Newport School District Richards Elementary School

Parent/Student Handbook

School Year: 2019-2020

Richards Elementary School21 School Street

Newport, NH 03773Phone: (603) 863-3710 Fax: (603) 863-3895

HOME OF THE TIGER CUBS

HEAR US

R.O.A.R.Respect

OwnershipAcademic Excellence

Responsibility

Website: www.sau43.org

The Newport School District 18/19 Handbook is current as of 8/16/19. Please go to the SAU43 website, www.sau43.org for the most recent policy updates.

TABLE OF CONTENTSMessage from Our Superintendent Message from Our PrincipalGENERAL INFORMATIONNewport School District MissionNewport School District School BoardNotice of Non-discriminationSAU 43 AdministrationNewport School District AdministrationNewport School District Calendar 2019-2020Richards School Staff 2018-2019CORE VALUES AND BELIEFSVision & Mission StatementsCore Values & BeliefsHome-to-School CompactSCHOOL PROCEDURESSchool Closings and DelaysSchool Messenger NotificationAttendance ExpectationsAbsencesTruancyCHINS/Educational Neglect ProtocolArrival InformationWalkers & Car RidersDismissal/Early Release InformationMake-Up WorkCommunication: Website, Facebook, Email, SchoolMessenger NotificationChange Of Address/Residency VerificationAccidents And Insurance ClaimsCafeteria GuidelinesBirthday CelebrationsDress CodeElectronic DevicesLibrary ProceduresSocial Skill MannersSCHOOL SAFETYSafe School ZoneSchool Resource OfficerSecurity and Safety of BuildingVideo Surveillance NotificationEvacuation Procedures Emergency PlanElevatorTRANSPORTATION AND PARKINGDistrict Transportation GuidelinesBus Conduct ExpectationsDiscipline For General Bus Conduct ViolationsBus RoutesACADEMIC INFORMATIONPACE InitiativeReport CardsTestingRegistration And Placement Of StudentsPromotion/RetentionHomework Guidelines Instructional MaterialsKindergartenPreSchool

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BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONSBehavior Modifications ProceduresRichards School InterventionsBehavior Classifications, Tier I, Tier II, Tier IIIThree Strike RuleProcedural Due Process For SuspensionsUnspecified Improper Student BehaviorVerbal/Non-Verbal IntimidationStudent Grievance PolicyBullying and HarassmentWeaponsAlcohol And DrugsPlagiarism/Academic DishonestySTUDENT SERVICESSchool CounselingStudent Support TeamSpecial Education Rights Notice, Child FindHEALTH & WELLNESSHealth Procedures and ScreeningsPrescription And Non-prescription MedicinesWhen To Keep Your Child Home From SchoolAllergies And Classroom EnvironmentSTUDENT/PARENT INFORMATIONBefore and After-School ProgramsCinnamon St@rsField TripsFundraisingPlayground GuidelinesLost and FoundUse of the BuildingVolunteer ProgramPTOOpen House NightParent Involvement PolicyPicture Day TECHNOLOGY POLICYTechnology Responsible Use GuidelinesNEWPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT POLICIES (To view all Newport School Policies visit www.sau43.org)Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance ActSection 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973Residency RequirementsStudent Records NoticeStudent Rights Regarding Participation in Data CollectionTitle I Parent Involvement in EducationTitle IX Policy NoticeStudent Searches and Their PropertyInterrogations and Searches

APPENDIX AOur ROAR and ROAR Rubrics

APPENDIX BSign-Off Sheet - Handbook, Technology Use, Photos

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Welcome Letter From the Superintendent

Dear Parents and Guardians:

I would like to introduce myself and welcome you to the Newport School District. It is my pleasure to be spending the upcoming year as your interim Superintendent of schools. I have been a school superintendent in New Hampshire for the past eleven years. Prior to that, I worked as an assistant superintendent, an assistant principal, and a teacher of mathematics and technology. In all I have devoted over the last 20 years to educating children of our country. I have an undergraduate degree from Carnegie Mellon University, and graduate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, and Indiana University in Bloomington, IN.

My hope is that over the course of the upcoming year, we can all work together to accomplish the following five C’s.

Culture– creating a culture where students and staff alike are proud of their school, happy to come to work or school, and exhibit behaviors and attitudes that make the school community proud Climate– creating policies and procedures to ensure the safety of our staff and students. Setting expectations for student and staff behavior aligned with creating a school climate that is respectful, helpful, academically focused, and consistent. Competence– ensuring all staff have the tools and training to do their assigned jobs and to do those jobs well. Communication– using multiple communication strategies to ensure that the school community and the Newport community know what is happening in our schools. Commitment– using the collective skills and talents of our staff, to help students be successful in their future endeavors. To be active participants in their community and the larger U.S. community, and to be good people. I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming weeks and months. If you have any questions, please reach out.

Wishing everyone a wonderful school year.

Go Tigers!

Dr. Brendan MinnihanInterim Superintendent of Schools

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Welcome Letter From The Principal

Dear Richards Families and Students,

Welcome to Richards Elementary School! As Principal, I am thrilled to be a part of a school community where family members are visible and actively engaged, as well as an integral component of Richards School. We are honored and privileged to lead a dynamic community where teachers and staff cultivate an environment where students achieve and believe in themselves and their school.

Please join us in welcoming to our school, Kindergarten teachers Emily Safford and Meghan O’Brien, Grade 2 teacher Amy Rheault-Heafield, Grade 3 teachers Lorian Dean and Alexandra Mathews, Physical Education teacher Amy Pereira, Media/Library Specialist Erin Mullen, and Special Education teachers Tyler Rooke and Jody Peters.

Please take the time to read the online handbook, and discuss the content with your child(ren). In addition, classroom teachers will be reviewing the handbook with their students. The sign-off sheet for the handbook, technology use form, and photo permissions will come home as a paper copy to sign and return to school. If you have any questions regarding the handbook, please be sure to contact the office and arrange a time for us to meet.

School begins promptly at 8:10 AM and ends at 2:50 PM. We continue to have the before school program from 6:45 AM to 8:00 AM and the after school program from 2:50 PM to 6:00 PM staffed by Cinnamon Street. The school breakfast and lunch program continues this year with Cafe Services. Hot breakfast will be served from 7:45-8:10 and students may access a bag breakfast after 8:10 AM. We will continue to offer a breakfast and lunch program that will have many choices available to our students and staff. Please review the program guidelines and bon appetit!

Richards PTO will be meeting the first Tuesday of every month at 6:00 PM. We hope you will join us! We have a wonderful PTO and are grateful for all of the things they do for our students during the school year.

In closing, we came across a meaningful quotation, from Dr. Seuss who said:

"Children want the same things we want. To laugh, to be challenged, to be entertained, and delighted."

I strongly believe that we are truly “Partners in Education” and that we can accomplish much together in the years ahead. We truly hope you share our optimism and that of our staff, for another wonderful school year. Great new opportunities lie ahead for our children, families, and community.

Sincerely,

Phil BaniosPrincipal

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GENERAL INFORMATION

NEWPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT

The mission of the Newport School District is to inspire, prepare and challenge ALL students with a relevant, rigorous curriculum, driven by outstanding instructional leaders in partnership with our families, businesses, and community, consistent with our core values.

NEWPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

The Newport School Board meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. The meetings begin at 6:00 PM in the Lou Thompson Room in the Sugar River Valley Regional Technical Center. The meeting dates and times can also be found on the school website, www.sau43.org. All meetings are open to the public and citizens of Newport, Croydon, and Goshen are welcomed and encouraged to attend.

Linda Wadensten (Chair)186 Springfield RoadNewport, NH 03773lwadensten@sau43.org

Russell Medbury83 S. Main St. Newport, NH 03773rmedbury@sau43.org

Rhonda Callum-King83 South Main St Newport, NH 03773rcking@sau43.org

Ann Spencer 104 Cornish Turnpike Newport, NH 03773aspencer@sau43.org

Student RepresentativeTBA

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Newport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, national/ethnic origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, or disability in its programs, activities and employment practices. This statement refers to, but is not limited to, the provisions of the following laws: Titles IV, VI, and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; The Age Discrimination Act of 1975; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA); and NH RSA 354-A “Law Against Discrimination.” Any person having inquiries concerning compliance with the regulations or these laws may contact Dr. Cindy Gallagher, superintendent of SAU #43, 86 North Main Street, Newport, NH 03773, (603)-865-9500. Additional State resources include Lisa Hatz, Section 504 Coordinator/Interim Director, Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation @ 21 South Fruit Street, Suite 20, Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-3471, Lisa.Hatz@doe.nh.gov; Tina Greco, NH Department of Education/NH Vocational Rehabilitation, 21 South Fruit Street Suite 20, Concord, NH 03301,(603) 271-3993, Tina.Greco@doe.nh.gov and State Office of Civil Rights (OCR), Mariane Gfroerer Office of Guidance & Psychology, 21 South Fruit Street, Suite 20, Concord, NH 03301(603) 271-6691, Mariane.Gfroerer@doe.nh.gov.Inquiries regarding Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and/or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 also, or instead, may be directed to Boston Office/Office for Civil Rights, US Department of Education, 8th Floor, 5 Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02109-3921, (617) 289-0111. Additional, inquiries may also be directed to the NH Commission for Human Rights, 2 Chenell Drive, Concord, NH 03301-8501, (603) 271-2767; Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), 1 Congress Street, Room 100, 10th Floor, Boston, MA 02114, (617) 565-3200 and the US Department of Education/Office for Civil Rights, Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Bldg., 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-1100, 800-421-3481, OCR@ed.gov Any person having a complaint or seeking a copy of the district's grievance procedure may contact Dr. Cindy Gallagher, superintendent of SAU #43, 86 N. Main Street , Newport, NH 03773, (603)-865-9701.

SAU 43 ADMINISTRATION

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Office of the Superintendent (Staff – 865-9500) Business Staff

Dr. Brendan Minnihan Candy SaindonSally Hooper

Interim SuperintendentExecutive Assistant for SAU 43Human Resources Coordinator

George CaccavaroMichelle BoucherCheryl CollinsHeidi SpragueJoanne Pollari

Business AdministratorAccountant Payroll/Personnel ClerkDistrict Special Ed./BillingPayable/Clerical Clerk

Central/District Staff

Patrice GlanceyStacey HammerlindDeanna ArmstrongPaula JohnsonDiane Callum Chad HoweDoug Fillian Rick LenoPaul Beaudet

Director of Curriculum, Instruction and AssessmentFamily & Community LiaisonPowerSchool Administrator/Coordinator of DataGrants CoordinatorTransportation CoordinatorTechnology Coordinator Director, Facilities Director, Café ServicesSchool Resource Officer

NEWPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

Newport High School, Grades 9-12 (865-9658)

Shannon L. Martin Robert B. ClarkAlexandra Ferraro Haley CotrupiJeff Miller

High School PrincipalHigh School Assistant Principal High School Special Education Coordinator HS Dean of StudentsAthletic Director

Sugar River Valley Regional Technical Center, Grades 9-12 (865-9658)

Jennifer Opalinski CTE Director

Newport Middle School, Grades 6-8 (865-9658)

Susan SchroeterKerri ReillyTBD

Middle School PrincipalMiddle School Special Education CoordinatorMS Dean of Students

Richards Elementary School, PreK-5 (863-3710)

Phil BaniosDarlene Ayotte Jessica Packard

PrincipalSpecial Education CoordinatorElementary Dean of Students

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Richards Elementary School Staff 2019-2020

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Phil Banios Principal Dee Armstrong COTA

Jessica Packard Dean of Students Tracey Bevilacqua COTA

Darlene Ayotte Special Ed Coordinator Beth Foy PT

Ashlee Pickering Administrative Assistant to Principal Kerry Cottle OT

Susan Strebel School Nurse Craig Putnam Student Support

Christine Martin Reception / Admin Assistant Jean Dearborn Student Support

Ashley Pimental Guidance Counselor Kim Rosendahl Student Support

Annie Roe School Psychologist Joan Thompson ESL

Pre K Karen Hanson Speech Assistant

Brittany Leahy Marissa James Speech Pathologist

Kindergarten Gianna James Speech Pathologist

Emily Safford Title I Breanna Davis Reading Specialist

Meghan O'Brien Marsha Hammond-Brummell Paraprofessionals

Kelley Merritt Susan Kirkian Anna Anderson Tina Ploss

GRADE 1 Amy Rose Sarah Austin Sarah Preble

Cindy Couitt Reigan Thomas Anna Ayotte Zita Rines

Jen Paquette Emma Branch Laura Robbins

Lisa Ferrigno Angela Brown Mary Robertson

Kris Kidder Special Education Ashley Champney Judy Ross

GRADE 2 Rose Darrow Aaron Cherry Alex Scanlon

Christie Benoit Lisa Davis Molly Conroy Shannon Seymour

Amy Rheault-Heafield Lori Fosdick Crystal Day Melissa Seymour

Stephanie Morrison Briget Leonard Tammy Emery Ellen Stiles

GRADE 3 Tia Leavitt Heidi Godwin Mandy Tatro

Emily Ellis Hillary Finedore Meggan Gonyo Victoria Turcott

Audrey Carparelli Tyler Rooke Shelby Hart Kayla Waterman

Alexandra Mathews Jody Peters Valerie Heacock Ashley West

Lorian Dean Krystle Hodge Meghan Wilder

GRADE 4 Specials Shane Hoisington Jodi Wheeler

Stephanie Gilson Erin Mullen-Library/Technology Candace King Josh Witham

Eugene Benoit Amy Periera-PE Joshua Linn

Laura Mosconas Caitlyn Mauser Rowe- Art Katie Mallahan

Linda Nettleton Belinda Stout- Music Robyn Maynard

GRADE 5 Dotsy Miles

Danielle Locke Amber Miller

Eliza Brodeur-Fossa Custodial Staff Cafeteria Staff

Ellen Harrington Brent Kangas Patricia Quimby

Nicole Lackie Rob Lamery Dixie Yon

CORE VALUES AND BELIEFS

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Vision StatementThe Newport community aspires to have a model school district which is dedicated to exemplary student engagement and academic excellence allowing ALL students to reach their maximum potential in a rapidly changing world.

Mission StatementThe mission of the Newport School District is to inspire, prepare and challenge ALL students with a relevant, rigorous curriculum, driven by outstanding instructional leaders in partnership with our families, businesses, and community, consistent with our core values.

Core Values● Student Achievement

We believe Newport students require flexible opportunities and challenging standards to achieve their potential, to excel, and to become confident and motivated, engaged learners, capable of cooperation and collaboration.

● Student Personal GrowthWe believe goal setting, perseverance, reflection, ethical decision making, self-advocacy, and respect for self and others are necessary for the personal growth of our students.

● School Climate and CultureWe believe Newport Schools strengthen personal and community pride by creating a safe, respectful, and caring environment that supports the physical, social, and emotional health of students. We promote empathy, tolerance, appreciation of diversity, and cultivate curiosity and creativity.

● StaffThe Newport School District staff prides itself on teamwork and embraces adaptability, reflection, mutual support, and ongoing professional development in the interest of continuous improvement and student success.

● InnovationWe expect Newport Schools to explore and implement innovative teaching practices, and provide tools and technologies; all of which are aligned with evidence based educational research; resulting in enhanced communication, collaboration, and meaningful learning for all students.

● ResourcesWe hold ourselves accountable for developing and managing a fiscally responsible budget that provides for appropriate staff, facilities, materials, technology and professional development.

● Collaborative Community PartnershipsWe believe in a shared responsibility among the community, families, schools, and businesses to develop students with skills necessary for success in post-secondary education, workforce readiness, and civic engagement.

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Tigers ROAR Respect - for self and others

Ownership - of actions and achievement Academic Excellence - for everyone

Responsibility - to self, to school, to community

Richards School core values encourage a culture of respect, ownership, academic excellence, and responsibility for all students and staff. These core values act as the foundational commitments to students and the Newport school community in all school-sponsored activities. ROAR enhances our school's mission, beliefs, and 21st century learning expectations.

Home-to-School CompactOur goals for all students:

● Self-directed learners● Effective communicators● Critical thinkers and problem solvers● Informed decision makers● Cooperative workers● Goal setters who establish and follow through on goals

The Newport School Staff agrees to support your child’s learning and:● Provide a high-quality curriculum with a focus on reading, writing, and mathematics● Provide instruction and practice at each student’s level● Teach the whole child● Set high expectations for all students and encourage all students to do their best● Provide materials for home practice● Share progress, goals, and concerns with parents

We ask that parents of Newport students agree to support your children’s learning by:● Sending your children to school on time and ready to learn● Encouraging your children to read.● Encourage your children to use the library ● Providing a time and place to study● Encouraging your children daily to tell you about their school experience● Communicating concerns with school staff and attending parent-teacher conferences

Richards School Song

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Hold your head way up high With honor, honor

Hold your head way up high With pride, pride

Hold your head way up high Richards School is passing bywith honor and pride we learn!

SCHOOL CLOSINGS OR DELAYS

The Superintendent in conjunction with the Transportation Coordinator decide when school is to be cancelled or delayed due to inclement weather or unforeseen emergencies. Decisions are usually made by 6:00 AM. Notice is provided through the SchoolMessenger system with a phone call to each registered parent/guardian. Notices are also posted on the District Facebook account.

Information may also be obtained by tuning into:

WMUR Channel 9 TV - Manchester, NHWHDQ Q106.1 FM - Claremont

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WNTK 1020 AM & 99.7 FM - New LondonKIXX 100.5 & 101.9 FM - ClaremontWCNL 1010 AM - Newport

Please note, the voicemail message on the school numbers will not be changed and there will be no staff monitoring voicemail on cancellation days.

In the rare event that weather conditions or some emergency causes school to be dismissed early during the school day, we will follow a planned specific procedure and all parents/guardians will be contacted via the SchoolMessenger system.

In the case when school opening is delayed due to weather, there will not be a classroom snack time due to the compressed instructional day and the short time between school start and lunch. Please plan accordingly.

Cinnamon St@rs on NO School Days

St@rs operates according to the school calendar. Therefore, on days that there is no school due to holidays, professional development days, or weather, there will be no before or after school programming onsite. St@rs offers out-of-school programming for these days at Cinnamon Street. Sign-up for these programs will be the week before the scheduled no school time. To learn more about the programs being offered see Page 49 in the handbook.

SchoolMessenger Notification

The Newport School District uses the SchoolMessenger Service to enhance parental communication. This service allows us to send a voice and/or email message to ALL our students’ parents on ALL their contact numbers within minutes, if an emergency occurs at a school. The SchoolMessenger service will also assist us in informing you directly when school cancellations, delays, or early releases occur due to inclement weather.It is imperative that each school has and maintains all contact information about every student. Parents and guardians are responsible for submitting this information at the beginning of each school year and whenever there is a change.

Attendance Expectations

Attendance Philosophy: The complete Attendance Expectations document is located on the SAU 43 website (sau43.org) for your review. Refer to Newport School District Attendance Expectations for the full document. [See NSB policy JH]

One of the Newport School Board’s goals is high academic success leading to career and college readiness for every student. Regular attendance is a critical factor in school success. There is a direct relationship between regular attendance and good grades, improved social development, and on-time promotion and graduation rates. Conversely, frequent absences and/or tardies may lead to poor academic work, lack of social development, and possible academic failure. Research shows that attendance at the 96% level or higher has the best connection to academic success. The district’s goal for SY19-20 is that each student will have within the attend school 96% of the time.

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The following outline of interventions with parent/guardian will occur:Basic (90-95%)

● A phone call to parent/guardian. Below Basic 85-89%

● A phone call and a letter of concern to parent/guardian and then a student attendance plan will be developed. STUDENT ATTENDANCE INTERVENTION PLAN

Critical (Below 85%)● A phone call AND a warning letter sent to parent/guardian and then a student attendance plan will be

developed. STUDENT ATTENDANCE INTERVENTION PLAN ● A truancy letter will be sent home to the parent/guardian after the fifth full day (ten half days) of

unexcused absence AND no resolution with parent/guardian/student.● If applicable, a home visit by a school administrator/school resource officer/family liaison.

AbsencesNotifying the schoolsParents must report absences (and reason for the absence) to the school administrative assistants prior to the start of school. There are answering machines with prompts to assist you at any time prior to the opening of the building. The Elementary School number is (603)-863-3710. The Middle/High School number is (603)-863-2414. If a child is absent for more than 3 consecutive days, a note from a doctor, or other provider may be submitted to excuse the absence. The school nurse will help determine excused absences when a provider’s note is not available. The practice at Richards School is if a parent fails to provide this information and fails to cooperate with the school nurse, the absence or tardy will be recorded as “unexcused” at the building administrator’s discretion. Students who are absent (excused or unexcused) from school will not be allowed to participate in any co-curricular activities occurring on the day of the absence.

Truancy An absence for any reason that does not meet the criteria for an excused absence is unexcused. A student who is absent from school or class with unexcused absences is truant. A student will be declared habitually truant when s/he has missed more than ten half-days of unexcused absences in one school year. For the purpose of this policy a “half-day” is defined as missing up to half the total minutes >202 minutes in a student’s scheduled school day. Missing more than half the total minutes in a student’s school day may constitute two half-day absences. Follow-up procedures will be instituted, pursuant to RSA 169-D – Child in Need of Services (CHINS).

CHINS / Educational Neglect ProtocolIn order to execute a CHINS petition, the district must demonstrate:

● The district has followed its own protocols, including the full execution of an attendance plan.

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● The district has notified DCYF/Abuse Neglect Intake of attendance concerns for excused or unexcused absences that exceed 25% of instructional time. This includes the cumulative effect of tardiness.

● The district has executed a special education referral for non-identified students or a manifestation determination if a student has a qualifying disability to determine if the disability contributing to the truancy concern

● The district must involve the truancy officer with documented to contact with both the student and the parent/guardians

● The district must offer a voluntary CHINS to the family● The district may offer diversion through Sullivan County or another approved agency as part of an

attendance plan● The district may offer parent education/support as part of an attendance plan● As part of the petition, the district must make a determination as to the level of cooperation that the

parent/guardian is executing in support of the student’s attendance.

Arrival InformationWe welcome students and will unlock the SIDE door at 7:45 AM for breakfast. School will start at 8:10 AM. Students who arrive to school after 8:10 AM MUST sign in at the main office.

Walkers And Car RidersStudents may begin to enter the building at 7:45 am for breakfast. At 8:00 am all students may enter the building. No students are allowed in the building unsupervised. If your child rides his/her bike to school, please note that the use of helmets while riding bicycles is mandatory for children under the age of 16 (RSA 265:144X).

Dismissal/Early Release InformationStudents who wish to be dismissed from school must present a note from their parent/guardian to the office except for emergencies. Parents/guardians must contact the school prior to the dismissal. Approved dismissals include:

● Family or personal emergency● Illness or medical appointments● Religious holidays● Court appearances

Students who are dismissed during the school day must sign out in the front office before leaving the building at the main entrance. Students who return to school from dismissal must sign in at the front office as well.

Excused AbsencesStudents must be in school unless the absence has been permitted or excused for one of the reasons listed below which may require documentation. Excessive excused absences will be addressed on a case-by-case basis to determine if there is a pattern of non- attendance. Please note that the student’s physician must update documentation for long-term medical absences based on the approved medical plan.

Examples of documented absences include, but are not limited to:● School-sponsored activities with administrative approval;● Classes missed due to an Individualized Education Plan or Section 504 Plan;

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● Extreme weather conditions as determined by the administration;● Illness of student or illness of an immediate family member;● Death in the family;● Religious holidays of the student’s own faith;● Required court appearance or subpoena;● Scheduled medical/dental appointments if such cannot be scheduled outside of normal school hours;● College visitations as approved by administration/guidance;● Chronic illness registered with the school nurse and verified by a physician’s note;● Absences as a result of incomplete immunization records;● Students suspended externally; these students are entitled to make-up work● The principal or his/her designee will determine if an absence is excused for any other reason not

listed above.

Unexcused AbsencesAbsences not defined as excused are considered unexcused. Excessive unexcused absences will be addressed on a case-by-case basis to determine if there is a pattern of non-attendance. Examples of unexcused absences include but are not limited to:

● Family vacations that are not pre-approved;● Non-medical appointments;● Childcare;● Leaving school grounds without permission during normal school hours, and;● Absences determined by the principal or his/her designee to be unexcused for any other reason not

listed above.

Additional Rules as to Non-AttendanceAbsences, with parent/guardian consent and/or as a result of in-school or out-of-school suspension, that are excessive and interfere with a student’s educational program may require the school to follow-up with appropriate interventions through the court system as provided by RSA 193:16 and RSA 193:18.

Make-Up WorkWhen students are absent, including absences for external suspension or expulsion, an opportunity to make-up work will be provided. Students and parents are encouraged to obtain make-up work assignments before the student’s return to school by contacting the classroom teacher or main office to obtain information on work missed.

CommunicationSchool Website The Newport School District website can be accessed at sau43.org. The website has links to each school and contains useful information about activities and events that are going on at all of the schools. Newport School Board information, including district policies, can also be located on the website.

Facebook Newport School District is on Facebook. Like our page “Newport School District - Home of the Tigers” for information and pictures about what is going on in the school and the district. The use of Facebook as a communication tool is under review. Parents/Guardians, community members and staff will be notified of any changes.

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Email Parents may wish to communicate with the main office or their child’s teacher via email. It is important to know that, while this method of communication is welcomed, it is not a confidential means of communication. A confidential issue may be better served through a phone call or written communication.It is reasonable to expect a response to your email within one business day. If you have an emergency or urgent matter, please call the school directly.

SchoolMessenger NotificationThe Newport School District uses the SchoolMessenger service to enhance parental communication. This service allows us to send a voice and/or email message to ALL our students’ parents on ALL their contact numbers within minutes if an emergency occurs at a school. The SchoolMessenger service will also assist us in informing you directly when school cancellations, delays, or early releases occur due to inclement weather. It is imperative that each school has and maintains all contact information about every student. Parents and guardians are responsible for submitting this information at the beginning of each school year and whenever there is a change.

Change Of Address/Residency VerificationIt is very important that our student records contain current address and phone information. A New Residency - Verification Form, Cohabitation Affidavit and Annual Residency Verification Form for updating this information is distributed annually on the first day of school and should be returned promptly. Parents are asked to contact the school office with new information immediately when changes occur throughout the year.

Accidents And Insurance ClaimsTeachers will submit school accident forms to the principal’s office. Students will be instructed as to the claim procedure to be followed. An insurance form requiring parental signature will be given to the student. Any follow-up bills may be submitted to the insurance company.

Cafeteria GuidelinesOur cafeteria is run by Café Services. The motivating philosophy at Fresh Picks Café is that wellness and good food go hand-in-hand — especially in education. Our comprehensive, coordinated, proactive wellness programs promote this belief with an emphasis on fresh and whole wheat foods that are locally grown and produced.

Free and reduced lunch forms are distributed during the first week of school and are available from the office throughout the year. The previous year’s school status is honored for several weeks into the new school year until a new form is processed. Families are encouraged to make use of this federally-funded service. Students who forget lunch money may receive lunch that day but are expected to bring money the following day.

Café Services maintains an account for each child. Money may be applied to your child’s account any school day by sending the funds into school with your student. If making your payment by check, please make payable to Café Services. Families can make payments and monitor their account online at www.mySchoolBucks.com . Menus and information on how to pay online are sent home at the beginning of the month and can also be found at the district website, www.sau43.org .

Following Newport School Board policy JQA, in the event that a school lunch or breakfast bill is unpaid, the following process will be followed:

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The school meal program director will send a letter to parents or guardians when there are three unpaid meals requesting prompt payment and outlining the subsequent action. An application for free or reduced lunch will be included with the letter.

The family has ten calendar days from the letter posting to make the payment or other suitable payment arrangements. From the time of the letter posting students with an unpaid bill will receive a modified reimbursable lunch and students who eat breakfast at school will receive a modified reimbursable school breakfast.

School breakfast is served from 7:45 AM to 8:15 AM each day. At that time, students may enter the cafeteria and eat a hot breakfast. The cost for breakfast is $1.75 per day.

School lunch is served each day to students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade at a cost of $3.00. Milk is $ .65.

In order to ensure a positive environment in the cafeteria all students share the following expectations. The following behavior expectations will be monitored in the cafeteria:

● Students should wash hands before going to the lunch room. ● Students will use “inside voices” to maintain a “restaurant” noise level.● Students will use appropriate table manners. ● Students are encouraged to try cafeteria food but will not be forced to eat. ● An “allergy-free” table is available for students with allergies and those who have allergen-free lunches.● Students who have cold lunch are encouraged to bring home what they don’t eat.

Birthday Celebrations While birthdays are very special occasions for many of our students, birthday parties are not permitted at school. Parents may send in birthday snacks or cupcakes. Please connect with your classroom teacher in advance if you are planning to send in a birthday snack for the day. Due to student confidentiality, we are unable to provide a list of addresses and/or phone numbers of students. We do not distribute birthday invitations at school unless everyone in the class is receiving one. Teachers can provide a total number of students in the classroom. Please let the teacher know if your child has a food allergy, or you prefer that your child not be given occasional treats, candy or birthday snacks.

Dress Code

Students are expected to wear neat and clean clothing that is appropriate for a school setting. Parents/guardians will be alerted or asked to bring in a change of clothing if a student is asked to change attire. Please use common sense in sending your child to school ready for physical activity and comfortable movement during the day. Some important parts of our school community expectations include:

● Hats and hoods may not be worn in the building.● Clothing must cover front, back and sides with no space between the top and bottom, covering the

midriff.

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● Clothing must be modest in appearance, revealing, sheer or low-cut tops, short-shorts, skirts, or dresses that do not hang below a students’ fingertips are prohibited.

● Clothing must be free of drugs, alcohol, gang violence, inappropriate language, and/or sexual references.

● In the winter months, your child should dress in layers and have mittens, a warm hat, snow pants, snow jacket and boots. (Please see Playground Guidelines).

● Students must have a change of shoes in the winter time.

Electronic DevicesElectronic devices have become part of the educational environment. Students could be using Kindles to read, iPads to write a report, laptops to conduct research, and many more activities using technology. It is unrealistic to prohibit electronic device use in school. However, there are strict guidelines regarding the use of such devices.

● Students are prohibited from carrying cell phones and other electronic devices with messaging capabilities during the school day. Students who bring cellphones to school are required to keep them turned off (not just silenced) and stowed in a backpack or cubby from 8:10 - 2:50, unless the classroom teacher has granted permission for the device to be used for a specific activity on a specific day.

● Students are only allowed to use e-readers and other electronic devices within the classroom and with teacher supervision. No devices are allowed in the cafeteria or on the playground.

● Students who are using electronic devices in a manner other than directed by the classroom teacher or an administrator will be subject to disciplinary action.

Library ProceduresStudents should return books or magazines they borrow each week. They may renew a book once. Overdue notices for students are distributed once a month for books checked out in the previous month. Student overdue notices are distributed to classroom teachers to send home with classroom mail. Fines are not assessed for overdue books, but a replacement cost fine is assessed for books that are lost or damaged with a receipt provided for library fines paid. In the event that a book is found after a fine is paid the parent/guardian will receive a refund which is processed through the Business Office.

Social Skill Manners Classroom Manners Recess MannersKeep your hands and feet to yourself Keep your hands and feet to yourselfMake eye contact when talking to someone Watch where you are going Raise your hand to speak ShareWait your turn Include others in your gameSpeak with respect Play in marked areas onlyListen actively Respect others’ space and propertyBe alert and responsive Line up without pushing or cuttingWork quietly by yourself Be friendly and polite to othersUse “indoor” voices Play safely on playground equipmentShare Keep hardballs and ALL toys at home Be friendly to others Do not throw things like sand, snow, sticks,Use kind words and actions or stonesIgnore students who are not behaving politely Cafeteria Manners Walk at all times while in the cafeteria Keep your hands and feet to yourself

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Sit with good posture Sit facing the table with food in front of you Chew food with mouth closed Use “indoor” voices to talk with people in front of you, beside you or diagonally across the table Hold utensils and napkins with care Don’t play with food Keep your table neat Put trash and uneaten food in trash barrel when your table is called Wipe your face and hands with a napkin after you finish eating

Bus Expectations Hallway MannersKeep your hands and feet to yourself Walk quietly in a single lineFollow the driver’s instructions Keep your hands and feet to yourselfSit in assigned seat Walk on right side of hallways, doorways &Change seat only with permission stairsRespect others’ space and property Greet others with a quiet safe waveTalk quietly using appropriate language

Assembly Manners Library MannersWalk quietly into the performance Keep your hands and feet to yourself

Sit quietly Walk quietly at all times while entering, Keep your hands and feet to yourself exiting & working in the libraryWait quietly for presentation to begin Sit quietly after you have finishedSit on your bottom checking out bookKeep eyes on performance Sit quietly with a book if you are notWait to be invited to participate checking out a book with your class Applaud appropriately when the performance is over Put books back where you found themWait for a signal from your teacher when leaving the performance Always use the computers respectfully

SCHOOL SAFETY

Safe School ZoneGuns, knives, or other potential weapons that could cause loss of life or injury are not permitted on school property. Students may be expelled for one year for bringing weapons into school grounds. Full text of this policy is available on the SAU 43 website.

School Resource OfficerAll Newport schools share a school resource officer (SRO) who is a full-time member of the Newport Police Department. The officer works to promote a positive and safe learning environment for students, staff, parents, and community members. Working in coordination with the SRO, the administration will comply with New Hampshire state statutes that require the reporting of illegal acts including, but not limited to, violence, vandalism, theft, and bullying, along with tobacco, drug, or alcohol violations. Community members who have questions can contact the SRO at 865-9659 or at sro@sau43.org

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Security And Safety Of BuildingIn an effort to better protect our students, we have taken the following precautions:

● The school is protected by security cameras at the main entrance and hallways.● All entrances are locked during the school day. Visitors to the school must ring the doorbell and have

identification verified by the front office in order to gain access.● All visitors to the school, including parents, must register in the office and pick up a visitor’s badge to

wear while in the school. All badges are to be returned to the front office when the visitor signs out.● Students must always exit the school from the front door while supervised or accompanied by a staff

member, parent or other adult, or unless given specific directions by a responsible adult to do differently.

● After entering school property by bus, automobile, or other means, students may not leave the grounds or be dismissed from school without the permission of a parent/guardian and the approval of the administration.

Emergency drills (including fire and lock-down) are conducted during the school year. A complete list along with procedures is available in the office and included in the emergency management plan. It is important that students learn how to exit the building in an orderly and safe manner, remaining calm and attentive to their teachers and school staff members. Main and secondary exit routes are posted in all areas and in each room of the building. Teachers/staff members closely supervise students during the process.

Students may not be interviewed on school premises by any outside authority without the knowledge of the school administrator and without obtaining parent/guardian notification and consent. However, under certain circumstances, a student may be interviewed by law enforcement personnel or trained case managers (such as DCYF) without such notification and consent.

Video Surveillance NotificationThe Newport School District strives to maintain a safe and secure learning environments for students, staff, and community members involved in school programs. In keeping with its policy governing safe schools, the district will use video security surveillance systems at schools and facilities and on buses. Cameras will be positioned to only record identified public areas. Video surveillance systems complement other means being used to promote and foster a safe and secure learning environment.

Surveillance activities involving the collection, retention, use, disclosure and disposal of personal information in the form of video surveillance must be in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Any questions about this collection can be directed to the superintendent of Newport School District at 603-865-9500.

Evacuation Procedures All students have the responsibility to learn emergency/fire drill procedures. Exit signs are prominently displayed in every classroom, indicating the exit to be used during building evacuation. Upon hearing the alarm, students shall listen for instructions from the teacher and leave the building in an orderly manner, accompanied by their teacher. Students should be prepared for an evacuation or fire drill at all times. All students must abide by the following expectations during any evacuation:

● Students are to follow teacher/adult directions● Students are to exit silently, safely and in an orderly manner

In an emergency, it is everyone’s responsibility to:● LISTEN and FOLLOW DIRECTIONS● THINK and MAKE SAFE CHOICES

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For safety and security reasons, our building evacuation procedures and plans are continually being reviewed. Revised procedures will be announced as they are approved. If an emergency should occur in our building, the person discovering it should pull the nearest alarm and/or report it at once to an administrator or any staff member.

Emergency PlanRichards School has an established emergency plan. In the event of a local emergency or disaster situation while school is in session, parents are asked to help us care for all students by following these procedures:

● Remain calm.● Listen to radio or TV stations to get information. Keep school and home phone lines open for official

use (school will institute the School Messenger system whenever possible).● If the school is being evacuated, bus transportation will be used whenever possible. Parents are

encouraged to meet their child at a designated area as determined by the emergency management team at that time.

● If bus transportation is not available, special dismissal procedures will be used to ensure all children are accounted for and safely reunited with families.

● During an emergency dismissal, please be prepared to show some form of identification. Students will be released only to parents or emergency contacts that have been designated in writing by the parent/guardian.

● During an emergency dismissal, parents will remain in the designated sign-out and waiting areas. A staff member will direct your child to you.

ElevatorThe school elevator may be used ONLY by any physically disabled person or those who are temporarily injured. Access to the elevator is available from all floors. Students are permitted to use the elevator only when accompanied by an adult or with adult permission. The elevator is not to be used during emergency situations, drills or evacuations.

TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING

District Transportation GuidelinesStudent safety is our primary concern; therefore we have a very strict behavior policy for our students while riding the bus. Pursuant to NH RSA 189:9A, the Newport School Board has adopted the following policy and regulations related thereto. The Superintendent of Schools has designated the building administrators as the school officials having authority to suspend students from riding the bus. Please note that buses will be equipped with video cameras for the safety and protection of your children and the driver.

Parents are urged to read and discuss the following policy with their children:● It is the duty of the driver to seat pupils so as to produce the least amount of distractions.● The driver will have the authority to assign seats. ● Students are urged to be at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus arrives.

Bus Conduct Expectations● Students will conduct themselves in an orderly manner while waiting for the bus.

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● Students will board the bus one at a time, go directly to their seats, and remain seated until they get off the bus.

● Students will speak, not shout, while on the bus. They will use appropriate language at all times. ● Students will not throw any objects in the bus or out of the bus windows.● Students will assist the bus driver in keeping the bus neat and clean.● Students will not touch, hit or harass other riders at any time.● Students will ride the bus to which they have been assigned and get on and off the bus only at assigned

stops.● Students will obey the bus driver and monitor at all times.● Students will not be let off at a different stop or be allowed to ride a different bus than usual without a

written permission note from the parent/guardian which has been initialed by the principal or his/her designee.

Discipline For General Bus Conduct Violations● Written report of violations must be given by the driver or bus manager to the building administrator

within twenty-four hours.● On the first offense, written notice will be sent by the building administrator to the parents.● The second offense will result in automatic suspension from riding the bus.● The third offense will result in a twenty-day suspension from riding the bus.● Habitual offenders will be suspended from the bus for an indefinite period upon school board approval.● THESE ARE SUSPENSIONS FROM RIDING THE SCHOOL BUS AND ARE NOT TO BE

CONSIDERED A SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL.● When a child is suspended from riding the bus, IT BECOMES THE PARENT'S RESPONSIBILITY TO

TRANSPORT THE CHILD ACCORDING TO NH LAW (RSA 189:9A). Suspension shall begin the school day following the day that notification of suspension is sent to the pupil’s parents.

ViolationsThe following will not be allowed on a school bus:

IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION WITH NO WARNING 1. Fighting, hitting or pushing another student 3 to 5 days from school 2. Use of tobacco, alcohol or narcotics 5 to 10 days from school 3. Vandalism 5 days from bus only 4. Throwing objects within the bus or out of the window 5 days from bus only

ONE WARNING TO PARENTS BEFORE SUSPENSION

1. Disobeying the bus driver At least 3 days off bus2. Use of profane or vulgar language At least 3 days off bus3. Causing loud noises or disturbances At least 3 days off bus4. Standing or changing seats while the bus is in motion At least 3 days off bus

This list is not all-inclusive. Other actions that may constitute a safety hazard will result in suspension from the school bus following proper notification of the parents.

Bus Routes:

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(a full schedule is published on the SAU 43 website)

Bus 3: North Newport/Kellyville RunBus 4: Special EducationBus 6: Goshen Run/Rec Center BusBus 7: East Mountain Road/Guild RunBus 10: Bascom Road, Unity, Maple, Laurel Street, Birchwood Grove Croydon Bus: Croydon

If there are requested changes involving your students bus transportation, please contact the front office.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

The Newport School District curriculum is determined according to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and the New Hampshire State Grade Level Expectations (GLEs).

PACE Initiative PACE (Performance Assessment of Competency Education) is an initiative of the NH Department of Education with the purpose of rethinking accountability and assessment in New Hampshire. The Newport School District applied for and was approved as a member of the PACE initiative in 2015. The district staff, led by our teachers, are working together to develop, implement, and evaluate performance assessments that measure a student's mastery of content concepts, practices, and skills in English language arts, mathematics, and science. This work aligns with district goals to develop common grade/content assessments and performance assessments measuring student mastery of competencies. These performance assessments will serve as a measure of student achievement for accountability at the state level with the NHSAS Assessment. As a Tier 1 school, Richards Elementary School will use local and state developed performance tasks to assess students in English Language Arts, Math, and Science with the traditional standardized testing being reduced to grade 3 ELA and grade 4 Math.

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The competency-based reporting system in K-5 report cards explicitly indicates their level of competency in specific subject-area skills by the end of a given quarter. All curriculum documents are available on the Newport School Web site and grading standards are accessible for parent and student viewing via the PowerSchool Parent Portal. Your child’s classroom teacher will gladly answer questions about the curriculum and competency-based reporting at any time.

Report Cards

Richards Elementary School has a quarterly reporting system. Parents are asked to meet with their child’s teacher after the first marking period. Additional conferences may be arranged as needed or desired by either teacher or parents at any time during the school year. Progress report cards are sent home with students on the Friday after the end of each of the first three (3) quarters. A final report card will go home on the last day of school. First Quarter Ends: October 30, 2019 Second Quarter Ends: January 17, 2020 Third Quarter Ends: April 1, 2020 Fourth Quarter Ends (tentative last day of school): June 11, 2020

We encourage you to monitor your child’s progress on the Parent Portal. https://ps.newport.k12.nh.us/public/

TestingTesting and/or performance assessments are ongoing and will be administered to students at regular intervals to measure achievement throughout the school year. The following tests are administered annually:

● NH SAS - Grades 3-8 [spring]● SAT - State mandated test, grade 11 [spring]● PACE - 1 performance task per selected core subject throughout the year grades 3-8● NAEP - Bi-annually State-mandated tests - grade 4 = 2/1/19 and grade 8 = 2/6/19● STAR assessment – math and reading benchmark assessments, grades K-5 [fall, winter, and spring]● GENERAL SCREENING – Kindergarten - Incoming students in the following fall [spring]● Informal assessments and progress monitoring as needed throughout the year

Registration And Placement Of StudentsDuring the year, new residents may register their children at any time. Please call to make an appointment to register. Parents must present an original birth certificate, proof of residency, custody documentation, if applicable, and immunization records upon enrollment. If all documents are in order, the student will usually attend on the next school day.

Promotion/RetentionThe mission of the Newport School District is to provide quality instruction and support services to each of its students. Newport schools accomplish this mission by providing a challenging curriculum responsive to individual needs, a highly qualified staff, a safe and positive learning environment, and a strong partnership with all homes in our diverse community.

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Learning builds upon previous learning, and each Newport school student must be prepared to meet the rigors and challenges of the new grade levels as he/she progresses through the school years. Promotion to the next grade demonstrates that the student has learned the grade level expectations and have provided evidence showing they have achieved proficiency and/or mastery of the competencies, learning goals and learning outcomes of the New Hampshire Department of Education, has acquired the knowledge, and is prepared for the next challenge.

A quality education requires a joint effort by Newport School District, students, and parents. This partnership will help all children achieve and meet promotion criteria.

Homework GuidelinesHomework is a constructive tool in the teaching and learning process. It should be designed to meet the needs of students. Purposeful assignments enhance student achievement, develop self-discipline, reinforce good working/learning habits, and foster teacher/student communication. Homework must have a connection to the subject, extending and reinforcing skills learned in class. Teachers will be sensitive to the total amount of homework given by their colleagues, and a balanced load of homework will be assigned. Homework procedures for each class will be provided to students at the beginning of each year.

Instructional MaterialsNewport School District furnishes textbooks and instructional materials that remain school property. Parents may be required to reimburse the school for lost or damaged books before any new books are issued. Supplies may be required and teachers will send home a list of such supplies.

Kindergarten This section is designed for your child’s first year in school but contains some great tips and helpful reminders for students of all ages. Kindergarten is the start of a wonderful and rewarding journey. This section will answer some of your questions and help make the transition from preschool or home to school easier for both you and your child. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call your child’s teacher.

General InformationArrival and DismissalAt 2:50 pm dismissal, a Kindergarten staff member will walk the children outside to the area. If their ride is late, they will be taken inside to wait in the office. Kindergarten children may ride the bus to and from school. A staff member will make sure that Kindergarten students who ride a bus are boarded first and the bus driver is informed of their drop off address.In an effort to ensure your child’s safety, please notify us in writing with the teacher's name, parent name, student name, and address if there are any changes in your child’s transportation arrangements. For last minute changes, please call the school. Snack TimeSnack time is a brief break in the Kindergarten day, usually 10 or 15 minutes. Please pack a nutritious snack that can be eaten in a short period of time. You may include a drink or purchase milk at school for sixty five cents per day. If you will be purchasing milk, please send funds for a week, month or year rather than a single day. Please send your child’s snack to school in a backpack labeled with your child’s name. If you are sending anything that requires a spoon, please include one in the bag.Label All PossessionsPlease label everything your child brings to school, including backpack, lunch box, all clothing and any books or personal materials brought from home. Every child must have his or her own backpack to bring to school

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every day. It is much easier for your child to put all belongings in a backpack and have one item to keep track of than try to carry all items separately.ToysDo not allow your child to bring toys to school. If a child has a toy at school it will be taken and held by the teacher or office for a parent to retrieve.RecessRichards students go outside for a thirty minute recess every day. It is an important part of the learning curriculum as it allows children to use their large muscles, engage in creative play, explore and problem solve as well as interact with other students from other classes. Please dress your child appropriately for the weather with coats, ski pants, hats, mittens and boots every day in the winter and appropriate outerwear during warmer weather in case of wind or cold conditions. When your child wears boots, please send shoes in his or her backpack. For personal safety, we recommend shoes with laces and no-slip soles.

Helpful Hints for a Smooth Home or Pre-K to Kindergarten Transition Following are some great hints and “homework” to help your child’s success in Kindergarten and beyond!

● Read any material the school sends home● Attend school events● Talk with other parents about their experiences● Talk with your child’s teacher, ask questions and volunteer helpful information to the teacher● Read daily to your child● Discuss your child’s day with him or her● Get your child to bed early enough so he or she gets enough sleep● Provide a good breakfast before school● Get your child to school on time

Help your child learn the following skills before starting school and reinforce them frequently for personal success:

● Use bathroom independently● Put on and remove outdoor clothing independently● Put on and tie shoes independently● Use proper hygiene techniques including hand-washing after bathroom use● Develop daily routines for brushing teeth and flossing● Blow nose, cover mouth when sneezing or coughing● Dress him/herself● Know his or her full name, home address and phone number● Be able to clean up after him/herself● Respect other’s space and property● Concepts of sharing, privacy, tolerance and respect toward others including adults and other children

PreSchoolNew Hampshire schools are required to provide services for any child showing a need for special services. The Newport School District offers these services for children ages 3-5 through the SAU # 43 Early Childhood Support Program if the student shows needs following screenings and assessments performed after a student is referred to the program or through annual “Child Find” screenings. Anyone can refer a young child to the program, and should contact the Richards School.

PresSchool Hours:

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AM: Tuesday - Friday 8:15 am - 11:00 amPM: Tuesday - Friday 12:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Arrival and DismissalVehicles dropping off or picking up children at Richards School will do the following:All vehicles will enter the Richards parking lot from School Street and follow the traffic pattern. All vehicles will exit to Beech Street and can ONLY make a right hand turn.Parents will be able to drop off their child(ren) beginning at 8:15 AM in the morning. In the afternoon, parents will be able to pick up beginning at 2:45 PM. Buses will follow the same traffic pattern. If you are walking your child into the building, you may park on School Street.Preschool Students will enter and exit through the door to the right of the front door. A staff member will be at the door prior to the start of preschool. If you are late, you will need to use the front door, sign in at the front desk, receive a visitor’s badge, and sign out when you leave the building.ECSP (Early Childhood School Program) The ECSP (Early Childhood School Program) team of therapists and teachers will meet with you following evaluations, observations and screenings of your child. Should your child be found eligible for special services following these preliminary steps, the team will prepare an individualized education plan for your child which may include speech services, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other services provided by therapists working in the district. This plan is specific to your child, and will be followed by his or her teachers to provide the most appropriate early education. Your child will be assigned an individual case manager from the team to follow your child’s needs and progress throughout his or her preschool enrollment.Tuition StudentsSeveral openings for tuition students (“peer models”) are available each school year in the Community Preschool at Richards School for children ages 3-5. Pre-registration is required for tuition students and pre registered students will be invited to attend class as soon as an opening becomes available. At that time, the Richards School registration process for the Community Preschool at Richards School is identical to that of ECSP and regular education K-5 students, and birth certificate, immunization records, proof of Newport residency and any guardianship paperwork is required before your student may start attending preschool.

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS

The following policies and procedures regarding student conduct apply while a student is on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or at off-campus events in which Richards School are a participant. Rules that pertain to violence, threats of violence, bullying, hazing, and harassment of any type may also apply to students while they are on their way to or from school. This is especially applicable, but not limited to, bus transportation and bus stops. Any neglect or failure to follow school rules or other forms of gross conduct may be punished by detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Behavioral Modification Procedures

School AuthorityThe daily operation of the Richards School is in the hands of the principal, Dean of Students, and other members of the administration. These individuals have the authority to make judgments and decisions regarding the welfare of the students, the staff, the property, and the educational climate in general.

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Community Norms And Student Discipline CodeRichards School establish their community standards and discipline procedures within the frameworks of the Newport School District educational philosophy and the mission statement. Respect for the learning community and respect for individuals are core values that are embedded in these guiding pieces and provide a basis for our community standards and discipline philosophy. This philosophy includes a belief that all students can learn and positive recognition and reinforcement of proper conduct is essential to the establishment of an optimal learning environment. Each school will implement positive behavior and academic programs to encourage students to adopt habits that lead to success and promote a healthy climate and culture. Application of discipline is necessary when students fail to comply with clearly outlined standards of conduct.

A productive and healthy school community provides opportunities for students to maximize the amount of time spent learning and minimize the amount of time students cause disruption or are removed from their classrooms due to misbehavior. A goal of school discipline is to teach students to behave in ways that contribute to academic achievement and school success and to support a school environment where students, faculty, and staff are responsible and respectful.

Teacher Operating ProceduresTeachers are asked to implement classroom management strategies to ensure that students learn how to follow expectations and learn to self-regulate. When student actions require additional attention, teachers should follow the general guidelines listed below when addressing student behavior:

1. Confer privately with the student regarding the incident. 2. If necessary, give a consequence. 3. Contact Parents/Guardians 4. If the behavior is severe or chronic, contact administration.

Richards School Interventions

Elementary School Teacher DetentionsStudents may be assigned a detention to be served after school with the teacher of conflict. Detentions run Monday through Thursday for 45 minutes. Parents will be notified a day in advance and are responsible for transportation after the detention is served. Students will be encouraged to complete work during this time.

Elementary School In-School Suspension (ISS)In-school suspension will be used as a disciplinary action when the infraction warrants a more severe consequence. Students serving an in-school suspension will be required to report to the main office at the beginning of the school day and remain in the ISS room until the end of the school day at 2:50 PM. During this time they will be completing school work given to them by their classroom teacher.

Elementary School Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)Out-of-school suspension is the most serious consequence a student faces for repeated offenses and/or for single incidents of gross misconduct or illegal infractions. This will be used when all other forms of interventions and consequences have been exhausted, or to remove students who are a threat to themselves or others. Due process (see district policies) will be given and a decision will be made by the administration.

The first five days of out-of-school suspension will count toward the allowed number of absences from class. Student will be allowed to make up all work missed during out-of-school suspensions. Parents or the

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administration may submit a work request and teachers will make every effort to provide as much work as possible within twenty-four hours.

During the suspension, students will not be permitted to attend school functions or be on school property. This includes before and after school hours. If a student is on school grounds or at a school function during the time of his/her suspension, it will be considered trespassing and become a police matter. A re-entry meeting may be required prior to the student’s return from a suspension involving gross misconduct or chronic offenses.

BEHAVIOR CLASSIFICATIONS Tier I Tier I Offenses are misbehaviors managed “on the spot” in the classroom, common areas, etc.. Interventions used to address and correct minor offenses are documented as Tier I log-ins.

The following are Tier I behaviors: ● Defiance/Refusal - not following directions, violating policies, cheating, misuse of technology, lying

and stealing ● Disrespect - Minor property destruction, derogatory comments directed toward another person ● Disruption - repeated verbal and non-verbal interruption to the classroom/learning environment and

general areas● Dress code violation - failure to comply to dress code standards ● Found in an Unauthorized Area - loitering or participating in activities outside designated areas● No Hallway Pass - lack of proper permission to be in any area other than assigned location● Physical Contact - inappropriate touching such as horseplay, wrestling, slapping and shoving (does not

involve harm or aggression toward one another)● School & Class Tardiness- failure to be in a designated place at the designated time.● Technology Misuse - cellphone, chromebook, etc. ● Trash / Littering - discarding of items or dumping of trash in any location other than a

trash can.● RepeatedTier I Violations - In order for disruptive and defiant behaviors to reach the Tier II level clear

documentation of the student’s behavior pattern, as well as cited interventions to correctthe behavior, must be established.

Tier I behaviors usually occur in the classroom or other setting under the teacher's supervision. Occasionally, the teacher will have to call on other people for assistance; the responses at this level usually do not require the intervention of the Dean of Students, SRO or a building administrator.

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Procedural examples of “best practice” responses to Tier I Behaviors ● Clearly define / post the behavioral expectations● TEACH and ROLE-PLAY the behavioral expectations, classroom procedures, use of materials, etc.

Demonstrate what the expected behavior “looks like” (positive example) as well as what it “does not look like” (non-example).

● Pre-correct - Prior to directing students to perform a task, provide a description of what the expected behavior will look like. “Lunch will be in two minutes. At that time, everyone will put away all materials, push in all chairs and line up.”

● Cue / Prompt / Remind - Provide a pre-arranged / previously taught cue to remind specific students to engage in the appropriate behavior.

● Acknowledge students who appropriately demonstrate the expected behavior.● Specifically explain HOW the behavior did not meet the stated / taught expectation. “It is disrespectful

to other students when you _____.”● Provide a warning - “Respect a school rule. All students are expected to talk respectfully to staff and

students here at ABC School. This is your official warning.”● Check for student understanding of the behavioral expectations - “Please summarize what we discussed

so I ensure there is no confusion.”● Evaluate the student’s skill repertoire. Determining if the student is capable of demonstrating the

behavioral expectation. Evaluate behavior & academic domains.● Determine the FUNCTION of the misbehavior. All behaviors serve a purpose (function). Determine

what the student is gaining or avoiding by misbehaving?● Evaluate ENVIRONMENTAL factors within the classroom which may be contributing to the

misbehavior: Space, Time, Materials, Interactions.● Collaborate with colleagues to identify behavior patterns and trends (class to class, year to year, etc.).● Discuss the matter with the student, and inform the student that the continued misbehavior will result in

a consequence.● The teacher will proceed as appropriate, with the following interventions:

○ Relocate the student within the classroom when practical. ○ The teacher will notify the student's parent/guardian by telephone/email/note.○ Set up student intervention time to conference with the student before school, during lunch or an

agreed upon time during the day that does not interfere with the students classes.○ Assign a detention, owe time or after-school detention.○ A written referral (discipline log-in to PowerSchool) will be submitted by the teacher in

PowerSchool as soon as practical.○ Consult with the building administration, dean of students, guidance counselor, case managers,

or other appropriate staff concerning future strategies.○ Any other acceptable action as adopted by the school staff.

● Repeated Tier I Violations - In order for Tier I behavior to reach the Tier II level, clear documentation of the student’s behavior pattern, as well as cited interventions to correctthe behavior, must be established.

● Restitution for damage to school or private property may be required.● A single severe incident may be treated as a Tier II or III behavior by the building administration.

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TIER IIThe following are Tier II behaviors: cheating/plagiarism, stealing of students and/or teachers property, directed profanity, disrespect, forgery, harassment, bullying, inappropriate physical contact, leaving class without permission, leaving school without permission, possession of lighter/contraband, possession of own prescription drugs, repeated tardiness to school, truancy from school, any other incidents that administration deems equivalent to these offenses. By their nature, these acts are considered significant violations of the student behavior standards. Tier II behaviors that have not been corrected by demonstrated teacher action on the behavior report will require that a building administrator be involved in the disciplinary action.

Procedural Responses to Tier II Behaviors● The teacher will contact the office to request assistance with the student.● A written referral (discipline log-in to PowerSchool) will be submitted by the teacher in PowerSchool

within 24 hours of the incident. Teachers should complete all information and include summary information of corrective actions attempted prior to referring the student to the office.

● The office will maintain these referrals as part of the student's disciplinary files in PowerSchool.● The school administrator/teacher will make every reasonable effort to contact the parent as soon as

possible. A conference will be scheduled as needed.● According to the severity of the offense(s): Corrective possible actions include:

○ Parent notification will take place (mail, email or phone).○ Team meeting held (student, parent/guardian, teacher/s, guidance, dean of students and/or

administrator) to identify lagging skills.and develop a plan to address student skills○ SST meeting○ BCBA observation○ In-school or out-of-school suspensions may be assigned (administration only).○ A parent/student meeting with the principal and/or guidance counselor may be required prior to

returning to the class setting.● The district is required to notify local law enforcement of specific incidents (Safe School Zone Act RSA

193-D:2). When this happens, parents will be notified too. The local law enforcement agency makes independent determinations about prosecutions.

● Restitution for damage to school or private property may be required. A single severe incident and/or repeated Tier II behaviors may be treated as a Tier III behavior.

TIER III Tier III The following are Tier III offenses:

● Severe Disruption to Classroom or School● Assault Causing Serious Bodily Harm (Board policy #)- Using physical force, such as hitting, striking

or pushing, to cause or attempt to cause physical injury● Bomb Threat, False Fire Alarm or False 911 -● Bullying, Cyber Bullying (Board policy #) - see bullying/harassment prevention and investigative

procedures pages #s. Intimidation, unwanted aggressive behavior, or harassment that is either an isolated

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significant incident or repetitive acts that substantially causes fear for safety or property, interferes with the education process and/or disrupts the orderly operation of the school.

● Threats or Verbal Assault (Board policy #) - Verbal, written, pictorial or symbolic language or gestures that create a reasonable fear of physical injury or property damage.

● Hazing (Board policy #) - any physical or psychological act directed toward a student, or any coercion or intimidation of a student in order to participate in a group, in an activity or participate on a team

● Alcohol/Drugs (Board policy #) - Being under the influence, possession of drug paraphernalia, distributing, selling, purchasing, transmitting, transferring, or obtaining alcohol or drugs or possessing, using, distributing, selling, purchasing, transmitting, transferring, or obtaining a substance intended to give the appearance of a substance or likeness of alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia

● Tobacco (Board policy #) - possession of tobacco/smoking/electronic smoking devices,● Vandalism (Board policy #) - vandalizing/destruction of school/personal property ● Weapons (Board policy # )● Directed Profanity at Staff or Student

In accordance with RSA 193-D:2, the Safe School Zone Act, violence, weapons, and crime will not be tolerated on Newport School District property or at any Newport School District-sponsored event. These acts are the most severe violations of the behavior code. Offenses at this level usually go beyond the school discipline system, and almost always draw upon law enforcement authorities.

Most students involved in Tier III offenses will be removed from school immediately.

Procedural Responses to Tier III OffensesThe administrator will contact the parents. In addition, some of the following are possible additional consequences:

● Parent/student meeting with the principal, along with other staff members that are involved with the student, and/or counseling will be required.

● Drug/vape paraphernalia will be turned over to the police. Any concerns for violence/student safety will be reported to police.

● Up to a ten-day out-of-school suspension or in-school suspension from the building administration.● Additional out-of-school suspension up to expulsion from the superintendent. ● Long-term suspension from school by the school board.● Chronic disruptive student behavior, that cannot be corrected with standard school interventions or a

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) will be referred to the superintendent.● When applicable, an alternative program may be offered.● When applicable, restitution for damages may be required.

THREE-STRIKE RULEAccumulated suspensions in school or out of school may result in further administrative or school board action. Students exhibiting chronic misbehavior may be placed on a three-step suspension contract by the building administration. It will be referred to as the three-strike rule. The contract will have the following:● First suspension: minimum of five days.● Second suspension: minimum of ten days and a meeting with superintendent.

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● Third suspension: minimum of ten days and possible expulsion.

Note: This three-strike rule is for serious chronic misbehavior during an academic year. The three-strike rule will adhere to all necessary policies and procedures provided in the Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act (IDEA, 2004).

PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS FOR SUSPENSIONS● The superintendent of schools or his/her designee is authorized to suspend pupils from school for

misconduct, provided: ○ Prior to any suspension of ten school days or less, the student will be given oral or written notice

of the charges against him/her. If the student denies the charges, the student will be given an explanation of the evidence and an opportunity to justify his/her actions.

○ Notification to parents will be made by phone that day. ● In all suspensions beyond ten days and in all expulsions, procedural due process will be conducted.

Procedural due process will include a meeting and will include a written notice of the charge and, if desired, the opportunity to secure counsel, the opportunity to confront and cross-examine witnesses to verify the student’s version of the incident or clarify circumstances which cause the suspension or expulsion.

● All notice of suspension or expulsion to parents or guardians will note the specific offenses and/or violations pertinent to the cause for suspension or expulsion.

● A student may be expelled from school by the Newport School Board for misconduct or for refusal to conform to reasonable rules and regulations of the school and said student will not attend school until restored by the school board. All expulsions will be subject to review if requested by a student eighteen years of age or older and parents or guardians prior to the start of each school year.

● Students must understand that although they have a right to a public education, they do not have the right to disrupt or interfere with the education of other students. Students who continually violate school rules and disrupt the education of others will be held accountable for their actions.

The building administration will be responsible for determining when cases are referred to the superintendent’s office. As a guideline, the third suspendable offense may be referred to the principal’s office for further action. That action can range from additional days of suspension to referral to the superintendent for further action.

Unspecified Improper Student BehaviorAny improper student behavior that is not specifically mentioned in this handbook, but which poses a threat to the health and/or safety of persons or property at Richards School and/or its associated activities, or that creates a disruption or the likelihood of a disruption in the educational climate or school activities, will be considered a violation of school rules. Such violations will be dealt with by members of the school administration in a manner consistent with and appropriate to the violation. The appropriate consequences could range from parental notification through detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, all the way to possible expulsion by the school board.

Verbal/Non-Verbal IntimidationNo person in our building will be subjected to intimidation. Verbally threatening another student or staff member will result in a minimum one day in-school suspension. Such behavior may rise to the level of harassment, bullying, hazing, or even criminal threatening and will be dealt with more severely as described elsewhere in this handbook.

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Student Grievance PolicyA grievance is generally defined as a complaint by a student about a staff member or administrator concerning unfair disciplinary practices or procedures. The burden of proof is always placed on the student, and the decision is binding and final. Students should follow the steps below.

1. Submit a written grievance to the staff member or administrator.2. Schedule a meeting with the teacher/administrator to discuss the concern.3. If unresolved, submit a written grievance to the principal.4. Schedule an appointment with the principal to discuss concerns (must be scheduled within four

days of submitted grievance).5. All appeals will be held within four days and a final written statement will be issued.

The principal’s decision will be final unless the original complaint is against the principal. In that case, the final decision rests with the superintendent or designee.

BULLYING/HARASSMENT PREVENTION AND INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURES

Students must learn to respect the values and dignity of each individual. This means that students are expected to be kind and respectful to each other. Additionally, many of our classrooms use the Responsive Classroom approach to create a classroom community of belonging.

Unfortunately, student conflicts still arise. Most often, these conflicts are managed within individual classrooms. Frequently, the guidance counselor is called on to facilitate a solution between the students. Occasionally, the principal may intervene if the conflict has escalated and disciplinary action is necessary. Policy JICK outlines the procedures used by administration when it is reported that student conflicts haveescalated to bullying.

According to NH RSA 193-F:3, the definitions are as follows: Bullying. Bullying is hereby defined as a single significant incident or a pattern of incidents involving a written, verbal, or electronic communication, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another pupil which:

● Physically harms a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property;● Causes emotional distress to a pupil;● Interferes with a pupil’s educational opportunities;● Creates a hostile educational environment; or● Substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the school.

Bullying shall also include actions motivated by an imbalance of power based on a pupil’s actual or perceived personal characteristics, behaviors, or beliefs, or motivated by the pupil’s association with another person and based on the other person’s characteristics, behaviors or beliefs.Cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is defined as any conduct defined as “bullying” in this policy that is undertaken through the use of electronic devices. For purposes of this policy, any references to the term bullying shall include cyberbullying.Electronic devices. Electronic devices include but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones, computers, pagers, electronic mail, instant messaging, text messaging and websites.School property. School property means all real property and all physical plant and equipment used for school purposes, including public or private buses or vansVictim. Victim means a pupil against whom bullying or cyberbullying has been perpetrated.

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The administration will investigate all reported instances of bullying in accordance with NSB Policies.

Any reference in this policy to “parent” shall include parents or legal guardians.

Statement Prohibiting Bullying or Cyberbullying of a Pupil RSA 193-F:4, II (a)The Board is committed to providing all pupils a safe and secure school environment. This policy is intended to comply with RSA 193-F. Conduct constituting bullying or cyberbullying will not be tolerated and is hereby prohibited.Further, in accordance with RSA 193-F:4, the District reserves the right to address bullying and, if necessary, impose discipline for bullying that: occurs on, or is delivered to, school property or a school-sponsored activity or event on or off school property; or Occurs off of school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity or event, if the conduct interferes with a pupil’s educational opportunities or substantially disrupts the orderly operations of the school or school-sponsored activity or event.The Superintendent of Schools is responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented.Statement Prohibiting Retaliation or False Accusations RSA 193-F:4, II (b)False Reporting:A student found to have wrongfully and intentionally accused another of bullying may face discipline or other consequences, ranging from interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Reprisal or Retaliation:The District will discipline and take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, volunteer, or other employee who retaliates against any person who makes a good faith report of alleged bullying or against any person who testifies, assists, or participates in a proceeding or hearing relating to such bullying

● The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student, teacher, school administrator or school volunteer who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the Principal after consideration of the nature, severity and circumstances of the act, in accordance with law, Board policies and any applicable collective bargaining agreements

● Any student found to have engaged in reprisal or retaliation in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to and including suspension and expulsion.

● Any teacher or school administrator found to have engaged in reprisal or retaliation in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment

● Any school volunteer found to have engaged in reprisal or retaliation in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to and including exclusion from school grounds.

Process to Protect Pupils From Retaliation:If the alleged victim or any witness expresses to the Principal or other staff member that he/she believes he/she may be retaliated against, the Principal shall develop a process or plan to protect that student from possible retaliation. Each process or plan may be developed on a case-by-case basis. Suggestions include but are not limited to: rearranging student class schedules to minimize their contact, stern warnings to alleged perpetrators, temporary removal of privileges, or other means necessary to protect against possible retaliation.IV. Protection of All Pupils RSA 193-F:4, II (c)This policy shall apply to all pupils and school-aged persons on school district grounds and participating in school district functions, regardless of whether or not such pupil or school-aged person is a student within the District.V. Disciplinary Consequences for Violations of This Policy RSA 193-F:4, II (d)The District reserves the right to impose disciplinary measures against any student who commits an act of bullying, falsely accuses another student of bullying, or who retaliates against any student or witness who provides information about an act of bullying. In addition to imposing discipline under such circumstances, the Board encourages the administration and school district staff to seek alternatives to traditional discipline,

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including but not limited to early intervention measures, alternative dispute resolution, conflict resolution and other similar measures.VI. Distribution and Notice of This Policy RSA 193-F:4 II (e)Staff and Volunteers:All staff will be provided with a copy of this policy annually. The Superintendent may determine the method of providing the policy (employee handbook, hard copy, etc.) The Superintendent will ensure that all school employees and volunteers receive annual training on bullying and related district policies.Students:All students will be provided with a copy of this policy annually. The Superintendent may determine the method of providing the policy (student handbook, mailing, hard copy, etc.) Students will participate in an annual education program which sets out expectations for student behavior and emphasizes an understanding of harassment, intimidation, and bullying of students, the District’s prohibition of such conduct and the reasons why the conduct is destructive, unacceptable, and will lead to discipline. Students shall also be informed of the consequences of bullying conduct toward their peers.Parents: All parents will be provided with a copy of this policy annually. The Superintendent may determine the method of providing the policy (parent handbook, mailing, etc.) Parents will be informed of the program and the means for students to report bullying acts toward them or other students. Take advantage of opportunities to talk to their children about bullying; Report bullying when it occurs;Inform the school immediately if they think their child is being bullied or is bullying other students;Cooperate fully with school personnel in identifying and resolving incidents. Additional Notice and School District Programs:The Board may, from time to time, host or schedule public forums in which it will address the anti-bullying policy, discuss bullying in the schools, and consult with a variety of individuals including teachers, administrators, guidance counselors, school psychologists and other interested persons.VII. Procedure for Reporting Bullying RSA 193-F:4 II (f)At each school, the Principal shall be responsible for receiving complaints of alleged violations of this policy.Student Reporting:Any student who believes he or she has been the victim of bullying should report the alleged acts immediately to the Principal. If the student is more comfortable reporting the alleged act to a person other than the Principal, the student may tell any school district employee or volunteer about the alleged bullying.Any school employee or volunteer who witnesses, receives a report of, or has knowledge or belief that bullying may have occurred shall inform the Principal as soon as possible, but no later than the end of the school day.The Principal may develop a system or method for receiving anonymous reports of bullying. Although students, parents, volunteers and visitors may report anonymously, formal disciplinary action may not be based solely on an anonymous report. Independent verification of the anonymous report shall be necessary in order for any disciplinary action to be applied.The administration may develop student reporting forms to assist students and staff in filing such reports. An investigation shall still proceed even if a student is reluctant to fill out the designated form and chooses not to do so. Upon receipt of a report of bullying, the Principal shall commence an investigation consistent with the provisions of Section XI of this policy.Staff Reporting:An important duty of the staff is to report acts or behavior that they witness that appears to constitute bullying. All district employees and volunteers shall encourage students to tell them about acts that may constitute bullying. For young students, staff members may provide direct assistance to the student.Any school employee or volunteer who witnesses, receives a report of, or has knowledge or belief that bullying may have occurred shall inform the Principal as soon as possible, but no later than the end of the

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school day. Upon receipt of a report of bullying, the Principal shall commence an investigation consistent with the provisions of Section XI of this policy.VIII. Procedure for Internal Reporting Requirements RSA 193-F:4, II (g)In order to satisfy the reporting requirements of RSA 193-F:6, the Principal or designee shall be responsible for completing all New Hampshire Department of Education forms and reporting documents of substantial incidents of bullying. Said forms shall be completed within 10 school days of any substantial incident. Upon completion of such forms, the Principal or designee shall retain a copy for himself and shall forward one copy to the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall maintain said forms in a safe and secure location.IX. Notifying Parents of Alleged Bullying RSA 193 F=4: II (h)The Principal shall report to the parents of a student who has been reported as a victim of bullying and to the parents of a student who has been reported as a perpetrator of bullying within 48 hours of receiving the report. Such notification may be made by telephone, writing or personal conference. The date, time, method, and location (if applicable) of such notification and communication shall be noted in the report. All notifications shall be consistent with the student privacy rights under the applicable provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).X. Waiver of Notification Requirement RSA 193-F:4, II (j)The Superintendent may, within a 48 hour time period, grant the Principal a waiver from the requirement that the parents of the alleged victim and the alleged perpetrator be notified of the filing of a report. A waiver may only be granted if the Superintendent deems such a waiver to be in the best interest of the victim or perpetrator. Any waiver granted shall be in writing.XI. Investigative Procedures RSA 193-F:4 II (j)

● Upon receipt of a report of bullying, the Principal shall, within 5 school days, initiate an investigation into the alleged act. If the Principal is directly and personally involved with a complaint or is closely related to a part to the complaint, then the Superintendent shall direct another district employee to conduct the investigation.

● The investigation may include documented interviews with the alleged victim, alleged perpetrator and any witnesses. All interviews shall be conducted privately, separately, and shall be confidential. Each individual will be interviewed separately and at no time will the alleged victim and perpetrator be interviewed together during the investigation.

● If the alleged bullying was in whole or in part cyberbullying, the Principal may ask students and/or parents to provide the District with printed copies of emails, text messages, website pages, or other similar electronic communications.

● A maximum of 10 school days shall be the limit for the initial filing of incidents and completion of the investigative procedural steps.

● Factors the Principal or other investigator may consider during the course of the investigation, including but not limited:

○ Description of the incident, including the nature of the behavior;○ How often the conduct occurred;○ Whether there were past incidents or past continuing patterns of behavior○ The characteristics of parties involved (name, grade, age, etc.);○ The identity and number of individuals who participated in bullying behavior;○ Where the alleged incident(s) occurred;○ Whether the conduct adversely affected the student’s education or educational environment;○ Whether the alleged victim felt or perceived an imbalance of power as a result of the reported

incident; and○ The date, time and method in which parents or legal guardians of all parties involved were

contacted. ● The Principal shall complete the investigation within 10 school days or receiving the initial report. If

the Principal needs more than 10 school days to complete the investigation, the Superintendent may

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grant an extension of up to 7 school days. In the event such extension is granted, the Principal shall notify in writing all parties involved of the granting of the extension.

● Whether a particular action or incident constitutes a violation of this policy shall require a determination based on all facts and surrounding circumstances and shall include recommended remedial steps necessary to stop the bullying and a written final report to the Principal

● Students who are found to have violated this policy may face discipline in accordance with other applicable board policies, up to and including suspension. Students facing discipline will be afforded all due process required by law.

XII. Response to Remediate Substantiated Instances of Bullying RSA 193-F:4, II (k)Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a student who commits one or more acts of bullying or retaliation may result in suspension or expulsion of students. Consequences for a student who commits an act of bullying or retaliation shall be varied and graded according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, and the student’s history of problem behaviors and performance. Remedial measures shall be designed to correct the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of the problem, protect and provide support for the victim, and take corrective action for documented systemic problems related to bullying.Examples of the consequences may include, but are not limited to:

Admonishment Temporary removal from classroom Deprivation of privileges Classroom or administrative detention Referral to disciplinarian In-School suspension Out-of-school suspension Expulsion

Examples of remedial measures may include, but are not limited to: Restitution Mediation Peer support group Corrective instruction or other relevant learning experience Behavior assessment Student counseling Parent conferences

In support of this policy, the Board promotes preventative educational measures to create greater awareness of aggressive behavior, including bullying. The Board encourages the Superintendent to work collaboratively with all staff members to develop responses other than traditional discipline as a way to remediate substantiated instances of bullying.XIII. Reporting of Substantiated Incidents to the Superintendent RSA 193-F:4 II (l)The Principal shall forward all substantiated reports of bullying to the Superintendent upon completion of the Principal’s investigation.XIV. Communication With Parents Upon Completion of Investigation RSA 193-F:4 II (m)Within two school days of completing an investigation, the Principal will notify the students involved in person of his/her findings and the result of the investigation.The Principal will notify via telephone the parents of the alleged victim and alleged perpetrator of the results of the investigation. The Principal will also send a letter to the parents within 24 hours again notifying them of the results of the investigation.If the parents request, the Principal shall schedule a meeting with them to further explain his/her findings and reasons for his/her actions.

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In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and other law concerning student privacy, the District will not disclose educational records of students including the discipline and remedial action assigned to those students and the parents of the other students involved in a bullying incident.XV. AppealFor non-disciplinary remedial actions where no other review procedures govern, the parents of the pupils involved in the bullying shall have the right to appeal the Principal’s decision to the Superintendent in writing within five (5) school days. The Superintendent shall review the Principal’s decision and issue a written decision within ten (10) school days. If the aggrieved party is still not satisfied with the outcome, the aggrieved party may file a written request for review by the School Board within ten (10) school days of the Superintendent’s decision. The School Board will adhere to all applicable New Hampshire Department of Education administrative rules.The procedures under RSA 193:13, Ed 317, and the District policies establish the due process and appeal rights for students disciplined for acts of bullying.The School Board or its designee will inform parents of any appeal rights they may have to the New Hampshire State Board of Education.XVI. School Officials RSA 193-F:4, II9(n)The Superintendent of Schools is responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented. The Superintendent may establish additional procedures to facilitate the implementation of this policy.XVII. Capture of Audio Recordings on School BusesPursuant to RSA 570-A:2, notice is hereby given that the Board authorizes audio recordings to be made in conjunction with video recordings of the interior of school buses while students are being transported to and from school or school activities. The Superintendent, along with the Facilities Coordinator and the Transportation Coordinator, shall ensure that there is a sign informing the occupants of school buses that such recordings are occurring.XVIII. Use of Video or Audio Recordings in Student Discipline MattersThe District reserves the right to use audio and/or video recording devices on District property (including school buses) to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all staff, students and visitors. Placement and location of such devices will be established in accordance with the provisions of Policy EEAE.In the event an audio or video recording is used as part of a student discipline proceeding, such video may become part of a student’s education record. If an audio or video recording does become part of a student’s education record, the provisions of Policy JRA shall apply.The Superintendent is authorized to contact the District’s attorney for a full legal opinion relative in the event of such an occurrence.

WeaponsThere will be no deadly weapons (as mentioned, but not limited to, those mentioned in RSA 159), allowed in a safe school zone (RSA 193-D) except for those of law enforcement officers and those who have the prior written approval of the superintendent. "Deadly weapon" means any firearm, knife, or other substance or thing, which, in the manner it is used, intended to be used, or threatened to be used, is known to be capable of producing death or serious bodily injury (RSA 625:1 1). Student violators of this policy will be suspended out of school for ten days or up to twenty days with superintendent approval. The parent/guardian has the right to appeal any such suspension to the school board. Any suspension beyond twenty school days must be approved by the Newport School Board. Local law enforcement officials will be notified.

Any pupil may be expelled by the school board for possession of a pellet or BB gun, knife, or weapon listed in RSA 159 and the pupil will not attend school until restored by the school board. Any expulsion will be subject to review if requested prior to the start of each school year and further, any parent/guardian has the right to appeal any such expulsion by the board to the state board of education (RSA 193:13, II).

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Any pupil who brings or possesses a firearm as defined in Section 921 of Title 18 of the United States code in a safe school zone as defined in RSA 193-D:1, II without written authorization from the superintendent or designee WILL be expelled from school by the review by the local school board for a period of not less than twelve months. Any expulsion will be subject to review by the local school board or requested by a parent/guardian prior to the start of each school year, and further, parent/guardian will have the right to appeal any such expulsion by the local school board to the state board of education within twenty days of the board's decision. The term "firearm" means:

● Any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;

● The frame or receiver of any such weapon; ● Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; ● Any destructive device.

Regarding non-students, any person other than a law enforcement officer, who brings a firearm onto school property or to an event, without written permission from the superintendent, will be asked to remove the firearm from the premises.

It is the policy of the Newport School District that the superintendent may modify any student expulsion upon such criteria as the school board will establish on a case-by-case basis (RSA 193:13, IV) (School Board Policy JGDA).

A pupil expelled from school in either this or another state under the provisions of the Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994 will not be eligible to enroll in the Newport public schools.

When considering potential suspension or expulsion of a pupil with an educational disability, the board must consider whether the behavior leading to the suspension or expulsion is a result of the student's educational disability. In addition, the student may be placed in an interim alternative educational setting for the time periods determined by IDEA (2004).

The student body will be informed of the content of RSA 193:D through printed school rules contained in the student handbook. In addition, these rules will be announced to students at the beginning of each school year.

An employee violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

Alcohol And Drugs

The Newport School District believes that involvement with alcohol and/or drugs is absolutely unacceptable for any students in the Richards School, and that such involvement creates a very serious situation for the student and others at the school.

Students will not buy, sell, possess on their persons or any place else on school property, use, distribute, be under the influence of, or knowingly be in the presence of any type of alcoholic beverage or of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, cocaine drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana or other cannabis-type drug, or any other controlled drug, or any counterfeit drugs or substances intended to look or act like a controlled drug.

An “alcoholic beverage” is defined to include any beverage, whether brewed, distilled, or fermented, that contains alcohol and will specifically include beverages labeled “non-alcoholic” that nevertheless contain alcohol.

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Any student who is knowingly involved in the misrepresentation of an over-the-counter (legal) drug as an illegal drug, and/or is knowingly involved in the subsequent use, sale, or possession of that fraudulent substance, will be subject to the same rules and consequences as drug violators. This includes any student being under the influence of, dispensing, sale of, or being in the act of selling or buying prescribed medication of another individual. This also applies to any student who possesses, transfers, or uses any substance for the purpose of “getting high” or assisting others in doing the same.A student who violates this policy may be punished up to and including long-term suspension or expulsion. Administration will follow the district discipline plan for all Tier III behaviors.

A student who violates this policy by selling or distributing drugs, alcohol, or other substances intended to produce a “high,” will be referred to the school board with a recommendation of expulsion.THE APPROPRIATE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY WILL BE NOTIFIED OF ALL VIOLATIONS OF THIS POLICY AND OF ALL VIOLATIONS OF STATE OR FEDERAL DRUG LAWS.

Drug Paraphernalia A student will not possess on his/her person or any other place on school property such as a locker or desk any type of drug paraphernalia (including, but not limited to, items such as pipes, rolling papers, clips, etc.). The first violation of this policy will result in a three-day in-school suspension, with discipline progressing with additional violations. Student will not return without transition meeting with parents and will be referred to our student assistance program counselor.THE APPROPRIATE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY WILL BE NOTIFIED OF ALL CASES INVOLVING DRUG PARAPHERNALIA OR THE BREAKING OF CIVIL LAW.

Smoking PolicyThe Newport School Board has established a firm no-smoking policy for everyone while on school grounds, within school buildings, or while participating in any school-sponsored activity on or off school grounds. Offenders will be asked to extinguish or to leave. Action against student offenders is prescribed as follows:

● First offense: A student found to be using or possessing tobacco of any kind by a teacher, administrator, or any other school employee will be assigned two (2) days of in-school suspension, Student will not return without transition meeting with parents and will be referred to our student assistance program counselor and cited by the SRO.

● Second offense: Any further infractions will result in a three or more days of out-of-school suspension and the student will not be allowed to return to school until his/her parent/guardian meets with the administration. Student will not return without transition meeting with parents and will be referred to our student assistance program counselor.

Plagiarism/Academic DishonestyIt is expected that all students will perform responsibilities as students in an honorable fashion. Plagiarism or unauthorized assistance on an exam, quiz, or project will not be tolerated. Any student who is found to be cheating or plagiarizing will receive a day of in-school suspension and will re-assess the assignment. His/her parents will be notified in writing by the teacher involved. Plagiarism is defined as an act of copying or using passages or ideas developed by another and presenting them as one’s own original work.

STUDENT SERVICES

School Counseling Program

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School counselors are trained in child development, learning strategies, and a variety of social skills, in order to understand and address student needs and promote academic and behavioral success of all students in the school setting. This role includes direct student services such as instruction and group activities involving the school counseling core curriculum, appraisal and advisement on individual student plans, and responsive services, including counseling and crisis management. Indirect services provided by the school counselor include consultation and collaboration with parents/teachers and referrals to outside counseling for students with additional emotional and behavioral needs. School counseling is integral to the total education program provided in an elementary school setting.

At Richards School, the school counselor assists students with personal/social, academic, and career development through individual and group counseling, as well as push-in classroom lessons in accordance with American School Counselor Association (ASCA) standards. Students will have the opportunity to address a variety of issues including, but not limited to: bullying, teasing, safety, diversity, self-esteem, tolerance, and conflict resolution.

Parents, teachers, and students should feel free to reach out to the Richards School Counselor, Ms. Ashley Pimentel by phone at 603-863-3710 Ext. 9411 or email at apimentel@sau43.org.

Student Support TeamWhen a student is having difficulty, the teacher may refer him or her to the student support team (SST). This team consists of teachers, staff and administration who will work with parents to make an action plan for improvement or refer the student to special education services.

The special education process is most effective when parents and school personnel are well informed and working together. The special education process includes seven steps: identification, referral and disposition of referral, evaluation, determination of eligibility and identification of the disability category, and development of an individual education plan (IEP) if necessary. A student may be referred to special education by a teacher, parent/guardian, or administrator by submitting a request in writing to the principal, using the special education referral form from the school.

Special Education Rights NoticeThe state and federal special education laws [New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated Chapter 186-C and Title 20, United States Code, Sections 1400-1415] require that the school district offer a “free appropriate public education” to all educationally disabled children.

1. These statutes define educationally disabled children as “children suffering from certain enumerated disabilities who are between the ages of three and twenty-one and who have not obtained a high school diploma.”

2. A “free appropriate education” consists of specially designed instruction and educationally related services in accordance with an “individualized” education program developed by the district in consultation with the student’s parents.

3. If you suspect that your child is educationally disabled and qualifies for such special services, you may make a written referral requesting that the school district determine your child’s eligibility. Such referrals should be addressed to the building principal.

INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT“Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), school districts must give parents of a child with disabilities a copy of procedural safeguards one time a year. However, a copy of procedural safeguards must also be given to parents upon initial referral or parental request for an evaluation, upon filing a request for

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a due process hearing, upon a disciplinary action constituting a change in placement, and upon request of a parent. 20 U.S.C. 1415(d)(1)....”

Special Education Referral: The special education process is most effective when parents and school personnel are well-informed and able to work together. The special education process includes six steps:

1. Identification [Child Find*]2. Referral and disposition of referral3. Determination of eligibility and identification of the disability category4. Development of the Individual Education Program5. Determination of educational placement6. Implementation and monitoring

A student may be referred to special education by a teacher, parent/guardian or administrator by submitting a request in writing to the principal using the special education referral form from your school.

*Child Find procedures: SAU 43 is committed to ensuring that all children with disabilities residing within our district are locally evaluated and identified in accordance with Ed 1103.01 (CFE 300.125) Child Find. The district early childhood support program holds annual “Child Find” screenings for children between the ages of three and five for gross and fine motor, hearing and social/psychological development and SAU 43 sends out annual “child find” letters to all private and parochial schools, healthcare providers, and other agencies that routinely come into contact with children. Letters are also sent to all families of students who have dropped out of early childhood prevention programs or refused services in the past. Ads and/or public service announcements are placed in local media outlets to seek out anyone who may be eligible to receive early childhood special education services. If a child is identified as a candidate following these initial Child Find screenings, further evaluations and potential services will be offered for the preschool years, and learning strategies will be fully discussed with parents.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Health Procedures And ScreeningsThe school nurse will contact parents or guardians when a student has a condition which needs further medical attention. Parents are requested to inform school personnel of any change in the health status of their child. No medication is to be administered by school personnel except as prescribed by a doctor and accompanied by a parental permission form. The medication should be properly labeled and in its original prescription container. Please make every effort to make doctor, dentist, orthodontic or other appointments for after school. It is

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important that your student not miss class time unless completely necessary. A nurse is available during school hours. All accidents occurring on school property are reported immediately to the school nurse, the person on duty, or building administrator. If you have any health questions, please feel free to call the school nurse.

Prescription And Non-prescription Medicines No student will have prescription or nonprescription drugs or medication on his or her person during the school day unless a physician has so ordered, and the school has received written permission from the student’s parent/guardian together with a copy of the physician’s order. Parents/guardians of students who require the possession of an inhaler or epinephrine injector at all times should contact the school nurse as soon as possible.All prescription and nonprescription drugs and medications which a student has parental/guardian permission to use during the school day must be brought to school in an appropriately labeled container and left with the school nurse and may be taken only under the direct supervision of the school nurse.

The consequence for a student who violates this policy by carrying prescription drugs issued to them will receive one-day in-school suspension with escalating consequences determined by administration for subsequent offenses. A student who violates this policy by carrying prescription drugs not issued to them will default to the consequence of the drugs and alcohol policy. Student will not return without transition meeting with parents and will be referred to our student assistance program counselor.

Per RSA 200:45 No school or school district, member of a school board, or school district employee shall be liable in a suit for damages as a result of any act or omission related to a child’s use of an epinephrine auto-injector or inhaler if the provisions of RSA 200:42 and 200:46 have been met. In order to comply with NH RSA 200, your physician must put in writing the need for your child to possess Epipens or inhalers while at school. In accordance with RSA 200 your child will not be allowed to keep Epipens or inhalers on their person without this written statement.

Please note the following procedures for certain specific infections:● Chicken Pox : The student will be excluded from school six days after the last crop of vesicles has

appeared. Students may return to school with crust, which must be very dry.● Conjunctivitis (pink eye) : The student will be excluded from school for twenty-four hours after

beginning a proper course of medication.● Impetigo : The student will be excluded from school for twenty-four hours from the time effective

treatment with antibiotics has begun.● Measles : The student will be excluded for seven days after the appearance of the rash.● Scabies : The student will be excluded from school for twenty-four hours or until they and their family

have been treated adequately.● Strep Infection : The student will be excluded from school for twenty-four hours from the time effective

treatment with antibiotics has begun.Vision and hearing screens may be conducted on all students PK-12 when school personnel feel that it is warranted. Parents who do not want their child’s vision or hearing screened will need to send a letter to the school each year indicating so.

When To Keep Your Child Home From SchoolSome general guidelines are listed below to help you decide whether to keep your child home from school. If your child has any of the following symptoms, we feel it is best to keep him or her at home. Your child will benefit from the extra rest, and it might help prevent the illness from spreading to other children. Here are the symptoms to watch:

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● A fever of more than 100°, especially if the fever is in addition to a sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, earache, irritability or confusion

● Children should be fever-free without medication for twenty-four hours before returning● Vomiting two or more times within a twenty-four hour period● A sore throat with fever and swollen glands● Severe coughing that keeps your child awake at night, worsens with increased activity or causes the

child to become red or blue in the face● Thick nasal secretions● Redness in the whites of the eyes, yellow eye discharge and matted eyelashes which are all symptoms of

conjunctivitisEvery child and every situation is different. Always call your child’s doctor if you have any questions about your child’s condition.

When your child is in school, we expect that he/she will participate in all school activities including physical education. In other words, if a child is well enough to attend school, he/she is well enough to go outdoors to play. Only under special circumstances and with written permission on the advice of a doctor will a child be kept indoors at recess or be excluded from physical education.

Allergies And Classroom EnvironmentMany students suffer from various allergies and aspects of the school and classroom environments can cause moderate to severe allergic reactions, inhibiting the child’s ability to access instruction. In order to minimize student reactions to environmental allergens, the following procedures are in place:

● Pets and other animals are not allowed to be brought into any classroom. In rare circumstances, a presentation involving animals or wildlife may occur in a public space where the students will not be subjected to residual dander. Exceptions are made for service animals.

● Food allergies are carefully monitored and individual classrooms may be free of certain foods. Your child’s classroom teacher will inform you of this and it may require increased diligence in foods your child brings to school as well as food preparation for holidays and celebrations in the classroom.

● We discourage the use of heavily scented soaps, lotions, and perfumes as many students have a heightened sensitivity to overpowering scents.

If you have questions or concerns about sensitivities in the classroom, please consult with the classroom teacher.

STUDENT/PARENT INFORMATION

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMSCinnamon St@rs Before/After School Program Cinnamon Street Childcare at Richards (Cinnamon St@rs) provides supervised before and after school time at Richards School with a tuition fee charged per student. Even though it is housed at Richards School, this is a private entity and is not monitored or supervised by school staff. Cinnamon St@rs offers high quality out-of-school time care for students in grades K-5. St@rs operates a licensed after school

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program for students at Richard’s School. St@rs operates according to the school calendar. Therefore, on days that there is no school due to holidays, professional development days, or weather, there will be no before or after school programming onsite. St@rs offers out-of-school programming for these days at Cinnamon Street. Sign-up for these programs will be the week before the scheduled no school time. Information and applications can be obtained at the Main Office of the school.

Field TripsField trips may be planned for any grade level . Children also walk to many local points of interest during school hours. Individual classroom teachers determine the number of chaperones necessary and will communicate with parents about plans and times. Blanket field trip permission is requested at the beginning of each school year for walking field trips, and some monetary expenses must be covered by students attending. “Scholarship” monies are sometimes available, so please contact your student’s teacher if there is financial need. Specific trips may require specific permission forms as well as attendance fees. Parents wishing to drive and/or pick up their child at the field trip must make the request to the co-principal, in writing, at least one day prior to the trip.Feel free to contact your child’s teacher if you would like to chaperone a trip or if you have questions about field trips.

FundraisingAll fundraising activities must be approved in advance by the principal. Forms are available in the front office, and these forms must be completed and submitted to the administration. Requests must be submitted one month in advance.

Lost and FoundUnclaimed clothing is kept in the far hallway (closest to the playground). Any clothes left in this area will be donated to a local charity after proper notification to the parent community. Please remember to check the clothing box whenever your children’s items are missing and periodically throughout the year.

Playground Guidelines

The staff of Richards Elementary School is interested in promoting the safety of all children on the playground. Adult supervisors monitor scheduled playground times and the conduct of any student who is being unsafe will be addressed. Please DO NOT allow your child to bring toys or sports equipment of any kind to the playground. We want everyone to have a playground experience that is relaxing and fun, but safe at the same time! The playground should be a place for children to exercise and have fun and to be able to do so safely. Therefore, the following guidelines and regulations have been established. We encourage you to follow them at all times, not

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only when school is in session. Generally, we have outdoor recess when temperatures are above 10◦F. This number can vary depending upon sun, wind, and other weather conditions. Overall, be safe, use appropriate language, be respectful, watch where you are going, be aware of others playing and have fun!

● Playground includes the play structures, black top, and grassy areas. These are to be observed by all students at all times.

● Any student needing to enter the building or to retrieve playground equipment must ask the staff member on duty.

● No games or activities that in any way threaten the physical well-being of students will be permitted. This includes, but is not limited to, tackle or touch football, piggyback fights, and King of the Hill. NOTE: Soccer, kickball, foursquare, Ga-Ga Pit, and basketball may all be played as long as all children are playing fairly and team play is even-sided. If students are choosing to play in an unsafe manner, their game will be terminated. We encourage cooperative group games that students have learned in P.E. classes.

● Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, roller blades, bicycles, any other wheeled vehicles, pogo sticks and hard balls and bats are not allowed on the playground.

● Swings: When using swings only sitting is allowed with one student per swing. No standing, jumping off, twisting or going sideways is allowed.

● When using the slide, students must slide feet first. Please form a single line at each slide; no one goes down until the bottom of the slide is clear. Walking up the slide, sliding on the ribs of the slide and pushing and jumping are not safe and are not allowed.

● Playing tag or running on any structures is not allowed.● Throwing or kicking sand, stones, wood chips or snow/ice will not be tolerated and will be subject to

disciplinary action.● Personal electronics are not allowed in the cafeteria or on the playground.● Children who are not properly dressed (winter coats, snow pants, boots, hats, gloves) for snow or on

very cold mornings may be sent indoors at the discretion of the playground staff on duty.

Use Of BuildingIf individuals or groups wish to use any facility for co-curricular or non-school activities, the office must be notified and a request form completed with the office at designated building.

Non-school activities involve a special list of procedures. Prior arrangement is necessary. Adults are expected to closely supervise children and observe school safety rules at all times when in the building. Please contact the school office for more information.

Volunteer ProgramRichards School welcome committed volunteers to assist in the education of Newport’s children. Designated volunteers will be required to undergo a background investigation and a criminal records check. “Designated volunteer” means any volunteer who:

● Comes in direct contact with pupils on a daily basis;● Meets regularly with students;● Meets with students on a one-on-one basis;● Any other volunteer so designated by the school board or superintendent.

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Designated volunteers are subject to the provisions of Policy GBCD – Background Investigation and Criminal Records Check. For more information about volunteering, please contact the administrator or administrative assistant at the Richards School office. Several volunteer opportunities exist and we invite anyone interested in volunteering with us to call and discuss options and availability (School Board Policy IJOC).

Newport Parent-Teacher Organization [PTO]

This is a very active and fun-loving group of parents and teachers, led by a hard- working executive board. This organization meets each month during the school year for the purpose of supporting school activities. All Newport School parents are automatically members of the SPTO and participation is strongly encouraged. The Richards PTO meets the first Tuesday of every month at 6:00 pm in the Richards Cafeteria. Free babysitting is available for all.Some of the major activities sponsored by the PTO occurring regularly are: Fall Fundraiser, Ice Cream Social, Project Rabbit.

Open House NightParents and guardians are invited to Open House Night in October. This evening offers parents the opportunity to meet teachers and to learn about their child’s curriculum, expectations, materials and events for the upcoming year. Please go to www.sau43.org to view the calendar.

Parent Involvement PolicyThe Newport School District believes that the education of children is a joint responsibility, one it shares with the parents of the school community. A high degree of parent involvement positively impacts student achievement and benefits the school and the classroom as well as the child. To ensure that the best interests of the child are served in this process, a strong program of communication between home and school must be maintained. Partnerships between families and schools that are child-centered and family-strengthening can engage, guide and motivate students to be productive citizens in our community.

At Richards we encourage parents/ families to participate in a two-way communication with the school as well as to participate in school activities. We achieve home-school communication through the following methods:

● Parent/Teacher Conferences● Monthly Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) Meetings● School and Classroom Newsletters● School Website, Emails, Phone Calls, Surveys● Orientation programs ● Report Cards and Progress Reports● Parent Volunteers in the Classrooms

Family involvement is critical to student success in meeting and exceeding district and state academic standards. Richards’ staff believes that a shared responsibility between the home and school will inspire students to be successful in the educational setting.

● Create an environment that is safe, respectful and caring● Engage parents in the school improvement process● Elicit parent feedback and collaboration in decisions relating to the education of their children● Provide a clear description and explanation of the district curriculum and● Provide extra time and targeted instruction for students who have not yet met grade-level standards

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● Communicate the program and its policies with parents of Title 1 students and how they can best support their child at home

● Provide adequate communication with non-English speaking families, recognize diversity and special needs and provide adequate communication for all

Parent Responsibilities:● Read all communications from the school and participate in school activities and events● Support the school by requiring that their child observes the policies set out in our Student Handbook● Maintain an active interest in their child’s daily school work and help their child when necessary● Accept responsibility for their child’s in-school behavior● Send children to school with proper attention to their health and hygiene● Contact the teacher when there is a question or concern

Picture DayGeskus Photography will take school pictures on Friday, October 4, 2019. Picture retakes will be Friday, November 15, 2019. A brochure and prepayment envelope will be sent home in advance of the date in which orders will be placed. Prepaid order forms must be turned in on the day that the pictures are taken. The company will offer retakes if families are not satisfied with the first set of portraits and a full refund if families are still not satisfied.

TECHNOLOGY POLICY

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment [PPRA], 20 U.SC. 1232h affords legal guardians or eligible students certain rights regarding the conduct of the Newport School District of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes and certain physical exams. The PPRA requires the Newport School District to notify legal guardians and to obtain consent or allow legal guardians to opt their child out of participating in certain school activities.

Technology

Responsible Use Guidelines The purpose of this document is to inform parents, guardians, students and staff of the rules governing the use of district and personal technology resources while on or near school property, in school vehicles and at school-sponsored activities, as well as the use of district technology resources via off-campus remote access. Please read the following carefully before signing your registration packet. Newport School District reserves the right to modify the terms and conditions of this document at any time.

Introduction

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Newport School District is pleased to offer students and staff the privilege of access to district computers, communications technologies, the Internet, and an array of technology resources to promote educational excellence and support our educational goals.

Pursuant to New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated 194:3-d, this Responsible Use Guidelines and Agreement shall serve as a statement on the responsible use of the various “technology resources” available to all authorized students of the Newport School District including, but not limited to, the Newport School District computers, network, electronic mail system (e-mail), website (homepage), and Internet access. This includes all internal (intranet) and external (Internet) connections, as well as all of the computer hardware, operating system, software, application software, stored texts and data files. This also includes electronic mail, local database, externally accessed databases, CD-ROM, recorded magnetic or optical media, clip art, digital images, digitized information, communications technologies 1, and new technologies as they become available. Stand-alone workstations are also governed by this agreement.Each student/staff member is responsible for her/his use of technology, whether personal or district-provided. While using district and personal technology resources on or near school property, in school vehicles and at school-sponsored activities, as well as using district technology resources via off-campus remote access, each student/staff member must act in an appropriate manner consistent with school, district, and legal guidelines. It is the joint responsibility of school personnel and the parent or guardian of each student to educate the student about his/her responsibilities and to establish expectations when using technology.

District technology resources are provided to students to conduct research, complete assignments, and communicate with others in furtherance of their education. Access is a privilege not a right; as such, general rules of school behavior apply. Access to these services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Just as students are responsible for good behavior in a classroom or a school hallway, they must also be responsible when using school computer networks or personal technologies.

Using the Internet and Communications SystemsThe educational value of technology integration in curriculum is substantial and access to the Internet enables students/staff to use extensive online libraries and databases.Newport School District believes that the benefits of student/staff access to the Internet in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration exceed any disadvantages. Families should be warned that some material accessible via the Internet might contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, profane, sexually oriented or potentially offensive to some people. While the intent is to make Internet access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access these other materials as well. Newport School District does not condone or permit the use of this material and uses content filtering software to protect students to the extent possible. Parents and guardians must be aware that content filtering tools are not completely fail-safe and while at school, direct supervision by school personnel of each student using a computer is desired but not always possible. The school district is not responsible for the quality and content of information available to your child through the Internet.While exercising privileges to use the Internet as an educational resource, students shall also accept the responsibility for all material received.If a student accidentally accessed inappropriate material they should back out of that information at once and notify the supervising adult.

Students must comply with district standards and honor this agreement to be permitted the use of technology and are expected to use technology resources in a manner consistent with the rules below and will be held responsible for their intentional misuse. Students who do not abide by district policies will be subject to disciplinary action.

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Students/staff should understand that all digital storage is district property, and as such, network administrators will review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that students/staff are using technology responsibly.

Acceptable Use and ActivitiesAll district technology resources, including but not limited to district computers, communications systems and the Internet, must be used in support of education and academic research and must be used in a manner consistent with the educational mission and objectives of Newport School District.Activities that are permitted and encouraged include: school work; original creation and presentation of academic work; research on topics being studied in school research for opportunities outside of school related to community service, employment or further education.

Students are responsible for appropriate behavior when using the Newport School District technology resources, just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. As outlined in the Student Handbook,

general school rules for behavior and communications apply.Student users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette, using polite and

appropriate language.

Student users have the responsibility of keeping all pornographic material, inappropriate text files, or files dangerous to the integrity of the network from entering the school, and to report all violations.Students are expected to report harassment, threats, hate-speech and inappropriate content to a teacher or administrator. If a student has any questions about whether a specific activity is permitted, he or she should ask a teacher or administrator.

Unacceptable UseBehaviors and activities that shall result in appropriate disciplinary action include, but are not limited to:

● Interfering with the normal and proper operation of the computers, network, email system, website or Internet access;

● Damaging or modifying computers or networks (or attempting to) which includes but is not limited intentional or neglectful transmission of viruses or other destructive computer files; using devices to alter the function of the computer or network, hacking into district or external computers; intentionally bypassing district filters or avoid monitoring or review by the system administrator or District staff.

● Trespassing in another's folders, work, or files including, but not limited to erasing, modifying, renaming, or making unusable anyone else’s files or programs.

● Creating, transferring, accessing, viewing, storing or otherwise using any text, image, movie or sound recording that contains pornography, profanity, obscenity, language or sexually explicit materials.

● Downloading (or attempting to) software or files without authorization or approval from district staff.● Using obscene language; harassing, insulting, ostracizing, or intimidating others or conducting oneself

in a way that is harmful or deliberately offensive to others.● Downloading, storing or transferring unnecessarily large files;● Sharing personal passwords or personal information with others, using someone else’s password or

misrepresenting one’s true identity including using another account than one’s own to log onto the network.

● Plagiarism or representing the work of others as one's own including but not limited to representing Copyright ©, Registered ®, and/or Trademark ™ materials as one’s own work; Searching, viewing, communicating, publishing, downloading, storing, or retrieving materials that are not related to schoolwork, community service, employment or further education (thus, searching inappropriate

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materials is not permitted); Non-educational uses such as games, role-playing multi-user environments, gambling, junk mail, chain mail, jokes or raffles; participating in online chat rooms or using instant messaging, unless specifically assigned by a teacher; use of district resources for commercial purposes, personal financial gain, or fraud; promoting, supporting or celebrating religion or religious institutions.

● Involvement in any activity prohibited by law or school district policy.

Unacceptable email use:● Uploading, downloading, forwarding, or viewing hate mail, chain letters, harassing or libelous

statements, discriminatory remarks, pornographic materials, violent materials, or any other inappropriate materials.

● Reposting or forwarding someone else’s communication or emails without that person’s prior consent.● Using harassing, racist, sexist or discriminatory remarks and other antisocial behaviors;● Using e-mail, newsgroups, list servers, instant chat rooms and discussion groups for non-educational

purposes;● Newport School District reserves the right to add and include additional behaviors and activities that can

result in appropriate disciplinary action.

Consequences of Misuse Misuse of personal or district technology resources while on or near school property, in school vehicles and at school-sponsored activities, as well as the use of district technology resources via off-campus remote access will result in appropriate consequences consistent with the current disciplinary guidelines of the Newport School District up to and including expulsion. Each principal, along with the district administration will deem what is appropriate use and that decision is final.The principal and district administration may close an account at any time as deemed necessary. user and/or parent/guardian may be held financially responsible for any harm to the system as a result of intentional misuse.

A school may temporarily hold (pending parental or same-day pick up) personal technology resources that are used inappropriately.Individual schools may choose to have additional rules and regulations pertaining to the use of personal, networked, and communications resources in their respective buildings. Furthermore, intentional unauthorized access and/or damage to networks, servers, user accounts, passwords, or other district resources may be punishable under local, state, or Federal law.

1(Communication technologies include email, websites, cell phones, pagers, text messaging, instant messaging, blogging, podcasting, listservs, and/or other emerging technologies).

Electronic Mail (E-mail)Your student’s teachers will be using Google Apps for lessons, assignments, and communication. Google Apps student accounts created by the school district will be managed based on grade level and adherence to our Responsible Use Policies (GBEF and JICL). Teacher supervision and school content filters are used to prevent access to inappropriate content and ensure that student use of digital tools follows the district Responsible Use Policy referenced above. All students will receive access to the document creation, shared calendar, and collaboration tools.

Internet email will not be an option at this time for students in grades K-5. For students in grades 6-12, email will be enabled within the SAU 43 domain.

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Google Apps for Education is also available at home, the library, or anywhere with Internet access. School staff will monitor student use of Apps when students are at school. Parents are responsible for monitoring their child’s use of Apps when accessing programs from home. Students are responsible for their own behavior at all times.

All email use within the district must adhere to the ownership and usage guidelines as follows:● Email will be used appropriately in a school setting.For virus protection, email from an unknown sender

should not be opened.● Email message sent within the district are considered public record so must protect the privacy of rights

of students and families.● The school district reserves the right to access and disclose the contents of all messages created, sent, or

received.● Students and staff are responsible for all mail sent and received.● Incidental and occasional personal use of email is permitted.Such messages become the property of the

school district are subject to the same conditions as school/business email.●

The following laws and policies help to protect our students online:

Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA)The school is required by CIPA to have technology measures and policies in place that protect students from harmful materials including those that are obscene and pornographic. This means that student email is filtered. Mail containing harmful content from inappropriate sites will be blocked.-- CIPA - http://fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cipa.html

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)COPPA applies to commercial companies and limits their ability to collect personal information from children under 13. By default, Google advertising is turned off for Apps for Education users. No personal student information is collected for commercial purposes. This permission form allows the school to act as an agent for parents in the collection of information within the school context. The school’s use of student information is solely for education purposes.-- COPPA - http://www.ftc.gov/privacy/coppafaqs.shtm

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) - for technologyFERPA protects the privacy of student education records and gives parents rights to review student records. Under FERPA, schools may disclose directory information (name, phone, address, grade level, etc.), but parents may request that the school not disclose this information. See Newport School District policy JRA (available on the SAU43.org website) for more information.

The school will not publish confidential education records (grades, student ID #, etc...) for public viewing on the Internet.

The school may publish student work and photos for public viewing but will not publish student last names or other personally identifiable information.

Parents may request that photos, names and general directory information about their children not be published.Parents have the right at any time to investigate the contents of their child’s email and Apps for Education files. -- FERPA - http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa

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NEWPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL POLICIES

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

Individual student records are on file in the school. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents/guardians and students over 18 of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records. They are:

● The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within forty-five days of the day the district receives a request for access. Parents/guardians or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.● The right to request an amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/guardian or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents/guardians or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading.

● The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. (See Notification of Disclosure of Directory Information below.) One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and lawenforcement unit personnel ), a person serving on the school board, a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as a an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or

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therapist), or a parent/guardian or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

Upon request, the district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. A student's permanent record will be transferred as the student advances in the school system. The individual records from each school will be kept at that particular school.

Mckinney-Vento Homeless Assistance ActAccording to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, a family or youth is homeless if:

1. They are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason

2. Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations 3. Living in emergency or transitional shelters4. Abandoned in hospitals5. Awaiting foster care placement6. Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or

similar settings7. Unaccompanied youth who are youth not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian

Remember that the school district is available to assist families and lend support, so that each child and youth is in school and achieving. Please speak with your school principal and/or guidance counselor. All matters of this concern will always be confidential and will be dealt with sensitively.

Residency RequirementsSchool district policy mandates that no person shall attend school, or send a pupil to the school, in any district of which the pupil is not a legal resident, without the consent of the district or of the school board. Questions about residency can be answered by the SAU office.

Students from each of sending districts (Goshen, Croydon, Lempster, and Unity) must register at their local SAU office with proof of residence as part of the tuition agreements.

● Goshen should contact SAU 101 at 54 Mill Village Road North, Goshen, NH 03752 or 603-495-1293● Croydon should contact SAU 99 at P.O. Box 389 Newport, NH 03773 or 603-863-2080● Lempster should contact SAU 71 at 29 School Road, Lempster, NH 03605 or 603-863-1080● Unity should contact Unity Elementary School at 864 2nd NH Turnpike, Unity, NH 03773 or 603-542-

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Section 504 PlansSection 504 is a far-reaching law that extends protections to individuals with disabilities in most aspects of their lives. Section 504 defines an individual with a disability as anyone who experiences a "mental, psychological or physiological disorder that interferes with an individual's civil right to one or more major life activities."

When parents or school personnel identify a concern for which a 504 plan might be appropriate, the principal will convene a meeting of a 504 planning team. The team varies from student to student and generally consists of the parent, the classroom teacher, and any other school personnel with knowledge of the student that might be helpful (e.g. building nurse, psychologist, social worker, learning behavior specialist etc.). The 504 planning team then will determine if the child is disabled within the meaning of Section 504. Information used by the team may come from standardized measures, interviews with the child and parents, rating scales, observational

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data, adaptive behavior assessments, teacher records, social and cultural background data, criterion referenced measures, medical reports and/or records reviews.

Upon its determination that a child is eligible under Section 504, the 504 planning team must determine what instructional accommodations or modifications are needed to meet the child's needs as they relate to the general educational setting. The 504 planning team shall then prepare a 504 plan for an eligible disabled student. The 504 plan provides the reasonable instructional accommodations and modifications to which the student is entitled, based on the student's individual needs. Once the plan has been developed, the general education team (including specialists and related arts teachers) is responsible for implementing the plan.

Student Records NoticeNewport School District, in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, guarantees students, parents and guardians the right to inspect all personally identifiable records maintained in the school. Students, parents and guardians may challenge any educational records that they believe are inaccurate or misleading. The principal will respond to a written request to inspect records in atimely manner, but no later than forty-five days.

Student Rights Regarding Participation In Data CollectionThe Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment [PPRA], 20 U.SC. 1232h affords legal guardians or eligible students certain rights regarding the conduct of the Newport School District of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes and certain physical exams. The PPRA requires the Newport School District to notify legal guardians and to obtain consent or allow legal guardians to opt their child out of participating in certain school activities.

Title I Parent Involvement In EducationThe board endorses the parent/guardian involvement goals of Title I and encourages the regular participation by parents/guardians of Title I eligible children in all aspects of the program. The education of children is viewed as a cooperative effort among the parents/guardians, school and community. In this policy, the word “parent” also includes guardians and other family members involved in supervising the child’s schools. Pursuant to federal law, the district will develop jointly with, agree on with, and distribute to parents of children participating in the Title I program, written parent involvement policy.

At the required annual meeting of Title I parents, parents will have opportunities to participate in the design, development, operation and evaluation of the program for the next school year. Proposed activities shall be presented to fulfill the requirements of parental involvement goals. In addition to the required annual meeting, at least three additional meetings shall be held, at various times of the day and/or evenings, for parents of children participating in the Title I program. These meetings shall be used to provide parents with:

1. Information about programs provided under Title I;2. A description and explanation of the curriculum in use, the forms of academic assessment used to

measure student progress, and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet;3. Opportunities to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the

education of their children; and4. The opportunity to bring parent comments, if they are dissatisfied with the school’s Title I program, to

the district level.

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Title I funding, if sufficient, may be used to facilitate parent attendance at meetings through payment of transportation and childcare costs.

The parents of children identified to participate in Title I programs shall receive from the school principal and Title I staff an explanation of the reasons supporting each child’s selection for the program, a set of objectives to be addressed, and a description of the services to be provided. Opportunities will be provided for the parents to meet with the classroom and Title I teachers to discuss their child’s progress. Parents will also receive guidance as to how they can assist in the education of their children at home.

Resources:“National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement Programs” National NTA (reprinted May 1998); Improving America’s School Act, P.L. No. 103-382, Sec. 1112; Local Education Agency Plans, P.L. 107-110, “No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,” Title I-Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged, Sec 1118 Policy.

Title IX Policy NoticeIt is the policy of the Newport School District not to discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, creed, color, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or national origin in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies in conformance with state and federal law. Inquiries regarding compliance with this policy may be directed to Superintendent of Schools, 86 N. Main Street, Newport, NH 03773 or the NH Human Rights Commission [603-271-2767].

Student Searches And Their PropertyThe superintendent, principal or designee of the school (authorized personnel) may detain and search any student or students on the premises of the public schools, or while attending, or while in transit to, any event or function sponsored or authorized by the school under the following conditions:

● When any authorized person has reasonable suspicion that the student may have on the students' person or property alcohol, dangerous weapons, electronic paging devices, controlled dangerous substances as defined by law, stolen property if the property in question is reasonably suspected to have taken from a student, a school employee, or the school during school activities, or any other items which have been or may reasonably be disruptive of school operations or in violation of student discipline rules and applicable provisions of the student handbook.

● School lockers and school desks are the property of the school, not the student. The users of lockers, desks, and other storage areas or compartments have no reasonable expectation of privacy from school employees as to the contents of those areas. Lockers, desks, and other storage areas, or compartments may be subjected to searches at any time with or without reasonable suspicion. Students are not to use any school area or property to contain any thing that should not be at school. Students shall not exchange lockers or desks or use any lockers or desks other than those assigned to them by the principal.

● Authorized personnel may search a student whenever the student consents to such a search. However, consent obtained through threats or coercion is not considered to be freely and voluntarily given.

● Authorized personnel shall have authority to detain the student or students and to preserve any contraband seized, contact parent/guardian and appropriate law enforcement personnel.

● Any searches of students as outlined herein will be conducted by two persons, at least one of whom is an authorized person who is the same sex as the person being searched.

● Strip searches are forbidden. No clothing except cold weather outer garments will be removed before or during a search.

● Authorized personnel is permitted to arrange for the use of trained canines to aid in the search process.

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● Items that may be seized during a lawful search - in addition to those mentioned in paragraph 1 above - shall include, but not be limited to, any item, object, instrument, or material commonly recognized as unlawful or prohibited. For example: prescription or non-prescription medicines as referenced in policy, switchblade, knives, brass knuckles, billy clubs, and pornographic literature are commonly recognizable as unlawful or prohibited items. Such items, or any other items which may pose a threat to a student,

● The student body, or other school personnel, shall be seized, identified as to ownership if possible, and held for release to proper authority.

Interrogations and Searches It is the policy of the school to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the interest of the larger welfare of all citizens. At the same time, schools have the responsibility to parents for the welfare of the students while they are in the care of the school. To carry out this responsibility school officials should observe the following:

● A student may not be interrogated on school premises by an authority without the knowledge of a school official.

● Parents of minor students will be notified prior to student involvement in police business while on school property. (Except pursuant to RSA169-C:38.)

● Any interrogation must be done in private and with an official school representative present. ● In a situation where the student is the subject of the investigation, the police will notify parents prior to

contact on school property or will provide a court order to school personnel in the form of signed verification. (Except pursuant to RSA169-C:38.)

● A student may not be released into the custody of persons other than parent or legal guardian, unless placed under arrest by legal authority.

● If a student is removed from the school by legal authority, the school will attempt to contact the student's parents.

● The school district reserves the right to inspect lockers, desks and/or cubbies at all times. The school district retains ownership and possession over student storage areas.

Before conducting a search of a student or the student's personal belongings (other than lockers, desks, and/or cubbies) the administrator and/or his/her designee will attempt to gain the consent of the student to conduct the search. The administrator and/or his/her designee may conduct a non-consensual search of a student (and/or items ie: backpack, car, etc.) if the administrator and/or his/her designee has reasonable suspicion to believe the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or the rules of the school (School Board Policy JIH)

If you have questions or concerns…For questions or concerns about school policy, school rules, curriculum, incidents or daily activities, please follow the following procedures.

1. Contact your student’s teacher first. 2. If a matter remains unresolved to your satisfaction after teacher contact, you should contact the school

principal. 3. If the principal is unable to resolve your question or concern, then contact the superintendent of schools.4. If your question or concern remains unresolved or unanswered after contacting the preceding staff

members, please feel free to contact a local school board member.

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APPENDIX A

R O A RRespect, Ownership, Academic Excellence, and Responsibility are the foundation of all school guidelines and we strongly feel that everyone at Richards School deserves to be treated safely and with respect. Teachers will discuss school rules and consequences with students regularly. There is no tolerance for any aggressive or violent behavior in the school. Every adult staff member has the authority and responsibility to address inappropriate student behavior, and every person in the school is expected to be polite, respectful and courteous. A successful educational experience deserves and demands the cooperation of the school staff, parents/guardians and students. As part of that cooperation, we have designed the following compact and hope you will work with us to make this a wonderful year.

Richards School Tiger Cub Expectations

● I will be respectful and kind.● I will listen to the adult in charge as I would want him/her to listen to me.● I will be PAWSitive and kind in my words, tone, and actions.● I will do my best to be an active learner.● I will own my behavior and accept consequences for my actions.

Listed below are some guidelines which support these five expectations:● Students must learn to respect the values and dignity of each individual.● Students will be given opportunities to be leaders as well as followers.● Students will be given choices to help develop decision-making skills.● Students will be given opportunities to develop positive values.

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● Students learn from their failures as well as their successes.● Students will learn to recognize the natural consequences of their actions.● Students will be responsible for following the specific rules of their individual classrooms.● Students will listen when adults are speaking.● Students will learn when talking is appropriate and when it is not.● Students will move throughout the building and classrooms in a quiet, orderly manner.● Students will learn to work independently and in groups of various sizes.● Students will learn to attend to tasks at hand.● Students will handle all materials safely and with respect.● Students are expected to finish all tasks to the best of their abilities.

APPENDIX A

OUR R.O.A.R. RUBRICS

LOCATION RESPECT OWNERSHIP ACADEMIC RESPONSIBILITY

Classroom ▪ Be engaged in the classroom activities

▪ Speak in turn and respond politely at the appropriate times

▪ Dress appropriately▪ Be respectful by

raising your hand▪ Actively listen while

others speak

▪ Resolve conflicts constructively

▪ Treat others how you want to be treated

▪ Be honest about your choices and actions

▪ Appropriate use of electronics

▪ Do your own work▪ Come prepared for

class▪ Do your work and

do your best▪ Start / End class

following procedures

▪ Keep track of due dates

▪ Be in class, stay in class, arrive on time

▪ Come prepared for class

▪ Report unsafe behavior or conditions

▪ Take care of your learning environment

Hallway ▪ Use language, voice and actions that is respectful of others and the environment

▪ Respond to and acknowledge others appropriately

▪ Be aware of your surroundings

▪ Stay electronic free▪ Walk on the right

side of the hallway▪ Use restroom and

get drinks before class

▪ Be where you are suppose to be

▪ Respond and acknowledge others appropriately

▪ Minimize the amount of time out of class

▪ Report unsafe behavior and conditions

Cafeteria ▪ Interact Positively with others

▪ Wait with patience▪ Clear your table and

dispose of trash properly

▪ All seats are available to all students

▪ Remain in cafeteria for the full lunch period

▪ Use all property and materials with permission as intended

▪ Leave food in the cafeteria

▪ Eat healthy to engage your brain

▪ Manage time to eat

▪ Clear your table and dispose of trash properly

▪ Only be in the cafeteria for lunch during your assigned period

Bathroom ▪ Use all property and materials with permission and care

▪ Keep the area clean

▪ Maintain personal space

▪ Maintain personal health and safety

▪ Use bathroom within time limits

▪ Use bathroom at appropriate times

▪ Sign out/in of your classroom

▪ Report unsafe behavior or

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conditions

Assemblies/Events/Field Trips

▪ Model positive behavior

▪ Display school spirit in appropriate ways both at Richards and at other facilities

▪ Be respectful of all school and non-school staff

▪ Applaud speakers and performances

▪ Only use designated entrances and exits

▪ In case of an emergency, follow evacuation procedures

▪ Maintain personal health and safety

▪ Be respectful▪ Engage in activities

and find ways how to apply to themselves

▪ Help create an environment where all can enjoy the activity

▪ Stay in designated area

▪ Consume food and drink in appropriate areas

▪ Report unsafe behavior or conditions

▪ Keep area clean

APPENDIX BNEWPORT - SAU #43 - SCHOOL YEAR 2019-2020

RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGY USE POLICY AGREEMENT

This form must be signed and dated by all Technology Users prior to accessing Newport School District technology resources.

I hereby certify that I have read and understand the conditions set forth in the Responsible Technology Use Policy. Signature of Student: __________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian____________________________________________________________

Date:________________________--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PERMISSION FOR USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS, VIDEO & STUDENT WORK

During the school year we like to take pictures of our students to display throughout the school, use with their schoolwork, videos, yearbook, and/or PowerPoint presentations, and appear in the local newspapers and our Newport School yearbook. Please grant your approval (without parental consent, individual student photos will not be published).

Child(ren)’s Name (Please Print): ____________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian____________________________________________________________ Date:________________________

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Our family has received a copy of the Richards School Student/Parent Handbook for the academic year 2018 - 2019

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and understand that our family is responsible for all policies, rules, and regulations contained herein.

____________________________________________________________________________________Child(ren)’s Name (Please Print)

____________________________________________________________________________________ Name of Parent or Legal Guardian (Please Print)

____________________________________________________________________________________Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian Date

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