2016-2017 student and family handbook
TRANSCRIPT
“All Students Ready for College, Careers, and Life”
Orting Primary School
2016-2017
Student and Family Handbook
Principal Lisa U. Couch
316 Washington Avenue N
Orting, Washington 98360
Phone: (360) 893-2248
Fax: (360) 893-4489
Website: www.ortingschools.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ortingprimaryschool
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TABLE OF CONTENTS District Information
District Addresses and Phone Numbers 2 Orting School District Non-Discrimination Statement 2
Orting School District Board of Directors 3 District Leadership Team 3 OSD Mission Statement 3 PTA Contact Information and Meeting Times 4 National School Lunch Program 4
Orting School District 2016-2017 Calendar 5 Orting Primary
Orting Primary School – Welcome to the 2016-2017 School Year 6 Orting Primary School – Home of the Cougars – Mission/Vision 7 Orting Primary Staff Directory 8
Daily Procedures General Information/Hours/Schedules 9 Arrival/Early Dismissal/Student Drop-off & Pick-Up 10 Back Gate/Bus & Daycare Zones/West Wing/Flag Pole 11 Absences & Attendance Procedures Attendance/Safe Arrival Procedures 12 Absences 13 Notifications – Absences & Tardy 14
Plan for Good Attendance 14 Academics
Curriculum 15 Fines 15 Homework 15 Report Cards 16
Celebrations Birthdays 16 School Parties 16 Communication Written 16 Telephone, Voicemail, Email, Family Access, Messages 17 Contact Information 17 Discipline
School-wide Guidelines & Expectations 18 Incentives, Consequences, Anti-Bullying 19
Dress Code 20 Emergency Procedures Drills 20 Flash Alert 20 Field Trips 21 Health Procedures Illnesses/Fever 21 Prescriptions 21 Contagious Conditions 22 Money, Personal Belongings & Valuables 22 Pets at School 23 Recess 23
Conflict Resolution – Kelso’s Choice 24 Playground Rules 25-26 Transportation Bus, Bicycles, Scooters, Walking 27 Visitors & Volunteers 27-28 Weather 29 Title I Parent & Family Engagement Policy, Family/School Learning Compact 30-31 Acknowledgement of Receipt & Anti-Bullying Pledge 32-33
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DISTRICT ADDRESSES & PHONE NUMBERS
Orting Primary School Principal: Lisa U. Couch 316 Washington Ave N Assistant Principal: Lori E. Cottle Orting, WA 98360 Phone: (360) 893-2248
Fax: (360) 893-4489
Ptarmigan Ridge Intermediate School Principal: Alicia Jensen 805 Old Pioneer Way NW Assistant Principal: Nate Sears Orting, WA 98360 Phone: (360) 893-0595 Fax: (360) 893-0603
Orting Middle School Principal: Dave Slagle 111 Whitehawk Blvd NW Assistant Principal: Kim Herd Orting, WA 98360 Phone: (360) 893-3565 Fax: (360) 893-2919
Orting High School Principal: Diane Fox 320 Washington Ave N Assistant Principal: Cliff Fries Orting, WA 98360 Phone: (360) 893-2246
Fax: (360) 893-5701
Orting School District Superintendent: Dr. Marci Shepard 121 Whitesell St NE Executive Director: Aaron Lee Orting, WA 98360 Phone: (360) 893-6500
Fax: (360) 893-2300
Non-Discrimination Statement: The Orting School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race,
creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual
orientation, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, disability, or the use of a trained dog
guide or service animal by a person with a disability and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and
other designated youth groups.
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ORTING SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Director of District 1: Laura Oriolt Director of District 2: Stanley Holland Director of District 3: Jake Hanes Director of District 4: Kay Lynn Smartt Director of District 5: Tyson Bryant The School Board meets at the Orting School District Board Room and Training Center on the first Thursday of each month at 5:00 pm.
DISTRICT LEADERSHIP TEAM Dr. Marci Shepard, Superintendent Aaron Lee, Executive Director for Learning and Instruction Christopher Willis, Executive Director of Student Services Marion Leach, Executive Director for Human Resources Marci Bannan, Executive Director for Finance and Operations Jody Leonard, Assessment Coordinator Myra Andrews, Payroll Debbie Yanez, Accounts Payable Carrie Joy, Human Resources (Classified) Terry Van Zanten, Human Resources (Certificated) John Christian, Maintenance Supervisor Barb Woolery, Transportation Supervisor Joanne Petredis, Food Service Supervisor Jason Rudolph, Director of Technology Deanna Wulff, RN, BSN, Health Services Christine Couch, Rn, Health Services
Orting School District Mission Statement: All Students Ready for College, Careers, and Life.
Orting School District Vision Statement: All students will develop knowledge, skills and attitudes to be successful life-long learners and engaged citizens in a diverse, global society. We will achieve this through:
Quality instruction in every classroom
Articulated, aligned curriculum and assessments across the system
21st century teaching, learning and leading In everything we do, we will:
Focus on learning, collaboration, results and continuous improvement
Ensure data-driven decisions
Provide equity of opportunities and resources
Communicate with and engage students, families, staff and community Critical questions that guide our work:
What do all students need to know and be able to do?
How will we know they have learned it?
What will we do when they haven’t learned it?
What will we do when they already know it?
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PTA CONTACT INFORMATION AND MEETING TIMES
The Orting Combined PTA serves K-8 schools in the district and is a member of the National Parent
Teacher Association. There is a $10 membership fee. General meetings are held at Ptarmigan Ridge
Elementary at 5:00pm on the second Monday of the month.
This year’s officers are:
President: Cassie Sulfridge Vice President: Trena Garrison
Secretary: Chelsea Goldin Treasurer: Mary Walsh Christina Johnson
Fundraiser Chair: Michele Nielson Legislative Chair: Mary Walsh
Address: PO Box 1568 Phone: 253-256-2652
Orting, WA 98360 Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ortingpta
Dear Families~
The Orting Combined PTS is an essential part of our school. They sponsor
a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. The students
at Orting Primary School would miss out on many wonderful opportunities if
it were not for the dedication of our PTA members. Please join this
worthwhile group! Your children and hour school really do need you!
Yours in Partnership,
Lisa U. Couch, Principal of Orting Primary School
National School Lunch Program
A monthly menu is sent home and offered on the district website.
Breakfast is served from 8:40 – 8:50. Students arriving at 8:50 will be provided breakfast.
Breakfast costs $1.75
Lunch costs $2.50
Parents may use a credit card or a debit card to prepay student lunch accounts through Family Access. Checks should be made out to “OPS” and sent in an envelope with the
child’s name on it.
Students who forget their lunch may have a cold lunch which consists of a cheese
sandwich, milk, and fruit.
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Welcome to Orting Primary School and the 2016-2017 school year! The Orting School District policies are presented in the “Rights and
Responsibilities” booklet, which requires parents and students to sign and return
the last page. The “Rights and Responsibilities” booklet supplements the information from the
District and further explains operations at our school.
This Student and Family handbook details the schedules and procedures that establish the
structure of our school day. It is a reference. It is not a substitute for communication with your
child’s teacher and other school staff. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s
performance, please contact the teacher for a conference. Our goal is to provide students with
a challenging and caring learning environment where safety, respect, responsibility and being
Cougar proud are a priority for all. We work in partnership with our families. Communication is
the foundation for supporting your child’s academic and social/emotional growth at school.
As a Title I school, Orting Primary School receives federal support to provide additional support
and services to our students. As part of that support we are required each year to provide a
copy of the Family/School Learning Compact along with our Title I Parent Involvement Policy. A
copy of the Family/School Learning Compact will be provided to families either at our
Parent/Student Conferences or when registering new students to Orting Primary School. Please
take time to review this information with your student(s).
When you have reviewed this handbook, sign and tear out the last page at the end of the
handbook. Return it to the office within two weeks of receipt of this handbook.
1. Handbook Acknowledgement of Review and Receipt
2. Anti-Bullying at Orting Primary School
The entire Orting Primary staff is dedicated to readying all students for college, careers, and life.
We look forward to a successful year of learning and working together!
We are Cougar PROUD!
Pride in all we do
Respectful & Responsible
Outstanding leadership
Understanding of others
Determination & Grit in order to do our best!
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Orting Primary School…
Home of the Cougars
Mission All Students Ready for College, Careers, and Life!
Vision Student Centered ~ Staff Strong ~ Family Engaged
We believe:
All Students Count…Each and Every Day!
Collective Commitment
Early intervention to bring all children to reading and math benchmark
Every child a reader by age 9
Cougar Guidelines Orting Cougars are:
Safe
Respectful
Responsible
PROUD Pride in all we do; Respectful & Responsible; Outstanding leadership;
Understanding of others;
Determination & GRIT in order do our best.
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Orting Primary Staff Directory
FAX Office 360-893-4489
Principal Lisa U. Couch Office 5138
Assistant Principal Lori E. Cottle Office 5139
Secretary Beth Veltri Office 5140
Ass’t Secretary Liz Coombs Office 5121
Health Tech Marcia Inman Office 5141
Counselor Carol Kulbeck Counseling Office 2269
Preschool Mandy Miller Portable 14 1304
K Jan Baumann Main 106 5106
K Shannon Bostwick Main 105 5105
K Margaret Collins Main 112 5112
K Cindy Larremore Main 114 5114
K Alison Misenar Main 123 5123
K Brittnee Smith Main 108 5108
1 Shelley Boyce Main 100 5100
1 Jennifer Foster Annex 9 5134
1 Kathy Gradin Annex 11 5136
1 Jacqueline Slaughter Main 110 5110
1 Stephanie Veltkamp Annex 10 5135
2 Kathy Madigan Main 107 5107
2 Deyla Malvey Main 122 5122
2 Lorsy Pinkerton Main 120 5120
2 Barbie Rose Main 118 5118
2 Allyson Russell Main 103 5103
2 Kelly Saito Main 101 5101
3 Kim Malvey Portable 21
3 Jennifer Pooley Portable 22
3 Lacey Vallier Annex 12 5137
Library Angie Hobbs Library 5126
Music Kristi Dennett Main 121 5124
P.E. Pam Schiesz Gym 5113
ELL Grettel Kintigh Portable 17 5142
Resource Beth Thompson Main 116 5116
Psychologist Dr. Jerry Henderson Main 5129
SLP Lori Gosney Main 5130
Monitor Linda Carmichael/Tina Rushmeier/Heidi Siitia/Michelle Catabay/Michelle Hopkins
Preschool Para Tiffany Cordes Portable 14 1304
Preschool Para Wendy Churchwell Portable 14 1304
Library Tech Para Pam Weedon Library 5126
Resource Para Kelly Cochran Main 116 5116
Intervention Para Deanne Aalmo Portable 18 5147
Intervention Para Esther Elder Portable 18 5147
Custodian-Day Frances Escamilla
Custodian-Evening Daneene Rakes/Gina Kneeland/Mike
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General Information
Schedule
Main Office Hours 8:00AM – 4:00PM Breakfast Schedule: 8:40 - 8:50
We will ensure students have breakfast. School Hours
Grades K-3 8:50 – 3:20 (Monday – Thursday) Early Dismissal 1:20 PM (Fridays for Grades K-3)
Preschool AM 8:50 – 11:30 (Monday – Thursday) Preschool PM 12:30 – 3:10 (Monday – Thursday)
Recess & Lunch Schedules
AM Recesses: Kindergarten 10:00- 10:15 & 10:15-10:30 1st Grade 10:30-10:45
LUNCH/Recess: Kindergarten 11:00 – 11:40 Lunch 20 minutes 1st Grade 11:25 – 12:05 Recess 20 minutes 2nd Grade 12:00 – 12:40 3rd Grade 12:25 – 1:05
Lunch is scheduled for 20 minutes with a 20-minute recess. Students requiring more time to finish their lunch are able to do so. It is suggested that families who visit during the lunch/recess time sit at the “FAMILY” table.
PM Recesses: Kindergarten 2:00 - 2:15 & 2:15-2:30 (M-TH) 2nd Grade 2:30 - 2:45 (M-TH) (Fri. 9:45-10:00)
3rd Grade 2:45 - 3:00 (M-TH) (Fri. 10:00-10:15) Bus Schedule:
Bus Arrival 8:40-8:45
Bus Departure 3:20 Doors open, students load 3:30 Departure for PtR Pick-Up
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Arrival
School hours are 8:50AM-3:20PM. Students should not arrive at school before 8:40AM.
Student supervision begins at 8:40. When students arrive, they should go to the gym,
unless they are having breakfast in the cafeteria. The cafeteria opens for breakfast at
8:40AM. Students who do not ride the bus, must arrive before 8:50 in order to have
enough time for breakfast in the cafeteria. Breakfast closes at 8:55. School starts at
8:50AM. Students arriving after 9:00AM must check-in at the office. Students are tardy
after 8:50AM unless there are unforeseen bus arrival delays. Attendance is taken at
9:00AM. Safe Arrival phone calls for students marked absent without parent prior
notification start at 9:30AM.
Early Dismissal As a building procedure and safety precaution, students can be released from class only
through the school office. Parents/guardians wishing to pick up their child prior to
dismissal time must come to the office and sign their child out of school. We find that
the end of the day is extremely important for students with teachers giving final
instructions for the following day. We are asking that there be no early dismissals after
2:15pm. If transportation home changes for your child, please notify the office before
3:00pm. This will allow our office staff sufficient time to inform teacher and student of
the change in transportation home.
Student Drop-off and Pick-up The Drop-off and Pick-up Zone is located on Ammons Lane. This is a one-way street, and
there is No ACCESS from Bowlin Avenue NE. You must enter from the stop light on
Ammons in front of the school. This is the only place designated for parents to pick up
and drop off children. We have an adult monitor at the gate from 8:40 – 9:00 and from
3:10 – 3:30 daily. A banner on the fence marks the area. The West Wing parking lot is
used ONLY for Special Needs Bus Transportation. Do not drop-off or pick-up your child in
this area.
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When picking up or dropping off children at the back gate:
Please drive slowly in a single line and watch for children.
Do not allow your child to exit your vehicle until you are in front
of the gate by the monitor.
Saying your goodbyes prior to pulling up in front of
the gate will keep the line moving quickly for everyone.
BUS & Daycare ZONE – Orting High School Student Parking Lot:
The Bus Zone is located at the front of our campus along the edge of the high school
student parking lot. This parking lot is reserved for Orting High School. Please do not
park in this lot. The bus zone area is for buses and day care vans only. No parent
drivers should use this area. It is unsafe for parents and children to cross between
buses. We have an adult monitor in the bus area at arrival and dismissal times.
Teachers will walk students to buses in the afternoon. Kindergarten students will
not be allowed off of the bus unless an adult is at the stop to meet the child(ren).
The WEST WING Parking Lot:
This lot is located between Orting Primary and Orting High School on Ammons Lane
right by the OPS cafeteria. This lot is reserved for staff parking and is the zone for
Special Service Bus and Vehicles. Please DO NOT drop off children in this lot or along
Ammons Lane near this lot at any time before, during, or at the end of the school
day.
Flag Pole Parent PICK UP:
As teachers walk out of classrooms at dismissal time with their students, they will
release students only to parents or those identified as the designated contact per our
family release information. If you are not present, your child’s teacher will keep the
student with her/him as s/he walks the remainder of the class to the bus / daycare
van zone. Upon the teacher’s return to the building, the teacher will look to ensure
that the designated PICK UP person is present before releasing the child.
If your child’s designated dismissal changes, please inform the office prior to 3:00pm.
This will allow staff to be informed of the dismissal change(s) in a timely matter. Our
buses and daycare vans require our students to load quickly and safely in order to
arrive at PtR by 3:30pm. We know that all families are eager for their children to
arrive home in a timely fashion. Thank you for your important role in ensuring that
all children arrive home safely.
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Attendance
CALL TO REPORT YOUR CHILD’S ABSENCE: 360-893-2248
Attendance Law
Laws of the State of Washington (WAC 18040-01) specify that parents/guardians have
the primary responsibility for ensuring the attendance of their children at school. The
law further states that students shall be regular and punctual in attendance. Missing
school for any reason impacts learning, achievement, and grades. The attendance
procedures at Orting Primary School are designed to assist parents/guardians in carrying
out this responsibility
Regular and punctual attendance is absolutely necessary for school success.
It is important that children come to school on time. Students who attend regularly and
punctually are much more likely to be at or above grade level standards. Poor
attendance increases the likelihood your child will fall further and further behind each
year, Students who are late to school miss the opportunity to be well-prepared for the
start of the day; eating breakfast at school, knowing all of the morning routines, hearing
the morning announcements, and following the classroom procedures.
Safe Arrival:
Orting Primary School participates in the Safe Arrival Program to ensure that your child
arrives to and leaves from school safely with school supervision.
Students must:
Arrive on time - between 8:40 and 8:50
Depart for home - between 3:20 and 3:30
Parents must:
o Come to the office with late arriving students and provide a note stating reason.
o Send a note verifying reason for absence with 48 hours of absence
o A parent/guardian should call the office at (360) 893-2248 to report any changes
of departure before 3:00pm.
o Provide identification for early dismissal. No early dismissals after 3:00pm unless
it is an emergency.
School and Staff must:
o Check-in late arriving students and early dismissal students
o Call parent at home or work to verify unreported absences
o Notify teacher and student of change in departure plans before 3:00pm
For the safety of our children, students may only be released to persons noted in the school’s
emergency information system. Everyone is required to show photo identification before a
child is released.
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Absences
It is expected that students will attend class every school day, all day. The school will
keep a record of absences and tardies.
A parent/guardian must call the office at 360-893-2248 before 8:15am on the day the
student is absent from school. Our office staff will attempt to telephone each absent
student’s parent/guardian who has not called in by that time.
To request homework when your child is absent, please call ahead to notify the
teachers (s) of this request. Calling the school office by 9:00am on the day you would
like to pick up make-up work will give your child’s teacher an opportunity to gather
work and have it ready for you after school. Requests made after 11:00am may not
be accommodated until the following school day. Please indicate how the work will
get home.
Students who are absent from school on the day of a co-curricular activity or
program may not be allowed to participate in that activity. Exceptions will be made
for verified doctor or dental appointments and school related activities where prior
approval is obtained.
Students must bring a note from home upon returning to school stating the dates
missed and reason for the absence. This must be done within 48 hours of returning
for the absence to be excused.
Prior notification: Notify the office the day prior to the absence when possible. You
may call (360) 893-2248 between the hours of 4:00pm – 7:30am to leave a message
to report absences or late arrivals.
Excused Absences Include:
Illness Doctor/Dentist appointment for the student
Bereavement Prearranged family vacation*
Religious observances Extreme family emergencies
*You may use the Pre-Arranged Absence Form at the back of this handbook, once per
year per family to request an excused absence from the Principal for a reason that may
not be recognized by the state. This request may or may not be granted based upon the
number of absences your child has previously had circumstances surround thing the
absence and/or how this absence will affect your child’s academic progress.
Unexcused Absences (including tardies):
Based on court decisions (Becca Bill RCW 28A225); the reasons given below are consider
unexcused even with a note from the parent/guardian.
Overslept Transportation-carpool late; missed bus; bus suspensions
Babysitting siblings Excursions – attending a fair, sporting events, etc.
Finishing homework Doctor/Dentist appointment other than for student
Inability to find backpack Weather – not reporting an absence due to weather
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Notification for Absences and/or Tardies
1. After one unexcused absence, the parent/guardian must be notified
2. After two unexcused absences in a month, the school must make personal contact with
the parent or guardian. A letter will be mailed to the parent/guardian.
3. After three unexcused absences in a month or a trimester, the school shall enter into an
agreement with the student and parent/guardian that establishes school attendance
requirements.
4. After five unexcused absences in a trimester, the school shall file a petition with the
juvenile court alleging a violation.
5. By the seventh unexcused absence in a school year, if actions taken by the school are not
successful, the school district is required to file a petition alleging a violation.
Tardies:
Tardy Arrived between 8:50 – 11:00am
AM Half-day absences Arrival after 11:30
PM Half-day absence Arrival after 12:00pm or leaving before 2:00pm
Early release Leaving after 2:00pm
Excessive EXCUSED Absences will be under the discretion of the Principal.
Staying healthy is one of the most important things
you can do to have good attendance. Get plenty of
sleep, eat a balanced and nutritional diet, wash your
hands regularly, and make sure you are up to date
on your immunizations.
Additional plans include:
Get exercise and drink water.
Make a plan for good attendance. Keep a copy of the school calendar accessible.
Make appointments outside of the school day or on a non-school day.
Know when you need to leave for home to either get to your bus stop, carpool,
and/or walking partners on time.
Keep up with your school work. Ask your teacher questions when you have a
challenging assignment so that you are confident about what you need to do at
home.
If you are not attending school because someone is bothering you, be sure to talk
to an adult for help. Find an adult you trust at school (a teacher, counselor, or
principal).
A Plan for Good Attendance
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Academics
Curriculum: We base our instruction on the Washington State Learning Standards.
Common Core Standards are utilized for English Language Arts and
Mathematics which provide for rigorous, in-depth thinking and learning at all grade
levels. In conjunction with Common Core Standards, we access the Early Learning
Guidelines to support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical developmental needs
of our students PreK-3. The reading curriculum for grades K-3 is Reading Street,
Common Core Edition from Pearson/Scott Foresman. Our math program is Math
Expressions, Common Core Edition from Houghton Mifflin. Science is supported through
FOSS kits.
Fines
Lost or Damaged Books/Materials Students and parents are responsible for library books, textbooks and other instructional
materials loaned to students. You will be required to pay the replacement value for
lost/damaged books. Our school librarian will contact you to arrange replacement for
lost or damaged materials. Yearbooks will be held until the fine is paid.
At Orting Primary School, we use a “developmental” process whereby children may start
in kindergarten, in a modified way, to share their school activities at home and gradually
increase this responsibility in grades 1 – 3. We recognize that an important part of a
child’s education is the carryover of learning into his or her activities outside of the
school setting. One way this can be done is through homework. Homework is important
to:
o Develop work habits and responsibility
o Involve parents in the learning process
o Build and reinforce skills and learning
o Develop active learning
o Study/review for tests
o Pursue special activities that are relevant to daily lessons
o Complete class assignments
We also recognize the importance of family time and extracurricular opportunities for
children. We strongly encourage family activities, asking your child(ren) what they are
learning each day and what made them proud. Reading excites all of us!!!
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Report Cards
Grading Periods: The school year is divided into trimesters.
Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled twice a year.
Those dates are scheduled on October 18-21 and March 29-31.
Early dismissal during conferences will be at 11:45. Please notify your child’s teacher if a
conference and/or report card should be arranged/sent to an additional parent. The
final report card will be sent home with your child the last day of school.
Celebrations – Birthdays and School Parties
School-wide parties:
During the course of the school year, classrooms will hold three school-wide parties
which will occur the last 45 minutes of the day:
October Harvest Festival
December Winter Celebration
February Valentine’s Day
With prior teacher approval, your child may celebrate a birthday by bringing a small treat
for each child in his/her classroom. Please arrange this a few days in advance with your
child’s teacher in order to determine the best time for the arrival of the treats and to
ensure that food allergies are considered when selecting treats. Treats must be store
bought; and clear liquid refreshments are encouraged if bringing in a beverage for these
celebrations. We strongly encourage small non-food items. No balloons.
Birthday party invitations:
If you plan to have a private birthday party for your child, please have a conversation
with your child’s teacher as we want to minimize hurt feelings. Your child’s teacher will
have suggestions as to how to do this discreetly. Please do not hand out invitations in front
of students who are not attending the private celebration.
Communication
Written Communication:
Watch for a regular OPS “Cougar Communicator” newsletter, as well as communication
from your child’s teacher. Teacher communication might be in the format of a
newsletter, email, or website/swift account. Information should include upcoming
events and special activities plus grade level and building news. This is a valuable way for
parents to be informed about what is happening in the school and your child’s
classroom. In addition, this provides an excellent vehicle for meaningful
discussions with your child about their school work
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Telephone:
School telephones are to be used for school business. Use of the telephone by students
is restricted to emergencies and is only allowed with permission, Phones are not to be
used to get last minute parental permission to go home with a friend. This should be
arranged before coming to school. Students are not called to the telephone, but
messages of an urgent nature will be communicated to them. We work to limit such
interruptions to the classroom to give a message to a student.
Voicemail:
Each staff member has a voicemail box. We encourage you to use this system to leave
information that can wait until after school. Please talk to our office staff for information
needing more immediate attention.
Email:
School staff can also be contacted via email. The Orting School District home page at
www.ortingschools.org contains a wealth of useful information including email
addresses. Go to the “For Parents” tab on the OPS link.
Family Access:
This provides an online link for parents to view discipline, grades, cafeteria balances, and
to pay for lunches with credit cards.
Messages:
Our office staff will relay necessary messages at the appropriate time to teachers and/or
to students. Please do not call your child’s cell phone. Cell phones should be turned off
during school hours.
Contact Information:
Please notify the office when if your phone number or address changes so that we can
update our records and maintain current contact information. The office must be
notified if there is a court order or sensitive situation such that you do not wish a
student to see or be picked up by someone. If you wish to add or delete a name listed
on emergency contacts, you may do so via note or in person at the office. Students will
not be released to anyone not on your currently contact list without your approval.
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Discipline
Student Behavior:
Orting Primary School is a community school dedicated to providing a safe, respectful,
productive learning environment. We are in a partnership with our families and believe
that guidance and discipline are the combined efforts of home and school. Our
commitment to this partnership is to support both parent/guardian and child. We strive
to keep families informed. The OPS staff work to help students learn self-discipline. The
Orting Primary discipline policy reinforces the Orting School District Rights and
Responsibilities. We believe that every child has the right to a quality education within a
positive and safe environment. When children come to school eager to learn, well
prepared and free from all distracters or detractors, they are happy and very productive
students. We strive to adhere to the following:
1. Clear guidelines & expectations
2. Positive incentives
3. Firm, fair, and consistent consequences.
The following are our school-wide Cougar Guidelines for successful learning:
Be Safe
Be Respectful
Be Responsible
Be Cougar PROUD (Pride in all we do, Respectful & Responsible, Outstanding Leadership, Understanding of Others, and Determination and Grit in order to do our best)
Expectations:
At Orting Primary School, we use preventative and restorative practices. Teachers
reinforce the OPS Guidelines and School-wide Expectations in the classroom the first
weeks of school and when children return from school breaks. Teachers guides students
on what the expectations “look” and “sound” like in every setting during the school day.
For example, when walking in the hallway, students are to walk safe, straight, and quietly
with hands to self.
Incentives:
Students are acknowledged and recognized for Cougar PROUD behaviors in the following
ways: Kelso Bucks and Cougar Proud awards. Students earn Kelso Bucks and collect
them to make purchases at the Cougar Store. Cougar Proud awards are distributed by
staff to students who demonstrate the Cougar Guidelines. The first part of the award
goes home to show families. The second part (yellow) copy goes to the office. Drawings
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occur weekly for a prize. Our monthly Cougar SPIRIT assembly allows students to be
recognized by their teacher and classmates for consistently displaying our monthly
Cougar Character Trait.
In addition, staff recognize classrooms with the Golden Awards for having exceptional
behavior throughout the school each month.
Golden Sneaker – PE Golden Recorder – Music Golden Book – Library Golden Tray – Cafeteria Golden Clock – Fewest Tardies & Absences Golden Dustpan – Cleanest Room Golden Hoop – Safest Recess Playing
Firm, Fair, Consistent Consequences: We communicate with families when children struggle to adhere to the Cougar Guidelines & Expectations using any of the following methods: Phone Contact, Email, Notes, Student Think Sheet and/or Behavior Referral form. We work closely with the child(ren) so that they understand how actions/words impact student learning and relationships with others. At Orting Primary School, we strive to create a climate and culture conducive to learning for all. Second Step – The Second Step program teaches skills in the following areas: Skills for Learning: Students gain skills to help themselves learn, including how to focus their attention, listen carefully, and be assertive when asking for help with schoolwork. Empathy: Students learn to identify and understand their own and others’ feelings. Students also learn how to take another’s perspective and how to show compassion. Emotion Management: Students learn specific skills for calming down when experiencing strong feelings, such as anxiety or anger. Problem Solving: Students learn a process for solving problems with others in a positive way.
Second Step helps our school be a safe and respectful place with its bullying prevention component. All students will learn specific skills to help stop bullying. Students will learn the “3 R’s” of bullying and will be coached about how to:
Recognize when bullying is happening Report bullying to a caring adult Refuse to let bullying happen to themselves or others.
Sign and return the Pledge located at the end of this handbook.
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Dress Code
Orting Primary School is an inclusive school that is about the “business” of education and
learning. Student dress and grooming needs should be in keeping with these standards.
Any clothing or grooming that detracts or distracts from the mission is not allowed.
The following dress code guidelines must be followed:
Clothing may not advertise a product or concept
that is not compatible without positive standards.
For safety’s sake, sandals without socks and
shoes with extremely high heels or wheels are discouraged.
Shorts must be finger-tip length.
Shirts must cover midriff and meet waistband. Half shirts, halter tops or tank
tops are not appropriate unless covered by another shirt or blouse. Tops must
cover the shoulder.
Pants must be fitted and/or belted.
No headgear to be worn in the building (i.e. hats, visors, rags, hairnets,
sweatbands, bandanas, hoods, etc. (Hoods and hats are allowed only when it is
raining or snowing or for outside purposes).
Students in violation of dress standards will be asked to change.
Repeat offenders will be in Defiance of Authority.
Emergency Procedures
Safety Drills:
All schools are required to have monthly safety drills. We practice
responses to fire, earthquake, lahar, and threats on campus (lockdown,
shelter-in-place). Students are taught how to respond, and teachers
account for all of their students. Our Safety Committee meets monthly to
review and ensure that our emergency drill procedures are appropriately
followed.
Emergency Messages:
Parents have the option to sign up for FLASH ALERT to receive a phone
text and/or email. You may sign up from the district webpage at
www.ortingschools.org. Go to “Emergency Messages – Flash Alert”
located on the blue bar to the left of the webpage.
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Field Trips:
Field Trip Procedures:
Students are taken on educational field trips from time to time. They are always
accompanied by one or more teachers, as well as ay parents who wish to participate.
This is a wonderful opportunity for you to spend time with your child! Parental
permission forms are required before students are allowed to leave the school for field
trips. NOTE: If you plan to assist with students in addition to your own child on the trip,
please make sure that your volunteer documentation has been completed at least four
weeks prior to the scheduled date. This documentation, once approved, will need to be
updated yearly. Parents are occasionally asked to drive on field trips.
Parents wishing to drive must:
Have completed and been approved to volunteer
Show roof of appropriates insurances, and
Show the office a current driver’s license.
You will be notified on the field trip permission form if the children will be transported in
private vehicles rather than a school bus.
Health Procedures
Health Room Phone Calls:
Our school health tech, Mrs. Marcia Inman, monitors required immunizations, conducts
health screenings, maintains medical records, and cares for students who are ill or have
emergency medical needs at school. She calls parents when children are injured or ill.
Students may not have prescription or over-the-counter medicines in their possession.
The health tech may administer medication only if she has consent signed by parent and
doctor allowing this. Parents must bring in all medications and documentation for proper
handling and dispensing at school.
Prescription medication must be in the pharmacy container and be labeled with the
student’s name and correct dosage instructions. Over-the-counter medicines also
require written doctor directions.
Fever:
If your child is ill or has a fever (100.0F+), please keep him/her at home
until 24 hours after their temperature has returned to normal without
the aid of medication.
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Contagious Conditions:
Students who have contagious conditions, such as ringworm, impetigo,
etc. may not attend school until they are no longer contagious.
Students returning to school following any contagious conditions must check with the
school health tech before returning to class. We ask that you accompany your child
during this screening. Any student with a rash must have a release from a doctor before
he/she is allowed to return to school.
Money, Personal Belongings and Valuables
Money at School:
Money should not be brought to school unless it is for a specific, school related reason.
Money should be in a sealed envelope with teacher and student name on front along
with the purpose for its use. Labeling the item with a purpose is especially important for
primary children who often forget its intended purpose.
Toys/Valuables:
Toys, electronic devices, and personal sports equipment are not to be
brought to school. They divert time and energies and are easily broken
or stolen. We ask parents to ensure that students do not bring such
items to school. The school will not be responsible for lost, stolen,
or broken items. Parents will be called and encouraged to pick up the items.
Cell Phones:
We understand that some students utilize a cell phone for safe arrival to and/or from
school. Cell phones must be turned off and remain inside the student’s backpack during
the entire school day. No texting and/or calling will be allowed during the school day.
Parents may call the main office (360-893-2248) to relay a message to their child.
Students will be warned about cell phones and other electronic items that are seen
and/or heard. Repeated offenders will be required to sign a cell phone policy contract.
The school and/or staff will not be responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged electronic
devices.
Lost and Found:
Please put your child’s initial and last name on clothing, lunch boxes, and book bags.
Parents and students may check the Lost and Found bin located between the cafeteria
and gym for missing articles. Items unclaimed by school breaks will be donated to local
charities.
We strongly discourage students, parents or staff from bringing personal items to school.
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Pets at School
Pets and animals cannot be transported by bus. We prefer that pets not come to school. If you do bring your pet with you as you drop-off or pick-up your child(ren), please keep close control of your animal. Dogs and other pets are simply too large a temptation for hundreds of friendly (and some not so friendly) hands. Please know that if your dog or pet is loose on campus, we will try to contact you the first time to come and pick up your animal. Repeated problems with the animal on school grounds will result in us contacting Animal Control.
Recess
We want all students at Orting Primary School to have a positive, healthy and safe play experience. Recess breaks provide students with the opportunity to exercise and socialize with friends. Students need to come to school with proper clothing to play outside at all times regardless of the weather. All students follow our Cougar Guidelines of being Safe, Respectful, Responsible, and Proud. Kelso’s Choice strategies are used when conflict arises on the playground. When a situation cannot be resolved among classmates, students are encouraged to seek the support of our playground monitors. All students at Orting Primary School receive two recesses with the exception of Kindergarten students who receive an additional afternoon recess. Lunch recesses are 20 minutes in length and occur after lunch. Morning and afternoon recesses are 15 minutes. We do not combine grades at recess. The buildings are off limits during recess except for restroom use. To use the restroom, the student must obtain a pass “clip” from the playground monitor and return it to the monitor when done. The restroom closest to the office is the only restroom that will be used for those at recess. Students have access to all visible areas of the grass field, bark, shed and areas within the white boundary line. Students are never to leave the playground without permission from a playground monitor. Students must have a pass to go to the health room, office, or the restrooms. There should be no Visitors on our playground. From time to time, a Watch D.O.G. parent may be on campus which includes supervising students at recess. All Watch D.O.G. parents have undergone the Volunteer process. Students may not bring toys from home. All games and activities are open to anyone who wishes to participate. Game participation restrictions by grade level may be approved by the playground monitors. Dangerous games are not allowed. These include tackling, kicking, piggy-back, tripping, wrestling, pushing, games involving a ball being thrown at someone, and any other
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activity designated as dangerous by the playground monitors. No play or pretend fighting is allowed. Inappropriate play will result in the loss of these privileges.
Kelso’s Choice: All students at Orting Primary will receive annual training with Kelso’s Choice, a
program which teaches children to resolve conflicts. The program provides children with
ways to deal with difficult situations. Students are trained to try to solve minor problems
from the following menu of strategies:
Go to another game or activity
Share and take turns
Respectfully talk it over and listen to each other
Walk away from the problem
Ignore the problem behavior
Tell the person to stop the problem behavior
Apologize
Make a deal or compromise
Wait to cool off
If you have a BIG problem, tell an adult
When used on a school-wide basis, Kelso’s Choice is proven to be extremely effective.
We encourage you to become familiar with the above strategies and use it in your home
and neighborhood. By working together, we can develop a healthy life skill for young
people to use.
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Playground Rules
Be safe. Be respectful. Be responsible.
On the playground: o Stay inside the fenced areas and on the playground side of the track line.
o Ask a playground monitor to get balls that go outside fence.
o Students must have a pass to come inside building; one person only with each pass.
o At recess, use the bathrooms closest to the office. Get a “clip” from the recess monitor.
o When the whistle sounds – freeze (stop playing). When the second whistle sounds, put all
playground equipment back in the box. Use walking feet to line up. The last lunch recess
puts equipment away.
o No running on the pavement – use walking feet.
o If someone falls during any game or use of equipment, stop playing until the person is
standing and ok.
o Jump rope by the red fire hydrant only, not by the front doors, or around the track line.
o Do not use the jump rope for any other games.
o Frisbee, running games, or kickball may be played only on the grassy area. Do not run or
play tag on or around the equipment. Tag may be played for students in grades 1-3 only.
o Wood chips stay on the ground. They are not for throwing.
o Football can be played only with the P.E. teacher, or adult volunteers.
o Dress appropriately for the weather. Close-toed shoes are recommended for playground,
P.E., and field trips.
o Toys stay at home. No toys at school except with special permission from your teacher.
Glider
o One student at a time. o Do not push or pull students on the glider o You must be able to reach the glider handle on your own.
New Big Toy
o Do not touch, push, pull, or tickle students from the big toy or jump off. o Flips are allowed on the lower bars. o Share and take turns.
Old Big Toy
o One student at a time on the slides. o Do not push or pull students from the big toy, or jump off. o Only walk on the footpath of the bridge. Do not stand or walk on the bridge rails. o Slide down on your bottom, no walking, climbing, or crawling up.
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Play Shed
o The play shed is for group play like basketball, 4-square, hopscotch, hula-hoop, and tetherball.
o During rainy day recess, the play shed is the only play area, so no basketball.
Swings
o One student on the swing at a time. o Swing facing the big toy. o Sit with your bottom on the swing. o Do not swing sideways, twist around, or jump off the swing. o Do not walk in front or behind a moving swing. o When swings are full, you may count to 60. Count slowly and fairly.
The student will stop the swing. Then it is your turn.
Team games: Basketball, Kickball, Wall ball
o When playing team games, pass the ball to other players without grabbing or pushing, or hogging the ball.
o In basketball, dribble the ball; do not run with it in your hands. o Kickball is played on the grass field during AM/PM recesses only. o When the kickball goes out of the play area, the ball will go to the other team. A team
member will throw or kick the ball from the sideline back into play. o Wall ball – all players agree on the rules before it is played. You can ask for a decent
serve. If the ball is out-of-bounds, the player that hit it is out. If you kick the ball, you are out.
Tetherball
o The player who serves fist is the student who arrives at the tetherball court first. After the first game, the winner serves first. One play stands on each side of the court. The server starts the game y the ball with his/her hand or fist in the direction he/she chooses. As the ball travels, each player tries to hit it an effort to wind the rope completely around the pole. The player who first winds the rope completely around and in the direction of his/her play, wins the game.
o During the game, each player must remain in his/her own playing zone. o No “ropies” o No “tappies” o No interference from other players o No “throwing” the ball o No hitting the ball other than using your hand/fist
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Transportation
Bus:
Riding the bus is a privilege. Misbehavior on the bus causes an
unsafe situation. Students may be denied bus privileges if they receive repeated Bus
Misconduct reports. Students at Orting Primary School are expected to follow the Cougar
Guidelines of: Safe, Respectful, Responsible, and/or being Cougar Proud.
Parents/Guardians will be notified by the bus driver if problems arise. Kindergarten
students will not be allowed off of the bus unless an adult is at the stop to meet the
child(ren).
Bicycles & Scooters:
Kindergarten and First Grade students may not ride bicycles or scooters to school.
Second and Third grade students may ride their bikes or scooters to
school beginning in March with parent permission after the bicycle safety
assembly. Bikes must be parked in the bike stand.
Students must bring a lock for their scooter or bike and wear a helmet.
The school will not be responsible for stolen or damaged scooters or bikes.
Students without a helmet will not be allowed to ride their bike or scooter home.
Walking:
A Friendly Reminder: Please ensure that children walk with their designated person(s).
Students should always walk in pairs. Please make certain that your bright and visible
clothing is worn.
VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERS
It is a pleasure to host visitors and volunteers in our school. For our students’ safety,
district policy requires an annual background check BEFORE anyone may volunteer in
the classroom or chaperone on a field trip. You may call the office at 360-893-2248 with
questions regarding this policy.
Upon arrival at school, ALL visitors and volunteers must stop at the office to sign in.
Parents dropping off children are asked to check-in at the front office prior to walking
their child to the classroom. This includes parents who attend the Morning Welcome
Assembly. We ask that parents check-in at the main office and obtain a visitor badge
prior to the Welcome Assembly if they desire to walk with their child to the classroom.
We are striving for children to gain independence. The gym is the transitional location in
which children join their classmates and teacher to start their day together. Thank you in
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advance for your understanding. Visiting school-age friends or relatives should not
attend school with your children.
Volunteers:
Any volunteer must have had a cleared criminal background check before the day s/he is
to volunteer. Each volunteer will be required to wear an identification badge while in
the building.
Visiting Classrooms: Your visits are welcomed and encouraged. If you desire to visit your child’s classroom,
you must make an appointment with your child’s teacher at least a day ahead of time. As
a visitor, you may interact with your child. A visitor may not assist/support any child
other than their own. In order to ensure the safety of our school community, all
parents, visitors, and volunteers are required to sign in at the office and wear a
visitor’s name tag. If you need to discuss something with your child’s teacher, please call
and make an appointment to meet with them before or after school. We work hard to
keep our instructional periods uninterrupted.
Visiting the Playground: Visitors are not permitted on the playground during school hours. We are concerned for
the safety of all our students and for liability reasons do not allow anyone other than
school personnel on the playground. Also, preschool aged siblings, even when
accompanied by a parent, are not allowed to play on school grounds during school days,
except for special events predetermined by the principal.
Visiting at Lunchtime:
We encourage families to have lunch with their children. A designated “Family Lunch
area” will be made available for families to eat with their children. Again, we are
concerned for the safety of all our students and for liability reasons do not allow anyone
other than school personnel to supervise in the cafeteria. We are also knowledgeable
about those children who require peanut free areas and/or have specific nutritional
needs.
Our Volunteer Program: We are very proud of the many adults who volunteer at Orting Primary School. They
enhance our program by working with individuals or small groups of children, assisting
the teachers, preparing projects, performing clerical duties, assisting with vision and
hearing screenings, and a wide variety of other activities. We can offer training to
acquaint you with our equipment. We invite you to become a part of your child’s school-
day experience by volunteering. Please contact your child’s teacher or the office to
discuss volunteer opportunities.
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Weather
Please dress students appropriately for the weather and the activities specific to that
day. For example, our playground has wood chips so closed-toed shoes are
recommended. On days your child attends P.E. or fields trips, tennis shoes are
recommended. A jacket or and/or hoods may be worn outside, but are not allowed
inside the building.
Inclement Weather:
Parents will receive a call from the district as soon as
possible about 2-hour delayed start or cancellation of
school. This is another reason our contact information
must be current.
Parents have the option to sign up for FLASH ALERT to receive a phone text and/or email.
You may sign up from the district webpage at www.ortingschools.org. Go to “Emergency
Messages – Flash Alert” located on the blue bar to the left of the webpage.
Thank you for the opportunity to teacher your child(ren).
We welcome the opportunity to partner with our families to
ensure that all of our children become successful learners in a
safe and positive school environment.
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Orting Primary School
Title I Parent and Family Engagement Policy, 2016-2017
At our school we believe that family and community involvement is essential to our students’ academic achievement and future success. Our parent involvement policy was develop in partnership with parents and school staff to better serve the needs of our students. This policy will be evaluated annually to assure it is timely and effective.
At our annual Soup & SIP event, school information including Title 1 Part A requirements will be explained to parents. Parent may also receive this information through Principal updates at our regularly scheduled Orting Combined PTA meetings.
Parents will be invited to participate in our parent policy planning, review and evaluation as part of our ongoing school improvement process and plan. The Site Council Team meets monthly.
During the school year we will keep parents informed of our Title 1, Part A program including curriculum, assessment, and achievement levels through our publications, conferences, and our website.
Parents may meet with staff members to give input and assist in making decisions regarding their child’s education. Parents may call, email or write to the school office, teacher, or other staff to set meetings.
An introduction and invitation for parent involvement of Kindergarten students is offered by staff during the spring Kindergarten Round-Up and at the beginning of school year as part of the Family Connections WaKIDS partnership. Throughout the school year, parents and community members will be encouraged to be actively involved.
Our school staff will be available and will respond to parents through meetings, in two-way communications, such as phone calls, and email, and through written formats. We will provide activities and events to involve parents in their child’s academic growth. If needed, interpreters and/or translations will be made available.
Our school/home compact will be written and evaluated with parent assistance yearly as part of our school improvement planning process. Parents will receive the compact in our student/family handbook.
All parents are welcome and encouraged to volunteer in their students’ school, classroom or on school field trips. Volunteer opportunities are also available through our Orting Combined PTA. In order to ensure student safety, all volunteers who work with students must be fingerprinted. Consult with our main office staff. For more information contact: Orting Primary School 316 Washington Avenue N. Orting, WA 98360 360-893-2248 EXT. 5138 or [email protected]
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Acknowledgement of Review & Receipt:
2016-2017 Student/Family Handbook Anti-Bullying Pledge
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
With the signatures below, we acknowledge that we have received and reviewed
the contents of the Orting Primary School 2016-2017 Student / Family Handbook.
My student (s) and I believe that all students have the right to learn and teaches
have the right to teach without interference. The document makes us aware of
the Orting Primary School Cougar Guidelines and Expectations. We understand
that these expectations align with the Orting School District Rights &
Responsibilities booklet. This handbook also provides information about a Title I
School, its policies and Family/School Learning Compact.
Parent Name (please print) Student Name (please print)
Parent Signature Student Signature
Date________________________ Date _____________________ Teacher _________
Siblings:
Student Name (please print) Student Name (please print)
Student Signature Student Signature
Teacher Name Teacher Name
Date________________________ Date _________________________
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Orting Primary School, 2016-2017
Anti-Bullying Solution Pledge
I will pledge to be part of the solution.
I will do my part to make my community a safe place by being
sensitive to others.
I will set the example of a caring individual.
I will encourage others to do the same.
I will not let my words or actions hurt others
I will eliminate bullying from my own behavior.
I will eliminate profanity toward others from my language.
I will not allow bullying to be a part of my community.
I pledge to be part of the solution, even if others won’t.
I promise to be part of the solution to keep Orting Primary School and
Community a safe and happy place to learn.
X ______________________________________________________________________________________ (Print Student Name)
X _________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Student Signature)
Date ___________________________________ Current Teacher ______________________________