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Welcome to West Elementary School! We are looking forward to a

great school year. You are an important part of the West family and

so we invite you to become acquainted with your school, principal,

and teachers. All of us are interested in the progress and welfare of

your child. We are happy to talk with you about it at any time.

Come and visit or give us a call. Our school telephone number is

254-6251.

PURPOSE

This handbook is presented to you to inform you about certain

policies and procedures that effect West parents and boys and girls.

We hope that you will find this information useful. Please keep and

use this handbook and discuss the contents with your children.

GRANDVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT

Grandville Public Schools…Lead to learn, learn to lead.

GRANDVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS CORE BELIEF VALUES

We believe that…

All students can learn…not in the same way; not on the same

day

Grandville Public Schools is responsible to provide the

resources to maximize student potential and meet individual

needs.

All students will be equipped with life skills through a broad

range of educational and extracurricular opportunities.

Education is a partnership between students, parents,

community members and businesses and all are a welcomed

part of the schools.

Graduates will have the skills to be responsible contributing

members of society in a changing world.

Our schools will provide a safe, nurturing environment that

advances the dignity of all individuals.

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NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

Grandville Public Schools is an equal opportunity institution. It is

our expressed policy that no person shall be unlawfully excluded

from participation, be denied benefits of, or otherwise subjected to

discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion,

marital status, national origin, sex, age or handicap/disability in its

activities or programs as required by Title VI, Title IX and Section

504.

Any person believing that the Grandville Public School District or

any part of the school organization has inadequately applied the

principles and/or regulations of (1) Title IX of the Education

Amendment Act of 1972, (2) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of

1973, (3) the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and (4) Title II of the

Americans with Disability Act of 1990 may bring forward a

complaint, which shall be referred to as a grievance, to Tim Purkey,

the local Coordinator at the following address: 3131 Barrett Ave. SW,

Grandville, MI 49418. Phone (616) 254-6558.

GRANDVILLE DISTRICT BUILDING PHONE NUMBERS

Roger Bearup (Superintendent) 254-6570

Central Elementary 254-6011

Century Park Learning Center 254-6821

Cummings Elementary 254-6041

East Elementary 254-6081

Grand View Elementary 254-6121

South Elementary 254-6211

West Elementary 254-6251

Image Program 254-6270

Middle School 254-6610

High School 254-6430

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Community Education 254-6553

Pre-School 254-6553

School Nurse 254-6455

Transportation 254-6530

WEST ELEMENTARY MISSION STATEMENT

We work together to promote educational, social and personal

growth;

Educate, encourage and motivate students to be responsible learners;

Students, parents and staff strive to obtain excellence in education,

for Tomorrow’s learners.

We Educate Students for Tomorrow

THE ROLE OF PARENTS AND SCHOOL

The school and parents must work together to provide the best

possible education for students. This can be achieved by students,

school and parents working together in a cooperative manner. To

this end, parents are encouraged to:

1. Stress the importance and value of an education to students

and to encourage them to come to school with a positive

attitude that includes an enthusiastic and sincere interest in

learning.

2. Provide encouragement and the appropriate place, time and

atmosphere in the home for students to do homework.

3. Extend the student's learning day by providing educational

experiences such as trips to museums, the zoo, etc.

4. See that students take advantage of the educational

opportunities available at the school by promoting exceptional

attendance, thus scheduling appointments and trips outside the

school day.

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5. Maintain contact with teachers through parent-teacher

conferences and other meetings such as a request for meetings

because of unsatisfactory classroom work.

6. Assist students and see to it that students make up work when

they are absent.

WEST ELEMENTARY STAFF AND CONTACT NUMBERS

Ann DeYoung, Principal 254-6252

Kelly Jenison, Secretary 254-6251

Melanie Peters - Clerical Aide

Attendance Hotline – 254-6388

KINDERGARTEN

Stacey Byl 254-6814

Holly McNeil 254-6004

FIRST GRADE

Kim Richardson 254-6261

Lori Herbst 254-6257

SECOND GRADE

John Wiercinski 254-6258

Cindy Zavitz 254-6275

THIRD GRADE

Heather Smith 254-6269

Pam VanVelsen 254-6183

FOURTH GRADE

Gary Brunsting 254-6264

Julie Cook 254-6268

FIFTHGRADE

Tami Miars 254-6262

Chip Rybicki 254-6266

SIXTH GRADE

Jennifer Beverwyk 254-6651

Julie Parish 254-6096

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Resource Room

Abrah Jackson 254-6409

Uppper Elementary CI Room

Jenn Grant - 254-6045

*Aides: Val Hubert; Di Timmer

BUILDING AIDES

Chris Braunschneider, Carol

Haan, Maggie Pitsch,

SPECIAL CLASSES

Art – Tara Meeuwsen

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Music –Diana Smoltz

P.E. - Tammi Brummel-Fee

Science – Judy Priest

INTERVENTION SPECIALIST

Stephanie Johnson

LIBRARY SUPERVISOR

Jan Zylstra - 254-6254

TYPE to LEARN

Kate Groendyke

HOT LUNCH COLLECTION

Jill Whitcomb

LUNCHROOM SUPERVISORS

Becky Tikkanen & Kim Mabry

PLAYGROUND

SUPERVISORS

Norva VanderWiere

Kay Wolters

COOK

Eljean Kadzban;

Jill Wolfert

CUSTODIANS

Lee Ballou

Kim Mabry

SPECIAL SERVICES

* Angela Thornton - Director,

Special Education

* Beth Campbell

School Psychologist

* Naomi Betancourt

School Social Worker

* Shannon Giles &

Jill Carpenter

Speech Pathologist

*Sally Geerlings

Occupational Therapist

SCHOOL NURSE - HIGH

SCHOOL

Sally Weener

TRANSPORTATION

SUPERVISOR

Arlyn Cribley

CENTRAL OFFICE

Roger Bearup, Superintendent

Debra Reese - Asst.

Superintendent., Business

Dr. Scott Merkel, - Asst. Supt.,

Human Resources & Curr.

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS Christy Buck Bob Wondergem

Rob Blitchok Barbara Palmer

Karen Cheydleur John Garbarino

Bob Persky

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WEST ELEMENTARY

SCHOOL CALENDAR

2015-2016

Sept. 8 School Begins

Sept. 10 Picture Day

Sept. 11 Food Sale

Sept. 15 Open House

Sept. 14-18 Dibels Testing (K-3)

Sept. 17 Constitution Day

Sept. 18 Spirit Day/Bulldog Pride

Sept. 22 PTC Meeting @6:30 PM

Sept. 29 Skating Party -6:00-8:00 PM

Oct. 6 Donuts with Dad @7:45 AM

Oct. 1 4 Mid Term

Oct. 15 Picture Re-Takes

Oct. 16 School Tailgater

MSU/UofM-Spirit Day

Oct. 20 Muffins with Mom @7:45 AM

Oct. 22 Food Sale Pick Up

Oct. 30 Halloween Parties-

Glow Dance Parties

Nov. 10 PTC Meeting@6:30 PM

Nov. 16-20 Care Week

Nov. 17&19 Parent/Teacher Conferences

Nov. 20 Spirit Day/Crazy Hair Day

Nov. 20 Report Cards sent home or

at conferences

Nov. 24 End 1st Trimester

Nov. 25-27 NO SCHOOL

Thanksgiving Break

Dec. 10 Skating Party – 6:00-8:00 PM

Dec. 18 Christmas Parties

Dec. 21-31 NO SCHOOL

Jan. 1 Holiday Break

Jan. 4 School Resumes

Jan. 11-15 Dibels Testing (K-3)

Jan. 12 PTC Meeting @ 6:30 PM

Jan. 21 Lip Sync 2016 Rehearsal

Jan. 22 Lip Sync 2016

Jan. 18 NO SCHOOL- In-Service Day

Jan. 26 Mid Term

Jan. 29 Spirit Day-Sports Jersey Day

Feb. 12 Valentine Parties

Feb. 15-16 NO SCHOOL

Winter Break

Feb. 22 Skating Party 6:00-8:00 PM

Mar. 1 Donuts with Dad @7:45 AM

Mar. 5 Barnes & Noble Book Fair

Mar. 7 Taste of Grandville

Mar. 8 PTC Meeting @ 6:30 PM

Mar. 10-15 Parent/Teacher conferences

Report Cards sent home at

Conferences

Mar. 11 End of 2nd Trimester

Mar. 22 Muffins with Mom @7:45 AM

Mar. 25 Spirit Day/Pajama Day

April 1-8 NO SCHOOL

Spring Break

Apr. 27 Mid Term

April 29 Spirit Day/Hat Day

May 2-6 Dibels Testing (K-3)

May 3 Kindergarten Orientation

May 4 Staff Appreciation

May 10 PTC Meeting @ 6:30 PM

May 12 Volunteer Appreciation

Joe to Go

May 27-30 NO SCHOOL

Memorial Day

June 3 Field Day

June 10 6th Grade Breakfast

June 10 Last Day of School

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DAILY TIME SCHEDULE

8:23 Warning Bell

8:28 Tardy Bell (school begins)

Grade Lunch Recess

K, 1st and 2nd 11:30 – 11:50 11:50-12:30

3rd and 4th 12:20-12:40 11:40-12:20

5th and 6th 12:00 – 12:20 12:20-1:00

3:41 School Dismissal

ENTRANCE PROCEDURES

To ensure the safety of all our students the following entrance

procedures should be followed:

1. Students should arrive at school AFTER 8:10A.M. and BEFORE

8:23 A.M.

2. Students may be dropped off in the circle lot in front of the

building. There should be no students dropped off in the north

or south parking lots. Please use the student drop off zone

located in the circle lot.

3. All students should go directly to the playground where they can

enjoy supervised play or stand in line quietly at their grade level

entrance. Students should not enter the building before school

starts, unless they are accompanied by an adult or eating

breakfast.

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4. At the sound of the warning bell students will be greeted at the

door by their teacher and escorted to their classrooms.

In case of rain, students will meet in the gym and stand quietly with their

grade level peers until the warning bell rings. They will then be dismissed

to class by grade level.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

To ensure the safety of all our students the following dismissal

procedures should be followed:

1. Dismissal procedures will begin with each class lining up in their

classroom.

2. When the dismissal bell rings, each class will be escorted to their

exit door by their teacher.

3. Bus students will walk around the back of the building to the bus

lot.

4. Parents may pick up their students in drop off/pick up zone in the

circle lot in front of the building. Students must wait in the pick

up zone until the adult picking them up comes to the pick up

zone to walk them to their vehicle.

5. Older brothers and sisters picking up younger brothers or sisters

will be dismissed at their designated door and then walk around

the outside of the building to their younger brothers or sisters

designated door to meet them.

BICYCLES

Students in grades 1 - 6 who normally walk to school may ride their

bicycles. Parents should discuss with their children the need for

safety when riding bicycles.

1. Bicycles are to travel on the side of the road with traffic.

2. Bicycles are to be walked while on school property.

3. Bicycles should be parked in the proper area during school

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hours.

4. For security reasons we recommend that bicycles be locked. We

cannot assume responsibility for loss or damage.

5. It is not recommended that kindergartners ride bicycles to and

from school.

6. Always wear a helmet while riding.

WALKING TO SCHOOL

Students living close enough are

encouraged to walk to school. Students should never walk alone and

should always stay on the sidewalks. Adult crossing guards are on

duty from 8:00 to 8:28 and 3:35 to 4:05 on the corner of Jack Alan and

Canal as well as the corner of 40th and Aaron.

SAFETY PATROL

Pairs of student safeties will be posted on the corners closets to the

school building to assist walking students. Safeties are to be at their

assigned posts each day and remain there during the designated time

(8:10 - 8:28 a.m. and 3:35-3:55 p.m.). There are no safeties on posts at

noon.

PARKING

The front circle lot will be used for cars transporting children to and

from school. Please be aware of the designated bus loading zone in

the north parking lot. Please do not drop or pick up students from

the north or south lots before or after school.

BUS GUIDELINES

Bus transportation is a service provided for public and parochial

school students who reside within the Grandville School District.

Students who are disruptive may be temporarily or permanently

denied bus service, depending on the seriousness of the infraction.

Denial of bus privileges is not an action to be taken lightly. Our

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mutual goal is to develop student self-discipline which leads to

mature responsibility.

* * TIPS FOR SAFE SCHOOL BUS

RIDING * *

1. Leave home early enough to arrive at your bus stop on time.

2. Wait for your bus in a safe place - well off the roadway.

3. Enter your bus in an orderly manner, and take your seat.

4. Follow the instructions of your school bus driver.

5. Remain in your seat while your bus is in motion.

6. Keep your head and arms inside the bus at all times.

7. Keep aisles clear at all times.

8. Remain quiet and orderly.

9. Be courteous to your school bus driver and fellow passengers.

10. Be alert to traffic when leaving the bus.

SPECIAL EVENTS BUSING

No busing will be provided for special events such as birthday

parties, scouting, activities, overnight stays, or just to bring friends

home to visit.

EMERGENCY BUSING

Should an emergency occur related to transportation, please call the

transportation office at 254-6530.

VISITORS

Parents are welcome to visit. Please check in at the office upon

arrival. Children that are not enrolled in a Grandville Public School

are not allowed to visit without an adult.

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ATTENDANCE/ABSENCES

Since good progress in school depends to a great extent upon good

attendance, each child should strive to maintain an excellent

attendance record. When a child misses a day of school, it actually

costs him two days of school work, the day of the absence and the

lack of preparation for the day of return.

Students who have good attendance records are most likely to

achieve higher grades, enjoy school life to a greater degree, and have

more employment opportunities after leaving school. Prospective

employers expect promptness and regular attendance from

employees and are reluctant to hire persons who have not established

good habits of responsibility and self-discipline. Regular attendance

and promptness are fostered by the attention given them during the

years of school attendance.

ABSENCES

Good attendance is extremely important. If your child will not be in

school, for any reason, please notify the school office through our

attendance line at 254-6388 before 9:00 a.m. on the day of his/her

absence. We need complete cooperation in this matter due to the fact

that this policy has been instituted for the safety of your child. If

your child misses school due to a fever we ask that he/she does not

return to school until the fever has been gone for 24 hours.

TAKING STUDENTS OFF SCHOOL GROUNDS

All parents must report to the school office before taking a child off

the school grounds. When taking a child off school grounds, an adult

guardian must "sign the child out" in the office. This is for the child's

protection.

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RETURNING HOME FROM SCHOOL

Please send a note to your child's teacher any time your child is not to

go home in the normal way. If you do not send a note, with your

signature on it, we will send your child home in the normal way.

TARDINESS

A student is tardy if he is not in his classroom when the last bell

rings. If a bus is late, students will not be counted tardy. Students

must stop in the office for a tardy slip if they arrive after 8:28 a.m.

EXCUSES FOR RECESS OR P.E.

In most cases if a child is well enough to come to school, he is well

enough to go out to recess. If children are not to take part in recess, a

written excuse must be received from the parent. If the child is to be

excused more than 1 day, a doctor's excuse will be required.

If a child needs to be excused from participating in P.E., he/she must

bring a written excuse from his/her parents. If a student is to be

excused for more than one period of P.E. then a doctor's notice must

be presented.

RELEASE FOR RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION

Under the public law of Michigan, schools are required to release

students for religious instructions if the pupils and parents request

such a release. Pupils excused for such instructions will be listed in

advance for teachers. These students are not to be marked either

tardy or absent during the time missed from classes. Pupils attend

these classes if parents sign permission slips issued by the religious

organization. They must continue this all year if they sign up unless

another note is sent to request that they stop going.

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GENERAL DISCIPLINE POLICY

One important purpose of education is to help students become

effective citizens. Citizenship involves rights and responsibilities to

conduct oneself in a manner that will avoid:

* endangering the welfare and safety of any person

* infringing on the rights and properties of others

* causing a loss or destruction of school facilities

* violating laws, school district policies and regulations,

school building and classroom rules or bus rules that do not

infringe on the constitutional rights of students.

All students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and

respectful manner at all times. This includes the classroom, the halls,

the lunchroom and the playground. Misconduct of any nature will

not be tolerated. Each student is responsible for his/her own actions

and is answerable to all members of the staff. Students should

always strive for “Above The Line Behavior”

Most students conduct themselves well in the classroom. For the

most part the teacher handles those situations affecting classroom

behavior. However, when the teacher deems a situation serious

enough a student may be referred to the office so that the principal

may work with the student to correct the situation. In such situations

the cooperation and help of parents will be sought.

DISCIPLINE/RULES

PARENTS AND SCHOOL WORKING TOGETHER

We emphasize appropriate behavior at West in all areas of the school.

We believe in a team approach with all staff working together to

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solve discipline problems and to maintain a safe, orderly climate for

our school. We may be contacting you to work out particular

discipline problems. We have found that if we work together with

parents on discipline problems, they are corrected much faster. You

are the most important person in your child's life and we can help

children overcome behavior problems if we work together. We all

want what is best for our students and children.

LEGAL ISSUES

Be aware of the following legislation:

1. Students are prohibited from bringing any weapons or other

dangerous items onto school property. (Firearm, dagger, knife

with blade over 3 inches, pocket knife opened by a mechanical

device, iron bar, brass knuckles,…)

2. Verbal assault will not be tolerated. Verbal assault is any

statement or act, oral or written, which can reasonably be

expected to induce in another personal fear of danger of bodily

injury or harm.

3. Sexual harassment is prohibited by school employees and

pupils.

4. Use of school computers and other electronic media is

privilege. No expectation of privacy exists for users of such

media.

GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR

These guidelines should help eliminate any questions about what is

safe and what is not safe behavior. Please stress with your children

that our rules and guidelines were developed for their safety.

LUNCHROOM GUIDELINES

1. Follow directions given by adults in charge.

2. Keep your hands and feet to yourself.

3. Stay in assigned area and use equipment properly.

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4. Talk and walk quietly in the lunchroom and halls.

5. Use appropriate language and "inside voices".

6. In the lunchroom, stop talking when lights go out and stay in

your seat until given permission to leave.

7. Students will quietly return to their classrooms prior to recess.

8. Students must finish their lunch in the lunchroom. No food

should be eaten outside of the lunchroom.

PLAYGROUND GUIDELINES

Students will:

1. Get their things and go directly outside when dismissed for

recess.

2. Enter and exit specified doors closest to their classroom.

3. Enter school only with a pass during noon recess.

4. Report any problems to the supervisors.

5. Show respect for others and follow directions of supervisors.

6. Leave dangerous objects alone.

7. Show pride in school by keeping the grounds free of litter.

8. Eat in the lunchroom - no food on playground.

9. Settle differences peacefully.

10. Be responsible for playground balls

11. Wear appropriate clothing for weather. When the temperature

is below 50 degrees-wear a coat. Students are outside unless

the temperature is below -10 degrees.

* * THE FOLLOWING WILL NOT BE ALLOWED * *

Fighting

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Teasing

Disrespectful behavior or language

Improper use of equipment

"King of the Mountain"

Tackle football

Use of baseballs

Playing around cars

Cherry drops or "chicken" on monkey bars

Use of ropes (except for jump-roping)

Throwing snowballs, sticks, rocks, etc.

More than one person on a swing or 3 on the tire swing

Riding bikes on school property

Radios, electronic games, skate boards, roller skates, roller

blades, trading cards, or any other toys from home.

PROCEDURE FOR DISCIPLINE

Teachers/staff may issue a "Below The Line Behavior" referral form to

students for hallway, lunchroom, or playground violations. A

referral will be issued for serious or repeated playground or

lunchroom rule infractions. Referrals may be issued by any staff

member as well as the playground supervisors. Consequences for a

referral will vary depending on the level of inappropriate behavior.

A copy of our consequence rubric will be sent home each fall. If you

wish to receive another copy, please contact the office at 254-6251.

If a student receives three referrals for the same offence a meeting

will be held with the staff members involved, the student, their

parents, and the principal. This meeting will be focused on

developing a clear plan to assist the student in correcting their

behavior.

BUILDING DRESS CODE

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Student dress should allow students to participate fully in all

academic and physical activities. Any type of dress or hair style that

is disruptive will not be allowed. Students are not allowed to wear

clothing that exposes the midriff. Halter tops and large muscle shirts

are not allowed. Female shirts with straps must have straps at least

two fingers wide. Hats are not to be worn at school except on

specially designated days. All students should have gym shoes

available on P.E. days. Shoes with wheels are not allowed on

school grounds.

We will primarily rely on the good judgment of the parents as to their

son’s or daughter’s selection of clothing. Since it is difficult to predict

in advance fashion trends and styles that will impact school dress

codes, guidelines will be interpreted for students as needed

throughout the year.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Electrical devices such as cell phones, MP3 players, etc. are not

allowed to be used during the school day. Such items should be kept

inside a backpack during the school day. Students found using any

such electrical devices will be subject to discipline and the device

shall be confiscated and not returned until a parent conference has

been held. Students violating this rule will be disallowed from

carrying any electrical devices following the incident.

ACCEPTABLE USE FORM

Grandville Public Schools provides students with access to the

District’s electronic communication system, which includes Internet

usage. An Acceptable Use Policy will be distributed to parents/

students upon registration or the first day of school. These forms will

be valid until the child leaves West. Before a student is granted

permission to use school technology, parents/guardians and the

student will need to sign and return the “Acceptable Use for

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Information Resources, Services and Network” form provided by

teachers.

COMPUTER/NETWORK MISUSE AND ABUSE:

Accessing, modifying, or tampering with programs or files the

student is not authorized to use; installing unauthorized programs or

utilities on a hard drive or file server; using school equipment for any

purpose not related to school assignments or approved school

activities.

CONSEQUENCES FOR MISUSE MAY INCLUDE

Parent contact, loss of all computer access privileges; or suspension

from school depending upon the severity of the incident.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks and other instructional materials are provided for use by

the school and should be returned upon request. Students are

expected to keep all books and other instructional materials in good

condition and pay for lost or damaged items.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are taken periodically throughout the year. Permission

slips will be sent home prior to the trip along with information as to

the date, time and destination. You may be asked to help supervise

on some of these trips. Student participation is based on positive

school behavior.

NEWSLETTERS

The principal sends home newsletters approximately once a month

describing and explaining such things as:

1. certain policies 4. vacation dates

2. special programs 5. new personnel, etc.

3. school activities 6. curriculum updates

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Classroom teachers send home grade level or classroom newsletters

each week/month to inform parents of topics of study and upcoming

classroom activities and events.

FRIDAY FOLDERS

We will try to send all notes, lunch menus and teacher newsletters

home on Friday in your child’s Friday Folder.

PARTIES/GIFTS

Traditionally, there are three room parties a year: Halloween,

Christmas and Valentine's Day. Often the children bring "treats" for

the room when it is their birthday. It is the policy of the school

district that no food prepared at home may be consumed by students

at school parties, picnics, etc. during school hours. The West staff

asks you not to send Christmas gifts to teachers. Instead, if you wish

to do so, please encourage your child to express their feelings in a

card or note to the teacher. Then, if you’d like, donate in the teacher’s

name a new unused unwrapped toy to be given to needy children.

If you are having a private birthday party for your child, please send

the invitations by mail or call each child unless all students in the

classroom are invited.

PETS/SPECIMENS

Pets should not be brought to school until the teacher has been

contacted. When pets are brought to school, an adult should bring

them and take them home. If children bring bugs, butterflies, etc. to

school, it is suggested they be covered in a plastic or metal jar.

This is a safety factor.

*Notes from the Nurse - REGULATIONS FOR ANIMALS IN THE

CLASSROOM:

1. No wild animals allowed in the classroom or building.

2. All animals must have proper cages.

3. Cages must be cleaned daily.

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4. No animals are to be left in the school over a weekend.

5. As soon as the teaching aspect of the project is complete, the

animals are to be removed from the school.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are distributed each trimester – three times a year.

Trimester end dates for this year are: Nov. 24, Mar. 11, and June 10.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Regularly scheduled parent/teacher conferences are held in the fall

and spring of each school year. These conferences are held by

appointment and you will be notified well in advance of your

appointment time. We hope you will make a special effort to attend,

as a conference with your child’s teacher is of great importance to the

child, and hopefully you as well. Additional conferences are

welcomed by the West staff. Arrangements can readily be made by

calling, writing, or stopping in at the office. Please make

appointments with the teacher for any special conference in advance

by calling or writing a note to the teacher.

CHAIN OF COMMUNICATION

If a problem or concern should develop with your child, a teacher, or

an activity or incident at school, please talk with the teacher

immediately to bring about increased understanding and a quick

resolution. Issues which are not satisfactorily resolved with a teacher

may then be addressed with the principal.

“SPECIAL” CLASSES

Once again this year our students will have special classes taught by

trained instructors in the following areas:

Kindergarten:- Physical Education, Music and Art

1st and 2nd: - Physical Education, Music, and Art

3rd and 4th: – Physical Education, Music,

Art and Science

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5th – Physical Education, Science, Music and Art

6th: - Music Option (Band, Orchestra, or Choir) Physical

Education, Science, and Art

SPECIAL EDUCATION

West Elementary has a resource room and two categorical rooms

where students who qualify may get intense instruction in a smaller

group or one on one setting. Support is also offered through our

speech and language teacher and our school social worker.

STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM (SST)

Should a teacher or parent have academic or other concerns about a

student, we may go through the SST process. This is a process in

which a team of building professionals (teachers, principal,

psychologist, social worker, speech and language pathologist, and

special education teachers) will work together to address the

concerns and develop a plan to meet the needs of the student. This

may or may not include testing for special education services. Parent

input will also be gathered to assist the team in making more

informed decisions.

MONEY

If money is being sent to school for any reason, it should be sent in an

envelope marked with the child’s name, what the money is for, and

the child’s teacher’s name and grade.

MEDIA CENTER

Students will have the opportunity to check books out with the

librarian’s assistance. We ask for parent cooperation to have the

students return the books in one week, or when they have finished

reading them. A child may check other books out only

when each book is returned. If a book is lost or

damaged, the student is responsible to replace

or pay for the book.

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LOST AND FOUND

Lost and found boxes are found outside the office in the hallway.

Your child may check for any lost articles. Parents may also come in

and check for missing items. Items left in the lost and found boxes

will be donated to charity at the end of each trimester. All items

including coats, hats, boots, gloves, lunch boxes, etc. should be

labeled with you child’s name.

TELEPHONE/ADDRESS CHANGE

Please notify the school office immediately if there is a change in

your telephone number, address, child care, or person to contact in

an emergency. This information is very important in case your child

becomes ill or injured and we need to contact you. Please contact the

school by phone or by a note when or if you move from the area. The

teacher and school secretary needs to be notified of your new

address, school to be attended and date of leaving so our records can

be accurate and forwarded to the new school.

TELEPHONE CALLS

Mrs. Jenison is in the office from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day.

Calls for teachers should be made to the teacher’s direct line. During

school hours messages will be taken for students (unless it is an

emergency) and forwarded at a convenient time. Students will not be

allowed to use the telephone without permission from their teacher.

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HOT LUNCH PROGRAM

The hot lunch program will begin the first day of school. Lunch

menus are sent home once a month. Lunch money will be collected

on Monday mornings. The cost for hot lunch is $1.95 per day which

includes a beverage. Breakfast may also be purchased for $1.10 each

morning. You may send in money for just that week or you may send

in money for a month or more. Each morning your child will order

lunch when attendance is being taken. Your child may also get white

milk, chocolate milk or juice for .40 to go with his/her cold lunch.

The money will be deducted from your child’s lunch account. Please

include a note with your child’s payment if you would like them to

have permission to order a second lunch. There will be a charge for

the second lunch. If your child has an appointment and will miss

homeroom in the morning, please leave your child’s lunch order on

the attendance hotline when you call in at 254-6388.

DRILLS

Fire, severe weather and lock-down drills will occur throughout the

school year. The drill practice is necessary to assure the safety of

everyone in the event a real emergency occurs. Teachers and the

principal will explain drill procedures to students and directions for

the drills will be carefully worked out through repetition.

WEATHER

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In the event of a tornado/severe weather warning we will keep all

students in school, away from windows and near an inside wall, even

if the warning is in effect at dismissal time. It is a Board of Education

policy that dispersal of pupils by bus or foot would be too dangerous.

At any time, parents may pick up their OWN children. We must

have written authorization from parents if other adults will pick

them up. Please DO NOT call the school during a tornado watch or

warning except in a most serious emergency. It is a time when the

teachers, principal and building secretary are already fully occupied.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

In the event that school is not going to be in session due to an

unexpected emergency or inclement weather, announcements will be

made on local radio and TV stations. School closings will also be

posted on the district website.

Make sure that you have discussed with your child procedures they

should follow should school be dismissed early. Your child should

know a relative or a neighbor who will care for them in case of an

early dismissal. Children are not allowed to ride home with someone

not listed on their emergency/student data form.

SCHOOL NURSE

The nurse is in the Grandville schools on Monday through Friday

from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Her office is in the High School.

HEARING AND VISION TESTING

Kindergarten students are required to have hearing and vision

testing done before starting school. Hearing tests are done during the

school year for grades kindergarten, 2, and 4. Vision tests are grades

1, 3 and 5.

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IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

Each new student must have a record showing at least one dose of

each of the following vaccines: DPT (or TD), Polio, Measles (or

history of disease), Rubella and Mumps, HEP B and either the

chicken pox immunization or the approximate date of the illness.

Any students lacking proof of these vaccines may not be admitted to

school unless a valid medical, religious or other exemption form has

been filed. For further information, call the school nurse.

GUIDELINES FOR MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

Generally, it is preferred that students take medications at home, but

we realize this is not always feasible. Please review the following

guidelines regarding student use of medication at school.

1. Medication forms are available in any school office, and on the

district website.

2. The district does not stock ANY over-the-counter medication

for students. Any medication a student might need during the

day should be brought to school by the parent.

3. Medication should never be sent in a baggie, envelope or other

unmarked container.

4. If a student needs a medication for 2 weeks or less (Ex:

antibiotic, pain medication for post-operative pain), the

medication should be brought to school by the parent IN THE

ORIGINAL CONTAINER. A medication administration form

must be completed and signed by the parent, as well.

5. A Medication Administration Form must be completed for each

prescription daily, long-term medication that is to be

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administered by the school staff and signed by the physician

and parent.

6. A Medication Administration Form must be completed for each

non-prescription medication that is to be administered by the

school staff and signed by the parent.

7. Any student is allowed to carry their own medication, IF it is

deemed necessary by the physician. A Medication Use Form

must be completed and signed by the physician and parent if

the student is in grades K-8, and by the parent for students in

grades 9-12. The medication must be in the original container,

and limited to the amount needed by the student for one day.

8. If the student will carry their own medication, but a back-up

will be kept in the office for school staff to provide, both the

Medication Use Form and the Medication Administration Form

must be completed.

Prescription and non-prescription medications which are possessed,

administered or dispensed by students or adults in a manner other

than as prescribed in this policy, may be in violation of the Drug Free

Schools and Communities Act and/or the District policy on Drug Free

Schools.

STUDENT ILLNESS OR ACCIDENT

Students involved in minor accidents (small

cuts, scratches or bruises) will be cared for by

school personnel. If a student suffers a head

injury, you will be notified. In case of a serious accident, you will be

notified immediately, if possible. If you cannot be reached, one of the

names on the Student Data Form will be contacted. Please list adults

that can be reached during school hours on Student Data Forms.

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HEAD LICE “NO-NIT” POLICY

At Grandville, we have a “no-nit” head lice policy. Nits are the

little eggs that are laid in the hair by the female head louse. They are

attached to the hair shaft with a little bit of glue and will not fall out

of the hair on their own. Head lice treatments were, at one time,

fairly effective in killing lice and their eggs. However, over time

some lice and the eggs have become resistant to treatment. (This is

similar to what has occurred with bacteria and antibiotics). No head

lice treatment guarantees to kill lice and all the eggs. So if one viable

or living egg remains in the hair following a treatment, the whole

problem can start over. This is why we enforce a “no-nit” policy.

You cannot tell by looking if nits are alive or dead. Removing them is

a time-consuming process. You have probably heard the term “nit-

picker” used to describe someone who considers every last little

detail. Now you know where the term comes from. It takes “nit-

picking” to get rid of lice. Fine-toothed combs are available that may

help, but in the end, it comes down to removing the nits one by one

by hand. People often tell me how many times they’ve treated their

child with a lice shampoo. Don’t make the mistake of over-treating

with shampoos when you could solve the problem by removing nits.

It is safer and much less expensive. You just have to be consistent

and thorough.

Please let us know if your child has had head lice. We can take

some steps to help curb the spread of this so-called “nuisance

ailment”. Sometimes, students are told by their parents not to “say

anything” about it. This does not serve you well in the end. Chances

are that if you don’t inform people that your child is in contact with

that your child has had lice; your child will end up getting it back

again. You would certainly let your friends and the school know if

your child had strep throat….show the same courtesy with lice and it

will make it more manageable for everyone.

If you have questions, feel free to call the nurse at 254-6455. You can

also go to www.headlice.org for helpful information.

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INSURANCE

School insurance applies only to those students who purchase

policies. If an accident occurs at school and a student hasn’t

purchased school insurance, the coverage is the responsibility of the

parents and not Grandville Public Schools. Accident insurance is

available on a strictly voluntary basis at a nominal cost for all

students. A letter will be sent to you in September explaining the

program and cost. The insurance plan is serviced by the G-M

Underwriters, Inc.

WEST PARENT CLUB

The purpose of the Parent Club of West Elementary is to:

1. Increase parent involvement in their child's education,

2. Cultivate a positive, welcoming and friendly atmosphere

among students, parents, faculty and community, and

3. Provide experiences beyond the Grandville School

System's responsibility, that is, special assemblies, general

enrichment projects and family oriented programs.

2014-2015 PTC EXECUTIVE BOARD

President Melanie Peters

Vice -President Sarah Lippert

Co-Secretary Kate VandenBos

Co-Secretary Danielle Meeuwsen

Treasurer TBD

Volunteer Coordinator TBD

We invite all parents to attend parent club meetings. New

suggestions, ideas and comments are welcome. We need you input

at PTC meetings. Child care is provided, free of charge, during each

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meeting. At each meeting Mrs. DeYoung and/or a staff

representative share current school events, the financial status of the

organization is discussed and old and new business is conducted.

Parents need to be in a partnership with teachers and support staff to

make this year at West Elementary an enriching on for our students.

We thank you for the advancement of this purpose.

MEETING DATES

This year our meetings will all take place in the media center from

6:30 – 7:30 PM on the following dates: (child care will be provided)

September 22nd

November 10th

January 12th

March 8th

May 10th

FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords

parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect

to the student’s education records. These rights are:

(1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education

records within 45 days of the day the school receives a

request for access. Parents should submit to the school

principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they

wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for

access and notify the parent of the time and place where the

records may be inspected.

(2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s

education records that the parent believes are inaccurate.

Parents may ask the school to amend a record that they

believe inaccurate. They should write the school principal,

clearly identify the part of the record they want changed,

and specify why it is inaccurate. If the school decides not to

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amend the record as requested by the parent, the school will

notify the parent of the decision and advice them of their

right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.

Additional information regarding the hearing procedures

will be provided to the parent or eligible student when

notified of the right to a hearing.

(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable

information contained in the student’s education records,

except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure

without consent. On e exception, which permits disclosure

without consent, is disclosure to school officials with

legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person

employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor,

instructor, or support staff member (including health or

medical staff and low enforcement unit personnel); a person

serving on the School Board’ a person or company with

whom the school has contracted to perform a special task

(such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or

therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official

committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or

assisting another school official in performing his or her

tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest

if the official needs to review an education record in order to

fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request,

the school disclosed education records without consent to

officials of another school district in which a student seeks or

intends to enroll. This includes a student’s disciplinary

record including any suspension or expulsion action against

the students.

(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of

Education concerning alleged failures by the School District

to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and

address of the office that administers PERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office

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U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605