The Stonewall Tell Elementary School

3310 Stonewall Tell Rd - College Park, GA 30349 770-306-3500 Fax 770-306-3504

Student/Parent Handbook
Together We Can
2013-14

www.fultonschools.org stonewalltellelementary.weebly.com SHANNON FLOUNNORY, Principal Tammye L. Coachman, Assistant Principal Robin A. Elder, Assistant Principal

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Pledge Allegiance, The Stonewall Tell School Pledge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Philosophy, Mission Statement, SWT Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Absences. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Access to Students Records. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Affidavit of Residency and Verification Link. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Arrangements for Irregular Departure, Emergency School Closing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Classroom Parties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classroom Placement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classroom Visitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Conferences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Counselors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Curriculum Support Teacher (CST). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Denial of Student Rights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Dress Code (Students/Parents) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Emergency School Closing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Enrollment Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Field Trip and Excursions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Grading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Honors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Instructional Materials and Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Instructional Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Instructional Support Teacher (IST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Medication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Other Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Parent Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Parental Engagement (Resolving Complaints). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Parental Conferences and Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Psychologist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 School Bus Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 School Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 School Meal Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Student Transfer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 School Governance Council (SGC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 School Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Special Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Student Support Team (SST). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Tardiness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Testing and Screening Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Visiting Teacher/School Social Worker/Family Services Personnel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Volunteers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Withdrawal Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Student Positive Behavior and Discipline Handbook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
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No Child Left Behind Act of 2001

Stonewall Tells highly-qualified teachers are committed to teaching daily. If for any unforeseen reason a teacher is absent for 4 consecutive weeks or more, a highly qualified substitute will be assigned to the class.

Pledge Allegiance
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Stonewall Tell School Pledge

I am somebody. I am happy. I am beautiful. Every day in every way Im getting better. Respect me because I am somebody. I will always believe in myself, my parents, and my teachers. I pledge to honor my school and my classmates by working hard every day. I promise to be on my best behavior so that I can learn. Every day in every way Im getting better and better because I am somebody.

Philosophy
We, the school community of Stonewall Tell Elementary, believe every child can learn and has the right to a safe and nurturing learning environment. In this learning environment parents, teachers, students, and the community must form a partnership to ensure that the educational experience will be successful. Therefore, we accept each person in the school community as a worthwhile individual, and we offer our firm, fair, and consistent respect of opinions, values, and needs. Believing that every child has achievement potential, positive learning experiences will be provided to help develop the whole child academically, physically, emotionally, and socially. Recognizing the value of individual differences, we strive to prepare our future citizens to adapt to the demands of a changing society while developing their talents, abilities, and interests. Through this development, students will realize that learning is not restricted just to schools but occurs in all areas of life and is a lifelong process.

Mission Statement
The mission of Stonewall Tell Elementary School is to create and sustain a safe, culturally sensitive, and rigorous academic environment in which the power of "collective capacity" is used to identify and implement a diversity of researchbased, technologically advanced strategies to advance teaching and learning, resulting in greater student academic performance.

Stonewall Tell Vision Statement

The vision of Stonewall Tell Elementary School is to serve as a model school that epitomizes the concept of teacher leadership to bring about consistent increases in community involvement and student academic achievement as evidenced by multiple academic performance measures. As leaders, learners, and collaborators, we will embrace the opinions of students, the local community, and colleagues for the purpose of ensuring that our students develop a commitment to life-long learning. We will extend effective practices of the teaching and learning of 21 stcentury skills by engaging in results-driven, standards-based, and job-embedded professional learning.
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Absences
Students need to be in school every day. Regular attendance is essential to the learning process. In addition, students who are absent from school are deprived of a variety of educational experiences shared with their peers. Students can make up work missed due to absence upon their return to school. However, there is no way to reproduce or recapture classroom activities. A student who is absent or tardy must bring a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian the day the student returns to school. Such written excuses are kept on file at school. A student must be in attendance more than one half-day before he/she can be counted present during that day. To encourage good attendance, elementary schools award excellent attendance certificates to students with no more than three absences per year. Following district guidelines, five student tardies equals one absence. Should you need to pick up work for your child due to a one or two-day absence, you are asked to call the school office before 9 a.m. each morning. Materials may be sent home with another child or you may pick them up at the end of the school day. This gives the teacher adequate time throughout the day to organize needed materials. For extended excused absences, your childs assignments may be collected before, during or after the absence. The completion of work missed during an absence is determined by the teachers discretion and the needs of the student. The student will be allowed to make up all required work and tests. Please notify the school office if your child has a contagious disease or an extended illness. The Georgia Board of Education lawfully excuses students for the following reasons: Personal illness Death in the immediate family Special and recognized holidays observed by their faith

Access to Students Records

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The parent or legal guardian has the right to examine the students records and to have them explained. Principals, counselors, teachers or other authorized personnel who have responsibility for supervising, instructing, or helping a student shall have access to that students records.

Affidavit of Residency and Verification Link

Please use the following link to connect to FCSs website to obtain the Affidavit of Residency and Verification Forms in your preferred language. http://portal.fultonschools.org/departments/Academics/Support_Services/Pages/Af fidavitofResidencyResidenceVerification.aspx

Arrangements for Irregular Departure

In order to ensure the safety of students, the following rules for irregular departures from school will apply. 1. If a student does not plan to go home in the regular manner, the student must show a letter of permission to the classroom teacher from the students parents or legal guardian at the beginning of the school day. 2. If it is necessary for a student to leave school early, discuss this with the student and send a note to the students teacher. Any student leaving before the regular dismissal time must be signed out through the office by a parent, legal guardian, or parent designee with a drivers license or other picture I.D. 3. Students will not be released from school at any unscheduled time without a written explanation of the reason from a parent or legal guardian. Students are released only from the office. 4. Students can be released to a parent designee only after the parent or guardian has notified the school. 5. Due to security concerns, students will always go home their regular way unless the above noted arrangements are made. Calls changing regular plans will not be honored except in emergency situations. Excessive use of the emergency category may restrict its use.

Classroom Parties
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In keeping with the common philosophy of the state, district, and local school, classroom parties are prohibited. Parents are not allowed to bring in sugary foods for their students. However, with permission from the principal, parents can provide healthy snacks and treats for their childs class based upon a list provided by their childs teacher. The exceptions will be around winter holidays and the end of the year.

Classroom Placements
Any and all classroom placements or changes in placements are only based upon changes in a childs academic program. The only exception to this process is based solely upon mitigating circumstances deemed necessary by the principal and only at his discretion.

Classroom Visitation
Parents are welcome to visit their childrens classes after making appointments with teachers. For the protection of our children, all parents and visitors must report directly to the office if they are in the building for classroom visitation, delivering articles and messages to students, or reporting as a volunteer. Visitor/Volunteer badges are available near the sign-in sheet in the office. Please help us maintain the safety and security of our students and staff by following this procedure. As a courtesy to the teacher, it is required that an appointment be made for all visits. Contacting the teacher by note, telephone, or E-mail, at least one day in advance, is recommended. If it is not possible to contact the teacher before or after school hours, please contact the office by telephone or note to arrange for a visit. Classroom visitations are not a time for teacher-parent conferences. Do not expect the teacher to conference with you at this time. The regular school program must continue during your visit. Classroom visitations may not go beyond one hour.

Clinic
All elementary schools have a clinic. However, none is equipped for serious injury or illness. Children who are ill must be kept at home. Parents will be contacted when children are injured or become ill at school. It is essential that student records be kept up to date. Please notify the school office immediately of any change in any of the following: address and telephone number of the parent, parents employer and person to be called in case of emergency.

Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences, as well as parent-principal conferences, are an integral part of reporting pupil progress. Our reporting system emphasizes a close relationship between the home and the school, because we regard parents as partners in the education of their children. We consider it important, therefore, to have regularly scheduled conferences in order that parents and teachers may share information concerning the child. This will enable the school to plan a more effective educational program to meet the needs of each child. A parent-teacher conference is scheduled for the first semester of the school year, and additional conferences may be scheduled as necessary. These may be initiated by the parent, teacher, or principal and held at a mutually agreeable time.

Counselors
A counselor is available to provide counseling and guidance services for students and staff members. Services are provided to students on an individual, small group, and whole class basis.

Stonewall Tell has developed a Family Assistance Program which tries to assist families in need. The school counselors or Family Liaison can be contacted for information concerning this program. Support groups are also offered to parents. Through the school counselors and Family Liaison, a book and audio tape exchange has been developed at Stonewall Tell. This area covers parenting skills and other parent-related concerns, and is located in the counselors reception area. Parents who would like information on adult classes, GED information, or help with raising child in such a hectic society should see the school counselor or Family Liaison.

Curriculum Support Teacher (CST)

The curriculum support teacher (CST) is a classroom teacher selected to assist other teachers in organizing and implementing the curriculum, participates in district-wide activities such as curriculum development, and administers the initial screening and evaluation of students new to the school to ensure appropriate placement. Stonewall Tells CST will provide curriculum information for interested parents. Stonewall Tells Family Liaison works with parents, businesses, and other community members who want to volunteer or otherwise participate at the school. If you are interested in becoming a business partner or volunteering some of your time at Stonewall Tell, please contact the school.

Denial of Student Rights

If a student or parent believes that the student is being improperly denied participation in any educational function of a Fulton County school or that the student is being subjected to an illegal rule or standard, the matter should be discussed promptly with the teacher or principal.
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In instances where the student or parent feels that after contacting the proper and responsible office or individual, the question has not been fully answered or given proper consideration, the concern may be directed to the Fulton County Board of Education Area Superintendents Office.

Dress Code
Effective 2000-2001 school year, uniforms have been adopted by Stonewall Tell Elementary School PTA. The wearing of school uniforms is highly encouraged but if parents choose not to then students are expected to dress and groom themselves in such a way as to reflect neatness, cleanliness and good taste. All students shall be modestly dressed and groomed so as not to distract unreasonably the attention of the others, or to cause disruption or interference with the educational program or the orderly operation of the school. Clothing such as tank tops without a T-shirt, mid-drifts, short-shorts, and form fitting clothing such as biking shorts are prohibited if deemed to interrupt the instructional process. All male students will wear pants at or above waist line with a belt. Roller sneakers or skates are prohibited on the school campus. Parents are expected to adhere to the same expectations as students attire when on school grounds or in the building. The principal or other duly authorized school official shall determine whether any particular mode of dress or grooming results in violation of the spirit and intent of this rule. Violation will result in immediate removal from class until the clothing is corrected.

Emergency School Closing

If the decision is made to close school due to inclement weather, local television and radio stations will broadcast this information. The Office of Safety and Emergency Management serves as a resource and works with principals in the field of comprehensive planning and preparedness to lessen the impact of natural and manmade disasters. Each Fulton County school has detailed disaster and evacuation plans which are reviewed and updated periodically. In addition, each
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schools emergency procedures are practiced to ensure adherence to plans and procedures. In the event of an emergency such as fire, gas leak, explosion or bomb threat which necessitates removing students from the school, the students will be evacuated to an alternate location. This location is the Fulton County Parks and Recreation facility at Cliftondale for Stonewall Tell students, but if for some reason this changes, the new location will be communicated to you by the school and the news media as is possible.

In case of fire, gas leak, explosion or bomb threat:

Do not try to contact the school. Students will be evacuated to an alternate site (Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department at Cliftondale). Students will follow their regular dismissal procedures from the alternate site.

In case of tornado:
Do not try to contact the school. Do not come for your child. Children will be moved to an area in the school building designated for safety during a tornado. Bus drivers are trained in procedures to ensure the safety of children during a tornado. A battery operated radio will be used at school in case of electrical failure and will allow the school to follow the progress of a tornado. Parents should listen to their radios or watch their television sets for all emergency broadcasts.

Enrollment Procedures
According to Board Policy and Procedure JBC School Admissions," a student residing full-time within the Fulton County School System is eligible to attend a Fulton County school under the following criteria:

The dwelling in which the student resides must appear on the tax rolls of Fulton County.
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The student resides with his/her parent or legal guardian. The student resides with a foster parent through placement by the Department of Family and Children Services or a state licensed child placement agency. The student is an adult still meeting entrance age requirements (see Policy JBB - "Entrance Age"). The student is an emancipated minor. The student is homeless (See Policy JBCA - "School Admissions for Homeless Students").

Georgia law requires that children must be five years old by September 1 in order to enroll in kindergarten and to enroll in first grade, children must be six years old by September 1. The only exceptions are:

Students who are age five by December 31 and who have lived outside the state of Georgia for the past two years and have enrolled in a public or accredited private kindergarten may enroll in public kindergarten in Georgia. Students who are six by December 31 and who have lived outside the state of Georgia for the past two years and have completed public or accredited private kindergarten or have attended a public or accredited private first grade may enroll in first grade in Georgia.

To enroll in Fulton County Schools, the student's parent or legal guardian must be a resident of the school system. ____________________________________________________________

Required Documents 1. Ear, Eye and Dental Screening No child entering a Georgia school for the first time shall be admitted unless the child has a certificate of eye, ear and dental screening. This Georgia Department of Human Resources certificate (Form 3300) must be signed by the Health Department or a licensed Georgia physician.

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2. Immunization Certificate Georgia requires students to be immunized against measles, mumps, polio, rubella, whooping cough, tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenza, and varicella. Immunization information must be on the proper Georgia Department of Human Resources form; these are available through the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness or local physicians (Form 3231). 3. Birth Certificate Must be government issued; hospital certificates are not acceptable. Birth certificates for children born in Georgia may be requested from: Georgia Department of Human Resources Vital Records 2600 Skyland Drive, NE Atlanta, Georgia 30319-3640 phone: 404-679-4701 fax: 404-524-4278 4. Proof of Residency Per Board Policy JBC, "School Admissions," two documents indicating residence in the attendance area must be provided for all students. This includes students who are 18 or older; emancipated; adult students. Enrollment of any child who meets the definition of homeless is determined by guidelines in Fulton County Board of Education Policy JBCA. Appropriate records for verification of residency must include any two of the following:
o o o o o o o

Copy of home mortgage payment book Current utility bill (gas, electric, or water) Apartment lease showing name of legal guardian Homeowner's insurance registration/card Current paycheck stub Current bank statement Copy of sales contract for a home

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Receipt to have utilities connected

5. Affidavit of Residence A notarized Affidavit of Residence must be submitted. This form is required prior to enrolling a student for the first time in a Fulton County school and also is required for all students as they enter sixth grade and ninth grade. Affidavit forms can be downloaded from the Social Work Department's web page. 6. Social Security Number Social security numbers are voluntary. Waivers are available in local schools. Applications for social security numbers are also available in local schools. A migrant number is acceptable. 7. Academic Records If possible, please bring most recent report card, withdrawal form from previous school and/or transcripts. These are essential for proper placement of students. Students in grades 7-12 also will need copies of any discipline records.

Please click on or use the following links to access the FCSs website to obtain enrollment forms in English and in Spanish: English: http://portal.fultonschools.org/About_Fulton/Documents/EnrFormEnglishRevised 02-09.pdf Spanish: http://portal.fultonschools.org/About_Fulton/Documents/EnrFormSpanishRevised Mar09.pdf

Field Trips and Excursions

Field trips are often planned to supplement and enrich units of school work. In an effort to ensure student safety, transportation is provided by Fulton County school buses for a reasonable fee to the school. No child will be denied permission to attend field trips due to inability to pay. Every child must have written permission
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from a parent or legal guardian before going on a field trip. Teachers welcome parent chaperone volunteers. If you are interested, please contact your childs teacher. Sometimes it is of great benefit to students that they participate in after school hours or weekend activities with school personnel who generously volunteer their time. Because of our concern for the safety of our youngsters, all such events must be approved by school administrators, with appropriate arrangements being followed. This encourages the development of pleasant and professional relationships among staff, parents, and students while supplying safe and secure experiences for all.

Grading
Report cards are one means of communicating as clearly as possible what students are achieving. Parent-teacher conferences, letters, notes, and telephone calls are other ways of communicating student progress to parents.
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Grades should be determined in the best interest of the students after careful evaluation of all factors involved. The initial responsibility for grade determination belongs to the teacher. The teachers decision is su bject to review and approval by the principal. The importance of the accurate and fair assessment of student progress cannot be overemphasized. Teachers are encouraged to use a variety of means for obtaining data which leads to final grades. Elementary report cards describing a students progress are sent to parents and/or legal guardians at the end of each eighteen-week semester (two times per year). Two progress reports are sent to parents and/or legal guardians of students in grades 1-5 at the end of the first six and second six weeks of each semester (four times per year). The purpose of progress reports, report cards, and conferences is to communicate clearly with parents and to enlist parent support and help as they work together with school staff to improve educational opportunities for students. The following grading system is used:
KINDERGARTEN-1 GRADES 2-5

S N NG

Satisfactory Needs to improve No Grade

A B C F

(90-100) (80-89) (70-79) (Below 70)

Homework
Each student is expected to spend some time in addition to scheduled class instruction to achieve satisfactory work. Some assignments are long range in nature and require planned study time at home for completion. Planned study eliminates spending too much time in completing an assignment the day before it is due. Homework reinforces skills taught in the classroom, increases the students success on achievement tests, provides opportunity for parent involvement, and develops responsibility. At Stonewall Tell, every teacher assigns homework every day, Monday through Friday, except for pre-kindergarten students.

Honors
To encourage students to excel academically and creatively, various programs have been developed to honor their efforts. These include weekly recognition from the principal; monthly selection of STAR STUDENTS; semester inclusion as Honor Roll students; and yearly awards for PRINCIPALS AWARDS of
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EXCELLENCE, OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, EXCELLENT ATTENDANCE, GOOD CITIZENSHIP, and MOST IMPROVED STUDENTS. Individual classroom teachers also honor students achievements throughout the year. For their efforts students receive gifts, trophies, certificates, ribbons, etc. For an explanation of requirements for students to earn these honors, please contact your childs classroom teachers or one of the school administrators.

Instructional Materials and Supplies

Textbooks and other instructional materials and supplies are furnished free of charge to all elementary students. If a student loses or damages textbooks, library books or other instructional material, payment for the loss or damage is expected. Both the student and the parent will be given written notice of the items involved and the amount owed. According to Fulton County regulations, if payment has not been received within ten (10) days from the date of notification, one or more of the following actions may be taken: The student may not be given a replacement text, but may be allowed to use a loaned textbook at school only. When a students past due fees or payment for the lost or damaged materials equals or exceeds $150.00, parents may be notified that a claim will be filed in small claims court. Student records, including report cards, will be held by the school. Payment for each lost book shall be the cost of a new copy. The principal shall determine an appropriate amount to charge for damaged or lost materials which shall not be more than the cost of replacement. If payment cannot be made in full, the parent should contact the principals office to work out a reasonable payment plan.

Instructional Program
The Fulton County Elementary schools are organized to include Kindergarten through grade five. In general, these are self-contained classrooms at all grade
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levels. However, the self-contained organization may be modified slightly in order to group for instruction and team teaching. The curriculum for the elementary schools includes: language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, health, music, physical education and art. The schools also provide a variety of other programs. At Stonewall Tell these include Pre-kindergarten, Title l, Remedial Education, Talented and Gifted, Special Education, Computer Communications, Multi-age Enrichment, Chorus, Band, Orchestra, and a variety of other programs. Instruction is enhanced by the availability of microcomputers to assist students in each of the major subject areas.

Instructional Support Teacher (IST)

The Instructional Support Teacher provides direction and support for the identification and provision of services for exceptional children as mandated by state and federal regulations. They support teachers and parents in the understanding and implementation of due process procedures for handicapped children. They coordinate the referral procedure and individual education plan (IEP) development for handicapped students and participate as a member of the Student Support Team in both Phase I and Phase II.

Medication
Students who must take a non-prescribed medicine during the school day should, upon entering the school, turn over such medicine and an authorization from the parent to take the medicine to the principal or designee for storage until needed.

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If a prescribed medication is necessary in order to allow a student to attend school on a regular basis, a school employee may assist in administering the medication to the student under the following conditions: 1. The parents or legal guardians must provide the following: a. written certification by a licensed physician that such medication must be administered to the student during school time. b. written certification and instructions by a licensed physician that the student is in need of assistance for administering of that medication, including dosage, expected duration of administering the medication and side effects of the medication. The parents or legal guardians must take the following action: a. provide written certification that, according to the doctors instructions, a medication must be administered to their child. b. execute and release (in the form required by the school system) releasing the Board of Education, the school and any system employees from any liability for administering medication, and c. deliver medication to the school principal (or designee of the principal) in its original prescription bottle.

2.

Other Transportation
Car Riders: Parents who deliver and pick up children should follow the rules noted as follows: The driveway to the main entry to the building is designated for car riders. The driveway at the left of the school is primarily for buses, which have the right of way in this area. If drivers intend to leave their cars, they should park in a designated parking space out of the driving lane. Please do not park in the parking lot and expect children to run across traffic unassisted.
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NOTE: Since bus students are dismissed first, please be aware that during the first weeks of school the walkers and car riders will probably be dismissed 10 to 15 minutes later than usual until the bus schedules are finalized. With safety our main goal, common sense and courtesy will go a long way in helping car riders to be as efficiently served as possible.

Parent Materials
In addition to the parents-related programs offered through the counseling office, Stonewall Tell has a Parent Resource Center which includes hands-on materials that parents can use with their children in academic skills areas. Parents are welcome to check out these materials through the classroom teachers or media center.

Parental Engagement
Resolving complaints/issues depends on the circumstances or situation. If there is a concern with a teacher, parents are first required to with the teacher to resolve the complaint at the lowest level before it escalates through the chain of command. The chain of command is as follows: (1) teachers, (2) designated grade-level chairs, (3) designated grade-level administrators, and (4) the principal. All final resolutions and decisions are made by the principal. As a courtesy, please express all concerns at the local school level prior to escalating it to the Area Superintendents office as there are various levels of resolutions that are required prior to this action. More specifically, if the complaint or issue is one related to the local school, the procedure for the Area Superintendent is to re-route the resolution back to the local-school principal.

Parental Conferences and Communications

The first day of school, all classroom teachers must send an introductory letter to all parents.

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During the first two weeks of the fall quarter, all classroom teachers are required to telephone or contact parents of students in their classrooms to introduce themselves and let parents know they are welcome at the school. Teachers are required to have a conference with the parents of each child in their classroom each semester. Two days are set aside for conferences, but conferences may be scheduled before or after this at the mutual convenience of the teacher and parents. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT EVERY EFFORT BE MADE TO ENSURE THAT CONFERENCES BE HELD WITH ALL PARENTS. Additional conferences may be held throughout the year. Parental involvement in the school is encouraged. Conference dates are to be noted on report cards. These may include telephone and written communications regarding student work or weekly notices going home.

Psychologist
A psychologist evaluates those students referred for a psycho-educational evaluation. This evaluation may be requested by the teacher or parent. Written parental consent must be given before any individual psychological evaluation may be conducted.

School Bus Transportation

In general, bus transportation is provided for children who live one and a half miles or more from the school. Because there are no sidewalks along Stonewall Tell Road, courtesy transportation may be provided to students closer to school. Children must get on and off the bus at their own stop unless the bus driver is provided with written permission from the director of transportation or the principal. Riding the bus is a privilege contingent upon proper and courteous conduct. Students who ride the bus are expected to stay in their seats while the bus is in motion; speak in low voices; refrain from throwing objects; keep heads, arms and hands inside the bus; keep hands and feet to themselves; cooperate with the bus driver, and act in a respectful manner. Specific regulations regarding bus transportation are given in detail in the Fulton County Transportation Department
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rules that may be signed by parents and students at registration or on the first day of school. Proper bus conduct is expected. Students are subject to disciplinary procedures when bus safety rules are violated. These may include suspension from riding the bus or suspension from school for one or more days. Parents are not permitted to enter school buses, engage in confrontations at the bus stop, or engage in disciplinary conversations with other students. Under special circumstances the principal may give written permission to the bus driver for a child to ride a different bus and to be let off at an alternate stop. This will be done only in response to a written request by the parent or legal guardian, space permitting, following the transportation department guidelines. Requests for social activities, including scouts, are discouraged. No student shall be delivered outside his/her school attendance area. Requests involving child care shall be given consideration only if there is room on the bus.

School Hours
Elementary schools have a 6 and 3/4 hours instructional day. At Stonewall Tell school begins at 7:40 a.m. and ends at 2:20 p.m. each week-day. Students should arrive at school no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the start of the school day, and should leave promptly at the end of the school day. Arrangements can be made for children after school care through APEC after school provider with a charge to parents. The program is housed at Stonewall Tell ES. No other after school enrichment programs are not housed within the building. Please contact the school for more information.

School Meal Program

Each elementary school participates in the school lunch and school breakfast programs. The prices of meals are subject to change from year to year. Notification will be sent to all parents in the event of a change in price.
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Breakfast is considered an important meal of the day for elementary school children, so we offer this opportunity for students. All students are encouraged to eat the school lunch as it is a well-balanced meal. Milk is served with all meals. If a child is allergic to milk and provides a note from the doctor to that effect, the child may substitute juice for milk with the lunch. For other students who desire a second drink with their milk, juice may be available at an additional cost. Children who bring their lunches may purchase milk and juice. If special dietary needs are required, please see the cafeteria manager. Free and reduced meals are available for families who qualify financially. If a student qualifies for free or reduced lunch, he/she also qualifies for free or reduced breakfast. For more information concerning free and reduced meals, contact the school principal. Each child is provided with a free and reduced meal form. Students who forget their lunch money may request a charge which should be paid the following school day. Charging for lunch is discouraged, although students may charge up to three consecutive times. It is preferred that all students pay for their lunches daily. However, those preferring to pay by the week may do so on the first day of each week or for up to two weeks at a time. Parents are welcome to eat lunch in the school cafeteria. The price of adult lunches is higher than that for students. The school office will inform parents of the price of the adult lunch.

Student Transfers
A Student who moves outside of the schools residential area may complete the semester in that school if transportation is furnished by parents, there is good
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student attendance, and appropriate behavior is maintained. At the end of that semester, the student must attend school in the area in which he lives. A student in the fifth grade may be allowed to complete the year if transportation is furnished by parents, there is good student attendance, and appropriate behavior is maintained. This exception does not apply to students moving outside the Fulton County School System.

School Governance Council (SGC)

Each local school has a School Governance Council (SGC) whose purpose is advising the principal in assessing the needs of the school programs and services, establishing goals to improve programs and services, making recommendations as to how they may be met, and evaluating the success of these efforts. During years of accreditation and planning/evaluation functions, the SGC will join the schools leadership team to provide direction and documents. Members of Stonewall Tells SGC are selected from a representative group of local citizens, parents and staff members and serve a two year term from May through April. If you are interested in participating in the SGC meetings, please contact the school principal.

School Insurance
Group accident insurance is available for students. Student insurance may be purchased at a low cost through a private company approved each year by the Board of Education. Information on this insurance, its cost, and other details of the plan are given to parents during registration or on the first day of school. PLEASE NOTE: Purchase of this insurance can be made only during the first two weeks of each school year.

Special Services
1. The media center, which is developed on an open library concept, is equipped with carefully selected books, kits, videotapes, filmstrips,
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2. 3.

4.

recordings, pictures, and computer software. Trained certified media specialists work with children in the media center. Special teachers provide chorus, band and orchestra instruction for interested students in the intermediate grades. Services are provided as needed in the areas of speech therapy, hearing impairment, visual impairment, learning disability, mental impairment, physical handicap, behavior disorders, talented and gifted, and hospital/homebound instruction. After school academic, creative, and physical education programs are developed yearly. Contact your childs teacher for details. These programs do not meet daily and are not available to meet child-care needs because of this.

Student Support Team (SST)

The Student Support Team (SST) is a joint effort between staff members and administrators in the general education program to meet the needs of individual students. Phase I of SST is a general education process. Its for determining solutions and strategies for any student having difficulties that their classroom teacher needs help addressing. Phase II of SST is a special education function. Once a child has been identified as needing further assistance than can be provided in Phase I, he or she is recommended to Phase II where more extensive testing is provided, possibly ending with placement in a special education program. The SST in elementary schools consists of: an administrator, counselor, or curriculum specialist as chairperson, a counselor or curriculum specialist as a member, classroom teachers and grade level chairpersons. Other members of SST may include: the parent, the student, the school social worker, the instructional support team teacher and psychologist. If a child is being referred for speech and language, the speech and language therapist will also be part of SST.

Tardiness
Students should arrive at school on time. All late students must be escorted to the office by a parent/guardian to sign in, give reason for the tardy and get a pass to
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class. When a Fulton County school bus is late and children ride that bus, they are not counted tardy. Students who have excessive tardies may be subject to disciplinary procedures that may include out-of-school suspension and/or visiting teacher referral. More than four tardies within a 20 day period may be considered excessive.

Testing and Screening Program

The Fulton County Board of Education has established a system-wide testing program designed to provide information concerning the extent to which students are acquiring knowledge and skills essential to further learning. This information is used: to aid teachers and administrators in instructional planning; to aid students and their parents in personal decision-making; and to aid both educators and the general public in evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of educational programs. In kindergarten, students are given the Georgia Kindergarten Assessment Program (GKAP). This instrument is administered throughout the year. It is developmental in nature and is one of many indicators used to help determine whether a student is ready for the first grade. Students in all elementary schools take the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS) in the second, third, and fifth grades. Stonewall Tell also tests in first and fourth grades. At third and fifth grades, students take the Writing Assessment. Additional testing may occur for students in grades one through five as needed for TAG , Title 1, SIA, the Remedial Education Program, Linking Literacy, the Educational Support Team, or in assessing new students.

Visiting Teacher/School Social Worker/ Family Services Personnel

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The visiting teacher/school social worker/family services personnel serve as the schools resource personnel on family and school needs, problems of social functioning, and student/parent attendance. These individuals make home visits and act as a liaison between the school and other agencies.

Volunteers
An active group of parent volunteers is needed in each elementary school to assist students and teachers with various activities. Please contact the Family Liaison, Curriculum Support Teacher, PTA president, Local School Advisory Council chairperson, or principal if you wish to volunteer your services to the school. For the Parent Volunteer process, please see the Professional Assistant II at the front desk.

Withdrawal Procedures
Notify the teacher/data clerk at least a week before the child is to be withdrawn from school. A student withdrawal form and copies of immunization, eye, ear and dental certificate, and birth certificate, if available, can be sent home/picked up by parent on the last day of attendance. These records should be given to the students new school upon enrollment. Upon receiving a signed Release of Records Form from the new school, student records will be mailed. It is helpful if the school from which the student is being withdrawn has the new home address and the name of the school to which the child is transferring. All textbooks and library books should be returned and meal fees should be paid before records are forwarded.

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Student Discipline
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The Fulton County School System believes that all students have the right to learn in a safe, warm climate. A school climate that is conducive to learning and free of disruptive behavior will be provided for each student. A variety of methods are encouraged to ensure appropriate conduct including student and parent conferences, in-school and out-of-school. The titles are taken from the board policy and a more detailed explanation is located under descriptor code JD in the administrative procedures manual. Copies of all board policies are avail able in each elementary school, and all information about student discipline is provided on the FCSs website by clicking on or using the following link http://portal.fultonschools.org/departments/academics/StudentSupport/Pages/Stud ent_Discipline.aspx An attempt is made to create a climate that will foster learning, develop selfcontrol in each student and encourage each student to develop responsibility. To this end, students will be expected to respect the rules established cooperatively with teachers. Student discipline is the joint responsibility of the school and home. Parental support for good discipline enables the schools to maintain a wholesome environment for learning. We are working at all times to develop self-discipline within each child. We feel it is the childs responsibility to follow established school and class rules. Parents will be notified if their child is having discipline problems. Chronic misbehavior or violation of school system rules will result in appropriate disciplinary measures. Among these are in-school suspension (or Opportunity Room/Alternative Room referral), out-of-school suspension, or referral to the Discipline Tribunal. Depending upon the nature of the offense, student may be assigned to a school-based work detail in lieu of out-ofschool suspension. If students purposely deface or destroy school property, it is expected that they will be a part of the restitution process.

TEACHERS HAVE THE RIGHT TO TEACH.

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STUDENTS HAVE THE RIGHT TO LEARN.

It is very important that parents and Stonewall Tell staff members work together to ensure that all of Stonewall Tells students work at school in an atmos phere which encourages learning. Stonewall Tell has adopted a school-wide discipline plan primarily based on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Model (PBIS) for student responsibilities

CLASSROOM RULES
1. 2. 3. Report to school on time. We expect all students to come to school on time daily. Be prepared. Bring tennis shoes for PE, your instruments for music, etc. Do your assignments. We expect all students to come to school prepared for the days work. This means with all assignments completed and with all supplies in hand. We expect all children to do the best work that he/she is able to do at all times. Respect your own and others life spaces. We expect all children to conduct themselves in a manner that will neither distract from their own learning or that of others. Respect authority. We expect all children to listen to, respect, and follow the instructions of school teachers, administrators and staff during school and school related activities.

4.

5.

We believe strongly in positive reinforcement, and will work to create a positive atmosphere in which our students can learn. We believe that our students are responsible for their own behavior, academic and personal success. Developing a
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good attitude in school is a key to that success. Actions are owned by individual students, and each student has the ability to make decisions about his/her own life. It is our duty to help students become more responsible for their own behavior. Our students grow responsively when: they perform regular duties and activities without constant reminders. they work and/or play independently. they take ownership of their own problems and solutions, and they do not blame their problems on others. they admit their own mistakes without rationalization. they make their own decisions, even if they differ from the decisions of their peers. They know how and why their decisions were made. Our behavior plan shows the students: what they have done wrong, while leaving their dignity intact. how they have ownership of the problem. how to solve the problem they have created.

EXAMPLES OF REWARDS FOR APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

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To build self-esteem, reinforce and stimulate the desire in students to behave properly, we will encourage them with the following and other things that are appropriate:

LUNCHROOM
The lunchroom should be a happy place for all students. In order for this life space to be happy for all children, students need to follow a few basic rules: 1. Do not talk in lines at beginning and end of lunch period. 2. Enter line up and exit in designated areas. Line up according to lunch choices. 3. Sit at assigned tables. 4. Use good table manners while eating: Talk quietly to those at your own table. Do not swap, pass, throw food, paper, etc. Do not play with condiments (ketchup, salt, pepper, salad dressings.) 5. Clean the tables quickly and thoroughly when it is your turn to clean. Each child should clean the area where he or she ate prior to leaving the table. 6. Remain seated until dismissed by your teacher to carry trays to the window. Consequences for choosing not to respect others life space in lunchroom are: Isolation at time-out table-- No talking is permitted at the time-out table and a Cafeteria Conduct Report is made. This report is given by the lunchroom monitor to the teacher who may send it home to the parent. Referral to an administrator

MEDIA CENTER
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The media center endorses the same rules of behavior as the rest of the school. Individual students may be asked to return to class if their behavior is unacceptable. Students should come to the library with a smile, a willingness to listen and learn, respect for themselves, others and school property. Food, gum and candy are not allowed.

PRIMARY LEVEL ACTION PLAN TIME-OUT

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_______________________ (Date) Students Name Teachers Name

____________________________ ____________________________

This is a picture of what I was doing when my teacher corrected me.

This is a picture of what I should have been doing when my teacher corrected me.

This is a picture of how I feel about the problem.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL ACTION PLAN TIME-OUT

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________________________ (Date) Students Name: Teachers Name:

This is a short paragraph telling what I was doing when I was corrected:

This is a short paragraph telling what I should have been doing:

This is a short paragraph about how I will help myself do the correct thing in the future.

CAFETERIA CONDUCT REPORT

Date
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Name Homeroom Teacher The following behavior was observed in the cafeteria today: talking loudly talking when no talking is being enforced talking back using unacceptable language playing with food changing seats other Please help us by talking with your child about the importance of behaving appropriately in the cafeteria. Thank you. Cafeteria Monitor/Supervisor Teachers signature Parents signature Description and Recommended Action:

Date Date

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It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or disability in any employment practice, educational program or any other program, activity or service. If you wish to make a complaint or request accommodation or modification due to discrimination in any program, activity or service, contact Compliance Coordinator, 786 Cleveland Avenue, SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30015, or phone 404-763-6801. TTY 1-800-255-0135.

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