MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Elementary Schools’

STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTSPAGE

Elementary School Directory.........................................................................................................................2District Mission Statement.............................................................................................................................3District Beliefs...............................................................................................................................................4Message from the Principals..........................................................................................................................5Affirmative Action.........................................................................................................................................6Assemblies.....................................................................................................................................................6Assignment Planner.......................................................................................................................................6Attendance/Tardiness.....................................................................................................................................6Absence Procedures.......................................................................................................................................7Birthday Celebrations....................................................................................................................................7Board of Education Policies...........................................................................................................................7Buses..............................................................................................................................................................7Bus Evacuations and Security Drills..............................................................................................................8Building Use After School Hours..................................................................................................................8Change of Address or Telephone Number.....................................................................................................8Child Find......................................................................................................................................................8Intervention and Referral Services Team (I&RS)..........................................................................................9Code of Conduct............................................................................................................................................9School Rules and Disciplinary Guidelines...................................................................................................10Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying.......................................................................................................10Communication............................................................................................................................................11Dismissal Procedures...................................................................................................................................11Dress Code...................................................................................................................................................11Emergency Information...............................................................................................................................11Emergency School Closings and Delayed Openings...................................................................................11Family Life Curriculum...............................................................................................................................12Field Trips....................................................................................................................................................13Fund Raising................................................................................................................................................13Gifts to Staff.................................................................................................................................................13Homework....................................................................................................................................................13Home Instruction..........................................................................................................................................13Housekeeping...............................................................................................................................................14Immunizations..............................................................................................................................................14Administration of Medication .....................................................................................................................14Parking Procedures......................................................................................................................................14Pets...............................................................................................................................................................14Physical Exams and Screenings...................................................................................................................14Pupil Records/Appeal of Record..................................................................................................................15Report Cards................................................................................................................................................15School Visitation..........................................................................................................................................15Smoking.......................................................................................................................................................15Snacks..........................................................................................................................................................16Student Belongings......................................................................................................................................16Textbooks.....................................................................................................................................................16Toys and Valuable Items..............................................................................................................................16Transfer Plans..............................................................................................................................................16Vacation.......................................................................................................................................................16Internet Acceptable Use Guidelines.............................................................................................................17

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Montville Township Elementary Schools

Telephone: 973-331-7100﴾To reach the elementary schools,

please follow the prompts.)

Cedar Hill School46 Pine Brook RoadTowaco, NJ 07082

FAX: 973-331-3430

Hilldale School123 Konner Avenue

Pine Brook, NJ 07058 FAX: 973-316-4655

Valley View School30 Montgomery Avenue

Montville, NJ 07045FAX: 973-316-4645

William Mason School5 Shawnee Trail

Montville, NJ 07045FAX: 973-331-3435

Woodmont School39 Woodmont Road

Pine Brook, NJ 07058FAX: 973-316-4650

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MISSION STATEMENT

The Montville Township Community values education at its highest level. Our mission is

to guarantee an exceptional education for our children, to

maximize individual potential, and foster a life-long

commitment to learning through a strong partnership of educators,

families, and community.

Montville Township Public Schools Strategic Plan, January 2000

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BELIEFS

We believe that…

A good education empowers children to become critical thinkers and life-long learners, maximizes individual potential, and provides the necessary skills to succeed in life.

A good education encourages students to take personal and civic responsibility.

Our children learn best when they are stimulated and challenged through teaching styles best suited to the individual.

Our children need to be motivated to learn and have excellent teachers in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment where they feel respected, understood, and valued.

Our children deserve a great education.

Children need to respect diversity and appreciate the world around them.

The role of the parents is to be positive role models providing a supportive and loving environment where values are instilled and personal responsibility are encouraged.

The role of parents is to be a partner in their children’s education.

Support and involvement from the community are vital to the success of education.

Montville Township Public Schools Strategic Plan, January 2000

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Message from the Principals

Welcome to Montville Township, a community that cares about YOU! Our outstanding staff offers students an exemplary elementary learning experience. The formative years present a challenge for us to help develop children’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical well-being in a context that is appropriate for each student. We continue to create an atmosphere which builds lifelong and positive attitudes towards school and learning.

We have prepared this handbook so you will become more familiar with our schools. You will find that the rules and regulations make it possible for all of us to live, learn, work, and play together in a safe environment.

You are invited and encouraged to play an active role in the education of your child. The possibilities for becoming involved are numerous. Volunteering on one of the committees sponsored by the schools or parent groups is always appreciated.

Close cooperation between home and school is essential in promoting the best interests of the child. Parents are encouraged to visit school and to attend scheduled meetings. A meaningful exchange of information between us benefits everyone.

We trust that you will keep this booklet handy and refer to it during the school year. Our partnership in providing an outstanding educational experience for all of our students can only grow stronger with close communication between the school and the home.

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The Elementary Schools’ Student/Parent Handbook

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

It is the policy of the Montville Township Public School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, national origin, social or economic status, or handicaps in its educational programs or activities and employment policies, as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments 1972 (prohibiting sex discrimination in education), N.J.A.C. 6:4 (Equality in Education Program), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (prohibiting discrimination on the basis of handicaps).

The Assistant Superintendent shall serve as district Affirmative Action Officer and shall coordinate all activities designed to implement this policy. The local principals are the ADA/504 Compliance Officers.

ASSEMBLIES

Various assemblies are sponsored throughout the school year by each school’s parent/teacher organization. These assemblies can be related to the curriculum, expose students to cultural arts, teach an important life skill, and are a valuable part of the educational program.

ASSIGNMENT PLANNER

All students are encouraged to use an assignment planner as directed by the teacher. This is a very important study skill that will be introduced at the elementary level. Parents should check the planner at home each night to encourage the skill of organization and good study habits.

ATTENDANCE/TARDINESS

All elementary schools begin at 8:10 AM every day. Students may arrive between 7:55 AM and 8:05 AM. Students are not allowed in the building prior to 7:55 A.M. Classes begin promptly at 8:10 AM and students arriving after that time are marked tardy. The ideal time to arrive at school is at the beginning of homeroom so the students can settle in for the day without rushing and missing the morning announcements from the principal and teacher. Students who ride the school buses arrive at the appropriate time for the start of the day.

It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that students arrive at school no later than 8:10 AM every day. This is the time when the teacher outlines the activities for the day, collects homework and other information, and prepares the children for the day. Those students who arrive at school late (after 8:10 AM) have missed that important part and must catch up on important activities. The children that arrive after 8:10 AM must be accompanied into the building and signed in by the adult driving them to school. An instructional day consists of four instructional hours, excluding lunch and recess. Visit www.montville.net to review policies.

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ABSENCE PROCEDURES

In order to ensure the safety of students, you are requested to call the school nurse by 8:00 AM every day your child will be absent from school. The school nurse will call the home or place of business until a parent is located, if no call has been made to school . Any absence from school requires a written note from you or your doctor upon your child’s return to school . Refer to Policy 5200 R on the district’s website for more information.

It is of great concern that each student be accounted for each day. Parental cooperation is appreciated.

A student with an elevated temperature or who has vomited must remain at home for at least 24 hours.

The school nurse is to be notified immediately if a student has a communicable disease or head lice. A note, signed by the attending physician, is required before a student may return. A student with a rash is excluded from school until the nature of the rash is determined.

In the event of illness, it is recommended that every student make arrangements with a sibling or friend to obtain and deliver work. If this is not possible, parents are asked to call school by 9:00 AM. Homework may be picked up between the hours of 2:50 PM and 6:00 PM.

When your child is absent for a religious holiday, please send a note to school. Religious holidays and tardiness due to attendance at houses of worship are considered excused absences.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Many students celebrate their birthdays in school by bringing individual healthy treats. Please avoid snacks that contain nuts due to an increasing number of students with food allergies. In nut free classes, all snack ingredients must be reviewed by the school nurse. Most classes include the birthday treat as part of the brief snack time and therefore, parents are asked not to visit the class. The birthday treats should be brought to the main office. Birthday invitations may not be distributed in school.

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES

All Board of Education policies are on line at www.montville.net. Go to Board of Education link at the top of the screen, go to the drop down box, and click on policies & regulations. Parents should be aware of Board policies and should review them.

BUSES

Students living two or more miles from school are eligible for school busing by State Law. The transportation office may decide to pick up students at a shorter distance, if safety becomes an issue. Bus schedules and information on pick-up locations are handled by our district’s transportation office. Children who are not bus students may not ride on the school bus with a friend for an after-school play date. Insurance requirements do not allow this practice. Children may only ride their assigned bus and are required to behave in a responsible manner. The privilege of riding the school bus will be revoked for any child who interferes with the rights of other children to have a safe bus ride. Note: Any changes in dismissal or pick-up plans must be submitted in writing to the main office by 9:00 AM.

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BUS EVACUATIONS AND SECURITY DRILLS

Bus evacuation drills are held twice a year as practice for emergency conditions on a school bus. Children are instructed in safety procedures for the bus and while waiting at bus stops. Reinforcement of these safety rules occurs throughout the school year.

Building security drills are held monthly as practice for emergency conditions. Children are instructed in safety procedures to maintain an orderly and safe environment in the event of a security/safety threat. Students are expected to follow their teachers’ directions at all times.

BUILDING USE AFTER SCHOOL HOURS

The elementary schools are open to many organizations and groups after school hours. The building may be used after 3:00 PM each day. Anyone who would like to use the school must complete a “Use of Facilities” form 60 days prior to the use of the building. The form will be processed by the principal, sent to the school business administrator for approval, and returned to the organization with the proper notification. Groups that do not have the approval to use the building will not be permitted to do so. Older groups of children are encouraged to utilize the middle school or high school facility.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER

Please call and schedule a visit to the main office immediately if there is a change in your address or telephone number. The school office is open from 8:00 AM to 3:15 PM. Parents/guardians must update their information (home phone, cell phone, e-mail, address, and emergency contacts) through the Parent Portal Access. The Parent Portal Access is located at www.montville.net.

CHILD FIND

All Morris County school districts offer varied educational programs and services for students ages three (3) to 21. Parents or other appropriate persons may refer children who are experiencing significant difficulties.

Child Study Team services are available to children ages three (3) to 21. Children experiencing physical, sensory, emotional, communication, cognitive and/or social difficulties may be eligible for special education and related services. Parents should contact their district Child Study Team office for further information. Babies from birth to three (3) who are thought to have a developmental delay may receive assistance from the Early Intervention Program. To access this service, parents should contact the Service Coordinator for Early Intervention at 973-971-4155.

If parents are concerned about their school-age child’s progress, they should feel free to discuss such issues with their child’s teacher, guidance counselor and/or principal. Parents have the option of making a referral to the Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) Committee or the the Child Study Team (CST). The I&RS offers intervention procedures that are provided within the regular education school program. At times, however, more extensive interventions that can be provided in a regular education setting are necessary to assist the student. If the decision is made to undertake a full Child Study team evaluation, the child’s social, emotional, and academic status may be assessed. Medical or other specialized evaluations may be included in the assessment at no cost to the parent. If a child is determined to be eligible for special education and related services, an

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Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed, which includes a rationale for the student’s educational placement and the basis for the program implementation.

INTERVENTION AND REFERRAL SERVICES TEAM (I&RS TEAM)

At each elementary school, each student is treated with individual attention and provided with an education as customized as possible within the framework of the school curriculum. The I&RS Team meets as needed to discuss various situations that may be of specific concern to individual children. Parents will be invited to attend the meeting to discuss concerns regarding their child’s performance. The committee is comprised of the principal and members of the professional staff. Intervention strategies are decided upon and the teacher follows up in the classroom and contacts the parent with updates.

Teachers can request an I&RS meeting by speaking to the principal and are encouraged to do so at any time. Parents can also request an I&RS meeting by discussing concerns with the teacher first.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Our schools strive to create a school climate that is caring, respectful, and orderly. We believe it is important to recognize and commend students for considerate and responsible behavior and to clearly identify the consequences when expectations are not followed. We reinforce students’ thoughtful and responsible behavior in a variety of ways. It is essential for the home and school to support each other in order for children to be responsible and caring.

The elementary schools’ Code of Conduct outlines acceptable student behavior. It is recognized that every student has rights:

The right to learn and the right to be taught The right to be respected and the right to respect others The right to respect the classroom setting and school property.

Therefore, in order to ensure the rights of everyone, as outlined above, the guidelines below will be followed without exception. Refer to Board Policy 5600 for in depth details.

Each staff member shall share the responsibility for supervising the behavior of students through the enforcement of school rules. Students’ behavioral expectations and consequences will be based upon the district’s Code of Conduct. Children will understand the rules and follow them. Consequences will be clear and fair. Children will be sent to the principal immediately for severe incidents. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a proper and orderly fashion at all times. Staff members shall encourage the growth of students towards self-discipline through consistent, impartial, and fair implementation of this code. The school shall retain authority over every student as prescribed by law (In loco parentis, N.J.S.A. 18A: 25-2).

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SCHOOL RULES & DISCIPLINARY GUIDELINES

Rules

1. Children will respect others by using appropriate language and avoiding physical contact.2. Children will follow the rules in all school settings.3. Children will practice the school safety rules at all times.4. Children will follow the district dress code.

Disciplinary Guidelines

The administration and staff will apply the following guidelines for the consistent administration of discipline. Decisions regarding disciplinary matters will depend upon the following:

1. A complete investigation of the matter2. Consideration of the severity of the offense3. Consideration of the developmental age of the child4. Consideration of repetitive behavior of the student5. Fairness in light of mitigating circumstances6. Guidelines as set forth in the Code of Conduct.

Consequences may include, but may not be limited to the following: warning by the teacher, loss of recess, parent communication, conference with principal, central detention, and/or suspension.

NOTE: The Board of Education policies on weapons, substances, harassment, and fighting will be implemented on the first offense.

HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING BOARD POLICY NO. 5512

The State of New Jersey prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying. A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for pupils to learn and achieve high academic success. Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its pupils in a safe environment. Since pupils learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers should be commended for demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation or bullying.

The Board of Education authorizes a prompt investigation of reports and violations and complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15(b) 6. Refer to Policy 5512 on the district’s website for more information.

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COMMUNICATION

Communication among administration, teachers, and parents is very important. Parents are expected to contact the teacher, before contacting the principal if they have a question or comment. The teacher will return the call or set up a conference as soon as possible. Parents should be informed on a regular basis of upcoming projects and activities in school, and the teacher should be informed of any situation at home that may affect a child’s school performance.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

The elementary schools dismiss at 2:45 PM on regular days. Parents who choose to pick up their child must send a note or call the office by 9:00 AM. Those children will be dismissed at the regular dismissal time immediately after the buses. Parents who are picking up their children are requested to wait outside the building, rather than blocking the front hallway. No child is permitted to change buses for any reason. Drivers are instructed to accept only those children assigned to that bus. If a student leaves before dismissal time, due to an emergency, he/she will be picked up in the main office to be signed out by the parent or designated adult. Parents are not permitted to go the classroom to pick up their children. Children who are not picked up on time will be placed in the school’s MEDLC, and parents will be charged appropriately.

DRESS CODE

Students should wear clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for school. Safety is a priority, and clothing should not drag on the floor. Sneakers must be worn on days for the physical education program. Any garments that distract from the educational setting are not permitted, and students will be asked to change. Hats are not permitted in the building. All dress code guidelines apply to both boys and girls. Please review the Dress Code Policy 5511 at www.montville.net.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

Emergency cards will not be sent home this year. Parents are asked to provide work numbers and at least two local telephone numbers of people who will be responsible for the child when the parent is not available via the Parent Portal Access. DO NOT list persons who are unable to drive or who are unavailable during school hours. PLEASE NOTIFY THE SCHOOL NURSE IMMEDIATELY OF ANY CHANGES TO EMERGENCY CONTACTS.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYED OPENINGS

Before School Starts : The School Messenger system will contact parents about any closings/emergencies. It is each family’s responsibility to sign up for the School Messenger System through the Parent Portal Access at www.montville.net and update the family profile when any numbers or other information changes. If it begins snowing before your child leaves

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for school, it is recommended that parents/guardians listen to these specified media: WMTR - 1250 AM, WOR - 710 AM, ABC- Channel 7, Channel 5 News, News 12 NJ for announcements regarding school closings or two hour delayed openings. Please do not contact the Police Department or the school regarding school closings, because they are extremely busy.

Delayed Opening Schedule: When the district has a delayed start, classes begin two hours later than usual as follows:

Elementary – Grades K-5 10:10 AM

Early Dismissal Schedule: In case of inclement weather after the school day begins, classes will be dismissed at 12:40 PM. School Messenger will notify you for delayed openings and early dismissals.

FAMILY LIFE CURRICULUM (K-5)

The Montville Township School District provides a health education program designed to encourage the attitudes and practices that are conducive to good health, promote well-being, and prevent disease. The health education curriculum includes instruction in personal health and hygiene, growth and development, safety, and family life.

Listed below are the grade level instructional areas of the Family Life curriculum for kindergarten through grade 5. A parent/guardian may present a signed statement to the principal to excuse the student, if any part of the Family Life curriculum is in conflict with the family’s religious or moral beliefs. The student shall be excused from that portion of the course and no penalties as to credit or graduation shall result therefrom (N.J.S.A.18A:35-4.6 et.seq.). The curriculum in its entirety may be reviewed at school by calling the school nurse.

K Self 3 Self-ConceptFamily ResponsibilityFriends Friends

Families1 Self Communication

Family Growth and DevelopmentFriendsPersonal Safety 4 The Family ConceptGrowth and Development Relationships

Family Influences2 Self Growth and Development

Family FriendshipsFriendsPersonal Safety 5 Physical, Social, and MentalGrowth and Development Development

Peer Pressure and StressFriendships – Benefits and ResponsibilitiesFamily Relationships

Puberty – Physical and Emotional Changes

Making Healthful Choices

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FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are planned by the teachers. Parents that volunteer as room representatives during the school year may be invited to chaperone the trips. At times other parents may be needed to help with the field trips and are invited by the teacher at the teacher’s discretion.

Field trips are an extension of the curriculum and all students are expected to participate on the trips. Often there are follow-up lessons that directly relate to the field experience.

FUND RAISING - BOARD POLICY NO. 5830

Individual students are strictly prohibited from participating in the solicitation and collection of money from other students for any purpose in exchange for tickets, papers, or any other goods or services for personal financial gain.

GIFTS TO STAFF

The school board believes that gifts to staff members should be discouraged because it may embarrass pupils with limited means and give the appearance of currying favor. See Board Policy # 3214 – Conflict of Interest.

HOMEWORK – BOARD POLICY NO. 2330

The Board of Education acknowledges the educational validity of work assigned to pupils for completion outside the classroom as an adjunct to and extension of the instructional program of the schools. Homework should be a properly planned part of the curriculum, extending, reinforcing, and practicing the learning experiences of the school day professionally introduced and taught by the classroom teacher. Homework should help children learn by providing practice in the mastery of skills, experience in data gathering and integration of knowledge, and an opportunity to remediate learning problems. The number, frequency, and degree of difficulty of homework assignments should be based on the ability and needs of the pupil and take into account other activities that make a legitimate claim on the pupil’s time. Homework will not be provided for unexcused absences.

HOME INSTRUCTION

Home instruction is provided to students confined to home or hospital by physical, psychological or psychiatric disability, school exclusion or suspension. A physician’s note listing the diagnosis, probable duration of illness, and a recommendation for home instruction, as well as written parental request is required to initiate the process. Home instruction shall commence as per Board of Education Policy after student eligibility has been established.

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HOUSEKEEPING

Students in all grades are capable of accepting responsibilities to assist in tidying their classroom and lunch area each day. If each class helps in some way, both in the room and around the school, every elementary school will be an attractive building for everyone.

IMMUNIZATIONS

Immunizations are reviewed annually to be sure all student records are up-to-date. The nurse requests that you forward verification from the physician when any booster is given. Refer to Policy 5320 for all necessary immunizations for school attendance.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION BOARD POLICY NO. 5330

No student is to carry medication to school. In order to take medication during school hours, the following must be submitted by the parents to the school nurse:

1. A doctor’s note indicating the medical reason for the medication and the time medication is to be given.

2. A parent note indicating the student must take medication.3. Medication is to be in its original container, labeled with name of child, current

dosage, date of prescription, prescription number and name of doctor.

According to New Jersey State Law, only the nurse is permitted to dispense medication. Non-prescription medications (such as Aspirin, Tylenol, Midol, cough drops, cough syrup, etc.) may not be administered except on written order from the physician. These medications in their original containers must be given to the school nurse by the parent/guardian.

PARKING PROCEDURES

Leaving a car unattended and/or idling are prohibited at all times. Park in legal spaces whenever you plan to enter the building. Observe handicap parking, no parking areas, bus lanes, and fire zones. Driveways, by ordinances, must be kept accessible to emergency vehicles.

PETS

Pets are prohibited in the elementary schools or on school property. Refer to Board of Education Policy 7490.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS AND SCREENINGS BOARD POLICY NO. 5310

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Annual health screenings include height, weight, and blood pressure. Vision and hearing screenings are performed as directed in the administrative code.

Fifth grade students will receive a scoliosis screening biennially beginning in grade 5 after the school nurse has received permission from the parent/guardian.

PUPIL RECORDS/APPEAL OF RECORD

The Board of Education believes that information about individual pupils must be compiled and maintained in the interest of the pupil’s educational welfare and advancement. The Board will strive to balance the pupil’s right to privacy against the district’s need to collect, retain, and use information about individual pupils and groups of pupils. The Board authorizes the establishment and maintenance of pupil files that include only those records mandated by law, rules of the State Board of Education, and authorized administrative directive and those records permitted by this Board. No liability shall be attached to any member, officer, or employee of this Board for the furnishing of pupil records in accordance with law and rules.

The following excerpt is provided so that you have a better understanding of your rights relative to pupil records:

A parent or adult pupil may challenge the pupil’s record and may request the addition of material or comments or the deletion of material from the record. The parent or adult pupil may request a stay of disclosure pending final determination of any such challenge. An appeal must be made in writing to the superintendent, who shall attempt to resolve the issue within ten days. The issue may be further appealed within ten days of the superintendent’s determination to the Commissioner of Education or the Board of Education. Any appeal made to the Board will be determined within twenty days and after opportunity has been offered for a hearing. A record of the appeal will be made part of the pupil’s record.

A parent or adult pupil may place a statement in the record, which will be maintained with the contested portion of the record and disclosed whenever the contested portion is disclosed. The district does not release any directory information (name, address, telephone number, etc.) to any educational, occupational, or military recruiter.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued four times a year for students in grades one through five. Kindergarten students receive report cards three times a year. Progress reports may be sent home or phone calls made to indicate a student’s success or weaknesses by mid-marking period. In addition to scheduled conferences, parents are encouraged to contact the classroom teacher via teacher e-mail, when necessary.

SCHOOL VISITATION

Parents and visitors are welcome in our schools. As a matter of security, all school doors are locked at all times. Parents and visitors must ring the security bell and state the reason for visiting. When entering or leaving the school building, a parent or visitor must report to the main office to sign in/out. A school badge must be worn at all times when in the school building.

SMOKING

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Smoking is prohibited on school property at all times. The Board of Education follows very clear rules about students possessing cigarettes or other substances. The guidelines set by the Board are strictly followed regarding cigarettes, illegal substances, and weapons at school.

SNACKS

Most classes in grades K-5 have a daily snack time. Snacks should be healthy in nature. Fruit, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, crackers or a small drink are good choices. If a classroom is designated “nut free”, all students’ snacks must be nut free as well.

STUDENT BELONGINGS

Student belongings (sweaters, jackets, lunch boxes, book bags, spirals, etc.) should be marked with the child’s name. If something is lost, please check our Lost and Found area.

Please review your child’s daily schedule re: music lessons or specials and stress the importance of student responsibility. Remembering to bring one’s lunch, musical instrument, homework, or school supplies promotes good organizational skills, which will carry over into other areas of the curriculum.

TEXTBOOKS

Students are responsible for all books issued to them. Books are very expensive and should be treated with care. No writing is permitted in the hard cover books and book covers must be used to protect them. Please do not use contact paper. In case of damage or loss, fines will be imposed to fund necessary replacements for classroom and library books.

TOYS AND VALUABLE ITEMS

Children should bring to school only what they need for their academic experience. Toys and any electronic devices are prohibited in school unless permitted by the classroom teacher for an academic assignment. The school takes no responsibility for any items that are lost, stolen, or damaged at school.

TRANSFER PLANS

Please notify the main office as soon as possible if you plan to move. Health records and transfer cards must be prepared and sent to your child’s new school. Student records are mailed directly to the new school district upon their request.

VACATIONS

We expect families to adhere to the district school calendar. Every day at school is meaningful to our students.

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INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE GUIDELINES

Please read the following carefully before signing. Your signature is legally binding. This document must be signed before your child will be given access to the Internet when at school.

The Montville Township Public Schools have access to the Internet. The Internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individual people. The district’s access allows for the following:

1. Information and news from a variety of sources and research institutions2. Access to many university libraries, the Library of Congress, and more

With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of some material that may not be considered to be of educational value within the context of the school setting. The Montville Township Public Schools have taken every available precaution to restrict access to inappropriate materials, however, on a global network, it is impossible to control all materials. The users of the district’s access to the Internet firmly believe the valuable information and interaction available on this worldwide network far outweigh the possibility of users procuring material that is not consistent with the educational mission of this district.

The following are guidelines provided to establish the responsibilities you are about to acquire. If any user violates any of these provisions, his or her access to the district’s Internet access will be denied. Signatures on this document are legally binding and indicate the parties who signed have read the terms and conditions carefully and understand their significance.

Terms and Conditions

1. Acceptable Use: The purpose of the Internet is to support research and education in and among academic institutions in the U.S. by providing access to unique resources and the opportunity for collaborative work. The use of the district’s Internet access must be in support of education, research, and consistent with educational objectives of the Montville Township Public Schools. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulations is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. Use for commercial activities by for-profit institutions is not acceptable. Use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.

2. Privileges: The use of the district’s Internet access is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in cancellation of those privileges. Only those students who have signed this contract shall be authorized to use the Internet. The appropriate school official will conduct periodic monitoring of student Internet traffic and student-selected sites.

3. Network Etiquette: The use of the district’s Internet access requires that you abide by accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

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a. Be polite – Do not send abusive messages to anyone. b. Use appropriate language – In all messages, do not swear or use vulgarities or any

other inappropriate language. Anything pertaining to illegal activities is strictly forbidden. E-mail is not private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. Messages in support of illegal activities must be reported to appropriate authorities.

c. Privacy – Do not reveal the personal address or phone numbers of yourself or any other person. All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed private property.

d. Connectivity – Do not use the network in such a way that would disrupt the use of the network by others.

4. Services: The Montville Township Public Schools will not be responsible for any damages you may suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by your own negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the district’s Internet access is at your own risk. The Montville Township Public Schools are not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through Internet services.

5. Vandalism: Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading of computer viruses.

6. Updates: The Montville Township Public Schools may occasionally require new registration and account information from you to continue providing services. All terms and conditions as stated in this document are applicable to the Montville Township Public Schools. These terms and conditions reflect the entire agreement of the parties and supersede all prior oral or written agreements and understandings of the parties. These terms and conditions shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey, United States of America.

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