WELCOME []€¦ · The administration and staff of Hillcrest Elementary School would like to...
Transcript of WELCOME []€¦ · The administration and staff of Hillcrest Elementary School would like to...
1
WELCOME
The administration and staff of Hillcrest Elementary School would like to welcome every student
and parent back to school or welcome you to our school for your very first year with us.
As part of the Alamance-Burlington School System, we hold high expectations for success and
achievement for all of our children. The staff at Hillcrest Elementary is a group of highly
qualified, dedicated professionals who strive to make the school experience engaging and
meaningful for children. We believe it is important to establish relationships with students so
that we are able to know them as individuals and thus be able to provide differentiated
instruction that meets their individual needs. We are committed to nurturing a love of learning in
our children, to enhancing their critical thinking, and to developing their 21st Century skills such
as global awareness, financial literacy, and health awareness. The staff invites you to join us in
making this year a huge success for your child.
We are using this handbook as a means of communicating between home and school. This
information guide should give you an overview of general information, policies, and procedures
concerning Hillcrest Elementary School. Parents and students are expected to review this
handbook and keep it for reference throughout the school year. If and when questions arise that
cannot be answered by the handbook, please do not hesitate to call the school office at 570-6120.
Welcome to the Hillcrest Hornets family!
Mrs. Julie Bethea
Principal “Be the change that you want to see in the world.” “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
-Ghandi -Nelson Mandela
School Vision
The vision of Hillcrest Elementary School is to establish a school culture that provides for the engagement of all students by increasing skills and knowledge for 21st century thinkers,
and promoting an environment that develops health conscious and responsible decision-makers taught by a highly competent and innovative teaching staff.
School Mission Statement
Providing engaging work for our students will enable Hillcrest Elementary to
educate all students to meet high academic standards and to become productive, culturally-aware citizens in a rapidly changing world.
2
AIG Program
The Academically / Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program of the Alamance-Burlington School
System is based on a rigorous, differentiated curriculum that meets the needs of the students,
encourages diverse talents, and challenges students to the highest levels possible. The basic
components of the program are consistent from school to school and offer a variety of services
that are student-oriented and are inclusive of students from all socioeconomic and ethnic groups.
If a parent wishes to refer their child for potential screening, the parent must write a letter to the
school principal explaining why they feel their child should be nominated for screening. The
school principal must receive the letter before November 25, 2014.
A nomination is not an automatic referral for further assessment. The AIG Committee will
determine if the student (1) requires additional assessment to determine a need for differentiated
instruction, (2) is already in a learning environment that is appropriate and does not require
additional assessment at that time or (3) is eligible for intellectually and or academically gifted
services based on collected information.
Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
7:20 am Students enter building
7:40 am Children go to classrooms
7:50 am Tardy bell rings (students are in their seats); class begins
2:35 pm Bus students are dismissed
2:40 pm All other students are dismissed
There are two entrances/exits to Hillcrest. The Davis Street entrance/exit is to be used by car
riders. The Harriet Drive entrance/exit is to be USED BY SCHOOL BUSES AND DAYCARE
VANS ONLY. Please do not use this lot during opening and dismissal times. We also expect
everyone to drive slowly when entering and leaving the drop-off lane and that you do not
talk on your cell phone at drop-off.
Arrival
All students should be dropped off in front of Hillcrest Elementary School. No students should
be dropped off in any other area of the building. Students may arrive by car NO EARLIER than
7:20 a.m. When dropping off your student, please pull forward to the end of the first cone, as to
allow 4-6 cars to unload at the same time. Several staff members and safety patrol students will
be on duty to greet students and will help them find their way to breakfast and/or the gym/empty
room to read. Please help your child remember to bring a book every day. If you would like to
walk your child directly to his/her classroom, please park in a designated parking spot, check-in
with the front office, and receive a visitor’s sticker to wear throughout our building. The only
parents we require to walk their child to the classroom have children in our pre-kindergarten
classrooms. If your visitor’s badge is not visible you will be asked to show it or return to the
front office. If you arrive after 7:50 a.m., please bring your child to the office and check them in
for his or her tardy pass.
3
Dismissal
NO student will be released without a “Hillcrest Hornet Car Rider Sign.” Parents will be
directed to the front office if they do not have a sign. Please contact the office if you need
additional car rider signs.
All car riders are dismissed at 2:40 p.m. in the front of the building. Again, we ask that you pull
forward so that we may load 4-6 cars at the same time. Make sure to keep the “Hillcrest Hornet
Car Rider” sign in the front car window with your child’s name and teacher’s name written on it
until your child is in the car so that staff can refer to it as needed. As cars pull into the loading
zone, teachers will call students to load. All unattended cars must be parked in a parking space.
Cars may not be left unattended on the curb as this inhibits the flow of traffic.
All children must be picked up by 3:00 p.m. After 3:00 pm all students will be in the front office
waiting and a parent will need to come to the office to sign the late pick-up form.
The safety of our children is our ultimate priority. We are continuously working to make our
arrival and dismissal procedures as efficient as possible. Thank you for your patience and
flexibility.
Procedures for Walkers and Bike Riders
Walkers/Crossing Guards - Children who walk to/from school are to use the main doors to
enter/exit the building. They are to walk on the sidewalks to Davis Street or Harriet Drive and
are not to cross the parking lot. Adult crossing guards under supervision of the Police
Department are located on Davis Street, Harriet Drive, and Sherwood Drive. Please stress to
your children to cross the street at the guarded intersections and to follow all safety rules.
Students who usually walk need to know how they will get home if it is raining so they will not
have to use the office phone to call home every time it rains.
Bike Riders - Students riding bicycles to school should obey all traffic and safety regulations,
including wearing a helmet. Once on school property, students are to walk their bicycles to the
stand. They should secure their bicycles and move into the building as quickly as possible.
Safety of Students at Dismissal Time - Due to the increased concern and liability for students’
safety at dismissal time each day, students cannot change the way they go home without a
written note from parents or guardian. On many days, the Hillcrest office is overwhelmed from
2:00 until 2:30 with calls from parents with last minute changes in students’ mode of getting
home. This time of day is very busy for the office staff. Therefore, the office cannot
guarantee requests to change a student’s normal routine for getting home made after
2:00pm. Please plan to call before 2:00pm or send in a written note with the change
request. This policy is made to eliminate the possibility of a student not getting home
safely. Teachers will always send home students the way they are expected to go home
unless notified of a change.
4
Attendance and Tardy Policy
Students are expected to be in school regularly and be on time for classes. If a student is absent,
a parent /guardian is encouraged to call the school as soon after 7:35 a.m. as possible to report
the absence. When the student returns to school, he / she must bring a written note signed by the
parent / guardian to the teacher. The note must state the student’s full name, date, reason for
the absence, and current telephone number where the parent may be reached. These notes
should be given to the teacher within 2 days of absence or it will be unexcused.
Students participating in afterschool activities must be present in school for the entire day in
order to participate in activities, except where specifically exempted by a physician.
All educational trips must have prior approval from the principal. Any trips without prior
approval will automatically be an unexcused absence. In order for educational trips to be
excused, these requests must be submitted in writing in advance of the trip to the principal.
Please specify in your written request that you are asking for consideration that the absences be
excused due to the nature of the trip; not to be confused with requesting homework from the
teacher or notifying the school of the absence in general. In order for the absences to be excused
as an educational opportunity there must be a valid educational component. The first day back
from the trip, the student will be expected to turn in a student-created journal, powerpoint
presentation, or some other product that includes a description of places visited, the tie to
curriculum (reading, math, science, etc.) and the specific learning that took place each day. After
reviewing the student’s work, a determination will be made as to the number of days that will be
excused/unexcused.
All students are responsible for work missed due to absences. Teachers will assist students by
giving assignments, explanations, and time for completion. If you wish to pick up assignments
for your child, call the school and arrange for assignments to be picked up after school hours. We
wish to maintain an uninterrupted learning process for our students.
Absence Procedures:
a. Absences 1 and 2 – (Telephone call made by school staff)
b. When the student accumulates three (3) unexcused absences, the parent, guardian,
or custodian shall be notified by letter of the absences by school social worker, and
that a referral will be made to the Student Services Team (SST) for review.
c. 4th
and 5th
absences – (social worker meet with student and social worker call
parent (5th
))
d. After six (6) unexcused absences the parent, guardian, or custodian shall be notified
by mail by the school social worker that he/she may be “in violation of the
Compulsory Attendance Law and may be subject to prosecution under the established
attendance policies of the state and local boards of education.” Additionally, the SST
shall establish a conference with the parent and student to review the attendance
record and establish an appropriate plan for improved attendance.
e. Absences 7 – 9 (school social worker makes home visit)
5
f. After ten (10) accumulated unexcused absences the parent, guardian, or custodian
shall be notified by letter of the absences, and the principal “must review any report,
or investigation prepared under G.S. 115C-381 and must confer with the student and
his/her parent, guardian, custodian to determine whether the parent, guardian,
custodian has received notification and made a good faith effort to comply with the
law.” This review and parent/student conference shall occur in conjunction with the
SST review after ten absences. The SST review team shall develop an appropriate
plan to improve attendance, and, “If the principal determines that a parent, guardian,
or custodian has not made a good faith effort to comply with the law, the principal
shall notify the district attorney and the director of social services of the county
(Alamance) where the child resides.”
(NOTE: Any student who misses more than ten (10) days (excused or unexcused) shall have a
review by the Student Services Team (SST). In many cases, the SST has already been involved
with the student through the normal “3, 6, 10 day” notification and parent conference process,
and appropriate plans are being implemented to increase attendance. There are situations,
however, where students accumulate more than ten (10) days of excused absences in a year.
Given that attendance is imperative for educational success, it is incumbent upon the SST to
review the student’s performance and develop any plans/strategies should they be deemed
necessary. Chronic absenteeism results in significant missed instructional time, and
consequently affects the student’s academic progress, and is considered to be a violation of both
the spirit and the letter of the district attendance policy.
Tardies
The tardy bell rings for students to be in their classrooms at 7:50. Students who are tardy inhibit
and interfere with the learning of others. Tardy students must report to the office before going to
class. An adult must sign a late student in. Any child who needs to leave school early for any
reason should have a note from the parent stating a time and a reason. Parents must come to the
school office and sign their child out. Doctor and dentist notes must be provided to verify
excused tardies or early pick-ups. A parent/guardian is also expected to come into the building
to sign out a student when arriving late to pick-up in the afternoons.
Tardy Procedures:
Note: A tardy is defined as either arriving late after the first bell in the morning (7:50), or
leaving early (after having been present for one-half or more of the day) before the final
dismissal bell at the end of the day (2:35). Students receiving tardies shall have the following
interventions/consequences. (Exceptions may be made by the principal with proper
documentation.)
a. Tardies 1 and 2 – (Verbal Warning)
b. 3rd
tardy- When the student accumulates three (3) tardies (excused or unexcused), the
parent, guardian, or custodian shall be notified by letter of the tardies by school social
worker, and that the student is missing valuable instructional time as a result, and
that a referral will be made to the Student Services Team (SST) (School Social
Worker will review for SST) for review.
c. 4th
and 5th
tardy – (Connect Ed Message sent and call from social worker (5th
))
6
d. 6th
tardy – After six (6) tardies the parent, guardian, or custodian shall be notified
again by letter of the tardies by school social worker, and that the student is missing
valuable and important instructional time, and that the SST shall establish a
conference with the parent and student to review the record of tardies and establish an
appropriate plan for being on time.
e. Tardies 7 – 9 – (Call from school social worker to reiterate plan. If family did not
show up for first meeting, school social worker will invite parent again.) f. After ten (10) accumulated tardies, the parent, guardian, or custodian shall be
notified by letter of the tardies by school social worker, and the SST shall establish a
conference with the parent and student to review the record of tardies and establish an
appropriate plan for being on time. Additional tardies, and/or chronic tardy problems
shall be addressed by the principal, student and parent. Chronic tardiness results in
significant missed instructional time, and consequently affects the student’s academic
progress, and is considered to be a violation of both the spirit and the letter of the
district attendance policy.
If there is a question about a tardy or absence, the office needs to be contacted within 5
business days to resolve any concerns or discrepancies.
Attendance Zone
A detailed map description of the Hillcrest attendance area is on file in the school office. Each
elementary school serves a geographically zoned attendance area. Students whose families move
from one Alamance-Burlington attendance area to another during the school year may apply for
a transfer to remain the rest of the school year in the school they have been attending if there are
no problems with attendance, behavior, or transportation. Students moving outside the
Alamance-Burlington Schools area to another system must transfer and pay tuition. If you move
during the school year, please notify your child’s teacher and the school office in advance so that
we may help make the transfer speedy and efficient. All textbooks and library books need to be
returned and fines paid before leaving.
Bad Weather
At times, changing weather conditions make it necessary for safety reasons to close schools or
alter the normal time schedule. On days of inclement weather (i.e. snow, sleet), the Connect Ed
phone network will contact students on the phone number provided to the office when students
enrolled. Parents need to keep phone numbers updated with any changes that occur to ensure
they receive the Connect Ed phone calls. Please continue to tune in to local radio or television
stations and listen for announcements concerning the schedule for Alamance-Burlington
Schools.
The decision to close school or alter normal time schedule is made by the superintendent. On
such days, one of the plans described below will be followed:
7
1) Delayed Openings - It may be possible to hold school by delaying the opening by one or
two hours. If this decision is reached, it will be announced on local radio and television
stations beginning at 6:30 am, as well as a ConnectEd message. Should the
announcement say that Alamance-Burlington Schools will open one hour late or two
hours late (depending on the severity of the weather condition), simply move the morning
schedule forward one or two hours later than usual so that walkers and car riders arrive at
school one or two hours later. Breakfast will be served at school on mornings of delayed
openings.
2) Early Closing - Should worsening weather conditions during the day make it necessary
for an early dismissal, the decision will be reached by late morning and broadcast on both
local radio and television stations. A ConnectEd message will also be sent. With the
possibility of early closing, it is important that parents discuss with their children what to
do in case of early dismissal. It is especially important that parents of kindergarten
students make prior arrangements in case of late opening or early closing. To assist
parents and the school, along with maximizing the safety of all students, please complete
the inclement weather form and return to your child’s teacher. Teachers will then have
written instructions concerning how each student is to get home. Should this plan
change, notify the school immediately so the teachers can make note of the change. Also,
in the event of early dismissal, all students who do not ride the bus will be supervised at
school until they are picked up.
Bus Regulations
Bus Information and Discipline Policy
All students living in the Hillcrest district are eligible to ride the bus. Some of these bus
stops will be group bus stops, requiring some students to walk to and from their pick-up/drop-off
spot. There will be no waiting for students who are late getting to the bus stops. No transfer
students will be allowed to ride buses. Students who come to school on the bus should return
home on the same bus unless they have a note from the parents signed by the principal. Only
regularly scheduled bus students are to ride the school buses.
BUS SAFETY RULES
So that we can guarantee your child and the other children riding the bus the safe transportation
they deserve, we expect all children to abide by the Bus Safety Rules and the ABSS Student
Code of Conduct. Please review both with your child, and stress to your child that RIDING
THE BUS IS A PRIVILEGE.
1. I will do my personal best by showing self-control – Use a voice level 0 or 1. Stay
seated. Keep the bus neat and clean. No eating or drinking on the bus. Do not throw
paper on the floor.
2. I will do my personal best by taking responsibility for my actions - Be ready for
your stop.
8
3. I will do my personal best by actively listening and learning – Follow the bus
driver’s directions the first time.
4. I will do my personal best by respecting myself and others – Be on time. Use
appropriate language. Keep your hands and feet to yourself. Treat others kindly.
5. Obey all safety rules - Get on and off the bus quietly and orderly. Find a
seat quickly and remain seated until it is time to get off.
The first time a child is reported to the office for misbehavior, he/she will receive a warning and
will be placed on bus probation. The second time a child is reported to the office for
misbehavior, he/she will be suspended from riding the bus for a designated period of time. If a
child is reported for severe misbehavior such as fighting, he/she will be suspended from riding
the bus rather than placed on bus probation. In addition, continued misbehavior on the bus can
result in permanent bus suspension.
You will receive written notification from the office if your child is placed on bus probation or is
suspended from riding the bus. If this occurs, please sign the form and have your child return it
to the office the following day. If a child is suspended from riding the bus, it is your
responsibility to provide transportation to and from school.
According to the Alamance-Burlington School policy the principal may suspend, at his/her
discretion, passengers from riding the school bus for:
1. Delaying the bus schedule or refusing to meet the bus on time at designated stops
2. Fighting, smoking, using profanity, or refusing to obey instructions of school authorities
or a school bus driver while riding on a school bus
3. Tampering with or doing damage to a bus
4. Leaving the bus at an unauthorized stop when enroute from home to school or vice versa
5. Playing, throwing objects, or otherwise distracting the driver’s attention while the bus is
in operation
6. Failing to observe established safety rules and regulations required by law or adopted by
the board of education
Kindergarten Bus Drop-Off Procedures
In order to ensure the safe delivery of kindergarten students from school, bus drivers are not to
release kindergarten students at bus stops unless a responsible adult is visible to receive the
student(s) or an older sibling is present (riding the bus). If this is not possible, the student(s)
shall be returned to his/her school at the end of the elementary bus route. The principal or
his/her designee shall contact the parent or guardian to pick up the student(s) at school.
Should a parent/guardian not be able to be present at the bus stop, the parent/guardian must
notify the school before the afternoon bus dismissal time and make the necessary timely
transportation arrangements for their child/children.
9
Cafeteria
Breakfast/Lunch
Breakfast is served each morning from 7:20 – 7:50 am. Any child may eat breakfast for free.
All students are required to eat lunch at school. Students may bring their own lunches or
purchase food in the cafeteria. Nutritious school lunches are served in the cafeteria daily. A
menu will be sent home monthly. Milk is served with each lunch or may be purchased
separately. Children are given an adequate lunch period and are expected to eat lunch within that
given time. Fruits and vegetables are encouraged for children who bring their lunch and/or
snacks from home. Sweets are discouraged. Do not send food from “fast-food” or other
restaurants and do not send soft drinks. Please refer to the August school menu for milk and ice
cream prices. A la carte prices are listed on the menu as well.
Parents and grandparents are invited to eat with our students. Please plan to eat from our school
lunch menu or bring a bag lunch. We do not allow fast food to be brought in from the outside to
our lunchroom. Come to the office for a visitor’s pass before going to the lunchroom. Please do
not go to the classroom. We request you wait for your child at the cafeteria doorway and say
goodbye to them in the lunchroom before signing out.
The Hillcrest School Food Services operates a Debit system so that parents can pay for meals by
the day, the week, the month, or by the semester. Each student has an account with an
identification number and parents pay money into that account. It is the parents’ responsibility to
keep money in the account for purchases. Occasionally, students will forget their lunch money.
Every attempt will be made to contact parents in order to get the money for lunch. If a student
does not have money for lunch, he/she will not miss lunch. Students who owe money to the
cafeteria will receive a Connect Ed call letting parents know to send in money to the cafeteria.
Please make sure you repay your lunch money the following day. Any student with an
outstanding balance will not be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities. Checks will
be accepted in the School Food Services ONLY.
We encourage all eligible families to apply for our Free / Reduced Meals program. Applications
will be available at the beginning of the year in the office. You must complete a new form
each year. Parents will be notified if their child qualifies for the free or reduced meal program
through the Alamance-Burlington Schools Food Service office.
If you have any questions, please contact Child Nutrition at 336-570-6060, Ext. 151.
Student Cafeteria Prices (These prices are subject to change)
Breakfast *students receiving free/reduced breakfast– no cost to students
Lunch $2.30 per day or $11.50 per week
$ .40 per day or $2.00 per week (reduced)
Milk $ .50 Fruit Drink $ 1.00 Ice Cream $ .50 or $ .75
10
Children will use their Power Schools number for their lunch account. Please put this number
on all checks. If you send cash, please put it in an envelope and put your child’s name and
account number on the envelope.
The Lunch Prepay program will allow you to make secure payments on your child’s lunch
account, review their recent meal history, and review their current balance at your convenience.
If you are interested in this program, please visit the ABSS website at www.abss.k12.nc.us and
click on the Lunch Prepay link or you may go directly to www.lunchprepay.com.
Court Orders
Parents and/or guardians who have any legal documents about custody, visitation, name changes,
etc. should bring a copy to the school office. We will keep these on file so we can refer to them
if needed. Be sure to alert the classroom teachers also.
Discipline
Discipline is a cooperative effort. We must work together to make sure your child has a safe and
structured environment in which to learn. Children have the right to learn in an environment that
allows them to acquire the best education available. Children also have a responsibility to
behave in such a manner that does not interfere with the safety and welfare of others. We place
high expectations on our students for good manners, courtesy and respect for adults, other
students and school property.
We follow the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) process in our building.
PBIS is a “proactive systems approach to school-wide discipline designed to be responsive to
current social and educational challenges through assessment and development of effective
interventions.” Our PBIS team has worked diligently to develop school-wide procedures,
expectations, consequences, and rewards:
Our PBIS Matrix and Expectations are displayed throughout the building as a visual
reminder to students what our expectations are for behavior for each area such as the
cafeteria, bathroom, hallway, etc. (Please review the matrix on the following page.)
Each grade level will develop a classroom management system that is consistent across
the grade level. Classroom management plans will be sent home with students the
first week of school.
Students and staff will recite our motto every morning during announcements: “I will
show self control. I will take responsibility for my actions. I will actively listen and
learn. I will respect myself and others. I will do my personal best by showing STAR
behavior.”
Classes will receive a group reward and students will receive individual rewards for
displaying excellent STAR Behavior
11
Hillcrest Elementary School's Expectations for STAR Behavior …
I will do my
personal
best by…
HALLWAYS BATHROOMS CAFETERIA BUS ASSEMBLY PLAYGROUND
ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL
Showing
self-
control
Use voice
level 0
Walk on the
second block
on the right
side
Use voice
level 0
Enter and
exit the
bathroom
orderly
Enter and exit
cafeteria in an
orderly and quiet
manner
Use voice level 0
when going
through the line.
Use voice level 1
to 2 in the
cafeteria
Use good table
manners while
eating
Use voice
level 0 or 1
Stay seated
No eating or
drinking
Enter and exit
gym in an
orderly and
quiet manner
Use
appropriate
voice level
Sit on your
bottom
Enter and exit
building
at voice level 0
Use equipment
safely
and properly
Being in the
correct place at
the right time
Sitting or
walking quietly
at level 0
Taking
responsibility
for my
actions
Go to your
destination
promptly
Clean up after
yourself
Return to
your
destination
promptly
Have lunch card
ready
Get everything
while in the line
the first time
Be ready for
your stop
Share
information with
parent/
guardian
Be honest and
say sorry
Keeping up with
all materials
(books, lunch
box, etc.)
Make sure
you’re ready
(bathroom,
water, etc.)
Actively
listening
and
learning
Follow
directions
the first time
Pay
attention
Report
problems
immediately
Follow directions
the first time
Follow bus
driver’s
directions
the first
time
Follow
directions the
first time
Keep eyes on
presenters
Look and listen
for attention
signals
Follow
directions the
first time
Stay in
designated area
Look and listen
for teacher’s
signal to leave
Staying focused
and following
directions
Listening for
your name, bus,
van, car, etc.
Respecting
myself and
others
Keep hands
and feet off
the walls
Keep hands
and feet to
yourself
Respect the
privacy of
others
Keep hands
and feet to
yourself
Keep your area
clean
Use good manners
*please
*thank you
Be on time
Use
appropriate
language
Keep hands
and feet to
yourself
Respond
respectfully
*raise hands
*applause
Keep your
hands and feet
to yourself
Play fair and be
a good friend
Keep your hands
and feet to
yourself
Keep all hands,
feet, and
belongings to
yourself
Maintain a safe
distance
between
yourself and
others
12
Dress Code
Student Dress Code
Each student is expected to maintain an appearance that is neither distracting to other students
nor disruptive. Every student should strive to be clean and dress neatly. To support this
expectation the following guidelines will be enforced:
Students are not allowed to wear hats, bandanas, or sunglasses in the building unless it is
a designated hat or sunglasses day at school.
Shorts and skirts must be longer than fingertip length.
All tummies and backs must be covered. Halter tops and backless dresses are not
allowed. Net shirts and spaghetti straps are not allowed. Straps must be at least 2 inches
wide.
T-shirts cannot advertise alcohol, tobacco, weapons, drugs, or have obscene language,
pictures, or racial implications.
Jeans and shorts should be the correct size so that they do not “hang” or “sag” below the
waist or drag the floor. Baggy pants and oversized clothing are not allowed.
Pants must be pulled up to the waist and secured with a belt if they fall below the waist.
No boxers or underwear must show.
High heel shoes over 2 inches high are not allowed.
Shoes must be tied. Due to safety concerns, shoes with wheels (Heelies) are not allowed.
Flip Flops are not allowed.
Parents will be called to bring appropriate clothing or shoes for any student who comes dressed
inappropriately. If we are unable to reach the parent, we will provide clothing from our clothes
closet.
Parent/Visitor Dress Code
We request that parents who visit during the school day or who accompany our students on field
trips follow the same dress code guidelines as our students to help us reinforce our expectations
for appropriate attire. Please do not wear hats or bandanas in the building. Please make sure you
are appropriately covered, not wearing t-shirts with advertisements inappropriate for an
elementary school setting, and boxers/underwear are not showing. Thank you for your
cooperation in enforcing and following our dress code when you visit our campus. With your
support we will be better equipped to insure a safe, respectful, and focused learning
environment!
Field Trips
Field trips are an important part of the school curriculum and provide valuable learning
experiences for students. They will be reasonable in length, taking into consideration the age
and maturity of the students, and time away from school. They will be an extension of the
instructional program, including preparation instruction, questioning and observation during the
field trip, and follow up activities.
13
The following are general guidelines that teachers, parents, and students will need to adhere to:
Administration will review and consider for approval all school trip requests before
parents and families are notified of a planned grade level trip.
Parents will be requested to chaperone some field trips to assure the proper supervision of
students and to help reinforce learning objectives. Many of our educational field trips
will not require additional supervision beyond school staff members.
Criminal background checks must be completed before a parent/guardian is allowed to
serve as a chaperone. (The school will send home paperwork provided by the system to
be completed by the parent/guardian by the assigned due date.)
No child shall be denied participation in field trips due to financial hardship.
Nearby community sites will be utilized whenever possible in order to keep distances
traveled to a minimum.
Students will be subject to the Code of Student Conduct and all board policies while on a
school-sponsored field trip. All disciplinary consequences will be available, including
removal from the field trip.
School trips may be cancelled when necessary by the principal, Superintendent, or Board
of Education. We cannot guarantee reimbursement when such cancellations occur.
The principal may deny student participation in a field trip(s) for disciplinary reasons.
Only students assigned to that grade level are permitted to go on the school field trip.
Parents chaperoning field trips are not allowed to bring other siblings.
Often times, the school system will sponsor events for our students such as the North Carolina
Symphony or the Greensboro Symphony. These events are located at Williams High School.
When ABSS trips are provided free of charge to the students, permission slips are not necessary.
We will inform parents of the trips via classroom newsletters and websites, but will not seek
written permission slips as in other field trips.
Garrett’s Law
Please refer to the ABSS Student Code of Conduct for specific information.
Head Lice Control Procedures
The Alamance-Burlington School System has an established procedure to reduce the incidence
of lice in schools. No student will be allowed to stay in school if head lice are found in his/her
hair. This procedure is based on recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatricians
and the National Association of School Nurses.
a. If lice are detected the parent/guardian will be notified and written instructions will be
given to the parent/guardian regarding the head lice procedure and treatment.
b. If nits only are detected the student will remain in school and written instructions
regarding treatment and removal of nits will be sent home with the student.
14
Upon return to school, parent must accompany the student. The student will be rechecked by the
school nurse or trained school personnel. The student will not be readmitted to school if lice are
detected. If nits are detected, the student will return to class and a “nits remain” letter will be sent
home. Further monitoring may continue as needed. Absences will be excused no more than three
consecutive calendar days per incidence. Students with repeated infestations will be referred to
the school nurse/school social worker, who will determine appropriate interventions. Retreatment
of lice is often necessary following the head lice treatment instructions carefully. In an effort to
control this problem, parents should conduct periodic checks of their own students at home. The
school should be notified if lice are found. Students must not share combs, caps, and other
personal items.
Health and Dental Screenings
Please refer to the ABSS Student Code of Conduct for specific information.
Homework The purpose of homework is to reinforce and extend what your child has learned in class and to
develop a sense of self-discipline, personal responsibility and independent thinking. As a rule,
new material is not assigned for homework. Your child may be assigned homework each night.
The amount of homework assigned will depend on the grade level. Some students will finish
faster, and others will take longer than the suggested time.
Ways you can help with homework are:
Check your child’s planner daily. Ask each day if he/she has an assignment.
Check with teachers if he/she does not have any work for several days.
Be sure he/she leaves home with it in the morning.
Help your child but do not do the work for them. Your child needs the practice.
If you do not understand the assignment, write a note to the teacher. Also encourage
your child to listen carefully when directions are given.
Let your child’s teacher know if your child is struggling with homework.
It is very important that your child has an appropriate place to work at home.
Immunization Requirements
The North Carolina Immunization Law requires that students must have the following
immunizations to start school:
1 Kindergarten Health Assessment (no more than 12 months prior to school entry.)
5 doses DTP (with a booster on or after the 4th
birthday).
4 doses of oral polio vaccine (with a booster on or after the 4th
birthday).
2 MMR doses (1st dose on or after the 1
st birthday).
1 Hib – at least 1 Hib on or after 1st birthday and before 5 years of age
(not required after age 5).
15
3 Hepatitis B (required for all children born after July 1, 1994).
1 Varicella (Chickenpox) dose (required for all children born after April 1, 2001).
1 Tdap for all students entering 6th
grade on or after August 1, 2008.
EXCEPTION – Not all K-9 children will have the above doses, but they still may be in
compliance with NC State Law. Any child that received the 4th
DTP and/or the 3rd
oral
polio on or after their fourth birthday is not required to receive additional doses. Thus, a
number of children may be in compliance with 4 DTP, 3 oral polio, 1 Hib, and 2 MMR.
If we have not received your child’s completed immunization record within 30 days of
enrollment, your child will be suspended until these records are provided.
Influenza and Meningococcal Disease and Vaccine
Information will be provided to parents/guardians upon request.
Lost and Found
Parents are urged to tag or mark all articles of clothing so lost items can be quickly identified and
returned to the owner. These articles are placed in the “Lost and Found” bin in the gym.
Children who lose coats, sweaters, etc., should check this bin. Unclaimed lost and found articles
will be discarded or donated to charity throughout the school year.
Medications
Please be aware of the Alamance-Burlington School System’s Medication Policy. If your child
must have medication of any type given during school hours, including over-the-counter drugs,
you have the following choices:
1. You can come to school to give the medication to your child at the appropriate time.
2. You may obtain a copy of an authorization medication form from the school nurse or
school secretary. Complete the form by taking the form to your child’s doctor or
health care provider for assistance. This form must be completed for both
prescription and over-the-counter drugs and must have the physician’s signature
before any medication can be administered at school. The form must also be signed
by the parent or guardian. Prescription medicines must be brought to school in a
pharmacy-labeled bottle which contains instructions on how and when the medication
is to be given. Over-the-counter drugs must be received in the original container and
will be administered according to the prescriber’s written instructions.
3. You may discuss with your prescriber an alternative schedule for administering
medication (e.g., outside of school hours). Most pediatricians in the Burlington-
Alamance area have received information from ABSS regarding this policy and
should be familiar with it. School personnel will not administer any medication to
students unless they have received an authorization for medication form properly
completed, and the medication has been received in an appropriately labeled
container. In fairness to those giving the medication and to protect the safety of your
child, there will be no exceptions to this policy.
16
4. In addition to the medication policy presented here, there are modifications to the
policy that are necessary when students participate in field trips. During the planning
of any and all field trips, your child’s teacher will review the “Field Trip Medication
Policy” with the parents of students participating.
If you have questions about the policy or other issues related to the administration of medication
in the schools, please contact the Hillcrest office.
Money Matters
All money that is to be processed through the Hillcrest office is to be CASH ONLY. Our office
procedures make it difficult to handle checks that are returned to us for insufficient funds,
therefore we must enforce the policy of NO CHECKS ACCEPTED at
Hillcrest School office. Other vendors and services provided through Hillcrest will
accept checks such as the PTO of Hillcrest, the cafeteria, and the school picture
company. Students are discouraged from bringing large amounts of money to school.
Moving
If you need to change schools, simply register your child in the new school. The data manager
there will request school records. We cannot send records with you. Please notify our data
manager as well so she can request records from the teacher.
Parents Observing in the Classroom
Parents MUST contact the school office prior to visiting a classroom for the purpose of
observing their child. We ask that the observation be limited to 20 – 30 minutes. Any
concerns you may have after the observation are to be addressed to the teacher and/or the
principal by making an appointment, not during the time of the visit. This will prevent any
interruptions of the remaining instructional day for both the teacher and children. If not
approved through the office before proceeding to the classroom, you will be asked to return
to the office and schedule an appointment for a later time.
Parent – Teacher Conferences
We believe that parent conferences help us communicate students’ progress and educational
needs with parents and guardians; therefore, the teachers will schedule a conference with every
parent early in the fall semester. Additional conferences will be scheduled throughout the year,
at the request of the teacher or parent.
We encourage open parent/school communication as it serves as a deterrent to many problems
that could arise. Remember, however, that there are times when parent/teacher conferences
cannot be held effectively (i.e. open house or classroom visitation, during the teacher’s
instructional time, etc.) If you would like to conference with a teacher, please call or email in
advance and set up an appointment time.
17
Parties
Two classroom parties will be permitted during the year – a holiday party in December and one
at the end of the year. Take-home treats and goodie bags may be sent home at Halloween,
Valentine’s Day, Easter and other occasions. Parties will be held in the classrooms at the end of
the day. All foods need to be store bought. All beverages brought in need to be juice or water.
Birthday parties for individual children may not be held at school, but store-bought cupcakes
may be sent in after 1:30 for an afternoon snack for the class. Please be aware that the school
cannot provide names, addresses or telephone numbers for birthday invitations for private
purposes. Please do not send party invitations to school to be given to specific children. Only
whole class invitations will be allowed to be distributed.
Personal Property
Electronics, expensive jewelry, valuable items and large sums of money are not to be brought to
school. If such items are brought, they are not the responsibility of the school. Students are not
allowed to use, display, transmit or have in the “on” position on school property any wireless
communication device or personal entertainment device (CD players, iPods, cell phones,
electronic games, etc). If a device is used or possessed in violation of this policy, it will be
confiscated and a parent is required to attend a conference in order to gain possession of the item.
Promotion / Retention of Students
The school principal has ultimate responsibility for promotion/retention decisions in all grades.
More information regarding the promotion/retention of third grade students will be shared with
those parents at the beginning of the school year. Teachers in grades K-5 will identify students
at risk of retention and notify parents in writing and hold parent/teacher conferences at several
points during the school year. Following notification, the teacher or appropriate academic team
shall ensure that careful attention and remediation/intervention is provided to any student at risk
of retention. The decision on the retention of a student shall be made at the end of the year by
the retention committee, in collaboration with the parent or guardian of the student.
PTO
Parents, we feel, are our PARTNERS in the important job of educating the children of this
community. We welcome your suggestions and solicit your membership in the PTO. If you
have any questions, please contact any of the PTO officers or visit the PTO website which is
located on the school website.
18
2014-2015 Hillcrest PTO
Executive Committee
President ……...……………...…………………………………………… Betsy Huneycutt
Vice President.………………………….……………………………........ Angela Mitchell
Secretary …………………………………………………………….……. Jaclyn Allegretto
Treasurer …………………………………………………………….......... Carrie Sanders
Report Cards and Progress Reports
Report cards for Kindergarten students will be sent home at the end of the second and fourth
nine-weeks and there will be two required parent conferences scheduled during the first and third
nine-week grading periods. Report cards for grade one – five shall be issued at the end of each
nine-week grading period. Conferences and individual progress reports will supplement report
cards to enhance communication between the home and school. Parents will receive their
child’s/children’s first report card during a required, scheduled conference. Report cards will not
be sent home by children the first 9-weeks.
Grading Period Progress Reports Report Cards
August 25 – October 24 September 24 October 31
October 27 – January 16 December 2 January 23
January 19 – March 26 February 23 April 17
March 27 – June 10 May 6 June 10
School Insurance
Insurance information will be sent home with your child the first day of school. The school
system does not carry accident insurance on your child/children. Providing insurance is a
parental responsibility. The school system does offer group accident insurance to parents at
reduced rates. All transactions are between the parents and the insurance company; the school
system is not the agent.
Section 504
Federal Legislation and Alamance-Burlington Schools policy mandates that every student
receive free and appropriate education. Some students may have physical or mental
handicapping conditions that substantially limit their ability to learn and participate in school
activities. If your child has a medical diagnosis of a condition that is interfering with your child's
education then your child may be eligible for 504 rights and protections and possibly for a 504
plan. Please contact the school’s 504 coordinator (our guidance counselor) or the principal.
19
Sick Children
If your child should be sent to school ill or become ill while in school, you will be contacted
immediately to come and take him/her home. If a parent cannot be reached, be sure that your
contact person is someone who is willing to come to school and pick up your child when needed.
Please be sure that the person is included on your child’s pick-up list.
Please keep your child home if he or she has a temperature or is throwing up. Children should
not be at school until they have gone 24 hours without a fever or being sick on their stomach.
Smoking and Tobacco Products
The ABSS 100% Tobacco-Free Schools Policy prohibits all tobacco use by everyone at all times
on all school grounds and at all sporting events. Students, staff, parents, and other visitors may
not use any kind of tobacco products, including cigarettes, pipes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco.
Tobacco may not be used on any school grounds or at school events, including athletic events,
buses, parking lots and off-campus events.
This policy was adopted in June 2008 and went into effect on August 1, 2008 to protect the
health of all ABSS students and staff, promote positive role models in schools and promote a
healthy learning and working environment. The policy was adopted following state legislation
mandating tobacco-free policies in all North Carolina public schools. The complete tobacco
products policy can be read on the ABSS Website under “District Information” and then “Board
of Education.”
Student Personal Information
It is extremely important that we know how to reach parents during the school day due to
sickness or emergencies. If you change jobs or your home phone number is changed or
disconnected, please notify the office as soon as possible. By having correct phone numbers,
the Alamance-Burlington School System’s Connect Ed phoning system will be able to reach you
in case of emergency or inclement weather. The Connect Ed system will automatically call you
about school delays or early dismissals due to weather. Be sure to also give us the name and
phone number of your emergency contact person who can come to school immediately when
called.
Visitors
Parents are encouraged to visit the school, however, classroom interruptions distract from the
learning process. ALL parents and visitors MUST report directly to the office. If you wish to
discuss your child with the teacher, it is recommended that you arrange a conference with the
teacher at a time when the teacher can be free from her classroom duties.
Security and safety of students and staff are a high priority for the Hillcrest staff. Sometimes this
contradicts an “open door” policy in making Hillcrest inviting to visitors and guests. When
20
visitors are in the building without a visitor’s pass, the staff has been instructed to question them
on their identification and purpose of being in the building. Visitors should secure a visitor’s
pass upon reporting to the office. During special events such as assemblies, class events, field
day, etc. parents should report directly to the location of the event. They should be prepared to
be questioned by a staff member when they are not wearing a visitor’s pass.
Pets are not allowed on school property. If your pet is with you when you come to pick up
your child, please leave the pet in the car. Be sure to roll down your window!
Weapons on School Property
Please be reminded of the General Statute 14-269.2 which refers to weapons on school property.
This includes in the school, on the bus, even on the playground. Types of weapons included are
guns, BB guns, rifles, pistols, explosives, air rifles, knives, blackjacks, sling shot, brass knuckles,
etc. It is the principal’s responsibility under the law to not only discipline students who violate
the law, but to report any violators to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Remember, if a
student brings or possesses a weapon on school owned property they could be suspended for the
rest of the year. By law, the incident must be turned over to the sheriff and possession of a
firearm on school campus is a felony. Also possession of any form of a “look alike” weapon is
in violation of North Carolina Law and Alamance-Burlington Board of Education Policy. Help
us continue to have a safe school environment.
Wellness Policy & Procedures
Federal and state laws require the ABSS to enact a local “Wellness Policy” for its public schools.
This Wellness Policy discusses laws regarding physical activity, nutritional education and
nutritional guidelines for school nutrition programs. The Wellness Policy also states that ABSS
will issue other recommendations regarding food and beverages which are not specifically
covered by federal and state law.
The Wellness Policy requirements and recommendations are stated in the ABSS “Wellness
Procedures”. The Wellness Procedures describe (i) mandates and suggestions for disease control
with respect to foods from commercial and non-commercial sources, (ii) recommendations for
eating environments, (iii) goals and mandates for school lunches, (iv) laws and recommendations
with respect to vending machines, (v) mandates regarding competition with federal school
nutrition programs, (vi) laws and recommendations regarding fundraisers, concessions policies
and student stores, (vii) laws and recommendations regarding school parties, celebrations and
rewards, and (viii) goals and mandates regarding nutrition education and physical education.
The Wellness Policy can be read in full on the ABSS Website under “District Information” and
then “Board of Education.”