swarthmore rutledge school - wallingford-swarthmore …...bus riders will go to their designated...

Swarthmore–Rutledge School

“SRS Rising Stars”

Student Handbook

2016-2017

Wallingford-Swarthmore School District

(610) 892 – 3470

Administration

Dr. Lisa Palmer x1105

Superintendent

Martha Kew x1305

Business Administrator

Gina Ross x1505

Director of Elementary Special Education

Dr. Megan McCullough x1505

Director of Secondary Special Education

Jim Hardy x1605

Supervisor of Operations

Patti Diaferio x1701

Transportation Supervisor

Jennifer Gaudioso x1205

Director of Elementary Education

Dr. Denise Citarelli Jones x1205

Director of Secondary Education

District Schools

Nether Providence Elementary x4105

Al Heinle – Principal

Wallingford Elementary x4305

Josh Peterkin – Principal

Strath Haven Middle School x3105

George King – Principal

Strath Haven High School x2105

Dr. MaryJo Yannacone – Principal

Swarthmore – Rutledge School

Dr. Angela Tuck x4505

Principal

Sharon Artingstall x4505

Executive Administrative Assistant

Kathy Swierczek x4506

Administrative Assistant

Lisa Lashley x4541

Nurse

School Board Members

Region 1 (Wards 2, 3 &4 in Nether Providence)

Dr. Marilyn Huff – Vice-President, Dr. Allison

Karpyn, Ms. Chapin Cimino

Region 2 (Wards 1, 5 & 6 in Nether Providence

plus Rose Valley) Mr. Paul N. Schregel, Mr.

Jerry Ballas, Dr. Robert C. Reiger

Region 3 (Swarthmore and Rutledge)

Ms. Wendy Voet – Assistant Secretary, Dr.

Richard C. Sonntag – President, Ms. Sally

Morbeck - Treasurer

Address Correspondence to:


Board of Directors

C/o Dr. Lisa Palmer, Superintendent

200 S. Providence Road

Wallingford, PA 19086

Table of Contents

WSSD Mission Statement page 4

Swarthmore-Rutledge School Mission Statement page 5

Welcome Information

School Hours, Meal Prices, Dismissal, Absence page 6

Cell Phones, ESL, Field Trips page 9

Helpful Information page 10

School Safety page 11

Student Wellness – Birthday Treats, Misc. page 12

Vacations During School Days, Visitor Info. page 13

WSSD Board Policy on Attendance (Excerpts) page 14

WSSD Medication Policy page 15

In Loco Parentis, Expectations for Homework page 16

Honeywell Alert System page 17

Emergency School Closing/Delayed Opening page 18

Food Services page 18

Internet Acceptable Use Policy page 18

Voluntary Student Accident Insurance page18

SRS Staff List page 19

SRS Calendar 2016—2017 page 22

School Safety page 24

Volunteers page 25

Parent/Student Portal page 28

WSSD K—12 Code of Conduct/Discipline Code page 29

SRS Special Annual Activities by Grade page 33

Wallingford-Swarthmore School District Mission Statement

The Wallingford-Swarthmore School District is committed to assuring the academic achievement

and personal growth of all students within an environment that promotes:

Respect for self and others

Active engagement in learning

Leadership in the global community

The pursuit of excellence

Vision: Our vision is to develop a world-class school district that provides students with the skills to

succeed in a changing global environment. This vision will be realized through a commitment to

high-quality programs and continuous improvement based upon careful analysis and integration of

the most effective practices.

Beliefs: Our deepest convictions and values:

All people have equal worth

All individuals can be successful learners

People learn in different ways and at different rates

Learning is a lifelong pursuit

Individuals learn best when actively engaged in the learning process

High expectations yield high results

Education is the shared responsibility of the student, family, school, and greater community

Each person bears responsibility for the well-being of society and the quality of the environment

Diversity of culture and belief enriches and strengthens our community

Society benefits when individual rights are balanced with social responsibilities

Ethical conduct is essential to the quality of life

High-quality public education directly benefits the entire community and is essential for a

democratic society

Swarthmore—Rutledge School Mission Statement

Our mission at the Swarthmore-Rutledge School (SRS) is to enable our students to experience

academic and social success through a sound, student-centered instructional program.

Character development and social awareness learning opportunities are provided within a

positive and supportive school community.

The goal is for our students to become critical thinkers and problem solvers, with genuine

respect for diversity and social responsibility, and a life-long love of learning.

SRS Guiding Principles

1. Each student’s academic and social progress is our SRS common goal.

We value each student’s unique strengths and talents.

Teachers balance the needs of the entire classroom with the needs of each student.

2. We value and practice open two-way communication by using an Inform-Invite Listen

Communication Model.

Inform: We proactively share and disclose information.

Invite: Parents and teachers ask for relevant information and seek each other’s input.

Listen: We check for full and complete understanding through active listening.

3. We respect each other’s perspectives

We recognize that both parents and teachers bring valuable experience and knowledge to

the relationship.

Parents and teachers work together on all student concerns before involving the principal.

Welcome Information

Swarthmore – Rutledge School

100 College Avenue

Swarthmore, PA 19081

School Hours: Kindergarten: AM Session: 8:45—11:30 a.m.; PM Session: 12:45—3:30 p.m.

Grades 1—5: 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Supervision will be provided starting at 8:20 a.m. Please do not bring your child to school prior

to that time.

Snow/Emergency Closing: Honeywell Instant Alert system or District website: www.wssd.org

Cafeteria: Breakfast $1.50

Lunch $2.55 (To see if your child is eligible for free or reduced price lunches, contact the school office.)

Early Dismissal: To have a child dismissed from school for an appointment, please send a note

to the homeroom teacher. An adult family member must come to the school office to sign the

child out.

Absence from School: If your child is absent from school for any reason, an attendance notification

will be emailed to Contact 1 and Contact 2 in the Student Data System each day a student is absent.

Please reply with the student’s first and last name, date of absence and reason. This reply will serve as

the Pennsylvania State Law required Absence Note; therefore, you will not need to send a note with your

child when they return to school. Medical forms may be faxed to the SRS fax number 610.338.0609.

Please keep your contact information up to date.

Transporting Students: No student group is permitted to leave school grounds for trips, end-of-

year picnics, etc. in private cars.

Bicycles, Skateboards, Roller Blades, and Scooters: Students in grades 3-5 may ride bicycles,

skateboards, roller blades, and scooters to school. Primary grade students (1st and 2nd graders)

may ride bicycles if accompanied by an adult. Bicycle racks are provided in the school

courtyard. It is recommended that all bicycles be securely locked at the rack. Children must wear

a helmet as required by PA Law.

The school assumes no responsibility for any lost or stolen property. Scooters, skateboards and

roller blades should be placed in the alcoves at the bottom of the Princeton Avenue and College

Avenue stairwells when students enter the building.

Tardiness to School: Tardiness to school shall be handled according to Administrative

Guidelines. An accumulation of time missed from school due to unexcused tardiness can equate

to full days of truancy and may be prosecuted in the same manner as other unlawful absence.

http://www.wssd.org/

Car Riders Morning Drop-Off: Parents are permitted to drive their vehicles through the staff parking lot

(front) to release their children between the designated car line cones located on the sidewalk.

Staff members will be positioned at the front door from 8:20 to 8:40 a.m. to help keep the flow

of traffic moving and to keep our students safe.

Afternoon Dismissal: Car riders should use the College Avenue exits to meet their

parents/families after school. Students are to cross at the corner of Princeton and College

Avenues with the crossing guard when the vehicle is parked on the opposite side of the street.

Princeton Avenue is used only for bus pickup and drop-off.

Kindergartners

Parents are to park on College Avenue and walk to the lobby. A kindergarten staff member will

meet students (8:45 for AM session and 12:45 for PM session) and will walk students to their

classrooms. Children should not be left unattended in the SRS lobby prior to a kindergarten staff

member arriving to receive them.

If a child is late and a kindergarten staff member is no longer in the lobby, parents are required to

sign in at the office or Welcome Desk and must walk their kindergartner to their classroom.

Parents will be asked to sign their child in if attendance has already been taken.

At dismissal time, kindergarten students are not permitted to leave the building until a parent is

present. No vehicles are to be driven through the faculty parking area for pick-up. Parents

should park and walk to the lobby to receive their child from a kindergarten staff member.

Delivering Articles to School Should you need to deliver a forgotten item to school, leave it in the office instead of disrupting

classes. Your child will pick up the item in the office when given permission by his/her

classroom teacher.

Dismissal Procedures (for Kindergarten “Car Riders”, please see “Car Riders” section)

Every student should bring a completed Student Dismissal Form on the first day of

school and give it to their teacher.

Students will be dismissed accordingly for the rest of the year.

o Any changes to this schedule should be made known by a note given to the

student’s teacher upon the student’s arrival in the classroom at 8:45a.m.

o Children should arrive at school knowing how they will be dismissed; reducing

their anxiety concerning this issue throughout their day.

o If dismissal plans change, please notify the office before 3:00p.m. We thank

you in advance for your assistance.

The classroom teacher or assistant will assist students to safely exit the building.

Walkers will be dismissed through the auditorium and main lobby doors located on

College Avenue.

First and second graders will line up on the sidewalk between the two front gardens

where they can be supervised.

Bus riders will go to their designated waiting areas.

Students participating in after school clubs will be dismissed as follows:

o Kindergarten students will be escorted by an SRS staff member to the After

School Club.

o Students in grades 1, 2, and 3 who attend Trinity Cooperative Day Nursery will be

met in the cafeteria by a Trinity staff member before walking together to the After

School Club.

o Students in grades 4 and 5 who attend the Older After School Club leave the

building with the other bus riders and take the designated bus to the OASC.

o Students who attend Crossroads after school leave the building with the other bus

riders and take the designated bus to Crossroads.

Students are not allowed to use the stairwell exit off the faculty parking lot for safety

reasons.

Siblings should arrange to meet at a specific location outdoors (e.g., by the flagpole

or by the Butterfly Garden).

Parents who meet their children at the end of the day are asked to meet them at a

specific location outside of the building.

Parents are asked not to congregate in the hallways at dismissal time to reduce

congestion and to keep the flow of traffic open for an orderly dismissal.

Parents driving to pick up their children should stop on College Ave. and remain in

their cars. Parents parked on the opposite side of College Ave. are asked to have their

child cross with the crossing guard. Parents should not double park to pick up their

children. Please do not drive into the faculty parking lot.

Students who walk and exit the front of the school should only cross College Avenue

with the crossing guard who is positioned at the intersection of Princeton and College

Avenues. Students should not cross in the middle of the block or at Chestnut

Avenue.

Early Dismissal

Any appointments that cannot be scheduled outside of school hours should be made

known by a note given to the student’s teacher upon the student’s arrival in the

classroom at 8:45a.m.

If a student needs to leave school early, a note must be given to the classroom teacher.

Please remind your child to give the note to their teacher when he or she arrives in the

classroom at 8:45.

Student may be dismissed early when parent/guardian shows photo ID and signs the

student out on the Early Dismissal form. The student will then be called to the office

for dismissal.

Advance approval from the principal will be needed for a student’s early

dismissal to anyone other than a parent or guardian.

Upon return to school on the same day as early dismissal, the student should be

accompanied by parent/guardian to sign the student back in to school by inserting the

time of return on the Early Dismissal form. The student will then be given a pass or

the teacher will be notified by intercom to expect the student to arrive in the

classroom.

Medical forms may be faxed to the SRS FAX number 610.338.0609

Bus Dismissal Procedures

Pupils are to:

Go to their designated bus areas.

Line up in a quiet, orderly line designated with their bus number.

Teacher on duty will take attendance and prepare students to load buses.

Be seated upon entering the bus and remain seated until leaving the bus to ensure a

safe ride.

Exit the building to the loading point on Princeton Avenue.

Cell Phones

In the interest of safety, some SRS parents allow their children to bring cell phones to school.

Cell phones must be in the off mode (including all functions and features of the device) and out

of sight from the time the student arrives at school until dismissal. Students are not allowed to

make calls or text on cell phones while at school. Students who do not adhere to these guidelines

will be asked to leave their phones in the office during the school day. Students may receive

permission to use an office phone on an emergency basis.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Diagnostic and tutorial services are provided as needed for students whose second language is

English. Services may be provided by an assistant or an itinerant resource person employed by

the school district.

Field Trips Field trips vary from year to year based on their suitability for the grade level and curriculum.

Private cars may not be used for student transportation. All parents must sign a field trip

permission form to permit the student to participate. No student will be denied from a field trip

because of financial constraints. If there is a financial need, please make that need known to the

teachers.

If you have acted as a chaperone during the prior year, please consider giving the opportunity to

another parent the following year.

All volunteer forms and clearances must be completed prior to the field trip date.

Note: For liability reasons, siblings cannot be accommodated on field trips.

Footwear

For the safety of all students, it is important that children wear shoes, such as sneakers, that are

safe and appropriate for physical activity. The children spend time on the playground on most

school days and the building has numerous stairs/steps, therefore proper footwear is essential.

Shoes without backs, flip-flops or clogs are not recommended. To reduce injuries, we

recommend that flip flops and open-toed shoes not be worn on the playground.

Crutches, Wheelchair and/or Elevator Use

Any student experiencing mobility problems or having a physical condition requiring

the use of crutches/wheelchair and/or the elevator, should bring a doctor’s note to the

school nurse with the following information:

diagnosis and/or reason for crutches/wheelchair and/or elevator

duration of crutches/wheelchair and/or elevator use

physician’s signature and contact information

After the school nurse obtains and verifies the doctor’s note, the nurse will contact the

main office to assist the student with the elevator.

Please contact our school nurse with any questions or concerns.

Homebound Pupils

Upon approval by the Board of School Directors, qualified teachers are provided to give

instruction to students who are confined at home for an extended period. Parents should contact

the school for complete information.

Instructional Support Team

The Instructional Support Team is part of a statewide initiative whose goals are to maximize

individual student success in the regular classroom, while at the same time serving as a screening

process for students who may be in need of special education services. IST is a success-oriented

program which uses specific assessment and intervention techniques to help remove educational,

behavioral, or affective stumbling blocks for all students in the classroom. The team consists of

the classroom teacher, the parent(s), the school psychologist, the principal, the instructional

support teacher, and other professional personnel who may be helpful in planning instruction to

meet the student's needs.

Library

Children are responsible for all materials signed out in the SRS school library. If a book or

magazine is lost or damaged beyond repair, a student obligation form is sent home with the

amount of obligation noted.

Lost and Found

Please mark all articles of clothing, books, backpacks, and lunch boxes with the student's name

so that they can be returned when found. Unmarked articles found at school are taken to the Lost

and Found (located in the student dining room), where they may be claimed. Students should

check the Lost and Found for several weeks after losing an article. Unclaimed items will be

donated to charitable organizations over the holiday breaks.

Media Release

At various times during the school year, district students and/or their school work (writing, art

work, project, etc.) may be photographed and/or acknowledged by the media (local/regional

newspapers, TV stations, and/or school district publications. In addition, photographic images of

students may be used in classroom presentations, weekly Home and School e-mail

communications and school district web pages.

Please complete the media release form to indicate whether you do or do not wish to have your

child’s photograph or school work used for any of the purposes described above.

This form is located on the Parent Portal. It provides parents the opportunity to indicate whether

you do or do not wish to have your child’s photograph or schoolwork used for any of the

purposes described above. If you did not receive that information, please contact the main office

to request the form. It is important that we have this on record for each new school year.

Personal Property

If a student brings any personal property such as athletic equipment or electronic devices, he or

she must be responsible for their safekeeping. The school assumes no liability for damage and/or

theft. Students are not to bring trading cards, such as Pokemon cards, to school. It is suggested

that any money sent into school be in a change purse or envelope with the student’s name.

Pets on School Property

For safety reasons, please do not bring pets on school property.

Play Dates

Bus assignments and stops are prepared by the Supervisor of Transportation. When arranging

play dates, please make arrangements to have the children driven to their destination by a

designated parent or family member. Thank you for your cooperation.

School Safety

The following safety plans are in effect at SRS:

Limited Entry into SRS: All doors remain locked while school is in session (8:45a.m. –

3:30p.m.).

Strict Observance of Visitor Guidelines: Visitors can access the office through the main

lobby after ‘buzzing’ the intercom located to the left of the doors. All visitors must show

photo identification, sign the Visitor’s Form and wear a visitor’s badge while in the

building.

Regular Lockdown Drills and Fire Drills: Students, staff and faculty regularly practice

lockdown drills and fire drills so that we can respond quickly and calmly in the event of a

threatening situation or fire.

Snack

Children may bring a nutritious snack with them for a snack break. Classroom teachers will send

notification if there are students with allergies in the classrooms. We will ask that you avoid

sending in any snack or class treat with the specific ingredients which may trigger an allergic

reaction. Families may purchase milk for snack through the WSSD Food Service. The program

allows students to purchase milk per semester or per school year.

Student Wellness – Birthday Treats

(Taken from Board Policy 246 – Student Wellness)

As your child’s birthday approaches, you may be considering a way to have this acknowledged

at school. While there are only three classroom parties each year (Halloween, winter holiday

party, and Valentine party), birthdays are sometimes recognized through a snack or alternative

sent from home. This is optional. Teachers will recognize student birthdays whether a snack is

sent in or not. If you do choose to send in a snack, we ask families to follow the guidelines

below.

1. Treats will be served at snack time.

2. Avoid sending in any snack with ingredients posing an allergy risk for classmates.

3. If you are unsure if the snack contains ingredients that may be dangerous to some

students, please do not send it into school. We have students who need to avoid certain

ingredients for various health reasons (diabetes, Celiac disease, or life threatening

anaphylaxis).

4. If you are bringing in class snacks that are store bought, please make sure they have their

ingredients listed. If they are homemade, please send in an ingredients list. This will help

ensure that an allergic reaction will not occur.

5. We encourage you to consider options that are lower in fat and sugar and that use mini

portions instead of large ones.

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Special Education

Students identified as having a disability that affects academic progress may receive instructional

support from the special education teacher.

Speech Therapy The speech and language therapist provides evaluations, consultation and direct therapy services

to students at all grade levels. Services are available for disorders or delays in development,

voice problems, and fluency difficulties. Written permission to evaluate is obtained from the

parent before the evaluation process begins.

Standard of Dress Choosing the proper attire is part of a student's learning experience, therefore we believe our

students should be dressed in clean, moderate styles, appropriate to the occasion. Tank tops and

spaghetti strap tops are discouraged. Appropriate outerwear and footwear are required in snow

and inclement weather, and students are encouraged to layer clothing to insure comfort in and

out of the classroom. All students should bring sneakers or rubber-soled shoes for physical

education. Label articles of clothing to avoid loss.

Student Placement Parents may discuss placement with teachers focusing the discussion on "suitable environments"

rather than personalities, gender, or request for specific teachers. This discussion will be

undertaken with the understanding that final decisions are made by the faculty and the principal.

As a public school, our goal is to ensure heterogeneous and balanced classes so that all children

have an optimum learning environment.

Note: With the above guidelines in mind, parents are asked to communicate in writing any

specific placement concerns/requests to the principal by the beginning of May of the preceding

school year. Please do not request specific teachers.

Telephoning If you need to telephone your child for an emergency during school hours, the message will be

relayed through the office. Office phones are for school business; however, students will be

allowed to use school phones on an emergency basis. Emergencies do not include forgotten

homework, lunches, instruments, or planning after school activities.

Transferring to Another School

Students transferring to another school must notify the school office and complete a withdrawal

form in sufficient time for transfer information to be prepared. Books and supplies must be

returned in good condition and all obligations, financial and otherwise, must be fulfilled before

records can be forwarded to the new school.

Transportation

Bus assignments and stops are prepared by the Supervisor of Transportation. When arranging

play dates, please make arrangements to have the children driven to their destination by a

designated parent or family member. Thank you for your cooperation.

Vacations During School Days

Please refer to the Excused Absences section on page 2, #5.

Visitors and Parking

Please park on College Avenue or surrounding streets. This ensures the safety of our

students and staff.

Please be prepared to show your photo identification upon your arrival.

We ask all visitors to sign in on the Visitor’s Form in the main office.

A visitor’s badge must be worn at all times during your visit.

It is necessary to make arrangements in advance with classroom teachers before visiting

classrooms.


Excerpts of Board Policy on Attendance

(Adopted July 17, 2006)

The District requires that school-aged students enrolled in district schools attend school regularly, in

accordance with state laws. The educational program offered by this district is predicated upon the presence of

the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation. The district recognizes, as well,

that all children cannot be educated in the same manner and has therefore provided a variety of formats to meet

the individualized needs of each student.

Any child who has attained the age of eight (8) years on or before September 1 of any year, or who has entered

school at an earlier age and who has not yet attained the age of seventeen (17) years, shall be required to attend

school regularly during the entire school year, except as amended by the Pennsylvania Public School Code of

1949, as amended.

All absences occasioned by observance of the student’s religion on a day approved by the District as a

religious holiday shall be excused.

The district considers the following conditions to constitute reasonable cause for absence from school:

Personal illness. Absences of three (3) or more days will require doctor’s note.

Medical, dental, clinic or hospital appointment. Must have appointment card for certificate and/or

written excuse signed by parent/guardian stating date and time of appointment

Funeral of relative. Must have written excuse signed by parent/guardian, stating relationship of

relative to student and date and time of funeral.

Family trip - Family trips of an entertainment nature may not exceed two school days per trip, and

require the approval of the building principal one week in advance of the first day of absence. Teachers

will not provide work for children who are absent on family trips.

Educational trip - Must be pre-approved by the building principal. Written request must be submitted

by parent/guardian, stating nature and purpose of the trip.

Truancy and Absence Truancy of Students Sixteen (16) Years of Age or Younger - After accumulation of three (3) illegal days

absence from school, the student’s parents/guardians shall receive a First Notice and his/her counselor shall

receive information copies of the notice. Further action shall be determined by Administrative Guidelines.

Administrative Guidelines include but are not limited to: Loss of academic credit for work missed, Detention,

Saturday School, In-School Suspension, Out-of-School Suspension, Petition for Truancy, Referral to

Community Agency.

Ten-Day Letters When a student has been absent for more than ten (10) days in a school year without a doctor’s excuse, the

school administrator may decide to send a letter to the student and his/her parents/guardians, informing them

that any further absence would be considered illegal or unexcused, unless a doctor’s excuse covering the

absence period is furnished. The school principal in consultation with the counselor shall take this action when,

in the principal’s judgment, the ten (10) absences have not been justified, even though excused by the

parent/guardian.


Medication Policy Each year we have many requests from parents to give children medication during school hours. The following summary of the policies regarding medication has been prepared for your review. You may also want to review the complete health and medication policies available in each school office. If you have any questions, please contact your school nurse or principal. (The following is in accordance with School Board Policy 210 and 210.1)

1. Every effort should be made to give all doses of medication at home. Normally, medication to be given three times per day can be given at home (e.g., before school, after school, at bedtime). If a medication must be administered four or more times per day, one or more doses will likely need to be taken during the school day.

2. Only medications prescribed by a physician for a particular child will be given during school hours. Written instructions from the physician are required. Any change in dosage or medication must be accompanied by a physician's note.

3. All medications must be clearly marked with a prescription label bearing the child's name, type of

medication, dosage, and time to be given.

4. For the safety of all students, children may not carry medication to school. Parents must bring the medication to the Health Office. Enough medication should be left at school for the duration of the prescription. Children may not transport medication back and forth to school each day.

5. Over-the-counter medications: Per Standing Orders from the school physician, school nurses may administer Tylenol/Acetaminophen, Motrin/Ibuprofen, Tums and Cepacof lozenges as needed for student illness. Parent permission for use of these is obtained on the annual "Student Information Form". All other over-the-counter medications will not be administered in school unless accompanied by a physician's note specifying the medication, dosage, and timing of the medication. Children will not be permitted to take medication on their own during school hours.

6. One exception to the above protocol involves the use of asthma inhalers. An asthma inhaler may be carried by a student during the school day if deemed necessary by the child's parent and doctor. A Parent/Doctor Authorization Form to Carry Own Medication should be completed. In addition to other information, this form includes verification of the student's knowledge and competency to self-medicate. The form also includes a statement relieving the school and its employees of any responsibility for the benefits or consequences of the medication, or for ensuring that the medicine is taken. It should be noted that the prescribed inhaler is for the intended individual's use only and must not be shared with others. Violation of this policy shall result in immediate confiscation of the inhaler and loss of the privilege to self-medicate:

7. When the school nurse is in the building, the school nurse will administer medication. The principal or his/her designee will administer the medication when the school nurse is not available. Any parent who wishes to come to school to administer medication to their own child may do so. Parents must check in at the Main Office upon arrival.

8. Teachers are instructed to not permit children to take medication on their own at school. Please do not place your child in a potentially embarrassing situation by sending him or her to school with medication.

9. Unused medications will be disposed of at the end of the school year or when the duration of the medication ends. If a parent wishes to keep any unused medication, the parent must come to school to pick it up. Unused medication will not be returned directly to students.

In Loco Parentis

From the time students leave their homes each morning to the time they return each evening,

school officials are provided with the authority to act in place of parents or guardians. This is

called “in loco parentis,” translated as “in the place of a parent.” Section 1317 of the

Pennsylvania School Code provides the authority for school officials, acting in loco parentis, to

enforce school rules regarding conduct and behavior for all students. This authority is enforced

during the time that students are in attendance in school and on school-sponsored activities, and

also extends from the time that a student leaves their home to travel to school until the time that a

student reaches home from school. It is important to note that the rules of the code of conduct

apply to students as they leave their homes and travel to school (whether by walking, on the

school bus, or in a car), as they attend school and all school-sponsored activities, and until the

time that students return to their homes from school at the end of the day.

Expectations for Homework

Mission Statement: The SRS teaching community acknowledges research and our experiences

which show that homework is valuable to student learning. Homework is a collaborative effort

among school, student, and home that provides the following benefits:

ACADEMIC

Reinforces and extends skills taught

Guides instruction

Stimulates creative expression

Assesses acquisition, progress, and retention

of skills

Previews new concepts

AFFECTIVE

Develops responsibility

Develops independence

Develops self-esteem

Develops ownership of learning

Develops organization and time

management skills

Develops interest and initiative in learning

We recognize that homework can be an emotional issue. Therefore, we affirm that homework

should be meaningful and purposeful and have clear expectations.

Guidelines

Homework is assigned at all grade levels. It may be given three or more nights a week as

deemed necessary and appropriate by the teacher. Teaching staff will work collaboratively to

determine the amount, duration, and nature of homework assignments. In addition, students are

expected to read nightly. Teachers will guide students in planning and organizing long term

projects. Special Area teachers may assign homework.

Parents are to partner with students and teachers to create an enriching and positive homework

experience, please consider the following guidelines:

Establish a routine

Provide an appropriate working environment

Provide the necessary materials and resources

Provide encouragement and model a positive attitude

Review the work with your child!

Check for completeness

Ask these questions:

1. Did you understand the assignment?

2. Would you consider this your best effort?

3. Do you have questions for the teacher?

Communicate any homework concerns to your child's teacher in a timely manner.

* Remember that one purpose of homework is to provide teachers with a tool to assess student

understanding. That purpose is lost if the children are not doing their own work.

Honeywell Alert System

The Wallingford-Swarthmore School District utilizes a messaging system that allows us to

instantly communicate with all of our families and staff members if necessary. The system,

Honeywell Instant Alert, enables us to rapidly deliver a single, clear message to all students'

parents or guardians by telephone, cell phone, e-mail, or text*.

Each family's main contact phone number has been entered into the Alert System. The system

will deliver phone messages to that main number only unless you take (or have already taken)

additional steps. To add alternate phone numbers, or to have messages delivered via e-mail or

phone text, follow the simple instructions located at www.wssd.org/honeywell. Any previous

changes you made to your account are still in effect. If you do not have access to a computer,

please feel free to contact your child's school for assistance.

Instant Alert phone messages will “display” that the call is coming from 610-892-3470 which is

the school district's main phone number. If you do not pick up your phone during an alert and

you have an answering machine, Instant Alert will leave a message. If you do not have an

answering machine, the system will make a total of three attempts to call you to deliver the

message.

We intend to use the Instant Alert messaging system to immediately deliver a school closing

message once a closing decision has been made. This typically occurs prior to 5:30 AM, but in

some instances could be used for an early dismissal. If you do not wish to receive a phone

message at that time you can customize your profile to receive an e-mail or text message. As

always, school closing messages are posted on the front page of the district's website

(http://www.wssd.org/) as well.

* If you set up your account to receive text message alerts, you will only receive the

message subject via text, not the entire message. We do not recommend relying on text

messages only. We suggest you check www.wssd.org to confirm text alert messages for

additional details.

http://www.wssd.org/honeywell



Emergency School Closing/Delayed Opening

As stated in the Honeywell section above, school closings, early dismissals, and delayed

openings will be communicated to district residents via a phone call, email, and/or text message.

For delayed openings, please note the following changes:

Grades 1-5 should report to their bus stops two hours later than usual

The Kindergarten schedule will also be modified

AM Session runs from 10:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. with buses picking up two hours

later than usual

PM Session runs from 1:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. with buses picking up one hour later

than usual

Website: www.wssd.org

Radio: KYW 1060 AM (School Closing #460)

Food Services

Wallingford-Swarthmore School District Food Services, in partnership with Aramark

Corporation, strives to create an enjoyable, customer service-oriented dining experience for

students, faculty, staff, and administration. The Food Services Department is dedicated to

promoting student wellness and proper nutrition.

Please visit the Food Services site on the WSSD website (www.wssd.org) located under the

“Departments” tab. Here you will find important information, tips, menus and more.

Internet Acceptable Use Policy

Based on Board Policy 815, parents/guardians must sign off on the Acceptable Use Policy in

order for students to have access to the district’s network. Please use the link below to access the

entire board policy as well as the parent permission form. This form will need to be signed and

returned to school each year.

Acceptable Use Form

Voluntary Student Accident Insurance

Please note that the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District does not carry medical/accidental

insurance for students, but does provide you access to an accident plan through United States

Fire Insurance Company. This plan pays benefits from the first dollar, no deductible, and pays in

addition to any other insurance. An application and brochure that describes benefits and prices is

available on the WSSD website at www.wssd.org. To purchase the coverage, simply complete

the application, enclose a check or money order, and return the application directly to the

insurance company at the address on the brochure. If you do not have internet access and would

like a brochure printed for you, please contact Tanika Johnson at 610-892-3470, ext. 4306. If you

have any questions, contact AG Administrators, Inc. at www.agadministrators.com or by

telephone at 610-933-0800.



http://www.wssd.org/cms/lib02/PA01001072/Centricity/Domain/28/Policy%20815%20and%20815a.pdf


http://www.agadministrators.com/

2016-2017 Staff List

Grade Teacher Room

Mrs. Ellen Coopersmith 21

Mrs. Catherine Latella 22

Mrs. Jennifer Connolly 203

Ms. Billie Jo Fries 204

Mrs. Kelly Kane 206

Mrs. Jennifer McDonnell 203

Mrs. Mary Kate Peterson 201

Ms. Erika Benson 208

Mrs. Jennifer Cichowski 210

Mrs. Ellen Gidaro 207

Mr. Michael Haines 205

Mrs. Tina Smart 209

Mr. Pat Cronin 309

Mrs. Carrie Ferraro 308

Mrs. Noreen Gaynor 318

Mrs. Jennifer Kennedy 316

Mr. Bryan Neuber 311

Mr. Jonathan Blake 310

Mrs. Jill Brook 303

Mrs. Elizabeth Cotrufello 306

Mrs. Cheryl Knox 305

Ms. Jenny Conahan 32

Ms. Liz Corson 31

Mr. Eric McElroy 30

Mrs. Renee Strehle 33

Art Ms. Bridget Hochstoeger 11 & 307

Teacher Helen Mangelsdorf 307

DCIU Hearing Impaired Program

Miss Theresa Manco 304

Mrs. Christie Morris 12

Mrs. Kristen Temprine 301

Kindergarten

1st Grade

2nd

Grade

3rd

Grade

4th

Grade

5th

Grade

English/Second Language Mrs. Colleen Salandria 10

Gifted/Enrichment Mrs. Linda Gillespie 13

Guidance Counselor Mrs. Kathleen Gemberling 106

Instructional Support

Mrs. Marcie Adams General Instructional Support

Mrs. Theresa Anderson General Instructional Support

Mrs. Sandy Bucci Student Instructional Support

Mrs. Margie Ellis DCIU Hearing Impaired Aide (Gr. 3-5)

Mrs. Joanne Fender Special Ed. Instructional Support

Mrs. Beth Kennedy General Instructional Support

Mrs. Mary Magerr Special Ed. Instructional Support

Mrs. Joanne Miceli Special Ed. Instructional Support

Miss Katie Moran Student Instructional Support

Mrs. Pat Povorotney General Instructional Support

Mrs. Donna Puscian Special Ed. Instructional Support

Mrs. Jeanette Reh DCIU Hearing Impaired Aide (Gr. 1-2)

Mrs. Kathy Richers General Instructional Support

Mrs. Sue Riches General Instructional Support

Mrs. Linda Rivello DCIU Hearing Impaired Aide (K)

Mrs. Joan Rubin General Instructional Support (K)

Mrs. Melanie Smythe Special Ed. Instructional Support

Mrs. Julie Weaver Student/General Instructional Support

IST/Learning Support Mrs. Kimberly Aronovitz 314

Learning Support Mrs. Carol Ford 312

Mrs. Rita Mitcheli 300

Mrs. MC Petras 200

Mrs. Hadley Schmoyer 100

Mrs. Sue Vatnick 212

Librarian Mrs. Roberta Shapiro Library

Music

Vocal Miss Kara Suarez 103

Instrumental Mr. Jeff Shaull 101

Nurse Mrs. Lisa Lashley 107

Occupational Therapy Mrs. Liz Berman Aud.

Office

Principal Dr. Angela Tuck

Executive Administrative Asst. Mrs. Sharon Artingstall

Administrative Asst. Mrs. Kathy Swierczek

Physical Education Mr. Bill Kane Gym

Psychologist Mrs. Maria Klumpp 20

Reading Specialists Mrs. Mary Costello 302

Mrs. Jeanette Lynch 23

Speech & Language Mrs. Pam Orr Aud.

Dr. Valerie Denton 24

Mrs. Jacquie Conner 10

Technology Support Mrs. Judi Taylor Library

SRS Home & School Calendar 2016-2017

www.srskids.org

SEPTEMBER 1 8:00pm Back to School Movie Night 6 Kindergarten Open House Visitations 6 FIRST DAY of School: 1

st – 5

th Grade

7 FIRST DAY of School: Kindergarten 9 5:30pm Picnic By The Swings 13 Spirit Night @ Swarthmore Pizza 15 7:00pm Back to School Night 26 2-Hour Delay – In-Service 27 School Pictures 28 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 30 Home and School Fall Festival

OCTOBER 3 NO SCHOOL: Holiday 5 National Walk-to-School Day 7 Diabetes Walk (Rain date is October 14) 12 NO SCHOOL: Holiday 19 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 27 Picture Make Up Day 31 10:00am Halloween Parade AM Kindergarten 31 2:00pm Halloween Parade 1

st - 5

th Grades & PM Kindergarten

NOVEMBER 4 6:00 – 8:00pm Spirit Night @ Sproul Lanes Bowling 8 NO SCHOOL: In-Service Day 16 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 17 6:30 – 8:00pm STEM Night 17 6:30 – 8:00pm K - 5

th Evening Parent Conferences

18-21 Kindergarten Conferences (during the day while school in session)

22 NO SCHOOL: All Day/Evening Conferences K - 5th

16-18, 21-22 Home and School Fall Book Fair 23-25 NO SCHOOL: Thanksgiving Holiday

DECEMBER 5 6:00 – 8:00pm Spirit Night @ Oasis 16 Kindergarten Gingerbread Houses 16 1:45pm 1st - 2nd Grade Talent Show 23 Kindergarten Modified Schedule, 12:30 Dismissal 1

st - 5

th

26 – Jan 2 NO SCHOOL: Winter Recess

JANUARY TBD Spirit Night @ Bamboo Bistro 3 Students return 11 1:45pm SRS Winter Concert: 2

nd - 5

th

11 7:00pm SRS Winter Concert: Parents 12 9:30am SRS Winter Concert: K - 1

st

13 1:45pm MLK, Jr. Assembly 16 NO SCHOOL: MLK, Jr. Day of Service 18 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library)

FEBRUARY 3 5:30pm; 7:30pm SRS Family Bingo (2 sessions) 20 4:30 – 6:30pm Spirit Night @ Springfield Ice Rink 15 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 17 NO SCHOOL: In-Service Day 20 NO SCHOOL: Presidents’ Day 24 Jump Rope for Heart

MARCH TBD Kindergarten Orientation 6 2 Hour Delay – In-Service 13-17 Kindergarten Conferences (scheduled while school is in

session) 14-16 1

st - 5

th Conferences, 12:30 Dismissal 1

st - 5

th

14-17 Home and School Spring Book Fair 16 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 16 K - 5

th Evening Parent Conferences, 12:30 Dismissal 1

st -

5th

17 12:30 Dismissal 1st - 5

th

17 7:00pm Family Talent Show

APRIL 3-7 PSSA English Language Arts: 3rd

- 5th grade

10-14 NO SCHOOL: Spring Recess 11, 14 1:00 – 4:00pm Spring Fling @ Busy Bees Pottery & Art Studio 19 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 24-28 PSSA Math: 3

rd - 5

th grade

27 Arbor Day

MAY TBD Spirit Night @ Blue Rocks / Iron Hill Brewery 1-5 PSSA Science: 4

th Grade

5 1:15pm 1st - 2

nd Grade Field Day

8-12 PSSA Make-up 3rd

- 5th

10 National Bike to School Day 12 1:15pm 1

st - 2

nd Grade Field Day RAIN DATE

16 9:30am / 1:00pm Kindergarten Field Day (AM and PM) 17 1:45pm SRS Spring Concert: 2

nd - 5

th

17 7:00pm SRS Spring Concert: Parents 18 9:30am SRS Spring Concert: K - 1

st

18 7:00pm Home & School Meeting (SRS library) 19 1:15pm 3

rd – 5

th Grade Field Day

25 1:45pm 3rd

– 5th Grade Talent Show

26 1:15pm 3rd

– 5th Grade Field Day RAIN DATE

29 NO SCHOOL: Holiday 31 5

th Grade trip to Stone Harbor

JUNE 2 1:30pm African Dance Celebration 2 6:00 – 8:00pm End of Year Celebration 14 6:30 – 8:30pm Spirit Night @ Rita’s 15 5

th Grade Move Up Day Ceremony

16 LAST DAY Students: 12:30 Dismissal 1st - 5

th

16 LAST DAY AM and PM Kindergarten (Modified Schedule) 21 Last day for Teachers

School Safety

There are countless factors that combine to make our children’s school experience successful.

Transcending them all is safety: the assurance that your children arrive here safely, are safe

throughout the school day, and return home safely. We absolutely cannot make that happen

without your help. Therefore, we are requesting that you read this school safety document

carefully and share it with your children’s caregivers. The most carefully crafted plans are

useless if they are not communicated to those who have to implement them! So, please keep

spouses, grandparents, nannies, etc., informed about our safety procedures.

SRS Home & School Association

Parent involvement is an important part of an effective school experience for children. All

parents, faculty, and administrators are members of the Home and School Association.

Attendance at Home and School Association meetings promotes a better understanding among

parents, teachers, and administrators by providing a forum for discussion of school issues.

The Home and School Association supports school programs by raising funds and providing

volunteers. Parents are encouraged to become involved with the Home and School Association

as grade representatives or room parents, and for fundraisers such as the Book Fair.

Parents can also volunteer in the classroom, nurse’s office, library and in enrichment programs.

The Home and School Association offers enrichment opportunities for students through

Dimensions in Art, Dimensions in Science, Dimensions in Math, Dimensions in Social Studies,

and Dimensions in Technology.

Communication about special events is provided through the Home and School weekly e-mail

blast.

The Home and School Association also publishes a school telephone directory each year, which

includes students' names, their classes, addresses, e-mail addresses and telephone numbers.

Parent participation is encouraged in every activity of the Home and School Association. Just

call your grade representative for more information or to volunteer, or leave your name in the

office.

Volunteers

Volunteers are always welcome to help support the students and staff at SRS. We appreciate

your valuable time and talents that you have shared with the students and staff of SRS. The

children look forward to seeing their family members and neighbors share their educational

experiences. This will be a memorable time in our students’ development.

All volunteers and chaperones are required to complete a WSSD Volunteer form located on the

website (www.wssd.org) under the Departments tab. Select the Human Resources option, then

choose District Forms located on the right side of the page. The Volunteer Form is located at the

bottom of the list. Please complete the form and submit it to your child’s teacher or the school

office. The forms will be reviewed to determine if additional clearances are required. Volunteer

forms must be completed annually.


(All volunteers, including one-time volunteers and visitors must: Sign in and out at the office and

wear an identification badge during their volunteer activity or experience.)

Volunteers The district has always maintained a policy for our parents/community members to volunteer in

the schools, at school events or on field trips. As part of amendments to the state’s Child

Protection Services Law that went into effect last year, the district is in the process of reshaping

some of the protocols that we follow. The updated law requires a number of new or expanded

measures that may require individuals who have interactions with students, including parent

volunteers, to obtain a state criminal background check and child abuse clearance. The law also

requires a federal clearance that involves finger printing for those who have not lived in

Pennsylvania for the past ten consecutive years. In 2015, House Bill 1276 (Act 15) was enacted

clarifying some of the requirements (volunteers required to obtain the certifications are those

who have direct volunteer contact, meaning they have care, supervision, guidance or control and

routine interaction with children). In addition, the fees charged for state clearances have been

waived for volunteers. All volunteers will be required to submit a Volunteer Form (see next page)

Depending on what you are volunteering for, you may be required to get the clearances

mentioned above

For MOST of the volunteer positions here at Swarthmore - Rutledge School, clearances

will not be needed but the form will still be required.

WALLINGFORD SWARTHMORE SCHOOL DISTRICT

HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT 200 SOUTH PROVIDENCE ROAD, WALLINGFORD, PENNSYLVANIA 19086-6334

PHONE (610) 892-3470 ext. 1405 FAX (610) 892-3497

PERSONNEL INFORMATION SHEET - NON-STAFF VOLUNTEER APPLICANTS Name Sex DOB Social Security #

_____________________________________________________________________________________ Address City S tate Zip Code

_____________________ _____________________ ______________________________ Phone Cell Email

_________________ __________________ ____________________________________ School Year Building Staff Member You Will Be Working With

Emergency Contact Information:

Name Phone Relationship

According to school district policy and Pennsylvania law, depending on the assignment, volunteers may

be required to get background clearances before the assignment commences. The Human Resources

Department will contact you if that is the case. In order to make that determination, the following

information is required.

Volunteer Assignment

_________________________________________________________________________

Number of Years as a Pennsylvania Resident ___________________

If you have lived in Pennsylvania for 10 or more years, the FBI fingerprint background check may be

waived if you are able to affirm that you have not been convicted of any crime, in another state, similar to

the convictions listed on the back of this form.

Do you affirm that you have not been convicted of any crime, in another state, similar to the convictions

listed on the back of this form? □ Yes □ No

_______________________________________________________________ _____________ Volunteer’s Signature Date

This section to be completed by Coach/Principal/Athletic Director □ Recommended □ Not Recommended

________________________________________________________________

___________________ Coach’s/Principal’s/Athletic Director’s Signature Date

This section to be completed by Human Resources Background Clearances Required: □ Yes

□ No

□ PA Criminal History □ PA Child Abuse History □ FBI

Fingerprint

________________________________________________________________ ____________ Director of Human Resources Signature Date

WALLINGFORD SWARTHMORE SCHOOL DISTRICT

HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT 200 SOUTH PROVIDENCE ROAD, WALLINGFORD, PENNSYLVANIA 19086-6334

PHONE (610) 892-3470 ext. 1405 FAX (610) 892-3497

Pennsylvania Offenses under Title 18 (relating to crimes and offenses)

or an equivalent crime under Federal law or the law of another state

Chapter 25 (relating to criminal homicide)

Section 2702 (relating to aggravated assault)

Section 2709.1 (relating to stalking)

Section 2901 (relating to kidnapping)

Section 2902 (relating to unlawful restraint)

Section 3121 (relating to rape)

Section 3122.1 (relating to statutory sexual assault)

Section 3123 (relating to involuntary deviate sexual intercourse)

Section 3124.1 (relating to sexual assault)

Section 3125 (relating to aggravated indecent assault)

Section 3126 (relating to indecent assault)

Section 3127 (relating to indecent exposure)

Section 4302 (relating to incest)

Section 4303 (relating to concealing death of child)

Section 4304 (relating to endangering welfare of children)

Section 4305 (relating to dealing in infant children)

A felony offense under section 5902(b) (relating to prostitution and related

offenses)

Section 5903(c) or (d) (relating to obscene and other sexual materials and

performances)

Section 6301 (relating to corruption of minors)

Section 6312 (relating to sexual abuse of children)

The attempt, solicitation or conspiracy to commit any of the offenses

set forth in this paragraph

Parent/Student Portal

Modular Management System (MMS) Parent/Student Portal The Wallingford-Swarthmore School District Parent/Student Portal can be found on the district web

page. From this site, parents/guardians of students in grades kindergarten through five are able to

access their child’s attendance information and mid-year and end-of-year progress reports. Middle

school and high school students and their parents/guardians are able to access current grades and

information about student assignments, attendance, discipline, and scheduling. Access to the

Parent/Student Portal provides parents the opportunity to be more informed about their child’s

academic progress and other pertinent information.

In order to access the Parent/Student Portal, you will need Internet access and a confidential

username and password.

Instructions for the parent portal Go to mms.wssd.org/mmsgb/parent

Click where it says “Create Account”

Enter the required data, entering a username of your choice

Once you submit you will receive an email with the username you chose and the temporary password

Log in using the temporary password as the “Old Password” and enter the new password of your

choice.

If you have more than one student, click “My Account”, then click “Add Another Student” then enter

the next ID#, repeat to add additional students.

WALLINGFORD-SWARTHMORE SCHOOL DISTRICT K-12 CODE OF CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE CODE

The Wallingford-Swarthmore School Board has the responsibility and the authority to make reasonable and necessary rules governing the conduct of students in school. Provided by Section 1317 of the School Code of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: Authority of Teachers, Vice Principals, and Principals over Pupils; every teacher, vice principal, and principal in the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to conduct and behavior over the pupils as their parents/guardians or persons in parental relation with the student when: (a) they are attending school including technical college high schools; (b) during the time they are going to and from their homes to school or technical college high schools; and (c) when attending school-sponsored events and activities either as a participant or spectator.

The teachers have the responsibility to maintain a suitable environment for learning, and the administrators have the responsibility for maintaining and facilitating the educational programs.

The principal is authorized by statute to suspend students for cause.

Rules and regulations shall be published and reviewed with students at the opening of each school year and shall be in the student handbook for each school as well as online. Copies shall be available in each school library and also to students and parents/guardians upon request.

The principal shall be responsible for informing both parents/guardians and students of school rules and regulations at the opening of the school year.

The teacher has the authority to send a student from a class to an appropriate school official for cause.

Teachers and school administrators shall administer discipline within local, state, and federal statutes, regulations and guidance, and other specific policies relating to student behavior and discipline as adopted by the Board.

In order that infractions of the rules established for student conduct may be treated equitably and consistently, the Board has approved Disciplinary Action Schedule for the district’s schools. The intent of this schedule is to provide students with a definition of the limits of acceptable behavior, and to equip teachers and school administrators for their disciplinary responsibilities. The schedule shall be interpreted by the principals and their designees in a manner in which they deem just, given the circumstances of the individual case. Additionally, students must understand that administrators shall have the authority to enforce reasonable disciplinary action which they find warranted by situations not referenced directly in the disciplinary guidelines below.

ELEMENTARY CODE OF CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE CODE

GRADES K - 5

Student Conduct School Rules

In order to provide an effective instructional program, it is the responsibility of this school to provide a safe and orderly school environment. Student conduct is closely related to learning. The elementary school staff is committed to providing students with the strategies they need to become self-directed, lifelong learners and responsible, involved citizens. Please refer to the complete discipline policy for strategies used to help students develop responsible and respectful behavior that promotes a positive learning environment for all.

WALLINGFORD-SWARTHMORE ELEMENTARY STUDENTS SHOW RESPECT. We respect ourselves and others. We respect all living things. We respect our surroundings. We respect property.

1. Be where you are supposed to be. Students are not permitted in classrooms without adult supervision.

2. Listen and follow directions. 3. Be respectful, cooperative, and kind

to everyone. 4. Use respectful language and

appropriate voices. 5. Walk quietly. 6. Keep hands, feet, and objects to

yourself. 7. Do not bring weapons of any kind to

school. 8. Follow the bus rules at all times. 9. Follow the rules for common areas at

all times. 10. Tell an adult when there is a problem

you cannot solve.

TRANSPORTATION

BUS RULES

For the safety of students, the following procedures have been established: The driver is in charge and has authority and responsibility to enforce all rules and regulations over all students while traveling to and from school. Students who fail to abide by rules may be suspended from riding. Students are to ride only on their assigned bus. Exceptions will be made only in dire emergencies and after contacting the school for permission.

1. Wait at bus stop in orderly manner

and line up before entry. 2. Be seated upon entering bus and

remain seated until time to exit. 3. Open windows only with permission. 4. Hands and objects are to stay within

the bus and to yourself. 5. Keep voices in quiet conversational

tones. 6. Avoid behavior and conversation

distracting to the driver.

Student Misbehaviors and Consequences Student misbehavior prevents a student from fully contributing to the education process, and also affects the ability of other students to learn. All school staff members are responsible for helping

students develop responsibility for their behavior and for supporting an optimal learning environment for all students. As misbehavior increases in frequency or severity, more serious consequences are reflected below. These lists serve as guidelines.

Level 1 Misbehaviors

Possible Consequences

(Managed by classroom teachers and assistants)

Repeated disruption of classroom activities

Pranks

Teasing (verbal, non-verbal)

Inappropriate Language

Cheating

Social exclusion, rumors

Minor disobedience

Verbal reminder Proximity correction Removal of student from activity Take a break; Regroup Time out Report to classroom teacher (if

misbehavior occurs outside of classroom) Letter of apology Student completion of problem-solving

form (Student writes about the incident; How to correct/prevent in the future)

Student writes about school rules Separation from peers at unstructured

times (including lunch) Teacher calls parent Student calls parent

Level 2 Misbehaviors Possible Consequences

(Classroom or Office referral) Continued Level 1 behaviors

Comments of a racial/religious/sexual nature

Chronic minor disobedience

Blatant disrespect

Failure to respond to classroom consequences

Inappropriate touching (i.e. Private Areas)

Stealing


Loss of special privilege Student completion of Problem Solving

Form Letter of apology Teacher calls parent Student calls parent Conference (student, parent, teacher,

principal) Separation from peers at unstructured

times Classroom behavior agreement Behavior plan Behavior Support Team Referral After-school detention Loss of recess*

Level 3 Misbehaviors Possible Consequences

(Classroom or Office referral)

Continued Level 1 and 2 behaviors

Fighting

Harassment/bullying

Chronic defiance/argumentative

Inappropriate touching (i.e. private areas)

Extortion

Vandalism


Chronic/blatant use of bad language

Comments of a racial/religious/sexual nature

Overt verbal and non-verbal threats

Stealing

Making/possessing/using weapons

Verbal/physical assault towards staff

Blatant disrespect

Failure to respond to classroom consequences

Principal notifies parent Completion of Problem Solving Form Apology letter Loss of recess* Loss of special privilege Cleaning/repairing vandalized area Community/school service Suspension from bus; Parents responsible

for transportation After-school detention In-school suspension Out-of-school suspension Restitution Police intervention Behavior/Instructional Support Team

Referral Sanctions required by local law and

district policies

*The Wallingford-Swarthmore School District recognizes the importance of recess, and uses the full loss of recess with discretion, most often as a natural consequence for serious or ongoing misconduct that occurs at recess. The restriction, like all discipline, should be employed not as punishment, but rather as an opportunity to teach and to reinforce proper behavior.

Special Annual Activities by Grade

Each grade at SRS takes a variety of annual outings and engages in several annual events. Though not

exhaustive, this list serves to help parents understand the various special events, activities and

opportunities available for each grade. Specific activities are subject to change and dates are announced

annually.

Kindergarten Zoo Trip

Gingerbread House Activity

Thanksgiving Day Celebration

Science Day

100th Day Celebration

1st Grade Tyler Arboretum 3-Season Eco-Exploration Field Trip Program

Asian studies in the spring

Class trip to Lankenau Hospital for health and wellness

2nd Grade Thanksgiving “pageant” put on by 2nd graders for the school

Asian studies in the spring

Spring thematic unit is “Oceans”

Class trip to Adventure Aquarium in February

“Theater experience” class trip

3rd Grade Music: Instrumental music is available starting in 3rd grade.

String instruments recommended for this grade.

United Nations (UN) Day in the fall (includes a food festival)

African Dance event at school

Class trip to Crystal Cave in the fall

Class trip to the Brandywine River Museum in the spring

Class trip to the Philadelphia Zoo in the spring

4th Grade Music: Instrumental music is available. Brass instruments now offered.

Lenape Indian presentation

Class trip to Pennsbury Manor in the fall

Class trip to Harrisburg in the spring

Class walking trip to Philadelphia in the spring

5th Grade Music: All 5th graders participate in choir; practice takes place during school hours. Choir performs at the

winter and spring concerts.

Music: Instrumental music continues to be available

Art: Special art project (permanent installation of art by each graduating class)

Yearbook

5th graders participate in DARE (Drug and Alcohol Resistance Education)

Ropes/Team-Building outing

Invention Convention in the spring World of Work (walking trip through Swarthmore) in the spring

Class trip to The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor, NJ in the spring

swarthmore rutledge school - wallingford-swarthmore …...bus riders will go to their designated...

Documents