Parent/Student

Handbook

2018 - 2019

Arapaho Classical magnet

1300 Cypress Drive

Richardson, TX 75080

Phone (469) 593-6400 Fax (469) 593-6448

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ARAPAHO CLASSICAL MAGNET

RICHARDSON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Where all students connect, learn, grow, and succeed.

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the 2018-2019 school year. Education is a team effort. Through the teamwork of parents,

students, teachers, and other staff members we can make this year wonderfully successful for our students.

Attached is your copy of the 2018-2019 ACM Parent/Student Handbook. During the year as questions arise

about school procedures and policies, please refer to this handbook. Students and parents also need to be

familiar with the Richardson Independent School District Student/Parent Guidebook and Student Code of

Conduct. This document will be accessible via the internet. This document sets out the consequences for

wrong or inappropriate behavior and is also intended to promote school safety.

Both of these resources are designed to provide important information that you and your child may need

during the school year.

Please read through the ACM Parent/Student Handbook with your child, sign the parent and student

acknowledgement at the bottom of this letter, and return the entire form to your child’s teacher. If you plan

on assisting/volunteering with any school activities this year, please go to the RISD Website and create a

Voly account. (risd.voly.org) A background check must be conducted on ALL school volunteers every

year. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the school office at 469-593-6400.

Thank you for supporting ACM and for being involved in your child’s education. We are going to have a

great year!

Sincerely,

Kristin Strickland

Principal

ACM Parent/Student Handbook Acknowledgement

We have received and reviewed the 2018-2019 ACM Parent/Student Handbook.

Student Signature Date

Parent(s) Signature(s) Date

REMOVE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR CHILD’S TEACHER

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WELCOME

The faculty/staff would like to welcome each and every one of our families to a wonderful and exciting new year at the Arapaho Classical Magnet. We want to share this information with you regarding district and school policies. We are available to assist you in any way possible. The administration can be reached at the following numbers: ACM Main Office 469-593-6400 Principal, Kristin Strickland 469-593-6453 Assistant Principal, Dolores Onstott 469-593-6454 Counselor, Misty Planey 469-593-6452 Clinic, Nurse Jennifer Gaylor 469-593-6435 Cafeteria 469-593-6451 Fax 469-593-6448 RISD Transportation 469-593-5809

ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES

90% ATTENDANCE ACCOUNTING RULE

A student must be in attendance 90% of the days class is offered in order to receive credit for that grade level. Students who accumulate excessive absences during a school year can be considered for retention, as decided by the Principal and Campus Attendance Review Committee. If a student accumulates enough absences for the 90% rule to take effect, a mandatory meeting must be convened between the parent and the attendance committee. During this meeting, a plan is required to be completed to help students attend school regularly. Unless special circumstances exist, all absences after the 90% rule will be required to have a doctor’s note for the absence to be excused.

OFFICIAL ACM ATTENDANCE TIME

The official attendance time for ACM is 7:50 AM – 3:00 PM. Students arriving after 7:50 AM are counted tardy. Classes begin promptly at 7:50 AM. If your child is tardy, they are missing valuable instruction. Students arriving after 8:05 will be considered to have missed part of the school day and no longer tardy – it will be a partial day absence. Unless a note is sent explaining the absence, all partial day absences are unexcused. Make every effort to have your child at school by the first bell at 7:40 AM. Students arriving after 9:00 AM are considered absent.

TARDY PROCEDURES

• Students should be in their seats at 7:50 AM each day ready to work. If a student arrives after the 7:50 AM bell, he/she will be counted tardy.

• A student arriving at 8:05 AM or later will be designated as absent for a partial day and the absence will be counted as an unexcused absence on the attendance record.

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• If a campus administrator determines a student exhibits excessive tardiness, he/she may notify the student that any subsequent tardies will be counted as partial day unexcused absences on the attendance records.

Establishing a morning routine which allows ample time for your child to wake up, eat breakfast and get ready to start the academic day is not only essential for success as a student at ACM, but instills lifelong patterns which will aid your child in his/her future successes.

MEDICAL APPOINTMENT EXCEPTION

Students who miss part of a single school day for a medical appointment should bring a note from the doctor, dentist, or medical provider, on their stationary, with the appointment date and time to be eligible for the following exceptions:

• A student who has been at a medical appointment and arrives after 7:50 AM but before 9:00 AM will not be counted absent or tardy if they bring a note from the medical provider.

• A student who has been at a medical appointment and arrives after 9:00 AM will not be counted absent if they bring a note from the medical provider.

• A student who leaves school for a medical appointment after 7:50 AM and returns after 9:00 AM will not be counted absent if they bring a note from the medical provider.

• Students signing in from a medical appointment without a note from the provider will be counted either absent or tardy.

ABSENCES

• A student absent from school for any portion(s) of a school day shall provide a note from their parent/guardian describing the reason for the absence. The note must be signed by the student’s parent/guardian (unless the student has been at a medical appointment – see above). Written excuses must be received within three (3) school days of the absence, or the absence will be unexcused. It is also helpful if you notify the front office of your child’s absence, (469) 593-6400; however, a phone call or an email will not excuse an absence. A signed note is still required.

• Chronic excessive absences are subject to the guidelines set out by the RISD Parent/Student Guidebook. Students who accumulate three (3) or more unexcused absences will receive a warning letter and be required to develop a Truancy Intervention Plan with the school. A referral to the truancy court will be made on the tenth (10th) or more unexcused absences and will require parent communication with the principal.

• When a student’s absence for personal illness exceeds three (3) consecutive school days, the student must bring a statement from a physician or health clinic verifying the illness or other condition requiring the student’s extended absence from school.

• Under the RISD Guidelines, any student missing more than 10% of the school year is required to develop a plan for intervention and support with the school. An attendance committee comprised of the principal, classroom teacher, counselor and parent will be required to meet and develop the plan. If a child is not present at least 90% of the school year, the student may not receive credit for that grade level.

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EXCUSED ABSENCES: Some examples of excused absences are: 1. Student illness 2. Family emergency or unavoidable instance requiring immediate attention 3. Medical procedures that take the full day (usually not a single medical appointment). 4. Funerals for members of the student’s immediate family (siblings, parents, grand-parents). 5. Special provisions apply for a deployed military parent (leaving or returning). Prior notice to

the school is required.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: Some examples of unexcused absences are: 1. NO WRITTEN EXCUSE FROM THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN AUTOMATICALLY DETERMINES AN

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE 2. Truancy 3. Personal or family vacation (i.e., Skiing, hunting, fishing, grandparents’ visits, etc.) 4. Private lessons 5. Baby-sitting siblings 6. Students without a doctor’s note after they have reached the 90% rule.

RELIGIOUS HOLY DAYS: Students who are absent for religious holy days, that are a tenet of their faith, are not counted absent if a note is received from the parent, guardian, or place of worship. If this required note is not received, the student will be given an unexcused absence.

The above lists are intended as guidelines and are not all-inclusive. The Principal makes all final determinations concerning absence excuse notes.

ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

MORNING DROP OFF Parent drop off will take place in the drop off lane in front of the building. This is the area where safety patrol students are on duty to assist students out of their car and safely into the building. There is adult supervision during morning drop off. Students must follow the directions of the crossing guard posted at the intersection. Students and parent should always use the crosswalk when crossing the front drive and when crossing Mimosa to Cypress or across Cypress. Student safety is a high priority. Busses and daycares will use the back or north side of the building (Arapaho Road). Starting at 7:30 am all students will go directly to the cafeteria or gym upon arrival. The morning tardy bell will ring at 7:50 am. Please plan to arrive by 7:40 if you are planning to drive your children to school. There is no supervision provided prior to 7:30 am. BREAKFAST STUDENTS 7:30-7:45 am

• Students will enter the cafeteria quietly starting at 7:30 am.

• Students are to remain seated and follow directions given by cafeteria monitor. STUDENTS ARRIVING PRIOR TO 7:40 am

• Upon arrival, all students (K-6) will be directed to a designated grade level area of the gym.

• All students are to follow directions given by the supervising staff member.

• Teachers will pick up their class from the gym at 7:40.

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STUDENTS ARRIVING AT 7:40 am

• Students are to walk slowly and quietly down the hall directly to their classroom, once the 7:40 am bell has sounded.

All students who ride bicycles are encouraged to follow the safety rules:

• Walk bikes on school property

• Walk bikes across crosswalks

AFTERNOON DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Afternoon Pick Up We will dismiss all carpool children at 3:00. Parent pick up will take place in the front of the building. Please always pull all the way up to the car in front of you in line. That way we can get more cars through the line faster. Place the car pool tag so that is visible in your windshield. As you drive through the pickup line, staff will see your child’s number, call your child from their designated waiting area inside the building, and escort them to your car. Please do not enter the office between 2:30 and 3:00 to pick up your student. If a situation arises in which you need to pick up your student between 2:30 and 3:00, please give the front office as much notice as possible. Walkers will be dismissed at 3:05. All walkers will be expected to cross the street at the corner of Mimosa and Cypress. A crossing guard is on duty for the safety of our students. Please explain this safety precaution to your child and support our efforts to keep all children safe.

Students that are being picked up by a bus will exit the back of the building to board their bus. Students who attend the xPlore Program will be taken directly to the cafeteria when the dismissal bell rings. Often in the first few days, our younger students are confused about whether they are being picked up by their parents or if they are to ride the bus. Please do your best to help them be sure of how they are getting home. Students are to provide their classroom teacher with a NOTE from their parent / guardian if there is a change in their dismissal procedure.

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ARAPAHO CLASSICAL MAGNET DISCIPLINE MANAGEMENT PLAN

STUDENT BEHAVIOR & PBIS EXEPECTATIONS Students at ACM demonstrate Falcon PRIDE.

• PURPOSE

• RESPECT

• INTEGRITY

• DETERMINATION

• EXCELLENCE General Information / Purpose In order for any school to be successful the environment must be conducive to learning. Successful schools have clearly defined rules of operation, are consistent in the application of those rules, and display a conscientious attitude on the part of its students, staff, and community in complying with those standards. Each grade level executes a discipline plan that is age appropriate and meets the standards of the school. Teachers will be instructing students on the discipline plan the first week of school. Parents will have an opportunity to see the discipline management plan at Meet the Teacher Night in August. When students fail to meet these behavioral expectations, teachers will handle the student(s) according to the defined discipline system. Persistent misbehavior and any major offense will be submitted to the principal for an office referral. Principal discretion will apply to the consequence for these actions. This discipline plan is consistent with local and state polices. The RISD Student Code of Conduct provides additional information concerning various offenses and consequences as defined by the RISD School Board.

Reasons for an immediate office referral 1. Fighting/Physically aggressive behavior 2. Destroying school property 3. Stealing 4. Sexual Harassment

Disciplinary procedures may include but are not limited to: counseling by the teacher, counselor, principal, special student services, or other school personnel; parent-teacher conference; cooling off or time-out; behavioral contracts; assignment of school duties other than class tasks; verbal corrections; loss of privileges, including participation in field trips, extracurricular activities, and honorary positions; being sent to the office or other assigned areas; detention; referral to outside agency or authority; temporary confiscation of items that disrupt the educational process; grade penalties for cheating and truancy; repair of or restitution for damaged materials, equipment or furniture; other disciplinary actions decided by the administration. Multiple office referrals/offenses will be tracked as part of a system to help the student correct the misbehavior. Major infractions or persistent misbehavior violating the RISD Code of Conduct may result in In-School Suspension, Out-of-School Suspension or placement at Christa McAuliffe Alternative Learning Center.

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HALLWAY EXPECTATIONS

• Face forward.

• Use quiet walking feet.

• Keep your hands to yourself.

• Turn voices off. CAFETERIA EXPECTATIONS

• Stay seated.

• Use your manners.

• No sharing food.

• Clean your area. PLAYGROUND EXPECTATIONS

• Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.

• Play fair and show good sportsmanship.

• Always stay in view of a teacher.

• Use equipment properly.

RESTROOM EXPECTATIONS

• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

• Take care of yourself quickly and quietly.

• Wash your hands with soap and water.

• Throw away trash in the trash can.

BIRTHDAYS If you would like to celebrate your child’s birthday at school, please bring non food items such as pencils, erasers, etc. to share with the class. Food items will not be permitted in the cafeteria or classrooms. Birthday party invitations will not be distributed at school unless the entire class is invited. We strive to build community and do not want problems to arise because of hurt feelings. Your support is greatly appreciated. Flowers/balloons/etc. may not be delivered to the classroom during the instructional day. If delivered to the school, these items will be kept in the office and sent home with the student at the end of the day.

BUILDING VISITORS

Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit our school. Visits with teachers or other school staff members should be by appointment. Please do not visit with a teacher during instruction time so the teacher can continue teaching and/or give you undivided attention.

For the safety and protection of all students, visitors must first check in at the office before entering the school. A valid state ID or driver’s license is required each visit. The visitor or volunteer badge must be worn and visible at all times.

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BULLYING POLICY

Bullying at ACM will not be tolerated. Texas Law defines bullying as engaging in repeated written or verbal expression, expression through electronic means, or physical conduct that occurs on school property, at a school-sponsored or school related activity, or in a vehicle operated by the District and that:

• Has or will have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student’s property; or

• Is sufficiently severe, persistent, and pervasive enough that the action or threat creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student.

The conduct is considered bullying if it:

• Exploits an imbalance of power between the student perpetrator and the student victim through written or verbal expression or physical conduct; and

• Interferes with a student’s education or substantially disrupts the operation of a school. The counselor will provide guidance lessons to each homeroom throughout the year to help students identify bullying behaviors. ACM administration takes all reports of bullying and harassment seriously and will conduct an appropriate investigation to address any such reports and will take appropriate actions designed to stop any current incidents of bullying and prevent future incidents. Students who take part in bullying at school will be referred to the counselor and administrators. Consequences for bullying include, but are not limited to:

• Detention

• In-school suspension

• Out of school suspension

• Alternative Educational Placement (Short-term or long-term)

Realizing that it is often difficult to distinguish between bullying behavior and less serious behavior infractions, it is important to realize that the perception of the students being bullied is to be taken into strong consideration. Students must realize that what they see as innocent teasing may be causing emotional damage or distress to another child. We must protect the well-being of all students and therefore, we must be a school free from bullying. Students experiencing or witnessing harmful behavior should report the incident to the teacher, counselor, or administrators.

BUS POLICY

The RISD provides bus transportation in the interest of student safety. If the behavior of our students jeopardizes their safety or the safety of others, either while riding on the bus or waiting for the bus, then it becomes necessary for the school to take steps to correct and/or eliminate these unsafe conditions. If a student is involved in a bus disturbance of any nature, the student involved will have his/her bus privileges revoked for a designated time period. The students whose bus privileges have been revoked will not be allowed to ride the bus for that designated time period. Parents will be notified by either phone or in writing and given one day advanced notice as to this consequence.

In addition, if the disturbance is physically assaultive in nature: fighting, hitting, pushing intentionally, the school disciplinary policy will also be enforced. These consequences will be in addition to the aforementioned bus policy consequences.

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Since the safety of our students is our first concern, our drivers need to have their undivided attention on their duty of driving the bus, not correcting student behaviors. If their attention is divided between the road and correcting student behaviors on the bus, the safety of our students is jeopardized. Students who are violating safety rules and misbehaving on the bus are endangering the safety of everyone on the bus. We appreciate and thank you for your support in caring for the safety of all who participate in our bus service.

CAFETERIA

The Richardson Independent School District serves nutritious meals every school day. Students may buy lunches for $2.70 and breakfast for $2.00. A menu for the entire year goes home at beginning of the school year and is available on the RISD and ACM websites. Please take advantage of the options to prepay your student's meal accounts. Prepaid meal accounts help the lunch lines go faster and give students more time to eat, relax, and visit with friends. It also removes the inconvenience of looking for lunch money every day or worrying that it might get lost, stolen or used for things other than lunch. Online payments are a simple, safe and secure way to make payments to your students account 24 hours a day at your convenience. Visit the website Pam’s Lunch Room at www.paypams.com. At Pam's Lunch Room, you can prepay for your child's account. You can always bring money personally or send it with your student. Please place it in an envelope marked clearly with your student's name, their ID #, their teacher's name, the $ amount and the check #. Turn in prepaid deposits to the cafeteria cashier(s) or school office. Checks must include the check writer’s birthdate and driver’s license number. The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free or reduced-priced meals based on a student's financial need. To apply for free or reduced-price meals, parents must complete an application, sign it, and return it to the school. You may also apply for free or reduced school meals online. www.schoollunchapp.com . Further information may be obtained by calling the Child Nutrition office at 469-593-0101. The breakfast/lunch prices for the 2018-2019 are: Student lunch $2.70 Visitor/Staff lunch $3.85 Student breakfast $2.00 Visitor/Staff breakfast $2.55

Cafeteria Visitors Visitors are welcome to join their student for lunch. Lunch visitors must check in through the main office upon arrival and are expected to meet their child in the cafeteria. All guests are expected to sit with their child at the special guest tables. Junior high and high school siblings will not be permitted to visit at lunch unless accompanied by a parent. Guests must finish their visit by the end of the scheduled lunch time so that students do not miss instruction or class activities. There will be no lunch visitation for the first two weeks of school to allow the students the opportunity to learn the cafeteria rules, procedures, and build relationships with their classmates.

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CLASSROOM INTERUPTIONS

Parents should not interrupt class instruction to deliver lunches, glasses, sweaters, etc. All personal business can be handled in the office by front office personnel. Students will not be allowed to make or receive phone calls during instructional class time. Messages for students will be placed in the teacher’s mailbox and the teacher will deliver the message to the student. In order to ensure your student receives the message, please contact the office before 2:30. Students will only be called to the office in the case of an emergency.

CLINIC INFORMATION

When a child is not feeling well, is throwing up, has diarrhea or has been involved in an accident, he/she will be brought to the clinic. The school secretaries and nurse are responsible for the services in the clinic. If the child states that he/she is not feeling well, their temperature is taken. If the student has a temperature of 100.0 °F or greater, the parents are contacted to pick up their child according to the Texas Department of Health Services. A child should be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication, prior to returning to school.

Students who experience vomiting and/or diarrhea may be infectious and should not return to school until free of vomiting/diarrhea for 24 hours without medication. A student who must take prescription or (nonprescription) medicine during the school day must bring a district medical form completed by his or her parent, and the medicine, in its properly labeled container, to the school nurse or the executive assistant. The school nurse or office staff will either give the medicine at the proper times or give the student permission to take the medication as directed. In case of an accident of a minor nature, first aid is administered at school. This could be antiseptic cleaning, bandaging, and providing an ice pack. In case of a serious accident or illness, the parents will be called immediately to take charge of the child. The school nurse or aide does all screening and checks all immunization records on a regular basis. Updated and accurate information is required prior to any medication being dispensed during the school day. The nurse may contact you if there are any questions regarding medications being given to your child.

COMMUNICATION

Communication with students and parents is a critical component of each child’s success. Parents will be notified regarding their child’s progress through the Tuesday Communication Folders, phone calls, written notes, conference, progress reports, and report cards. FOCUS is the program the district is using for student grades and attendance. You will receive log in information in the fall and may request this information in person from the front office.

TUESDAY ENVELOPES All notices and papers will continue to be sent home each week on Tuesday. Each child will be provided an envelope to carry papers and notices. Teachers will hold all notices and papers (except in special cases) and send them home on this day. Please go over your child’s work with him/her and read the other pertinent school and PTA information found inside. The folder should be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to school each Wednesday. Newsletters, printed notices, and any other printed materials representing the school should be provided to the principal before duplication or being sent home. Teachers, PTA or any other group sending information home with students needs the principal's approval. In some cases, approval must be received from the central office before distribution.

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CONFERENCES

Parents and teachers are encouraged to establish and maintain frequent communication about student progress. Parental input and feedback is welcome and encouraged. A student or parent who wants information or has a question or concern is encouraged to talk with the appropriate teacher, counselor, or principal. A parent who wants to meet with a teacher may call the office for an appointment during the teacher's conference period or may request that the teacher call the parent during a conference period or at another mutually convenient time. Students and parents may expect teachers to request a conference (1) if the student is not maintaining passing grades or achieving the expected level of performance, (2) if the student presents any other concerns to the teacher, or (3) in any other case the teacher considers necessary. Grade level conference times are as follows: Kindergarten – 12:30-1:15 Fourth Grade – 10:15-11:00 First Grade – 8:45-9:30 Fifth Grade – 1:20-2:05 Second Grade – 9:30-10:15 Sixth Grade – 11:45-12:30 Third Grade –2:05-2:50

DRESS CODE

The concept of school uniforms is an important part of our philosophy. The wearing of school uniforms by students helps them focus on learning and on the fact that they all belong to the same school family.

Student Uniform Guidelines

ACM Uniform Guidelines 2018-2019

Girls: The uniform items for girls consists of the ACM plaid jumpers and/or navy pants/skirts/shorts. Girls (K-3) may wear jumpers and skirts/skorts in a dark navy and green plaid that has red and yellow stripes in it, with a white cotton button front shirt. Girls (K-6) may wear dark navy pants/skirts/shorts with a 3 button red short or long sleeved polo shirt or red turtleneck shirt. A red cardigan completes the look.

• All girls’ skirts/skorts or shorts must be 3 inches above the knee or longer.

• Blouses and shirts must be worn tucked in at all times.

• Belts are to be worn with any shorts/pants that are loose fitting.

• Shoes must be mostly navy, white, or black low style with solid rubber bottoms. Boots are not permitted at any time.

• Shoelaces must be solid white, black or navy.

• Socks must be solid navy, white, black or red. Tights must be solid white, navy or red.

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Boys: The uniform items for boys consists of dark navy pants or shorts, a 3 button short or long sleeved polo shirt, or a red turtle neck. Boys may also wear a short or long sleeved, light blue button down oxford shirt with navy pants/shorts. A red cardigan completes the look.

• Pants should be altered to fit in both length and waist. Baggy pants, or those worn below the natural waist, are not appropriate.

• Belts are to be worn with any pants or shorts that are loose fitting.

• Shirts are to be worn tucked in at all times.

• Shoes must be mostly navy, white, or black low style with solid rubber bottoms. Boots are not permitted at any time.

• Shoelaces must be solid white, black or navy.

• Socks must be solid navy, white or black. Girls & Boys:

• Belts are to be solid black, brown or navy.

• Jewelry items are to be minimized. No oversized/dangling jewelry is to be worn.

• Solid red sweaters/ sweatshirts, or those with the ACM insignia, are allowed to be worn with the uniform. All other jackets, sweaters, etc must be left in students’ lockers during school hours.

• Pants/shorts must be cotton slacks. Denim, corduroy, and sweatpants will not be permitted.

• ACM spirit t-shirts, worn with uniform pants/shorts/skirts, are appropriate for Fridays.

Students who dress their best put their best efforts into learning! We will expect all students to adhere to the uniform policy while at school. Students not complying with the uniform policy will be asked to call home for a change of clothes.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES Electronic devices do not belong at school. In the case where they are at school, devices are not to be visible and shall remain off during the instructional day. The instructional day at ACM is Monday – Friday, from the time the student enters the building until they are outside in the afternoon. Tutoring, fieldtrips, and after school activities are included as part of the instructional day. If this policy is violated, the device will be taken up by a school official and turned in to the office. A $15 administrative fee and parent conference are necessary for the return of the phone. Please see the RISD Student/Parent Guidebook and Student Code of Conduct for further details. Electronic communication devices include but are not limited to: • Cell phones • smart watches • Any other electronic device capable of transmitting electronic signals (including Bluetooth and/or infrared technology, IPODS, IPADS, MP3 players, handheld games, etc.)

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iPads in the Classroom

Richardson ISD continually grows with technology. At ACM, we are committed to a positive transformation of teaching and learning that brings digital resources, access, expertise, and skills to our school’s historical success and development of its 21st Century Learning. Through our vision, mission and goals, we will be enriching all learning environments with additional devices, creating an environment where every student has access to a device this year. The iPad is another tool for the teacher to use to provide an engaging learning experience when students are creating, collaborating, communicating, and creatively thinking. This year all students K-6 will be assigned an iPad. These iPads are to be used on-campus only. The iPads will never go home. RISD suggests no more than 30 consecutive minutes of educational screen time and not to exceed 60 minutes in 24 hours for Prek-1. RISD suggests no more than 45 consecutive minutes of educational screen time and not to exceed 90 minutes in 24 hours for 2-6. Educational screen time is defined as active, productive learning. In order for students to have access to the assigned iPad, an iPad contract must be reviewed and signed by the student and parent. This contract outlines general expectations for iPad usage. Your child’s teacher will provide you with more information at Meet the Teacher and throughout the year. The district also provides parents a website for information and general questions that are not campus specific. www.risd.org/wegrow

ACM 18-19 Student iPad Contract

•I understand that the iPad is a learning tool and not a toy. I will only use it for educational purposes.

•I will only use my iPad when my teacher has given me permission to do so.

•I will be responsible with my iPad. I know it is an expensive learning tool, and I will handle it very carefully. This means keeping

it away from water and food, making sure my hands are clean, and carrying it with both hands. It also means that I will not leave

my iPad on the floor and will keep it in my docking cubby when I am not using it.

•I understand that a photograph of my face, name, homeroom teacher, and class number will serve as the home-screen and

lock-screen images for the purpose of iPad identification. I will not change this picture at any time unless directed to do so by

my teacher.

•I will only use apps and features that my teacher tells me to use. I will not download apps without teacher permission.

•I will not use social media on my iPad unless my teacher tells me otherwise.

•I will not take or post pictures or video of myself, teachers or classmates on my iPad.

•I will never give out personal information on the internet, such as my name, phone number, address, or email address. I will

never share, give out, or change passwords unless instructed to do so by my teacher.

•I will only use my assigned iPad. I will not lend my iPad to anyone else without my teacher’s permission.

•I will return my iPad to my docking cubby when instructed to do so and at the end of every day.

•I understand that my iPad should always be kept at school.

•I will never charge my iPad overnight. My iPad will need to be charged when the battery is at 20%.

•I understand that I must have a pair of earbuds or headphones that are to remain at school and be kept in my docking cubby

along with my iPad.

I understand that if I choose not to follow these expectations, then my parents will be notified immediately. I may lose the

privilege of using my iPad in class or have other consequences determined by my teacher and/or campus administrator.

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GIFTED INFORMATION

RISD provides gifted services for students who qualify through an evaluation process that includes teacher and parent information, quantitative testing, and student observational data. Gifted services are administered through the Department of Advanced Academic Studies. Parents or teachers may refer a student for evaluation for services. Referral windows occur throughout the school year. For more information about the gifted services available for RISD students including a timeline of referral and assessment opportunities, please contact the department directly at 469-593-2426 or visit our page at http://www.edline.net/pages/RISD_Departments_and_Programs/Advanced_Academic_Studies

HOMEWORK/GRADING POLICY

Definition and Philosophy Homework is defined as instructionally based, out-of-class tasks assigned to students as the extension or elaboration of classroom work to reinforce academic skills. Homework should be an integral part of a student’s total learning experience. To derive the greatest benefit from school learning experiences, students must routinely finish related study and follow-up at home.

OBJECTIVES FOR HOMEWORK

• To extend the concept of learning beyond the classroom

• To nurture the development of good study habits

• To encourage the use of independent research skills

• To promote student independence, responsibility, and self-discipline

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

• Complete assigned work on time and to the best of his/her ability

• Assume responsibility for making up work when absent

• Communicate with the teacher when extenuating circumstances prevent the completion of assigned homework

• Select school activities and schedules outside school to allow for successful completion of homework

HOMEWORK STRATEGIES Teachers will create a system to assure that all homework assignments are available through clear communication to students and parents. Teachers will present homework, both verbally and in writing, using a consistent location for posting assignments. Teachers will provide modifications and accommodations when appropriate on assignments and for students with special needs. Assignments are given only for instructional purposes, not for disciplinary reasons. In order for our students to have successful homework experiences, it is suggested that parents/guardians designate a place and time for children to study at home. Provide necessary tools (paper, pencils, and reference materials) for your child to complete homework assignments. Help students plan the completion of their assignments and how to use their time well. Make school associations positive by recognizing your child for their efforts. Creating good study habits and showing an interest in your child’s education benefits your child throughout his/her learning career.

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TIME RECOMMENDATIONS No more than 30 minutes of daily homework should be assigned on the primary level (K-3rd). No more than 60 minutes of homework should be assigned on the intermediate level (4th-6th). *Please note that time spent on daily reading skills development is in addition to homework time and therefore, not considered part of the time allocations listed above.

EVALUATION GUIDELINES

Grades reflect the alignment of curriculum (TEKS), instruction and assessment. Grades will be an average of class work, skills, participation, and classroom and homework assignments. MAKE UP WORK

Make-up work will be made available to students after an absence or suspension with no penalty. Students have one day to complete missed work for each day absent. Students will receive a failing grade for any assignment or test not made up within the allotted time. SCHOLASTIC PENALTIES

Teachers will assess the academic penalty to be imposed for the following: cheating, plagiarism, and academic dishonesty. EXTRA CREDIT ASSIGNMENTS

Assignments for extra credit are to be instructionally oriented. Extra credit points must be included within the grades during the nine weeks in which they occurred. Extra credit opportunities will be given at the discretion of each teacher. REPORT CARDS

Kindergarten Reports and Conferences - Kindergarten parents will be scheduled to conference with their child's teacher twice during the year. At that time, parents will be provided with a copy of the Kindergarten Academic Progress Report which will show the progress the student is making in kindergarten. Report Cards - Report cards are issued once every nine weeks for those students in grades one through six. Explanations of grading symbols are located on the face of the report card. Parents should sign the report card envelope and return it to the teacher. Report cards will be discussed at Meet the Teacher Night, conferences and on an as needed basis. Progress Reports – After the first three weeks of school only students who are failing any of the core subjects will receive a progress report. After the first nine weeks of school, all students will receive a progress report and going forward, twice per nine weeks.

LOCKERS

Lockers will be assigned to students. Lockers do not lock and locks cannot be brought from home, so please do not send valuable items to be left in lockers. Decorating your child’s locker for his/her birthday is a fundraiser at ACM and will not be allowed otherwise. If you would like to request your child’s locker be decorated, complete the online form at ACMPTA.org.

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LOST AND FOUND

Students are expected to respect the property of others. Found items, such as money, glasses, watches, and jewelry should be brought to the office. Clothing, lunch boxes, notebooks, and larger items should be placed in the lost and found cabinet in the main hallway. When an item of personal property or money is lost, the student may get permission from his/her teacher to come to the office to check the collection on hand. Parents are also urged to look through the collection for items belonging to their child. Lost and found items that have not been claimed will be donated before the winter break and at the end of the school year.

RECESS

Students who in engage in recess (unstructured play) during the school day are engaged in learning and are more likely to experience improved overall achievement. The master schedule has been created to ensure time for daily recess for all students, differentiated by grade level. (Grades K-5, 30 minutes; Grade 6, 15 minutes) Recess minutes may be scheduled during a single block of time or may be split into multiple blocks of time. Recess may occur inside or outside of the school building. Withholding recess will not be used as a routine disciplinary consequence for student misbehavior. However, administrators may decide that a student’s disciplinary infractions occurring during, or on the way to, recess may warrant the occasional removal of recess time as an appropriate consequence.

SCHOOL PARTIES

Only two parties are held during the school year, Winter Holiday and Valentine’s Day. Parties may begin no earlier than one hour before the end of the school day. Family members registered with Voly and with approved background checks are always welcome and encouraged to attend. Please note that no birthday or other party celebrations will be allowed. Please do not bring cakes, cupcakes, drinks, or other party foods unless requested by the school. We have many students with food allergies and must provide a safe and healthy learning environment. It is also state policy that no foods be brought into the schools during school hours as to not be in competition with the cafeteria. Thanks so much for your cooperation.

The 2018-2019 party days will be: • Friday, December 21st at 2:00 pm Winter Holiday Parties • Thursday, February 14th at 2:00pm Valentine’s Day Parties

STUDENT RECORDS

Parent requests for copies of student personal records such as birth certificates, social security cards, or immunization records must be made in writing at the school office. There is a 48 hour turn-around time for the processing of copies. Copies will be provided at a cost of $.25 per page due in the office at the time of pick-up. Some record requests may need to go through district records management.

STUDENT SAFETY Student safety on campus or at a school-related event is a high priority of the school district. Parents can assist by keeping emergency care information up to date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies to medications, etc.) PLEASE CONTACT THE SHOOL WITH ANY CHANGES IN EMERGENCY INFORMATION IMMEDIATELY. Having current information will be of critical importance should an accident or injury occur that requires medical attention.

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SEVERE WEATHER SITUATIONS

In the occurrence of the events listed below, RISD’s recommendation is to hold the students on campus until the weather dissipates.

⧫ Tornado Warning ⧫ Severe Thunderstorm Warning ⧫ Heavy rain producing flash flooding ⧫ Thunder and lightning in area ⧫ Hail

ACM strongly recommends that students are left on campus until the severe weather has passed, as the structural integrity of the campus is considered safer than a house or an apartment (if a storm shelter is not available). Parents on campus may stay on campus, in the office, until the severe weather subsides.

Parents should be aware that when schools are under Lockdown or Shelter-In-Place due to severe weather or a neighborhood emergency which affects the safety of the school, staff members may not be available to open the doors or remain at the door to let people in. The RISD will not jeopardize the safety of staff members near windows or doorways in such emergencies.

TEACHER/CLASSROOM REQUESTS

The school creates class lists based on the best overall learning environment for each student. If you would like your child to be considered for a specific classroom, a formal written request must be submitted on letter size paper to the principal. No verbal requests will be accepted. Be sure to describe the learning environment you feel would best be suited for your child. Specific teacher requests are not considered. The deadline to submit your request is May 17th. Please note that the request will be taken into consideration, however placement is not guaranteed.

TESTING DAYS

In order to maintain test security and limit distractions to students, volunteers and visitors are not allowed in the building on state testing days.

TEXTBOOKS/LIBRARY BOOKS

State approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Students are held accountable for every textbook they receive and library book they check out. The books must be kept in good condition or students are required to pay damages. *Students/parents will be required to pay for all lost or damaged textbooks.

TOYS, GAMES, and ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Students are not allowed to bring toys, games, or electronic devices to school unless they receive special permission from the teacher/principal. These items include, but are not limited to, Pokemon cards, Gameboys, Nintendo DS, dolls, MP3 players, digital tablets, or digital book readers. The school is not responsible for damage, loss, or theft of anything brought to school. Teachers will collect any inappropriate items that are brought to school and items will be returned only to the student’s parent/guardian.

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VOLUNTEERS

To become a RISD parent volunteer, you will need to create a Voly account at risd.voly.org. Failure to register in Voly prior to desiring to participate in school activities or field trips will prevent you from participating. School volunteers should go to the RISD website to access the online form for volunteering.

• The volunteer should navigate on the website to “Volunteer Opportunities.” The volunteer form is available in many languages for you to select.

• The form will ask for information such as date of birth, name, gender, ethnicity, address, telephone numbers, and driver’s license or state-issued ID number.

• Volunteers will be able to select schools where they choose to volunteer during the 2018-2019 school year. Be sure to select ACM.

• When you have completed the online application you will receive an email confirmation.

• The data will be submitted to Safe Schools for processing of the criminal background check. The information will come back to HR and the campus and the cleared individuals will be placed on a database within a couple of business days of their submission of the online form.