ALL MEDICATION REQUESTS MUST BE APPROVED BY THE SCHOOL NURSE. Students with asthma are allowed to keep inhalers in their possession if

a parent letter is on file and we have a copy of the prescription. Please verify the information with the School Nurse.

Student Fees/Debt Slips

School fees are collected by the school from a student as a prerequisite

for the student’s participation in any curricular or extracurricular program of the school. School fees include, but are not limited to, the following:

All charges for required textbooks and instructional materials, all charges and deposits collected by a school for use of school

property, charges for field trips made during or after school hours if the field trip is a required or customary part of a class or extracurricular activity, charges or deposits for uniforms or

equipment related to varsity and intramural sports, or to fine arts programs, charges to participate in extracurricular activity, charges for supplies required for a particular class, and school records fees.

The price per student will be:

$30 per student

Payment plans are available:

1st payment due at November Report Card Pick-up:

$10.00

2nd payment due at February Report Card Pick-up:

$10.00

3rd payment due at April Report Card Pick-up:

Remaining balance of original fee and/or $10

Students’ who suffer qualifying circumstances are eligible for a

Waiver of School Fees. The principal shall decide waivers on a case by case basis in a non-discriminatory fashion and shall rely upon documentation submitted by the applicant.

2016-2017 Student Fees

$30 per student

Parent-Teacher Conference

Parent-teacher conferences must be scheduled by appointment. Please

check your child’s teacher availability by completing a “Parent-Teacher Conference Request Form” in the Main Office. Your child’s teacher will respond in writing and/or by telephone with confirmation.

Administrative Conferences

Concerns regarding individual students’ should be taken directly to the child’s teacher. If an administrative conference is needed, please schedule an appointment by completing an “Administrative Conference

Request Form”.

Please do not expect to meet with your child’s teacher and/or an administrator without an appointment.

Grading Scale

Progress Reports/Report Cards reflect a student’s growth in knowledge, skills, and understanding. They also reflect the achievement which is required in a child’s assigned grade to meet state standards. Children

receive grades in all subjects. The teacher bases grades on the quality of classroom work, homework, and test results. The grades reflect a student’s ability to understand and to learn.

A= 90-100 B= 80-89 C= 70-79

D= 60-69

F= 0-59

Parent Portal

The Parent Portal is a unique web-based tool that allows you to securely view your child’s grades and attendance online. You can register to receive e-mail or text notifications when your child is absent or when his or her grades drop below a point you identify. Additionally,

you will be able to communicate directly with your child’s teachers, enhancing the opportunity for parent-teacher interaction. You will need your child’s CPS ID number as well as your unique school-

issued personal identification number (PIN) prior to creating an account. Please contact your child’s school to learn how to obtain your PIN. To ensure the security of your child’s records, PIN’s will not be issued over the phone under any circumstance.

Create an account

Once you have a received your PIN from your child’s school, you can

create your Parent Portal account. Here’s how it works:

Fill out the Parent Account Signup page and agree to the terms of usage at https://parent.cps.k12.il.us;

Link to your child’s school record using your school-issued PIN;

View your child’s grades and attendance.

Report Cards/Progress Reports

Students will receive mid-term progress reports during the sixth week of each quarter. Report cards are distributed each quarter (10 weeks).

Quarter 1 Progress Reports-October 7th

Quarter 1 Parent-Teacher Conference Day- November 9th

Quarter 2 Progress Reports-January 9th

Quarter 2 Report Card Distribution-February 10th

Quarter 3 Progress Reports-March 10th

Quarter 3 Parent-Teacher Conference Day-April 19th

Quarter 4 Progress Reports-May 19th

Quarter 4 Report Card Distribution-June 20th

Homework

Homework is assigned to;

Provide reinforcement, practice, application, and enrichment of what is taught in class

Prepare students for meaningful class participation

Develop independent activities beyond the school hours

Provide an opportunity for student creativity

Foster a closer home-school connection and ongoing parental involvement in the student’s education

Provide opportunities for students to gain experience in the

utilization of community resources

Assist students in achieving the standards for promotion The following are suggested time allocations per day for teacher-

directed homework assignments by grade level:

Kindergarten 15 minutes per day

Grades 1st, 2nd, & 3rd 30 minutes per day

Grades 4th, 5th, & 6th 45 minutes per day

Grades 7th * 8th 90 minutes per day*

*Total across all subjects Homework (continued…)

Parents:

Should provide space and quiet time for their child to complete their homework daily

Should monitor the completion of all homework and review corrected homework returned by the teacher.

Should assist children in the use of community resources, such as, libraries, that can be helpful to the student when completing homework

Should review the progress report at the 5th week of each

marking period

Should pick up child’s report card at the end of the first and third quarters

Should contact the teacher if there are any problems or

questions about the homework

Pictures/Photographs

Benjamin E. Mays Academy adheres to the CPS Policy on photographing students. A consent form allowing your child to have his/her picture taken or be a part of a video done for school will be sent home the 1st week of school. It must be signed and returned in order for your child

to have his/her likeness copied. Toys/Electronic Devices

Problems arise each year because students bring articles that interfere with the school program. Radios, MP3 players, Game Boys, trading

cards, stuffed animals, weapons (real or toy), pellets, bullets, caps or explosives, matches, whoopee cushions, or other distracting items are

considered “nuisance items” and do not need to be brought to school. There are many problems and issues that arise from bringing these items, including loss and damage, disputes between students’ and

distractions from schoolwork. Bringing these items to school will result

in a call to parents and possible disciplinary action.

Monthly Newsletter

In an effort to keep the lines of communication open between school and home, a school newsletter containing important information will be sent home with the students on the 1st of the month, or as close to that date as possible. Please, take the time to read this each month, as this

is the most up-to-date information regarding school news and events.

Healthy Snack and Beverage Policy

The Offices of Nutrition Support Services and Student Health and Wellness work to provide students with a healthy school environment to promote improved health and academic performance. The USDA Smart Snacks in School and the CPS Healthy Snack and Beverage policies

include nutrition standards and guidelines for the school day, which by- definition begins at 12 a.m. and ends 30 minutes after the last bell. Through these policies all “competitive foods” which include vending, a la carte, fundraisers, celebrations (birthday), classroom rewards and

school stores must meet set nutrition criteria.

Students will not be allowed to bring unhealthy snacks (junk food) into the lunchroom. We encourage parents to support the goals and objectives of this policy through providing students with healthy foods

that will be consumed during the school day. If parents/guardians choose to provide their child with meals outside of the policy are

encouraged to send healthy foods in age-appropriate portions for their children and refrain from providing foods or snacks with minimal

nutritional value. Nothing in the policy prohibits a school from serving snack foods or beverages to a student with diabetes or other health conditions where physician’s orders specify the intake of certain snack foods or beverages at school to manage their medical condition.

Healthy Snack List (Peanut and Tree Nut Free) Chips Athenos Pita Chips (Whole Wheat) Skinny Pop Popcorn

Doritos (Reduced Fat) Cool Ranch Baked Cheetos Baked Naturals Cracker Chips - Simply Multigrain Baked Regular Potato Crisps Baked Regular Ruffles Brand Potato Chips Baked Tostitos Original Bite Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps

(Everything) Popchips »»Parmesan Garlic »»Sweet Potato »»Sea Salt and Vinegar »»BBQ

»»Sour Cream and Onion »»Original

Cookies Otis Spunkmeyer Low-Fat Wild Blueberry Muffin

Otis Spunkmeyer Sweet Discovery Reduced Fat Chocolate Chip Cookies Fig Newtons (Nabisco) Fig Newtons Raspberry (Nabisco)

Nilla Wafers (Reduced Fat) Oatmeal Raisin Pepperidge Farm Soft Baked Cookies

Teddy Grahams (Nabisco) »»Honey »»Cinnamon »»Chocolate »»Chocolatey Chip

Snack Bars Nutrigrain Cereal Bars »»Apple »»Blueberry »»Strawberry »»Cherry

»»Mixed Berry Kashi Soft Baked Cereal Bar »»Cherry Vanilla »»Ripe Strawberry General Mills Fiber One Chewy Bar Chocolate

Kellogg’s Special K Cereal Bar »»Blueberry »»Strawberry »»Vanilla Crisp

Dried Fruit Sun-Maid Raisins Sunsweet Raisins

Sunview Raisins Ocean Spray Cranberries Nature’s Promise Cranberries Brothers Peach Crisps

Brothers Pineapple Crisps Brothers Asian Pear Crisps Brothers Strawberry/Banana Crisps Sunsweet Prunes Mariani Cherries Made in Nature Apricots Made in Nature Apples

Fresh Fruit Apples Oranges Tangerines Nectarines

Peaches Grapes Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Suggested pairings: Fruit yogurt dip,

Low-fat caramel dip. Fresh Vegetables Carrot sticks Grape tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes Peas Broccoli florets Cauliflower florets Suggested pairings: Hummus, low fat salad dressing, Greek yogurt

vegetable dip.

Parent Volunteers

Parent volunteering is encouraged. All volunteers must fill out a Parent Volunteer Packet, have a current TB test, successfully pass a background check, and be approved by the principal. Teachers who

have volunteers should take time to train them relative to classroom schedule and expectations. Volunteers should have a regular schedule and be constructively engaged while in the classroom. Try to assign tasks to volunteers that are meaningful and within their capabilities.

Student Discipline The Board expects all students to respect the rights of fellow students,

personnel and others, and to behave in a manner that does not violate school rules, procedures, Board policy or the law. Students shall be encouraged to seek assistance from school personnel to prevent or

resolve conflicts and to report incidents or activities that may threaten

or disrupt the educational environment. The Student Code of Conduct requires all students enrolled in the Chicago Public Schools to accept

responsibility and the appropriate consequences for their actions and behavior.

Overview of the Student Discipline Process

School official investigates

School affords student due process

School completes necessary paperwork

Discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct Manual

Our school disciplinary measures range from student-teacher conferences to suspensions. Each case is handled on an individual basis

in accordance with Chicago Public Schools Student Code of Conduct.

*New Cellular Phone Policy

Cellular phones and other information technology devices are prohibited at Benjamin E. Mays Academy. The principal may allow students to possess a cellular phone for any good cause after considering a written request from a parent/guardian. If the principal

approves the request, the student’s cellular phone will be collected by his or her classroom teacher, placed in a plastic baggie that will be labeled with the student’s name on it, and secured in the classroom. The parent/guardian will assume all risks and responsibilities when the

cellular phone is in the school’s possession. If it is found that a student did not follow this school procedure, this student will no longer be permitted to have their cellular phone on school grounds. The parent will be notified by administration to pick-

up the phone and receive a letter stating the inappropriate behavior and its consequences.

To assist in this effort, we are asking each parent to complete a

“Cellular Phone Policy” form and return it to your child’s teacher. This form states that your child has a cellular phone and that you

understand the cellular phone policy here at Mays Academy.

Benjamin E. Mays Academy 2016-2017 Schedule of Events

Tuesday, September 6th 1st day of school

Friday, October 7th Quarter 1 Progress Reports

Monday, October 10th Columbus Day Holiday-No school

First Day of Enrollment Physical Exams, Immunizations, and Vision exams due

Friday, November 11th Veteran’s Day Holiday

Thursday, November 3rd End of Quarter 1

Friday, November 4th School Improvement Day-No school

Wednesday, November 9th Parent-Teacher Conference Day

Wednesday, November 23rd- 25th Thanksgiving Holiday-No school

Monday, December 26th t-Friday, January 6th

Winter Vacation- No school

Monday, January 9th Quarter 2 Progress Reports

Monday, January 16th M.L. King, Jr. Holiday-No school

Thursday, February 2nd End of Quarter 2

Friday, February 3rd School Improvement Day-No school

Thursday, February 10th Quarter 2 Report Cards sent home

Monday, February 20th Presidents’ Day Holiday-No school

Friday, March 10th Quarter 3 Progress Reports

Thursday, April 6th End of Quarter 3

Friday, April 7th School Improvement Day-No school

Wednesday, April 19th Quarter 3 Parent-Teacher

Conferences

Monday, April 10th-Friday, April

14th

Spring Break- No school

Friday, May 19th Quarter 4 Progress Reports

Monday, May 29th Memorial Day Holiday- No classes

Tuesday, June 20th Last Day of School Quarter 4 Reports sent home

“There is no more powerful advocate for children than a parent armed with information and options.”

Every man and woman is born into the world to do something unique and something

distinctive and if he or she does not do it, it will never be done.

Dr. Benjamin E. Mays

“Home of the Mighty Eagles”

Benjamin E. Mays Academy 6656 South Normal Blvd.

Chicago, IL 60621 Main Office- (773)535-3892 Main Fax- (773) 535-3895

Dr. Patricia McCann, Principal

Ms. DeLisa Carter, Assistant Principal