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MT. PENN

PRIMARY CENTER

STUDENT

HANDBOOK

2015-2016

ANTIETAM SCHOOL DISTRICT

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WELCOME

The administration and staff would like to take this opportunity to WELCOME you to

the Mt. Penn Primary Center of the Antietam School District. The information contained

in this handbook has been prepared to answer your questions concerning the operation

and procedures regarding the school. If we have overlooked a question that you would

like to have answered, please call the school so we may help you.

The Mt. Penn Primary Center has excellent teachers committed to providing our students

with a quality education in a child-centered environment. The best education possible for

your child may be attained through the cooperative efforts of the staff and supportive

parents. Our community working together will provide a lifetime of success for our

students.

MISSION STATEMENT

ANTIETAM’S COMMITMENT:

A COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

PLEDGED TO LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT.

POLICY OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Antietam School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national

origin, religion, age, sex, handicap, or Veteran status in its activities, programs, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504. For information regarding civil rights, grievance

procedures, services, activities, and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons, contact Dr. Melissa Brewer, Compliance Coordinator, Antietam School District, 100 Antietam Road, Reading, PA

19606, (610) 779-0554.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TOPIC PAGE Academic Support Programs

ESL (English as a Second Language) 9

Guidance Services 9

Remedial Reading/Title I 9

RTII 9

Special Education Services 9

Administration/School Board Members 5

Arrival Times 7

Attendance 8

Absence Call in Procedure/Request 9

Absence/Tardy Excuses 8

Compulsory Attendance 8

Educational Leave 9

Unexcused/Unlawful Absence 8

Withdrawals 9

Calendar 19

Chewing Gum 17

Closings 17

Discipline 12

Cafeteria Manners 14

Corporal Punishment 12

Discipline Code 13

Harassment/Discrimination 12

Dress Code 13

Philosophy/Information 12

School Rules 13

Drop Off-Pick Up Areas for Students 7

Entrance/Exit Doors 8

Doors Locked 8

Inclement Weather Early Entry 8

Visiting School - Parents and Guests 8

Health Information

Health and Nursing Services/Guidelines 11

Dr./DDS. Appointments 11

Emergency Cards/Emergency Forms 11

Exclusions from School 11

Healthful Hints 12

Medical Responsibilities/Pertinent Facts 11

Medication/Prescriptive Drugs-Administration 11

Physical/Dental Exams 12

Library Information/Policies 19

Lunch Information Free and Reduced Lunch Program 10

Leaving the Building for Lunch – Lunch Notes 10

Lunch Prices 10

Lunch Payment/Balances

Cash Use/Computerized Accounts 10

Negative Accounts Balance – No Cash 10

Milk/Lunch Substitution 10

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Parent Lunch Visits 11

Recess 11

Student I.D. Cards 10

Miscellaneous Items Bicycles/Skateboards 18

Electronic Devices Policy 16

Helpful Tips for Home 17

Holiday Gift Giving 17

Homework 17

Integrated Pest Management Program 17

Report Cards 18

Smoking Policy 18

Telephone Pagers 18

Parent Activities 16

Parents Volunteers 15

Parent-Teacher Conferences 15

Parent Teacher League (PTL) 15

Membership 15

PTL Business Meeting 15

Parents’ Night (Open House) 15

Staff 6

Telephone/Electronic Information 7

Contacting Teachers 7

Student Telephone Use/Messages to Students 7

Voice Mail 7

Testing Programs (Elementary) 14

Testing Individual Needs 14

Time Schedule 7

Transportation Information 15

Transportation Services Bus Evacuation Drills 16

Transportation Behavior Regulations 15

Transportation Discipline Policy 16

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SCHOOL DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

Dr. Melissa Brewer

Superintendent

Mrs. Lauren Zuidema Primary Center Principal-MPPC

Mr. Keith Shively

Special Education Supervisor-MPPC

Mrs. Shirley Feyers Elementary Principal-MPEC

Dr. Felice Stern

Principal- MS/HS

Mr. James Croyle Assistant Principal-MS/HS

Mrs. Melissa Devlin

Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Literacy

Mrs. Tracy Detwiler Business Manager

Mr. Kyle Schaeffer

Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS

Mr. David Stauffer President Mr. Walter Saylor Vice President Mrs. Judith Swartz Treasurer Mrs. Julia Kleiman-Baer Mr. Chris Faro Mr. John Fielding Mrs. Michelle Worrall Mr. Larry O’Boyle Mrs. Ann Sellers Mrs. Pamela Janda Secretary (non-member)

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MT. PENN PRIMARY CENTER HIGHLY QUALIFIED STAFF (MPPC)

Principal: Mrs. Lauren Zuidema

Secretary: Mrs. Tina Steckbeck

Special Education Supervisor: Mr. Keith Shively

GRADE: K – Mrs. Jacqueline Kast Room 202

K – Ms. Katie Longlott Room 210

K – Ms. Lauren Morrow Room 206

K – Mrs. April Olson Room 208

1 – Mrs. Abby Salgado Room 205

1 – Mrs. Casey Votodian Room 207

1 –Mrs. Stephanie Hartman Room 209

1 –Mrs. Tanya Hess Room 211

LS– Mrs. Mary Galvin Room 203

Reading – Mrs. Jennifer Cox Room 201

Reading - Mrs. Linda Stanko Room 200

Nurse - Mrs. Sharon Heffner Nurses Suite

SPECIAL AREAS: (*indicates serving both buildings)

Art* Mrs. Tara Halvorson

District Nurse* Mrs. Nedra Koller High School

Enrichment Program* Mrs. Melissa Faro

E.S.L.* Mrs. Rebecca Giatras

Guidance Counselor* Mrs. Mary Benischeck Guidance Office-MPEC

Library* Mrs. Sarah Westley Library

Music* Mr. Keith Gillner

Mr. Roderick Nevin

Physical Education* Mr. Dean Stump Gymnasium

Computer Technology Ms. Julie Bentley Computer Lab

Psychologist* Dr. Virginia Kelbish MPEC/MPPC

Mrs. Katherine Groom Antietam High School

Speech Therapist* Mrs. Amy Rossetti

Technology Assistant Mrs. June Leonard Administrative Office

PRIMARY AIDES:

Mrs. Robin Derr Mrs. Lisa Haake

Ms. Jennifer Rothermel Mrs. Crystal Weand

Mrs. Beth Cozzone Ms. Helen Reinbrecht

CUSTODIANS:

Mrs. Sandra Bricker – MPPC Mr. John Thomas, Jr. – MPPC

MAINTENANCE:

Mr. Joseph Buzalewski Mr. Lee Yochum

MPPC CAFETERIA PERSONNEL:

Mrs. Denise Rankin MPPC Cafeteria Personnel

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TELEPHONE/ELECTRONIC/ADDRESS INFORMATION

Superintendent’s Office....................779-0554 FAX.....779-4424

Business Office.................................779-2606 FAX.....779-4424

Antietam High School Office………779-3545 FAX.....779-0378

100 Antietam Road

Mt. Penn Elementary Center ........779-3547 FAX.....779-6937

2310 Cumberland Avenue

Mt. Penn Primary Center………...370-2898 FAX….370-2981

201 N. 25th Street

CONTACTING TEACHERS AT SCHOOL If you are calling teachers, please call between 7:50 and 8:20 a.m. or from 3:15 to 3:20p.m. Teachers may

not be called in their classrooms during the teaching day, except in an extreme emergency. If they are

unavailable at the time of your call, they will return your call at their earliest possible convenience.

TELEPHONE USE/MESSAGES TO STUDENTS/PHONES FOR STUDENT USE Messages may be taken by the office staff when there is an emergency or when it

is essential for a student to receive information.

VOICE MAIL Our Voice Mail system is in use prior to 7:30 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m. for your convenience. Please leave a

message and the appropriate person will respond.

WEBSITE

To access our district website, log on to: www.antietamsd.org and locate the Primary Center section for

menus, e-mail addresses, activity dates, Principal’s Bulletin, and much more information.

TIME SCHEDULES

7:30 a.m. Office opens

7:50 a.m. Teacher day begins

8:05a.m. Breakfast

8:20 a.m. All students enter building

8:30 a.m. School begins

3:15p.m. Student day ends

3:20 p.m. Teacher day ends

4:00 p.m. Office closes

ARRIVAL TIMES – Primary Center/Elementary Center Please arrange your child’s route to school so that it will be safe and he/she will not arrive prior to 8:05/8:20 a.m., Only

those students purchasing breakfast will be allowed to enter prior to 8:20. Students should be in their seats by 8:30 a.m.

DROP OFF/PICK UP AREAS FOR STUDENTS

Children may be dropped off/picked up on the street, with parents’ assistance. Please do not allow your child to cross

without being alongside of them. Our buses and vans access the circle drive. Please drop off or pick up and move on.

Parking /Standing/Stopping is prohibited in the circle drive in front of the building. Please do not jeopardize

these areas by parking/stopping/standing. The parking lots may be used if space is available for all school activities.

ENTRANCE/EXIT DOORS The main entrance on N. 25th Street is the only door of entry for students.

DOORS LOCKED Please be advised that all school doors will be locked everyday at 8:30 a.m. If your child is late for school, he/she will

need to ring the bell at the N. 25th Street door for entrance, and report to the school office immediately upon arrival

before going to his/her classroom.

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INCLEMENT WEATHER EARLY ENTRY Only on days when the weather is inclement or frigid, students may enter the building at 8:10 a.m. and stand inside the

entrances until the 8:20 a.m. bell.

VISITING SCHOOL - PARENTS OR GUESTS All parents/guardians and visitors to our schools must ring the doorbell, show a picture ID, and report to the office upon

entering the building to sign our “Visitor’s Page”, you will also need to leave a form of identification to receive the

“visitors tag”. All adults entering must have a photo id. No siblings should be brought when visiting, working in the

classroom, or on a field trip.

To avoid interruptions, please leave all student materials in the office and the teacher or student will be notified of their

availability. Do not go directly to a classroom or interrupt a class while in session. If you need to speak to a teacher,

the office will contact the teacher for you. Parents and visitors should not venture past the lobby area at any time

before, during, or after school hours without permission.

ATTENDANCE:

COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE

Compulsory school attendance is enforced in the Antietam School District. Every pupil of compulsory school age must

be in attendance every day that school is in session. Excusal from school attendance is not a function of the home. The

principal or his/her designee may excuse an absence from school for the following reasons:

1. Pupil illness

2. Quarantine

3. Recovery from an accident

4. Required court attendance

5. Death in the immediate family

6. Religious holidays

7. Educational tour or trip (advance request only)

8. Unavoidable medical appointments

Absences not listed above shall be unexcused. Unexcused absences shall include absences which result from parental

neglect.

UNEXCUSED/UNLAWFUL ABSENCES Absences for reasons other than stated above or not approved by the Administration will be considered unexcused. In

addition, should a student not provide the school with a parental note explaining his/her absence within 3 days, the

absence will be considered unexcused. Unexcused absences are truancies and are subject to disciplinary actions.

NOTE: All children of compulsory school age - from the date of entrance until age 17 - are unlawfully

absent if absent from school for any unexcused absence. The Antietam School District

will take legal action against parents or guardians of children who are of compulsory school age

and are unlawfully absent from school.

PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED FOR UNLAWFUL ABSENCES 1. After any unlawful absences, a letter will be sent to the parents requesting their assistance in complying with

the compulsory school attendance laws.

2. When a child has 3 unlawful absences, the school will issue the “1st Official Notice” as required by Section

1354 of the Pennsylvania School Code, and may require a doctor’s note for subsequent absences.

3. Any additional unlawful absences will be considered a second offense and will require the serving of a

warrant on the parent by an alderman, magistrate, or justice of the peace - Section 1333 of the Pennsylvania

School Code.

LATE ARRIVALS/TARDY

Students must be in their classroom when the bell rings at 8:30. Students who enter the building after the 8:30 bell are

considered tardy (late). Notes or a phone call from parent/guardians must accompany the students when they arrive to

be considered excused (stating an acceptable reason for the tardiness).

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WRITTEN EXCUSE When a child is absent, a note must accompany him/her upon return to school or within 3 days or they will be

unlawfully unexcused.

ABSENCE CALL IN PROCEDURE/REQUEST For the safety and concern for all our students, we ask that on each day your child is absent you call the school between

7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to report their absence. If the office staff does not receive a call from you, the principal or a

designee, will call your home to verify that your child is accounted for. A message may be left on our voice mail

before 7:30 a.m. Thank you for your cooperation.

PHYSICIAN’S NOTE

IF a student is absent three or more consecutive days, a note from the physician must be submitted to the office upon

their return to school. When your child returns to school after being absent with a communicable disease, a doctor’s

note is required.

When a student is absent 10 days by parental note, an excuse from a physician will be required for all future excused

absences.

EDUCATIONAL LEAVE Just a reminder that educational leave (excused absence) is available when you take your child out of school for reasons

other than illness, death in the family, or any unusual circumstances not directly involving your child. All you have to

do is request the educational leave form, complete it, and return it to the Principal’s office prior to the dates involved.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office and they can help you in determining what is or what is not

educational leave. Approval will not be granted after-the-fact and an unexcused absence will result. Each child is

limited to ten (10) days per school year and each child is responsible for all work missed during the absence.

WITHDRAWALS

When moving from the district, it is necessary to notify the elementary office so they may prepare a copy of

immunization, which will be needed when enrolling your child in another district. Teachers and staff will summarize

the student’s progress and prepare the student’s file, including health records, to forward to his/her school of

enrollment. All records will be forwarded by U.S. mail.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS:

ESL (ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE) – EEL (English Limited Learners)

This is an assistance program for our students who have Limited English Proficiency. Students needing help are

immersed in a literacy programs that allows success in reading, conversation, and all areas of the curriculum.

GUIDANCE SERVICES Our guidance program offers many and varied services to students, teachers, and parents. The guidance counselor

conducts services, which are an integral part of the total elementary program. The goal of the guidance effort is to help

children realize their greatest potential. The program also includes preventative and developmental classroom activities

in all grade levels. Parents with physical, social, emotional, or environmental concerns affecting their children should

contact the counselor.

RESPONSE TO INSTRUCTION AND INTERVENTION (RTII)

Our Response to Intervention program provides additional instruction for all students, either through enrichment,

additional literacy practice, or remediation. Through annual data analysis, every student is placed in an intervention

classroom based upon the area that would most meet their academic reading needs.

READING PROGRAMS/TITLE I The Title I Reading Programs are intended to provide supplemental help to those students with reading difficulties.

Student scores from testing, or teacher referrals are used as a determination services. Parents will be informed about

their child’s eligibility for services in the fall of each academic year. Any parents with questions may contact Mrs.

Zuidema, the Reading Supervisor, at (610) 370 2898.

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SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

Children of school age who have been identified with a disability that requires specially designed instruction will be

provided with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that dictates the supplementary aides and services required to

meet their unique needs in accordance with federal and state guidelines. The following are disabilities identified by the

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act:

1. Specific Learning Disability

2. Cognitive Impairment (formerly Mental Retardation)

3. Speech and Language Impairment

4. Emotional Disturbance

5. Deaf/ Hearing Impairment

6. Blind/Visually Impairment

7. Orthopedic Impairment

8. Multiple Disabilities

9. Other Health Impairment

Students identified as gifted and in need of specially designed instruction will also be provided with an individualized

education program (GIEP).

Students identified with a disability that requires adaptation or accommodation, but does not require specially designed

instruction, will be provided with a Chapter 15 Service Agreement, in accordance with state and federal guidelines.

For more information on programs provided for students with exceptionalities or any questions about special education

services and rights, please contact the Supervisor of Special Education, Mrs. Christine Raber at (610)-370-2898. The

special education office is at the Mount Penn Primary Center.

LUNCH INFORMATION:

LUNCH & BREAKFAST PRICES 2010-2011 Lunch (students) $ 2.45

Reduced .40

Adults $ 4.00

Milk (only) (low fat, white) $ .60 ( chocolate) $ .60

Breakfast (students) $ 1.40

Reduced .30

Adults $ 2.50

LUNCH PAYMENTS/BALANCES:

COMPUTERIZED ACCOUNTS As a convenience, so that students do not need to carry cash and are never without lunch money, we have a

computerized system that allows the student to deposit amounts of their choice into their cafeteria account. Please see

the school website for further information. They may do so by dropping a money envelope in the “Drop Box” in the

office or giving it to their teacher in a well-marked envelope. Once the balance of a student’s account is below $5.00 a

notice will be sent home. A notice will also be sent home for negative balances. Students will use their ID card for all

transactions, including the purchase of their lunch or milk.

NEGATIVE ACCOUNT BALANCE POLICY– NO CASH

Grades K-3: If students in these grades reaches a negative ten dollars ($10.00) and no deposit/payment are

received, they will receive an alternative meal in accordance with the NSLP guidelines, until money is

received on the account to clear the debt.

STUDENT I.D. CARDS

Students must have their I.D. Cards whether paying cash or using their account for lunch. Lost cards will be replaced

at a cost of $5.00 each, and students must have an I.D. Card to purchase lunch and access library books.

CASH USE

Students are able to use cash on a daily basis to purchase lunch. They will drop a money envelope in the ‘drop box’ in

the office in the morning. Please indicate your child’s name, grade and teacher.

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NEGATIVE ACCOUNT BALANCE – NO CASH

We realize that at times children forget to bring their lunch money, parents forget to send it or give it to them, or the

computerized account has a low or negative balance. The child will receive a paper indicating to the parent that there is

money owed to the cafeteria. Negative balance accounts are to be reimbursed the next school day.

FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH PROGRAM Through a federal program, free and reduced lunches are available for our students. To receive free or reduced lunch

prices, parents must complete an application, which is sent home the first day of school. Applications may be

requested during the school year as needed.

LEAVING THE BUILDING FOR LUNCH – LUNCH NOTES

Students are permitted to go out with an adult for lunch upon parental request and permission by note. Two types of

notes are used: (1) a blanket note for the year, or (2) a daily note.

MILK/LUNCH SUBSTITUTION Due to the fact that the district receives subsidies for milk to accompany the school lunch, substitutions for milk will be

allowed only with a doctor’s note and request. For lactose intolerant students the USDA regulations require us to

substitute only soymilk in place of regular milk. If a child has been determined by a doctor to need meal/drink

substitutions, our cafeteria will attempt to meet their needs.

PARENT LUNCH VISITS

From time to time, parents enjoy having lunch with their children. We support the practice, but ask that on the day you

will be having lunch with your child that you call the office or send a note to the teacher informing us of your arrival.

This allows our cafeteria staff to be prepared.

RECESS Children will have a recess each day weather permitting. Please be sure that your child wears appropriate seasonal

clothing. If possible, please send in a pair of sneakers to keep in their locker for the occasions that your child may wear

sandals, as running in sandals/flip flops have caused injuries. It is assumed that a child well enough to be in school

will participate outdoors. If for some reason your child is to remain indoors, a note must be written to explain the

circumstances. A note from a family physician will be required if the request is for more than three (3) days or

frequent. If the temperature is below 60 degrees, the child will need a jacket (sweater, sweatshirt, etc) to be allowed to

play outside at recess. Those students without proper covering will not be allowed outside for recess.

HEALTH INFORMATION:

DOCTOR/DENTIST APPOINTMENTS We are urging that you schedule doctor appointments around the school hours. I realize that certain doctors have strict

hours and this cannot always be avoided. If you must pick your child up prior to 3:15, send a note to the child’s teacher

that morning. When you come in for your child, please report to the office and we will call him/her to the office.

EMERGENCY CARDS/EMERGENCY FORMS

At the beginning of the school year, you are asked to complete an emergency form and update the school

Sky Lert/Skyward system and return it to the school. If any changes are made regarding the information located on

Skyward (i.e., work information changes, emergency person changes, etc.) please notify the school office immediately.

We rely on this information to be accurate if we must get in contact with you.

EXCLUSIONS FROM SCHOOL:

1. Pink Eye - (Contagious conjunctivitis) Signs & Symptoms: Red eye, itchy, burning, crusted material in

A.M., drainage from eye. Not all red eyes are Pink Eye. Allergies have similar responses, however,

seem only to last a short time and stop without any treatment. Pink Eye, when diagnosed by a doctor,

requires medication to render the child “non-contagious”.

2. Chicken Pox - A doctor’s note is required for the child’s re-entry to school. Signs & Symptoms: Many times

the child has vague symptoms - fever, runny nose, doesn’t feel well prior to outbreak of the pox. The pox are

red spots, which fill with fluid then dry and become crusted. They may be anywhere on the body and erupt at

various times.

3. Scabies - This skin rash is caused by a mite that gets under the skin, causing itching (especially at night) and

a rash. It generally occurs in folds of the skin. It also is easily treated and requires a doctor’s note

for re-entry to school.

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4. Lice - Particularly head lice shows no preference to its home, although it’s less likely to occur on hair that is

washed frequently. The louse lays its egg, which appear as silver dandruff, on a strand of hair and will not

easily be removed. Treatment is with a medicated shampoo. Children excluded from school require a head

check by the school nurse for re-entry. Clothing and household articles, as well as articles in contact with the

infected person, must be given special care. The best treatment is prevention. Don’t use each other’s combs,

hair products, and hats. Have parents check heads regularly, especially around ears and the nape of neck.

Report to parents or school nurse for itchy head to be checked.

MEDICAL RESPONSIBILITIES - PERTINENT FACTS 1. When a child becomes sick in school, it is the parent’s responsibility to transport the child home.

2. First aid in the school is limited to emergency treatment only. The nurse will not redress wounds.

3. There will be no diagnosis made by school personnel.

MEDICATION/PRESCRIPTIVE DRUGS - ADMINISTRATION

When sending prescription medication, please have the child’s name and instructions printed clearly on the label.

Only the nurse may administer medications. All medication must be sent to the nurse, not kept with your child or

in the child’s desk, or classroom. We do not allow over-the-counter drugs to be sent to school to be taken. We do

allow your child to take Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Maalox. Cough drops, and lozenges (supplied by the parent)

may also be given when deemed necessary, which you have identified on the respective emergency card. A

Medication Form must also be completed.

Students requiring the use of inhalers during school hours need also to file a medication form with the school

nurse. The student, if deemed capable by the judgment of the parent(s) and nurse, may carry and use his/her

inhaler as prescribed. In this case, the student needs to inform the nurse after each use for documentation

purposes.

A pulmo-aide machine (nebulizer) is available in the Health Room for students requiring inhalation treatments.

Each student must supply his/her own tubing/set up and medication. Please contact the nurse for assistance in the

event the student will need breathing treatments.

If your child is allergic to anything (especially bee stings, wasps, etc.) and requires medication immediately, the

medication along with instructions need to be available in the Health Room.

PHYSICAL EXAMS/DENTAL EXAMS Physicals are required upon entry to school, sixth and eleventh grade. Dental exams are required upon entry to school,

third and seventh grade. Physical and dental exams are available at school for students. Private exams are to be

completed prior to school exams or at that time by the school dentist/physician.

HEALTHFUL HINTS

There are less frequent infections/diseases that are also exclusions, however they rarely occur.

Check your child’s temperature when they feel ill (usually best indicator of illness). If elevated, keep your child

home for 24 hours. Temperature is usually lowest in the morning and rises during the day.

If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea, please keep them home. For whatever reason, he/she will be more

comfortable at home and will avoid spreading his/her illness.

Enforce good eating habits. Encourage children to eat breakfast. Breakfast should be the most important meal of

the day. If the child has difficulty eating early, try to adjust sleep/wake cycle - at least encourage milk or juice and

build on it if they refuse to eat.

Encourage daily bathing and regular shampooing. A healthy person is less likely to become ill.

DISCIPLINE CODE

PHILOSOPHY/INFORMATION

It is our philosophy that appropriate school behavior is necessary for a positive atmosphere where learning and

growing can take place. Students are expected to behave at all times in a manner that brings praise and respect to

themselves, classmates, parents, their school and community.

Students, teachers, and parents share the responsibility of maintaining a safe climate that promotes and encourages

learning. Discipline should begin at home at an early age in order to be practiced at school, and then reinforced in

the home environment throughout the child’s school years.

Students have a right to know and understand the guidelines for expected behavior and be assured that all

guidelines are consistent throughout the school. Students should recognize that they would lose their rights when

their actions infringe on the rights, needs, or property of others.

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Responsible behavior is an integral part of Antietam’s commitment: a community partnership pledged to

lifetime achievement.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT The Board of Directors of the Antietam School District has adopted policy, which addresses corporal punishment.

Policy 218. Student Discipline states that “the use of corporal punishment by school employees as a form of discipline

is not sanctioned by the Board of School Directors of the Antietam School District. Corporal Punishment will not be

administered at the Mt. Penn Primary Center.

HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION (defined as the disturbing, annoying, or tormenting of others repeatedly)

Our school should be a safe haven for all persons entitled to enter. The Antietam School District will not tolerate

bullying, discrimination, prejudice, harassment, or any other form of treatment of its students, staff, and third parties

that threatens the safe, comfortable environment for education. Any person found to be violating the personal freedom

of another in the school will be dealt with according to the law, our behavioral code, and district policies. Complaints

of harassment or discrimination of any kind should be reported to the school principal at which time all complaints will

be investigated. This is in compliance with Title IX regulations.

SCHOOL WIDE DISCPLINE CODE OF CONDUCT

Understanding the importance of positive behavior management, our staff designed a school-wide discipline plan using

a card system. Through the use of a pocket chart, the plan was designed to include various steps to help students

monitor their behavior throughout the day. Each morning students begin the day with the green card on top. If a student

violates a school, classroom, cafeteria, or playground rule, they will first receive a verbal warning. If the undesirable

behavior continues, the student will turn a card. This is a visual reminder to the individual student to adhere to desired

school rules and behavior. A student has 5 color-coded cards in his/her individual pocket on the chart. If the student is

having an “off” day and progresses through the cards to the pink card, she or he must come to the office and parents or

guardian will be called to alert them of the situation. At each level there are strategies built into the plan to help

students monitor their behavior.

Our mission at Mt. Penn Primary Center is to enhance learning and create an environment that promotes

safety, health, cooperation, and respect for yourself and others.

SCHOOL/CLASSROM RULES The school-wide rules listed below will be followed and enforced in all areas of the school and on the school grounds.

School Theme: Be Your B.E.S.T.

o Rules:

Be kind

Everyone keeps hands, feet and objects to self

Stop, look and listen to the speaker

Talk, walk and work quietly

DISCIPLINE CARDS AND CONSEQUENCES

Green Card Making Good Choices

Yellow Card Warning

Orange Card Five minute time-out

Blue Card Loss of Recess (Max. 15 min), Behavior Form in classroom

Pink Card Sent to principal, behavior form in office, call home by teacher and/or principal

DRESS CODE We ask that children dress appropriately for the weather and in good taste. The District Dress Code Policy states that

the following are restricted:

1. Shorts may be worn year round. The length of all shorts and skirts must be at or below the end of the

wearer’s fingertips when his/her arms are extended down by his/her sides.

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2. Inappropriate clothing and accessories include those having messages or pictures with references to drugs,

ethnic/racial harassment, tobacco, alcohol, suicide, blatant sexuality, or profanity.

3. Shirts and tops must cover undergarments, the midriff/lower back, and shoulders with at least a three finger

width strap, and be able to be tucked into the pants, skirt, or shorts. Judgment on low cut tops will be made

by the administration.

4. Holes in pants must be below the fingertip length rule as described above and may not be larger than a fist.

5. Hats, bandannas, and headbands may not be worn in school without permission by the administration.

6. Sports Spandex may not be worn unless shorts or a top extending to fingertip length are worn over top.

7. Undergarments may not be seen through or extending outside of clothing.

8. Clothing or accessories that are the source of disrupting noise may be judged inappropriate by the

administration.

9. Due to health and safety reasons, footwear must be worn on school property. Flip-Flops, Cleats, and Heelies

are not allowed to be worn on school property. Open-ended shoes, sandals or shoes with a back strap are

acceptable.

10. Coats/jackets, sunglasses, and chains, among others similar items, may not be worn in the school building.

CAFETERIA MANNERS 1. Walk - no running while entering, getting in line, or exiting onto the playground.

2. Talk with your friends, but no yelling or screaming to others - speak to those in talking distance.

3. While waiting in line, no pushing or shoving for safety.

4. Do not speak with food in your mouth, and do not chew with your mouth open.

5. Always have respect for those in charge in the kitchen or cafeteria.

6. Everyone should make an effort to get along with each other at all times.

7. Remain in your seat, unless told otherwise.

8. Make sure all trash and garbage are placed in the proper containers or areas before leaving your table.

9. Do not leave the cafeteria unless a teacher aide has given you permission.

ELEMENTARY TESTING PROGRAM

In accordance with the recommendations of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of School Directors has approved

a district-wide testing program designed to provide information concerning the proficiency of all children on

standardized tests of academic achievement and aptitude.

The results of these tests provide a continuing record of each child’s academic progress in comparison with national

norms. They are also an invaluable aid to your child’s teachers and counselor in diagnosing individual strengths and

weaknesses in order to provide your child with necessary and more effective individualized instruction. During this

school year, as noted in the school calendar, the following tests may be administered to your child.

GRADE NAME OF TEST PURPOSE

K-1 STAR To determine literacy development and eligibility for the

Mt. Penn Primary Reading Program as well as identifies skills that

have been mastered, and those that need additional intervention

and/or instruction.

K-1 Fountas & Pinnell Benchmark Assessment

To determine literacy development, instructional and independent

reading levels of a student. This assessment allows teachers to

instruct student at their appropriate level and address skill deficits.

TESTING FOR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS:

Enrichment Identification: Students who have been identified by teachers or parents as potentially requiring gifted services may be

administered the S.A.G.E. and/or the Woodcock Johnson Test of Academic Achievement as part of the

screening process. Parents would be notified prior to testing, and would be provided with the results of the

test. After screening, the team would determine whether a full multi-disciplinary evaluation is warranted. If

so, the Permission to Evaluate would be sent to the parent or guardian. Parents or guardians may also initiate

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a full multi-disciplinary evaluation by submitting that request in writing. Subsequently, the Permission to

Evaluate would be issued to the parent or guardian listing the recommended evaluation procedures. The

Permission to Evaluate must be received prior to beginning a full multi-disciplinary evaluation.

Mt. Penn Primary Center Remedial Reading Program/Title I :

A reading assessment (STAR and/or Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment) is given to every child 3

times per year to provide a benchmark of their progress. Using this data, and other information, children

experiencing reading difficulties will work with a reading specialist during our daily intervention time.

Other: Various related and appropriate tests may be given as needed or required to measure a student’s ability for

placement purposes or assessment of progress.

Your child’s scores on these tests will be checked carefully and maintained in his/her school record as long as he/she

attends school in the Antietam School District. No individual or agency outside of our school district will be permitted

to examine your child’s school record without your written permission.

Should you wish to examine your child’s record file at any time, you may arrange to do so by making an appointment

with the building principal.

PARENT ACTIVITIES:

PARENT-TEACHER LEAGUE (PTL) The Mt. Penn Elementary Center Parent-Teacher League is already functioning and has made progress in providing

educational experiences for your child. Our third grade swim program, fun day T-shirts, craft fair, assembly programs,

school equipment, library books, book fair, fun nights for the family, candy guessing contest, $5.00 field trip money,

holiday shop, and holiday monetary donations to classrooms are some of the activities and events provided by this

organization for our school students. This organization will be happy for your support in whatever way possible.

PTL BUSINESS MEETING Meetings are usually held the first Tuesday of each month in the school library at 7:00 p.m. All new and old plans are

discussed and decisions on what we will do are made. We encourage and welcome everyone to attend our

monthly PTL meetings it is a great way to meet new people and support our school community. .

MEMBERSHIP Please return the membership form as soon as possible with your family dues of $5.00. The classroom with

the highest percentage of participation, including the teacher, will receive a $50.00 donation to purchase a

necessary item for their classroom.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS We LOVE having our parents come assist in the classroom, parties, and fieldtrips, however, with all of our students so

full of energy we ask that parents do not bring other children to the school when volunteering.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Teachers will hold conferences with all students’ parents in November. Conference information and requests will be

sent home in October and parents will be notified of the scheduled time. Report cards will be handed to the parents and

reviewed at this conference. If a conference is not held or attended, a report card will not be issued.

Conferences will be held in April on a limited basis when a conference is requested by the classroom teacher or parent,

but teachers will not meet with all parents unless requested. Report cards will be sent home via the children to those

parents are not scheduled for an April conference.

PARENTS’ NIGHT (OPEN HOUSE) On Wednesday, August 28th our Primary Center teachers will host a Parents’ Night from 7- 8 p.m. to formally

present their educational programs, expectations, requirements, and procedures for their respective grade levels. The

information presented should assure a positive school year for our students and their parents. Parental involvement and

understanding of our programs is important to student success.

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Our Parents’ Night Open House is for parents only, and not designed to discuss your child’s progress. If you wish to

discuss your child’s progress, please call the respective school for an appointment.

TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION:

TRANSPORTATION BEHAVIOR REGULATIONS Students have a responsibility to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner and to obey the driver as a passenger.

Safety for everyone will be realized only when each student understands that his/her safety depends on the conduct of

him/herself and everyone else on the vehicle. Student responsibilities are as follows:

1. Report to the bus stop at least five minutes ahead of time scheduled because unless the rider is in sight, the

driver will not wait.

2. Stand in an orderly and safe manner away from traffic lanes while waiting for the bus.

3. Respect the property rights of people who live at or near the bus stop.

4. Board the bus only when the bus has stopped, and cross the highway only when the bus driver signals you to

cross.

5. SIT in your assigned seat on the bus and remain seated until it is time to get off.

6. Keep your hands inside the bus at all times and only open windows with the bus driver’s permission.

7. Recognize that the school bus/van driver has the same authority on the bus as the teacher has in the

classroom.

8. Avoid loud talking and confusion; do not distract the driver’s attention while he/she is driving.

9. Place books, book bag, or lunch boxes on your lap.

10. Avoid eating or throwing trash on the bus.

11. Keep glass jars, or blunt objects off the bus.

12. Transport pets to school in a vehicle other than the school bus.

13. Keep Walkman devices w/headphones toned for individual use only

14. After leaving the bus, cross the highway at least ten feet in front of the bus, but only after looking to be sure

that no traffic is coming from either direction.

15. Always enter/exit the bus/van in an orderly manner. PLEASE do not push or shove.

16. Do not play around the bus or stop on the roadway while crossing.

17. Walk home immediately. Do not talk or go with strangers.

TRANSPORTATION DISCIPLINE POLICY

The following is the Antietam School Board Policy concerning school bus discipline and the suggested punishment for

respective inappropriate behavior. Please review these consequences for misbehavior with your child along with the

School Bus Rules and Regulations enclosed. Thank you for your cooperation.

Student behavior while waiting for the school bus or while riding the bus must be appropriate to assure the safety of all

students.

Students who have committed acts of misbehavior are subject to the following penalties:

A. Pushing, hitting, shouting, tripping, littering, profane language, insulting driver, eating or drinking, opening

windows against driver’s orders, arms or heads out of windows, refusing to identify him/herself to the bus

driver, or other similar offenses deemed by the principal to merit the following penalties:

1. First Offense - A warning and parents will be notified.

2. Second Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for three (3) days.

3. Third Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for fifteen (15) days.

B. Fighting, smoking, damaging the bus, throwing objects in the bus, throwing objects out of windows, opening

exit doors, or other similar offenses deemed by the principal to merit the following

penalties:

1. First Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for (3) days.

2. Second Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for thirty (30) school days.

Review case after 10 days

3. Third Offense - Suspension of riding privileges for remainder of the year.

Review case after thirty (30) school days

C. Hitting or pushing the bus driver, throwing objects at the bus driver

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when he/she is on or off the bus, or other similar offenses deemed by

the principal to merit the following penalties:

1. First Offense - Immediate suspension of riding privileges.

Review case after thirty (30) school days

Names of students and the nature of the misconduct shall be reported by the bus driver. Acts of misbehavior, which

occur during the morning trip, shall be reported upon arrival at school the same day that the alleged misbehavior

occurred. Alleged misconduct occurring during the afternoon bus trip will be reported the following morning. Every

effort will be made to effect disciplinary procedure within a 24-hour period. However, a student brought to school by

school bus shall be returned home by bus prior to the beginning of any suspension of his/her riding privileges. The

principal shall notify the parents of the nature of the misconduct and of any disciplinary action, which has been taken.

We do not allow non-authorized students to ride buses for convenience sake. Neither do we allow students to ride

other than assigned buses. If a child should miss the bus or a walking student oversleeps, we insist that the child be

brought to school since he/she will only miss a portion of the school day. Keeping a child home for these reasons is

inexcusable.

BUS EVACUATION DRILLS School bus evacuation drills are held periodically so that pupils know exactly what to do in case of an emergency. The

riders are to cooperate fully with the bus driver and any assigned helpers. Absolute silence must be observed.

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS:

BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS/IN-LINE SKATES In keeping with the policy of not allowing bicycles at the school because of the hazardous traffic conditions that exist,

we are not allowing skateboards, wheelies and in-line skates to be brought to school, either. If a child brings a bicycle,

in-line skates or a skateboard to school, it/they will be confiscated and a call to the parent will be made to come in to

pick it up. By working together, we can prevent an injury, save a child’s live, or prevent any traumatic experience that

could occur.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES POLICY

Cell phones may be brought to school, but must be turned off when entering the building. They must be kept either in

the student’s backpack or locker (cubbie). If a student does not follow this procedure, their phone will be confiscated

and kept in the office. The phone will be returned to parent/guardian only.

CHEWING GUM

Chewing gum is not allowed to be chewed in either building as a prevention from finding it on floors, carpets, desks,

chairs, and personal items, to name a few. Thank you for your cooperation.

CLOSINGS If it becomes necessary to close school due to snow or any unforeseen circumstances, the announcement will be made

as early as possible on the following local radio/TV stations as well as through our SKYLERT System:

WRAW (1340 AM)

WEEU ( 830 AM)

WRFY (102.5 FM)

Channel 69 (9-Berks Cable)

Please do not call us for this information; it is imperative that the school’s phone lines be kept open.

Make sure your child knows where to go and what to do in the event of a cancellation or especially on an early

closing during the school day. Your Family Early Dismissal Plan should contain this information.

HELPFUL TIPS FOR HOME

A. Children should get themselves out of bed. Even a six-year old can have an alarm clock.

B. Help your children develop the habit of planning their clothes the night before. Some children enjoy “making

a person” on their bedroom floor - laying out everything they’ll wear.

C. Set up a place near the front door where everyone can leave hats, coats and school book bags.

D. When kids don’t do their part, let them face the results. If Mom or Dad is always willing to drive to school

with a forgotten notebook or gym bag, kids learn it’s OK.

HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING

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Our guideline concerning holiday gift giving stipulates that gifts will not be exchanged student-to-student, teacher-to-

student, and/or student-to-teacher in our classrooms. This guideline has been established to alleviate inequity,

concerns, and/or disappointments on the part of our students and parents. Any gifts given to teachers will be returned

to the respective student. We expect that you will honor this guideline to prevent any uncomfortable situations. Thank

you for your cooperation and consideration.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral part of a child’s educational process and should be used to reinforce skills taught,

individual initiative, self-discipline, responsibility, and independence. Homework must also be viewed as a

cooperative link between the school and the home.

Check with your child’s teacher at Parents night for grade level awareness

HOMEWORK REQUESTS DURING ABSENCES Homework may be obtained on a day of absence by calling the school office prior to 10:00 a.m. with pick up after 3:00

p.m. Another student, brother, or sister may also be used to carry homework home by picking it up in the office or

classroom at 3:00 p.m.

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

The Antietam School District participates in an Integrated Pest Control Management Program. Parents have a right to

request notification anytime we have a treatment done at the schools by submitting their request in writing to the

Superintendent’s Office @ 100 Antietam Road, Reading, 19606.

LIBRARY POLICY In the primary grades a student must return the previous book or books in order to receive others.

Any student having an overdue book will not be allowed other books until the overdue book is returned

Students are responsible for the care of the library books in his/her possession.

Students will be charged for lost or damaged books.

REPORT CARDS

Report to parents will be issued four (4) times per year in grades 1 to 6, and three (3) times in Kindergarten.

1. At Parent-Teacher Conferences in November (if conference is not attended, report card will not be

issued)

2. Sent home via student in January (No Kindergarten)

3. Sent home via student in April or at Parent-Teacher Conference if requested and held 4. Sent home via student in June

Report cards are issued to the parent of residence as listed on our school records. If the Non-Resident parent wishes

to have a copy of the report card it can either be picked up in the school office, or a self-addressed, stamped envelope

can be sent to the school for the report card to be returned. This also applies to other school correspondence.

SMOKING POLICY Tobacco use by students, employees, and the general public is prohibited in school buildings, on school buses, on

school property and while on school sponsored events (field trips). Suspensions and/or citations will be issued by

school administrators or police.

2015-2016 Schedule

July

July 6-August 6 Early Start Kindergarten Program

July 10 New Student Tour

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August

Aug 25-27 Teacher In-Service

Aug 31 First Day of School

Aug 31-Sept 18 STAR and F&P Testing

September

Sept 1 PTL Meeting – MPEC 7 pm

Sept 3 MPPC Open House 6:00-7:00

Sept 4 No School Holiday

Sept 7 No School Holiday

Sept 25 Early Dismissal 12:35

October

Oct 6 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

Oct 12 In-Service Day, No School

Oct 14 Picture Day

Oct 14 Title I Parent Night 6:00-7:00pm

Oct 30 Halloween Parade 8:50am

Oct 30 Early Dismissal 12:35

November

Nov 3 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

Nov 19 Picture Retake Day

Nov 23-25 Parent-Teacher Conferences

Nov 26-Nov 30 School Closed

December

Dec 1 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

Dec 4 Early Dismissal 12:35

Dec 23 Early Dismissal 12:35

Dec 24-Jan 1 School Closed

January

Jan 4-15 STAR and F&P Testing

Jan 5 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

Jan 18 In-Service Day, No School

February

Feb 2 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

Feb 12 In-Service Day, No School

Feb 15 Holiday, School Closed

Feb 29 – March 4 Read Across America Week

March

March 1 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

March 11 Parent-Teacher Conferences 11:30-7:00pm

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March 18 Early Dismissal 12:35

March 21- 28 Holiday, School Closed

April

April 5 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

April 21 Kindergarten Registration 4:00-7:00pm

April 22 Kindergarten Registration 8:00-11:30pm

May

May 3 PTL Meeting- MPEC 7pm

May 2-6 Teacher Appreciation Week

May 10 MPPC Grandparents Day

May 16-27 STAR and F&P Testing

May 27 Early Dismissal 12:35

May 30 Holiday, School Closed

June

June 6 Color Day

June 7 Color Day Rain Date

June 8 Color Day Rain Date

June 9 Last Day of School

June 9 Awards Assembly

June 10 In-Service Day