Seven Pines Elementary School

Parent/Student handbook2017-2018

Minds Under Construction!

301 Beulah RoadSandston, Virginia 23150

Phone: 328-4065 Fax: 328-4043

School Website: sevenpines.henricoschools.usPTO-Follow us on FaceBook

Twitter: #7pinespenguins

AGENDA BOOKS

Students in grades one through five receive a complimentary Seven Pines Agenda Book to be used as a two-way communication tool and to record daily homework assignments. Students should bring them to and from school each day. Parents should check backpacks and sign Agenda Books daily to ensure that everyone is aware of homework expectations, upcoming projects, important dates and student behavior. Kindergarten students will have a specific folder that will be used for the same purpose as the agenda books. We extend a special thank you to our school’s PTO for the purchase of these books.

ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL - DAILY SCHEDULE

Children will not be able to enter classrooms prior to 7:20 a.m. since there is no adult supervision available. School begins promptly at 7:40 a.m. Office hours are from 7:20 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday.

7:40 a.m. Instruction begins; students are tardy 2:05 p.m. Dismissal for Kindergarten and 1st, daycares and parent pick-up2:10 p.m. Dismissal for bus riders and walkers

IMPORTANT: Please do not drop students off at school prior to 7:20 a.m. and leave them unattended. If a child arrives after 7:40 a.m., we ask that parents park and escort their child to the office to receive a tardy slip.

ATTENDANCE POLICIES

Regular attendance is vital to the academic success of children. Simply put, children cannot learn if they are not in school. Therefore it is essential that children come to school daily to reap the benefits of daily instruction to maintain optimal learning opportunities unless they are ill or have other extenuating circumstances.

State law mandates, and the Henrico County Code of Conduct requires, that children attend school every day on time. Parents are advised to plan their vacations during the winter holiday break, spring break, and during summer vacation. Any requests to take a child from school during a normally scheduled school day should be rare and must be submitted in writing to the principal for approval. If the absence is not approved, it is considered an unexcused absence. When a child accumulates excessive unexcused absences, the school social worker will be notified to investigate.

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES (TRUANCY)The County's intervention plan for excessive unexcused absences will be followed:Upon 5 unexcused absences:School social worker will have direct contact with parent and child.An Attendance Compliance Plan will be developed.Upon 6 unexcused absences:

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School conference must be held within 10 days and no later than 15 days of the 6th unexcused absence.

Upon 7 unexcused absences:School social worker must file a petition against student and/or parent.

IMPORTANT: Please call the school at 804-328-4065 or send a note with your child the day he/she returns to school to report an absence. This allows school personnel to accurately record the reasons for absences as excused or unexcused.

Children who arrive after 7:40 a.m. are late and need a tardy pass. Children must report to the office for tardy passes before going to class. A parent must accompany the child to the office to document the reason for tardiness.

EXCESSIVE TARDIESThe county’s intervention plan for excessive unexcused tardies will be followed:

Upon 3 unexcused tardies: Classroom teacher contacts parent/guardian.Upon 5 unexcused tardies: School Office contacts parent/guardian.Upon 10 unexcused tardies: School counselor contacts/meets with parent/guardian.Upon 15 unexcused tardies: Principal and Social Worker contact parent/guardian.Upon 20 unexcused tardies: School social worker contact to develop a plan with

parent/guardian.

Special Note: Parents will be contacted if a child is absent from school via an electronic voice message sent around 11:00 a.m. daily. Please do not be alarmed if you receive this message and your child arrived to school at or after 11:00 a.m. Due to the automated system, you will receive this message if your child arrives late to school.

BICYCLES

Students in grades three through five who live in the walking zone may ride their bicycles to school. Bikes should be locked in the bike rack located in front of the multi-purpose building. The school cannot be responsible for damaged or stolen bikes. All bicycle riders should use bike safety rules and must wear a helmet. Bikes must be walked to the bike rack once students arrive on campus and again to exit the campus in the afternoon.

*For student safety bike riding, roller blading, skateboarding, and similar activities are not permitted on school property during or after school hours.

BIRTHDAY BOOK CLUB

Seven Pines has a great way for you to celebrate your child's birthday while supporting the school library. Parents can dedicate a new hardcover or soft-covered book to the library collection in honor of their child's birthday. The child will be the first one to check out this new book, and will be featured on the morning announcements. In addition, a nameplate will be placed on the inside

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of the book with the name of your child and date the book was dedicated. The cost of a book dedication is $10.00 for a hardcover book and $5.00 for a paperback. The children really enjoy participating in this program, which enables us to purchase additional materials that enhance our library program. Please contact the school at 328-4065 for more information about dedicating a Birthday Book this year.

BIRTHDAY TREATS

Student birthdays are recognized on the morning announcements. Students receive a birthday pencil from the school. Parents may bring their own child a special lunch or treat during lunch, but no food or other items may be distributed to other students in the class. Please do not send special treats or balloons to school when celebrating birthdays.

BREAKFAST

Breakfast is served each morning in the cafe from 7:20 a.m. - 7:40 a.m. No breakfast will be served after the tardy bell rings at 7:40 a.m. except for special circumstances, such as late bus arrival, etc. The cost of school breakfast is $1.50.

BULLYING

The HCPS Code of Conduct defines bullying as: A person is being bullied or victimized when he or she is exposed repeatedly and over time to negative actions on the part of one or more persons. The three main components of bullying are aggressive behavior that involves unwanted negative actions, a pattern of behavior repeated over time and an imbalance of power or strength. The different forms of bullying are verbal, social exclusion or isolation, physical, lies and rumors, money or possessions taken or damaged, being threatened or forced to do things, racial bullying, sexual bullying and cyber bullying via cell phone or internet.

The person who inflicts such activity upon another or others is considered the bully and will be disciplined accordingly.

Please call the school first if you have any concerns or wish to report a bullying incident. If you prefer, reports of bullying can be report anonymously by visiting our school’s website at sevenpines.henricoschools.us Click on “Bully Form” and complete the required information on the Silence Hurts page.

BUS STOP and SCHOOL BUS SAFETY To ensure student safety, we ask that our students are supervised by a parent or adult at bus stop locations at all times. Each child is assigned only one bus stop by the Dept. of Transportation. Behavior at bus stops comes under the scrutiny of the student code of conduct. Riding a bus is a privilege that can be revoked if bus safety rules are not followed.If a different bus stop other than the home location is needed, an alternate transportation form must be completed and submitted to the transportation department for approval. Contact the Department of Transportation, at 236-5772.

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HCPS Transportation Bus Safety- Our mission is to provide safe and reliable transportation for all eligible students to and from school and school related activities each day. Our number one goal is student safety. To ensure we reach our goal each year, we ask that all students follow these bus safety rules:

1) Follow all directions from the driver and/or the bus assistant.2) Remain in your seat at all times.3) No pushing, shoving, fighting or loud noise at any time.4) No cursing, abusive or disrespectful language, or yelling out of the window.5) No eating, drinking, or smoking on the bus.6) Do not litter, write on or damage the bus in any way.7) No throwing objects.8) The use of any type of unauthorized electronic or mechanical device if prohibited.

IMPORTANT: An authorized person must accompany each kindergarten and four-year-old program student when the bus picks up in the morning. An authorized person must be present to meet each kindergarten and four-year-old program student at designated bus stops when the bus returns the child. For the safety of our young students, the bus driver will request the authorized person to provide a picture ID card to compare it with the list of names. Students not met by an authorized person with an ID will be returned to the school and the parent or guardian will be contacted. They will be expected to come immediately to school to pick up their child. If a child is returned to school more than 3 times bus transportation may be revoked.

CAFETERIA

Parents and other relatives are welcome to join students for lunch in our school’s cafeteria. Parents and guests are asked to sign in at the office prior to joining their child for lunch at their scheduled lunch time. Make sure to bring a photo I.D. with you to sign in! In accordance with Henrico County Policy and student allergies, no food should be brought in, traded with, or purchased for students other than your own child. We provide students with food allergies a special area at their assigned tables in the cafeteria to reduce the possibly of an allergic reaction. Other students may sit in the same area as long as foods that may cause allergic reactions in students are not present.

The cost of a school breakfast is $1.50 and lunch is $2.80. An adult lunch costs $3.40. Milk may be purchased for $0.65. Menus are found online at henricoschools.us. Parents may send money to be deposited into their child’s lunch account or use myschoolbucks.com to add funds. The cost of items purchased will be deducted from that account.

Á La Carte Items - Snacks and ice cream may be purchased during lunch. These items are priced separately by Food Services and are not included as part of the daily lunch. Notify the cafeteria and teacher of any snack item/lunch limitations for your child.

MYSCHOOLBUCKS.COM – School Nutrition Services will continue to provide its popular pre-payment service of MySchoolBucks.com. Using this program allows parents to pay and replenish

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their student’s account using a personal credit or debit card from home via a secure Internet site. You may access this site from our school’s website or HCPS website.

REFUND POLICY – NO REFUNDS ON PRE-PAYMENT OF MEALS. Parents who prepay for student meals should monitor these funds since School Nutrition Services DOES NOT MAKE REFUNDS at the end of the year or when students leave Henrico County. However, there are other options:

1. All student meal funds (including MySchoolBucks.com) are linked to the student’s I.D. number and follow the student to any school location within Henrico County. Therefore, all fund balances from the previous school year automatically carry forward to the new school year no matter which Henrico County school the student attends.

2. If a student leaves the County, their remaining balance in their account may be transferred to another student in any Henrico County school. For assistance, please call the school’s Cafeteria Manager.

CHARGING FOR MEALS IF MONEY IS LOST – School Nutrition provides a customer service feature which allows any student who has forgotten or lost their lunch money to charge their meal. Charges may go up to $5.00 and no á la carte items are allowed. The owed amount balance is due the following school day. Students can use this feature as many times as needed during the school year as long as the balance owed does not exceed $5.00. Therefore, students are encouraged to pay back their charge as soon as possible. Students will be provided alternative lunch choices until accounts have been repaid. Parents will be notified of low balances and charges through electronic voice mails and emails for balances of $5.00 and below and a notice is sent home with students for negative balances.

FREE & REDUCED MEAL APPLICATIONS – New Free and Reduced Meal Applications must be filled out each school year. School Nutrition Services will provide Free & Reduced Meal Applications to each school for distribution to its student population. Applications may be obtained on-line at henricoschools.us/nutrition-services, in each school’s main office and cafeteria, or at the School Nutrition Services office.

CELL PHONES

Cell phones at the elementary level are highly discouraged. If there are special circumstances in which your child needs a cell phone, please notify your child’s teacher. Per HCPS Code of Conduct, cell phones are required to be turned off, and out of sight during school hours. Cell phones used by students during the instructional school day will be confiscated and parents will be notified to pick up the phone from the main office.

We encourage parents to visit students for lunch. During your visit, we ask that parents refrain from cell phone use, except for emergencies. Our hope is that you can devote your full attention to enjoying lunch and talking with students for the 30 minute lunch period.

CLINIC

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Certain medications may be administered to students by the school nurse or clinic attendant only upon written parent request and a written prescription from the physician. A written release of liability signed by the student's parent is required. This request form may be obtained from the clinic attendant. All medications must be delivered to the school by an adult and must be in the original medication bottle. Please contact the clinic for additional information at 804-328-4065.

Parents of children who become ill or injured while at school shall be notified and the children will be sent home. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT PARENTS PROVIDE UP-TO-DATE CONTACT INFORMATION WITH THE SCHOOL in case of an emergency.

CONDUCT

Our goal is to develop positive attitudes and behaviors in our students at Seven Pines. Please review these important school rules with your child. These rules are posted in classrooms, and are reviewed by our staff with children often. All children are expected to follow the Penguin rules daily. High expectations for student behavior foster a more positive learning environment, which increases student achievement. We refer to these as our “Penguin PRIDE Rules.” The “Penguin PRIDE Rules” are:

1. Follow directions the first time given.2. Walk quietly in all areas.3. Be kind and show respect in words and actions.4. Respect school property and the property of others.5. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.6. Carry yourself with Penguin PRIDE.

“A copy of the Policies and Regulations Manual of Henrico County Public Schools is available to students, employees, and the public on the HCPS website, www.henricoschools.us.  Any person unable to access the online policy may request a copy of a specific policy by contacting Records Management at 652-3828.”

CONFERENCES

Conferences provide the time for parents and teachers to discuss student progress. If you feel a conference is needed, our staff will be happy to provide time for a meeting. We urge you to make appointments for conferences with the teacher after 2:20 p.m. in the afternoon. Two evenings have been designated for parent-teacher conferences in November and February. To promote a positive start to the school day, teachers are not able to conference with parents during arrival times. We encourage parents to email their child's teacher or call the school when contact is needed.

DRESS CODE

Perseverance

Respect

Independence

Discipline

Excellence

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During the early fall (September) and late spring (late May) months, students are allowed to wear shorts. It is permissible to wear mid-thigh to knee-length shorts; however, students are asked not to wear clothing that is excessively tight, loose, or short in length. Pants must be fastened and secured at the waist by a belt. Shirts or tube tops that have no straps, spaghetti straps, or open midriff are not permitted. Tank tops are allowed, but they must have straps that are at least 2 inches wide.

Shirts and other garments (including hats) that illustrate a message of a profane nature or advertise drugs, alcohol or any illegal substance are not suitable for school and are not allowed. See Code of Student Conduct.

Proper footwear is important for the safety of the students and for participation in physical education and recess. Beach shoes, flip-flops, high-heeled shoes, or shoes not having straps around the back of the heel are not allowed. Students are asked to wear tennis shoes for physical education and recess.

Hats can be worn to and from school and on the playground only. During colder weather children need to wear a sweater or jacket due to our campus-style school. An important suggestion is to label your child's belongings so they may be returned to you if misplaced. If your student loses an article of clothing, please check the Lost and Found area located in our school’s cafeteria.

Below please find the county-wide dress code that will be enforced by Seven Pines.

Henrico County Public SchoolsStudent Dress Code

While most students dress appropriately and safely for school, the School Board and school staff rely on students and parents to exercise judgment in promoting modesty, decency, and a sense of decorum so as not to disrupt the learning environment. School climate has a direct influence on student achievement, and the manner in which students dress is a significant factor in school climate. Students must dress modestly and in a manner that neither distracts from nor substantially disrupts the learning environment; therefore, a student’s appearance that is disruptive, distracting, or hazardous is prohibited. The administration of every school has the authority to notify students and parents of modifications to the dress code for spirit days and other school celebrations, as particular items pose a disruption, or as other circumstances warrant.

Students may not wear the following items unless otherwise stated: Hoods, hats, face masks, or head coverings of any kind inside school buildings during regular school hours, unless required for religious or medical reasons. The following items on school grounds during regular school hours: bandanas, do-rags, head scarves (with the exception of head garments for religious reasons), hair picks, wave caps, large combs, brushes, and rollers. Sunglasses, unless prescribed by a physician. Dresses, skirts, shorts, athletic shorts, and other similar clothing that are shorter than finger-tip length (arms straight with palms flat - measured by the ball/tip of the longest finger) even when worn with leggings or tights. Messages on clothing, chains, jewelry, and personal belongings that pertain to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, gangs, vulgarity, or that could cause a substantial disruption to the learning environment.

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Spiked jewelry, chains, and items which could cause student injury. Beachwear (which includes bathing suits and trunks) and sleepwear. Clothing that reveals undergarments. Cut-off jeans, cut-off sweat pants, or torn, ripped, or slashed clothing that reveals undergarments or body parts excluded by other parts of this code. Bedroom slippers or shoes with wheels, also known as “Heelys.” Clothing that reveals the midriff while sitting or standing. Clothing that is tight, skimpy, or with plunging necklines. Clothing that is see-through, revealing, or resembles undergarments. Tube tops, halter-tops, halter-top dresses, strapless dresses or tops or dresses with spaghetti straps (female tops must be at least two inches wide at the shoulder). High heels or flip flops at the elementary level (Elementary students are encouraged to wear athletic shoes or closed toe shoes with a rubber sole and should wear such shoes for Physical Education and recess). Coats inside the school building during the school day as determined by the administrative staff depending on the school design and administrative ability to provide storage for coats.

Students must wear clothing as designed (buttoned, zipped, etc.) Students must wear pants on the hips, secured above the buttocks. Students may not: Drape towels, shirts, or shorts around the neck. Roll down waistbands on shorts, pants, and skirts. Wear clothing in any manner that reveals undergarments at any time. Wear athletic basketball jerseys without wearing a t-shirt beneath the jersey.

EARLY DISMISSALS and CHANGES TO DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS

Early dismissals are reserved for emergencies and appointments that cannot be scheduled during after school hours. Early dismissals for convenience purposes are highly discouraged. The end of the school day is a critical time for students as teachers are wrapping up the instructional school day. Unexpected early dismissals interrupt the learning environment and impede student learning.

If you plan to pick your child up prior to the end of the school day, please send a note to the teacher indicating what time you plan to arrive and the reason for the early dismissal. This will assist the teacher in having your child packed up and prepared to leave upon your arrival. You will need to come into the office and present a picture ID to sign your child out. Once your identification has been verified, the teacher will be contacted and your child will be dismissed from the classroom.

Note: Children leaving school early without a note, other than illness, are discouraged. Having to stop instruction to prepare a student for an unexpected early dismissal is disruptive to the learning environment. If your child has to leave early, please send a note the morning of the absence in order for the teacher and student to be prepared in advance. Your cooperation in this matter is much appreciated.

EARLY SCHOOL CLOSING

In the event school closes early due to inclement weather, parents will receive a SchoolMessenger and email from an automated, county-wide system. Parents can also listen to local radio and TV stations. You may access information at www.henricoschools.us and Henrico County Cable

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Channel 99 provides updated information as well. Please remember that any change to a student’s normal dismissal procedure must be received in writing or the student will be dismissed his or her normal way. We cannot accept telephone changes. However, faxed notes are acceptable.

ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

There are many opportunities for students to receive enrichment during the school day and after school. Students participate in differentiated grouping practices in reading, math, and other content areas, both in and out of the regular education classroom, to target their strengths during the school day. In addition, there are after-school programs offered to students on a variety of topics throughout the year. Children sign up to attend these enrichment programs, and parents must provide transportation home from these sessions.

FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION

The Family Life Education curriculum uses adopted health, science, and guidance/counseling materials as a basis for age appropriate topics in grades K-5. Fourth and fifth grade students receive additional instruction in selected human growth and development topics presented by health education professionals. Parents are provided an opportunity to “opt out” of particular lessons.

Parents will receive a detailed summary of the topics taught to students to review before lessons are taught. Additional information regarding Family Life Education may be obtained by contacting our clinic attendant at 804-328-4065.

FIRE AND SAFETY DRILLS

Per State and County guidelines, fire drills are conducted weekly in September and then monthly for the remainder of the school year. Weather drills, lockdown, and other emergency and safety drills will also be conducted regularly throughout the year.

F OOD GUIDELINES

Effective July 1, 2014, all Henrico County Publics Schools will be following the newest federal guidelines stated in the Smart Snacks Program. This program outlines strict dietary guidelines for schools regarding all foods sold during the school day. Rewarding children in the classroom or during other school events is encouraged; however, rewards should not involve candy or foods that can compromise a child’s diet and special health concerns such as foods high in sugar, sodium, fat or calories.

Birthday Celebrations. We welcome parents and family members to have lunch at the birthday table with their child. However, due to health and safety concerns, cupcakes or other food treats may not be shared with classmates. The birthday child will be recognized in his/her classroom, on

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the morning announcements, and will receive a birthday pencil. A parent may choose to work with the school librarian to dedicate a “birthday book” to our school’s library in honor of his/her child.

Class Parties. Henrico County Public Schools allows schools to provide a Winter Party each year. Due to student health concerns, we ask that food and drinks be store bought with ingredients clearly marked on the label. Room parents will work closely with the classroom teacher on the selection of food and drink items to be supplied to the class. All foods and beverages must adhere to the guidelines outlined by federal regulations of the Smart Snacks Program. In addition to the Winter Party, head room parents will organize a fall and spring treat bag or craft activity for students to celebrate their hard work and dedication during the year.

Food-related Activities. For class activities that involve food, the principal must approve the food used to support instructional themes. If a student has a particular sensitivity to a food product, the teacher will work with the parents of that child and the room parents to determine how an activity can safely be organized.

GUIDANCE and SCHOOL COUNSELING SERVICES

Seven Pines is fortunate to provide guidance and school counseling programs for students, parents and teachers. These programs include: small group and individual counseling for students, as well as, monthly classroom guidance lessons.

Classroom guidance consists of a developmental program to help students conquer conflict and addresses a variety of topics that typically affect areas of emotional and social development. Small group, classroom, and individual counseling topics include: anti-bullying, making friends, self-control, building self-esteem, understanding death and dying, coping with family stress, new student adjustments, and socialization techniques for shy students or students with behavioral concerns. Please contact our school counselor, Mrs. Adelaide McClellan, or your child’s teacher if you have any guidance concerns at 328-4065.

HENRICO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL POLICIES

A copy of the Policies and Regulations Manual of Henrico County Public Schools is available to students, employees, and the public on the HCPS website, www.henricoschools.us. Any person unable to access the online policy may request a copy of a specific policy by contacting Records Management at 652-3828. HOMEWORK GUIDELINES

The purpose of homework is to provide reinforcement and practice of skills and concepts, encourage good study habits and time management, and to increase mastery of basic skills that are required for higher-level learning. Homework is a great way for parents to stay connected daily with the types of information students are learning at school. Completion of homework is vital to the continued success of your student, particularly with the increased rigor of recent years. We encourage parents to practice basic math facts and to read with students daily. Suggested time allotments are as follows:

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Kindergarten No specific time allotment Reading readiness and language opportunities are encouraged.

Grades 1-2 30 minutes per eveningGrade 3 40 minutes per eveningGrades 4-5 60 minutes per evening

Should your child regularly take longer to complete homework or the homework causes conflicts in the home, please consult with your child’s teacher to discuss and develop a plan. Also, send a note to the teacher describing the specific areas of difficulty your child experienced on an assignment.

HOMEWORK TIPS FOR PARENTS TO SHARE WITH THEIR CHILD

1. Set aside a time to do homework every day.2. Provide a quiet area for your child to work with good lighting and appropriate materials.3. Make a “Homework is mandatory” rule in your home and enforce it daily.4. Let your child work on their own, but let them know you are available for help.5. Be available to review student's work and check for completion. Sign the agenda book.6. If possible, help your child see how the assignment or skill relates to everyday life.7. Remember, nothing can help like a hug, smile, and a word of approval. Be encouraging and

supportive. “I believe you can” statements help boost your child’s self-esteem.8. Check out our school’s website for additional links to support learning at home.

LIBRARY

The Seven Pines Library provides services, books, and other learning resources that empower students to become life-long learners and readers. It is a safe place for students to learn, explore, and create.  The library has flexible access to resources throughout the day. Fines are not assessed for overdue materials, but students are expected to pay for lost or damaged items.

LOST AND FOUND

The Lost and Found is located in the school cafeteria. Please label your child's outerwear, lunch containers, and backpacks to assist your child and school staff in returning lost items to students. Items found will be placed in the Lost and Found area in the cafeteria.

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)

The Parent-Teacher Organization offers opportunities for parents and teachers to work together to promote learning. Check the school calendar for meeting dates and times. Instructional and creative programs are planned to enrich and enhance student learning and encourage student, parent, and community involvement. Parents are encouraged to become actively involved in the many activities throughout the school year to show your support and school spirit! We look forward to having you as part of our Seven Pines family by attending school events, programs, and activities on a regular basis and making education a priority.

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POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

A copy of the Policies and Regulations Manual of Henrico County Public Schools is available to students, employees, and the public on the HCPS website at henricoschools.us. Anyone unable to access the online policy may request a copy of a specific policy by contacting Records Management at 652-3828.

REMEDIATION

Students receive remediation to target weak skill areas in reading, math and other content areas throughout the school day in a variety of ways. Teachers work with students during differentiated small group instruction. In addition, some students are recommended for intervention to work with other adults in and out of the classroom in a small group to provide additional, intensive instruction on specific skills.

REPORT CARDS and GRADING

Grades are assigned using the following new Henrico County Public Schools guidelines. Report cards are sent home at the end of each nine-week period. After reviewing report cards, parents are asked to sign and return the report card envelope to their child’s teacher. Reporting guidelines are as follows:

Kindergarten and Grade 1

Students will receive grades based upon a Four Point Scale:

4: Consistently- Student’s performance consistently meets or exceeds standard/expectation and student consistently produces outstanding work.

3: Usually- Student’s performance usually meets standard/expectation and student produces acceptable work.

2: Inconsistently- Student’s performance is approaching standard/expectation and student Inconsistently produces acceptable work.

1: Rarely- Student’s performance is below standard/expectation and student frequently requires re-teaching.

Grades 2-5

A = 90-100 ExcellentB = 80-89 Very GoodC = 70-79 SatisfactoryD = 65-69 Marginal ProgressF = below 65 Failing

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All report cards K-5 will utilize the participation standards below:

S= Satisfactory (When present, student comes prepared and participates to the best of their ability.)N= Needs Improvement (When present, student comes unprepared and does not participate. Two class periods of non-participation will result in parent contact by the teacher.

ROOM PARENTS

Parents will have the opportunity to assist classroom teachers with instructional activities and special projects throughout the school year. We encourage all parents to take advantage of the many ways you can be involved in your child’s education, both at home and school. Please consult our Seven Pines Elementary PTO FaceBook Page for additional information.

SCHOOL NEWSLETTERS AND SCHOOL CALENDAR

School newsletters are sent home to share information about teaching, learning, and special programs. Special dates for school activities are provided monthly in a school calendar. You may also visit our school’s website at www.sevenpines.henricoschools.us.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

A current school supply list can be located on our school's website or in the school office. Please monitor and replenish school supplies as needed.

STUDENT SAFETY

Student safety is a top priority at Seven Pines. There are many safety measures that are in place to ensure the consistent monitoring of students each day. These measures include:

All students will travel in pairs when walking without the presence of an adult. Such instances could be coming to the office to meet a parent for an early dismissal or coming to the clinic to see the school nurse.

All doors are kept locked throughout the school day. All parents must report to the main office upon arrival to school. Parents will use the visitor

sign in procedure in the office, which requires a driver’s license, to obtain a Visitor’s Badge. This badge must be visible and worn at all times to indicate to our staff that you have checked in to the office. After your visit, please remember to sign out in the office before leaving.

Safety drills continue to be practiced throughout the school year to ensure that students are prepared for a variety of potential emergency situations. These drills include: Fire Drills, Reverse Fire Drills, Severe Weather/Shelter in Place, Lockdown, and Intruder Drills.

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In the event of an emergency, all attempts will be made to notify parents through the SchoolMessenger system. Parents are to adhere to the following procedure in order for students to be released:

Family Reunification Plan (On-Site)- In case of emergency, all efforts will be made to release students from the classroom to parents. If this is not possible, K-2 students will be housed in the gym and 3-5 students will be housed in the café before being released to parents. Please bring your Driver’ License or photo ID with you.

Family Reunification Plan (Off –Site)- If the school has been evacuated, all students and staff will be housed in the Sandston Recreation Center, the brick building adjacent to Sandston Pool. The building is located on Beulah Road and is accessed by crossing the ball fields on the large playground. Students will be released to parents in accordance with the Crisis Plan and only after all students and staff are accounted for. Please bring your Driver’s License or photo ID with you. We urge all parents to visit our school’s website sevenpines.henricoschools.us for additional information regarding additional school safety measures outlined in the, Crisis Preparedness: Parents and School Emergencies Handbook.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are provided without charge to students in Henrico County. Parents are asked to sign a book receipt form for their children's books. If a book is lost or damaged, it becomes the parent's responsibility to replace it. In order to prevent damage to textbooks, please see that all textbooks are covered and kept in a secure location. If a textbook is lost or damaged, please contact your child’s teacher as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made to replace the lost or damaged book.

TOBACCO-FREE POLICY

In order to provide a healthy, comfortable and productive environment for staff, students and visitors, HCPS has adopted a tobacco-free policy, effective August 1, 2013. The policy prohibits all tobacco use by school employees, parents, students and visitors on school property, including parking lots and athletic facilities. Tobacco and tobacco related products include, but are not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, pipes, as well as electronic devices that emit nicotine vapor. The policy also applies to individuals who are performing services on behalf of the school division while on duty for HCPS off school grounds.

TOY S

Students should be reminded that toys or other disruptive items are not allowed at school, on buses, or in backpacks. This includes cell phones! No students should be using cell phones while riding the bus. Any toys brought to school will be confiscated, secured in the school vault, and available for parent pick-up.

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TRANSPORTATION

Students arrive and depart from school grounds in a variety of ways, including riding the school bus, walking, riding bikes, parent drop-off and pick up, car riders or daycare vans. See below for procedures for the various methods of student transportation to and from school.

Morning Car Rider Drop-off Procedures

Morning arrival time is between 7:20 a.m. and 7:40 a.m. Students should not arrive any earlier than 7:20 a.m. as adult supervision is not available. Please allow plenty of time for students to be physically on campus and on their way to class by 7:40 a.m. to avoid being marked tardy. Please plan to use the parent drop-off loop at the front of the school on Beulah Road. Enter the parent drop-off loop and pull all the way forward to allow the optimal number of cars to enter the loop. A marked yellow line on the sidewalk indicates where the drop off process begins. Please form a SINGLE file line and have students exit vehicles on the PASSENGER side only. Never pass another car in the drop-off loop. To avoid slowing down the flow of traffic, we ask that you say your “good-byes” in the car. Staff members will be present to ensure a smooth traffic flow and to assist students being dropped off. Never pull into the front or side lots or bus loop for a “drop and go” where children exit the car and walk to the main entrance unattended.

IMPORTANT: Once students have exited the vehicle, drivers need to pull forward toward the exit out of the drop-off area to ensure a continuous traffic flow.

If you wish to walk your child to the main entrance of the school, please park your vehicle in the front or side parking lot and escort your child to the front of the school to say your good-byes at the HUG AND KISS ZONE.

Afternoon Car Rider Procedures

Parents may arrive no earlier than 2:10 p.m. to pick up students. Cars will be allowed into the front loop no earlier than 2:10 p.m. Please do not come early and form a line along the street, as this is a traffic and safety hazard. For your child’s safety and security here on campus, all parents picking up their children after school by car in the front of the school will need to have a special color-coded card on file designating the license plate number/color and make of cars that are authorized by the parent to pick up students. In addition, parent/guardians will be given a sign to display on your windshield as you drive forward into the loop. An adult will supervise and dismiss the children from the cafeteria to parents in their vehicles. No child will be dismissed to a driver of a vehicle that is not on the parent-authorized list. Without a card on file, your child will need to be signed out from the office and a photo ID will be required. Parents will enter the parent pick up loop at the front of the school (Beulah Road) and pull all the way forward to allow for the optimal number of cars in the loop. Once students are safely in cars, cars are to pull forward to keep the flow of traffic moving.

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Parent Pick-Up

Parents who wish to pick up their child from school can do so by signing them out in the cafeteria. Upon dismissal, children will report to the cafeteria to wait for a parent/guardian to sign them out. Adults will be allowed into the café’ at 2:10 p.m. daily. A photo ID is required before a child is released to any adult. No child will be released to anyone that is not listed on the parent-approved list.

Daycare Riders

Daycare riders will report to their designated area and will be checked in by an adult before being loaded onto the daycare van. We ask that parents notify the daycare if their child is sick, has an early dismissal, or a change in transportation plans for the day.

TRESPASSING

Students are not allowed on campus prior to 7:20 a.m. or after school hours except for school-sponsored functions or activities. Please be advised that no trespassing signs are strictly enforced by Henrico County Police. Use of school facilities requires special permission from the principal.

VISITORS

For the safety of students, all visitors must report to the school office upon arrival. You will need to bring a photo ID with you to sign in at the front office and are required to wear a visitor or volunteer badge during your visit. This helps students and staff members know at a glance that you have reported to the office and have permission to be on our campus. Visitors need to report to the office to sign out at the end of your visit.

VOLUNTEERS

We are very fortunate to have many parents expressing an interest in working as a volunteer on our campus. Volunteers help in the classrooms, the library, laminating, making games, field trips, in the cafeteria, and with other special projects. Volunteers should sign in upon entering the school. Each volunteer should pick up his/her volunteer badge before going to the assigned work area. Volunteer opportunities include: guest reader for classrooms, WATCH Dog, room parents, bookroom, laminating and copying for teachers, assist with arrival and dismissal, teacher appreciation, spirit wear sales, PTO, fundraising, scholarship committee, Fall Festival, Field Day, Grandparents Day, Talent Show, Reflections Program, and much more!

Anyone wishing to volunteer must first sign a release form permitting the county to conduct a background check. These forms are necessary for any parent who has direct contact with children, including working in classrooms or chaperoning field trips. These forms are located on our school’s website and in the main office.

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WATCH DOGS

The WATCH DOGS Program (Dads of Great Students) is an innovative father involvement, educational initiative of the National Center for Fathering. The goals of this program are to provide positive male role models for the students, demonstrating by their presence that education is important and to provide extra sets of eyes and ears to enhance school security and reduce bullying. WATCH Dogs are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other father-figures who volunteer for at least one day each school year. These male role models visit classrooms, assist in the school cafeteria, enjoy outside recess with students, and walk the campus to promote a safe learning environment for students and staff.

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