belen schools: back to school 2012

July 28, 2012

Belen Schools

News-BulletinVALENCIA COUNTY

By ABigAil R. ORtizNews-Bulletin Staff [email protected]

BelenFamily School administra-

tors are preparing to present a second version of the school’s educational specifications to the New Mexico Public School Capitol Outlay Council in an effort to get state funding for the school’s proposed building.

The first version of the edu-cational specifications were denied for surpassing statewide adequacy standards for public school buildings, according to a letter from Public Schools Facilities Authority to Belen Schools Superintendent Ron Marquez.

The revised educational specifications cut the cost of the $3.6 million building to $2 mil-lion, and decreased the square footage by almost half from 14,306 to 7,889.

Family School Principal Buddy Dillow and other district administrators are scheduled to present the modified version of the educational specifications to PSCOC on Tuesday, Aug. 28.

The proposed building will contain three lab/classrooms, an extended learning area with the capability of being a com-puter lab, a wet/flex learning lab classroom, a first aid station, a staff multi-use room, storage room, principal’s office, recep-tion area and rest rooms.

The original building includ-ed a dining area, kindergarten room, gymnasium and cafete-ria, which were all nixed from the plan.

While creating the educa-tional specifications, adminis-trators shot for the moon, but were ready for a contraction, said Family School Secretary Hollyanna Hooks to the Board of Education during its June 12 meeting.

“It’s that process of ideally — in an ideal world — this is the building that we would have. And now, in reality, this is the building that we can afford and probably need, because honestly it’s a school that’s been moved six times,” Hooks said.

Family School has been housed in Rio Communities at the Valley Improvement Association building for the past two years after its building on East Side School Road was condemned at the start of the 2009-10 school year.

“I think everyone is looking for a permanent home,” Hooks said.

Multiple discussions with Family School teachers and staff led to the “considerably scaled down model” that lays outside of the state standards, Dillow said.

“We’ve scaled back a great deal, and what we were told is that if we were to go over

what they recommended, then we would be responsible for that extra money,” he said.

The PSCOC award, which Dillow said an amount hasn’t been determined for, will be utilized along with the $3 mil-lion bond approved for the new Family School building.

If the bond money covers the full cost of the school building, PSCOC funds will be applied toward impact fees, or fees imposed on proposed develop-

BACK TO SCHOOL 2012 Valencia County News-Bulletin2 July 28, 2012

n See School, Page 3

By ABigAil R. ORtizNews-Bulletin Staff [email protected]

BelenTo comply with U.S.

Department of Agriculture guide-lines, the Belen Consolidated Schools increased their break-fast and lunch meal prices by 25 cents for students attending Belen Middle School, Belen High School and Family School.

This increase would bring middle school breakfast to $1.50, middle school lunch to $1.75, high school breakfast to $1.75 and high school lunch to $2.

The meal price increase is mandated as part of the Healthy, Hunger Free-Kids Act of 2010, a federal statute reauthorizing funding for children nutrition programs and free lunch pro-grams in schools for the next five years.

The bill also sets nutrition standards for schools, such as giving the USDA authority to set standards for food sold in lunches and vending machines, provides resources for schools to use local farms and gardens and increases access to drinking water during lunch.

The Belen Board of Education passed the meal price increas-es for the 2012-13 school year at its June 12 meeting. Board President Sam Chavez abstained from voting.

If the meal prices weren’t increased, the district would’ve had to look into receiving non-federal funds for the Student

Nutrition Service. Federal funds play a large role in the depart-ment, said Superintendent Ron Marquez.

“In regards to USDA entitle-ment reimbursement, it is truly something that we count on and one of the particular ways that this department has been able to stay in the black year after year,” Marquez said.

By following these guide-lines, the district will receive 6 cents reimbursement rate instead of the 2 cents reimbursement they’ve received for the past 20 years from USDA, said Lorraine Marquez, retired Student Nutrition Service’s supervisor.

When comparing breakfast and lunch prices in Belen to other schools, the district continues to offer lower prices, Marquez said.

Although the meal prices may increase the accumulation of non-payment for meals within the department, Marquez said schools are placing a concen-trated effort to avoid this issue in the future.

In March, the district asked parents to pay more than $14,000 in unpaid meals for students who didn’t pay full or partial amounts for their breakfasts or lunches.

“We also are doing what we consider to be a more concen-trated effort in getting students to fill out applications. We’re meeting with families early on, talking to parents specifically at Family School, the middle school and high school to catch them before (this happens),” he said.

Board member Larry Lindberg said he had a serious problem with raising prices on student meals. Lindberg voted in favor of the meal increase, but said he was torn on the subject.

“When I was at the high school and middle school, some of the working poor kids couldn’t afford lunch and a lot of us would give kids money,” Lindberg said.

“It’s one of those issues that really is tough for me, because we have some kids that their parents are really struggling,” he said. “They’re the working poor. They’re not on welfare and can’t get help.”

Meal prices to increase this year

Family School awaits word for new building

New program, AVID, at Belen Middle School to challenge studentsBy ABigAil R. ORtizNews-Bulletin Staff [email protected]

BelenIf you raise student expecta-

tions, students will rise to the challenge — that’s the theory behind a program Belen Middle School will be implementing beginning in August.

“It’s a whole way of think-ing and learning and (students can) use what they’ve learned in all (subject) areas,” said BMS Principal Sheila Armijo.

AVID, a college and career readiness system, identifies stu-dents’ capabilities and provides them with the skills needed to be “independent learners and cre-ative problem solvers in higher education and the 21st century workplace,” as well as providing

professional development and support to teachers preparing students for and delivering aca-demically rigorous curriculum, according to AVID’s website.

Implementation of AVID is in response to gaps identified by BMS teachers with the grading system put in place last school year, which is used to reach man-dated federal proficiency levels.

Student motivation was the issue that kept cropping up, along with students not knowing how to study, take notes or use those notes effectively.

“Students needed a little push to feel good about what they were learning and build internal motivation,” Armijo said.

To target these areas, Armijo and six BMS teachers attend-ed summer training work-shops focusing on AVID, or

Advancement Via Individual Determination.

It “accelerates student learn-ing, uses research based methods of effective instruction, provides meaningful and motivational professional learning, and acts as a catalyst for systemic reform and change,” the website states.

“The whole purpose is to make school a positive environ-ment of learning,” Armijo said.

In the program, students learn how to set and work toward goals, manage their time, take notes, use binders to structure and organize their notes and study the material.

AVID provides a safety net to avoid students “flying under the radar and getting by.”

“For a student who is really struggling, (teachers) will be able to find that student before they

get too far under,” she said.The program, provided as an

elective, will consist of two days of instruction followed up with three days of in-school tutoring from trained high school or col-lege students.

“These will be trained tutors who will push our students to think about what they’ve learned,” Armijo said.

AVID, used to increase school-wide learning and perfor-mance, is implemented in some Los Lunas and Albuquerque schools, but Belen Middle School is the first to use it in the district.

“It has very successful results from other schools, who have used it,” she said.

With the district shifting educational state standards in August, teachers are being instructed to teach students how

to think of the material they’re learning, which is the same idea AVID emphasizes, Armijo said.

The New Mexico Common Core State Standards aim to teach students the same curricu-lum and skills across the nation in an effort to better prepare them for college or the work-force, according to the NMCCSS website.

Although Common Core will be implemented for kindergarten through third grade in English, language arts and mathemat-ics, beginning this fall, fourth through 12th graders, including BMS students, will see these standards implemented in the 2013-14 school year.

Sixth through 12th graders will also be taught literacy stan-dards for social studies/history, science and technical subjects.

BMS is going to test AVID on a group of seventh graders, who will be invited to participate in the program in August.

Those 180 students must be first generation students to attend college, who aren’t “significant-ly” behind or ahead in academics and volunteer to participate in the AVID elective course.

“They’re nearing proficiency or barely proficient, but need a little bit of a push — a motiva-tion — to get over the hump,” Armijo said.

Strategies that benefit the entire school will also be adopted as part of the school’s academics, Armijo said.

An AVID informational ses-sion will be held Thursday, Aug. 2, at BMS for parents.

John Caldarera returns as principal of Gil Sanchez Elementary SchoolBy ABigAil R. ORtizNews-Bulletin Staff [email protected]

BelenAfter a year off, John Caldarera

is back as Gil Sanchez Elementary School principal. And this time around Caldarera said he’s there to stay in the position he loves.

“I love doing it,” said Mr. C, as the students call him. “I love going to work each day.”

The 18-year educator comes from a family of teachers. His wife is a teacher in Albuquerque, his mother is a school nurse, his father taught college students and both of his sisters also work in schools.

“I’ve been around it my whole life,” he said.

Before entering the world of teach-ing, Caldarera was a cabinet maker and carpenter, where he noticed employees entering the workforce weren’t well prepared.

“They couldn’t read as well as they should or write as well as they should, and I thought, ‘Man, I’m going to help people be good workers and productive members of society,’” he said.

This experience inspired him to return to school for a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at the age of 32 and focus on reading, which he believes is the root of the problem.

“I think every single person needs to get the best possible instruction in read-ing and that will make them successful in everything,” he said.

Caldarera began his educational career with the Belen Consolidated Schools when he joined the district as part of a resident teacher program.

In the program, he taught Title I, math, reading and writing, as well as gifted classes, to Belen Middle School students. After nine years, the Albuquerque native returned to school once again to become a principal.

Although he already had a master’s degree in secondary education from the

University of New Mexico, he enrolled in classes at the College of Santa Fe to achieve this goal and receive an admin-istrative license.

“I can’t think of anything more important than our children and what

they need education wise,” he said.With a license in hand more than a

year later, Caldarera was hired as prin-cipal of La Merced Elementary School, where he remained for five years until he was transferred to Belen High School as an assistant principal.

But after a year of working at the high school, Caldarera yearned to work at an elementary school. He was trans-ferred to Gil Sanchez as principal, but left a year later due to personal reasons.

Caldarera enjoys guiding and instill-ing life-long principles in children, especially middle school-aged students. If students push themselves and work their hardest to achieve their dreams, their dreams can come true, Caldarera said.

“They can do anything,” he said. “They’re bright and capable and no matter what people say or think, they have it in them to be amazing.”

Another way he guides students as a principal is by ensuring they and they’re school are well prepared for the

day’s instruction.“I think if a school is run well and

everybody has what they need and everything is in place, it makes it easier to let the parents know that we are committed,” he said.

Caldarera encourages his teachers to not only use the teaching skills they possess, but put their hearts into it, which has more of an impact on stu-dents.

“Besides having all of the curriculum and skills of a teacher, and methodol-ogy required, teachers are almost like another caregiver,” he said. “A lot of our students need that and I think the best teachers have their heart into it. You can build skills, but you can’t build the love.”

In the upcoming school year, Caldarera plans on focusing on the implementation behind the New Mexico Common Core State Standards, set to begin in the fall, and improve the school’s overall grade, a C, released this past month by the state.

John CaldareraGil Sanchez Elementary principal

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2012 July 28, 2012 3Valencia County News-Bulletin

School: Sharing a possibilityfrom PAGE 2

Belen Schools administrator gives advice about going back to school By UngelBAh DAniel-DAvilANews-Bulletin Staff [email protected]

BelenWhether your kiddo is a kin-

dergartner or a seasoned senior, the first day of school is an exciting, and sometimes scary, time for almost everyone.

But Geneva Nixon, director of curriculum and instruction at Belen Consolidated Schools, says no matter what age your child may be, the most signifi-cant way parents can prepare their child for the upcoming school year is through support-ing them by forming a solid relationship with their school.

She says that finding out what the school’s expectations are is crucial, whether they be expec-tations of the students or of the parents.

Elementary students For little ones entering kinder-

garten for the first time, Nixon says it is expected that they should already have a familiar-ity with areas such as numbers and colors, but also basic skills, such as tieing their shoes, know-ing when they need to visit the restroom and identifying their backpack.

“Hopefully parents will have built on some information they would of had even before (the first day of school), and by that I mean they have some notion of what things kids need to know when entering kindergarten,” says Nixon.

She says entering kindergar-ten is easier today because most children have already been in a day care or school-like setting, but still, on that first day of school, it can be a scarey experi-ence for children to leave their parents and go with the teacher.

“We have some very good, caring teachers that know exactly how to relate to those little guys and make them very, very at home and to make them feel comfortable and safe,” said Nixon, who says their goal is to make sure the younger students always feel safe at school and make it a positive experience.

By first and second grade, she says the students will have become used to the routine of being in school.

“They tend to look forward to being in school because for them, school is an exciting place where they do a lot of activi-ties,” she said. “They learn a lot, but they get to stretch their minds and their skills in terms of trying out new things and being with their peers ... They learn that it’s not me only in the world, that there are other kids just like me and we all get along here together.”

She says at that age the emphasis is on teaching students to read so that by third grade they are able to read on their own. Some ways parents can help their children become good readers are by reading to them and listening to them read at home.

Having “extended conversa-tions” with their children is also crucial in helping them develop their vocabulary and become confident expressing themselves. Nixon says ideally, a child enter-ing kindergarten should know about 10,000 words.

“They want somebody to listen to them and we need to value the things that they’re say-ing,” said Nixon. “Parents have to get their kids to talk to them and to express to them in more than just a ‘yes’ or a ‘no.’”

She says communication is not just for the younger children, but a skill that is important to encourage throughout all ages.

It is important for parents to provide students with the resources and supplies they will need to succeed at school, such pencils and paper as well as instilling in them healthy eating and sleeping habits, so that they can be as “well-rounded” as possible, Nixon says.

This is also a time for par-ents to begin supporting their children in developing good homework habits, which they will hopefully carry with them throughout their education.

Nixon also says it is never too early to start talking to your young pupil about college and what they want to be when they grow up, and explaining to them

how all the work they are doing now will help them accomplish their dreams in the long run.

She advises setting aside a specific time every day after school that is dedicated to home-work or continued studies so that it not only becomes routine but is impressed upon the child that his or her school work is important and needs to be taken seriously.

“I think in the younger grades, parents need to help the schools instill in kids that school is the most important thing in their life at the moment and they are in school to learn skills and information that is going to help them as they grow up and become adults,” says Nixon, who also says it is just as important for kids to have time to relax and play, which is why they have recess and PE time.

“They just need to be little first graders and play and let their minds be kind of relaxed.”

Nixon says parents should also empower their youngsters by telling them when they’re older they are going to be the vet-erinarian, or the doctor, or the teacher that they want to be, and explain the ways they need to get prepared for that career.

Middle and high school students

For middle school-aged kids and young teens, Nixon says keeping them active and fit will benefit them in ways from their health to their ability to enter new situations more easily.

Another way to give your kid an edge is to encourage them to experience new things outside of school, visit new places and “explore,” so that they will keep learning and maintain an active mind so it’s easier to adjust back to the classroom.

“If they’re narrow in their approach and in what they know and what they see, it’s going to be hard for them to expand and look at another point of view or to examine and evaluate another situation, be it a life situation, a school situation, a social situation that might be differ-ent than their own,” Nixon said. “Learning doesn’t stop.”

Ways to ease anxiety for kids making the transition from elementary to middle school or from middle school to high school, Nixon suggests parents attend functions, such as parent night or join PTA, which will go through explaining what will be expected in the next level of education.

Parent can then spend time talking to their child about what they should expect, what resources will be available to them and how they are support-ed. She says parents should also explain the transition in a posi-tive light and point out the good things that will come of it and how to take advantage of them.

By high school, Nixon said academics should be “the pri-mary motivator,” which can be supported by sports, and other extra curricular activities that “compliment” what the child should be learning academically.

But most importantly, for students of any age, Nixon says parent involvement is an invalu-able part of that child’s success.

“Through it all, the parent needs to be, what I call, that No. 1 cheerleader for the kids,” she says.

Ungelbah Daniel-Davila-News-Bulletin photo

GENEVA NIXON, director of curriculum and instruction at Belen Consolidated Schools, says parent involvement is crucial to stu-dent success.

Early graduation approved at BHSBy ABigAil R. ORtizNews-Bulletin Staff [email protected]

BelenBeginning in August, Belen

High School students will have to follow a different policy if they want to graduate in three years.

The Belen Board of Education adopted the poli-cy after three reviews in late April, since there wasn’t a written policy in place, said Superintendent Ron Marquez.

During the change in school administrators, no records were left behind of those students who were approved to gradu-ate early, leaving the entering administrators at a loss.

“It formalizes the process to make sure we have something documented,” Marquez said.

This policy allows school administrators to follow one procedure for these students, be aware of those on this plan and sets a plan for students to follow.

The Fast Track to Graduation policy outlines when students should begin on the fast track, the eligibility requirements and where core classes or elective credits can be taken.

Early graduation is allowed, with approval from the high school’s principal, a high school assistant principal or curriculum director, if the stu-dent is enrolled in a post sec-ondary program.

The policy recommends students begin on the fast track their freshman year “to pro-vide enough time to double the amount of coursework to com-plete in three years, instead of the traditional four years,” the

policy states. Students will be considered

on a case-by-case basis for fast track during their sophomore or junior year.

A counselor will be assigned to each student’s case to moni-tor their progress and aid them in mapping out their course-work.

Each student is required to take a maximum class load each year, take two English courses during their freshman year and select a career path-way.

Students can take summer school or after school cred-it recovery to gain addition-al credits. However, all core classes must be taken at the high school.

Up to seven elective cred-its can be taken through an accredited educational agency, but need approval from the school’s principal first.

Official transcripts must be submitted to the high school before the end of the semes-ter to prove the completion of these courses.

“It formalizes the pro-cess to make sure we

have something docu-mented.”

RON MARQUEZBelen Superintendent

ments to pay for the cost of public services to the development, estimated to be about $900,000, Dillow said.

Administrators want to get PSCOC’s funding assistance to help build “the best school that we can.”

“We’ve got to get that infrastructure in there before we can start building. That would be a big boost for us, because it would free up bond money for us to build what we want,” he said.

PSFA recommended Family School share a location with an existing facility to “increase utilization of spaces available and expand functionality of spaces to meet the school’s educational pro-gram,” the PSFA letter states.

The educational specifications haven’t been tied to a school yet, but Dillow said the consensus is Rio Grande Elementary School would work cohesively with Family School.

Rio Grande Elementary is located adjacent to the former Family School location. If this site is chosen, Family School would have its own campus but be close enough to Rio Grande Elementary to utilize its facilities.

“We’re vying for a completely separate facility that’s close enough to another one where we can utilize facilities at that school, like a library, gymnasium, cafeteria and things like that,” Dillow said.

Pairing up the two schools could help the district in more ways than one, said Board President R. Sam Chavez. PSCOC maybe more inclined to provide additional funding to Rio Grande for much needed school improvements.

“It’s a matter of a symbiotic relationship between the two, where Family School is going to help Rio Grande and Rio Grande is going to help Family School,” Chavez said.

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Belén Back to School 2012-13

Dear Parents and Guardians:Let me be the first to welcome all of you to a new school year! The 2012-2013 school year holds great things in store for all of our students. As summer draws to a close, all of us begin to look forward with antici-pation to the start of another school year.

A new school year presents opportunities for various beginnings – new classes, new faces, and often new materials. Summer and vacation can be great healers; as we

approach the opening day of the new school year, the end-of-year pressures that plagued us in May seem quite remote and inconse-quential. I sincerely hope that it has been a pleasant summer, and that the coming school year will be rewarding for all students.

The greatest challenge facing us is to make the pursuit of excel-lence more attractive and more rewarding for our students and ourselves.

Unfortunately, there are many attacks being made on education today. These attacks will make our employees’ jobs tougher, but we can’t let that be an excuse to not provide quality education for our students. I am asking that you will once again join with me in making this coming school year the best yet.

I hope that you share with me the challenge and anticipation of the up-and-coming school year.

Sincerely,Ron MarquezSuperintendent

To All Students and Parents:Summer is almost over and it is time for school to start. As always we will start the year with high expectations and sound educational goals and practice for our stu-dents to continue to make academic prog-ress. You may have different classrooms, you may have different teachers and you may have a new principal. But it will all come together for a good experience. We want our students to have the best year possible. We will continue to offer the

appropriate curriculum to achieve the district objective, which is to increase the rigor of our classes, to provide only those classes that are relevant to student success, and, very importantly, to enhance the relationships that lead to continuous improvement in helping our students learn and improve their skills in reading and math. Much emphasis is placed on helping students master these essential skills at grade level, which helps them to perform better on the standardized test, which determines whether schools make forward progress. With the dedicated, able staff that we have in our district, I think we will continue to do this good work, but we must rely on active participation by parents and community to help achieve this goal.

All students receive instruction using the District K-12 curriculum that is based on State Content Standards and Benchmarks and Common Core State Standards. The curriculum will continue to be updated as the State Standards and Benchmarks are revised and changed. We are also focusing on the essential skills that have been identified by the state as carrying more weight on the SBA test.

Reading blocks are in place at every site (elementary) to ensure that students receive the appropriate help they need in learning to read, or improve their reading skills, and address exceptional reading problems. Also, there is a math block in place at every site. Intervention programs will continue to provide additional support for students who need help in reading and math.

To round out the learning experience for our students, there are many activities that students may participate in to enable them to become lifelong learners. All of these programs, academic and activity, are designed to help students have a fun filled and quality school year.

Thank you for your support of Belen Schools, and thank you for trusting us with your children.

Best wishes for all,Geneva T. NixonDirector of Curriculum & Instruction

Research, Technology and AccountabilityKathleen A. Roselli, Director

Belen Consolidated Schools has a vast array of technology available to facilitate student learning and manage student/employee information.

It is the goal of the Research, Technology and Accountability department to enable all end users (staff, students, and parents) to become technology literate and make all available technology user friendly.

The RTA department reminds parents and staff that the district web site is available at www.beleneagles.org. The RTA department is committed to continually improving the web site to include pertinent information as well as links to other educational resources.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONDiane Vallejos

Director Special Services

It is the goal of Belen Schools to give every student the opportunity to develop his/her potential to the highest degree possible. It is the mission of the Belen Schools Special

Education Department to facilitate the identification and delivery of services to children who have a recognized IDEA (Individuals With Disabilities Education Act) disability. Our mission is to deliver these students “a free and appropriate education in their least restrictive environment.”

Our primary purpose is to maximize the identified child’s learning experience by providing accommodations and support that help the student gain access to the general education curriculum or to gain life skills that will optimize the student’s independent living.

Our Child Find activities extend our identification of children in need of special services from birth to age 21. We have preschool programs for 3 and 4 year old children in need of special services. Our Child Find program offers screening for services during the months: September, October, November, January, February, April and May. If you would like more information about any of our programs, please call 966-1860 and we will be happy to assist in any way we can.

Belen Consolidated SchoolsVISION STATEMENT

“Educating all Children for Tomorrow.”

Belen Consolidated SchoolsMISSION STATEMENT

Belen Consolidated Schools will educate all students in acquiring knowledge, skills, and attitudes so they will graduate and become healthy, productive, lifelong learners who have a positive effect on their community, country and world.

At Belen Schools, we will strive for our students to deal effectively with change, promoting values of a democratic society and diversity where all views are respected.

In a safe and nurturing environment, Belen Consolidated Schools will provide quality instruction to all students, using research-based practices of data driven decision making, while involving parents, community and staff.

Belen Consolidated SchoolsEPSS OVERALL GOALS

1. All students will reach proficiency in Mathematics for the 2012-2013 school year so that the schools make their Annual Measurable Objectives.

2. All students will reach proficiency in Reading for the 2012-2013 school year so that the schools make their Annual Measurable Objectives.

3. Improve parent engagement and support of their children’s academic achievement as a member of the school community.

2012-2013 SCHOOL CALENDAR

August 8, 9 Professional Development In- Service Day for EmployeesAugust 10 First Teaching Day Jumpstart for Preschool, K-6, 7th and 9th grades September 3 Labor DayOctober 15 Fall BreakNovember 12 Veterans’ DayNovember 21, 22, 23 Thanksgiving BreakDecember 24 - 31 Winter Break January 7 Professional Development In-Service Day for EmployeesJanuary 8 First Day Back for Students from Winter Break January 21 Martin Luther King DayFebruary 18 Presidents’ DayMarch 29 – April 1 BreakMarch 29 - April 1 Make – Up Days (if needed)April 15 - 19 Spring BreakMay 22 Last Day of School

REPORT CARDS

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLSNine week reporting period

October 12, 2012 December 21, 2012

March 8, 2013May 22, 2013

Report Cards are issued one week after the end of the nine-week period.

HIGH SCHOOL, MID SCHOOLAND INFINITY HIGH SCHOOL

Six week reporting periodSeptember 21, 2012November 2, 2012December 21, 2012February 15, 2013March 28, 2013May 22, 2013

Report Cards are issued one week after theend of the six-week period

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCESOctober 18, 19, 2012February 21, 22, 2013

Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held at all sites.

DISTRICT IN-SERVICES

Per the negotiated agreement, the following daysare designated district in-service:

Wednesday and Thursday, August 8 and August 9, 2012Monday, January 7, 2013

School is dismissed for all students on those days.

DISTRICT STANDARDIZED TESTING

The New Mexico Standards Based Assessment given to all students in grades 3 through 8, as well as second and third year high school students, is used to measure how well the students have mastered academic content standards. Results from this test, along with attendance rates, graduation rates, and testing participation, are the basis for School Grading. School grading is a measure of how New Mexico schools are doing based on the mandates of federal legislation.

To learn academic standards, students need to be in school every day, ready to learn. Students in New Mexico can only achieve academic success with the involvement of their parents. Parents/guardians can help their children do well on the test by making sure they have a healthy breakfast, receive a good night’s sleep, attend as many days of school as possible, do their homework, and get plenty of exercise. Parents need to stress these healthy habits, not just during test time but also throughout the school year.

The levels of proficiency are determined based on what students should have learned by late February/March when the tests are administered, not what students should have learned by the end of the school year.

TESTING SCHEDULE2012-2013 SY

NMHSCE (H5 or higher)Fall retest September 24, 2012 through October 12, 2012Winter retest January 7, 2013 through January 24, 2013

HSGA (H4-all student who did not pass the spring 2012 HS SBA/HSGA for graduation)

New Fall retest September 24, 2012 through October 12, 2012

AAHSG (Grades H4 & H4+)Fall retakes September 24, 2012 through October 26, 2012

ACCESS for ELLs (grades K-12)Winter January 14, 2013 through February 22, 2013

NMAPA (AYP – grades 3-8 & 11)Spring February 25, 2013 through April 8, 2013

SBA (grades 3-8, H2, and H3)Spring March 18, 2013 through April 5, 2013

DIBELSBOY First 10 days of school, no later than August 23, 2012MOY January 7, 2013 through January 18, 2013EOY May 6, 2013 through May 17, 2013

DISCOVERY ASSESSMENT Fall to be announcedWinter to be announcedSpring to be announced End of Year to be announced

***TEST DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AS PER PED***

INCLEMENT WEATHER

In the event of inclement weather, the Belen Consolidated Schools may operate on an abbreviated day basis. In the event of an abbreviated day, the start time at each school will be two hours later than usual. The dismissal time will remain the same for all schools.

Television stations, which will relay the abbreviated day information, are KOB (Channel 4), KOAT (Channel 7), and KRQE (Channel l3).

Radio stations are KARS (Belen 860), and KOB-FM (Albuquerque 93.3). The following are telephone numbers for the various stations: KARS Radio, 878-0980; KOB Radio, 767-9193, KOB TV, 764-2499, KOAT-TV, 884-6324; and KRQE-TV, 764-5240.

DISASTER/SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In the case of a school emergency, crisis, or disaster, please listen to KARS, KRST, KOB-AM, for instructions. Please do not call the school or go there until directed

OFFICE HOURS

All BCS school sites will be open from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. including Support Services

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER WORKSHOPS2012-2013

A Veteran Substitute Workshop will be held July 30, 2012 from 8:00 a.m. 12:00 a.m., at the Administration Building 520 North Main Street.

A New Substitute Teacher Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday September 05, 2012 at the Administration Building 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Monthly Substitute Teacher workshops will be held throughout the school year at the Belen Consolidated Schools Main Office. Call The Human Resources Department – 966-1030 for more information.

To qualify for substitute teaching, applicants must have a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED), complete an FBI Background Check, become licensed by the Public Education Department of the State of New Mexico, and MUST attend a substitute workshop.

SCHOOL EVENTS AND INFORMATION

CENTRAL ELEMENTARY Principal – Cynthia Swanson

Belén School Board MembersR. Sam Chavez

PresidentAdrian PinoVice President

Dolores Ida QuintanaSecretary

Larry LindbergMember

Lorraine EspinosaMember


GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT CENTRAL

Soaring to New heights in Academics and Character: Central Elementary is a PBS (Positive Behavior Support) school. We have identified qualities and traits that are considered essential for the successful operation of the school as a place for learning and personal development and use them as our organizing principals. These core values are practiced daily by all “Eagles at Central:

Excellence:Go beyond what is expectedBe a positive example to others.

AccountabilityBe preparedAccept consequences without argument or complaint.

Great Character:Be considerate.Be respectful

Life-long Learning:Develop traits for Success.Be problem solvers

Enthusiasm:Take pride in being a Central Eagle.Be involved.

Safety:Follow the rules and procedures.Take care of yourself and others.

Central elementary will continue to focus academically on achieving our EPSS (Educational Plan for Student Success) goals of increasing proficiency in reading and math. We will continue to have a 90 minute block of reading instruction. The core basal for Reading is McGraw-Hill Treasures. We will also use Accelerated Reader, Achieve 3000 and TELL (Technology Enhanced Learning Lab) as additional resources in the intervention program. Math block will be 60 minutes, using core Harcourt Math. Accelerated Math will be used to help reach this goal.

We will continue our inclusive approach to education as well. We serve all students in their least restrictive environment, whereby all students, regardless of disabilities, are educated with their peers and not in a self-contained classroom.

OPEN HOUSE/UPCOMING EVENTSThe first day of school is Friday, August 10th, 2012.

Please join us on Wednesday, August 15th from 5:30 – 6:30 pm to meet your child’s teacher during our open house. We are excited to be starting a new school year and look forward to seeing you soon.

SCHOOL SCHEDULE8:35 am – 3:00 pm. Students may begin arriving at 8:35 am and should report to their classrooms. Breakfast will be served in the classroom this year. The tardy bell will ring at 8:45 am. Please remember that if your child is tardy, you must accompany them to the office to sign them in.

Please use the designated zone for dropping off and picking up your child at all times. Do not drop them off in front of the school at any time.

SCHOOL SUPPLIESSchool supply lists for each teacher are available at the front office.

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENTVision: To be the finest school by providing an environment that encourages excellence in academics and character with:

• Full community participation.• A challenging and meaningful curriculum.• A positive climate.

Mission: To build an inclusive learning environment emphasizing high expectations and teamwork for all.

SCHOOL UNIFORM/DRESS CODE

For the 2012-2013 school year, the decision has been made to continue with a school uniform policy: Tops: Collared shirts/polo shirts in solid colors only (any solid color is permitted); there will be no pictures, logos, stripes, or writing of any kind. Jersey type shirts are not allowed unless specific permission has been granted for a Central Elementary School Team. (SHIRTS MUST BE TUCKED IN)Coats/jackets/sweaters must also be of a solid color.

Bottoms: All bottoms must be of a solid khaki (tan), navy blue or black, classic traditional cut, fitted, uniform style with no saggy, baggy or wide leg looks. Sweatpants and exercise pants/leggings are not permitted. Shorts, skirts and dresses will be the same as pants, and they shall also be khaki, navy blue or black. The length of shorts, skirts, skorts and dresses must extend beyond the length of the longest finger, when arms are held naturally at the sides. (See general district code for exact measurements.) Bottoms may have small cargo pockets. Belts are to be worn inside of pant loops at all times. Belts may not hang down.

Headgear: It is recommended that headgear is not worn. However, caps, visors and cowboy hats are allowed outdoors only, for protection from the elements or on special occasions. Cowboy hats are also permitted. All hats must be removed upon entering the building.

Each Friday, we will have a “casual dress day”. On these days, students may wear tops and bottoms of their choice that do not violate our general district dress code.

GIL SANCHEZ ELEMENTARY“Home of the Panthers”

Principal – John Caldarera Secretary- Terry Romero

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT GIL SANCHEZWe look forward to another great year at Gil Sanchez. The primary focus of academic instruction remains reading and math. We will continue with our Accelerated Reader Program and are excited about the addition of two new supplemental math programs: Do the Math and Fraction Nation.

Character education will be emphasized this school year and students will have the opportunity to learn and model

the Character Counts pillars (caring, respect, responsibility, citizenship, fairness and trustworthiness). Gil Sanchez Elementary School proudly uses the Positive Behavior Support program which rewards students for good behavior. Proper behavior in class, the playground, walkways, cafeteria, and office are modeled for the students at the beginning of the year.

Each classroom at Gil Sanchez has a minimum of two computers and we have two computer labs that are available for student use.

OPEN HOUSE/UPCOMING EVENTS•Please come in and register your Kindergartener if you have not already. As of July 11 we already have 45 kinders enrolled. •The first day of school for Kindergarten through 6th grade is August 10, 2012•Open House --- Wednesday, August 22, 2012 --- 5:30 pm – 6:30pm•Kindergarten – All Kindergarten children are to be accompanied by a parent to an introductory meeting at 9:00 am on the first day of school (August 10, 2012)

CLASS LISTSClass lists will be posted in the front lobby on July 26, 2012 from 8AM to 4PM. Students may find out who their teachers are for the new school year.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE INCENTIVE

Students with perfect attendance are recognized every nine weeks and at the end of the school year. What entails perfect attendance?

1. No tardies2. No absences3. No early withdrawals4. Picking up your student during the school day disqualifies your child from receiving perfect attendance recognition.

SCHOOL SCHEDULES8:35 am – 3:05 pm. Students may begin arriving at 8:25 am. Grades K-6 will have breakfast in the classroom from 8:35 until 8:50am. There will be no recess before school. The tardy bell will ring at 8:50am.

SCHOOL SUPPLIESThe school supply lists are available at Gil Sanchez Elementary School, Wal-Mart, Walgreens and http://belen.gses.schoolfusion.us under the Parent/Student Information tab.

SCHOOL DRESS CODEUniforms are not required this academic school year. For Dress Code details, please refer to the Gil Sanchez Family/Student Handbook. We have T-shirts in navy, red, black and maroon with the GSE logo for sale.

GIL SANCHEZ ELEMENTARY MISSION STATEMENTThe community of Gil Sanchez Elementary will be responsible for academic excellence through a standards-based curriculum in a safe, learning environment.

GIL SANCHEZ ELEMENTARY VISION STATEMENTOur vision is to develop a school in which the community, teachers, administration, and students work faithfully together to reach a common goal. In order to successfully produce literate, compassionate, self-sufficient, and contributing adults, we will:

• Provide instruction guided by standards and benchmarks• Hold high expectations for all students for continuous improvement• Promote independent learning by recognizing individual learning styles• Encourage positive student behavior (PBS)

GIL SANCHEZ ELEMENTARY VALUES STATEMENT• We will unite to create a school “structure” that encourages effective communication with clear, school-wide goals• We will identify the essential outcomes for each grade level• We will use standards and benchmarks to build a foundation and set attainable goals for students and measure student success through the use of short cycle assessments• We will develop strategies within our teams that support continuous improvement• We will build a positive school culture through the encouragement of positive behavior systems and incorporation of character building lessons

Henry T. Jaramillo School “Home of the SOARing Eaglets!” Principal – Carla S. Martinez

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUTHenry T. Jaramillo School

No Excuses University NetworkHere at H.T. Jaramillo School we are proud to be part of the No Excuses University Network of Schools. We are the only school in New Mexico to be part of the nationwide network. The network currently has close to two hundred schools thousands of students and One BIG Dream!

“After high school comes college! No Excuses!”

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT-WEDNESDAY AUGUST 8TH

4:30 pm-6:30 pmClass lists will be posted in the front lobby. Come meet your new teacher and tour your classroom. Get your school supply lists. Find out what University you will be adopting this year!

SCHOOL SCHEDULE8:45 AM –3:10 PM The first bell rings at 8:40 AM and all students, kindergarten through 3rd grade will line up in the patio. Teachers will then meet their students and enter the classrooms by 8:45 AM. All students arriving after the 8:45 AM bell will be marked tardy. Dismissal time is 3:10 PM.

SCHOOL SUPPLIESEach classroom teacher will issue their own supply list on our Welcome Back to School Night, or the first day of school.

SCHOOL UNIFORM DRESS CODEStudents are required to wear uniforms Monday through Thursday. Every Monday is our No Excuses Day! Students wear their No Excuses University T-Shirt with jeans/or uniform. Every Friday is casual dress day. Blue jeans/denim are acceptable on Fridays. Students are encouraged to wear their adopted University T-Shirts on Fridays!

Shirts: ANY solid colored shirt is acceptable. All shirts must have collars. No oversized or overly long shirts are allowed. No tank tops, midriffs, or spaghetti straps of any kind will be allowed. Students must have their shirts tucked in at all times Monday thru Friday.

Bottoms: Pants will be one solid color (navy blue, black or khaki). Walking shorts/skorts will be of the same color and no shorter than 3 inches above the knee. Capri pants are also acceptable. No type of denim/jeans is allowed is allowed Tuesday thru Thursday.

Dresses/Skirts/Jumpers/Skorts:These must all be one solid color (navy, khaki or black) and will be no shorter than 3 inches above the knee.

Shoes:Shoes will be closed toe and flat. Closed toe sandals with a heel strap are acceptable.

Hats/Caps/Visors:Headgear is encouraged when outside at recess or P.E. All must be worn with a visor to the front. Headwear is to be removed upon entering a building.

Hair/Makeup/Jewelry:No extreme hairstyles – no Mohawks/Faux hawks or cutout designs. Extreme hair color is not allowed. No makeup or artificial nails. No dangly or oversized earrings.

LA MERCED ELEMENTARY HOME OF THE THUNDERBIRDS

School Phone Number: 505 966-2100

Principal – Isela M. Jaquez Assistant Principal-Margaret Manning

Welcome to a new school year. As the newly assigned administrators of La Merced Elementary School, we are privileged to welcome you to the 2012-2013 school year. Every school year brings a renewed sense of excitement, new beginnings, and changes. For us, our excitement comes from getting to know our new school home, community and students. For many of our teachers, new beginnings will come through grade level moves, new students, and working with the Common Core State Standards. Although not quite finished, a nice change at La Merced is the new HVAC system being installed to help keep our students comfortable throughout the year.

Belén Back to School 2012-13IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

In accordance with the law passed by the New Mexico State Legislature, all students are required to have up-to-date immunizations to enroll or remain in school. If you have any questions about the status of your child’s immunization record, please call the school nurse for assistance.

DTP/DTaP/Td: Four doses required; at least one dose must be after age 4. STET 1 dose of 3-dose primary series should be Tdap.

Tdap: Required for 7th - 12th grade entry.

Polio: Three doses of all IPV or all OPV are required for K-12th graders; 4 doses if OPV and IPV are used. Final dose must be on or after the 4th birthday.

MMR: Two doses required for K-12th graders. First dose must be administered on/after first birthday and second dose at least 28 days after the first. It is recommended that the second dose be given between the ages of 4-6 years of age.

Hepatitis B: Three doses required for all K-12th graders, with a minimum of 16 weeks between the first and last doses. Two-dose option is acceptable for children ages 11 to 15 if 2nd dose is received no sooner than 16 weeks after 1st dose.

Varicella: Two doses required for k-4th graders and one dose required for 5th-10 graders. Two doses recommended for all other grades if no documentation of natural disease available and documentation must support disease history or immunity, preferably by medical or laboratory record.

NOTE: There is not a “grace period.” The law clearly states all the above immunizations must be given before a child can attend school. All students must present proof of the above immunizations in the form of medical statements or Health Department records. Applications of medical and/or religious exemption are made to the New Mexico State Health and Environment Office. Applications are obtainable through the school nurse’s office. All applications must be renewed nine (9) months from the date of confirmation. Medical exemptions application must include documentation of lab testing declaring reason for exemption. Religious exemption – application must include an original letter of affidavit from an office of a recognized religious denomination, or applicant may submit a certificate of conscientious objection to immunization. No Xeroxed copies are accepted.

All students who are exempt will not be allowed to attend school if there is an outbreak of an immunized preventable disease.

Source: NM DOH 3/2010 School Entry Immunization Requirements: 2011 – 2012 School Year


At the same time, change can sometimes be difficult and met with some apprehension. Perhaps your child is a bit anxious with the anticipation of new classes and teachers. Please reassure them that the staff at La Merced is ready to help them have a successful school experience. We look forward to your child’s return. Here is a brief overview of our school and further information may be found through the Belen Consolidated Schools WebPage: http://beleneagles.org

La Merced Elementary Mission StatementIt is the mission of La Merced Elementary to increase the academic growth of our students through the implementation of the New Mexico Standards and Benchmarks.

La Merced Elementary Vision StatementWe will enable all students to reach their full academic potential and enrich their social development.

SCHOOL COLORS AND SCHOOL MASCOTLME mascot is the Thunderbird and the school colors are turquoise and black. We encourage our students to identify with these symbols as a representation of our school pride and spirit!

OPEN HOUSE/UPCOMING EVENTS

Kindergarten Parent Meeting Friday, August 10, 2012 9:00 AM All kindergarten children are to be accompanied by a parent to an introductory meeting

“No Victims Thursday, August 16, 2012Anti-bullying Assembly” 6:00-8:00 PMOpen House Thursday, August 23, 2012 5:30-7:30 PM

SCHOOL SCHEDULES• 8:30 – 2:55 Students may begin arriving at 8:25. Grades K-6 will have free breakfast in the classroom from 8:30 until 8:45. The tardy bell will ring at 8:45.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES• The school supply lists are available at La Merced Elementary School, Wal-Mart and Walgreens in Belen and http://beleneagles.org under the La Merced Parent/Student Information tab.

SCHOOL DRESS CODELa Merced Elementary does not have school uniforms, but students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. For Dress Code details, please refer to the Belen Consolidated Schools Family/Student Handbook

SCHOOL BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAMBreakfast is free for all students at La Merced.Lunch cost is determined through the school lunch application process. Please make sure to complete it accurately at the beginning of this school year to determine if your child qualifies for a free lunch, red or reduced price lunch. If your child does not qualify, student lunches cost $1.75 per meal.

PARKING LOT INFORMATION/TRAFFIC PROCEDURES:

Parents are to use the northeast parking lot for visiting or picking up students. Please remain in vehicle when picking up/dropping off students.

The Bus Loop is located on the north side of the school. Parents will not be allowed to pick up students in this area – This is strictly for the school busses!

Westside pick-up will only be used for special needs busses and day care. If you come to the office to pick up your child, please have your identification with you.

LA PROMESA ELEMENTARY SCHOOLDirectora / Principal – Joanne Silva

Número de Teléfono / Phone Number- 966-2400

La Promesa would like to welcome back to school all of the fabulous students! We’ve spent the summer preparing for this upcoming academic year and we are ready to begin learning, exploring, and creating! Our community of educators, students, and caring citizens will continue to work together in developing a well-balanced educational program that promotes high student achievement. You are invited to visit classrooms, meet with the principal, attend conferences, and most importantly, share with us in the joy of educating students.

¡Bienvenidos a otro año escolar! Hemos pasado el verano preparando para en nuevo año escolar y estamos listos para aprender, explorar y crear. Nuestra comunidad de maestros, estudiantes y ciudadanos continuará a trabajar juntos en ofrecer programas académicos. Le invitamos a visitar a las clases, conocer a la directora, asistir juntas y más importante disfrutar con nosotros en el proceso de educar a nuestros jovenes.LA PROMESA DAILY SCHEDULE ORARIO DIARIOStaff Arrival TimeHora de Llegada (Maestros) 8:00 am

Student Arrival TimeHora De Llegada (Estudiantes) 8:50 am

Breakfast /Desayuno 8:50 am – 9:05 am

Class Begins/AnnouncementsHora de Empezar los Estudios 8:50 am

K-1stGrade LunchKinder/1 Grado Almuerzo 11:30 am – 12:10 pm

2nd - 3rd -4th Grade 2- 3 -4 Grado Almuerzo 12:00 pm – 12:40 pm5th -6th Grade

5- 6 Grado Almuerzo 12:30 pm – 1:10 pmStudent Dismissal

Hora De Salida (Estudiantes) 3:20 pm Buses Depart

Hora De Salir (Autobuses) 3:30 pm

SCHOOL SUPPLIES (ÚTILELES)Kindergarten

Backpack/Mochila1 box large crayons 8 basic colors

1 caja de 8 colores básicos de tamaño grande1 pair of scissors (blunt tip)

1 par de tijeras2 boxes 24 ct crayons2 caja de 24 colores

2 plain portfolio pocket folders2 fólderes plásticos 1 water color paint

1 caja de pinturas de agua1 container disinfectant wipes1 caja de toallas desinfectantes

1 box Kleenex1 caja de pañuelos de papel

1 box sandwich size baggies (boys) 1 caja de bolsitas plasticas (niños)1 box gallon baggies (girls)

1 caja de bolsas de un galón (niñas)Please Purchase & keep at home for doing homework:

Por favor compre para tener en casa para poder hacer la tarea:1 box crayons, 1 caja de colores,

1 package pencils, 1 paquete de lápices, 1 bottle glue, 1 botella de pegamento, 1 pair scissors, 1 par de tijeras

1st GradeBackpack/Mochila1 box 48 ct crayons1 caja de 48 colores 1 box thick markers

1 caja de marcadores grandes1 box thin markers

1 caja de marcadores finos48 ct pencils

48 lápices1 pkg. eraser caps

1 paquete de borradores tapas2 pocket folders

2 carpetas con bolsillos2 packages wide rule paper

2 paquetes de papel 1 plastic supply box

1 caja plástica para los lápices2 boxes of Kleenex

2 cajas de pañuelos de papel de linea ancha2 containers Clorox wipes

2 caja de toallas desinfectantes

2nd GradeBackpack/Mochila2 boxes of Kleenex

2 cajas de toallitas faciales24 ct #2 pencils

24 lápices #21 package colored pencils

1 paquete de lápices para colorear2 Wide Rule Loose Leaf Paper2 paquetes de papel línea ancha2 folders/side pockets & prongs

2 carpetas con bolsillos laterales y puntas1 package of dry erase markers

1 paquete de marcadores que se pueden borrar2 glue sticks

2 barritas de pegamento2 containers disinfectant wipes2 cajas de toallas desinfectantes

Flash Cards (addition/subraction) Tarjetas (sumas/restas)

1” 3 ring binder1”carpeta de 3 anillos

3 rd Grade1” 3 ring binder

1”carpeta de 3 anillos1 pkg. notebook dividers

Separadoes con pestañas multicolores grandesPencil sharpener

sacapuntas1 box baby wipes

1 caja de toallas desinfectantes1 box Kleenex

1 caja de pañuelos de papel3 dry erase markers

3 paquetes de marcadores que se pueden borrar24 ct pencils

24 lápices1 box crayons

1 caja de 24 colores1 ruler with inches & centimeters

1 regla de métrica y pulgadas1 glue stick/

1 barrita de pegamento1 pair scissors 1 par de tijeras

BackpackMochilla

4th Grade3 subject wide rule notebook

3 carpeta de 3 anillos1 package red pens

1 paquete de plumas rojas2 packages of pencils2 paquetes de lápices

1 package large erasers1 paquete de aborradores grandes

Backpack

Mochila1ruler with inches & centimeters

1 regla de métrica y pulgadas1 package graphing paper1 paquete de papel gráfico

ProtractorTransportador

Math compass w/ pencilCompás de para matemáticas

1 large pencil box1 caja grande para los lápices

5th Grade5 packages loose leaf paper

5 paquetes de papel linea ancha5 packages 24 ct pencils5 paquetes 24 de lápices1 package large erasers1 paquete de borradores

4 spiral notebooks4 cuadernos

1 box Kleenex1 caja de toallitas faciales

1 box markers1 caja de marcadores

1 glue stick1 Barrita de pegamento

1 pair of scissors 1 par de tijeras

6th Grade 2 Spiral notebooks wire rule

2 cuadernos linea anchaPencil Sharpener

sacapuntas3 pkgs #2 pencils

3 paquetes de lápices2 pkgs. Wide rule paper

2 paquetes de papel linea ancha5 dividers

5 separadoes con pestañas multicolores grandes1 Package of Dry Erase Markers

1 paquete de marcadores que se pueden borrarCrayons or Color Pencils

Paquete de lápices para colorear o caja de colores1 ½ inch 3 ring binder

1 ½ ”carpeta de 3 anillos1 packages 3x5 index cards

1 paquete de tarjetas 3x5

2 boxes of Kleenex2 cajas de toallitas faciales

Mission Statement

The mission of La Promesa is to develop the creative minds of students through education with respect in a safe and consistent environment. La Promesa emphasizes high academic standards and superb character. Our team is dedicated to serving the academic needs of students and working collaboratively with families and community. It is our desire to be part of positive student growth throughout their elementary school experience.

Dress Code (See Belén Schools Student Handbook for more detailed information regarding Dress)

Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. Student dress that presents a health or safety hazard, violates municipal, county, or state law, or presents a potential disruption of the educational process is not allowed.

Attire or accessories that advertise, display, or promote any drug, including alcohol or tobacco, sexual activity, inappropriate language, violence, disrespect and/or bigotry toward any group are not acceptable.

Unacceptable clothing and accessories include, but are not limited to, gang related attire, excessively tight or revealing clothes, bare midriff, low cut and/or off the shoulder blouse, spiked jewelry, chains, belts with more than 2 inches excess.

“Sagging” or the wearing of pants below the waist an/or in a manner that allows underwear or bare skin to show, and bagging, or the wearing of excessively baggy pants with low hanging crotches are prohibited.

As a matter of common courtesy and respect, hats/caps are not to be worn while inside buildings except where there is specific instructional, safety, religious or medical reasons verified by a doctor’s note.

Hairstyles or hair colors that cause distractions from the learning process will not be allowed.

Body piercing with studs or rings is not allowed except for earrings.

Mesh clothing such as basketball jerseys must be worn with a T-shirt under the mesh-clothing item.

Clothing that bares any part of the wearer’s midsection, even if covered with appropriate clothing is not allowed.

All blouses/shirts must have sleeves.

Shoes must be worn at all times while on campus. Shoes should have a closed toe and heel strap. Shoes with wheels are not allowed.

No student on school property or at any school activity shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other item that is perceived as evidence of membership or affiliation with a gang.

Non- prescription dark glasses of any kind may not be worn indoors.

When in judgment of the principal and/or his/her designee, a student’s appearance or mode of dress is distractive, disrupts



the educational process of constitutes a threat to his/her health or safety, the student will be required to make the requested modifications.

RIO GRANDE ELEMENTARYPrincipal – Barbara Thoms

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT RIO GRANDE

Rio Grande Elementary would like to welcome back all of our Eagle students back. We look forward to the incredible opportunity to help every student learn. Rio Grande Elementary is a school wide Title I school. Through title I funds, we have expanded technology and supplemented academic services. Every student receives free breakfast and lunch. Rio Grande Elementary…where every student is an EAGLE!

SCHOOL SCHEDULE 8:25– 2:55 (Recess and supervision are NOT available before school)

SCHOOL SUPPLIES Grade level, class supply lists will be available at RGE, and at various local retail stores.

MISSION STATEMENTRio Grande elementary is committed to providing a quality education for all students. Our ultimate goal is to create lifelong learners, who continually strive to reach their highest potential. At Rio Grande, we will continue to address:

1. Improving students’ reading skills. 2. Improving and addressing all students’ specific math skills. 3. Increasing parent involvement. 4. Decreasing discipline referrals. 5. Improving students’ attendance.

Our main academic focus will continue to be reading and math. Our goals reflect areas in need of improvement. We also recognize the importance attendance and discipline play in academic achievement.

RIO GRANDE AT A GLANCE

• All students receive a 90 minute uninterrupted reading block each day. • Students needing additional instruction have access to intensive reading intervention. • Corrective Reading • Accelerated Reader • All students receive 60 minute math block each day. • LRE-Least Restrictive Environment- RGE makes every effort to include all students in every facet of each day.• Tutoring – D.A.Y Scholars and Title I. • Parent involvement encouraged. • Monthly Site Council meetings. • Weekly classroom updates. • Monthly School Newsletter.• Quarterly EAGLE Recognition Assembly.

In lieu of our beginning of the year “Ice Cream Social”, an Open House will be scheduled for September. SCHOOL UNIFORM/DRESS CODE

Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. Student dress may not present a health or safety hazard, violate municipal, county, or state law, or present a potential disruption of the education process. Uniforms are not required this academic school year. For dress code details, please refer to the District Handbook and/or the Rio Grande Student Handbook.

DENNIS CHAVEZ ELEMENTARY

Principal – Rita MartinezOPEN HOUSE/UPCOMING EVENTS

Kindergarten students are to be accompanied by a parent to an orientation meeting at 9:00 am on August 10, 2012 Students will remain at school the rest of the day and will be dismissed at 2:55.

Open House: time and date to be announced.

SCHOOL SCHEDULE8:30 – 2:55Students may arrive at school at 8:30. There is no recess before school. Breakfast will be served in the classroom. Students who arrive after 8:40 a.m. are tardy and must be signed in at the office by an adult.

CLASS ASSIGNMENTSPrior to the first day of school, parents/guardians can come by DCE during normal business hours to get their child’s class assignment. On the first day of school, class assignments will be available in the cafeteria.

SCHOOL SUPPLIESSchool supply lists for each grade level and/or classroom are available at Dennis Chavez Elementary. The lists are also accessible on the DCE website under the Parent/Students information tab.

1. The website address is: dces.beleneagles.org

MISSON STATEMENTDennis Chavez Elementary community is committed to the continuous development of responsible, productive, educated citizens.

VISION STATEMENTThe DCE Team will work collaboratively to provide a caring environment and an atmosphere of mutual respect. Students will acquire academic skills through research based curricula to reach their full potential.

TogetherEducateAllMembers

DRESS CODE General Guidelines • No clothing may be more than one size larger than what the student would normally wear • No disruptive clothing, examples: emblems, lettering, colors, pictures, symbols, and logos that depict violence, obscenity, illegal activity, sexual or racial harassment • No tight, form fitting or low-cut clothing • No chains, spikes, long dangling belts or gang paraphernalia • No tattered clothing with holes that expose skin No pajamas or pajama like clothing• No tattoos—permanent or temporary • No see through or mesh clothing • No student on school property or at any school activity shall wear, possess, use distribute, display or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign or other items that are perceived as evidence of membership in or affiliated with a gang Pants, Skirts, Shorts, Skorts • Dresses, skirts, skorts and shorts will reach an appropriate, modes length—no shorter than three (3) inches above the knee, slits are not acceptable • Capri pants are allowed• Sagging pants or wearing of pants in a manner that allows underwear, under clothing or bare skin to show (whether standing or sitting) is not allowed• Excessively baggy or long pants with low hanging crotches are prohibited

Shirts and Blouses • The midriff must be covered. If the arms are lifted above the head and skin shows, the shirt is too short • Shirts and blouses must have sleeves

Shoes • Shoes will have a closed toe and flat heels • No high heels, platforms or clogs • Closed toe sandals with a heel strap are acceptable • Shoes must be tied/fastened securely

Hats • Hats and caps are permitted but must be removed upon entering the building • The visor of the cap must be worn to the front

Hair • No extreme, exaggerated or distracting hairstyles, such as Mohawks or lines • No cutouts • No temporary or permanent hair color

Makeup• No makeup is allowed • Only clear lip balm is allowed• No artificial nails

Jewelry • Only stud earrings are allowed • Jewelry may not be worn in any piercing other than the earlobe • No spiked jewelry FAMILY SCHOOL

Informational meeting for students and parents at 7:00pm on August 2nd, 2012 in the Belen High School auditorium. We will discuss school grading and current standing.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT INFINITY HIGH SCHOOL

Infinity High School is a Title I school with a focus on educating students through alternative techniques, methods and environment. This includes but is not limited to online classes, labs and practical learning experiences. Serious emphasis is placed on proficiency, as well as achieving credits, especially with regard to math and reading. We must prepare our students to perform successfully on the SBA-(Standards Based Assessment). Even though students may have earned the appropriate number of credits, if they have do not demonstrate proficiency, on the SBA, then they will not be awarded a diploma. They would receive a Certificate of Completion. Students are required to earn 26 credits to graduate from Infinity High School. Many of the elective credits required are earned through mandated Cooperative Education/Service Learning opportunities. Our goal is to emulate the professional setting to help students become aware of how they should conduct themselves in appearance and personal presentation to best prepare them for significant career and or job opportunities in their future. Students must minimally conform to standards conducive to office professionals. All students are required to attend school every district scheduled school day. It will be necessary for most students to provide their own transportation due to the Cooperative Education requirements.

Cooperative Education/Service LearningAll students are required to engage in the Cooperative Education/Service Learning for elective credits. Students who are unable to find gainful employment will be required to volunteer to acquire the necessary hours to earn their credits. There are guidelines and parameters, therefore, all employment or volunteer endeavors must be approved by administration or designee. There will be some volunteer opportunities that will be encouraged and supported by Infinity High School to assist students in the acquisition of their elective credits. UPCOMING EVENTSInfinity High School New Student Registration and Orientation for students and parents will be held July 26th 2012 at 6:00pm in the Belen High School Auditorium. Returning Students and their parents will be required to attend orientation on August 2nd, 2012 at 6:00pm at the Belen High School Auditorium. Class Schedules will be available on the first day of school for all students.***Future dates and times will be announced at a later time.

REPORT CARDS AND PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCESParent-Teacher Conferences after each grading period will be held on the following dates:

1st Six Weeks September 28th, 20122nd Six Weeks November 9th, 2012

3rd Six Weeks December 21st, 20124th Six Weeks February 22nd, 20135th Six Weeks April 5th, 20136th Six Weeks (Final) May 21st, 2013

SCHOOL SESSIONSInfinity High School conducts 2 sessions. Seniors will be given priority in scheduling.Session I 7:30am to 2:30pSession II 9:00am to 3:30pm

SUPPLY LISTStudents will need one to two 6 Subject spirals for note-taking and lab exercises. Other fees may be assessed, with notice, if students move into classes that require fees.

APPROPRIATE DRESSInfinity High School promotes professionalism both in conduct and presentation. Students will be required to fulfill those responsibilities. We are not concerned about current styles or trends. We are concerned about students learning and knowing that their dress and conduct will absolutely affect their ability and status as an employee in the future. This institution of learning will and does promote this learning.There may be at times throughout the year certain changes that will take place to enhance the professional environment. As always, it is impossible to cover or include every scenario or concern, therefore, administration and or staff reserve the right to make changes or adjustments as deemed necessary. Violations of dress code include but are not limited to dress or appearance that presents: 1. A physical, health, security or safety hazard: 2. Boys must have shirts tucked in at all times while on school grounds. 3. A potential for disruption to the instructional program to include body piercing, other than ears, revealing, or overly distracting, provocative attire or appearance, a display of violent, antisocial behavior, gang activity, including but not limited to sagging, oversize clothing, long belts, flagging, etc; the occult, profanity or vulgarity; (Hats, caps, visors, bandanas, nets, and other types of headgear have been found to create disruptions and become physical, security and safety issues, therefore are not allowed.).4. Or advertises, displays, or promotes any drug including alcohol or tobacco, or depicts sexual or related activity;5. Or appearance is in violation of municipal or state law.6. When dress and appearance displays disrespect, to include but not limited to wearing headgear; and/or expresses bigotry towards any group. 7. When dress or appearance is in violation of municipal or state law.

Parents should become familiar with dress regulations and should monitor the way their children are dressed when they leave home for school. Students may be sent home for violations and instructed to attend a later session to give student an opportunity to salvage lost class time due to violation. Student may be permanently assigned to a later session at the discretion of administration if infractions become chronic. Students may also be suspended if non compliance is an issue.

BELEN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Principal – Sheila ArmijoAssistant Principal – Richard Tafoya

OPEN HOUSE/UPCOMING EVENTS

Belen Middle School FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

7th GradeJump Start Day for 7th graders is August 10th. All incoming seventh Graders will report to the gym for orientation and instructions.

8th GradeEighth graders report to school August 13th. Eighth graders should Report to the gym for orientation and instructions.

OPEN HOUSEAugust 23, 2012 5:30-7:00 PM

FAMILY NIGHTSBelen Middle School will host regular family nights throughout the school year. For the most current information about Belen Middle School, please go to our web site at http://bms.beleneagles.org

CLASS SCHEDULESStudent individual schedules will be released on August 6th and 7th. Parent or Legal Guardian must be present to pick up schedule. 7th grade students may pick up their schedules August 6th and 8th grade students August 7th. BMS Office hours are 7:30-3:30.

TEAMSAll BMS students will be placed on a team randomly. Seventh grade teams are NM Aggies and NM Lobos. Eighth grade teams are NM Tech Miners and Highlands Cowboys. As we prepare students for the next grade we will also be exploring NM Colleges and Technical Schools.

SCHOOL SCHEDULEBelen Middle School Arrival and Dismissal: 7:05-1:45First Bell 7:051st Period 7:06-7:512nd Period 7:54-8:393rd Period 8:42-9:274th Period 9:30-10:15A-Lunch 10:18-10:48 ADVISORY 10:18-10:48ADVISORY 10:51-11:21 B-Lunch 10:51-11:215th Period 11:24-12:096th Period 12:12-12:577th Period 1:00-1:45

MISSION STATEMENTBelen Middle School’s mission is to prepare all students for

college readiness and success in a global society.

VISION STATEMENTEducating to Achieve Growth, Leading to Individual Excellence

& Success

SCHOOL SUPPLIESStudent should have a pencil and paper on the first day of school. Individual teachers will have complete list of needs the first day of school. Each Team/Teacher will have different needs…. In



Belén Back to School 2012-13 some cases supplies will be provided only by the teacher.

DRESS CODEStudents are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. Student dress may not present a health or safety hazard, or present a potential disruption of the educational process. A student’s body needs to be appropriately and adequately covered.The following are examples of unacceptable dress on the BMS campus:• Spandex, stretch cotton shorts or shorts/skirts/dresses that are shorter than finger tip length.

•Clothing torn or frayed in inappropriate “revealing” areas is not allowed.

•See through mesh clothing, even if worn over appropriate clothing.

•Sleeveless clothing such as spaghetti strap shirts, tank tops, muscle shirts, basketball jerseys or strapless shirts.

•Clothing that bares any part of the wearer’s midsection.

•Clothing or jewelry with any logo, writing, symbols, or numbers that reflect violence, malicious behavior, offensive language, sexual innuendos, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or anything considered disruptive or gang-related.

•Spiked gauges in the ears or spiked earrings.

•Baggy/large coats, shirts, jeans i.e. “gang-related and/or trench/Gothic style”.

•Sleep “attire” – flannels, pajamas, slippers, etc.

•Non-prescription dark glasses of any kind worn anywhere on the face or head (unless prescribed by a doctor for medical purposes) cannot be worn indoors.

•Hats may not be worn indoors.

BMS Dress Code MUSTS•Students with shirts that are longer than the wrists in length will have to be tucked in.

•Pants MUST fit properly with no low-hanging crotches.

•Belts MUST be properly tucked in.

•Students MUST wear clothing that DOES NOT reveal cleavage, bra straps, underpants or the midsection.

•Students MUST have NO facial jewelry i.e. nose, tongue, or eyebrow piercings.

•Safe footwear MUST be worn at all times.

ELECTRONICS/CELLULAR PHONESCELL PHONES CANNOT BE TURNED ON OR VISIBLE During School hours.!

This is between 7:05a.m. and 1:45p.m. If a student is seen or heard using or carrying a cell phone (or any other electronic device) while on campus during

school hours the phone/device will be confiscated.

Belen Middle School will host regular family nights throughout the school year. For the most current information about Belen Middle School, please go to our web site at http://belen.bms.schoolfusion http://belen.bms.schoolfusion.us

BELEN HIGH SCHOOLPrincipal – Christopher K. HotchkissAssistant Principal’s –Joann Carter & Manuel J. Lucero

Jump Start – Friday, August 10, 2012 First Bell at 7:15 AM

Start Time – 7:20 AM – 2:00 PM

Schedule Pick Up“Welcome back parents and students. I hope you have had a wonderful summer. Parents will need to come to the school to pick up schedules and sign important paperwork. We will offer some afternoon and evening hours to accommodate your busy schedules. These hours and days are:

Monday, July 30th (12:00 pm - 8:00 pm)Tuesday, July 31st (8:00 am - 4:00 pm) AttendanceAll students are required to attend school as per the New Mexico Compulsory Attendance Law.

BCS District Truancy Procedures

LEVEL 1 – SCHOOL-BASED INTERVENTION3rd Unexcused absence → School sends “3-DAY UNEXCUSED ABSENCE” letter to the parent/guardian of the student.

5th Unexcused absence → School sends “5-DAY UNEXCUSED ABSENCE” letter to the parent/guardian of the student AND in the letter requests a meeting at the school with the parent/guardian to sign an “Attendance Contract.”

5th Unexcused absence → School sends a copy of the 3-day and 5-day Unexcused Absence letters AND Attendance Contract to the Truancy Liaison.

5th Unexcused absence → School sends a copy of the 3-day and 5-day Unexcused Absence letters AND the unsigned & dated Attendance Contract to the Truancy Liaison if the parent fails to show up for the meeting.

5th or more Unexcused absence → School may request a SAT meeting with parent/guardian and Truancy Liaison5th or more Unexcused absence → School may request Truancy Liaison accompany school staff member for a home visit.10th Excused absence → School may request a SAT meeting with parent/guardian and Truancy Liaison for excessive EXCUSED absences to determine if a 504 Plan is needed.

LEVEL 1I – DISTRICT-BASED INTERVENTION7th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison sends a “7-DAY UNEXCUSED ABSENCE” letter to parent/guardian requesting a 1:1 meeting to offer support/services AND to have to parent/guardian sign a form acknowledging impeding sanctions.

7th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison may refer the student to the RAC or other program as a district intervention.

10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison sends a “10-DAY UNEXCUSED ABSENCE” letter to parent/guardian AND is the official notification about a scheduled Truancy Court AND that a referral to JPPO will be made.

10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison coordinates and schedules either an Elementary, Middle, or High School Truancy Court intervention with Magistrate Court staff and JPPO.

10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison facilitates sending the “NOTICE OF TRUANCY COURT” letter from Magistrate Court to the parent/guardian AND is the official notification to the parents that a referral is being made to JPPO.

10th Unexcused absence → JPPO sends a letter to the parent/guardian advising

STUDENT NUTRITION SERVICES2012-2013

Janet L. Sanchez, SN Supervisor

The Student Nutrition Programs of the Belen Consolidated Schools are once again offering hot, nutritious meals to students throughout the district.

Breakfast is free to all students under the Universal Breakfast Program.

Because we want to make sure our lunch meals are available to ALL students, we are encouraging parents and/or guardians to please fill out the new 2012-13 Meal Benefits Application that will be available at Belen High School, Belen Middle School, & La Merced Elementary Schools If we receive 100% of the applications back for each site and at least 80% of those qualify for meal benefits, we can then go Provision 2 which allows all students to receive free breakfast and/or lunch without regard to family income. Students at Jaramillo, Central, Dennis Chavez, Rio Grande, Family School, Gil Sanchez, La Promesa and Infinity are currently on Provision 2 and do not have to

re-apply.

Students attending BHS, BMS and LM Elementary School will be in the same price category as they were last school year. Once a new application is submitted, their

category will reflect their current eligibility and may change. Applications are due by September 10th, 2012. Students not submitting an application by September 10th,

2012 will be charged full-price for meals.

Meals will be available at all schools beginning on Friday, August 10, 2012. Meals prices increased by .25 cents for students. Lunch for elementary students is now $1.75 and $2.00 for secondary schools. Adult meals are $2.25 for breakfast and $3.00 for lunch. Parents may and are encouraged to pre-pay for meals by sending in a check to the cashier with student’s ID noted on check or taking money to the cashier directly at their school.

The “After School Snack Program” will continue for those sites choosing to participate. The Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Program will once again be at Jaramillo, Central, Dennis Chavez, Rio Grande, Family School, Gil Sanchez and La Promesa. Federal Grant money is being provided to these schools to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables to be used in conjunction with nutrition education in the classroom. This project cannot be combined with our breakfast or lunch programs.

The Nutrition Standards in our National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs must now adhere to the “new meal pattern” law passed in January (effective July 1, 2012). All schools will be following these changes to our school menus as noted below:

Milk Must be fat-free (unflavored/flavored) or 1% low fat (unflavored)Fruit & Vegetables Must offer ½ c -1 c fruit and ¾ c – 1 c vegetables dailyMeat/meat alt. Daily minimum and weekly range. K-5th : One oz. daily & max. 8-10 oz. weekly. 6-8th grade: One oz. daily & max. 9-10

oz. weekly. And 9-12th grade: Two oz. daily & max. 10-12 oz. weekly.Grains Minimum One serving per day, K-5th grade: One oz. daily & max. 8-9 oz. weekly. 6-8th grades: One oz. daily & max. 8-

10 oz. weekly. And 9-12th grade, Two oz. daily & max. 10-12 oz. weekly. 51% of grains must be whole grain-rich. In addition in vegetables group, there is a requirement to serve ½ c. dark green vegetables (broccoli, zucchini, spinach, romaine lettuce) and ¾ c. red and

orange vegetables (carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, red peppers, pumpkin), ½ c legumes (beans), ½ c. starchy (potatoes, corn), and 1 ½ c. other.

*The Meal Benefit application count is also used to generate money for programs such as Technology and Title I. Individual schools can receive E-Rate funding for computers and/or software, textbooks, etc. It all depends on the percentage of free and reduced-price students at their school. Another great reason for completing the applications!

The Belen Schools District today announced its policy for free and reduced price meals served under the National School Lunch and/or School Breakfast Program(s). All schools and the Central Office have a copy of the policy, which may be reviewed by any interested party.

The following family size and annual income criteria will be used for determining eligibility:

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA – 2012-2013 SY FAMILY SIZE REDUCED-PRICE MEALS

1 $20,665 2 $27,991 3 $35,317 4 $42,643

5 $49,969 6 $57,295 7 $64,621 8 $71,947

For Each Additional Family Member, Add: +7,326

Children from families whose income levels are at or below the levels shown are eligible for free or reduced price meals. Application forms are being sent to all homes, along with a letter to households. To apply for free or reduced price meals, households should fill out one application for the household and return it to the school. Additional copies are available at the principal’s office in each school. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year. The information provided by the household is confidential; it will be used for the purpose of determining eligibility and total district percentages of free and reduced meals to report for title 1 and Erate funding for the district. Information may be verified at any time during the school year by school or other program officials.

Applications must be completely filled out, including the Social Security Number of either the parent/guardian who is the primary wage earner, or the adult household member who signs the application or a statement that the household member does not possess one; the amount of income (before deductions) of each household member and how often the person received the income. Each application must be signed by a parent/guardian. If a family is now receiving SNAP benefits or FITAP, the case number and a signature is all that is needed to qualify for free meal benefits.

If you have any questions/concerns relating to the Student Nutrition Programs, feel free to call the Student Nutrition Services Department at 505-966-1714. Menus will be posted on the Belen Schools website at: http://studentnutrition-services-beleneagles.org

Non-Discrimination Statement: This explains what to do if you believe you have been treated unfairly.

“In accordance with Federal law and U. S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.” Revised 7/11

1them that they are alleged to belong to a family in need of supervision and advises them that they must attend the scheduled Truancy Court.

10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison requests a school administrator attend the Truancy Court

10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison monitors attendance and takes no action if unexcused absences remain 10 days.

LEVEL III – COMMUNITY-BASED INTERVENTION - TRUANCY COURT10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison facilitates Truancy Court before Magistrate Judge in Belen AND has a sign-in sheet, expectations hand-out, synopsis of school/district interventions and an updated attendance report for each student.

10th Unexcused absence → Truancy Liaison gives JPPO the following copies of school/district based-interventions to be used to determine sanctions by JPPO and possible future prosecution by the District Attorney’s office if the student has ANY further unexcused absences.

BCS District Truancy Procedures –Definition of Terms

Compulsory School Attendance Law – was established in 1953 and has been amended several times the most recent being in 2009, when SB 189 was signed into law. The major requirements of the law include early identification, reduction of truancy by the implementation of a “corrective action plan,” eliminating the requirement of notifying parents of habitual truant students through certified mail, and includes the provision of probation services sending written notification to a parent of a habitually truant student, directing the parent and student to report to the probation services office.

Attendance – means students who are in class or in a school-approved activity. If a student is in attendance up to one half the total instructional time during a school day, the student will be counted a having attended one-half of a school day. If the student attends school for more than one-half of the total instructional time, the student will be counted as having attended for the full day.

Unexcused Absence – means an absence from school or a class for which the student does not have an allowable excuse pursuant to the compulsory school attendance law or rules of the local school board.

Half-Day Unexcused Absence – means that a student does not have an allowable excuse and is not in school or class up to fifty-percent of an instructional day.

Full-Day Unexcused Absence – means that a student does not have an allowable excuse and is not in school or class more than fifty-percent of an instructional day.

Excused Absence – means an absence from school or a class for which the student does have an allowable excuse pursuant to the compulsory school attendance law or rules

of the local school board.

• Approved student activity • Religious event• Death of a family member• Medical problem (must provide school with letter/note from a doctor)

Early Identification – means the process by which school districts promptly determine and identify students who have excessive absences and tardiness from an instructional day.

Student In Need of Early Intervention – means a student who has accumulated five unexcused absences within a school year.

Habitual Truant – means a student who has accumulated the equivalent of ten or more unexcused absences within a school year.

Attendance Contract – an intervention used at the school in attempt to involve parents with strategies to improve attendance and is the “corrective action plan” required by law which must contain follow-up procedures to ensure that the causes for the student’s unexcused absences are being addressed.

Intervention – means the partnering that schools engage in with school staff and other agencies to implement administrative remedies, provide services and provide support programs that aggressively reduce if not eliminate truancy in a school district.

Truancy – means the unexcused absence of a student from school or class that results in the student being deemed truant.

TARDIESFirst Tardy: Teacher WarningSecond Tardy: Teacher Warning and Parent ContactThird Tardy: Referral to Administration, Student to spend remainder of that period in ISS (In School Suspension), Parent Contact by AdministrationFourth Tardy: ISS (In School Suspension) for the entire day if tardy in the morning. If tardy in the afternoon, the student will spend the remainder of the day and the next day in ISS (In School Suspension)Fifth Tardy: OSS (Out of School Suspension) for one day, Parent/Administration Conference, Referral to Counselor.

Bell ScheduleFirst Bell 7:15 AM1ST PERIOD 7:20 AM – 8:08 AM2ND PERIOD 8:13 AM – 9:05 AM3RD PERIOD 9:10 AM – 9:58 AMA LUNCH 9:58 AM – 10:28 AM4TH PERIOD (B) 10:03 AM – 10:51 AMB LUNCH 10:51 AM – 11:21 AM4TH PERIOD (A) 10:33 AM – 11:21 AM5TH PERIOD 11:26 AM – 12:14 PM6TH PERIOD 12:19 PM – 1:07 PM7TH PERIOD 1:12 PM – 2:00 PM


Belén Back to School 2012-13 Dress CodeThe Board of Education expects student dress and grooming to reflect high standards of personal conduct so that each student’s attire promotes a positive and respectful image to each other, our community and visitors to our schools. Our dress code reflects our goal of preparing our students to enter the work force with an understanding of the expected standards of society including modesty and decency.

Interpretation and enforcement of this dress code is the responsibility of the employees at each site. Parents need to support compliance with the dress code. 1Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. Student dress may not present a health or safety hazard, violate municipal, county, or state law, or present a potential disruption of the educational process. A student’s body needs to be appropriately and adequately covered.

2. The following types of clothing are examples of unacceptable dress at all BCS secondary schools (Grades 7-12). They are considered to create a health or safety hazard, violate municipal or state law, or present a potential for disruption of the instructional program:

a. Sleep attire” – flannels, pajamas, slippers, etc.b. Non-prescription dark glasses of any kind worn anywhere on the face or head (unless prescribed by a doctor for medical purposes) cannot be worn indoors. Documentation of the prescription must be brought to the campus administrator.Gang related attire including baggy/large coats, trench/”Gothic style” and/or excessively long garments.Clothing with any logo, writing, symbols or numbers that reflect violence, malicious behavior, offensive language, sexual innuendo, drugs, alcohol, tobacco or anything otherwise considered being disruptive or gang related.e. Excessively tight or revealing clothes.f. Spaghetti strap shirts, tank tops, muscle shirts, tube tops, backless tops and/or basketball jerseys g. Clothing that bares any part of the wearer’s midsection, has cut-out or “frayed” areas which expose skin not normally exposed – even if worn under a jacket. h. Spandex, stretch cotton shorts or shorts/skirts/dresses that are shorter than three (3) inches above the kneecap.i. See through/mesh clothing, unless worn over appropriate clothing.

3. Pants must fit properly at the waist, inseam and hem without being excessively baggy. Pants will be worn at the waist and secured with a belt if necessary. The belt end will not hang from the waist. “Excessively baggy” shall be defined as pants being bunched at the waist under a belt, pants with low hanging crotches or pants with cuffs that cover the feet of the wearer or drag on the floor.

4. Shoes must be worn at all times while on campus. Heelies are expressly forbidden because of the risk of injury to students and damage to school property.

5. Hats, caps, visors, bandanas, nets or any other type of headgear are NOT to be worn at any time while inside a building on campus, unless it is because of a medical issue and the student is carrying written permission from an administrator. Students who must wear protective headgear in the shop area may wear this gear in the shop area only. Hats should only be seen outside, or they will be taken away, and the hat may only be returned to a parent. Hats are worn outside only and they must be worn in the appropriate manner (i.e. baseball cap visors must be facing forward).

6. Clothing that meets the dress code but is excessively revealing and/or excessively tight is also considered disruptive to the learning environment in the classroom and is prohibited.

7. No student on school property or at any school activity shall wear possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other items that are perceived as evidence of membership in/or affiliation with a gang.

8. Students enrolled in physical education class will have a suitable change of clothing for physical activity, including tennis shoes.

Consequences for Violation of Dress Code:1st offense – student will be given clothing to wear for the remainder of the day if possible, or his/her parent will be called to bring appropriate clothing to school. If a parent cannot be reached then the student will be sent to ISS for the remainder of the day. 2nd offense – student will be sent home – this means that a parent will need to come pick the student up – for the remainder of the school day, or they will be placed in ISS. The student will not be allowed to simply change and return to class.3rd offense – student will be suspended for defiance, pending a parent conference4th offense – student is subject to short-term suspension up to nine days. Habitual offenses could result in a disciplinary hearing and/or a long-term suspension for defiance.

SuppliesStudents should have a pen or pencil, paper, and a three ring notebook for each class. Teachers will instruct the students as to further supplies needed.

General InformationWe have tried to anticipate and answer the questions that parents and other citizens have about the school in this article. If you have a question that was not answered in this “Back-to-School” issue, please contact your local school. If your school is not able to provide the information you are seeking, they will indicate who to call to help with an answer.

Fall RegistrationStudents enrolled last year or those pre-registered do not need to register again. If a child has not been pre-registered for kindergarten or first grade, an official state birth certificate and proof of immunizations required by state law must be presented at the time of registration.

A child registering for grades two through six is to present the report card from the previous school attended along with proof of immunizations required by state law.Kindergarten Age Requirements

In order to enter kindergarten this fall, a child must be five years old before September 1, 2007.

If the child has not pre-registered, a birth certificate and proof of immunization required by law must be presented at the time of registration.

The Belen Consolidated Schools will not allow any exceptions to these requirements.

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records:

The Belen Consolidated Schools (the District) is providing you notice of these rights, as outlined below:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

4. The District classifies the following as Directory Information: student’s name, parent’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, diplomas and awards received, yearbooks, and identification in other photographs depicting school programs and activities, and the most recent previous school attended by the student. School officials may release this information to any person without the consent of the parents or the student. Any parent or eligible student who objects to the release of any or all of this information without his consent must notify in writing, the principal of the school where the records are kept within 14 days from the first day of the current academic year. The objection must state what information the parent or student does not want to be classified as directory information. If no objection is received by the end of the 14 days, the information designated above will be classified as Directory Information until the beginning of the next school year.

5. Under the provisions of the federal “No Child Left Behind” Act, school districts are required to provide student names, addresses, and telephone numbers to military recruiters unless the parent or student (if over 18) specifically requests that the information not be released. Parents of students in grades 9-12 are asked to complete a form consenting to or denying the release of this information. If the form is not completed and returned to the child’s school, requests for this information will be honored. Forms are available at all schools serving students in grades 9-12.

6. The making and use of photographs, videotapes and other audio or visual reproductions for non-commercial educational purposes is permissible. THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE PRINTING STUDENT PICTURES AND INFORMATION ON THE INTERNET.

7. There are changes to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), that permit schools to exchange information regarding disciplinary action for behavior threatening the safety of other students or teachers.

8. Copies of the complete FERPA Policy adopted by the District may be obtained from the Superintendent’s Office or from the Principal’s Office of each school within the District.

9. District contact is Geneva T. Nixon, Director of Curriculum & Instruction.

10. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Belen Consolidated Schools to comply with requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance OfficeU.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20202-4605

Belen Schools Transportation Department

Director of Support Services – David J. Carter

Student transportation is a privilege extended to students who qualify for School Bus Transportation. The mission of the Belen Consolidated Schools’ Transportation Department is to provide safe,

efficient and reliable transportation for the students of the district. We are in the business of transporting our kids to their future.

The 2012-2013 school year will again be one of challenges and changes for the BCS Transportation Department. The state of the economy has not only drastically affected the funding used to educate our students, but also to transport our students to their schools. Due to the change in funding, it will be necessary to adjust the bus routes, bust stops and/or pickup times. The changes are necessary to ensure that the education of our students is adequate funded. The BCS Transportation Department will strive to provide the best possible service to our students, but as efficient and economically as possible. Also, please be aware that enrollment and funding may dictate that changes may be implemented during the school year that will assist in our streamlining efforts. Notice of any change will be made well in advance to the students and parents involved.

The New Mexico Department of Education, Transportation Department mandates minimum walking distances for school transportation. These codes dictate the eligibility for student ridership and funding within a school district; in addition to maintain eligibility, all students must be registered annually with the Transportation Department. Annual registration and updates will ensure the district has current rider and contact information on our students. Early registration of all eligible students is encouraged. For this reason, Bus Registration will start on July 16, 2012 at the bus compound, 650 East River Road, Belen, NM 87002.

The bus schedule for the 2012-2013 school year has been completed and is available at the Bus Compound. In addition, information regarding bus stops and stop times are now posted and can be accessed on the school website at: www.belen.schoolfusion.us

The Belen Consolidated School Transportation Department encourages open communication with the community. If there are questions or additional information is needed, please feel free to contact the department between 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday – Friday at 966-1176.

Teacher Resource Center Patricia Castillo, Director997 Esperanza Drive, Belen, NM. TRC is a state of the art center that provides supplemental resources and training for school employees. It also houses Federal Programs (Title I, McKinney Vento, Curriculum Education Technology, and Truancy/Dropout Prevention Program, Mentorship Program, and Professional development programs). Please visit our website for additional information.

What is Title I?Title I is the nation’s oldest and largest federally funded program. It provides money to school systems across the country for students at risk of failure and living at or near poverty. The U.S. Department of Education provides supplemental funding to local school districts to meet the needs of at-risk and low income students. Title I is committed to closing the achievement gap between low-income students and other students. With the implementation of the NM PED waiver Title I will become a viable funding source in supporting the Seven Turnaround principles. Beginning with school year 2012-13 The Supplemental Educational Services (tutorial program) will cease to exist. What is the Purpose of Title 1 Funding?The purpose of Title 1 funding, “is to ensure that all children have a fair, equal, and significant opportunity to obtain a high quality education and reach, at minimum, proficiency on challenging state academic achievement standards and state academic assessments.” The basic principles of Title 1 state that schools with large concentrations of low-income students will receive supplemental funds to assist in meeting student’s educational goals. Low-income students are determined by the number of students enrolled in the free and reduced lunch program. For an entire school to qualify for Title 1 funds, at least 40% of students must enroll in the free and reduced lunch program.How are Title 1 Funds Used?Title 1 funds can be used to improve curriculum, instructional activities, counseling, parental involvement, professional development, increase staff and program improvement. The funding should assist schools in meeting the educational goals of low-income students. Title 1 funds typically support supplemental instruction in reading and math.

McKinney Vento Homeless Education ProgramEach year Belen Consolidated School students/families are given the NM Residency Questionnaire Form which is the primary method used to identify homeless students. Upon receiving the completed form, the McKinney-Vento Liaison then contacts each student/family to determine if they are eligible for services under the McKinney-Vento Act. Technology Curriculum Education The use of Technology in the Curriculum is overseen from this department. Professional development is provided to effectively integrate technology into the Curriculum, and provide 21st Century skills, which lead to improving academic achievement at BCS. BCS encourages students to create integrated digital media projects, by provide 21st Century content and context with the goal of promoting growth in reading and math.

Truancy/Dropout Prevention Programs The Truancy/Dropout Prevention Program goals are to: (1) decrease truancy rates, (2) decrease dropout rates, and (3) increase attendance rates. Please contact 505-966-2061 for additional information.

For information on any of these programs contact Belen Schools at 966-1000

BUS SCHEDULES – PICKUP/DROP OFFTimes for pick up and drop offs may be adjusted based on routes and other considerations during the year.

Belén Consolidated Schools Bus/Bell Schedules SECONDARY ELMENTARY BMS/I.H.S BHS DC/LM/RG Central GS HTJ LPStudents/Buses Arrive 7:00 7:15 8:30 8:35 8:35 8:45 8:55Student Release 1:45 2:00 2:55 3:00 3:05 3:10 3:20Buses Depart 1:52 2:07 3:05 3:10 3:15 3:20 3:30


High Academicsand Christian Values?

You can receive both.All the things you want in a school for your child:

For More Information Call:

Bosque Farms Christian Academy

275 N. Bosque Lp., Bosque Farms, NM 87068Ph: 869-3022 • www.thebronco.org

K-College-preparatory coursesPhonetic-base readingIndividualized CurriculumMultimedia computer video interactive learningDiagnostic testingCharacter building

Village of Los Lunas

Robert Vialpando MayorCouncilors

Charles Griego Richard LovatoAmanda Perea Gerard Saiz

660 Main Street NW Phone (505) 839-3840 FAX (505) 352-3280

Jeans Computers

Cell Phones Shirts

Blouses

Buy EvErything For Back to School in valEncia county

Reference Books

Pens/Pencils

Software

Calculators Maps/Globes

Paper/Notebooks

Shoes/Sneakers

Binders

Backpacks SnacksCalendars/Planners

Crayons

Locks

Tablets Markers

Keep Your Tax Dollars in Valencia County

•LittleDragonsKarate Program4to6yearolds•Confidenceandcoordination buildingexercises•Basickarateskills•Safetydiscussions•KarateProgramfor 7yearoldsandup•Fun,safelearningenvironment•Familydiscounts•Convenientschedule

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505-866-1280

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THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL2660 Eastman Crossing SEAlbuquerque, N.M. 87106

A Perfect LookA Full Service Salon for Men, Women and Children

“Now Offering Tanning” • Student Haircuts Always $10.00861-CUTS (2887)

Del Rio Plaza • 152 Caldwell Ave • Belen

Jul ie , Ruth , Martha, Anna and Cami l le

Call Susan 505-565-1614 For a free in-home consultationQuality, affordable in-home care by our well trained caregivers in your loved

one’s own home in order to prevent nursing home placement.

Valencia County’s only 4-star center

• Serving Children Ages 2-5 Years Soon serving infants

Open 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday-Friday• Pre-School Curriculum * Se Habla Espanol

CYFD Subsidized Funding Accepted

SAVETHE DATE

October 20th,Jog for Joy Dash on the Ditch

5k/10kFun Run & Family Fundraising Fun Run & Family Fundraising

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Child Care Center

HOME CARE SERVICES

Call 505-865-4651555 Don Pasqual Rd., Los Lunas

Services Include:• Homemaker Services and Personal Care • Respite and Meal Preparation

• Transportation To and From Medical Appointments • Bilingual Caregivers

School Year

2012

(Must be 4 years old on or before 12:01amSeptember 1, 2012 and are not

eligible for kindergarten).

Limited Availability Join us for our Open House!

Saturday, August 11 from 10am-12pm1716 Los Lentes NE., Los Lunas 565-8023

Safe Site Child Development Inc.

(formerly Con Carino)

Now Enrolling 4 year OldsFree Pre-K Program

Classes start Aug. 20

Back-To-Schoolshopping adding up?

World Finance Can Help!Cash loan approved for you!!!Loans from $200.00 - $3,000.00Call or visit our office TODAY505-864-3777203 S. Main StreetBelen, New Mexico 87002Manager Tanya Martinez*All loans are subject to our most liberal credit policies*

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Bilingual classes are taught in English and the instructor or assistant will be able to answer questions in Spanish as needed. Textbooks will be provided in both English and Spanish and course exams will be offered in a bilingual format.

*Enrollment restrictions apply. Enrollment in, or completion of, the H&R Block Income Tax Course is neither an offer nor a guarantee of employment. ©2012 HRB Tax Group, Inc.

Belen Office600 C West Reinken, Belen, NM 87002 • Phone: 505-864-6166

Wednesdays 9:00 am - 6:00 pmClosed for lunch 12:00 - 1:00

Class offered in Belen

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SERVING BEER AND WINE!!!

505-866-6888143 Hwy 314, Los Lunas, NM

www.TaisChineseRestaurant.com

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August

Back to School

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• School uniforms• Dickies work clothes• Playboy apparel and accessories• NFL Gear, MLB, NBA, Collegiate• Womens, Mens and Kids clothes• Sunglasses, Caps and Hats• Tennis Shoes, Dress Shoes, Work Boots• Handbags, Evening Clutches, Backpacks and Wallets• Formal Dress, Dancewears and Jerseys• Sports novelties and Gifts Items• Body Jewelry & Hip Hop Accessories

“The Largest Sports Novelty Store in New Mexico”

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE!

25% to 75% OffSale ends August 20th

belen schools: back to school 2012

Documents