school start up package - yrdsb€¦ · web viewmust store rollerblades, skateboards or scooters in...

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Kettle Lakes Public School

62 Kingshill Road, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 4X5Phone: 905-313-8406

Fax: 905-313-8412email: [email protected]

website: www.kettlelakes.yrdsb.edu.on.ca

School Start-Up Package

2014-2015

Kettle Lakes Public SchoolA Message from the Administrator Team

Welcome to all new and returning Kettle Lakes families! As the newest members of the Kettle Lakes community Ms. Reeves and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce ourselves and let you know how excited we are to join the “Lakes” family. We have worked very hard these past few months to get to know the school and we are confident that, along with the dedicated team of educators and support staff, we will continue the traditions and honour the excellence that is Kettle Lakes.

The school opened its doors in 2009 embracing four pillars, all under the umbrella of Character: Student Achievement, Inclusion, Environment and Technology. Student, staff and family "wellness" soon joined the pillars and these pillars form the basis of program and decision making at our school.

The school’s touchstone was created with the goal of establishing common values and building a sense of community for all. The words and phrases of the touchstone are modeled and exemplified through the beliefs and actions of our staff and students. It is proudly displayed in our foyer.

At Kettle Lakes we care for others and encourage everyone to do their best.The many different cultures and traditions of our community are accepted, respected and cherished.

Everyone takes initiative to do positive things for ourselves, our friends, and the world around us.We are kind to those in need of a friend; we are a light unto others.

We are willing to be risk-takers…Having confidence in ourselves allows us to set goals to achieve success.We admit when mistakes happen and take responsibility for our choices.

We are an eco-friendly school, caring about our planet.Everyone is free to play; no one is excluded.

We never say never.We are the Kettle Lakes Storm!

Kettle Lakes offers a variety of extra-curricular programs, including athletics, music, drama, Battle of the Books, Friendship clubs, ECO teams... and the list goes on! Students are offered a wide variety of choice appealing to the different learners in our community, and take advantage of the many opportunities our staff and school council provide to them. The School Council does an exceptional job representing the community, and advocating for ALL children, from JK-grade 8, when making program and/or fund-raising decisions. The three sub-committees (Education, Fund-raising and ECO) guide many of the practices of council, and have contributed to some excellent learning experiences over the years.

Ms. Reeves and I are so excited to get to know our students and families. We believe our varied experiences, combined with those of our staff, will contribute to the wonderful learning opportunities, student engagement and parental involvement that make this school the special place that it is.All the best for a wonderful year of learning and growing!

Arlene Potashner Christine ReevesPrincipal Vice Principal

62 Kingshill Road, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 4X5Phone: 905-313-8406, Fax: 905-313-8412, email: [email protected]

Website: www.kettlelakes.yrdsb.edu.on.ca2


Information Package and Form Checklist

The package includes important information about the school, and a number of forms that you need to complete for each child.

Return the completed forms to your child’s teacher by Monday September 8.

Required Forms These forms must be completed.

Consent/Agreement Form

Policy Agreement

Additional Forms These forms must be completed if you or your child wish to participate.

Religious Accommodation Form

School Council Nomination Form

Student Accident Insurance Enrolment Form

Volunteers in Our Schools




Our School

School Day Organization:Period Times Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m.

Before school supervision

8:15-8:30 a.m.

Period 1 8:30-9:10 Period 2 9:10-9:40Period 3 9:40-10:10Recess 10:10-10:40Period 4 10:40-11:20Period 5 11:20-11:50Period 6 11:50 – 12:20Lunch 12:20 – 1:20Period 7 1:20 – 2:00Period 8 2:00 – 2:30Period 9 2:30 – 3:00Dismissal 3:00

Agenda

We encourage all students to use an agenda on a daily basis. An agenda: May include important information about the school Is a tool for students to record homework, important dates and notes Is a useful way for teachers and parents to communicate

Parents/guardians, please check your child’s agenda daily. If you wish to purchase an agenda, provide $5.00 by Monday September 8.

Allergies/Medical Conditions

There are students in our school who have a life-threatening allergy to nuts and other allergens. If they smell or come into contact with these foods, they may have an anaphylactic reaction.

Do not bring nut or nut products to school.

If your child has serious or life-threatening allergy or medical condition, let the school know immediately and speak to the school office about completing the appropriate medical forms.



Kettle Lakes Public SchoolArrivals and Departures

Student Entry

Students must line up at their assigned entry doors. The supervising teacher will assist with the entry. The two outside entrances by the main office are not to be used by students (except for entry to “Before School” programs).

Grade Door Rainy Day * Entry time 8:25Grades 1,2, and 3 North Doors North Foyer Class Start Time 8:30Grades 4, 5 and 6 South West Doors South Foyer Recess Time 10:10Grades 7,8 South West Doors South Foyer Lunch Time 12:20Kindergarten Kindergarten gate Front Foyer Dismissal Time 3:00

* on rainy days, students are to remain in their designated areas as indicated until the bell rings

Student Safety

For student safety we ask that all parents report to the office upon entering the building. When accompanying your child please say “goodbye” at the entrance door. When picking up your child at the end of the day please designate a meeting place outside the school building. As part of our efforts to keep our building safe for our students, parents/grandparents are not allowed in the hallways at any time. If a student is to be picked up early, please send a note and pick up your child at the office. The use of the office phone is at the discretion of the office staff and is typically reserved for emergencies.

Safe Arrival Program

At Kettle Lakes we have a Safe Arrival Program. If your child is absent or will be late please call the school. You can leave a message on our answering machine 24 hours a day. For your child’s safety, it is imperative that we have an emergency contact. Please advise us of any phone number changes.

Parking Lot

Cars are to be parked in the parking spaces or on the side streets. Please park your car first, then walk your child to the door. Please do not stop, park or remain in your car in the parking lot loop next to the school building. Please follow the one way arrows painted on the concrete in the parking lot. The loop at the front of the school is for buses only – no cars are allowed. By-Laws are enforced.

We encourage parents and children to walk to school regularly. Walking to school is a great opportunity for families to get fresh air and regular exercise together. In addition, walking to school will reduce the amount of emissions from cars and the traffic in and around the school parking lot. Fewer cars mean a decreased chance of motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.



Kettle Lakes Public SchoolSupervision

The school yard is supervised by the teaching staff/assistants whenever students are out in the yard. The yard is not supervised before 8:15 am in the morning, and students should plan to arrive at the school after that time. After school, a teacher/assistant supervises the loading of the buses. All other students are asked to leave the school grounds directly after dismissal and report home to the parent/day care providers. Parents/guardians who drive their children to school are asked to choose a meeting spot off the property to help with traffic flow in the driveway.

For Students Who Take the Bus to School

More information about bus routes and times can be found at www.schoolbuscity.com. Parents/guardians, it is important to remember your child’s bus number and pick-up/drop-off times.

Students who use bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards or scooters to travel to school: Must wear a helmet Must walk while on school property Should lock bicycles on the bike rack Must store rollerblades, skateboards or scooters in their locker or backpack

The school is not responsible for any lost or damaged personal items. Note: If bikes, scooters, etc are not used properly on school property, the school reserves the right to remove the item and ask the student not to use it again on school property



http://www.schoolbuscity.com/


Behaviour/Code of Conduct

Students are expected to demonstrate behaviour that is respectful and courteous at all times. This includes demonstrating respect for each other and our communities. These expectations are indicated in our school’s Code of Conduct.

Code of Behaviour

At Kettle Lakes, students, parents and staff abide by our Touchstone and Code of Behaviour

We care for others and encourage everyone to do their best.

We congratulate others in their successes We support our friends, classmates, and all members of the Kettle Lakes community We show a commitment to learning We help our friends in the classroom and on the playground

The many different cultures and traditions of our community are accepted, respected and cherished.

We respect everyone’s heritage We celebrate different ways of looking at the world We wonder about how other people think We encourage people to make up their own minds

Everyone takes initiative to do positive things for ourselves, our friends, and the world around us.

We maintain our own belongings and possessions We participate in school activities and fundraisers We act on ideas which can improve a situation We assist people who need our help

We are kind to those in need of a friend; we are a light unto others

We behave politely to every student, teacher, guest teacher, or parent who enters our school

We use acceptable tones of voice (indoor and outdoor) We speak honestly and fairly when dealing with others

We are willing to be risk-takers…

We ask for help when needed We share our ideas and thoughts in class We try new things



Kettle Lakes Public SchoolCode of Behaviour Continued…

Having confidence in ourselves allows us to set goals to achieve success

We complete homework, class work, and assignments on time and with care We participate fully in the learning process We arrive on time and prepared for school and class We pay attention in class

We admit when mistakes happen and take responsibility for our choices

We accept consequences for our behaviours We adhere to the “Safe Schools” policies protecting students and staff from harassment and

bullying We choose to play without violence or “weapons” We report and openly discourage bullying, teasing, put-downs, and racist and sexist slurs We know that being a bystander at an incident of bullying or teasing is the same as being a

participant

We are an eco-friendly school, caring about our planet

We care for the building, equipment, and the environment We use school supplies and equipment wisely We recycle carefully to reduce waste We bring our lunches and snacks in reusable containers

Everyone is free to play; no one is excluded

We value people for who they are We treat others with compassion and empathy We recognize that everybody’s abilities are special

We never say never

We persevere until we get it We practice to improve our skills

We are the Kettle Lakes Storm




Code of Behaviour Continued…

We are a safe and respectful school

We enter and exit using designated doors We remain on school property until dismissed We dress appropriately and in accordance with the Board’s Dress Policy We play safely and sensibly We keep our hands and feet to ourselves We walk our bikes, our scooters, and skateboards across streets and in the playground

The Board Code of Student Conduct is part of Policy #668.0, Caring and Safe Schools.

__Mrs. Potashner__ ________________________ ___________________ School Student Parent

We have read, understand, and agree to abide by the Kettle Lakes Touchstone and Code of Behaviour



Kettle Lakes Public SchoolContinuation of Touchstone Responsibilities

Some Key Parent Responsibilities: Ensure availability of an appropriate space for homework Establish and maintain open communication with school Help students accept responsibility for their actions Ensure regular attendance Report absences and lateness Inform school of emergency contacts and phone numbers Ensure Dress Code is observed Bring to school’s attention any situation which affects learning and school

climate OPT-IN on the school web-site to receive monthly newsletters electronically

Some Key School Responsibilities:

Provide an effective learning environment Implement procedures for a safe school where students feel secure Meet the needs of all students Promote effective and Restorative discipline procedures Promote healthy relationships between staff and students

Some Selected Student Consequences for Failure to Follow the Behaviour Code:

Counselling Student-Teacher conferences Parent contact/involvement Community service Restitution for damages Alternative programming Removal of privileges Suspension

We believe in progressive discipline with the goal of students changing inappropriate behaviour through restorative action. Discipline occurs within the parameters of the Safe Schools and York Region District School Board Policies.

Class Placements

Due to late registrations and enrolments, there may be staffing changes and class reorganization during the first few weeks of school. We do our best to keep these changes to a minimum and to support students during any transitions.



Kettle Lakes Public SchoolCommunication Home

Parents/guardians are our most important partners in educating children. We communicate with you in a variety of ways throughout the year.

AgendaThe Student Agenda serves as a useful way for teachers and parents/guardians to communicate. Parents/guardians, please check your child’s agenda daily.

Email To improve communication between home and school and reduce paper use, we coordinate an email distribution list. The list will be maintained and used only by school staff to communicate electronically to parents/guardians. Your email will not be sold, distributed or publicly posted.

Messaging SystemPart of the communication with families includes many news items being sent to you by e-mail. Please ensure the e-mail provided is accurate. You may periodically receive messages by phone with important information.

Stay Connected OnlineYou can also stay connected online through our school website. Some classrooms also have blogs, Twitter feeds or newsletters to help you stay connected. Your child’s teacher will provide more information.

In addition, you can follow Board news and updates at www.yrdsb.edu.on.ca or on Twitter @yrdsb.

Dress Code

As stated in the Code of Behaviour, all students at Kettle Lakes PS are expected to wear clothing that is respectful. No clothing will be permitted with offensive slogans or graphics.

All students at school are expected to wear clothing that is moderate. Clothing should cover the midriff (i.e. no “belly” shirts). Clothing should cover underclothing. (i.e. no thin-strapped tank tops, off the shoulder sweaters, no low-slung jeans). Clothing that is moderate does not include very low-cut tops, ‘muscle shirts’, or very short skirts or shorts.

Moderate and respectable clothing includes the following: clothing that is free from offensive slogans or graphics shirts that have a shoulder-strap width of at least three fingers shirts that cover the whole torso (i.e. no “belly shirts, low-cut tops, “muscle shirts”, etc.”) pants, shorts, and skirts should not be shorter than where your fingers rest alongside your

legsStudents wearing inappropriate clothing will be:

asked to cover up inappropriate clothing, or asked to change into more appropriate clothing (i.e. gym clothing at school, or go home for

different clothing)62 Kingshill Road, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 4X5

Phone: 905-313-8406, Fax: 905-313-8412, email: [email protected]: www.kettlelakes.yrdsb.edu.on.ca

11

http://www.yrdsb.edu.on.ca/

Kettle Lakes Public SchoolDress Code Continued…

Students who persistently ignore the school’s appropriate dress policy will face the consequences that would apply to any child who persistently opposes authority.

Personal Property

Clothing/ Shoes/ BootsClothing suitable for physical education class is required. Parents are asked to LABEL their child’s clothing and gym clothing so that misplaced apparel can be easily returned to the owners. Found watches, jewelry or small items are stored in the office. Students are expected to have indoor shoes at all times.

Expensive ItemsStudents are asked to leave valuables such as electronic games, cell phones, trading cards, etc. at home. The school cannot be responsible for lost items. Use of electronics including cell phones, iPods, Laser pointers and MP3 players are allowed on school property during school hours, but are not allowed to be used at recess or during class time unless requested for educational purposes by the teacher. Please reference The Computer/ Internet Acceptable Use Policy for more detail.

Play EquipmentStudents are encouraged to bring skipping ropes, hula hoops and other outdoor toys/equipment. Equipment should be well labeled with the child’s name. Any balls that end up on the school’s roof will be retrieved by the caretakers once a month. Baseball bats and any form of hockey stick is not allowed.

Lost and FoundThe Lost and Found Box is located in the Kindergarten hallway. Students and their parents are encouraged to check in the box for any misplaced clothing or belongings. Several times a year, the contents of the box are displayed for all students to view before unclaimed items are sent to a local charity.

Student LockersHaving a locker is a privilege. Students are to take care of their lockers, decorate them appropriately and care for them respectfully. Lockers are the property of the school and may be accessed at any time if necessary. Students must supply their own combination lock. No laser locks or key locks are permitted. Students must register their lock combination with their teacher.

Electronic Devices

Cell phones and other personal communication devices must be turned off and kept out of sight during all instructional periods, except with the clear permission of the classroom teacher. The school is not responsible for personal items that go missing at the school.



Kettle Lakes Public SchoolEmergency Information

Let office staff know as soon as possible if any of the following information changes: address, work or home numbers or other contact information emergency contacts and telephone numbers changes in custody agreements medical alert or changes in health condition (e.g. allergies, medications)

Excursions

Teachers may take classes on walks around the community to support classroom programs. As well, many physical education classes and other activities are held outdoors, weather permitting. You will be informed whenever school vehicles are used for longer trips.

Homework

Homework is one way parents can become involved in their children’s learning. The York Region District School Board defines homework as “those learning activities that are associated with the in-school program and which are completed outside the normal classroom time.” At Kettle Lakes we believe that homework is an essential part of your child’s education. It develops good study habits and teaches your child responsibility and self discipline. It also encourages your child to develop effective time management strategies which will be of benefit for their future. Homework promotes the partnership between parents and the school in educating children through acquainting parents with their child’s in-school learning experiences. It is a shared commitment between teachers, students and parents. Parents may access teacher web pages for daily homework.

How Much Homework?Homework may not be assigned daily. Teachers will share classroom homework guidelines with students and families in September.

Lunch Time and Recess Agreement

All students who do not go home for lunch should stay at school during lunch time. Please indicate the preference for your child on the Consent Agreement Form. If your child will be leaving school grounds on occasion, a note must be provided.



Kettle Lakes Public School Personal Information

Schools routinely collect, use and release student personal information, in keeping with the Education Act and other laws. Whenever your child’s personal information is collected, its use will be explained to you.

Please see the section on Student Personal Information in the Guide to the School Year booklet for a list of examples for when permission will be sought. Parents must sign the Policy Agreement Form, acknowledging that they have read and understood this information.

If you have any questions about your child’s privacy protection, please contact the school principal or the Information Access and Privacy Office at 905-727-0022 ext.2015.

School Council

As parents/guardians, there are many ways you can be engaged in your child’s learning at home and at school. This includes getting involved with the school council. Contact school office staff for more information.

Visitors

All visitors, including parents/guardians, must: Use the buzzer at the main entrance of the school. Front doors are locked 15 minutes after the

morning bell. Check in at the main office. Office staff will deliver important messages and materials to your child. Sign in and obtain a visitor or volunteer pass to wear while in the school.

Volunteering in the School

We welcome and encourage the important role that parents/guardians and community members play in education. There are many opportunities for you to get involved at the school. For more information, contact the school office staff or review Policy and Procedure #280.0 Volunteers in Our Schools. If you are interested, please complete the School Volunteer Form and return it to the school office.

For More Information

You can find more information on these and other topics in the Guide to the 2014-15 School Year included with this package or on the York Region District School Board website at www.yrdsb.edu.on.ca.



http://www.yrdsb.edu.on.ca/

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