17117 4S Ranch Parkway • San Diego, CA 92127

Phone: (858) 487-6887

Absence Hotline: (858) 487-8225

(or) MRESattendance@powayusd.com

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Table of Contents

School Schedule…………………….……….……………………...2

Office Hours…………………………………………..…………2

Phone Numbers……………………………………………..….2

Important Websites…………………………………………..…2

New Parent Information………………………………..……...…….3

First Days of MRES……………………………………………….…3

Check In/Check out Procedures………………………………...…5

Pick up/Drop off…………………………………………………...…6

School Communications…………………………………………....7

Curriculum, Testing & Progress…………………………………....8

Support the School…………………………………..……………...9

Monterey Ridge A – Z………………………………….................10

General School rules…………………………………………...….19

Playground Rules………………………………………………......20

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School Schedule ESS and Preschool Open 6:30 AM

Playground Opens 8:40 AM (Students not permitted on campus before this time)

Line Up Bell 8:55 AM

School Starts 9:00 AM

TK Dismissal (M-F) 1:00 PM

K-5th Dismissal (M, T, Th, F) 3:20 PM

K-5th Dismissal (W) 1:40 PM

Office Hours M, T, Th, F 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

W 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Phone Numbers Phone (858) 487-6887

Attendance Hotline (858) 487-8225

Fax (858) 487-2050

Preschool (858) 487-2628

ESS (858) 487-8216

Important Websites Monterey Ridge Elementary School:

Homepage https://www.powayusd.com/en-US/Schools/ES/MRES/Home

Monterey Ridge Educational Foundation (MREF):

http://mptfonline.org

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MRESFoundation

Poway Unified School District:

http://www.powayusd.com

Other Websites:

MyPlan https://myplan.powayusd.com/

Overdrive https://powayk8.libraryreserve.com/10/45/en/SignIn.htm?url=Default.htm

My Connect https://poway.instructure.com/login/ldap

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New Student Information

Where can I get the forms to enroll a new student?

Enrollment forms for new students, along with instructions and deadlines, can be found at

https://www.powayusd.com/en-US/Schools/ES/MRES/parent-Resources/How-To-Enroll .

**Please note that enrollment forms for the “next” school year will not be available until May.

What immunizations are my child required to have?

All children are required to have their vaccinations fully completed before enrolling in grades

TK – 12 unless exempted as provided by law. For details on specific vaccines refer to:

https://www.powayusd.com/en-US/Departments/Special-Education/Health-Services

Why is there a lottery?

Monterey Ridge Elementary School (MRES) is currently at capacity. Therefore, enrollment forms

for TK and Kindergarten will not be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If the school does

not have enough space to enroll all applicants residing within the MRES attendance area, the

Poway Unified School District (PUSD) may consider implementing a lottery or redirecting students

to other schools in the area. Only students enrolled during the TK and Kindergarten enrollment

dates will be entered into the lottery.

When will I find out if my child will attend MRES?

The MRES website will have updated information on the status of the lottery.

First Days at MRES

When will I find out who my child’s teacher is?

At the Kindergarten Enrollment, you will receive a schedule that provides dates for the following:

Kindergarten pre-assessment, finding out your teacher’s name, meeting with your new teacher,

first day of school, and Kindergarten Transition Days. The class lists are typically posted the day

before the start of school, outside of the main entrance to MRES. Please refer to our website for

exact dates/times.

What is a Kindergarten pre-assessment?

The Kindergarten pre-assessment is a short meeting between incoming students and one of the

Kindergarten teachers. The goal of the assessment is to determine the level at which each child is

entering Kindergarten. This will allow the school to place students in classrooms in a way that

balances out each classroom and creates classes with children of varying abilities. It also provides

your child’s Kindergarten teacher with a starting point from which to develop curriculum.

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Kindergarten Transition Days?

For the first five weeks of school, kindergarten classes will be dismissed at 1:00 PM to ensure that

our new Monarchs have time to adjust to their new school and schedule. Once Kindergarten

Transition Days are over, Kindergartners will follow the same dismissal schedule as the rest of the

school.

Where do the students have snack and lunch?

For snack: Kindergarteners alternate between the big playground and the Kindergarten

playground.

For lunch: Kindergartners eat at the main covered lunch area and share a lunch period with

1st grade students, 2nd and 3rd grade students share a lunch period and 4th and 5th grade

Students share a lunch period.

What does my child need to bring to school?

Supply lists are specific to each grade and can be found on the school website at

https://www.powayusd.com/en-US/Schools/ES/MRES/parent-Resources/Suggested-Supply-Lists

before the school year begins. In addition you may want to purchase a backpack/book bag and

lunch box that are appropriate for the size of your child.

**Rolling Backpacks are not permitted

Why am I being asked to make a donation of money and supplies to my child’s classroom?

Funding received from the State only covers the bare minimum for supplies. In order for each

classroom to have the supplies necessary for the school year, teachers often have to purchase

them using their personal funds. MRES and its teachers are asking for voluntary donations from

parents in the form of a check (made out to PUSD) to help purchase supplies for their child’s

classroom. The school is also requesting a donation of 4 reams of paper per child. Many office

supply stores offer free reams of paper a couple of times each year.

What is Extended Student Services (ESS)?

The ESS Program extends PUSD’s educational program into the hours before and after school,

and during school vacations. ESS provides a comprehensive program of developmentally

appropriate curriculum and activities. ESS is staffed by qualified professionals and trained

program assistants and is open Monday – Friday, 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM. To learn more visit

https://www.powayusd.com/Departments/Learning-Support/Extended-Student-Services/ESS-

Sites/Monterey-Ridge-ESS/Monterey-Ridge-ESS/

What is the Monterey Ridge Educational Foundation?

The Monterey Ridge Educational Foundation (the Foundation) also known as the Monarch Parent

Teacher Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization created to provide financial support to

enhance the curriculum at MRES. The Foundation’s mission is to enrich the curriculum for every

student at our school in the areas of Technology, the Arts, and Sciences. The Foundation has two

primary fundraising efforts during the school year: Campaign Monarch and an auction-based

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event held in the spring. In the past, funds raised have been used to purchase iPad Carts,

Chromebooks and carts, and pay for the following programs: art, physical education, garden

and Impact. To learn more or make a donation, visit http://mptfonline.org

Why am I being asked to donate to Campaign Monarch?

State funding does not currently provide for any supplemental programs for our students in the

areas of art, technology and science. The Monterey Ridge Educational Foundation’s Campaign

Monarch fills the gap between what the state provides and what our students deserve.

The donations you make to your child’s classroom are used only to meet the needs of that

classroom, whereas donations made to the Foundation are used to fund programs that benefit

each and every child at MRES. Your contribution will help make art, music, physical education,

Impact, and technology available for all students. Donations are voluntary and tax deductible.

Check In / Check Out Procedures

If your child will be missing school due to illness or other reasons...

You must call the Absence Hotline at 858-487-8225 before 9:30 AM on every day that your child

will be absent.

If your child will be arriving late to school...

Students who are not sitting in their assigned seat when the bell rings at 9:00am are considered

tardy. Students are to come to the office for a late slip before reporting to class.

Children are not allowed on the playground prior to 8:40 a.m. because there is no supervision.

Supervision is provided on school grounds beginning at 8:40 a.m.

You must call the Absence Hotline (858) 487-8225 (or email MRESattendance@powayusd.com)

before 9:30 AM if your student plans to arrive after that time.

If your child needs to be picked up during school hours...

You must check your child out through the front office. You will be required to present proper

identification. Once you arrive, your child will be sent to the office to meet you. Please note that

only the child’s parent or guardian will be allowed to pick up the child. A parent or guardian must

give advanced notice to the front office for any other adult to check out a student.

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Pick up / Drop off

If you are driving your child to school…

• Students are only to enter or exit the vehicle at the curb and to exit their vehicle only on the curb

side. For the safety of your child, do not let students enter or exit vehicles anywhere else in the

parking lot as this creates a safety hazard for everyone. Parents are to stay in their car while their

student(s) enters or exits the vehicle.

• Pull all the way forward to the next available space behind the vehicle in front of you before

allowing your child to exit/enter your vehicle.

• Do not pass the vehicle in front of you.

• Follow the 5MPH speed limit in the parking lot.

• Cell phone usage while driving is prohibited by CA law.

If you are walking your child to school…

Whenever possible, we encourage parents to walk their child to school. Due to the large

number of families that attend MRES, the parking lot and driving loop can become very

congested, and it is often faster to walk to school. Safety cones have been placed near the main

parking lot to designate safe walking zones. The Safety Patrol is also present to help direct foot

traffic.

If you would like your child to bike to school…

3rd, 4th, and 5th, graders can bike to school once a permission slip is filled out and turned in at

the office.

Bicycles/Scooters must be walked while on campus

Helmets must be worn at all times.

Pick Up Time After School

All students must be picked up within 15 minutes of school dismissal time.

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School Communications

How will the school communicate with me?

MRES takes a very proactive approach in communicating school news, events, and

announcements to parents. At the school-wide level, you will receive the following types of

communications:

• In the event of an emergency, parents will receive an email, text message, and an automated

voice call communicating relevant information. The voice calls will go out to every phone number

included on the contact list that you provided for your child.

• There is an optional text notification parents are encouraged to subscribe to.

Text “@mresparent” to 81010 to subscribe.

• The first communications of the school year are sent out via email by the Friday before the

first day of school. If you do not receive any emails by this time, please call the school.

• Every week, you will receive an email with the subject Monarch News. This email contains

a message from the Principal as well as important school news, announcements, event

information and dates. This weekly email will also include a link to PeachJar which houses

flyers for extracurricular activities that are offered by non-profit organizations that have

been approved by the PUSD.

How will my child’s teacher communicate with me?

Communications from the classroom vary by teacher so they may customize information

based on grade level, topics being studied, etc. Many teachers also use web portals

specifically designed for their classroom, while some use an email newsletter for sharing

information.

Your child’s teacher will provide you with details on how and when they will communicate

with you.

Are there other resources available?

There are several other ways to stay informed about our school.

• Friday Flag: Each Friday morning (weather permitting), our school community gathers in

the quad area for Friday Flag. Parents are encouraged to stay in the quad for this fun-filled

weekly event! Friday Flag begins with the Student Council leading everyone in reciting the

Pledge of Allegiance and the MRES Character Pledge. Student awards are then presented

and announcements are shared.

• Online: The MRES and PUSD websites both contain useful and current information for both

parents and students. The MREF website shares upcoming events in the “news” section of

the website: http://mptfonline.org

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• Social Media: The Foundation also uses Facebook to help communicate timely information

on school events, reminders, deadlines, etc. You can “like” the Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/MRESFoundation

• Twitter: Follow us @embrymres #monarchs

Curriculum, Testing, and Progress

What are the State Standards?

The State Standards were developed by experts to establish clear, consistent guidelines

for what every student should know and be able to do in math and language arts at

every grade level. The ultimate goal is to build deeper understanding of subject matter by focusing

on developing students’ critical-thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. The new

standards also provide a way for teachers to measure student progress throughout the school

year and ensure that students are on the pathway to success in their academic careers.

What are the standardized tests used at MRES?

MRES uses computer adaptive assessment tests, such as MAP (Measures of Academic

Progress) and CA state accountability tests, to help provide teachers with the detailed information

they need to gauge their students’ progress and build a curriculum that meets the needs of

their students. Generally MAPS testing is administered three times per year starting in

Kindergarten.

How will my child’s progress be communicated to me?

There are two primary ways in which your teacher will communicate with you regarding your

child’s progress. First, you will receive report cards 3 times during each school year to provide

you with an assessment of your child’s academic development. And second, you will have the

opportunity to meet with your teacher once each year during a parent teacher conference

(PTC) to discuss your child’s progress. You can also access your child’s MAP scores through

your MyPlan account.

What is GATE?

GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) services are available to identified students

beginning in 3rd grade. Registration to be tested for second through seventh graders, runs from

September – November, and testing occurs in January of the school year. See PUSD website for

more information: http://www.powayusd.com/depts/lss/gate/

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What is MyPlan?

MyPlan is a PUSD website that provides parents with information on student attendance, MAP

scores, class schedule, etc. At the first Parent Teacher Conference of the school year, parents

will receive a login to access records and information for each of their children. You can access

the website here: https://myplan.powayusd.com/

Support the School

What are other ways in which I can support the school?

In addition to making monetary donations to support MRES, there are two primary ways in

which you can support our school and students.

1. Volunteer

Parents are encouraged to volunteer in the school and their child’s classroom. Parents must

be cleared through Megan’s Law and have a current TB clearance on file before volunteering

(https://www.powayusd.com/volunteer/). Volunteers must sign in at the office when

entering and leaving the school grounds. A variety of volunteer opportunities are available to

fit everyone’s schedule, interests, and skills.

• In the classroom

• In the workroom

• With the Foundation http://mresfoundation.org

2. Shop to Support

Through the Shop to Support program, MRES receives donations from certain stores where

you may already shop. If you make purchases at any of the following retailers, you can help

our school simply by shopping!

• Ralphs: Register your Ralphs Club Card to have Ralphs donate a portion of your purchases

back to MRES https://www.ralphs.com/topic/community-contribution-2

• Amazon: MRES has a special account setup with Amazon through which the online

retailer makes donations back to MRES of up to 6% of your total purchase. Be sure

to click on our Amazon link EACH TIME you wish to make an Amazon.com purchase.

The link can be found at http://mptfonline.org

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Monterey Ridge A to Z

Absences

Please call the attendance office at (858) 487-8225 or email us at

MRESattendance@powayusd.com before 9:30 a.m. to report when your child will be absent or

late.

If your child is absent from school or you need to clear a previous absence, please contact the

attendance 24-Hour hotline. Reporting absences is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. To

report an absence, call the hotline each day (unless you give us a date range for multiple days)

the student is absent. All absences must be cleared within 24 hours or they are coded as truant.

Please be prepared to provide your student’s name (spell last name), their grade, the date of the

absence, the reason for the absence, your name and your relationship to the student.

The Absence Hotline is available 24/7 at (858) 487-8225.

According to PUSD policy, 12 or more absences is regarded as excessive and we are required to

send home an attendance letter.

After School Enrichment

Non-profit organizations approved by PUSD offer after school enrichment programs at MRES.

Check for Flyers on the Peachjar link on the MRES website.

https://app.peachjar.com/flyers/all/schools/52509

Amazon.com

Support MREF!! Please use this link when shopping on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/?tag=mref-20 MREF receives a small percentage from all purchases.

Art Education

Our students receive formal art education from an Artist-in-Residence once each month and learn

about different artists, styles, and mediums. Student-created artwork is displayed in the main

office throughout the year. The Foundation funds the art program at MRES.

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is essential for students to make optimum academic growth. Home and

school must work together to instill the importance of school attendance.

If your child is absent during the instructional day for any given reason, it is against school policy

that they participate in extra activities (eg. class parties, plays, performances, meetings including

student council, Math Olympiad, etc...). This includes anything occurring before, during or after-

school.

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Back to School Night

Back to School Night is held in your child’s classroom soon after the beginning of the school year.

Teachers will discuss the curriculum, field trips, activities, and volunteer opportunities in your

child’s classroom, as well as their teaching philosophy and plan for the school year.

Band Instruments

Band instruments must be brought to school with the student. Parents may not drop instruments

to the office or band class.

Bicycles/Scooters

Only students in grades 3-5 may ride bicycles or scooters to school. Police regulations include the

requirement of a lock and license, and state law requires students to wear helmets. Bicycles must

be locked in the bicycle enclosure upon arrival.

• All children should walk bicycles/scooters on sidewalks or near school buildings

• Bicycles/scooters must be walked across the street in the school crossing

• Students who are reported for careless riding will be required to leave their bicycles/scooters

at home.

• The school cannot assume responsibility to stolen or damage bicycles/scooters

• Pedestrians have the right of way on sidewalks.

Skateboards, roller skates, roller blades, and shoe skates are not allowed at school and therefore,

may not be ridden to and from the school.

Birthdays

MRES strongly recommends a no food policy for birthday parties for the overall health of all of our

students and for the safety of those of our students who have food allergies. Your child’s teacher

will communicate with you on how their classroom will celebrate birthdays.

Book Fair

Each year, our Foundation hosts two Scholastic Book Fairs in the MRES library when children and

parents get an opportunity to browse and purchase books. By purchasing books at the Book Fair

and from Scholastic throughout the year, parents can help their child’s teacher earn Scholastic

credits which can be used to purchase books for their classroom collection.

Box Tops

You can help the school’s fundraising efforts by purchasing items that have the Box Tops for

Education logo. All you need to do is clip the logo. Twice each year (typically fall and early

spring), you’ll receive a communication from the school’s Box Tops Coordinator with instructions

on how to send in your Box Tops. Each logo collected is worth 10 cents!

Butterfly Catches

Students, grades TK - 3, have the opportunity to receive Butterfly Catches from their teachers by

being respectful, being an excellent student, and for performing good deeds. Once a student has

earned 5 Butterfly Catches, they can staple them together and place them in a specially marked

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basket in the main office. Each Friday, the office staff randomly draws Butterfly Catches from the

basket, and the selected students are presented with an award.

Campaign Monarch

Campaign Monarch is the name for the Monterey Ridge Educational Foundation’s direct ask

fundraising effort. Each family is asked to donate $250/year to support the Foundation’s mission to

enhance the curriculum at MRES. 100% of your donations go directly to programs that benefit all

students!

Cell Phones and Smart Watches

Students are allowed to have cell phones and smart watches, however, those items must be

powered off and stored in the student’s backpack during the school day. Students caught using

cell phones or smart watches during the day risk their phone being confiscated.

Character Pillars

Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, Citizenship.

https://www.powayusd.com/en-US/Schools/ES/MRES/Student-Life/Character-Counts!

Character Pledge

Students are encouraged to memorize the MRES Character Pledge which is recited every

morning after the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge to be a person of good character.

I will always be FAIR.

I will be RESPECTFUL and RESPONSIBLE,

showing that I CARE.

I will be a good CITIZEN,

doing what I must.

I will be honest and reliable

and worthy of your TRUST !

Community Partners

Community Partners are local businesses that support our students by making financial donations

to the Foundation. Throughout the year, you’ll see our Community Partners featured on our

website, newsletters, and at school events.

Corporate Matching

Many companies match employee donations to the Foundation. For a list of participating

companies, please visit http://www.matchinggifts.com/powayusd/ If you do not see your

employer, please inquire with your HR department.

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Donations

All financial donations to the school or the Foundation are voluntary and tax deductible.

Dress Code

Children should be sent to school in shoes that are comfortable and cover the entire foot.

No flip flops, open toed, backless, or roller shoes are allowed. Students are also not allowed to

wear hats inside buildings. No weapons or offensive words are allowed on clothing.

Electronic Devices

Parents must sign a Technology Use Agreement for their student(s) in order for them to use

electronic devices at school. Students are only permitted to use electronic devices for teacher-

approved, academic activities. Any electronic device that does not meet these requirements must

be powered off and stored in the student’s backpack throughout the school day.

Emergency Drills

Fire drills and earthquake drills are scheduled on a regular basis to teach our students the safest

and quickest route from the school buildings. We also practice a Lock-Down Drill for emergency

situations. A Safety Plan is on file with PUSD.

Extreme Weather

During extremely hot or rainy days, students will eat lunch and have recess in the Multi-Purpose

Room.

Facebook

The Foundation’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MRESFoundation provides the

latest information on school news and events. It’s a great place to connect with other parents and

learn about volunteer opportunities as well as upcoming events and spirit days.

Friday Flag

Each Friday morning (weather permitting), our school community gathers in the quad area for

Friday Flag. Parents are encouraged to stay in the quad for this fun-filled weekly event! Friday

Flag begins with the Student Council, inviting everyone in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and

the MRES Character Pledge. Student awards are then presented and announcements are

shared. Gates open at 8:50 AM for parents to enter campus for Friday Flag.

Forgotten Items

If an occasional forgotten item needs to be dropped off, please fill out a slip in the school office.

The front office staff will email the teacher regarding the item. We cannot guarantee that any

snacks/lunches delivered after the school day begins will be delivered on time.

Band instruments must be brought to school with the student. Parents may not drop instruments

to the office or band class.

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Fun Run

The Fun Run is an annual spring, Foundation sponsored, event that raises funds for teacher

classroom supplies, PE equipment, Art and Garden programs and much much more! Your

support is critical and very much appreciated! See you on the track!

Garden

Located across the street from the school is our MRES Organic Garden. Students have the

opportunity to visit the garden on a regular basis to learn about gardening and sustainability and to

work on their class plot.

Gate Security

For the safety and security of all the students, all gates to the campus will be closed and locked

during school hours. All visitors to the campus must come through the front office to sign in and

obtain a visitor’s badge. Gates to the playgrounds open at 8:40AM for students only.

Health

Student Health

Monterey Ridge has a Health Technician to take care of first aid and emergencies. In case of

student illness at school, the Health Technician will notify parents or the emergency contact

listed on the enrollment form. No registered nursing services are provided at the school on a

daily basis.

Students with Injuries

Students who come to school with a cast, brace, crutches or other visible support for an injury

will have limited playground and Physical Education activities. We invite you to have your

child’s doctor write a letter to notify us of specific limitations, if any. Without this letter we will do

our best to determine the proper activity level.

Keeping Everyone Healthy

Please remember that PUSD Guidelines state that your child must be free from fever, diarrhea

and/or vomiting for 24 hours before returning to school. Students with Upper Respiratory

Infections, persistent nasal discharge that is purulent or discolored, excessive coughing or

appears to be too ill or uncomfortable to adequately function in classroom setting should stay

home until there are no symptoms for 24 hours or a written doctor's medical release is

obtained.

Students with SUSPECTED CONTAGIOUS DISEASE (e.g. rash) shall be excluded until

released by medical care provider (preferably in writing). Students with KNOWN

CONTAGIOUS DISEASES shall be excluded until symptom-free or released by physician in

writing. Students identified with HEAD LICE (Pediculosis) are excluded from school until their

hair is free of nits. PUSD has a “No Nit” policy.

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Learning Point

Some teachers use the Learning Point website to communicate homework, spelling lists, and

other information with parents.

Library

MRES students get to visit our incredible library on a regular schedule that varies by grade level.

Each child is allowed to check out one book which must be returned prior to the next library visit.

Limousines

Limousines and party buses are not allowed on campus at any time.

Lost & Found

Parents should write their child’s name on all personal belongings (ie. coats, lunch boxes,

backpacks, balls, etc.). Lost items will be kept in the “Lost & Found” located on the left side of the

lunch area. Smaller items such as keys, eyeglasses, jewelry, etc. will be stored in the front office.

Students may check the Lost & Found for missing items, and parents are encouraged to check for

missing items when they are on campus. Unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable

organization before each major school break.

Lunch

Students may bring a lunch from home or buy at the school.

At the beginning of the school year, each student will be assigned a number which will allow them

to pay for lunch using their prepaid lunch account. You may pre-pay for your child’s lunch in one

of two ways:

● Payments to your lunch account can be left in the office in an envelope clearly labeled with

your child’s name and ID number. Checks should be made payable to PUSD Food and

Nutrition.

● Enroll for an online payment option at www.myschoolbucks.com

To help our kindergarteners, teachers will accompany them to the lunch area throughout the

Kindergarten Transition Period.

Parents are invited to join their children at lunch on Fridays. Please note there may not be a spot

for you to sit at the lunch table, and unfortunately siblings are not allowed due to lack of space.

Lunch (Forgotten)

Please make sure that your child brings their lunch with them to school in the morning or plan to

have them buy a school lunch. Please do not wait and bring their lunch later in the day because it

interrupts class time and the flow of work in the school office. If an occasional forgotten item

needs to be dropped off, please fill out a slip in the school office. The front office staff will email

the teacher regarding the item. We cannot guarantee that any snacks/lunches delivered after the

school day begins will be delivered on time.

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Band instruments must be brought to school with the student. Parents may not drop instruments

to the office or band class.

Magnificent Monarchs

The Magnificent Monarch award recognizes students for outstanding character achievement.

Students are nominated by their teachers and presented with their award at Friday Flag.

Medication

All student medications must be kept in the health office located in the front office. Medication

must be labeled with the child’s name, dosage, and time to be administered. Prescription drugs

must also be labeled with the name of the doctor. The school cannot give any medications without

authorization from a doctor. Forms for the doctor’s authorization are available in the school office

and also available on our website https://www.powayusd.com/en-US/Schools/ES/MRES/parent-

Resources/Medication-Procedures

Monarch TV

A part of our GATE Program: Student run film production to present news, life, and events and

MRES. Links to productions are shared on our website.

My Connect

Many teachers use the MyConnect website to communicate homework, spelling lists, and other

information with parents: https://poway.instructure.com/login/ldap

Party Buses

Party buses and limousines are not allowed on campus at any time.

Peace Patrol

The Peace Patrol is made up of children in higher grade levels and works to maintain playground

harmony by monitoring that game rules are being followed and by helping to resolve conflicts.

Peach Jar

In place of paper, fliers for extracurricular activities and events offered by PUSD approved non-

profit organizations are distributed through the PeachJar website: https://www.peachjar.com

Photo Release/Media Release

As part of registration paperwork, you will be asked to sign a Media Release. In order for your

child’s photo to be used in any publication that is distributed by the school, the release must be

signed. This includes the school news, websites, and/or newsletters, and a distribution to our

community.

Physical Education

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The Foundation fully funds the Physical Education (PE) program at MRES. Up to 2 teachers are

hired each year to provide structured PE classes to our students.

Picture Days

School pictures are taken early in the fall. Parent volunteers who are frequently on campus are

encouraged to have their picture taken for their ID badge during select volunteer photo hours.

Playground Partners

Playground Partners is a YMCA program through which a YMCA staff member, along with parent

volunteers, run structured sports, games, and activities to promote physical activity, conflict

resolution, social learning, and role modeling. Playground Partners runs during lunch time three

days each week.

Playground Supervisors

Noon Duty personnel are employees of the PUSD who help supervise children on the playground.

Recess

During the brief morning recess period, students can socialize, engage in physical activity, and/or

have a snack. Yard Duties are present to supervise the safety of students on the playground.

Room Parent

Room parents serve as a liaison between the parents of a particular classroom, the teacher, and

the Foundation. The room parents help coordinate class parties, teacher’s birthdays, and staff

appreciation week, as well as distributing school related emails to parents.

Running Club

Running Club takes place two days each week from 8:25 AM – 8:45 AM on the school track.

Students who join the Running Club can run, walk, or skip around the track. Laps are added up by

the club chairperson and used to calculate total miles run by each child. Students receive ribbons

every 5 miles and those who reach certain milestones are recognized at Friday Flag.

Safety Patrol

The Safety Patrol, comprised of select 5th graders (who apply for the position) and supervised by

faculty members, provide assistance with car and pedestrian traffic control before and after

school.

Science Fair

All MRES students have an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of the scientific method at

the annual, Foundation sponsored Science Fair.

Spirit Wear

Please look for email communications, typically in the Fall of the school year, for information on

how to buy spirit wear for your student(s).

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Staff Appreciation Week

In April, there is an opportunity for parents to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our

teachers and staff. Room parents and Foundation volunteers organize events throughout the

week - such as door decorations, breakfast and lunch - that show the teachers and staff how

much they are appreciated. Our Teacher Time auction also takes place during this time. Parents

can bid on individual or small group activities with any MRES teacher for their student.

Staff vs. 5th grade Kickball Game

Each year, the school hosts a staff vs. 5th graders kickball game. The entire school comes out to

watch the fun event.

Student Council

The Student Council is comprised of a group of students who are elected to fill certain leadership

positions at the school, including President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian, and 6

Character Counts Representative, etc (Get the other offices). Elections are held twice a year in

the fall and winter. Grades 3-5 are eligible to vote, and grades 4 and 5 are eligible to run for

office. Two Faculty Advisors are appointed to oversee the Student Council.

Talent Show

All MRES students have an opportunity to perform in our annual, Foundation sponsored Talent

Show. In the past, this entertaining show has been held in March with registration in

December/January.

Tardiness

Students who are not sitting in their assigned seat when the bell rings at 9:00am are considered

tardy. Students are to go to the office for a late slip before reporting to class.

Children are allowed on the playground beginning at 8:40 a.m. Supervision is provided on school

grounds beginning at 8:40 a.m.

You must call the Absence Hotline 858-487-8225 before 9:30 AM if your student plans to arrive

after that time.

Teacher Time

See Staff Appreciation Week

Volunteering/Visiting Campus

For the safety of your child, all visitors must sign in at the office when entering the school grounds.

We welcome and encourage parents to volunteer in the school and their child’s classroom. We

consider volunteering important to build a mutual understanding of your child and the school’s

instructional program.

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If you would like to schedule a conference with the teacher, please email the teacher directly to

make an appointment. Teachers are often busy with students or preparation of materials

immediately before and after school.

Parents must be cleared through Megan’s Law and have a current TB clearance on file before

volunteering in the classroom.

Withdrawing a student from school

Parents are requested to notify the school office when a student is to be withdrawn from school.

Students are responsible for returning all school items, library books, etc. upon withdrawal from

school.

General School Rules

Academic Honesty

In support of the District’s Academic Honesty Policy 3.40, students are expected to demonstrate acts of

honesty at all times.

Teachers and staff members will support and enforce all District rules of academic honesty and provide a

learning environment that does not allow or tolerate dishonesty.

Any student who violates the rules of the Academic Honesty Policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

Harassment

We believe that every student has the right to attend school and learn…

Without being called names, and; without being threatened, harassed, or bullied for any reason

Harassment is unwanted and unwelcome behavior from another person that interferes with an individual’s

life and well-being. When this behavior is sexual in nature, it is “sexual harassment”. When the behavior is

motivated by a prejudice against another person’s race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion or gender, it is

discrimination and could be described as “hate behavior” in some cases.

This type of intimidation and harassment will not be tolerated in our school and is also inappropriate in our

society. It is our intent to promote the rights of equality and human dignity basic to our American ideals.

If you feel that you have been the target of harassment, threats, or bullying, it is important that you tell

someone you trust like a parent, teacher, principal, or another adult. They may offer some excellent advice

on how to deal with the situation or they may need to intervene on your behalf.

Additional information is available from your principal including a complete copy of the District policies on

this subject.

Sexual Harassment

The Poway Unified School District recognizes that harassment on the basis of sex or gender is a violation

of Federal and State discrimination laws as well as District Policy and Administrative Procedures. The

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District is committed to providing students with an academic environment free from sexual harassment, and

will not tolerate such conduct on the part of any District employee, student, or other person at school or at a

school sponsored activity. Any person with a complaint of sexual harassment suffered by a student should

implement the complaint process contained in the administrative procedures. For more information,

please contact the Title IX/Equity Compliance Officer, Associate Superintendent of Personnel Services,

Poway Unified School District, 15250 Avenue of Science, San Diego, CA 92128-3406, 858-521-2800,

extension 2761.

To and From School

Student safety and behavior to and from school as well as on campus is subject to the same rules and

consequences. Please review the following with your child/children:

● Students must walk on sidewalks or designated pathways only.

● Do not cut across lawns or landscape.

● Cross only at designated crossing zones.

● Students may not play on the playground prior to 8:40 AM or after school dismissal.

Supervised student drop off and pick up is allowed in the parking lot in front of the school only. Please be

patient, it takes a while for our students to pack up their belongings and be ready to leave campus. The

bus loop is for drop off and pick up, but the busses have priority in our bus loop.

DO NOT leave any unsupervised children in your unoccupied vehicle.

School rules must be followed any time a student is on campus, including before and after school.

Playground Rules

Please go over these general playground rules with your child:

1. The official purpose of recess is to provide students with an opportunity to get a drink, use

the restrooms, and get some exercise.

2. Bells: When bells ring, students “squat”. This means tetherballs are dropped and no one

moves. When the whistle blows, kids put equipment away and walk to their designated line

spot. NO more tetherball or last shots at the hoop.

3. Harassment, including racial, ethnic, sexual or physical will not be tolerated.

4. There will be no profanity or unkind words used on the playground or at school.

5. The restrooms are not to be used for hiding or playing. They are to be left as clean as

possible. The drinking fountains are to be used for drinking, not squirting or playing. The

restrooms by the lunch area are the only ones to be used at recess or lunch.

6. Do not play in the halls or on the patios; children should not return to their classroom during

recess time.

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7. There should be no running through games, on the equipment platforms or under the

equipment.

8. Use the blacktop for jump rope, four square, hopscotch, tetherball, and basketball.

9. Jump ropes are to be used only for jumping rope. Do not tie them around anyone or play any

other games with them.

10. Bats and softballs may be used only in organized games with adult supervision during PE

time.

11. All ball games such as kickball and soccer are to be played on the grass field. Tag is only

allowed on the grass field.

12. Do not return stray balls by kicking. Roll or throw the ball back to its owner. Put away balls

after recess.

13. Any balls, jump ropes, or other equipment brought from home must be clearly marked with

student’s name and room number. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items brought

from home. Toys should not be brought to school.

14. No baseball or tennis balls are to be brought to school.

15. Balls are the only objects we throw at school. Do not throw rocks, sand, grass, or wood

chips.

16. Throwing balls at or bouncing balls against any part of the building or walls is not allowed.

17. Do not climb or hide behind portable classrooms and sheds, fences, trees, backstops, frames,

ramps or wheelchair lifts. No hiding in bathrooms.

18. There will be no cuts in line or saving spots. Anyone who gives or takes cuts must go to the

end of the line.

19. Do not chew gum or eat on the playground. Snacks are to be eaten at the lunch tables only.

Gum is not allowed at school.

20. On designated blacktop days students are to play on the blacktop. Stay away from the

puddles.

21. When you hear a “Yard Duty” whistle, stop and look. It may be for you.

22. Do not sit on or jump from equipment. No chase or tag games on equipment.

23. There will be a time when your teacher or yard duty may change a rule. This will be

temporary and according to the playground conditions at the time.

24. Balls brought from home must be larger than 4” in diameter.

25. No fighting games or pretend weapon games.

The following games and activities are not allowed at Monterey Ridge:

*Balls Smaller Than a Tennis Ball *Gymnastics *Playing With Sharp or Pointed Objects

*Bumpball,/Dodgeball *Hitting/Kicking *Playing with Sticks or Rocks

*Chicken Fights *Keep Away *Pretend guns or swords

*Crack the Whip *Martial Arts *Punching or Pushing

*Football *Piggyback Rides

Tetherball Rules

Play:

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The player who serves first is chosen by lot. After the first game, the new opponent gets the first

serve. The winner is given his choice of the side of the court on which he wishes to play and the

direction in which the server will serve the ball. The server starts the ball by tossing the ball into

the air and striking it with his hand or fist. As the ball travels around the pole, the opponent tries to

hit the ball back in the opposite direction. The ball is considered in play until the server’s

opponent hits the ball, i.e., the server cannot win the game by winding the rope completely in his

direction before the opponent has had the opportunity to hit the ball at least once. The player who

first winds the ball completely around the pole, wins the game. During the game, each player

must remain on his own side of the court.

Fouls:

Play stops immediately after a foul has been committed. A player who commits any of the fouls

listed forfeits the serve (not the game) to his opponent. The opponent then serves to continue the

game. The following are fouls.

· Hitting the ball with any part of the body other than the hands or forearms.

· Stopping continuous play by holding or catching the ball.

· Touching the pole with any part of the body.

· Interfering with the progress of the game by hitting the rope with hands or forearms.

· Playing the ball while standing outside the playing zone.

· Stepping out of the playing zone.

· Throwing the ball.

· No pulling down or sitting on the balls.

Scoring:

The player who first winds the rope completely around the pole wins the game.

Four Score Square Rules

Number of players: Four players, one for each square

Play:

The object of the game is to advance to square A and stay there as long as possible. The rotation

of players is from D to C to B and finally to A. D always starts the game. From a bounce D strikes

the ball with either one or two hands, directing the flight of the ball so that it bounces into one of

the other squares. The player to whom the ball is served, returns the ball to any of the other three

squares off the first bounce only. When play is stopped because of a violation, the player

committing the violation goes to the end of the waiting line. The person in the waiting line

becomes the player in square D.

Fouls:

The play is continued until a player commits one of the following violations:

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· The ball lands out of the squares. (Liners are good.)

· The ball is hit with the fist.

· The ball hits a player in another square. In this case, the player who is hit is out,

and not the player who served the ball.

· Holding the ball (holds, stickies, etc.)

· The ball is made to bounce over the intended receiver’s head.

· Double hits and double bounces.

· Hitting the ball before it bounces in your square.

· “War”, “Tea Parties”, etc., (Both players are out).

· Playing on an out (all players are out).

Handball Rules

Up to 12 students may play handball at any given time and then the court will be closed.

However, if all courts are closed and there are students who want to play, the courts will then be

open.

The serve must land in the outer court, yet stay within the boundaries of the outer court. There

will be no cross-countries on a serve. There will be server’s mistake only once.

Considered “Fair”:

Holdies – only for 3 seconds

Babies, except on a serve

Computer

Cross-country

Powerhouses

Limo

Slappies—open palm

Considered “Out”:

Treetops/ under-doggies/rainbows

Pops

Monkey pushes

Black/white magic

Skinners

Self inner/team inner

Backstops

Tournament rules

Unfair:

Making up new or special rules or changing of the rules

Cutting in line

No restarts if you lose— no do overs

No court challenge

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No teams

King or Queen of the court

Waiting Line:

People waiting in line must remain outside the boundary line; otherwise the player committing the

foul will not be out. No cuts. No saving spots. No “Windows”. Any player who interferes with the

play will be out.

Disagreements:

The people waiting in line will vote on whether the play in question was good or not.

The majority decides whether a player will be out or not – NO ARGUMENTS or you will be asked

to leave the game.

There will be no complaining when you get out.

No name calling.

Kickball Rules

When playing kickball, we do not throw the ball at anyone to get him or her out. The person holds

the ball and touches the base. The ball should never touch the player.

Apparatus Rules General Safety

At least one hand MUST be in contact with the apparatus at ALL times (except when sliding

down slide).

No standing or sitting on top of any apparatus equipment.

Time Limit: Unless otherwise stated, a one-minute time limit will be placed on apparatus

equipment. This can be decided by counting 1 to 30.

Balance Beam:

Usage-Walk forward or backward in a variety of ways maintaining your balance at all times.

Time Limit- Travel once across, and only one person at a time.

No jumping on or over beam

Fireman Poles:

Go straight down the pole. No twisting around the pole

Horizontal Bars:

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Usage – Stunts that you may do:

2 hands on bar at all times

Horizontal Ladder:

Usage – Travel forward across the ladder by grasping each rung of the ladder.

Traveling once across is one turn

Only one child uses the ladder at a time

No climbing, flipping or sitting on top of the bars

Slide:

Only one person on the slide going down

Slide down sitting face forward only. Sliding on your knees, stomach or head first is NOT allowed.

Walking up slides is not allowed.

Swings:

You may count to 30 and then take your turn on the swing.

You may not save swings.

Swing straight- not twisting.

No jumping off swings.

No pushing others on the swings.

The area in front and back of swings must be kept clear.