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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BASIC SCHOOL INFORMATION Page No. SCHOOL POLICIES SCHOOL AND STUDENT ACTIVITIES
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
PARENT/TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)
SCHOOL POLICIES
TRANSPORTATION AND SAFETY INFORMATION
Janet Berry Elementary School Mission Statement
Janet Berry Elementary School is committed to providing all students with an educational climate that inspires a sense of confidence, dignity, respect, and worth. We will maintain a safe and nurturing environment by engaging students as active, valued participants into the total school community. Quality education will be enhanced by collaboration of staff, families, and community; assisting all students to achieve their fullest potential.
The Janet Berry Elementary School colors are Columbia blue (light blue) and silver. The mascot/nickname is the Janet Berry Bobcats.
Janet Berry Elementary Bobcats are the best. We’re the school that fights so hard with our togetherness! Go! Go! Go Berry Blue and Silver, too: we wear them with such pride, As we play and work and share, side by side. (Sung to the UW Fight Song)
Each grade level consists of a “Team” of about three teachers who work together on a regular basis to plan, present, and evaluate the educational programming for students. In addition to the classroom teachers, other special area teachers and special education teachers become part of the grade level team to prepare integrated curriculum experiences and to meet the individual needs of students. Within the grade level teams, teachers might team teach with all students in one room or change classrooms for instruction in one or more curricular areas. In addition to grade level teams, we also maintain a structure of cross grade level units that are made up of Early Childhood/Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grades, 3rd and 4th grades, and 5th and 6th grades. The teachers within these units meet periodically to discuss and evaluate curriculum programming and may plan unique experiences that benefit students at both grade levels. Teachers also plan opportunities for students in upper grade levels to work together with students in the primary grades. These experiences have proven to be very beneficial to all of our students and help to develop student cohesiveness throughout the school. Each grade level team or unit will plan together, carry out, and evaluate instructional programs for each student in the unit, plan and participate in staff development activities, and plan and implement grade level and unit activities and lessons. The team and unit structure allows teachers to better utilize their strengths and to work together in order to provide each child a high-quality, individualized education. Blended Fifth/Sixth Grade Classrooms at Janet Berry
Since the opening of Janet Berry Elementary School in the fall of 1991, 5th and 6th grade students have worked together in blended homeroom classes. Over the years, this structure has proven to be very effective. For students, parents, and teachers familiar with the practice, it has become second nature. Those new to the setting; however, invariably have questions. Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions are listed below.
The Benefits of Blended Grade Classrooms
The benefits of blended classes, although wide-ranging, can be divided into two general areas: Academic Benefits and Social Benefits. Academic Benefits:
Social Benefits
Structure of 5/6 Blended Classrooms Fifth and 6th grade students at Janet Berry School work in educational settings that include instruction in small group, homeroom, mixed homeroom, team, and multiple homeroom groups. 1. Blended Homerooms and Small Groups (25-30 students) All fifth and sixth grade students are assigned to one of six blended homerooms based on established criteria. The total number of students at each grade level are divided equally among the 5/6 classrooms. The greater portion of each student’s day is spent working in small and large groups in his/her homeroom. This is also the group in which students attend music, physical education, and art classes. 2. Mixed Homerooms (25-30 students) For some curriculum instruction (usually math, science and social studies) students are rearranged into homeroom sized groups comprised of students drawn from two or more of the six blended homerooms. This setting provides opportunities for students to interact with their peers from other homerooms. These groups meet on a regular basis for periods of time ranging from a quarter to a full school year. 3. Teams (50-60 students) The physical structure of the building leads to the logical grouping of the six blended homerooms into three pairs or teams. Teams are located in adjoining classrooms that share a folding wall. This setting facilitates flexible grouping and larger gatherings, and as in the case of mixed homerooms, provides opportunities for students to interact with their peers from other homerooms. Depending on the time of year and type of activity, teams may meet anywhere from a few times per month to daily. Some academic instruction (science and social studies) may occur in this large group format with two teachers providing support and instruction. 4. Multiple Homerooms (75-180 students) Occasionally, students will participate in very large group activities that include three or more homerooms. Examples of these include selected field trips, community service projects, forensics, safety patrol, the school store, student council, bicycle, drama, and environmental clubs, 6th grade Outdoor Learning Experience, lunch, and recess. Sometimes grade level groups are gathered to deliver specific health education curriculum that is grade specific. The structure of our grade 5/6 program is unique and successful. Our 5th grade students do undergo some transitioning during the first couple of months. This is normal. The long-term benefits far out weigh any challenges they face.
A variety of general information distributed in school is sent with each family’s youngest child attending Janet Berry Elementary School. On some occasions, information is distributed to all students. Parents are expected to check daily for notes from school. It is important for parents to set up a process for their children to give them information from school to remain informed and prepared. Additional copies of fliers that are distributed in school are always available on the counter in the school office or from the school secretary. Teachers also prepare and distribute many other classroom notes and letters to keep parents informed. E-mail, voice mail, assignment notebooks, written notes, phone calls, face-to-face meetings, and parent/teacher conferences are all important methods for maintaining strong communication between home and school. Several staff members have established web sites that are connected to the district and school web sites. You can check them out at: http://www.aasd.k12.wi.us/VOS/Edu_Links.asp
The Berry Patch is the title of our newsletter. The newsletter is distributed every other Monday (or the first day of that week) throughout the school year. The Berry Patch is e-mailed directly to any e-mail address provided at the beginning of the year. All newsletters are posted on our school website. For those who wish to have a printed copy, these are sent home with the youngest child attending Janet Berry School. Extra copies are available in the school office. The deadline for submitting articles for the Berry Patch is the end of the day on the Thursday before distribution day. All entries must have the approval of the building principal prior to publication. Many classroom teachers prepare and distribute weekly or monthly classroom newsletters to inform parents about specific activities and events occurring at the classroom level. Other letters may also be distributed any day of the week in order to keep our parent community informed. All notes distributed to students from any organization or group must have the approval of the building principal and; in most cases, the approval of the district office.
Inclusive Education at Janet Berry Elementary
In an inclusive educational environment, each person is an important accepted member of the school and community. As educators, we work to create a sense of community and belonging within the group; we celebrate diversity. Our focus is on the positive, including respect and dignity for everyone. We want inclusion to become a reality in all aspects of life. INCLUSION CREATES OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL PEOPLE, ADULTS & CHILDREN, TO LEARN TOGETHER. Ž Inclusion means a climate of acceptance - no one is rejected or left out. All students can be a part of classroom, playground, lunchroom, physical education, music, art, field trip, and any other all school activities. Ž Inclusion focuses on everyone’s abilities and possibilities - not on disabilities and limitations. Ž Inclusion acknowledges that everyone has different skills, talents and gifts to offer - no one has to be good at everything. Everyone has the right to participate. Ž Inclusion means that all school staff, students, and parents work together as a team in a partnership - we don’t work in isolation. We all need to be advocates for students. Ž Inclusion is characterized by gentleness, individualization, openness and humor - it is not rigid, regimented or authoritarian. All students deserve this kind of environment. Ž Inclusion means talking openly about differences in a productive, positive way - not ignoring differences or talking about them in stereotypical ways. Ž Inclusion is a dynamic process and a belief system - not just a replicated model. Your actions reflect your beliefs. Ž Inclusion requires problem solving - to discover what is possible, not to place blame. Inclusion is solution oriented. It is an obstacle to overcome; not a barrier. Ž The inclusionary process is beneficial to all students and staff.
Office Hours (M-F) 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Summer Office Hours (M-F) June & August 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Closed during the month of July *Voice messages can be left at 832-5750 at any time of day or night.
Students Arrive 8:05 a.m. - 8:22 a.m. Recess Schedule Line Up Bell/Entrance to School 8:22 a.m. - 8:27 a.m. 9:50 - 10:05 K-2 Grades K through 6 8:27 a.m. - 3:16 p.m. 10:10 - 10:25 Gr. 3-4 Early Childhood (a.m.) 8:27 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 1:40 - 1:55 Gr. 3-6 Early Childhood (p.m.) 12:39 p.m. - 3:16 p.m. 2:00 - 2:15 K-2
The Berry staff will begin playground supervision at approximately 8:05 a.m. Please arrange to have your child arrive after 8:05 and before 8:22 a.m. A playground without supervision can be very dangerous! If your child is arriving at school before 8:05 a.m., you need to consider the YMCA School Age Care Before School Program. (Refer to that section below.) All students should report to the back playground by walking around the school on either side. Students should not walk through the main lobby in the morning. If you have a special circumstance, please contact the building principal to discuss your options. In case of inclement weather (steady precipitation or temperatures below zero) prior to the start of school, students will enter the building through the main doors and go directly into the multipurpose room until the bell rings. Students in K-2 will sit in lines by class. Students in grades 3-6 will gather at the back of the room. A sign with a green dot (Come in!) will be placed on the door of the main entrances to indicate to students that they should enter the building. The students seat themselves in single file grade level lines. After the 8:22 bell rings, the supervisors dismiss students by grade level. If there is not a sign in the window of the main entrances, students should report to the back playground area until a supervisor indicates they should enter. On normal days, students should remain in the back, on the playground. When the first bell sounds, they should line up at their designated class location and wait for a supervisor to direct them into the building. Kindergarten - 3rd grade students enter through the south entrance, and 4th - 6th grade students enter through the west entrance. FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - All students and parents will be permitted to enter the building at 8:15 a.m. A Welcome Back Coffee will be held for parents at 8:35 a.m.
Child care is provided at Janet Berry Elementary School through the Appleton YMCA. Please call 954-7641 for details on enrollment and services, or stop in to talk with the coordinators directly. Students attending this program report directly to the multipurpose room and gym area after drop off in the morning and at dismissal. Drop off can be as early as 6:30 a.m., and pick up as late as 6:00 p.m. to accommodate most parent schedules. Service is provided on all weekdays during the year and throughout the summer, unless it is a recognized holiday. Continuous care is provided when there are half days of school.
Lunch Count and Lunchroom Procedures
Each morning, classroom teachers take a hot lunch count that is reported to the school secretary along with attendance. Students must notify their classroom teacher if they will eat the regular hot lunch, sandwich of the day, veggie burger, double entree (grades 3 - 6 only), a salad, or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. If parents will be eating hot lunch, their child must notify the classroom teacher so it can be added to the overall count. If parents bring in a cold lunch or special lunch, please do not bring in soda. All food items are prepared on site, but they are delivered on a daily and weekly basis. If a child selects a salad or peanut butter and jelly sandwich, their individual name is written on the wrapper for easy pick up. There is also a fruit and vegetable cart available daily. Students may select any items for the cart in addition to their regular meal. A computerized system will be used to monitor student/family lunch accounts and allow for easy check-in of students. Each child in grades 2 - 6, is assigned a lunch account number that will be entered before they go through the lunch line. Students proceed through the service line on both sides and move to the eating tables. Students in K - 1 will have individual wooden sticks with their account number on them. These sticks are handed in as a class group and the account number is entered by the food service. Students in all grades sit with students from their classroom. Students may not exclude one another at the lunch tables. They may not exchange food in the lunchroom. Students in grades 5/6 will be assigned to classroom pairs for seating. Students from grades 5 and 6 can volunteer to become lunch servers and will be trained to help with the lunch service. Students in grades 2 and 3 can volunteer to help wipe lunch tables at the end of their lunch period. All students are expected to clean up their individual spaces and help to keep a clean table and floor area. Dustpans and brooms are available for clean up. Students who display inappropriate behaviors may be assigned a seat in or out of the lunchroom, miss lunch recess, or complete assigned duties. Tables are dismissed when the area is picked up and the students are in order. When dismissed, students deposit all garbage items in the available cans and then proceed to either their classroom or to the playground area. Students in Kindergarten classrooms walk back to their coat hook area to return lunch boxes and to get ready for recess. The lunch schedule for the school year is as follows: Grades Recess Lunch Kindergarten 11:50 - 12:05 11:25 - 11:45 (Gym) 1 - 2 11:50 - 12:05 12:10 - 12:30 (MPR) 3 - 4 11:35 - 11:50 11:50 - 12:10 (MPR) 5 - 6 11:15 - 11:45 11:45 - 12:05 (Gym) Any student who goes home or goes to someone else’s home for lunch must have written permission from parents to leave Janet Berry School at lunchtime. Students must sign out and sign back in to the office. When they return to school, they should join their grade level classmates in the lunchroom or on the playground until the bell rings. Very few Berry students leave school during the lunch period and, for safety reasons, we discourage parents from having students regularly go home for lunch. The lunch and recess periods are very important social times for students where friendships and interactive skills are developed.
School Lunch Program/Waiver of Fees
Appleton schools participate in the National School Lunch Program. Hot meals are provided at school every day. Menus are distributed monthly to all students to be shared at home. The cost of the hot lunch is $2.25 per day. Any student may purchase milk separately for 35 cents per carton. Milk choices are whole, 2%, skim, chocolate (1%). An adult lunch is $3.00. A fresh chef salad, peanut butter and jelly sandwich, veggie burger, and a sandwich of the week are also available on a daily basis in place of the main entrée. If a student chooses to have a double main entree, they will be charged for a second lunch ($2.25). They may have two of each of the items offered with the meal. Parents must complete a written permission form for their child to have double lunches. Lunches must be paid for in advance, and can be prepaid in any amount. Please make checks payable to the Appleton Area School District (AASD) and include the student’s name on the check. Send payment to school in a sealed envelope with the student’s name, teacher’s name, room number, amount of payment, and “Lunch Program” marked clearly on the front. If payment is for more than one student, please indicate the names and amount for each. To receive an update on account balances, parents can contact the school food service program at the website provided in the food service handout. Parents can also call the main school line and ask to be transferred to food service. Nutrition information on the meals is available from the Food Service Office located in the Morgan Building, 120 E. Harris Street, Appleton. Students may qualify for a free or reduced lunch based on guidelines for family income. Families whose income is below this established guideline are entitled to apply for free milk and waiver of school fees (refer to School Fees). Contact the school office (832-5750) or Food Service (832-1718) for these applications. All applications are treated confidentially.
Closing Of School/Inclement Weather
Parents and children can assume school will always be open unless they are notified by the TV or radio. If the weather is stormy in the morning and you are uncertain if school will be in session, simply listen to your local radio stations or the Green Bay television networks. They will announce all the school closings, late buses, and late openings. When school is cancelled for students, the office will not be open, so it will not be possible for you to contact the school. School cancellation may occur due to the weather, mechanical failures within the building, or other unforeseeable events. The YMCA Care Program is also cancelled when school is cancelled. Early dismissals during the school day will also be made known to you by radio or television station. If the school should need to call you regarding an early dismissal, we need accurate information on the Emergency School Closing Information form, which will come home in the first day packets. Please fill this form out completely and return it to the school promptly. The form will indicate what your child should do in the event of an early dismissal. An early dismissal is usually a last resort and only considered for extreme weather conditions or mechanical situation within the school.
Janet Berry has operated a monthly Market Day food program for a number of years. Fliers are distributed monthly. Orders are processed and delivered on a designated date each month. All items must be picked up on the designated dates due to a lack of freezer space within the school. Pick up takes place in our multipurpose room between 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. A percentage of all sales comes back directly to the school. The school uses these funds to provide teachers with funds so that they can purchase items that benefit all students. All items are high quality and conveniently packaged for busy families. Coordinators need to process orders, set up delivery, recruit volunteers, and work directly with the Market Day representative to oversee the program. All proceeds will be distributed at the beginning of each school year.
The Appleton Area School District promotes healthy schools by supporting wellness, good nutrition, and regular physical activity as a part of the total learning environment. Please be sure to review the guidelines established in the District Student Nutrition Policy. (Refer to the Appleton Area School District Handbook). No district school can sell soda or artificially sweetened drinks during the school day. In support of this policy, we ask that cold lunch students make healthy choices of milk, water, and fruit juices rather than soda or artificially sweetened drinks. Parents, we ask that you work with your children to make more appropriate and healthy choices when packing cold lunches.
Janet Berry Elementary School Healthy School Snacks and Birthday Treats
We encourage all of our families to work together with the school to help provide healthy snacks for our students whenever there is a special occasion that calls for food to be brought into the classroom. Below is a list of suggested snacks that meet the nutrition guidelines established by the school district. Please help us by not sending traditional “high sugar” birthday treats to school. This list can also serve as a healthy after school snack list throughout the year. The health and wellness of our students, staff, and families will continue to be a major goal for our school into the future. Healthy Snack Ideas: ·Fresh fruit – There are many different fruits to choose from – some are easy and need little preparation, others require time cutting, etc. Apples, pears, bananas, grapes, strawberries, blueberries, peaches, plums, and oranges are all easy to handle. There is not time for the teachers to cut up fresh fruit for 25 students! ·Dried fruit – Unsweetened - a wide variety of dried fruits are available ·Cheese – many different kinds, cut in cubes or sliced, string cheese also works well ·Cheese and meat sticks ·Pretzels – there are several different flavors to choose from ·Crackers (whole grain and stoned wheat are better) ·Granola bars – low fat, low sugar content ·Sandwich halves or triangles – with meat, cheese, etc. – whole wheat bread is best ·Whole grain bagels – with low fat spread ·Rice cakes – different flavors to choose from ·Raw vegetables – broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery, low fat ranch dressing ·Muffins (low fat) ·Fruit juice or juice boxes (100% juice only) ·Yogurt – flavored or plain – children like vanilla mixed with fresh fruit or granola ·Popcorn (no butter) ·Nuts and seeds – peanuts, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, etc. - Parents are encouraged to check with the classroom teacher for any nut allergies. ·Unsweetened cereal – can be mixed together for variety ·Water bottle – Students may have a water bottle at school. Teachers will establish expectations for access. ·Applesauce cups (unsweetened) Birthday Treat Suggestions: ·Fruit or cheese kabobs ·Apple wedges ·Mixture of dried fruits ·Fresh vegetable platter with low fat ranch dressing ·Fresh fruit platter with yogurt dip ·Trail mix (nuts, dried fruit, unsweetened cereal, sesame sticks, etc.) ·Celery with peanut butter or cheese and raisins ·Rice cakes with low fat spread ·Cheese and meat platter with whole grain crackers ·Yogurt sundaes – vanilla yogurt in a cup with fresh fruit, granola, or nuts – keep it simple None of these please: ·Carbonated beverages – no soda ·High sugar, high fat foods ·Desserts – cookies, cupcakes, cake, etc. ·Potato chips and similar chips such as Doritos, etc. ·Fruit roll-ups, prepackaged “fruit” snacks – check the labels for sugar content ·Pop tarts or other prepackaged sweet treats ·For younger children…avoid sending things children cannot open on their own!
SCHOOL POLICIES
If it is necessary to keep your child out of school for any reason, please notify the school office at 832-5750. We will need to know your child’s name, teacher, and reason for absence. If we do not hear from you by 8:45 a.m. on the day of an absence, you will be called at your home or place of employment to confirm your child’s absence. We follow this procedure for the safety of your child. With our voice mail system, you can leave a detailed message for our secretary at any time of the day or night (include child’s name, teacher, and reason for absence). Please be considerate and call the school to report absences so that our secretary’s time can be used much more productively. Absences are considered EXCUSED for illnesses, religious holidays, family emergencies, doctor or dental appointments, or a death in the family. All others are UNEXCUSED unless prior approval has been obtained from the principal. Parents of students who experience repeated absences over time will be contacted by the building principal to discuss the individual circumstances and to identify strategies for improving attendance. Students who are not in their classroom at 8:27 a.m., or when instruction begins in the afternoon, are considered TARDY to school. They must report to the school office, sign in, and get a tardy pass before going to class. Parents of students who are repeatedly tardy will be contacted by the school principal to discuss options that may help correct the situation. It is our goal, as it is yours, to teach promptness. Please refer to the state statute regarding truancy in the District Handbook. Please use good judgment, and do not send your child to school when he/she is actively ill. If they have thrown up in the morning or they have had a fever within 24 hours, do not send them to school. Should your child have a communicable disease (chicken pox, measles, head lice) the local Health Department (832-6429) and the school nurse (832-5750) should be notified. Please read carefully the District’s Head Lice Policy. (Refer to the AASD Handbook).
Vacations can be a very exciting learning experience for students as well as a healthy and educational family activity. Although we encourage all families to try to schedule vacations when school is not in session, we understand that occasionally you may need to schedule a trip when students are expected to be in school. If your child will be out of school for any length of time for vacation purposes, please contact the school secretary and the classroom teacher by phone or with a hand written note detailing the absence. Your phone contact or letter will serve as the official notification so that we can mark your child’s attendance record as “Excused.” The teachers will make reasonable accommodations for missed work, but the missed instructional time cannot be made up. The impact that school absence has on individual children is different for each child and circumstance. Please work with us to help minimize any concerns. Repeated absence due to vacation or appointments is discouraged.
Alcohol and Other Drugs (ATODA) Policy
Janet Berry Elementary School is a drug-free school. Please read carefully the District’s AODA policy (District Handbook). This also means that individuals may not smoke anywhere on the school grounds at anytime. The Appleton Area School District provides classroom instruction regarding alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse (ATODA) to all students in compliance with state and federal law. Parents who wish their child or children to be withdrawn from these instructional lessons and assemblies during the school year should call the school office.
If you need to see a staff member during the school day, please call in advance, send a note, or send an e-mail to set up an appointment. Do not simply show up and expect to be able to talk with the teachers. The teachers have very busy schedules, so please give them the courtesy to schedule meetings to discuss your child or other important issues. We ask this to avoid disruptions to the learning environment and to ensure our accountability for visitors in the building. It is not appropriate to try to discuss personal information when teachers are in classrooms, hallways, or supervising students. Your cooperation is necessary and appreciated! During office hours, all phone calls are directed through the school secretary. You can be transferred to any staff member’s voice mail to leave a detailed message. Please know that teachers may not be available immediately to check for messages. All teachers are expected to check for messages at the end of the day prior to leaving school. When the school office is not open, you will need to leave your messages with the school secretary and she will transfer them to the appropriate staff in the morning. Staff members are notified of phone message through the district e-mail system.
Caught Doing Something Good Slips
Janet Berry Elementary School recognizes students who are “caught doing something good.” If a staff member sees a student going out of his/her way to do something special for another student, a staff member, or for the betterment of the school environment, the staff member can give the student a Caught Doing Something Good slip. A student might get such a slip for picking up paper in the hall, helping a staff member carry boxes, making a complimentary comment to another student, to celebrate an accomplishment within the classroom, or any variety of things. Slips are placed in a box in the office and names are drawn and announced daily by the principal. Those students whose names are drawn are called down to the office and may receive a small prize or coupon. We can always use small prizes for this program. If there is a parent, friend or business that might like to donate prizes or make a special treat for this program, please contact the office. We would appreciate your help.
Change Of Address, Telephone, E-Mail, Etc.
At the beginning of each school year, you will be asked to update all of your emergency information for the school database. Up-to-date information is very important during emergency situations. If at any time during the school year you move to a different address, change your telephone number, add a cell phone, change your e-mail address, or change any other important information related to emergency contacts, it is your responsibility to report it to the school office. Unlisted telephone numbers are kept confidential and at no time are these or any other phone numbers given out by the office without your permission. Each fall, a parent/student phone directory is created to help facilitate communication within our school community. Your listing in this directory is optional. The district's automated calling system uses the information in this database, so it is critical that it is kept up-to-date.
Dress Code - Adopted January, 2006
This dress code is consistent with all elementary schools in the East Cluster, as well as with Madison Middle School and East High School. We take pride in the appearance in our students. How students act is often affected by what they wear. Students are expected to dress appropriately in clean, well-fitting clothing appropriate for the weather. This makes them feel more comfortable about school and increases their chances of being successful students ready to learn. Students’ dress or attire must adhere to the following minimum standards. The standards maintained align with the BOE approved policy 443.1, June, 1999, found in the family district handbooks. · Students may not wear scanty/revealing clothing. Examples of these items include, but are not limited to, tube tops, halter tops, backless tops, strapless tops, spaghetti straps, and clothing that expose the midriff and/or undergarments. For the older students, if bra straps are showing, it is inappropriate. · Jackets, coats, and gloves must be removed at the student’s locker/hallway hook area. Any such items may not be worn around the building during school hours. · Students are not allowed to wear head gear in the school building. Removing a person’s hat when entering a building is a well-established sign of respect in our country, and one that will be reinforced in our schools. Examples of head gear include, but are not limited to, hats, caps, and bandanas. · Students must wear shoes/appropriate footwear in and around the school at all times. Flip-flops are strongly discouraged for safety reasons. Please help to set this expectation at home with your children. Do not let them out of the house with inappropriate footwear. · No garments that advertise alcohol, alcohol establishments, tobacco products, or other drugs may be worn. · No attire with messages or symbols that include profanity, violent or sexual language/actions, or inappropriate subject matter is allowed to be worn in the school buildings. · Any attire or accessory which by its design, use, or intended use, could cause bodily harm, property damage, or intimidation to other persons, may not be worn. Examples of these items include, but are not limited to, chains, leather straps, pet collars, and spikes. · No attire with any gang related purpose is allowed. This policy is in force during the school day, in school vehicles, and at all school activities. The wearing of outer garments and headwear will be permitted in school vehicles and at school activities when deemed appropriate by building administration. This list is not meant to be exhaustive; rather it is intended to provide some idea of acceptable dress. Since styles of clothing change rapidly, the administration reserves the right to restrict certain fashions that are inappropriate, as well as interpret what is considered to be in poor taste or distracting to the learning environment. Members of the staff will use their professional judgment when enforcing this policy. Authority of Principals and Consequences for Violations: If there is a disagreement between students and/or parents and the staff regarding the appropriateness of clothing and body markings, the principal or his/her designee will review the situation and make a final decision. Violations of any of the above standards will be subject to disciplinary actions as determined at the time of the incident or otherwise specified in school handbooks.
Winter Clothing Expectations and Transition
to Fall/Spring Gr. K-3 – Should wear snow pants and boots for each
recess during the winter months. Warm jackets, mitten/gloves, and a hat
are required.
Fire, Tornado, and Safe-Site Drills
Fire drills must be conducted once per month and are an important safety precaution. When the fire alarm is heard within the building, all students, staff, and visitors must exit the building through designated exits which are clearly posted near the door inside each room. Classroom teachers will accompany their students out of the building and take attendance once outside. The principal and building engineer will provide the “all clear” signal for students and staff to re-enter the building. Please reinforce with your children that tampering with fire alarms or fire fighting equipment at the school is punishable by law. Tornado drills are completed in conjunction with the statewide tornado awareness week in April of each year. Teachers also review tornado drill procedures at the beginning of each year. Each room has a designated safe site location within the building which is posted on the inside of each classroom. Safe-site drills are conducted yearly to insure the ongoing safety of students. During a safe-site drill, all classrooms are locked, lights are turned off, and students are moved to a safe/hidden section of the classroom. An announcement is made to initiate this drill. This procedure would be used if an intruder entered the building or if there was some impending danger either inside or outside of the school building. School evacuation - In the event that we would need to evacuate our building at anytime when students are present, buses will provide transportation to McKinley School. All students would be held in the gym area at McKinley for parent pick up. Parents must sign each student out. Radio and television stations would be contacted to broadcast information about a school evacuation. If an evacuation were to occur, it is very important for you to be patient and follow procedures in order to maintain a safe and orderly transition for all students.
Homework is important because it reinforces what has been learned in class, prepares students for future lessons, teaches organization and responsibility, encourages innovation and creativity, and helps students to develop good work habits. Homework also acquaints parents with what their children are learning in school. Based on school instruction and guided practice, students should be able to successfully complete work at home within a reasonable amount of time. Homework is an integral part of the learning process requiring shared responsibility of teachers, parents and students. What are the students’ homework responsibilities? Students will: · Have the responsibility to complete the assignment and return the completed assignment to school. · Have the responsibility of communicating any confusion regarding the assignment to teachers. · Clearly communicate homework assignments to parents using a take-home folder and/or assignment notebook. · Request and complete any missed assignments due to absences or missed class time. What are the teachers’ homework responsibilities? Teachers will: · Provide variety in homework assignments: review, practice and enrichment. · Provide expectations for homework quality and due dates. · Individualize homework assignments when necessary. · Review and provide feedback for all homework. · Clearly communicate homework assignments through the use of a take-home folder and/or assignment notebook. · Monitor completion and quality of assignments and determine consequences for incomplete work. What are the parents’ homework responsibilities? Parents will: · Promote a positive attitude and outlook toward homework. · Understand that the responsibility of homework rests with the child and that by doing the work for the child it will not help the child. · Provide support when asked by the child. · Communicate concerns regarding student needs/frustrations to the teacher. · Provide the necessary time, a quiet study area, and needed supplies for the student. · Check assignment notebook and/or take-home folder on a daily basis. Sign the notebook if requested by the teacher. Interest and support is the most important factor in insuring success in school for the child. When the students, teachers, and parents work together, the results of this teamwork are evident in the student’s progress and success in school.
The LMC has a wide array of books, magazines, computer programs, and other materials for students to use for their homework and their enjoyment. All circulating materials must be checked out of the LMC. Our school uses an automated checkout system that tracks all of our materials. Student bar code IDs are used for this. Fines are assessed and collected for materials not returned on time or in good condition. Please help your children remember to turn in books and help them distinguish the Janet Berry Elementary School library books from those of the public library or classroom. Public library books, which are mistakenly returned to the JANET BERRY LMC, will be held there until claimed. Our media center is not affiliated with the public library, and our staff cannot return materials there for you. The Janet Berry LMC seeks parent volunteers to perform the necessary tasks to keep books and materials in order and to help students in any way they can. Recruiting and training are generally done in September; however, volunteers are welcome throughout the school year. If you are interested, please contact Carrie Cook, LMC Director, through the school office at 832-5750. Books, magazines, and parent resources are available for parents to check out. All parents must sign up for a library card in the LMC. Lost or Damaged Library Books - Students are responsible for taking care of all materials checked out of the LMC. Students will be responsible for the cost of lost or damaged books.
Students are provided with the textbooks necessary for their classes. The school fee that is collected at the beginning of each year is for rental of the books and does not cover damage to the books due to neglect or carelessness. If a student’s textbook is damaged beyond repair or beyond what is reasonably expected from normal use, the student may be fined. Please help your children cover their textbooks and care for them properly. Letters notifying parents of damage to textbooks will be sent out when the damage occurs or after the books have been collected at the end of the year.
We collect kindergarten milk money on a yearly basis. The milk will begin on the first day of school. If you wish to purchase 2% white milk for your child, the cost is $60.00 per year. We encourage all families to pay for kindergarten milk during our Facts and Fees days held in August prior to the start of school.
The lost and found department is located in the office. An incredible number of items are lost each school year and never claimed. Students should check the lost and found during their recess time when they have lost something. Lost schoolbooks are turned over directly to teachers. Please label your child’s outdoor clothing, boots, and books so these items can be returned when they are misplaced. Lost and found items are placed in the cabinet in the office and will be put on display during parent/teacher conferences. After conferences and at the end of each school year, unclaimed items will be sent to a local charity organization. We do not make general announcements to locate individual items. Students who wear retainers often accidentally throw them away with their lunch garbage. Please establish a routine with your child to help prevent this. Digging through bags of lunch garbage is not a fun process. If a student loses something, they should first check their desk and coat hook areas and the surrounding areas.
Medications at School/ Self Medication – Elementary Schools
Medications may be administered to your children at school at your request. However, you must carefully follow the procedures listed in the District’s Medication Administration in the School Setting policy (refer to District Handbook). You can obtain the forms for this from the school office. Very strict procedures are followed for the distribution of medications in the school setting. Please talk with your child’s physician to discuss options so that your child does not need to take medication in the school setting. Most medications can be given before and after the school day with equal effectiveness. Although it is permitted, and it sometimes is necessary for students to carry and administer their own medication, this is not recommended for elementary students. If a parent wants their child to possess medication for self-administration, the parent should contact the school nurse to discuss this. Due to a change in state law and district policy, asthma inhalers and controlled substances (such as Ritalin, Adderall, & Codeine) need parent and physician authorization in order to be self-administered. Authorization forms are available in the school office. Please contact the school nurse if you have any questions.
Do you have a question or concern about what is happening at Janet Berry Elementary School? Please be sure that you and your children read this handbook and a current copy of The Berry Patch for information related to school policies, procedures, and events. If you still have questions, please call the school office at 832-5750. If you have concerns about anything that happens within the school or on the playground, please do not hesitate to contact the individual staff member that is most directly connected to the situation. If no resolution is reached, then contact the building principal. Parent and student input are always welcome and are an important part of the school improvement process. Consistent with Appleton Board of Education policy, anonymous calls and letters are disregarded.
The policy of the Appleton Public Schools is: ·Every child must go out at recess unless he/she has a written excuse from his/her physician which details the child’s condition and why being outside would be detrimental to them. In most cases if a child is dressed appropriately, being outside does not cause illness or make their current condition worse. ·Every child must participate in gym activities. To be excused, he/she must provide a written excuse from his/her physician.
School fees are assessed at the beginning of each school year and are primarily a rental fee for the textbooks and equipment used by your child during the year (see Textbooks). Students who enter school later in the year are assessed pro-rated fees. Fees for the upcoming school year are $30.00 for each child in grades K - 6, or $15.00 for each child in half-day kindergarten or early childhood classes. Families for whom the fees pose a financial hardship may apply to have these fees waived. Waiver forms are available in the office. Applications are treated confidentially.
We have one telephone located on the office counter that is available to students and parents at any time in an emergency. Classroom phones may also be used with the permission of the teacher. Each Berry staff member has a special security code that must be entered in order to make an outgoing call from a school phone. Parents who have emergency messages for their child should call the school office to have the message relayed. Students will not be permitted to use school phones to arrange after-school activities or to make other non-emergency calls. These activities must be planned in advance along with parents. Parents must write a note for their child if they are expected to go home with another child or if there is a change in their normal routine.
Cell Phones (District Policy) - Students are not permitted to use a cell phone at any time during the school day. Unique safety situations that might require cell phone use at the end of the day should be discussed with the building principal. Principal approval is needed for the student to have the cell phone in school. Parents should write a letter to the principal indicating why the student needs to have a cell phone. Approved phones must be stored in backpacks and turned off during the school day. Any student who violates these expectations will not be allowed to have a cell phone at school. Cell phones not approved will be collected in the school office.
All parents, guests, and other visitors must sign in and out in the school office for the safety of our students and staff. You will find the sign-in book and visitor badges on the main office counter. Name tags are used to allow staff to identify visitors. Any visitor who does not have a name tag should be asked to report to the office to sign in. Visits to individual classrooms must be arranged in advance with teachers. It is expected that all visitors have a specific purpose when they visit our school. It is the responsibility of all staff and parents to see that adults entering our building are following the sign-in procedure and are wearing a visitor badge. Parents must follow this policy at all times of the day. Do not hesitate to direct someone to the check in table if they do not have a name tag on. The safety of everyone in our building is a top priority. Parents may not check in at the end of the day to meet their child outside of the classroom. Your child will be called to the office or can meet you in the school lobby, bike rack area, or other designated location.
Janet Berry has a security camera that monitors our main entrance. This camera allows our building secretaries to monitor individuals who enter our building throughout the day.
Parking, Morning Drop off, and Afternoon Pick-Up
We have made significant improvements to our parking lot by adding additional short and long term parking stalls, as well as paint and signs to help direct traffic flow. All traffic must flow in from the two north side entrances and out of the west exit. The key is that all parents, staff, and visitors must use the parking areas and drop off areas in the way they were intended. The following are a few reminders to help make our parking and drop-off/pick-up areas safer. Items on the list have all been tried by our parents at some point and time.
SCHOOL AND STUDENT ACTIVITIES
As new students enter throughout the school year, student “ambassadors” are assigned to the new students to help them become more comfortable with Janet Berry Elementary School. The ambassadors are chosen at the beginning of the school year. They meet with the school guidance counselor throughout the year during the lunch period to plan for meeting new students and updating the needs of the program
Band classes are restricted to 6th grade students because of staff limitations. (Students who have had private instruction prior to 6th grade may be eligible to participate also, depending on their degree of proficiency and the availability of instruments.) Band instruction emphasizes listening skills as well as performing skills. Willingness to practice outside of band lessons/class is of utmost importance. Instructional performances are held during the school day for students and parents.
The Special Edition chorus is a group of 5th and 6th grade boys and girls who enjoy singing. The Special Edition chorus rehearses twice a week, during lunch recess from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. throughout the school year. They perform in the two school concerts that are held in the evening, one in the winter and one in the spring. Other performance opportunities may be scheduled during the year, such as the White Heron Chorale performance at Lawrence University. Any 5th or 6th grade student is welcome to be a member of this chorus. They sing unison, two and three-part harmony, and often add simple choreography to some of their songs. Members of the chorus must strive to attend all rehearsals and performances.
String instruments instruction is available to all 4th through 6th grade students. Third grade students wishing to participate may do so, providing parents attend the lessons with them. In Appleton, all string instruction follows the Suzuki philosophy that emphasizes learning to play by ear before note reading is begun, and encourages parental involvement and practice outside the school day. Students may perform for their peers during the school day and for parents at special evening events. If your child is interested in participating in this activity, you can contact the program teacher directly.
Peer Helpers are students who are selected by their peers and by staff to promote appropriate student conduct, plan unique projects, communicate directly with other students in the classroom setting, and to provide specific support for individual students. Staff advisors work with Peer Helpers to develop and plan for school-wide activities throughout the year.
The Berry School Safety Patrol is open to any interested 5th and 6th grade student who has shown responsibility both in and out of the classroom. Patrol members serve on corners and at driveways around the school on a rotating basis, where it is their responsibility to promote safety by helping students cross streets and obey safety standards. They serve as an example to their peers. Patrol members are trained at the beginning of each year. Safety Patrol members are responsible for being at their assigned post on time. Patrol duty is demanding, especially during the long winter months. Safety patrol meetings are held as needed throughout the school year. All safety patrol members are invited to attend an end-of-the-year reward trip to a water park. The school safety patrol is under the guidance of a school faculty advisor.
The Janet Berry Elementary Student Council is a student organization with representation from grades K - 6. K-2 Students participate on a more limited basis. Students in grades 3-6 provide group leadership to promote activities, spirit days, and community service. Class representatives from grades 3-6 and officers are elected each year. Becoming a member of Student Council offers students an opportunity to learn leadership skills and correct procedures for running business meetings. The Student Council generally promotes school spirit through special days during the school year and looks for opportunities to participate in community service activities. Members are responsible for communicating with their classrooms, and are required to attend monthly meetings. Staff advisors provide guidance and direction for the group.
Janet Berry 6th grade students can participate in a state sponsored forensics program. Faculty advisors work directly with students during recesses and after school to develop presentation skills that will allow them to be successful at two organized forensic meets held on Saturdays. Advisors will work directly with students to select and prepare for presentations. Parental support for additional practice is also expected.
Staff members are encouraged to initiate community service activities with students in order to develop an early commitment and understanding of what it means to give back to a community. Student and staff ideas are developed, organized, and completed at different times during the school year. Local scouting groups are also encouraged to complete community service activities.
Fifth and Sixth grade students are selected each year to serve as the school flag raisers. These students work as a team to make sure that the Wisconsin flag and the United States flag are properly displayed and lowered during each school day throughout the year. Students must put the flag up and down in all conditions and always maintain proper care and respect. Flag raisers meet as a group during the year to discuss ways to increase school awareness of our flag and to promote patriotism. Interested students meet to form teams and develop a rotating schedule. This group is supervised by the building principal.
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Art Club is an after school enrichment opportunity that in the past met on selected dates over the course of the year. Art Club currently does not have an advisor and is not fuctioning.
The Bike Club is open to all interested 5th and 6th grade students. Bicycle safety and recreational riding are emphasized, and all riders are required to use a helmet. Students are taught the value and process of developing physical fitness and improving their riding endurance and skill. Short (8-10 mile) and long (10-15 mile) rides are held Tuesdays and Thursdays in April and May. Parents are welcome to join in the fun. Rides end between 4:30 and 5:00 p.m., depending on the route. Contact Dan Lynch at school if you are interested in participating in any of the rides. In the past, either an overnight bike ride on the Elroy/Sparta trail or a day long ride on local trails served as a culminating activity.
Run Club is an after school opportunity for students in grades 5 and 6 to develop skills in both short and long distance running. The Bobcat track and area sidewalks are utilized for training. Run Club begins at 3:16 and ends at 4:15. Students must be willing to continue to improve their own personal endurance during either the fall or spring sessions.
Do you like to try new things, camp outdoors, go on adventures with other boys? Join Cub Scouts and have the time of your life. Registration materials are available at Facts and Fees Day or from the Cub Master during the year.
There are three levels of Girl Scouts: Daisies (Kindergarten), Brownies (1st – 3rd grades), and Juniors (4th – 6th grades). Some troops meet after school; others meet in the evening. Registration for Girl Scouts will be held during the Facts and Fees Day. If you were unable to register at that time, contact your troop leader or call our school coordinators if you have any questions.
The intramural sports program will run throughout the school year both before and after school. There will be a wide variety of sports activities featured. This program is designed for all different grade levels. Students at all skill levels are encouraged to participate in any/all of the activities. There is no cost involved, and it is a great way to keep active over the colder months of the school year. Intramurals may be before school, during recess, or after school. Parent permission is required. Intramural schedules are published in each school newsletter. Morning intramurals begin at 7:45 a.m. and end at 8:15 a.m. After school intramurals are held from 3:16 - 4:00 p.m. The intramural schedule is published every two weeks in the school newsletter and on the school website.
KidStage is a for profit company that offers an after school theatrical experience for interested students in grades K - 6. Practices are held in the LGI and performances are at the PAC Little Theatre. Registration and payment are all made through KidStage.
Recreation Department Team Sports
Seasonal information can be obtained from the Appleton Parks and Recreation office through the web link below. http://www.appleton.org/departments/?department=6fbb3e4ba77d
PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)
Janet Berry PTO Mission Statement
The members of the Janet Berry PTO are advocates for children. We are a community volunteer organization composed of parents, school staff, and other interested individuals, whose purpose is to enrich the education, health, and safety of all children in the Janet Berry Elementary School community.
PTO Membership
The Janet Berry PTO is open to any parent, school staff member, or other interested individual who has an interest in Janet Berry Elementary School. Annual dues are $10.00 per family for the year or $5.00 for an individual. All funds remain with the Janet Berry PTO to support activities throughout the year. PTO meetings are listed through the link below. All meetings are held in the LGI next to the LMC. All parents are strongly encouraged to get involved with the PTO through a variety of opportunities listed below. Contact our PTO President for more information.
Berry Bobcat Fund – This is a new program that enables parents to give a tax-deductible donation to Janet Berry School. Funds are used to support students in need of financial assistance to support their attendance on class field trips. Berry Wear - Selling clothing featuring Janet Berry logo/artwork enhances school pride and raises money for PTO activities. This committee compiles and delivers orders for the school sportswear in the fall. It determines if new designs or items will be offered. Berry O’Rama - This is an end of year all-school activity where students participate in a wide variety of fun indoor/outdoor games and activities. The coordinator works with volunteers to set up the games, rotation schedule, and communicates with staff about procedures. Book Fair - Coordinators of this fall and end of the year event solicit volunteers to staff the checkout table during the week in which the Book Fair is held. Our Book Fairs will be held in the fall during Parent/Teacher Conferences and again at the end of the school year. All proceeds from our book fairs go directly back into each classroom and our library in the form of new books. Box Tops for Education - This committee organizes the collection of Box Tops of Education that are given to the school by Berry families throughout the year. Leaders pack and prepare items for shipment to the redemption centers. The Box Top collection bin is located in the school lobby. By-Laws Committee - Members of this committee will do the required revision to the PTO’s By-Laws every three years. This committee only forms every three years when revision is required. Communications - Members of this committee write or edit short articles for presentation in the weekly Berry Patch or other necessary communications such as meeting notices and bulletin board displays. Dave Hash Memorial Scholarship Fund - This committee recruits and reviews applications from graduating seniors from Appleton East High School who attended Janet Berry in the past. One $500.00 scholarship is awarded each year. Family Activities - Committee members help to plan enjoyable all-school activities in which Janet Berry families are encouraged to participate. These could include Back to School Night, Welcome Back Coffee, Coffee Chats, family dances or other unique Family Fun Nights. Foreign Language Introduction Program (FLIP) - This is a self-supporting program that provides an introduction to various foreign languages and cultures for students in 1st through 6th grades. Approximately eight one-half hour sessions are held during the lunch hour, before school, or after school over a two month period. Committee members recruit language teachers from the community and oversee the registration process. The cost for each participant has been approximately $30.00. All funds are used to pay for instructors and materials. Languages offered in the past include Spanish, French, German, Russian, and sign language. Students gain a basic understanding and vocabulary of each language. Fundraising - While fundraising is not a primary goal of the PTO, we do need to obtain funds in order to provide enrichment programs and events for Janet Berry students and families. Funds raised are used to directly support the PTO budget, PTO initiatives throughout the school year and to help support programs that benefit all students. Fundraisers are generally held every other year to fund a two year budget. Membership - Chairs of this committee encourage parents and teachers to join the PTO, keep records of all members and promote attendance at PTO meetings through a variety of creative and amusing measures. Nominating - This committee solicits nominations from the membership for each office of the PTO. After soliciting nominations in February of each year, the committee contacts nominated individuals to garner acceptance or regrets and submits the proposed slate of officer nominations to the general membership of the PTO at the April meeting. Picture Day - This group solicits volunteers to work with personnel from a photo studio during school picture days held in the fall and spring of the year. Organizing students and money envelopes, keeping track of names, following a specific schedule and combing back stray hairs are the main duties for this twice a year commitment. Popcorn Days - Members of this committee spend time one Friday a month taking orders, popping popcorn, and distributing the bags to children in their classrooms. Members also purchase needed supplies and maintain the popping equipment throughout the year. Pre-Kindergarten Story Hour - This is a series of three or four one-hour sessions held in the spring as an opportunity for pre-kindergarten students to become acquainted with the school, meet the support staff, spend time in the kindergarten rooms, and meet other students from the school district. Sessions are held during the day and in the evening for parental convenience. Parents drop their children off and return for pick-up. The coordinator makes the necessary arrangements with the kindergarten teachers and notifies the families of pre-registered kindergartners about the program. Reading Superstars - This committee promotes reading in all grades through its yearly themes. Members of this committee promote and organize the program, plan and supervise incentive activities, and coordinate the culminating events. Room Parents - One or two room parents are designated for each classroom. They assist the teachers in arranging for parent volunteers and in disseminating information regarding special classroom projects, field trips, or events. Room parents are selected and rotated each year based on those who express an interest on the PTO volunteer form. SCRIP - This committee coordinates, collects funds, and orders scrip gift cards. Scrip will be distributed on either a bi-monthly or monthly basis. What is Scrip? Scrip is “substitute money”. When consumers purchase scrip, they receive negotiable certificates or cards that can be used like cash to purchase products or services from merchants who have issued them. Scrip can be used to purchase anything from groceries, fuel, clothing, toys, and cosmetics to entertainment, electronics, home improvement, or household services. Offering freedom of choice and versatility, scrip is also a great gift idea for anyone and any occasion. Nevertheless, What makes scrip a valuable and effective fundraising tool for your organization is that as your members use it to buy their favorite products and services, a percentage comes back directly to the PTO. Sixth Grade Farewell - This evening event is organized and presented by 5th grade students and their parents as a special evening to honor all exiting 6th graders. Coordinators of this event oversee all aspects of the evening. Typically, the event has involved setting up, taking down, decorating, soliciting, or purchasing refreshments, and developing a program agenda. Each year, a professionally prepared 6th grade farewell video featuring a collection of student photos and video has been produced and shared on this evening. Staff Appreciation/Parent-Teacher Conference Meals for Staff - This committee plans activities throughout the year and during staff appreciation week to show the staff our appreciation for a job well done! The committee also plans meals and snacks for the staff during Parent/Teacher conferences in the fall and spring. Coordinating the donation or purchase of the meal items is also a responsibility. Three for Me - This is a parent involvement program designed to get more people to do less. The goal is to get every parent at Janet Berry to agree to volunteer a total of three hours during the school year. Just about anything you do to be involved counts. This committee will help in a variety of areas such as tracking volunteer hours, writing out promise cards and completion cards for volunteers, helping to direct parents who want to volunteer to the correct committee; just to name a few. Welcoming Committee - This committee helps new families get acclimated to Janet Berry. If requested, new families will be connected with a current Berry family. The current Berry family will be available to answer questions as they arise throughout the year. Wellness - Representative coordinates the vision screening process and considers future health programs, working closely with the school nurse to achieve their goals. The safety aspect of this committee oversees the PTO’s commitment to the safety of school children by addressing a wide variety of current safety concerns for our children. Attendance at a district sponsored Healthy Kid’s Institute is encouraged, as well as ongoing participation on the site-based Wellness Committee with staff. Yearbook - This committee works on accumulating pictures of events held throughout the school year. They work with representatives of Lifetouch Studios to compile a memory book for students to look back at their days at Janet Berry Elementary School. The entire book layout is planned and prepared by this group. This group also coordinates group pictures of all student groups to be included in the yearbook.
PTO Calendar of Events - 2010-11 August
October November December January February March April 5/5 – PTO board meeting (2:00pm)
School Board Meetings All district school board meetings are posted on the district website through the link below. http://www.aasd.k12.wi.us/Schoolboard/schedule.html
APPENDIX A SCHOOL POLICIES JANET BERRY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BEHAVIOR EXCELLENCE PLAN
The goal of these guidelines is to ensure that Janet Berry Elementary School has a learning environment in which our students feel challenged, involved, safe, and comfortable. Students are responsible to each other for behavior that exhibits respect for human dignity and individual differences. All Janet Berry students and staff share the responsibility of maintaining a safe climate that promotes and encourages learning. Students have a right to know the guidelines for expected behavior and be assured that they are consistent throughout the school. Our primary goal is to prepare students to be contributing members of a society that uses a democratic process. Students should recognize that they are in jeopardy of losing their rights when their actions infringe on the rights, needs or property of others.
I. General Principles Regarding Discipline The Janet Berry Elementary School expected student behaviors within the classrooms, in the lunchroom, on the playground, on a school bus, or walking to or from school are all based on the following three ideas. Is what you are doing.............. 1. Safe 2. Respectful 3. Responsible
II. Safe and Accepting School Environment Expectations Every child at Janet Berry has a right to come to school in a safe and accepting environment. Bullying - When a student is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions on the part of one or more other students. Negative action can include inflicting injury or discomfort through physical contact, threatening, taunting, teasing, name calling, taking of personal items or food, exclusion from groups, and making gestures or faces. It may be done in person, away from the individual, in writing, by phone or through the use of the internet. Some serious incidents may occur only one time. Rule # 1 1. I will not bully others Rule #2 If I see bullying... 1. I will try to help students who are bullied 2. I will include students who are easily left out 3. When I know somebody is being bullied, I will tell an adult at school or an adult at home
III. Behaviors Expected Throughout the School - Students Should: 1. Act in a safe and healthy way (Be Safe) 2. Respect the rights and needs of others (Be Respectful) 3. Respect authority (all staff) at all times (Be Respectful) 4. Treat all property with care (Be Respectful) 5. Use proper language (Be Respectful) 6. Not chew gum or eat candy during the school day (Be Respectful and Responsible) 7. Take responsibility for learning and learning tools (Be Responsible) 8. Treat others with fairness and courtesy (Be Respectful) 9. Not wear clothes that will detract from the learning environment (Be Responsible) 10. Not wear hats in the building (Be Respectful)
IV. Behaviors Expected in our Hallways and Stairways - To be safe, respectful, and responsible, students will: 1. Walk through the hallways and up/down stairs in a quiet, orderly manner, keeping hands to self 2. Walk down the right side of the hallway 3. Proceed directly to their destination 4. Not disturb hallway and bulletin board displays
V. Behaviors Expected in our Lunchroom - To be safe, respectful, and responsible, students will: 1. Go through the lunch line in a quiet and orderly manner 2. Talk only to immediate neighbors using an inside voice. 3. Stay seated until excused by tables 4. Ask permission to use the bathroom 5. Raise hand for assistance with opening milk cartons, packages, or for other needs 6. Consume food only in the cafeteria 7. Not share their food with others, play with it, or throw it. 8. Clean the table and pick up all trash and food from the floor in their areas before leaving 9. Dispose of their trash in the proper place 10. Stack their tray neatly. 11. Stop talking when an adult claps - repeat the rhythm back.
VI. Behaviors Expected on the Playground— To be safe, respectful, and responsible, students will: 1. Play in designated areas 2. Not play roughly 3. Take turns on equipment and in games 4. Line up behind their homeroom line ready to enter the building in a quiet, orderly fashion immediately after the bell rings 5. Avoid puddles, sticks, snowballs and ice 6. Use equipment properly 7. Not interfere with games or play that is in progress 8. Stay on designated play area at all times 9. Report to a supervisor when hurt 10. Use the bathroom before you go out for recess except in emergencies 11. Dress appropriately for the weather
VII. Behaviors Expected on the Bus (To and From School and on Field Trips) - To be safe, respectful, and responsible, students should: 1. Walk from the building to the bus or from the bus to the field trip location. 2. Respect the authority of the bus driver 3. Not touch or open the emergency door 4. Keep heads and hands inside the bus 5. Stay seated 6. Not throw things in or out of the bus 7. Keep the bus a clean and safe place 8. Wait for the bus in a single file line in the hallway. 9. Treat others fairly and courteously on the bus. 10. Treat bus property with respect 11. Maintain an appropriate volume
VIII. Behaviors Expected During Assemblies— To be safe, respectful, and responsible, students should: 1. Be attentive, respectful, and courteous at all times 2. Sit on their bottoms. 3. Maintain a good seated position where no others are touched.
IX. Staff Responsibilities in Matters of School Discipline 1. Consistent progressive consequences will be implemented that can be enforced by all 2. Students need to be taught manners and expectations at school 3. Respect for others should be modeled in everything we do 4. Every classroom teacher should provide supervision in and out of the classroom setting. 5. Teachers should be present in the halls as students go to and come in from recess 6. If students are allowed into the classroom early, that teacher is to supervise those students 7. A supervisor will let students in the outside door; students do not come in on their own 8. Outdoor supervisors should circulate on the playground so all areas are adequately covered
X. Classroom Meetings All classroom teachers conduct periodic meetings with the students in their classroom to discuss expectations for behavior, acceptance of other students, identifying and eliminating bullying behaviors, planning for special classroom events, and dealing with ongoing social issues that have an impact on the classroom. The class is usually arranged in a circle, either in chairs or on the floor. This arrangement allows all students to see and hear one another during the discussion. Students have an opportunity to discuss issues openly. Classroom meetings provide an effective structure to maintain a safe and accepting classroom and school environment.
CONSEQUENCES FOR NOT FOLLOWING EXPECTED BEHAVIORS
One written set of consequences, while bringing about perceived consistency, is unfair and unrealistic. We believe each student has individual, academic, social, physical, and emotional needs. In order to meet the wide variety of needs, each child needs to have consequences for not following expected behaviors. These consequences should effectively and expediently promote responsible behavior while extinguishing detrimental behaviors. The consequence should be logically connected to the offense and should become more severe with repeated offenses. Certain offenses that are particularly severe including theft, fights, abusive behaviors, bullying, destruction of property, interfering with the education of others, or other severe behaviors may result in more severe consequences without prior offenses. Consequences may include: verbal discussion, correcting the problem, assigning time outs for a designated period of time, activity restrictions, loss of privileges, written or verbal apologies, community service, making a plan for return to classroom or playground, contacting parents, in-house suspension served in the principal’s office, out of school suspension, referral to the police school liaison officer, or expulsion from school.
JANET BERRY PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT GUIDELINES
In order for the students to be safe, respectful, and responsible, we need them to follow these guidelines on the playground. ·Enter equipment by using ramp and ladders only ·Exit equipment by using slide, ramp, or stairways ·No sitting or standing on railings. ·Playing tag is not allowed on the gym set ·No running on the equipment.
Slides ·Students must slide down on their seats, facing forward ·It is unsafe to climb up the slide. Students should use the ramp, stairs, or ladders ·Wait for the previous person to exit the landing area before sliding down
Monkey Bars ·Traveling on the monkey bars is a one-way street, with one person traveling along at a time ·Skipping bars is permitted ·Landing should be by stepping on the end platform, or landing on both feet on the wood chips ·It is unsafe to crawl across the top of the monkey bars
Swings ·The blue swing is for all children; however, children with disabilities take precedence ·One person per swing ·Students should sit as one would normally sit in the swing ·Swing to and fro only, keeping hands and feet to self ·Do not jump out of swing ·Pushes are allowed ·It is not safe for students to link legs and swing as a group ·It is not safe to twist the swing chains around themselves
Playground Balls ·Playground balls are to be housed in the recess bin. ·Students taking a playground ball from the recess bin are to return it to the recess bin when finished ·Playground balls should not be kicked against the school or on the school roof ·The recess rack should be brought into the school after the last recess of the day or if it rains during a recess period
Teeter-Totter ·Up to three students may sit on the teeter-totter bench per side ·Students remain seated at all times. Tire Swing ·The tire swing can hold up to three students at a time. ·The students getting the ride sit with their legs and feet inside the tire and hold onto the chains with both hands. ·Twirlers/pushers carefully push the riders. Recess children determine the number of pushes the riders get. Each rider gets the same amount of pushes. No one gets more or less than another person. ·Students waiting their turn should stand back behind the support bars.
Teen Center ·Playground balls may be used in the funnel ball area only ·The teen center has monkey bars. The same monkey bar rules apply (see previous monkey bar rules). ·There are balance pods on the teen center. Students may walk across the balance pods, jump, hop, or march. No running is allowed. ·When jumping off, land on the wood chips on both feet. ·Some balance pods have a pole through the middle. The pole is for extra balance. There is no climbing up the balance pod poles. ·The teen center has ring sail loop. The students need to take turns sailing the ring around the loop. ·All hands must be clear of the blue loop when doing this activity, as they could pinch their fingers with the ring as it sails around the loop.
The Fitness Center · The fitness center is designed for all students in their physical education class. · During recess, the fitness center may only be used by 3rd through 6th grade students. ·Any teacher wishing to use the fitness center for their physical education class has precedence over all children at recess. Recess students must leave and go to another area for recess. · The monkey bar rules previously mentioned apply to the fitness center. ·The high bars (2) are only for hanging by the hands or doing pull ups. No one should hang upside down or do any turns on the high bars. No swinging. Always land on both feet. ·The low bars (2) are for hangs and turns. · If hanging by the knees on a low bar, one hand must be on the low bar for extra safety. · Balance beams are one-way streets to be determined by the students who are using them. · The fitness center is not a tag area. · There should be no playground balls of any kind used at the fitness center. ·The parallel bars are for balancing on hands, balancing and walking on hands, or for nest hanging. Nest hanging is holding on one bar with both hands, while both feet are on the other bar, stomachs facing the sky. ·No one should ever hang or climb the diagonal support between the high bars and the parallel bars in the fitness center.
Half Circle Climber · Students climb from one step area to the next · Students move in one direction · Climbing, jumping off, walking, and swinging are allowed · When jumping off, always land on both feet
Snake · The snake holds a classroom of students · Sit on the snake like sitting on a horse. It will move up and down. · If there are six or fewer students on the snake, they may walk on it as if on a balance beam.
Fields · Physical education classes take precedence over recess activities ·The fields are for games of higher organization, such as tag, football, soccer, softball, etc. |
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