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Deer Valley Faculty Handbook General Information General Information Sheet Absences Age Requirements Arrivals/Dismissals Birthday Parties Breakfast Dress Code Fieldtrips Lunchroom Medications/Medical Conditions Rolling Backpacks School Activites Special Situations Toys or Expensive Items at School Transportation Volunteers A Vision for Deer Valley Mission Statement BELIEFS OF DEER VALLEY ELEMENTARY STUDENT VISION Alabama Reading Initiative Working on the Work OPENING DAY OF SCHOOL KINDERGARTEN REQUIREMENTS FIRST GRADE REQUIREMENTS Teacher information section AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

AFTER SCHOOL HOURS ASSESSMENT Assessment Portfolio ATTENDANCE BENEFITS-MARCH 1, 1997 BIRTHDAYS Calendar Cell phone use CLASS PETS CLASSROOMS CLASSROOM SAFETY CLASSWORK AND TESTS COMPUTERS & TECH COMMUNICATIONS STAFF CONFLICT OF INTEREST COOKING IN THE CLASSROOM CUMULATIVE RECORDS Dealing with Parents DELIVERIES DISCIPLINE POLICY DISCRIMINATION STUDENT DISCIPLINE DIVISION OF RESPONSIBILITES EMAIL PROCEDURES EQUIPMENT FUNDRAISING FURNITURE and STORAGE GRADE DISTRIBUTION FORMS GRADE LEVEL MEETINGS

GROUP PUNISHMENT HOMEWORK HOT GLUE THREE R'S OF HOMEWORK IF YOU HAVE A CHILD HERE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM JOB DESCRIPTION LARGE EVENTS LESSON PLANS LOST BOOKS MAINTENANCE MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDANCE AT PTO MEETINGS MEETINGS Missing Specials, Physical Education, or Special Education Classes NEW STUDENTS PARENT CONFERENCES AND VISITORS PERSONAL LEAVE PERSONAL LEAVES AND ABSENCES Leaves of Absence Personal Leave Jury Duty Sick Leave Bereavement Leave Maternity Leave Military Leave Family and Medical Leave Act Intermittent Leave SICK LEAVE BANK CATASTROPHIC SICK LEAVE

PERSONAL PROPERTY PITFALLS TO AVOID PHONE USAGE PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Professional Growth Procedures RESPONSIBILITIES PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS RECESS ROOM APPEARANCE ROUND ROBIN READING SAFETY PATROL SCHOOL HOURS SCHOOL PARTIES SMOKING AND DRUGS SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENT LEAVING DEER VALLEY SUBSTITUTE FOLDERS AND TEACHERS HOW TO SECURE A SUBSTITUTE STUDENT SUPERVISION TEACHER LEAVING THE

BUILDING - CLASSROOM

TIME REQUIREMENTS FOR SUBJECT AREAS SCHEDULING SCHOOL EVENTS SOLICITATIONS SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS ARRANGEMENTS TEACHER DRESS CODE TEACHER LEAVING EMPLOYMENT

VIDEO APPROVAL Student Information Section ABSENCES AND EXCUSES TRUANCY Accident or Illness at School Arrivals/Dismissals CONDUCT DRESS CODE (STUDENT) SCHOOL HOURS FOR STUDENTS SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM PROMOTION AND RETENTION SCHOOL SUPPLIES SPECIAL PERMISSION TARDY BELL TEXTBOOK RULES TRANSPORTATION Procedures ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES OF STUDENTS Bus Rules and Fieldtrip Costs Calendar CLASSROOM GUIDELINE FOR CLINIC USE ELEMENTARY DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES Child Study

BBSST

DISMISSAL PROCEDURE DRILLS CRISIS MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES Setting up a Fieldtrip Procedures for Fieldtrips and Excursions

August 1995

Media Center Medication on fieldtrips Fieldtrip Checklist Grades PROCEDURES FOR MEDICATION IN SCHOOLS MONEY RECEIPT PROCEDURES SETTING UP PRESENTERS Universal Precaution Procedures Threat Assessment Protocol Vendors Weather Wellness

Forms

Most of these forms can be found on our intranet ACCIDENT/UNUSUAL-SENSITIVE-SERIOUS SITUATION CONFERENCE FORM CUMULATIVE RECORD FOLDER CHECKLIST DISCIPLINE REFERRAL FORM FIELD TRIP/TRANSPORTATION REQUEST FORM FIELD TRIP INFORMATION SHEET FIELD TRIP AND EXCURSION PERMISSION FORM FIELD TRIP SACK LUNCH REQUESTS Furniture Relocation Form PRE-OBSERVATION FORM POST-OBSERVATION INSTRUCTIONAL CONFERENCE FORM

PLANS FOR IMPROVEMENT AND ASSISTANCE FOR CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL REQUEST FOR PROFESSIONAL LEAVE Continuing Education Unit (CEU) Certificate PROFESSIONAL GROWTH END-OF-YEAR SUMMARY FORM Professional Growth Activity Evaluation Personal Leave Request Form Playground Safety Checklist

General Information Deer Valley Elementary General Information Sheet Absences The parent or guardian shall explain in writing the cause of any and every absence of the student no later than three (3) school days following return to school. A failure to furnish an acceptable explanation shall be evidence of the student being truant each day he/she is absent.

Should a student accumulate five (5) unexcused absences during a school year he/she will be referred to the Hoover Attendance Coordinator. The parent will be required to participate in the Early Warning Program provided by the Juvenile Court System and/or attend a Student Attendance meeting at the Hoover Board of Education. Attendance at these conferences is mandatory except where prior arrangements have been made or an emergency exists. Should a student accumulate seven (7) unexcused absences during the school year a complaint/petition will be filed with Family Court.

Please make every attempt to ensure your child is at school every day and on time. As a reminder, three (3) unexcused tardies equal an unexcused absence.

If a child only misses one day of school (for any reason), she/he may pick up their makeup work when he/she returns. For absences more than one day, make-up work requests must be in before 10:00 a.m. for pickup that afternoon after 2:00 p.m. Age Requirements To be eligible for Kindergarten, students must be five years old on or before September 1. To be eligible for First Grade, students must be six years old on or before September 1. Arrivals/Dismissals Children should arrive no earlier than 7:15 a.m. and no later than 7:55 a.m. to allow adequate time for them to get to their classes by 8:00 a.m. Children arriving after 8:00 a.m. must have a parent sign them in at the front office and obtain a tardy slip before going to their classrooms. If the parent feels that assistance is needed to walk the tardy student to class, a school representative will escort the student.

Dismissal is at 3:00 p.m. If it becomes necessary for a student to leave school early, a parent must come into the office to check the student out. Please be aware that a photo ID will be required to check out any child.

Also, children who walk to school need to have a back up plan for pick up in the event of bad weather. We do not allow walkers to walk home during threatening weather.

All children need to be picked up by 3:15 p.m. in the afternoon unless there is an after school event. Any child still at school after that time will need to be signed out in the school office by a parent. Community Schools offers an extended day program. If you would like information regarding specific hours and fees, please call Community Schools at 439-2860.

Birthday Parties Party invitations can only be given out at school if the entire class is invited. It really hurts feelings if students are not included. Invitations for small parties should be mailed from home. If a parent would like to bring cupcakes for the class to share on their child’s birthday, he/she needs to clear it ahead of time with their child’s teacher. Remember, children may not receive deliveries at school such as flowers, gifts, candy, etc. Breakfast We are so glad that we can offer our students a nutritious breakfast. Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria at 7:15-7:40. Our cafeteria gate will be closed after 7:40 to assure that all students will be finished eating and ready for dismissal at 7:50. If a child gets to school late and misses breakfast he/she can let the teacher know so that she can provide him/her with a small snack to get

through the morning. If this happens more than once, we will ask parents to assure that their child eats breakfast before he/she comes to school. Dress Code We enforce the Hoover City Schools’ dress code. Be especially careful when purchasing shorts and tops for the warm months. Areas of concern include: short length, spaghetti straps, short tops, & soccer-type/gym shorts for 3rd - 5th grade students. Boots, clogs, flip-flops, sandals, leather shoes, or dark soled shoes cannot be worn in the gym, therefore, children are asked to wear a pair of whitesoled tennis shoes each day. By doing this, instructional time is not wasted as they change shoes for PE. We urge parents to abide by the same dress code as the students while visiting the school. Fieldtrips All students going on fieldtrips will be transported by school or commercial buses with their class. Parents will not be allowed to accompany a class on a fieldtrip unless it is prearranged with the teacher.

Except for those fieldtrips in which we are limited in the number of chaperones we can take (ie. Children's Theater, Golden Flake) we will allow as many parents to sign up to go as would like to go. They will be responsible for their own costs and transportation there and back unless they are designated to ride the bus with the students. To be included as a chaperone we ask parents to give us a 5 day notice so that they can be assigned a group of children for which they will be responsible. All chaperones must stay with their groups throughout the fieldtrip. No younger siblings will be allowed on the fieldtrip since this would provide a distraction for those parents who are serving as chaperones. If parents are unable to serve as chaperones for the entire trip, we ask them not to meet the buses at the destination to prevent confusion on the trip.

For those fieldtrips in which only a few parents can participate, teachers will seek the fairest way possible to select who will serve as chaperones. Lunchroom We love lunch guests! It is always a treat for students to have someone special enjoy lunch with them. We only have a few rules to be followed regarding lunch. Lunch visitors must sign in at the office and get a lunchroom pass. No fast food or carbonated drinks are allowed in the cafeteria, and we ask that all good-byes be said at the lunchroom rather than in the classroom or the hall. (It is easier on our students if everyone leaves the lunchroom at the same time.)

If students forget or lose their lunch money, they will be given a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and milk for lunch. Lunch balance reminder slips will be sent out each week for those students who do not have adequate funds in their account. Medications/Medical Conditions Written permission from a parent is required to give any type of medication at School. Prescription and non-prescription medication to be given less than 10 days requires a parent signature. Prescription and non-prescription medication to be given longer than 10 days requires both the parent and the physician’s

signature. All medication must be brought to the school by the parent in the original container. Rolling Backpacks Rolling backpacks are not allowed at Deer Valley. This was a decision made by our leadership team based on the safety concerns of our students. The reasons for this decision were: (1) Students were repeatedly getting hurt as other students accidentally rolled their backpacks over their feet and hands and (2) rolling backpacks were consistently placed in the aisle on the buses, creating a barrier to the exit, in case of an emergency. School Activites If a child comes to school, but is not a Deer Valley student (example: younger or older siblings, cousins, etc.), their parents must accompany them at all times. No children, other than Deer Valley students, will be allowed to participate in any activities of the school. (Excluding PTO fund raising events) We ask that younger siblings not be brought to the school on field day. Special Situations Special precautions, which are required for the safety and well being of individual students, should be clearly stated in writing to the school principal at the beginning of the school year. Examples of such situations are custody rulings and medical procedure/precautions. Please do not put the school office personnel or your child in an embarrassing situation when the above referenced situations have not been clearly defined in writing. Toys or Expensive Items at School Stuffed animals, trading cards, and other toys need to stay at home. If these make their way to school, they will get to spend the week with Dr. Richardson.

Leave all types of knives (example: pocket or scouting knives) at home. According to the Hoover City School policy, any type of knife is considered a weapon and anyone found with these items will be suspended/expelled.

It is also highly suggested that students keep expensive items, (rings, watches, etc.), at home since they might get lost or broken, and the school cannot be responsible for these items. Transportation Kindergarten students need consistent routine. Starting a regular mode of transportation on the first day of school can help the student learn that routine. Teachers will assist children in the mornings and afternoons to assure that each child gets to his/her designated place. Any change in transportation must be made in writing by the parent, brought to the school office, and then approved by the principal.

Due to overcrowding of our buses, children can only ride his/her assigned bus.

All carpool riders must be picked up by 3:15 p.m. in the afternoon unless there is

an after school event. Any child still at school after that time will need to be signed out in the school office by a parent. Community Schools offers an extended day program. If you would like information regarding specific hours and fees, please call Community Schools at 439-2860.

If a transportation change is needed, parents should be sure that their child is aware of the change BEFORE the child's arrival at school. In the event of an emergency, parents are requested to call the school office prior to 2:00 p.m. Volunteers We love volunteers! Parents wishing to volunteer are asked to check with their child’s teacher to determine the best time for them to help. We do ask that teachers limit the time a parent volunteers in his/her classroom to once a week for reasons of confidentiality. In addition, there will be special events during the year, through which parents will be invited to come to classrooms. When volunteering or coming to visit, parents need to remember to sign in at the office and to get a visitor's pass. This pass should be worn throughout the visit. For the safety of our students, our employees have been told to question any person not wearing a visitor’s pass.

Unless a parent has an appointment with a teacher or has been asked to volunteer, they are asked not to drop by the classroom during the day for a visit. Unexpected visits cause confusion. Elementary children are easily distracted and when the teacher has to stop teaching to converse with a parent, the learning process is hindered. Parents who would like to observe in a classroom or meet with their child’s teacher are encouraged to call for an appointment. Parents may leave a message on a teacher’s voice mail by calling the school’s main office. We ask parents not to bring younger siblings to the school when they are volunteering.

PLEASE LABEL ALL JACKETS, LUNCHBOXES, ETC. WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME.

A Vision for Deer Valley “For a sailor with no destination there are no favorable winds, however, for a sailor with a destination in mind, almost all winds can be favorable.”

Deer Valley will be a place where teachers want to teach and where parents want to send their children.

Deer Valley will be a community of learners.

A MAJOR responsibility of the adults in the community is to be actively engaged in their own learning and to make learning visible to children and other adults. In addition, each stakeholder should demonstrate concern for the community as a whole. Teachers who have, in the past, attended to their own learning and the learning of their students will now be asked to also attend to the learning of their colleagues. All staff will have the opportunity to learn from and teach one another. Administrators and teachers will participate in dialogue regularly about practice. Teachers will be allowed to observe one another in the classroom, share strategies, and actively help each other become better. Learning opportunities will also include visits to other schools, writing about practice, and leading workshops in addition to more traditional in-service meetings. Students will also be afforded opportunities to teach others. Research demonstrates that the best way to ensure retention of information or skills is through teaching it to someone else. With this in mind, we want to offer students the opportunity to share information with other students, parents or staff. Learning at Deer Valley will be celebrated at all levels.

Deer Valley will be a community of leaders. Leadership is everyone’s work. Teachers, students, administration and parents will develop a community of reflection, growth, and refinement of practice. Leadership will be viewed as the collective learning of community to move us closer to fulfilling our mission. In addition to addressing concerns and needs, the school will constantly be involved in “scenario thinking” to be prepared for any eventuality. As a community of leaders, we will adopt the attitude of “None of us is as smart as all of us” and “If we can dream it, we can do it.” Philosophers are welcome at Deer Valley – People that ask “Why” or better yet “Why not?” As a faculty we will consistently seek better ways of doing things.

Deer Valley will be a community of innovation. Once concerns or enhancements are examined, Deer Valley will not be afraid to incorporate tested strategies from other schools. If, however, no strategy is available to meet the need of the school, the community will work together in a spirit of inquiry to develop our own ideas and strategies.

Deer Valley will be focused on children! From the moment a child walks into the school, they should feel cared for and at home. In addition to providing engaging learning opportunities for students, Deer Valley will provide them a safe nurturing environment where putdowns will not be accepted and where respect is an essential part of the school

climate. Character education will be an important part of the curriculum and just like every other part of the curriculum, will be assessed regularly. Helper programs, such as safety patrol and peer helpers will be implemented and other opportunities will constantly be sought for students to assist the staff and each other. Students’ positive character will be recognized and celebrated.

Deer Valley will provide continuous collaboration between the school and home. The connection between school and home will be critical and ongoing communication will be a major concern. Parents and teachers will work together as partners to create the best possible experience for each child. Deer Valley will also create opportunities for family interaction related to the work of the school. The parent/child relationship will always be supported and nurtured by the school. Parent volunteers will be recognized as a huge resource to enhance student opportunities and learning.

Deer Valley will work to foster trusting relationships. This trust must permeate the school. Parents must trust teachers and the administration. Teachers must trust the administration and must be completely confident that the administration trusts them.

Deer Valley will provide a supportive atmosphere for risk taking. Both students and adults in this community will be encouraged to think “outside the box” to accomplish the goals of the school. New ideas focused on the school goals will not be viewed as a nuisance, but as a sign of life.

Deer Valley will develop a climate that respects diversity. Diversity provides opportunities, whether it is differences in teaching strategies or in student abilities.

Deer Valley will value humor. Humor will be a strong part of the culture of Deer Valley. Humor can improve learning and climate greatly. In addition, laughter has very healthful side effects. It causes the lungs to pump out carbon dioxide, eyes to cleanse themselves, muscles to relax tension, adrenaline to increase and the heart to be exercised. We will cultivate humor whenever appropriate and possible.

Deer Valley will be an atmosphere of high standards and low anxiety. Research demonstrates that learning, attention, performance, and

retention all diminish when anxiety is increased. We will attempt to reduce anxiety on teachers and students while keeping standards high.

Deer Valley will welcome collaboration with other schools and educational entities. Articulation with other schools and agencies will be sought.

Deer Valley will be an atmosphere of active engagement in learning. Classroom activities will provide students with opportunities for collaboration and active engagement. These opportunities will not be at the expense of “basics” but will be provided as a way to reinforce “basics.” Real world problems will be presented and students will be given the chance to work together to solve these problems. Students should have many and varied opportunities to construct their own meaning from their own experiences. Student learning styles will help determine these experiences. Flexibility and adaptability will be reinforced in our students. Working conditions will be very different than they are today when our students join the workforce. It is, therefore, necessary to foster in students skills that will enable them to successfully meet the demands of the twenty-first century. In addition to “the basics” we will provide students the opportunity to collaborate with others, problem solve, and devise and carry out plans. The after-school program will support the goals of the school and will allow students to stretch. Learning in these programs will also be purposeful and engaging Alternative assessments will be considered whenever appropriate. Public exhibition of learning products will be used whenever possible.

Deer Valley will be on the cutting edge of educational technology. Technology will be used to help differentiate instruction, to bridge learning gaps of students, to provide another avenue for student success, and to serve as a resource to make learning stimulating and engaging. Emerging technologies will be made available to teachers for experimentation in the classroom.

Mission Statement Working together, the faculty and families of Deer Valley Elementary are committed to empowering children to become responsible, respectful, and resourceful citizens.

BELIEFS OF DEER VALLEY ELEMENTARY All children can learn. Self-esteem is fostered in children through respect, encouragement, and a spirit of community and cooperation. A school should provide a loving, nurturing, safe environment where learning is celebrated. A school should help children become independent, confident, self-directed learners and encourage curiosity and risk-taking. Each student is a valued individual with special talents, abilities, and needs that should be met with a variety of individualized programs that are challenging, engaging, and meaningful. A school should instill an appreciation and respect for all individuals through character development and good citizenship. An open line of communication between students, parents, and the school is vital to each child's education.

STUDENT VISION When a student leaves Deer Valley, it is our goal that he/she..

1.

Is an excellent reader

2.

Has a strong ability to work with numbers and spatial relationships

3.

Exudes self-confidence

Is a Risk taker (knows mistakes will be made, but willing to get back on the horse again and again) Demonstrates initiative to get the ball rolling and keep it rolling 4.

Has a strong sense of citizenship & character

Has the courage to do what’s right even when others do not.

Demonstrates responsibility for his own choices and actions Respects self and others Demonstrates strong character and concern for his community. 5.

Is a self-directed, lifelong learner

Puts quality before quantity. Is self-awareness and initiates learning. Sees learning as a positive social activity. Is intrinsically motivated to do their best and always be prepared (homework, materials) Knows where and how to find answers and effectively communicate in a variety of ways. (Resourceful) Demonstrates a true love and appreciation for reading and writing. Continually asks questions, wonders about the world around them, and takes risks academically Chooses to read for pleasure Takes pride in all endeavors Demonstrates an appreciation for the thoughts, ideas, and works of others. 6.

Has the Ability to express ideas well orally and writing

7.

Is an effective problem solver

Has the ability to critically evaluate information from a variety of sources print, Internet, people, etc. Has the ability to utilize technology to accomplish a goal. Has the ability to use their imagination to create. 8.

Has the ability to work effectively in groups.

Alabama Reading Initiative Deer Valley is committed to 100% literacy for our students. as:

Literacy is defined

Understanding (Comprehending) on grade level. Choosing to be engaged in reading (Developing a love for reading). Growing as a reader (documented by progress over time)

We believe…

The ability to read has an incredible impact on a child’s life. The primary goal of reading instruction is comprehension.

Students should be exposed to/ expected to read a great deal of high quality of literature of all genres. Classrooms and libraries should have materials to support goals. Teachers should teach (in a variety of situations) a variety of strategies. Good reading instruction includes guided/shared reading, modeling, read alouds, think alouds, and opportunities for children to use the strategies they have learned. Children should apply (in a variety of situations) a variety of strategies and for a variety of purposes. Reading instruction should demonstrate how reading is enjoyable and relevant to the child’s life and prior experience. “Real and meaningful” writing and reading opportunities need to be available/encouraged throughout the entire day. Students need to be given choice when making their reading selections. Reading instruction needs to be focused on a child’s instructional level. Reading and writing should be integrated in all areas of the curriculum.

Working on the Work By focusing on the following Design Qualities when creating work for students, teachers can increase student engagement which in turn will increase student achievement.

Content and Substance What we ask students to learn reflects input from national, state, and local sources and is rich and culturally relevant.

Organization of Knowledge Information and knowledge are organized in a way that makes them accessible and inviting to students. Remember only 20% or less of instruction should be whole group!

Product Focus The students understand and value their own performances or work products

Clear and Compelling Product Standards The standards for student products are clearly articulated and demonstrated with

concrete examples.

Protection from Adverse Consequences Students are provided with feedback while they are working. They have additional opportunities to be successful. Most students meet the product standards.

Affirmation of Performance Products and performances are made sufficiently public so that other persons significant in the students’ lives affirm their importance.

Affiliation The tasks are designed with sufficient complexity so that successful completion encourages cooperative action between students and adults.

Novelty and Variety The students are called upon to employ new or varied means of completing the task.

Choice The students are provided with appropriate choices with regard to performance or products.

Authenticity The products or performances have meaning or significance to the students.

OPENING DAY OF SCHOOL Schools will open for children as announced.

We will place a class roll in your box on the first day. No other students are to be enrolled in your room until they are registered in the office and sent to your room for placement.

INSURANCE

Forms will be placed in your mailbox to be distributed to students. distribution and return will be announced.

Date of

ATTENDANCE REPORT FIRST DAY

Attendance has to be reported to the Superintendent's office by 10:00 during the first two weeks.

ENROLLMENT AFTER THE FIRST DAY

Students will be assigned to classes on the first day as they register in the office. Room assignments will be made in the office and teachers are asked to greet the newcomer and/or his parents with gracious cordiality. First impressions are very important, so please make each student feel welcome.

Attendance reports are to be submitted to the office immediately after roll call each morning throughout the year.

KINDERGARTEN REQUIREMENTS

September 1.

1. To enter Kindergarten, a child's birthday must be ON OR BEFORE (age 5) 2. A child must be on the list cleared through the office.

3. A child is required by law to give a birth certificate, either a photostatic copy or verification from the Health Dept., before s/he can enroll. must have a copy on file. 4. A child must have addition to their baby

We

official documentation demonstrating that in

immunizations they have received a second dose of containing vaccine and a

measles-

preschool booster of tetanus/diphtheria vaccine . 5. A child must have a Social Security number when he/she enrolls. 6. Verification of residence must be in each child's cum. file along with a copy of their

deed or lease. FIRST GRADE REQUIREMENTS 1.

To enter Grade 1 a child's birthday must be ON OR BEFORE September 1 (age 6).

2. A child MUST be enrolled in the first grade during the first two weeks of school. 3. A child entering the first grade is required by law to have a birth certificate, either a photostatic copy or verification from the Health Dept., before s/he can enroll. have a copy on file.

We must

4. A child must have official documentation demonstrating that in addition to their baby immunizations they have received a second dose of vaccine and a

measles-containing

preschool booster of tetanus/diphtheria vaccine . 5.

A child must have a Social Security number on file.

6. Verification of residence must be in each child's cum. folder along with a copy of their lease or deed. Compulsory school age in Alabama is seven years of age.

Teacher information section

AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS If a teacher stays after-school with a child for any reason that teacher is responsible to stay with that child until they are picked up by that parent or guardian. The teacher is also responsible to know who is authorized to pick that child up.

AFTER SCHOOL HOURS

A question came up at leadership yesterday which I feel needs to be addressed for

future reference.

It is my SINCERE belief that our success as elementary educators hinges completely on our relationships and the trust that is created through them.

If a parent comes back up to the school with their child to get their books, coat, etc. it is important that we see this as an opportunity to improve our relationship with that parent and child or an opportunity to hurt that relationship. Personally I think allowing them to pick up their book or coat etc. is a small price to pay for the goodwill that it can create. However, as I mentioned in the leadership team yesterday I do think we need to politely take the opportunity to explain that we want the child to become more responsible for taking their books home with them. If it becomes a habitual problem then I want to know so that we can address it without a confrontation.

Consider this: If a parent has taken their time to get in the car and drive up here and then we stand in their way We are saying “I know you think you know what is best for your child – but you are wrong!” And what makes it worse we are saying it in front of their child. Remember they are their child’s most important teacher and it is up to us to support them in that role. If they feel like they need the book at home – we need to supply it.

(I have heard over and over – “They won’t let them do that at Bumpus.) The truth is, in this one area Bumpus is pretty open. I know that when my child left his book in his classroom and when he went back to get it – they actually patted him on the back for remembering to come back. But this shouldn’t matter anyway We need to respond to our students based on our beliefs. I realize that we want students to be more responsible but, in a way, remembering to COME BACK to get their books, coat etc. does show some level of responsibility.

At this point I feel like the rule should be: if a parent comes in and asks to get into a classroom for whatever reason the person at the front desk should contact me, Scott, Denni or the classroom teacher. We are the only ones who can get the door open for them. If I ask a custodian to open the door for them I will also ask that custodian to stay with them until they are finished. The reason for this procedure is for the protection of the school and the child.

Just my thoughts

ASSESSMENT

All teachers will be required to keep an Assessment Portfolio on each child. These portfolios will follow the child as they continue through school. The following will be the contents of these assessment portfolios.

Fall Jan Spring MMI MMI Write Sample Writing Sample K- Marie Clay 1- Rigby or QRI

Marie Clay for Strugglers

2-5 – QRI K- Marie Clay for Strugglers 1 Rigby and Marie Clay for strugglers 2-5 – QRI for strugglers K- Marie Clay & QRI, Dibels report 1& 2- QRI & Dibels report 3-5 QRI

Conference forms

ATTENDANCE Call a sub as soon as you know you will be out or report it through Aesop. Teachers are responsible for taking care of this for themselves. Teachers are expected to be at work unless they are taking a personal day or sick day. All absences need to be reported to the office staff and entered in AESOP ASAP. A

regular school day for our teachers is 7:45-3:15.

BENEFITS-MARCH 1, 1997 BLUE CROSS DENTAL BENEFITS The board provides dental insurance through Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance for employees. Once Blue Cross has determined reasonable and customary fees. The maximum annual benefit is $750.00 with all services covered. (The Hoover dental year is 1/1 - 12/31. Blue Cross dental forms are available in the business office and the local schools). In addition, family dental coverage can be added for $16.00 per month.

BASIC GROUP LIFE INSURANCE Basic group term life insurance is provided on each full-time employee in an amount of two and one half times the employee's annual salary. Coverage will be for life and accidental death and dismemberment. The cost is paid by the Board.

LONG-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE Long-term disability insurance is provided on each full-time employee. Coverage will be 60% up to a maximum of $3,000/month with 90 days elimination period. The cost is paid by the Board.

VOLUNTARY GROUP LIFE INSURANCE Voluntary group life insurance is available to the employee, spouse and dependent children. Coverage on the employee and spouse is $10,000 to $300,000 in increments of $10,000. Coverage on dependent children is $5,000 or 10,000 for age 15 days to 19 years old or for full time students less than 25 years old. To be considered eligible a child must be unmarried. Rates for employee and spouse coverage are based on age at their last birthday. Rates on dependent children will be $ 1.00/month for $5,000 coverage or $2.00/month for $10,000 coverage. This coverage would include all children in the household. The cost is paid by the employee.

This coverage can be maintained upon leaving Hoover Schools at a ported rate.

OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE Coverage for employees is $.17 per $1,000. You may take out up to two and one half times your salary. Upon departure from Hoover City Schools you may convert to whole life insurance with the premium increasing. If not taken at the time of employment you will not be allowed to add at a later date.

DIRECT DEPOSIT We offer direct deposit to all banks for your convenience.

BIRTHDAYS Parties at school are not allowed.

CALENDAR Always secure approval for using common areas before assuming that you can use them. There are sign-outs available. Please check the date that you need a common area well in advance of using it.

Our computer calendar is the ONLY official calendar- Submit all dates to Kecia including use of rooms.

CELL PHONE USE Teachers are not to use a cell phone or text at any time in which they are responsible for students. Exceptions can be made with the approval of the principal.

CLASS PETS Do not ask for money from parents without first getting permission from the office. Remember class pets are expensive and if you decide to keep one the cost of his upkeep falls directly on you. No class pets should be left at the school over the summer. You are solely responsible for cleaning up after your class pets

CLASSROOMS

Due to fire marshal regulations we can no longer have Christmas lights as decorations in the classroom, other than during the holidays. Even then, all lights and lamps must be turned off daily.

CLASSROOM SAFETY

Kindergarten teachers must assure that all students are visible to them throughout their naptime. This means that students cannot be behind easels, lofts etc. There will be spot-checks throughout the year to assure that this is in place.

All teachers should make sure to count their students every time they leave or return to the classroom to assure that they are all present.

All classroom teachers need to stress in their sub plans that substitutes need to count students whenever they leave or return to the classroom.

If a teacher sees a situation that could be considered unsafe for a student, he/she needs to report it to the office as soon as possible.

If a team or committee sets up a day in which multiple adults are coming into the building and a sign-in table is set up so that the office is not be bombarded, a volunteer should be secured to sit at the sign-in table.

CLASSWORK AND TESTS The importance of individualized instruction cannot be overemphasized in the elementary school. The teacher is the professional; s/he is responsible for using professional training in prescribing for each child the class work and homework that is in keeping with his individual abilities and needs. This work must be on a level at which s/he can find success. Textbooks, workbooks, etc. are tools from which the teacher is to select those learning activities best suited to the individual student. John Lubbock said, "The important thing is not so much that every child should be taught as that every child should be given the wish to learn.”

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COMMUNICATIONS All Teachers are expected to keep good communication with parents and their administration. Teachers should make every effort to assure that their first communication with parents is positive. In addition teachers should contact parents by phone before negative information comes home in writing. Remember if you and the student disagree on the story it is a race to share your thoughts with the parents. “If the student talks to their parent first and you talk to them after the fact – they will never completely believe you. However, if you talk to the parent first and then the student shares his thoughts – they will never completely believe him.”

Teachers are expected to contact the office when they are going to be late or when there is a circumstance that might be brought to the attention of the office later. Teachers need to get approval from administration to leave campus during the day. They will be responsible to sign out even after they get verbal approval.

Also teachers are expected to share any information that might compromise the integrity of the school with the principal as soon as they become aware of a situation. For example, if a teacher asks you to sign them in- you are to refuse and report the fact that they made this request. If a teacher on your hall continuously leaves her students unsupervised this also should be reported immediately. If it is determine that a staff member knew about a situation that could create an adverse environment for students and chooses not to report it they will be held accountable for their inaction.

Also if they are aware of a situation in which a staff member adversely affects the climate of the school or ignores the rules governing the school they are also expected to share this with the administration. The administration will respond appropriately and will not divulge how they received the information.

Bad news should always be delivered on the phone or in person.

We will respond to a letter, phone message or email within one business day.

COMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY

A sample of technology projects will be turned in at the end of the year.

COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES

The Board recognizes that harmonious relations with its employees can be maintained and improved through effective communications. The interests of all parties can best be served by sincere efforts of all concerned to promote understanding and cooperation. The Board, therefore, has adopted the following grievance procedure as a means to examine and resolve possible problems which relate to the administration of personnel policies of the School District. These procedures can also be used by personnel for complaints on the basis of sex or disability.

Definitions

Grievance is a claim or dispute concerning the interpretation, application, or claimed violation of the personnel policies of the School District. Other matters for which other means of resolution are provided or foreclosed by statute or administrative procedures shall not be considered grievances. A grievance does not include matters involving the Board’s right to establish educational policy and prescribe rules and regulations for the conduct and management of the Schools.

Employees covered by this procedure shall mean permanent employees of the Board.

Immediate Supervisor is that employee possessing administrative authority to direct the activities of the grievant.

Procedure for Informal Grievance

Recognizing that many grievances can be resolved through an informal procedure and at the most immediate administrative level, the board encourages simple, honest, and straightforward communication between the employee, principal, administrator, and Superintendent.

Step 1. Any employee who feels he ahs a grievance should present the matter orally to the immediate supervisor. The immediate supervisor to whom the

grievance is presented shall hear and attempt to resolve the grievance within five (5) working days from the time presented and advise the grievant of the decision within two (2) working days thereafter.

Step 2. If the grievance is resolved, or no further action is necessary, the matter is closed. However, if the matter is not resolved, the employee may file a formal grievance as outlined in the following section.

Procedure for Formal Grievance

Step 1. Any employee shall promptly present to the employee’s immediate supervisor the grievance in writing. Such notice shall be presented no later than five (5) working days after the date on which the alleged grievance occurred or five (5) working days following the date of decision on informal procedure. If the grievance is not submitted within the time prescribed, the employee shall be deemed not to have further right with respect to said grievance.

Step 2. In the event the employee wishes to appeal the decision at Step 1, the appeal must be presented in writing to an administrative officer of higher rank than the employee’s immediate supervisor. Such appeal shall be presented within five (5) working days of the receipt of the Step 2 decision. Such appeal shall contain a statement of the grievance and specific references to the section of the Board’s personnel policies which the employee claims to have been violated. The administrative officer shall schedule a meeting with the employee as promptly as is reasonably possible to attempt to resolve the grievance (not to exceed ten {10} working days). At this conference, the employee may appear alone or may be represented by counsel. Notice of the conference shall also be given to all parties involved in the alleged grievance. The administrative officer shall issue a written decision to the employee within five (5) working days after the conference. Unless the grievance is appealed as outlined in Step 3, it shall be deemed to have been settled and the employee shall have no further right with respect to said grievance.

C. Step 3. In the event the employee wishes to appeal the decision at Step 2, the appeal must be presented to the Superintendent in writing within five (5) working days of the receipt of the Step 2 decision. A copy of the Step 3 appeal, together with Step 1 and Step 2 decisions and the name of employee counsel if any, must simultaneously be submitted to the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall schedule a meeting with the employee within ten (10) working days to attempt to resolve the grievance. Notice of the Step 3 conference shall be give to the employee, as well as to the individuals who rendered the Step 1 and Step 2 decisions. The Superintendent shall issue a written decision within ten (10) working days after the conference with the employee. Unless the grievance is appealed as outlined in Step 4 it shall be deemed to have been settled and the employee shall have no further right with respect to said grievance.

D. Step 4. In the event the employee wishes to appeal the decision at Step 3, the appeal must be presented to the Superintendent as Secretary of the Board within five (5) working days of the receipt of the Step 3 decision. A copy of the Step 4 appeal, together with copies of the grievance, the Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 decisions, and the name of the employee counsel, if any, must simultaneously be submitted to the Superintendent. The employee’s appearance to present his appeal before the Board will be scheduled in accordance with regular procedures adopted by the Board. The employee may appear alone at this conference or be accompanied by counsel of his own choice. The Board shall issue a written decision within thirty (30) days after the conference with the employee.

Ref: Pickering v. Board of Education, 88 S.Ct. 1731 (1986; Givhan v. Western Line Consolidated School, 99 S. Ct. 693 (1979); See Alabama Code 16-11-9, 16-123.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994 Revised May 30, 1994 FILE:

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STAFF CONFLICT OF INTEREST The Board prohibits School District employees from engaging in additional employment or any other personal pursuits that would affect their efficiency or usefulness as employees in the District; that would make time and/or energy demands upon such individuals which could interfere with their effectiveness in performing their contractual obligations to the Board; that would compromise or embarrass the School District; that would adversely affect their School District employment status or professional standing; or that would in any way conflict with or violate professional ethics.

Employees shall not receive pay or other compensation for private tutoring of students enrolled in classes they teach in Hoover City Schools. If they tutor other students in the School District, not enrolled in their classes, written notice of such activity must be given to their building principal.

Employees shall not engage in any activity which interferes with or disrupts the educational process in the School District.

Employees shall not use school facilities or school time to organize or solicit students for nonapproved school activities including tours and related trips.

Awards or gifts provided to employees associated with fundraising activities must be approved by the Board or Superintendent.

Ref: Alabama Code 16-8-8, 16-8-9, 16-9-13, 16-9-34, 36-25-1(9), 36-25-2(a), (b), (d), 16-11-9, 16-12-3(a), 16-12-15, 16-24-8. Hoover City Board of Education, August 27, 1990.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994

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COOKING IN THE CLASSROOM Let the office know if you plan to cook something for you class so that our Health Room person can look over known student allergies and make the best recommendation.

CUMULATIVE RECORDS Cumulative records and registers are very, very important legal records, and, often times, all we know about a child. It is absolutely imperative that we keep up with them, and keep them up to date. MARK IN BLACK INK (for better copying). See list of contents and order which is required in each cumulative folder.

Please check your register enrollment against your cumulative record file. If you do not find a folder for every child regardless of how long he/she has been here then make one to include all you know about the child. Entries and withdrawals should be marked each year on the cumulative card. Withdrawals during the year should be marked immediately to be filed and/or forwarded to a new school.

Cumulative cards on all NEW students should be made immediately upon their entering school.

At the end of the year these folders will be checked to see if all information is complete. These records are a major part of our end of the year checkout procedures.

Individual pupil folders are to be kept at school in a locked file in the office at all times, and should contain all items listed on the cumulative record folder checklist.

Each cumulative record is to be prepared and studied professionally by the child's teacher and the principal.

It is very unprofessional for a teacher or any member of the school staff to discuss school children and/or school problems in the lounge or any other public place. Every child has a right to his privacy as far as his weaknesses or strengths. When these are discussed with the principal, please be sure they are discussed in the inner-office.

Dealing with Parents Setting yourself up for success

· Touching base by telephone or in person at the beginning of the year and throughout the year is very helpful.

· Try to give your child something positive to say about the classroom each night at the dinner table (an exciting project, a kind word from you, a great social encounter…).

·

Communicate during good times. (Praise kids and thank parents)

· Take an interest in what your students are interested in. their football game etc.)

(Ask about

· Design a program specifically for their child which you share with them at the beginning of the year.

·

Actively seek opportunities to go out of your way for students.

Creating a sense of trust

· If you can get parents to trust that you have their child’s best interest at heart - more than half the battle is won! Make sure to they know you are constantly going out of your way for their child.

·

If you mess up, apologize!

· Focus on these principles when speaking to them about their child (These are all emotions - Fight emotions with emotion)

-

Relate difficult situations to yourself or own family

Relay the importance of positive family time – and parental involvement. -

Remember the parents are a child’s most important teacher

-

Remind them that we want their child to be prepared for their future.

Share positive stories and attitudes. things about their child.

Identify and state positive

Remember a child’s perception is their reality - We want to make sure that the child knows we care. Always assume the best. they have more to lose than you)

(The parents should be supportive of you -

Be proactive when something happens

· Be proactive if you know a complaint is coming. Call the parents before they call you. This small amount of “pain” can replace a large dose later on.

· If a child is manipulative.. Remember if a he gets home and explains his side of the story before you call the parent - they will never completely believe your side of the story - If you call them before the child gets there –

they will never completely believe his side of the story.

· The worse the news, the more thought and effort we need to put into delivering it.

· The telephone is the most effective and convenient way to contact a parent with bad news. (The phone is our best friend as long as it is not ringing)

·

Never, ever deliver bad news in writing.

In difficult situations

· Never let ‘em see you sweat. (Lower the volume of your voice if you are nervous. Make eye contact.) The more agitated the parent, the slower and calmer we should be. We are the professionals and must act as such.

·

Always be ready to apologize if you are wrong in any way.

· “I am sorry that happened” can be universally applied when a parent relays a complaint about a school incident.

· listen.

You do not always have to have answers, but you do need to ALWAYS

· Be ready to state why you do something a certain way and if you don’t have a reason – then consider taking their advise for their child.

· Assume the best - Assume that you and the parent both want what is best for their child. Then seek common ground in meeting that goal.

·

Educators should never be offensive, or defensive.

· If you are confronted by a verbal tirade that “crosses the line,” a good response is “please don’t talk to me like that.”

DELIVERIES If you order something to be delievered (ie. pizza for an afterschool club etc.) make sure to tell the delivery person not to deliver it during morning drop off or after-school dismissal

DISCIPLINE POLICY Discipline is developing appropriate behavior. Behavior is learned. If behavior is learned, then we can teach it. Teachers must have the skills to teach good behavior. Our goal is to help the child develop good self-discipline. Each teacher is responsible for the conduct of students at all times. Orderly conduct in halls, restrooms, on the playground and in the lunchroom is best for all concerned and takes the full cooperation of the entire faculty. ALL teachers can help by correcting inappropriate behavior of a student as soon as it is noticed, whether or not that student is in your homeroom.

Each teacher should handle discipline problems in her own room if possible. The best solution to discipline problems is always prevention. Time spent in lesson planning to provide appropriate learning activities for each child is far more effective than any punishment. When the student is busy with meaningful activities which he/she considers important, and in which he/she CAN FIND SUCCESS, he/she has little time or desire to misbehave.

Consequences for misbehavior should be logical. Rewards should typically be “group rewards” and punishments should be reserved for individuals breaking class rules.

Read and learn Hoover City Schools Discipline/Responsibility Behavior rules. Policy Manual available in office.

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At any point in the discipline process, actions which are designed to control behavior through the use of humiliation, degradation, or verbal abuse of students shall not be tolerated. Any form of corporal punishment, including punitive physical contact, is prohibited. Discrimination

Hoover City Schools Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications Effective January, 2008

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES (Board policy, File: JAA) No student shall be denied the benefits of any educational program or activity on the basis of race, color, handicap, ability, creed, national origin, immigrant status, English-speaking status, or sex. All programs offered by schools within the school district shall be open to all students consistent with statutory and judicial requirements. Admission of students to special and advanced programs or activities shall be based on appropriate criteria. Inquiries regarding compliance and complaint procedures can be directed to:

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Kimberly Worley, Section 504 Coordinator Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

Hoover City Schools 2810 Metropolitan Way Hoover, AL

35243

(205)...

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT (Board policy, File: GAAA) No person in the school district shall, on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, handicap, national origin, or similar personal distinction, be subject to discrimination in regard to employment, retention, promotion, transfer, or dismissal. Inquiries regarding compliance and complaint procedures can be directed to:

Mary Veal, Equal Opportunity Employment Coordinator Hoover City Schools 2810 Metropolitan Way Hoover, AL

35243

(205)...

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

Introduction

The Board requires that school personnel will operate the schools in a manner that will provide an orderly process of education and that will provide for the welfare and safety of all students in the District. To accomplish this goal, students and school personnel must work together in a school environment that is characterized by mutual respect. The emphasis of the discipline approach shall be on the prevention of inappropriate student behavior and the development of individual responsibility. Even though discipline does not appear as a subject in the curriculum, it underlies the entire educational structure. Discipline is recognized as the training that helps students develop self-control, character, orderliness, efficiency, and effectiveness. Therefore, the board views discipline as the key to good conduct and appropriate consideration for other people. Principals, teachers, and other school personnel have both the authority and the duty to take appropriate action whenever student behavior is not consistent with established rules of conduct.

Principals and teachers of the schools shall develop reasonable, proper, and specific rules for students. Such rules must be based on policies of the Board and be directed toward the improvement of education within the schools. Principals shall be responsible for ensuring that students, parents, and staff members have been informed regarding pertinent student policies and procedures. Rules and regulations shall be disseminated to students, parents, and staff. Student handbooks, faculty handbooks, school newsletters, PTA/PTO meetings, and classroom instruction are some of the ways that can be used to accomplish this task.

Discipline (rules and regulations) shall at all times reflect fair and reasonable exercise of authority, being neither arbitrary, capricious, discriminatory, nor otherwise unreasonable. Procedural due process, to the extent of its applicability in any particular situation, shall be afforded students prior to imposition of punishment (see Board policy JCAA). Due process afforded shall be commensurate both with the gravity of the offense and the severity of the contemplated penalty.

The Board expects all school personnel, including bus drivers, lunchroom personnel, custodians, and secretaries in the schools to be treated with respect and dignity just as the student should receive the respect of staff members. It is imperative that the teacher be in charge of the class; anything less would lead to a poor educational opportunity for all. All schools in the Hoover School System operate on a "closed campus" policy. This means students must stay in the school building or on the campus from the time they arrive, even if the daily schedule has not begun, until they are dismissed. Staff members are responsible for the supervision of students anywhere on school property as well as at any school activities away from school property. Students who fail to follow the discipline policy will be subject to the discipline process.

Discipline Process:

Classroom Level

The greatest opportunity for students to learn self-esteem, self-discipline, and respect for others occurs in the classroom under the direction of the classroom teacher. Teachers shall plan and implement effective personal and instructional strategies which are designed to encourage self-respect and respect for others and to prevent and manage student misbehavior.

When a student shows a lack of respect for established rules, teachers shall assist the student in recognizing the inappropriate actions, identifying the rule the student is breaking, and developing a plan for making more appropriate choices. Teacher/student conferences, teacher/parent conferences, teacher/student/ parent conferences, counseling services, and instructional support will be used in an attempt to redirect students before situations warrant punitive measures.

Teachers shall apply logical, appropriate consequences for student misbehavior, including, but not limited to, immediate intervention, student conferences, parent conferences, loss of free time, and before and after school detention. Student misconduct which is serious or frequent enough to cause significant disruption in the instructional program shall be referred to an administrator for appropriate disciplinary action.

Discipline Process:

Administrative Level

The principal is ultimately responsible for the orderly operation of the school program. The principal, with the assistance of his/her staff, will maintain an atmosphere or climate within each school that will support and allow for a strong teaching/learning environment. Failure of any student to adhere to classroom or school rules may result in the imposition of appropriate consequences by the principal/ designee. Consequences which require students to attend school during nonschool hours will be assigned with adequate student/parent notification prior to the consequence, and transportation will be the responsibility of the parent or student. Individual schools will develop specific rules and guidelines for the administration of consequences. Such consequences may include but are not limited to:

1.

Supervised Plan for Correction of Misbehavior;

2.

Detention;

3.

Saturday School;

4.

Work/Clean Up Program;

5.

Assessment for Damages;

6.

Supervised Time Out;

7.

Required Parent Conference;

8.

Intensive School Supervision (ISS);

9.

Suspension;

10.

Crossroads School Placement;

11.

Recommendation for Long-Term Suspension or Expulsion.

Descriptions of Consequences

Supervised Plan for Correction of Misbehavior

A supervised plan for correction of misbehavior shall be designed by the student, parent, teacher, administrator and/or other appropriate persons. The plan may address persistent, disruptive, or continued disregard for general school rules.

Detention

A student may be detained for disciplinary purposes before or after school for a duration of no more than one hour per detention on a school day and will be under the supervision of a school staff member.

Saturday School

A student may be assigned Saturday school for a duration of from one to four hours and will be under the supervision of a school staff member.

Work\Clean-up Program

A student may be assigned to a school work\clean-up program for disciplinary purposes for a duration of not more than one hour before or after school. Supervision will be provided by a staff member.

Assessment for Damages

A student or his/her parent may be assessed the exact amount of replacement/repair/service costs which result from damage to school property or the property of others caused by the student. In addition, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. A parent contact will be made and a payment schedule determined by the student, parent, administrator, and other appropriate persons.

Supervised Time-Out

A student may be temporarily denied attendance in regular classes for disciplinary purposes. The student will continue to do his/her assigned work, but will be isolated from the school's student population. A parent contact will be made as

soon as possible.

Required Parent Conference

A student whose behavior requires parental intervention may be asked to remain at home until a conference is convened with the student, a parent, and an administrator.

Intensive School Supervision (ISS)

A student may be temporarily denied attendance in regular classes for disciplinary purposes. A student assigned to ISS will continue to come to school and receive credit for completed assigned work; however, will be isolated from the school's student population. While in ISS a student may not attend school activities nor enroll in another distract school until the ISS assignment is completed. Parent notification of the ISS placement will be made as soon as possible.

Suspension

A student may be temporarily denied attendance at school for disciplinary purposes. A school administrator may assign short-term suspensions not to exceed the number of days allowed by law. A suspended student shall not attend school or any school-related activities during the suspension nor enroll in another district school until the suspension is completed. A suspended student will not return to regular classes on the day of the suspension but will leave school only when the parent or other proper authority assumes responsibility for the student. A school conference shall be convened prior to the student returning to classes and will include the student, a parent, an administrator, and other appropriate persons.

Alternative School Assignment (Crossroads School)

Under certain conditions, the Board authorizes the placement of students in the Hoover City Schools’ Crossroads School, an alternative school program that is housed in a facility separated from any of the regular school programs.

The education program of the Crossroads School is based on two different and distinct approaches: The New Beginnings Program and the Second Chance Program.

New Beginnings is a nontraditional alternative learning program designed for 6-12 grade students not experiencing school success for a variety of reasons within their traditional middle/high school settings. This program helps students receive the social/emotional support they need to achieve school success in a smaller nontraditional educational setting. The program places a strong emphasis on how to achieve excellence during times of personal adversity that will enable them to become productive, contributing citizens.

In order to be accepted in New Beginnings, a student must apply and meet the criteria required in the application process. Students accepted into the New Beginnings program might request to attend Crossroads School for a semester, the remainder of the school year, or until graduation. Students who complete their high school education at New Beginnings may participate in a graduation ceremony (see “NOTE” below).

Second Chance Program is a program for students who exhibit chronic/ severe disciplinary problems within grades 6-12. This program serves students who violate Hoover City Schools’ Code of Conduct and through due process procedures, will be assigned an alternative learning placement. A minimum of 25-day placements are assigned to students who exhibit chronic behavioral problems such as excessive absences, missed Saturday Schools, repeated Intensive School Supervision placements, etc. Some categories of student misbehavior are considered more severe (i.e., drugs, alcohol, weapons, etc.) and warrant immediate suspension from school, possible expulsion by the Board and/or placement in the Second Chance Program for a minimum of forty-five (45) days. Some cases may warrant placement for a minimum of a school year.

Placement in the Second Chance Program is therefore a privilege afforded students who may otherwise face expulsion from Hoover City Schools. While assigned to the program, students are not allowed to return to their base school or any Hoover school, nor are they allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities involving Hoover schools.

Parents/guardians of all students placed in the Second Chance Program will be given written information regarding the placement at the required intake conference with designated Crossroads personnel. Parents will provide transportation to and from school for their child. Parents are also responsible for providing students with their required dress uniforms (white shirts with collars and khaki slacks) and brown bag lunches with non-carbonated beverages.

NOTE: A student who serves any time in the Second Chance Program during the second semester may not attend the Hoover High School prom as the guest of a Hoover High School student. A senior who serves any time in the Second Chance Program may not participate in the Hoover High School graduation ceremony.

Recommendation for Long Term Suspension or Expulsion

Serious misconduct or continuing misconduct of any student may be referred to the Superintendent with a recommendation for a long-term suspension (more than ten {10} days) or possible expulsion. After review of the case, the Superintendent may (1) uphold the long term suspension, (2) make a recommendation for expulsion to the Board, or (3) refer the case back to the principal for reconsideration.

The Board has the exclusive authority to expel a student from school. The Board shall convene a hearing and shall render a decision within ten (10) days of the Superintendent's recommended expulsion. A student shall remain suspended from school pending the decision. The Superintendent shall notify the parent/guardian, in writing, of action taken by the Board.

Serious Misconduct

The following list of student misbehavior is serious and requires administrative intervention. Some of these misbehaviors may require legal action. The following list of misbehavior is not all inclusive.

1.

continued violation of any school rule

2.

continued disruption of classes

3.

continued display of disrespect toward teachers and/or school staff

4.

failure to report to detention, including Saturday School assignments

5.

leaving school without permission, skipping class, truancy

6.

loitering in restrooms or other restricted areas

7. being in a parking lot and/or sitting in cars prior to school starting or any other time prior to dismissal and/or while school is in session 8. possession of paging devices and entertainment items including but not limited to beepers, portable phones, skateboards, radios, cameras, electronic games, etc. 9. causing physical injury to another student through carelessness or rough play 10. intentionally falsifying information, a signature, or refusing to give a name or information to a teacher, parent, administrator, or other personnel 11.

possession and/or use of tobacco products

12.

possession of stolen property whether actually involved in taking the

property or not 13. misconduct on a school bus that threatens the safety and wellbeing of passengers and drivers 14. preparing, possession of and/or igniting fireworks, firecrackers, or explosives of any kind on school property or at school-sponsored activities 15.

inciting or participating in major student disorder

16. unauthorized organization (any on-campus participation in fraternities, sororities, secret societies, or nonaffiliated school clubs) 17. 18.

written or verbal proposals to engage in inappropriate acts inappropriate touching of or physical contact with another person

19. trespassing (willfully entering or remaining on any school property after being warned by an authorized person) 20. gambling - any forum for the exchange of money or goods (including matching, etc.) 21. cheating, forgery, plagiarism and/or other forms of dishonesty that involves any aspect of school, school records, or school assignments 22. initiating a false alarm warning of a fire, bomb threat, or other catastrophe 23.

extortion or attempts to take money or things of value from a person

24. using vulgar, obscene, or profane language, or use of racial slurs or epithets, in verbal or written form or in pictures, caricatures, or obscene gestures, possession or distribution of such literature to include that which is obscene or pornographic on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or in the vicinity of school 25. fighting on or near school grounds, at school-sponsored activities, or on school buses 26. committing or attempting to commit a theft on school school-sponsored activities at or away from school 27.

property or

harassment, intimidation, or threatening of fellow students and/or staff

28. assault of a student, teacher, or other school personnel (verbal or physical) 29. criminal mischief/vandalism, defacement, destruction, or theft of school property, or the property of others (including the painting of sidewalks, parking lots, buildings, streets, etc.) 30.

arson

31. burglary of school property (entering or remaining in a structure or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense therein)

32. involvement with alcoholic beverages on school property or at schoolsponsored activities at or away from school: Involvement includes but is not limited to, sale, purchase, attempt to purchase/sell, distribution, possession, transportation, use, and/or being under the influence of alcohol. This includes having consumed any quantity of alcohol during or prior to the activities. 33. involvement with any type drug, controlled substance, narcotics, paraphernalia, etc., on school property or at school-sponsored activities at or away from school: Involvement includes, but is not limited to, sale, purchase, attempt to purchase/sell, distribution, possession, transportation, use, and/or being under the influence of drugs. This includes possession or having used any quantity of drugs during or prior to the activities. This policy also applies to any legal substance (over-the-counter medications, vitamins, food supplements, counterfeits, look-alike substances, deliriants) for other than normally accepted circumstances or when represented to be a controlled substance. 34. involvement with anything that might be considered a weapon, either real or look-a-like: Involvement includes, but is not limited to, sale, purchase, attempt to purchase/sell, distribution, possession, transportation, use, or attempt to use. any other conduct that is potentially wrongful or disruptive to the learning environment

Unlawful Misconduct

Misconduct which violates local, state, or federal laws and which occurs at school, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored activity may result in notification of the appropriate law enforcement agency. The Board reserves the right to file charges and to prosecute students engaged in conduct which violates local, state, or federal laws. If a student is arrested and charged with a felony or with a drug, alcohol, or weapons related misdemeanor, the school's disciplinary procedure, up to and including expulsion, may be implemented. This applies whether or not the incident leading to the arrest is school-related.

Inappropriate Discipline

At any point in the discipline process, actions which are designed to control behavior through the use of humiliation, degradation, or verbal abuse of students shall not be tolerated. Any form of corporal punishment, including punitive physical contact, is prohibited.

DIVISION OF RESPONSIBILITES All teachers are expected to take on responsibilities for the good of the school.

In addition to assigned bus duty (at least two weeks during the year), each teacher will be assigned to a school renewal committee and to three sponsorships. It is each teacher’s duty to assure that all of their assigned responsibilities are met. Also, teachers will be expected to share the responsibilities of their grade level team. The facilitator of each team will assure that each member take on an equal burden to achieve grade level efforts. (i.e. contacting speakers, fieldtrips, etc.)

Each teachers will be asked to either plan a fieldtrip or write an article during the course of the year.

EQUIPMENT

If you check anything out from the school (particularly technology equipment) to use at home you are personally responsible for replacement of that equipment if it is lost or broken.

EMAIL

In an effort to be proactive regarding the storage needs of Hoover City Schools and the need to provide reliable backup and restoration procedures, the following Hoover City Schools E-mail Procedures will be implemented beginning Saturday, October 27th.

E-mail Retention Procedure: A. Hoover City Schools provide access to email accounts for all employees, and long-term substitutes. Email accounts may be granted for school related organizations or classes with designated employee sponsors. B. Hoover City Schools make a reasonable effort to maintain (backup) email for normal business operations. Backups are maintained for a maximum of 7 days. C. Technical support is provided for Hoover City Schools email accounts used to conduct educational and/or instructional business. D. Personal use of email is permitted as long as it does not violate Hoover City Schools' policy and/or adversely affect others or the speed of the network. E. Use of Hoover City Schools’ email accounts for harassing or threatening is strictly prohibited.

F. Hoover City Schools' email accounts may not be used for political activity, personal gain, commercial purposes, or profit. G. When employing email, all employees are responsible for maintaining professionalism at all times. Avoid impulsive and informal communication. Employees must be constantly mindful of the need to review carefully and reconsider email communications before responding to and/or sending email. As a general rule, the content of an email should be acceptable to a general audience. H. Hoover City Schools' email accounts may not be used for attempting to send or sending anonymous messages. I. Hoover City Schools' email accounts may not be used for sending mass emails unless to parent lists or for other educational purposes. J. Hoover City Schools' email accounts may not be used for posting or forwarding other user's personal communication without the author's consent. K. Because email is not securely transmitted, discretion must be used when sending, or encouraging the receipt of email containing sensitive information about students, families, school system employees, or any individuals. There is no assurance that email will be confidential and/or private. L. There is a system imposed limit on storage for email accounts. Users meeting or exceeding the limit will be unable to send or receive emails. M. Users required to maintain email for more than 90 days should print said emails. N. The technology staff, Hoover City Schools’ administrative staff, or Hoover City Board of Education do not support or advocate the use of email archives. O. Incoming and outgoing email is filtered by the district for inappropriate content. However, no filtering system is foolproof, and material deemed inappropriate by individual users may be transmitted in spite of filtering. Hoover City Schools cannot assume any liability for such breaches of the filter. P. employment.

Email accounts will automatically expire on the last full day of

Q. At the discretion of the Chief Technology Officer, email accounts may be locked without notice.

E-mail Retention Procedure:

Mailbox Quota

(maximum)

- 100MB

Warning will be sent at 80 MB When the mailbox is full (reaching the maximum quota), the user will still receive e-mail but not send until the quota is addressed.

Default Maximum Retention Time Inbox 180 Days (items in this folder that are older than this will be automatically deleted on a continuing basis) Cabinet 365 Days (items in this folder that are older than this will be automatically deleted on a continuing basis) Sent Items 30 Days (items in this folder that are older than this will be automatically deleted on a continuing basis) Deleted Items 14 Days (items in this folder that are older than this will be automatically deleted on a continuing basis) Junk E-mail 7 Days (items in this folder that are older than this will be automatically deleted on a continuing basis)

To find your current Mailbox size: Open Microsoft Outlook Right click on Mailbox – {Your Name} Select Properties for “Mailbox – {Your Name}” Select the Folder Size Button Total size is given in KB

-

102400 KB = 100 MB

No staff member may use email for their personal profit!

FUNDRAISING Each grade level will be given the opportunity to plan and implement a fundraiser during the course of the year. Similar fund raisers must be separated by at least three weeks (This includes PTO fundraisers). A fundraising form should be filled out and submitted to the principal at least 3 weeks before the event. Once all grade levels have had the opportunity to schedule one fundraiser the possibility will be open for a grade level to arrange a second one. No child will be discriminated against for any reason therefore if the event is open to a grade level it will be open to all kids at that grade level. If a child comes to the event and they need an aide assigned to them that aide must be paid with the proceeds from the event.

FURNITURE and STORAGE As long as there are vacant classrooms it is fine for teachers to store supplies in these empty rooms or use them for any purpose that will benefit the children. However once these rooms are needed, it will be necessary for each teacher to remove all stored materials.

Concerning furniture needs: As long as there are extra tables, desks etc. it is fine for a teacher to make a request to use these items on a temporary basis. However, as new units are assigned to Deer Valley, they will be provided a full complement of furniture as designated when the school was built. Therefore, furniture that was borrowed by a teacher will at that time be redistributed to the new unit. GRADE DISTRIBUTION FORMS A Grade Distribution sheet should be completed for each nine weeks to show what students are having trouble and turned in to the office. GRADE LEVEL MEETINGS Planning activities by grades has many, many advantages. Teachers are therefore asked to discuss any and all class activities with each other at grade level meetings and to discuss plans for all major activities with the principal before they are discussed with students or parents. Grade level meetings will include items concerning staff development, curriculum development, team business and administrative matters.

GROUP PUNISHMENT We do not allow group punishment at Deer Valley.

HOMEWORK Teachers are encouraged to require homework which is in keeping with the ability and needs of the students. It should be varied in length based on the child’s grade level. The standard followed in Hoover is 10 minutes of homework per grade level. (ie: a first grade student should have 10 minutes a night, a fifth grade student should have 50 minutes a night. etc.) If homework is graded it should represent no more than 10-20 percent of the child’s final grade for a nine weeks. Homework should further learning tasks as follows: in class.

a.

Provide students the opportunity to practice those skills taught

b.

Allow students to complete unfinished class assignments.

c. Provide a background for class activities by allowing students to preview work that will be studied in the future.

d. Adjust class instruction to individual differences of students in ability and interests. For the most part, homework should not be given on Wed. or Friday nights. In addition to this homework we encourage students to read an appropriate amount each night. (Between 10 – 30 min)

THREE R'S OF HOMEWORK When preparing homework, be mindful of the 3 R's of effective homework: 1. Relevance: that you are doing in

Assignments should be directly related to the work

class. 2. Review: previously covered.

All homework assignments should be review of material

New or unfamiliar concepts should not be introduced as homework. 3. Realistic: complete as assignment setting.

It generally takes an LD child three times as long to

at home as it would to complete it in the structured classroom Therefore a 10-minute classroom assignment will take approximately 30

minutes at home.

Make sure that your homework counts. Resist the temptation to have students copy sentences when they could simply supply the answer unless writing the sentences are the assignment. In most cases extensive writing at home should be done to convey an idea or story not to rewrite what is already in the book.

HOT GLUE Make sure to put hot glue on the item that you are attaching to the wall and not the wall itself.

IF YOU HAVE A CHILD HERE Do not allow your children to run around the building in the afternoon. insist that they stay in your room until you are ready to leave.

Please

Do not visit your child’s classroom unannounced. would want to be treated.)

(Treat their teacher how you

Do not allow your child to use the equipment in the conference room. equipment (particularly the laminator) is extremely dangerous.

This

In the morning, if you want your child to help you in the classroom – make sure they stay in the classroom or walk with you. They should not be allowed to wander the halls in the morning. Try not to take advantage of your friendship with your child’s teacher by calling them a great deal at home concerning routine class/homework issues. Once in a while I’m sure would be okay. Demonstrate in everything you do for your child’s teacher that you trust that they are doing a great job! If your child tells you something going on in the classroom that concerns you, don’t assume that your child has all of the information. If it truly concerns you go to the teacher and get the story from the “horse’s mouth.” If your child is being mistreated by the other kids etc. make sure to share your concerns with the teacher AND with me. I want to be a part of resolving any conflict you or your child might be having. Expect your child to be treated just like every other child. If there is a serious concern, of course you will be alerted; otherwise allow them to make mistakes!

INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM

All teachers should begin their year by becoming aware of the Deer Valley guaranteed curriculum guide and grade level curriculum map.

When you have a fieldtrip scheduled for a day - You must have a back up plan in case it gets rained out - Let the students know this plan in case their trip is cancelled.

Instructional days – It is important to limit the number of classroom celebrations (to no more than one a month). Remember every moment that you have with your

students is precious.

When teachers come out of the classroom they should have a parent read to class or do worksheets. - They should not plan on a video unless it is aligned with curriculum.

While some videos provide great bridges to the curriculum, others do not. Even for those that do make those connections - please closely monitor the number of them that you show. Don't forget the importance of that direct instruction and student practice time.

Make sure that you are always sensitive to the learning needs of your students.

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS JOB DESCRIPTION JOB TITLE:

Teacher

RESPONSIBLE TO:

School Principal

QUALIFICATIONS: area.

Valid Alabama certification in appropriate subject

Must be certified and highly qualified according to "No Child Left Behind" guidelines" JOB GOAL: potential for

To lead students toward the fulfillment of their

intellectual, emotional, and psychological growth and maturation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: I. Provide instruction through a systematic process appropriate to each student for the achievement of established learning outcomes, including: a. Expecting that each student will be successful in attaining instructional goals; b. c.

Ensuring that each student has the necessary prerequisites; Explaining to students what is to be learned and how learning will be

demonstrated;

d.

Motivating students through appropriate incentives and creating a desire for

students to engage themselves in the instructional process; e.

Teaching to the stated objectives, using a variety of teaching methods that

enhance individual student success rates; f. Using effective practices that increase student participation and interaction; g.

Using teaching and assessment methods that increase cooperation among students

in the learning process; h. of

Assessing students formally for attainment of stated objectives on the basis

predetermined criteria; i.

Monitoring students' learning and providing reteaching or other support for

students in a timely manner; j.

Providing continuous and multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate

success; k. 1.

Grading students on the basis of predetermined criteria; Assigning homework appropriate to the needs of each student to facilitate

classroom participation or to reinforce previously taught skills; m. Varying the time according to the needs of individual students and the complexity of the task; n.

Modifying the instructional process to accommodate for individual differences

and needs of students; and o.

Establishing and maintaining a line of communication with parents in order to

ensure student success; 2. Create a positive classroom environment for students, contribute to their self-concept, growth and development as self-disciplined learners, and consistently a. ' b.

Build relationships based upon respect and cooperation; Encourage students to take initiative and accept responsibility for personal

behavior;

c. d.

Use a problem solving approach; Recognize and show appreciation for the worth and diversity of students;

e. Help each student to recognize his/her potential and pursue appropriate goals; and f.

Model those behaviors that are most desired in students.

3. Maintain a strong commitment to personal and professional growth, ensure that behaviors and practices are consistent with the most current data from professional research literature. Included are: a.

Participation in professional in-service workshops and incorporation of newer

skills and practices within the total instructional process; b.

Sharing of effective practices with colleagues;

c. Keeping abreast of curriculum and instruction issues, technology and information through continuous review of literature and other means; and d. Viewing learning and teaching as a fundamentally related, continuous process..

4 . Become familiar with and follow school and district policies and procedures in a timely manner.

LARGE EVENTS All music used during a school program/special event must be approved by the administration prior to the event. This includes any songs that will be played by DJ’s etc. Songs that are offensive or have been derived from offensive songs will not be played during a school event.

When planning a large event it is important that we have a schedule to assure that volunteers are allowed to work no more than two hours at a time. All station must have at least two volunteers stationed there throughout the event. Finally volunteers should be checked on by school personnel at least two times per hour.

LESSON PLANS All teachers will plan carefully for each class. These plans will be discussed with the principal and/or assistant principal from time to time. An area of focus should be listed at the top of all lesson plans.

Detailed lesson plans should be provided for substitute teachers.

Lesson plans should be kept on the computer. drive at the end of the year for archiving.

These plans will be placed on the T

LOST BOOKS If you check library books out during the course of the year you are responsible for them. At the end of the year half of the cost of any missing book will be deducted from your classroom donations. If the book is found later you may add it to your classroom library.

MAINTENANCE To request maintenance complete an on-line work order request. receptionist.

Then email the

MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDANCE AT PTO MEETINGS All Deer Valley teachers are active members of the PTO and should make every effort to attend all meetings unless prevented by unforeseen emergency. The school seeks to work closely with the parents at all times and active membership in the PTO affords greater opportunity for organized cooperation.

All teachers are encouraged to pay PTO dues each year. $5 fee they need to contact the principal!)

(If teacher cannot pay the

Each room will have a PTO Room Mother. A Room Mothers' meeting will be held soon after the opening of school for the homeroom mother to appoint committees and to complete organization of the homeroom parents.

MEETING SCHEDULE Every Monday there will be a meeting for all staff members. This will either be a faculty meeting, a committee meeting or a study group. Teachers interested in leading a study group should get with Dr. Richardson as soon as possible.

It is incredibly important that we respect team meetings. during your scheduled weekly meetings.

Do not plan anything

Faculty meetings, committee meetings are mandatory - unless you are pre-approved to miss.

When at professional development meetings/faculty/committee meetings please follow these rules: ·

Turn all cell phones off!

· Please listen intently to the speaker.. you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts and questions at some point during the presentation. Write them down as you think of them. ·

Do not grade papers or do anything unrelated to the topic at hand.

All teachers should plan to attend at least 3 PTO meetings throughout the year. We will have a sign in sheet the day after each meeting.

Missing Specials, Physical Education, or Special Education Classes No child should miss their special education class more than two times within a nine weeks period. If a child in your class misses their special education class twice in a row please send the principal notification asap.

If a class misses their specials (excluding PE) twice within a nine week period, it is important that one of these classes be made up at a time that is convenient to the specials teacher.

When planning fieldtrips, please consider when you will be leaving for and returning from your trip. If your class will not be here for your entire special time or your entire PE time you will need to forgo that special or PE session for that day. It is too complicated to walk right in from a fieldtrip and into a special class. This caused a problem earlier this year when a child was supposed to bring a note to PE but because the child went straight from the bus to PE he did not have a chance to get the note from the classroom to give to the teacher. This resulted in a very angry parent as you might imagine. In addition, most of our special times are so short, if a child misses 10 minutes, it is time wasted when they only are in the gym or special class for twenty minutes (there is no way for the teacher to modify their plan to accommodate for that small amount of time.) – especially when you consider that ALL of the children need to use the restroom as soon as they come back from a fieldtrip (15 minutes just for this task) and many of the children must change their shoes before playing on the gym floor. (another 3-5 minutes)

If a grade level teacher intentionally misses any scheduled time (for any reason) it is not necessary for the specials teacher/PE teacher to make up that lesson (unless they choose to do so). If a class misses their special because of the special teacher's schedule (either the teacher is gone to another school or they are on a fieldtrip) they will need to make up that lesson at a mutually convenient time.

Special Classes should be cancelled only if it is unavoidable! NEW STUDENTS The first day of school can be incredibly difficult. As you get new students throughout the year make sure to walk them through their day.

PARENT CONFERENCES AND VISITORS Any person entering the school should come by the office first and receive a visitor's tag. Teachers can help establish the habit firmly by politely inquiring of any parent or visitor if s/he has checked by the office before coming to the classroom. It is our responsibility to know who is in the building and for what purpose.

Each parent is urged to have a conference with his child's teacher soon after school begins and to keep in close touch with the school at all times. Each teacher is asked to write a report of the parent-conference immediately after the conference, (including phone conferences) submit to the office for the principal's information, then file the report in the student's cumulative record folder. See attached form. (Section D)

Record of Parent-Teacher Conference

Each teacher will notify the parents of scheduled conference periods and ask parents to make appointments for conferences to avoid conflicts. Both the office and the teacher make appointments. If you, as a teacher, make an appointment yourself, let the office know so they will not schedule another at the same time. These conferences should not be held in the Teacher's Work Room. The teacher's own room, conference room or the principal's office are usually the best place for such conferences. If the conference is held in the classroom, no other children should be permitted in the room during such a conference. Conferences are confidential.

PERSONAL LEAVE Personal Leave request needs to be in writing to the principal.

Personal Leave beyond 2 days requires submission of form to principal and superintendent. Request for early departure or late arrival needs to be discussed with the principal. - See Policies Relating to Personnel

Personal day - none is allowed before a system-wide vacation day or 2 weeks at the end of school

If you need to leave in the middle of the day it is important that you complete a “leaving campus form” and turn this in to the principal or assistant principal. Anytime you leave you need to try to arrange coverage for your class and duties.

As soon as you know that you will be away from work you need to complete a leave form to turn in to Teresa.

PERSONAL LEAVES AND ABSENCES POLICY Leaves of Absence The Board may grant leaves of absence for periods of one year for justifiable reasons. Leave, at the Board's discretion, may be extended to a second year without loss of continuing service status. Such leaves shall be without pay.

A teacher wishing to return from leave shall notify the Superintendent, in writing, not later than 180 days before his desired date of return of his desire for a position in the School District at the beginning of the next school term. If notification is not properly made, any obligation on the part of the Board shall cease to exist.

Personal Leave The Board shall permit each certified employee to be absent two days each year, without loss of pay, to attend to personal or business affairs. Such leave days shall not be cumulative. The request for leave as herein provided shall be in accordance with established procedures. The principal and Superintendent may approve up to three additional days for which the employee is charged the rate of a substitute teacher's pay. The request for these extra days must be in writing in advance and approved prior to the days being taken. Personal leave should not be taken immediately before or after a school holiday or during the last two weeks of the school year except in those instances where circumstances are so compelling so as to warrant such leave.

For the first two personal leave days when not used, teachers may receive compensation at the same daily rate paid substitute teachers or have them converted to sick days per the written authorization of the employee. The three (3) additional days, when not used, will automatically convert to sick days. The number of personal leave days subject to reimbursement shall be limited to the number for which funding is provided in the annual Special Education Trust Fund budget.

The Board will not approve anyone to miss institute.

Jury Duty A Board employee who is required to serve on a jury shall receive the regular pay to which he is entitled, in addition to any monies he receives for jury duty.

Sick Leave Sick leave is defined as the absence from regular duty by a professional employee because of the following:

personal illness;

B.

bodily injury which incapacitates the employee;

C. attendance to an ill member of the immediate family (husband, wife, father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister) of the employee, or a person standing in loco parentis.

Professional employees may accumulate sick leave at the rate of one (1) day per month up to 225 days. In no case shall sick leave be used until it has been earned.

Upon proper verification of the previous employing Board, professional personnel employed by the Board may transfer up to 225 days of sick leave from another Alabama school district.

Bereavement Leave Immediate Family All personnel may receive leave for bereavement related to members of the immediate family. Up to five (5) days of such leave shall be chargeable to accrued sick leave or personal leave as the employee desires. Additional unpaid days may be granted by the Superintendent for exceptional circumstances.

The immediate family of the employee shall be defined to include husband, wife, father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, nephew, niece, granddaughter, grandson, grandfather, grandmother, uncle and aunt.

Other Than Immediate Family

When unusually strong personal ties exist, due, for example, to an employee’s having been supported or educated by a person other than those defined as immediate family, such relationship may be recognized by the Superintendent for bereavement leave purposes. If approved, such leave shall be chargeable to sick leave and/or personal leave, as the employee desires.

When the deceased is not a member of the employee’s immediate family, up to two (2) days of leave for bereavement may be granted at the discretion of the Superintendent and is chargeable to personal leave unless an employee has no

available personal days, in which case such leave shall be without pay.

Maternity Leave An employee may be granted a leave of absence without pay in accordance with the provisions contained herein upon verification of pregnancy. The following provisions shall apply:

1. The employee shall be allowed to continue duties as long as the employee, employee’s physician, and the Superintendent conclude the duties can be performed effectively. In the event of the employee’s disagreement with the Superintendent’s decision, an appeal can be initiated in accordance with policy.

2. It is the responsibility of the employee to submit a request for leave in writing no less than sixty (60) days before the anticipated date of the leave unless the disability is of an emergency nature. If the employee knows at the beginning of a semester that she will not be able to complete the semester because of pregnancy, she shall notify the principal and the Superintendent in writing prior to the start of the semester.

3. Verification by the attending physician that the employee is capable of performing assigned duties may be required at the discretion of the Superintendent prior to return from leave.

4. It is the responsibility of the employee to submit a request in writing no less than thirty (30) days before the anticipated date of return.

5. An employee granted temporary disability leave resulting from pregnancy shall be reinstated to full duty without loss of status and shall retain all accrued benefits.

6. Maternity/paternity leave, without pay, not to exceed one (1) year may be granted to tenured employees. A written request for additional leave may be approved by the Superintendent. It is the intent of the Board that maternity leave shall insofar as possible, assure minimal disruption of the School District and continuity of instruction be provided to the students.

7. A person adopting a child shall be eligible for leave and shall notify the Superintendent in writing of the request in sufficient time to allow for the

employment of an adequate replacement. The Superintendent shall be notified in writing of the employee’s desire to be reinstated at least thirty (30) days prior to the anticipated date of return.

8. Accumulated sick leave may be included in maternity leave disabilities provided the employee is not able to perform assigned duties and is in accordance with the state sick leave plan.

9. An employee on an approved maternity leave of absence for more than sixty (60) days shall notify the Superintendent, in writing, of the employee’s intent to return or not to return, no later than sixty (60) calendar days before the scheduled date of return. If notification is not properly made, any obligation on the part of the Board shall cease to exist.

10. Maternity leave shall not be counted as experience in the determination of placement on the salary schedule, except that, an employee who has served at least ninety (90) days during that scholastic school year shall be placed on the salary schedule on the step she would have reached had she completed the full year.

An employee upon returning from maternity leave shall be restored to her exact former position subject to transfer and reassignment provisions as may be provided for in Code and Board policy. She shall maintain her tenure status and all accruable benefits, except that, days are not to be accrued for sick leave or annual leave while on maternity leave.

Military Leave All employees are entitled to military leave of absence when ordered to active duty for training as a member of the Alabama National Guard or any component of the United States Armed Forces. Employees who volunteer, are drafted, or are ordered to extended active duty with any component of the United States Armed Forces, shall be entitled to reinstatement to a position on the same salary schedule.

Employees who are required to attend annual summer training, special active duty for training, or “military call-ups,” shall not suffer any loss of salary for up to fifteen (15) days' absence in any calendar year. Employees under orders to such duty shall provide one (1) copy of their orders to the Superintendent. This leave will be without loss of benefits.

Employees who are drafted or are called to active duty for extended periods will

be placed on “Military Leave of Absence” upon written application. Upon return, these employees are entitled to reinstatement to former or similar positions providing the following conditions are met:

1. They must not have remained on active duty beyond their first opportunity for honorable release; and

2. They must report to claim their employment position within ninety (90) days after completion of such service (thirty-one [31] days in case of individuals who undergo active duty training for six [6] months or less). Family and Medical Leave Act The Board complies with the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (P.L 103-3). The Act applies to all employees of the Board who have been employed for at least twelve (12) months and who have worked for a least 1,250 hours during that twelve months of employment in the School District. Under the Act, an eligible employee is entitled to twelve (12) weeks of unpaid leave during a twelve-month period for the following reasons:

1.

the birth and first year of a child;

2.

the adoption or foster placement of a child;

3.

the care of a “serious health condition.”

The Board may allow or require that paid leave be taken before granting unpaid leave. Unpaid leave granted in compliance with the Act, when combined with paid leave available to an employee, shall not exceed a combined total of twelve weeks.

In the instance of birth, adoption, for childcare expires at the end of of birth or placement. Entitlement occurs only when the child is under self-care due to mental or physical

or foster placement, the entitlement to leave the twelve-month period beginning on the date for leave associated with illness of a child eighteen (18) years of age or incapable of disability.

In cases where both spouses are employed by the Board, the combined amount of leave for childbirth, adoption, foster placement, or to care for a sick parent, is limited to twelve weeks.

A “serious health condition” means an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that involves inpatient care in a hospital, hospice, or

residential medical care facility, or (2) continuing treatment by a health care provider.

Intermittent Leave If medically necessary for a serious health condition of the employee or the employee’s spouse, child, or parent, leave may be taken on an intermittent or reduced leave schedule subject to certain conditions which pertain to instructional employees.[1] The Board may require the employee to transfer temporarily to an alternative position which better accommodates recurring periods of absences or a part-time schedule provided the position has equivalent pay and benefits. When instructional employees seek intermittent leave in connection with a family or personal illness and when such leave would constitute at least twenty percent (20%) of the total number of working days in the period during which the leave would extend, the Board may require the employee to take leave in a block (not intermittently) for the entire period or to transfer to an available alternative position with the School District, that is equivalent in pay, for which the employee is qualified, and which better accommodates the intermittent situation.

Notification

Except where circumstances are such that reasonable advance planning is not possible, employees must provide the Superintendent at least thirty (30) days written notice of the date when leave is to begin. With respect to foreseeable family or employee illness, the employee shall make reasonable effort to schedule treatment--- including intermittent and reduced hour leave---so as not to disrupt unduly the operation of the School District.

Certification

The Board requires that a request for leave based on the serious health condition of the employee, the employee’s son, daughter, spouse, or parent be supported by a certification issued by the appropriate health care provider. The certification shall state (1) the date the serious health condition began, (2) the probable duration of the condition, (3) the necessity for the employee’s leave, and (4) that the employee is unable to perform the employee’s job functions. The Board reserves the right, at its own expense, to designate a second health care provider (other than a School District employee) to provide a second opinion. If the first and second opinion conflict, the Board can require, at its own expenses, a third opinion by a health care provider approved by the Board and employee. This opinion shall be binding. Upon the employee’s return to work, the Board may require the employee to provide certification by the employee’s health care provider that the employee is able to resume work.

Benefits

Benefits accrued by the employee before leave is taken will not be altered by the employee’s absence under this policy. The employee is entitled to continuation of health benefits during the leave period under the same conditions these benefits would have been provided if no leave had been taken. If an employee fails to return to work after this leave period expires, the Board may recover the health benefits premiums paid by the employer for the employee’s benefits during the leave period.

Restoration

Upon return, the employee is entitled to restoration to an equivalent position with equivalent pay, benefits, and conditions of employment. The Board may deny position restoration to an employee whose salary is in the highest ten percent (10%) of the employees employed by the Board if such denial is necessary to prevent substantial and grievous economic injury to the Board’s operation.

Because the end of the semester is a critical time for both teachers and students, the following conditions apply to requests from instructional employees seeking to return from leave within the last three (3) weeks of the semester:

1. If the employee begins any category of family and medical leave five (5) or more weeks prior to the end of the semester and the leave is for more than three (3) weeks, the District may require the employee seeking to return within the last three weeks to wait until the next semester.

2. If the employee begins any category of family and medical leave except personal sick leave less than five (5) weeks before the end of the semester and the period of leave is greater than two (2) weeks, the District may require the employee seeking to return within the last two (2) weeks to wait until the next semester.

3. If the employee begins any category of family and medical leave except personal sick leave three (3) or fewer weeks before the end of the semester and the period of leave is greater than five (5) working days, the District may require the employee to wait until the next semester.

When an instructional employee’s leave falls within one of the three categories

above, the required additional leave (for example, the last two weeks of the semester in category 1) is considered part of the available twelve week unpaid leave period per year.

SICK LEAVE BANK The Hoover City Board of Education, in accordance with Act 95-386, shall establish a sick leave bank for full-time personnel upon written request of at least ten (10) percent of said personnel.

The accounting and administration of the sick leave bank shall be the responsibility of the Board. Proposed rules and regulations for the operation of the sick leave bank shall be developed by a committee comprised of four (4) elected employees and one (1) representative of the Board. Vacancies on the Sick Leave Bank Committee, hereinafter called the Committee, shall be filled by the Board. Committee members shall serve for a term of one (1) year.

The following minimum regulations will apply to the sick leave bank:

(a) No employee shall be allowed to owe more than fifteen (15) days to the sick leave bank, unless over fifty percent (50%) of the participating members of the bank vote to extend said limit.

(b)

Applications for sick leave loans shall be developed by the Committee.

(c) Upon the resignation or other termination of an employee who has an outstanding loan of sick leave days, said value of the loan shall be deducted from the final pay check at the prevailing rate.

(d) An employee participating in the program shall not be allowed to accumulate more than 225 days of sick leave, including days deposited in the sick leave bank.

(e) Participation in the sick leave bank shall at all times be voluntary on the part of the employee.

(f) Any alleged abuse of the use of the sick leave bank shall be investigated by the Committee and, on a finding of wrongdoing, the employee shall repay all of the sick leave credits drawn from the sick leave bank and be subject

to other appropriate disciplinary action as determined by the Board.

CATASTROPHIC SICK LEAVE Employees, at their discretion, may donate a specific number of days to the sick leave bank to be designated for a specific employee who is suffering a catastrophic illness as recognized and defined by the State Board of Education. Before sick leave days for a catastrophic illness may be donated, the employee who is to receive such days shall have no sick leave days remaining. Donated days shall become available for use by the particular employee who shall not be required to repay the days. Any employee who donates sick leave days to the sick leave bank for a particular employee suffering from a catastrophic illness shall be made to understand that such donated days are not to be recovered or returned to the donor. However, if a particular employee does not require all of the days donated to the employee’s credit, the days shall revert to the credit of those employees who donated the days in accordance with the guidelines adopted by the Sick Leave Bank Committee. No employee may donate more than thirty (30) sick leave days to the sick leave bank for the catastrophic sick leave of another employee. A sick leave bank is authorized to donate sick leave days to another sick leave bank for use by a particular employee who is suffering a catastrophic illness.

Ref: Ala Code 16-3-36, 16-11-9, 16-2-9, 16-24-13, 31-2-13. Maternity Leave, Bereavement Leave and Military Leave adopted by the Board August 27, 1990.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994 Revised June 27, 1994 Revised January 29,1996 Revised December 14, 1998 Revised February 28, 2000

FILE:

GBRJ

PERSONAL PROPERTY Teachers should lock up all personal property during the day. Things have been known to turn up missing and this can be a nightmare. Please secure all purses and expensive items as soon as you come into the building.

PITFALLS TO AVOID -

Group punishments

-

Round Robin Reading

reflect.

Classrooms where students are not given the opportunity to sit and

Publically humiliating a child. in control – even if you’re not)

(You should always seem composed and

Allowing students to record other students’ behavior infractions or giving them a grade that will be used to calculate their final average. -

Leaving kids unsupervised for any length of time.

Sharing too much personal information with your class. your religious or political views specifically.

Do not share

PHONE USAGE Teachers should not use a phone during class time unless it is a conference call to benefit the students in her/his class. This includes cell phones.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION All students, unless excused by physician's request, will participate in a physical fitness program. The physical education teacher will supervise the program. A planned program of activities in keeping with the Hoover Board of Education should be followed. The PE program includes appropriate activities for children who are ill or otherwise disposed. Send them to PE unless parent specifies that they are to be kept in the classroom.

Classroom teachers are responsible for making PE teachers aware of any unusual circumstances about individual children. The teacher will be responsible for making study assignments for students who are unable to attend PE class on any particular day. Requests from parents should be honored. If a particular problem arises, this should be brought to the attention of the principal. All accidents (anytime and any place) must be reported on the proper form and be sent to school office--then Superintendent. See Accident Report Form (Section D, Pg.1),

PROFESSIONAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

Teachers should not miss more than 5 days from their classroom due to professional or other leave unless permission is granted.

Hoover City Schools Professional Growth Procedures The professional growth requirements for all Hoover City Schools certificated staff are described in the following outline. These requirements reflect guidelines established by our accrediting agency, the Southern Association of College and Schools.

I.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

A. At least 7.5 semester hours of graduate-level college credit or 120 clock hours of approved professional development activities must be earned during each five-year period of employment for every professional staff person. A one-year period of employment is considered to be one contract year.

B. The annual renewal requirement is at least 1.5 semester hours of graduatelevel college credit or 24 clock hours of approved professional development activities. The annual renewal requirement is applicable to all certificated staff including administrators, counselors, teachers and librarians, regardless of current degree, number of previous hours earned, or certification.

C. The requirement for meeting the five-year cycle of professional growth begins with the individual’s date of employment in Hoover City Schools. Annual records must be submitted to supervisors at the end of each academic year. For professional development purposes, the academic year runs from June 1 to May 31.

II.

PROFESSIONAL GROWTH ACTIVITIES

The professional growth requirement may be fulfilled by completing college courses and/or completing clock hours. The guidelines and limitations for earning credits and the types of approved activities are outlined below.

A. College Credit & Clock Hours (outside of school calendar days or normal work hours)

1. All college courses applied toward the professional growth requirement must be designated graduate level courses and must be designed to improve the professional competency of the participants.

2. College credit will be verified with submission of the college transcript and/or grade report that indicates the course, the course number, the number of credit hours, the semester/date the course was taken, and the grade received.

3. Professional growth credit can be earned by participating in approved professional growth activities after the school day, on weekends, or during the summer.

a) Activities, such as workshops, seminars, and meetings must be sponsored or recognized by the school or school system and directed by a professionally competent individual.

b) The content covered in the activity must be designed to improve the professional competency of the participants.

4. A coach who teaches in a subject area other than physical education may use coaching clinics to meet up to half of their annual renewal requirement for clock hours.

B.

Job-Embedded Activities (within school calendar days or normal work hours)

1. Credit will be granted for designated Professional Development Day activities and other approved professional development activities that occur during the school day. Activities taking place on Professional Development Days, as well as other activities occurring during the school day, must be specifically approved by the building administrator/supervisor for professional development prior to said activities.

2. On dates set aside in the district calendar as Professional Development Days, coaches who teach in a subject area other than physical education must attend the activities planned for their teaching area.

C.

Approved types of professional growth activities

1. All workshops that meet the above guidelines and are approved in advance by the building administrator/supervisor.

2. District-wide committee meetings such as curriculum development committees, textbook selection committees, etc.

3. Building-level curriculum development or school improvement planning that is approved in advance by the building administrator/supervisor. Credit will not be given for individual planning periods, regular grade level team meetings, department meetings, or regular faculty meetings.

4. Organizing/directing a workshop. Workshop presenters will receive double clock hours because of preparation time involved. This interpretation only relates to professional growth hours for the presenter and will not impact any financial arrangements.

5. Educational conferences that meet the above guidelines and are approved in advance by the building administrator/supervisor.

6. Statewide committees that meet the above guidelines and are approved in advance by the building administrator/supervisor.

7. Independent study / study groups / National Board Certification preparation which meet the following guidelines:

· A written proposal shall be presented to the building administrator/supervisor for approval. ·

The proposal should include the following:

o

Purpose

o

Objectives to be accomplished

o

Steps or observations that will occur

o

Expected outcomes

· By May 1, the building administrator/supervisor and the participant(s) will review the outcomes. · The number of clock hours earned for preparation shall be determined by the building administrator/supervisor.

8. Approved job-embedded professional growth activities may include the following types of learning experiences:

·

Participating in district sponsored curriculum workshops

·

Participating in teacher study groups or book groups

·

Participating in district teacher networks

·

Observing model lessons and other teachers

·

Conducting action research projects

·

Participating in peer coaching

·

Video conferencing

·

Analyzing student work with other teachers

·

Visiting model schools/programs outside the district

·

Participating in teacher video clubs

III.

EVALUATION OF PROFESSIONAL GROWTH ACTIVITIES

All professional growth activities sponsored or led by our schools must include an evaluation plan. Funds for professional growth activities increasingly require the evidence of data-driven decisions in the planning of professional development. Hoover City Schools has adopted the Gusky (2000) model for evaluating professional development activities. According to this model, collection and analysis of five critical levels of information is necessary for effective decision-making in this area. The level which will be followed for any given activity should be determined by the building administrator/supervisor, and appropriate evaluative instruments should be prepared in advance.

A.

Gusky’s Five Critical Levels of Evaluation

1.

Level 1-

Participants’ Reactions

a) Questionnaire administered at the time of the activity which includes rating scale items and open-ended response questions that gauge the participant’s initial reactions.

b) A master copy of a typical Level 1 questionnaire that can be used for any activity will be distributed to building administrators. This should be used as the first basic level of evaluation for all activities, and it could be the terminal level of evaluation for “one-time” low-cost workshops.

2.

Level 2-

Participants’ Learning

a) Usually a questionnaire that goes beyond basic reactions to assess personal reflections on how the participants’ knowledge, attitude, or plans for practice has changed as a result of the activity.

b) A questionnaire specific to the knowledge, attitude, or practice being addressed by the workshop should be created. Oral personal reflections or portfolios that participants’ assemble could also be used in lieu of a questionnaire. In order to be valid, both a pre- and post-activity version of the same instrument should be used.

3.

Level 3-

Organizational Support and Change

a) This involves focusing on questions about organizational issues and attributes necessary for successful implementation of a professional growth activity that requires support for change. Examples of these questions are:

· Did the activity promote changes that were aligned with the mission of the school and district? ·

Were changes at the participant level encouraged and supported?

· Were sufficient resources made available, including time for sharing and reflection? ·

b)

Were successes recognized and shared?

Gathering information for Level 3 could involve analyzing district or school

records, examining the minutes from follow-up meetings, interviewing participants and leaders, or using questionnaires specific to each activity.

4.

Level 4-

Participants’ Use of New Knowledge and Skills

a) After sufficient time has passed for participants to adapt the new ideas and practices to their settings, we need to know if the new knowledge and/or skills have actually made a difference in the professional practice of the participants.

b) At this level, the most accurate information typically comes from direct observation. Walk-through visits, videotapes, reflective journals, portfolios, or structured interviews are examples of appropriate strategies at this level.

5.

Level 5-

Student Learning Outcomes

a) This is the most meaningful and significant level of evaluation because it looks not at what the participant him or herself is doing differently but rather directly at how students are affected. It can be difficult to assess the link between teaching training activities and student learning, but the value of this level of evaluation is the straight line that can be drawn in terms of “return on investment”.

b) This level of evaluation should include multiple measures of student learning. Examples of such measures are cognitive indicators of student performance and achievement (student portfolios, grades, standardized test scores), affective outcomes (attitudes and dispositions), and psychomotor outcomes (skills and behaviors). Specific examples might be student self-concepts, study habits, school attendance, homework completion rates, enrollment in advanced classes, disciplinary actions, retention and drop-out rates.

B.

Selecting the Most Appropriate Level of Evaluation

1. In an ideal setting, every professional growth activity would be assessed at each of these five critical levels. Pragmatically however, time and resources will not allow this to always be the case. As the instructional leader of the school, the building administrator/supervisor should select the level that will deliver the most relevant and significant data in proportion to the amount of time and resources that are being devoted to the professional growth activity. Activities representing a greater investment of time and/or financial resources should be evaluated at the higher levels.

2. Professional growth activities that are repeated on an annual basis may assessed at different levels in different years. For example, we may choose to assess an annual “Confidentiality” workshop at Level 1 for one year, but we may choose to assess it at Level 4 the next year to see if the workshop is actually changing professional behavior.

IV.

MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS

A. Continuing Education Unit (CEU) Certificates and/or college transcripts must be kept by the staff member and summarized on a Professional Growth End-of-Year Summary Form that is submitted at the end of each academic year to supervisors as proof of participation in professional development activities.

B. Copies of CEU Certificates and/or college transcripts should be submitted along with the Professional Growth End-of-Year Summary Form at the end of each academic year. The staff member is responsible for storing the original CEU Certificates and/or college transcripts with his/her personal legal records.

C. All records will be kept in terms of clock hours. One (1) semester hour of college credit translates into sixteen (16) clock hours.

RESPONSIBILITIES D.

Responsibilities of the certified staff member

1. Each staff member is responsible for maintaining his/her individual professional growth documentation until such time as it is submitted to the building administrator/supervisor.

2. Each staff member is responsible for seeking prior approval for professional growth activities from the building administrator/supervisor.

3. Each staff member is responsible for submitting validation of his/her professional growth activities to the building administrator/supervisor prior to the end of the school year.

4. Each staff member is responsible for completing evaluation activities which may include response forms, follow-up conferences, observations, or other activities necessary for collecting data on the effectiveness of professional growth activities.

5. While copies of CEU certificates or transcripts may be submitted to the building administrator at the end of the school year, each staff member is responsible for maintaining the original copies of CEU certificates or transcripts with his/her own personal legal records.

“It is the responsibility of the teacher/staff member to attend all required faculty and/or staff in-service meetings. Your signature in the Professional Development Log is documentation that you have attended this meeting. If for some reason you cannot attend, you should arrange this (ahead of time) with an administrator. In this case, it is the teacher’s responsibility to contact the administrator to make-up (and document) this training as soon as possible.”

E.

Responsibilities of building administrators / supervisors

1. Prepare a Professional Development Plan for each school and communicate that plan to all certified staff members. Utilize evaluation data from previous professional growth activities to improve the effectiveness of future professional development opportunities.

2. Consider requests for proposed professional growth activities in terms of individual merit and relevance to the school’s Professional Development Plan. Approval is documented by the building administrator/supervisor’s signature on the CEU Certificate.

a) When approving professional growth activities, the building administrator/supervisor should make a decision in advance as to the level of evaluation that will be utilized for that specific activity.

b) After professional growth activities, collect and review evaluation data and share the results with the central office administration.

3.

Collect and validate each certified staff member’s documentation of

participation in professional growth activities.

4. Collect and review evaluation data from professional growth activities and share the results with the central office administration. This data should be consulted when planning future professional growth activities as evidence that professional development planning is data-driven.

5. Sign and forward the Professional Growth Verification Forms for all certified staff members to the Director of Human Resources at the end of the academic year.

F.

Responsibilities of central office administration

1. Disseminate information regarding professional development activities to building administrators and teachers.

2. Assist teachers and/or schools in offering a strong professional growth program.

3. Guide building administrators/supervisors in the approval of appropriate professional growth activities.

4. Assist building administrators/supervisors in the analysis of evaluation data for use in the planning of future professional growth activities.

D.

Responsibilities of the workshop presenter/activity leader

1. Submit a proposal for the professional growth activity to the building administrator/supervisor for approval prior to the commencement of the event.

2. Distribute a sign-in sheet and evaluation form that documents individual participation and feedback for the workshop or activity. Submit these records to the building administrator/supervisor at the conclusion of the activity.

3. Sign and distribute a Continuing Education Unit Certificate to each participant at the conclusion of the workshop/activity (the building

administrator/supervisor must also sign the certificates indicating that the workshop or activity has been approved).

** A whole grade level of teachers should not be out for a professional development day at the same time.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS All teachers are encouraged to have active membership in professional organizations that benefit the profession as a whole and especially those that relate to their particular subject matter areas. Representatives from organizations will contact teachers after school begins. Dues may be payroll deducted.

PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS The importance of public relations cannot be over emphasized. We are teachers in a public school. The schools are provided by the public and we are employed through their designated officials to teach their children. Harmonious homeschool relationships benefit the child, the teacher, the parent, and the community in general. When you have a conference with a parent or a public meeting, do your part to help the parents and general public realize that we are dedicated teachers, trying to do our very best for the children in our care. Every child has some trait which the teacher can praise and every parent loves to hear his/her child praised.

Letters/notices that go out to single groups of students (newsletters, departmental letters and notes) must have prior approval of the principal before they go out to students/parents. When parents come to eat lunch with their children make sure to take time to greet them. Allow them to sit at a private table if possible

All teachers will be expected to send home a newsletter and graded papers on the Wednesday of each full week of school. Parents will be called before receiving a report card grade below a “C”. Remember the telephone is your best ally in communications. All difficult news needs to be shared with parents in person or on the phone unless a previous plan involving written communications has been put into place.

Teachers should be ready to share in team meeting what they are doing in their classrooms. All teachers are not expected to do the exact same thing but all teachers need to be aware what their grade level is doing and some consistency should exist at that grade level.

Remember- It is our job to continue to work with students no matter what. Never communicate with parents that you are out of ideas or in anyway communicate that you cannot teach their child. Certainly ask for advice for strategies but it is important for the parents to feel that we are continuing to look for strategies in other places besides from them. In an effort to increase communications between the teacher and the administration, each staff member will be asked to sign their job description at the beginning of the school year.

Consider your words carefully when dealing with parents. Consider what would bother you if a teacher told you about your child. Also remember all parents want to know that you love their children. Communicate this in every conversation that you have with them.

Do not plan to send home STAR test results. These test results are for your benefit only. It is fine to share the information with parents during your parent conferences.

CALL a parent before you EVER give a 0 on an unfinished project THAT THEY HAVE RECIEVED A NOTE FROM YOU!!!!

DO NOT ASSUME

Work should be sent home every week. This should include at least one item per subject. This work should be signed and returned.

All communications going home to more than 2 parents should be proofread by a colleague and a copy given to the office. All communications like this should be filed in the conference room.

Results for all special testing MUST be shared with parents as soon as we receive the results. The person who initiated the testing needs to take the lead in sharing the information with the parents.

RECESS No more than 4 classes should be at any play structure at the same time. sure to stick to your assigned times.

Make

ROOM APPEARANCE Good housekeeping is as important as good personal grooming on the part of the teacher. When students participate in messy activities they should be taught to clean the floor properly afterwards. No crayon marks, etc. should be left on desk, floor or carpet.

Students' desks should be checked regularly to see that they are free from any marks or defacing of any kind. The areas under the students' desk should be kept clean and orderly. Teachers are responsible for keeping the extra rooms on their hall picked up. The custodians will do the deep down cleaning.

At the close of the school day all students should assist in cleaning up and putting away supplies. Student housekeepers may be assigned to help daily. Children like these duties and it is good training. ROUND ROBIN READING We do not use Round Robin Reading at Deer Valley! to offer alternatives to this strategy.

Our reading coach is available

SAFETY PATROL Students in grade five are eligible for membership in the school safety patrol. Eligibility is based upon grades and citizenship. The PTO furnishes belts, badges, flags and other materials and a PTO Chairman works with the faculty sponsor and the faculty committee in some patrol activities.

Teachers will help safety patrol students enforce safety rules at all times. Faculty members will give members of the safety patrol committee any and all suggestions for improving the services of this group.

Regular meetings during school hours are kept to a minimum and teachers will be notified in advance of such meetings. Students will be permitted to make up any work missed during this time.

In the late spring of each year fourth grade students are selected, trained and

asked to serve (for practice) before school is out.

SCHOOL HOURS Teachers should be IN THEIR ROOMS READY TO BEGIN THE DAY'S WORK NO LATER THAN 7:45. The student's day begins as soon as s/he enters the classroom. Teachers should not leave school until all assigned duties are completed or without special permission from the principal. When a staff member leaves the school grounds before school is dismissed they will need to sign out in the office.

Students are asked not to come to school before 7:55 unless they ride the school bus. Students who arrive before 7:30 will be seated in designated areas where they will be supervised. They will be dismissed from these areas to report to breakfast when called. They will be dismissed to homerooms at 7:50.

Teachers are asked to check their mailboxes as they arrive in the morning as well as immediately following lunch.

SCHOOL PARTIES Each year all grades will have one mid-year party. Most of the rooms like to include an artificial Christmas tree in the decorations. This is fine; however, no electric lights should be included on the tree.

One other school wide party will be scheduled where light refreshments may be served.

SMOKING AND DRUG POLICY Drugs and Alcohol The use of alcohol and illegal use of drugs is strictly forbidden in schools, offices, on school grounds, or in any other locations where activities or business of Hoover City Schools is being conducted. Law enforcement agencies are allowed to make periodic, unannounced visits to any local school for the purpose of detecting

the presence of illegal drugs unannounced to anyone except the local Superintendent and building principal. Violators shall be subject to action, including dismissal and/or prosecution by the Board and/or law enforcement officials. Personnel whose work performance is affected by alcohol or drugs shall be subject to suspension. Personnel present at any activity of Hoover City Schools while under the influence of alcohol or the illegal use of drugs will be terminated from employment. Employees who become dependent on alcohol or the illegal use of drugs will be encouraged to seek treatment for the illness. Earned sick leave may be used for treatment of alcohol and/or drug dependency. Upon recovery from drug and/or alcohol dependency, every effort will be made to reinstate such an employee in a position of equal status as that from which the employee was suspended.

Tobacco It is the policy of the Board of Education to promote the health and safety of all personnel and to promote the cleanliness of all school facilities. To this end the Board prohibits smoking and the use of tobacco products on school property including vehicles or at any school activity. Employees shall not smoke or otherwise use any tobacco product at any time while on duty.

Employees who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action administered according to appropriate due process. Employee disciplinary action may include verbal warnings by the immediate supervisor, written warning by the immediate supervisor, written warning by the superintendent, and/or dismissal by the Board. The following suggests a typical disciplinary procedure; however, a supervisor may choose a different procedure under certain conditions. 1st Offense: Immediate supervisor will initiate and conduct a conference with the employee and remind the employee of policy requirements. A written record of the conference will be initiated. 2nd Offense: Direct supervisor will write a letter of reprimand, with a copy given to the employee and the original to the employee’s personnel folder at the Central Office. 3rd Offense: Referral to Superintendent for consideration of Board discipline. Discipline may include but is not limited to recommendation of termination.

SPECIAL EDUCATION The Instructional Support team should communicate all IEP information with teachers at the beginning of the year. The teachers are then bound to follow the directives listed on these IEP’s.

Students cannot miss more that 25% of their special education classes as identified in their IEP within a month. This includes days when the teacher is absent or has another assignment.

STUDENT LEAVING DEER VALLEY Notify the office if you know or suspect a student is leaving. Make sure all library books have been returned. the library.)

(Must have a written message from

Make sure all textbooks are returned. Make sure all lunches are paid. After the student has withdrawn, please update or make a "cum" card and test card for the child involved. This needs to be done immediately because records will be transferred. These are legal records, and therefore, must be accurate and complete.

SUBSTITUTE FOLDERS AND TEACHERS Each teacher will prepare an "Emergency File" (folder) of activities which a substitute teacher could use if necessary. This folder would include an up-todate roll, a description of all emergency procedures, a description of lunch count and attendance procedures, schedule, the name of a reliable student and teacher who could provide additional information as needed, and generic plans for at least two days as well as all of the materials needed to implement these plans. If the materials will not fit in the folder a description of where the materials are kept in the room will be fine. Materials might include: appropriate skill games, puzzles, and review materials. These plans should not be used when the teacher knows ahead of time that they will be out but will be a backup when an emergency arises. These "Generic" days should involve objectives discusses earlier in the year. These plans need to be updated whenever they are implemented.

These folders will be kept in the office and given to the sub when they sign in!

Emergency procedures should be clearly covered in the sub folders.

HOW TO SECURE A SUBSTITUTE 1. Call substitute answering service. reason for absence.

Give your name, where you teach, and your

2.

Call the office to report out and state your reason for absence.

STUDENT SUPERVISION No child should ever be left in a classroom unattended. guidelines:

Make sure to follow these

When arriving at a location always count your students to assure that no child has gotten lost or wandered off During large events no primary age child will be allowed to leave their class without an adult. If a teacher has to leave their room for no longer than 5 minutes- they are to let a neighboring teacher and their students know generally where they are going and when they will be back. If they are going to be gone longer than five minutes (or if they are going to be late for work) they are to contact the front office to talk to an administrator to assure that their students are supervised. Teachers should assure that every part of your room is visible during times when students are spread out. This includes time when students are playing math games, reading, or napping.

School assemblies – teachers leaving their classroom

First we will be very selective in developing events involving the whole student body.

With that being said, If we ever have a day-only event where students throughout the building are performing, we will have at least one school-wide performance. This performance will be abbreviated so that a minimum amount of class time will be lost. This performance will be followed up with one, two or three public performances. Any teacher who would like to observe an additional performance other than the one for the whole school may arrange to take a half personal day ahead of time.

Concerning teachers wanting to leave their classroom for any reason- If it is going to be for more than five minutes an adult must be present to serve as a substitute or the students must be split between the other classrooms. This will only happen with permission from Wayne or Scott and will be done infrequently.

TEACHER LEAVING THE

BUILDING – CLASSROOM

If you need to leave in the middle of the day it is important that you touch base with the principal or assistant principal. Anytime you leave you need to try to arrange coverage for your class and duties. It is very important that teachers adhere to their regular classroom schedules as much as possible. If your class leaves your classroom it is important that you let the office know where you are going.

If a teacher leaves his/her class (to use the restroom etc.) it is very important to have a neighboring teacher watch his/her classroom while he/she is gone.

Always have a walkie-talkie with you on the recess field.

TIME REQUIREMENTS FOR SUBJECT AREAS In accordance with # 1.1.5 (Action Item # F-1) adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education on February 23, 1984, which directs the State Courses of Study Committee to include time-on-task requirements in the State Courses of Study, the following recommendations are made: THE TOTAL INSTRUCTIONAL TIME OF EACH SCHOOL DAY IN ALL SCHOOLS AND AT GRADE LEVELS SHALL EQUAL 6 HOURS OR 360 MINUTES EXCLUSIVE OF LUNCH PERIODS, RECESS, OR TIME USED FOR CHANGING CLASSES.

THE FOLLOWING MINIMUM TIME ALLOTMENTS SHALL BE FOLLOWED:

SUBJECT AREA Language Arts

GRADES 1-3 60 minutes daily

GRADES 4-6 60

minutes daily Spelling, Grammar, Listening, Handwriting Composition, Speaking

Reading minutes daily

90 minutes daily

Mathematics minutes daily

Science daily

60

60 minutes daily

60

30 minutes 45 minutes daily

Social Studies minutes daily

Physical Education minutes daily

Humane Treatment of Animals minutes weekly

Health minutes weekly

*Art 60 minutes weekly

*Music minutes weekly

*Computer Literacy weekly

30 minutes daily

45

30 minutes daily

30

20 minutes weekly

20

60 minutes weekly

60

60 minutes weekly

60 minutes weekly

60 minutes weekly

60

60 minutes

*NOTE: The areas of Art and Music, as well as Computer Literacy, may be incorporated into other subject areas or taught separately on a rotating basis.

SCHEDULING The Schedule is designed to for two reasons:

To offer our students enriching experiences through our special programs and physical education and To offer our classroom teachers an opportunity to plan together

It is fine for teachers to work out periodic rotations with members of their team or even members of other teams. It is not however, permissible for teachers to double up classes on a routine basis to provide teachers with additional planning time.

SCHOOL EVENTS All school events should be listed on the calendar in the front office ASAP once they are approved.

SOLICITATIONS

All employees of the Hoover Board should carefully avoid situations where they or other people on their behalf exploit, for personal gain or advantage, their position of employment with the Hoover Board. Accordingly, the following practices shall be prohibited unless written approval is obtained in advance from the Board or Superintendent.

Employees are prohibited from directly or indirectly gaining personal profit or reward from the sale or purchase of goods or services to students or to parents of students.

2. Employees are prohibited from directly or indirectly providing the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of students or parents of students, to any person or entity outside the School System.

Solicitations of Staff Members

The Board shall not solicit funds from or attempt to sell goods or services to employees. Employees of the School District may participate in charity or fundraising campaigns provided that such activity is conducted outside the regular workday.

The Board prohibits commercial advertising or selling on school property during school or office hours without prior approval by the Superintendent or Board.

Except when approved by the Board or Superintendent, employees are prohibited from directly or indirectly providing a list of staff members to any individual or entity outside the School System.

Ref: Alabama Code 36-25-1(9), 36-25-2(a), (b), (d), 36-25-6, 36-25-7, 16-11-9, 16-12-3(a). Hoover City Board of Education, August 27, 1990.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994

FILE:

GBRI

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS ARRANGEMENTS

Teachers are expected to complete all lesson plans for substitutes. Plans for long term substitutes should be turned in well in advance of the absence.

TEACHER DRESS CODE Teachers and school personnel are expected to be professional in dress and

appearance. Shorts and sweats are not appropriate. spirit days or casual days.

Jeans may be worn on school

TEACHER LEAVING EMPLOYMENT Subject: Policy Regarding Ownership of Property

From the State Department Handbook All property (real and personal) belongs to the State of Alabama and is under the control of the Hoover City Board of Education and the Superintendent. Items purchased with funds from clubs and/or organizations developed to aid the local schools and which would not exist without the school, become the property of the State and shall remain at the school of origin. These funds may come from dues, fund raisers and/or donations. Organizations include boosters as well as PTO's. Items purchased with funds from the State Education Budget (a teacher's state fee money) become the property of the State and shall remain at the school of origin. Items purchased with funds from donations (a teacher's classroom instructional donation) become the property of the State and shall remain at the school of origin. Items purchased with funds from a grant become the property of the State and shall remain at the school of origin, with one exception. Sixty percent (60%) of the items purchased with NBPTS funds may follow the teacher.

VIDEO APPROVAL Deer Valley has a video approval form that must be completed and approved by the principal or designee before showing of videos that are not part of our library collection. SEE VIDEO APPROVAL FORM. Reminder: Only G rated videos.

Student Information Section ABSENCES AND EXCUSES

The Board believes that the right to attend public schools places upon students

the accompanying responsibility to be faithful in attendance. Regular attendance is essential for a student’s successful progress in the instructional program.

With this in mind the Board mandates that a total of nine (9) absences per semester shall be considered the maximum number of absences allowed for a student to pass a class or course. Decisions regarding extenuating circumstances causing more than nine (9) absences per semester will be considered on an individual basis. The primary circumstance to be considered will be illness. However, this circumstance must be verified by a physician’s statement.

Excused Absences

Illness

inclement weather which would be dangerous to the life or health of the student if the student attended school

legal quarantine

death in the immediate family

emergency conditions as determined by the Superintendent or principal, or

permission of principal and consent of parent.

When a student returns to school after being absent, the student shall bring a written statement from the student’s parent (or a physician’s statement in the instance of an illness) with an explanation of the reason for the absence, the date of the absence, and the parent’s signature. A student who has been absent shall make arrangements with the student’s teacher to engage in activities which will enable the student to learn those facts/skills/concepts which were missed during the absence. Make-up work shall be completed in accordance with procedures and timelines established by the school principal. Should a student’s absences in any class exceed five (5) days in one nine-week period or nine (9) days in any one semester, the student shall be referred to the District Attendance Officer (“DAO”). The DAO will assist the school administrative staff in a full investigation of the circumstances surrounding such absences. Should truancy be determined, all applicable state laws/procedures will be followed. Conferences which include the student, the parent, counselor(s), administrator(s), and other appropriate school personnel shall be held to resolve the issue of truancy.

The Superintendent with the assistance of school principals, shall develop and implement procedures for ensuring a systematic approach to the management of attendance in all schools. Such procedures shall require school personnel to carefully verify and follow through on student absences, prepare daily and other summary reports, and maintain close communications with parents regarding attendance.

Unexcused Absences

Any absence that does not fall under the categories listed as an excused absence will be considered an unexcused absence. When a student’s unexcused absences exceed five (5) days in any semester, the DAO shall consider filing a complaint/ petition with the Family Court.

If a student does not bring a note for an excusable absence, he/she will have two (2) school days (including date of return) to have an “excused absence” slip issued. After this time passes the absence is “unexcused” and will remain as such.

Students who have unexcused absences are not entitled to receive credit for makeup work or to receive credit for tests, projects, etc., missed during the absence.

School days missed as a result of suspension or expulsion are considered unexcused and no make-up work, tests, projects, etc., are required to be given or credit issued.

Ref: Alabama Code 16-11-9, 16-28-12 to –15. August 14, 1989

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994

Hoover City Board of Education,

FILE:

JBE

TRUANCY

The Board shall not tolerate truancy or habitual and unlawful absence from school. The parent is responsible for requiring any student under the parent’s control or charge to attend school regularly except for legal absences as defined by Alabama School Law and State Board of Education rules and regulations.

Any student who has five (5) or more unexcused absences in any class in any one (1) semester shall be reported to the District Attendance Officer who shall consider filing a truancy complaint/petition with the Family Court. Three (3) unexcused tardies to a class or to school shall be counted as one (1) unexcused absence.

Ref: Alabama Code 16-28-12, 16-28-14, 16-28-15, 16-28-17. of Education.

Hoover City Board

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994 Revised July 19, 1995 FILE:

IHE

Accident or Illness at School If a child becomes ill or is injured at school, the teacher should have him report to the CLINIC. Should further treatment be necessary, every effort will be made to contact one of the parents. If the parents cannot be reached, the procedure will be followed which has been authorized by the parent on the back of the Confidential Emergency Care Information Card. Accidents must be reported on an accident form and turned into office. The teacher supervising the student should complete the accident form.

A student with a contagious disease shall be ineligible to attend school for the period of time prescribed by the Hoover City Schools and/or the Jefferson County Health Department.

Arrivals/Dismissals Children should arrive no earlier than 7:15 a.m. and no later than 7:55 a.m. to allow adequate time for them to get to their classes by 8:00 a.m. Children arriving after 8:00 a.m. must have a parent sign them in at the front office and obtain a tardy slip before going to their classrooms. If the parent feels that assistance is needed to walk the tardy student to class, a school representative will escort the student.

Dismissal is at 3:00 p.m. If it becomes necessary for a student to leave school early, a parent must come into the office to check the student out. Please be aware that a photo ID will be required to check out any child.

All children need to be picked up by 3:15 p.m. in the afternoon unless there is an after school event. Any child still at school after that time will be taken to the after school daycare program and the parent will be responsible for any charges incurred.

Children who walk to school need to have a back up plan for pick up in the event of bad weather. We do not allow walkers to walk home during threatening weather.

Please make sure that you have been contacted by the office before you allow a child to come to the office to check out.

CONDUCT

Individual schools and/or classrooms shall develop specific rules for student conduct in addition to the rules established by the Board. These specific rules should complement those established by the Board and shall be for the purpose of maintaining an appropriate atmosphere for teaching and learning.

Principals and other school personnel shall have both the authority and the duty to take appropriate action whenever the behavior of any student is not consistent with established rules of conduct. Principals shall be responsible for ensuring

that students, parents, and staff members have been thoroughly informed regarding pertinent student policies and procedures.

Bus Conduct

The Board recognizes the school bus as an extension of the classroom. Students are required to conduct themselves in a responsible manner on the bus going to and from school and on all field trips. The Board further recognizes that riding a school bus is a privilege that will be revoked if appropriate conduct by the student is not observed. When a student does not maintain appropriate conduct on a bus, such instances shall be brought to the attention of the principal or the principal’s designee by the bus driver. The principal or principal’s designee shall inform the parent immediately of serious misconduct and request cooperation in controlling the student’s behavior. The principal or the principal’s designee shall also discipline students who misbehave in accordance with policies and procedures governing misconduct.

Should misconduct on a Hoover school bus create a danger to the driver or students, the bus driver is authorized to drive immediately to the nearest school for removal of the student(s) creating the danger. The principal will notify the student’s principal and the Board’s discipline process will be followed. Denial of the privilege of riding the bus shall be authorized as an appropriate consequence to serious bus misconduct.

The Board shall assume the responsibility for the supervision of students who ride the bus when they board the bus. During transportation of students on School

District buses or other modes of transportation used from time-to-time, video cameras may be used by school personnel for the purpose of supervision of students using said transportation. That supervision shall end when the student is discharged from the bus at the end of the school day.

Student Transportation Rules

Students will maintain proper conduct at all times while riding the bus.

Students will not use profanity, offensive, or disrespectful language or gestures.

Students will remain seated facing forward with feet on the floor and legs out of the aisle.

Students will keep all body parts inside the bus at all times.

Students will maintain a low level of conversation with person(s) in same seat.

Students will not spit or throw anything in the bus or out the windows.

Students will not push, shove, intimidate, harass, fight, or make other students or staff uncomfortable.

Students will be at the designated stop five minutes before the designated pick-up time.

Students will provide written permission from a parent to the principal when riding a bus other than the regular bus or when planning to exit the bus at another stop. The principal may approve the request based on a space available basis.

Students will not damage the bus.

(Parents are financially responsible.)

Students will not have any food, drink, or gum on any Hoover bus at any time.

Students will respectfully follow the directions of the bus driver at all times.

Students will load and exit in a prompt, orderly manner.

Students will not carry items on the bus which are not allowed at school such as matches, tobacco products, lighters, knives, guns, explosives, CD players, radios or tape recorders, phones, beepers, live animals, glass containers, large bulky items, etc.

Parents and students should be aware that the bus driver’s job is to protect students’ lives by having all eyes on the road at all times. Failure by any student to follow the above rules and the Hoover City Schools’ Code of Conduct will lead to disciplinary action.

Ref: Alabama Code 16-1-12, 16-1-10, 16-1-14,16-4-13, 16-22-9, 16-12-3(a), (b), 16-41-1 to –10. Hoover City Board of Education, August 14, 1989.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994 Revised July 19, 1995 Revised May 18, 1998

FILE:

JCDB

DRESS CODE (STUDENT)

The Hoover City Board of Education recognizes the effect which student dress and grooming have upon student behavior and commitment to learning. It further recognizes the role of parents in assisting their children in making appropriate choices regarding clothing, accessories, and personal appearance. In order to maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning, the Board requires that all students exercise good taste with regard to their personal appearance. Attire considered disruptive or that could present a health or safety problem is not appropriate.

With this in mind, the following rules concerning dress and grooming are mandatory for all students attending Hoover City Schools. Students who fail to follow these rules will be subject to disciplinary action.

1. Any clothing, appearance, or personal hygiene and grooming that draw an inordinate amount of attention to the individual student considered inappropriate for school. The dress and/or grooming style student must not interfere with the educational process of any Hoover

practices are of any City School.

2. Students must be neat and clean at all times. An unkempt or sloppy appearance is not appropriate in the learning environment of school.

3. Students are to wear clothing in the manner it was designed to be worn, i.e., clothing worn backward or inside-out, suspenders undone, are not allowed. Specifically, pants, worn too low (low riders), too long, or excessively large clothing are not permitted.

4. Students are not to wear clothing that reveals the body in an inappropriate manner. (Examples: clothing which is too tight, too short, bare at the midriff, bare at the sides, sun dresses, "spaghetti strap" type tops, and off-the-shoulder tops, low-cut front or back tops, sheer or see-through clothing, etc.).

Undergarments should be worn in an appropriate manner and should not be visible.

5. All clothes should be in a state of good repair, i.e., no holes, no cut-off shorts, etc.

*6.

Students may wear shorts to school under the following stipulations:

Shorts must be hemmed. Old worn/torn, or other type cut-offs, athletic (gym), "umbro" or other nylon type, spandex, sweat type, tennis, or swim suit type shorts are not allowed.

*7. Length of shorts, dresses, skirts, etc., is required to be at least midthigh in both front and back. Length of skirts and dresses must be appropriate whether the student is standing or sitting. Spandex pants, leggings, leotards, etc., may be worn only when the top worn with them meets the mid-thigh requirement. (Long tee-shirts are not allowed.)

Students are not to wear jewelry, ornaments, or accessories which distract from the educational process; excessively noisy jewelry and/or belts. Males may not wear earrings. Facial and/or tongue jewelry is not allowed for males or females.

9. T-shirts or any other type clothing or personal item bearing a reference to alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, drugs, drug-related slogans, and/or any other wording, drawing, pictures, etc., which in any way can be interpreted as being "off-color," suggestive, obscene, or offensive, or relating

to, death, the occult, Satanism, etc. are not permitted. "Gang" related slogans, names, apparel, etc., are not permitted in school or at any school-related activities.

*10. All students must wear shirts "tucked in." Tops, blouses, shirts, and coordinated outfits designed to be worn "untucked" are acceptable.

11. Caps, hats, bandanas, sunglasses, or other headwear are not to be worn during the regular school day.

12. Outerwear (coats, sunglasses, gloves, etc.) are not to be worn in the building during normal school time (unless temperature or individual medical problems dictate this to be appropriate).

13. All students are required to wear their hair in such a manner that it is not considered unkempt, unclean, or impairing vision. Students are not to wear hair dyed in unusual colors, spiked hair, shaven head areas, shaven head patterns (numbers, names, symbols, designs, etc.).

14.

Students are not to wear extreme facial make-up.

15. Students should not wear heavy metal chains, metal spiked apparel or accessories, etc.

16. Students are required to wear appropriate shoes to school at all times---no bare feet. No flip-flops are allowed. Boots with chains, steel toes, or other metal reinforcement or decorations are not allowed.

**17.

Cheerleader, dance team, etc., uniforms are not to be worn to class.

* 18. Gym style sweat pants are not to be worn except in physical education. (Sweat shirts are allowed.) Nylon warm-up suits that are loose fitting are acceptable.

NOTE:

(1) The privileges offered under the school Dress Code may be withdrawn from any student who fails to meet the Code of Conduct in general.

(2) Students who violate the rules and/or intent of the Dress Code will be subject to punitive action as well as having privileges allowed under the Dress Code withdrawn.

(3) If any aspect of the Dress Code becomes a consistent problem, appropriate adjustments will be made by the administration to address the situation. For instance, if students consistently fail to meet the guidelines under which they are allowed to wear shorts to school, then that privilege can be revoked for all students.

* These items will have variances for grades K-5 which are appropriate to students in this age range.

** At the high school level, cheerleaders and dance team members will be allowed to wear uniforms with opaque tights on game days. At the high school level it is believed that such a practice will help foster school spirit, as well as make others aware of athletic events.

Ref:

Alabama Code 16-1-9.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994 Revised July 19, 1995 Revised May 18, 1998

FILE:

JCD

Hoover City Board of Education.

SCHOOL HOURS FOR STUDENTS As per orders from the Alabama State Board of Education, every child shall have 6 hours of academic instruction daily. Students in grades K through 5 remain in school from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. every day.

Learning activities must be carefully planned. The discipline you will be able to expect in your classroom will be determined by the way in which you begin your year's work. Students must be kept busy with learning activities which are interesting and meaningful to them throughout the entire first day as well as in the days to follow.

SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM Lunch hours are staggered.

Students are permitted to pay for their lunches by the day, the week, or the month. This money is to be collected by the lunchroom and put into the child's account. There will be no charges allowed.

Teachers are required to pay their lunch purchases, also. We are required to keep accurate and up-to-date daily, weekly and monthly reports.

If a child habitually does not bring lunch money it is the responsibility of the teacher to take note of this and to inform the parents by letter or phone. If you have a problem, please notify the principal.

Teachers should be alert to the eating habits of the children in her classroom. If very few children are eating in the lunchroom or if trays are going back with lots of uneaten food on them, this should be a clue for her to begin a program of nutrition education in the classroom. Classroom teachers can reinforce the efforts of the school lunch staff by discussing the menu of the day, pointing out the similarity of a new dish to food the child knows and enjoys. Teachers should set a good example for pupils by reflecting a wholesome attitude toward school lunches.

There is much educational value in relating the school lunch to subject matter areas of the curriculum. Foods required for best nutrition are an important part of health and science instruction. Good manners are also an expectation.

Cost of lunches: To students:

Lunches including milk

$1.50 extra milk

.40

Reduced lunches .40 2.25

To all Hoover employees: To other adults:

3.00

BREAKFAST

The breakfast program should be encouraged by teachers. We are required to serve each day: 1 fruit or juice, 1 cereal or bread, and 1/2 pint of milk. Most often additional items are served along with these requirements.

$1.00

To students: Reduced breakfast

.30 1.25

All Hoover employees To other adults:

1.50 .35

Juice:

Students may bring their own lunches to school. However, bottles, canned drinks, and breakable thermos bottles are not permitted. We encourage students to bring nutritious foods.

Neither "fast foods" nor canned soft drinks may be brought into the lunchroom by parents, students, or teachers.

teachers.

These are part of the student handbook and should be modeled by

See:

Field Trip Sack Lunch Request Form.

Promotion and Retention of Students:

See Policies relating to

students

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

No student shall be allowed to pass to a higher grade or course level so long as he or she fails to achieve at a lower level or fails to master the established standards for a particular grade level, level of learning, or subject matter content achievement level. The decision as to whether to promote a kindergarten student to grade one (1) shall rest solely with that student’s kindergarten teacher and school principal. Such decision shall be final. Any appeal of this decision must be made to the Board and any vote to overturn such decision must be taken by the Board in a public meeting and must be by majority vote of the Board.

Ref:

Alabama Code 16-3-18.2.

Hoover City Board of Education Adopted February 28, 1994

SCHOOL SUPPLIES Regular school supplies, including paper, pencils, pens, erasers, etc. will be on sale periodically from 7:45 to 8:00. Please help by seeing that your students come at this time, not later.

SPECIAL PERMISSION Any students seeking special permission to ride a different bus or to get off at a different stop must get permission from the principal. Special permission is strongly discouraged.

TARDY BELL Any student entering the classroom later than 8:04 will be marked tardy. These students should have been by the office to sign in and obtain a pass to class.

TEXTBOOK RULES I.

Textbooks must not be damaged or lost.

Damages to textbooks are as follows but not limited to:

A.

Partial or complete pages of content missing.

B.

Water damage.

C.

Physically marked books with any type of pencil, pen, or crayon.

D.

Defaced or marred books.

E.

Broken spines or covers.

F. reissue.

II.

Any condition that will otherwise render the textbook unsuitable for

Penalty for lost or damaged textbooks:

A. The student/parent or guardian will pay according to the following schedule:

1.

Full price if new when issued.

2.

Reduced price if used when issued.

B. No textbooks will be issued to any student while payment for lost or damaged textbook is outstanding.

III. All textbooks must be returned by the student upon request of the appropriate school personnel.

IV. The principal or designee of each school is empowered to approve or disapprove the condition of textbooks on issue and return.

TRANSPORTATION Hoover school buses transport students who live more than two miles from Deer Valley and live in this school zone. Pupils who fail to obey and respect bus drivers shall be reported to the Principal on a bus infraction form. S/he is instructed to investigate and seek the cooperation of the pupil. If further efforts, including a report to the pupil's parent or guardian fail to get the student's cooperation, the principal shall deny regular transportation to the pupil until assurance of full cooperation is given by both pupil and parent or guardian.

TRANSPORTATION RULES – Also see Policy JCD

Bus Rules

Students will maintain proper conduct at all times while riding the bus. Examples of specific behavior that will not be tolerated include but are not limited to: throwing items on or off a bus, using profanity, offensive or disrespectful language or gestures, intimidating or harassing other students or staff, spitting on or off bus etc.

Students will remain seated while on the bus with their feet on the floor, facing forward.

Students riding buses equipped with seat belts will be expected to wear their seat belts.

Student conversation will be maintained at a low level.

Students will be at the designated stop on time.

Students will provide a written request from a parent to the principal when seeking to ride a bus other that their regular bus or when planning to exit the bus at another stop. Only with the principal's permission will they be allowed to vary their transportation plans.

Students will not damage the bus.

Students are not allowed to carry items on the bus that are not allowed at school, such as matches, tobacco products, lighters, knives, CD players, radios or tape recorders, phones, beepers, etc.

Students will not eat or drink on the bus.

Students will follow the direction of the bus driver at all times.

Students will keep all body parts inside the bus at all times.

Students will be at the designated stop five minutes before the designated pickup time.

The failure of any student to follow the above rules will result in appropriate disciplinary action.

Bus Room Rules Students will maintain proper conduct at all times while in the bus room. Students who get to school before 7:45 a.m. will report to their designated bus room as soon as they arrive on campus.

Students will take the first empty seat in the bus room seating pattern. Students will remain seated until dismissed. Students will talk quietly only to the people on either side or directly in front of them Students will stop talking when bus room monitor raises her hand for silence. If a student is asked by a monitor to remain after bus room dismissal to discuss these rules, s/he will do so. The failure of any student to follow these rules may result in disciplinary action.

Procedures

ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES OF STUDENTS Policies of the State Department and/or State Law define pupil attendance and classify reasons for absence. Each pupil must bring a written excuse from home after each absence stating the reason for same absence. Teachers must be sure to insist on this and should keep all excuses on file for the year. Requests should come through the office unless routine.

No student is permitted to leave the school grounds before the end of the school day without permission of the principal or principal's designee. Parents should send written request stating the reason the child needs to be dismissed early if this need is known in advance. No student will be granted permission to leave early without authorization of the parent. All students who do leave MUST be checked out through the office.

Pupils away from school, engaged in activities which are part of the instructional program and supervised by the principal and/or teacher, will be recorded as present.

A student is either marked absent or tardy for the day in the register. fractional absences are to be included in the report.

NO

If a teacher receives a note requesting a prearranged absence, this note needs to be forwarded to the principal asap. If a teacher gets a note form a parent asking to excuse a trip etc. this needs to be sent to the principal ASAP.

The teacher should notify the office in writing if a student becomes habitually absent. See Policy JBD and JBE. Also see Truancy Policy

CALENDAR All school events should be listed on the calendar on the website ASAP once they are approved.

CLASSROOM GUIDELINE FOR HEALTH ROOM The following guidelines for the clinic will assist in serving the needs of the children most effectively. The clinic is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Set up and clean up time is necessary. Students will be seen from 8:45 a.m. until 2:20 p.m. UNLESS there is an emergency. Headaches and stomach aches are historically contagious! Please allow only one student at a time to go to the clinic.

Teachers are not allowed to administer any kind of medication! are some exceptions for sending more than one student to the clinic.

Below

1.

Students on medications in the same class should all come at the

2.

Acute illnesses and/or injuries should come immediately.

same time.

The power of suggestion is effective with young children. Use it to encourage positive health attitudes and use it for the child's advantage. Discourage drug-seeking behaviors.

Certain health problems need to be seen by the nurse without question while others could be screened in the classroom. The nurse should see the following problems without question:

1. Any serious injury. If spinal column is involved send for the nurse as well as the paramedics. DO NOT MOVE CHILD and DO NOT ALLOW CHILD TO MOVE. 2.

Bee stings.

3.

Vomiting.

4.

Nose bleeds.

5.

Fever with chills.

6. for how long.

Head injuries.

Please note if child lost consciousness - If so,

The following should be checked by the classroom teacher first:

1. 2. hold in class.

Headaches.

If they persist refer to the clinic.

Stomachaches.

Determine if a missed meal is the problem.

If so,

3. Old injuries. Scratches, skinned extremities, sprains, etc. Send to clinic if injury appears to be infected (red, swollen, painful), otherwise hold in class. 4. Congestion is something the nurse cannot treat. present or suspected, send to clinic.

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS ELEMENTARY DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES – Deer Valley 1.

Explain 4 major rules of behavior.

If fever is

a.

Be where you are supposed to be and on time.

b.

Be prepared and on task in class.

c.

Respect the rights and responsibilities of others.

d.

Strive for excellence.

2. Have students participate in developing classroom rules (as few as possible). (Positively state rules).

3.

Post classroom rules in a prominent spot.

4. Have children accept responsibility for abiding by the established rules (may sign a copy of the rules).

5. Explain and role play time-out procedures (explain what happens when assigned to time-out and during time- out).

6. If a student chooses not to conduct himself within the limits of the rules, the teacher will remind the student of the appropriate rule and ask him to stop breaking it.

7. If misbehavior continues, ask the child "What are you doing?" (it may be difficult, at first, for students to accurately identify their inappropriate behavior - the teacher will need to help in this case). Let him tell you. Then say, "Is that what you agreed to do?" The answer will probably be NO. Tell the student, "Please go to the time-out area until we can have a private talk." If the student knows how to work on a plan for responsible behavior, he may begin this task. If the teacher has not yet taught him how, he should wait until the conference to begin his plan.

8. As soon as possible, the teacher will sit down with the student to review his plan. When an acceptable plan is developed, both the teacher and the student sign it and place it in his time-out folder - then the child is admitted back to class.

9. After 2 plans have been developed (or before, if the teacher deems necessary) contact parent.

10. After 3 plans have been attempted, and parents have been contacted, it may be necessary to schedule a student/principal conference. The teacher should send the principal a note along with a disciplinary referral form (which will include verification of parental contact) and the student's time out folder with the attempted plans. The principal/designee will schedule a conference with the student as soon as possible.

11. Results of this student/principal conference may include:

______ assigning the student to schoolwide time-out ______ returning the student to class ______ removing the student from school until a parent conference is held ______ requesting a conference with the teacher ______ requesting a conference with the parent ______ requesting counseling services ______ other

12. If the student is assigned to schoolwide time-out, (by Principal/Designee only) he/she will develop a workable plan. The student, teacher, counselor and principal will sign the plan and a copy will be sent to the parent. The counselor or principal will also contact the parent to discuss and explain the student's behavior and the process of responsibility training.

13. If the student is unable to correct his behavior after several visits to the time-out room, he may be sent home until a conference can be scheduled with the parents, principal, counselor and teacher(s) with whom the problem exists.

Child Study

BBSST – Care Team

In keeping with the Hoover City Schools’ belief that every student should be provided with every opportunity to be successful, Deer Valley provides a Student Assistance Program designed to assist students with a wide range of issues which may develop during the course of a school career. In addition to working directly with students, this group serves as a “think tank” to develop strategies to improve student performance school wide. This group seeks to identify and work with students who may have difficulties with school, family, peers, or everyday

life experiences and to seek services which can assist students in achieving their educational and personal potential. Difficulties for which students may receive assistance include, but are not limited to, depression, grades, family issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, etc. A faculty member, a student, or a parent may make referrals for services. If you are interested in these services, please complete a Care Team referral form.

Care Team – The purpose of Care Team is two fold: 1. To provide more ideas for classroom interventions that a classroom teacher can put into place. 2. To serve as a clearing house of school-wide interventions. This includes: PALS, LIGHT, Intervention groups, as well as testing and other out of the classroom services. BASC and all other testing can only be given when they go through the Care Team.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURE 1.

Kindergarten students are dismissed.

2.

First load buses and daycare vans are dismissed.

3. One load buses and all walkers are dismissed. dismissed at this time.

Safety Patrol is also

4. 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders are dismissed. (This includes extended day, second bus load, car pool)

5. 4th and 5th graders are dismissed. (This includes extended day, second bus load, car pool)

6.

All dismissal procedures are monitored and directed by school personnel.

7. Teachers should post an updated list of students and their individual dismissal procedures.

Teachers must very carefully monitor all dismissals everyday.

Important If you get called by the office in the future and the child is adamant that they are not supposed to go home that way - call the office back to assure that the information was correct. Also if you get into a situation in which the child is getting on the bus but is still arguing that this is not how they are supposed to go home – talk to the bus driver and ask him/her to assure that there is someone there to meet that child at the bus stop before they are dropped off. If there is nobody there to meet the child the bus driver should bring the child back to the school. The bottom line is that they are never left unsupervised.

Also consider if the child has a sibling and assure that they are going home the same way.

DRILLS It is very important that students remain quiet during drills. their orderliness is recognized and encouraged.

Make sure that

Setting up a Fieldtrip 1.

Select a field trip that relates directly to grade level curriculum.

2.

Submit to the principal at least 30 days prior to the field trip: a.

A field trip request form - district form

b.

A parent's letter - district form

c.

Transportation request - district form

d.

A sack lunch request form (if one is needed)

e. A local purchase order for any admission costs and another one for the cost of the buses. To use school buses you cannot leave until 8:15 and you must return to school by 2:00). If your trip is over 50

miles one way contact a commercial line for a price quote. 3. Once the field trip has been approved and if you are going to miss your lunchtime as a result of the trip, give the lunchroom manager an estimated Sack Lunch Request Form found in Section D (due at least two weeks prior to the trip). to the trip.

An exact lunch count is due two days prior

4. Once the trip has been approved, the letter to the parents should be sent home and any commercial buses should be confirmed. 5. Names of the chaperones should be turned into the Principal at least five days prior to the trip. As you are taking up money for the trip make sure to write receipts, or complete a multi-receipt form Follow the directions in the front of your receipt book concerning the turning in of money. It is very important that all receipts be dated correctly. 6.

On the day of the trip : a.

Obtain a first aid kit

b.

Pick up sack lunches if you are taking them

c.

Secure a check from the office if one is needed for admission

d. Pick up any medicines that are needed for those students on medication or who might suffer an allergic reaction. e. Leave a note at the front desk indicating the bus numbers and what classes are on what buses, an outline of your itinerary, names of chaperones and a cell phone number so that we can get in touch with you if necessary.

Field trip Forms in Form Section

Teacher Guidelines: When planning fieldtrips, please consider when you will be leaving for and returning from your trip. If your class will not be here for your entire special time or your entire PE time you will need to forgo that special or PE session for that day. It is too complicated to walk right in from a fieldtrip and into a special class. This caused a problem earlier this year when a child was supposed to bring a note to PE but because the child went straight from the bus to PE he did not have a chance to get the note from the classroom to give to the teacher. This resulted in a very angry parent as you might imagine. In addition, most of our special times are so short, if a child misses 10 minutes, it is time wasted when they only are in the gym or special class for twenty minutes (there is no way

for the teacher to modify their plan to accommodate for that small amount of time.) – especially when you consider that ALL of the children need to use the restroom as soon as they come back from a fieldtrip (15 minutes just for this task) and many of the children must change their shoes before playing on the gym floor. (another 3-5 minutes)

If a grade level teacher intentionally misses any scheduled time (for any reason) it is not necessary for the specials teacher/PE teacher to make up that lesson (unless they choose to do so). If a class misses their special because of the special teacher's schedule (either the teacher is gone to another school or they are on a fieldtrip) they will need to make up that lesson at a mutually convenient time.

When you are planning a fieldtrip please make sure to call transportation the day before to assure that your buses are scheduled. On a few occasions transportation requests have fallen through the cracks and the day of the trip we discovered that we had no buses show up.

Hoover City Schools Procedures for Fieldtrips and Excursions

August 1995

Board Policy for Field Trips and Excursions (File:

IFCB)

The Board, recognizing that educational fieldtrips and trips to various tpes of contests for instructional purposes can help provide desirable learning experiences, shall delegate to the Superintendent the responsibility for development of administrative criteria governing fieldtrips. Only those field trips, however, that grow out of the instructional program or are otherwise related to the program are to be permitted on school time. These fieldtrips that take place during the school day must give strong evidence that they are in fact of the quality to justify students missing their regularly scheduled classroom activities. Other trips (Excursions) such as those involving band, choral, and athletic activities should be confined to nonschool time, except where the school is engaged in an activity, competition, or contest that requires use of school time.

While the Superintendent has the responsibility to establish administrative criteria/guidelines governing fieldtrips and excursions, the Board does stipulate that the following items be required prior to individual students being allowed to take the trip or prior to the approval of such a trip.

Before any trip or excursion is taken, written parental permission forms shall be secured from each pupil planning to participate in taking the trip. Before approval of any field trip is given, it shall be determined whether the trip is covered by the Board’s liability insurance. No travel shall be authorized where coverage cannot be secured prior to the trip. Before approval of any field trip or excursion is given, the teacher/sponsor will submit an appropriate and acceptable rationale for such trip to the building principal. The principal will determine whether or not the trip meets the criteria of the Board for such trip. Trips that involve travel outside a 50-mile radius of the city of Hoover and/or an overnight stay must be presented to the Superintendent or his designee for approval.

Procedures for Field Trips and Excursions

Definitions A field trip or excursion is defined as any school-sponsored activity which results in one or more students leaving the school campus for any period of time or going on any kind of trip representing the school or using the school name which does or does not involve school time.

Planning for Field Trips and Excursions

All fieldtrips and excursions shall be properly planned to accomplish specific educational goals. Classes or groups shall receive preparation prior to the trip and follow-up teaching afterward. Field trips and excursions are to be planned only with prior approval of the building principal. Teachers/sponsors are to talk with the principal before any mention of such trips to students and/or parents. The building principal is charged with the responsibility to monitor the number of fieldtrips and excursions taken by each teacher as well as by teachers collectively. The building principal will ensure and protect their school’s academic time in regard to fieldtrips and other such functions that take students from their regular academic schedule. The building principal will ensure that the proposed fieldtrip or excursion taking place during school time has a direct connection/relationship to the teachers classroom instructional goals.

Preparation for Field Trips and Excursions Parents must be notified in writing of each upcoming fieldtrip on a timely basis. Letters sent home informing parents of the fieldtrip or excursion must include the principal’s and the teacher’s/sponsor’s signatures. These letters must include the date(s) of the trip, time of the rip, cost, itinerary, means of transportation, who will be chaperon, etc.

Trip permission forms signed by parent/guardian are required for all students going on a trip prior to the trip--- no verbal permission should be accepted.

Cost to the parents must be kept to a minimum. No student shall be deprived of participation in a fieldtrip or excursion because of a parents’ inability to pay the amount designated to cover the cost of the trip. It is the responsibility of the principal and teacher/sponsor to ensure parents and students are aware of this and that such cases will be handled in a sensitive and confidential manner.

No commitment shall be made or money collected for any trip until the fieldtrip has been approved.

All school-sponsored fieldtrips and excursions must be properly supervised by school personnel. Parent chaperons may be used but all chaperons must be approved by the principal. A minimum of one chaperon per ten(10) students is required. (The age of the student and/or the activity should be considered in identifying the number of chaperons for a particular trip; however, in no circumstance is there to be more than ten (10) students per chaperon.)

Provisions must be made to continue as usual for those students whose parents have requested that their students should not attend/participate.

Only students from classes or groups of the teacher(s)/sponsor(s) requesting the trip will be allowed on the trip.

Children of parent chaperons, other that those who are in the class which is taking the trip, are not permitted to participate in the fieldtrip activity.

A concerted effort is to be made to establish and maintain appropriate safety precautions to reduce the risk involved in any trip approved.

The idea of a parent or legal guardian signing waivers of liability (blanket

permission) on a “catch-all” basis that indicates that the parent or legal guardian gives a student permission to go on all trips or on trips on an as-needed basis and releasing the school from all risks are legally meaningless.

Transportation for Fieldtrips and Excursions The building principal must approve the transportation plan for field trips and excursions. The mode of transportation must be determined and secured well in advance of the planned trip. Hoover school buses may be used for fieldtrips and excursions under the following stipulations: Requests for use should be signed by the principal and received by the Transportation Department no later than (10) school days prior to the date of the planned trips; The use of school buses for fieldtrips and excursions is subject to the availability of buses and drivers; Hoover school buses may not be used if such use interferes with the regular bus route for schools; Hoover school buses are not available for fieldtrips and excustions during the first week of school, the week before mid-year holidays, or the last two weeks of school; As a general rule Hoover School buses will be used on a limited basis when trips are outside a fifty (50) mile radius. The use of a public carrier for fieldtrips/excursions must beapproved by the building principal. Use of such a carrier must meet the following stipulations: The carrier is on an approved list of such carriers for th ecurrent school year for Hoover City Schools; To be on the approved list for the current school year, the carrier must furnish the school system proof of the following: (1) a copy of the company’s liability insurance coverage with an appropriate and acceptable level of coverage limits: (2) current, valid certifications, licenses, permits, etc., required to operate as a public carrier; (3) current valid safety inspection certification; and (4) any other items to insure an appropriate and acceptable level of protection for students, parents, faculty, and the school system;

NOTE: A visual inspection of the equipment the company will use to serve the school system will be made by school system personnel. Particular attention will be paid to the age of the equipment. The inspection will focus on safety items such as seats, glass, etc. as well as whether the equipment is clean--especially on-board restroom facilities.

In some limited cases, private vehicles may be used for fieldtrips and excursions. Under such circumstances the following stipulations apply:

The principal must give permissionfor such use; Only adult drivers, faculty, parents, etc., are to used. Under no circumstances will student drivers be used for fieldtrips or excursions; When private vehicles are used, the principal must contact the Transportation Director and send the required information to have such vehicles and dirvers added to the school system’s insurance coverage.

Teacher/Sponsor Responsibility Teachers/sponsors of fieldtrips and excursions are responsible for students and their whereabouts at all times. This includes before, during, and right after the fieldtrips and excursions. Teachers/sponsors may be used other adults to help with the supervision of students, but they are ultimately responsible. Teachers/sponsors should always ensure they have a low student/chaperon ratio and should make sure all chaperons are well-informed about what to do and how to do it. Teachers/sponsors must inform students of every detail concerning fieldtrips and excursions. This includes the what, where, why, and how in regard to every aspect of the field trips and excursions. They are to give clear, concise, and specific instructions. Teachers/sponsors should hold short informal meetings with chaperons prior to trips to go over the details of what is expected of them. They should make sure that the chaperons understand their responsibilities.

Media Center 1. The library is open all day and teachers may send their students at any time that is convenient. It is highly recommend that teachers send students during the open blocks as much as possible so that both the librarian and the aide are available to help them.

2. If students do come during scheduled classes, they need to come in small groups (two or three) and they need to limit their visits to appr. ten minutes.

3. If the aide is temporarily out of the library and the media specialist is with a class, your students will be asked to return in 10 minutes.

4.

If there is a large number of children in the library, in addition to a

scheduled classes, your students may be asked to return in 10 minutes.

5. Teachers should let their students know that if they come to the library and there is not an adult at the circulation desk they need to return to class and return 10 minutes later. This should only be in rare instances.

6. If the library aide is pulled to sub on any given day the media specialist will send an email that morning and ask that you only send students at the open times. (non-scheduled times)

7. Also, students may drop books in the book returns if they just need to turn a book in. The book drops willed checked hourly.

8.

The library is open from 7:15 to 3:45 for teachers

Medication on fieldtrips

It is critical that medications, be given on fieldtrips just like they are when a child is at school. One teacher, or medical professional should be responsible for collecting medication prior to the trip, administering medications during the trip, and return the medication following the trip. If the medication is not administered, or the medication is not brought back to the school, the principal needs to know as soon as possible. It is important that we let parents and teachers know as soon as possible that medications are not on campus- particularly emergency items such as epipens and inhalers.

Fieldtrip Checklist Anytime students leave campus it is considered a fieldtrip and procedures for a fieldtrip must be followed.

Make sure that someone is responsible to fill out all of the appropriate paperwork

and that it gets to the appropriate person.

Make sure that one teacher is responsible for picking up medications and first aide supplies in the office before you leave.

When you are planning a fieldtrip please make sure to call transportation the day before to assure that your buses are scheduled. On a few occasions transportation requests have fallen through the cracks and the day of the trip we discovered that we had no buses show up.

Leave a note listing whose classes are on each bus and leave a cell phone number so that we can get in touch with you if necessary.

We need to assure that all parent letters asking for parents to pay for fieldtrips state:

All payments are non-refundable. If circumstances make it necessary for your child to miss the trip for any reason please let us know as soon as possible. In most cases we will not be able to refund any portion of the amount paid since the amount we charge students for the trip is based on the number of students we expect to attend. Transportation costs are determined by the number of buses needed and this cost is divvied up by the number of students going. Admission to many facilities are based on the number of classes attending and the cost is divvied up by the number of students in that class. In addition, some fieldtrip locations require payment up front before the day of the fieldtrip and once the payment is made we no longer have money in our account to provide a refund.

Bus Rules and Fieldtrip Costs Chaperones are responsible for monitoring the behavior of the students on a fieldtrip so that the bus driver can focus his attention on the road.

Students will

maintain proper conduct at all times while riding the bus.

Students will remain seated facing forward with feet and legs out of the aisle. Students will maintain a low level of conversation.

Students will not damage the bus. responsible for damage.

The class, or student(s), will be held

Students will not eat, drink or chew gum on the bus. Students will not throw anything in the bus or out of the windows. Students will keep all parts of their body inside the bus at all times. Students will not push, shove or otherwise make another student uncomfortable. Students will follow the directions of the bus driver at all times. Students will not use any language that is not considered in good taste. The failure of any student to follow the above rules will lead to disciplinary action.

The group is expected to keep the bus clean. After the trip is over the bus needs to be checked by the teacher and chaperones and cleaned up, if necessary. If the bus is not clean at the end of the fieldtrip, a $50 cleanup fee will be applied to the school.

All trips should be planned with ending time back at the school at 2:00 pm. When you arrive at the designation of the fieldtrip, you should ask the bus driver what time you need to leave in order to get back by that time. Always allow at least a 15 minute loading time prior to departure when returning to school.

There will be no fieldtrips the last week of school.

Fieldtrip costs First 4 hours is $38. +$9.50 for each additional hour. +$1.00/mile fuel - The system starts charging for a fieldtrip starting at the origin of the bus – (Add an additional hour to your plans) Grades

Grading -

We need to assure that we are using grades appropriately.

All grades

should demonstrate where a child is in their school work.

IEP student interventions should be designated on the report card.

IEP progress reports should be sent home as regularly as called for in the IEP.

PROCEDURES FOR MEDICATION IN SCHOOLS

GOAL: To assure the school attendance for children who must use medication in the treatment of chronic disabilities and/or acute illness.

Every effort should be made for medication to be administered at home. If medication must be administered at school these regulations MUST BE FOLLOWED:

1. All prescription medications must have written permission from the parent or guardian of the student requesting that the school comply with a physician's order.

a. Prescription medication to be given less than ten (10) calendar days must be in a properly labeled container which includes pharmacy name, patient's name, medication name, dosage, and administration time.

b. Prescription medication to be given more than ten (10) calendar days in addition to the above MUST also have the prescribing physician's signature.

2. Prescription medication must be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by a pharmacy or doctor.

3. Non-prescription medications should have written parental permission, time and dosage, and in a properly labeled contained.

4.

Each medication given must be recorded on a medication log which includes

date, time, and signature of

5.

person giving the medication.

All medications must be stored under lock and key at all times.

The School Nurse will be notified when a student is receiving medication in the school.

MONEY School monies are deposited in the bank DAILY. Teachers having money to turn in should do so by 9:00 a.m. NO MONEY WILL BE KEPT IN THE SCHOOL BUILDING OVERNIGHT.

We do ask teachers' cooperation in holding portions of money being collected (example: field trip) until all or a large amount is collected. This would greatly save time and bookkeeping for the office. Money turned in must be receipted in teachers' receipt book and sent to office with money. The book and the money must balance. Monies should be in the envelope designated for this purpose, fully marked. NO money will be accepted in the office unless it is so packaged and marked. Envelopes are available in the office. The secretary will issue a receipt for all money received in the office. Teachers will issue receipts to individual students in the classroom for all money received. All field trip money must be turned in at least two days prior to trip.

The bookkeeper has forms for you to complete if you are going to be taking up ANY money at all in your classroom. Make sure this is complete and turned in prior to receiving any money.

NO STAFF MEMBER SHOULD BE TAKING ANY MONEY FROM A STUDENT UNLESS IT HAS BEEN PREAPPROVED!

RECEIPT PROCEDURES

1.

Complete receipt information. Write student's first and last name. Teacher sign each receipt - no initials. Use principal's first two initials and last name. Indicate check or cash.

Date receipts within 3 days of the date you turn your money into bookkeeper.

2. If the amount is the same for each child a multiple receipt form may be used. The total amount of this form should be receipted in your master receipt book. 3.

Do not receipt lunch money.

4.

Do not skip receipts.

5. Voided receipts must be kept in book and initialed by secretary or principal that the receipt is void. Do not tear out white copy of void receipt. 6.

Give white copy to student/parent.

Do not leave in book.

7.

Count your money and total your receipts.

THEY MUST EQUAL.

8. Teachers deliver all monies and receipt book to the office in a brown envelope. Money must balance book. Do not write on brown envelope. 9.

Send to office for deposit by 9:00 a.m. when complete.

10. No money is to be left in your room overnight. monies collected until turned in to the office.

You are responsible for all

Purchase Orders - Purchase Order procedures are outlined in your budget folder. All receipts (including multiple receipts) must be dated.

Setting up Presenters

1. All presenters will be scheduled carefully. Either they will be scheduled during lunch (dinner theater), explorers, specials, or to allow a planning time for teams. Another possibility is that these presenters can be

planned to augment a current program such as our explorers program. the case communication with those teachers is essential

If this is

2. We may also set up these speakers to provide an enrichment day for students. Students could rotate every 30 minutes hour planning for during the morning. One again planning is essential in this process.

Universal Precaution Procedures Physical health and well-being depend on many factors, including good eating habits, exercise, regular medical and dental checkups and the practice of good hygiene on a DAILY basis. The school staff and students can easily maintain a greater degree of protection from the infectious diseases if the following universal precaution procedures are used and taught in the school setting.

1. Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and warm water, particularly after toileting, diaper changes, potty training, cuts and injuries, coughing and sneezing, before food preparation and before meals and snacks.

2. Teach young children to wash hands carefully after toileting, coughing and sneezing, and before eating.

3.

After thorough cleaning, cover open cuts and injuries with bandages.

4. Wash toys, stuffed animals, favorite blankets and things children put in their mouths with soap and warm water regularly.

5. Use disposable gloves when in direct contact with ANY BODY FLUIDS especially blood.

6. Wash surface areas, clothing, bed linen and laundry exposed to body fluids (blood, urine, feces, vomit, other secretions). Use a household disinfectant or mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water).

7. Dispose of diapers, gloves, bandages, and paper products used to clean up body fluids in individual, tightly sealed plastic bags.

8.

Keep ALL immunizations up to date.

Last but MOST IMPORTANTLY, consider ALL body fluids as infected or contaminated.

Hoover City Schools

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS Threat Assessment Protocol Hoover City Schools Hoover Police Department

Mission Statement The purpose of this protocol is to establish a procedure for members of the Hoover School System and community to work together to recognize and assess threats of violence in a school setting and, if possible, to prevent acts of violence from occurring. The protocol is intended to help school administrators and law enforcement officials identify credible threats of violence, establish procedures for addressing them, and develop guidelines for follow-up once a threat has occurred.

Threatened Act of Violence: Any threat or action that suggests the possibility that serious physical injury or death may be caused to another.

Procedure: The following procedure is separated into several sections to highlight the responsibilities of different members of the school staff.

Any student, parent or guardian, or school staff member, upon receiving information that a person is threatening to commit an act of violence, shall: Assume the threat is serious; Immediately report the threat to a school administrator or law enforcement officer; Take measures to preserve the evidence; Be available and cooperative in providing a statement of information, with the

understanding that information source will remain anonymous to the greatest extent possible.

Any school administrator, upon receiving information that a person is threatening to commit an act of violence, shall: Assume the threat is serious; _________________________ Revision of initial draft – 4/12/02 JVT/LCL Cause the student making the threat, if said student is on campus, to be removed from the classroom and segregated into a secured area pending further investigation. Immediately notify a School Resource Officer (SRO) or the police department and school system intervention counselor and provide complete information regarding the threat; Require the person reporting the threat to provide immediate written statements regarding the information received;

The SRO/police officer, upon receiving information that a person is threatening to commit an act of violence or upon notification from a school administrator that a threat to commit an act of violence has occurred, shall: Assume the threat is serious; Immediately notify a school administrator and provide complete information; Conduct an assessment interview of the subject making the threat. policy JCAB (f).)

(See Board

Note: The primary purpose of the interview is to engage in an assessment of the available information, in an attempt to determine the veracity of the threat, in order to decide what level of follow-up action is needed and appropriate.

Once the assessment interview is complete, the SRO/police officer and school administrator shall convene privately to discuss the threat and consider options for further assessment and follow-up action. If it is agreed that the threat is credible, the administrator shall immediately contact the superintendent. The SRO/police officer will follow standard operating procedures. Hoover City Schools will cooperate with law enforcement and diligently seek criminal prosecution for any incident involving threats of violence.

If it is agreed that the threat is not credible, the school administrator shall assume responsibility to institute any further action deemed necessary. The school administrator shall contact parents of the students involved in the incident. Follow-up: Following an incident and completion of the above procedures, the school administrator or his/her designee shall: Within a month of the incident, meet with SRO/police officer and others involved in the investigation to debrief, share information regarding outcomes for the student/subject, and evaluate the effectiveness of the response to the threat and the threat assessment protocol.

Vendors All vendors requesting an audience with the school either in written form or by setting up a display must gain approval from the principal. If it is convenient, the principal will send out an email to the faculty to determine the interest in the product. If there is considerable interest and it does not pose a disruption to the work of the school they will be allowed to come.

Weather

If thunder is heard outside or lightning is spotted all students will be brought in immediately until the weather clears.

Wellness

Our wellness committee met in the spring of 2009 and developed the following guidelines concerning birthday snacks:

Parents are encouraged to come in on their child’s birthday to eat lunch with their child’s class; however, they will not be allowed to bring snacks in to share with the class during lunch. Under no circumstances will children be served carbonated drinks at any time during the day. If a parent would like to send .50 for each child in the class, to purchase a slushie to celebrate their child’s birthday that is acceptable.

If a parent would like to provide one healthy snack for each child in the classroom, they can bring the snack to be given out after one o’clock in the afternoon. Examples of healthy snacks include fruit, oatmeal cookies, or popsicles. Doughnuts and cupcakes have been discouraged.

This committee met to assure that Deer Valley was in compliance with state and federal guidelines for our Child Nutrition Program. Please assist us as we try to assure that these procedures are followed.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES Teachers Please remember these items:

It is critical that all teachers keep their doors locked throughout the day.

It is critical that all teachers carry their keys with them at all times. This is particularly important when you return to your classroom following a tornado drill. Lanyards and bracelets are available in the office to help you keep up with them.

During a Code Red lockdown, people in the gym will be asked to go into one of the storage closets, people in the science lab will go in the science closet, and people in the cafeteria need to go into the kitchen.

Classroom teachers will get a red and green card in their emergency kit. Teachers are to hold their red card up high during a drill to let the hall monitors know they are missing children. They should hold their green card up high to let monitors know all children are accounted for.

Concerning a tornado or fire drill:

Remember to bring your roll with you as well as your classroom card to designate if you have any children missing once you get out into the hall.

Once your class is in position (either a tornado drill or a fire drill) please hold up your class card to denote if your entire class is accounted for.

Monitors will be in the hall to verify that all students are accounted for.

During a fire drill make sure that your classroom door is shut when you leave the room.

Concerning the lockdown drills:

Make sure that your room is adequate to allow the students to hide from the door window in the event of a code red lockdown drill.

Monitors remember:

Each of you should go immediately to the lower workroom to pick up a 2-way radio to allow you to communicate with the secretary in the main office.

Fire Drill Follow the students down a hall to the exit door as they leave the building. Check all restrooms and call office to let Cindy know that all students are out of the building.

Once outside visually connect with each teacher to assure that all of his or her students are accounted for (Red/Green signs). If any student is not accounted for the monitor needs to call that information into to the secretary, who will keep a list in the office of all unaccounted for students.

Then as students are found call the secretary to let her know that the students have been found.

The secretary will keep up with any students we are continuing to try and locate.

Tornado Drill Once students are in the halls – visually check with teachers to assure that their students are all accounted for.

Go into each restroom to assure that all children are participating in the drill.

Radio the office if you know of any students who are unaccounted for or if you know where any students that are somewhere other than where they should be.

The secretary will keep up with any students we are continuing to try and locate.

Lock Downs – Code Yellow

Go from room to room assuring that all doors are locked.

Lock Downs – Code Red

Go into all restrooms on your designated hall to assure that all students are out – if any students are in the restrooms – stay in there with them once you have checked all of your other restrooms. (If a lockable room is easily accessible, you may put student in that room).

Radio office to state that everyone is safe, or press a call button in accessible room.

The drill will end when a police officer or administrator comes and opens each teacher’s door and tells him or her that it is over.

HOOVER CITY BOARD OF EDUCATION 100 Municipal Drive Hoover, AL

35216

Forms ACCIDENT/UNUSUAL-SENSITIVE-SERIOUS SITUATION

Services)

(Use this form for reporting to the Director of Administrative

CHECK ONE:

1. Unusual-Sensitive-Serious Situation ( ) 2._____________________ 3. ___________________ Date of Time of Accident ( Occurrence

) Occurrence

4. ________________________________________ 5.___________________________________________ School Teacher

6. ___________ ) yes Sex (

7.

_________________________

Name

8. School Insurance

(

Grade/Position

) no

9. Time lost from school:_____________________________________________________________________

10. Physician or other professional assistance needed:_____________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________ ________

__________________________________________________________________________________ ________

11. Person supervising: _________________________________________________________________________

12. Who, what, when, where, and how:____________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________ ________

__________________________________________________________________________________ ________

13. Date submitted to Director of Administrative Services:____________________________________________

14. Principal's signature: _______________________________________________________________________

Call the Director of Administrative Services prior to mailing on significant situations.Use N/A (not applicable) as appropriate. Attach any information relevant to the situation as needed.

Please send form to: Hoover, AL 35216

Director of Administrative Services, 100 Municipal Dr.,

Learning for Life

HOOVER CITY SCHOOL

CONFERENCE FORM

Child's Name______________________________________________________________________________ ____

Date of Conference_______________________________________________ Grade______________________

Teacher_____________________________________________________ School__________________________

Persons present at the conference (check)

Father

(

)

Mother

(

)

Principal

(

)

Teacher

(

)

Other ( ) Please identify: ________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY

Purpose of Conference:

Student's Strengths:

Areas Needing Improvement:

Recommendations:

Student

(

)

Comments From Parents:

Parent's Signature_________________________________________________________________________ ___

Signature of Staff Member(s) __________________________________________________________________

CUMULATIVE RECORD FOLDER CHECKLIST STUDENT NAME____________________________S.S.#__________________DATE__________

* Check indicates item is in folder 20__ 20__

20__ 20__ 20__ 20__ 20__ 1.

Immunization form (staple to inside back cover)

2.

Copy of certified birth certificate (staple to inside front cover)

3.

Copy of student's Social Security Card (staple inside front cover)

4.

Verification of Residence Stapled to inside front cover

5.

Copies of custody decrees , name changes

6.

Updated permanent record/test results card (cum Card)

7. Test results

8.

Individual education/career planning documents (EIP) (Except IEP)

9. Copy of Deer Valley Report Card

10. Student picture

11. Records from other school districts

12. Physical fitness scores

13. Home Language Survey

14. Completed red cue card

15. Media Release

DISCIPLINE REFERRAL FORM Name of the Student_____________________________________ Grade_____________

Homeroom Teacher_________________________________________Date______________

Description of the incident________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________

Does student receive Special Education services?______________ If yes, please identify____________________________________________________________

Previous Action by Teacher:

(Please check or indicate how many times)

__Counselor Involvement

__Parent Conference

__Detention with teacher

__Phone call to parents

__Removal of privileges

__Seating change

__Verbal reprimand/ warnings __Behavior Checklist/

__Teacher/Student Conference

Contract

__Teacher/Student/Parent Conference

__Other______________

__Learning Support Services

_____________________

__Informal contact with administrator

Other comments:_____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________ Staff Member's Signature - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -ADMINISTRATOR'S ACTION- - - - - - - - - - - - -

__Counseled student

__Out of school suspension days

__Referred to counselor

__Recommendation for expulsion

__Parents called on ___________

__School wide time-out

__After school detention

__Work program

(Date:________________) Letter to parents on _____________________________

__Service project __Other_________________________ _________________________

__Supervised in-school plan for correction of misbehavior

________________________________ Administrator's Signature

Other comments:

___________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________

Parent(s) guardian:_________________________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________________________________ Telephone:__________________________________________________________________

9/00 FORM FT-A HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS FIELD TRIP/TRANSPORTATION REQUEST FORM ___________________________________ SCHOOL ____________________ (One trip date per request)

Trip Day _______________

Trip Date

________________ _________________

____________________________________________________

Date of Submittal Telephone Ext.

Teacher(s)/Sponsor(s)

Class/Grade/Organization ___________________________________________________________________________ Number of: Students ________ Teachers ______ Student for Trip ____________________

Parents ______

Cost to

This trip is a: ____ One-way shuttle ____ **Over 50 miles ____ **Overnight

____ Round Trip

Travel By: ____ School Bus ____ Private Vehicle __________________________________

____ Charter (Name)

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD STUDENTS BE TRANSPORTED BY OTHER STUDENTS!

Destination ______________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________(Directions attached) Other planned stops _______________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ ______ People To Be Transported: Number of Walk-On Students to Ride Bus _________ Number of Buses Requested: Regular _____ Sp.Ed. _____ Number of Wheelchairs to be Transported Luggage Carrier Buses Needed _______ Number of Adults (including teachers) (if available) Total to Ride Bus riders; Gr.6-12 plan on 48 riders)

Times:

_________

Number of

_________ _________

(For Gr.K-5 plan on 66

Buses be at school _________________________________

__________________

Buses depart school Buses to load for return loading time)

Loading Location

__________________ __________________

Buses arrive back at school back by 2:00 p.m. on school days)

(Allow 15 minutes

__________________

(Buses should be

*Reason for Trip:__________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ ______ *Reason should be stated in terms related to classroom objectives and unit of study when the trip involves a class or grade. When the trip involves other groups or organizations, reason should have a clearly stated educational purpose/benefit.

APPROVAL: The above requested field trip/excursion is not approved. _______________________________ _________

_________

Principal (approves all field trips) Superintendent/Designee

______ approved

_____

__________________________________ Date

Date

**NOTE: A copy of this form is to be sent to the Superintendent and to the Transportation office for ALL field trips/excursions. If your trip is over a 50mile radius or overnight, the Field Trip/Transportation Request Form must be approved by the Superintendent or Designee and a copy of that approval sent to the Transportation office. For overnight trips you should attach a copy of the itinerary, lodging, plans/costs, phone number and address of hotel/motel, emergency telephone numbers, etc. Bus driver(s) expenses are to be absorbed by the group, (private room, $25.00 a day meals) - - - - - - All buses must be cleaned out at the end of each trip or a $50 fine will be imposed. - - - - - -

Transportation Manager Approval____________________________________________ Date___________________ Field Trip/Transportation Request Forms must be submitted to the principal in time to have approved copies in the Superintendent’s office and at the Transportation Department at least ten school days before the trip.

9/00 FORM FT-B HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS FIELD TRIP INFORMATION SHEET ALL FOUR (4) FORMS SHOULD BE SENT TO THE PRINCIPAL AT YOUR SCHOOL

For Commercial Carrier: Arrangements for commercial buses are to be made by the individual school and a copy of the license and proof of insurance should be kept at the school. The Transportation office should be informed of the carrier you have chosen upon submitting FORM A.

For Other Modes of Transportation (NO VEHICLES ABOVE 10 PASSENGERS): Your school should have a copy of drivers’ licenses and proof of insurance for all privately owned vehicles used on field trips. Teacher/Staff owned and operated vehicle Parents/chaperons owned and operated vehicle UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD STUDENTS BE TRANSPORTED BY OTHER STUDENTS!

We ask that you provide your driver(s) a list of students with phone numbers by their bus assignment

A minimum of one chaperon per ten (10) students is required. The age of students and/or the activity should be considered in identifying the number of chaperons for a particular trip; however, in no circumstance is there to be more than ten (10) students per chaperon.

A request for use of Hoover school buses must be sent to the Transportation Department at least ten days prior to the trip after approval for the trip by the principal. This request may be faxed or sent by mail. If a trip has not been confirmed by the Transportation Department within 48 hours of the trip, the teacher/sponsor or person in charge of field trips at your school should call the Transportation office to make sure the paperwork arrived. Any changes to field trips should be submitted in writing and confirmed.

Teachers should have a list of the bus rules and provide this list to each chaperon. Adults should be seated throughout the bus to help maintain low speaking and to ensure the safety and well being of each student.

When reaching the destination of the field trip, the driver and teacher should decide on a loading time in order to get back to the school on time. Loading time usually takes about 15 minutes.

If you plan to transport extra items such as coolers, equipment, etc. on your trip, you may want to request a bus with a luggage carrier. Please keep in mind that we have only a few of these buses in our fleet, and one may not be available. If such a bus is not available, you should plan on extra seating area for storage of the articles to be transported. At no time can the aisle or back door of a bus be blocked!

One teacher on the bus(s) should be assigned the duty of walking to the back of the bus anytime the group exits to ensure all students are off the bus and no articles have been left. We suggest the teacher bring a trash bag and get students to pick up trash before they get off the bus at the end of the field trip. Otherwise, the teacher might pick up the trash when he/she walks the aisle to check the bus. It is very difficult to get items left on a bus back to the owner. There is an extra charge if the interior of the bus is not cleaned out at the end of the trip.

We realize the preparation each teacher makes for field trips and hope the transportation phase makes it even more enjoyable. If anyone should ever have a complaint regarding the bus or driver, please submit your concern in writing to the Transportation Department.

I have read and understand the above. ________________________________________________________________ ______________________ Date Form Is Signed

Teacher(s)/Sponsor(s) Signature

________________________________________________________________ ______________________ Date of Trip

School

9/00 FORM

FT-C

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS FIELD TRIP AND EXCURSION PERMISSION FORM To:

Parent/Legal Guardian

Please carefully read the attached Notice and Release statement as well as the information contained in this Permission Form. If you wish for your son/daughter to participate, this form must be returned to the sponsor prior to the day of the trip. There must be a signed permission form returned to the school before a student is allowed to participate in a field trip or excursion.

School __________________________________ _________________________________

Student’s Name

Grade, Class, Organization _________________________________________________________________

Sponsor’s Name ______________________________ Activity_____________________________

Date(s) of

Destination of Trip _________________________________________________________________________

Travel Will Be By __________________________________________________________________________

Student’s Cost ________________ ____________________

Paid No Later Than _______________

School Departure Time _________________________ _________________________

Paid To

Location Arrival Time

Loading Time for Return ________________________ _____________________

Return to School by (time)

Reason for Trip: __________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________ ______

Parent/Guardian Approval: ______________________________ has my permission to participate in the above described field trip on the date(s) indicated. I give the teacher/sponsor/administrator in charge of my son/daughter permission to see that he/she gets whatever medical treatment is necessary in the event of an emergency.

Medical Information:

Allergies______________________________________________________ Type_________________

Blood

Other Health Problem/Condition______________________________________________________________

Medications____________________________ ____________________ Doctor’s Name

____________________________

Name of Medication Dosage/Time Taken

Other Information Needed___________________________________________________________________

Emergency Phone Numbers: Mother (H) ____________________ ____________________

(W) ____________________

(Cell)

Father (H) ____________________ (Cell) ____________________

(W) ____________________

Other (Specify) __________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________ Date_____________________________ Parent/Legal Guardian Signature

9/00 FORM FT-D

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

NOTICE AND RELEASE FOR FIELD TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS

SCHOOL __________________________________

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Date _________________________

Your son’s/daughter’s class or organization has planned a field trip or excursion and he/she is invited to participate.

The Hoover Board of Education encourages and expects its employees who sponsor and are involved in taking students on field trips and excursions to exercise the judgment and care in relation to the well-being of students that any reasonable and prudent person would be expected to demonstrate under such circumstances.

However, the Board recognizes and reminds parents of the fact that in any activity involving students moving from one place to another, or being in a public setting, there are inherent risks.

Therefore, when the parent or guardian signs permission for their son/daughter to participate in a field trip or excursion, they acknowledge their understanding of such risks.

And, in as much as the parent or guardian understands the risks, their signature also is an agreement that they will hereby release, remise, and forever discharge, indemnify, and agree to hold harmless the Board, its officers, teachers, members, agents, servants, employees, chaperones, and other representatives, and/or any one or more of any thereof against any claim, demand, or cause of action whether now in existence or hereafter arising, for any injury to the person of or the death of the participant, arising out of, resulting from, caused by, occurring during, or in any way connected with the field trip or excursion.

Attached is a Field Trip and Excursion Permission Form. If you wish for your son/daughter to participate in the activity described, this form must be signed and returned to the person indicated. If you have any question, please contact the school office or teacher/sponsor.

____________________________________________ Principal Date

________________________________

TO:

Lunchroom

Time sack lunches will be picked up from the lunch room ______________

FROM:

Grade ____________

FIELD TRIP SACK LUNCH REQUESTS (Trip date: ________________)

* Send estimates two full weeks before trip; send exact count 2 days before trip. (Food orders have to be placed on Monday the week before your trip.)

Section Estimates date

Student Adult Exact Totals date

TOTAL

Student

Adult

TOTAL

Total Estimate _________ Exact Total ________

Furniture Relocation Form Furniture Relocation Form Deer Valley Elementary School

Teacher: Approved by:

Date Moved Quantity Object Moved Moved From (rm #) Moved To (rm #)

PLEASE SIGN OUT

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

PRE-OBSERVATION FORM (Optional)

Teacher________________________________Observer__________________

Date of Lesson to be Observed ___________________________________

Subject Taught___________________________________________________

Estimated Length of Lesson____________________ to _______________

Objective of the lesson

Instructional strategies and materials

Specific request for observation, e.g., skills, techniques, pupil interaction, etc.

Other information necessary or pertinent to understand the lesson

____________________________

_________________

Teacher Signature

Date

____________________________

_________________

Administrator Signature

Date

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

POST-OBSERVATION INSTRUCTIONAL CONFERENCE FORM

Teacher____________________________ Observer______________________

Date of Observation________________ Subject Taught________________

Time of Observation________________ to _____________

Instructional objective (as presented by the teacher)

Areas of teacher performance for commendation

Areas of teacher performance for refinement

Plans for follow-up

___________________________________

Date______________

Administrator Signature

___________________________________

Date______________

Teacher Signature (Signature does not necessarily indicate agreement, only that the report has been read and discussed.)

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

PLANS FOR IMPROVEMENT AND ASSISTANCE FOR CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL

Teacher____________________________ School_______________________

Assignment_________________________ Date plan was prepared_______

Administrator______________________

1.

Describe the performance area to be improved.

2.

List the specific steps to be taken to improve performance.

3.

Develop a plan for follow-up.

________________________________

Date__________________

Teacher Signature

________________________________

Date__________________

Administrator Signature

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS REQUEST FOR PROFESSIONAL LEAVE Name _____________________________________ ________________________

Date Submitted

School or Work Location ___________________ Number of day(s) leave being requested_______

Date(s) you will be away from work ______________________________________________________

City (or location if in Birmingham) where you will be ___________________________________

Purpose of leave (name of conference, workshop, activities, etc.) _______________________

__________________________________________________________________________________ _______

__________________________________________________________________________________ _______ Do you have special responsibilities (presenter, officer, etc.)? Yes________ No _________

If so, what are they? ___________________________________________________________________

Will a substitute be necessary for the days you are away from school? Yes _____ No ______

If so, how will the substitute be paid? __________________

_____ School

-

Approved by

Account ______________________

_____ District -

Approved by __________________

Account

_____________________

Other -

_________________________________

_____

Complete this section if leave expenses other than a substitute will be requested from the school or district.

Estimated Expenses: Registration $________ $________

Accommodations Food-In state _____ day(s) at $25.00/day

$________ $________

Food- Out-of-state _____ day(s) at $35.00/day Travel- Car ______ miles at $.375/mile

$________ $________

Other Travel __________________________ (airfare, etc.)

Miscellaneous__________________________

$________

Total Estimated Expenses (Not Including Substitute)

Expenses will be paid by ______________________

_____ School -

Approved by

Account __________________________ Approved by _____________________

_____ District –

Account __________________________ _________________________________

_____ Other

-

Note: Food is paid at the per diem rate shown above. Submit receipts for motels, registration, airfare, and miscellaneous expenditures other than food after the leave using the Travel Reimbursement Form.

_______________________________________________ ________________ Date

Signature of Person Requesting Leave

_______________________________________________ ________________ Date

Principal or Director

_______________________________________________ ________________ Date

Superintendent of Designee

Hoover City Schools

Continuing Education Unit (CEU) Certificate

This is to certify that _________________________________________________ (name) of __________________________________________ School has attended a staff

development workshop / in-service activity entitled:

__________________________________________________________________

on ________________________ from _______________ to _________________.

Total clock hours for this workshop ___________.

__________________

_________________ Signature of

Workshop/In-service Presenter

__________________

_________________ Date

This workshop has been approved for professional development hours.

_________________ __________________ Building Administrator / Supervisor

Signature of

_________________ __________________ Date

Name___________________________________________

School______________________

Teaching Assignment_________________________________

School Year_____________

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS PROFESSIONAL GROWTH END-OF-YEAR SUMMARY FORM (To be submitted at the end of each school year to the building administrator)

Approved Staff Development Activity/Title Date Location Clock Hours

College Course Number and Title Dates Semester Hours Clock Hrs. 1 Semester. Hr. = 16 Clock Hrs.

Attach copies of CEU certificates and/or transcripts to this form.

Total Clock Hours- ___________

Teacher’s Signature__________________________________ Date________________

Principal’s Signature__________________________________Date________________

Use additional forms if necessary:

This is form # ____ of ____ for this person.

Hoover City Schools Professional Growth Activity Evaluation Level 1 (Participants’ Reactions)

Workshop Title: _____________________________________________________

Presenter: __________________________________

Date(s): _____________

Participant’s Primary Position: (check one) ___

Classroom teacher, Elementary

___

Classroom teacher, Secondary

___

Aide Counselor ___

___

___ Librarian / Media Specialist Administrator ___

Instructional Coach (Reading, Math, Technology)

___

Other: ________________

Use the rating scale to reflect your opinion: (circle your choice) Lowest Highest 1. 3

I am leaving with concrete ideas of how I can 4 5

1

2

apply what I have learned in this workshop.

2. 3

The length of time for this workshop was appropriate. 4 5

3. 2

The presentation was clear and concise. 3 4 5

4. 2

The content met my expectations based on the 3 4 5

1

2

1

1

description of the topic given beforehand.

5. 2

I would recommend this workshop to my peers. 3 4 5

1

Responses:

The most valuable feature of this workshop was_____________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

I still have questions about______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Additional comments and suggestions______________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Hoover City Schools

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS Personal Leave Request Form Certified Personnel

This form is for the purpose of requesting one or more of the three additional personal leave days provided by the Hoover City Board of Education above the two days provided through State funding. Do NOT use this form for either or both of the first two personal leave days that are provided at no cost to you.

Board policy GBRI states that “the request for these day(s) must be in writing in advance and approved prior to the day(s) being taken.” The employee is charged the average rate of a substitute teacher’s pay for each of the three days taken.

Your school may require approval and/or notification of the principal for all personal leave taken; such a form does not take the place of this form for personal leave days 3-5. It is the responsibility of the employee to keep up with

the number of personal leave days used to be sure that proper approval is obtained from both the principal and the assistant superintendent prior to the absence for personal leave days 3-5. Approval “after the fact” will not be granted except is cases of extreme emergency.

I request _____ day(s) personal leave on the following date(s) _____________. I understand that the average rate of a substitute teacher’s pay will be deducted from my pay for each of the three allowable days that are taken.

_____________________________________ School

______________________ _______________ Employee Name as on Payroll

Print

______________________ ___/____________ ee Signature and Date

Employ

› Approved _________________________/____________ ›

Not Approved

Approved Date

Not Approved

Principal Signature and Date

_________________________/____________ Superintendent or Designee and

Playground Safety Checklist Playground Safety Checklist Deer Valley Elementary School

Please check the playground area to ensure that the following are not present:

1st 2nd 3rd 4th

9W 9W 9W 9W

loose bolts

sharp objects (screws, chain links, plastic corners)

obstructions on slides / walkways

tangled/twisted chains on swings

rust on metal objects

anthills and other insects

wood playground border secure

loose metal posts

loose swing set posts

other potential hazards not addressed above:

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

[1] Instructional employees are those whose principal function is to teach and instruct students in a class, a small group, or an individual setting.