DRIPPING SPRINGS PRIMARY SCHOOL
P.O. Box 479
29400 Ranch Road 12
Dripping Springs, Texas 78620
(512) 858-4901 Fax (512) 858-1759
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2005 2006
D.S. PRIMARY SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of Dripping Springs Primary School is to develop within each child a strong and balanced foundation upon which future learning and social/emotional maturity may occur.
Table of Contents
To Students and Parents:
Welcome to school year 2005–2006! Teachers and other school staff members want this year to be an especially good one for each child. For this to happen, we all have to work together: students, parents, and teachers. This Student Handbook is designed to help us do this.
The Dripping Springs Primary School Student Handbook contains information that both students and parents are likely to need during the school year. The handbook is divided into two sections:
The first especially for parents, with information all parents will need about general school operations and attendance guidelines;
The second, student-centered concerns including the academic program, student health, and conduct issues.
Each has a Quick Reference section to serve as a guide for day-to-day questions that may arise.
We have attempted to make the language as straightforward as possible, however, please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.
Both students and parents also need to be familiar with the DSISD Student Code of Conduct, required by state law and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document is being sent home with this handbook and is posted on our district website at www.dripping-springs.k12.tx.us/.
The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters and other communications.
In case of conflict between Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of student handbooks, the provisions of Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the Board are to be followed.
We strongly recommend that you review the entire handbook with your child and keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child have questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the principal. Also, please complete and return the acknowledgment form, so that we have a record of your choices listed there.
Please note that references to alphabetical policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current policy. A copy of the District’s Policy Manual is available in the school office or on line at www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/105904/.
A child’s education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Your involvement in this partnership may include:
Ø Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.
Ø Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child. Monitor your child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed
Ø Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at 858-4901 for an appointment. A teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or at a mutually convenient time after school. [See Periodic Grade Reports, and Conferences on page 9.]
Ø Exercising your right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child. Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns:
ü Political affiliations.
ü Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or family.
ü Sexual behavior and attitudes.
ü Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior.
ü Criticism of individuals with whom the student or the student’s family has a close family relationship.
ü Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
ü Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.
You will be able to inspect any teaching materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For further information, see policy EF.]
Reviewing your child’s student records when needed. You may review (1) attendance records, (2) test scores, (3) grades, (4) disciplinary records, (5) counseling records, (6) psychological records, (7) applications for admission, (8) health and immunization information, (9) other medical records, (10) teacher and counselor evaluations, (11) reports of behavioral patterns, and (12) state assessment instruments that have been administered to your child. [See Student Records on page 11.]
Granting or denying any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a videotape or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:
ü When it is to be used for school safety;
ü When it relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or extracurricular activity; or
ü When it relates to media coverage of the school.
Removing your child temporarily from the classroom, if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester.
Participating in our outstanding Parent Teacher Organization (P.T.O.) or becoming a school volunteer.
Offering to serve as a parent representative on the District-level or campus-level planning committees assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact principal.
Attending Board meetings to learn more about District operations, including the procedure for addressing the Board when appropriate. [See policies BE and BED for more information.]
Please report any change of home/work phone number or address to the Primary office. Parents should make sure students know what to do after school each day. Consistency is the key to preventing confusion. Limit calling the school to change after school plans to emergency situations only. Parents are requested to make arrangements for delivery of sports equipment, overnight bags etc., for after school activities, by means other than through the school office. The academic school day will not be interrupted for such purposes.
Parents and others are welcome to visit District schools. For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, all visitors must first report to the principal’s office.
Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment.
Only those visitors with scheduled appointments are permitted in the classroom corridors between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Unless otherwise approved, visits during instructional time shall be limited to 30 minutes in duration.
Parents are welcomed and encouraged to have lunch in the cafeteria with their child. Lunchtime visits in the cafeteria do not need to be scheduled in advance, however, parents must sign in with the office and wear a visitor's badge while in the building.
All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be permitted.
Parties may be held during the school day in observance of Winter Holiday, Valentine’s Day, and End-of-School. Birthday parties (for teacher or students) are not permitted. Please do not bring or have delivered any balloons or flowers to the school as part of the celebration.
Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed simply—by a phone call or a conference with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the District has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG(LOCAL) in the District’s policy manual. In general, the student or parent should first discuss the complaint with the campus principal. If unresolved, a written complaint and a request for a conference should be sent to the Superintendent. If still unresolved, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees.
Some complaints require different procedures as listed below. Any campus office or the Superintendent’s office can provide information regarding specific processes for these complaints. Additional information can also be found in the designated Board policy, available in the principal’s and Superintendent’s offices or on the District’s Web site at www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/105904/.
Specialized complaint procedures exist regarding:
Identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a student with a disability: policies EHBA and FB. See Special Programs on page 9.
Loss of credit because of excessive absences: policy FDD
Removal of a student by a teacher for disciplinary reasons: policy FOAA and the Student Code of Conduct.
Removal of a student to a disciplinary alternative education program: policy FOAB and the Student Code of Conduct.
Expulsion of a student: policy FOD and the Student Code of Conduct.
Discrimination on the basis of sex: policy FB.
Harassment of a student on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or disability: policy FNCL and the Student Code of Conduct. See Harassment on the Basis of Race, Color, Religion, National Origin, or Disability on page 15.
Sexual abuse or sexual harassment of a student: policy FNCJ and the Student Code of Conduct. See Sexual Harassment / Sexual Abuse on page 15.
Instructional materials: policy EFA.
On-campus distribution of nonschool materials to students: policy FMA.
Complaints against District peace officers: policy CKE.
To request a transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been verified by the principal to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus. See the principal for information.
To request a transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the District if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child was a victim of a violent criminal offense while in school or on school grounds. See policy FDD (LOCAL).
The school administration recognizes the significant amount of printed information sent home to parents throughout the school year. To respect parents' time and insure that information sent home receives the attention it deserves, the campus has established guidelines for the judicious distribution of school-related information and the elimination of unnecessary use of paper.
Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with prior approval by the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals, etc. The school newspaper, The Tiger's Eye, and the yearbook, Memory Book, are available to students. All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.
Non-school related publications or materials are ordinarily not permitted. Unless a person or organization obtains specific prior approval from the principal, written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus. If the material is not approved within two school days of the time it was submitted to the principal, it should be considered disapproved.
Law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities occasionally wish to question or interview a student at school. The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student. The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection. The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection. The principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation.
From time to time, students, teachers, and other District employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.
If a student has a medical emergency at school when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the school nurse to update any information.
The possibility of having to dismiss school during a school day is always present. Our concern is for children who cannot get into their houses and/or those who would be unattended for several hours. Realizing that the school cannot contact every parent and that parents would be unable to reach the school through busy phone lines, we are asking parents to do the following:
· Insure that the child can get into the home.
· Have a work phone number posted in the home where the child can find it.
· Leave a number for another person to contact in case the parent cannot be reached.
Local radio or television stations will announce the closing of school in the event of emergency situations.
The state compulsory attendance law requires that: “A student between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend school and District-required tutorial sessions unless the student is otherwise legally exempted or excused." School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent from school without permission will be considered truant and subject to disciplinary action. Truancy may also result in assessment of penalties by a court of law against both the student and his or her parents. A complaint against the parent may be filed in the appropriate court if the student: Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period. When a student is absent from school, and/or misses any or part of the day, the student – upon returning to school – must bring a note, signed by the parent describing the reason for the absence. All appointments with a health care professional must be supported by a document from the health care professional.
· Students should arrive at school between 8:00 a.m. and 8:20 a.m. and report to assigned areas.
· Students should be in their homerooms at the 8:25 a.m. bell.
· Students will be counted as tardy after the 8:25 a.m. bell.
Regular attendance is essential for satisfactory progress in school. There is a high correlation at all levels of education between failing grades and poor attendance. Also, it is significant to note that good attendance helps finance our schools, since funds from the state are based on average daily attendance. Without these state funds the local taxpayer must carry a heavier financial burden. When a student is absent, please call 858-4901 by 10:00 a.m. In the event of a planned absence, parents are encouraged to notify teachers in advance so instructional arrangements and assignments may be made.
Parents will receive a Notice of Absence Report following the 7th, 13th, and 18th absence.
A student shall not be given credit for a class if he/she has been in attendance less than 90 percent of the days the class is offered. An attendance committee appointed by the Board may award credit if there were extenuating circumstances for the absences. The Board shall establish guidelines for determining what constitutes extenuating circumstances and shall establish alternative ways for students to make up work or regain credit lost because of absences for extenuating circumstances. The Board may establish alternative ways for students with unexcused absences to make up work or regain credit. This policy does not affect a student’s right to excused absence to observe religious holy days.
The district accepts the following as extenuating circumstances for the purpose of granting credit for a class:
· An excused absence based on personal sickness, sickness or death in the family, quarantine, weather or road conditions making travel dangerous, and any other unusual cause acceptable to the superintendent, teacher, or principal. Appointments with health care professionals should be supported by a document such as a note from the health care professional.
· Days of suspension.
· Participation in court proceedings or child abuse/neglect investigation.
· A migrant student’s late enrollment or early withdrawal.
· Days missed as a runaway.
· Completion of a competency-based program for at-risk students.
· Late enrollment or early withdrawal of a student under Texas Youth Commission.
· Teen parent absences to care for his or her child.
· Participation in a substance abuse rehabilitation program.
· Excused days for travel limited to one day for travel to and one day for travel from the site of a students’ observance of a holy day.
If the attendance committee finds that there are no extenuating circumstances for the absence or if conditions established by the committee for earning or regaining credit are not met, the committee shall deny credit for the class. Students whose petitions for credit are denied may appeal the attendance committee’s decision to the Board of Trustees.
Because class time is important, doctor’s appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.
A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with permission from the principal or designee and according to the campus sign-out procedures. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the student’s school day.
A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning. A student who becomes ill during the school day should, with the teacher’s permission, report to the school nurse. The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent.
All students are highly encouraged to be at school on time. Students who are tardy interrupt the instructional process for themselves, their classmates, and the teacher. A student who is tardy to school must check in at the office and get a tardy slip before reporting to class. Teachers will record tardies and report excessive tardies to the principal and the parent. Consequences for excessive tardies may be instated.
A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by a parent. The school requests notice from the parent at least three days in advance so that records and documents may be prepared. A withdrawal form may be obtained by the parent from the registrar's office.
On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book clearance; to the librarian to assure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student and a copy placed in the student’s permanent record.
Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place. The school cafeteria is open to students before school beginning at 7:45 a.m. After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately.
The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student’s participation is confidential. Applications are sent home with every student at the beginning of the school year. After that time, an application may be obtained in the school office.
To reduce lost money and ease bookkeeping, a parent may place money in a student's meal account in advance. Snack items are sold as additional menu selections for extra cost.
Students may bring their lunch from home. Lunches from home may not include carbonated, caffeinated soft drinks and/or glass containers.
Parents, if a physician has determined that your child has a food allergy that may result in severe life-threatening (anaphylactic) reactions, you must:
The parent/guardian is responsible for obtaining the physician’s statement and for notifying the cafeteria.
Daily lunch cost for students will be $1.90 per day and adult lunch will cost $2.45 per day. Extra milk is .40 per half pint. Breakfast is served daily at a price of $1.00 for students and $1.25 for adults. Meals may not be charged to a deficient account after May 1.
The campus will place lost and found items in a designated area. In order to facilitate returning lost items to students, please mark all personal items with a permanent marker. Lost and found items will be collected at least two times a year and distributed to charitable organizations. Students and parents have the opportunity to look through the lost and found items for personal belongings.
A list of basic supplies for each grade level is available in the office. Each teacher may require a few additional items. Students will be given a reasonable amount of time to secure required supplies.
The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the school office.
Students should familiarize themselves with the schedule and on P.E. days wear appropriate, loose fitting clothing to school such as shorts and T-shirts when the weather allows. Changing clothes at school is not allowed and tight fitting clothes could restrict movement. Only clean, rubber soled tennis shoes are permitted in the gym. Extra shoes can be kept in the classroom. Please notify the P.E. instructor with specific information in writing if a student is not able to fully participate in physical activities for any reason. Inability to participate longer than 2 consecutive days requires a note from a doctor. All students are required to engage in at least 135 minutes of physical activity per week through participation in P.E. and structured recess activities.
KINDERGARTEN
In Kindergarten, promotion to grade 1 shall be based on consideration by the District of the holistic development of each child. Because children at this level typically have uneven growth with language, emotional development, physical abilities, and cognitive growth progressing at varying rates with each child, promotion shall be based on a comprehensive assessment of academic indicators, as well as other areas of development.
GRADES 1-2
In grades 1-2, promotion to the next grade level shall be based on a student’s mastery of 70% of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for language arts, mathematics, science and/or social studies.
GRADES 3-8
In grades 3-8, promotion to the next grade level shall be based on an overall average of 70 on a scale of 100 based on course-level, grade-level standards (essential knowledge and skills) for all subject areas and a grade of 70 or above in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Written reports of a student's grades or performance and absences in each class or subject are issued at least once every 9 weeks. During the fourth week of the nine-week grading period written notice will be given if a child’s performance in any course in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies is near or below 80. If a child receives a grade lower than 70 in any class or subject during a grading period, parents will be requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject. The report card or unsatisfactory progress report will state whether tutorials are required for a student who receives a grade lower than 70 in a class or subject. Report cards and unsatisfactory progress reports must be signed by the parent and should be returned to the school within 5 days.
In order for
students to do
their best on any test, they must be comfortable and alert. Parents are
encouraged to be aware of their child’s schedule and to assure that the
child comes to school every day—but especially on test days—after:
A good night’s sleep, a good breakfast; and dressing for the weather or
for the temperature inside the testing center.
OPTIONS AND
REQUIREMENTS
FOR PROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO STUDENTS WHO HAVE LEARNING DIFFICULTIES OR
WHO NEED
OR MAY NEED SPECIAL EDUCATION
If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other support services that are available to all students.
At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date of the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent.
If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of their rights if they disagree with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards – Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities.
The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is:
Karen Jones – PreK, K, or 3rd grade at 512-858-4901 x229
Traci Henze – 1st or 2nd grade at 512-858-4901 x230
Please be aware that a third grade student’s satisfactory performance on state exams, called the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), will be required for promotion.
A student who does not perform satisfactorily will participate in special instructional programs designed to help improve performance and will also have additional opportunities to take the test. If the student fails a second time, a grade placement committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the teacher, and the student’s parent, will determine the additional special instruction the student will receive. After a third failed attempt, the student will be retained; the parent can appeal this decision, however, to the grade placement committee. Whether the student is retained or promoted, an educational plan for the student will be designed for the next school year to enable the student to perform at grade level.
[For further information, see policies at EHBC, EI, and EIE.]
A student may be permitted to take an exam to earn credit for grade level acceleration. The dates on which exams are scheduled during the 2005–2006 school year are posted on the back of the District Calendar and also on the District website. Contact an administrator or a counselor for process requirements. Additional information is available from the counselor.
Homework typically falls into one of three categories:
2) Reinforcement of current learning
3) Occasional independent projects
As a rule, students in K-3 will be expected to spend approximately 30 minutes or less each evening to complete homework. Generally, there will be an expectation to read nightly and complete other assignments.
Upon returning to school, the student is responsible for obtaining any assignments that need to be made up and the due date for these assignments. Failure to do so may result in zeros.
· Usually students should make up work missed due to absences within the same number of days that they were absent. (example: If a student misses five days of school, they should be expected to make up that work within the next five school days.) Zeros may be given for work not completed within this time frame.
· If a child is absent for more that two (2) days and he/she feels well enough to work at home, the parent may request that missed assignments be sent to the office. Please call early the morning of the second day in order to have assignments ready to be picked up after 3:00 p.m.
State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Students must place their names in each text in the proper place. Students must pay for lost and damaged textbooks and/or library books.
Videos may be shown only in compliance with federal copyright law. All videos shown during instructional time will have a curricular relevance with supporting instructional activities. All videos are previewed by the teacher prior to classroom use and common sense is applied in the absence of a formal rating of questionable material. (DSISD Policy EFE (Local).
To prepare students for an increasingly computerized society, the District has made a substantial investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Acceptable technology use guidelines are included in the Student Code of Conduct and will be enforced. Violations of acceptable use policy may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.
Students and their parents should be aware that electronic communications—e-mail—using District computers are not private and may be monitored by District staff.
[For additional information, see policy CQ.]
Human growth and development instruction is a component of the health education curriculum. Parents have the right to preview the content of this instruction and materials used as resources. Parents may choose to remove their child from any part of human growth and development instruction. The classroom teacher will notify parents in advance of the teaching of this material and its content.
Both federal and state law safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents certain rights. The law specifies that certain general information about DSISD students is considered “directory information” and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it. That information includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number, and date and place of birth, the student’s photograph, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and weight and height of members of athletic teams, the student’s dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status, honors and awards received in school, and most recent school previously attended. Release of any or all directory information regarding a student may be prevented by the parent. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days after the parent has been provided this notice. [See the acknowledgement form attached to this handbook.]
Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records. Release is restricted to:
The parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless parental rights have been legally terminated and if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. Federal law requires that, as soon as the student becomes eligible, control of the records goes to the student. However, the parents may continue to have access to the records if the student is a dependent for tax purposes.
District staff members who have what federal law defines as a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. Such persons would include school officials (such as Board members, the Superintendent, and principals), school staff members (such as teachers, counselors, and diagnosticians), or an agent of the District (such as a medical consultant).
Various governmental agencies or in response to a subpoena or court order.
A school to which a student transfers or in which he or she subsequently enrolls.
Release to any other person or agency—such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application—will occur only with parental or student permission as appropriates.
Records may be inspected during regular school hours. If circumstances effectively prevent a parent or eligible student from inspecting the records, the District shall either provide a copy of the requested records, or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review the requested records. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.
The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated.
A parent may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to request a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process defined by policy FNG. [See Student or Parent Complaints and Concerns on page 5 for an overview of the process.]
The Director of the Hays-Blanco Special Education Cooperative is the custodian of Special Education Records. The address is P.O. Box 449, Dripping Springs, Texas, 78620.
Copies of student records are available at a cost of ten cents per page, payable in advance. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge upon written request of the parent. The parent’s right of access to, and copies of, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records—such as teachers’ personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher and records on former students after they are no longer students in the District—do not have to be made available to the parents.
Please note:
Parents have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District is not in compliance with federal law regarding student records. The District’s policy regarding student records is available from the principal’s or Superintendent’s office.
Traci Henze –1st , 2nd grade
Karen Jones – PreK, K, 3rd grade
The school counseling and guidance program is preventive, comprehensive, and developmental in nature. The largest amount of time is given to the greatest number of students at an age appropriate level in an attempt to prevent crises from adversely affecting school performance. Direct services have two components:
Ø Guidance Lessons: “Care Classes” are taught to each class on an average of twice monthly reinforcing district Tiger Traits: respect, honesty, responsibility, perseverance, compassion, self-discipline, tolerance, loyalty, integrity, self-reliance.
Ø Responsive Counseling: Education oriented for typical childhood problems. Written referrals are recommended and accepted from parents, students, and school personnel.
v Small group counseling: Based on student needs
v Individual counseling: Brief counseling to help children express feelings, set goals, and return to classroom setting.
If your child is in need of long-term counseling, the grade level counselor can provide you with phone numbers for community resources. The counselors also assist in individual planning and system support services as recommended by T.E.A.
A child’s health and well being are a major concern of the DSISD. We understand that occasionally your child might need to take medicine at school, but ask your cooperation in scheduling the doses during home hours if possible.
If prescription or non-prescription medicine must be given during the school day, it must be brought to and kept in the student Health Office. It must be in the original container and accompanied by a note signed by a parent or guardian giving authorized school personnel directions for its administration (time and dosage). Please send only the amount needed for the dosages to be given at school. Please avoid the practice of bringing and taking home medication each day. Many pharmacists will provide a second container at no cost. Prescription medication must be in a properly labeled bottle for that student and dispensed by a registered pharmacist as prescribed by law. All prescriptions must be United States prescriptions. DSISD recommends that prescription medications be brought to the school by an adult.
Any medication, non-prescription and prescription, that is to be given at school for longer that three days will require a physician’s written request to administer the medication to the student. The prescribing physician may complete the district medication permission form that is available in the Student Health Office. A new form will be required for any change in medication or dosage.
School personnel will not give any medicine, including Tylenol, unless it is provided by the parent, in the appropriate manner as stated above. All medications must be age-appropriate unless accompanied by a note from a physician. Only those medications which are necessary to maintain the student in school or must be given during school hours, shall be administered.
School personnel will not administer herbals, home remedies, and dietary supplements.
In certain emergency situations, a District employee may maintain and administer to a student nonprescription medication, but only if: the District has obtained from its medical advisor licensed to practice medicine in Texas (or from a licensed physician at the county or regional health authority) a protocol for treatment of the particular emergency; and the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency treatment on the District’s form.
A student with asthma who has written authorization from his or her parent and physician or other licensed health care provider may be permitted, at the student’s discretion, to possess and use prescribed asthma medication at school or school-related events. The student and parents should see the school nurse or principal if the student has been prescribed asthma medication for use during the school day.
In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. See the school nurse or principal for information.
[For further information, see policies at FFAC.]
Parents of students with a communicable or contagious disease are asked to telephone the Student Health Office/Principal so that other students who have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. Students with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while their disease is contagious. Students should be “fever free” for twenty-four hours before returning to school. The Student Health Office will contact the parent of any child who becomes ill during the school day and requires transportation home. It is the responsibility of the parent to arrange for this transportation as soon as possible.
Parents shall sign the emergency care section of the Student Medical Information form each year giving parental consent for school officials to obtain medical treatment for the student. Parents shall also be asked to supply other information that could be required in case of an emergency. Parents should update this information as often as necessary.
A student with live head lice will be excluded from school until their hair has been properly treated. The student will be rechecked by the Student Health Office before he or she will be allowed to return to the classroom.
Soon after school opens, parents will have the opportunity to purchase low-cost accident insurance that will help in meeting medical expenses, in the event of injury to their child.
Except for the purchase of insurance against bodily injury sustained by students while training for or engaging in interscholastic athletic competition or while engaging in school-sponsored activities on a school campus, the District, under state law, cannot pay for medical expenses associated with a student’s injury.
A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student will not be immunized. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type B, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken pox). The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Texas Department of Health. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.
Exemptions to Immunization Requirements:
Chapter 97.62 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) describes the conditions under which individuals can seek exemptions from Texas immunization requirements. Exclusions from compliance are allowable on an individual basis for medical contraindications, reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, and active duty with the armed forces of the United States.
· The official Texas Department of State Health Services affidavit form must be notarized and submitted to the school officials. The form must be submitted within 90 days from the date it is notarized.
· The school will accept only official affidavit forms developed and issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Immunization branch. No other forms or reproductions will be allowed.
To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. Parents of a student with a communicable or contagious disease should phone the school nurse or principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. Among the more common of these diseases are the following:
|
Amebiasis |
Hepatitis A (acute) |
Ringworm of the scalp |
|
Campylobacteriosis |
Impetigo |
Rubella (German Measles), including congenital |
|
Chicken pox (varicella) |
Infectious mononucleosis |
Salmonellosis, including typhoid fever |
|
Common cold with fever |
Influenza |
Scabies |
|
Fifth disease (Erythema Infectiosum) |
Measles (Rubeola) |
Shigellosis |
|
Gastroenteritis, Viral |
Meningitis, Bacterial |
Streptococcal disease, invasive (group A or B) |
|
Giardiasis |
Mumps |
Tuberculosis, Pulmonary |
|
|
Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) |
Whooping Cough (Pertussis) |
[Further information may be found at policy FFAD.]
Meningitis is an
inflammation
of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by
viruses,
parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is most common and the
least
serious. Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious
bacterial
infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It
is an
uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to
prevent
permanent damage or death.
WHAT ARE
THE
SYMPTOMS?
Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms.
Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body.
The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results.
If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.
Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing; sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).
The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune system and cause meningitis or another serious illness.
Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss.
While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used only in special circumstances. These include when there is a disease outbreak in a community or for people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting the disease. Also, a vaccine is recommended by some groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective (85–90 percent). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.
You should seek prompt medical attention.
Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. You may also call your local health department or Regional Texas Department of Health office to ask about meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also be found at the web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Texas Department of Health, http://www.tdh.state.tx.us.
The District periodically applies pesticides inside buildings. Except in an emergency, signs will be posted 48 hours before application. Parents who want to be notified prior to pesticide application inside their child’s school assignment area may contact Mr. Dan Davis, Director of Maintenance and Custodial at 858-7272.
The District’s asbestos management plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations, is available in the school office. If you have any questions, please contact the office at 858-4901.
The District and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students and others on school property or at school-sponsored or school-related activities. (See the Student Code of Conduct and policy GKA.)
DSP is governed by four principles of Tiger Pride:
· I will respect myself, others, and my environment.
· I will do my personal best.
· I will be responsible for my choices.
· I will be a cooperative member of my school.
Discipline management at Dripping Springs Primary School is based upon the school Mission Statement and school Code of Conduct as well as the Dripping Springs ISD Student Code of Conduct. Each pupil will be provided a copy upon enrollment. It is the responsibility of each parent and student to read and discuss this document. Obviously, younger children will need assistance in reading and understanding their responsibilities. An orientation session for all students will be held within the first two weeks of school.
Most disciplinary issues will be handled within the classroom by the teacher. Teachers put into practice positive disciplinary techniques as well as the assertive discipline techniques of establishing classroom rules and consequences for not following those rules.
Teachers will rely on low level consequences for minor incidents. Warnings, time out in the classroom, recess restriction, and restriction from other privileges are typical consequences for misbehavior.
Severe classroom disciplinary issues will require assistance from either the behavior intervention specialist or administrative personnel. The teacher will send a student to the office at any time for serious offenses including but not limited to:
v Being disrespectful to a teacher or other staff member
v Hurting or attempting to hurt himself or another student
v Disrupting a class whereby other students are being denied their right to an education
As outlined in Chapter 37 of T.E.A. Code, 1995 revision, a teacher may remove a student from class:
v Who has been documented by the teacher to repeatedly interfere with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn
v Whose behavior the teacher determines is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that it seriously interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn
If the teacher removes a student from the class, the principal may place the student in another classroom, into in-school suspension, or into an alternative education program. The principal may not return the student to that teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent unless the Placement Review Committee determines such placement is the best or only alternative available.
Art, Music, P.E. classes will be using “Good Grief Notes” to notify the classroom teacher and parents of misconduct. Severe of continual misconduct will be referred to the Behavior Management Specialist. Lunch monitors and playground monitors will rely on warnings, restriction from recess, and office referrals in response to disciplinary issues.
Students selected by the classroom teacher will be listed on the Citizenship Board at the end of each nine weeks. A picture of students will be displayed. Names are submitted to newspaper, but publication is not guaranteed.
The bus driver is in charge of all passengers. If a student’s conduct is deemed inappropriate or unsafe by the bus driver, he/she will deal with the situation immediately. Serious and/or repeated offenses will be reported to the principal for discipline. Consequences will be consistent with the Discipline Management Plan. Riding the school bus is a privilege that can be revoked if serious or repeated offenses occur.
Primary School and Intermediate School students who have siblings at the Middle School may be picked up at the Middle School after school. Applications for approval to do this will be available at the Primary and Intermediate campuses beginning Thursday, August 11, 2005. Identification cards will be sent to parents before Monday, August 29, 2005 at which time the cards will be required in order to pick up a Primary or Intermediate School student from the Middle School. Please note that High School students may not be picked up at the Middle School even if they have Middle School siblings.
Students are not permitted to use such items as radios, CD players, tape recorders, or electronic devices or games at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Students may use these devices on the school bus under conditions specified by the bus driver. Without such permission, teachers will collect the item and turn it in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return the item at the end of the day for the student to take home or whether the parent will be contacted to pick up the item. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
Clothing or other items depicting guns and/or weapons, tobacco, alcohol products, or drugs are not allowed. Students should not bring extra money or expensive items to school. Selling or trading belongings at school or on the school bus is prohibited.
Due to its destructive nature to the school building and furnishings when disposed of improperly, when disposed of improperly, chewing gum is not permitted.
Special occasion deliveries such as flowers, corsages, balloons, etc. are not permitted since these can cause disruption to the school environment.
The District believes that all students learn best in an environment free from harassment and that their welfare is best served when they can work free from discrimination. Students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect.
The Board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, or disability. (See policy FFH) Prohibited harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance. A copy of the District’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the Superintendent’s office.
Examples of prohibited discrimination may include, but are not limited to, derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; bullying, threatening or intimidating conduct; name-calling or slurs, taunting, teasing (even when presented as “jokes”), or rumors; aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact.
Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, all romantic and inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and District employees are prohibited, even if consensual.
Any student (or the student’s parent) who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited harassment should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other District employee.
To the extent possible, the District will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations will be promptly investigated. The District will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited harassment by an adult associated with the District, or by another student, when the allegations, if proven, would constitute “sexual harassment” or “other pr